Life In loves… 6 local businesses to buy from for Mother’s Day plan your March social life!
Superintendent Luke Baldock updates residents on crime prevention
10 tips for building healthy habits WIN A PAIR OF THEATRE TICKETS PLUS A £15 ONE4ALL GIFT CARD!
THE COMMUNITY ONE PAGE AT A TIME
Withall the great local businesses in our borough, we thought it would be a great idea to highlight just a small selection of them for this month’s Mother’s Day. What can be better than treating mum locally whilst helping a local business at the same time – it’s a win-win! Check out our new Live In Loves… feature to discover some unique gifts.
Meanwhile, you might notice that we now carry the Lifestyle Health Foundation logo on this page. This is because we have just partnered with the Lifestyle Health Foundation to share a message of holistic wellness amongst our growing community. The Foundation’s mission to prevent and heal acquired mind injuries through lifestyle health aligns with our commitment to inspire positivity and mindfulness among our readers. By collaborating, we aim to raise awareness about the significance of emotional health and the value of lived experiences in achieving overall well-being and, ultimately, a healthier and more connected community. Talking of healthier communities, we had to include a Health and Fitness feature of course – and thanks to Mytime Active for sponsoring this.
In our mission to create a ‘Community Kindness Movement’ across the borough, we’d love to know what acts of kindness you’ve either made or received lately – email us at hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk – it could see you bag a £15 One4All digital gift card!
Until next month, enjoy the issue!
Lauretta Wright, Editor PS We’re delighted to announce that we made the shortlist in the Small Business Awards 2025!
Get to know us: My favourite season is…
Editorial & Sales: Lauretta Wright
lauretta@lifeinmagazines.co.uk
100% Summer
Office & Editorial Assistant: Tori Howe
hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk
Spring
Strategy & Operations: Aysha Best-Forbes
Thank you to our distributors:
Design: Nicky Grant design@lifeinmagazines.co.uk Summer
Accounts: Helen Jordan accounts@lifeinmagazines.co.uk
Spring/Autumn
Social Media & Comms: Carter Rogers
hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk
Spring, Cherry blossom are my favourite
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, 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. Interested in
Email us at hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk or text us on 07403 550068. You can also tag us in on social media @lifeinmags
Thank you to Jackie Barrie for sending in these wonderful pictures of Beckenham Place Park. Congratulations Jackie – you’ve won a £15 One4All Digital Gift card! Do you have any local pictures that you’d like to send us? Perhaps you’ve read an article that has inspired you or been thoughtprovoking? We’d love to hear from you – email hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk
Thank you to Michael Mehr for sending in this wonderful picture of some frosty fungi in Jubilee Park, Petts Wood. Keep your local pictures coming and you could see them featured in the magazine!
Attended a VIP event at Copper Ceylon in Bromley to experience the restaurant’s amazing Sri Lankan cuisine. It was hosted by Fred Sirieix of Channel 4’s First Dates and we were entertained by the wonderful Oritsé Williams. Pictured are Sarah MarshCollings (left) from Bromley Buzz and babelMonkey with Jo Chandler from ABC Bookclub and husband Roger.
Spotted our Startup Bromley posters in and around London Railway and Tube Stations. We’re proud to be a Startup Ambassador!
Caught up with advertiser James Broomfield from Our Tech having a read of the Bromley issue!
Thank you for personally delivering my prizes from the ’12 Days of Giftmas’ competition that you ran. I would like to tell readers I was amazed at my luck. But I would like to thank the retailers who donated the prizes to this wonderful competition for Life In…Magazines. Andrew Beale
Loving the gratitude Andrew and we couldn’t have run the competition without the wonderful support from local businesses!
I want to speak but you won’t let me. You're like a ghost creeping inside me It makes it hard for me to be myself, and I have a lot of anxiety. I wont let you control me, Like puppet on strings, Like you always do. It makes me distant from everyone else. It makes me feel small, And like I am not good enough. I feel like a shadow that wants to hide all the time in the darkness. I want you to go away forever. Stop trying to change me, Of who I am.
by J SELF
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 (courtesy of The Bed Post), the Star Response ( ) receives a £15 One4all digital gift card.
Spending just 20 minutes colouring works wonders for the soul. Make a start with this wonderful picture and inspirational message, then stand back and admire your handiwork!
The pace has already quickened for Mayoral events as we stride further into the New Year, which follows a comparatively light 42 events for myself and the Mayoress at the start of the year.
Raising money for my mayoral charities has been progressing nicely especially following the annual Bromley Mayoral quiz, which took place at Beckenham Halls. It was a most enjoyable evening, which included a special round on unusual facts about Bromley as it is our 60th anniversary as a borough this year, with many guests displaying their acute knowledge of unusual buildings and sites in Bromley.
An important part of the mayoral role is to support and encourage local businesses. I held a meeting with the three Bromley Deputy Lieutenants and one of the items we discussed was increasing the visibility of Bromley as a good place in which to start and develop a business and how we can attract more inward investment. On this theme I was pleased to join a dinner at Mansion House and help promote Bromley as a great location for businesses. It is always a pleasure to attend the opening of new restaurants and businesses in the borough.
I must highlight the Holocaust Memorial Day commemoration. This year was the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp on the 27th January 1945. I joined the London commemoration held at City Hall and was privileged to host our own commemoration in the new council chamber, with attendees
And here is where, the much looked forward to, season of spring, comes marching in. I love this month when everything starts to get lighter and blossoms are all around on trees, and where flowers have popped up and are shaking their colourful heads to say hello.
And, of course this also hints that it is spring cleaning time. I have been doing a lot of decluttering lately and have been rearranging furniture and getting the house nice for the coming summer months. I disposed of some dark furniture I had and ordered a lovely light cabinet and bookcase to take its place. What I hadn’t bargained for was the arrival of this new furniture in a small box –meaning I had to put it all together before I could use it! However, my lovely hubby said it wasn’t a problem. ‘Lots of furniture comes in pieces in boxes,’ he assured me, and there were full instructions as to what bit goes where. We unpacked and read the instruction manuals and immediately disagreed on what they meant. ‘No, you’re wrong,’ he told me. ‘That goes on the top, not the bottom.’
I’m hoping I’m not the only one who squabbles with their hubby over this kind of thing, but I admit to being useless at putting things together and hubby is quite good at DIY, so I said I would leave him to it. ‘You go and do the shopping,’ he told me. ‘And I’ll have it all up and finished by the time you get back.’
including a Holocaust Survivor. In my speech, I highlighted that we must never forget the truly horrific events which took place in the camps, including the brutal murder and extermination of 6 million Jews. We all need to commit to ensuring that such events can never take place again and work towards building a better future. Turning to my Mayoral themes for the year, it was great to join several events and initiatives helping those living with dementia. I would particularly highlight the session on innovative care where we saw the use of virtual reality to improve the lives of those living with dementia and helping their carers.
On the environmental theme, I was delighted to join two further litter picks and to attend (and help) at several events organised by Thames 21 on the River Ravensbourne and the River Beck at Park Langley. It is great to see the difference that has all already been made at these two sites and along these rivers. I also attended a discussion about further work to be undertaken on our local rivers. The environment theme and my interest in local history is coming together as we head towards the celebration of the 60th anniversary of the creation of the London Borough of Bromley. To mark the occasion, the Mayoress and I are undertaking a walk of the boundary of Bromley to raise money for my charities and in celebration of this great borough. Keep an eye on my social media channels and our website for more about this and the wider 60th anniversary activities soon, including how to get involved.
Best wishes
Cllr David Jefferys Mayor of Bromley (2024-2025)
Find out more at www.bromley.gov.uk/mayor
So off I went, returning an hour or so later. And yes, it was all finished and hubby had put it in the place we decided on in the now lighter looking room. Only slip up being, hubby hadn’t lived up to his reputation of being good at DIY, as he had put the top of the small cupboard on the bottom of it, and the wrong way up. Same with the bookcase. Instead of the shiny cream surface that we had agreed would lighten the room, the wooden underside on the shelves was glaring out at me. Well one was wooden side up and the other displayed the shiny cream, making it look even more of an eyesore.
‘Looks great, doesn’t it,’ he said with a pleased grin, ‘You ordered well. It really brightens the room.’
I didn’t have the heart to tell him it was the wrong way up, and that the bookcase was lopsided. It leaned in similarity to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Anyway, he was pleased with himself so who was I to criticise, and as hubby had said earlier, ‘Men are better at this sort of thing!’
For more about me and my crime novels see www.lindareganonline.co.uk
Whether you’re just setting out or have already started up, our team is here to help you.
Book a free consultation now with one of our Business Support Managers to find out more.
Support available includes:
Accessing finance for your small business
Finding relevant programmes or events near you
Boosting your marketing and sales
Upskilling yourself or your team
Anything else you need to start and grow your business
We’re always on the lookout for great ideas and great businesses to support locally. Here’s our roundup of ideas for treating mum this Mother’s Day!
Please mention Life In…Bromley when booking any of these amazing Mother’s Day treats. It helps support local businesses in knowing what’s working for them.
Celebrate your special mum this Mother’s Day with a luxurious facial treatment at NVH Aesthetics. Treat her to glowing skin, relaxation, and the care she deserves. Give the gift of beauty and self-care this year. Treatments range from Dermalux LED Light Therapy to Collagen Induction Therapy and everything in between! Visit www.nvhaesthetics.com, email nvhaesthetics@gmail.com for details and to book call 078 18894190.
This Mother's Day
Treat Mum to an unforgettable dining experience at Copper Ceylon. Featuring vibrant Sri Lankan flavours, expertly crafted signature dishes, and decadent desserts, it's a celebration she won't forget. Mums will receive a complimentary glass of Prosecco with their meal. Book now on 07700145708 or visit www.copperceylon.com.
Indulge mum with Afternoon Tea at The Landing where she’ll enjoy a selection of exquisite teas, savoury sandwiches and delectable pastries in a charming atmosphere, with fantastic views over London Biggin Hill Airport. Prices are £29.95 per person and you can choose from traditional, gluten-free and plant-based options. Booking for Mother’s Day? Mum will be treated to a free glass of prosecco with an Afternoon Tea booking! See www.thelandinghotel.co.uk or to book call 01959-584750.
Give the gift of better sleep, improved wellbeing, deep relaxation and increased happiness through reflexology. Treatments with Victoria Legg Holistic Reflexology are given in a peaceful therapy room in Bromley North and include foot and facial reflexology, as well as Zone Face Lift, leaving mum feeling blissedout, with a smoother face to match. Gift vouchers available. For details see www.victorialegg.com, email vicky.legg@gmail.com or call 07702 929795.
What mum doesn’t love a beautiful bouquet? Bromley’s Wells Flowers (252B High St) can make up a stunning arrangement with mum’s favourite flowers. There is a wide range of colours and flowers to choose from or you have one of the florist’s choices. They even sell chocolates, bubbly fizz and cuddly bears for that extra something special. Order online at www.wellsflowers.co.uk or call them on 020 8313 9733.
Nick from Nicholas Foreman Jewellery makes a wide array of jewellery, specialising in handmade rings, necklaces, pendants, brooches and tiaras, as well as carrying out repairs and alterations. You can commission Nick to make a bespoke item of jewellery as a real treat for mum. Email Nick at nick@ nickforemanjewellery.co.uk or give him a call on 07753- 611769.
Co-founders of Copper Ceylon, Lavanya and Haran Thurairajah celebrate the launch of their new look and menu with Fred Sirieix of Channel 4’s First Dates.
Copper Ceylon, Bromley's destination restaurant for Sri Lankan cuisine, recently hosted an exclusive VIP event last night, marking the launch of its new 2025 menu. This highly anticipated evening celebrated Sri Lanka’s vibrant culture, culinary heritage, and its growing influence on the global food scene.
The event was hosted by Fred Sirieix, beloved star of Channel 4’s First Dates, and featured a special live performance by Oritsé Williams. Attendees included Bromley’s business leaders and dignitaries, alongside the Mayor and Mayoress of Bromley and the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka, underscoring the cultural significance of the celebration. The restaurant’s new menu, unveiled during the event, pays homage to Sri Lanka’s culinary traditions while embracing modern innovation. Highlights include iconic Sri Lankan staples such as fiery Jaffna Mutton Curry and delicate Hoppers, alongside contemporary twists like Vegan Lemon Pudding, showcasing the versatility and depth of the cuisine.
For more information see www.copperceylon.com
Join our team as a telesales superstar!
Are you an experienced and enthusiastic telesales professional looking for an exciting new opportunity? Life In…Magazines is on the hunt for talented individuals to join our small, friendly and supportive team. We publish 3 fantastic community titles: Life In Orpington, Life In Bromley and Life In Beckenham. This is a commission-only role where you can enjoy unlimited earning potential based on your performance.
Following initial training, you can choose to work in the office or from home – perfect for fitting around your existing commitments. We'll give you all the tools and support you’ll need to succeed to help local businesses thrive by connecting them with their community.
If you have…
- Previous telesales experience
- Excellent communication skills
- A positive, enthusiastic can-do attitude
- A passion for community and local businesses
Get in touch with us – we’d love to hear from you. Send your CV and a brief cover letter to lauretta@lifeinmagazines.co.uk
Bromley Scouts has 44 groups across the Borough offering exciting opportunities to young people aged 4 to 18 and want to do more! Do you have an interesting hobby or job? Can you spare an occasional hour to help teach a new skill? They’d love to speak to you –email dc@bromleyscouts.org.
Always wanted to see your Granny’s favourite apple pie recipe published in a cookbook? Or your mum’s top secret banana bread recipe shared with your neighbours? Charitable trust and local leisure provider, Mytime Active, is working alongside One Bromley to produce a new community recipe book for Bromley residents. The ‘Bromley Community Cookbook’ will include a collection of healthy recipes that have been submitted by local residents. Each recipe will also share the family’s story about the dish and show a picture of the recipe, plus nutritional information.
The cookbook will be focussed on delicious, healthy recipes along with a few more indulgent treats. Residents are being asked to submit their favourite healthy family recipes for possible inclusion at www.mytimeactive.co.uk/recipe-book
When launched, a limited number of free printed copies will be available and there will also be a free online version of the cookbook.
Life In…Magazines is proud to support the charity CASPA at this year’s Above and Beyond Bromley Business Awards (The ABBBAs).
The annual event attracts over 320 people to highlight and celebrate businesses across the borough that go ‘above and beyond’.
Sponsorship opportunities are available by emailing awards@lifeinmagazines.co.uk and early bird tickets for this year’s event (on Thursday 13th November) are now available online at www.the-abbbas.co.uk
‘Humbling and Inspirational’
Humbling and inspirational were the words used by the Mayor of Bromley to describe this year’s Bromley Borough Rotary Youth Awards. Sponsored by London Biggin Hill Airport, the event saw around 250 proud family members, Rotarians and local dignitaries join together at The Langley Performing Arts Centre to see and hear about 36 young people recognised for their outstanding contribution to the community. Award winners came from 17 secondary schools across Bromley Borough and were presented with a certificate, a voucher and ticket to Bromley Football Club by Cllr Dr David Jefferys, Bromley’s Mayor.
Books in the Park, Southeast London’s festival for book lovers of all ages, will return to Beckenham Place Park on Saturday 26th April. The full programme will be revealed on Monday 3rd March at www.booksinthepark. org. Festival goers will find captivating author talks and writing workshops, guided walks, exciting children’s events, Food and Farmers Market, and more.
Tickets go on sale Monday 3rd March at www.booksinthepark.org
Save the date - Saturday 26th April 2025 - for a full day of book festival fun and inspiration.
The winners were: Aminat Adekanme, Layla Allen, Maria Chenery, Millie Choy, Sofia Wilson, Oliver Copus, Laura Cox, Jacob Fenwick-Read, Lily Francis, Amelia Freeman, Lachlann Pearce, Rowan Godsell, Gabrielle Grey, Oliver Gustafik, Zyana Haider, Alex Hamblin, Sophie Li, Amelia Johnson, Arunima Karve, Freya Keable, Amaan Miah, Bleddyn Mottershead, Pierreice Powell, Rene Powell, Aneesh Sagar, Ojal Sangle, Preciuus Shaumba, Gabriella Smaizyte, Eythan, Soysa, Chloe Stevens, Pamoda Vitharana, Jade Warwick, Christopher Welch, Charlotte Weller, Aoife West and Thomas Williamson.
Work to construct a new state-of-the-art Health and Wellbeing Centre in Bromley’s new Civic Centre building is now underway. The centre will include a GP surgery and will bring a range of healthcare services to the heart of Bromley town centre with a view to improving local health facilities.
The centre is being designed to provide accessible, efficient and integrated health care, with spacious consulting and treatment rooms. Following its completion the centre will offer a modern and welcoming environment, tailored to meet a range of health needs. The Dysart GP Surgery from Ravensbourne Road will move to the new centre, bringing GP services closer to more residents and providing care in a modern and accessible setting.
Win a pair of tickets to see Menopause The Musical 2 on 25th April.
Name:
To celebrate this month’s International Women’s Day, we’ve listed 15 amazing women from past and present. All you have to do is find their names in the grid. Names can run forwards, backwards and diagonally. However, one of the names is missing from the grid. This is the winning name.
Date:
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.
Helen Keller
Simone Biles
Anne Frank
Ariana Grande
Oprah Winfrey
Ada Lovelace
Joan of Arc
Greta Thunberg
Serena Williams
Michelle Obama
Malala Yousafzai
Frida Kahlo
Marie Curie
Taylor Swift Cleopatra
Malala Yousafzai Greta Thunberg Cleopatra
January winner: Salma Begum February answer: GLARE
Joan of Arc Taylor Swift Frida Kahlo
Michelle Obama Serena Williams Ada Lovelace
Oprah Winfrey Ariana Grande Anne Frank
Simone Biles Helen Keller
Strictly one entry per person. Competitions are open to Bromley Borough residents only. For competition terms and conditions see https://bit.ly/lifeincomps
Join the fun & stay in the loop! By participating in our monthly puzzles, you're in for a treat! You'll automatically be added to our database to receive our fantastic monthly newsletter, complete with digital issues straight to your inbox. We love keeping our community engaged and informed. If you ever fancy opting out, just give us a shout. Happy puzzling!
Either text or email your answer, along with your full name, telephone number and postal address to hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk
BY 16TH MARCH for your chance to win!
Mixed Media Powertex Art & Craft Workshops with Aferdita
Friday 7th March: 9.30am–2pm; Friday 28th of March: 9.30am–2pm
Little Painter Art Classes Art Studio, 13 The Green, Hayes, BR2 7NP
Cost: Both workshops are £60 per person. All materials, coffee / tea provided.
Contact: aferditafd@gmail.com or call 07534-655355
Aferdita, a certified Powertex Tutor, offers mixed media, fabric sculpting and stone art adult workshops for all skill levels. Participants are guided step-by-step to create unique, environmentally friendly artwork using Powertex, a versatile, water-based medium that hardens to rock-like texture for both indoor and outdoor displays. To book visit https://aferditafazliudrozd.com
Ballroom Dance Classes
Every Thursday, 8.30pm-10.30pm
Main Hall, Beckenham Baptist Church, Elm Road -opposite the Beckenham Spa
Cost: £10 per class pay as you go. No membership or pre-payment required
Contact: Email lionssamba@virginmedia.com or call 07939 542758
We are a social dance class with one or two short sessions of instruction, alongside general social dancing. No partners required and beginners welcome
Beginners Tai Chi Classes in Bromley
Every Thursday, 7pm-8pm
St. Mark’s School, Bromley, BR2 0QR
Cost: £10 per class
Contact: Text or call Julian on 07957 925 506
Traditional Tai Chi taught in a relaxed and friendly
environment. Lessons begin with soft exercises which are designed to balance the body’s structure. The remainder of the class will focus on learning the first part of the Tai Chi form.
Master Williams 7th Dan Taekwondo Club
Every Tuesday 7pm-8pm.
Every Saturday 11am-12pm
Holy Trinity Church Hall, Church Lane, Bromley Common, BR2 8LB
Cost: £10 per lesson PAYG
Contact: 07952 503660 or email martialartwilliams@gmail.com
Master (Tony) Williams has 42 years of experience teaching self-defence and fitness, and as a judge at National, European, World and Super League competitions. He has taught a range of nationalities at schools, universities, sports centres and private clubs and has numerous past student successes. He also offers 1-to-1 and black belt enhancement classes.
Wellness In Motion Pilates Classes
Every Wednesday. Classes at 4.15pm, 5.15pm, 6.45pm and 7.45pm
United Reform Church, 20 Widmore Rd, Bromley BR1 1RY
Cost: Intro offer: 4 classes for £25
Contact: Email wellness.in.motion.wm@gmail.com or call 07760533239
Classes range from chair Pilates (4.15pm) and gentle Pilates (5.15pm), to mixed ability (6.45pm) and yin yoga for relaxation (7.45pm). All aim to mobilise and strengthen the body in a safe and supported way. Pilates is known to improve posture, injury prevention, improve balance, define the muscles and reduce back pain. Elettra is also a dance instructor for children and adults and can offer any type of class online or at home. www.instagram.com/wellness_in_motion_wm
In Conversation with Dave Fishwick 'The Bank of Dave.'
Tuesday 25th March, 5:30pm-8pm
Bromley Central Library, High St Bromley, BR1 1EX
Cost: Free
Contact: Email StartupBromley@GLL.ORG
The business journey of Dave Fishwick, founder of Burnley Savings and Loans Ltd, The Bank of Dave. This is already gearing up to be a full house and Chandra Sharma from Startup Bromley will be leading this Q&A session, offering an insight into Dave’s life. To book visit the Startup Bromley page on Eventbrite.
Startup Bromley Procurement Event
Tuesday 25th March, 12pm-4pm
Bromley Central Library, High St Bromley, BR1 1EX
Cost: Free
Contact: Email StartupBromley@GLL.ORG
This highly anticipated event is a must for anyone looking to do business in Bromley. A variety of organisations will be attending including Newable and FSB, sharing everything from identifying needs and selecting suppliers to negotiating contracts and managing supplier relationships. Laurence Downes, Assistant Director Governance & Contracts / Interim AD Commissioning & Programmes at Bromley Council will also be delivering a presentation. Book via the Startup Bromley page on Eventbrite.
Bromley Business Network
Wednesday 12th & 26th March, 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 and the first meeting is discounted. For details see bromleybusinessnetwork.co.uk
'Going West on the Train' by Brian Biggs
Wednesday 19th March, 8pm-9pm
Bromley Methodist Church, BR1 3NS (enter from church car park off North Street)
Cost: £7 (£5 if you join our group)
Contact: Email hello@ntbbcentre.org.uk
Visitors are welcome at this talk, just turn up. NT Beckenham & Bromley Centre, a National Trust supporter group. Talks and visits to places of interest. Membership £15 to December 2025. For details see www.ntbbcentre.org.uk
Books in the Park - SAVE THE DATE
Saturday 26th April
Cost: Free
Contact: enquiries@booksinthepark.org
Books in the Park returns to Beckenham Place Park for its second fun-packed year on Saturday 26th April 2025.
Festival goers will find captivating author talks and writing workshops, guided walks, exciting children’s events, Food and Farmers Market, and more. Tickets go on sale Monday 3rd March. For details see www.booksinthepark.org.
Parental Conflict (Bromley Parenting Hub)
Free e-learning course (now available online)
Location: Available on the ME Learning platform and requires free registration.
Cost: Free
Contact: Call Bromley Children Project admin team on 020 8461 7259 or email parentingcourses@bromley.gov.uk
The Reducing Parental Conflict course is free, convenient and includes interactive tools and videos. The course offers information on: What is parental conflict and its negative impact on children's outcomes; How to recognise conflict triggers in everyday life and how to keep arguments healthy; Overview of the free support and tools available in Bromley. For details see www.bromley.gov.
uk/BromleyParentingHub
u3a Talks – Curiosities of the City of London 18th March, 10.30am-12pm
Cost: Members free, visitors £5
Whitfield Hall, United Reformed Church, Widmore Road, Bromley, BR1 1RY
Contact: 020 8777 6345, email membershipsecretary@ u3abromley.org.uk or see www.u3abromley.org.uk
u3a Bromley holds a monthly talk on a diverse range of topics and we welcome members of the public. We have over 70 different interest groups from Walking to Talking, Gardening to Genealogy, Philosophy to Psychology, Science to Singing - the choice is endless. This month’s talk is by Stuart Robinson entitled “Curiosities of the City of London."
Macular Society Bromley Support Group
1st Tuesday of every month (except January & August) 10am for tea/coffee & biscuits. Meeting starts at 10:30am, finishing at 12pm
Bromley Town Church, 2 Ethelbert Road, Bromley, BR1 1JA
Cost: Free
Contact: No need to contact - just turn up
We are a local support group for people suffering with Age related Macular Degeneration (AMD). Being diagnosed with AMD can be devastating, so we look to provide social interaction and mutual support to those affected. We have a variety of speakers and a mixed and diverse programme.
Bromley Mum2mum Market
Saturday 22nd March, 2pm-4pm
Hayes Free Church, 111 Pickhurst Lane, Hayes BR2 7HU
Cost: Admission is £2 for adults and free entry for children
Contact: Email: Lucy@mum2mummarket.co.uk
Buy quality second hand baby and children's clothes, toys and equipment at the biggest baby and children's nearly new sale in the borough! Come along for your chance to shop from thousands of bargains at a fraction of original prices. For details see www.mum2mummarket.co.uk
'Secrets of a Crossword Setter' by
Tim Moorey
Thursday 6th March 2.30-3.30pm
Beckenham Methodist Church, BR3 5JE
Cost: £7 (£5 if you join our group)
Contact: Email hello@ntbbcentre.org.uk
Visitors welcome at this talk, just turn up. NT Beckenham & Bromley Centre, a National Trust supporter group. Talks and visits to places of interest. Membership £15 to December 2025.
For details see www.ntbbcentre.org.uk
Bromley Oecumenical Singers
BOES Charity Concert
Saturday 29th March, 7.30pm-9.30pm
St. Mary’s Church, College Road, Bromley BR1 3QG
Cost: Tickets £10 on the door, under 16’s free
Contact: Email boesbromley@gmail.com
Come and join us for an evening of song! Along with our fantastic soloists, the choir will be performing well known choruses from Madama Butterfly, Nabucco, Carmen, Cavalleria Rusticana and more. Our good cause will be a local Bromley charity. For details see www.boesbromley.org.uk or visit us on Facebook or Instagram.
Beckenham Chorale Spring Concert
Saturday 22nd March, 7pm-9.30pm
St George’s Church, High Street, Beckenham, BR3 1AX
Cost: £20, £15 and £5 concessions
Contact: Tickets online www.ticketsource.co.uk/ beckenhamchorale and on the door from 6.15pm Mozart C Minor Mass and other works. We are delighted to welcome Guest Conductor, James Morgan for what is generally considered to be Mozart’s greatest choral work after the Requiem. With soaring melodic arias and dramatic choral dialogue it is by turn powerful, exhilarating and profound. Perfectly matched with Exsultate, Jubilate!
For details see www.beckenhamchorale.org.uk
Line DancingCarolina Country Music Club
Line Dance Classes – beginners and intermediates (Every Wednesday) 7th March (Bacardi & Coke), 21st March (Wayne T), 29th March (60s night - charity)
7.30pm-10pm on Wednesdays and 7.30pm11pm on Fridays
Pickhurst Infant School, Pickhurst Lane, West Wickham, Bromley BR4 0HL
Cost: £7 Wednesday, £10 Friday
Contact: 020 8462 5314 or email: jdhorniblow@btinternet.com
Come along and give us a try, make new friends, keep fit and have fun! We cater for all abilities and all ages. Refreshments available (tea, coffee, biscuits). For more information see www.facebook.com/ CarolinaCountryMusicClub
Churchill Theatre, Bromley
Contact: tickets@churchilltheatre.co.uk
One Night Of Elvis - Lee Memphis King
Sunday 9th March, 7:30pm
Lee Memphis King, Europe’s most successful Elvis Presley tribute artist, recreates the essence of the King with stunning authenticity - the voice, the passion and the energy that Elvis put into his songs. Pure entertainment and Pure Presley.
Murder, She Didn't Write Friday 14th March, 7:30pm
Don your deerstalker, grab your magnifying glass and get your ‘finger of suspicion’ at the ready because Edinburgh Fringe favourites, Degrees of Error, are bringing back their multiple sell-out show for your sleuthing pleasure. Laugh along as you, the audience, become the author of your very own Agatha Christie-inspired masterpiece. But will you guess whodunnit before the killer is revealed?
Life In...Magazines now features an online events calendar where you can submit your event for free! Submit yours at lifeinmagazines.co.uk/events or scan the QR code
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.
10TH MARCH
To advertise call 020 3488 9959 email hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk Spaces are allocated on a first come, first served basis. @lifeinmags
Life In...Bromley 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.
This month I want to talk about crime prevention. Ultimately, to prevent crime is the primary objective of the police.
Making use of our data insight platform (which is now available to all officers,) we are precisely analysing trends as to where crime is concentrating.
This means right down to a street level we can identify hotspots, which naturally move and shift all the time. Each month we will identify the top roads which are being affected by burglary and motor vehicle crime. These roads will be visited by our officers and bespoke crime prevention leaflets will be delivered with advice to protect your homes and vehicles based specifically on the current offending types. You will know these aren’t generic leaflets as it will be produced specifically for your street and clearly marked as such, so you know it is important.
If you receive one of these, they are not designed to cause worry, but to let you know that we are spotting a trend and what you can do to make your home and belongings safe. This is based on research and is produced as a result of advice provided to us by Professor Jason Roach of Huddersfield University. This approach has been proven to work in reducing burglary and car crime elsewhere, so we are simply adopting things that work. Should you receive one, please feel free to reach out to your local team if you have questions. We are committed to using innovative techniques to prevent crime. As an example, the retail operation I mentioned last month has now led to a 30% reduction in vehicle crime in January. We believe this is because the same people committing retail crime are also breaking into cars, and by targeting the retail offences we are seeing benefits in other offence types.
Superintendent Luke Baldock Bromley Borough Neighbourhood Policing
As I write this month’s article I am once again looking at our prevention work across the Borough.
I wanted to take a moment to share that I will be moving on from my role here as the Borough Commander in Bromley as I take on a new role as Deputy Assistant Commissioner within the London Fire Brigade.
It has been an incredible experience over the past few years here in Bromley. Together, we’ve worked on initiatives that have truly made a difference in our communities, and I am proud of what we have accomplished. The trust, professionalism and shared commitment to making a positive impact have been key to our successful partnership and a benefit to Bromley residents, visitors and those that work here. The London Fire Brigade will remain to be a key player in our partnership work for the safety of those we protect. My crews are once again looking at our prevention work across the Borough. Working together we can look at the risks we face and prepare for their impact, both at home and in the community.
Cooking: Even if you're a very careful cook, accidents can happen, so it's a good idea to know what to do. If a pan
catches fire, there are 4 steps to take to stay safe:
• Don't tackle the fire yourself and don't try to move the pan.
• Never throw water over a fire as it could create a fireball.
• Turn off the heat – but only if it's safe to do so.
• Leave the room, close the door, shout a warning to others and call 999.
Candles: Over 200 fires at home involved candles last year. Although they create a gorgeous warm glow, candles need handling with care. In 2020, over 200 fires in London were connected to candle use. That's why we recommend you swap your wax candles for 'flameless' candles such as LED tea lights.
Our online home fire safety checker tool allows you to carry out a thorough check of your home in only a few minutes. It’s simple and practical, giving you specific advice for your family and your home. Check it out here and other safety tips on our website: www.london-fire.gov.uk/safety/ the-home/home-fire-safety/homefire-safety-checker-hfsc/ or call us free on 0800 028 4428 to arrange an in-person visit.
Chris Line, Borough Commander London Borough of Bromley, London Fire Brigade
by PAM PREEDY
As I sit in my front bedroom study, looking for inspiration for my next article, I watch a variety of vans and cars driving up our little close, drivers checking for the address for their next delivery. Oddly enough, it hadn’t occurred to me that families are still taking delivery of a variety of items. Deliveries in the 21st century are different from those in previous centuries. When we look back over time and delve a bit deeper, we realise that these changes coincide with social and technological advances.
For us in the 21st century, technology has been the driving force for change. Those of us born in the middle of the 20th century have seen the death of the coalman keeping our coal holes filled for warmth and for some, cooking. The milkman has almost, but not quite, disappeared from our streets. Postal workers and newspaper boys are disappearing. Instead of up to 12 postal deliveries a day in the 19th century, today we might see the postman maybe once a day or every other day. I see the newspaper boys delivering to one or two homes in our street each day. When I was a newspaper girl in the late 1950s we used our bikes and expected to deliver papers to several homes in each road. We must have been stronger then because at the weekend publishers added magazines to their newspaper. We still managed to get them to the customers. How much longer can newspapers and the deliveries last? As people switch to the internet, smart phones and television for their news fewer people buy
newspapers removing the need for the newspaper delivery boy. But it is not only advances in technology that has created the decline of deliveries, but also growing concerns for the safety of the boys and girls so employed and the establishment of a free paper.
Open All Hours provides a glimpse into the ubiquitous Corner Shop in which David Jason as Granville made the deliveries on his bicycle. It broadcast between 1976 and 1985. Food shopping has gone through its own metamorphosis into the large self-service stores, where the majority of shoppers buy their groceries. In spite of all the changes, it seems the Corner Shop has survived, and it is estimated that there are in the region of 50,000 convenience stores still thriving. As the size of the stores grew, they began to deliver their goods. The Croydon Sainsbury branch introduced deliveries in 1882 and from 1999 began online groceries. Ocado started in 2000 for Waitrose, while Amazon opened their service in 1997 and expanded to Amazon Prime in 2005. Today, Deliveroo works with around 182,000 restaurants, grocers and retailers.
My husband remembers the Corona delivery lorry bringing bottles of Tizer to his home. Its original name was ‘Pickup’s Appetizer’ and was often advertised as “It’s a red thing.” It was invented by Fred and Tom Pickup and launched in 1924. The original recipe included lots of additives and E numbers. When they changed the recipe to eliminate the additives there were complaints, such as “DON’T DRINK IT! It tastes of fruit now and ruined my childhood memories of fizzy chemicals. Ecologically sound, the red drink came in a bottle and the empties taken away.”
In the first half of the 20th century, several entrepreneurial shopkeepers, bakers, butchers and grocers would deliver their goods to homes in the local area. According to my aunt (aged 101), children could go to the local shop with a bowl to collect Walls ice-cream. Another delivery came in the form of the laundry. In Bromley one of the most successful laundries was started by Henry Podger, but this is the cliff-hanger - more of him later. This is merely an introduction. From time-to-time I will be writing about the history of several iconic deliverymen.
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
Returning to work after a career break?
Want a role in finance and need a professional qualification?
Need to develop your skills for a new, better paid role (for example as a legal or medical secretary)?
Contact us today on 020 3307 6000 to arrange a free and confidential discussion with one of our Course Advisors.
bromley@pitman-training.com www.pitman-training.com/bromley
We provide training and development to individuals and businesses across South East London and North West Kent. With a shortage of skills there has never been a more important time to invest in training and development.
Our fully equipped training centre is located at: 3rd Floor Chelsea House 26 Market Square Bromley BR1 1NA
Find out how we can help you to develop the skills you need to secure the role you want.
Mytime Active awarded mark of excellence for Bromley Leisure Centres.
Mytime Active has been awarded The Active Standard (TAS) from ukactive, a new mark of excellence that demonstrates its commitment to ensuring quality, safety and inclusivity.
Mytime Active’s Steve May says: “Our family-friendly facilities aim to support every segment of our communities, from children and parents to golfers and older people, on their journey to a more active lifestyle. The TAS certification
1. Start with a health boost: Kick off your mornings with a vibrant green smoothie or a warm, nutrientpacked elixir like ginger tea and a delicious bowl of fruit with granola and yoghurt. Getting those essential fruits and vegetables in early in the day is a great way to fuel your energy and vitality.
2. Fill half your plate with veggies: At every meal, aim for half your plate to consist of colourful, fresh or cooked vegetables. This simple rule boosts fibre intake (90% of of UK adults don't eat enough fibre), as well as adding in more essential vitamins and minerals.
3. Prep like a pro: Batch cook in advance. Cook soups, roast sweet potatoes or prep lentil-based curries to ensure healthy options are always within reach to help avoid giving into the temptation of fastfood takeaways or sugar-laden snacks when you are feeling hungry.
4. Think global: Explore traditionally veg-heavy cuisines like Thai, Indian or Mediterranean. These naturally centre on fresh, plant-based ingredients and bold flavours destined to tempt your taste buds.
5. Steer clear of processed: Seek out recipes which represent natural, wholefoods rather than eating purchased meals with ultra processed ingredients,
tells the public and healthcare partners, who refer people with a wide range of needs to us, that we take their health, wellbeing and safety seriously.”
Lew Ralph, 52, from Petts Wood, was referred to Mytime Active for cardiac rehab after a heart attack. He says: “It’s best thing I’ve ever done. It’s not just about exercise – the team go through your medications and help make it all less alien, and nurses monitor your blood pressure during class, so you feel safe to push yourself.
“Mytime’s classes should be compulsory for cardiac patients. They allayed my fears and reassured me I could get back to normal. My confidence went through the roof. We all came out as different people; it’s life changing.”
To find out more about Mytime Active’s services including gyms, swimming pools, exercise classes, golf courses and much more, visit: https://www.mytimeactive.co.uk/
as these will not only be healthier, but since ultraprocessed foods are likely to make you feel hungrier, you may find yourself consuming more calories which can lead to weight gain.
6. Move more: Humans are not designed to be sedentary! Physical activity is key to vitality. Make moving an absolute priority. Take a brisk morning walk, find time for a cheeky dance break to your favourite playlist or take up a new hobby such as yoga or pilates.
7. Try meat-free Mondays: If you’re a real meat lover, why not initially try experimenting with just one plant-based meal a week to make a more seamless transition to incorporating more plant-based ingredients into the diet? They’re healthier for you and your budget!
8. Snack smart: Switch out nutritionally poor snacks for healthier (and more filling options) like carrot sticks and hummus, or roasted chickpeas with tamari and nutritional yeast. Simple swaps like these will make all the difference and will soon become a habit.
9. Reconnect with nature: Spend time outdoors, even in the winter. A stroll in the fresh air can work wonders for your mental and physical health.
10. Involve your community: Share your goals with friends and family or join a healthy living challenge. Accountability makes sticking to changes much easier.
Source: The Happy Pear (www.thehappypear.ie)
Name: John Morsley
Occupation: Chartered Surveyor & Commercial Manager for the DLR.
Lives: Bromley
What’s remarkable? John turned his talent for running to supporting and raising money for M.E. when his wife’s daughter was diagnosed three years ago.
How did your love of running start?
Initially, I ran cross-country runs when I was at Crayford Secondary School. I enjoyed being a member of Beckenham Running Club.
Tell us more about why you run for Action for ME. I use my running to raise funds for Action for M.E. for research to find the cause, a treatment and cure for M.E. and to help people understand what this disease is.
Title: The Memories of Us
Author: Vanessa Carnevale
Publisher: Avon
Reviewed by: Klesta Selmani
Gracie’s life takes an unexpected turn and everything she ever knew is wiped out of her memory. Who does she turn to for help? Will she live the same life twice? Or will she restart down a completely different path? Due to a car crash she is left with severe amnesia, forcing her to put her trust into the memories of others to help her settle back down. Gracie decides to leave everything and everyone behind and move to her late mother’s flower farm in order to learn who she is now. This opens her up to a feeling of excitement and mystery associated with love as she meets a handsome neighbour. Overall, a captivating read filled with clues and plot twists.
I would give this a 4-star rating.
ME affects millions of people worldwide, tell us more about it.
Someone with M.E. is like a battery that never fully recharges. The symptoms of M.E. go beyond chronic fatigue and pain as it is a disease of the whole nervous system.
You’re running the London Marathon again this year; how many times have you run it now and are you hoping for a PB?
I’ve run 16 London Marathons and my PB was 3:10 in 2010. I’m a bit older now so in April I’m hoping for a Good-for-Age time of sub 3:37. I’ve built up my own list of Top 20 tips to running the London Marathon which I’d be happy to share.
What does community mean to you?
It helps enormously towards my sense of wellbeing having friends and neighbours around me (like when a neighbour popped up to run the last leg of the VLM with me). The community spirit of the London Marathon charity teams is great.
Literary delights read & reviewed by Bromley borough residents
Title: Your Own Personal Time Machine
Author: Ian Child
Publisher: Equeum
Reviewed by: Lauretta Wright
If you’ve ever wished for more hours in the day, this is packed with practical advice, witty insights and real-life strategies. From having ‘an outsourcing mindset’, to the difference between working on ‘THEM’ tasks and ‘ME’ tasks – not something we normally think about. The author, Child, is a former corporate leader turned productivity expert, and in this 328-page guide, he breaks down time management myths and offers a step-by-step guide to reclaiming your schedule. His engaging style makes complex concepts easy to grasp, and his humour keeps things light. By the time I’d finished reading this book, there were plenty of dog-eared pages for me to refer back to – and even pages I wanted to print to stick next to my desk as a reminder.
It’s 4.5 stars from me.
If you’ve read a book you’d like to review, please email hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk with the details
With the cost of living continuing to rise, consumers are turning to supermarket own-brand products to cut costs without sacrificing quality. Here are some of the most cost-effective supermarket snack dupes…
McVitie's Jaffa Cakes Original Biscuits (110g)
Boasting a high review score of 4.8 out of five and a cost of £0.06 per serving (£1.35 per pack), Morrisons Jaffa Cakes (24 Pack, 300g) are a must-try alternative. This ownbrand alternative earned a higher review score than that of McVitie’s Jaffa Cakes, which, on average, also cost more than double (£0.14 per serving).
Twix Caramel & Milk Chocolate Fingers Twin Biscuit Snack Bars (Multipack 4x40g, 160g)
For Twix lovers, Tesco’s Crunchy Caramel Chocolate Bars (210g) are an ideal option. This dupe has a higher review score of 4.7 out of five compared to Twix’s 3.6 and are priced at £0.29 per bar (£1.45 per pack). Twix, on the other hand, costs £0.46 per bar (£1.83 per pack) and offers one less chocolate bar in comparison.
Walkers Quavers Cheese (Multipack Crisps Snacks, 6x16g)
Tesco Cheese Curls (10 Pack, 150g) are the ultimate
dupe when craving a cheesy snack. These crisps offer 10 packs compared to Walkers six, for a fraction of the price, costing just £0.14 per bag (£1.35 per pack) and scoring 4.8 out of five according to reviews. Quavers come in at £0.19 per serving (£1.15 per pack), but with a smaller overall portion size and a lower review score of 4.4.
Cadbury Chocolate Mini Rolls Cakes (x10, 260g) Essentials Waitrose 10 Chocolate Mini Rolls (268g) have a review score of 4.4 out of five, just 0.2 points lower than the Cadbury version, and a cost of only £0.15 per serving (£1.50 per pack) offering exceptional value compared to the Cadbury version, which, on average, costs £0.31 per serving (£3.08 per pack).
McVitie's Digestives the Original Biscuits 360g Sainsbury's Digestives (400g) are a great alternative for tea dunkers. At just £0.02 per biscuit (£0.55 per pack), they cost less than half the price of McVitie's (£1.84 per pack) while boasting the same impressive review score of 4.4 out of five.
Source: CritiqueJeu
To celebrate this month’s Pancake Day (4th March!), The Happy Pear has provided a scrumptious recipe from their new book The Happy Pear 20: Recipes and Learnings from the first 20 years, published by Gill Books and priced at £23.99.
These easy pancakes are sweet and crispy, topped with some chocolate, orange zest and a squeeze of juice. We use wholemeal flour to make them a little healthier but they’re still a total treat!
Serves 3–4 (makes 6–8 pancakes)
120g wholemeal or brown flour (use buckwheat for GF option)
270ml non-dairy milk
1 tbsp ground flaxseeds
2 tbsp cacao powder
¼ tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 tbsp maple syrup
1 tsp baking powder
zest of 1 orange
a little oil for the pan
To serve 50g chocolate of choice 2 oranges
Make the batter: In a blender, add all the ingredients for the batter (apart from the oil) and blend till smooth. If you don’t have a blender, mix all the ingredients well in a bowl, and leave to sit for 3–4 minutes for the flax to thicken the batter.
Cook the pancakes: Heat a pan on a high heat. Once hot, reduce to medium. Coat the bottom with a little oil. Pour in a light coating of batter and spread evenly. Cook on one side until bubbles start to form and the edges start to dry out. Turn the pancake (a silicone spatula works best) and add a few small pieces of chocolate and a squeeze of juice from the orange and cook until the chocolate has melted and the bottom is golden. Remove to a warm plate and repeat with the rest of your batter.
Serve: Use a spoon to spread the melted chocolate, sprinkle with some more orange zest, then serve.
Karen was nominated by Kathy Bance who said: “Karen has spent many years in different volunteering roles. She’s a full-time carer for her husband who had a serious stroke, mum to a teenage daughter who requires lots of assistance and she is someone who devotes all her spare time to supporting others. Amongst her volunteering roles has been marshalling at the lakes, client support at a Monday lunch club and chaperoning children/adults with special educational needs. She never complains about life.
Hey Karen! How does it feel to be nominated as a local hero by Kathy?
I was honoured to be nominated by Kathy who does so much for the community herself.
We hear that you have been involved in a number of volunteering activities and community projects. Could you explain what you’ve been involved in and give us some background on how you have got involved?
I have been volunteering since my 20s on various projects including youth work, food banks, baby banks and church projects. In lockdown I set up a charity bingo zoom game to raise money for a local boy who needed life-changing medical equipment. In November 2022 I decided to set up my own project The Lunch Club. I felt so strongly after the energy prices hike that I would offer a warm space and offer food to those who needed it in Penge. Along with my friend, Kathy, we set up at home at St John’s in Penge. I have a variety of volunteers who make the tea, lay the tables, wash up, serve food and chat to our visitors and I absolutely cherish them. The lunch feeds 25-30 elderly, lonely and vulnerable people in Penge a three-course meal every week. We also offer weekly entertainment from exercise, singing, craft, bingo and the highlight was our D-day celebration. We are non-funded and rely on the kindness of the community. Currently ten of the local Penge businesses contribute food and drink donations to the lunch club – a wonderful example of giving back to their community.
Why is it important for you to get involved in helping the local community – what does it mean to you?
Volunteering is such a wonderful experience. I have met so many interesting and lovely people on my volunteering journey.
What advice would you give to others looking to volunteer locally – either for a local group or charity?
I would urge anyone who is thinking about volunteering to get involved and find your passion. Even if it means just knocking on your neighbour’s door to check in on them.
What projects are you currently involved in? Or do you have any plans on the horizon?
I recently had a meeting with Living Well who do such good work in the community and we are thinking about a way we can work together to help even more people. We are celebrating our three-year anniversary in November and the Mayor is visiting to celebrate our special day.
When you’re not busy donating your time, what do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
My main interests are spending time with my family and I am a member of a local choir called Strictly All Together Beckenham, who are an amazing community choir. They actually donated profits from their Christmas concert last year to my lunch club.
What does community mean to you?
Community is everyone sharing the same space and trying to navigate life’s trials in the best possible way. A small ripple of kindness can make such a difference and we all have the power to look after our community.
A special ‘Thank You’ to Time For Flowers for sponsoring the bouquets and plants for our Local Heroes.
Karen received a bouquet from Time For Flowers
Nominate a local hero – it could be a friend, neighbour, local business or a member of your family! Email hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk
TORI HOWE
You asked – and they answered! Send your need-to-know questions to our local experts by emailing hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk with the subject line ‘Ask The Experts’ by
Q: Can you tell me more about direct cremation and what are the pitfalls of this?
Michelle: Direct cremation takes place without a formal funeral ceremony or visitation. The body is collected from the place of death and taken directly to the crematorium, where it is cremated and the ashes returned to the family. But there are a number of implications on those left behind, with many families feeling cheated from saying a proper goodbye. The person enquiring may not realise that the cremation will not be held locally, and their family won't be told when it is, or even where. Nearly all are held in a manner which may not be deemed as acceptable by loved ones. These are also not flexible, and once the form is signed, there is not a get out clause, causing distress for many families and a very high cancellation fee if there is one. If this is something that a loved one, relative or friend is considering, gently ask them a few questions and ensure they know what is going to happen. A traditional, attended funeral gives families, friends and loved ones the opportunity to come together and mourn, as well as express personal memories which all play an important part in the healing process. I recently did a talk on Direct Cremation and asked attendees who had considered it for themselves. Around 65% put their hand up. I then asked those who had put their hands up, if they would consider it for their loved ones, and they all put their hands down. I think that tells you that we are not considering those we leave behind, and they are the ones that will count the cost of their grief.
Michelle Harvey, Michelle Harvey Life Celebrant Facebook.com/michelleharveylifecelebrant
Q: What are the holiday hotspots for 2025 and what’s your top travel tip?
Q: I’m having a clear out and want to know what items are acceptable to take to the tip?
Mark: Most items are acceptable, but there are some exceptions. Waldo Road doesn’t accept tyres, gas bottles (eg for barbecues and caravans) and there are restrictions on items such as mattresses (twice a year) and fridge freezers (once a year). You can take asbestos, but there are rules around the way it is wrapped. If you are not aware, Waldo Road is now closed for a year for refurbishment. The nearest tip for residents is Churchfields in Beckenham, but you now have to use a booking system. If you are looking to get rid of a lot of waste, you could consider using a waste clearing company like myself, but if you do, please ensure that they carry a waste licence, which means that they are eligible to visit commercial waste management sites.
Mark Scoates, Mark’s House Clearance (07952-716936)
Q: I’m looking to return to work after spending the last 10 years raising my kids, but I’m struggling to get interviews due to the gap in my CV. What advice do you have?
Jude: For 2025, some of the top holiday hotspots include Japan, with tourists eager to explore its rich culture, stunning landscapes and culinary delights, especially during cherry blossom season. Greece also continues to be a favourite, while New Zealand is known for its breathtaking scenery and adventure activities. Other hotspots for 2025 include Portugal with its charming cities, beautiful coastline and great food and wine and Costa Rica, where eco-tourism is booming. Costa Rica is a leader with its stunning biodiversity and commitment to sustainability, attracting nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. As a top travel tip, always check for local festivals or events during your visit. Participating in these can enhance your experience and offer a deeper connection to the culture. Plus, it's a great way to meet locals and discover hidden gems.
Jude Greene-Steward , Aspire Travel Facebook.com/AspireTravelbyJGS
Jane: Firstly, don't underestimate the skills and experience you've gained over the last decade. Parenting is full of valuable skills that should be reflected on your CV. Think about the parenting skills that can be used in the workplace. You've likely honed your negotiation, organisation, event management (think of all those kids’ parties you’ve planned!), budgeting, networking and even creative problem-solving (like turning a cereal box into a robot). And let’s not forget conflict managementessential with kids around! Beyond these transferable skills, if you’ve been involved in the PTA, the local football team or any volunteering, these experiences should also be highlighted. Employers value these contributions. Consider framing your parenting role as a job – because it is! Something like “Parenting from 2014 to Present” works well, followed by an overview of the skills you’ve developed. More and more employers are recognising the diverse skills that come with parenting and many are open to flexible working arrangements too. So, showcase your skills confidently – being a mum is one of the hardest, yet most rewarding, jobs out there.
Jane Knight, Successful Mums Career Academy Successfulmums.co.uk
by KLESTA SELMANI
Isla’s heart was pounding, almost trying to climb out of her mouth. There he stood, panting out of breath, drenched from the rain, his eyes only on her.
Rewind a decade
“Isla, he’s just a crush, do you really think this is something serious?” her friends questioned her as they sat in her room, watching the excitement on Isla’s face as she told them about a boy she met online. Isla thought he was the boy of her dreams, however distance disrupted everything. He lived abroad, far from Isla’s reach. After all, Isla was just a 14-year-old girl who was smitten with a somebody she could not have. She wasn’t sure, at first, if he was interested in her at all. His replies would take hours, maybe even days sometimes, but Isla ignored this and still made the effort to talk to him.
This carried on into summer. He acknowledged her more; even asked for her number. This drew the two of them closer, making it harder for Isla to let this fantasy of them go. Isla couldn’t wait to call him in the evenings; 5 minutes went by. Nothing. That’s okay, Isla will wait. 30 minutes. Nothing. Two hours. Isla was getting tired. The sun would rise and Isla would wake up to an apology and a promise to call next time. When he did call, all you could hear was laughter and the smile on Isla’s face did not drop. It was hinted he had fallen for her, however he continued to confuse her, but Isla chose to stay.
A year later Isla decided to cut off contact with him. He reached out to her on other platforms asking what happened, that he didn’t want to lose contact with her, that he loved her. He. Loved. Her? It was all so confusing for a young girl. He was never clear with her, he would drive her insane yet he knew how to make her stay. He
loved her? But he could not be her boyfriend. Isla wanted to get away from this confusion and let go of him. But she didn’t. Very soon after, she started talking to him again. It became like an anniversary that every year she would get rid of him, but somehow they both went back to each other. Two magnets that just could not be separated no matter what pulled them apart. They did not know what they were to each other. Friends meant too little, lovers sounded incorrect, but what they knew was that they did not want to lose each other.
Soon after her 17th, Isla found somebody else. A boy that loved her ever so much. But in the back of her mind, there he stayed. She cut contact with him in respect of her relationship, yet again, she contacted him as soon as it ended.
As the years went on by, they decided to meet a couple of times, moving on from the childish past.
“I’m engaged Lucas. My wedding is in four months.” She tilted her head slightly to the side and pressed her lips. He looked at her and smiled, congratulating her although his heart frowned. It was never possible, right? A chance wasn’t lost when it was never had.
It was her wedding day. She was feeling unsure. It was pouring down with rain outside which made her think that this wedding was going to end up in a disaster. She had a weird feeling in her gut. Something she couldn’t ignore. There she stood, face to face with the love of her life, about to say her vows.
“I, Isla Adi-” the church doors slam open.
“I object” he announces.
Isla’s heart was pounding, almost trying to climb out of her mouth. There he stood, panting out of breath, drenched from the rain, his eyes only on her.
Feeling creative? We’re looking for your short stories. Send a brief synopsis to hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk with your idea and contact details.
by ARTEMIS AEROSPACE
Women have been taking to the skies since the dawn of aviation, but their contribution isn’t as well-known as it should be.
If asked to name a female aviator, you’d probably pick Amy Johnson, the first woman to fly solo from Britain to Australia, or Amelia Earhart, the first to fly across the Atlantic - both pioneering and record-breaking pilots who captured public imagination and tragically died in their cockpits. However, women have been taking to the skies unsung from the beginning of powered flight.
It's uncertain who the first woman pilot was. Blanche ‘Betty’ Stuart Scott is a contender, possibly becoming the first American woman to fly a plane in 1910 — albeit unintentionally. During a lesson meant to be groundbased, a gust of wind lifted her plane, a ‘Curtiss Pusher’, forty feet in the air, and she executed a textbook landing. She later became the first woman to complete a longdistance flight, covering 60 miles in a ‘Baldwin Red Devil’.
Another candidate is American Bessica Raiche, who made the first accredited solo flight by a woman in America in 1910, piloting a bamboo-and-silk plane assembled in her sitting room. Frenchwoman Raymonde de la Roche became the first woman to earn a pilot’s licence in 1910, and Harriet Quimby became the first woman to fly solo across the English Channel in 1912.
As aviation gained popularity, more women began to explore the skies. In 1929, the Ninety-Nines organisation was founded in New York to advance aviation and create a record of women pilots. Two years later, Amelia Earhart was elected the first president. The group’s name reflected its 99 charter members, with membership open to all licensed pilots.
The Second World War propelled women into aviation roles on a broader scale. In the UK, the women’s section of the Air Transport Auxiliary (ATA) was formed. This civilian organisation transported new and repaired aircraft between factories, maintenance depots and airfields, as well as ferrying service personnel, medical supplies and mail. In the US, the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs) performed a similar role.
In 1940, the first eight women joined the ATA, collectively flying over 15,000 miles a week. Initially limited to Tiger Moths, they eventually flew every type of aircraft, including Spitfires, Hurricanes, Lancasters, and even the massive American B17 Flying Fortress. The ATA became known as the pilots who fly ‘from anywhere, to anywhere’,
Amelia Earhart in her first training plane in 1920
delivering aircraft to thousands of airfields across the UK to safeguard them from potential attacks on factories. For instance, a Spitfire factory in the West Midlands produced 320 planes a month at peak capacity, all requiring immediate relocation to safety.
A June 1941 report in the Aberdeen Press and Journal describes a typical ATA pilot’s day: delivering a bomber from southern England to Scotland in the morning, transferring a Hurricane to the West Country by lunchtime, flying a reconnaissance aircraft to East Anglia in the afternoon, and perhaps ending the day with a fourengined giant headed for Northern Ireland.
Throughout the war, ATA pilots transported 309,000 aircraft of 147 types, often under challenging conditions. With no radio contact and the ever-present threat of Luftwaffe attacks, they navigated unlit fields and blackout conditions, always keeping the ground in sight. Unlike RAF pilots, who specialised in specific aircraft, ATA pilots adapted to whatever was available. Remarkably, ATA women received the same pay as men of equal rank, the first time the UK government implemented equal pay in one of its organisations.
Post-war, women continued breaking aviation barriers. In 1963, Valentina Tereshkova became the first woman in space. In 1977, ten women graduated from the US Air Force Pilot Training Programme, with the RAF following in 1990. In 1987, Lynne Barton became British Airways’ first woman pilot, and in 1995, Eileen Collins piloted the Space Shuttle.
Today, women pilot military and commercial aircraft, work in air traffic control, and design, build and maintain aircraft. With a global shortage of qualified pilots, their skills are in demand. The UK Civil Aviation Authority reports a 26% increase in pilot licences issued to women between 2019 and 2023, with a 43% rise in commercial licences and an 11% increase in general aviation licences.
For aspiring female pilots, it’s exciting to know the sky is no longer the limit.
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.’
The Above and Beyond Bromley Business Awards will be returning to highlight and celebrate more amazing local businesses. This year we're supporting
If you’re a business who would like to be considered for an award or if you would like to nominate someone, submissions will open during the first quarter of this year. If you would like to be notified of when applications open, please email your contact details to awards@lifeinmagazines.co.uk.
Meanwhile, early bird tickets are now on sale and tickets are expected to sell out again this year. You can book yours in early by visiting www.the-abbbas.co.uk or scanning the QR code.
Think you have what it takes to be a resident judge? Write to us at awards@lifeinmagazines.co.uk and tell us why in no more than 150 words. To apply, you should be aged 18 or over, live within the Bromley borough and should not own a business.
Pay less, travel more (by bus!) What’s On locally –plan April’s social calendar! Win a pair of theatre tickets plus a £15 One4All gift card!
Life In Bromley is available to pick up from the following locations: Bromley Central Library | Bromley Churchill Theatre | Bromley North Railway Station | Bromley South Railway Station | Bromley United Reformed Church | Community House, South Street | Contingent Works, Elmfield Road | Newman Flexible Workspace (Devonshire House Elmfield Road & Newman Road) | The Warren. For a postal copy (£24 a year) email hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk
Copyright: All text, images and design in Life In...Bromley are subject to copyright, 2025. Competitions: In the event of any dispute regarding the Rules and all other matters relating to a Competition, the decision of the judge(s) shall be final and no correspondence or discussion shall be entered into. For full terms & conditions see https://bit.ly/lifeincomps
Disclaimer: Luna Creative Media Ltd assumes no liability or responsibility for any inaccurate, delayed or incomplete information, nor for any actions taken in reliance thereon. The information contained about each individual, event or organisation has been provided by such individual, event organisers or organisation without verification by us. The opinion expressed in each article is the opinion of its author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editors of Luna Creative Media Ltd. Therefore, Luna Creative Media Ltd carries
of reproduction of any content
without
is
