The Orpington 1st Magazine Autumn 2018

F M A BU ROM AG FR SIN O A EE ES RP ZIN SE IN E ST G O TO YO N U

The

Orpington Better for Business

Magazine

Autumn edition 2018 IN THIS ISSUE

Published by

Tindle Newspapers

• Food Fest preview, Enchanted review • New plaque at War Memorial • Al fresco big screen action • Your guide to food, shopping and local services Supported by Orpington 1st: www.orpington1st.co.uk info@orpington1st.co.uk • 01689 829527

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A week-long celebration of the quality and choice of food available in Orpington, culminating in events in Market Square.

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9th September, 12 noon - 3pm 8th September, 10am - 4pm

FOOD & DRINK STALLS FOOD MARKET

COMMUNITY LUNCH & STALLS

LIVE MUSIC & COMEDY

Special offers from Orpington’s eateries available on our website.

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The Orpington 1st Magazine... Better for Business • Autumn 2018

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What a summer we’ve had... and it’s not over yet!

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by Orpington 1st BID executiver director, Sharon Baldwin

RPINGTONIANS joined in with the nation’s summer celebrations including the hundreds who gathered in a Union Jack decorated Market Square for the Wedding of HRH Prince Harry to Meghan Markel. Our first big screen event proved a real success, even attracting a visit from Her Majesty (or someone that looked very much like her)!

Crowds were handed face masks and confetti to join in the fun and treated to a slice of cake in the same recipe as the Royal Wedding cake. It was made by Sarah Chitty, Chef Trainer at BR6, and student Amber Green, and beautifully decorated, with each tier representing a significant part in the couple’s life.

The wedding enchanted us all, as did a brand-new festival at Priory Gardens. Enchanted, a children’s festival organised and delivered by Embla Gisladottir, proved an instant hit with families and is set to become a firm favourite in the Orpington calendar.

Well, it might not have actually come home, but the football World Cup certainly entertained us, turning us all into armchair pundits! The excitement took hold and for a few glorious weeks we could all dream of what it might be like to win! So, as the dream faded, we went from one beautiful game to another, turning our attention to SW19.

Market Square took centre stage by showing Centre Court on our second big screen of the season. The Wimbledon finals certainly gave us some outstanding tennis and those passing

through the Square could sit in a deckchair for a few minutes and enjoy the sun or picnic on one of the benches and watch others make history!

Sporting history was also made by Orpington’s very own athletics star Dina Asher-Smith, who broke her existing 100m record with a new time of 10.92seconds. We wish her every success in this month’s European championship event.

Events play an important part in the way we all use our town and we were delighted with the response to our first outdoor cinema night. We showed Mamma Mia! ahead of the release of the follow up movie at Odeon Orpington of Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again. The positive feedback from the large crowd means that we will certainly look to do more.

In the meantime, Flavours of Orpington, a week-long celebration of our excellent food and hospitality businesses, is set to return for its second year this September so look out for details and make sure you join the fun.

There is so much to keep you and the family entertained during the holidays, from visiting the wonderful Priory Gardens, learning a new sport, catching the latest movies or enjoying the shopping centre’s Wacky Wednesdays.

If you like something a little more competitive then why don’t you join in one of the competitions; Orpington 1st photographic competition; London Square’s story writing competition; or follow the town’s scarecrow trail and vote for your favourite. Make the most of your town, keep busy, and have fun!

Orpington 1st 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 Laura Child on 07850 139386 or email laurachild@bigginhillnews.co.uk The Orpington 1st Magazine... Better for Business • Autumn 2018

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Orpington Photography Competition 2018 Snap happy?

How about the chance to win £100 cash and have your work included in the 2018 Orpington 1st Calendar?

FOR the fourth year, Orpington 1st is running the Orpington Photography Competition in association with the Orpington Photographic Society. Entries will be independently judged by a panel which is looking for photos that capture the best of Orpington, its people and its places. The competition closes on August 24, 2018.

The winner will be announced at the Orpington Photographic Society’s annual exhibition at Orpington Village Halls in September.

Visit www.orpington1st.co.uk for more information and to download an entry form.

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21 reasons to celebrate Twenty-one amazing students from across the region 21 Reasons to celebrate had their hard work rewarded at London South East Colleges’ annual student awards ceremony in July.

The Awards were sponsored by Morgan Hunt, Orpington 1st, News Shopper and Enjoy Print.

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OVER a hundred guests attended the event, which took place at Rose Bruford College in Sidcup, including the Mayor of Greenwich, College governors, representatives of the Orpington 1st Business Improvement District, employers and students family members.

This winners were nominated by their tutors and chosen from a range of subject areas, from hospitality to construction.

Orpington students were particularly well represented, with the ‘Chair’s Award’ for the most outstanding student going to 18-year old Lauren Polson from Bromley (pictured, top right, with Chair of LSEC, Stephen Howlett CBE.) Lauren

joined London South East Colleges at the age of just 14 and four years later has progressed to secure a job as an apprentice at BR6 Restaurant.

Picking up awards for both Apprentice of the Year and the Chair’s Award for most outstanding student, Lauren said: “It’s amazing to be recognised and given these awards - thank you! I have had such a great time at the college and am so well supported by my teachers and my friends. My confidence has grown so much and I am now really enjoying helping to train and inspire new students.”

Principal and CEO of London South East Colleges, Sam Parrett OBE, presented her own awards to four students (one from each campus) who had achieved outstanding success this year. Speaking to guests, Sam said: “You cannot fail to be moved and inspired when hearing such wonderful stories of student achievement, as we have done this evening. I offer my heartfelt congratulations to every student who has worked so hard this year. “ The Principal’s award for the most outstanding student of the year at the Orpington campus went to Natalia Podlavskaya, who has excelled in her Professional Cookery course at BR6 Restaurant and now works part time at the Lancaster Hotel in London.

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The Orpington 1st Magazine... Better for Business • Autumn 2018

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Flavours of Orpington Orpington’s Food Festival returns. Enjoy a celebration of our town’s eateries with a Flavour of Orpington.

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Live music and comedy complement the street food on Foodie Friday.

ITH hospitality and leisure playing an increasingly important role in the nation’s high streets, we are once again showcasing the choice and quality of food on offer in Orpington. From Monday 3 through to Sunday 9 September look out for great deals and special offers from restaurants and cafés across the town centre.

Following the popular format set last year, festival week culminates in a weekend of free to attend events in Market Square.

Foodie Friday (7 September) will see an evening of street food, live music and comedy.

See chefs from your favourite restaurants prepare their signature dishes live in our demonstration kitchen at the Saturday Showcase (8 September), with the Orpington Market being complemented by a range of food stalls.

Then join Churches Together for Sunday Service (9 September), a bring and share BBQ making use of the space at the heart of the town centre.

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

Set Menus available Tuesday to Saturday Sunday Set Lunch from £13.50 Cow & Pig Orpington 40C The Walnuts, Orpington, BR6 0TW T: 01689 820 033 E:hello@cowandpig.co.uk W:www.cowandpig.co.uk The Orpington 1st Magazine... Better for Business • Autumn 2018

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The Orpington 1st Magazine... Better for Business • Autumn 2018

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Helping to make your town safer

I

AM truly privileged to become the new BCU Commander for the South Area.

The Metropolitan Police Service is currently undergoing significant restructuring where we will see 32 Boroughs form 12 basic Command Units. Bromley, Croydon and Sutton will become the largest geographical area of the twelve.

My officers, staff and I will be working hard to bring those responsible for crime to justice across all three boroughs in the new South Area Basic Command Unit (BCU).

Although no area is the same, I believe in a partnership approach to policing, working closely with Councils and local organisations and knitting our communities closer together.

We will be continuing to improve our service, to reduce crime and keep residents safe.

Each borough has its own local policing priorities but there will be an emphasis across the area on preventing and reducing serious youth violence and knife crime.

I place a great importance on neighbourhood policing and partnership working. A core objective for all officers and Jeff Booth, staff serving the South Area BCU is to BCU Commander provide long-term solutions to issues and concerns by working with local communities and their CONTACT DETAILS partners.

The BCU structure will give Telephone: 020 8721 2729 us the opportunity to invest in Non-emergency email: more neighbourhood and orpington.snt@met.police.uk partnership policing, including an increase in officers allocated to youth crime and POLICE SURGERIES engagement. Our ambition is Tuesdays 11am-12 noon to increase our focus on Starbucks, High Street, Orpington prevention and proactive policing in collaboration with Thursdays 3-4pm partners and the community Finch House Coffee Shop, to reduce crime and keep High Street, Orpington residents safe.”

Mobile Chiropodist | Helen Powell MSSCh MBChA • HCPC registered • Over 20 years experience • Complete footcare service direct to your door • Covering Orpington and the surrounding areas • Appointments available to meet the individual needs of every client

To book a consultation contact me on Mobile: 07876 218889 or Email: helen.powell27@hotmail.com The Orpington 1st Magazine... Better for Business • Autumn 2018

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Progress: but still work to be done

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A column by 018 MARKS 100 years Jo Johnson, MP since Parliament passed the 1918 Representation of the People Act, which allowed the first women to vote. This has been celebrated across the country as Orpington 1st Business Improvement well as in Parliament, where I District. These are only a few examples attended an exhibition showcasing of many inspirational women who play a the role women played in Parliament vital role in our community. throughout history (pictured left).

However, there is more to be done.

The exhibition commemorated famous female MPs such as Barbara Castle, Margaret Thatcher, as well as the current Prime Minister. However, it also considered the wider contribution women have made to public life and the barriers they have faced in doing so.

I am proud that across the UK we are seeing more women in positions of leadership, and that this trend is reflected locally. The Orpington constituency contains a strong cohort of female councillors, including the Mayor of Bromley Kim Botting, as well as leaders beyond the realm of politics such as Sharon Baldwin, Executive Director of

At the last election only 32% of MPs elected were women. There is still the historic injustice of the national gender pay gap, currently at 18.4%. However, initiatives such as ‘Ask Her to Stand’, designed to encourage women to run for office, and measures to provide 30 hours free childcare for three and four year olds help contribute to improving these injustices.

It is important that we recognise the huge steps forward taken in the last 100 years. However, this should not blind us to the continued barriers women face today and the steps we can still take to resolve historic inequalities.

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PROFILE

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Melanie Dunton

OCAL firm of Solicitors, Thomas Dunton have been on Orpington High Street for over 40 years and specialise in Family Law, Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney, Probate, Personal Injury, Mediation, Conveyancing and Business matters. Located at 217-219 on the High Street, we caught up with Melanie Dunton, a senior partner at the firm, to find out more about Thomas Dunton as they celebrate their 40th anniversary.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your background?

I became a Solicitor as I wanted to make a difference to people’s lives in a positive way. My father was also a Solicitor, and started Thomas Dunton 40 years ago; his strong sense of social justice inspired me to pursue a career in Law. I am lucky to have a fulfilling career, helping lots of local families with their legal needs. In my spare time, I enjoy competitive sports, particularly tennis and I also enjoy yoga, reading and cooking – quite a mixed bag!

What makes Thomas Dunton different?

We believe in providing a personal level of service for our clients. Our reputation has been based on this exceptional client care coupled with sound, cost-effective legal advice.

Our clients are always our first priority and our business succeeds because of the reputation they have helped us build. In our recent annual client satisfaction survey 92% of clients said they would recommend us to their friends and family.

State of the art IT systems help us work more efficiently, so we spend more time with clients, ensuring we know everything relevant to help them make informed decisions. We have also consistently passed the annual Lexcel Audit for 7 years now, an accreditation that only 15% of law firms have achieved. It’s an assurance to our clients of our stringent legal practice management and client care.

What do you think are the benefits of being located on Orpington High Street?

Having had a presence on the High Street for many years, we feel we are part of the community and hopefully people feel that we are part of the fabric of Orpington. Being located on the High Street also means clients can easily have a face to face meeting with their Solicitor or pop in with a question. Our door is always open.

What’s a typical day at Thomas Dunton?

No two days are the same at our offices! We have a very busy reception with clients coming in for meetings with their Solicitors, and as it can be a potentially stressful time, we try and make people feel looked after. The variety of the work and the energy of lots of people coming into our offices is something that all our staff enjoy - some of whom have been with us for over 20 years. We could be dealing with a complex probate one minute, liaising with local estate agents the next, or hosting one of our talks on Wills & LPAs at Orpington Library.

What do you like best about Orpington?

It’s the local people of Orpington who make it so special. The diversity of the community is certainly something that we often see represented in our offices and I think it makes Orpington unique.

We have helped generations of families and so it’s great to see first-hand that families seem to stay in the area as it has something for everyone: great schools, open spaces and a vibrant high street. We are pleased to be part of this.

How has the high street changed?

Being on the High Street for over 40 years, we’ve witnessed a lot of changes.

We have been very involved with Orpington’s development and refurbishment, having worked voluntarily with various groups and authorities responsible for this. There is a real sense of achievement in seeing the many improvements that have taken place.

It is also encouraging to see the high street bidding to become one of the first Dementia Friendly high streets in the country – this is a cause close to our hearts as we are members of the Bromley Dementia Action Alliance and all our staff are trained as Dementia Friends.

What does the future hold for Thomas Dunton?

This year is especially important to us as it is our 40th anniversary. We couldn’t have got to this milestone without being an integral part of the community; so we hope to continue this by providing tailored legal services to local families, and maintaining our support for the development of the town.

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A fantastical first...

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HILDREN were invited to ‘explore their imagination’ on the first Saturday in June for the inaugural Enchanted Children’s Festival set in the beautiful Priory Gardens, Orpington, with high street footfall on the day 14% up on the previous year.

Families from Orpington and across South East London and Kent enjoyed a day packed full of free arts and activities, hosted across two stages, a Crafts Area and Sports Area, and an arts exhibition in The Great Hall, The Priory, which included work from the likes of Sir Peter Blake.

An incredible range of interactive workshops were available, all designed to spark children’s creativity, while a tug of war tournament and a penalty shoot-out entertained budding athletes.

Other highlights included an appearance from Michael De Souza, the man behind Rastamouse, performances from Croydon Steel Orchestra and Guildford Bucket Drummers wowed the crowds, and the Recycled Music Wall proved a big hit with children and adults alike.

The Yoko Ono inspired Wish Tree was another popular feature, with festival goers invited to write down their hopes and dreams and tie them to the branches of an olive tree.

Festival Organiser, Embla Gisladottir of Bla Bla Productions, said, “We are delighted with the outcome and 14

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the turnout for the first year of Enchanted Children’s Festival.

The feel throughout the whole day was incredibly uplifting and we’ve achieved all the goals we set out to, and more.”

Attendees, which numbered in the thousands, took to social media to give their approval, with many commenting on a wonderful community atmosphere. Collaboration was certainly a key element, with a main stage decorated with artwork created by children from 10 different local primary schools.

Embla added, “We’re proud to have put together an event that encourages the creative arts amongst children in our area. The participation and support from the local community was incredible and we are already working on plans for next year!”

Orpington 1st BID Manager, Chris Travers, said, “Orpington 1st is delighted to have supported another new exciting event in our town centre. We’d like to congratulate Embla and her team on a fantastic inaugural Enchanted Festival and we look forward to many more.”

Photos by Completely You Events

Enchanted was supported by Arts Council England and Orpington 1st, Bromley Community Fund, MyTime Active and Wilkins Kennedy; with associate sponsorship from Pat’s Textiles, CD Waste, Nettl, V22, Rapidity, Hobbycraft, ODEON and Coolings Garden Centre.

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What’s On ODDFELLOWS

Second Tuesday of every month 2-4pm at Orpington Library.

Friendship group open to everybody.

Contact Paul on 07751 360399.

STORY TIME

Monday & Friday (term-time) 2-2.30pm at Orpington Library.

For Pre-School Children 21/2-4 years old.

LEGO CLUB

Meets 1st & 2nd Saturday of every month, I0.30-11.30am at Orpington Library.

Age 8-11.

Parents will need to book your child’s place in advance.

BABY BOUNCE

Thursday 10-10.30am and 1111.30am (term-time) at Orpington Library. Suggested donation £1.

CHATTERBOOKS

Meets once a month on a Thursday from 4.305.30pm at Orpington Library.

Age 8-11.

Please ask a member of staff for more information. Parents will need to request for your child to join this reading group by contacting the Library as we can only accept new members when a space opens up.

August, September, October 2018

ROMAN GAMES & TOYS

Every Wednesday in August, 10.30am-15:30pm at Crofton Roman Villa, Crofton Road, Orpington, Kent, BR6 8AF Find out about Roman toys and the games their children played. Make your own Roman game to take home.

Sessions at 10.30am. For up to 11 year olds. No booking needed. Children to be accompanied. Entry £4 per child, adult carer free.

NATTY KNITTERS

ORPINGTON PHOTOGRAPHIC EXHIBITION 2018

Saturday 1 Sep 10am2pm at 311 High Street, Orpington BR6 0NN Come and see a stunning collection of photographs on exhibit at Orpington Village Halls, free of charge.

Don’t miss the chance to enjoy this wonderful collection of prints and a glass of prosecco.

Last Tuesday of every month 10.30am-12.00pm at Orpington Library.

CRAFTY CROCHET

First Wednesday of every month 10.30am-12.30pm at Orpington Library.

Green Christianity for a Fragile Planet Friday 12 October at Orpington Baptist Church, Station Road, Orpington BR6 0RZ Churches Together in Orpington invite you to a panel debate on environmental issues. Find out what is being done, what more can be done and what we should do.

Speaking and debating and taking questions from the floor will be: • Jo Johnson MP, together with local Counsellors • Helen Stephens, A Rocha UK

• Jo Musker-Sherwood, Hope for the Future

London Square Orpington Short Story Competition

From: Wednesday 18 Jul 2018 Until: Saturday 8 Sep 2018 London Square Orpington, Broadwater Gardens, Orpington, BR6 7UA London Square Orpington has launched a short story competition with the theme ‘There’s no place like home’

In less than 500 words, tell us what ‘home’ means to you – think about the people in it, the rooms/outside spaces and your community. The winning book will be presented at the London Square Orpington children’s book fair celebrating International Literacy Day on 8th September.

The event will include a reading, Q&A and book signing by children’s author Jennifer Killick and food, drinks, games and plenty of books!

Doors open at 6:30pm for an exhibition from local and national environmental interest groups.

First prize includes a Kindle E-Reader and four copies of your own published book. One copy of the winning book will also have a permanent home in Orpington Library for all to read!

For more information and to submit a question telephone Church Office: 01689 877265.

For more information, ask your local librarian for an entry form. Entrants must be 4-11 years old.

Terms and conditions apply.

• Billie Anderson, Tearfund

Speeches begin at 7:00pm

FREE ENTRY

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Orpington Business Directory Welcome to your guide to everything that Orpington has to offer, from fashion, health and fitness, beauty and hairdressers to estate agents and solicitors.

ACCOUNTANTS

Cooley & Co Perry’s Chartered Accountants TaxAssist Accountants Wilkins Kennedy

ADVERTISING Orpington News

01689 835435 01689 823175 01689 414870 01689 827505 07850 139386

ARCHITECTURE/BUILDING CONSULTANCY Bailey Associates Calford Seaden Kirksaunders Associates

01689 813813 01689 888222 01689 896464

BANKS

Barclays Bank PLC Halifax PLC HSBC Lloyds Bank Nationwide Building Society NatWest Santander

BIKES

Cycles UK

01689 898923

BOOKMAKERS BetFred Coral William Hill

0800 7839146 0800 3284273 0870 5181715

BOWLING ALLEY Orpington Superbowl

01689 838333

CARS

Church Hill Garage Old Forge Garage

01689 821836 01689 823292

CINEMA Odeon

0333 006 7777

DENTISTS

AJM Whittome Dental Practice Beaconsfield Dental Practice Orpington Dental Care

DISCOUNT STORES B&M Stores Poundland

EDUCATION

0345 7345345 01689 301113 0345 7404404 0845 3000000 0800 5540274 0345 7888444 0845 7654321

01689 825161 01689 890205 01689 872217 01689 829919 01689 639276

Explore Learning JTL Training London South East Colleges

01689 867302 01689 884100 0300 3032554

ESTATE AGENTS

Alan de Maid Andrew Reeves Andrews Estate Agents Bishop Edmund Estate Agents Haart Kenton Langford Russell Lets Only Linay & Shipp Proctors Robinson-Jackson Thomas Brown Estates Your Move

FASHION

Aces (MWC) All Bags Aurora Royal (C) Bonmarche (MW) Claire’s Accessories Edinburgh Woollen Mill (MW) Graduates Schoolwear (C) Ladies’ Choice (W) M&Co (MWC) New Look (W) Peacocks (MWC) Roman (W) Shoe Zone (MWC) Tone Clothing (MWC) Trespass Outdoor Clothing (MWC) ♥Yours

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Chantler Kent Investments Grosvenor Independent Mortgage Solutions JLT

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Co-operative Funeralcare Francis Chappell & Sons Valentine & Turner Funeral Directors

GAMING/DVD

CeX Entertainment Exchange

GIFTS

A Time 4 Flowers Cards Direct Card Factory Gifted

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01689 01689 01689 01689 01689 01689 01689 01689 01689 01689 01689 01689 01689 01689

814544 838866 831619 873796 821904 898899 822207 661400 835999 825678 666999 833322 884444 872926

01689 870151 07884 367500 01689 836555 01689 834248 01689 823731 01689 821439 01689 875238 01689 829853 01689 820633 01689 824252 01689 832404 01689 890516 01689 877781 01689 820540 01689 872898 01689 607007 01689 818000 01689 867700 01689 887400 01689 876036 01689 823777 01689 798448 0845 3451664 07985 390463 01689 870353 01689 828498 07902 565027 19

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GYMS/HEALTH CLUBS Anytime Fitness Crystal Palace Physio Group Pure Gym Ripped Muscle & Fitness Shapers Orpington Walnuts Leisure Centre

HAIR & BEAUTY

American Golden Nails Angelo’s Barbers Art’s Avalon Laser Clinic Avinit Tattoo Barber King Cutting Remarks Elegante Elegant Nails Essensuals Fragrance Shop Graham Webb Groom Barbers Headmasters Hollywood Star Nails Jacob Barbers Jon’s Hair Again Marble MegaSun Tanning My Nail Bar My Turkish Barber New Image Nola Hair & Beauty The Salon Supercuts

HOME CARE

Compassion Home Care Day to Day Care Link Care

HOTEL PREMIER INN HOUSE & HOME

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01689 422027 0208 778 9050 0845 8356900 01689 874579 01689 833818 01689 870533 01689 874006 01689 890505 01689 818974 0800 0699986 01689 871175 01689 638082 01689 830024 01689 822333 01689 891839 01689 897222 01689 898669 01689 839950 01689 898915 0345 4597745 01689 874375 01689 639764 01689 820565 01689 822777 01689 830007 01689 826066 01689 01689 01689 01689

837502 638479 875577 637310

01689 825155 0203 1378842 01689 898840

0871 527 9606

JEWELLERY Gemini F. Hinds Ruth Brushett

LAUNDRY

ASA Launderette Fifth Avenue Dry Cleaners

LIBRARY MOBILE PHONES 3 Store EE Mobile City O2

MOBILITY

Mobility Centre VTB Mobility

01689 871570 01689 839719 01689 823035 01689 830304 01689 821777

01689 831551 01689 01689 01689 01689

B

B

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825995 878642 825549 835566

01689 873007 01689 837800

ORPINGTON VILLAGE HALLS 01689 891828 OPTICIANS

Boots Opticians Orpington Eye Care Specsavers Vision Express

PETS

Incredible Paws (Dog Grooming) Orpington Pet Supplies

PHARMACY

Boots The Chemist Chinese Herbal Medicine Farncray Pharmacy Holland & Barrett Savers Health & Beauty Superdrug

POST OFFICE RECRUITMENT

Chrysalis Recruitment Centre Discoverer International

01689 820848 01689 820866 01689 890168 01689 669626 07887 836672 01689 821190

P

R

01689 821611 01689 829664 01689 831113 0168 9874773 01689 822200 01689 823915

0345 7223344 01689 332129 01689 669280

Amity 01689 878418 SHOE REPAIRS Argos 0345 1657378 Eddie & Mark Shoe Repairs 01689 891927 The Fabric Place 01689 898215 Shoe Repairs 07972 168147 Grand Design 01689 891600 HSL 01689 867820 SOLICITORS Imms Carpets 01689 833337 CWJ 01689 887887 Kütchenhaus 01689 770195 Manak 01689 870769 Magnet 01689 897707 T G Baynes 01689 886000 One Stop Gas & Plumbing 01689 601611 Thomas Dunton 01689 822554 Pat’s Textiles 01689 870592 PJ Timber Supplies 01689 825958 STATIONERY/BOOKS/PRINTERS/DESIGN Ponden Home Interiors 01689 830753 Cut Price Cartridges 01689 896172 Robert Dyas 01689 877773 Nettl 01689 870380 Stak’s DIY 01689 871166 Ryman The Stationer 01689 891761 Wickes Kitchens & Bathrooms 01689 303100 The Works 01689 891342 WH Smith 01689 817516 Wilko 01689 821500 The Orpington 1st Magazine... Better for Business • Autumn 2018

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All About Food...

BAKERS Greggs Greggs

01689 896815 01689 890336

Pubs, cafés, restaurants, take aways, supermarkets and convenience stores Kram Oriental Food Sainsbury’s Tesco Extra

01689 823886 01689 823160 0345 0269567

BUTCHERS

SWEET SHOP

CAFÉS

TAKE AWAY

Majestic Catering 01689 821568 BR6 Bakehouse Caffe Tea Tree Costa High Street Costa ODEON Costa Tesco Creams Finch House Café Olive Tree Café & Restaurant Melange Café Bar Primo Caffe Scotts Pie & Mash Star Café Starbucks Swell Café

PUBS & BARS

The Harvest Moon Pato Lounge The White Hart

RESTAURANTS

Mr Simms Olde Sweet Shoppe

0208 2957096 01689 822268 020 89473536 01689 822063 01689 834987 01689 874269 01689 822654 01689 637200 01689 827779 01689 876744 01689 820911 020 35100444 07737 836421 01689 876931 01689 891427 01689 837778

Bella Italia BR6 Restaurant Café Medi Cow & Pig Crystal Lake Ephesus Fiesta Mexicana Hisar Meze Bar Joy Kitchen King Palace Masala Dabbas Miso Noodle Bar Nando’s Osteria Da Fabizio Parkside Chinese Restaurant Pizza Express Reku Zen Scala Shimla Pink Xi’an Vibe

01689 769342 020 82957096 01689 821561 01689 820033 01689 820888 01689 832444 01689 823334 01689 898000 01689 829341 01689 831848 01689 601429 01689 896808 01689 831716 01689 874488 01689 822033 01689 833811 01689 826880 01689 871111 01689 828800 01689 871881 01689 831911

SUPERMARKETS & CONVENIENCE STORES Aces Express Aces Local Eko Food Market Harry’s Allsorts Iceland

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01689 01689 01689 01689 01689

830946 897204 822334 821687 832467

Best Kebab Burger King Chandni Crispy Cod Domino’s Pizza KFC Lotus House McDonald’s Naz Balti Pizzabulls Quality Fish ‘n’ Chips & Kebabs Sandwich Bar 10 Subway Sun Moon Lake

01689 820384 01689 822252 01689 823638 01689 870511 01689 870312 01689 836836 0345 753 2532 01689 833320 01689 828360 01689 825298 01689 821411 01689 897755 01689 877979 01689 820685 01689 897770

Useful numbers

A quick guide to some local numbers you may need...

Police, Emergency 999 Police, Non Emergency 101 Orpington Safer Neighbourhood Team 020 8721 2729 Orpington Hospital 01689 863 000 NHS Direct/EmDoc 111 Pharmacy Tesco Extra, Orpington 0845 026 9567 Petts Wood Pharmacy, Queensway 01689 898 580 Margaret Travers, Street Pastors

07817 944 653

ORPINGTON 1 BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT BID Office 01689 829 527 Sharon Baldwin, Executive Director 07441 253 427 Chris Travers, BID Manager 07914 689 380 ST

BROMLEY COUNCIL Main Switchboard Business Rates MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT Jo Johnson MP

LOCAL COUNCILLORS Cllr Kim Botting Cllr Pauline Tunnicliffe Cllr William Huntington-Thresher The Orpington 1st Magazine... Better for Business • Autumn 2018

020 8464 3333 020 8313 1010 020 7219 7125 07947 714394 01689 857 407 07733 116 799

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New businesses, fresh looks

CHRYSALIS RECRUITMENT BREATHING new life into the high street and working lives, Chrysalis Recruitment Centre arrived in the town centre in July.

Chrysalis Recruitment Centre offers professional CV writing, one-to-one careers advice, and employability workshops in order to support individuals into work. They recruit for the Hospitality sector and work directly with other local businesses to assist them with their recruitment needs

JACOB BARBERS THERE’S a fresh new look for one established independent business in town. Jacob Barbers is now sporting new signage, with a sharp silver logo set against a 22

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Owner Anna Taylor, said, “Following twenty years in recruitment, I am passionate about supporting individuals into work. I have always lived in Orpington and am excited to

smart navy background. Owner Jacob Christodoulou started his business 11 years ago and has grown to be a familiar feature on Orpington high street.

People are very much at the heart of this barbers. Jacob likes to employ

work with local companies, helping them to connect with local candidates.”

You can find Chrysalis Recruitment Centre at 104 High Street, Orpington.

Orpingtonians wherever possible. He has trained as many as sixteen people who had no barbering experience at all, with several going on to set up their own business in the industry.

He also has a great rapport with his customers, many of whom have been trusting Jacob Barbers with their hair for 11 years now.

Jacob said, “Orpington is an amazing town. I’m very grateful to its residents as I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.”

You can find Jacob Barbers at 118 High Street, Orpington.

The Orpington 1st Magazine... Better for Business • Autumn 2018

03/08/2018 09:30

A TIME 4 FLOWERS OWNER Sue Ball will be a familiar face to many in the town centre. Following a stint inside The Walnuts Shopping Centre, A Time 4 Flowers is back in a newly built retail unit opposite the Premier Inn. Sue has lived in Orpington with her family for twenty years. She has worked in floristry since 1998, initially as an employee before setting up her own business eleven years ago.

“There’s great diversity here and a good buzz about the place,” said Sue. “We have built up some loyal customers over the years, some of whom I’m glad to call friends.

People often pop in for a chat and some advice which we’re very happy to give. It’s nice to be back where we feel we belong.”

A Time 4 Flowers always has a good selection of bouquets and gifts to suit all budgets. They offer local, national and international delivery and have great experience in weddings, corporate events and all aspects of funeral tributes.

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NEW look shop front, same great range of products. The signage of the independent pop-up gift store at 48 The Walnuts has undergone a stylish revamp in line with its brand.

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Make sure you pop in and browse the fabulous array of items for sale, including a selection of work by local artists.

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Hassan family delivers again “Orpington is the perfect choice for the first UK store. Of course, we’re very familiar with the town, having been trading here as a family for so long, but it’s also a great central hub with excellent links to Greater London and Kent. We’ve had several franchise enquiries already and the next store should open in Kent later this year., said Nejmi.

Pizzabulls are offering Buy One Get One Free on all pizzas on receipt of this article. Collection only, contact the store for details.

PIZZABULLS WITH the aim to deliver the best quality pizza at an affordable price and dough handmade fresh on the premises every day, Pizzabulls is the latest venture from the Hassan family, who have now been trading in Orpington High Street for over 30 years.

Pizzabulls was first established in Istanbul in 2006 by the Hassan’s relative Mr Cavit Can Kirbey. Cavit’s dream was always to return to the UK, where he had studied business, and open a flagship branch to evolve into the same multifranchise operation he set up in Turkey.

Despite the organisation’s growth, it remains family-run. The Orpington store is Pizzabulls’ fiftieth but the very first in the UK. MD Nejmi Hassan hopes it will be the first of many.

279 High Street • 01689 821 411 www.pizzabulls.co.uk

Hakan Alpay, Kenan Çay, Nejmi Hassan

Al fresco action on the big screen Market Square hosted a pop-up Wimbledon screen for the climax of this year’s tournament, courtesy of Orpington 1st and The Walnuts Shopping Centre.

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ISITORS were able to take a break from shopping or work and soak up the sun whilst watching the giants of the tennis world in action. A pop-up bar provided much needed cooling refreshments while a gazebo provided a shaded area for children (and some adults!) to enjoy garden games.

Team Nando’s Orpington on hand with snacks

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On Saturday evening the square was transformed into an outdoor cinema with a free screening of the original Mamma Mia! ahead of the release of Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again at ODEON Orpington the following week.

It certainly pulled in the crowds and the warm summer weather made it feel like being in a Greek Taverna, with the team at Nando’s Orpington even giving out free olives. The feedback from the 300 or so guests was extremely positive, with compliments on the atmosphere created and the use of the square as an event space.

The Orpington 1st Magazine... Better for Business • Autumn 2018

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Web: www.cinnamoncc.com/emersonpark 26

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The Orpington 1st Magazine... Better for Business • Autumn 2018

03/08/2018 09:30

ADVERTISER’S ANNOUNCEMENT

The most important thing of all FAMILY is important and so it can be an upsetting and challenging time when you decide to split from your partner. If you are thinking of changing your family circumstances then we can help you keep control of this new chapter of your life.

We have over 40 years’ experience of helping local families make positive decisions for themselves and their children.

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Finding the right solution for you

Everyone’s circumstances are different, so we provide tailored legal guidance on different ways to achieve a constructive outcome.

Our Family Law department provides advice on separation, divorce, mediation, pre-nuptial agreements, child arrangement issues and co-habitation agreements.

Why Thomas Dunton?

When you use our services, you can be assured that you will only be seen by an experienced Solicitor.

Our Family team are proud to include members of Resolution, including the Resolution Accredited Specialist Scheme, the Law Society’s Family Law Panel, Children Panel Accreditation Scheme and the Association of Lawyers for Children. Providing peace of mind that your case will be dealt with in a professional and efficient manner.

We also offer a fixed fee interview for £150 (+VAT) for an hour’s consultation with a qualified Solicitor or £75 (+VAT) if you only require 30 minutes.

Thomas Dunton Solicitors 217–219 High Street, Orpington, Kent BR6 0NZ Tel: 01689 822554 • family@thomasdunton.co.uk

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Tel: 01689 - 856618

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A royal celebration in Orpington A sun soaked Market Square adorned with union flag bunting proved the perfect venue as Orpington held its own royal wedding celebrations, organised by Orpington 1st and The Walnuts Shopping Centre and sponsored by London Square.

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Photos by The Urban Snapper

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N Saturday 19 May, hundreds of Orpingtonians joined the almost 18 million viewers across the UK in watching the biggest TV event of the year, on the big screen.

Guests were able to relax in a deckchair, or take a pew at a picnic bench and watch the momentous occasion in the heart of the town centre. Children enjoyed garden games and royal wedding inspired crafts, with Harry & Meghan masks

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proving particularly popular.

Families from across Bromley joined the celebration of the wedding of the year and the Mayor of Bromley Cllr Kim Botting was also in attendance for her first major event since being elected earlier in May. Local wine aficionados The Sociable Wine Company were on hand with a cool glass of cold bubbly, with snacks served by local businesses Cow & Pig, Bella Italia Orpington and BR6 Bakehouse.

A Queen Elizabeth II look-alike provided attendees with photo

The Orpington 1st Magazine... Better for Business • Autumn 2018

03/08/2018 09:30

Gavin of Cow & Pig with Her Majesty

opportunities while a performance from Bird College’s Little Big Band rounded off proceedings, with a few lucky guests able to take home a slice of the beautiful wedding cake created by the team at London South East College’s BR6 Restaurant.

Resident and attendee, Elinor Vasiliou, commented, “A right royal well done to the organisers. A lovely community event that felt like Orpington is on the up. Very impressed.”

Orpingtonian Steve Sangster agreed, saying, “Great event and

nice community atmosphere. Making the market square a ‘go to’ destination.”

Orpington 1st Executive Director, Sharon Baldwin, said, “On behalf of the Orpington business community we’d like to thank all those who joined us in marking this special day and helped create a wonderful atmosphere, which once again demonstrated the true spirit of Orpington. We’d also like to thank our sponsor, London Square, and to congratulate The Duke & Duchess of Sussex.”

The cake was made by Sarah Chitty, Chef Trainer at BR6, and student Amber Green

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The Orpington 1st Magazine... Better for Business • Autumn 2018

03/08/2018 09:30

Better for Business BID BOARD ORPINGTON 1 welcomed two new directors to the board at the AGM in June, Andrew Cox from London South East Colleges and Ozgun Ozgenturk from Barclays Bank. st

Andrew joined London South East Colleges in 2015, initially to develop new business through bidding and tendering, and now works in the corporate directorate, focusing on Policy Insight and LMI, Stakeholder Engagement and Economic Growth.

Ozgun Ozgenturk began his career with Barclays in 2002. He has held several positions across his sixteen years with the bank and currently enjoys working with businesses across

South East London in his role as Relationship Manager.

Orpington 1st BID Manager, Chris Travers said, “We’re delighted to welcome Andrew and Oz to the board.

Both bring with them a wealth of relevant experience and add further credibility to the BID. They have already demonstrated great enthusiasm for Orpington 1st’s vision, as well as injecting fresh perspectives, and we look forward to working with them.”

CITY HALL THE BID continues to have a dialogue with City Hall to ensure both engagement with the Mayor’s priorities for London and that advantage is taken of the support on offer to strengthen the position of town centres as economic hubs.

The Mayor has vowed to be the most pro-business Mayor London has ever had, demonstrating this by providing support to small businesses, recognised as being the lifeblood of the economy and at the forefront of innovation.

The London Growth Hub is an online signposting tool connecting London’s entrepreneurs and SMEs with support to

Andrew Cox; Ozgun Ozgenturk

Chris Travers & Sharon Baldwin

help them start, sustain and grow.

They are also delivering face-to-face support for microbusinesses, from those that are struggling to survive to those that have the potential to scale up.

The new Civic Innovation Challenge matches tech start-ups with public bodies and partners searching for innovative solutions to London’s most pressing problems.

Affordable workspace and the delivery of spaces for the creative industries, within new mixed-use developments is high on the agenda, as is providing access to finance through the Civic Crowdfunding scheme. Orpington 1st and partners are bidding for this funding to improve the connectivity of projects including a business Hub. Rajeesh Agrawal,

Deputy Mayor, Business;

Opportunity Orpington Want to know more about the town in which you work or live, want to know about the support available to you as businesses or residents?

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ISIT Opportunity Orpington 2018 to find out more: Thursday 25 October, 10am to 4pm.

The event, now in its fourth year, was created to showcase the opportunity businesses have to start up, step up and grow within a supportive and well

connected environment.

It is also a great vehicle to highlight and inform visitors about the significant changes that are taking place in the town centre and to showcase the opportunities that are being made available for both the business and residential communities.

This year we are delighted that the

London Borough of Bromley will be using the event to highlight the progress being made on the development of a “plan for Orpington”: a plan that is strategic and connected, a plan that will ensure the town’s future growth produces the economic and social wellbeing, and that will serve the changing community that depends on it.

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03/08/2018 09:30

Bloomin’ lovely

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ULY saw Orpington host the judges from this year’s London in Bloom competition, which recognises communities that tackle everything from litter, graffiti and anti-social behaviour to conservation, sustainability and horticultural standards: everything that has a positive impact on sense of place, community spirit and pride.

Joined by Cllr WH Thresher, LBB environmental portfolio holder, our guests had a tour of the high street whilst en route to the beautiful garden display at Tapi Carpets in Spur Road.

During afternoon tea on the terrace at the Bakehouse, Orpington 1st did a presentation on the various initiatives being undertaken to improve the town centre, such as our waste management and recycling service, plasticfree business scheme, dementia-friendly project and the creation and activation of better public spaces.

We finished with a site visit to the wonderful Priory Gardens and an excellent presentation by Richard Gibbons from Friends of Priory Gardens, over some much needed cold lemonade.

We were complimented on the enthusiasm and passion from all those who joined in... we now await the results!

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SALE gust 2018 Valid until 31st Au

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The Orpington 1st Magazine... Better for Business • Autumn 2018

03/08/2018 09:30

New plaque unveiled at Orpington War Memorial

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N Friday 13 July, members of the Orpington & District Royal British Legion, residents, businesses and local councillors gathered by Orpington War Memorial for a special service of blessing and the dedication of a new plaque commemorating the loss of life of those from the Orpington community.

The new plaque has been funded by the London Borough of Bromley and

020 8460 0181

Cray Valley West Residents Association, CRA20ten.

The Mayor of Bromley, Cllr Kim Botting, said: “As Mayor and as the president of Orpington & District Royal British Legion, I am honoured to be here for the dedication and unveiling of this plaque. It’s so important that we continue to commemorate the tragic events of the first and second World Wars and subsequent conflicts. It’s a cause very close to my heart.”

The service was led by Father Rob

Parker-McGee of All Saints’ Parish Church with local boys on work experience with Orpington 1st, Kieran Lowe (15) and Louie Huzzey (15), given the prestigious duty of unveiling the plaque.

Cllr Kim Botting continued, “I have chosen Royal British Legion as one of my nominated charities for my second mayoral year and I am proud to be involved in ensuring that generations going forward continue to remember that it was for our tomorrow they gave their today.”

Photos by Masterlight Photography

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Enabling children to reach their full potential The Orpington 1st Magazine... Better for Business • Autumn 2018

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Orpington Options

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RPINGTON OPTIONS is the town’s new offer scheme, bringing you the latest deals and special offers from businesses in Orpington. Via the dedicated area of our website you can scroll through a list of the latest deals from across the town centre, or filter by category, such as ‘Food & Drink’ or ‘Fashion’. To redeem, simply show the offer on your smartphone to your sales assistant, waitress or member of staff.

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Look out for the logo on window stickers across the high street. If you have an NFC enabled smartphone you can check out what’s on offer at your favourite store simply by holding your phone to the tag – you will then be directed to that business’s offer on our website.

Orpington Loyalty Card holders can still use their card to redeem all the Orpington Options deals, so don’t worry if you don’t have a smartphone.

You can pick up a card from Orpington Library.

You can subscribe to our newsletter and add the Orpington Options page to your home screen to keep up to date with the latest offers.

Visit our website www.orpington1st.co.uk to learn more.

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Hard work pays off for Bromley Fire Cadets

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N Wednesday 11 July, LFB Bromley’s inaugural Fire Cadet Unit had their Passout Ceremony at Orpington Fire Station, having gained a BTEC level 2 in Fire & Rescue Services in the Community

FIFTEEN teenagers from across the borough were joined by the Deputy Mayor of Bromley, representatives from Orpington 1st, London South East Colleges, Bromley Council, over 80 family and friends, and Senior LFB Officers.

Beginning in September 2017, the cadets attended Orpington fire station every Wednesday evening to learn all about the work of the LFB. The programme helps develop invaluable key transferable skills, with classroombased activities complemented by practical experience with Fire Brigade equipment.

The cadets have also formed an integral part of a variety events; representing the LFB at the Bromley Remembrance Parade, raising money for charity, assisting the firefighters with their Open Day, handing out water at the London Marathon Water Station

and stewarding Orpington’s very own Santa Dash, as well as having great fun visiting the Fireboat, the Houses of Parliament, and zip-lining and abseiling at Downe Activity Centre.

Terry Gooding, LFB Bromley Borough Commander, said, “We are extremely proud of this group of young people. They’ve shown terrific character and my team are very much looking forward to working with the next cohort.”

The cadets’ hard work has resulted in all the group achieving a BTEC level 2 in Fire & Rescue Services in the Community.

Borough Commander Gooding added, “We have some great sponsorship opportunities for the 2018/19 programme, so if you’re from a local business who might be interested in supporting our cadets, please do get in touch.”

Recruitment for September 2018’s intake is underway, so: • If you are aged between 14-17 years old and interested in a new challenge; • If you are over 18 and interested in becoming a Volunteer Cadet Instructor (no experience needed – training provided); or

• If you are aged 11-13 and interested in the brand new Junior Fire Cadets (opening late October 2018) then please contact: lfbfirecadets@london-fire.gov.uk for more information.

Debora celebrates 20 years’ service with F.HINDS

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EBORA Sansom marked 20 years’ service with her employer F.HINDS Jewellers last month.

Originally from Peckham, Debora has been a resident in the Bromley borough for 21 years, currently living in Chislehurst with her husband.

Previously a publican - having run an establishment on Hastings Road (now McDonald’s) - Debora was looking for a change of career and just happened to walk past the store in 1998 and notice a sign in the window advertising for staff. Debora joined F.HINDS as a Sales Assistant and has now been Manager for 14 years.

“Of course, the role has changed a lot in my time here, 38

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along with retail in general,” said Debora. “The company has continued to grow, though, and they’ve been great to work for.

They do look after their employees well.”

Established in 1856, F.HINDS is still family run, recently welcoming two seventhgeneration Hinds family members into the business. In 2016, they opened their 118th store in Harlow.

Debora added, “We have some very loyal customers and it’s been a pleasure to build relationships over the years.”

Located in The Walnuts Shopping Centre, F.HINDS offers an extensive selection of diamonds, gold and silver jewellery, watches, clocks, gifts and collectibles, and wedding rings.

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