Life In Bromley September 2023

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It’sSeptember, which can only mean one thing – 8th September is the deadline for submissions and nominations for The Above & Beyond Bromley Business Awards. If you own a business (or know someone who does), it’s time to get submissions and votes in! Best of all, it’s completely free, so what are you waiting for? All the information you need is at www.the-abbbas.co.uk

Talking of supporting local businesses, according to research by Visa, for every £10 spent with independently owned local businesses, approximately £3.80 is retained in the local area.

The research highlights the important relationship between local businesses and the community they serve, with over half of UK consumers surveyed saying it’s important to shop locally because they know how much their custom means, while 43% say they get a boost of happiness when they support local shopkeepers. So why not boost your own happiness by paying special attention to the advertisers in this issue and where possible, aim to contact at least one of them when looking for quotes.

Enjoy the issue!

Lauretta Wright, Editor

If this is the first time you’ve received or picked up this magazine, you’ll find a list of stockists at the back to pick up next month’s issue. Or you can receive a postal copy through your letterbox for £24 a year (email hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk) or receive a digital issue at bit.ly/lifeinmagsdigital

THE TEAM

Get to know us: What was your worst subject at school?

Editorial: Lauretta Wright lauretta@lifeinmagazines.co.uk

Maths

Design: Nicky Grant design@lifeinmagazines.co.uk

French

Assistant Editor: Steve Tolmie Design & Technology

Thank you to our distributors:

Sales: Michelle Simpson sales@lifeinmagazines.co.uk

Geography

Accounts: Helen Paul accounts@lifeinmagazines.co.uk

History

Office & Editorial Assistant: Tori Howe

Maths

Dawn B, Greg, Dawn W, Jack, Kelly, Tara, Malin, Megan, Sam, Zeenat, Rishon, Terri, Pamela, Ben, Lorraine, Tom and Lucy.

Our Friends: A HUGE thank you to the following volunteers who commit their time to helping contribute to this magazine or help with distribution: Richard London, Elizabeth Adcock, Len Kirby, Mary Cody-Cowdery, Ruth Mansell, Margaret Vos, Sarah Spencer-Adams & Annabel Tyndall. If you would like to volunteer please email: hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk

This month’s front cover picture was taken by Nicky Grant at Richmal Crompton Fields. If you’d like to submit a front cover image email hello@ lifeinmagazines.co.uk

community

Write It, Say It, Message It!

Got something to shout about?

Maybe you want to respond to an article or want to spread the word about something locally?

Email us at hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk or text us on 07403 550068. You can also tag us in on social media @lifeinmags

WINNER

Imagine our surprise when we saw this little visitor in our garden yesterday.

Nikki R

What lovely pictures Nikki – thanks for sending this in. We’re sending you a £15 One4All digital gift card, courtesy of The Bed Post. You could spend some on nuts for your new visitor!

JUST RECENTLY WE…

Took on two work experience students. Zachary enjoyed a Bromley Business Network meeting, while Oliver attended People In Business (PIB). Both did incredibly well and we enjoyed their company and the opportunity to teach them about the world of magazine publishing.

One4all digital gift card

The star response ( One4all digital gift card courtesy of The Bed Post (the-bedpost.co.uk). Email hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk

Poetry corner

Nature's Philosophy

Nocturnal birds in sibilant causerie

Forest creatures in distant revelry

While nature's blanket dims their rivalry

And stills the air to peaceful reverie

How brief is this tranquillity

As hostile meetings in darkened shrubbery

Remind, if only momentarily

That man alone enjoys in camaraderie

Victor Timmons

Attended Bromley Ladies Who Latte (LWL) and caught up with Janice Hinton (left) from Bromley Churchill Theatre and Denise Meade-Hill, host of LWL and owner of Transitions Career Management.

Caught up with Chas (left), Leigh and Helen at the Bromley Business Network.

White Squirrel

Image: Pete Bresser

Zachary

Oliver

MATT THE TREE MAN

www.mattthetreeman.co.uk

Mobile/Office: 07715 470892

mattstreesurgery@gmail.com

Based in Langton Green

Experienced team of arborists

Tree Surgery

Forest Management

Hedge Trimming Stump Grinding

Award winning care quality

Our fully qualified nursing teams are specialists in a wide range of complex conditions and support residents to live as comfortably and independently as possible.

If you’re considering care call 01689 458040. Trusted to care Foxbridge House care home Orpington careuk.com/foxbridge-house

5 Minutes With... community

Chris Travers

Chris Travers is Executive Director of Orpington 1st Business Improvement District (BID), a not-for-profit company led by local businesses working to make our town a better place. Born in Cambridge, Chris grew up in Suffolk, and the New Forest, before moving to Manchester, but has lived here in Orpington since 2010.

Hi Chris – can you explain what the BID’s role is within Orpington and some of the projects and events that you’ve brought to the high street? The BID carries out projects to improve the town centre on behalf of around 325 businesses. Much of our work is advocacy – supporting local businesses and lobbying on their behalf, but more visible projects include our awardwinning environmental efforts and town centre events.

How did you come to work with the BID? What has been your career history that saw you on this particular career path?

My introduction to place shaping came whilst working as a manager for an events company, over a decade ago now. I joined Orpington 1st fulltime in 2014 following a year at the Bexleyheath BID. In 2016 I completed the Certificate in BID Management with British BIDs, and in 2020 I was amongst the first seven BID practitioners to gain the Diploma in BID leadership.

As Executive Director of the BID, your role must be a busy one. What does a typical day for you look like?

It’s certainly a varied job, which I love, so apart from the day-to-day admin involved in running a company, I could be talking with our businesses - liaising with the council, police, GLA, or our MP on town centre issues – keeping abreast of industry trends and data - putting together The Orpington 1st Magazine or updating our website – making arrangements for Christmas lights or summer planting – or

What’s your biggest frustration and what message would you like to get across to residents?

I think the message would be just how much our brilliant businesses contribute to Orpington. Without them there is no town centre, and without the additional investment they have committed to over the last ten years, it would be a poorer place.

The BID organises some great events in Orpington – what has been your most memorable to date – and what do you particularly look forward to?

It’s been lovely to see ‘Light Up Orpington’ grow to be an event that Orpington can be proud of. But our celebration for Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee was a fantastic day for the community, with a brilliant atmosphere.

In terms of memorable moments generally, it was amazing to win London in Bloom and to receive a Gold Award in Britain in Bloom in recognition of our town centre environmental programme, and I’m proud of how we supported the town during the pandemic.

Outside of work, what do you enjoy doing?

I love music and have played guitar since I was 13. I’m an Ipswich Town fan but have recently been making the odd trip to Hayes Lane to watch Bromley FC. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, eating out when I can – whilst trying to keep in shape!

What is the best thing about living (or working) in Orpington?

Orpington is a great place to live and work. Although we’re a major town centre there is a strong community feel. We live in a great location on the edge of London, also looking south to the garden of England – the London/Kent gateway. The abundance of green space around us is a real USP and should be cherished and protected.

What does community mean to you?

As a BID, we speak about our business community –combining our efforts to improve what we share. I think that community in the broadest sense of the word is much the same. We won’t all agree about everything, but we can work together respectfully to improve society.

Chris Travers at the Orpington Literary Festival

Chris on the high street with niece Ellie

History

Prehistoric Bromley

by JAMIE WRIGHT

Some people having read the title might scoff: “Prehistoric Bromley? Who’s he kidding? It’s not as if there were Beckenham Brachiosaurs or Petts Wood Plesiosaurs.” Of course, the idea of a prehistoric Bromley is ridiculous but indulge me a while. Please.

If we zoom back some 300 million years, then the very idea of the British Isles as we know them today would be ridiculous. Squished within the super continent that we now know as Pangea, the land that we call home would have been somewhere between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Analysis of coal deposits in the United States have a very similar composition to deposits from Great Britain and even Central Europe. Coal is the result of organic matter (i.e. animals and plants) falling into swampy water and decaying into peat. Over millions of years, under pressure and subjected to heat, this peat becomes coal. Much of the organic matter from Europe shows that when it was part of the super continent, there was plentiful life on land with even tropical rainforests.

During the middle Jurassic period (around 168 million years ago), what we think of as the British Isles were a group of hot and humid islands, not unlike the Bahamas today. Whilst the fossil record of the time is meagre, palaeontologists believe that meat eating dinosaurs like Megalosaurus would have been stalking what is modernday Southern England. There would also have been sauropods such as Cetiosaurus and stegosaurs such as Loricatosaurus.

Around 60 million years ago, a little after the Cretaceous period (you know, when T Rex was causing trouble), the North American plate started peeling off from the Eurasian plate. What became Britain was still part of the Eurasian plate. In fact, we would be physically connected to the continent for many millions of years to come until around 450,000 years ago. Then came the first Brexit – this time as a result of a megaflood. The floor of the English Channel reveals this catastrophic event with a valley many kilometres wide and 50 metres deep.

Also, around 450,000 years ago began the most extreme Ice Age of the Pleistocene began; the Ancestral River Thames (i.e. the river which would become the modern Thames) is likely to have been part of the same river system as the Rhine! “What?” you may say. The sealevel was much lower at the time and the southern North

Sea was land drained by the same rivers of Northern Europe that we know today. Geologists believe ice sheets caused ponding in the southern North Sea basin, and the Thames-Medway rivers as well as the Rhine fed into this large lake. Yet another link between Bromley and its twin town, Ludwigshafen am Rhein.

Human settlement in the British Isles is later than a lot of continental Europe (although there is evidence of hominids (human-like primates) much earlier. Homo heidelbergensis may have been inhabiting these isles 900,000 years ago. These early hunter gatherers are sometimes nicknamed scrapers because of the hand axes and flint tools that have been discovered from this time. It is thought that they would have used these implements to pierce and scrape animal hides which they would have used for shelter and clothing. The animals at that time would have been a little more exotic with rhinos, hippos and even mammoth remains having been found in the greater London area.

Scientists believe that there have been around four main waves of immigration into Britain; around 400,000 years ago these inhabitants would have been Neanderthals – remains have been found in nearby Swanscombe in Kent. They would have made their way here via the land bridge of Doggerland. The Neanderthals would have had to contend with huge variations in climate with periods of extreme heat and cold. In fact, it is the cold that is likely to have kept future waves of people from coming to Britain in large numbers. There are no human remains or tools to be found between 180,000 and 60,000 years ago. It wasn’t until relatively recently that modern humans (homo sapiens), made their way to these shores; around 40,000 years ago. Britain has only been continuously inhabited by modern humans for the past 12,000 years. So you see,

the area where we now live was once the playground of dinosaurs and giant mammals and was even host to our oldest ancestors.

Image: (Trex) Fausto Garcia-Menendez, Unsplash

Visit Down House in Downe village to find out more.

MAYOR’S VOICE community

While we are now well into summer and many will be enjoying a well-deserved break, there is still plenty going on across the borough to keep me and the Mayoral team busy.

I have had the pleasure of attending many outdoor events, from energetic live performances in our stunning green parks to joyous summer parties and BBQs for various care homes and community groups across the borough – often raising money for very worthy causes. Some stand out performances come to mind - from Music in the Garden in Biggin Hill, in aid of St Christophers. As does dancing with residents at Burrell Mead in West Wickham, and joining the first birthday celebration for Orpington Wellbeing Café, a fantastic initiative that combines uplifting social activities for local residents with access to local health services.

While Bromley has many thriving local groups that bring residents together throughout the year, the warmer and sunnier days (when uninterrupted by showers!) gives a perfect opportunity to reconnect with neighbours and friends. I am always delighted to receive invitations to such events and as Bromley’s Loneliness Champion I would urge residents to seek out further opportunities for these and think about those who might benefit from a bit of extra company.

I am proud that the council are currently looking at enhancing the support we provide to our veterans

Lines from Linda

Of late, Britain’s summers have been truly gorgeous, at times! No one really knows what any month will bring weather-wise these days. However, I was delighted to receive an invitation for an early summer, upmarket garden party.

The invitation stated – dress up and wear a hat. Hats don’t suit me, so after deliberation, I decided I could wear a fascinator. They are like head bands and have all sorts of pretty feathers and flowers standing up from the band. After choosing a pretty, pink outfit from my favourite shop in Chislehurst, and shoes to match, I then bought a bright pink fascinator with rainbow- coloured flowers. I was all set.

On the day, I got myself organised and dressed, but I couldn’t get the fascinator to sit properly; it, sort of, tilted to one side of my head, resembling wilting flowers. The shop assistant hadn’t had a problem, but on my own, I struggled. I decided to stick hairclips all around the band to hold in place, and then lacquered it until I gave myself hay-fever. Finally, the band was secure, and the flowers and feathers stood erect. I thought I looked like a Mohican Native American, but I was donning a headdress as requested.

As I got in my car to drive ,the feather caught on the door frame and that didn’t help. The party was a long way away, so I had booked a Travel Lodge. The event

following our recent signing of a renewed Armed Forces Covenant. Of course, we are not operating in isolation and I know many of our partners are working hard on this provision as well. The community veterans’ hub at Bromley FC is a prime example and I had the honour recently of supporting their inaugural meetings, which were filled with laughter and good humour with a strong initial turnout – including from the iconic Chelsea pensioners! I look forward to attending more of these brilliant breakfast gatherings held on the last Friday of every month, which I hope will also act as a useful link to access further support.

As we move swiftly towards autumn, the Mayoral calendar is filling up with events from every corner of the borough. I hope to meet many more residents during these trips and support more of the fantastic work that makes me continually proud of Bromley. You can get in touch with me via www.bromley.gov.uk/mayor

Cllr Mike Botting Mayor of Bromley (2023-24)

went well, and I even received compliments on my pretty hat.

It was when I got to the hotel, after, that the trouble started. I had changed from my outfit and was in my Peppa Pig all-in-one, ready for bed, but struggling to get the fascinator off. The lacquer and pins had glued it to my hair and head. I was so tired, I gave up and crawled into bed still wearing the thing.

In the morning, I got up, and forgetting I was still wearing it I nearly jumped out of my skin when I caught sight of myself in the mirror. I looked like a cross between a muppet and an ageing punk rocker. However, breakfast was nearly over, so I hurried down the corridor to grab cornflakes and milk to take back to my room. One waiter dropped a bowl of prunes on his trousers when he saw me. And then everyone in the breakfast bar stopped eating mid-bite and stared at me.

‘It’s stuck on my head’, I told them, quickly retreating to my room. Out of desperation I took out my manicure scissors and cut the fascinator from my head, which resulted in losing some of my crown hair. I hadn’t thought to bring a spare outfit to drive home in, so I drove down the motorway in my Peppa Pig all-in-one, without the fascinator, just a balding crown of my head. I now resembled Friar Tuck. Didn’t I say: HATS DON’T SUIT ME.

For more about me and my crime novels see www.lindareganonline.co.uk

I thought I looked like a Mohican Native Indian

"

Puzzles

WIN WIN

It’s celebration time! This month marks the deadline date of the votes & submissions for The Above & Beyond Bromley Business Awards (The ABBBAs) - on Friday 8th September!

The event culminates in a glittering awards ceremony on Thursday 9th November at The Warren, where businesses large and small have the chance to be recognised amongst the best! Our latest word search includes words associated with business awards, but there is one that you won’t be able to find in the grid – this is the winning word.

The Prize

Bromley Picturehouse is giving away a Regional Membership card for the winner.

Benefits are numerous and include…

5 free tickets £3 off film tickets

September 23 word search

Send the answer to hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk or text 07403 550068 with your name, number and address.

No booking fees 10% off all food and drink Priority booking on many popular films and events Great discounts at a range of National partners

August's prize word: FLAPJACK (Accepted answer 'FLAJACK', see page 18 for an explanation).

July Winner: Elliot Fiole Jones

Strictly one entry per person. All competition winners are listed on our website. Competitions are open to Bromley Borough residents only. For competition terms and conditions see https://bit.ly/lifeincomps

Just for fun!

What begins with E but only has one letter

what's on

community & CHARITY

Scottish Country Dancing: Special Free Beginners Taster Session

Monday 11th September, 8pm – 10pm

Crofton Halls York Rise (next to Orpington Station) Orpington, BR6 8PR

Cost: Free

Contact: Call Angela on 01689 818153 or Ginny on 07751303610

Looking for a new hobby? Like music and dancing? Come and join us for fun, fitness and friendship. No partner needed. A warm and friendly welcome guaranteed.

For more information visit www.orpingtonscottishdancing.com

Your Bromley Curious Creatures Summer Trail

Running until 3rd September

Times: 24hrs a day, 7 days a week

Bromley High Street, outside H&M

Location: Various locations throughout Bromley town centre

Cost: Free

Contact: enquiries@yourbromley.com

Your Bromley is hosting a fun, family trail this summer. The augmented reality trail is planned for the school summer holidays and will see young visitors to Bromley searching for a mythical beast called the Obsidian Dragon. They will speak to ten other curious creatures that will come to life and help them find the Dragon through clues, mini-challenges and riddles.

u3a Talks - Does Truth no longer matter?

19th September, 10.30am-12pm

Cost: Members free, visitors £5

4th Floor - Bromley Central Library, High St, Bromley

BR1 1EX

Contact: 020 8777 6345, email membershipsecretary@ u3abromley.org.uk or see www.u3abromley.org.uk

A talk by Andrew Baker. In the West are values of truth, integrity and the decency in public life in decay?

Macular Society Bromley Support Group

1st Tuesday of every month (except Jan & Aug)

10am for tea/coffee & biscuits

Meeting starts at 10:30am, finishing at 12pm

Bromley Town Church, 2 Ethelbert Road, Bromley, BR1 1JA

Cost: Free

Contact: No need to contact - just turn up and introduce yourself

We are a local support group for people suffering with Age related Macular Degeneration (AMD). Being diagnosed with AMD can be devastating, so we look to provide social interaction and mutual support to those affected. We have a variety of speakers and a mixed and diverse programme. No need to book - just come along and introduce yourself!

Polymyalgia Rheumatica & Giant Cell Arteritis Support Group

1st Wednesday of every month (except August & December)

2pm for refreshments followed by the meeting. Finishes at 3.30pm St Paul's Church, Crofton Road, Orpington, BR6 8JE Cost: £5

We are the local support group for the Bromley area for all who are affected by PMR and/or GCA, two little known and poorly understood conditions. Being diagnosed can be devastating and life changing. Our speakers range from rheumatologists to pharmacists, ophthalmologists to Bromley Lions Clubs. Our meetings are an opportunity to share with others who understand. We are supported by the national charity - PMRGCAuk - which keeps us upto-date with the latest medical advances. Call 0300 999 5090 for more information or visit pmrgca.org.uk/author/ orpington

Health, MINDSET & Beauty

Argentine Tango Classes and Social Practica

Every Thursday, 8pm-11pm

Crofton Halls, York Rise, Orpington BR6 8PR

Cost: Free membership. Fees: £12 beginners, £14 Intermediates. Discounts for block bookings. Contact: contact@corrientessocialclub.co.uk or call 07854273506

If you like dancing you will love the Argentine Tango! Why not give it a go and join a vibrant community learning to dance with confidence, fluidity, grace and attitude. *No previous experience *No partner need *Nothing to lose and discover a new passion.

* Join a constantly expanding dancing community. For more information see https://corrientessocialclub.co.uk

Flin's Online & Live Fitness Classes

See website for class dates & times

Cost: PAYG £5 - £8 Contact Fran: 07976 412027 www.flinsfitness.co.uk

Online streaming plus live offerings - 40+ classes a week, early mornings, mid mornings and evenings, including weekend classes. Outdoor Boot Camp, Circuits, Strength, Cardio, Pilates, Zumba, Yoga, Total Body Lite, Box Fit and more: fitness for all! Mornings at Westcombe Park RFC, evenings at Tubbenden School.

Your essential what's on guide for events, activities, clubs and much more in and around Bromley. There's something for everyone! We’re looking to hear about your news, notices and local events!

libraries

Did you know that the borough’s libraries run a variety of events throughout the month?

Check their websites via www.better.org.uk/library/ london/bromley or call them for more information.

Beckenham

Contact: 020 8650 7292

Email: beckenham.library@gll.org

Bromley Central Library

Contact: 020 3931 0900

Email: central.library@gll.org

Burnt Ash

Contact: 020 8460 3405

Email: burntash.library@gll.org

Chislehurst

Contact: 020 8467 1318

Email: chislehurst.library@gll.org

Hayes

Contact: 020 8462 2445

Email: hayes.library@gll.org

Penge

Contact: 020 3915 7066

Email: penge.library@gll.org

Shortlands

Contact: 020 8460 9692

Email: shortlands.library@gll.org

Southborough

Contact: 020 8467 0355

Email: southborough.library@gll.org

West Wickham

Contact: 020 8777 4139

Email: westwickham.library@gll.org

MUSIC, entertainment & FOOD

Line Dancing - Carolina Country Music Club

Line Dance Classes – beginners and intermediates (Every Wednesday)

8th & 22nd September - Live Music with dancing

Cost: £6 Wednesday, £10 Friday

Times: 7.30pm-10pm Wednesdays, 7.30pm-11pm Fridays

Location: Pickhurst Infant School, Pickhurst Lane, West Wickham, Bromley BR4 0HL

Contact: 020 8462 5314 or email: jbhorniblow@btinternet.com

Come along and give us a try, make new friends, keep fit and have fun! We cater for all abilities and all ages. Refreshments available (tea, coffee, biscuits). For more information see www.facebook.com/ CarolinaCountryMusicClub

what's on

Into the Daylight – Jazz and Blues evening

7th September, 8pm

Daylight Inn, Station Square, Petts Wood, BR5 1LZ

Cost: £5 admission (supporting Bromley Food Bank and Ukraine Appeal)

Contact: 01689 877402. Book a table or walk in: www. thedaylightinn.co.uk

Green Chain Quartet are back on 7th September with special jazz, blues and swing vocalist Jane Keane, then the first Thursday of every month.

For details see www.greenchainquartet.com

NETWORKING/business

Beckenham Business Day

Wednesday 1st November, 10am-5pm

Azelia Hall, 258 Croydon Road, Beckenham, BR3 4DA

Cost: £15 early-bird rate for non-members (book by 30th September), £10 for members

Contact: info@beckenhambusinessassociation.co.uk Beckenham Business Day is back to inspire, educate and connect local businesses in and around Beckenham. It’s ideal for small businesses and retailers – from start-ups to well-established businesses. This year’s theme is Fast Forward and we invite you to ignite your creativity, discover emerging technologies and embrace innovations.

To register or for more information see www.beckenhambusinessassociation.co.uk

Bromley Ladies Who Latte

Last Wednesday of each month, 10am-12pm Community House, CASPA Cafe, 11 South Street, Bromley BR1 1RH

Cost: Free

Contact: Email: bromleyladieswholatte@gmail.com Tel: 07947990923

A lively, local group for women in business covering the Bromley Borough. We welcome all types of businesses, from those who are just starting their journey to those who have been operating for some time. We aim to learn from and support each other with the intention of helping businesses to progress and build collaborations enabling you to shine. Join us!

Bromley Business Network

Hybrid meetings - Face-to-face (at Bromley Football Club) and online

Doors open at 6.30am every other Wednesday. Cost: £23 in person or £12.50 online (First visit free). See bromleybusinessnetwork.co.uk

Includes a full cooked breakfast, unlimited tea/coffee.

PEOPLE IN BUSINESS (PIB)

Last Wednesday or Friday of the month at 9am Contact: Email pibnetwork@outlook.com or see www.pib-network.com for more information. We are an affordable, fun and friendly small business network group, holding monthly meetings for members who have exclusivity in their field. Our groups include Bromley, Bexley and Southwark.

Behind the Badge

INSIGHTS FROM THE SUPER

Following feedback from a reader in the last issue, I was inspired to do more to reach out to young people in the borough to hear their views on policing and how we can do better at engaging youths who live or study here. As I mentioned in the last article, I have reached out to the Youth Council and have arranged a meeting with them to discuss a number of things that concern them about crime and policing in the borough. Also, I have invited a delegation of young people from across the borough from a range of different backgrounds to a community event being held at the Civic Centre, where a member of the Met’s Senior Management Board, along with Chief Superintendent Andy Brittain and myself, will be presenting the plans on a “New Met for London.” This is the Commissioner’s strategy to deliver the policing that the public need and expect. As I write this, the event has not yet happened, but I hope to be able to update you on what was discussed as to how this impacts the borough. We will be recording this event and will make it available to anyone who wants to watch. We will be inviting a wide range of people from across the borough to listen to the plans and ask questions.

Chapter & Verse

FICTION

Title: Ghosts

Author: Dolly Alderton

Published: 22/07/21

Publisher: Penguin

No of pages: 352

RRP: £9.99

In Ghosts we follow our protagonist; Nina, a successful food writer in her 30s, as she meets Max; a man who tells her on date one that he’s going to marry her…

The writing style is super easy to get into and Dolly has used a lot of life experiences to write this book which made it so raw, relatable, funny and at times so heart-breaking.

Her observations about friendships and how they change as we grow up, the rollercoaster ride of online dating, and family relationships as parents get older were so spot on!

In relation to local crime and anti-social behaviour (ASB), I have appointed two officers to do a deeper dive into problems experienced by each ward within the borough. This will help gain an understanding as to where we can map out the problems in greater detail to work out how to tackle them better. This will involve an analysis of the data to ensure we can be accurate in how we start to tackle the issues affecting the borough. We are already well aware of the problems including speeding, road safety, ASB, nuisance off-road motorcycles and several others, but to truly tackle these I need to understand them fully and have a comprehensive analysis which we are now doing. I will continue to report back on progress in the coming months to keep you posted on how we are getting on.

Superintendent

Luke Baldock Bromley Borough Neighbourhood Policing

Local resident and bookworm, Zoe Hill, gives us the lowdown on what she’s reading –and more importantly, if it’s worth picking up!

NON-FICTION

Title: Everything I Know About Love

Author: Dolly Alderton

Published: 07/02/19

Publisher: Penguin

No of pages: 368

RRP: £10.99

Dolly’s debut was her memoir, a very witty and sometimes heartbreaking book about growing up, love, friendships, jobs, dates and everything in between. I don’t feel that this is a memoir where you’d necessarily need to know who Dolly was.

She really delves into the importance of friendships and how they shape us as we grow older. I read this in my late 30s and found this book so hilariously relatable to my own trials and tribulations growing up and especially the parts about her 20s and 30s. Dolly is very honest, even at her own expense and it’s like sitting down for a cuppa with a good friend. It’s such an easy read, it would make the perfect beach read this summer.

A great 4 star read

theatre/ Performances

Churchill Theatre, Bromley

Contact: tickets@churchilltheatre.co.uk

Dragons and Mythical Beasts

Date: Fri 1 – Sun 3 September

Time: Various times

Cost: Tickets £15, Family Ticket £52

Calling all brave heroes! Enter into a magical world of myths and legends in this fantastical Olivier Award

Nominated show for all the family. Unveil a myriad of dark secrets and come face to face with some of the most magnificent monsters and terrifying beasts ever to walk the earth. Take your place among legendary heroes, just don’t wake the Dragon…

Murder In The Dark

Date: Thu 7 – Sat 9 September

Time: Various times

A listing costs £15 or £60 for 6 months (£10 a month). Charities and non-profits are eligible for a 15% discount.

Life In...Bromley cannot be held responsible for any changes or cancellations of an event. We recommend you double check times, places & dates if attending an event listed.

Cost: Tickets from £24

A car crash on a lonely road brings famous but troubled singer Danny Sierra and his extended family to an isolated holiday cottage in rural England. From the moment they arrive, a sequence of inexplicable events begin to occur. Are you brave enough for Murder in The Dark?

Oh What A Lovely War!

Date: Mon 18 – Wed 20 September

Time: Various times

Cost: Tickets from £17

A cornerstone of modern musical theatre and one of the very greatest stage satires, Oh What A Lovely War is an extraordinary theatrical journey bringing to life the folly, farce and tragedy of the First World War. Brimming with timeless songs, razor-sharp satire and high jinks.

We made a boo-boo!

Apologies to those who completed and submitted their answers for the puzzle page in last month’s issue. The answer was ‘Flapjack’, but typos do happen (there for everyone to see!) and the ‘P’ was missing from the clues, meaning that you would have got the word ‘Flajack’ as the answer. For the prize draw we accepted both answers - thank you for your patience and understanding!

Bromley Radio!

We’ve teamed up with Bromley Radio to make regular announcements about our topical features. Listen live at www.bromleyradio.com, download from the App Store or listen via Alexa.

Follow them on social media - @bromleyradio1 on Twitter, @bromleyradio on Facebook or @bromley.radio on Instagram.

SUPPORTING LOCAL AUTHORS…

Martin Yeoman is 66 years old and lives in Orpington. His book, Dom & Isla in the Maze and Mystery Zoo launches this year and was named after his grandchildren, Dominic and Isla, as Martin wanted them to have something to remember him by. Martin says: “I had great fun writing it for them. I have been lucky to be able to read the book to both of them.” The book is aimed at children of around four- to seven years old, or parents with young children that it can be read to. It is about two little monkeys, Dom, who is rather naughty, wanders out into the night and goes from animal to animal swapping their skins, so that the giraffe has the skin of a zebra, the zebra has the skin of the pelican, and so on. Isla who is better behaved tells Dom he must put everything back to normal before the zookeeper comes to work and opens the zoo.

Martin’s book costs £7 (printed on hard-wearing, wipeable paper) and can be hand delievered if local (email martinyeoman@hotmail.co.uk) or ordered from dom-isla-andthemazeandmysteryzoo.com

If you’re a local author or know of one, email hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk for the chance to be featured.

SUPPORTING LOCAL AUTHORS…

Dara Oginni is just 13 years old and has written a book called School Friendship Solutions, published in 2021. Dara says: “I have always loved reading and writing and have written many short stories. I started writing this one when I was nine and it turned out to be very good, so I published it! Even though you have to rewrite different parts over and over, writing a book was still very enjoyable for me and I found it relaxing.”

The book teaches self-confidence, how to find friendships and how to adjust to a new environment. Amy, the main character, who was in year 5, moved to a new school. She was a confident and happy young girl but a student in her new school was unwelcoming, making her feel upset, angry and confused. Two other students were kind and friendly and made Amy feel better about not knowing anyone. Dara is currently aiming to send a copy of her book to every primary school in London - to both encourage children to develop a habit of reading but also to spread the word against bullying. She has set up a GoFundMe page at https://gofund.me/d1534330 to enable her to do this.

Dara’s book is aimed at children aged seven-11, costs £9.99 and can be found on Amazon, in Waterstones and WHSmith.

If you’re a local author or know of one, email hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk for the chance to be featured.

Skytrek launch

Wellness through drama

Radfield Home Care has teamed up with Quest Soul Theatre to offer Wellness through Drama for adults and individuals living with dementia. The event takes place on Tuesday 26th September from 10.30am - 12.30pm at Community House (BR1 1RH) and let the Connections Café create lasting bonds and unforgettable memories.

For details see www.radfieldhomecare.co.uk, email bromley@radfieldhomecare.co.uk or call 020-8154 1752.

Frankenstein launch!

A new production of Frankenstein opens at The Churchill Theatre Bromley from 14th-16th September before heading off on a major national UK Tour.

The new thriller, inspired by Mary Shelley’s classic gothic novel, explores the very fabric of what makes us human and the ultimate cost of chasing “perfection”.  Please note that the production is unsuitable for under 12s.

Skytrek has opened at Hangloose Adventure Bluewater. The new attraction joins the 46 metre-drop Giant Swing, Europe’s biggest, and the UK’s only outdoor skydiving machine which both opened last year, along with Skywire, England’s longest zip wire, which opened in 2021. Visitors will be suspended over 15 metres in the air overlooking Bluewater’s chalk cliffs, before conquering more than 40 treetop obstacles across two levels on the 350-metre course. The family-friendly attraction will give guests a unique high ropes experience, with part of the course including walkways over one of the lakes at Bluewater, with other daredevils enjoying attractions above and below them. Prices cost from £40 per person or choose all four activities from £145.

For details see hangloosebluewater.com.

community NOTICEBOARD

CALLING ALL BUDDING PHOTOGRAPHERS!

Are you an amateur photographer? Do you enjoy taking pictures? We’re inviting Bromley borough residents to submit their local pictures to us at Life In…Magazines! We want to put your pictures in the spotlight and pick a selection to feature them on our front covers. Pictures should be taken in portrait mode, be taken within the Bromley borough and the top 1/3 of the picture should remain clear (to allow for the magazine’s title). Images submitted must not be copyright and should be sent at high-res (300 dip) along with your name and a caption for the picture – where it was taken and any story behind the picture to hello@lifeatmagazines.co.uk

New golf buggies

Mytime Active has invested £650,000 in new golf buggies for a selection of its community golf courses including Orpington Golf Centre, Bromley Golf Centre, High Elms Golf Course and Cobtree Manor Park Golf Course. The state-of-the-art electric buggies by Clubcar will offer members considerably improved reliability and efficiency, as well as being more environmentally friendly than the previous diesel models.

Volunteering opportunities!

The Orpington and Bromley Gateway Club (based in Bickley) are seeking volunteers for its Friday evening events and social club for adults with learning difficulties. No formal training or previous experience required. Please contact newsletter@orbgateway.club if interested. For more information please see www.orbgateway.club

Open Day

The Primrose Centre is hosting an open day on Friday 29th September from 10am-2pm. The centre helps support those with a breast cancer diagnosis and visitors can meet the team and find out more about the services available.

For details call 01689 880218 or seewww.theprimrosecentre.org.uk

SUPPORTING LOCAL AUTHORS…

It's an ‘Oh!’ from Owen

In the July issue we teamed up with The Festival Theatre at Hever Castle to offer one lucky Bromley borough resident the chance to win a family ticket to see David Walliams' Bad Dad on 30th August. We’re delighted to name Owen Levitt as the winner – enjoy the show and gardens Owen!

Geraldine Ann Ford describes herself as ‘71 years old with a zest for life’. Born in southeast London, Geraldine started writing poetry at the age of 12 and she has now penned three nonfiction books and a little book of limericks (found on Feadaread.com). Geraldine says: “I’m retired but not expired! I enjoy, writing, reading, painting, swimming, live music and performance poetry in southeast London and Kent. My poems are regularly broadcast on BBC Radio Kent.”

The Kindle version of Geraldine’s ‘A Collision of Two Worlds’ was published in 2022 and the paperback in February 2023. It is a romantic novel with a lot of suspense plus an attempted murder. Geraldine is currently writing a non-fiction book called, ‘The Memories of a London Girl.”

The Kindle version on Amazon costs £2.49 and the paperback costs £7.99 and is available from www.feedaread.com

If you’re a local author or know of one, email hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk for the chance to be featured.

BROMLEY’S MULTI AWARD-WINNING INDEPENDENT, FAMILY OWNED & RUN FUNERAL HOME

THE TIME HAS COME TO SUBMIT YOUR FINAL NOMINATIONS OR CAST YOUR VOTES!

The deadline for The Above & Beyond Bromley Business Awards (The ABBBAs) takes place on Friday 8th September.

If you are a business, you can submit a nomination for any of the following awards:

• Best Startup

• Best Charity / Non-Profit

• Best Environmental Company

• Best Social Impact Company

• Best Business – Independent

• Best Business – High Street

• Best Business – Micro

• Best Hospitality Business

• Best Innovation Business

You are free to enter more than one award – and please do consider entering as these awards are to highlight and celebrate local companies like you!

If you’re a member of the public, you can also vote in the awards for:

• Best Individual In Business

• Business Personality of The Year

• A Community Hero

It only takes a couple of minutes –and think how great it would be for one of your favourite businesses to be nominated – and maybe even win!

All the information you need is at www.the-abbbas.co.uk or by scanning the QR code.

For those businesses who are shortlisted for an award, we are looking forward to seeing you on Thursday 9th November at the glittering awards ceremony at The Warren in Hayes! Wishing you the very best of luck!

We would like to thank our bespoke sponsors who have gone out of their way to make The ABBBAs a unique, inspirational and highly sought-after event for the local business community.

Thank you to the following organisations and companies:

START UP BROMLEY

BUSINESS SUPPORT FOR ASPIRING AND EARLY STAGE ENTREPRENEURS

In partnership with the London Borough of Bromley and the British Library’s Business & IP Centre, Start Up Bromley aims to develop a community of new and existing business owners. We offer: access to resources, workshops, events, 121 consultations and much more. We are incredibly proud to work with over 460 members that deserve to be celebrated, and are delighted to sponsor the ABBBAs.

Discover more at start-up-bromley

A HUGE thank you to the companies, individuals and organisations who have supported this year’s Above & Beyond Bromley Business Awards (The ABBBAs).

This month we're focussing on our secondary sponsors - London Biggin Hill Airport and Shampan...

How does sponsorship of The ABBBAs align with your company's values and goals?

Why was it important that you showed your support in sponsoring The ABBBAs?

We are a significant employer in the borough, attracting global brands and proud to help recognise the determination, dedication and innovation throughout the Bromley business community. We’re passionate about shining a light on local businesses as we all work together to attract further inward investment, support economic development, and create jobs for local people.

As a company, what do you provide and who are you aimed at?

We are the only dedicated business aviation airport in London and have been ranked in the top three in the UK and top ten in Europe. The airport is a gateway for London business and a home base for aircraft owners, aircraft management companies and industry customers, such as Formula One. It is also an aircraft service centre which provides training for local colleges and engineering apprenticeship schemes.

The ABBBAs recognise the hard work, determination and dedication of businesses throughout the London Borough of Bromley – incorporating our values of innovation, nurturing talent and empowering individuals to help them realise their potential.

Can you describe your company's current projects or initiatives that you are particularly proud of?

We’re investing heavily in training opportunities, working closely with local schools and colleges to engage young people and open the door to a career in aerospace and engineering from an early age. From apprenticeships to work experience, school visits and taster days, we are proud to support local young people and have an opportunity for every learning style and career path.

Looking ahead, what are your plans for the next 12 months?

We will continue to invest in the airport estate and infrastructure to create job opportunities for Bromley residents and provide an economic boost to the region. We are also focused on our goal to be carbon neutral by 2029.

How does sponsorship of The ABBBAs align with your company's values and goals?

Why was it important that you showed your support in sponsoring The ABBBAs?

The last few years have been the most challenging years for our local businesses and, more importantly, for the real people who own and run these businesses. By supporting The ABBBAs, we want to showcase our support and admiration for such businesses, and hopefully, create a surge of positivity for business owners and their wonderful teams.

As a company what do you provide and who are you aimed at?

Shampan Group is a well-established restaurant group. The brand is regarded as the “Jewel of South East England,” providing the Indian Cuisine experience at the finest level for all.

Shampan and The ABBBAs are here to serve our local community. We believe in highlighting the best of what the London Borough of Bromley offers. Our values of great dedication, great work and great belief are some of the values we share together.

What about your own achievements as a company over the last year?

One of our greatest achievements as a company is winning the British Curry Awards – the Oscars of the Indian Cuisine industry. In November 2021, Shampan Bromley won the 2021 Best Indian Restaurant in South East England award. Additionally, in November 2022, Shampan Bromley was highlighted in the Evening Standard as the best Indian restaurant in the South East of England.

What are your plans for the next 12 months?

One plan is to relaunch the Shampan Group app for home dining, and thus, enhance the home dining experience. Outdoor catering for events is also in our plans in order to provide our guests with more dining options, as well as bolster our chances of being recrowned a winner at the prestigious British Curry Awards.

Bromley Old Town Hall

Money & Shopping lifestyle

How to…save on mobile phones

Buy a SIM-only deal

Buying a phone outright and getting a SIM-only deal can often work out cheaper than buying a phone on a contract. Although not everyone will be in a position to pay the upfront costs for a device, today’s mid-range and budget handsets can offer great performance and a wide range of features.

Look beyond top brands

Which? often finds other commendable models in its reviews. For example, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G scored highly and can be found on sale for less than £300. Those who prefer Apple or Samsung could also pay less for certain models. The iPhone SE is Apple’s most affordable model and scored highly in Which? tests. The 2022 version can cost £449 – more than £600 less than the iPhone 14 Pro.

Buy refurbished

Buying a refurbished phone is not only wallet-friendly, but also environmentally-friendly. For example, an iPhone 13 costs £749 bought new from Apple, but you can find a refurbished one for around £550 from CeX, with a two-year warranty.

5 great reasons to shop local

1. You’ll help support small businesses and entrepreneurs in your community and you're contributing to the growth and success of these businesses, which in turn helps create jobs and boost the local economy.

2. You're supporting businesses that often source their products and materials from nearby suppliers. This can help reduce the environmental impact of transportation and distribution, as well as promote sustainable practices.

3. Shopping locally allows you to connect with your community and get to know the people behind the businesses. It can also help foster a sense of community pride and engagement.

4. Local businesses often offer unique and oneof-a-kind products that can't be found elsewhere – from handmade crafts and artisanal foods to locally sourced produce, making for a more memorable shopping experience.

5. Local businesses often pay taxes that help support the infrastructure and services in your community, such as schools, parks and public transport. By shopping locally, you're helping to support these essential services and contribute to the overall quality of life in your community.

Trade in your old phone

You could get a discount on a new phone by trading in an old one. It often doesn’t matter if the phone is a different manufacturer’s model as many retailers offer trade-ins on any phone. You can get an instant quote via Samsung, while Apple offers a trade-in on your old iPhone and lists the maximum it will offer by model on its website. Network providers also offer trade-ins.

Get a family or shared mobile plan

Combined SIM plans offer discounts and perks that could save money, such as rolling over and sharing unused data if there are multiple people in the household. The downside is that it may be harder to switch to another provider in the future, as it is an extra hassle for everyone to change from a shared deal. Group plans are available from BT, EE, Sky, Smarty and Tesco Mobile.

Repair it

If you’re looking to replace your old phone because of a cracked screen or because the battery life no longer holds up, you’ll save a lot of money by repairing instead of replacing, and it’s better for the environment. A new battery could cost less than £20, and replacing a display less than £100. Which?

Aldi has been named the UK’s cheapest supermarket by Which?, as the consumer champion found shoppers could save over £18 on a basket of items there compared to the most expensive store. This marks Aldi’s reign as the cheapest supermarket for 12 consecutive months.

New on the shelves

You’ve watched it on TV - now try it for yourself! The Traitors Card Game is described as offering a ‘thrilling and suspenseful card game experience’. Brought to you by Ginger Fox, the game is ideal for players who love strategy, deception and a healthy dose of competition. Each player takes on the role of a spy, working undercover to complete missions while trying to uncover who among them is the traitor. The game is available from  GingerFox.co.uk  for £14.99.

Did You Know...

BRITS LOOK TO MAKE THEIR LIVES MORE EXCITING

A recent study by Virgin Media revealed that more than 50% of Brits are in need of a change in their life, with a further 61% saying they feel stuck in a rut. Satisfaction with UK living standards has fallen to the lowest it has been since 2014, according to a survey by Which?, due in large part to low incomes and soaring living costs. Now a societal study from StoryTerrace, a biography-writing service, has revealed that over a third (37%) of UK adults state that they are turning their lives around this year as the last few years have been some of the worst of their lives.

The new research reveals that 39% of respondents believe they will have experienced enough by the age of 40 to pen the captivating narrative of their lives so far. This data suggests a powerful desire among Brits to mark significant milestones, reflect upon their journeys, and ultimately redefine their life stories. Amongst key goals set by Brits, research shows that more than 60% of UK adults would like to run a marathon in their lifetime, with 86% of aspirational would-be marathon runners citing the London Marathon as their biggest goal. Some 10% of respondents are placing their career prospects on hold to embark on worldly adventures, embracing the belief that personal growth and self-discovery often come through exploration and novel experiences. In line with this, the desire to partake in mountain climbing whilst on travels has risen since last year with the figure now at 3.58 million, up from 3.39 million in 2022.

The study also found that 34% (9 million) Brits said they will not be doing their current job in a year's time. This comes as research reveals that 64% of Brits plan to start their own business in the near future.

Key stats:

• 37% of Brits said that in 2023 they will turn their lives around as the last few years have been some of the worst of their life

• 34% said they will not be doing their current job in a year's time

• 54% said they plan to make their 30s the most exciting years of their life

• 10% said they are putting their career prospects on hold so they can travel the world

• 39% feel that by the age of 40, they will have experienced enough to write their life story so far

20 of the most Googled questions Brits ask

1. How to lose weight?

2. What is my IP address?

3. What is love?

4. What is the time?

5. How to tie a tie?

6. How to make pancakes?

7. How to write a CV?

8. What is Brexit?

9. What is the weather today?

10. How to boil an egg?

11. How to make money online?

12. What is the meaning of life?

13. How to cook rice?

14. What is my BMI?

15. How to get rid of hiccups?

16. How to make a cake?

17. What is my location?

18. What is my phone number?

19. How to make pizza?

20. How to download YouTube videos?

Source: Google

American Express research has revealed spending on 2023 travel is high priority for Brits, with 27 million (41%) of UK adults looking to travel more this year. 54% of Brits are planning three or more holidays this year.

Because your holiday means the world to me!

Your holiday should be one that you remember for life (and for all the right reasons). From a beautiful barefoot paradise to the sights and sounds of African safaris and everywhere in between.

Call Liz for friendly, personal service to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Email: liz.engel@travelcounsellors.com

Tel: 020 8663 6717/07812 150832

@LizEngelTravelCounsellor

www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/liz.engel

Looking forward to helping you plan your next adventure.

T h e C h ar t w e ll C h ar i t i e s

FUNDRAISE

US,

Making a difference to cancer care

Whether its running, walking, or jumping out of a plane, fundraising with us is a great way to make special memories whilst leaving a lasting legacy for cancer care. We have a lively calendar of events to suit everyone of all ages and abilities.

Join our amazing community of supporters to transform oncology services and patient care for adults and children battling cancer and leukaemia.

Funds raised are committed to improving facilities, funding clinical research and capital projects, enhancing staff levels, as well as delivering a range of support to young oncology patients and their families in our local communities.

Feeling Inspired?

To explore fundraising opportunities with us contact:

www.chartwellcancertrust.co.uk/events/

info@chartwellcancertrust.co.uk

www.chartwellcancertrust.co.uk

Charity Registration Number: 1109784

Sports

by OLIVER TREASURE

Bromley FC: Highlights, successes & what’s to come

We catch up with the community manager for Bromley FC, Matt Hall, to get the lowdown on what’s happening and what we can look forward to…

Hey Matt! What should fans be excited about for this season?

With a record points finish, and reaching the National League Playoff Semi-Final last season, we'll be looking to improve on that this year. There are some brilliant new players coming in, as well as a lot who've stayed from last season.

How has Bromley FC made an impact on the community?

We run community programmes for people across all walks of life, from 18 months old, to 90+ year olds! We are part of a hugely unique and diverse community in Bromley, and we try our best to support people from across all areas of London's biggest borough, whether it be in terms of physical or mental health.

What are the goals for Bromley this season?

On the field, it has to be to improve on last year's achievements. A good FA Cup run would also be great,

Top 5 highest paid premier league footballers

5. Jadon Sancho - Manchester United (£350,000)

4. Mohammad Salah - Liverpool (£350,000)

3. David de Gea - Manchester United (£375,000)

2. Erling Haaland - Manchester City (£375,000)

1. Kevin De Bruyne - Manchester City (£400,000) (Per week)

as we're due one of those! Off the field, the ambition is to continue to grow and develop, as we aim to become sustainable off the field for the long term.

What are some of the best moments you have witnessed at the club?

Promotion to the National League was very special, and a first for the Club in terms of moving away from regionalised football into a league which encompassed teams from across the country. But, the best of them all has to be the FA Trophy Final win over Wrexham in 2022 at Wembley Stadium. As huge underdogs, nobody expected Bromley to win, so when we did, it was even better a feeling.

Max Verstappen’s rise from beginner to winner: How he did it

Max Verstappen is no doubt one of the greatest Formula 1 drivers to exist. His impressive 40+ race wins, and 2 world championships are proof of that. But how did he get here; what put him above his peers, and into the history books?

Verstappen started his career at Torro Rosso F1 team in 2015. He quickly gained a reputation for his risky and fast driving skills, and after just one year, aged only 18, he was given one of the quickest cars in the sport, a Red Bull. It only took five races before he became a Grand Prix winner, the youngest ever. He finished 5th that year, and 6th, 4th, 3rd, and 3rd place finishes from 2017-2020 earnt him a very loyal fanbase. Then, in 2021, the championship went down to the final race. It was between Verstappen and Hamilton, where Verstappen took the win on the final lap of the final race, to claim his first championship. This drama foreshadowed his dominant 2022, where he won 15/23 races. His skill and determination do not look to stop anytime soon. Verstappen’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary and will be surely remembered for years to come.

Matt Hall

Home & Garden

7 THINGS YOU SHOULD NEVER DO TO YOUR LAWN

Never before have so many of us appreciated our gardens. If you’re coveting your perfect patch of green, make sure you avoid these lawncare no-nos, says Paul Hicks, Product Marketing Manager at STIHL

1. Never cut grass too short – cutting on the shortest setting puts the grass at risk from weeds and grub infestations. Only cut off 1/3rd of the length at a time as grass thrives with a larger leaf area. Cordless mowers have cut-height adjustment making it simple to cut the grass to a suitable length.

2. Don’t leave areas covered – It’s important to get out of the habit of leaving things like furniture out. Items left on the lawn can cause bald patches to appear or cause the grass to discolour and become yellow.

3. Always collect fallen leaves – If left, they can prevent sunlight from reaching the grass, therefore suffocating it. Leaves only need to be left for three weeks before they start to damage grass. It is worth investing in a leaf blower.

4. Stop overwatering – Grass can become dependent

Considering a planning application or appeal?

Adam Wilkinson BSc MRTPI of Planning Property Services Ltd helps answers your Q&As…

What is your role and who are Planning Property Services Ltd?

I am the Managing Director of Planning Property Services and a qualified member of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) with 17 years’ experience across the sector. We are a professional planning consultancy based in Bromley providing town planning advice. We help our clients with Planning Applications, Appeals, Enforcement issues as well as general advice and feasibility studies.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I love the variety of work and helping our clients from the very start of a project through to completion. We enjoy working with homeowners and local businesses through to larger projects for property developers and housebuilders. The planning system can be complicated, slow and at times intimidating. We help people by simplifying the process, understanding their needs, and working with them to secure a successful outcome.

if it has too much water. Instead of watering every day, choose one day a week to water the lawn for a longer period of time. This will make the lawn healthier and more drought-tolerant.

5. Don’t let the grass grow too long – whilst it is important not to mow the lawn too short, it is also best not to wait too long between mowing. It is advisable to mow twice weekly during the summer and drop to once a week during spring and autumn.

6. Never leave bare patches – patches can form due to over-mowing, over-raking or heavy lawn scarifying. When they appear, it is best to act quickly to prevent them becoming a breeding ground for weeds. The best way to restore bald patches is reseeding them.

7. Don’t forget to scarify – it’s essential for keeping your lawn healthy, by removing thatch and moss, which, if left, can prevent dense growth. By penetrating the soil surface, scarifying allows light, moisture and nutrients to be absorbed by the grass roots. You can use a rake or a dedicated machine.

When and why should I contact a Planning

Consultant?

At the start of the project so we can clearly identify the opportunities and also the constraints from the very outset. Advice at this early stage ensures time and money isn’t wasted on projects unlikely to secure planning permission in the future. We devise strategies that utilise the planning system to achieve their objectives in the most time and cost-effective way.

What should I look for in a Planning Consultant?

Honesty, responsiveness and a practical approach. Our clients value our service because we are firstly honest with them about what we think they can achieve, and the risks of any approach. Where we identify risks we then work proactively to resolve them, and devise an approach that minimises risk, time and cost. Much work is done after submission, and we work diligently with the Council to address any issues as they arise through to a decision.

For more information call 07786 805 977 or see www.planningpropertyservices.co.uk

Petts Wood

BR5 1DF

Bromley’s Best Estate Planners

Southeast Legacies was founded by brothers Anthony and Peter Rockliffe. Anthony is a full member of STEP, the gold standard in private client law. You are welcome to attend our office in Petts Wood, or we offer free home appointments. We offer a discounted rate when combining a Will with Lasting Powers of Attorney.

Wills Probate LPAs Trusts

Basic Will £149 +VAT

Wills

2 Basic Wills £199 +VAT

Grant Only

£: Fixed Price

Full Admin

£: Fixed Price

We don’t believe in charging an hourly rate. What we quote you is what you will pay.

2 x LPAs £399 +Vat*

4 x LPAs £599 +Vat*

There are two types of LPAs Health and Finance.

southeastlegacies.co.uk

Essential Complete Peace of Mind – 1 Person

• Simple Single Will

• Both Lasting Powers of Attorney (Health and Finance) – 40 Pages of Paperwork

£499 + VAT*

Premium Complete Peace of Mind – 1 Person

• Single Trust Will – with the addition of a trust to

• Both Lasting Powers of Attorney (Health and Finance) – 40 Pages of Paper work

• Protects against re-marriage/potential future care costs

Life Interest £299 +Vat

Discretionary £299 +Vat

Family Trust £299 +Vat

Essential Complete Peace of Mind – 2 People

• Simple Couples Wills

• 4 Lasting Powers of Attorney (Health and Finance for 2 people) – 80 Pages of Paperwork

£749 + VAT*

Premium Complete Peace of Mind – 2 People

• Couples Trust Wills – with the addition of a trust

• 4 Lasting Powers of Attorney (Health and Finance for 2 people) – 80 Pages of Paperwork

• Protects against re-marriage/potential future care costs

£999 + VAT Call: 0208 114 7111 Email: contact@southeastlegacies.co.uk

£649 + VAT

How working from home can work for you

Over the past year and a half, remote work has become the new normal for many people. With the COVID-19 pandemic prompting companies to shift to a work-from-home model, more people than ever before are discovering the benefits of working remotely. While there are certainly some challenges associated with working from home, there are also many ways that it can work for you.

One of the most significant benefits is the increased flexibility that it provides. Without the need to commute to an office every day, you have more control over your schedule and can often structure your workday to suit your preferences. This can allow you to take care of personal tasks during the day, or even work outside of traditional business hours.

Working from home can also help you to achieve a better work-life balance. When you work in an office, it can be challenging to switch off at the end of the day, especially if you have a long commute. But when you work from home, you can create a physical and mental separation between your work life and your personal life. This can help you to feel more refreshed and focused when you return to work the next day.

Another benefit of remote work is the potential for increased productivity. When you work from home, you're

HOW TO GET A PROMOTION

in control of your environment and can create a workspace that suits your needs. This can help you to stay focused and avoid distractions that can be common in a traditional office setting. Additionally, the lack of interruptions from co-workers can help you to get more done in less time. Perhaps one of the most unexpected benefits of working from home is the opportunity to save money. Without the need to commute, you can save on transport costs and things like work clothes and meals. Additionally, some people find that working from home allows them to be more mindful about their spending and to make more intentional choices about where their money goes.

Of course, there are some challenges associated with working from home as well. For example, it can be challenging to stay motivated and focused when you're working in the same environment where you also relax and unwind. And if you live with others, you may need to establish boundaries to ensure that you're able to work without interruptions.

However, with some planning and effort, it's possible to make remote work a success. This might include creating a dedicated workspace, setting clear boundaries with family members or roommates and finding ways to stay connected with colleagues despite the physical distance.

Tick off your do-to list by 5pm

Ticking off your to-do list by 5pm can be challenging, especially if you have a lot of tasks to complete. However, with the right approach, it is possible to be productive and accomplish everything on your list by the end of the day. So, here’s what you can do!

Prioritise! Start by identifying the most important tasks that need to be completed. These should be the tasks that have the biggest impact on your goals or the tasks that are most urgent. Prioritising will help you focus your time and energy on the things that matter most.

Break down large tasks; if you have any large tasks to do, break them down into smaller, more manageable tasks. This will help you feel more accomplished as you tick off each small task.

Use time blocks; set aside specific blocks of time for each task on your list. This will help you stay on track and avoid getting side-tracked by other distractions. Use a timer or an app to

keep you accountable and focused during each time block.

Avoid multitasking; it can be tempting to try to work on multiple tasks at once, but this often leads to a lack of focus and decreased productivity. Instead, focus on one task at a time.

Take breaks; taking regular breaks can help you stay focused and energised throughout the day. Schedule short breaks between tasks to recharge your batteries and prevent burnout.

Eliminate distractions; minimise distractions by turning off notifications, closing unnecessary tabs on your computer and avoiding social media during work hours. This will help you stay focused and avoid wasting time on non-essential activities.

Get organised; Use tools like calendars, to-do lists and project management software to keep track of your tasks.

Life Hacks

10 SMALL-TALK SUBJECTS (THAT DON’T INVOLVE THE WEATHER)

1. What's the best book you've read recently?

2. What's the most interesting place you've travelled to and why?

3. Seen any good movies or TV shows lately?

4. What's your favourite hobby or activity?

5. The most memorable meal you've ever had and where?

6. If you could have any job in the world, what would it be?

The 8 best iPhone apps to help keep seniors safe

Here are eight iPhone apps that cater to different aspects of the safety and well-being of elders:

7. The craziest thing you've ever done?

8. What's something you're really passionate about?

9. If you could go back in time to any historical event, what would it be?

10. Your favourite childhood memory?

40 ideas of things to do if you have 5 minutes

1. Meditate

2. Try box breathing

3. Stretch

4. Do a quick workout

5. Read a short article or book chapter

6. Write in a journal

7. Make a to-do list for the day

8. Listen to a podcast episode

• Life360: A family tracking app that allows loved ones to share their locations with each other ensuring that family members can easily check on each other's whereabouts and safety.

• Find My iPhone: Built-in iPhone app helps locate a lost or stolen device. Elders can use it to track their phone's location and remotely lock or erase their data if needed.

• Medical ID: Built into the iPhone's Health app. It allows users to create a digital medical ID card with important information like allergies, medical conditions, emergency contacts and blood type. Can be accessed from the lock screen by emergency responders.

• Red Panic Button: Allows people to create an emergency alert system by pressing a red panic button on the screen sending a pre-programmed distress message to emergency contacts with location information.

• FallSafety Pro: Uses the iPhone's built-in sensors to detect falls and send alerts to emergency contacts. Automatically detects falls and initiates calls for help if necessary.

• First Aid & CPR: Easy-to-follow instructions for various first aid situations and CPR procedures. A valuable resource during emergencies.

• Senior Safety Phone: Transforms iPhone into seniorfriendly phone with large buttons and simplified interface. Also includes features like emergency call buttons, medication reminders and location sharing with family.

• Pill Reminder by Medisafe: Helps manage medication schedules. Sends reminders for pill intake, tracks adherence and sends alerts to caregivers if doses missed.

9. Clean a small area of your home or workspace

10. Practice a language you're learning

11. Check and respond to emails

12. Organise your desk or work area

13. Plan your meals for the day or week

14. Make a gratitude list

15. Listen to a song

16. Walk round the block

17. Plan your day/week

18. Reorganise a drawer

19. Practise a skill or hobby (e.g drawing)

20. Call a friend

21. Clean out the fridge

22. Review your finances

23. Take a quick shower

24. Pay a bill

25. Play a game on your phone

26. Plan date night

27. Research a topic you're interested in

Image: Frank Leuderalbert, Unsplash

Private Orthopaedic Surgery Near You

At Chelsfield Park Hospital, we offer a wide range of orthopaedic procedures to patients who live in Kent, Tunbridge Wells, Bromley, and Sevenoaks.

Why wait? Self-funding patients benefit from no waiting lists and fixed price packages, so there are no unexpected bills.

• Short waiting times, fast access to diagnosis and treatment

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• Imaging services including X-Ray, MRI, Ultrasound and CT

• Expertly tailored physiotherapy plans

For more information call 01689 885925

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value of your investment can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount invested. The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate taxation and trust advice. Accessing pension benefits early may impact on levels of retirement income and your entitlement

Food & Drink lifestyle

A pizza the action

Pizza has emerged just ahead of Chinese to be named Britain’s favourite takeaway cuisine, new research from Peckwater Brands has revealed.

An independent survey of 2,000 UK adults found that 50% of consumers ranked pizza among their top three selections when ordering from delivery platforms, putting it at the top of the table, ahead of Chinese which was selected by 48% of people. Indian came in third and was picked by 36% of respondents.

However, old-school British favourite, fish and chips was picked by just 10%, putting it slightly ahead of Japanese and Sushi and Turkish. The company’s previous research found that the majority (63%) of UK adults still consider takeaways a treat that they look forward to despite the cost-of-living crisis. On average, in 2022, Britons spent £508 a year each on takeaway meals.

New on the shelves…

Ideal for a picnic or barbecue, Cypressa’s new grilling cheeses are an alternative to halloumi, and cost effective too. Easy to cook and prepare, whether you’re pan-frying, grilling or barbecuing, the grilling cheese (and new reduced fat grilling cheese) will liven up any summer dish and cost from £2 from Ocado. For details see www.cypressa.co.uk

Hot sauce brand, Encona, has unveiled its new Chilli Jams in Morrisons.

Encona Canadian Maple Chilli Jam and Encona Jamaican Scotch Bonnet Chilli Jam are now available to buy in Morrisons stores across the UK for £2. The range includes Canadian Maple Chilli Jam, Mexican Smoked Chilli Jam, Mexican Jalapeño Chilli Jam and Jamaican Scotch Bonnet.

Britain’s favourite takeaways:

1.   Pizza (50% selected it as one of the top three takeaway options)

2.   Chinese (48%)

3.   Indian (36%)

4.    Burgers (34%)

5.    Fried Chicken (28%)

6.   Kebab (20%)

7.    Fish and chips (10%)

8.   Japanese and sushi (9%)

9.    Turkish (9%)

10.  Thai (7%)

How to… stay hydrated when it’s HOT

Hydration experts have revealed that 45% of Brits only drink one glass of water a day. Lena Jüngst, Co-founder and Chief Evangelist of air up, offers some top tips on how to stay hydrated on the hottest of days…

1. Drink before you’re thirsty

It’s important to make sure your water levels are constantly being topped up throughout the day, so drink at regular intervals.

2. Be aware of how much water you’re consuming

Although taking sips of water here and there is great, it’s better to be aware of exactly how much we’re consuming to be sure we’re actually getting as much water as we need.

3. Keep water with you at all times

It's important to remember to always bring a water bottle out with you. Carrying a bottle of water provides us with instant hydration as and when we need it.

4. Enjoy what you’re drinking!

If you don’t like water, drinking as many fluids as possible such as squash or tea keeps your water levels up and keeps you safe in the sun.

Key stats

45% of Brits drink around one glass of water a day

25% of Brits don’t know that a healthy water intake helps stave off weight gain

30% of Brits find water boring so they don’t often drink it 29% of Brits have tried, without success, to drink more water

Pets lifestyle

5 health benefits of owning a pet

While we know that the bond between pets and their owners is strong, there are also many health benefits to owning a pet. Research by the PDSA has revealed that 84% of owners believe their pet improves their mental health, which is unlikely to come as a surprise if you are an animal lover. Four-legged friends can have a positive impact on our life in many ways, both mentally and physically. PDSA Vet Nurse, Nina Downing, shares her top five reasons why having a pet is beneficial for our overall health.

The power of companionship

Humans and animals are social creatures, so this companionship can go a long way in reducing loneliness. Giving your furry friend love and attention, as well as receiving it in return, can significantly boost mental wellbeing – particularly for those who are socially isolated and may not see other people during the day.

Stress-busting

Research shows that spending just ten minutes interacting with your pet each day can lower levels of the stress hormone, cortisol. As well as reducing stress, receiving an animal’s unconditional love without fear of judgement can help build self-confidence.

Thriving on routine

The responsibility of caring for a pet can provide a clear day-to-day purpose and a reason to get out of bed in the

Your pet pics...

morning. These actions also help establish structure in your day and are excellent habits for your own wellbeing, as well as your pets.

Finding the fun

A good game of tug, chase or fetch can get you up, moving and having fun, bringing lots of benefits for our pets also. When you engage in regular play or exercise sessions, a chemical called dopamine (the feel-good hormone) is released by the body, helping you feel positive and motivated.

Dependability

Having a sense of purpose is very important to us, as is the need to feel connected. The accountability and structure that comes with pet ownership can be highly motivating and encourage you to create the very best life for them and, in turn, for you!

Did you know…?

Some dogs are trained to provide emotional support for witnesses while reliving a traumatic experience on the witness stand or testifying in front of their attacker.

Wally & Ella Chloe Hylton

This is Ronnie on his 1st birthday! Jackie Eddleston

Our beautiful Coco June Evans

FREE Seminar

Protecting your family assets

Jeremy Wilson, Head of Wills and Estate Administration at CWJ will be presenting our regular seminar on how to "protect your family assets." There will be an opportunity to join us afterwards for refreshments and ask our team questions relating to your individual circumstances.

This seminar is ideal for people who are interested in:

Making a Will

Learning how to protect their assets against inheritance tax

Finding out about Lasting Powers of Attorney

Long-term care rules

Scan to book your place or call/email 01689 887 861

raisha.rahman@cwj.co.uk

Dates: Thursday 14th September 2023

Thursday 12th October 2023

Time: 4.00-5.00pm

Location: Valiant House, 12 Knoll Rise, Orpington, Kent, BR6 0PG

Classified Listings

BUSINESS & NETWORKING

B2B MASTERMIND

Are you a business owner and looking for support and advice? Bells Accountants run Pure B2B Mastermind lunches in Chislehurst and Bromley every month, where business owners come together to share ideas, information and advice. Contact Anna Young at anna@bellsaccountants.co.uk for details.

BLOGGING FOR BUSINESS

If you own a website then there are plenty of advantages to having a blog including driving conversions, reinforcing your brand, increasing website traffic, building trust among potential clients and helping repurpose content for social media. But if you’re too busy running your business to keep on top of your blog, we can do it for you! To find out more call 07734-667797.

BROMLEY BUSINESS NETWORK

Bromley Business Network is a place where everyone feels comfortable building connections with fellow business leaders – whether you’re a first-timer or a serial networker. Meetings are held every two weeks at Bromley Football Club in Hayes Lane, Bromley, BR2 9EF. To book visit bromleybusinessnetwork.co.uk

LADIES WHO LATTE

We offer networking and business support for women in business, from those who are just starting their journey to those who have been operating for some time. We aim to support each other to enable businesses to progress and build collaborations.

For details contact Denise Meade-Hill on 07947990923 or email: bromleyladieswholatte@gmail.com

PEOPLE IN BUSINESS (PIB)

We are an affordable, fun and friendly small business network group, holding monthly meetings for members who have exclusivity in their field. Our groups include Bromley, Bexley and Southwark. Email pibnetwork@outlook.com or see www.pib-network.com for more information.

SALES AND MARKETING HELP

Consultancy and planning services across sales, marketing and digital. Help with sales planning, website planning and marketing strategies. Plus sales and marketing training. High level experience and expertise at affordable prices. Great for local businesses who want to gain new clients. Contact Brand Planning - info@ brandplanning.co.uk or visit www.brandplanning.co.uk

CLUBS, ACTIVITIES & HOBBIES AQUAKIDS

Swimming lessons that last a lifetime. We offer classes with a friendly and personal approach to swimming and cater for all abilities - from beginners to advanced and even nervous first-timers. Please check the website at www.aquakids.co.uk/ for the latest updates or our social media. www.aquakids.co.uk Facebook@aquakidsuk Twitter @Aquakidsuk Instagram @aquakids.uk

THE CREATION STATION SEVENOAKS, BIGGIN HILL, HAYES AND ORPINGTON

Fun and inspirational arts & crafts sessions for babies, children, teens and adults, as well as provision at events and award-winning arty parties. Call Alix on 07906 078840 or email alixpurton@thecreationstation.co.uk. www.thecreationstataion.co.uk/alix-purton; social media @TCSSevenoaks

EMPLOYMENT

DISTRIBUTORS WANTED

Do you want to get fit? Maybe you’re looking for a great excuse to go walking with purpose? We’re seeking magazines and leaflet distributors within the Bromley and Orpington areas You will need access to a smart phone for GPS tracking while delivering.

For details or to apply email hello@lifeinmagazines. co.uk with your name, location and phone number.

GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT

MATHSENSE EDUCATION

Bromley Schools, how did your students perform in their maths exams this summer? Could a Maths Consultant bring even greater success next year?

To find out more, email Chantellebarrett@mathsenseeducation.com or call 07487738226.

HEAlTH, BEAUTY & MINDSET

HENNA BY DEVINA

I am a Bromley based henna/ mehndi artist. I have just begun this venture and I am open to bookings (whether this be group or individual). For enquiries text 07496886574 or email- hennabydevina@gmail.com. Insta: @hennabydevina

SARAH MILLER AT THE HEALING HUT

I am a Spiritual Healer offering guided meditation and spiritual healing in my Healing Hut. Spiritual Healing is a gentle non-invasive therapy that can help with anxiety, sleep and overall wellbeing. So come along and relax your tired body, calm your mind and soothe your soul in the peace and tranquillity of The Healing Hut. To book an hour’s session (£25) call 07941-297072 or email sjmiller@ntlworld.com.

SUBLIME BEAUTY

Mobile service for semi-permanent eyebrows, lips, eyeliner and collagen induction therapy. I am VTCT Level 4 Qualified - the highest accreditation in Semi-Permanent make-up (Micropigmentation). Gift vouchers also available. Email simone@sublimebeauty.co.uk or see www.sublimebeauty.co.uk

To submit a classified listing please call 020 3488 9959 or email sales@lifeinmagazines.co.uk

Prices start from just £10 per month.

Short Story

A DAY OUT IN THE OCEAN

by WILLIAM POINTING

Jerry stared out into the vast deep Atlantic Ocean on this calm and warm summer’s day. The ocean’s surface was still, only containing small pockets of dark green seaweeds which bobbed about aimlessly in the distant sea. Their air bladders were all upwards to help them float and reach the bright sunlight to photosynthesize. In the distance, there was a small boat.

For the past few years now, the ocean had changed a lot. It was quieter. With a few small fish, and large sharks, especially Great Whites like Jerry. The ocean was warmer (which was comforting), but there were more plastic water bottles than edible shoals of fish in many parts of the ocean. Too many reefs were bleached white, lifeless for miles like a marine graveyard. Finding food was becoming a challenge.

Jerry’s predatory senses were becoming heightened. He was beyond peckish. It had been four long days since his last feed off the coast of Florida, by Cocoa Beach. The distracted blubbery old seal was a meal and a half. Jerry’s energy levels were just about OK yesterday, but now he was ravenous. Loud vibrations came from that small fishing boat.

His nose twitched, there was a clear taste of food in the water near the boat. Without a second thought, Jerry swam towards the boat with his horizontally-oriented rear fins wagging as fast possible. The water became hazy, dark red and cloudy. Parts of fish drifted by. After some rapid snacking, he saw an odd sight. Below was a small underwater prison cage. After careful inspection, several seal-like things stared at him. Bubbles floated from their top heads. Their fins nervously pointed at him. Lights from them flashed in his direction. As he bumped into the cage

to devour the fish parts, more bubbles and movement came out of these things and they look panicked.

He suddenly got knocked by another Great White Shark. It was Sally, an old friend. He hadn't seen her in years. She looked older, life at sea had aged her. “Why are you here Jerry? You must get outta here! Those boat things throw nets when you bump the cages” she said. “I was so hungry, I just followed my nose,” he replied. “That’s the way it is now. The ocean has less food and more danger.”

The boat slowly drifted away and the pair looked at each other curiously, for some time. Both of them suddenly visibly shivered. Something was up. The ocean hard turned from tame to quiet - eerily quiet and suspicious.

Suddenly underneath they saw a fierce pod of dolphins coming fast towards them. One of the larger dolphins suddenly jabbed its snout into Jerry’s stomach. The wind was knocked out of him and he started to see stars. “Jerry, follow me now!” Sally yelled and as she dived deep down into the ocean, under the bleach-white reef, ten metres below. Jerry followed at a pace. The dolphins were now just a distant puff of sand smoke. At last, Sally and Jerry could now relax and reconnect. After a knowing glance, they agreed that their new quest was to find a new life on a reef with copious supplies of smaller fish. That was not too much to ask for, surely.

Feeling creative? We’re looking for your short stories. Send a brief synopsis to hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk with your idea and contact details.

Smart safety tips if you live alone

Your daily self-care plan

The right way to complain (and get results)

Bromley policing - public perception vs. reality

Plus so much more!

Print run: 7,000 copies every month

Estimated readership: 17,800 including digital

Copyright: All text, images and design in Life In...Bromley are subject to copyright, 2023.

Competitions: In the event of any dispute regarding the Rules and all other matters relating to a Competition, the decision of the judge(s) shall be final and no correspondence or discussion shall be entered into. For full terms & conditions see https://bit.ly/lifeincomps

Disclaimer: Luna Creative Media Ltd assumes no liability or responsibility for any inaccurate, delayed or incomplete information, nor for any actions taken in reliance thereon. The information contained about each individual, event or organisation has been provided by such individual, event organisers or organisation without verification by us. The opinion expressed in each article is the opinion of its author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editors of Luna Creative Media Ltd. Therefore, Luna Creative Media Ltd carries no responsibility for the opinion expressed thereon. Any form of reproduction of any content in this magazine without the written permission of the editors is strictly prohibited. © 2023 Luna Creative Media Ltd. All rights reserved.

Life In Bromley is available to pick up from the following locations: Bromley Central Library | Bromley Churchill Theatre | Bromley Picturehouse | Bromley South Railway Station | Bromley United Reformed Church | Community House, South Street | Contingent Works, Elmfield Road | Newman Flexible Workspace (Devonshire House Elmfield Road & Newman Road) | Splash Damage | The Warren. For a postal copy (£24 a year) email hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk

A Final Thought…

Teachers are amazing

by ALAN REEVES

When I went to school in the 1960s, there was one teacher with a class of around 40 children. Everyone was taught the same things. If you were bright, you learnt quickly and got bored, if you were less able you  struggled and everyone else got by. Most children behaved. Everyone else was naughty. What happened to children outside school was not of concern to your teacher.

Today, a primary teacher is expected to find a suitable, personalised way to teach each pupil. The brightest need to be “challenged”, those less able or with one of a variety of special educational needs (dyslexia, ADHD, dyscalculia – there are many more) need to be supported to reach their best capability. Performance of each pupil is regularly assessed and collective data is analysed and at certain points shared publicly to compare schools. Some special needs are significant enough to require one-to-one support from an adult. Occasionally a child might “suffer an event” which can disrupt the whole lesson. That teacher must teach every subject in the curriculum. This is 21st century primary education.

But educating a child is only part of the job. Safeguarding is OFSTED’s top priority so teachers are now the eyes and ears of social care to pick up on any concerns for the health and wellbeing of every child in their class.

When I became a school governor in 2018, I had great respect for teachers. Anyone who has the ability to not only keep 30 children under control but help them all to learn for hours every day is special. With what I now know in 2023, I am just in awe of them all.

And schools are expected to deliver personalised learning with less money in real terms than in 2010. Having teaching assistants in each classroom is expensive. And whilst additional funds are available to support those with special

Alan Reeves

educational needs and those from less wealthy backgrounds - it is never enough. In some cases it is  getting harder and harder to get the money at all. At the more complex end of the special needs spectrum, a school can apply to the local authority for funding for a child (an EHCP). Even if you are successful, it is possibly months after the child was assessed that funding is approved - but schools have to pay for special support needs from day one.

The number of pupils in England with EHCPs has more than doubled since 2015 (over half a million now) and local authority budgets have been blown apart as a result. In Bromley alone the local authority has been quoting a figure in excess of £10million over budget. It is not unusual  to have over a quarter of the class who are requiring some kind of special support. This is in Bromley, not an inner-city school in an area of high deprivation.

So, we have growing numbers of children requiring additional support, every child is expected to receive a personalised education, and this has to be done with (in real terms) less money. Whilst the teachers continue  to deliver education, there are senior leaders trying to find yet more creative ways to reduce overheads to keep school budgets (and staff numbers) positive. Remember, a typical school budget has staff costs as 75-80% of total budget so there’s not much capacity to trim these  figures before staffing is all that’s left to cut.

All this on top of teaching through COVID and trying to cope with increasing energy bills of tens of thousands of pounds – to name but two.

Teachers are amazing aren’t they? It seems that delivering lessons is just a part of it.

Who’d be a teacher, eh (or a governor)?

Would you like to put your thoughts on paper and contribute to ‘A Final Thought’? Perhaps you’re passionate about a local cause or want to raise awareness of an important issue. Or maybe you’d like to educate others about your unusual hobby.

Write to us at hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk with your idea!