Love Local Spelthorne - MARCH

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March/April Edition

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The Local Magazine for Ashford, Laleham and Staines Upon Thames

S P E LT H O R N E

Welcome to the Spring edition of Love Local Spelthorne.

Contents 4 - Ashford Kitchens 6 - Spelthorne Launch Career Service 10 - Local Support 14 - KumonAshford

Lighter and brighter days are on the horizon, and spring is all around. There is just something special about those very first spring shoots and first glimpses of the daffodils, of course, there are other spring plants, but who doesn't love the daffs? You will find a full page inside dedicated to lots of spring plants, surely something for everyone.

If you are thinking of moving a little more, then we have amazing offers for you from the Hot Yoga Club and The Thames Club. Read all about their latest trends and keep up to date with what’s new or take a look at their current exercise classes; you can view them online at www.thethamesclub.co.uk/ timetable If you are a local business, then Spelthorne Business Expo is for you, the event will take place on Wednesday 22nd June at Staines Leisure Centre, you can also save 10%, see page 39 for further details. We are happy to see the return of this great event for local businesses in Spelthorne.

We have all missed events, haven't we? well, not this year! be sure to get your tickets to The Local Beer Festival taking place on the 30th of April at The Lucan Pavilion; there is also a chance to win 6 tickets to The Local Beer Festival by completing our Wordsearch on page 36.

It will be a great event, spread over 3 days with so much going on, fun for all the family.

Keep an eye out for further festivals too. The Local Food Festivals have 6 events planned for this coming year - check them out at www.thelocalfoodfestival.com.

16 - Energy Price Cap 18 - Staines Prep 20 - Facial Body Sculpting 26 - The Thames Club 34 - Local Walks 37 - Flamm Staines 38 - Kids Page 39 - Spelthorne Business Expo We hope you enjoy this edition; we will be back in May. Until then Carley and the Love Local Spelthorne Team To include your business or event in the May edition, get in touch today.

Get In Touch

Carley@lovelocalspelthorne.com Whatsapp - 07903 787371

Disclaimer The Love Local Spelthorne is produced by Leaflets2go. No parts of the production can be reproduced or used in any form without prior permission from the publisher. While all reasonable care has been taken in the production of this magazine we do not accept any liability for inaccuracy. © The Love Local Spelthorne 2022

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How to make your kitchen design more luxurious There are lots of ways that you can take your kitchen design from simple to sophisticated and a few small changes can make such a huge difference.

So, to help any homeowners who are struggling to create a luxury kitchen design for their home, below Ashford Kitchens have put together a list of interior design ideas that will help you to create a new kitchen that is everything you hoped it would be and more.

Build your appliances into your cabinetry Whilst a kitchen needs to be functional, if you want to achieve a luxurious look, you need to get the balance right between this and style. A simple way to take the focus off the functional side of your kitchen is to build your appliances into your cabinetry. This will help to make your appliances feel like part of your kitchen design rather than just your kitchen essentials.

Upgrade to smart appliances The appliances that you choose for your new kitchen will also influence the way it looks, and if you’re able to, it is worth spending a little bit more on some smart appliances. For example, installing a boiling water tap won’t only prevent the need for a kettle, freeing up workspace and helping to create a minimalist feel in your kitchen, but it will save you both time and hassle too.

Incorporate a splashback Instead of simply painting the wall space in between your worktops and upper cabinets, consider adding a splashback to your design.

Some of the materials available for splashbacks have an air of luxury about them and they will instantly elevate your design. Experiment with a

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few different materials and finishes until you find something that works for your luxury kitchen.

Make your kitchen island more visually appealing Commonly, kitchen islands are installed because they provide additional worktop and storage space, not to mention they double-up as a table. However, to make your kitchen more luxurious, you should turn your island into more of a feature. Consider trying a two-tone colour scheme or hanging pendant lights to make your island stand out for all of the right reasons.

Don’t shy away from dark colours So many homeowners use light colour schemes in their kitchen and this is a safe option to prevent the space from seeming smaller than it is. Yet, if you have a large kitchen, there is nothing stopping you from using darker colours in your design. You don’t have to use black, but dark greys, greens and blues can work really well and rich colours tend to feel more luxurious.

If you’d like to find out more call our Ashford showroom on 01784 245964 or our Farnham Common showroom on 01753 642362 today to start your new kitchen journey.

The Local Magazine for Ashford, Laleham and Staines Upon Thames

Local Specialists since 1984 Let us help you find your perfect kitchen, bedroom or home office.

www.ashfordkitchensandinteriors.co.uk Farnham Common Showroom 1-2 The Parade, Farnham Common, Bucks SL2 3QJ 01753 642362 Ashford Showroom 85 Church Road, Ashford, Middlesex TW15 2PE 01784 245964

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Spelthorne launch dynamic careers service for young residents Young Spelthorne residents will have a new support service to help them develop skills and kickstart their careers following the launch of the Spelthorne Youth Hub and the web application 'I Choose Local'.

The Hub was formally opened by MP for Spelthorne, Kwasi Kwarteng, on 4 March at the Guy Salmon Showroom in Sunbury.

the support they have given us in order to develop this Hub and believe our residents will benefit from having access to industry experts to enhance their skills."

The Youth Hub brings various stakeholders from across the Borough, including the Council, DWP, Brooklands College, A2 Dominion, Association of Learning Providers in Surrey, Transfer to Transform and local businesses, together to provide a service for younger residents looking to make their way in life. The Hub will do this by creating opportunities for work experience, mentoring and apprenticeships.

Kwasi Kwarteng, MP for Spelthorne, added: "It is a great privilege to open the Spelthorne Youth Hub. It is vital, as part of this country's recovery from the Coronavirus pandemic that we build back better and, part of this, is to reduce the barriers for young people to find employment. This Hub will play its part in doing just that and I commend the Council for their hard work in developing this project and would encourage all young residents, who may be struggling to find work, to make use of this The I Choose Local app is dedicated to finding service." employment and skills opportunities for young people aged 16 to 24 in Spelthorne.

For more information about the Spelthorne Youth Hub and to sign up to gain skills Cllr Colin Barnard, Chair of the Economic and access work support, courses, Development Committee, said: "This Council mentoring and job opportunities, visit: continues to innovate to support our residents www.spelthorneyouthhub.com/ and the Youth Hub will help provide young people with a platform to make their way in You can find out more about I Choose Local life. I am grateful to our various partners for by visiting: https://www.ichooselocal.co.uk/

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The Local Magazine for Ashford, Laleham and Staines Upon Thames

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The Local Magazine for Ashford, Laleham and Staines Upon Thames

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Stepping up support for vulnerable residents Spelthorne Council has secured additional funding from the North West Surrey Alliance Board to continue its step up/step down scheme, which fully assesses residents to establish their needs after a hospital stay before returning home or to more suitable accommodation.

The Council have been the lead agency for this scheme, in partnership with Adult Social Care and other neighbouring boroughs and have provided temporary accommodation to support medically fit patients unable to remain or return to their homes.

The service currently offers seven, one-bedroom properties comprising a mix of; two in Spelthorne, two in Runnymede, two in Woking and one in Elmbridge on a referral basis and is designed to support residents to stay in the accommodation for up to six weeks. The wraparound service identifies long term goals and facilitates a move to the next step accommodation, either back to their own home or a suitable alternative option.

Cllr Sandra Dunn, Chair of the Community Wellbeing and Housing Committee, said: “I am very proud of the work Spelthorne has been doing in bridging the gap between hospital and home. It is hugely beneficial for the patients and for our NHS as it frees up a bed which can be used by a resident who needs more acute care. We believe this model of care works best and to secure further funding is a real coup for the Council and highlights integrated working between borough Councils and the health service at its best.”

The scheme provides a bridge between a hospital stay and returning home and is a much-needed benefit to the NHS by freeing up a hospital bed without putting the client’s health at risk. The resident will receive care from partners across the alliance board, including Spelthorne Borough Council, Adult Social Care and the NHS to ensure that they are supported and that their needs are met.

The scheme also acts as a pathway between home and supported living, allowing vulnerable residents to receive a fresh start within a suitable supported living environment, and professionals to help their own goals and life plans.

Following a presentation to the Board about the workings of the scheme, it was agreed they would supply support for a further year, including funding four properties in Spelthorne, an increase from the current two, meaning the scheme is fully paid for by the Board.

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10 Top Spring Plants At this time of year there are so many gorgeous spring plants to choose from it can be tricky to know what to get for your garden. Have you ever wondered what the plant experts pick to have in their garden at home?

We asked some of the horticultural experts at Squire’s Garden Centres to tell us their favourite spring plants, and what you should be planting in your garden now.

Theresa Scattergood, Plant Manager at Squire’s Washington, My favourite spring plants are: • Narcissus ‘Tête-à-tête’ - A happy little golden yellow dwarf daffodil. This only grows to 15cm so it’s ideal for front borders or containers. It is very easy to grow and looks neat even when it has finished flowering. A plant to make you smile!

• Camellia japonica - An evergreen shrub with glossy green leaves. In February and March elegant rose-like flowers are produced in abundance. Ideal for a pot where this beautiful shrub can take centre stage in the garden.

• Sarcococca – Also known as ‘Sweet Box’ this evergreen shrub has strongly scented white flowers which appear from December until March. A compact plant ideal for containers, the heady honey like scent is intoxicating.

• Azalea ‘StarStyle’ - A compact evergreen shrub, this new variety has unusual and attractive star-like flowers in pink, lilac or white. A great plant for colourful pots or borders!

beautiful colour to my cottage garden when they flower. I also like to use them as a cut flower to bring in the house for an arrangement on the table.

• Buddleja ‘Butterfly Candy’ – This is a fantastically reliable compact shrub, which always performs whatever the weather. It’s a low maintenance plant that comes in a range of colours from blues, pinks and whites. It will thrive in a pot or a border, so any size of garden or balcony can have one. It flourishes in a sunny spot and will give you lots of nectar rich flowers from late spring through to late autumn, which will attract lots of butterflies into your garden.

Richard Wells, Centre Manager at Squire’s Badshot Lea, Three of my favourite spring plants are: • Rhododendron ‘Praecox’ - One of the first flowering Rhododendrons of the season, it’s a plant that really reminds you that spring has arrived! The mauve scented flowers look great against its dark evergreen leaves. Grows up to 1.5m.

• Laburnum x watereri ‘Vossii’ – A perfect tree for smaller gardens. Its common name is the ‘Golden Rain Tree’ as it produces a mass of Wisteria like golden hanging flowers that almost drip off the tree. The flowers appear in May and are incredibly eye catching. I have one in my front garden that the neighbours always comment on!

• Prunus serrula – This ‘Tibetan cherry’ tree is perfect for all gardens. It has a deep red glossy Chris Carpenter, Plant Manager at Squire’s Milford peeling bark that looks amazing through winter, followed by masses of small white flowers which A few of my favourite plants are: • Nemesia ‘Wisley Vanilla’ - A half-hardy perennial appear in early spring. It can grow up to 5m tall. My parents had one in their front garden which I fondly that has given me yearly colour in my planted use to climb when I was a child! containers. I love it because it’s reliable and scented. It has white flowers with a pink blush Whether you are looking for plants that are that are strongly scented of vanilla. Regular dead beautifully scented, easy to grow or give an heading will give you colour from spring well into explosion of spring colour, it’s time to treat late autumn, even later if it’s still mild. yourself, and your garden, to some new plants.

• Peonies - A beautiful herbaceous perennial, producing single or double flamboyant scented flowers. Some varieties can have flowers the size of Visit Squire’s Garden Centres or shop online for local delivery at www.squiresgardencentres.co.uk dinner plates! I love seeing them emerge from the ground signalling spring has arrived and they add

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Hi, I am Radhika, the Instructor of the Kumon Ashford Study Centre.

Hi, I am Radhika, the Instructor of the Kumon Ashford Study Centre.

Kumon is a worksheet based programme, with daily homework where students Kumon a worksheet homework where beyond students initiallyisstart off doing based familiarprogramme, calculationswith anddaily reading then advance initiallylevel, startresulting off doinginfamiliar calculations readingresults. then advance beyond school achieving very highand academic At my centre we school level, resultingaim in achieving very high academic At my level, centrewithwe to get students at least 1 year results. above school aim to get students at least 1 year months. above school level, within the first 8—10 in the first 8—10 months.

In my eyes, it’s not always about the academic developIn my children eyes, it’soften not always the self academic development, need toabout develop confidence and ment, children need to develop self confidence and motivation.

Theoften sense of responsibility and achievement motivation.

The sense ofthey responsibility becomes greater when are happyand withachievement their work. becomes greater when they are happy with their work.

I aim for every student to enjoy their learning experience I aim for out every enjoy their learning experience and walk withstudent a smiletoby personally, running every sesand smileclosely by personally, running every sionwalk without mywith teama and working with every childsesto sion with my team and closely working with needs. every child to ensure their programme is personalised to their individual ensure their programme is personalised to their individual needs.

Kumon is an investment towards your child’s education, therefore, I would like to Kumon is an investment towards your child’s education, I wouldavailalike to communicate the benefits of the programmes and maketherefore, this opportunity communicate benefits the programmes and make thiscreate opportunity ble to as manythe children as of possible so that together we can bright,availaconfible to as many children as possible that together can create bright, confident individuals whosopursue their fullwe potential. dent individuals who pursue their full potential.

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The Local Magazine for Ashford, Laleham and Staines29/07/2021 Upon Thames 11:03

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Staines Preparatory School At Staines Preparatory School we put wellbeing at the centre of the agenda for our pupils as we recognise that to fulfil their potential they must be in the right frame of mind.

We start by introducing a Growth Mindset approach from the beginning, teaching our pupils that although they may not grasp a concept at once, through hard work and perseverance they will make progress. This is supported with our Staines Prep Way values - listening, sharing, forgiving, kindness, respect, honesty and being your best – which run through the fabric of the school.

We recognise that childhood can come with many pressures, especially since the pandemic. We have three qualified Emotional Literacy Support Assistants (ELSA) who work under supervision from educational psychologists to support pupils to understand and regulate their own emotions, such as supporting pupils every step of the way to manage external pressures around exams or coping with bereavement. Children practise daily mindfulness and have a whole lesson built into their weekly timetable to dedicate to mental health.

Our newest edition to our pastoral team is our school dog Stanley, who supports our pupils and staff in their emotional wellbeing.

As soon as Stanley completed his Dog Mentor training, he began to make a positive impact on school life at Staines Prep. He works with our ELSA in Upper Prep to support pupils with a range of emotional needs and provided a much-needed positive distraction for pupils who found returning to school, still with the uncertainty of the covid pandemic looming, particularly difficult.

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One pupil commented how ‘grateful’ she was to see Stanley as he made her smile. Her confidence improved after spending time with him and she quickly became happy to come into school every day.

By learning to understand the way dogs communicate their feelings through body language, pupils are able to more easily have conversations about ‘big’ feelings and how to manage them. This provides them with the tools that they need to deal with their own emotions independently and positively.

Stanley also supports the pupils with their learning.

He acts as a wonderful listener for pupils who get anxious reading aloud, a calming companion for pupils who find assessments a stressful experience, and a coveted reward of a walk or play for pupils who show excellent levels of effort and focus.

We have recently bolstered our pastoral provision with the building of ‘The Retreat’, our brand-new sensory room which provides a safe and calming space for pupils to spend time when needed.

Our openness around the ups and downs that staff and pupils may face has changed our culture for the better. Pupils will discuss with their teacher any worries they may have, and we are able to put in early intervention before things become too overwhelming.

Putting the wellbeing of our pupils at the centre of everything we do feeds into our academic successes, and we are very proud of our excellent ISI rating as well as our pupils’ senior school entrance results.

To find out more about how we could support your child every step of the way, book a visit with our admissions team by emailing admissions@stainesprep.co.uk or call 01784 450909.

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Facial Body Sculpting by Monika The recently established Facial & Body Sculpting by Monika in Sunbury-on-Thames brings an exciting innovation for residents in Ashford, Staines, Laleham, Chertsey, Addlestone, Lyne, Bourne, Thorpe, and Egham.

Whereas beauty salons offer treatments such as relaxing facials, waxing and tinting, etc. a clinic offers services that go more than just skin deep. The services offered through Facial & Body Sculpting literally turn back time.

Monika launched the business in April 2021, and the private clinic has quickly become an established business offering flexibility with appointments to suit the client that include early mornings, late evenings and weekends. You choose the time that is right for you.

The clinic is a bright, hygienic, and medical practice located in a discreet area tucked away from the busy high street with easy parking. You can enjoy a true ‘Harley Street’ experience, conveniently located closer to home, at the time that suits you and at a price you can afford!

The equipment used in the clinic features the latest UK developed and manufactured cutting-edge technology – as championed by Lord Alan Sugar when he invested in Dr Leah Totton – 2013 winner of BBC One’s ‘The Apprentice’.

During an initial consultation, Monika will listen to your concerns, and then work with you to offer the best solution with a competitive and personalised price, tailored to achieve the desired results. The optimum results come from having a course of treatments and then maintaining it on a regular basis. However, even the first treatment will spark comments, such as, “You look fresh!” or even “Something has changed!”

The clinic offers a wide range of treatments for both face and body. Facial treatments include Non-Surgical Facelift, Jaw Lift, and Double Chin Reduction, Blemish Removal etc. For the body, we offer the following treatments: Fat Freezing, Fat Melting, Cavitation, Mummy Tummy Contouring and Gynaecomastia (Male Breast Reduction). You can also visit our social media for more treatments or give Monika a call on 07990 088137.

Monika has over 20 years’ experience in the medical and pharmaceutical industry and oversees all treatments through the clinic and are carried out in a safe and regulated manner. The staff are fully trained, registered and insured. It is worth noting that many of the treatments offered are only available in a handful of clinics across the entire Greater London area.

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The popular body treatments such as Fat Freezing and Fat Melting treatments have impressive results.

This type of clinic is pretty special. The treatments offered are not widely available, so it’s guaranteed to flourish, attracting clients from all ages and locations.

Reception so far has been positive, and Monika is very excited about this journey. “Clients are happy with their achieve results and that makes me happy.”

To contact Monika for more information, please see the details listed below.

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Energy Price Cap Rise of 54% The Government has announced a rise to their price cap, which will impact energy prices for most people in the UK from 1 April 2022.

The increase is driven by a record rise in global gas prices over the last six months, with wholesale prices quadrupling in the last year. It will affect default tariff customers who haven’t switched to a fixed deal and those who remain with their new supplier after their previous supplier exited the market.

The price cap allows energy companies to pass on all reasonable costs to customers, including increases in the cost of buying gas.

Since the price cap was last updated in August, the current level does not reflect the unprecedented record rise in gas prices which has since taken place.

Under the price cap mechanism, energy companies will be allowed to pass on these higher costs from April when the new level takes effect. This is because energy companies cannot afford to supply electricity and gas to their customers for less than they have paid for it.

Help is available If you are struggling to pay for energy bills, you should contact your energy supplier as soon as possible. Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for extra help with your energy bills or services, such as debt repayment plans, payment breaks, emergency credit for prepayment meters, priority support and schemes like the Winter Fuel Payment or Warm Home Discount rebate.

Breathing Space Scheme This is a scheme to give households time

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to receive debt advice and find a solution to sort out their debt problems. Breathing Space will last for 60 days as long as applicants remain eligible, during which time all creditors who have been included will be informed and must stop any collection or enforcement activity. Once the breathing space ends, creditors will be able to collect the debt in the usual way.

For advice call the National Debtline on Freephone 0808 808 4000 or visit www.nationaldebtline.org The Citizens Advice consumer service can provide advice on how customers can resolve problems with their energy provider. You can contact Citizens Advice via webchat, or by calling 0808 223 1133.

Switching suppliers Utility Helpline is a privately-owned, 100% independent business specialising in finding the best, unbiased gas and electricity prices for thier customers.

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The Local Magazine for Ashford, Laleham and Staines Upon Thames

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The Local Food Festival The Local Food Festival brand started life back in 2016 after having successfully held The Surrey Food festival at old deer park, Richmond. Since then additional festivals have been added to the calendar with The Middlesex Food Festival in 2018, Chilli & Beer Festivals in 2019 and after a crazy 2 year, we are delighted to be back with a packed calendar of events for 2022.

The Local Food Festival is the brainchild of Steve O’Neill who with his like minded team have the same vision to bring local communities together for an affordable family-friendly, exciting fun-filled event.

A main stage gives local bands the chance to showcase their musical vocals as well as local dance schools to show off their talents.

The kids zone offers a safe environment for them all to have a bounce and enjoy our rides while the parents sit and relax and digest the days food and drinks.

Our Chilli themed festivals along with offering a wrath of chilli themed foods and drinks also provides a marquee for the Chilli Comedy Club, allowing the adults to enjoy fun and laughter from comedians throughout the day.

So if you are looking for a fun filled and affordable family day out then look no further. Head over to our website or follow us on social media and keep up to date with all our festivals.

The Local Food festival offer 5 key sections to bring you their own brand of food festival: A demo tent for top chefs, food writers and drink connoisseurs to show off their skills, tempt you with new concepts and answer questions to share their knowledge.

Our marketplace marquee offers you the chance to purchase a variety of food and drink-related products to take home with you.

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SCAN THE BARCODE TO BOOK YOUR TICKETS TO THE BEER FESTIVAL!

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The Thames Club A real buzz has re-emerged in 2022 amongst the group exercise class community at The Thames Club.

Based in Staines-upon-Thames, this premier health and wellness club offers one of the best varieties of group workouts to suit different goals and lifestyles.

Members love the social aspect of classes as well as the fitness benefits. Managing Director Peter Williams is committed to keeping the offering fresh, impactful and relevant to help members be the best version of themselves. As Studio Manager Dawn Sharp explains, “virtual or home workouts simply can’t replicate the camaraderie, feel-good factor and energy created in our face-to-face classes”.

Here they share what classes are winning in popularity this year and announce the exciting news of their brand new Reformer Pilates studio coming soon!

Trending now at The Thames Club Not sure of your HIIT from your Grit? Get up to speed with trending classes and take your fitness and wellbeing to the next level: Metabolic Conditioning and Complete Core Prepare to supercharge your heartrate, fitness and lean muscle mass. Metabolic Conditioning incorporates variable intensity, cardio and weight lifting to challenge the body and burn fat.

Complete Core works on core (torso) strength and stability to enhance everyday tasks as well as sports performance, injury prevention, aches and pains.

Gym floor classes Popular with the Earlybirds! Join a personal trainer on the gym floor for a pre-breakfast small group workout. These sessions are short, sharp and social

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to maximise efficiency and include plyometric exercises like burpees and tuck jumps. A stressrelieving and positive way to kickstart your morning.

Spinning Remaining firm favourites, Sprint*, RPM* and Spin classes take riders on a challenging journey of hills, sprints and resistance training, burning hundreds of calories and conditioning the lower body. The club boasts a premium tiered spin theatre with brand new Matrix bikes and a pumping sound system. The bikes integrate with wearable technology Myzone, allowing you to track your heart rate and benefit from heart rate-based training, ensuring you work at optimum intensity for your fitness level.

Grit* Get straight to work in this 30-minute HIIT (high intensity interval training) workout that blasts major muscle groups and improves strength and cardio fitness. The class varies each week to keep your mind and body alert! HIIT combines short bursts of

The Local Magazine for Ashford, Laleham and Staines Upon Thames

intense exercise interspersed with rest/recovery, resulting in a tough but super efficient half hour.

Yoga & Pilates These holistic classes work your body and mind, enhancing mobility, flexibility, strength and relaxation techniques. Low impact and suitable for all levels of fitness, yoga and Pilates are notorious mental health boosters, encouraging time out to breathe deeply and escape life’s stresses.

Hot yoga Hot yogis have their own close-knit community as part of the Hot Yoga Club (hotyogaclub.co.uk).

Offering a rewarding, unique workout for mind and body, the added element of heat provides a cardio challenge too. The state-of-the-art hot studio hosts over 30 classes a week where yogis sweat, stretch, balance, learn breathing techniques and feel amazing.

BRAND NEW REFORMER PILATES STUDIO COMING THIS SPRING! We can also reveal that The Thames Club will soon be launching a dedicated Reformer Pilates studio, great for improving posture, strength, flexibility and muscle tone – you heard it here first! Classes in this stylish studio will be available to members for an

additional charge and non-members on a pay as you go basis. Keep checking thethamesclub.co.uk for further details.

Not sure what class is right for you?

All classes and overviews can be viewed at thethamesclub.couk/timetable: simply filter by type and goal (cardio, dance, mind & body, strength, tone or weight loss) or by day of the week.

If you want to feel the buzz of the class community, why not take a tour of The Thames Club? You’ll see why many lifelong friendships are formed here!

Book by visiting thethamesclub.co.uk or by calling 01784463100. *The Thames Club offers six programmes from Les Mills, the world leader in group workouts.

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Clean and fresh Clear the clutter, sort your stuff and make everything in your home spick and span – your home will feel revitalised and so will you.

Are you closer to being the goddess of grime than the queen of clean? Spring sunshine means that it’s the ideal time to don your apron, snap on your Marigolds and refresh your home from top to bottom.

So, where to begin? The obvious place is with a good, old-fashioned tidy up, paying attention to all your tables, shelves, floors and other surfaces, inside kitchen and bathroom cupboards, bedroom wardrobes and chests of drawers. Once you have cleared the space, you are almost ready to begin.

But not quite.

Make a list of what needs doing (this may be rather time-consuming, but will be worth it in the end) and allocate some time for each chore.

Then dig out appropriate clothing. What to wear will depend on the task at hand, but should include an old shirt and trousers, and could also mean rubber gloves, sturdy shoes, an apron and a dust mask or safety goggles.

Next, assemble your equipment – from brooms and scrubbing brushes to buckets and cloths.

Having it ready beforehand will save time and effort later.

Five old-fashioned cleaning tips • Polish chrome taps with vinegar, a little baking soda on a damp cloth or a gentle rub of white toothpaste.

• To dust carved wooden furniture, put a dab of furniture cream on a damp cloth and hold it over the bristles of a soft toothbrush – you will be able to work your way into all the cracks and crevices.

Lastly, find the cleaning products you’ll require, including an all-purpose household cleaner, washing-up liquid, furniture polish, non-chlorine bleach, anti-mildew tile and bath cleaner and window cleaner.

Now you are ready, so refer back to your list of what needs doing – you’ll see it divides into five main areas: vacuuming, dusting, mopping/ scrubbing, washing and wiping, and polishing. It’s also time to realise that some jobs are better outsourced, such as steam-cleaning the carpets, having the chimney swept and cleaning the oven.

These jobs often need specialist equipment and take several hours to do.

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Before you embark, bear in mind the basic principles of cleaning: work from top to bottom (dust the light fitting before polishing the table beneath) and tackle dry before wet (vacuum before mopping, obviously). Try to be organised, whether you work in one room at a time or at one task at a time. With a little forethought, preparation and organisation, spring cleaning can be a rewarding activity that will restore your home to its rightful place as a peaceful haven that is well-kept, tidy and gleamingly, squeaky clean.

• De-grease a vinyl floor (under the oven, for example) by rubbing with a halved lemon, then mop with an all-purpose cleaner.

• Spot-clean upholstery by gently rubbing in a little foamy shaving cream and removing with a clean, damp cloth.

• Beat a rug by hanging it over a washing line and using a tennis racket.

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The Local Magazine for Ashford, Laleham and Staines Upon Thames

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The Local Magazine for Ashford, Laleham and Staines Upon Thames

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Shortwood Common, Staines Pumping Station and Moormede Estate In early November 2020, a very mild and sunny afternoon enticed us to go for a walk. We directed our steps towards Shortwood Common and its pond. The signage from Spelthorne Borough Council enlightened us about this ancient ground: “Shortwood is one of the best wildlife ponds in Britain. It has plenty of space and lots of different zones for a variety of plants and wildlife: trees, reedbeds, open water and muddy margins.

The common has not always looked this way. In the past, parts of the common have been a golf course and even a Victorian rubbish tip! Shortwood pond was probably dug as a gravel pit in the early to mid-1800s. Now the pond and grassland are home to a rich mix of plants and wildlife. People have grazed their animal there for centuries. In 1794 a man was sentenced to a pubic whipping for stealing Mr Watson’s geese from Shortwood Common.

In a survey of the common and pond, botanists found over 100 types of plants here. Over the last century most of the green landscape around Staines has disappeared under roads, houses, factories and reservoirs. Shortwood Common is one of our last few wildlife oases. The mixture of grazed grassland, hedges, trees and a large pond is what make Shortwood Common special. In fact Shortwood common is so good for wildlife that it is

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protected as a “Site of Special Scientific Interest”.

We crossed the Common diagonally, towards the Crooked Billet avoiding horses, foals, calves and cows which were feeding on the short grasses; a very bucolic scene. Gradually the noise of the traffic became louder and louder. We crossed the A30 and went down the under path to carry on along it. I must admit, this part was not pleasant at all because of the traffic uproar and the fumes.

We arrived at the bridge over the river Colne, and went carefully down the muddy stairs to the river which was flowing pretty fast. It felt like a different world, very rural and welcoming, despite the traffic din above. A few cygnets and a parent were drifting with the current.

I believe we had reached the area where BEA flight 548 crashed on a cold and wet Sunday in June 1972, killing 118 people on board. What a very sad affaire!

Getting away from the clamour, we followed a muddy, slippery and leaf covered dirt track which took us through the Moormede Estate or the “bird” estate, its streets named after kestrel, robin, lark, swallow, plover, and kingfisher.

Eventually we reached Moormede Crescent; we followed it round and then we crossed a small green to Thames Water’s Staines Pumping Station. Its frontispiece is beautifully carved out of red material with fine and delicate details.

Nick Pollard, Chairman of Sunbury and Shepperton Local History Society, and Honorary Curator of

The Local Magazine for Ashford, Laleham and Staines Upon Thames

herd again in their pastoral spot. The sun was low on the horizon and the temperature cooler. We hurried home for a well-deserved cup of tea and a mince pie.

Spelthorne Museum in Staines kindly gave me some explanations, after having shown him the close-up photos of the roundels: “The Staines Reservoirs were constructed jointly by three private water companies, the New River, the Grand Junction, and the West Middlesex, to hold water abstracted from the Thames which was then pumped onwards to their purifying and pumping works in the Kempton/Sunbury/Hampton area.

On a beautiful sunny late February day the following year, we returned on foot to the Moormede Estate. We wanted to find the memorial which commemorates the air crash in June 1972. Once again following the tortuous bird named- streets, we eventually reached the recreation ground where it was situated. We had to cross the river Colne which was flowing fairly fast.

The far left hand photo shows the name and the company seal/motto of the New River Company, originally founded in 1619 to build a conduit to bring fresh water into the City of London from Hertfordshire. The motto reads ‘Et plui super unam civitatem’ which translates as ‘And I rained upon one city’. Next are the arms of the Grand Junction Water Company, founded in 1811, representing Hygeia, Goddess of Health.

The right hand photo has the name of the Staines Incorporated Reservoirs, which was the joint company formed to build and operate the reservoirs (technically there are two separated by a central bank) and the date 1896, which was when the Act of Parliament was passed enabling the reservoir scheme to be built. Furthest right are the arms and name of the West Middlesex water company, founded in 1806, featuring Aquarius, the water carrier.

We entered the park, and saw a mound of earth covered with short grass and the odd daisy and dandelion splatted around. After climbing and coming down the other side, we saw the semicircular bench surrounding the stone slabs. In the middle, lying on the floor was the commemorative metal plate. The plaque read: “Opened on 18th June 2004 to commemorate the PAPA-INDIA air disaster in Staines when 118 lives were lost. In gratitude for all who assisted on 18th June 1972”

The whole scheme, including this pumping station, was completed in 1902, but all the private water companies were incorporated into the new Metropolitan Water Board the following year, which took its motto from the New River Co and the supporters of its coats of arms from the Grand Junction and the West Middlesex Co.”

A young man was sitting on the bench; he presumably lived on the estate. We told him about the plane crash but he did not know anything about it. It is sad that this plaque had been laid and seemed to have been forgotten. It is such a pity that it was only erected in 2004 as if everyone wanted to forget about the accident and the deaths it incurred.

We walked up the foot bridge over the A308 from where we could clearly see the unmissable red bricked Pumping Station over the far side of the Crooked Billet Roundabout. We went back via Shortwood Common where we met our friendly

We returned home slowly, still imbued by the feeling of loneliness and dejection.

By Annie Sugrue

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Vegetable

Artichoke Aubergine Bean Beetroot Broccoli Carrot Celery Kale Marrow Onion Parsley Parsnip Shallot Spinach Pea Peppers Sprouts Sweetcorn Potato Pumpkin Tomato Turnip Radish

Win 6 Tickets to The Local Beer Festival!

Simply find the phrase and send us a picture of your entry. The Winner will be announced on our Facebook and instagram pages on Friday 1st April.

Good Luck. Send via Whatsapp to 07903787371 or send us a picture on Facebook @LoveLocalSpelthorne

Based in Sunbury, Aldridge & Sons Roofing Ltd has an unrivaled reputation for quality workmanship and customer service. We are a friendly, family-run roofing business with over 30 years of experience in the roofing industry.

We cover all aspects of roofing from a slipped tile to more complex re-roofing projects.

Please feel free to call to arrange a free visit.

Call 020 8844 0542 or 07984 351 607 36

The Local Magazine for Ashford, Laleham and Staines Upon Thames

Flamm Restaurant Flamm is a stylish restaurant based in Staines and specialises in authentic Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine with an extensive menu choice including a range of hot and cold meze as well as classics such as such as garlic prawns and stuffed vine leaves.

Main courses include sharing meat platters also served with rice and salad, there are plenty of fish and vegetarian options and a children’s menu too. The menu is authentic and caters for everyone.

Read the Trip Advisor reviews for yourself and if you are looking for a great night out with amazing food and great entertainment then look no further, book yourself a table at Flamm soon where you will be warmly welcomed.

Friday evenings are lots of fun with belly dancers to entertain diners, Dinner and entertainment under one roof makes for an ideal Friday evening out with friends and family. Be sure to check out their cocktail and mocktail menu too.

Keep up to date with Flamm on social too - Flamm is on Facebook and Instagram info@flammrestaurant.co.uk 13-15 High Street Staines TW18 4QY

Serving fine Turkish cuisine in the heart of Staines

In Flamm, we pride ourselves on serving high quality authentic Turkish food where you’ll find cosy and friendly atmosphere.

Whether you are joining us for a lunch or dinner, enjoy a selection of scrumptious hot and cold meze as starters and save room for a main course from our succulent charcoal grilled meat or fish, and also culinary vegetarian options such as stuffed aubergine, moussaka, vegetarian casseroles.

Our nicely selected drinks menu includes contemporary cocktails, a variety of red and white wine including our favourites from Turkey.

www.flammrestaurant.co.uk 37

Win a Family Ticket to Bocketts Farm “Enjoy an egg-citing family day out this Spring as the lambing season gets into full swing! With over 500 gorgeous new born lambs due and ‘Meet the Shepherd’ sessions daily, there will be plenty of opportunity to learn about the lambs and even watch one being born! Plus, meet baby chicks and ducklings in Small Animal Encounter sessions and enjoy fun live shows in the Easter Garden.

Complete the Easter trail too and children can take home a delicious chocolate treat. With craft activities, tractor rides, pig racing, heaps of outdoor adventure to explore, a huge indoor play barn and brand-new adventure playground ‘Squirrel Scramble’, you can be sure of a great day out!

Open 7 days a week 10am – 5.30pm.

Pre-booking essential.

Visit www.bockettsfarm.co.uk for more information and to book.

To win simply find all 10 differences and send us a picture of your entry.

Send via Whats App to 07903787371 OR via Facebook @LoveLocalSpelthorne The winner will be announced on our Facebook and Instagram pages on Friday 1st of April.

Good Luck

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE

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The Local Magazine for Ashford, Laleham and Staines Upon Thames

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The Local Magazine for Ashford, Laleham and Staines Upon Thames