Langham Carpet in Apricot
Welcome to contents
As the nights draw in and the festive sparkle begins to appear, this month’s issue is packed with stories to inspire, inform and delight. From our Did You Know? feature – exploring whether the books of the future might be written by machines – to our Health & Fitness Fix (sponsored by Mytime Active), which highlights the importance of sleep, there’s plenty to enjoy.
We also shine a spotlight on our ABBBAs headline sponsor, Tapi Carpets & Floors, and our secondary sponsor, London Biggin Hill Airport, plus a great mix of What’s On events, community updates and feel-good local news to keep you connected with everything happening across the borough.
So, grab a cuppa, get cosy and dive into another uplifting issue celebrating the very best of Bromley life!
Finally, we’d like to wish our very own Tori Howe a fond farewell and the very best of luck as she pursues her lifelong ambition. Tori has been an instrumental part of the team for many years and is best known for her creativity, thorough research and brilliant ideas. We’ll miss you Tori – but we’re all cheering you on every step of the way!
Lauretta Wright, Editor
P.S. Have you downloaded our iOS Bromley App yet? You’ll find it here: https://apple.co/4lSNi4m
THE TEAM
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Editorial & Sales: Lauretta Wright lauretta@lifeinmagazines.co.uk
A bath, feel-good film and a read before bedtime
Office & Editorial Assistant: Tori Howe
hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk
Going for a walk
Strategy & Operations: Aysha Best-Forbes
Having a nice long bath with dimmed lights and a candle
Design: Nicky Grant design@lifeinmagazines.co.uk
Walking in nature
Accounts: Helen Jordan accounts@lifeinmagazines.co.uk
Reading
Social Media & Comms: Carter Rogers hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk
Reading
Thank you to our distributors: Dawn B, Greg, Dawn W, Rob, Jack, Kelly, Tara, Megan, Nicole, Sam, Dylan, Joel, Terri, Gabriel, Pamela, Lorraine, Tom, Lucy, Conor, Tilly, Rosie, Ben, Eira, Josh and Isaac.
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, Len Kirby, Elizabeth Adcock, Mary Cody-Cowdery, Ruth Mansell, Pam Preedy, Ellie Morgan, Thomas Teeluck, Indira Richards, Joy Hodgkinson, Sarah Spencer-Adams & Annabel Tyndall. If you would like to volunteer please email: hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk
We’re giving back! All our magazines are printed on 100% recyclable FSC paper and we print using vegetable inks. We are also proud to partner with Time4Trees to donate a tree for all those subscribing to a six-month or 12-month advertising campaign.
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community
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Got something to shout about?
Email us at hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk or text us on 07403 550068. You can also tag us in on social media @lifeinmags
WINNER
Star baker
Tempted by the Toffee Apple Crumble recipe (September issue) I have made one today. Verdict: delicious! Bonus is the apples were homegrown, and my only alterations were using mace instead of the spices suggested, an extra 50g of flour and my secret weapon for crumbles, 2 tbsp of milk powder, plus a light spray of water on top!
Jenny Froude
Looks like a great crumble Jenny and thanks for giving the recipe a go! Now you can put your feet up for a well-earned tipple at The Landing Hotel with a £15 drinks voucher –congratulations!
Veggies, bees & community spirit
I always look forward to reading the latest edition of your excellent magazine. Having just enjoyed a wonderful summer, I’m writing to let you know that I managed to fill both gardens with flowers for my bee friends and grow organic vegetables out back. As a long-time vegan, I can’t go wrong – especially as my weekly food bill is only around £10–£15 thanks to sticking to own-brand products. Much of my pension goes to supporting animal welfare charities, particularly Viva!, which is close to my heart. I trust you dedicated folks will continue to provide us with the Life In… magazines for many years to come. Thank you for your hard work and for keeping the community spirit alive.
Adrian Appley
This is music to our ears Adrian – your bee-friendly garden and homegrown veggies are inspiring – and keeping your weekly food bill to just £10–£15? Brilliant! Thank you for supporting animal welfare and for sharing your community spirit. Letters like yours make all our hard work worthwhile!
Where there’s a will…
I just wanted to let you know that thanks to the ad in your magazine some months ago, Anthony from Southeast Legacies called this morning to work on my will - something with which I always struggle!
Peggy D
Thank you, Peggy. We always advocate that our readers help support local businesses as it helps support the local economy. And well done on getting this sorted – it’s something that everyone should have in place.
To spend at The Landing Hotel
WIN a £15 Drinks Voucher WIN
With its contemporary interiors, exceptional cuisine, and unique setting at London Biggin Hill Airport, The Landing Hotel offers exceptional stays and world-class dining experiences for all.
For full competition T&C's see https://bit.ly/lifeincomps
Saint Georges Chapel
Saint Georges RAF Chapel of Biggin Hill, is a stark reminder to us still, of the War that took place above this field. Gallant Airmen & Women did not flinch or yield. Bombs fell from the sky causing much destruction, the enemy wanted Biggin Hill out of action. Aircraft were damaged beyond repair and ground Crews killed causing much despair. Airmen of our enemy flew here to kill, bombing and strafing our Biggin Hill. Facing the enemy, our Air Force did not tire, they flew the Hurricane and magical Spitfire. The Hurricane affectionately known as the 'Hurri' and Spitfire known as the 'Spit', both of which were superior, to the dreaded Messerschmitt! Our Pilots were not invincible, that was very true, the battle of Great Britain, was decided by The Few. Names of Pilots adorn the walls inside, the best of the best inscribed with pride. Hopefully, their names will live for evermore, Those brave Pilots who flew to war. Remembering the Hurricane and the Spitfire, to fly in one was a school boys desire. John Israel
Visited Air Charter Expo (ACE) at London Biggin Hill Airport, which brought together aviation industry partners to network, keep up with trends and do business. Pictured are the airport’s Customer Service Supervisor, George Day, and Communications Coordinator, Georgina Godfree.
We love receiving your thoughts, ideas, feedback, general comments and pictures! You can email hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk or text 07403–550068. Remember to include your name and email with the subject line ‘Write It, Say It, Message It’. In doing so, you agree to your comments and pictures being published. Every month, the Star Response ( ) receives a £15 One4all digital gift card.
LET US DO ALL THE HARD WORK!
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History
Nursing the casualties on the D-Day Landing beaches
by PAM PREEDY
The night of 5th June 1944 saw the start of the Allied Invasion of Normandy in Operation Overlord. It was the largest seaborne invasion in history. The invasion force included 7,000 ships and landing craft manned by over 195,000 naval personnel from eight allied countries. During the first day of the D-Day landing there were some 10,000 casualties. A medical support system under the Royal Medical Corps, was quickly set up in France. It included dressing stations, field hospitals, general hospitals, and hospital ships, all working to treat and evacuate the wounded.
Initially each man was given a small folded card, First Aid for Fighting Men giving advice on how to help themselves or someone else if they or a friend were wounded. Although the wounds could look terrible, modern surgeons could do wonders. Their job was to stop wounds getting worse. Ten days after the initial landings, German snipers were still actively firing on personnel landing on the beaches and field hospitals were subjected to constant shelling. The nurses swapped their dresses for combat dress, boots and tin hats and their living quarters were under canvas. There was little privacy and nurses often found themselves sitting next to each other in the latrines and whilst washing themselves in streams.
The first British nurses to land on the Normandy beaches were Sister Iris ‘Fluffy’ Ogilvie and Sister Mary Gillies of the Princess Mary’s Royal Air Force Nursing Service. They arrived on Juno beach on the night of 12 June. That first night they had to sleep in a narrow trench dug in the ground in pitch darkness with the sound of the guns all around them. The next day, the mobile field hospital was set up and they worked with their male colleagues preparing more than
Image: Foss, Jonathan (artist), Lowe and Brydone Printers Ltd, London NW10 (printer), Her Majesty's Stationery Office (publisher/sponsor), WOMEN'S AUXILIARY AIR FORCE (publisher/ sponsor), WikiMedia
200 surgical cases requiring evacuation, either in hospital ships or by air. The wounded were taken to the landing area by nurses of the Princess Mary’s Royal Air Force Nursing Service who handed them over to their Women’s Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) nursing orderly colleagues who worked tirelessly crossing the channel in RAF Dakota aircraft caring for up to 21 stretcher cases at a time.
A week later, on the 13th June, three Dakota planes took off from an RAF base in Wiltshire and headed over the channel to France. There were three women on board–Corporal Lydia Alford, Leading Aircraft Women (LACW), Myra Roberts and Edna Birkbeck, members of the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force. They all had a nursing background. Their role was to care for the wounded men the returning planes would carry back to England. They had no protection from enemy planes. There was no Red Cross sign on the planes because, on the outward journey, the planes carried ammunition and rations to supply the Allied soldiers, fighting their way through Normandy. Every Flying Nightingale was issued with a parachute, but if a crash seemed likely when they were returning with casualties, they were forbidden from baling out. Their orders were to stay with the injured and the parachutes were locked away...
This was the first time the British government had authorised women to be flown into an active war zone. It was a potentially lethal mission. When the Dakotas finally returned safely, the three women were dubbed “the Flying Nightingales” by the newspaper correspondents who greeted them.
It wasn’t until 2008 that these brave women received recognition of the part they played by the Flying Nightingales with a Lifetime Achievement Statuette presented by Queen Camilla (as the Duchess of Cornwall). By this time there were only seven women of the approximately 500 alive to see this recognition.
To purchase Pam’s book, Living Through The Great War: How The People of Bromley Faced The Challenges of War, you can email her at pampreedy@gmail.com
Pam Preedy
What's on
ACTIVITIES
An evening with Sing Like You Mean It
Choir (and special guests)
Sunday November 9th, 7pm
Club Langley, 2 Hawksbrook Ln, Beckenham BR3 3SR
Cost: £15 each on Eventbrite
Contact: singlikeyoumeanitchoir@gmail.com
Join us for an amazing night of music and performances at Club Langley banqueting suite. The choir will be performing their most popular songs, showcasing their talents and there will be some amazing special guest singers to add to the entertainment. Songs ranging from pop classics to current chart hits! There will be a licensed bar and free parking.
Crib Notes Choir – The Parent’s Choir
Thursday 6th November, 1pm–2pm
The Dining Room, Beckenham Place Mansion, The Mansion, Beckenham Place Park, Beckenham, BR3 1SY
Cost: See website for details
Contact: www.cribnotes.co.uk
A friendly, non-audition daytime choir designed especially for parents. Enjoy singing, fun, relaxation and social connection while little ones benefit from the musical and social environment. No experience required – all songs are taught by ear.
Ballroom Dance Classes
Thursdays, 8:30pm–10:30pm
Beckenham Baptist Church Hall, 1 Elm Road, Beckenham, BR3 4JB
Cost: £10 per class (pay as you go, no membership required)
Contact: lionssamba@virginmedia.com or 07939 542758
Enjoy a friendly social dance evening with one or two short
Your essential guide for events, activities, clubs & groups
instruction sessions alongside general dancing. No partner required and beginners welcome. Classes run weekly.
Bethlem Royal Hospital Parkrun
Saturdays, 9am
Bethlem Royal Hospital, Monks Orchard Road, Beckenham, BR3 3BX
Cost: Free but registration required if 1st time
Contact: Email bethlemroyalhospital@parkrun.com
A free, fun, and friendly weekly 5k community event. Walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate – it's up to you! This is a free event but you will need to register before you first come along. You only need to register once and remember to bring a scannable copy of your barcode (if you forget it, you won't get a time). For details see https://bit.ly/bethlemparkrun
Knit & Natter, Crochet & Chatter
Thursdays 2pm-4pm fortnightly
Christ Church Beckenham 1a, Christ Church Rd, Beckenham, BR3 3LE
Cost: Free
Contact: office@ccb.org.uk or call 020 8650 3847
Meets fortnightly in the lounge. All welcome, no need to book. See the events section online at http://www.ccb.org.uk/
Wellbeing through Drama
Every Wednesday, 10.30am-12.30pm Wickham theatre centre, Corkscrew Hill, West Wickham BR4 9BA
Cost: Pay what you Can (suggested £5)
Contact: questsoultheatre@gmail.com
Join us for a weekly drama class aimed at adults who want inclusive play. You get 1.5 hours of drama, refreshments, and a chat for a small price. Learn how to improve confidence and stagecraft, make new friends and improve your day-to-day wellbeing. We are a fully inclusive class that welcomes everyone. Email us for more information.
Exhibitions at Bethlem Museum of the Mind and Bethlem Gallery
Wednesday to Saturday, 9.30am-5pm (except public holidays)
Bethlem Royal Hospital, Monks Orchard Rd, Beckenham BR3 3BX
Cost: Free admission, donations welcomed.
Contact: Call 020 3228 4227. Workshops and free tours are also available to book online.
Step into a world where art, history and mental health intersect. Hosting a changing programme of thought-provoking exhibitions, showcasing work by contemporary artists and exploring the rich heritage of mental healthcare. Free entry and optional guided tours are available. See www.bethlemgallery.com and www.museumofthemind.org.uk
business & NETWORKING
Beckenham Business Day
Wednesday 5 November 2025, 10am-5pm
Azelia Hall, Croydon Road, Beckenham, BR3 4DA
Cost: from £20
Contact: beckenhambusinessday beckenhambusinessassociation.co.uk
Beckenham Business Day brings together local businesses to network with each other and learn from inspirational speakers and workshop hosts. This year’s event theme is Stronger Together. In an age of digital noise and rapid change, it’s easy for small business owners to feel isolated and like they’re always playing catch-up. So, this year, we want to shift the focus from our screens and encourage you to build real-life connections. More info and tickets: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/ beckenhambusinessassociation
Above & Beyond Bromley Business Awards (The ABBBAs) 2025
Thursday 13th November, 6pm-12pm
Oakley House, Bromley Common, BR2 8HA
Cost: £90 or table of 10 for £850
Contact: Email awards@ lifeinmagazines.co.uk or call 020 3488 9959
This not-to-be-missed annual Black-Tie event highlights and celebrates businesses large and small across the Bromley borough. Tickets have sold out but you can email us to join the waiting list to network with over 300 attendees, support the best of Bromley’s businesses and be entertained for what is sure to be a truly memorable evening! Our chosen charity this year is CASPA. Thank you to all our sponsors including Tapi Carpets (headline sponsor) and Shampan Group and London Biggin Hill Airport (secondary sponsors). For more information visit www.the-abbbas.co.uk
Startup Bromley Coffee Morning
Tuesday 25th November, 10am-11.30am
Newman Flexible Workspace, Commercial House, 2 Newman Rd, Bromley, BR1 1RJ
Cost: Free
Contact: Email StartupBromley@GLL.ORG
Take some time out to mingle with likeminded business folk. This is a great opportunity to network, problem-solve and learn from fellow new and aspiring entrepreneurs over tea, coffee, and biscuits provided by us! This event is suitable for all, whether you're an established small business, just starting up or are an aspiring entrepreneur. See http://bit. ly/4on879p
Bromley Business Network
Wednesday 5th & 19th November, 7am-9am
On Teams or in person at Bromley Football Club (Hospitality Suite), Hayes Lane, BR2 9EF
Cost: £12.50 on Teams or £23 in person
Contact: 07957 819008 or email hello@ bromleybusinessnetwork.co.uk
Fortnightly business networking events. Attendance includes unlimited refreshments and a full cooked breakfast buffet. Attendees can also attend via Teams if they can’t attend in person. For details see bromleybusinessnetwork.co.uk
community & CHARITY
Dementia Café
1st Wednesday of the month, 10.30am-12pm Avenue Baptist Church, 96 Avenue Road, Beckenham, BR3 4RX
Cost: Free
Contact: Claire on 07872 302907
Monthly group for people living with Dementia/ Alzheimers and their Carers/Loved Ones. Each month we have different activities such as crafts, singing, quizzes. You are welcome to take part or just come for a cuppa and a chat. Support provided. No booking necessary, just pop along and join us!
St George’s Church Hall Christmas Artisan Market 2025
Sunday 16th November and 23rd November, 10am-5pm
St George’s Church Hall, 27 Albemarle Road, Beckenham, BR3 5HZ
Cost: Free
Contact: beckenhamarts@gmail.com
Beckenham Arts Association will be holding their 3rd seasonal Christmas Artisan Market over two consecutive Sundays. Two chances to kick start your festivities!
Explore unique, affordable Christmas gift ideas by 20+ local artists and crafters. Refreshments and handmade cakes will also be available, of which all proceeds go towards our partner charity Living Well Bromley. We’ll also be holding a charity raffle this year- don’t miss your chance to win great prizes from Beckenham businesses including: Beckenham Bookshop, Cutting Remarks, Hisar Meze Bar, Rendezvous Cafe and more! For more information visit www.beckenhamartsassociation.co.uk
The Connections Café
Tuesday 18th November, 10:30am-12:30pm
Community House, South Street, Bromley, BR1 1RH
Cost: Free Contact: 07864 759013
A free, monthly community event organised by Quest Soul Theatre C.I.C and Radfield Home Care. The event aims to foster connections and promote well-being through creative activities and social interaction. The cafe is designed to be dementia-friendly and is open to everyone in the Bromley community. This
Submit your event for free on our App and online! Submit yours at bit.ly/bromleyevents or scan the QR code.
session is called Letters of Note, where the group will be exploring famous letters. This will also be a chase to celebrate the Connections Cafe's 3rd birthday!
MUSIC, entertainment & food
Pure B2B Mastermind Lunch
Thursday 27th November 12pm – 2pm
Private Dining Room, Miller & Carter, Pickhurst Lane, West Wickham, BR4 0HH
Cost: Contact organiser for details
Contact: anna@bellsaccountants.co.uk
Pure B2B masterminds bring together ambitious business owners looking to grow and develop their businesses with the advice and support of their peers. Hosted by Anna Young of Bells Accountants, this session is a great opportunity to sound out ideas, seek guidance and make successful plans.
Beckenham Chorale Autumn Concert
Saturday 29th November, 7pm – 9pm
St George’s Church, High Street, Beckenham, BR3 1AX
Cost: Tickets £20, and £15 include free drink and programme. Available via www.ticketsource.co.uk/ beckenhamchorale and on the door from 6.15pm
Contact: Email beckenhamchorale@hotmail.co.uk
Beckenham Chorale will be joined by Coro London
Chamber Choir, and soloists Emma Walshe, Sebastian Hill and Jonathan Brown to perform Haydn’s Creation. This choral masterpiece has all the hallmarks of Haydn’s characteristic vitality and creativity. It is truly a spiritual masterpiece for our more secular age. For details see www.beckenhamchorale.org.uk
Bromley Symphony Orchestra Concert
Saturday 15th November, 7.30pm-9.45pm (including interval)
Langley Park Centre for the Performing Arts, South Eden Park Road, Beckenham, BR3 3BP
Cost: Tickets are £9 - £22
Contact: See www.bromleysymphony.org/tickets/ We open with Mozart’s Don Giovanni overture and Beethoven’s pithy Eighth, and finish with Strauss’s rapturous Don Juan. In the middle is Weber’s poised and tuneful bassoon concerto, featuring Stephen Fuller.
A listing in the magazine costs £17 or £72 for 6 months (£12 a month). Charities and non-profits are eligible for a 15% discount.
Life In...Beckenham cannot be held responsible for any changes or cancellations of an event. We’ve done our best to make sure everything’s spot on at the time of printing, but it’s always a good idea to double-check details with the venue or event organiser, just in case! Prices exclude vat.
Behind the Badge
INSIGHTS FROM THE SUPER
We have now been able to confirm that our public meeting to discuss the launch of the next phase of the “New Met for London” strategy will be held at Bromley Football Club on Thursday 4th December 2025.
We will also seek to live stream the event for any who can’t make it. The Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley will be in attendance to present the new strategy and to answer your questions. I will be there to discuss what we have delivered locally over the last two and a half years; we have come a long way but still have much to do. We will also have a broad range of local officers there who police here in Bromley for you to meet and ask questions.
It is essential that we hear from you on what matters and will welcome your honest and candid views on what we need to do better. I am acutely aware that trust will have been damaged by the recent Panorama documentary
aired in early October. The behaviours seen were disgraceful and we need to demonstrate that we are committed to essential and rapid improvements. We will welcome questions on anything you want to ask us, and this is your opportunity to speak directly with the Commissioner.
My approach since the last meeting in 2023 has been to focus on what matters based on what you tell us. This has included a radical overhaul of how we deal with retail crime to keep our shops safe, innovative work on reducing motor vehicle crime and burglary, and work to tackle thefts of mobile phones. I intend to reassure you that despite the recent and significant challenges that we have a clear plan to improve trust and continue to tackle the prolific offenders who cause harm to our communities.
Superintendent Luke Baldock
Bromley Borough Neighbourhood Policing
Firefront Line
In the past four months, Bromley Borough has seen three residential fires directly linked to lithium-ion batteries. These incidents serve as a stark reminder that improper charging, damaged batteries or using incompatible chargers can lead to devastating consequences.
Across London, LFB has responded to over 150 fires involving lithium-ion batteries in the last year alone. Many of these fires start suddenly and spread rapidly, often while devices are charging overnight or unattended.
What is LFB ChargeSafe?
ChargeSafe is a city-wide initiative designed to:
• Raise awareness of the risks associated with lithiumion batteries.
• Promote safe charging practices.
• Encourage the use of manufacturerapproved chargers.
• Provide guidance on spotting signs of battery damage or overheating.
Tips to stay safe at home
Here are some simple but effective ways to protect your household:
4 Only use the charger that came with your device.
4 Avoid charging devices overnight or when you're not home.
4 Keep batteries away from flammable materials.
4 Don’t use damaged batteries or devices.
4 Store e-bikes and e-scooters in a safe, ventilated area—not in hallways or escape routes.
Get involved
LFB is encouraging residents to take part in the ChargeSafe campaign by sharing safety tips with friends and family, checking their devices regularly, and reporting any concerns. You can also visit the LFB website LFB #ChargeSafe page for more resources at www.london-fire. gov.uk/safety/lithium-batteries
Let’s work together to keep Bromley – and all of London –safe from preventable fires. A few small changes can make a big difference.
Ian Frame, Borough Commander
London Borough of Bromley, London Fire Brigade
THE ABBBAS Secondary sponsor of The ABBBAs
London Biggin Hill Airport are proud to be the secondary sponsors of the Above & Beyond Bromley Business Awards (The ABBBAs). As one of the borough’s most significant employers and a cornerstone of Bromley’s economy, the airport continues to champion local enterprise and innovation. We hear from Chief Executive Officer, David Winstanley, about the airport’s achievements, community investment and why supporting local businesses is central to their vision for the future.
As a company, what do you provide and who are you aimed at?
London Biggin Hill is the only dedicated business aviation airport in London and has 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 Bombardier and Formula One. It is also an aircraft service centre that provides engineering apprenticeship schemes.
Can you describe your company's current projects or initiatives that you are particularly proud of?
Over the last decade, sustained investment in new hangars and infrastructure has attracted global business, and there are today over 70 companies employing more than 1,700 people - that's increased 80% since 2012, when 980 people were employed on-site. I’m particularly proud of our work with young people, working closely with local schools and colleges to inspire and open the door to a career in aerospace and engineering from an early age. From apprenticeships to work experience, school visits and our Futures Week, we are proud to support local young people and have an opportunity for every learning style and career path.
What about your own achievements as a company over the last year – can you tell us more about what you’ve done. We are focused on becoming a world-class centre of business aviation excellence and remain committed to our ethos that when the airport succeeds, so should local people. Over the last year, one of our key achievements has been the successful completion of our runway resurfacing programme. This was proactive work to remove the top layer of the runway and relay it with new material - a likefor-like replacement - ensuring our runway remains fit for purpose. The project included adding centreline lighting to increase the visual cues and situational awareness to pilots, and improving sustainability by replacing our old halogen lights with LED lights.
Why was it important that you showed your support in sponsoring The ABBBAs?
London Biggin Hill Airport is one of the largest employers in the borough 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.
How does sponsorship of The ABBBAs align with your company's values and goals?
London Biggin Hill Airport is a talent-based organisation committed to creating a one team culture where everyone feels valued, respected and provided with the tools and opportunities to succeed. 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.
Looking ahead, what are your plans for the next 12 months?
Over 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. Our journey to this more sustainable future will involve harnessing new and developing technologies, with an approach that creates skilled jobs and powers responsible economic growth. The airport will operate as it has always done, delivering a cleaner and greener future for everyone.
Finally, what’s your message to the business community in the borough?
London Biggin Hill Airport has a rich history of continuous innovation, which has led us to become the international aerospace technology business we are today. We are always looking to connect, support and collaborate with our local community and encourage anyone who is interested to hear more about the airport to get in touch.
community
Behind The Business
Lord Harris
Tapi Carpets & Floors Ltd was founded in 2015 by a handful of flooring industry specialists, including local legends, the Harris family. Passionate about putting customers first and blowing a breath of fresh air into the world of carpet and floor shopping, their mission was to make buying flooring reassuringly simple. Today, Tapi has more than 220 stores nationwide, a fleet of over 230 mobile showrooms, and concessions in 19 John Lewis stores - reflecting its strong reputation, backed by a Trustpilot score of 4.8 and an NPS of 73. Tapi’s mission is to inspire and delight customers with exceptional, innovative products and services.
We spoke with Lord Harris, advisor and shareholder of Tapi Carpets & Floors, and sponsor of a large multiacademy trust, the Harris Federation, to find out more about Tapi. With their head office based in Orpington, Lord Harris has discussed how they are making a difference on both a local and national scale…
The Harris Carpets chain was set up in the 1950s. What was your inspiration behind this? My father died when I was 15, and my mother when I was 17. This naturally led me to take over the family business. I was working between school and my father’s shop in Peckham. By 16, I had opened my first shop, located in Balham High Road. Over the next 10 years, we built Harris Carpets into CW Harris and took over 50 companies. Following a difficult year, CW Harris was unfortunately sold. Fast-forward to today, and Tapi Carpets & Floors acquired Carpetright in 2024, has over 1,400 staff, over 400 of whom have worked for me for over 20 years, and is the biggest in the UK for turnover.
How do you feel looking back on your business journey?
I feel immensely proud about what I have achieved through the years, not only within the carpet industry, but also throughout schools and hospitals. The proudest moment I’ve experienced was when Tony Blair presented my wife with her DBE.
Can you talk more about your involvement with hospitals and education?
In education and health, I want to work with the best people to give them the best chance in life. I was very close with Margeret Thatcher, who communicated that she wanted to run a school based in Crystal Palace. The school in question had a total cohort of 400 students, 60 of which on average were expelled every year. Paired with a mere 9% pass rate and teachers which only lasted 6 months, we set out to improve this school. Within two years, there was a 54% pass rate and a list of 3,000 students who wanted to attend the school. Another two
years later, pass rates increased to 92%, making it the most improved school in the country. We now have 1 in 40 children in London attending a Harris school. In the last 26 Ofsted inspections, since March 2024, there were 65 ‘Outstanding’ grades out of 77. That is 84% of grades were ‘Outstanding’. The other 12 grades were all ‘Good’ with 4 of these being judged to be 'Good Might be Outstanding' - meriting a re-inspection.
Guy’s Hospital was my best hospital achievement, as Thatcher made sure we had to live within our budget. Within the first two months, we reduced staff numbers by natural wastage, but won the staff over by increasing salaries from £4.92/hour to £6/hour if they came into work every day, increasing attendance from 75% to 90%. Within 5 years, we saved £20 million a year and treated 60,000 more patients.
Who has been your greatest inspiration or mentor?
Thatcher and Churchill. In business, it would be Stanley Kalms former Chairman of Currys plc and Graham Kirkham, founder of DFS and a dear friend. More recent inspiration is Simon Wolfson, Chief Executive of Next, and of course Sir John Major.
What are your future goals both personally and in business?
For the business, I want to carry on growing; improving scale, turnover and profit. The more we make, the more we can donate to charity, and I want to achieve all of this with a happy company. On a personal level, I’d like to continue helping as many charities as possible and see more people treated for cancer. I am very proud of my wife for opening the first breast cancer unit in St Mary’s in London in 1974. This marked the start of women getting treated for cancer. An ultimate goal is to see the government help people in poverty.
What do you enjoy doing in your free-time?
Sports is a huge passion of mine. I am the director of Arsenal, and two of our showjumpers have won gold medals at the Olympics. Apart from sport, I love spending time with my friends and family.
What does community mean to you?
Community means we all work together and it’s as simple as that.
THE ABBBAS Headline sponsor of The ABBBAs
Tapi Carpets & Floors are the headline sponsors of the Above and Beyond Bromley Business Awards (The ABBBAs) for the third year running. Lord Harris explains why it is so important for the company to be part of an event that highlights and celebrates the best of the Bromley Borough's businesses…
What motivated you to sponsor the ABBBAs as the headline sponsor?
The ABBBAs awards are all about the community and recognising the people that probably would not have had the chance to be recognised before and the success of what they do.
Why do you think it’s important to have business awards in the community?
At the age of 35, I won Businessman of the Year – a big motivator for me to achieve above and beyond. Awards such as the ABBBAs get everyone interested and involved. And for those who don’t win, they have the opportunity to network and meet people who inspire businesses to reach new goals.
How do you believe these awards contribute to encouraging excellence and innovation in business?
In previous years, I had the honour of meeting many businessmen and women who all offered something different to the local business landscape. With the enthusiasm they all had, I’m sure of their success. Getting many entrepreneurial brains in one room is the perfect space to share innovation and encouragement to likeminded businessmen and women.
How does sponsoring these awards align with your personal values of Tapi Carpets & Floors?
Tapi is now the biggest in the country, but it has still held strongly onto its familial values with the promise to never make the company public. By holding onto these values, we keep the mindset of constantly achieving excellence and innovation.
Can you share any noticeable awards that you or the business have won and what they have meant to you?
I can honestly tell you I have never entered myself for any awards, but I was nominated by my PA Judy for the Ernst & Young UK Entrepreneur of the Year in 2007, which I was lucky enough to win and go on to represent the UK in the World Entrepreneur of the Year in Monaco. Unfortunately, I didn’t win that, but it was an amazing experience meeting so many entrepreneurs and likeminded businesspeople. I won Businessman of the Year when I was 35 years old which really motivated me. For Tapi, we’ve been awarded ‘Best Flooring Retailer’ in 2016, 2017 and 2023 by Interiors Monthly, a great achievement for such a young company.
What are your aspirations for your continued involvement in local community events?
Helping people in hospitals is really important to me; I want to try and cut the level of paperwork to streamline the care pathway and continue to support the opening of more schools in the local area and in London. By opening more schools, we aim to get 50% of the children in London to attend a Harris school, but more importantly, providing consistently good educations.
What did you particularly like about the ABBBAs last year?
When the winners came on stage, they were overjoyed and enthused. The atmosphere of the event and the people was most enjoyable.
What would your encouragement be to other businesses either sponsoring or participating in local awards such as the ABBBAs?
I would definitely encourage businesses to enter or sponsor local events where possible. You always have to look after your family first, but if you have money left over, investing this back into charities or events is the best thing you can do for your local community. My businesses are family run and we give 20% of what we earn to charity. It is about making where we live a better place for everyone.
community
DEPUTY MAYOR'S VOICE
Community is what makes Bromley so special; celebrating and thanking that community is at the heart of my role as Deputy Mayor. I am loving getting to meet the incredible community and voluntary groups, charities and businesses who contribute so much to Bromley.
As well as meeting and celebrating our fantastic volunteers and groups, as Deputy Mayor I also support the Mayor in leading the borough in civic occasions and with his charitable endeavours. We are the face of the borough, and I have very much enjoyed every event I have been to.
I’ve attended birthday parties and anniversaries of care homes, wellbeing cafes, dementia cafes, opened new healthcare centres and counselling services. All of these have been important to me because I’ve worked in the healthcare sector for close to a decade. Working in Healthcare can be a thankless pursuit sometimes, (I know, I’ve lived it!) so it is so lovely to be able to meet staff and service users to chat to them play Bingo or have a dance with them and to say thank you.
Lines
from Linda
Oh no, November. Let’s face it - this is a dreary month. The nights have drawn in, the leaves have fallen, (some of us have slipped on them), and the only brightness in this month comes from fireworks.
To each their own, but because I have animals, I am not a lover of fireworks. I just wish they could let them light up the sky in their pretty colours without that dreadful bang that so frightens our animal friends. And, it is not only on the fifth of the month that firework havoc reigns, but they seem to go on now for the whole of November and then start again near the end of the year.
Some
This is one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. From the moving experience of opening the borough’s first baby loss memorial in Chislehurst; a space for parents to grieve their child who have sadly passed away before birth, to touring gardens in Coney Hall designed to support the environment and save the hedgehogs, our volunteers’ receptions showcased all the incredible work that gets done across the borough – some in very unexpected ways. Every event I attend teaches me something new about our borough and the amazing people who live here.
I look forward to meeting many more groups through the rest of my term because a lot of groups and people can feel unseen which is why to me the most important part of the Deputy Mayor’s role is to say ‘thank you’. It means a lot to me to say it, and I hope it means a lot to them too.
Best wishes Councillor Gemma Turrell Deputy Mayor of Bromley (2025-2026)
Find out more at www.bromley.gov.uk/mayor
‘How old is your son? I asked.
‘He is only seven, but likes to think he is grown up.’
‘And you use this at business meetings?’ I asked teasingly.
‘Only when my clients forget to bring theirs,’ he said.’ Some people are nervous of us accountants, so it helps break the ice. You are welcome to borrow it.’
So, I signed the papers and went home.
people are nervous of accountants, so a furry animal pen helps break the ice "
So, I don’t go out much in November as I don’t want my animals alone and frightened. There is a plus side. Because I stay in, I catch up on my writing and paperwork. I also loathe predictive text. By the time you’ve corrected its inconsistency, it hasn’t saved you any time at all. It just gets in the way.
I had recently been to see my accountant to sign some papers and ashamedly, as a writer, as was without a pen. ‘No worries’ my accountant told me, reaching into his pocket. ‘I can lend you one.’
It had a cute furry animal on the end.
‘I originally bought it for my son,’ he told me quickly. ‘He said it was silly and wouldn’t use it. So, I do.’
A couple of days later, my accountant sent me a text. ‘Sorry, I forgot, there are three more signatures I need.’
‘No problem,’ I told him, and we arranged another day when we were free, and I could go and sign the appropriate papers.
Again, as I was riding on the train, I checked my bag and realised once again I was without a pen (such a no-no for a writer).
So, I texted my accountant, ‘On way, but again no pen, can I borrow your furry animal like pen.’
And I sent it.
When just an exclamation mark came back as an answer, I checked the text I had sent him. Predictive text had done its worst. It had changed my words to, Can I borrow your furry, animal like PENIS’
My tomato red cheeks didn’t go down for a week.
For more about me and my crime novels see www.lindareganonline.co.uk
Beckenham youngsters take on Westminster Mile
A group of children from Mini Athletics Beckenham & West Wickham proudly took part in this year’s Westminster Mile in September. The family-friendly race saw youngsters aged two–11 join thousands of runners on the scenic one-mile course around St James’s Park, starting on The Mall and finishing in front of Buckingham Palace.
The event, organised by Vitality, is one of the UK’s most inclusive running events, encouraging participation from all ages and abilities.
The Big Run!
SUPPORTING LOCAL AUTHORS… Community
Earlier this year, Finding You teamed up with Beckenham’s Daisy Grey to launch a lively monthly Run Club. Led by Connor Smith, founder of Finding You, and supported behind the scenes by Joise, Jo and Danny, runners are energised each morning with coffee and hydration.
The goal was to reach 100+ runners by the end of the year – but thanks to Connor’s dedication and support from local businesses, the club smashed that target early, with an incredible 206 attendees at a recent event in September, which welcomed celebrity star, Ant Middleton. Held once a month, the run club is a fun, welcoming way to kickstart your weekend, meet new people and get moving.
Beckenham-based author Jenny has lived in the borough since 1958, when she first started work at Woman’s Weekly. She went on to become Fashion & Knitting Editor before leaving after 15 years to start a family.
Her book is a deeply personal memoir about her youngest son Tom, who lost his hearing after contracting near-fatal meningitis at just five months old. What began as notes during his early years grew into a moving family story that she finally completed when Tom was 21. Jenny explained: “When I first looked into infant deafness I found little to inspire me – only depressing stories. But with the support of Bromley’s Sensory Support Service, and the introduction of signing when Tom was just one, I discovered that his access to language could be fun and empowering for him. I wanted to share that positive story.”
Tom attended Darrick Wood Schools in Orpington from the age of three to 16, where the specialist units for deaf children (now known as Griffins) gave him the best of both worlds – dedicated support alongside mainstream classes. Many of the teachers of the deaf from those days remain close family friends. The book doesn’t shy away from the challenges – readers are warned to have tissues ready for the opening chapter – but it is ultimately a story of resilience, hope and humour. “It was therapeutic to write,” Jenny said. “And it still feels very relevant, especially since Rose Ayling-Ellis’ Strictly Come Dancing win brought sign language into the spotlight.” Tom gave the book his blessing, and found nothing he wished to alter before publication. “It’s good for my Memory Lane!” he said.
Jenny’s book (ISBN 1-85359-628-0) is available to order from The Beckenham Bookshop, Waterstones and online for £21.95, with copies also in local libraries. It’s also available as an eBook. If you’re a local author or know of one, email hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk for the chance to be featured.
Noticeboard
Beckenham Business Day!
Save the date for Beckenham Business Day which takes place on Wednesday 5th November at Azelia Hall, Beckenham from 10am-4pm. It’s for businesses of all sizes and you don’t need to be Beckenham- based to attend. Featuring a variety of speakers, stalls and great business advice, this is one event you won’t want to miss.
Get your tickets at: https://www.tickettailor.com/ events/beckenhambusinessassociation
Blooming marvellous!
Life In Beckenham magazine is delighted to team up with Babsela Florist (7 Village Way, Beckenham, BR3 3NA, Tel: 020 8143 2095) as the sponsor of our Local Heroes page, providing either a plant or stunning bouquet to celebrate deserving local heroes.
Do you know someone in Beckenham who goes above and beyond? It could be a teacher, carer, volunteer, or anyone who makes a difference in the community. We want to hear their story – and see them recognised with a beautiful floral gift!
To nominate your local hero, email: hello@ lifeinmagazines.co.uk with your details along with the name, telephone and email of your nominated Local Hero, along with your reasons why. Let’s celebrate the everyday heroes who make Beckenham shine!
On the cover
Calling all local artists!
Devonshire House Flexible Workspace (Bromley South) and Newman Flexible Workspace (Bromley North) are looking at updating their walls with artwork created by local talent, where pieces will be displayed in communal areas, corridors and vacant offices – with all works available for sale. The company, which offers offices to let, meeting rooms and co-working spaces, will also promote artists to their clients, visitors and followers across social media, giving extra visibility.
If you’re an aspiring artist who thinks they have what it takes, email your name and contact details plus examples of your creations to Jaya at centremanager@devonshirehse.co.uk. For details of the business centres see www.newmanbusinesscentre.co.uk
Brothers Michael and Richard Pearce have spent more than 25 years crafting bespoke carpentry, turning clients’ ideas into practical, beautifully made pieces. They run Pro Woodwork Installations Limited (PWI), creating everything from wardrobes and office furniture to clever understairs storage, and have built a strong reputation across Beckenham and Bromley for quality workmanship.
You can read more about them in this month’s Behind The Business feature.
community NOTICEBOARD
Justin time!
In the September issue we ran a competition in conjunction with Churchill Theatre for one lucky family of 4 to win tickets to see CBeebies’ star Justin Fletcher in a live show entitled Justin Time to Rock. Congratulations to Barbara Dix who was delighted to win.
RIBBONS OF REMEMBRANCE IN BECKENHAM
Pink, blue and white ribbons filled Beckenham in October as the community marked Baby Loss Awareness Week (9th–15th October) with displays, remembrance trees and a special service.
Organised by local resident Jessica Burley, whose first baby Jacob was stillborn in 2021, the week saw ribbons displayed across Beckenham in memory of much-loved babies gone too soon. From the main gates of Beckenham Crematorium to remembrance trees at St Edmund’s Church, Daisy Grey Café, Francis Chappell and Sons and St John’s Church, the displays became a moving visual tribute.
Residents were invited to add their own ribbons and tags, creating a heartfelt community space for reflection and remembrance. Several landmarks, including Christ Church Beckenham, were also lit pink and blue in support.
A remembrance service at Beckenham Crematorium gave families the chance to gather together, light candles and honour their babies. Funds raised throughout the week supported Sands, the stillbirth and neonatal death charity, which provides crucial bereavement support and funds vital research. For more information see www.babyloss-awareness.org
Churchfields Primary School PTA is preparing for its magical Christmas Fayre and Raffle, and they're on the lookout for donations and sponsors to help make it shine. The fun doesn’t stop at Christmas either - there are plenty of other sponsorship opportunities popping up throughout the year. With a vibrant community of over 480 children and their families, it’s a chance to spread some seasonal cheer, support a great cause and showcase your business to local families.
Whether you're a local company, a kind-hearted neighbour or simply love getting involved –they’d love to hear from you! Email churchfieldspta@gmail.com or follow them on Instagram @churchfieldsprimarypta
Local Hero
Karen Desborough
Karen Desborough was nominated by Herbie Kuenstlinger as a local hero for her incredible dedication to Blackheath & Bromley Harriers AC, where she has been volunteering for over a decade. Herbie said: “Karen volunteers for the kids at the athletics club, often managing more than 50 young athletes at a time – which can be highly pressurised – yet she always has a smile on her face.” Karen, 60, lives in Orpington with her husband and their two grown-up children, Tom (28) and Andi (25), as well as Andi’s partner, Conner. Alongside her volunteering, Karen works as a preschool assistant at a local preschool – a role she has proudly held for the past 19 years.
How does it feel to be nominated as a local hero? I feel really honoured. It’s lovely to be recognised for something that I genuinely enjoy doing.
How did you get into volunteering with Blackheath and Bromley Harriers?
My son Tom joined the Bees Academy in 2005. He went on to compete from 2007 as an Under-13, taking part in Kent Cross Country and track races. I spent so much time there supporting him, that in 2010, I thought I’d get more involved. I started as a Team Manager for the U15 Boys, then in 2011 I took on the U13 Girls, and eventually the U15 Girls too.
What does a typical day look like when you’re with the club?
As Team Manager, I select athletes for the different events, email invitations and organise who’s competing in what. On match days, I’m at the track venue all day and in summer we compete in two leagues – each with four fixtures and a final. We’ve reached the final nearly every year, and we’ve even won for the past two years. We’ve made it again this year too, which is fantastic!
Are you from a sporting background?
No, but since I started volunteering, I’ve taken up running socially and I’ve now completed 489 Parkruns! So, you could say the club has definitely inspired me.
You must have learnt a lot about athletics over the years?
Absolutely, I’ve learnt so much more than I ever expected. Athletics teaches discipline, teamwork and resilience. The girls I work with always support one another, and seeing their smiles – whether they win or not – is the most rewarding part.
What’s the best thing about volunteering?
The people. Getting to know the athletes and their families, watching them grow and progress – it’s such a lovely experience. Becoming a Vice President of the club in 2017 was a real honour and meant a lot to me.
Do you have any advice for others wanting to get involved?
Definitely give it a go! You don’t need to have a background in sport – just be willing to help. Come along and see what it’s all about. Clubs like ours are always looking for volunteers.
Who is your role model?
One of my role models is Dina Asher-Smith. I’ve watched her grow from being a young athlete at our club to becoming an Olympian. Seeing that journey unfold makes you realise how much volunteers can help shape an athlete’s path.
Is there anything coming up that you’re proud about?
Yes! We’ve made it to the Youth Development League final again this year – and I’m really proud of how the team has pulled together. Every season brings its own highs, but seeing the consistency and spirit from the girls is incredible.
What’s your favourite thing about living in the Bromley Borough?
I’ve lived in Bromley my whole life and love how much there is to do here – we’ve got a great shopping centre, theatre, cinemas and lots of sports and leisure clubs to get involved in.
What does community mean to you?
It’s about supporting one another, forming friendships and sharing something meaningful together. That’s what we have at Blackheath and Bromley Harriers – a real sense of belonging.
Karen receives her bouquet from Time For Flowers
A special ‘Thank You’ to Time For Flowers for sponsoring the bouquets and plants for our Local Heroes.
lifestyle Puzzles
by LOUIS MAY
The November prize is a pair of tickets to the press night of Churchill’s panto, Beauty and The Beast, on 10th December.
With the Above and Beyond Bromley Business Awards happening this month, we have a mismatched words challenge with an ABBBA’s themed twist. Pair up one word from the first column with the word in the second column. There are two words that don’t pair up – this is your competition answer!
Send the answer to hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk with the subject line ‘puzzle’ or text only ‘WIN’ with your answer, full name, telephone number and address to 07403-550068. Good luck!
WIN
October answer: Elephant
September winner: Maureen Marshall
Strictly one entry per person. Competitions are open to Bromley Borough residents only. For competition terms and conditions see https://bit.ly/lifeincomps
Behind The Business community
Pro Woodwork Installations (PWI)
Brothers Michael and Richard Pearce have been crafting bespoke carpentry for more than 25 years, working side by side to turn clients’ ideas into beautifully made, practical pieces. From wardrobes and office furniture to clever understairs storage, their company – Pro Woodwork Installations Limited (PWI) –has built a strong reputation across Bromley and beyond for quality workmanship, personal service and five-star results.
Michael, can you tell us how and why you launched PWI?
My brother and I have been carpenters for over 25 years. We have always worked together, whether that be at our first job which involved high end bespoke cabinetry in and around London, or when we moved on to subcontract for a bedroom fitting company. In 2016 we started to work independently of other companies but were still sole traders. We decided to launch ourselves as a limited company in 2022 and have been enjoying being able to develop the business as we had envisaged.
Who are your customers/clients and where are they located?
Our customers are from a wide demographic. If you need a wardrobe designed and installed, an office desk made, a door hung or some understairs storage, we can help you. We generally work in and around Bromley as most of our work comes from word of mouth and recommendations from previous customers.
How have you evolved since you first launched? Initially, we used to fit ready-made furniture into a customer’s existing space alongside the offering of bespoke carpentry. Now, we generally only design and install our own furniture, made by us in our workshop, to minimise disruption to the customer when fitting takes place.
What is one of the businesses greatest achievements?
I think still being here three years after launching is a great achievement in the current climate! As mentioned, before PWI launched we started this kind of work in 2016, so for over eight years now we have been helping our customers to achieve their vision within their homes. We also have five-star reviews on our Google and Facebook pages and although we do advertise, repeat business or referrals is where we get most of our custom.
What do you love about what you do?
Every day is different for us. We could be visiting customers to discuss their ideas, in the workshop making the furniture or installing it into a home or office. That variety along with the people we meet really makes us value our job. Another great part about what we do is the feedback we get from our customers after the fitting is complete. It’s great to know we might have made someone’s life easier by adding more storage or that we’ve made them something they are happy to look at everyday in their home.
Are there any challenges you face – either as a local business or in your industry?
As with many businesses at the moment, the cost of living has had a huge impact on us in recent months. The materials we use have substantially increased in price and unfortunately, we have had to pass on some of that increase to the customer. We are very aware that many people have less disposable income than they used to, which is why we are always grateful when people decide to trust us in making their ideas a reality.
Are you actively engaged in the local community? If so, in what ways?
My brother and I were born in Bromley and have lived here all our lives. We both have children who attend local schools and sports clubs, and we can often be found in a local pub or restaurant at the weekend. As a business we are part of the Bromley Business Network, as well as the Petts Wood Business network, and always recommend good local tradespeople to our customers if asked.
What’s new looking forward?
We have recently moved to a larger workshop and expanded our workforce, so we can provide a quicker turnaround for our customers and manage increased demand.
Health & Fitness
GET A FULL PICTURE OF YOUR HEALTH AT MYTIME ACTIVE
Local leisure provider Mytime Active is offering members the chance to assess every aspect of their health, for free.
Keeping on top of your health just got easier. Mytime Active is offering FREE 360˚ health assessments for members across its leisure centres, so users can get a complete picture of their overall wellbeing. PLUS, new members who join during October get 50% off their first month.
The free Mytime Active health assessment, which is repeated every 12 weeks to monitor progress, includes:
• Weight and waist circumference
• Pulse and blood pressure
• Body mass index (BMI)
• Body fat percentage and visceral fat
• Muscle and bone mass
• Basal metabolic rate
In addition, Mytime Active’s new EGYM smart strength training equipment – at the Pavilion Leisure Centre and The Spa at Beckenham – assesses users’ BioAge, giving an indication of how ‘old’ their body is compared to their real age. EGYM then helps users work towards lowering that BioAge with personalised workouts, retesting them every six sessions to see how they’re progressing. Included
Understanding Sleep
Current evidence supports average of seven or more hours of sleep per night on a regular basis among adults aged 18 to 60 years.
Sleep is divided into two main phases:
Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep and Non-Rapid Eye Movement (Non-REM) sleep. These stages play a crucial role in physical and mental health, helping with memory, learning, and body restoration.
Non-REM sleep
Non-REM sleep is the first phase of sleep and consists of three stages:
1. Stage 1 (light sleep) – A brief transition phase where you drift between wakefulness and sleep. Muscles relax, and brain activity slows.
2. Stage 2 (deeper sleep) – Body temperature drops, heart rate slows, and brain waves continue to slow. This stage makes up most of the sleep cycle.
3. Stage 3 (deep sleep) – Also called slow-wave
in this, members can also have an InBody assessment. A quick, non-invasive test, InBody uses bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) to provide a detailed breakdown of your body composition, including muscle mass, body fat and water distribution.
“The key to better health is knowing where you’re at right now, so you can make a targeted plan to improve,” says Steve May, Chief Executive at Mytime Active. “Our three comprehensive health assessments help members find out where they need to make changes, then our exceptional team will create a programme to help achieve their goals and signpost them to the best service for their needs.”
Find out more at www.mytimeactive.co.uk/mytime-active-memberships
sleep, this is the most restorative stage. The body repairs tissues, builds bone and muscle, and strengthens the immune system.
REM sleep
REM sleep occurs about 90 minutes after falling asleep and is characterized by:
• Rapid eye movement and increased brain activity.
• Dreaming, as the brain is highly active, similar to wakefulness.
• Muscle paralysis, preventing the body from acting out dreams.
Why
are these stages important?
• Non-REM sleep is essential for physical recovery and immune function.
• REM sleep supports brain function, emotional regulation, and memory processing.
A healthy sleep cycle alternates between these stages multiple times per night, ensuring proper rest and cognitive function. Prioritizing good sleep hygiene helps maintain this balance for overall well-being.
Do you have a question for Dr Hashmi? Send an email to hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk with the subject line Ask The Doc
A Final Thought…
The first steps in helping young drivers
BY DEBBIE PALMER, Chairwoman Kent RoSPA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents) Advanced drivers and Riders
A young learner driver can officially get behind the wheel on their 17th birthday. Sadly their attitude towards the laws of the road and what they can get away with has been forming for as long as they have been a passenger.
So Mum, Dad and all other family taxi members, your driving faults will become theirs. How many times have you been late and ‘caught up on the road’, pushing through an amber light instead of stopping. The difference is that you have the experience to know when you can get away with it. Young drivers are copying your behaviour without that valuable experience. Gaining experience can be expensive and in some cases so much more than just money.
Before we can tackle the youth on the road problems, we need to go back to where it all started to go wrong. Let’s take a look at their tutors. We know not to swear in front of the kids, to treat others with respect and to show tolerance and kindness. How comes this all goes to pot when we get into our cars.
Let’s start with some basics.
Speed Limits, is it OK to do 10% plus 3 miles over the 30mph speed limit? Ask the people who have been on a speed awareness course. Your local council is on a good income stream from the people they catch, but we are all doing it, at some part of our drive each day. We justify it to ourselves, playing it down by saying we are “pinching a bit”, what we are really saying to our passenger/future drivers that it is OK to break the law. It isn’t OK, it is not legal and in many cases it is not safe.
The protection our little boxes provides, allows us to act in a manner you wouldn’t dream of behaving outside. We don’t go round swearing at people face to face, but think it perfectly acceptable to do so in front of the passengers in the car. It might make you feel better for a fraction of a moment. The message it is sending is ‘I can do what I want when I am driving’.
If you are not guilty of doing either of these two things, I applaud you. If you recognise these faults in yourself and your driving, they can so easily be corrected.
Gran, Grandpa, Mum and Dad, be the ambassadors for safety and show that it is paramount on the roads. Know the rules and stick to them. Let’s fix the problems we can, with youngsters thinking driving is like they are playing a video game, with a bit of learnt behaviour from the family taxi service. Show by example what good driving looks like. If you instill road safety mindset at a young age, you create better drivers for life.
To polish up your own standard of driving the first step is easy, visit, the Kent RoSPA Advanced Drivers website at www.kentrospa.org.uk, who knows, the kids might follow and the road where you live could be that much safer for all.
Do you have a passion for something – a hobby or cause that you want to raise awareness of? Perhaps you just want to share your (positive or inspiring) thoughts on a subject or life in general? Send your idea to hello@ lifeinmagazines.co.uk with the subject line ‘Final Thought.’
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We’re proud to announce that our team is growing to serve you even better.
Southeast Legacies now has a dedicated team of 10 professionals, including consultant lawyers and Emma, our experienced ex-barrister, who brings exceptional insight into complex estates.
We’re delighted to invite you to our two welcoming offices in Petts Wood and Orpington, both modern, comfortable spaces ready to meet your needs.
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