The Orpington 1st Magazine - Summer 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

Summer edition 2019 IN THIS ISSUE • • • •

Orpington’s Finest revealed Looking forward to Enchanted Fest Historic Friendship Agreement signed Dementia Action Week 2019

Published by

Tindle Newspapers

Supported by Orpington 1st: www.orpington1st.co.uk info@orpington1st.co.uk • 01689 829527

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Warm welcome to the Summer

by Orpington 1st BID Executive Director, Sharon Baldwin

Contents 5

Easter Review

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Friendship Agreement

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Enchanted Fest Preview

13 Orpington in Bloom 20 Orpington’s Finest 23 Jo Johnson column 26 New Business/Fresh Looks 30 Deputy Mayor’s visit 33 Spotlight on... Avinit 38 Dementia Action Week

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ELCOME to our summer edition and the start of what we know is going to be a period of significant and exciting change for the town.

In partnership with the local authority Orpington1st is supporting the delivery of a modern and exciting new town centre. One that provides the opportunity for new businesses to flourish and new residents to live. A town centre that is proud of its history and excited by its future.

We all have a role in shaping that future so keep in touch via our website to see how you can get involved.

In the meantime, we are continuing to make improvements to our current physical environment and this summer will see our largest ever in-bloom project with additional maintenance as well as new greening and art projects, so please join in and become an Orpington Bloomer.

And, following on from this year’s Enchanted Festival which has a focus on sustainability, we are celebrating

Orpington 1st Business Improvement District Visit us at: www.orpington1st.co.uk Follow us on Twitter @orpington1st Like us on Facebook /Orpington1st Instagram: Orpington1st Published by: Biggin Hill News Ltd To advertise, call Mark Kadshaw on 07800 609444 or email markkadshaw@bigginhillnews.co.uk

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World Ocean Day, highlighting the need to reduce single use plastic, so please support your local businesses as they make changes.

From partnering with local MP Jo Johnson for the first Orpington business surgeries, supporting existing and new businesses, to working with the BDAA to train staff in dealing with customers who have dementia; from supporting Friends of Priory Gardens in improving our environment, and working with our event teams at Lollipops and Bla Bla Productions to provide family-friendly town centre events that are free to attend: we all benefit from working together, creating effective partnerships, and delivering an agreed plan of action. This is certainly true for the development of the town centre.

Enjoy your summer and enjoy your town!

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everyday essentials fashion entertainment restaurants leisure

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High St, Orpington BR6 0TW www.thewalnutsshoppingcentre.com 4

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Families flock to Easter Farm

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GLORIOUS Easter weekend provided the perfect setting for some Easter fun as a sunshine drenched Market Square hosted the Orpington 1st pop-up Easter Farm. Visiting animals included lambs, rabbits, goats and two rather magnificent Orpington Buff chickens, with the ducklings proving particularly popular.

Children were able to pet the animals and learn a bit about them from their expert keepers.

A special ‘Mobiloo’ - a mobile accessible toilet - with adult-sized changing bench, hoist and friendly attendant, was brought in, making the event fully inclusive.

Easter Saturday was also the final day of The Orpington 1st Bunny Trail. Bunny trailers were tasked with spotting 12 bunnies at locations across the High Street, noting down the 12 magic letters and unscrambling them to find the answer, before posting their answer in the Easter box at A Mano. Four lucky winners were drawn at random to win a GIANT Easter Egg. Congratulations to Vikki C, Amelia K, Zirui and David L!

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Historic Friendship Agreement celebrates town’s transatlantic links

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HE Worshipful Mayor of Bromley, Councillor Kim Botting FRSA, and the Mayor of Thunder Bay, Councillor Kristen Oliver, have signed an Agreement marking more than 100 years of friendship.

The historic Agreement between Thunder Bay, Canada and the London Borough Bromley was signed 7th March 2019, making official over 100 years of shared history and remembrance between the London borough and the Canadian city. A delegation from Thunder Bay included the Mayor of Thunder Bay, as well as former Orpington resident and author, John Pateman. John moved to Canada six years ago, becoming CEO of Thunder Bay Public Library, and has been pivotal in driving the Agreement.

During World War I, thousands of Canadian troops passed through what is now the London Borough of Bromley with many in VAD, military and convalescent hospitals. In 1915, Orpington was selected as the site for Ontario Military Hospital, due to water and transport links. Built by the Ontario government, Ontario Military Hospital became one of the best of its kind in the world by 1916 and by 1917 had doubled

Ontario Military Hospital, Main Square with Clock, c.1916; courtesy of Orpington-History.org

in size. Plastic surgery and treatments for shell shock were pioneered at the hospital and by the time it closed, three years after the end of the war, it had treated more than 38000 wounded soldiers.

Many soldiers are buried in Canadian Corner at All Saints’ Church in Orpington and, in recognition of their heritage, the headstones face west towards Canada.

The Mayor of Thunder Bay Councillor Kristen Oliver said, “I am delighted to be here with our friends. A friendship that was forged during the First World War, when we built Orpington Hospital for wounded Canadian troops.”

The Mayor of Bromley and President of the Royal British Legion, Orpington, Councillor Kim Botting said, “I am proud to say that the friendship, which first started during the Great War, continues to this day and we will never forget that the Canadian soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice, with so many more suffering terrible injuries and being treated in our Borough, in Orpington in particular.”

The event continued on Friday 8 March with a visit to All Saints’ Church, Bark Hart Road, Orpington, and a short service at Canadian Corner where 88 Canadian soldiers who died at the hospital are buried, followed by a visit to Orpington Hospital where the Mayor unveiled a plaque commemorating the Friendship Agreement.

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Prepare to be Enchanted (again!)

Set in Orpington’s beautiful Priory Gardens, Enchanted Children’s Festival is back for a second year on Saturday 1st June! Explore your imagination with a day packed full of arts and creativity - for free!

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N PARTNERSHIP with Orpington 1st and supported

by Arts Council England and Clarion Housing Group, Enchanted Festival 2019 brings a day of fun for all the family.

Two stages and activity areas throughout Priory Gardens host an exciting programme of live music, dance, theatre, sport, interactive workshops and immersive crafts.

Headline acts for this year’s festival include Brown Sugar: you may have seen them on this year’s The Voice, where they impressed Olly Murs so much that he invited them on tour. Other highlights include Gusita the Turtle, a Free-Style

show from footballing favourites The Skills Academy, The Yoko Ono inspired Wish Tree, and the incredible Guildford Bucket Drummers.

Event organiser, Embla, said: “Following a fantastic response to last year’s inaugural festival, we’re delighted to be bringing the festival back with an even broader and more exciting programme. We can’t wait to welcome everyone to Priory Gardens on 1st June!”

There will also be a great range of sugar-free food stalls.

You can check out the complete fantastical line-up on our website at www.orpington1st.co.uk/events.

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Young chefs rise to the challenge

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HE 2019 Rotary Young Chef Region 4 Finalss took place at London South East Colleges, Orpington on Saturday 16th March. The college’s BR6 kitchens were taken over for the morning as five young chefs cooked up a treat in a bid to win the coveted trophy.

The competition, open to students in full time education between the ages of 11 and 17, is designed to encourage young people to develop cookery and presentation skills, consider food hygiene issues and hone organisational and planning skills.

Amy Price, Emily Woodford, Jo-ann De Villiers, Oliver Trowell and Florence Pattenden all delivered outstanding dishes which were beautifully presented to guest judges Tania Sumner, LSEC Head of Faculty, Kevin Hurst, Lecturer in Catering and Hospitality at Orpington Campus and Sharon Baldwin, Executive Director of Orpington 1st BID. The Mayor of Bromley, Councillor Kim Botting, attended the event and spent time chatting to the family and friends supporting the students, before presenting cream of the crop, Florence Pattenden, with her well-deserved trophy.

Above, winner Florence Above Florence Pattenden Pattenden with her trophy

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Celebrating 21 year’s of business

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Growing for Gold!

Since London in Bloom started in the 1960s, businesses have been involved in brightening up High Streets and Town Centres across London.

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VIDENCE suggests that well managed and attractive places do much to increase the economic well-being of town centres and Orpington 1st have entered the town centre into the 2019 London in Bloom awards to demonstrate the commitment and efforts of both business and community groups in the programme to continually improve our environment.

This year we are adding to the now familiar installation of our high street flower towers and hanging baskets with further greening projects, turning unloved spaces into pocket parks and working with LBB to carry out a full maintenance programme of street furniture and signage.

We have also sponsored a project with Bla Bla Productions and Coolings Nursery as part of Enchanted Festival to encourage children to upcycle containers for growing plants which will be displayed in and around the town centre.

Last year at our first attempt we won the Silver award, this year we are Growing for Gold!

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

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Investment and Jobs Secured with 40 Year Leisure Deal A healthier, happier future for the wellbeing of Bromley

Pictured, left to right: Marg Mayne, Chief Executive of Mytime Active; Councillor Peter Morgan, Executive Councillor for Renewal, Recreation and Houseing; Mark Oakley, Mytime Chairman of the Board of Trustees

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YTIME Active and The London Borough of Bromley have agreed a landmark deal which entrusts the Bromley leisure services remit to Mytime Active for the next 40 years. The social enterprise, which has operated the council-owned leisure facilities, including The Walnuts Leisure Centre since 2004, has been granted the long-term leases to twelve facilities in the borough until 2059.

Effective from 1st April 2019, Mytime Active will run the sites which offer swimming, gyms, golf, bowling and soft play as well as social and health programmes. As a social enterprise, Mytime Active is reinvesting £2.5m over the next three years across the facilities. The new partnership provides job security for more than 750 people employed by Mytime Active in the Bromley area.

Marg Mayne, Chief Executive of Mytime Active, says: “We were created to run the leisure services in Bromley and are proud of all that we have achieved since. We are now in a position to develop the facilities and services we offer on a long-term basis and are delighted that Mytime Active will play a significant role in improving the wellbeing of neighbourhoods in Bromley for generations to come.”

Councillor Peter Morgan, Bromley’s Executive Councillor for Renewal and Recreation, says: “This long-term agreement gives certainty for Mytime Active so that they can build, develop and invest in the much valued and popular leisure services in operation across the Borough and I am really pleased that we have been able to do this. We value our partnership with Mytime Active, which we will continue to build on in the coming years.”

More than 3.5 million visits are made each year to Mytime Active sites and services in the Bromley area which, in addition to swimming, leisure and golf, also include: • Dedicated programmes to support targeted groups such as the over 60s and new mums; • Successful exercise referral programmes tailored for older people - HeartSmart and Fresh Start; • A pioneering golf-on-referral programme for people with long-term health conditions;

• Essential wrap-around childcare and holiday clubs supporting working parents; • Creation of fun, active events for the community including the Orpington Santa Dash, in partnership with Orpington 1st.

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The Walnuts Shopping Centre Orpington, BR6 0TW Tel: 01689 770195 www.kutchenhaus.co.uk

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Affordable German Kitchens Read our 5 star reviews at www.trustpilot.com

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Safer Neighbourhood Boards

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AFER Neighbourhood Boards are in place in every London Borough, bringing police and communities together to decide local policing and crime priorities, solve problems collaboratively, and make sure that the public are involved in a wide range of other community safety decisions.

They are also responsible for allocating the Mayor’s Office for

Policing and Crime (MOPAC) funding to local projects that can deliver crime prevention and build community cohesion.

As resources continue to fall and challenges increase, it is an important tool in ensuring that local communities have a voice and are fully engaged in the policing of their area.

The membership of the board in Bromley is diverse, with representatives from local groups and organisations that cover different geographical areas, cultures, religion and age.

The Bromley SNB is chaired by Sharon Baldwin (Executive Director

of Orpington 1st), an independent chair who also sits on MOPAC’s panLondon SNB group and is a trustee of LCP2 (London Communities Policing partnership) who work additionally with the GLA, London Criminal Justice Partnership and the Home Office.

The SNB holds regular public meetings, often in partnership with other organisations such as the recent Penge meeting in partnership with the Penge Forum, and Biggin Hill held jointly with neighbourhood watch.

The next Public meeting will be the Annual crime summit held at the Civic Centre on Saturday morning September 14th - all are welcome.

Keep up to date via Facebook at /BromleySNB

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Orpington’s Finest celebrate at

T Megham Kingham of MegaSun Tanning, Best Employee winner

Kütchenhaus, House & Home winner

HE red carpet was rolled out to welcome the best in business on Thursday 28th March at the Bromley borough’s largest awards ceremony.

Orpington’s Finest Awards, or “The Orpies” as it has become affectionately known, was organised by Orpington 1st Business Improvement District, sponsored

by Perrys Chartered Accountants and The Walnuts Shopping Centre, and supported by Insight 6.

Held at ODEON Orpington for the fourth year running and making use of its state-of-the-art facilities, the event welcomed 200 guests representing 45 organisations, which included the Mayor of Bromley, senior representatives of the Metropolitan Police and London Fire Brigade, local councillors and members of Bromley Dementia Action Alliance.

Following a drinks reception, a packedout Screen 2 hosted the official proceedings which saw a series of films being shown on the big screen celebrating over 30 shortlisted businesses across 13 categories.

Orpington 1st BID Manager Chris Travers, said, “It’s been a brilliant evening, and a great celebration of the strength of our business community. Everyone here tonight has demonstrated a true understanding of the increasing importance of providing an exceptional customer experience, inspiring loyalty not just to their respective businesses, but also to the town.”

Executive Director, Sharon Baldwin, said, “Congratulations to all the finalists, but the real winner tonight is Orpington town centre. We in the BID team know the quality and diversity of business within the town but it’s great to have the opportunity for that to be recognised publicly.”

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Orpington’s Finest 2019 Winners

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Best New Business Health & Leisure Beauty Independent Retail The Green Award House & Home Fashion Services Hospitality Clayton Turner Award Spotlight Award Favourite Business Best Employee

The Orpington 9 Round The Salon Graduates Schoolwear Nando’s Kütchenhaus Roman Compassion HomeCare A Mano Orpington Village Halls Linay & Shipp Masala Dabbas Emma Kingham, MegaSun Tanning

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Graduates Schoolwear, Independent Retail winner

A Mano, winners of the Hospitality award

Compassion HomeCare, Services Winner

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Businesses and the Economy A column by Jo Johnson, MP

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ECENTLY I held my first local business surgery, where I met businesses from across Orpington to discuss the issues that matter to them. Run in partnership with Orpington 1st, these informal meetings allow businesses to raise concerns, ask for advice and showcase new projects. I was encouraged by the first surgery and look to hold another session towards the end of June. Should any local businesses be interested in attending, I would encourage them to contact Orpington 1st or my office at jo.johnson.mp@parliament.uk

Government as well as the success of small and medium sized businesses acting as the powerhouse of our local and national economy.

I am glad that the benefits of sustainable economic management are being felt across the country, with millions seeing their pay packets rise thanks to an increase in the Personal

Allowance and an increase in the National Living Wage. The Personal Allowance, the amount you earn before you start paying income tax, is being raised to £12,500 a year.

This means the typical taxpayer will be £1,205 better off than in 2010. Furthermore, the Higher Rate Threshold in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland will rise to £50,000.

These changes will cut taxes for 32 million people and take 1.74 million people out of Income Tax altogether compared to 2015-16. By rebalancing the economy and managing national debt, the Government is able to cut taxes that allow millions to keep more of the money they earn.

The National Living Wage is rising by almost 5% to £8.21 per hour, meaning a full-time National Living Wage worker will earn an extra £690 over a year. I am proud that the National Living Wage, announced in 2015 by then Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne, is making a different to the lowest earners.

These measures, supported by policies such as a ninth year of frozen fuel duty, help loosen the pressure on all of our personal finances.

Orpington 1st Executive Director Sharon Baldwin and Jo Johnson MP speaking with a potential new Orpington business

I was pleased that my business surgery followed April’s positive news about our economy. Figures show that the number of people in work is at a record high and wages have risen at their fastest pace in a decade, continuing to rise ahead of prices. I am proud that the national unemployment rate is at a record low of 3.9% and in Orpington the claimant count measure of unemployment was only 1.8% in March. These figures are testament to years of careful economic management by the

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Now Open Evenings

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New supper menu Tuesday – Saturday from 5pm Happy hour Tuesday – Thursday 5pm-7pm

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Seasonal dishes, bespoke cocktails, craft beers, carefully selected wines and incredible music. Our new supper menu is now available, Tuesday to Saturday, from 5pm.

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Share a four perso n nibbles pla te on us!

Happy hour

Enjoy 2 for 1 on cocktails, beers, soft drinks and selected wines.

Every Tuesday to Thursday, from 5pm - 7pm.

Monday 7am – 5pm Tuesday – Friday 7am – 11pm Saturday 8am – 11pm Sunday 9am – 5pm 161 High Street, Orpington, BR6 0LW 01689 666 900 hello@theorpington.co.uk theorpington.co.uk Happy hour includes wines up to the value of £6 a glass, all cocktails, beers,hot & soft drinks.

Available until 31 July 2019.

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The Bereavement Café

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You can find the Bereavement Café on Facebook at /BereavementCafe

STABLISHED in November 2017 by Michelle Harvey and the Valentine & Turner family, The Bereavement Café is a non-profit community service offering support for those struggling with the loss of a loved one.

Held at Orpington Village Halls on the last Thursday of every month from 11:30am–1:30pm (except August), it provides an opportunity for anyone who has suffered a bereavement to speak 1-to-1 with a qualified counsellor, free of charge.

A life-long Orpingtonian with a solid background of working with the community, Michelle Harvey also brings her professional experience as a Life Celebrant to the project.

Michelle explained, “It was through my work with bereaved families that I identified a gap in support beyond the funeral.

Today, families do not necessarily all live close together so that network is not always there.”

With Funeral Homes potentially serving as a stark reminder of the initial stages of grief, a neutral and central community venue was selected in Orpington Village Halls, where guests can benefit from individual support as well as a communal space for tea, biscuits and a friendly chat.

Valentine & Turner Director, Gary Valentine-Fuller said, “Aftercare is not always offered by Funeral Directors but at Valentine & Turner we feel strongly about providing this service, which is open to absolutely anyone, regardless of where or when their bereavement took place.”

Left to right: Gary Valentine-Fuller, Kirsty ValentineFuller, Mia Marshall, Laura Turner, Michelle Harvey Michelle added, “There is a strong sense of community here in Orpington and that has been reflected in the number of groups and individuals who have been involved in the café since its inception, including the Petts Wood Resident Association, Moorgate Accountancy, our counsellors Phil Clark and Marjorie Garner, and lots more volunteers.

We’re really grateful to all of them.”

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New Business

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THAI DERM MASSAGE

O Open every day from 10am to 8pm, you can visit Thai Derm Massage at 112 High Street or call 01689 871 406

WNER and highly qualified masseuse Rongtong Larkin (pictured), brings a unique service to Orpington offering treatments ranging from traditional Thai massages (‘derm’ means original and authentic) targeting deep muscle tissue, through to more gentle treatments focusing on relaxation and the easing of stress, assisted by aromatic oils and the calming rhythms of traditional Thai music.

A Bromley Borough resident for 15 years, Rongtong says Thai Derm Massage can cater for all the family and is very happy to make recommendations.

Customers can currently benefit from their Grand Opening Offer throughout May and June of £40 per hour or enjoy a 10% discount on one of their superb packages. Browse their treatment menu on their website www.thaiderm.co.uk

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FAB HOUSE

ERVING a delicious selection of reasonably priced sandwiches, pastries and cakes, as well as breakfast and lunch options, visitors can enjoy the relaxed, light and spacious environment which makes it ideal for parents with pushchairs.

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An elevated area at the rear of the café is well suited for meetings, making Fab House an appealing location for all.

Visit Fab House Café at 258 – 260 High Street, Orpington.

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Fresh Looks BOCOTE & CO

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PECIALISING in bespoke upholstered furniture, Bocote & Co are the latest addition to Orpington’s House & Home offering.

Born in Lithuania, Orpington resident Justinas (pictured) has been running the UK side of this international business for six years. The name is taken from the wood “bocote”, a unique and beautiful wood native to Mexico and Central America. All Bocote & Co’s furniture is handbuilt in their factory and clients include businesses across the UK, particularly restaurants, as well as those in Ireland, Norway and Sweden.

Visit Bocote & Co at 178 High Street @Bocoteandco

MOBILE VAPE EXCHANGE

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FAMILY-RUN business, MVE opened on Orpington High Street in February 2019.

As the name suggests, customers can buy and sell their phones, purchase cases and other phone accessories, or get handsets repaired or unlocked.

They also have a range of competitively priced vaping products, e-cigarettes, e-liquids, coils and chargers, and now offer watch repairs, too.

Brothers Ishan and Harry Singh chose Orpington to open their first retail unit: “We’ve been delighted with the welcome we’ve had to the high street.

There’s a friendly community here and we’ve also been pleased to serve customers from surrounding areas like Sidcup and Chislehurst,” said Ishan.

Visit MVE at 302 High Street; open 9:15am to 8pm Monday to Saturday and 10am to 5pm on Sundays.

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Better for Business NEW LOCAL BUSINESS CHAMPION FOR BROMLEY

C LEVY PAYERS SAVE WITH CD WASTE & ORPINGTON 1ST

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RPINGTON 1st’s continuing partnership with CD Waste is providing an improved service and reduced costs for BID levy paying businesses, with many saving the equivalent of their BID levy every year.

CD Waste Management Ltd guarantee a 95% landfill avoidance, so your business can also contribute toward a cleaner and greener environment. Having one preferred supplier for BID businesses also makes a positive impact to our environment, with fewer trucks coming into town.

Cafés and restaurants can now also benefit from a reduction in the price of food waste bins. Contact the BID team for more information.

BREXIT BUSINESS RESOURCE HUB

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O SUPPORT businesses, the London Growth Hub and the Mayor of London have launched a new Brexit Business Resource Hub which will be continually updated with news, factsheets and events in London, to help you and your

business prepare while we await more information on how Brexit will be implemented.

Visit: www.growthhub.london/ brexithub

LLR Hannah Gray has been appointed as the council’s Local Business Champion for Bromley.

Cllr Gray said, “As a proactive participant in local business networking groups, a supporter of local BIDs (Business Improvement Districts) and a Bromley Councillor, I am delighted to be appointed and I intend to ensure that the needs and interests of small businesses are taken into account during policy decision-making.

I will support the necessary progress of development and delivery with cohesive strategies which contribute to the overall aims of Local Businesses.”

If you would like to contact Hannah, please email: Hannah.Gray@bromley.gov.uk

BID BUSINESS SURGERIES WITH JO JOHNSON MP

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HE FIRST of the new business surgeries in partnership with Jo Johnson took place on April 26th.

These meetings provide the opportunity for businesses to ask questions, raise concerns, make suggestions or just find out more about the support available and what affects you and your business direct with your Member of Parliament and BID team.

Open to all businesses in the Orpington area, you are welcome to pop in to the open surgery, or if you prefer, book an appointment in advance direct with the BID team.

The next meetings are scheduled for 2:30pm–3:30pm, on June 21st, September 27th and November 29th.

ORPINGTON 1ST BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT AGM 2019 WILL BE HELD AT 12PM ON 6 JUNE As well as formal business there will be the opportunity for open discussion.

Contact the BID team 01689 829 527

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

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Executive Director Sharon Baldwin Sharon.baldwin@ orpington1st.co.uk

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London’s Deputy Mayor visits

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Above: Business leaders at a roundtable discussion with Rajesh held at BR6 Bakehouse

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Right: Rajesh meeting Anna Taylor, owner of Chrysalis Recruitment.

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Bottom right: at a tour of JTL’s training facilities.

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Orpington

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RPINGTON 1st were delighted to host a visit from The Deputy Mayor of London for Business, Rajesh Agrawal, on 27th March.

The BID team led a tour around the town centre, discussing the work of Orpington 1st and meeting with a variety of local businesses across a range of sectors.

With a role to be a strong voice for London’s business community, to protect jobs and encourage growth, the Deputy Mayor is keen to ensure that the capital remains the most open and attractive place to do business in the world.

A successful entrepreneur himself, Rajesh is particularly passionate about promoting entrepreneurship and creating opportunities for young people.

His visit included a tour of the training centre for apprentice electricians at JTL’s headquarters, and a presentation on LSEC’s new Aerospace and Technology College at Biggin Hill.

A round-table discussion with senior representatives provided local businesses with the opportunity to voice their views on a variety of topics ranging from Business Rates to Brexit, including the need for start-up space for entrepreneurs, the transformation of high streets, the importance of the tech industry and the support available through the Growth Hub. Rajesh was complimentary about the scale and diversity of business activity in the town centre and reiterated the important role that Business Improvement Districts play.

Executive Director Sharon Baldwin said, “We’ve been working with City Hall on a number of projects and are grateful for the opportunity to welcome the Deputy Mayor to Orpington town centre.”

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Nurse Managed Home Care

At Compassion HomeCare we provide the very best in home care We would all like to continue to enjoy independent living within the comfort of our own home. Our qualified staff can help you with those day to day tasks that you are finding harder to cope with.

We know how big a step having home care is so we offer a free home care assessment to help you decide what is best for you.

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Daily Care, Live-in Care or Respite Care Our carers can help you with:

• Personal care • Getting up and ready for bed • Bathing, washing and showering • Assistance with medication • Cleaning and housework • Cooking • Ironing and laundry • Shopping • Social outings

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01689 825155 www.compassionhomecare.co.uk

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1st Floor, East Wing, Priory Buildings, Church Hill, Orpington, Kent BR6 0HH

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SPOTLIGHT ON...

Avinit Tattoo & Body Piercing

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ELEBRATING 21 years in Orpington town centre, Avinit Tattoo & Body Piercing is the borough’s longest established tattoo parlour; a bright, open and modern warehouse-style studio, home to a talented team of up and coming artists.

Specialising in freehand work with an eye for super crisp lines, saturated colour and shading, Orpington-born owner Warren Coates’ interest in tattoos was sparked as a teenager.

“With no-one in my family having a tattoo I found them intriguing. I saw them as a mark of someone with a different life experience, someone who had perhaps seen more of the world,” said Warren.

Inspired to travel himself, Warren spent several years honing his skills as a tattooist in South Africa, Portugal, Australia, New Zealand, Spain and India.

Returning from Goa in the spring of 1997, and with no-one in England carrying out the kind of work he wanted to, he set up his own shop on Chislehurst Road, ‘Avinit’ - the first ever to be licenced in the London Borough of Bromley. In the succeeding 21 years, some of the world’s top tattooists have graced the studio.

Avinit offers a full consultation process and a new, private body piercing room. The spotless, air-conditioned studio is

wheelchair accessible and guests can even bring their own music and make use of the in-house record player.

Warren said, “We aim to create a warm, friendly environment here: all are welcome. It’s very much an evolving art space and following a full refurb we are looking forward to the next 21 years.”

Left-right: Avinit team members Alex, Sophie & Warren Visit Avinit Tattoo & Body Piercing at 3 Chislehurst Road, Orpington ���� avinittattoo��o�u� avinit_tattoo

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P.J. SUPPLIES

MAY 2019 VAT INCLUSIVE

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• TIMBER • HARDWARE • FENCING • DIY •

34 PLAISTOW LANE, BROMLEY, KENT • TEL/FAX 020 8460 1590 THE TIMBER YARD/LOWER RD, ORPINGTON, KENT • T: 01689 825958 F: 831417

DECKING

CARCASSING

Graded Kilned Treated Regularised Timber (Stock Lengths Only) Price Per Metre 47x50 £1.40 47x150 £3.30 47x75 £1.80 47x175 £3.85 47x100 £2.20 47x200 £4.40 *(While 47x125 £2.75 47x225 £4.95 stock lasts)

CONCRETE SLOTTED POSTS 1500mm 16.00 1800mm 17.00 2100mm 18.00 2400mm 19.00 2700mm 20.00

FENCEPOSTS 75x75 100x100 1500 3.75 1500 7.00 1800 4.50 1800 8.40 2100 5.25 2100 9.80 2400 6.00 2400 11.20 3000 7.50 3000 14.00

RAILWAY SLEEPER TREATED 2400x240x120 30.00 3000x240x120 38.00

ARRIS RAIL 100mm 75x75 FEATHEREDGE 2400mm 3.40 3000mm 4.20 3600mm 5.10

1500 80p 1650 88p 1800 96p 2100 1.12 2400 1.28

EX 150x32

£3.40 per metre

SLATERS FELT

(Slight seconds) £12.50 per roll

CONCRETE MET POSTS SLOTTED POSTS 75 x 75 600mm 7.10 1500mm 20.00 1800mm 21.50 2100mm 23.00 2400mm 24.00 2700mm 25.00

GRAVEL BOARD 1830mm 3.00 2400mm 3.40 3000mm 4.30 3600mm 5.20

75 x 75 750mm 7.60 100 x 100 9.00 75 x 75 Bolt 5.80 100 x 100 Bolt 7.10 75 x 75 Ext 5.85 75 x 75 Spur 6.50

METAL WARE Met Clips 45p Arris Brackets 80p Concrete Brackets 1.75 Arris Bracket Handed 1.05

PANELS PANELS - WANEY FEATHERIDGE 900mm 21.00 900 27.00 1200 32.00 1500 25.00 1800 26.00

1200mm 23.00 1500mm 25.00 1800mm 26.00

POINTED PALLISADE 19x75 900mm 1.50 1200mm 1.70

HOURS – BROMLEY Monday-Friday 8am-4.45pm; Saturday 8.30am-3pm.

ORPINGTON Monday-Friday 7.45am-4.30pm; Saturday 8.30am-3pm

ALL PRICES INCLUDE VAT • DELIVERY SERVICE AVAILABLE TO ALL AREAS 34

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Orpington gets into the groove

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N Saturday 13th April, The Orpington Café & Record Store joined hundreds of independent record shops, musicians and fans across the UK in coming together to celebrate the unique culture of independent music shops.

Founded in 2007, Record Store Day sees special vinyl editions released exclusively for the day with some shops hosting special events to mark the occasion. Thousands more shops celebrate the day around the globe in what’s become one of the biggest annual events of the music calendar.

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A large crowd of music lovers queued up in anticipation of The Orpington’s Record Store Day opening, which attracted visitors from across the borough and Kent.

Owner Scott Buckle said, “We’re delighted with the response we’ve had for our first involvement in Record Store Day. There’s been a great buzz about the place and some very happy customers. We can’t wait to build on it next year.”

The Orpington is now also open evenings, with a new supper menu Tuesday to Saturday from 5pm.

Proud shoppers with their purchases

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stagecoach.co.uk/orpington

C s i a o B t p p l  w w

orpington@stagecoach.co.uk 01732 750783

Clinic open Beaumont Rd, Petts Wood Feet are a very important part of your body, they keep you active and transport you from A to B. Now it’s time for you to look after them!

Some of the most commonly known foot problems are:

07984 223366 Hannah Dorman MCFHP MAFHP Foot Health Practitioner

 Home visits are also available in

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• Athlete’s foot • Calluses & Corns • Verrucas (cryosurgery treatment now available)

• Thickened toenails • Fungal nail infections • Ingrowing toenails all of which can be treated.

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Lime given approval to launch dockless e-bike trial in Orpington

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OCKLESS electric-assisted bikes will soon be available to hire in Orpington following an agreement between the Council and Lime for a 12 month trial.

Following successful launches in Milton Keynes, Brent, Ealing and Islington, and close discussion with the Council, Lime e-bikes will soon be distributed to key locations in the Bromley Borough such as stations and town centres where they can be unlocked by using a smartphone app.

Due to the need for battery replenishment, bikes will be attended to on average every three days, and relocated when required. Lime have also agreed that any bikes causing an obstruction will be removed within two hours of reporting. A contact number and email address will be imprinted on each bike.

Emission-free travel

Councillor William Huntington-Thresher, Executive Councillor for Environment and Community Services, said: “This is yet another example of where technology is giving additional choice to the way we will soon be able to travel. It is a welcome addition to the travel options available to residents and visitors to the borough.

Battery powered bikes are easy to use and have proved to be popular elsewhere and could help facilitate more people to take-up cycling too. We are grateful for Lime’s professionalism in working closely with the Council before launching their scheme, which will ultimately provide a flexible, healthy and emission-free travel option for those who live, work and travel in and around the Borough, without requiring any investment from the Council.”

Jaanaki Momaya, General Manager for Lime UK, said: “We’re delighted to be working with Bromley Council to bring our dockless e-bikes to another London Borough.

Thousands of Londoners already regularly use our e-bikes to make zero-emission journeys in the Capital, helping to improve air quality and tackle congestion. We look forward to serving the people of Bromley in the next few weeks.”

The bikes are expected to be available from mid-May onwards with further information to be provided nearer the time.

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

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Dementia Action Week, May 20th

Staff from PRU Hospital, Orpington’s Pure Gym and Premier Inn at last year’s Dementia Training.

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HE Business community here in Orpington town centre are playing an active part in creating an inclusive and supportive environment for those with or those caring for people with Dementia. From the awardwinning Village Halls, who have made their venue fully accessible and are about to launch a new dementia café, to our Solicitors CWJ, Manak and Thomas Dunton, all of whom have employees trained as dementia friends, and even our restaurants such as Masala Dabbas who worked with the BDAA before opening to ensure the most supportive environment, we are determined to demonstrate our commitment to customers.

As part of Dementia Action Week,

Orpington 1st BID is sponsoring a unique conference at which all sections of the community can come together to discuss, connect with and support those affected by dementia.

LET’S TALK DEMENTIA will be a Dementia Conference with both a local and national perspective.

This is an opportunity to develop new partnerships and learn about the changes you, your business or organisation can make to assist those living with or caring for those with dementia.

So please join us to hear informed contributions from guest speakers, including those directly affected by dementia and to learn from the 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.

Venue The Odeon Cinema, The Walnuts Shopping Centre, Orpington, BR6 0TW Date Cost Email

Thursday, May 23rd from 9am until 12pm

Admission free but please book your place via Eventbrite (visit the Orpington 1st website)

nicola.fishman@dementiahub. org.uk or call Nicola Fishman 020 8315 1885

If you care, be there.

Orpington 1st are also offering free training for all businesses and are once again hosting the award-winning virtual dementia experience bus on Tuesday 21st May as part of the programme.

On the same day, customers are invited to the foyer at Tesco where a pop-up information and advice event will take place from 10am to 4pm.

There are numerous other events taking place across the borough from memory cafes to art workshops and cinema screenings.

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20% OFF Hand this voucher in throughout May & June for 20% off your food bill Name:

Email:

By completing this voucher you are agreeing to be added to our database and included in future communications.

This offer is valid Tuesday to Thursday, subject to availability and cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion. Expires 30/06/19

HAPPINESS IS HOMEMADE Cow & Pig British Kitchen is a small family run business based in Orpington, Kent. Our British Kitchen and Smokery aims to serve tasty, great value food, cooked from scratch and using only the best local produce and suppliers

BOOK NOW T: 01689 820 033 E: hello@cowandpig.co.uk www.cowandpig.co.uk 40C The Walnuts Shopping Centre, Orpington, Kent, BR6 0TW

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T H O M A S D U N T O N

Summertime in Orpington...

...time to get your legal affairs in order Thomas Dunton Solicitors have been helping local families in Orpington for over 40 years.

If you think you need our help, please come and speak with us; we believe that local legal advice is best.

Wills, Probate & Lasting Powers of Attorney • Dispute Resolution Family Matters • Buying or Selling a Home • Business Services • Personal Injury Join us for our next FREE Legal Talk on Wills & LPAs at Orpington Library, Tuesday 18 June 2018 at 11am. No need to book.

217–219 High Street, Orpington, Kent BR6 0NZ Tel: 01689 822554 Email: enquiry@thomasdunton.co.uk For more information, call us or visit our website

www.thomasdunton.co.uk

Photo: Orpington High Street, courtesy of Orpington 1st

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