Life In Orpington October 2019

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ISSUE 8 . OCTOBER 2019

EE

LIVE, LOVE, LIFE... LOCALLY

7 things you can’t recycle 2020 home interior trends

Smart home tech: privacy protection HALLOWEEN ETIQUETTE FOR KIDS

YOUR

D AROUND N A IN E ID U G N T'S O ESSENTIAL WHA

ORPINGTON

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Nurse Managed Home Care

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www.compassionhomecare.co.uk 2 Life in... Orpington October 2019

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Welcome to Life in Orpington

Nicky

Lauretta

...your local community magazine that has something to suit all tastes

CONTENTS October 2019

You might have noticed that every month we change our picture on this page, and that for the last few months one of us has been hiding under a hat! That’s because in March this year, Lauretta was diagnosed with breast cancer, and has since lost her hair.

Community News

Getting to know Orpington....................... 4 VUE Bromley review................................. 6 Write it, say it, message it PRIZE GIVEAWAY.................................... 7 Noticeboard.............................................. 8 Charity watch......................................... 10 Local heroes........................................... 12 Orpington in focus.................................. 15

However, she’s taken her hat off – both literally and metaphorically – to raise awareness of this month’s Breast Cancer Awareness month, and has penned a piece, ‘Battling the breast cancer beast’ for this month’s Final Thought (page 36).

Most of us have been affected by cancer or know someone that has. It would be great to hear your thoughts, see your pictures and learn about your experiences – email hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk

What’s On

The October issue also sees the introduction of a ‘Did You Know…’ page 33 - nuggets of information and trivia for your grey matter, plus a special Halloween feature with spooky bakes, stories and ‘trick or treat’ etiquette.

This month ............................................. 16

Lifestyle

Finally, congratulations to last month’s competition winners, who each won a pair of tickets to The Baby Show in London.

Crossword - PRIZE GIVEAWAY.............. 22 Halloween feature................................... 23 Health & beauty...................................... 24 Home & garden...................................... 26 Sport....................................................... 29 Eco news................................................ 31 Did you know ......................................... 33 Technology............................................. 35 A final thought........................................ 36 Useful contacts...................................... 38

This month we’ve got VUE cinema tickets up for grabs, plus tickets to The Spirit Of Christmas Fair.

Until next month – enjoy!

Nicky and Lauretta Nicky Grant and Lauretta Wright, Editors PS Life In Orpington will be delivered to a separate area next month. However, you can always read the digital version at lifeinmagazines.co.uk or pick up a copy at various locations in Orpington including cafés, libraries, train stations etc

Published by: Life In Magazines

NEXT COPY DEADLINE: 10TH OCT

COVER IMAGE: IT'S HALLOWEEN MONTH!

To advertise in Life In Orpington contact Nicky or Lauretta 07403 603569 or 07403 550068 hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk lifeinmagazines.co.uk

GET TO KNOW US...

What game show would you choose to go on?

Nicky: Supermarket Sweep Lauretta: The Crystal Maze lifeinmagazines.co.uk

@lifeinmags October 2019 Life in... Orpington 3

Community News

GettingOrpington to know

A typical Thomas Tilling horse drawn omnibus on Route 47 that would have travelled to Farnborough

A Thomas Tilling motorised bus, also route 47 from the 1940s

This is the second of three articles on local transport and how it has transformed Orpington and its district….

The ‘Omnibus’ evolved from the designs of horse drawn coaches or wagons that could transport larger groups of people and their goods and luggage between places.

Companies started to spring up offering regular services and, in the case of the ‘bus’, transport routes were established with published timetables and fairly decent reliability.

The Thomas Tilling Company emerged as one of the leading transport companies in the early 20th Century and went on to build depots and their own buses. A number of the current bus routes that pass through Orpington and the area are very old and were originally created or served by ‘Tillings’. Bromley Bus Garage’s buses still have the depot code of TB on the side (by the driver’s window) meaning Tilling Bromley.

Orpington has another strong link to the bygone age of buses in that the current bus company, GoAhead Group, operates from a bus garage that has been part of the community in Green St Green for many years. The Orpington and District Bus company operated a small number of buses from Oak Farm in Green St Green for much of the 1960s and 70s. In 1981 a new company, Metrobus, was created and when it won some London Transport bus routes (such as the 61 route), the blue and yellow buses were a common sight on the roads. Metrobus still operates in the southern counties today, but buses based at Green St Green operate as part of GoAhead and the blue and yellow has long gone, with the traditional red livery being used instead.

Most of the bus numbered routes we know today were created in the 1930s, but the actual routes go back much further. Orpington and Farnborough were reached by the 47 bus (1934) - one of the oldest in operation and it is still around today in a shorter journey form. The 51 (1934), 61 and 208 buses were core to the development of the town and its free flow. Local smaller routes were taken on by companies like the Orpington Bus Company. Country-based national buses were common in the district and served from Dartford and Dunton Green, while privatisation of the bus network and a break down of some of the large and longer routes allowed Metrobus and Roundabout Bus, another local bus company based in St Mary Cray, to prosper.

The Orpington History Organisation www.orpington-history.org | Facebook @OrpHistOrg

4 Life in... Orpington October 2019

A traditional London Routemaster bus on route 208 in the 1970s

A RT bus on route 51 in the early 1970s

A Leyland Titan bus on route 51 in the 1980s

A Metrobus branded bus on route 358 in the 1990s

An Orpington and District bus on route 853 in the late 1970s

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STOREY’S LTD ANTIQUARIAN MAP AND PRINT DEALERS

Tel. 0207 836 3777

Email: storeysltd@btinernet.com | www.storeysltd.co.uk

Situated between Covent Garden and Leicester Square and close to Charing Cross Railway Station, Storey’s has been in business since 1984.

Owned and managed by the Kingswood family of Bromley. The business specialises in antique maps and prints from the 17th century until 1918. The website showcases a very wide variety of maps and prints held in stock. Subjects include Botanicals, Caricatures, Sports, Military and Naval.

A custom framing service is offered, with a wide selection of mouldings to choose from.

A visit to the shop is highly recommended to browse.

STOREY’S LTD 1 & 3 Cecil Court, Charing Cross Road London WC2N 4EZ

Email: storeysltd@btinternet.com www.storeysltd.co.uk

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October 2019 Life in... Orpington 5

Community News

VUE Review

Life In Orpington’s editors, Nicky and Lauretta, visited VUE in Bromley to trial the whole visitor experience. Here’s what they thought…

First impressions

Nicky: VUE Bromley has a smart and modern feel about it. The large screen in the foyer showing all the upcoming films is a nice feature and the refreshment area is clean and easy to access. All the staff were very polite and helpful and there were plenty of them. There are also some great family restaurants just outside.

Lauretta: VUE Bromley is underground which makes for an interesting entrance. When you arrive in the foyer its minimalist décor makes the venue seem bigger. I would like to see more seating options in the foyer – and possibly an area with more natural lighting – but the large space meant it didn’t feel claustrophobic. The staff were friendly and seemed genuinely happy to be there and to help.

Comfort/cleanliness

Nicky: I could not fault the cinema on cleanliness and there are plenty of toilets.

Lauretta: The cinema is clearly well kept and cleaned thoroughly. I had a brief glance in the toilets and they were also spick and span.

Viewing experience

Nicky: The reclining chairs really are the most comfortable cinema chairs I've experienced - they are really big

6 Life in... Orpington October 2019

and well padded. The moveable tray with a drink holder to put your treats on is a nice touch, plus there is plenty of leg room. The Sony 4k picture quality is superb and the sound is great.

Lauretta: The temperature, lighting and sound were all spot on and made for a very comfortable viewing experience. We went on a Tuesday evening, a quiet night it seemed, and the recliner chair was the highlight for me. It was super comfy and I liked that people could comfortably walk past without me having to adjust my fully reclined chair.

Concessions

Nicky: I bought a deal pack containing popcorn, a chocolate bar and a Slushie drink which was £5.99.

Lauretta: I bought sweets from the ‘pic n mix’ plus a drink which came to just under £5. The sweets were varied and the area was well kept (no sweets mixed up or dirty servers).

The details Tickets at the VUE cost £7.99 (plus a 75p booking fee) and the cinema also offers ‘Big Screen Entertainment’ with genres including theatre, knowledge, innovation, sport, TV, comedy, gaming, dance and opera on Sony 4K screens featuring immersive Dolby

sound. For example, for dance, the next experience is Dracula – Northern Ballet Live on 31st October. There are also special screenings on special days – such as Mini morning sessions on Saturday and Sunday from 10am with tickets from £2.49, while Super Mondays also offer a discounted price. VUE also supports MediCinema, a charity that brings the joy and escapism of cinema to patients undergoing treatment for complex illnesses and injuries in hospitals around the UK. VUE Bromley is located in St Mark's Square (near Bromley South Station). See www.myvue.com for details.

Summary

Nicky: The recliner seats as standard really do set VUE apart from other cinemas - to be able to watch a film on the big screen as comfortable as you can at home (but at very reasonable prices) is the best cinema experience in my view.

Lauretta: VUE offers great value at £7.99; the recliner seats are what you’d usually pay a premium for in most other cinemas, so to offer this as standard is brilliant.

Would you like a review of your business? Email us at hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk

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Write It, Say It, Message It! Fish Rehoming

n, Dear Life In Orpingto rehome I'm writing to offer to sh. I have a any pond fish or goldfi garden and k bac my in e lak l natura so they are , day ry I feed the fish eve r. afte ked loo ll we please contact If anyone is interested il.com or call ma me at Jo.aydiner@g .

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Community News A

FAB READ Dear Nicky and Lauretta, Thank you for a great magazin e! Mostly, I find, that the 'free bies' which come through my are a waste of time as they are door full of adverts, supported by very little else. In your mag lots to interest me - new Bro azine I find mley CEO (looks like an ope n, competent person; maybe Bromley could do with?); Roa just what dworks - really useful; Eco News: I'm hoping to suppor and local areas and I'm abo t Beaches ut to look at the eco-domes tics website; What's On: I tho at least almost all of the loca ught I knew of l groups, but you have listed some I haven't heard of espe Community & Charity Eve cially in the nts. Thank you again for enjo yable reading!

Brenda Pert school,

after leaving My Funny Story… time! It was my first job n ly wasn’t funny at the safe, which I did, the

HAPPY SNAPS!

Here’s a photo of my daughter on a public pathway off Skibbs Lane in Chelsfield!

Sally Campbell, Orpington

Send us your happy snaps in and around Orpington!

Email: hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk

the My funny story definite ing out and put it into trapped, I had to carry someth r when I shut it. I was doo the in in a high street bank. tie my to trap the tie, ed out nag l ma pul I or r But r. doo shutting the safe doo d to either open the safe r while colleagues trie d from the tie meaning hea my te rica ext to bent down by the doo ed ally one of them manag steadfastly stuck in the without any joy. Eventu , but the tie remained up and move around d the branch manager stan in ld g cou I atin t min leas at cul e, that y t on for quite some tim wen n at they should do if the atio wh situ s ask to Thi r. ce ad Offi safe doo some time ringing He day (which was for the of ing ick end pan the n at bee in who had h from the tills then possible to the safe to put the cas from the safe and it was were unable to open the tie did come free ally ntu Eve ). idly rap approaching open the safe again. ton Clive Stubley, Orping

Spotted on social.. ge

The Takeaway Challen

THIS MONTH'S WINNER

Dear Editors and takeaway ington by Jerome Kalan I love the article on Orp 2007 when und Aro 6). ue (iss ce” pla challenge to “talk up the a, it was are the into ve mo looking to my husband and I were ington. Sure, Orp ut e things online abo hard to find a lot of positiv certain areas, but and e her s ool sch ut abo e things there were some positiv I can say, from at wh ver we Ho ingly positive. area can help they were not overwhelm an ut abo something good to say erience. Of course experience, is that having exp ir the re refo the and ectations shape someone else’s exp concern. Our happy g over areas of genuine h that doesn’t mean glossin chance conversation wit off the of e aus bec started ton and ing Orp journey into Orpington ned ntio me y The house hunting. some friends who were not getting a house here, Although they ended up s. ool sch d goo had it said part of our own search. to consider Orpington as that positive chat led us lly enjoyed this edition, rea I . we are so glad we did And I’m pleased to say Station while waiting ed through at Orpington which I picked up and leaf is just fab - really ge ima er cov t say your Augus for a friend. And I must the good work! cheerful cover. Keep up Emilola Shyllon

win a pair of tickets to Vue Bromley! r from you...

For your chance to win, we want to hea

WIN TWO TICK

Got something to shout about? Maybe you want to respond to a particular 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 (Twitter, Facebook and Instagram) @lifeinmags Competitions are open to Bromley Borough residents

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Prize donated by

BROMLEY October 2019 Life in... Orpington 7

Community News - NOTICEBOARD St George’s Chu rch Hall, Bickley Par k Road, Bickley, BR1 2BE ──── Teams of up to 8 ──── Starts 7.30pn

SATURDAY 5TH OCTOBER QUIZ NIGHT All proceeds rais

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TO BOOK YOUR TEAM CONTAC T JANE BARNES ON 0208 8466 079 0 OR EMAIL: Jane.barnes@bro mley mencap.org

Wear It Pink!

Breast Cancer Now’s wear it pink day takes place across London on Friday 18th October, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. One of the UK’s biggest fundraising events, the event has had an enormous impact on the lives of those affected by breast cancer since launching in 2002 and has raised over £33 million for breast cancer research to date. See www.wearitpink.org

Summer Garden Party

Astley Day Centre in Bromley held a ss summer garden party to raise awarene rts spo and sory and funds for new sen the equipment/days out to help improve The s. port quality of life of people it sup g charity provides stimulating and engagin ning activities for around 65 people with lear y of disabilities throughout the week, man ning lear and l sica phy d whom have profoun and ility mob with disabilities and struggle runs communication. Pictured is Sally, who the Astley Gardening project.

8 Life in... Orpington October 2019

Feature on the

Community Noticeboard!

al news

c share lo

Free community and charity events are listed free of charge or there is fee of £20. email hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk with the details lifeinmagazines.co.uk

Community News - NOTICEBOARD STATION SUPPORT!

Last month we reported on how Petts Wood Station won the 2019 Southeastern In Bloom competition. Here’s just some of the messages of support and congratulations that flooded in for the man behind the project, Michael, who is pictured with his stall helpers (and their copy of Life In Orpington) to mark the occasion.

DID YOU KNOW‌

You can access dig ital comics and gr aphic novels with your Br omley library card . Read online, or on the RB digital mobile app, available for your Apple or Android device.

Just register your library card at RB digital at http://capitadiscov ery.co.uk/bromley /join

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Short Mat Bowls

e warm w players get the sam Experienced and ne every n, gto pin Or lls, Ha fton welcome at the Cro . pm 0 4:0 to m 2:00 Friday afternoon fro nment. and informal enviro We play in a relaxed le, so all unal bowls is availab A selection of comm th sole. oo sm a h wit es flat sho you need to bring is 94 Contact: 020 8466 68 oo.co.uk or email msthrn@yah

October 2019 Life in... Orpington 9

Community News - CHARITY WATCH Raising Awareness….

Demelza Hospice Care for Children What service do you provide?

Specialist care and support for children with a life-limiting or terminal condition, and their families. The services could include day care, support in the community, short breaks, 24-hour urgent response, symptom management support, step-down from hospital and end of life care. Sibling and family support is also at the heart of our work, as well as therapies and bereavement services.

Who is it available to?

Do you run any events?

We organise lots of events! Some are bigger, public events for the whole community, and others are more for individual participants to fundraise.

Children and babies under the age of 19 within our catchment area, who have been diagnosed with a lifelimiting or terminal condition. There is no definitive list of conditions that may or may not meet the criteria.

Are you looking for volunteers?

How are you funded?

How else can people help?

We’re supported by more than 1,000 selfless volunteers who we couldn’t function without. We are always looking for more volunteers across both hospices and all our shops.

We receive less than 20% of our funding from government and statutory organisations. As a result, we’re almost entirely dependent on the generosity of our local communities, fundraisers and supporters.

Do you accept donations?

We accept individual donations, regular donations, individual fundraisers, community fundraisers, in-will donations and item donations to any of our Demelza shops.

As well as donating, people can fundraise, participate in events and challenges, join our Demelza Lottery, volunteer with us and simply help spread the word about Demelza and the work we do.

For more information email info@demelza.org.uk or see www.demelza.org.uk

DREAM • CREATE • INSPIRE

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Community News

Local Heroes...

5 Minutes With...

Gloria Saunders Nominated by local resident Nicky Ashford

Nicky says "Gloria is a kind, caring lady who uses knitting to relax and as a therapy. She buys the teddies and wool at her own expense, spends the evenings creating little outfits and whatever people are prepared to give goes to her favourite charities."

Gloria - tell us a little bit about yourself.

I was born in New Cross and now share my life with my partner Derek. Apart from creating outfits for the teddies I also enjoy playing racketball and was lucky enough to win the British over 70s racketball final a few years ago.

What made you start knitting outfits for teddies?

I have always enjoyed working with my hands, so when I saw one of the supermarkets selling off their teddies half price I bought the lot. My partner had by this time developed dementia and I found sitting with him each evening watching a film and creating the outfits was great therapy for both of us. At first I just gave them to friends and family, but it struck me

this would be a great opportunity to raise funds for people, like Derek, suffering from dementia and that’s how it all started.

What charities are you involved in?

This year a friend of mine, Jo Dourof, is lady captain of Cherry Lodge Golf Club. Her chosen charity for the year is the Saxon Day Centre in Orpington, where they offer a day out for people with dementia, which in turn gives the carer a little break for the day.

So I will be taking all my teddies to the golf club on the 16th October for their charity day, where club members and their friends and families will make a donation in exchange for a teddy or doll.

What’s the most rewarding thing about your job?

It gives Derek and myself great pleasure when we see a little teddy come to life, and I hope it will give pleasure and memories to a child all their lives.

What plans do you have for the future?

I plan to carry on with the charity work as long as I am able.

Do you know a ‘Local Hero?'

Nominate them by emailing: hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk with your details – and theirs!

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01689 485044 www.timeforflowerskent.co.uk 44b The Walnuts, Orpington BR6 0TW

12 Life in... Orpington October 2019

CHEF CEYLON UK AUTHENTIC SRI LANKAN FOOD LOCKSBOTTOM | 07766 608493 www.chefceylonuk.co.uk lifeinmagazines.co.uk

_one one seven Multi-brand womenswear boutique A new women’s fashion boutique in the heart of Farnborough village, stocking a wide range of carefully curated and on-trend brands.

Our ever changing collection of handpicked contemporary designs offers versatile, casual basics to occasionwear from both new and established labels.

Saturday 10.00 - 17.00

Sunday - Monday CLOSED

*P PA RIV RT AT E I C En ES AV LOT qu i re H AI LA ES in -s ** B to * re L E

Tuesday - Friday 10.00 - 17.00

Keep up to date with our latest pieces and new-to-store labels by following us on instagram: _oneoneseven 117 High street, Farnborough Village BR6 7AZ T. 01689 889 646

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We create every funeral individually, just for you.

Doves Funeral Directors are here to support and guide you. We offer a friendly, professional service to families.

Orpington

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Call us for immediate support, advice or to arrange a home visit. We are here to help 24 hours a day.

• 24-hour service • Bereavement advice • Transparent pricing • Home visits • Private chapel of rest • Floral tributes • Memorial masonry • Prepaid funeral plans • Repatriation service

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October 2019 Life in... Orpington 13

Newby Plumbing & Heating Family run business established over 30 years

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Helping you get back into the swing of things At BMI Chelsfield Park Hospital we want to help you get back to what you love best.

We offer: n Fast access to diagnosis and treatment n Experienced Consultant surgeons n Pain management n Imaging services including: X-Rays, Ultrasounds and DEXA Scans n Specialties include: Cardiology, Orthopaedics, Pain Medicine, General Surgery, Urology, Gynaecology, Oncology and tailored services from Chartered Physiotherapists. n Fixed price packages for patients wishing to pay for themselves and flexible finance options so there are no worries about unexpected bills.

For more information BMI Chelsfield Park Hospital 01689 885925 email selfpaychelsfield@bmihealthcare.co.uk quote ref: LOP www.bmihealthcare.co.uk/chelsfield

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14 Life in... Orpington October 2019

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Orpington in

Focus

Community News POLICE UPDATES

Council updates

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:

•

Plans to develop 1,000 new homes on council-owned land or acquired sites by 2022 have been confirmed as part of the draft Housing Strategy being proposed, with responses being encouraged by Monday 21st October. The draft outlines four key priorities: (1) More homes – increasing the number of homes in Bromley (2) Better quality, more affordable homes (3) Preventing and tackling homelessness (4) Supporting vulnerable people. See www.bromley.gov.uk/consultations

Cuppa with a Copper (Farnborough & Crofton Safer Neighbourhood Team), 1pm-2pm, Tuesday 1st October, Crofton Bakery, Crofton Lane.

For more information email Farnborough.crofton.snt@met. police.uk

•

Bromley’s Health and Wellbeing Board has signed up to promote a healthier future for the people of Bromley. Bromley Public Health will be working with partners to focus on priorities for improving health and wellbeing in the borough over the next four years. See https://tinyurl.com/y33pcj43

Sergeant Stuart Baker holds a Facebook forum on the Bromley Police page every other Wednesday from 7 – 8pm. The next one will be on 9th October and so on. People can ask questions about policing in Bromley.

Roadworks SGN is carrying out roadworks in Winchester Road until 7th October and between 18th-25th October in Eldred Drive – delays are likely. Charterhouse Road will also be closed until 18th October while SGN carries out works.

Thames Water will be carrying out works on the A223 Sevenoaks Road (near Orpington War Memorial) between 11th-15th October – expect delays.

As an alternative to calling the non-emergency 101 number, people can contact police on Twitter at @MetCC . They are available for non-emergency enquiries between 8am and 10pm (in an emergency dial 999) Also people can report non-urgent crime online at www.met.police.uk

Transport Train fares are set to rise again on 2nd January 2020 by around 2.8% according to the Retail Price Index for July. All regulated fares will increase, including all weekly, monthly and annual season tickets purchased by commuters in the UK. It is unclear if Transport for London will continue to freeze fares for single journeys.

On 5th, 6th, 12th, 13th, 20th, 26th and 27th October, buses replace trains between Lewisham and Orpington.

From 8th October – 11th October the 00:28 train from London Victoria to Orpington will run non-stop from London Victoria to Shortlands. A replacement bus will run from London Victoria to Orpington via Herne Hill.

From 14th – 17th October, the 23:58 from London Victoria to Orpington service will be retimed to depart at 00:01.

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October 2019 Life in... Orpington 15

what's on - OCTOBER 2019 ARTS & CRAFTS IndiGo Children's Art Club Matisse - Painting with Scissors Wednesday 23rd October 2019

10am-12pm St John's URC, Orpington, BR6 0BG Cost: £14.00 (all materials provided) Contact: info@indigoartclub.com Painting and drawing club for children aged 9-16.

Come along and enjoy creating some impressive artwork in a fun and relaxed environment. All abilities welcome.

Craft & Chat

Your essential what's on guide for events, activities, clubs and much more in and around Orpington.

There's something for everyone!

We’re looking to hear about your news, notices and local events!

Email us at hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk

Cost: £32.50 (individual booking) or £60 (couple booking). You may choose between Morning Session (10:00 to 12:30) or Afternoon Session (13:30 to 16:00).

Contact: Email: firstaid.orpingtondistrict@nct.org.uk www.nct.org.uk/events A bespoke Baby first aid course designed to build your confidence as a parent or carer in dealing with emergency situations. Suitable for parents, expectant parents and carers of babies and young children.

Every Monday

Tinnitus Support Group Orpington

Crafty Crochet

2pm - 4pm The Community Room, Orpington Fire Station, Avalon Road, Orpington. BR6 9AX Cost: Free Contact: 01622 691151 Email: enquiries@hikent.org.uk The Rotary Club of Orpington Crofton supports Hi Kent's Tinnitus Support Group that meets monthly.

2pm - 3.45pm Petts Wood Library Cost: Free Contact: www.bromley.gov.uk/orpingtonlibrary Bring along a craft project that you are working on, talk to other like minded people and exchange tips and tricks.

First Wednesday of the month

10.30am - 12.30pm Orpington Library Cost: Free Contact: www.bromley.gov.uk/orpingtonlibrary Share your love of crochet with friends. All welcome, refreshments provided.

Natty Knitters

Last Tuesday of the month

10.30am - 12pm Orpington Library Cost: Free Contact: www.bromley.gov.uk/orpingtonlibrary Share and develop your creative skills over a cuppa. All welcome

community & charity events Forget-Me-Not Survivors of suicide loss

Meet the first Thursday of every month

7.45pm - 9.45pm Cost: Free Contact: Sandra - 07519 105354 Email: sosl.orpington@gmail.com www.survivorsofsuicideloss.org.uk Twitter: @ForgetMeNotSoSl Forget-Me-Not offers support for all those affected by suicide loss. The group is self-led and informal, where you can connect with other survivors.

NCT/ British Red Cross Pediatric First Aid Course Saturday 12th October

10am - 4pm Orpington Fire Station, Avalon Road, BR6 9AX

16 Life in... Orpington October 2019

Tuesday 22nd October

Bromley Speakers Club

1st, 3rd and 5th Thursdays of each month

Meetings start at 7.15pm and finish at 9.30pm (except where stated - see website).

Ripley Arts Centre, 24 Sundridge Avenue, BR1 2PX Cost: Free Contact: vppublicrelations@bromleyspeakers.co.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/BromleySpeakers www.BromleySpeakers.co.uk Practise your speaking skills and improve your confidence with a friendly and supportive group at Bromley Speakers.

Guests are welcome to come along free of charge and will be greeted with a warm welcome.

Digital Drop-in

Every Tuesday during term-time.

9.30am - 11.30am Oasis Community Hub, St Mary Cray Primary Academy, High Street, St Mary Cray, BR5 4AR Cost: Free Contact: 07899 923052 Email: oasis@st-marycray.bromley.sch.uk www.st-marycray.bromley.sch.uk/oasis-hub A free drop-in for parents/adults that need help with technology, getting online or using web applications. Run

by PotentialME CIC.

Hard of Hearing Club

Every First Tuesday of the month

11am - 12pm Petts Wood Library, Frankswood Avenue, Petts Wood BR5 1BP Cost: Free Contact: 01689 821607 Email: pettswoodlibrary@gll.org Share experiences over a cup of coffee. The programme may include arts and crafts, games, quizzes, readings, talks, practising or learning basic sign language etc. lifeinmagazines.co.uk

Orpington Unit St John Ambulance Volunteer First Aid Training Every Tuesday

7.15pm - 9pm Park Road, St Mary Cray BR5 4AS Cost: Free Contact: John Matthews John.Matthews1@sja.org.uk A weekly meet for the volunteers to learn and develop their first aid skills in preparation for providing first aid at local events in and around Orpington.

Bromley Friendship Centre

Every 2nd Wednesday of each month

1.30pm for 2pm 4th Floor Hall of Bromley Central Library Cost: Annual subscription £15 and monthly visits £2 Looking for a way to meet new friends? We normally have a speaker and end with a cup of tea and biscuit. Regular activities include lunches, outings and theatre visits.

Orpington 'Drop In' Parkinson's Café 3rd Thursday of each month

10.30am - 12.30pm Sanctuary Café, Orpington Baptist Church, Station Road BR6 0RZ Cost: Free Contact: 0344 225 3622 www.localsupport.parkinsons.org.uk Pop in for a cuppa and a chat, share information, experiences and meet new friends.

Bereavement Café

Last Thursday of the month

11.15am - 1.15pm Orpington Village Hall Cost: Free Contact: www.facebook.com/bereavementcafe If you're struggling with the loss of a loved one why not come along to The Bereavement Cafe to meet other people who feel the same and qualified bereavement counsellors? All are welcome.

family & kids Crofton Roman Villa Half Term Fun - See what Roman Bromley was like 1,800 years ago!

Tuesday 22nd & Wednesday 23rd October

Open 10am – 3.30pm (last entry 3pm) Crofton Road, Orpington, BR6 8AF Cost: Adults £1.50, Concessions £1.00 Family of four £4.00 each additional child 50p Contact: 01689 860939 Travel back in time to Roman Bromley and discover fascinating facts about the Romans. Children can see and handle everyday Roman objects on our touch table, dress as Romans, dig for finds in our excavation tray, do a Roman soldier brass rubbing and play with replica Roman toys. Did the Romans really eat Dormice? Parking available off York Rise, adjacent Orpington Railway Station.

Life Self-coaching

Every Monday until 14th October

9:30am – 11.30am Oasis Community Hub, St Mary Cray Primary Academy, lifeinmagazines.co.uk

what's on - OCTOBER 2019 High Street, St Mary Cray, BR5 4AR Cost: Free but space must be pre-booked Contact: 07899 923052 Email: oasis@st-marycray.bromley.sch.uk www.st-marycray.bromley.sch.uk/oasis-hub A basic course designed to teach adults how to live a more positive life.

Child-minder Drop-in

Every Monday during term-time

9:30am – 11.30am Oasis Community Hub, St Mary Cray Primary Academy, High Street, St Mary Cray, BR5 4AR Cost: Voluntary donation of £1 Contact: 07899 923052 Email: oasis@st-marycray.bromley.sch.uk www.st-marycray.bromley.sch.uk/oasis-hub A stay-and-play session for minded children. Max of 4 children per adult.

Tiny Tots Playgroup

Every Tuesday during term-time

9:30am – 11am Oasis Community Hub, St Mary Cray Primary Academy, High Street, St Mary Cray, BR5 4AR Cost: Free Contact: 07899 923052 Email: oasis@st-marycray.bromley.sch.uk www.st-marycray.bromley.sch.uk/oasis-hub Baby & toddler group which has a variety of toys for all ages between 0 & 5 years old. Free snacks are provided.

Just Babies

Every Tuesday

1.30pm - 3.30pm St Nicholas Church,14 Leamington Avenue BR6 9QB Cost: Free Contact: Rosemary Fordyce on 01689 854 261 or rosemaryian@btinternet.com New mothers share experiences and offer each other support.

Home-ed Group

Every Tuesday & Thursday during term-time.

9:30am – 11.45am Oasis Community Hub, St Mary Cray Primary Academy, High Street, St Mary Cray, BR5 4AR Cost: Free but must be a home-schooled child Contact: 07899 923052 Email: oasis@st-marycray.bromley.sch.uk www.st-marycray.bromley.sch.uk/oasis-hub Various weekly classes and structured sessions designed to teach children everyday learning.

Family Safeguarding

Every Wednesday until 16th October

9:30am – 11.30am Oasis Community Hub, St Mary Cray Primary Academy, High Street, St Mary Cray, BR5 4AR Cost: Free but space must be pre-booked Contact: 07899 923052 Email: oasis@st-marycray.bromley.sch.uk www.st-marycray.bromley.sch.uk/oasis-hub A basic safeguarding course designed to teach parents and carers how to safeguard their families.

October 2019 Life in... Orpington 17

what's on - OCTOBER 2019

bliss and blessings as we all celebrate the Puja together, united in our diversity, as one single community.

Teen Parents Group

Antiques & Collectables Fair

Every Friday

1pm - 3pm Blenheim Children and Family Centre, Blenheim Rd, BR6 9BH Cost: Free Contact: 01843 447177 Pregnant or a parent aged 19 or under? A fun, informal group offering advice and support with money, socialising & positive behaviour strategies with your child. Free crèche, free lunch and the possibility of free driving lessons.

Lego Club

First and second Saturday of the month

10.30am - 11.30am Orpington Library Contact: 01689 831551 www.bromley.gov.uk/orpingtonlibrary Inventive building fun with Lego bricks - build something fantastic. For children aged eight-11.

Tiny Tots Active

Every Thursday during term-time

9:30am – 11am Oasis Community Hub, St Mary Cray Primary Academy, High Street, St Mary Cray, BR5 4AR Cost: Free Contact: 07899 923052 Email: oasis@st-marycray.bromley.sch.uk www.st-marycray.bromley.sch.uk/oasis-hub A free-play toddler group with focus on running around and being active. Free snacks are provided.

Halloween Trick or Treat Trail

Saturday 19th - Sunday 27th October

Bromley Town Centre Cost: Free Visit www.yourbromley.com for full details.

Your Bromley will be giving children the chance to hunt the area for spooky monsters displayed in shop windows.

Find 12 monsters to get a Halloween gift.

Halloween Suprises

Saturday 26th October

10am - 4pm The Walnuts Shopping Centre Cost: Free www.thewalnutsshoppingcentre.com Music, fun, face painting and halloween crafts - make a trick or treat bag for all those goodies!

FESTIVALS, fetes & fairs Durga Puja 2019

Sunday 6th, Monday 7th, & Tuesday 8th October

9am - 10pm Orpington Golf Club, Sandy Lane, Orpington, BR5 3HY Cost: Free www.bengaliassociationofbromley.co.uk/durga-puja-2019 Aantarik is very excited to bring you 'Durga Puja' 2019 right here at your doorstep in Orpington. Everyone is welcome and cordially invited to come and experience three days of

18 Life in... Orpington October 2019

Saturday 12th & Sunday 13th October

10am - 4pm Coolings Nurseries, Rushmore Hill, Knockholt TN14 7NN (in the events building adjacent to Arthur's Restaurant) Cost: Free www.fire-kettle.co.uk The dealers have been handpicked to bring you their wares to peruse. A great opportunity to find something new for your home or collection.

mARKETS Cheeki Monkeys Baby & Children's Market Saturday 12th October

10.30am - 12.30pm Crofton Junior School, Towncourt Lane, Petts Wood BR5 1EL Cost: Adults £1.50 (including a goody bag for the first 50 shoppers). Children: Free Find us on Facebook and Instagram: Cheeki Monkeys Orpington Contact Aimee on 07971638002 or orpington.cheekimonkeys@gmail.com Our Nearly New Sales are community events for local families to make money while recycling unwanted items.

Buy or sell quality, gently used babies' and children’s toys, clothes and equipment. Great events for savvy mums & dads!

music, dance & film Live Music - MMJN

Saturday 12th October

8.45pm Ye Olde Whyte Lyon, Farnborough Common, Locksbottom, BR6 8NE Cost: Free Contact: 01689 852631 www.yeoldewhytelyon.co.uk Facebook - MMJN The Band MMJN (Malcolm, Martin, John and Noel), formerly The Scorchers, play mainly 80s cover songs such as Duran Duran. (BT Sports now showing at the pub)

Live Music - Chain

Saturday 26th October

8.45pm Ye Olde Whyte Lyon, Farnborough Common, Locksbottom, BR6 8NE Cost: Free Contact: 01689 852631 www.yeoldewhytelyon.co.uk https://www.facebook.com/chainband/ A classic rock-based covers band. (BT Sports now showing at the pub)

Live Music Afternoon Tuesday 29th October

2.30pm - 5pm (Doors Open 2pm) Crofton Halls, Crofton Road, BR6 8PR (Next to Train & lifeinmagazines.co.uk

Bus Station) Cost: £10, (First Visit; £5.00) Members £8 Contact: John Parker; 01689 876800 or Geraldine Knight; 01689 837044 Email: JohnParker2A@Gmail.com www.organfax/clubs/orpington Orpington Keyboard Club welcomes you to an afternoon of live music! Come, relax and be entertained by Daniel Watt and witness the marvels of modern technology, with close-up video presentation onto a large projection screen of the artiste and his amazing instrument! Free parking, disabled facilities, refreshments and raffle during interval.

Scottish Dancing Beginners Classes for Adults Orpington and District Caledonian Society​

Every Monday evening during term times

8pm-10:15pm St Paul's Church Hall, Crofton Road BR6 8JE Cost £5.50 (1st session free!)

Contact: www.orpingtonscottishdancing.com Our friendly teachers & experienced dancers will help you learn the steps, formations and dances. Come on your own or with friends for a FREE Taster Session. No partner needed. You can be assured of a warm welcome & lots of fun!

Orpington Recorded Music Society

Alternate Mondays from 2nd September

7.45pm The Orpington Conservative Association, 6 Sevenoaks Road, BR6 9JJ Cost: Free to attend the first meeting Contact: Dennis Nicholas for details (after 6pm) 01689 827284 Friendly people and great music. The programme is now available until December.

sports, outdoors & NATURE Bromley Ramblers: Walking for Health Every Wednesday

2pm (for 1 hour) Darrick & Newstead Woods & Tugmutton Common Meet outside the cricket pavilion Tugmutton Common Cost: Free Contact: samwalsham@hotmail.com

what's on - OCTOBER 2019 www.walkingforhealth.org.uk Walks are led by trained volunteer leaders and provide a friendly and sociable atmosphere. No booking needed, but if it is your first visit please arrive ten minutes before.

This Mum Runs

Sunday mornings -

8am at High Elms (BEECHE car park)

Wednesday evenings -

7:30pm at Tubbenden Park Cost: Free www.facebook.com/groups/thismumrunslondon Friendly group of mums meeting twice a week for social, chatty runs. All abilities welcome.

Dolphin Model Boat Club Sunday 13th October

10am to 12:30pm Boating pond by the Poverest Road/Kent Road junction on the Cray Avenue (A224), BR5 4AB. Cost: Free Contact: David 01689 850723 or Paul 01322 615980 www.dolphinmodelboatclub.com Come and watch DMBC members sailing a wide variety of model boats. The Saturday evening event allows members to display model boats fitted with lights.

theatre/ Performances Curtains

Friday 4th – Sunday 6th October

Fri & Sat eve 7.30pm, Sat & Sun matinee 2.30pm Churchill Theatre, Bromley Cost: Tickets from £22.00 Contact: tickets@churchilltheatre.co.uk It’s murder putting on a new musical – literally! Starring Jason Manford, Ore Oduba and Carley Stenson, Curtains is a hilarious whodunnit where the star of the Broadwaybound musical has been murdered on stage on opening night! The entire cast and crew are suspects so it’s time to call in the local detective, who just happens to be a huge musical theatre fan. With a nose for crime and an ear for music, the detective has his work cut out trying to find the killer whilst giving the show a lifeline.

SHOUT ABOUT YOUR EVENT

ON OUR WHAT'S ON PAGES

From just £10 per listing We’re looking to hear about your news, notices and local events!

Email us at hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk We list school, church, charity, community service or non-profit events for free lifeinmagazines.co.uk

October 2019 Life in... Orpington 19

what's on - OCTOBER 2019 Gutted

Saturday 12th October

7:30pm Churchill Theatre, Bromley Cost: £16.50 Contact: tickets@churchilltheatre.co.uk Gutted is an Irish black comedy that explores the lives of three strong women who work in a fish factory in 1980’s Dublin. Told through comic monologue, raw powerful language, movement and dance, the women offer a snapshot of the characters and challenges iat the time.

The Affair

Saturday 19th October

7:45pm Churchill Theatre, Bromley Cost: £12.50

Contact: tickets@churchilltheatre.co.uk A hilarious and thoroughly uplifting new play about relationships, which has all the ingredients of a great comedy… clown, bouffon, vaudeville and slapstick! With a sprinkle of drama and a splash of tragedy, this cake…

I mean pizza, is ready to eat. The Affair is a wonderfully funny play… a laugh a minute, simply, unmissable!

Stewart Francis: Into The Punset Saturday 26th October

8:00pm Churchill Theatre, Bromley Cost: £27.00 Contact: tickets@churchilltheatre.co.uk Stewart Francis, star of Mock the Week, Live at the Apollo and Crackerjack embarks on a brand-new show, in this, his last tour ever! See him before he heads off… INTO THE PUNSET.

THE NEXT COPY DEADLINE IS:

submit an event...

10TH OCTOBER

From just £10 per listing. We list school, church, charity, community service or non-profit events for free (space dependent or 50% discount for a guaranteed listing).

Contact Nicky or Lauretta on 07403 603569 or 07403 550068 hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk lifeinmagazines.co.uk

Life In Orpington 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.

@lifeinmags

BOOK NOW FOR

CHRISTMAS! New menu available Including…. * Butternut squash and sweet potato soup (vegan) * King prawn cocktail * Smoked salmon with beetroot and vodka crème fraiche * Three meat roast (plus all the festive trimmings) * Herb crust salmon with saffron sauce * Christmas pudding with brandy sauce * Selection of baklavas *Homemade Baileys cheesecake * Mince pies to finish

Christmas day £65, Festive season £21.95 Call 01689 889030 for bookings www.georgeanddragondowne.com 20 Life in... Orpington October 2019

lifeinmagazines.co.uk

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October 2019 Life in... Orpington 21

WIN

lifestyle - CROSSWORD

WIN TICKETS TO THIS YEAR’S SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS FAIR WORTH £200!

October Complete the crossword and work out the anagram in the shaded squares to reveal a magical form of transport.

Across 1. Melons become serious (6) 2. A sparkling red suit (8) 5. October is National C... month (11) 7. What ends on 27 Oct 19 (inits) (3) 8. Not valid anymore (4) 9. Clear the board say (5) 10. Nightmarish street tree? (3) 11. A universal remedy (7) 12. Palm tree berry that is black-purple in colour (4)

2

5

6

7

8 9

10

11

Across

3

4

Down 1. Launched on 4 Oct 1957, what was the name of the first artificial satellite to orbit the Earth (7) 3. Who won the Nobel Peace Prize on 17 Oct 1979? (6,6) 4. What word is assigned to F in the NATO Phonetic Alphabet? (7) 6. The Priory Ponds are the head and source of what? (5,4) 7. What famous UK landmark is officially known as the Elizabeth Tower? (3,3)

WIN

1

12

Have Christmas all wrapped up this November!

This year’s 1. Melons become serious (6) Spirit of Christmas Fair (www.spiritofchristmasfair.co.uk) takes 2. A sparkling red suit place (8) from 4th-10th November and offers over 900 independent boutique retailers and designer-makers – everything from jewellery and fashion, 5. October is National C... month (11) men’s gifts and artisan food and drink, to home décor, baby and children’s 7. What ends on 27 Oct 19plus (inits) gifts novelty(3) gift ideas. We’ve got five pairs of tickets up for grabs 8. Not valid anymore (4) worth over £200 in total! Just complete the crossword then work out the 9. Clear the board say anagram (5) from the letters in the shaded squares that will reveal a magical of transport.

10. Nightmarish streetform tree?

(3) 11. A universal remedyFor(7) competition terms and conditions 12. Palm tree berry that black-purple in colour (4) see is www.lifeinmagazines.co.uk

Down

email your answer, 1. Launched on 4 Oct 1957, what was the name of Text theor first artificial satellite name and telephone number to to orbit the Earth (7) 07403 603569 3. Who won the Nobel Peace Prize on 17 Oct 1979? (6,6) Last month’s answer hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk 4. What word is assigned to F in the NATO Phonetic Alphabet? (7) CHILDMINDING 6. The Priory Ponds are the head and source of what? (5,4) Congratulations to all for your chance toTower? win!

7. on What Elizabeth (3,3) the winners (listed the famous UK landmark is officially known as the

BY 10TH OCTOBER

website).

Visit lifeinmagazines.co.uk from 19th October for the crossword answers.

22 Life in... Orpington October 2019

lifeinmagazines.co.uk

This month it’s…

lifestyle

Halloween

The ghost of Gypsy Lee It is said that the ghost of the Gypsy Lee (Urania Boswell) roams Tugmutton Common in Locksbottom. Urania lived with her husband, Levi Boswell, in Willow Walk, Tugmutton Green. She died on 24th April 1933 aged 82, and after her husband's death, she was accepted as the leader of the great

SPOOKY BAKE - WITCHES FINGERS

clan of Lees and Boswells, some of the last families of the Romany tribe. Her grave can be found at St Giles Church, Farnborough Village and it is said that she frequently haunts the common where she spent the last years of her life. You can watch a video clip of her funeral at https://youtu.be/nYCt6FDYueI

TRICK OR TREAT ETIQUETTE •

Know where to knock: Choose an area you know well and avoid knocking on doors that don’t have Halloween decorations outside or if the lights are off.

• Respect people’s property – avoid walking on people’s grass, flowerbeds – use the paths and driveways.

Ingredients: 250g butter, 125g icing sugar, 400g plain flour, 1 egg, 1 teaspoon almond extract, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 packet of whole almonds.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Soften the butter and place it in a mixing bowl.

Add the icing sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract and the egg and beat it all together.

Add the baking powder and half the flour (200g) and mix it all in.

Once mixed, add the rest of the flour and stir it together to make a smooth dough.

Place in the fridge to chill for 30 minutes and while you’re waiting grease a baking tray with butter. Once the dough is chilled, break off chunks to roll into finger like shapes. Make dents into the finger (to make knuckles) and then lightly press a knife in between the dents to give the knuckles some lines.

Using a small spoon, put some jam at one end of the finger then press an almond into the jam to create a nail (with blood underneath!)

Put the fingers onto the tray and put in the oven for 20-25 minutes at 160°C/320°F until slightly golden.

When cooked, leave them to cool before serving.

lifeinmagazines.co.uk

• Manners cost nothing: only take one sweet at a time (unless offered) and always remember to say ‘thank you’.

•

Look the part! Put the effort into your costumes, which you can easily make yourself. Face paint will help with the gory details!

•

Clean up after yourself: If you ‘eat on the go’ with sweets, remember to pocket wrappers – whatever you do, don’t drop them on the floor!

•

Tricking – a trick doesn’t mean eggs on people’s driveways – it’s just a figure of speech, so apologise for disturbing the homeowner if they don’t have anything to offer.

•

Time keeping: Don’t stay out for too long or too late. People don’t want you knocking on their door late at night, especially if they have young children to get to sleep.

October 2019 Life in... Orpington 23

lifestyle

Health & Beauty

Q. Can you eat orange peels (and should you?)

A: Yes! According to Healthline.com “Orange peels are rich in fibre, vitamins, and disease-fighting polyphenols. They also contain limonene, a chemical that may protect against skin cancer.”

Tip: If you can’t stomach eating them as they are, throw them in your blender to make them part of a smoothie!

ASK THE EXPERTS Can you dye your hair when you’re pregnant?

Lyr at MIYU Boutique Salon in Petts Wood says: “The concern with colouring your hair when you are pregnant is associated with inhaling ammonia rather than the colour being absorbed into the scalp. The levels of ammonia are so low that if you have your hair done in a salon that has good ventilation, it shouldn’t cause concern. However, if you have any concerns I’d always advise to check with your GP beforehand.”

FUN FACT The number of 16-24-yearold men using hair colourants has grown from 38% in 2018 to a colourful 46% in 2019.

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188 High Street Orpington, BR6 0JW

01689 898915 24 Life in... Orpington October 2019

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lifeinmagazines.co.uk

lifestyle

Did you know...

More pharmacies across England will begin offering free heart check-ups, with patients having their blood pressure and cholesterol tested. The programme, which may roll out to every pharmacy in the country, could potentially prevent up to 150,000 heart attacks and strokes in the next ten years.

TAKE CONTROL

“It’s never too late to take

control of your own health and take proactive steps to achieve health. Start with improving your posture and strengthening the muscles that hold your bones and joints in place. Small steps can lead to improved mobility, stability and ability.”

Did you know that your face uses 50% more muscles to frown than to smile? Which in my opinion, is a great reason to save energy and smile more!

See Soulistic Therapy’s facial options at www.soulistictherapy.co.uk

Naama, Remedial Pilates

Would you like a physiotherapist to visit you at home?

We’re a team of highly skilled community physiotherapists who visit people with mobility or neurological conditions.

Contact Joanna on 07951 025208 to find out more. www.jlinks.co.uk

soulistic therapy Classes for the over 50s -Men & Women Senior Fitness Pilates Improve your spine & joint health Improve your core strength Improve your balance Improve your joint mobility Improve your lung capacity

Book your initial appointment and start taking control of your own health and wellbeing.

E: Naama@remedialpilates.com M: 07989 578819

Visit: www.remedialpilates.com lifeinmagazines.co.uk

Reflexology & rejuvenating facial treatments in Orpington, specialising in maternity & hot stone reflexology.

Soulistic THERAPY

Contact Melanie Alford

07930 667449

mel@soulistictherapy.co.uk www.soulistictherapy.co.uk @SolelisticReflexology

@soulistictherapy

@solelistic

October 2019 Life in... Orpington 25

lifestyle

Home & Garden

HOW TO MAKE A WILDLIFE GARDEN

1. Grow fruiting and berrying trees and shrubs for birds 2. Plant year-round flowers for bees and insects 3. Feed the birds all-year-round 4. Make a pond, water feature or bird bath 5. Plant native hedges around the garden 6. Put up bird nesting boxes 7. Sow annual flowers, meadows and crops

THE THREE-MINUTE CLEAN

8. Build log piles at the back or borders 9. Install bee boxes, insect hotels and hibernation homes 10. Plant wildflowers, native plants and meadows

hta.org.uk

What’s new in interiors for 2020?

Keep up with the Joneses in 2020 with our guide to the four predicted future trends…

The Traveller

The Traveller trend is described as conveying “a mature luxuriousness with an understated glamour that is controlled, ordered, stable, made to last, disciplined, precisely crafted and pristine.” (according to Scarlet Opus) Expect plenty of Art Deco influences with materials including dark wood, brass, velvets, dark marbles, faux tortoiseshell, Bakelite-like resins and fine grain leathers.

Satori

Set your egg timer on the go and see what you can do in just three minutes per room…

Kitchen: Wipe down the front of your cabinet drawers and doors. If time, clean the front door of your oven.

Bathroom: Arm yourself with glass cleaner and newspaper and give your shower screen and mirrors a thorough wipe.

Bedroom: Clear and clean the surfaces – put things back in their place then stand back to admire the view.

Office: See how much paperwork you can file and give your desk a quick wipe down.

Living room: Get the vac out and get rid of any cobwebs that have collected on the ceiling or in corners of the room.

26 Life in... Orpington October 2019

The Satori trend (a Japanese word that refers to the experience of seeing into one’s true nature) encourages consumers to find a natural rhythm and balance in their lives to cope with the complexities of modern life and the distractions of the online world. Anything that evokes calmness, balance and serenity will be big.

The Game Changer

This trend encompasses a move towards clean air, clean oceans, clean energy and clean living.

It’s about reusing waste materials and recycled materials, with products addressing pollution or having an ecological agenda – something that is essential as consumers become more concerned about environmental damage, climate change and the impact we have on the planet.

Fellowship

As the name suggests, this trend promotes the power of the collective; working together to carve out a better future. Expect global influences that celebrate cultural diversity, with plenty of colours and vibrant patterns. lifeinmagazines.co.uk

Inject personality into a new-build property 1.

With most new builds decorated in neutral colours, adding plenty of colour or patterns will make it homely and characterful. You can then add to this with accessories and soft furnishings.

2. Choose furniture wisely and think about the whole theme of the room you’re going for – will it be more

retro or industrial or are you going for a Scandi feel or country vibe?

3. Consider upcycling furniture to give rooms a unique look. You can source some great finds from local charity shops.

4. If you have a hobby you’re passionate about, introduce this into your home through artwork, printed soft furnishings and accessories.

Your Move O’Neil, Orpington High street

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lifestyle

Sport

RUGBY – GIVE IT A TRY! Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline, Sportsmanship: England Rugby’s Head Coach, Eddie Jones, measures each and every player against these England Rugby core values. The squad has been working tirelessly to measure up to them and to be “the best version of themselves”, a phrase Jones frequently uses as they strive to peak as a team in October 2019 for the final stages of the Rugby World Cup 2019 in Japan.

Whilst the England boys are working hard on the training grounds and on match days, some lucky England supporters have been sampling the many delights on offer in the Land of the Rising Sun. One such group is made up of the 20-strong supporters from Bromley Rugby Club, who travelled first to the northern city of Sapporo, famous for its beer, to watch the initial group match England versus Tonga. Next stop was England versus USA in Kobe, a beautiful waterfront city, famous

for its Kobe Beef. World famous beer and beef, a winning combination for these much-travelled supporters from Bromley. Finally, both the team and supporters will head back to Tokyo and Yokohama to wrap up the group with difficult matches against Argentina and France.

Bromley Rugby Football Club, established in 1886, takes great pride in embracing the England Rugby core values.

Boys and girls aged from five to 18 and adult male players of all abilities are warmly welcomed and are encouraged to be the best version of themselves both on and off the pitch. The club is a community club with excellent facilities and great social club events. Whether you are a rugby supporter, an active/wannabe rugby player or you just want to put something back into the community, why not give rugby a try?

In the meantime, come on England - or as they say in Japan, Gamba’re England.

HAVE FUN – BE ACTIVE – BE PART OF THE TEAM – FULFIL YOUR POTENTIAL Photo courtesy of DE Photo

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www.bromleyrfc.com October 2019 Life in... Orpington 29

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Eco News

lifestyle

ZERO WASTE AND THE FOUR R’S

by Caroline Werge www.eco-domestics.com

Zero waste follows a set of principles focusing on waste prevention by redesigning lifecycles and on the conservation of resources so that products are reused in a circular economy. Now, I understand that can sound daunting, but by looking at the four points below it should make it quite simple.

1. REFUSE

3. REUSE

Stop buying single use plastics.

This is a huge statement to the producers and the economy. The average UK person uses 150 plastic water bottles a year. A re-useable bottle can last for years, stopping hundreds of your bottles entering landfills and waterways. This is not just food, cosmetic companies offer non-packaged shampoo bars, soap bars and block moisturisers. If you have to opt for packaging, try glass or tin which can easily be reused.

Finished a tin? Grow some herbs in it. Plastic Ice-cream tub? Free Tupperware. Old Jam Jar? Hairband organisers. Reusing is one of the best ways to help the planet. When we look at linear economies, we are throwing away things we get, usually for free, ending up in landfill so we can go and buy another item that is exactly the same because it's branded as being for a different purpose. Putting it that bluntly should be a wake up call to everyone. Get creative with this; unless an item is broken it can and does have another purpose.

2. REDUCE Reduce what you buy. Food waste is a sore subject and ten minutes planning a week can really reduce what ends up in the bin. Make a meal plan, check the cupboards and make a list of what you need. Buy non-perishable items from a refill station and re-use old tubs or jars to package it yourself. Stick to the list and you’ll see your food waste drastically reduce. Fast, cheap fashion is another big problem.

Do you genuinely like it or are you buying it because it’s in trend for the season? Tonnes of fabric end up in landfill because it’s fallen apart or no longer fashionable. Good quality timeless fashion will not only last longer but gives you a unique style.

4. RECYCLE Top of the pyramid of the four R’S. When all else fails this is your fall back option. Most items, (with a bit of thought) can be recycled. Many private recycling companies take odd items like pens or crisp packets.

Some companies even take back old packaging and will give you money off a purchase if you bring back over a certain amount. If it can’t be recycled at home take a couple of minutes to check online for a local TerraCycle drop off point.

“It’s only one piece of plastic” said 8 billion people.

The Big Dot-To-Dot Litter Initiative An exciting event, The Big Dot-To-Dot Litter Initiative, is happening on 6th October in the Crays. The event, which was initially formed by the newly launched Junior Cray Forum - an organisation consisting of four local primary schools, will see children, parents and teachers descend along selected routes from their school picking up litter along the way. The organisation is calling on residents, businesses and other community organisations to join in and help tidy the area at staggered times between 10.30am and 1pm.

If interested email andywilson28@hotmail.com lifeinmagazines.co.uk

SEVEN Things You Can’t Recycle 1) Pizza Boxes They are often tainted with food and grease causing problems for the quality of the paper and the binding of the fibres.

2) Juice Boxes The plastic coating on much of the cardboard renders them unsuitable for recycling.

3) Styrofoam Styrofoam is a petroleum product and highly flammable. It’s considered a danger to most recycling centres.

4) Wire Hangers Most recycling centres are not set up to handle wire.

5) Ceramics Ceramics have a higher melting point than other types of glass so can't be recycled. Consider giving them a second life with a houseplant or in your garden.

6) Books Books are bound together using some form of glue which can ruin the pulping process and cause a whole batch of potentially recycled paper to be wasted.

7) Some Types of Wrapping Paper Wrapping paper that is foil, glittery, or shiny is not recyclable as it cannot be mulched.

Do you have some local Eco news?

Send us an email at:

hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk with the details

October 2019 Life in... Orpington 31

32 Life in... Orpington October 2019

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Did you know..

lifestyle

Nuggets of information & trivia you might like...

Look to the Finns for happiness!

The United Nations World Happiness Report has hailed Finland as the happiest nation in the world for the second successive year. The report ranks 156 countries by how happy their citizens perceive themselves to be. Based on the report, the Finns’ happiness can be credited to their high GDP, long lifespan, connection with nature, lack of corruption and the people’s control over their own life, among other things. The UK finished in 15th place this year, up from 19th the previous year, one above Ireland and four above the US - which came in at its lowest ranking ever at 19th.

LONDON PREFERS CATS OVER DOGS,

with 14% of households owning a cat while only 9% own a dog.

OnBuy.com

3 little words Two thirds of Brits haven’t told their mum, dad, siblings or grandparents that they love them in the last year and one in three haven’t told their partner, research from parcel firm Hermes reveals.

The top 10 happiest nations 1. Finland 2. Denmark 3. Norway 4. Iceland 5. The Netherlands 6. Switzerland 7. Sweden 8. New Zealand 9. Canada 10. Austria lifeinmagazines.co.uk

The research suggests that Brits are more comfortable being shown that they are loved than being told. Being sent a gift with personal meaning (49%) has been revealed as Britain’s favourite way to be shown that we are loved, followed by being cooked our favourite meal (38%) while being made a cup of tea (32%) beats receiving flowers (31%).

NEW DRONE LAWS

From next month (November), new rules for drones will come into effect making it illegal to fly a drone weighing more than 250g without first registering with the Civil Aviation Authority and passing online safety tests.

October 2019 Life in... Orpington 33

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We offer advertising rates to suit all budgets - starting from just £24 a month.

Give us a call on 07403-550068 or email hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk

ERADICA PEST CONTROL Protecting Your Health & Environment

My name is Michelle, and I am passionate about what I do.

I work locally as a Celebrant, in and around Orpington. Having been an Orpington resident for most of my life, I feel it is important to work closely with the community that I live in, and as a result of that, I have also co-founded The Bereavement Café in Orpington.

So, my role as a Celebrant is to work with families who have lost a loved one and help them create a unique and fitting ceremony, to help them say goodbye.

But I have also introduced something called, “Remember Me” and that is to help people document their wishes before they die. This is a really simple way of instructing your loved ones with what you want, when that time comes. We can discuss everything from music choices, your life story, colours, themes, and have it all recorded safely, so that when the time comes your family members aren’t left scratching their heads trying to work out what you would have wanted.

If you have any questions about anything please do not hesitate to contact me at michelleharvey.lifecelebrant@yahoo.com

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Technology

lifestyle

Protecting your privacy when using smart home tech With so many smart home tech devices now installed in our homes, it’s a good time to take responsibility for our privacy and put some guidelines in place to minimise the risk of our homes being hacked. The Real Homes Show reveals how…

1.

2.

3.

4.

Smart assistants like Google Assistant and Alexa record what you say after you wake them up and then keep your recordings on their server until you delete them. You can put the devices on mute so they aren't recording your voice, and you can wipe recordings by going to the apps and My Account tabs, and then tapping on the My Activity tab, where it will list how to delete manually and automatically.

Full instructions can be found online for each device.

Smart assistants also store your voice for development purposes. Amazon has a privacy dashboard where you can tell the company not to use your voice recordings in the future. Click on 'manage how your data improves Alexa' and turn the toggles off. Google is the only voice assistant that currently doesn't store your voice forever. To turn off voice storage, go to Google’s Activity Controls and turn off 'voice and audio activity' and then click pause.

Consider your WiFi router as the main entrance to your home, which connects your smart gadgets to the outside world. Like any front door it needs securing with locks and keys. In the router’s case it needs a strong password that is long and complicated and won’t give away any personal identification.

Use the most secure encryption method your router permits such as WPA2.

5. Never write down your passwords; use Keychain or Credential Manager to store passwords in an encrypted manner.

6. Even if you’ve chosen an unusual password that you can remember it is definitely worth changing your password on a regular basis to ward off the hackers and over-zealous neighbours.

7. Ensure your router’s on-board software – or firmware – is constantly up to date by checking on its web page for automatic software updates and ensuring they have been completed.

8. Update your gadgets regularly by checking their apps for new installations or by asking your personal assistants like Alexa and Google Home if they have any updates pending.

9. Review each of your smart home gadgets’ security settings and apply a different password to every device.

10. The more you can personalise your security settings with face recognition, fingerprint ID, voice activation the better, as it will prevent other people accessing your personal information.

11. Don’t use unsecured devices to access your secured smart home tech; using a computer without antivirus software installed or accessing a public computer, makes your connected home vulnerable to malware.

12. Only buy smart home tech from reputable brands that you know and trust. Read online reviews and talk to your friends and colleagues about their positive experiences. If you decide to plump for an unknown brand you risk the manufacturer going out of business and the product not being supported correctly, which includes your data being protected.

SMART BEACH LODGES Britain’s first ever ‘smart’ beach lodges have been unveiled

– complete with robotic vacuum cleaner to clean up sand from the beach. The Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council has kitted out a selection of the beach-front pads with the latest smart home devices. Gadgets, which come with the price of standard stay, include an Echo Show 5 enabling holidaymakers to control all of the smart home products using just their voice.

They also feature a Smarter iKettle so you can start making a cuppa from bed, and an Alexa Smart Plug to turn out the bedside lights when you’re ready to call it a day. The huts also include a Fire TV Stick 4K to watch your favourite film or ask Alexa to recommend a new show if your sunshine break is spoiled by summer rain. The icing on the cake is the Neato Robotics Botvac D4 Connected bot which will happily buzz around the hut cleaning up sand after your long, hard day on the beach. The seaside lodges are available to rent yearround from BCP Council. See www.bournemouthbeachlodges.co.uk lifeinmagazines.co.uk

October 2019 Life in... Orpington 35

lifestyle

A Final Thought…

Battling the breast cancer beast

by LAURETTA WRIGHT, editor, Life In Orpington I remember the exact words I said when my consultant told me I had cancer back in March: “Oh, okay”. It’s the sort of response you’d make when someone tells you it’s going to rain, not that you’ve got a serious disease.

But my response was one of shock; there was no history of breast cancer on my mother’s side (one of the first things they asked when investigating the lump); I don’t smoke - or even drink – and I was relatively fit. It wasn’t until my care nurse muttered four little words that the realisation hit: “What about the children?” she asked.

I broke down; she had found my Achilles’ heel.

me in the eyes and said: “You WILL get to see your children grow up.” Her words choked me back then. But now, when I’m having a bad day, her words help pull me through. The people who work in the NHS are kind, caring people. I’ve only ever felt like an individual, never a number. In fact, every single person in the chemo suite knows my name; they know everyone’s name and they don’t need a computer for that. So let’s not knock them, as they don’t get the recognition they deserve. These people are saving lives every single day; think about that the next time you’re in hospital.

Ignorance is bliss

Practise gratitude

BUT – and it’s a big BUT…I’m a positive thinker and believe that every cloud has a silver lining. I have embraced mindfulness and appreciate the small pleasures in life. Plus I cherish family time now more than ever. Having cancer changes your outlook on life – for the better. These days I tell my family I love them, wear my favourite perfume every day and don’t feel guilty about treating myself.

Thank you to everyone who has helped with Life In Orpington magazine. Enduring hours of posting through letterboxes takes its toll – especially after chemo. Mum, Dad, Luis, Nadja, Jamie, Anthony, Ruth, Jo, Tania, Kristel, Aurora, Michelle, Louis, Brian, Caitlin, Vigilia, Grantis, Olivia, Gail - I’m forever indebted! Thank you Nicky, my business partner, who has held the fort on the magazine when I’ve been too weak. You're an absolute star!

The guilt is the worst thing about cancer. It’s a mother’s guilt; I have unintentionally affected my two children’s lives in a way that no mother wants their children to have to deal with. And the guilt extends to my whole family too they feel helpless, powerless to do anything; their hands are metaphorically tied. From a purely selfish point of view, I’m sad that I’ll now worry that every little niggle might be the cancer returning. As soon as you are told you have cancer you step onboard that emotional rollercoaster and you can’t seem to get off.

I often wondered what people meant when they say “fight the cancer”. I mean, I can’t literally go head to head with it can I? So I decided to interpret this in my own way by changing my lifestyle; everything from updating my skincare and cleaning products, to reducing my meat intake and processed foods. I’ve embraced new ideas, enjoyed new experiences and made some wonderful friends along the way.

The real heroes

The NHS has been truly wonderful and I can’t thank them enough. One day I spent nine hours in the hospital undergoing all sorts of tests. I heard someone complaining that they had been waiting 45 minutes for their appointment and I couldn’t help but smile to myself. Just a few months earlier and you probably would have heard me complaining too. Now I was just grateful that I was going to get seen by people who were saving my life.

In my darkest days I remember what Tina, one of the radiology assistants, told me. She took my hand, looked

36 Life in... Orpington October 2019

While I’m on the subject of gratitude, thank you to Usha my care nurse – you’re a star!, surgeon Mr Kasem, oncologist Dr Mark Harris, radiologist consultant Dr Kitsos and his assistant, Tina, plus all the chemo suite champions - Jo, Billy, Emily, Grant, Vimbai, Josie, Kay, Debbie, Tina – and the rest of the team - plus the volunteers who work tirelessly. Thank you to The Primrose Centre for their ongoing support and the ‘MumMum’ Foundation for their generosity.

Last but not least, thank you to my wonderful family for their strength, positivity and unconditional love and support. I count my lucky blessings to have them. Thank you to my husband, son and brother who all got their hair shaved off in solidarity and my daughter who donated her hair to The Little Princesses Trust.

I’ll wrap this up by offering some advice that Dr Kitsos gave me: “Think positively”, he said. “The mind affects the immune system so you must always think positively.” It was the first time I’d heard this and I liked it. Although cancer is a horrible beast and affects so many of us in so many different ways, it doesn’t define us. I’m still the same person I was a year ago, just a much better version of me.

I’d love to hear your thoughts, stories and experiences – email me at lauretta@lifeinmagazines.co.uk

lifeinmagazines.co.uk

October 2019 Life in... Orpington 37

useful contacts

Next Month...

FRE

E

EMBER 2019 .

ISSUE 9 NOV

Local numbers

Ward Councillors Cllr William Huntington-Thresher Bromley Council william.huntington-thresher@bromley.gov.uk T: 020 8464 3333 T: 07733-116799 www.bromley.gov.uk Cllr Pauline Tunnicliffe Citizen’s Advice Bureau - Bromley pauline.tunnicliffe@bromley.gov.uk T: 0300 330 9039 T: 01689 857407 Cllr Kim Botting FixMyStreet Kim.botting@bromley.gov.uk Report issues for Bromley Council's attention (potholes, broken street lighting, T: 07947-714394 rubbish etc) www.fixmystreet.com Hospitals Princess Royal University Hospital T: 01689 863000 www.pruh.kch.nhs.uk Orpington Hospital T: 01689 863000 NHS T: 111 Late night pharmacies Tesco Pharmacy Orpington T: 0345 0269567

Alcoholics anonymous T: 0800 917 7650 E: help@alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk Childline T: 0800 1111 Crime Stoppers T: 0800 555 111 Debt Helpline T: 0808 808 4000 Dementia (UK) T: 0845 257 9406

Leisure Centres Darrick Wood Pool T: 01689 857 021

Domestic Violence T: 0808 200 0247 (24-hours)

Libraries Orpington T: 01689 831551 www.bromley.gov.uk/OrpingtonLibrary E: orpington.library@GLL.ORG

i.co.uk www.tharatha

VIP TRAVEL

Electricity In the event of a power cut contact UK Power Networks on 0800 31 63 105 www.ukpowernetworks.co.uk Gas Emergencies T: 0800 111 999 (free 24-hours)

FOR LESS

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National numbers

Sainsbury's Pallant Way T: 01689 857042

The Walnuts Leisure Centre T: 01689 870 533

.. LOCALLY

LIVE, LOVE, LIFE.

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GIFT GUIDE

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gazines. www.lifeinma

Coming up in the november Issue of Life In Orpington…

• • • •

Winter interior trends VIP travel for less Firework events Christmas gift guide

Published by: Life In Magazines

NEXT COPY DEADLINE: 10TH OCT Contact Nicky or Lauretta or

07403 603569 or 07403 550068 hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk lifeinmagazines.co.uk

@lifeinmags

National Breastfeeding Helpline T: 0300 100 0212

Petts Wood T: 01689 821607 www.bromley.gov.uk/PettsWoodLibrary E: pettswood.library@GLL.ORG

NSPCC T: 0808 800 5000

Local MP Jo Johnson E: jo.johnson.mp@parliament.uk T: 01689 820347 www.jo-johnson.com Twitter: @jojohnsonmp

Samaritans (UK) T: 116 123

Life In Orpington is distributed to 14,000 households and businesses over a two-month period, in and around Orpington.

National Rail Southeastern Rail: 0345-322 7021

Copyright: All text, images and design in Life In Orpington are subject to copyright, 2019.

NHS 111 Urgent medical help or advice (not lifethreatening) call 111 www.111.nhs.uk

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 www.lifeinmagazines.co.uk

Police Bromley Police Station T: 101 Recycling centres Waldo Road, Bromley, BR1 2QX Monday to Friday 7am-5:30pm Saturday 7:30am-4pm Sunday 8am-1pm Bank holidays 8am-4pm

RSPCA T: 0300 123 4999

Quitline (smoking) T: 0300 123 1044 Carers UK T: 0808 808 7777 www.carersuk.org

Thames Water Water Supply, Drains & Sewers – 0800 316 9800 Leak Line - 0800 714 614 Social Services Textphone service for the deaf or hard Tel: 020 3036 1574 (Emergencies only) of hearing - 0800 316 9898 www.thameswater.co.uk Safer Neighbourhood Team E: SNMailbox.OrpingtonSNT@met.police.uk Victim Support E: Farnborough.Crofton.SNT@met.police.uk T: 0333 250 9285

38 Life in... Orpington October 2019

Disclaimer: Life In Magazines 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 Life In Magazines. Therefore, Life In Magazines 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. © 2019 Life In Magazines. All rights reserved.

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