Living in Havering 185 April 2019

LIVING

in Havering April 2019

Issue 185 • www.havering.gov.uk

Cleaner, Safer, Prouder Together Working in a smarter way to deliver services and keep our streets clean See pages 20 – 23

Collier Row • Elm Park • Harold Hill • Hornchurch • Rainham • Romford • Upminster

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02 | April 2019 | LIVING in Havering

Leader's welcome

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Welcome to the April edition of Living in Havering and a happy Saint George's Day! It has been an eventful start to 2019 with the first anniversary of the Sapphire Ice and Leisure Centre, big decisions on the budget and Council tax and the development of clear priorities for the years ahead. Sadly much of the good news last month was overtaken by the senseless, horrific killing of Jodie Chesney. The tragic incident rightly appalled everyone in our borough. In the immediate aftermath of the incident the Council offered support including bereavement counselling and psychological support to local schools and voluntary organisations. We are redoubling our efforts with our partners in the Havering Safer Neighbourhoods Board to minimise the chances of anything like that incident happening again in our borough.

Last year we carried out a public consultation on our proposed spending plans for the next four years. Residents told us that the condition of their roads and pavements was their number one priority, followed by community safety, affordable homes, schools and education, caring for our elderly and most vulnerable residents, and parks and leisure.

In order to protect and provide the key services which matter most, residents will see an increase of 3.25 per cent in their council tax bills in 2019/20. This includes the additional 2 per cent Adult Social Care precept. This increase is below the UK average where the reported average rise is 4.5 per cent.

Even when adding the London Mayor’s precept (his share of the bill) which has risen by 8.9 per cent, the total increase for the average Band D property is still lower than the national average at 4.26 per cent - which is the equivalent to £1.35 more per week.

Havering has taken a proactive approach to managing its budgetary pressures over a number of years. We have worked hard to drive down the cost of providing our services and we were recently named the fifth most efficient Council in England. You can read more about the budget and Council Tax on page 5 and about the Council’s priorities for the year ahead on page 20.

This year’s budget, including the increase in your Council tax, will continue to address the financial pressures we face but at the same time responds to, and acts on, the issues that matter most to our community.

I do hope that you share my ambition to see a cleaner, safer, prouder Havering.

Councillor Damian White Leader of the Council www.havering.gov.uk/Leader

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6 1. Meeting the Deputy Chairman of the Local Government Association, David Simmonds, at the Town Hall on 21 February 2. Attending the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Hornchurch Leisure Centre, 7 February 3. C elebrating the first anniversary of the Sapphire Ice and Leisure Centre

4. M eeting our street cleaning staff 5. T alking at one of our Meet the Buyer events at Havering College on 21 February 6. Helping congratulate apprentices taken on by Havering Council at an event to mark National Apprenticeship Week on 8 March

Meet the Leader Cllr Damian White, the Leader of Havering Council, holds regular surgeries in order to meet residents and help resolve issues that need addressing.

You can meet him at these times and places: Friday 26 April, 3 - 4.30pm, Harold Hill Library Thursday 23 May, 5.30 - 7pm, Hornchurch Library Friday 28 June, 3 - 4.30pm, Rainham Library Thursday 18 July, 5 - 6.30pm, Romford Library

Full address details of the libraries can be found on page 36 of this magazine. www.havering.gov.uk/living | April 2019 | 03

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Contents issue 185

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14

Enforcement How we make sure utility companies do a good job

Safe Havering A new scheme to tackle crime on allotments

Cover picture: Cllr Osman Dervish, Cabinet Member for Environment; the Leader of the Council , Cllr Damian White; and Deputy Leader, Cllr Robert Benham, unveil the new plan for Havering with an inspection of the Council’s street cleaning resources.

6 News T he Sapphire sparkles and work begins on the new Hornchurch Sports Centre 12 Something

to celebrate every month Lots to see and do in Romford Market in April, May and June 18 O ur man in the London Assembly Keith Prince shares his priorities as he holds the Mayor of London to account 19 W ellbeing in Havering Be cancer aware 20 C over story: Cleaner, Safer, Prouder, Together Havering Council’s plan for the year ahead

Keep up-to-date Living in Havering is delivered to every home in Havering free of charge thanks to support from our advertisers. Did you know that Living in Havering has a sister email bulletin that is published weekly? If you don’t already receive these bulletins join the nearly 56,000 who do and have all the latest news and updates on events across our borough delivered directly to your mobile, PC or tablet. Just go to www.havering.gov.uk/newsletters and sign up.

04 | April 2019 | LIVING in Havering

Building for the future Better roads and pavements

Putting local people at the heart of regeneration

tackling the scourge of potholes 26 H appy Birthday!

Veggie Run celebrates its first birthday 28 H istorical Havering A double helping of local history looking at policing in the 1960s, and a local charity celebrates 50 years 30 B usiness focus Havering’s regeneration project supports local businesses, and a new initiative links Havering Sixth Form College to local employers 34 A rts & Culture listings Lots to see and do in Havering

Advertise your business in Living in Havering magazine and reach more than 112,000 households and businesses across Havering.

For details of advertising rates and series discounts email: living@havering.gov.uk.

The next edition will be published in July 2019.

News

Budget and tax set for year ahead

London Mayor’s precept for the GLA (the money collected by the Mayor of London), the total increase is 4.26 per cent, which for a Band D property is equivalent to £1.35 per week.

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www.havering.gov.uk/counciltax

Council estates set for £10m makeover An extra £10 million has been set aside as part of the Council’s Housing budget to improve housing estates.

The programme of works could include:

to outside communal areas, including: new • Improvements

fencing, better landscaping, with upgrades to paths and walkways

external and communal lighting to make residents • Better

feel safer some internal communal areas, along with • Redecorating

upgrades to door entry systems and repainting of some building exteriors.

• Cleaning

Cllr Joshua Chapman, Cabinet Member for Housing, said: Havering Council has passed the borough’s 2019/2020 budget and spending plans for the next four years. This includes major improvements in street cleaning and road repairs, along with investment in better leisure facilities and school places.

The plans, which were the focus of a Full Council meeting at the end of February, will also see nearly £150 million ploughed into building more genuinely affordable housing and other neighbourhood improvements.

Council Tax Council Tax in Havering will rise by 3.25 per cent this year. Most of it will go to meet rising costs of providing care and support for residents who are more vulnerable, including senior citizens, people with disabilities and young people who are deemed at risk.

The rise is lower than the maximum 4.99 per cent allowed by Government which many councils in the UK have decided to adopt. After adding the increase in the

“Alongside our ongoing programme of works to renovate the insides of council homes, we are spending this extra £10 million to ensure our tenants are offered the highest quality accommodation.

“While our ambitious regeneration plans will deliver more genuinely affordable homes for local people, the estates improvement programme will focus on the estates not earmarked for wider regeneration, bringing our current accommodation up to par.”

Your Romford:

your say

Don’t forget to share your ideas, aspirations and priorities for Romford’s town centre at www.yourromford.co.uk. The consultation will run until June so be sure to let us know what you think should be done to make Romford even better. www.havering.gov.uk/living | April 2019 | 05

News

Sapphire

sparkles in first year

Over half a million people have come through the doors of Sapphire Ice & Leisure since it opened just over a year ago.

The centre in Western Road, Romford, is part of the Council’s multi-million pound investment into sport and leisure facilities for the borough.

Since February 2018, the centre has seen: Over 3,000 people become fitness members in the first 12

months Approximately 76,650 people of all ages enjoying ice

skating Over 400 people learning to skate for the first time

Around 131,800 people enjoying a swim over the past year

Over 1,000 receiving swimming lessons on a weekly basis

Over 40,000 using the centre for an exercise class.

• • • • • •

Home to the Raiders

The centre is also home to the Raiders Ice Hockey team, who regularly play to packed audiences of around 500 people per match. (See also page 24).

Sapphire Ice & Leisure was named in tribute to mark 65 years of the reign of Queen Elizabeth II and is managed by Everyone Active, on behalf of the Council.

It includes: A 25-metre-long eight-lane main pool

•

• A 15 x 8 metre learner pool • A 56m x 26m ice rink suite with 100 • Fitness

stations dance studio • Large

studio • Spinning

Sauna and steam • area • Café

Something for all ages

Speaking about Sapphire’s successful first year, Cllr Viddy Persaud, Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure, said: “Residents and visitors are able to visit a facility that has something for all ages. It offers you a chance to get fit and active plus enjoy yourself, whether it is swimming, ice skating, the gym or an exercise class.

“Making use of such a centre as this can help boost our general wellbeing and that is a big part of why we are investing in leisure and sport facilities in the borough. We want to provide as many opportunities as possible for all our residents to live healthy and active lives.”

Tom Fletcher, Area Contract Manager, Everyone Active, said: “We’re proud of our partnership with Havering Council, which has delivered such a fantastic facility. The centre provides an excellent resource for elite athletes and the local community.”

Raising the flag The Mayor of Havering, Cllr Dilip Patel, raised the Commonwealth Flag outside the Town Hall in Romford on Monday 13 March, to mark Commonwealth Day. Those attending heard messages from the Queen, the Commonwealth Secretary General and the Mayor, who recited the Commonwealth Affirmations.

Commonwealth Day is celebrated across the Commonwealth by young people, schools,

06 06 | April 2019 April 2019 | LIVING LIVING in in Havering Havering

communities and civil society organisations.

It provides an opportunity to promote understanding on global issues, international cooperation and the work of Commonwealth organisations.

The Mayor said: “This year’s theme is ‘A Connected Commonwealth’. It explores the need for us to work together to protect our natural environment and the ocean that we share, and cooperate on trade to encourage economic empowerment for all.”

Work begins on new Hornchurch Sports Centre

“We are committed to improving the health and wellbeing of our residents and we are delivering this by investing in sporting and leisure facilities across the borough” Cllr Damian White, Leader of Havering Council Residents across Havering will soon have the chance to further improve their health, fitness and wellbeing as work has begun on the brand new £30m Hornchurch Sports Centre.

The new facilities are being delivered

by Havering Council, working in partnership with Everyone Active, who manage the Council’s leisure centres on its behalf. The new centre in Harrow Lodge Park will add to the range of new and improved leisure facilities across the borough that include the Sapphire Ice & Leisure in Romford, the refurbished Central Park Leisure Centre in Harold Hill, and the Noak Hill Sport centre that opened in January 2017. In addition, options are being looked at to deliver new facilities as part of the regeneration planned for the Rainham area.

The new sports centre will have a 25 metre eight lane swimming pool, a 20 metre wide diving pool with movable

floor, and a changing facility for people with multiple learning and physical disabilities. Representatives from Havering Council joined staff from Everyone Active, consultants Paragon and construction firm Metnor for the symbolic ground-breaking ceremony in February.

Cllr Damian White, Leader of Havering Council, said: “We are committed to improving the health and wellbeing of our residents and we are delivering this by investing in sporting and leisure facilities across the borough. The new up-to-date facilities will make sure residents have the best service when attending our sport centres. Investing in leisure and sport in our borough is an important aspect of the Council’s plans to provide facilities for residents to be able to live healthy and happy lives, and I encourage all residents to make full use of these facilities when available.” www.havering.gov.uk/living | April 2019 | 07

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Investing in your streets 08 | April 2019 | LIVING in Havering

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News

Doing it for his dad James Plumer is a determined man who never gave up on his dream to run the London Marathon.

lost his two-year battle with cancer in 2015.

“My Dad received fantastic care from the After his fifth year entering the ballot, Hospice throughout his illness and of he has finally secured a place in the course when he eventually passed,” said iconic event.

James.

“I got a ballot place this year for the first time and so this will be my first marathon,” said James, 37, a Housing Officer at Havering Council who lives in Romford with his wife Gemma.

“I started applying for the marathon long before I started running so it’s probably best I didn’t get in before now. “I’ve been running for approximately two years since my sister convinced me to attend a Parkrun in Romford.”

James will be fundraising for Saint Francis Hospice along the way because of the specialist care it gave his Dad Terry Plumer before he sadly

i

So far James has completed a number of 10k runs and in February he took part in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park Half Marathon so he’s in good shape and says he’s feeling stronger after each run.

“My motivation is to ensure I put on a good display on Sunday, 28 April as I know a lot of my friends and family will be in attendance and cheering me on,” said James.

www.justgiving.com/fundraising/james-plumer

Ready for action In late February a joint Army recruiting event was held at Romford’s London Road Army Reserve centre. Representatives of The Parachute Regiment, Guards, Household Cavalry, Royal Fusiliers and Rifles were present to demonstrate equipment and advise those in the early stages of application on careers options.

If you are looking for a challenge have you considered joining Romford’s own Army Reserve unit B Company 4 PARA? Soldiers have recently deployed on exercise to Belize, Jordan, Germany and the Ukraine.

For more information, email 4PARA-BCoy-RECRUITING@mod.gov.uk, or call 0208 749 5694.

www.havering.gov.uk/living | April April 2019 2019 | 09

Enforcement

An

Inspector calls

“The key to success in the job is the relationships you have with people working on sites and at the utility companies”

Abdul Karam, New Road Street Works Act Inspector

There are many facets to the enforcement work that Havering Council undertakes to keep residents safe, traffic moving, and business thriving. Work to ensure that restaurant and pub kitchens are hygienic, parking restrictions followed, and fly-tipping tackled are among the ones that readily spring to mind. However, one that can be overlooked but is nevertheless crucial to the flow of road traffic around the borough and the safety of pedestrians, cyclists and motorists is streetworks enforcement.

Council online reporting system

Living in Havering caught up with Abdul Karam, a New Road 10 | April April 2019 2019 || LIVING LIVING in in Havering Havering

Street Works Act Inspector in Main Road outside Gidea Park Primary School. He’s been called after a resident used the Council’s online reporting system to say that a manhole in the road was a potential danger to motorists and especially motorcyclists. Abdul checked the manhole, photographed it and by using his tablet that’s loaded with an app called Mayrise, he could check on previous work that had been carried out at this location. In this case it was the responsibility of Thames Water to return and fix the wobbly manhole and Abdul is able to notify them immediately of the need for urgent remedial work.

33,000 applications a year

This is just one example of the work of Abdul’s team that also includes checking on waste skips sitting on public highways or pavements, scaffolding or hoardings from building works that may encroach on public land. His team also has to deal with about 33,000 applications each year for some form of work on the roads or pavements of Havering. Each set of works has a permit issued and these permits have to be displayed at the site of the works providing details of the extent of the works, the contractor, and the person responsible for any traffic management issues.

To monitor these works the Street works team divides Havering into three sections: Northern, Central and South. On the day Living in Havering joined Abdul, he’s patrolling the central

HMO 2

raided

A raid on a building in Rainham in February by Havering Council and the police found 12 people living in an illegal House of Multiple Occupation (HMO).

The Council’s Private Sector Housing and planning enforcement teams carried out a visit to the property in New Road.

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1. Inspecting in Main Road, Gidea Park 2. Abdul sends an update on his road inspection from his car 3. Inspecting a spillage in Upminster Road North 4. Abdul enters a report on his tablet during a visit to a set of utility works near Gallows Corner section that covers and area from Upminster across to Chadwell Heath. His next stop is at the junction of Upper Brentwood Road and Main Road, near Gallows Corner. Work to lay new gas pipes to serve a rebuilt house has involved the use of three-way traffic signals. What’s he looking for?

“The correct signage, that the lights are working correctly, that the person named on the permit as being responsible for that traffic management system is on site during the hours specified on the permit, those working on the site have the appropriate accreditation, the depth of the trench they are digging, and any others things that might cause a hazard” says Abdul. “If I see there’s a dangerous problem then they have two hours to get it fixed and I would stay on site to see that the remedial works are completed” he adds.

Abdul has plenty of experience to give him the authority to deal with any issues that arise. He’s been working for Havering Council for 14 years and is a civil engineer by training. “The key to success in the job is the relationships you have with people working on sites and at the utility companies” he adds. Based at Mercury House in Romford Abdul spends most of his time out on inspections. “Technology these days enables me to spend more time on the road as I can take and upload pictures instantly and have access to all the data I need on my tablet computer.”

It had followed a number of enforcement notices issued to the landlord after reports suggested it could be used as an illegal HMO. Officers found the owner had been renting the property out for commercial activity and the tenant was subsequently found to be illegally sub-letting the property as an HMO, which was in a dangerous condition.

The living conditions were found to be unsafe, dirty and inadequate and a risk to tenants living there, so the Council issued an emergency prohibition order.

The Council will continue to monitor the use of the premises to ensure the order is complied with.

Cllr Viddy Persaud, Cabinet Member for Public Protection and Safety, said: “Under our Landlord Licensing scheme, we will continue to crack down on those landlords who are taking advantage of local families and individuals by operating overcrowded and poorly maintained HMO properties.

“This action was a great example of working in partnership with others, including the police and London Fire Brigade, as we look to help protect and enable tenants to live safely in private rented accommodation in our borough.”

Latest figures Since the launch of the Council’s Landlord Licensing Scheme in March last year: • £183,577 licensing fees collected • 203 licences issued • £373,750 worth of penalty notices issued

www.havering.gov.uk/living www.havering.gov.uk/living ||April April 2019 2019 | 11

Something

to celebrate every month

Havering Council has an ongoing commitment to supporting and facilitating family events within Romford Market. It’s more than just a market, it’s a part of the community. The free public events programme continues over the coming months to celebrate the rich history of the market and its customers.

Alongside the traditional street market, upcoming entertainment includes:

Saturday 20 April - Easter Fun

• 11am to 3:30pm • Easter Egg Hunt amongst the market stalls • Free children’s face painting • Free teacup fairground ride • The Easter Bunny and Three Little Pigs children’s characters

• Music from Time 107.5FM Wednesday 24 April - St George's Day Celebrations

• 11am to 3:30pm • Cockney musical entertainer, Harmonica Lewinsky, will get you in the mood for a traditional East End knees-up

• Punch and Judy puppet show • Caricaturist • Medieval musicians, The Kings Waits • Children's craft tent, including a dragon-making station and medieval tapestry

• St George living statue • Face painting • Tame our mystical life-size animated dragon Friday 31 May – Love Your Local Market

• 11am to 3:30pm • Live music • Children's entertainment

Saturday 29 June – Armed Forces Day Parade and Romford Market Entertainment

• Parade through Romford starts at 10.30am • Live music and dancing

If you would like to stay informed and be among the first to hear about exciting future events, like the Market’s facebook page.

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www.facebook.com/romfordmarketpage

ROMFORD MARKET EVENTS 12 | April 2019 | LIVING in Havering

Safe Havering

Growing concerns Allotment Watch – a new scheme to tackle crime on allotments is being launched by Havering Council.

First of its kind in Havering Allotment Watch is the first of its kind for the borough and is a community-based crime prevention scheme which will work on the same principles as Neighbourhood Watch.

The Council is working with the Allotment Society to develop a programme to help keep allotments safe and secure.

The move comes after a series of theft of tools from sheds and an increase in anti-social behaviour at some of the borough’s 27 allotments.

Cabinet and Council meetings Cabinet and Full Council meetings are open to the public and are held at 7.30pm in the Council Chamber, Town Hall, Main Road, Romford, RM1 3BB.

Stepping up awareness

Cllr Viddy Persaud, Havering’s Cabinet Member for Public Protection and Safety, said: “This new scheme is sending a message that we are stepping up awareness on allotments, ensuring that the people who use them feel safe and that anti-social behaviour won’t be tolerated.

“Over the coming weeks we’ll be running a series of mini roadshows offering advice on how to keep your shed safe and how to mark your tools to reduce the risk of them being stolen.”

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www.havering.gov.uk/allotments

27 April – 18 May A Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch and Hull Truck Theatre production in association with Oldham Coliseum Theatre

Book by Melvyn Bragg Music and Lyrics by Howard Goodall

Forthcoming meeting dates are as follows: Cabinet – 8 May Annual Council – 15 May Cabinet – 12 June Cabinet – 3 July Full Council – 10 July They can also be watched online at www.havering.gov.uk/webcast Dates may change, please check www.havering.gov.uk/calendarmeetings for latest information.

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www.havering.gov.uk/living | April 2019 | 13

Investment in roads & pavements

Improving safety, for pedestrians and drivers Havering has the second largest highway network in London. To make sure that it is well looked-after the Council has committed to invest £40 million over the next four years for road and pavement improvements. This will involve the resurfacing of many stretches of local roads and footways. A list of those roads

and footways scheduled for treatment over the next three months is shown on the opposite page.

In addition to that programme of activity work will continue on repairing potholes.

moving vehicles so they can identify any defects in the road. These are carried out monthly on main roads, every three months on side roads and once a year for cul-de-sacs.

On average there can be over 1,000 potholes repaired by the Council during the course of a year.

Inspections are made by staff in slow-

Know your potholes • Attrition pothole

This type occurs when there is a reduction in the thickness of road layer and it is a hole that can deteriorate quickly.

These are the more common potholes seen on any type of road, especially main roads, where the thickness of the road can be reduced due to the amount of traffic on these roads.

These potholes are the ones most reported by passers-by as stones and debris tend to scatter as vehicles pass over the hole.

• Seasonal pothole The most common time for a pothole to appear is during winter months.

When there is adverse weather such as freezing temperatures and then a thaw, this is when many road surfaces tend to suffer cracks as part of the road structure, causing potholes to form.

i 14 | April 2019 | LIVING in Havering

www.havering.gov.uk/potholes

Spotted a pothole? Report it The best way to report a pothole is to visit our website (www. havering/gov.uk/potholes). All reports made in that way are automatically fed straight to the relevant Council department and you will be able to track progress on your enquiry.

• For a pothole to be considered for repair, it must be approximately 4cms deep and 30cms wide in a road, or 2.5cms deep in a pavement.

When reporting a pothole, you need to give the following details: • The surface of the road or pavement, is it tarmac, concrete, block-paving, slabs, or cobbles?

• The estimated size and depth of the pothole • Is the pothole in the middle or at the side of the pavement or road. Is it near a kerb or a property boundary?

Station Lane in Hornchurch, pictured after the pavement was relaid in 2014

A pavement in Front Lane, Cranham that was relaid in 2015

As part of Havering Council’s commitment to spend £40million over the next four years to improve the borough’s roads and pavements, resurfacing or repaving works will be carried out at these locations over the next three months: ROAD

Ward

PAVEMENTS

Ward

CLOCKHOUSE LANE (between FIRBANK ROAD and DOMINION DRIVE)

Havering Park

1

HITCHEN CLOSE

2

THE MOUNT

Heaton Heaton

3

DUNSTER CRESCENT

Cranham

CLOCKHOUSE LANE (between HIGHFIELD ROAD and COLLIER ROW)

Havering Park

4

THE COBBLES

Cranham

5

INGREBOURNE GARDENS Cranham

6

KERRY DRIVE

Cranham

3

MARDEN ROAD

Romford Town

7

BROOKLANDS

Emerson Park

8

WOODLANDS

Emerson Park

4

LODGE LANE

Mawneys

9

EVELYN SHARP CLOSE

Squirrels Heath

5

GROSVENOR DRIVE

Hylands

10

MACDONALD WAY

Squirrels Heath

6

ELMHURST DRIVE

Hylands

11

CATHERINE ROAD

Squirrels Heath

7

HARWOOD AVENUE

Squirrels Heath

12

ROWAN WALK

Squirrels Heath

8

MACDONALD AVENUE

Squirrels Heath

13

MURFITT WAY

Upminster

14

LONDON CLOSE

Upminster

1

2

www.havering.gov.uk/living | April April 2019 2019 | 15

Regeneration – Housing

Putting people at the heart of Havering’s regeneration Through all of Havering’s regeneration projects, the Council is working hard with partners to offer valuable support to residents and businesses. Here are just a few examples of the efforts both the Council and partners are making to ensure that local residents and businesses have access to support and opportunities.

Soon to be demolished – Waterloo Estate

Brian Moore, former Waterloo Estate resident Soon to be demolished – Serena Court

Reginald Nuttall, former Serena Court resident

Mr Reginald Nuttall, 92 this coming August, lives with his daughter Amanda, in Bader Way, Elm Park. They originally lived at Serena Court, which they moved into in 2002.

Serena Court is one of the 12 sites being redeveloped by the Council and Wates Residential joint venture.

After first hearing about the plans to move the residents out of the properties, and some initial uncertainty and inevitable rumours about what that would mean for residents, Reg said everything seemed to quickly progress from that point on.

The Council helped with the move, which Mr Nuttall said he couldn’t fault. The retired management consultant to the fashion industry said, “The Council Housing Officers listened to what we needed and encouraged us to view this property. As soon as we did, I knew that it would be perfect for us.”

“The Council made the move as easy as possible for us” Reg added, “They made sure that the property was suitable for me, as I suffer with arthritis. They arranged to have a step and handrails to the front and back of the property, and a secure box for my scooter. They did everything they could to make the move as easy as possible for us”.

They have been in the new property in Bader Way now for eight months, with Amanda striving to make similar connections with local groups that she enjoyed whilst living at Serena Court. Reg said ‘Serena Court feels like a lifetime ago now. I’m grateful to Havering Council for the chance to live out my life in a lovely home with a beautiful garden”.

16 | April 2019 | LIVING in Havering

Brian, former Vice Chair of the Waterloo Estate Residents Group and tenant on the estate, described the initial fear amongst residents and his role in making formal submissions on behalf of residents during the process.

“In many ways, this level of regeneration is new to Havering Council requiring a specialist team and an associated steep learning curve. Despite some things not always going to plan in the initial stages, in my role as Vice Chair, I represented tenants that were having difficulties. In all instances I was given favourable consideration, matters were resolved promptly and I am unaware of any outstanding issues." said Brian.

Due to health issues, Brian had to step down from his role as Vice Chair, but he has retained an active interest in the ongoing development. He also described his personal experience of the decant process.

An efficient and effective process “It was like a well-oiled machine. Both mine and my daughter’s house moves were handled extremely professionally. But the treatment we both enjoyed is not unique to us; we have not received special treatment but have been part of a process executed to the highest standards possible. My daughter even said to me during her move, ‘Dad, I thought this was supposed to be stressful!’ which really sums up just how efficient and effective the process is!”.

“We're happy and content in our new surroundings” Brian has been in his new home for one year now and feels very settled. “I have always been a firm believer in the saying actions speak louder than words. The fulfilment of the Housing Regeneration Scheme may still be in its early stages but my daughter and I wish to thank Havering Council for regenerating our lives. We are both extremely happy and content in our new surroundings”.

We have local people designing and building local homes for local people.

Living in Havering spoke to Gary and Lewis, who are Havering residents, to find out more about their work for Havering Council’s joint venture with Wates Residential.

Gary – project manager for Wates Residential since November 2018 and Hornchurch resident for 25 years:

What benefits do you think the regeneration project will bring to the local area?

A new home is what we dream for from the first day we all start work, we dream of how we can provide for our families.

This project will give many families this opportunity to live in a well-designed modern home with all the benefits of modern construction.

What interested you about working on this project?

I wanted to be part of the regeneration of Havering because it’s where me and my children live, and they may possibly live here for many years to come. I would like to leave a legacy of stylish well-built homes for all residents of Havering.

Because I live in Havering, each project is no more than 15 or 20 minutes from where I live and that is a massive bonus not to be traveling to and from the city.

Lewis – who has lived in Romford for 19 years (since he was born), started his Wates career just a few weeks ago. He works as a hands-on assistant surveyor while also studying for a quantity surveying degree at Anglia Ruskin University.

What is an average day at work like for you?

I start at about 7.30am - in the building industry you try to get in early. At the moment, I start the day with general quantity surveying. That means sourcing sub-contractors through our supply chain. Because the project is in Havering, there is a big emphasis on the companies we use being from Havering too. We are building in Havering in order to help Havering so it’s a good way to support the local businesses.

What benefits do you think the regeneration project will bring to the local area?

A t the minute, there aren’t enough houses for the people who need them, in Havering and around the country, especially social housing, so we are going to be doubling the amount and it’s going to help the area massively. Providing jobs and training for Havering residents across the Wates schemes is another way the borough benefits.

www.havering.gov.uk/living | April April 2019 2019 | 17

Holding the Mayor of London to account

“On a daily basis, I fight for the transport upgrades that we so desperately need in Havering.”

Keith Prince, Member of the London Assembly for Havering and Redbridge writes for Living in Havering.

As soon as someone is elected a London Assembly Member, they become a household name. But often only in their own household.

Even though Assembly Members have been in existence for very nearly 20 years, it is fair to say that the office hasn’t grown as prominent as others. Most people in London know who their Member of Parliament is, but probably not their Assembly Member.

Time for change

I want this to change. The Mayor of London is one of the most powerful politicians in the country. He has a budget of £18 billion and enormous power. Holding him to account, as I do, is enormously important.

Holding the Mayor to account is done mainly through Mayor’s Question Time and the London Assembly committees. Mayor’s Question Time happens each month and it gives all 25 Assembly Members the opportunity to question the Mayor and scrutinise 18 | April 2019 | LIVING in Havering

his policies. The committees focus in on specific areas of policy, cross examine a broad range of witnesses and publish reports. I am a member of the transport committee, which covers so many issues which are vitally important to Havering residents.

Banging the drum

On a daily basis, I fight for the transport upgrades that we so desperately need in Havering. The Gallows Corner roundabout has been a perennial issue and frankly politicians have been guilty of neglecting the clear problems that need sorting. I am determined to bring about improvements and so I’m naturally pleased that TfL is finally starting to explore upgrade possibilities.

I will keep banging the drum for this much-needed work.

The Ardleigh Green Bridge roadworks have been dragging on for years and have caused untold disruption for local drivers.

Again, I have been holding TfL’s feet to the fire on this fiasco, and I am delighted that, at the time of writing, the roadworks are due to be entirely completed by June.

The tragic murder of Jodie Chesney in Harold Hill shows that outer London boroughs like Havering aren’t immune from our city’s terrible crime epidemic. Our local knife crime charities are instrumental in stopping local young people from turning to a life of crime, and I am working with local and London wide charities and organisations to do all we can to work with young people to get them out of this vicious cycle.

Here to help

I am here to help residents in Havering, so please feel free to contact me if I can be of any assistance. My email address is: Keith.Prince@london.gov.uk.

cancer

Wellbeing in Havering

Be

aware

Screening for Bowel Cancer To detect cases of bowel cancer sooner, the NHS offers two types of bowel cancer screening to adults registered with a GP in England:

It’s important to talk about cancer. More than 1 in 3 people in the UK will develop some form of cancer in their lifetime, so you will probably know someone who has had it. Treatments are improving all the time and, due to better survival rates, more people are living with and beyond cancer. The earlier that cancer is caught, the better the outcome, so being aware of signs and symptoms and seeking advice promptly is important, as is attending screening when offered. There are also steps that you can take to reduce your chances of getting cancer, such as eating a healthy diet, being a healthy weight, keeping active, drinking within recommended guidelines and not smoking.

Bowel Cancer awareness month April is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month – bowel cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the UK. Most people diagnosed with it are over the age of 60. It helps to talk about cancer, being aware of your body and any changes that are not normal for you, and what to do if you think you might have something wrong

Reducing your Chances of Bowel Cancer • Eat Well – try to eat a varied and balanced diet that is high in fruit, vegetables and fibre and low in red or processed meats www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/ • Lose Weight – bowel cancer is more common in people who are overweight or obese www.nhs.uk/oneyou/for-your-body/weight-loss/

• All men and women aged 60 to 74 are invited to carry out a faecal occult blood (FOB) test. Every two years, they're sent a home test kit, which is used to collect a stool sample. If you're 75 or over, you can ask for this test by calling the freephone helpline on 0800 707 60 60.

• An additional one-off test called bowel scope screening is being introduced in England. This is offered to men and women at the age of 55. It involves a doctor or nurse using a thin, flexible instrument to look inside the lower part of the bowel. Removing any polyps found in bowel scope screening can prevent cancer.

What are the Symptoms?

• persistent blood in the stools – that occurs for no obvious reason or is associated with a change in bowel habit • a persistent change in your bowel habit – which usually means going more often, with looser stools • persistent lower abdominal (tummy) pain, bloating or discomfort – that's always caused by eating and may be associated with loss of appetite or significant unintentional weight loss

What to do

• Exercise – being active reduces your risk of getting bowel cancer www.nhs.uk/oneyou/

You know your body better than anyone else, so if you are worried about bowel cancer, or have any of the signs or symptoms, at any age, talk to your GP. You are not wasting anyone’s time – they are there to help.

Remember, cancer can be treated much better if it’s found early.

• Reduce alcohol and smoking – a high alcohol intake and smoking increases your chances of getting bowel cancer https://stopsmokinglondon.com/ • Get Screened – Early detection of any cancer is the best way of having a healthier outcome www.nhs.uk/conditions/nhs-screening/

i

www.nhs.uk/conditions/bowel-cancer www.havering.gov.uk/living | April 2019 | 19

Cleaner, Safer, Pr

Havering Council has a plan for the year ahead.

It is split across four priorities: Communities, Places, Opportunities and Connections.

A helping hand Communities More school and early years places New Free School for children with Special Educational Needs Helping people to look after themselves and others

Making life better Opportunities Continue to deliver £3bn of investment to: Create jobs and skills opportunities Help businesses grow Providing the best possible services at the lowest cost to you

go to www.havering.gov.uk/vision to see the full plan 20 | April 2019 | LIVING in Havering

Prouder Together In future years the Council will be smaller but working in a smarter way to deliver services while working with the local community to get things done.

A great place to live Places Increasing the frequency of street cleaning in residential streets Even more awards for our parks More genuinely affordable quality homes

Making life easier Connections £40m to improve roads, pavements and fix potholes over the next four years Exploring the possibility of a new north-south public transport route linking Rainham to Romford Digitally-enabled services to make the Council more efficient and the lives of residents easier

www.havering.gov.uk/living | April 2019 | 21

A great and clean place to live “We want residents to have pride in their neighbourhoods” Cllr Osman Dervish, Cabinet Member for Environment

Living, working and going to school in a clean and safe borough is what Havering Council is committed to as it looks to invest an extra £400,000 for street cleaning.

The additional money will see the frequency of cleaning in residential streets increased from once every three weeks to fortnightly. This was in response to residents’ feedback in last year’s MORI poll and other surveys.

There have been additions to the fleet of vehicles and equipment including new mechanical channel sweepers and pavement sweepers to undertake extensive cleaning, plus extra staff to carry out the more frequent cleans.

It doesn’t stop at street cleaning, the investment will also see the Council looking to carry out more enforcement action against fly-tipping and littering, both of which blight the lives of residents. Enforcement officers will be looking to catch those who don’t clear up after their dogs, with on-the-spot fines of £80.

Bagged dog waste can be placed in any general waste bin found on streets and in parks in the borough so there’s no excuse to leave it on the street or in a bag hanging on a tree! Persistent anti-social behaviour may result in prosecution.

Dropping chewing gum is another scourge on the borough’s 22 | April 2019 | LIVING in Havering

streets that the Council wants to wipe out and there will be focus on helping to keep the borough’s parks clean and tidy, along with river clean-ups.

Despite financial constraints, the Council has agreed that the investment is important and as a result, will encourage residents to help change the behaviour of those who litter or fly-tip.

The last month has seen the Council supporting Keep Britain Tidy’s Spring Clean campaign by supplying kits for residents to borrow to hold their own community clean-up events. The kits include litter picks and sacks and have seen residents, young and old sign up to help keep their communities clean.

Cllr Osman Dervish, Cabinet Member for Environment, said: “Our residents have spoken about having their streets cleaned more and we have listened and are taking action.

“We are also making it clear to those who fly-tip and litter our borough, that we will take the strongest action as we won’t tolerate it. Fly-tipping has become more prevalent over recent years and costs us, as a borough, over £1m a year to deal with it. That is money we can spend elsewhere to benefit our residents.

“We ask that residents help us though by reporting fly-tipping and also dispose of waste responsibly, by making sure they use only licensed waste carriers.

“We want residents to have pride in their neighbourhoods, join us for community clean-up events and ask the question of those who feel it is okay to litter our streets, to stop and think about what they are doing.

“Together, we can enjoy a cleaner borough that we have pride in.”

i

www.havering.gov.uk/cleanerhavering

The Great British Spring Clean

2

Get ready to lend a hand Havering Council has supported the GB Spring Clean campaign by providing clean up kits to local groups organising community clean-ups.

1

3

1. The street cleansing team in front of Havering Town Hall 2. Sweeping

gutters and cleaning pavements 3. A new Johnston pavement sweeper in action

On Wednesday 17 April, 12 noon at Honiton Road, off London Road, Romford, a clean up event will be held. Please lend a hand to keep Havering beautiful.

#GBSpringClean

i

www.havering.gov.uk/springclean

Havering

is ranked one of the ‘greenest’ boroughs 1

More accolades have come Havering’s way in celebrating its parks and open spaces.

In a recent survey by First Mile to find the UK’s greenest city or town, Havering ranked fifth greenest of the 33 London boroughs. It also drew praise for continuing to work on reducing the use of plastic waste.

No.1 in air quality

2

Havering was found to be top of the pile when it comes to air quality, coming at number one of all the London boroughs.

That standard is down to the work being carried out by the Council to improve air quality in the borough with a five-year Air Quality Action Plan. The borough has relatively good air quality but the plan supports work on improving it at hotspots including Romford town centre, Rush Green Road, Rom Valley Way, Rainham Broadway and Gallows Corner.

is also encouraging residents to sign up for air quality level alerts and continues to monitor air quality levels around the borough.

The plan will see the Council take a number of actions including, lobbying the GLA and TfL to have lower emissions on their vehicles, work with schools to give key messages to pupils about finding other ways to get to and from school, tackle idling of vehicles through dedicated action days, and running a feasibility study about electric charging points. It

The borough can boast a garden of riches when it comes to parks and open spaces. Last year saw the most successful year for Havering in receiving the Green Flag Award, as it scooped 14. The Green Flag Award is the highest recognition given for the management and standard of parks and open spaces.

1. Celebrating Langtons' Green Flag win 2. The visitor centre at the award-winning Bedfords Park

14 Green Flag Awards

www.havering.gov.uk/living | April 2019 | 23

5602

Easter, Spring & Summer Recycling & Rubbish Collection Dates 2019 Normal Collection Date

Revised Collection Date

Collections will run as normal on Good Friday 19 April April

Friday 19 April

Friday 19 April

Monday 22 April

Tuesday 23 April

Tuesday 23 April

Wednesday 24 April

Wednesday 24 April

Thursday 25 April

Thursday 25 April

Friday 26 April

Friday 26 April

Saturday 27 April

Raiders’ return reaps rewards

Collections return to normal on Monday 29 April May

Monday 6 May

Tuesday 7 May

Tuesday 7 May

Wednesday 8 May

Wednesday 8 May

Thursday 9 May

Thursday 9 May

Friday 10 May

Friday 10 May

Saturday 11 May

Collections return to normal on Monday 13 May Monday 27 May

Tuesday 28 May

Tuesday 28 May

Wednesday 29 May

Wednesday 29 May

Thursday 30 May

Thursday 30 May

Friday 31 May

Friday 31 May

Saturday 1 June

Collections return to normal on Monday 3 June Aug

Monday 26 August

Tuesday 27 August

Tuesday 27 August

Wednesday 28 August

Wednesday 28 August Thursday 29 August Thursday 29 August

Friday 30 August

Friday 30 August

Saturday 31 August

Collections return to normal on Monday 2 September

Collection times are likely to change. It is important that all sacks are presented by 7am on your revised collection day.

Please note that all revised collection arrangements also apply to the garden, clinical and bulky waste services.

For further information visit

www.havering.gov.uk/recycling

24 | April 2019 | LIVING in Havering

John Scott, a Director of the Raiders ice hockey team, writes for Living in Havering on a very successful year for the Romford-based outfit.

The Raiders first full season at the Sapphire Ice and Leisure centre has been an eventful one, and one that gives great hope for the growing strength of the sport that returned to Havering last year after a five year break.

Impressive start

Our senior team found themselves unexpectedly thrust into a league where four semi-pro teams had been parachuted in from the league above. They met that challenge by beating all four teams at least twice and finished in the middle of a very strong league table. That impressive start saw the Raiders being instrumental in the negotiations for the resurgence of a national league in which they will compete in the 2019 – 2020 season.

As part of the player development programme the Raiders successful Junior System feeds talent into the Division 2 team and they also had a very successful inaugural season.

Like their senior team mentors, they have also seen crowds steadily grow as spectators appreciate the sport in the comfortable family environment provided by the Sapphire.

Our junior teams are now well placed to top the leagues in each of the categories from under 18 to under 11s which is a testament to the strong coaching squad.

The learn to skate and learn to play schemes will be extended further into local schools this year so that the youngsters of Havering can have the ideal opportunity to get into ice hockey as early as possible. This will continue the area’s reputation of developing skilled players to represent their country in international competition.

Focused on the future

England's representative in the European Youth Parliament Eddie O’Sullivan once admitted that he wasn’t that focused and mucked about at school.

But three years on, he is working as an apprentice in the House of Lords and is the England representative in the European Youth Parliament – giving young people in the UK a voice in Europe.

Eddie (now 18), served as a Member of the Youth Parliament (MYP) for Havering between 2016 and 2018, and could be heard speaking up in parliament on issues of concern to young people, such as knife crime and mental health.

“I have always wanted to get involved in issues, as I think Havering is a great place to live. It’s not just for the rich or for the poor, there’s a balance and a place for everyone. The Youth Parliament was a way of getting involved in what was going on locally and nationally,” says the former Sanders School pupil.

candidate for election.

Like local politicians, he wrote his manifesto and pledges, and along with other candidates, delivered speeches in schools across Havering. The votes were counted and Eddie was elected for the position, which he took up in March 2016. This platform provided an opportunity to become more focused and gave him a goal to work towards.

He was also part of the British Youth Council and UK Youth Parliament and was elected by his peers to be the lead for London boroughs, where his role involved organising workshops, visiting other boroughs and working across London.

In November 2018, the UK Youth Parliament voted on the top 5 issues for young people (in the annual Make Your Mark campaign) with knife crime as one of the main issues they wanted to campaign on in 2019.

“It will be quite interesting to find out, as I work with the EU Parliament, if this is an issue in the EU as well as the UK,” Eddie said, of his new role.

“Knife crime and mental health were key issues for discussions, but were being overshadowed by other issues that people thought were more important,” he said.

His experience as an MYP has helped him to take the next step and to become an apprentice in the House of Lords in The Lord Speaker’s office.

During his term in office, he was also involved in intergenerational issues, which gave him an opportunity to look at the relationships between the older and younger generations.

No two days are the same, but he works with overseas delegations to show them how our parliament works. He’s involved in communications, shadowing staff and helping to organise trips and school visits for people from different parts of the world.

Valuable skills gained

“The Havering Youth Council and I got involved to participate in intergenerational events where both the over 50s Forum and the Havering Youth Council would meet to discuss and debate issues that they both face as well as find common interests. These initiatives have allowed me to gain valuable skills that will further help me progress. It is these experiences that I hope will help me gain a wider understanding of what life is like for different people as I hope to one day represent Romford as an MP”.

Havering MYPs stay in the role for two years. Applications to become a Member of Youth Parliament were sent to all local schools and youth centres. Eddie applied and was shortlisted to attend workshops and the interview process to become a

What does the future hold for Eddie?

His apprenticeship lasts for 13 months, until next summer, and having already completed his A-levels, he is planning to go to Loughborough university to study politics and international relations.

• Youth takeover – Havering Council is planning a youth

takeover of a future edition of Living in Havering. If you’d like to take part, contribute an article, or find out more, email: living@havering.gov.uk www.havering.gov.uk/living | April 2019 | 25

celebrate It has been a rollercoaster of a year for Veggie Run, as the fun healthy eating campaign for Havering children is now recognised as a multi-award winner.

The app, has been downloaded over 22,000 times, and the uptake of healthy school catered lunches has increased by 14 percent across the borough.

Thousands of children engaged in the campaign and many were lucky to win bikes, swimming vouchers, West Ham United (WHU) soccer school vouchers, Stubbers Adventure Centre activity days plus much more. Just over half of the schools also benefitted from the WHU Foundation’s Healthy Hammer programme, free sports equipment, professional coaching sessions and more.

of free school Molly won alsyefrar HES om ea m catered af s ice rv Catering Se‘Cora’s Cater ot Cake’, developing ggie Runrrrecipe for a healthy Veus. school men

unching t celebrationne la imary pr It was a grea y ga n E e th h Veggie Runprat it w 8, 201 school in AQ uilorn, Everyone Active suppor t of UK , R omford. and Cycles 26 | April 2019 | LIVING in Havering

Veggie Run arded 100 bikes thousands ofaw runch Bunch’ baand in June to win‘C dges n in eaten a healthy g pupils who had school catered lu nch.

Veggie R partner with the largesut n adventures ce in the South ntre East, Stubb Adventure Cen ers schools and pu tre, to of fer outdoor activi pils free ty days.

Veggie u n cr ates fi kind paR rst f its r tnersheip Foundati with eoW HU collaboration and launcth on the 10 on at the clubh'sed the Angelo OgNovember with p stadium la ers bonna an d XandeyS ilva

1

st

es its

birthday

Veggie Run

competition time!

To celebrate Veggie Run’s birthday, HES Catering Services are hosting lots of new competitions during the summer term and are calling on budding young creative minds to design and draw a Veggie Run arch-enemy. The most captivating design will win one term’s worth of free catered school lunches from September 2019.

This unhealthy arch-enemy character

could be something like Daisy Donna Kebab or Freddie Fried Chicken, with the winning character eventually being added to the Veggie Run app. To enter this competition any Havering primary, infant or junior pupil just needs to submit the following: Arch-enemy character design Character name Brief reason as to why the character is unhealthy

• • •

• S ubmit on an A4 piece of paper to

either their school kitchen or email to schoolcatering@havering.gov.uk Include pupil’s name, school and class.

The competition is open from 29 April - 24 May and the winner will be announced on the 10 June.

If the winning pupil is in Key Stage 1, credit will be saved until they enter Key Stage 2.

•

Veggie Run’s

Birthday

Every celebration needs a party, so Veggie Run is very excited to host a specialty themed birthday lunch on Tuesday 14 May for the Havering school which has increased their schools catered meal uptake the most in one year since the campaign launched.

Also, pupils who eat a school catered lunch every Tuesday from 30 April to 21 May can win themselves and a parent or guardian a free family adventure day to Stubbers Adventure Centre on Sat 20 July or Sunday 21 July and take part in archery, canoeing, climbing and bush craft.

Don’t forget you can buy school lunch credit online. www.haveringcatering.co.uk

www.havering.gov.uk/living | April 2019 | 27

Historical Havering

On the

beat

2019 marks the centenary of when single women between the age of 35 and 38 years were allowed to join the Metropolitan Police. Lois Willoughby-Easter writes for Living in Havering on her experience of joining the Met Police in 1967 at the age of nineteen.

“

After training school, I was posted to Romford a place of which I had little knowledge since I had been brought up in south London. However, I soon became accustomed to the new Romford Police Station known within the police service as KD, built two years prior to my arrival replacing a large Victorian building in South Street, formerly part of the Essex Constabulary.

Initially I wanted to work in London’s West End but I discovered there was plenty to do at KD as there were only four women police officers and our woman sergeant. Though little did we see of one another except at changeover time, or in the hostel accommodation provided for single women adjoining Upminster Police Station.

Whilst on foot patrol in Romford town centre and the market place I would exchange sociable banter with the stall holders whilst the shopping centre provided a supply of shoplifters. There were missing person enquiries, traffic offences and general police enquiries to carry out and one always had to be prepared for the unexpected. Even though in the late sixties there were no personal radios or body armour just a whistle and a truncheon. How times have changed!

During my service, WPCs had the same powers of arrest (although historically they were not granted the power of arrest until 1923) but also received specialist training in how to deal with women, children and young persons, so I often found myself being transported to any of the other K Division police stations to assist male colleagues.

After my two year probation period I was transferred to Hornchurch and later Dagenham Police Stations but in 1973 when the Sex Discrimination Act was passed, the WPC became a PC equal in every way except gender, and our specialism disappeared. Many male officers and myself included did not welcome this change, so, reluctantly, I resigned from what had been an incredible experience.

”

‘A Girl in Blue’ Memoirs of a Metropolitan Woman Police officer 1967-1973 by Lois Willoughby-Easter was published in 2018 by Mango Books available from Amazon.

28 | April 2019 | LIVING in Havering

50

years young

1 This year Havering Association for People with Disabilities charity is celebrating its fiftieth anniversary.

50 years supporting adults with disabilities and their carers Based in a former RAF Hornchurch dispersal hut now located in Woodhall Crescent, Hornchurch, HAD today works with around 210 registered adult clients. The recently extended facilities include an IT suite for computer training courses and a lovely garden that’s used for yoga classes and barbecues in the summer months.

HAD is partially funded by Havering Council but also relies on donations from companies and individuals in order to keep the services they offer relevant and to a high standard. This year they achieved a Trusted Charity Quality Mark and have been chosen by GBP Estates Romford as their charity of the year.

Eric Mee from Rainham has supported HAD for 46 of those 50 years. He first became involved as a volunteer driver. “We provided transport for all sorts of trips and visits but it was always about more than just the driving. We would help people into and out of their homes, have chats, and make sure they were comfortable at home when we left them” he said.

“We want to make 2019 a really special year” Manager Clare Kelly Manager Clare Kelly said; “We want to make 2019 a really special year. We are inviting our clients to ‘try something new’ each month throughout the year with ideas planned including science workshops, stone painting, and visits to art galleries, and an art exhibition put on by our members. This is in addition to the regular activities and classes that include chair-based exercise, health and wellbeing classes, and computer lessons.”

4

2

3 1. The Mayor of Havering, Cllr Dilip Patel, joins HAD staff and volunteers at the birthday celebrations.

2. HAD member on a trip to Parliament in 2004.

3. The HAD building in Hornchurch.

4. Noticeboard inside Whittaker Hall marking key moments in HAD’s history.

1969 Havering Association for the Handicapped (HAH) founded on 19 May. It was established to meet the needs of people with disabilities and carers by providing information, facilities and direct services and to work in partnership with individuals and organisations that share the same aims. Membership of HAH was opened to any organisation contributing to the welfare of the handicapped in the borough.

1983 Ron Whittaker elected as Chairman and he, with the support of his committee, decided that the association needed to have its own accommodation and funding.

1986 Renamed as the Havering Association for the Handicapped and they have their own premises in Hornchurch.

1996 Name changed to Havering Association for People with Disabilities.

2003 HAD becomes a UK Online Centre and they win an award at the Disability Access Awareness Awards.

2009/2010 The Mayor of Havering, Cllr Pam Light, names HAD as the charity of her Mayoral year.

2011 City Bridge Trust funds support provided by HAD to help disabled adults to access and manage personal budgets.

To mark their anniversary year HAD has organised a number of special events including a charity football match on 23 June at Aveley Football Club, a member of staff is taking part in the London to Southend Bike Ride on 14 July and HAD’s annual garden party on Saturday 20 July will this year have a sixties theme.

2011/2012 Named by Sainsbury’s Hornchurch as their Charity of the Year.

If you have a story or memory of HAD and you would be happy to share it with HAD, please email them at: admin@hadhavering.co.uk

2018 New logo unveiled that incorporates the HAD hut.

2016/2017 One of Mayor Cllr Phillipa Crowder’s chosen charities.

www.havering.gov.uk/living | April 2019 | 29

Business Focus

Supporting

Knock

down deal

The Napier and New Plymouth tower blocks that are set for demolition

“This joined-up approach benefits everyone” Cllr Damian White, Leader of Havering Council

Two local businesses have been awarded demolition contracts by joint venture partners, Havering Council and Wates Residential, as part of the borough’s biggest regeneration project.

Solar, Serena and Sunrise Court, Hornchurch, and Napier and New Plymouth houses in Rainham, will be demolished as part of the 12 estates joint venture project, which will see 3,000 high quality homes delivered for local people over the next 12 to 15 years.

Kilnbridge has been awarded a contract to undertake controlled demolition of Napier House, New Plymouth House and a two-storey car park on Dunedin Road in Rainham.

Demolition will be carried out behind a full scaffold enclosure to minimise the impact on neighbouring residential streets.

Downwell Demolition, based in neighbouring Thurrock, Essex, will carry out the controlled demolition of Solar, Serena and Sunrise Court in Hornchurch and will also look to maximise 30 | April 2019 | LIVING in Havering

the amount of waste diverted from landfill.

This forms a key part of Havering Council and Wates Residential’s ambition to deliver a borough-wide legacy through investment in employment, education, skills and training. This includes a pledge from the developer to boost the local economy by using local Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

This investment will make up a minimum of 10 per cent of the total programme, valued at £100m of contracts to be secured by local businesses. Sourcing local suppliers is also kinder on the environment as it can cut the carbon emissions that are usually produced by travelling large distances.

Cllr Damian White, Leader of Havering Council, commented: “This joined-up approach benefits everyone, particularly Havering businesses and residents, to fully realise their ambition and potential. I want these contracts to be the first of many we award to local businesses”.

“As a local business, employing local people, Kilnbridge is delighted to be involved in this exciting regeneration project within Havering. We share the vision of joint venture partners in providing the community with a great place to live and work and look forward to delivering this both during and after the completion of this significant project.”

Dermot McDermott, Managing Director of Kilnbridge

g

local businesses

Three joint

ventures from Havering Council The Council and its joint venture partners are committed to providing Havering jobs and businesses support Havering Council has set up three joint ventures that will be building up to 6,000 new homes in the borough over 15 years. This equates to a value of £3bn. One of the aims for the joint ventures is to maximise the portion of that value that flows to local companies and those that employ local people.

The Council want all sizes of businesses to benefit from the house building through these joint ventures, including smaller businesses.

David Miles and Partners (DMP), a Romford company that offers expertise in the full range of mechanical and electrical building services, were keen to work with Wates Residential on the 12 estates scheme. At the time, the business did not have adequate infrastructure to fulfil the contracts that will be available. To support their ambitions, Wates Residential has instead offered the company a number of smaller opportunities across the capital, which have allowed them to develop the business to a position where they are now able to achieve their business objectives as a suitable applicant for upcoming contracts in Havering.

Craig Wedge, Managing director at DMP If you are “We are delighted” ss a local busine Craig Wedge, Managing Director at DMP said: “We are delighted with the opportunities r that Wates Residential has provided us with and that this relationship continues to te is g e r to t n and wa develop. I am pleased to see areas of Havering being developed and, as someone who ates to receive upd has been born and bred in the borough with close affiliations to the local area, I’m really t excited to see the results.“ about contrac e s a le p , s There are some businesses where the boroughs' regeneration plans impact on opportunitie t a existing premises. The Council and its joint venture partners are committed to register providing support to maintain those jobs and businesses in Havering. If you feel, as .uk/ havering.gov a local business, that you are affected by any of these plans, please do get in touch by emailing the Regeneration Team at regeneration@havering.gov.uk supplychain www.havering.gov.uk/living | April 2019 | 31

Business Focus

Placements

prove valuable for students and employers

New link for students to employers A new initiative that links Havering Sixth Form College to employers in the local and wider area has been successful in securing high quality work experience placements for more than 40 students.

Government funding for the Industry Placements Scheme has enabled the College, in Wingletye Lane, Hornchurch, to establish business contacts where employers offer extended work experience opportunities for a minimum of 45 days over the academic year.

A chance to build future careers

Procurement & Implementation Officer Sam Hennessey-Lowther, student Ciaran Ivie, Industry Placements Officer Janice Spriggs, student Eros Bercaru and student Kehinde Ogundele

Law firms, insurance companies, special needs schools, office-based charities and care homes have all given students from a variety of courses the chance to build experience in their chosen future careers.

Kehinde Ogundele, 19, from Romford, and Ciaran Ivie, 18, from Rainham, are BTEC Health & Social Care students, and have been taking part in work experience for six months at the Willows Care Home in Romford and at Fountains Care Centre in Rainham.

Challenging but rewarding As well as her Industry Placement at Willows, Kehinde, a former Albany (now Hornchurch High) School pupil, is now also a valued member of staff, having successfully applied for a part-time role at the weekends.

Ciaran, formerly from The Brittons Academy, said: “I have learned a lot of skills and have been able to use them for lessons and assessments at College. Working in this field has definitely made me more mature.”

Excellent staff feedback Feedback from the staff at the care homes has been excellent, indicating a real commitment and a natural caring nature that is really appreciated by the residents.

Student Eros Bercaru, 17, from Romford, is studying the Business BTEC Extended Diploma and was keen to gain experience in an office environment to support his classroom 32 | April 2019 | LIVING in Havering

learning. Local insurance company, Grove & Dean, agreed to offer Eros an Industry Placement and have been impressed with his commitment and enthusiasm.

Discovering how business works Eros, also a former pupil at Albany School, said: “Taking part in this industry placement has been very beneficial as I have been able to discover how a business actually works.”

Legal Secretaries and Law student Caitlin Francois, 18, from Rainham, passed a tough selection process to secure an Industry Placement with BCLP, a London law firm. The former Harris Academy, Rainham pupil says the experience has been very valuable. “I love working at BCLP and hopefully this placement will assist me in the future when I leave college.”

Developing our future employees

Employers are also benefiting from the experience. One said: “Whilst it's an opportunity for the student to gain a thorough understanding of the workplace, it is also a great opportunity for us to develop what could be our employees of the future.” .

Any employers who may be able to offer a student an industry placement, or who would like further information on the scheme, can contact Janice Spriggs at: janicespriggs@havering-sfc.ac.uk.

i

www.havering-sfc.ac.uk

Arts & Culture Art

ELMWOOD ART SOCIETY

Mondays, 7.30 – 9.45pm Hall behind Baptist church in Rosewood Avenue, Elm Park t 458772 e b.lucas7entlworld.com

HAVERING ARTS COUNCIL

Havering Arts Council represents arts groups in Havering and has a full programme of events www.haveringartscouncil.org.uk

HORNCHURCH PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY

Mondays, 7.15 – 10pm https://hornchurchphoto.com/

PHOENIX ART GROUP

Tuesdays, 2 – 4pm e beenaphoenix@gmail.com

The talk will explore the fascinating and unravelling story of street photographer extraordinaire Vivian Maier. Between the 1940s – 80s Maier took thousands of photographs in Chicago and New York, capturing the many faces of twentieth century city life. The talk includes material exclusive to the Tate franchise.

Tickets £5, including refreshments.

Advance booking required.

Music FAIRKYTES LIVE Fairkytes Arts Centre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1AX fairkytes@havering.gov.uk for tickets to any event go to www.seetickets.com

UPMINSTER CAMERA CLUB

Tuesdays, 7.45 –10pm www.upminstercameraclub.org.uk

CRANHAM ART SOCIETY

Hi-De-Hi Wednesday 5 - Saturday 8 June The BAFTA-winning BBC sitcom is brought to the stage. It’s a nostalgic and hilarious trip down memory lane.

Charge Tuesday 11 June An electrifying new dance-circus from Motionhouse. Inspired by the role of electricity in the human body, this new multi-media show, Charge, is about energy.

QUEEN'S THEATRE HORNCHURCH

Wednesdays, 10am –12pm t 229715 e maureen.hunter44@yahoo.com

Museums & Exhibitions

War of the Worlds Friday 17 and Saturday 18 May A reading of this famous play, believed by many to be the most famous broadcast in radio history. Accompanied by hightech lighting, stage effects and projected imaginary, this original script detailing the frightening tale of an extra-terrestrial takeover will be brought to life on stage.

www.queens-theatre.co.uk

Toyah: Up Close and Personal Friday 24 May, 8pm Tickets £28

Lee Mead Sunday 12 May Lee will talk about the magical moments, the highs the lows, the memories and of course the songs that the audience love to hear. Just Lee, a grand piano, and a pianist showcasing his voice.

Theatre

Rhythm of the Dance Wednesday 12 June This dance and music extravaganza contains a wealth of Irish talent, an exciting 2-hour trip through hundreds of years of Irish dance and music, 22 award-winning World and Irish dance champions with 25 dazzling costume changes.

BROOKSIDE THEATRE

www.brooksidetheatre.com

HAVERING MUSEUM

19 High Street, Romford, RM1 1JU t 766 571 e info@haveringmuseum.org.uk www.haveringmuseum.org.uk Film Locations Talk Saturday 27 April Enjoy a fascinating afternoon learning about famous film locations and the stories behind the making of the films. Films range from The African Queen to The Favourite.

Tickets £5 each – must be booked in advance Vivian Maier Talk by Dr. Ian Browne Saturday 11 May

Assassins Wednesday 24 - Saturday 27 April Winner of five Tony Awards, Assassins lays bare the lives of nine people who assassinated - or attempted to assassinate - the most powerful man on Earth, the President of the United States.

In The Willows Wednesday 22 – Sunday 26 May A new British family musical featuring soaring vocals and spectacular street dance. It stars Olivier Award winner Clive Rowe (Tracey Beaker, CBBC), deaf street dancer Chris Fonseca (The Greatest Dancer), Seann Miley Moore (X Factor) and Matt Knight (Let It Shine).

Amit Kumar in Concert Sunday 16 June Amit Kumar is a famous Bollywood Singer and son of the legendary Kishore Kumar. He will be singing evergreen hits, such as Yeh Shaam Mastani, Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas, Roop Tera Mastana, Zindagi Ka Safar and many more.

www.havering.gov.uk/living | April 2019 | 33

What’s on

If you would like your event featured for free in future listings or on Havering’s website, please complete the online form at www.

havering.gov.uk/eventsform

All numbers are 01708 unless stated.

CHILDREN 6TH SQUIRRELS HEATH SCOUT GROUP Wednesdays, 5-6.30pm e sixthbeaversgroup@yahoo.com BASKING BABIES ROMFORD Tuesdays, 9.45-11.15am t 07701 367883 BROWNIES The 1st Hornchurch Brownies for girls aged 7–10 years old meet in Vicarage Road on Thursdays between 6 and 7.30pm. t 07736 232239 e tanyamaidment28@gmail.com The 6th Harold Hill (Salvation Army) Brownie Unit for 7-10 year olds meet every Monday at 6pm at Petersfield Avenue, Harold Hill. t 07834 206562 e abloomfield77@hotmail.com CRICKET COACHING SESSIONS Colt Coaching Sessions (aged 5+) are organised by Havering-atteBower Cricket Club, Broxhill Road, Romford, RM4 1QH t 07718 944051 www.havering-atte-bower-cc.co. uk/colts

ESSEX WILDLIFE TRUST To book your place on any of the events at the Ingrebourne Valley Visitor Centre in Hornchurch Country Park t 520364 34 | April 2019 | LIVING in Havering

Free Buggy Walks Every Tuesday 1.30-2.15pm Bring your little one in their pram or buggy for a brisk 45 minute led walk around Hornchurch Country Park.

Little Badgers Parent and Toddler Group Every Tuesday and Friday 10.30am-12 noon Indoor and outdoor fun for toddlers and pre-schoolers with parents and carers. £6 per child per session JUNIOR TABLE TENNIS COACHING Tuesdays 7-9pm The Havering Table Tennis Club run junior sessions (9+) at the Coopers' Company & Coborn School, St. Marys Lane, Upminster

KIDS BIRDWATCHING CLUB Join the RSPB to explore the Rainham Marshes nature reserve, watching and learning about the birds that visit and live there.

Held once a month at RSPB Rainham Marshes New Tank Hill Road, Purfleet, RM19 1SZ between 9.30am and 12.30pm e Rainham.Marshes@rspb.org.uk LIMITLESS YOUTH GROUP Fun, games and chill time.

For 11 – 18 year olds.

Every Friday night 7 – 9pm 2A Newmarket Way, Hornchurch, RM12 6DS e limitless@haveringchristian fellowship.org LITTLE LAPWINGS A regular toddler group with outdoor fun and early learning for preschoolers and their parents/carers at RSPB Rainham Marshes New Tank Hill Road, Purfleet, RM19 1SZ Every Monday during term time 9.30-10.30am e Rainham.Marshes@rspb.org.uk MOTHER AND BABY YOGA CLASS Buddha Babes mother and baby yoga/massage class for ages 6 weeks+. Every Friday 12 noon-1pm St Andrews Church Hall, 222 High Street, Hornchurch RM12 6QP Cost: £9.50 e chloenewman31@gmail.com ROMFORD AUTISTIC GROUP Can help with emotional support for families with children on the autistic spectrum.

Call on Mondays or Tuesdays

t 564871 www.rags-havering.org.uk WIGGLE AND GIGGLE A lively session of action songs and rhymes for children aged 2-4.

Term time only. Free Event.

Elm Park Library – Wednesday 11.30am-12noon Harold Hill Library – Friday 2-2.30pm Upminster Library – Thursday 11.15-11.45am YOGA FOR CHILDREN Mondays, 5-6pm at Havering Asian Social and Welfare Association www.haswa.org.uk

GENERAL COMMUNITY ANTIQUES AND CRAFT MARKET Every Wednesday and Saturday 10am-4pm Romford Shopping Hall, Market Place, Romford. Tables £20 each Call Michelle on 740492 to book.

BRAIN INJURY SUPPORT Headway East London the brain injury charity runs a Romford Support Group.

It meets on the third Tuesday of the month from 6 – 7.30pm at the YMCA, 29 Rush Green Road, Romford, RM7 0PH. BRITISH CACTUS & SUCCULENT SOCIETY, HAVERING BRANCH Third Saturday of the month, 7-10pm t 447778 COLLIER ROW BRIDGE CLUB Thursdays, 7-10.30pm www.bridgewebs.com/collierrow COLLIER ROW HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY AND ALLOTMENTS ASSOCIATION Saturdays and Sundays 10am-12.30pm t 756005 COLLIER ROW TOWNSWOMEN’S GUILD First and third Tuesday of the month, 1.30 -4pm e mclary2012@btinternet.com COMPUTERS FOR BEGINNERS Wednesdays, 9.30 – 11am Ardleigh House Community Association 42 Ardleigh Green Road Hornchurch RM11 2LG t 440660 e office@ardleighhouse.org

COLOURING CLUB At the United Reformed Church, Western Road, Romford, RM1 3LP. Every Friday, 1.30-3pm. t 07890420598 CONCERT PARTY The Entertainers are a concert party providing entertainment to care homes and social groups in Havering and the surrounding area.

They perform group and solo songs with movement and costume changes, comedy sketches and jokes. Performances usually take place on weekday afternoons and rehearsals are on Tuesday mornings. t 07770 325720 e martinkelly1@hotmail.com

CRAFTY ARTS KNIT AND NATTER GROUP Tuesdays, 10am -12noon e sales@craftyarts.co.uk CRANHAM ENGAYNE WOMEN'S INSTITUTE Second Monday of each month t 228119 DIABETES UK – HAVERING GROUP Third Monday of each month (except January) North Street Halls, Hornchurch t 935779 www.havering.diabetesukgroup.org EAST OF LONDON FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY First Saturday of the month, 11am-4pm e neal25@hotmail.com FAMILY HISTORY Havering Branch of the East of London Family History Society Genealogy help and advice on tracing your family history.

The first Saturday of every month 11am-4pm, Trinity Church, Station Road, Upminster, RM14 2JS t 225313

FAIRKYTES ACCORDION CLUB First Wednesday of month, 7.30pm Enquiries to Val Coe: t 225313 FUNKY VOICES Every Monday 8-10pm www.funkyvoices.co.uk GADABOUTS A social club for single/widowed/ divorced people age 40-70. Meet at Harrow Lodge Bowls Club, Hornchurch on the first Tuesday of each month at 8pm. e gadabouts@live.co.uk GERMAN SHEPHERD DOG CLUB OF ESSEX Wednesdays, 7.30-9.30pm e shiela_ranking@btinternet.com HAROLD WOOD EVENING WI First Wednesday of each month, 7.30-9.50pm Harold Wood Memorial Hall e dianetyrrell@haroldwoodwi. co.uk www.haroldwoodwi.co.uk HAVEN LADIES CLUB Alternate Tuesdays, 8-10pm www.rgcasc.org HAVERING ACTIVE TEA DANCE Thursdays, 1.30-3.30pm e dancingrita@hotmail.co.uk HAVERING ANTIQUE COLLECTORS CLUB Third Friday of the month from 7.30-9.30pm t 07947 367258 HAVERING BOARD GAMERS First, third and fifth Thursday of the month 7.30-10pm e fransnook@yahoo.co.uk HAVERING CONCERT ORCHESTRA (HCO) Wednesdays, during term-time 7.30-9.30pm www.hcoweb.co.uk HAVERING DEMENTIA CARERS SUPPORT GROUP A dementia carers group run by carers for carers. Every Monday (except Bank Holidays) 10.30am-12 noon, 2a Newmarket Way, Hornchurch, RM12 6DS t 07811 344523 e pam.shippen@gmail.com HAVERING EAST ROTARY CLUB Tuesdays, 7.30-10pm www.haveringeastrotary.org HAVERING MUSIC MAKERS Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7-10pm e join@haveringmusicmakers. co.uk

HAVERING NUMISMATIC SOCIETY This coin collecting club meets at Fairkytes Arts Centre, Hornchurch.

First Tuesday of month 7.30-9.30pm e pambob2@ntlworld.com HAVERING U3A University of the Third Age. Meets monthly on the second Wednesday of each month at 2.30pm at St. Michael's Church, Gidea Park. e suecrawleyu3a@gmail.com HAVERING WRITERS CIRCLE First Monday of month, 7.30-10pm t 375549 HORNCHURCH AND DISTRICT HISTORICAL SOCIETY Last Friday of the month except December, 7.15pm e hdhs.barn@btinternet.com HORNCHURCH WARGAMES CLUB Mondays, 7-11pm e collin.fairman@ntlworld.com HUMANISTS OF HAVERING Second Saturday of the month 2-4pm Meet in the Community Room, Tesco, Roneo Corner t 442161 www.meetup.com/EssexHumanists JOB SEARCHING AND COMPUTER CLASSES FOR ADULTS Free courses for beginners up to advanced level Mardyke Community Centre, South Street, Rainham, RM13 8PJ Tuesdays, 2-4pm t 07951 789590 e ictskillstraining@hotmail.co.uk

LONDON AND ESSEX HERITAGE CLUB Tuesdays, 7.30 – 9.30pm Langtons, Billet Lane, Hornchurch A friendly heritage group who meet for talks from a variety of invited speakers. t 07443 594240/607614 e btaylorville@gmail.com NELMES (HORNCHURCH) WOMEN'S INSTITUTE Second Wednesday of the month 1.45-4pm e ruth.wellwisher@gmail.com

NORTH OCKENDON HANDBELL RINGERS Tuesdays, 7.30-9.30pm t 459339 PARKINSON’S UK HAVERING & DISTRICT BRANCH SUPPORT MEETINGS First and third Tuesday of each month, 2-4pm Langtons Registry Office t 07793 642115 e janet.sampson1@btinternet. com www.parkinsons.org.uk PASSIONE ITALIANA Interactive talks on Italy.

Every Monday of the month 6.30-8.30pm t 07867 726634 e info@passione-italiana.co.uk www.passione-italiana.co.uk RAINHAM HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY 300 Upminster Road North, Rainham, RM13 9JR Opening times: Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday 10am to 12.30pm Membership £2 per household per year www.rainhamhorticulturalsociety. org REIKI SHARE Second Wednesday of the month 7-10pm e info@hands-4-healing.co.uk ROMFORD AND BRENTWOOD FOLK DANCE GROUP Wednesdays, 8-10pm www.randb-folkdancing.btck. co.uk ROMFORD DRUM AND TRUMPET CORPS Thursdays, 7.30-9.30pm www.rdtc.org ROMFORD EMBROIDERERS GUILD Second Saturday of the month, 2- 4pm www.romfordembroiderers.org.uk ROMFORD SCRABBLE CLUB Wednesdays, 7.15-10.30pm e sandrad.richards@gmail.com RUSH GREEN FLORAL ART CLUB Third Monday of the month, 8-10pm www.rgcasc.org SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING Mondays, 1.30-3.30pm Fridays, 10-11.45am t 07976 438950 SILVER LYNX CRAFT AND SOCIAL CLUB Mondays, 10am-2pm e martie0707@sky.com

SQUIRRELS HEATH GARDENING CLUB Last Monday of each month 8-10pm e essexgardens@hotmail.com ST JOHN AMBULANCE HAROLD HILL AND HAROLD WOOD UNIT Wednesdays, 7-9pm e doug.croxall@sja.org THAMES CHASE EVENTS Thames Chase Forest Centre Pike Lane, Upminster t 642970 e enquiries@thameschase.org.uk www.thameschase.org.uk Sunday markets in the barn.

Third Sunday of each month, 10am-3pm. Free entry TRAIN AID – LEVEL 2 EMERGENCY FIRST AID AT WORK COURSE First Saturday of the month 9am-3.30pm www.train-aid.co.uk/courses/ emergency-first-aid-at-work TRINOVANTE A ladies club attached to the United Reformed Church in Western Road, Romford RM1 3LP. Weekly meetings are held on Tuesday afternoons from 1.30 – 3.30pm. All ladies are welcome for talks, outings and social events. t 07890 420598 UPMINSTER AND DISTRICT HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY New Windmill Hall Upminster www.upminsterhorticulturalsociety. co.uk UPMINSTER FLORAL ART SOCIETY Windmill Hall, St Mary's Lane, Upminster. Third Wednesday of every month, 7.45-10pm £7 visitors. Free for members.

An evening watching expert floral designers display their artistry. t 01708 471977 UPMINSTER U3A University of the Third Age. Meets monthly on the third Tuesday of each month, 1pm New Windmill Hall, Upminster www.u3asites.org.uk/upminster UPMINSTER WINE AND SOCIAL CLUB Third Thursday of the month, 8pm t 223956 VOLUNTEERING AT BEDFORDS PARK WALLED GARDEN Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10am-3pm www.bedfordswalledgarden.org

www.havering.gov.uk/living | April 2019 | 35

WHIST CLUB Wednesdays and Fridays, 7.30-9.30pm e lindaevans147@yahoo.co.uk

WILDLIFE WALK A walk around the marshes.

RSPB Rainham Marshes New Tank Hill Road, Purfleet, RM19 1SZ First Wednesday of the month at 9.30am. Second Friday of every month at 10am. Third Sunday of the month at 1pm. e Rainham.Marshes@rspb.org.uk YAPPY YARNS KNITTING CLUB A chance to make new friends suitable for all ages and abilities Mondays, 9.30-11.30am Romford Shopping Hall, Market Place, Romford

LIBRARIES ADULT CRAFT WORKSHOP Upminster Library – Craft workshop on the third Tuesday of the month 9.30-11am. Booking required.

AFTERNOON TEA GROUP Harold Hill Library – Wednesday 2-3pm BRITISH SIGN LANGUAGE GROUP Romford Library – 2nd Friday of the month.

12.30-2pm. Chargeable event: £2 members / £3.50 non-members per session FAMILY HISTORY Help with researching your family history.

Hornchurch Library – Tuesday 3-5pm Upminster Library – Thursday 2-4pm HORNCHURCH LIBRARY WRITERS’ GROUP Meet at 7pm on the first Thursday of every month.

All writers (beginner or established) are welcome to join, and it’s free. t 07771 635847 e kevingill@ntlworld.com IN STITCHES GROUPS Join a friendly knitting and sewing group (small charge for refreshments) 36 | April 2019 | LIVING in Havering

Collier Row Library – Fridays 10.30am-12noon and 1.30-3pm Elm Park Library – Thursday 2-4pm Gidea Park Library – Thursday 2-3.30pm Harold Hill Library – Monday 1.30-2.30pm / Thursday 10am12noon Harold Wood Library – Friday 10am-12noon Hornchurch Library – Tuesday 2.30-4pm and second Wednesday of each month 6-7.45pm Rainham Library – Tuesday 2-4pm and second Wednesday of each month 6-7.45pm Romford Library – Wednesday 10am-12noon South Hornchurch Library – Wednesday 1.30-3.30pm Upminster Library – Wednesday 10am JEWELLERY MAKING Friday mornings, 9.30-11.30am at Upminster Library Booking essential. £12 t 434933 JOB CLUB Hornchurch Library – Thursday 10am-1pm LISTENING GROUP Adults listening to books on CDs Rainham Library – First Tuesday of the month 10am QUICK READS READING GROUPS (Adults reading shorter books) Harold Hill Library – First Friday of the month 11am-12noon South Hornchurch Library – Second Thursday of the month 2pm RELAX AND INDULGE SESSIONS Treatments by trained therapists include Indian head massage, neck and back massage, reflexology. The first two Saturdays in each month at Gidea Park Library. 10.20am-3pm Cost: £9 per 20 minute session t 434978 e gideapark.library@havering. gov.uk READING GROUP FOR ADULTS Collier Row Library – First Wednesday of the month 11am Elm Park Library – First Thursday of the month 6.30pm / First Friday of the month 10.30am

Gidea Park Library – Second Thursday of the month 6.45-7.45pm (every other month) Harold Wood Library – Thursday 6.30pm (approx. every 4 weeks) Hornchurch Library – First Monday of the month 2.15pm / First Thursday 7.30pm / First Friday 2.15pm

Rainham Library – Last Monday of the month 6.30pm Romford Library – First Thursday of the month 2-3pm Upminster Library – Last Monday of the month 2-3pm / First Thursday 6-7pm TECHY BUDDIES Sessions with our volunteer Techy Buddies to help you with your ICT problems.

Collier Row Library – Saturday 1.30-3.30pm Gidea Park Library – Wednesday – 5 week beginners course 10-11am (booking required) Harold Hill Library – Contact library for details.

Libraries

Harold Wood Library – Wednesday 10.30am-12.30pm / Thursday 2.30-4.30pm (booking required).

Hornchurch Library – First Tuesday of the month 2-4pm Rainham Library – Thursdays 4 week course 10am-12noon.

Booking required.

Romford Library – Wednesday 10am-12noon South Hornchurch Library First Wednesday of each month 10.30-11.30am Upminster Library – Thursday 10.30am-12.30pm (booking required, other appointments by arrangement.)

VICTIM SUPPORT DROP-IN SESSION Gidea Park Library – Friday 10am-12noon YOUNG AT HEART GROUPS Collier Row Library – Thursday 2-4pm Elm Park Library – Last Wednesday of the month 2.30-3.30pm Harold Hill Library – Last Tuesday of the month 11am-12noon Harold Wood Library – Second Wednesday of the month 11am-12noon Rainham Library – First Tuesday of the month 2-4pm

www.havering.gov.uk/libraries

Havering Libraries hold many events, please check the website for latest details or contact your local library. Booking is usually advisable.

COLLIER ROW 45 Collier Row Road Romford RM5 3NR CollierRow.Library@havering.gov.uk ELM PARK St Nicholas Avenue, Elm Park RM12 4PT ElmPark.Library@havering.gov.uk GIDEA PARK Balgores Lane, Gidea Park RM2 6BS GideaPark.Library@havering.gov.uk HAROLD HILL 19A Farnham Road, Harold Hill RM3 8ED HaroldHill.Library@havering.gov.uk HAROLD WOOD Arundel Road, Harold Wood RM3 0RX HaroldWood.Library@havering.gov.uk HORNCHURCH 44 North Street, Hornchurch RM11 1TB Hornchurch.Library@havering.gov.uk RAINHAM 6 Celtic Farm Road, Rainham RM13 9GP Rainham.Library@havering.gov.uk ROMFORD St Edwards Way, Romford RM1 3AR Central.Library@havering.gov.uk SOUTH HORNCHURCH Rainham Road, Rainham RM13 7RD SouthHornchurch.Library@havering.gov.uk UPMINSTER 26 Corbets Tey Road, Upminster RM14 2BB Upminster.Library@havering.gov.uk

OVER-50s

TUESDAY GROUP (OVER 50s LGBT+) 50+ EXERCISE MOVEMENT AND Meets on the first Tuesday of each DANCE month at The Havering Volunteer An exercise, movement & dance Centre, 32-34 High Street, Romford, class to help keep you flexible, RM1 1HR. mobile and improve strength. Every t 07757 122749 Wednesday during school term time. romfordtuesday.simplesite.com 2-3.30pm UPMINSTER AND DISTRICT St Laurence Church Hall PROBUS CLUB Corbets Tey Road, Upminster Variety of events on the website e chrisbannister104@btinternet. www.upminsterprobus.com com TWEEDWAY (50+) SPORTS CLUB THE CAMEO CLUB Darts, short mat bowls, snooker, pool, KingsHeart Church, 262 Pettits Lane table tennis, scrabble and more.

North, Rise Park, Romford RM1 4PJ. Alternate Tuesdays, 8-10pm at First and third Thursdays each Havering Road Methodist Church month from 2-4pm. Games, quizzes, Hall, Rise Park, Romford, RM1 4YD talks and more. t 728448 t 780787 e pete.mcevoy@ymail.com CRANHAM OVER 60s CLUB Cranham Social Centre WELLBEING Every Thursday, 1-3pm Entertainment, dancing and more.

BACK TO NATURE BOOTCAMP t 020 8593 5625 or Sessions to get you active and t 740492 outdoors, improve your fitness and meet new people. Rainham HAVERING OVER 50S FORUM Marshes nature reserve, New Tank Second Tuesday of the month Hill Road, Purfleet, RM19 1SZ 10.30am-12.30pm Saturdays, 10 – 11am www.Havo50Forum.org e rainham.marshes@rspb.org.uk OVER 55s FRIENDSHIP CLUB CHAIR PILATES Every Thursday, 10-11am Exercise class every Wednesday, Romford Shopping Hall, Market 12.15-1pm Place, Romford, RM1 3AB Ardleigh House Community Free cup of tea for all visitors Association t 740492 42 Ardleigh Green Road, RGCA CHAIR ZUMBA Hornchurch RM11 2LG Thursdays, 2-2.45pm EPILEPSY ACTION ROMFORD www.rgcasc.org SENIOR CITIZENS PILATES CLASSES COFFEE AND CHAT GROUP Emerson Park Community Assembly Third Wednesday of the month 12noon-2pm Hall, Slewins Lane, Hornchurch t 07704 979 654 Monday 11am to 12noon HAVERING ASIAN SOCIAL AND Hornchurch Conservative Club WELFARE ASSOCIATION (HASWA) North Street Hornchurch Yoga class Tuesday 9.30-10.30am Mondays, 10-11.30am Friday 10.30-11.30am Wednesdays, 10-11.30am Tweedway Hall, Rise Park Lunch Club Wednesday 10.30-11.30am Wednesdays, 12noon-2pm t 07722174210 Fitness Fusion e beverlycracknell@btinternet.com Thursdays, 11.30am-12.30pm Bollywood Dancing TAPESTRY – WALKING FOOTBALL Tuesdays, 11.30am-12.30pm Mondays, 12 noon-1pm Coffee Stop Thursdays, 7-8pm Thursdays, 11am-1pm www.tapestry-uk.org Punjabi Class TEA DANCE Every Thursday at the New Windmill Thursdays, 6-7.30pm www.haswa.org.uk Hall, Upminster, 1.30-3.30pm HUBB (HELPING USERS BOUNCE £3 or £6 with a lesson from BACK) SUPPORT GROUP 12.45-1.15pm First Thursday of the month, 5 -7pm t 433768 e ecofriendlyangel62@gmail.com e dancingrita@hotmail.co.uk

PARKINSON'S UK HAVERING & DISTRICT BRANCH First and third Tuesday of the month 2-4pm Langtons Registry Office Hornchurch, RM11 1XL t 07793 642115 e janet.sampson1@btinternet. com www.facebook.com/groups/ parkinsonsuk.havering PHASE (Prostate Health, Advice, Support and Education) Meets last Friday of each month (except December) at 7pm at the Harold Wood Neighbourhood Centre in Gubbins Lane t 0203 745 7318 POSITIVE LIVING GROUP Alternate Mondays, 7.45-10pm www.positivelivinggroups.org.uk PREGNANCY YOGA All abilities pregnancy yoga class in Hornchurch from 12+ weeks Wednesdays 7.15-8.15pm Fairkytes Art Centre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch. RM11 1AX £12.50 RAGS ROMFORD AUTISTIC GROUP SUPPORT Supporting families living with Autism in Havering www.rags-havering.org.uk RCCG LIFE CHANGERS ASSEMBLY Every Sunday, 10-11am e rccglca@gmail.com ROMFORD BRAIN INJURY SUPPORT GROUP Meets third Wednesday of each month, 6-7.30pm at YMCA, 29 Rush Green Road, Romford RM7 0PH e Info@headwayeastlondon.org

TRUE COLOURS OF A BEAUTIFUL MIND Autism and SEN parent support group. Fridays 9am-12 noon Meet next to the soft play in Frankie’s café at myplace in Harold Hill.

YOGA AND MINDFULNESS Gentle movement, seated/ meditation practice and relaxation.

410 Brentwood Road, Gidea Park, Romford, RM2 6DH 9:30am-12 noon Saturday 17 November. Cost: £40

SPORTS & FITNESS ATTE BOWER SHORT MAT BOWLS CLUB Bower Hall, Wellingtonia Avenue, Havering-atte-Bower, RM4 1QP Mondays 7.15-10pm and Thursdays at 9.15am-12noon Beginners welcome t 706833 attebowerbowls.weebly.com ARDLEIGH HOUSE SHORT MAT BOWLS CLUB Mondays and Tuesdays, 12.302.30pm. Thursdays and Fridays, 10am-12noon t 440660 e Ardleigh-house@sky.com CIRCUIT TRAINING Circuit training for people who find gyms intimidating.

Every Tuesday, 9.30-10.30am.

Ardleigh House, 42 Ardleigh Green Road, Hornchurch, RM11 2LG. £6 t 07446 761872 e samisaacs.pt@gmail.com FIVE STAR BASKETBALL ACADEMY Tuesdays, 5-6.30pm e elvan.dixon@havering.gov.uk FUN AND FUNKY DANCE Variety of dance classes available www.funandfunkydance.com FUSION STREET DANCE TEAM Tuesdays, 5-8pm www.funandfunkydance.com GIDEA PARK BOWLING CLUB Daily, from April to October.

New members of all ages welcome.

No experience needed.

Gallows Corner Sports Ground, 227 Main Road, Gidea Park, Romford, RM2 6NP t 07941 674938 e Info@gideaparkbowling.co.uk www.gideaparkbowling.co.uk HARE PARK BADMINTON CLUB Thursdays, 7.30-9.30pm e anitaaudritt@btinternet.com HARROW LODGE PARKRUN Meet at Warren Drive car park Seniors: Saturdays, 9-10am Juniors: Free 2km run aged 4-14 years, Sundays, 9am HAVERING 90 JOGGERS Meet at Abbs Cross sports centre every Tuesday and Thursday evening from 7pm.

Membership from 18 years upwards. All abilities welcome to run courses provided. www.h90j.org.uk

www.havering.gov.uk/living | April 2019 | 37

HAVERING SAILING CLUB Saturdays, March – November 12noon-6pm www.haveringsailingclub.org.uk HEARTFELT YOGA Tuesdays, 8-9.30pm www.heartfeltyoga.co.uk HYLANDS TENNIS CLUB HYLANDS MINI TENNIS ACADEMY Tots at 6pm and Red balls at 7pm classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Orange ball at 6pm and Green ball at 7pm on Mondays.

JISSOKAN MARTIAL ARTS Wednesdays, 7.30-9pm e garrylever81@aol.com JU JITSU Variety of classes on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays www.ryujujitsu.com KAIZENS GUNNS KARATE CLUB Family run karate club open to everyone over the age of 6.

Saturdays 12noon-1pm and Tuesdays 7.30-8.30pm Frances Bardsley School, Brentwood Road, Romford RM1 2RR t 07919 884679 e kaizengunns@gmail.com LEARN TO RUN – SOFA TO 5km!

If you fancy starting to jog, but don't want to join a gym, or go on your own consider running at Rainham Marshes nature reserve.

9.30-11am every Sunday RSPB Rainham Marshes New Tank Hill Road, Purfleet, RM19 1SZ e Robyn.Smith@rspb.org.uk LYDIA LACEY YOGA Wednesdays, 7.30-8.30pm www.facebook.com/lydiasyoga MODERN SEQUENCE DANCE CLUB Harold Wood Neighbourhood Centre Mondays 8 - 10 pm. t 07814 368352 MYPLACE COMMUNITY TABLE TENNIS CLUB myplace Centre, Dagnam Park Drive Harold Hill RM3 9EN Tuesdays 10am-12noon Thursdays 1-3pm t 340761 38 | April 2019 | LIVING in Havering

NORTH ROMFORD SHORT MAT BOWLS CLUB Mondays and Wednesdays 9am-12noon Mondays, Tuesdays Thursdays and Fridays, 1.30-4.45pm t 766308 www.nrca.co.uk OCCASIONAL DANCE Variety of classes on website www.occasionaldance.co.uk PILATES Pilates matwork with Angela Gill Friday 9.15am at Ardleigh House, Ardleigh Green Road, Hornchurch (£7 per session), Monday 9.15am and 6.45pm, and Saturday 8.10am and 9am at Tesco Community Room, Roneo Corner (£6.50 per session) Beginners welcome. Mats provided. t 07961 428911 PILATES CLASSES Beginners/mixed ability Monday 10-11am Senior Citizen Monday 11am-12noon Emerson Park Community Hall, Slewins Lane Hornchurch Beginners/mixed ability 9.30-10.30am Senior citizens Wednesday 10.30 - 11.30am Tweedway Hall, Rise Park Beginners/mixed ability/Senior Citizens Wednesday 7.15 - 8.15pm Hornchurch Conservative Club North Street, Hornchurch t 07722 174210 e beverleycracknell@btinternet. com

SYM SAILING CLUB Sundays, 1 March to 30 November, 9am-4pm www.sym.org.uk TABLE TENNIS COACHING Tuesdays, 7-9pm The Havering Table Tennis Club run junior sessions (9 years +) at the Coopers' Company & Coborn School, St. Marys Lane, Upminster t 01708 340761 TABLE TENNIS COACHING Saturdays 9am-12 noon Junior table tennis coaching from the age of 8 years .

Maylands Junior Table Tennis Club, Bretons Outdoor Community Centre, The Barn, Rainham Rd, Rainham. t 0208 503 8757 or 07932 233824 e clivevandome@btinternet.com TWEED MODERN SEQUENCE DANCE CLUB Thursdays, 7.30pm-10pm e shaun22@btinternet.com

UPMINSTER SPORTS MASSAGE & PILATES Pilates beginner courses, improver/ intermediate weekly classes, and Pilates for seniors, in a studio off Argyle Gardens in Upminster.

Private 1:1 Pilates, reformer Pilates, and sports/remedial Massage appointments also available. Open every day. t 07411 826721 www.upminstersportsmassage. co.uk US GIRLS ACTIVITIES Sports and physical activities for women. www.havering.gov.uk/usgirls YOGA FOR ALL Classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays www.janettibbleyoga.com YOGA, PILATES AND BARRE PILATES Classes on Monday to Saturday www.inspiredhealthandfitness. co.uk

This community magazine should reach every home in Havering. Additional copies are available at libraries and leisure centres. The cost of producing and distributing Living in Havering is supported by advertising.

For enquiries regarding content or details of advertising rates, call the Editor, Peter Stremes, on 01708 433247, email living@havering.gov.uk or visit www.havering.gov.uk/living.

Advertisements are accepted subject to available space and Havering Council’s approval of copy. Terms and conditions available on request.

Products and services mentioned in advertisements or editorial do not carry the endorsement of Havering Council.

Living in Havering is written, designed and published

by Communications, Havering Council, Town Hall, Main Road, Romford RM1 3BD. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly forbidden without the prior written permission of Havering Council.

RAPHAEL PARKRUN Saturdays, 9am e raphaeloffice@parkrun.com www.parkrun.org.uk/raphael RUSH GREEN COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION INDOOR BOWLS CLUB Alternate Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7.30-10pm www.rgcasc.org

If you would like to receive this publication in another language or format please contact us. An audio version is available thanks to Havering Talking Newspaper.

For more information go to: www.havering.gov.uk/living

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