The Orpington 1st Magazine - Autumn 2019

FR M A BU OM AG FRE SIN O A E ES RP ZIN SE IN E S T GT O ON YO U

The

Orpington

Magazine

Autumn edition 2019 IN THIS ISSUE • • • •

Food Festival preview Enchanted review Pallet Park pops up Shining a spotlight on local business

Published by

Tindle Newspapers

www.orpington1st.co.uk info@orpington1st.co.uk • 01689 829 527

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F AT REE T E TO ND !

P FOOD FESTIVAL 2 - 8TH SEPTEMBER 2019

A week long celebration of Orpington’s restaurants including a weekend of free to attend events in Market Square

FOODIE FRIDAY

SUNDAY SOCIAL

6th September 6pm - 10pm

8th September 12 noon - 3pm

Food & Drink Stalls Live Music

SATURDAY SHOWCASE

Community Lunch & Entertainment

7th September 10am - 4pm

e a c i c a c m e

w o t P i t C f v w o d

Food Market Demo Kitchen

Look out for offers from Orpington eateries throughout the week!

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Pretty as a picture!

Contents 5 Flavours of Orpington 7 Dementia Awareness Week 2019 9 A walk in the park!

11 LSEC student awards 13 Pallet Park Pops Up 15 Jo Johnson MP’s Column 19 Police Update 20 Enchanted Festival Review 26 New Business 31 Loose Change for Real Change

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HAT was how the town centre was described during the recent visit by judges from London in Bloom. This is the second year that we have entered the town into this prestigious competition as a way of recognising the efforts made by the business community in providing customers with a greener, cleaner and more welcoming environment.

Hopefully you will have had the opportunity to visit the Pop Up Pallet Park that we have installed outside the Walnuts Leisure Centre; it is available for all town centre visitors to use and will host a variety of pop up events during the summer.

Orpington1st

Published by: Tindle Newspapers To advertise, call Mark Kadshaw on 07800 609444 or email markkadshaw@bigginhillnews.co.uk

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There is a growing interest in the town centre and over the next few months we will be welcoming a variety of new businesses into units that are currently vacant, so keep a look out for what’s new.

From creating festivals and competitions to promoting campaigns and supporting charities, Orpington businesses are committed to continuous improvements for our town centre.

Saturday Showcase

Orpington 1st Business Improvement District www.orpington1st.co.uk

by Orpington 1st BID Executive Director, Sharon Baldwin

In this edition you can read about the some of the projects and events that we fund and deliver, as well as those that we produce in partnership, such as the brand-new career and jobs show in November. For more information and regular updates on all town centre news please visit the website and sign up to our free newsletter.

Enjoy the rest of your summer and enjoy Orpington town centre!

PS, Save the date... 14th November, Light Up Orpington 2019!

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We want to see Dinosaurs!

We want to meet a Superhero!

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We will make their wishes come true !

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orpington1st.co.uk/events

Flavours of Orpington 2019

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rom 2nd – 8th September, the town’s annual food festival returns, with residents invited to experience the ‘Flavours of Orpington’.

Orpington 1st BID Manager, Chris Travers, said, “We have a thriving restaurant scene in Orpington with some much-loved and long-established eateries as well as some exciting new additions.

Flavours of Orpington is a great chance to celebrate the range we have and to encourage residents across the borough to take a fresh look at what’s on offer in Orpington town centre.”

The festival concludes with a weekend of free-to-attend events in Market Square. For starters, Foodie Friday on 6th September: a mouth-watering selection of food stalls and a licenced bar are accompanied by a delicious line-up of live music. For Saturday Showcase on 7th September, chefs from some of the town’s favourite restaurants will prepare delectable dishes live in a specially installed demonstration kitchen, alongside a food focused market with something for all tastes.

A collaboration with the good eggs of Orpington Churches Together rounds off the week with a free BBQ and family entertainment at the Sunday Social.

A festival brochure highlighting what’s on offer at participating restaurants will be distributed to households.

Visit www.orpington1st.co.uk for more details.

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“Let’s Talk Dementia”

and businesses and organisations who are taking action to increase support and make improvements to the services they provide to their customers and the wider community.

Nicola Fishman, who helped organise the event, was delighted with the response: “I am grateful to all those who have supported and contributed to this inaugural event. The quality of speakers and information in the presentations has been outstanding.”

Earlier in the week on 21st May,

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HAT was the invitation given to local residents and businesses to attend a brand new conference hosted by Orpington 1st in partnership with the Bromley Dementia Action Alliance (BDAA).

As part of Dementia Action Week 2019, Orpington 1st BID sponsored a unique conference to which all sections of the community were invited to come together to discuss, connect with and support those affected by dementia.

Held on the 23rd May at the Odeon cinema in the Walnuts shopping centre the event was free to attend and open to all. it provided a great opportunity to develop new partnerships and learn about the changes individuals, business and organisations could make in order to assist those living with or caring for those with dementia.

Sharon Baldwin, Orpington 1st BID Executive Director said, “Our business community is committed to making Orpington a dementia friendly town centre and we are delighted to have helped deliver such an inspiring event as part of our programme of activity.”

In addition to the incredible list of professionals, guest speakers included those directly affected by dementia

Orpington 1st hosted free awareness training sessions for town centre businesses. A virtual dementia experience tour bus provided delegates with an insight into what it might be like for those living with dementia to carry out day to day tasks, before a debrief session at Orpington Village Halls gave participants an opportunity to share their experiences and ask questions of the fully qualified trainees.

On the same day, Tesco Orpington hosted a pop-up information and advice event with representatives of the BDAA, Clarkson Wright & Jakes Solicitors and Bromley Dementia Support Hub.

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A walk in the park... ...was just one of the highlights from a recent visit from London in Bloom judges.

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OLLOWING a walk round by Orpington 1st BID Executive Director Sharon Baldwin and LBB Neighbourhood Manager Mark Crawley to ensure the centre was looking its best, the judges were joined by LBB environmental lead and Orpington 1st advisor Cllr.

William Huntington Thresher for a short presentation on the BID’s environmental projects.

Bloom has enjoyed 52 years in London and has demonstrated that it is a powerful tool for positive change.

Using horticulture as its foundation, the campaign also encourages

environmental responsibility and community participation. Orpington 1st’s entry this year incorporated a variety of projects such as additional litter picks and graffiti removal through to sustainability projects as well as the installation of the flower towers, and the Pop Up Pallet Park (see page 13).

A cleaner and greener town centre has many benefits including safer spaces for enjoyment by local people, a reduction in anti-social behaviour, a positive effect on the local economy, as well as long term improvements for the environment.

The judges’ visit ended with a trip to the beautiful Priory Gardens where

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Richard Gibbons from Friends of the Priory gave a talk and guided tour of the community work taking place there.

As part of Orpington 1st’s drive to improve the look and feel of the town centre, the BID has also worked with the London Borough of Bromley to bring in new litter bins, as well as new signage, which is expected to be installed by the end of the summer.

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LSEC rolls out the red carpet for star students Exceptional students were given star treatment on Wednesday at London South East Colleges’ annual awards ceremony hosted at the ODEON Cinema, Orpington.

orpington1st.co.uk/education

The magic 21 winning students with representatives of the awards sponsors

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VER 100 people attended the event including representatives from headline sponsors Orpington 1st and South East London Chamber of Commerce.

21 inspiring students selected from across the College’s Bromley, Bexley, Greenwich and Orpington campuses were presented with prizes, having been nominated by their tutors.

Students of all ages and from many different courses had been nominated – ranging from SEN learners to those studying for degrees.

The guest speaker was British racing driver, Nicolas Hamilton. Born with cerebral palsy, Nicolas has never let his disability prevent him achieving his lifelong dream of becoming a successful racing driver.

Presenting the winning students with their awards, Nicolas said: “These students have persevered, despite having had setbacks. Credit must be given to the College too for helping them to reach their goals. My advice to you all is to always be honest, determined and true to yourself – and good things will come.”

Guests were also treated to fantastic performances from Romzy, a Production Arts student from Greenwich who is currently taking the music world by storm.

Principal and CEO of London South East Colleges, Sam Parrett OBE, awarded her own ‘Principal’s Award’ to Joshua Tanton – a successful HE student, who is studying for a science foundation degree while working in a busy role at William Harvey Hospital in Ashford.

Nicolas Hamilton with student, Nikole Ogorodnikova and LSEC Principal and CEO Sam Parret

Up and coming Afro-swing artist, Romzy.

Addressing guests, Sam said: “This is always such a wonderful event in our College calendar. Every student who has been nominated for or won an award has worked exceptionally hard this year and achieved some amazing results.

“We are also hugely grateful to our employer partners and local authorities for supporting our work and our students – these partnerships are integral to the College’s success.

Going forward, we will continue to expand and grow our employer engagement activity, working within our local communities to offer people the highest quality learning experience while helping to meet industry need.”

For more information about the many courses on offer at London South East Colleges, visit www.lsec.ac.uk.

Apply now for a September start.

Guests walk the red carpet from BR6 Bakehouse to ODEON Orpington

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Nicolas Hamilton

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Pallet Park Pops Up

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ESIDENTS passing by the Walnuts Leisure Centre recently will have been pleasantly surprised to see that a once dead concrete square has been transformed into a bright and attractive green space with the Orpington 1st Pop Up Pallet Park.

Installed as part of Orpington 1st Business Improvement District’s London in Bloom project, the park makes use of recycled pallets and artificial grass, and is adorned with

flowers, creating a mini oasis and breathing life and colour into what was a drab and underutilised space.

Several seating areas provide a great spot to relax in, including the impressive pallet bench which runs the length of the east wing of the park.

Orpington 1st Executive Director, Sharon Baldwin, said: “The Orpington business community is committed to improving the Look & Feel of the town centre for the benefit of all who use it, and in the BID team we’re always looking for innovative ways to enhance the environment and increase dwell time. We’re delighted to bring the Pop Up Pallet Park to Orpington and we hope that shoppers and workers alike will take the opportunity to drop by.”

The Pallet Park will be in situ until September.

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Pleasantly surprised visitors have been quick to share their #PalletPark experience on social media (see page 3)

If you would like to get involved then do get in touch at info@orpington1st.co.uk

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Greener ways of getting about

A column by Jo Johnson, MP

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N July I was proud that Bromley councillors unanimously decided to adopt a motion setting out the ambition of net zero carbon emissions by 2029.

This ambitious target recognises the importance of lowering carbon emissions, both to tackle climate change and also to improve quality of the air we breathe. There is growing political consensus on this matter and I was pleased that earlier this year the Government adopted a target for the UK as a whole to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

The UK is the first major economy to set such an ambitious target and I am proud that Bromley and the UK are leading the world in this regard.

We can all do our bit in helping reach this target. One easy way is to change the way in which we get around. Orpington has extremely good public transport connections.

There are regular rail services into London and Kent from Orpington

emission-free way of getting from A to B. I was pleased to recently meet with a member of the team at Lime and try out a Lime bike myself. I was impressed by the ease with which cyclists can find and pick up a bike through the Lime app. The bikes are very easy to ride as they are assisted by a small electric motor helping you up any challenging inclines. Lime regularly checks and recharges the bikes, making sure that they have not been abandoned or misused.

These new bikes are a perfect way to get around Orpington and I would encourage you all to make the most of them.

Station and the High Street holds the record of the longest chain of consecutive bus routes in London, from the R1 to R11! While trains and buses have some carbon costs associated with them, the carbon footprint of travelling on public transport is dramatically lower than travelling in a car.

Furthermore, Orpington has recently seen the introduction of a new eco-friendly way of getting around. Dockless Lime e-bikes can now be found on streets across the borough and provide a low cost and

How To Lime 1 Download the Lime app 2 View nearby scooters, e-bikes and pedal bikes

3 Scan the QR code or enter number to unlock

4 Lock up safely when finished The Orpington 1st Magazine - Autumn 2019

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One step at a time However, the cheapest, cleanest and greenest way of getting around Orpington remains by foot. We are lucky to have lots of wide pavements with grass verges which makes Orpington an extremely pleasant place to walk around. By choosing to walk to work, to school or to the shops we are not only getting some important exercise but are taking a car off the road and keeping greenhouse gases out of the atmosphere. By choosing to walk to a local independent shop for our groceries rather than driving to an out of town supermarket, we are reducing vehicle emissions as well as lowering the carbon footprint of our food.

I am proud that our local councillors and the Government are taking reducing our net emissions seriously. I hope that we all help contribute to achieving these targets, even if we have to take it one step at a time.

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Back home

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OLLOWING an unforeseen closure, the Alan De Maid Orpington team are back home at their office on Orpington High Street.

Last October, a leak from the unit above Alan De Maid Orpington led to its temporary closure for refurbishment.

In January, just as loss adjusters’ work was reaching completion, an electrical fire saw the reopening set back further. Finally, in June, the team are back where they belong ready to sell homes for the good people of Orpington.

Senior Branch Manager, Diane, who has been with the company 33 years - 25 of them at its Orpington branch, said, “We’ve been fortunate that our colleagues in our West Wickham and Locksbottom offices have been able to accommodate us while works took place, so we’ve been able to continue serving our clients.”

Diane Elliott-Hale, James Foyle, Gary Tynan, Dario Bertel Customers of Alan De Maid, which was established in 1953 and has a network of six offices across the London Borough of Bromley, also benefit from a partnership with John D Wood & Co, who have 19 offices in central London and many more across the South East. The Orpington team have a combined century of professional experience.

“In the 25 years I’ve been here I’ve seen a great deal of change and we’ve also seen a lot of repeat business, so we’d like to thank all our clients who have stuck by us, old and new,” said Diane.

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Safer Neighbourhoods

An update from Sgt. Baker

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HE Summer is here and with it are new issues and challenges. I am aware of complaints about the persistent begging of vagrants in Orpington High Street, and the impact that is having on businesses and the general public. It isn’t always easy to deal with people under the Vagrancy Act, due in part to the fact that the legislation was originally drafted to deal with returning soldiers from the Napoleonic Wars, but also because

PC Andy O’Keefe on patrol in Orpington town centre. of the difficulties in proving the act of begging itself.

“If those involved refuse help and turn out not to be genuine in their need, there are ways to deal with those individuals. In the last week we have had one frequent offender recalled to complete his prison sentence and another arrested and remanded in custody for drugs possession.

“Working with the town centre business community we will be

seeking to obtain Criminal Behaviour Orders to help prevent antisocial behaviour and abate the negative impact it has on the entire community.

“We are aware of where some of these individuals have taken up residence, and I have tasked my team to complete a closure notice on that venue. The next step will be to address that landowner and request that they decontaminate and secure their property using the Community Protection Notice powers available to us; and if they fail, I shall ensure they are prosecuted and placed before the Magistrate.

“I look forward to a positive outcome for all businesses, customers and the honest hardworking people of Orpington.”

MBE for Bromley Inspector

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SENIOR Met Police officer from Bromley has been made an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours for his work caring for families of colleagues killed in the line of duty.

Inspector Gary Byfield, who has 32 years’ service with the Met, has been supporting the families of police officers who have been killed in the line of duty for around 20 years, dedicating much of his free time to support families following deaths on duty, providing emotional and practical support, helping them through both the legal and grieving processes over many years.

Gary has participated in both the USA and UK Police Unity Tour cycle rides over the past 13 years,and The UK Police Unity Tour, which he co-founded in 2013, has raised in excess of £500,000 for charity Care of Police Survivors (COPS) UK. Gary has himself raised around £275,000 through various fundraising efforts and events.

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Inspector Byfield said: “I am honoured that I have been awarded the MBE for supporting families through COPS and UK Police Unity Tour that have lost police officers in the line of duty. I want to dedicate this award in the memory of all those officers that have paid the ultimate sacrifice whilst serving in the Police.”

“An exemplary ambassador” Described as “an exemplary ambassador for UK policing”, he has also been integral to establishing an effective support network between British and American families who have lost someone.

Commissioner Cressida Dick said: “I would like to congratulate all of the colleagues whose remarkable achievements, both in their professional and personal lives, have been recognised by Her Majesty The Queen. These are special accolades that they and their families and loved ones can take great pride in for years to come.”

Inspector Gary Byeld, MBE

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Orpington...

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Above: Cllr. Huntingdon Thresher receiving a “Message in a bottle” of letters from local school children expressing their support for plastic free initiatives

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HOUSANDS of families enjoyed a day packed full of creativity on Saturday 1st June as Orpington’s glorious Priory Gardens hosted the return of Enchanted in partnership with Orpington 1st and supported by Arts Council England and Clarion Futures.

A free all-day arts festival aimed at 5 to 11 year olds, Enchanted Children’s Festival 2019 featured two stages and a myriad of activities and inspiring workshops hosted by local and national artists, providing festival goers with an abundance of opportunities to explore their imagination.

Rooted in the local community, Enchanted engaged local children, young people, educators and artists in projects all year round.

Festival decorations were made by local primary school children from recycled materials on the theme of “Our Oceans.” Their amazing creations, which included a giant sculpture of a mermaid created by the children of St Mary Cray Primary, were displayed at the festival and local art students from London South East Colleges Orpington campus hand-painted banners to go across the front of the main stage.

Families were invited to help rescue Gusita the giant turtle - a five metre wide interactive sculpture made from recycled motorbike tyres, metal and reused paints - from a sea of plastic.

Sensational Soul/RnB band, Brown Sugar, fresh off the stage supporting Olly Murs at the O2 Arena, were a big hit with the crowd.

A popular feature making a second appearance was The Wish Tree with festival goers invited to write a wish and hang it in the branches before being sent to Yoko Ono’s Wish Tree in Iceland.

MyTime Active hosted a sports area for budding athletes and footballing favourites Skills Academy wowed crowds with a freestyle show.

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Enchanted again Festival organiser and Orpingtonian, Embla Gisladottir, said: “We’re absolutely over the moon with how the festival has gone.

It is so special to see so many families enjoy this event and I am really proud of what we have achieved in just the second year of what was a figment of my imagination back in 2017. I am extremely grateful to my team who work tirelessly to help achieve the vision of encouraging creative arts within our community for young people” Orpington 1st Executive Director, Sharon Baldwin, said, “The business community recognises the importance of providing family friendly events. Celebrating the arts with such an imaginative and immersive program has proved to be a real success and we are delighted to have partnered with Embla to bring such an inspiring event to Orpington.”

Below: The Yoko Ono inspired wish tree Bottom right: Children learn about Gusita’s oceanic plight

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Orpington–on-sea

OU might not automatically associate Orpington town centre with the coast but what we do in Orpington has a direct effect on our ocean and a healthy world ocean is critical to us all.

• It generates most of the oxygen we breathe • Helps feed us • Regulates our climate • Cleans the water we drink • Offers a pharmacopoeia of medicines • Provides limitless inspiration!

No Time To Waste help to educate children about plastics and she was the main attraction at Orpington’s first World Oceans Day event.

She was joined by Bromley Friends of the Earth providing valuable information and even a quiz and a stall selling alternatives to single use plastics, a business set up by a young entrepreneur, Oscar. Ocean-inspired artwork made by children from local schools was also on display.

So every year, World Oceans Day provides a unique opportunity to celebrate, help protect and conserve our world’s shared ocean to ensure that it is healthy for future generations. It was the Government of Canada who originally proposed setting a World Oceans Day during the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in 1992. The UN officially recognised 8 June as World Oceans Day in December 2008. And this global event is now coordinated by The Ocean Project, a not-forprofit international community foundation.

So if you were in town on Saturday 8th June you will have had the opportunity to see the fantastic Gusita, first seen in Orpington at the Enchanted festival earlier in June. Gusita is a fantastic 5-meter turtle made from old tyres whose creators

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New Business

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W Since their arrival on the high street earlier this year, the salon has already gained many happy clients.

Visit mcqueenhairandbeauty.com for details of a fantastic introductory offer.

Visit McQueen at 336 High Street 01689 832 434

Manager Anne and hairdresser Lauren

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MCQUEEN HAIR & BEAUTY

HE latest addition to Orpington’s hair and beauty offering, McQueen Hair & Beauty has roots in Tunbridge Wells, with owner Fiona Russell and the team recently celebrating the company’s 10th birthday.

The spotless, modern and airy salon is home to a highly skilled team of hair stylists and beauty therapists priding themselves on giving the highest standard of service. With 100 years of combined knowledge and experience, clients are told to “expect

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the exceptional”. All team members carry out a full consultation prior to and post cutting, hair colour, technical or beauty services.

The premium salon offers a range of treatments from ear piercing through to semi-permanent lashes, facials and anti-wrinkle injections.

Top of the range hair products are used including Kevin Murphy colours, makeup by Delilah, and Kerastase — described by manager Anne Chanaud-fabvier as the Rolls Royce of hair products.

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in Town THE FITNESS LINK

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ITH an impressive 40 years’ combined experience in the fitness industry, Orpington residents JP and Lucy West are the husband and wife team behind The Fitness Link, helping clients achieve and maintain a healthy lifestyle around family life.

Their project began five years ago with two weekly bootcamps run at Glentrammon Recreation Ground.

The pair’s passion and professionalism has resulted in tremendous growth, with a new base on Orpington High Street now hosting some of the twenty fun and furious weekly classes, catering for all abilities.

A mum of three herself, Lucy explained that it was initially other mums who were attracted to The Fitness Link concept. Mums were soon followed by the dads, and now teenagers and kids’ sessions are proving very popular, with their first children’s party taking place recently.

Classes are a long way from a routine gym visit with the same old workout. Lucy said: “We have a great community spirit within our classes.

Our members are always motivating each other and bouncing off each other, in a fun and comfortable environment.”

JP added: “Having our HQ here on the High Street has enabled us to expand what we do, with activities like weight training meaning we can offer even more variety to our classes.”

Along with first-class training expertise and the opportunity to socialise with like-minded people, members benefit from access to three years of workouts online via Facebook and can also benefit from a wealth of nutritional knowledge, advice on calorific requirements and help in making the switch to healthy

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lifestyle choices.

An impressive list of client testimonials on their website demonstrates some of their clients’ incredible transformations.

You can nd The Fitness Link at 279 High Street. For more information visit www.thetnesslink.uk

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Visit www w.o .orpington n1st.co.uk the he latest across town

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To redeem, simply show the offffer on your smartphone

Look out for the 28

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Yo Y ou can also use your o Orp pington g loyalty card to redeem re d all the Orpington n Options deals

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in Orpington’s shops, services and eateries

The Orpington 1st Magazine...

Better for- Business • Spring 2019 The Orpington 1st Magazine Autumn 2019

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31/01/2019 10:12 10:38 02/08/2019

Better for Business NEW JOB FOR TOWN’S MP…

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RPINGTON MP Jo Johnson has been appointed Minister of State at the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy and Department for Education.

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PLANS DON’T CHANGE

RECENT application bid for funding from LBB to the Government’s High Street Fund (HSF) was unsuccessful.

The money would have been used to support the consultation process for the regeneration plans being considered for the town centre. However, as soon as the announcement was made a senior council officer confirmed: “It is the Council’s ambition to continue to work with its partners on developing a masterplan for Orpington that makes it a place of choice for people to live, work and shop”.

The statement was welcomed by Orpington 1st BID, which is committed to the delivery of a new and exciting town centre that we can all be proud of and that works economically and socially.

ORPINGTON AGM TAKES PLACE

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Orpington 1st looks forward to continuing to work with Jo in his capacity as the town’s MP as well as his new ministerial position. Pictured above at the Orpington 1st Business surgery in June. Check our website for autumn dates.

…AND NEW PM IN TOWN

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RIME Minister Boris Johnson joined his brother, Jo Johnson MP for a visit to town in July.

He dropped by a number of businesses, spoke with staff and was delighted to find a forward thinking, open and welcoming business community. Pictured here with members of the continental team at the favoloso Primo Caffe.

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ORPINGTON 1ST SUMMER SOCIAL

HE BID’s AGM took place on 6th June. Held at Scala, an opportunity for informal networking between Orpington’s businesses was followed by a delicious buffet lunch.

The directors’ report, highlighting the BID’s activity under each of its themes during the year ending 31st March 2019, was presented alongside a photographic presentation illustrating each of the projects. BID Manager, Chris Travers, said, “On behalf of all the BID team, I’d like to thank everyone who attended a successful AGM. In what are challenging and unsettled times, it’s brilliant that our business community remains committed to a positive and progressive vision for Orpington.” A summary of the BID’s activity for 2018/19 is available in the BID section of the Orpington 1st website.

RPINGTON 1st’s Pop Up Pallet Park (see page 13) proved the perfect venue for the BID’s Summer Social.

An informal occasion gave representatives from around 40 local businesses the chance to catch up with each Contact the BID other over an after-work drink and get the team 01689 829 527 latest town centre info from the BID team. A good time had by all – a few of the guests pictured here on the Pallet Park bench.

Along with a summary of 2018/19 projects, the BID section of the Orpington 1st website has the latest business news, events, document downloads and an archive of business newsletters.

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BID Manager Chris Travers chris.travers@ orpington1st.co.uk

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NOT ALL BEGGARS ARE HOMELESS, MOST HOMELESS PEOPLE ARE NOT BEGGARS. BROMLEYSHELTER.ORG.UK

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07/12/2018 17:09

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Loose change for real change

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SCHEME launched this summer across Orpington town centre aims to persuade residents to donate money to tackle the problem of homelessness, rather than giving directly to street beggars.

Distinctive house-shaped collection boxes displayed securely at the till points of participating businesses make it easy for customers to donate, with all proceeds going to the Bromley Homeless Shelter. Run by Churches Together Bromley, Bromley Homeless Shelter provides guidance to homeless people, or those at risk of homelessness throughout the year, as well as running a Night Shelter during the winter months.

Homeless Link, the national membership charity for organisations working with the homeless, reports estimates of a 165% increase in rough sleeping since 2010, and local businesses and residents in town have expressed concerns surrounding the increase in street begging.

It is often said that not everyone who begs is homeless and not all homeless people will beg.

Nevertheless, people who do beg are often some of the most vulnerable in our society, and many will be struggling with health issues.

Orpington 1st BID Manager, Chris Travers, explains that it is not a case of demonising beggars: “There is tremendous generosity of spirit in Orpington and through the ‘Loose Change 4 Real

orpington1st.co.uk/community Above: Sainsbury’s Orpington Customer & Trading Manager, Dee Edin. Above Left: Eddie Hayes of The Walnut Cobblers with Orpington 1st BID Manager Chris Travers. Left: Liberty’s Fashion owner, Lisa Clark.

Change’ scheme residents have the option of donating to a worthwhile organisation aiming to support homeless people rebuild their lives, rather than to individuals. We want to encourage support for those who are vulnerable and in need, while also working with the appropriate authorities to address the issue of those individuals begging in an increasingly aggressive and intimidating way.”

Alongside the business community’s work with Met Police (see page 19), work is being undertaken by the local authority and homeless charities to provide support to those on the streets, as well as enforcement action for those who are involved in criminal activity.

To report rough sleepers, visit www.streetlink.org.uk which will trigger a visit to their location between 20.00-01.00.

Visit www.orpington1st.co.uk/community for a list of businesses hosting collection boxes

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AMILIAR to many as Marteen, Orpington resident, Bahattin Agdemir is a local restaurateur best known as the owner of Hisar Meze Bar. He also has interests in Fiesta Mexicana. We dropped by to find out about the man behind one of Orpington’s favourite restaurants.

O1st: “Hello Marteen. Tell us a bit about your background.”

BA: “I was born in Kars, Turkey. I graduated with a degree

in mechanical engineering and worked as a structural engineer in Balfour Beatty’s planning department for four years, focusing on a large motorway project. I’d always been keen to experience the British way of life and to improve my English, so when the project finished, I travelled to the UK, expecting to stay a couple of years. That was 1992!”

O1st: “What was your introduction to hospitality?”

BA: “Alongside my English studies, I worked part time

in Bromley restaurant Calligulette, still planning to return to Turkey. I certainly had no intention of starting a career in the restaurant business. My boss at the time said I would be in it for life – I told him “No way!” but he turned out to be right.”

O1st: “He obviously spotted something in you that was suited to the industry...”

BA: “Yes. He gave me an opportunity to progress. It was also while working at Calligulette that I met my wife, Laura.

We were engaged nine months later while on holiday in Turkey. We’ve now been living in the Bromley Borough for 25 years and have three daughters aged 12, 14 and 17.”

O1st: “How does the UK compare to Turkey for you?”

BA: “I absolutely love living in the UK. The lifestyle is harder,

but a lot of good things come with that. Of course, I do miss family and friends back in Turkey — as well as the weather!”.

O1st: “So, how was Hisar born – what’s your unique selling point?”

BA: “I took the site on in September 2012. We aim to serve high quality Turkish cuisine with warm and efficient service, giving customers that personal touch. The quality of the ingredients is very important. There is a Turkish saying “You can’t make a good stew with cheap meat.” Food is freshly prepared every day and meat is marinated for 24 hours – we believe this is the optimum time. The quality of the charcoal is also key, giving our food its unique flavour. “ O1st: “What does the future hold in store for Hisar?”

BA: “I’ve had a few offers to franchise but I prefer to keep the

restaurant unique. It’s been fantastic to see the improvements to Orpington in recent years and I’m delighted that we have played our own small part in raising the quality. We’re very pleased to receive positive feedback from the customers, and we look forward to continuing to grow with the town.”

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SPOTLIGHT ON...

Bahattin Agdemir Hisar Meze Bar 105 High Street Orpington BR6 0LG Tel: 01689 898 000

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Fly-tippers we’re watching you

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YOU can help prevent fly-tipping YOUR waste is YOUR responsibility.

Please don’t give it to someone who can’t prove they are a legitimate waste carrier – they are likely to dump your rubbish to avoid paying waste disposal costs. Always obtain a waste transfer note as proof of the transfer to an authorised person.

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Keep this reminder and challenge uninvited calls from people offering to dispose of your household waste for a seemingly ‘good price’.

Only use registered waste carriers – you could be prosecuted and fined up to £5000 if you don’t. Find and check registered waste carriers online at www.bromley.gov.uk/wastecarriers or call the Environment Agency hotline 03708 506 506.

Follow the SCRAP code

Suspect: Be suspicious of cold callers / rogue traders Check: Ask for their waste carrier registration details Refuse: Always refuse cold callers offering to take your rubbish Ask questions: Ask what is going to happen to your waste Paperwork: Ask for a waste transfer note

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New Chief Exec for LBB

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HE London Borough of Bromley has appointed a new Chief Executive who will guide the Council through a period of financial uncertainty and “transformation”.

Ade Adetosoye oversaw major improvements to the council’s children’s services following a disappointing Ofsted inspection in 2016 and took over as interim chief executive last year, after the resignation of long-serving boss Doug Patterson.

He has now been formally signed off as the new top boss, as the council plans a leadership shake up to save cash towards an accumulative budget gap by 2023.

Chief executives are the most powerful officers in a council, and work alongside the elected members to

shape the direction of the authority’s work and oversee operations. Mr Adetosoye’s appointment comes at a time in which the council is preparing a “Transforming Bromley” strategy, which is partly to combat a £30m budget gap that takes the council up to 2023.

The project is said to be “crucial for the future operational and financial stability” of council services in light of upcoming Government cuts.

Speaking after the meeting, council leader, Colin Smith, said: “I am extremely pleased for Mr Adetosoye personally, and absolutely delighted for Bromley residents more widely, that he has been confirmed to post as the borough’s chief executive and welcome the thought of continuing our work together on this programme.

Ade Adetosoye “Mr Adetosoye’s track record in local government has earned him an outstanding reputation and with good cause. He has already demonstrated the strength of his leadership skills by turning around Bromley’s children’s service team and establishing strong working relationships both within the council and externally.

“He is, quite simply, the best man for the job, and I know that I can speak for all Bromley councillors when I wish him the very best of good luck in his new role.”

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The Orpington 1st Magazine - Autumn 2019

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T, NEW YOU! EN M IP U EQ EW N , M A TE NEW ANYTIME FITNESS ORPINGTON UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT

Orpington’s favourite gym is officially under new management! We’re excited to share our plans for this vibrant and welcoming club and we look forward to supporting you through your fitness journey to ensure you reach your goals.

“We thrive on providing the very best facilities and service to keep you motivated – all within a comfortable and friendly atmosphere. We’re taking the club to the next level and we’d love to welcome you soon!” – Bimal, Owner.

WE’RE SHAPING UP! Why settle for less? Anytime Fitness already provides premium, state-of-the-art equipment, but this summer will see an investment of at least £25,000 to fully refresh the club. It’s the little things that count and we believe in quality from top to bottom! We’re so excited we’ve already got a brand-new Life Fitness Plate Loaded Leg Press in club and ready so come and check it out!

OUR PHILOSOPHY Besides our premium quality and unrivalled convenience, we believe Anytime Fitness stands out for its community and club culture. This builds the heart and soul of our club, but most importantly, we care about your wellbeing! From Free Fruit Fridays, Smoothie Saturdays, your six week catch up or your very first induction, you can count on the Anytime Fitness Family to get the most from your membership.

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Supported by

Jo Johnson MP

opportunity orpington

Skills, Jobs and Careers Show

In partnership with Orpington 1st Business Improvement District and supported by Orpington MP Jo Johnson, London South East Colleges is hosting a skills, jobs and careers show.

This brand new free-to-attend event, open to all, is designed to showcase the variety of training and jobs available. We can support you to explore career options, JDLQ QHZ VNLOOV RU ORRN IRU \RXU ƓUVW MRE •

Learn about apprenticeships and career pathways

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Explore the range of training options that you can access locally

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Find out about and apply for job vacancies

Friday 8 November, 10am - 3pm

London South East Colleges, Orpington Campus For more information and to book your free place visit LSEC.ac.uk/events

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www.thomasdunton.co.uk The Orpington 1st Magazine - Autumn 2019

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