FR ISSUE 84 | FEBRUARY 2026
EE
6 brilliant ways to get fit in 2026 (using local businesses!)
10 tricks to get back an
Extra Hour COVER STAR
We shine a light on Scott from S Cloud Electrical Services, the electrician keeping the Orpington community switched on
IN S P IR IN G T H E
A T IM E T A E G A P E N O C O M M U N IT Y #BecauseCommunityMatters
Award winning care homes We’re proud to be recognised for our excellence in care, winning more awards than any other provider in the last three years. If you’re considering a care home, call 01689 768640 or visit careuk.com/foxbridge-house
Trusted to care Foxbridge House care home Orpington 2 Life in... Orpington February 2026
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Welcome to
contents contents WIN! Write It, Say It, Message It............4
W
elcome to the February issue!
Remarkable Residents............7
Two things people tell us time and time again are: “I never have enough hours in the day” and “I really want to get fitter.” So this month, we’ve got you covered. Inside you’ll find 10 clever tricks to win back an extra hour today, as well as brilliant ways to get fit in 2026 – all featuring fantastic local businesses who can help you feel your best this year.
Behind the Badge............8
With Shrove Tuesday falling on 17th February, we’ve popped in the perfect pancake recipe to inspire your flipping. You’re welcome. And don’t miss our Behind the Business feature, where this month’s cover star shares their story and passion for what they do.
Mayor's Voice..........12
Firefront Line............8 History..........11
Lines from Linda..........12 Noticeboard..........14
As ever, we’re all about championing the wonderful independents on our doorstep. We love supporting local businesses – and we’d encourage you to do the same.
What’s On..........18 Behind The Business..........21
Talking of local businesses, in this month’s Business feature we highlight how accidental discoveries, curiosity and internal problem-solving drive major technological innovation – and what modern businesses can learn from that.
WIN! Puzzles..........22 Life In Loves..........25 Life Hacks..........27
Until next month, have a great February!
Business..........28 Final Thought..........30
Lauretta Wright, Editor
Advertisers’ Index..........31
PS If you haven’t yet downloaded the Bromley Life iOS App you’re missing out! And yes - it’s completely free!
Get to know us: My earliest memory is…
Editorial & Sales: Lauretta Wright lauretta@lifeinmagazines.co.uk
Design: Nicky Grant design@lifeinmagazines.co.uk
Leaning on my grandma’s pebble-dash wall when I was a toddler
Having tea & biscuits for breakfast at my Grandparents house.
Project & Engagement Lead The ABBBAs: Aysha Best-Forbes awards@lifeinmagazines.co.uk www.the-abbbas.co.uk Walking up my road to go to play group
Admin & Sales Support: Carter Rogers hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk
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Play fighting with each other when we were kittens
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9TH FEBRUARY
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
February 2026 Life in... Orpington 3
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Murphy the Mog!
Valuing our animals
I am a loyal reader of your magazine and would like to begin by saying how grateful I am for the work you do. Your articles are often insightful and compassionate, which is why I felt compelled to respond to a recent piece. One article suggested that animals should not be killed because they can help people make money. While I appreciate the intention to protect animals, I found this reasoning troubling. Animals should not be valued for their economic usefulness, but because they are living beings with intelligence, emotions and the capacity to suffer. Through my support of UK animal charities, I have seen how often animals are reduced to commodities, making cruelty easier to justify. My own understanding deepened when I adopted my first cat. He is emotionally sensitive, offering comfort when I’m upset and responding to tension in our home. He is not ‘just a pet’ but a family member. Animals feel pain, fear, love and distress much like humans do. Compassion should never be conditional on profit, but rooted in empathy and understanding.
Mariana M, Bromley We completely agree – animals are valued for who they are, not what they can do for us, and your words about your cat really bring that to life. We’re delighted to feature your letter as this month’s Star Response! As a thank you, you’ve won a £15 drinks voucher from the wonderful people at The Landing Hotel – enjoy!
Here’s a picture of my cat Murphy who is 4 months old. He loves playing with his toys and following around his big brother Milo!
Emma Southon What a cutie Emma – thanks for sending us – he’s adorable!
Just recently we... Raised a glass to our Friends – kind volunteers who help contribute to the magazine, either by submitting regular features, proofreading or distributing it through people’s letterboxes. Pictured with Editor, Lauretta Wright (far right) are, from the left: Joy Hodgkinson, Richard London, Mary Cody-Cowdery, Len Kirby and Annabel Tyndall. All of our Friends of this magazine are listed at the bottom of page 3. Would you like to become a Friend of the magazine and volunteer your time in some way? Email hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk
Also raised a glass to Pam Preedy, who has penned around 50 articles to date for our popular history page since she volunteered to write them. Thank you Pam!
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.
4 Life in... Orpington February 2026
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February 2026 Life in... Orpington 5
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6 Life in... Orpington February 2026
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Remarkable Residents
Name: Dr Catherine Pestano Age: 62 Lives: Selhurst
What’s remarkable? Catherine is a dedicated volunteer with ParkBathe, helping people rediscover peace and connection through nature. How did you get involved with ParkBathe? I am a community musician and social worker. As a carer, I have experienced injury, extreme stress and loss which have increased over the last few years. I came across Parkbathe at the worst of these times. The practice connected with both my training in compassionate mindful living and, I thought, potentially might fit in with my funded singing in nature project, as this is about being in the flow with others. Sometimes I now offer a vocal session before or after a Parkbathe.
What was your first experience of Forest Bathing like? It felt like coming home, held by nature. I appreciated the way the programme managed to distil and capture the essence of the benefits of the longer Shinrin Yoku approach, while enabling us to get the most from it in an accessible, repeatable way in our more urban natural settings. Once you get the hang of it, you can use the techniques in a minute or two, little moments of reset in daily life. It’s a great life hack!
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community
You volunteer your time to help lead these walks – what motivates you to give back? I don’t really see volunteering as giving back but as receiving, opening out to fresh connection, delight, joy. I have always valued having new rich experiences through volunteering. Parkbathe enables us to come together with others, connect with self and our green surroundings and to remember that we are nature. Then we don’t feel so alone.
What’s special about the silent nature of the walks? Silence allows social anxiety to calm, and people to come out of their heads and into their bodies to experience our animal self and its wisdoms. This I believe to have knock-on effects out in life, as we attune to our physical senses and our wider awareness, intuition, hunches. This can enhance both safety and enjoyment. We are no longer ‘other’ in our space.
What would you say to someone who’s nervous or unsure about joining a walk? There is no pressure and it is okay if you don’t walk far. You may find yourself surprised and comforted, without needing to say anything. You may enjoy meeting people from close by, and even make a new friend. Most of all you will pick up a new skill very easily and this can be a great boost to confidence and wellbeing.
February 2026 Life in... Orpington 7
Behind the Badge
INSIGHTS FROM THE SUPER
I am writing what will sadly be my last column for the ‘Life In’…magazines. I have been posted to a new role working on Neighbourhood Policing Strategy for the Met based at New Scotland Yard. Whilst I look forward to the opportunity, I will dearly miss working here in Bromley in what has been the most rewarding job of my career. It has been a privilege to serve the communities of Bromley and to try and provide the best possible policing service. Whilst there is still more to do, I can reflect on some great successes achieved by your teams here in Bromley. This includes a hugely improved focus on prolific offenders, retail criminals and drug supply in which we have seen many more people than previously brought to justice. In the last year, violence is down, as is robbery, burglary and vehicle crime. A key part of this has been the focus on
neighbourhood teams being primarily about crime fighting, a challenge all your teams have warmly embraced, and I am hugely thankful to all my staff and leaders who have brought this about. I am also eternally grateful for our partners, elected officials and community volunteers who do so much in working together to make Bromley as safe and secure as possible. I would also like to note my thanks to Lauretta Wright, the editor of the magazines for this opportunity to update so many of you each month and to hear your feedback, it really has been useful and something I hope can continue. My successor is Simon Beardwell, a highly experienced Superintendent of many years who will now take over this column from me. I am sure the Borough is in safe hands. Thank you all for your support and engagement over the last three years. Superintendent Luke Baldock Bromley Borough Neighbourhood Policing
Firefront Line
As we begin a new year, everyone at the London Fire Brigade for Bromley would like to wish residents, partners and colleagues a very happy and healthy 2026.
Reflecting on 2025, we are proud to say it has been an extremely productive and encouraging year within the borough. One of our most significant achievements has been doubling the number of Home Fire Safety Visits and Fire Safety Checks. These visits are vital in helping to protect our more vulnerable residents, ensuring they have the knowledge, equipment, and support needed to reduce fire risk in their homes. This success would not have been possible without your continued support. Thanks to the assistance of many of you, we have received an increased number of referrals, allowing us to reach individuals and households we may not otherwise be aware of. These referrals are invaluable in helping us keep people as safe as possible from fire related risks, and we are extremely grateful for your role in this work. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to these achievements. We hope you will continue to make use of our Home Fire Safety Checklist and referral process, as they remain key tools in protecting our communities. www.london-fire.gov.uk/home-fire-safety-checker/
8 Life in... Orpington February 2026
In appreciation of the many people who work within the borough Fire Safety information for businesses can also be found via the following links: https://www.london-fire.gov.uk/safety/the-workplace/ https://nfcc.org.uk/our-services/building-safety/ business-fire-safety-awareness-tool/ Looking forward, our aims for the coming year include reducing the number of deliberately set fires within the borough. We will be exploring ways to engage with potential offenders through education, early intervention, and appropriate control measures to help prevent these incidents wherever possible. To support this work, we will continue to cultivate strong connections and collaborate closely with our existing partner agencies. Please see the links to report rubbish and fly-tipping issues so that residents can play their part in helping us reduce these risks and keep neighbourhoods safer here https:// www.bromley.gov.uk/homepage/37/report-it Together, we can continue to make this borough a place where people feel safe, supported, and proud to live. Warm wishes, Ian Frame, Borough Commander
London Borough of Bromley, London Fire Brigade
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February 2026 Life in... Orpington 9
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10 Life in... Orpington February 2026
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History
The winter of 1947
community
Pam Preedy
by PAM PREEDY, BEd, BA (Open), MA. My parents always said that I was born on the coldest day of the century, but I wondered whether it was just a family myth. Now I know it was real and no myth at all. The winter of 1947 had been mild until 22nd January. Then temperatures plunged and snow began to fall. It fell somewhere in the UK every day for 55 consecutive days until March 17th. The weather at that time was severe; long-lasting cold and heavy snowfalls. The weather caused widespread disruptions, including deep snowdrifts up to seven metres deep, causing blocked roads and railways, frozen rivers including the Thames, and resulted in significant power and fuel shortages that, in turn, led to rationing and media blackouts. Villages were cut off, including villages in Kent where hundreds of miles of roads were blocked. The RAF came to the rescue and dropped off bread. With roads blocked and railways frozen, supplies of coal ground to a halt. Coal could not be delivered to merchants’ yards or homes. At the start of the winter the coal stockpiles contained enough coal to last for just four weeks, compared to the usual supplies for ten to twelve weeks which existed before the war. With critical coal shortages, exacerbated by the snow, the government ordered the complete cessation of electricity supply to industry, leading to the temporary shutdown of factories across the country. Up to four million people claimed unemployment benefits during this period. Ultimately the government introduced rationing of electricity to five hours a day. Families huddled together to try to get warm. After ten days of blizzards, drifts of snow up to 23 feet tall covered windows so that people could not see out. How did people cope in these trying conditions? Where possible, men THE GREAT SWITCH OFF IN BROMLEY 15,000 LOCAL CONSUMERS AFFECTED SERIOUS DISLOCATION OF LOCAL INDUSTRY ….In face of the nation's grave fuel shortage, supplies to all but essential users have been cut between 9 a.m. and 12 a.m. and froms to 4 p.m. These cuts have resulted in a saving of 75 per cent. Of the normal consumption during the five-hour period... Bromley and Kentish Times, February 14, 1947
FRONT PAGE VILLAIN - THE WEATHER SNOW-BOUND NORTH-WEST KENT SHIVER: 23 DEGREES OF FROST ... From Bromley comes news of 23 degrees of frost earlier in the week, and country districts, where temperatures were not able to be taken, complain of even colder conditions, with deep drifts of snow hampering traffic and menacing farm stocks.
FUEL DIFFICULTIES- Coal could not be delivered to the valley recently, but coal carts stopped near the Biggin Hill Post Office and residents provided their own means of conveying the coal... Westerham hill still blocked by snow and ice, but buses are running from Bromley to the Black Horse at Biggin Hill. Bromley and Kentish Times, February 14, 1947
BLITZ-ZARD
A Blizzard with a't' in it. That was the effect of the snowstorm that swept over us with such malignant and devastating fury on Tuesday. Its effects were catastrophic. Transport of every kind was brought almost to a complete halt and many unlucky people arriving at local stations after the trials of spasmodic railway travel, found "shanks' mare" was the only method of reaching their homes a mile, two miles or more outside the town. Bromley and Kentish Times, March 7,
and women struggled miles, to get to work. Few children stayed at home. Teachers encouraged their pupils to play outside in the snow. They made snowmen, igloos and rocketed down snow-covered hills on make-shift sledges. It was the women who had the hardest time. Snow made pavements and roads very slippery. Few people had cars in 1947. There was a sense of the ‘blitz spirit’ and a sense of community and neighbourliness as people helped each other through the difficulties: collecting coal from the coal merchants in babies’ prams led to difficulties with washing and drying clothes indoors. The women had to balance the needs of their families: food (rationing was still in operation), washing with electricity and coal in short supply, cleaning. It was a non-stop operation. My mother was pregnant with me. February 25th saw temperatures in Kent dropping to -21°C, which was when I decided to make an appearance. My mother was to be taken from West Wickham to Shortlands where she would give birth: a distance of nearly three miles. The ambulance duly arrived. Dad was going too. Unfortunately the snow was so deep, that he had to help the ambulance men shovel the snow out of the way to keep the ambulance going. Eventually we arrived at the hospital and I rushed to be born. Poor Dad. He had to reverse the journey to West Wickham making full use of his shovel. On the 10th March the temperature rose and the snow quickly began to thaw, causing flooding. If the snow and cold was bad: flooding caused more damage as the waters rose over 6 feet and people were trapped in the upstairs and the fields were inundated. If the floods were bad, the weather had one more sting in the tail; gale force winds that attacked homes and trees. Warnings of severe weather in August, but instead when August finally arrived it was warm, sunny and balmy. The country indulged in a Royal Wedding; The Queen and Prince Philip. For more information watch the programme, The Big Snow of ’47 on Channel 5 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
Bromley and Kentish Times January 31, 1947
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February 2026 Life in... Orpington 11
community
and possibilities. And if I wasn’t ‘back to work’ mentally beforehand, the chilly winds of the Kent coast certainly woke me up!
MAYOR'S VOICE The start of a new year provides a chance to reflect – on the year just gone, and the year ahead. After my final engagement of 2025 – attending Cudham Church for the village’s traditional annual Christmas Eve carol service, with the joint benefice of Cudham and Downe very kindly taking collections in aid of my chosen Mayoral charities, CASPA and The Maypole Project – the Christmas and New Year period provided a chance for me and the Mayoress to put aside our busy schedule for a short while, catch up with friends and family, and to rest and relax. I hope many of you also had the chance to do the same, recharging our batteries before the beginning of the New Year in earnest, hopefully full of energy and enthusiasm! It certainly wasn’t long after the New Year before the Mayoress and I were back to work, attending the traditional Blessing of the Sea alongside Mayors from the length and breadth of Kent. This Greek Orthodox ceremony marks new beginnings, which, despite not being of this denomination, I felt a particular affinity to as the grandson of a proud veteran of the Royal Navy, for whom the sea opened up so many opportunities
The following day, we attended Biggin Hill Community Care Association’s New Year’s Day party for senior citizens - an event organised entirely by volunteers, and an important reminder, among the fun and frivolity (with singing, dancing and even the Locomotion!), of the vitally important work that so many residents carry out all across our borough, often on an entirely voluntary basis. 2026 is now well and truly underway, with the Mayoress and I having visited a great many events across Bromley’s local community groups, volunteers and charities, as they continue their tireless work in service of others. This care and compassion is a powerful example of what we can achieve, through New Years’ Resolutions or otherwise, with determination and a desire to support and better the lives of our neighbours and communities. Best wishes Cllr Jonathan Andrews Mayor of Bromley (2025-2026) Find out more at www.bromley.gov. uk/mayor With the Mayoress at the Biggin Hill Community Care Association’s New Year’s Day party.
Lines from Linda
It was only a day later, on the very Valentines Day, that I received an anonymous card. The card was ‘Ooh Ma Cherie.’ beautiful it was covered in red roses, We are in the month of love. unsigned, but the wording read: ‘I am your secret admirer.’ I knew it was February is great, after the long cold month of mid-winter from him as the card reeked of stale fish January, the month of love arrives, with Valentine’s Day and chips. I was in seventh heaven. I told my right in the middle. girlfriends and they were giggly, but envious. I wondered how I should approach him to let him know I knew it was As a teenager I used to love all the romancing that went from him and I was up for a date. It was then, at the with it. Anyone remember the cream and lilac Love thought of a 14 year-old girl dating an 18 year-old Heart sweets with the red messages on them? boy that my father confessed he had sent it. As teenagers, my girlfriends and I would buy He wanted to please me, he said as I cried. a packet and fervently read the messages, We all had a mad He had bought fish and chips and eaten truly believing they were meant for us crush on the boy them off the card, so it would smell of fish so personally. And now that era of posting that served Friday I would believe it was from my secret crush. unsigned Valentine cards to our secret and Saturdays in But then not in a million years, he warned crushes has been taken over by social the local fish and me, would he allow me to date a boy of 18, media and it is much harder to hide your chip shop until I was 18 too. identity on those platforms.
"
I remember having such fun, picking out cards and reading every word to make sure it echoed my secret feeling for my current crush. And the thrill of getting a valentine card was immense. One teenage memory is of my gang of girls, we were around 14 years old, and all had a mad crush on the boy that served Friday and Saturdays in the local fish and chip shop. We all used to go in for our bag of chips on a Friday after school, mainly to drool over his blue eyes, rather than eat the chips. We had found out his name and we all sent him anonymous cards to the shop, all posted in different letter boxes.
12 Life in... Orpington February 2026
I had then to go back and tell all my friends that the card was from my dad. Talk about a crush. I was truly crushed. However, the story had a happy ending. He fell for one of my girlfriends and they eventually married. Me? I too married the man of my dreams. It turned out to be someone very different, but I am glad I waited to find true love. I wish you all warmth and love.
For more about me and my crime novels see www.lindareganonline.co.uk
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Your local Winery, Restaurant, Estate Deli & Cellar Door squerryes.co.uk Squerryes, Beggars Lane, Westerham, TN16 1QP. Open Wednesday to Sunday.Please check the website for opening times.
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February 2026 Life in... Orpington 13
NEW GYMNASTICS CENTRE & AFFORDABLE HOMES PROPOSED FOR ST PAUL’S CRAY
Community Library help needed!
Plans are being explored for a brand-new gymnastics centre alongside 123 affordable homes in St Paul’s . Cray, subject to confirmation of Government funding y Bromle by sed progres being al, propos The £71m Council, would see the development built on Chipperfield Road, with the new centre becoming the future home of Bromley Valley Gymnastics Club. If approved, this would be the largest scheme to date under the council’s Bromley homes for Bromley people programme, helping provide much-needed housing for local residents on the housing register. Proposals are still subject to funding, planning approval and further consultation, with efforts promised to minimise disruption to the gymnastics club. Funding is expected to be confirmed next spring, with works potentially starting in 2027.
Orpington Library reopens after refurb
The Bromley Home Library Service is currently looking for volunteers. You would help source and deliver books for people who cannot attend the library on their own and often stay for a nice chat. We will provide training and a DBS check.
Ring Shauna Teevan on 078 2651 1094 or bromley.hls@royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk for more information.
Building inclusive workplaces Join us for an inspiring event focused on creating opportunities and breaking barriers in the workplace for people with SEND (special educational needs and/or disabilities or physical or mental health conditions)
YOU WILL
OPPORTUNITIES
Orpington Library has officially been reopened by the Mayor of Bromley, Councillor Jonathan Andrews, following its refurbishment. The refreshed buildi ng includes upgraded lighting and flooring, a refurb ished lift, new furnishings, an enhanced sensory room and a children’s mural. A new therapeutic hub will open on the second floor, bringing together specialist support services for children and families. The library continues to be run by GLL and remains a welcoming space for all ages.
14 Life in... Orpington February 2026
JOINED BY
Learn about assistive technology and how it supports inclusion. Hear from Microsoft Showcase accredited The Oaks Specialist College on innovative approaches to accessibility. Discover AssitiV, an innovative app designed to help individuals with additional needs thrive at work. Discover how Bromley Works, Bromley's Connect to Work service is helping people into employment.
Network with professionals committed to inclusion. Explore practical tools and strategies for supporting diverse talent. Be part of shaping a more inclusive future in Bromley workplaces.
Leaders from Bromley Council sharing their vision for inclusive employment. Experts from The Oaks Specialist College, and representatives from the Connect to Work programme supporting people into employment. Scan the QR code to register
5th February 2026 10am to 12pm Clockwise Bromley, BR1 3FE
SEND.Employment@bromley.gov.uk
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Noticeboard Run for change
Bromley & Croydon Women’s Aid (BCWA) are starting the year with a powerful campaign to help you reach your 2026 fitness goals while supporting local women and families. Sign up to a discounted RunThrough road race – whether you’re starting with Couch to 5k or aiming for a marathon – and fundraise to make a real difference. A recent survivor shared: “BCWA saved my life. I was broken, afraid, and completely alone but they saw me, believed me, and helped me rebuild from scratch. I truly don’t think I’d be here today without their support, their warmth, and the safe space they gave me to heal.”
On the cover Scott Cloud, the face of this month’s cover, shares why community sits at the heart of how he works and lives in Bromley: “Being part of a community means showing up for the people around you. Most of my work is local, and that’s exactly how I like it. You build trust, you get to know the people and families you’re helping and it becomes more than just a job.”
Bromley resident honoured in King’s New Year Honours
Email fundraising@bcwa.org.uk to sign up or learn more.
Thousands to get free digital training Communities across the cou ntry are set to benefit from free digital skil ls support, helping people get online, shop aro und for better deals, book NHS appointme nts and stay in touch with loved ones. The government is backing 80 local schemes with £11.7 million from the new Digital Inclusion Innovation Fund, aiming to make sure everyone has the access, skills and confide nce to use technology safely. Research shows aro und eight million adults in the UK lack basic digital skills, with 1.6 million living offline entirely. This can mean paying more for everyday essentials , missing out on job opportunities and struggli ng to use online services. These new schemes will help change that including Age UK, which will help tho usands of older people use the NHS app to manage their health.
A huge congratulations to Bromley resident Joe Appiah, who has been awarded an MBE in the King’s New Year Honours – alongside sporting legends including Paula Radcliffe. Joe, a multiple World and European Masters Athletics champion and world-record holder in sprint hurdles, received the honour for his outstanding services to sport, public health and public service. As well as his incredible achievements on the track, Joe is a passionate advocate for prostate cancer awareness, using his own experience to encourage early checks and open conversations – particularly within the black community. From volunteering in schools and supporting young people into careers, to representing athletics at every level while working in the Civil Service for over 36 years, Joe’s recognition is richly deserved. A brilliant example of local dedication, resilience and giving back – Bromley couldn’t be prouder.
February 2026 Life in... Orpington 15
community NOTICEBOARD
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Bank Holidays for 2026!
✃
(cut out & stick on your fridge!)
- Good Friday Friday, April 3 - Easter Monday Monday, April 6 - Early May Bank Holiday Monday, May 4 - Spring Bank Holiday Monday, May 25 - Summer Bank Holiday Monday, August 31 Friday, December 25 - Christmas Day Monday, December 28 - Boxing Day (substitute day) Scotland - New Year's Day Thursday, January 1 - 2nd January Friday, January 2 - Good Friday Friday, April 3 - Early May Bank Holiday Monday, May 4 - Spring Bank Holiday Monday, May 25 - Summer Bank Holiday Monday, August 3 Monday, November 30 - St Andrew's Day Friday, December 25 - Christmas Day Monday, December 28 - Boxing Day (substitute day)
Potters House Bromley (Kirkwood Connect), together with Verity Commercial Services and Faithful, recently hosted a press conference to highlight the Property For Good initiative – a programme using a legally approved business rates mitigation model to transform vacant commercial spaces into safe, faith-led environments for young people. Speakers included Pastor David Darkwah and Youth Leader Dylan Barrett, who discussed the challenges facing young men in Bromley and the importance of positive role models and safe social spaces. Simon Dresdner, CEO of Verity Commercial Services/Faithful, explained how the scheme creates a ‘win-win’, benefiting both landlords and the community. Attendees also heard powerful firsthand accounts from three young people – Darren, Archie and Tapiwa – whose lives have been positively shaped through faith, mentoring and entrepreneurship opportunities offered at the centre.
YOUR THOUGHTS ON
SUNDAY SHOPPING Do you remember life before Sunday shopping? Life In…Magazines’ resident historian, Pam Preedy, is researching how Sundays were spent before Sunday trading hours came into force – and she’d love your memories as research into writing one of her features. If you’re old enough to remember, how did you spend your Sundays back then?
Email Pam at pampreedy@gmail.com
12 DAYS OF
Giftmas WINNER!
Rebecca Cogan was the lucky winner of our 12 Days of Giftmas, winning over £370 in prizes! Thank you to everyone who took part in our reader survey which was published in the December 2025 issue!
16 Life in... Orpington February 2026
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February 2026 Life in... Orpington 17
What's on
Your essential guide for events, activities, clubs & groups
ACTIVITIES Flin's Fitness: Group | On Demand | Online See website for class dates & times
Cost: from £6 PAYG, or memberships available Contact: Fran 07976 412027 All genres of fitness class, for every type of lifestyle: group classes, streamed online, and an exceptional On Demand platform. Cross Training, Pilates, Yoga, Body Conditioning, Zumba and more. Mornings and evenings locally, at Westcombe Park RFC or Tubbenden & Crofton schools. FREE monthly "Dance Because Nobody's Watching" event, aiming to bring people together for mental health & well being, and FUN. All are welcome. See www.flinsfitness.co.uk
Mel Crisp Yoga
Tuesday evening 6.55pm at Christ Church URC,
Petts Wood - Vinyasa Flow Class (1hr) Cost: PAYG £13 or 4 classes for £40. Tuesday at 8.15pm at Christ Church URC, Petts Wood – Hatha Flow (45mins) Cost: PAYG £10 or £34 for a block of 4 classes Wednesday at 9.45am at Orpington Village Hall Hatha Yoga classes (1hr) Mixed ability and beginners welcome at both classes. Cost: PAYG £13, Block Payment Classes £40 for 4 consecutive classes. First PAYG class is free. Contact: Mel on 07504 855 424. Email melcrisp41@icloud.com www.melcrispyoga.com First class is FREE when mentioning Life In Orpington magazine. Mel has partnered with the Primrose Centre (based in the grounds of PRUH) to offer Yoga For Breast Cancer patients. Tuesdays 2pm-3pm (free if receiving treatment) or small donation, Wednesdays 6pm-7pm and 7.15pm8.15pm. Wednesday evening classes are for those who have returned to work, where possible a donation of £10 per class.
Improve Your Fitness Dancing for Seniors 1st and 3rd Thursdays every month, 2pm-4pm
Liberal Hall, 7 Station Road, Orpington, BR6 0RZ (opp Tesco) Cost: £7.50 pay at the door Contact: Email: janetmaile@rocketmail.com Tel: 01689 836407 Improve your mobility, balance and muscle tone while enjoying the company of other seniors. Easy dances, steady pace. If you can walk, you can dance! Friendly, sociable class. No partner needed. For more information see www.juiceofbarley.weebly.com
18 Life in... Orpington February 2026
business & NETWORKING How Apprenticeships Can Transform Your Business (Plus Networking) Wednesday 11th February, 9:30am-12pm
Orpington Campus (LSEC), Orpington Cost: Free Contact: Email StartupBromley@GLL.ORG If you’re thinking about how apprenticeships could benefit your business, join this practical workshop hosted by Startup Bromley and designed for local business owners, managers and HR professionals. It explores how taking on an apprentice can boost productivity, develop talent and support growth. The session will cover the advantages of hiring apprentices, how they can help your business achieve its goals and, crucially, give you an opportunity to network with other employers and local professionals afterwards. For more information, to register as a member (it’s free to join) or to attend any of the events see https://bit.ly/startupbromleyevents
Bromley Business Network
Wednesday 4th & 18th February, 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 Bromley & Chislehurst Cancer Research UK – 65th Anniversary Celebration
Saturday 21st March 2026, 2pm–5pm
SAVE THE DATE
Bulls Head, Royal Parade, Chislehurst, Cost: Ticket Donation: £35 Contact: Email bandccancerresearchuk@gmail.com Join Bromley & Chislehurst Cancer Research UK to celebrate 65 incredible years of fundraising and community support! The afternoon will feature a finger food buffet, Afternoon Tea, a glass of Prosecco and a raffle. Don’t miss this special milestone – book your tickets and celebrate with the local community while supporting a fantastic cause.
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The Wednesday Club
Every Wednesday, 12.30pm onwards
Sovereign of The Seas, 109-111 Queensway, Petts Wood, BR5 1DG Cost: Free Contact: 020 8462 2569 (Joyce) This friendship club meets weekly and gives people the opportunity to enjoy a social get-together. There is the opportunity for people to purchase lunch and arrange outings at other times with each other.
Bromley Mum2mum Market 7th February, 2pm-4pm
Orpington Methodist Church, 19 Sevenoaks Rd, Orpington, BR6 9JH 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 preloved bargains at a fraction of original prices. For details see www.mum2mummarket.co.uk
Community Café
1st and 3rd Wednesday of every month, 2.30pm-4.30pm
Chelsfield Village Hall, Chelsfield, Orpington, BR6 7RL Cost: Free Contact: chelsfieldvolunteers@gmail.com Chelsfield Volunteers offers tea, coffee, cake and conversation. All are welcome – old friends & new faces. Bring a friend or a neighbour! If you need transport or if you can offer help with transport, please call Peter on 01689 831826.
MUSIC, entertainment & FOOD Into the Daylight – Jazz and Blues evening, Green Chain Quartet Thursday 5th February, 8pm-11pm
Daylight Inn, Station Square, Petts Wood, BR5 1LZ Cost: £5 admission (supporting Bromley Food Bank, Ukraine Appeal & MSF - Doctors without Borders).
what's on
Contact: 01689 877402. Green Chain Quintet with Chicago Blues special guests: Steve Brayne -singer, harmonica and Phil Birch guitar. Book a table or walk in: www.thedaylightinn.co.uk. For details see www. greenchainquartet.com
theatre & Performances Churchill Theatre, Bromley Contact: tickets@churchilltheatre.co.uk
The Rocky Horror Show
Monday 9th – Saturday 14th February Cost: Tickets from £25 Ready to thrill you with fun and naughty moments, Richard O’Brien’s legendary rock ‘n’ roll musical, The Rocky Horror Show comes to Bromley as part of a new world tour! Book now for the biggest party featuring timeless classics, Sweet Transvestite, Dammit Janet, and of course, the pelvic thrusting show stopping Time Warp. Age recommendation 12+
Murder She Didn’t Write Tuesday 17th February
Cost: Tickets from £22 Don your deerstalker, grab your magnifying glass and get your ‘finger of suspicion’ at the ready as Degrees of Error, are back with their multiple sell-out show for your sleuthing pleasure. At each show this extraordinarily talented company uses audience suggestions to create a unique, original and extremely comical murder mystery just for you. All you have to do is guess whodunnit before the killer is revealed!
Celebrating Celine
Saturday 21st February Cost: Tickets from £37.50 Celebrating Celine is the ultimate live concert experience honouring the legendary music of Celine Dion. This spectacular touring production has captivated audiences across the UK, bringing to life the passion, power, and unforgettable songs that have defined Celine's extraordinary career.
Submit your event for free on our App and online! Submit yours at
bit.ly/bromleyevents 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. Life In...Orpington 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.
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NEXT BOOKING DEADLINE:
9TH FEBRUARY
To advertise call 020 3488 9959 email hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk Spaces are allocated on a first come, first served basis.
@lifeinmags February 2026 Life in... Orpington 19
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Behind The Business
community
S Cloud Electrical Services
Scott Cloud has built a trusted electrical business locally with a reputation for high-quality workmanship, reliability and genuine community spirit. Here, he shares the story behind S Cloud Electrical Services and what drives him today… Scott, can you give us a bit of background to your career? II was born in Beckenham and grew up around the building trade, spending school holidays on sites working with my dad. After many years of working on heavy plant machinery, I felt I had become stuck with very little opportunities, and I wanted more of a challenge. Not knowing what I wanted to do, an electrical subcontracting role came up in 2014, I tried it, and I knew straight away this is what I was meant to do. I worked through all my qualifications, earned my JIB Gold Card, become registered and by 2019 I’d built enough of a client base to go out on my own and leave the sub-contracting role.
What services do you offer?
What’s one of your biggest learning lessons? Keep the quality of your work and your standards as high as possible. I’ve been called out to correct some very bad work, I think all tradesman not just electricians should take pride in their work, just because something can’t be seen doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be quality work. If someone comes in after me to do any work, I want them to see quality work has been carried out and no shortcuts have been taken.
I specialise in domestic work and particularly small jobs – the type of work most tradespeople don’t want to take on. People struggle to find reliable electricians for little tasks, so I made that my niche. I also do a lot of faultfinding which is a great skill to have. I am a fully qualified electrician and a member of the NICEIC where I am assessed every year.
What do you love about what you do?
What is one of your greatest business achievements?
What are the biggest challenges of running the business?
Becoming an NICEIC Approved Contractor. It’s a high standard to meet and even harder to maintain, but it’s something I’m proud of.
Any memorable moments worth sharing? I once had two customers who were friends and both started talking about their “really good electrician”. It turned out – unbeknown to them at the time – that they were both talking about me! That made me smile.
Working local, doing smaller jobs and meeting people – every day is different. I enjoy chatting to customers too, especially retired people. You hear fascinating stories about their careers and where they’ve come from. There are often funny little overlaps between customers, like shared backgrounds or old connections.
Meeting demand. There’s only one of me within the business and I generally work on a 3–4-week lead time. I have had people work with me in the past, but I find it hard to get hard working and reliable staff. Lots of people suggest growing or taking on more staff, but I enjoy being small and giving everything the personal touch.
What’s your number one tip for homeowners when it comes to electrical safety? Always use a fully qualified electrician. Look for the NICEIC logo – it’s well recognised and trusted. You can type any company name into the NICEIC website to check if they’re registered. Also, be wary of people who say that they can come out at short notice for a non-emergency job. There are too many stories I hear of about people being taken advantage of and over charged so a bit of research goes a long way.
What does community mean to you? Trust and good service. I work for a lot of older people, and it genuinely matters to me that they feel safe, respected and not taken advantage of. Word-of-mouth is huge locally, and I love that people recommend me because they know my quality work and high standards.
Find out more about Scott’s services by visiting www.scloudelectricalservices.co.uk lifeinmagazines.co.uk
February 2026 Life in... Orpington 21
lifestyle
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WIN! A pair of tickets to see The Spy Who Came In From The Cold on its opening night – Tuesday 24th March!
Below is a list of words associated with February. Can you find them in the word grid below? Answers can run forwards, backwards and diagonally. However, one of the words isn’t included - this is the competition answer.
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Send the answer to hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk with the Date: _______ subject line ‘puzzle’ or text only ‘WIN’ with your answer, full name, telephone number and address to 07403-550068. Good luck!
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A I R V S O E C Q E K X U G L G R
Y W I S S E U E O J D L H O R S F W F Y L H A I C C U D D A O L J R E W B Z I B B A Z M N O S R A E Y
N I G C T P A F Z E B N N G F E P
T E R W P B P F X Z I K C R Y V E S T M T I J W L O K N R W B T F M T R T D D W R E W R C A Q S O F C R M W N F C D G L W O L F A E L G
A Q P Z O B D Z K E P I B B L N Q
L F A W N J R R U O T T N Z X E M
K F N L T I G E R A I A D K D Z S
S T M J E H C A K B M U H R J C F O A W V D F T H X A J D P M Y X W Y R W B M E T X S C O S O N Z M B
S T E K N A L B X R Y A Y J J H M
S T S S I K Z V A L E N T I N E S
VALENTINES FLOWERS PANCAKES LEAP YEAR ROMANCE FIREPLACE SNOWDROPS WARM DRINKS WINTER WALKS PICES SHORTEST MONTH BLANKETS HOT WATER BOTTLES COSY SELF CARE
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22 Life in... Orpington February 2026
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Loves…
community 3. PILATES
Everybody Reformer Eden Park blends community, quality and expert led Reformer Pilates in a warm, welcoming space. You’ll move better, feel stronger and see results fast. Whether you’re new or experienced, our supportive studio meets you where you are. Affordable, empowering and made for everybody. No fluff. Just Pilates that works. Tel: 07756 081751 or email: info@everybodyreformer.co.uk
6 AMAZING WAYS TO
GET FIT IN 2026! (Using local businesses!) Please mention Life In…Bromley when visiting any of these amazing businesses. It helps support local businesses in knowing what’s working for them.
1. STRENGTH TRAINING
Flin's Fitness classes offer a variety of strength training type sessions on the weekly timetable: Body Conditioning, Pump, Cross Training along with hybrid sessions such as Box Fit. There are classes both in person and online, with a catalogue of On Demand offerings too. There is something for everyone, beginners and advanced alike - all welcome. The instructor team is experienced and loyal, creating varied, excellent classes every time you come! Contact Fran: fran@flinsfitness. co.uk Website: flinsfitness.co.uk
4. YOGA
Ready for a fresh routine this year? Equinim’s classes offer strength, balance and motivation for everybody. Join our warm, welcoming community and make movement your favourite habit of 2026. Find us on Instagram @equinimstudio or book at www.equinim.co.uk
5. SMART TRAINING
Mytime Active offers a revolutionary smart training solution at The Pavilion and The Spa at Beckenham. EGYM equipment is like having a personal trainer built into the machine – it personalises every workout for every user. EGYM sets up workouts automatically, just tap in and it adjusts to you, ensuring a safe, effective training session, every time. See www.mytimeactive.co.uk/ activities/egym
6. ZUMBA 2. MARTIAL ARTS
Warrior Martial Arts & Studio brings fitness and fun to the whole family. With dynamic kickboxing classes, flexibility sessions and S&C, our club helps every age grow stronger in body and mind. Our dedicated coaching team are ready to get you started regardless of your current experience/ fitness level. Join our community today! Email info@warrior-martial-arts.com or see www.warrior-martial-arts.com
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At Anastasia’s Zumba Fitness, we offer high-energy Zumba for Zumba fans and active participants, plus Zumba Gold for seniors and beginners wanting a lighter pace. A fun, welcoming place to move, dance and feel amazing. For details see www.zumbabromley. co.uk or call 07876 245754. Instagram: anastasias_zumba_ fitness · Facebook: Anastasia’s Zumba Fitness.
February 2026 Life in... Orpington 25
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Life Hacks
lifestyle
10 TRICKS TO GET BACK AN EXTRA HOUR TODAY
Ever wish you could add an extra hour to your day? While we can’t actually bend time, a few clever hacks can help you claw back precious minutes and make your day feel that bit longer. Here are ten easy ways to do just that:
⏰ down Plan tomorrow tonight: Spend five minutes jotting your to-do list before bed. You’ll start the next day focused instead of faffing around deciding what to tackle first.
⏰ Bemails, atch your tasks: Group similar jobs together – like errands or phone calls – to avoid constant
⏰ Arecurring utomate what you can: From bill payments to grocery orders, automation is your secret weapon for reclaiming time.
⏰ Stoetfilltime limits: Parkinson’s Law says work expands the time available. Give yourself a shorter deadline and watch how much quicker you move.
⏰ TPomodoro ake breaks: Ironically, resting boosts focus. Try the Technique: 25 minutes of work, 5 minutes off. Small tweaks, big difference – and voilà, there’s your extra hour!
switching, which eats up time.
⏰ Uthanse two the two-minute rule: If something takes less The perfect minutes (replying to a message, tidying a surface), do it immediately. It stops little jobs piling up.
pancake recipe!
clutter can reduce productivity by up to 40%.
Ingredients (makes about 8 pancakes): • 200g plain flour • 2 tbsp sugar • 2 tsp baking powder • ½ tsp salt • 300ml milk • 2 large eggs • 50g melted butter (plus extra for cooking) • 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
⏰ Dfewer eclutter your workspace: A tidy area means distractions and faster decisions. Studies show ⏰ concentration. Mute notifications: Constant pings break Check your phone and emails at set times instead.
⏰ lunch Prep meals or outfits: Spend half an hour prepping or planning clothes for the week – it’ll save time (and stress) every morning.
⏰ Uoverse ashortcuts: Keyboard shortcuts can save hours year. For instance, Ctrl + Shift + T reopens a closed browser tab – lifesaver!
Method:
Lemon hacks!
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar,
🍋 SSqueeze anitise your wooden chopping board: half a lemon over your board and let the juice absorb for 10 minutes. Use the other half to scrub the surface and then rinse thoroughly.
🍋 Wlaundry hiter whites: Add lemon juice to your to tackle stains the natural way. The
bonus is that it leaves them with a nice scent too.
🍋 Lwith et loose on limescale: Create a spray bottle half lemon juice and half water. The citric acid in the lemon is great for removing limescale on things like taps and shower heads. lifeinmagazines.co.uk
baking powder, and salt. 2. In another bowl, beat the eggs, then stir in milk, melted butter, and vanilla. 3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and whisk until smooth — don’t overmix; a few lumps are fine. 4. Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat and brush with a little butter. 5. Pour a ladle of batter into the pan, swirling slightly to spread. Cook for 1–2 minutes, until bubbles form on top, then flip and cook another 1–2 minutes until golden. 6. Keep cooked pancakes warm in a low oven while cooking the rest.
💡 Serve with: maple syrup, fresh berries, a
sprinkle of sugar, or your favourite toppings. February 2026 Life in... Orpington 27
lifestyle
Business
FROM FROG TO PHONE (& LESSONS TO LEARN)
by JAMIE DOBSON, author of ‘Visionaries, Rebels and Machines: The story of humanity’s extraordinary journey from electrification to cloudification’ In the late 18th century, two Italian scientists – Luigi Galvani and Alessandro Volta – debated why a dead frog’s legs twitched when touched with metal instruments. Galvani believed there was a special ‘animal electricity’, while Volta argued that contact between different metals and moist tissue created a circuit. To prove his point, Volta invented the ‘Voltaic Pile’, the first true battery. That battery later powered telegraphy – and without the telegraph, you wouldn’t have your mobile phone. This pattern – revolutionary innovations emerging from curiosity, accident or attempts to solve entirely different problems – repeats throughout technological history. Understanding how serendipity shapes innovation matters more today than ever. But how do we turn curiosity and lucky accidents into innovation?
Pay attention to internal problems In the early 2000s, Amazon found its rapid growth had created an IT infrastructure bottleneck that was throttling innovation. Its solution – automated systems that allowed developers to quickly provision computing resources – turned out to be something other companies needed too. Amazon Web Services (AWS) launched in 2006 and now generates over $80 billion annually, powering everything from Netflix to NASA. Internal pain points can often signal wider market opportunities.
Create space for curiosity-driven exploration Google’s famous ‘20% time’ policy allowed engineers to spend one day a week on personal projects, leading to innovations such as Gmail and Google News. Even small amounts of unstructured time can produce unexpected insights.
Get innovations into users’ hands early The most creative applications often come from outside your organisation – Volta’s battery was little more than a curiosity until someone else found a use for it. Open APIs, pilot programmes and beta communities allow external creativity to shape innovation. Many breakthrough technologies take years to find their killer application.
Maintain diverse research portfolios Companies that encourage cross-pollination between teams and stay connected to academic research are more likely to spot opportunity when it appears. This requires cultures that support experimentation, tolerate failure and reward curiosity. The most innovative organisations create psychological safety that allows people to pursue interesting problems without fear.
Nail your email etiquette Email is still one of the most common ways we communicate in the professional world – but not everyone gets it right. Here are some simple ways to boss your email etiquette and make sure your messages land just right: • Subject lines matter – Keep them clear and specific so the recipient knows exactly what your message is about.
• Double-check addresses – Make sure your email
• Add a signature – Include your name, job title and
• Reply promptly – Don’t leave people
contact info. It looks professional and makes you easy to reach.
• Keep it short – Nobody loves long-winded emails. Stick to the point. • Check your spelling & grammar – It’s a small detail but makes a big difference to how you’re perceived.
• Tone it right – Be polite and professional. Avoid emojis, slang or text-speak. • Format for impact – Use bullet points, bold or italics to make your email easy to scan. • Call to action – End with what you want them to do (reply, confirm, arrange a meeting).
28 Life in... Orpington February 2026
goes to the right person!
hanging.We’ve all been on the receiving end of an email that seems to disappear into a black hole. Not only is it frustrating, but it can also make the sender feel undervalued. If you can’t provide a full response straight away, it’s good practice to acknowledge the email within 24–48 hours. A quick note such as“Thanks for your message, I’ll get back to you by the end of the week”shows courtesy, manages expectations and reassures the sender that their email hasn’t been forgotten. Timely responses build trust, demonstrate professionalism, reliability and respect for other people’s time.
Good email etiquette isn’t just about words, it’s about how you make others feel. The way you communicate over email reflects on you and your business, so a little attention to detail goes a long way!
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February 2026 Life in... Orpington 29
lifestyle
A Final Thought… Tribute acts
BY LINDA REGAN
Whilst flicking through my local theatre’s forthcoming attractions brochure, I couldn’t help but notice the amount of Tribute Acts that are currently filling theatres. For many years we’ve enjoyed Elvis impersonators, there has also been Marilyn Monroe lookalikes. However, now, bands are recreating the magic of other famous groups and while looking like these idols, they are bringing us the music we love to remember. ABBA impersonators seemed to be one of the busiest of these tribute acts, and understandably, because their music appeals to all age groups. I decided to take a trip back into the 70s and check out a few ABBA Tributes – and what fun it was! The band ABBAMAGIC completely bowled me over. As I shut my eyes, I truly could have been listening to the real thing. I waited at the stage door and when the band’s Agnetha came out, I asked if she could give me a few minutes to talk about ABBA and her personal journey into ABBAMAGIC. She very kindly accepted my invitation, and we settled comfortably down in the lounge of the local hotel. By now the perfect Agnetha wig and stage clothes were packed away and the actress/singer, Miranda Richards, was telling me about her journey into showbusiness. She came second in a talent competition at the age of four where she sang, ‘Don’t Dilly Dally on the Way.’ She was spotted by a touring vaudeville producer and was invited into his show. At the time she was still four years old. Even through her school life she worked singing, but also following her mother around the country. Her mother, Anna, was a cabaret singer and sang many ABBA songs in her act. At an early age, Miranda would sing with her, doing the
harmonies to the ABBA songs. After school and Musical Theatre college, Miranda worked endlessly in musicals, up and down the country and many West End shows: Forty Second Street, Forbidden Planet and West Side Story, to name a few. Then she married her school sweetheart and a baby came along. Although she loved touring and working in London she wanted to be at home with her family. ‘It was like fate,’ she told me. ‘As soon as I decided to be a stay-at-home mum, I saw an advert in a local paper for an Agnatha lookalike to join the band ABBAMAGIC. It stated it was mainly weekend work, so, knowing I could have best of both worlds, I applied and got the job. Of course, nowadays ABBAMAGIC has expanded, we have worked all over the world, festivals, holiday resorts. One highlight was playing the WATERLOO FESTIVAL in Belgian as a tribute to ABBA.’ I asked why the name, ABBAMAGIC, although very appropriate – the night I saw them they certainly brought the magic of the real ABBA back. The audience were on their feet dancing and screaming for more. ‘Because the real ABBA were magical,’ she told me, ‘and we, as a band, have worked to get everything 100% perfect out of respect for that, from the harmonies to the look even to the way each of them moved.’ After having watched this band in action I agreed they had succeeded in every point. They come out as a ten out of ten. They look and sound exactly like the originals, and being a big ABBA fan, I don’t say that lightly. ‘What’s next in your career?’ I asked her. ‘I love being part of ABBAMAGIC, I can’t ever imagine leaving them. I love the music. I grew up with my mother singing those songs and I get goosebumps every night hearing how alike the real thing we sound.’ Well, listening to them gave me goosebumps too. It really could have been the real thing. ABBAMAGIC’s own magic took me back to the days of flared trousers and shoulder pads. A night to truly remember. 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.’
30 Life in... Orpington February 2026
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