The Orpington 1st Magazine Spring 2020

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

Spring edition 2020 IN THIS ISSUE • • • •

Meet Gareth Bacon, MP for Orpington Look back at the Santa Dash and Light Up events Vote for Orpington’s Finest business and employee Have your say on Walnuts development

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

Published by

Tindle Newspapers

Slice of excellence At Perrys Chartered Accountants we offer our clients an exceptional service and are proud of our industry knowledge, qualifications and experience.

• Accounts • Tax Planning • Corporate Finance • Wills & Probate • Company Secretarial Work • VAT Legislation • Tax Allowance • Inheritance Tax • Statutory Audit

To arrange a FREE consultation please visit our website

perrysaccountants.co.uk

City 020 7256 9339

Mayfair 020 7408 4442

Orpington 01689 823175

Tunbridge Wells 01892 543900

West Malling 01732 870032

Wrotham 01732 882488

Historic Dockyard Chatham 01634 245900

Take part in shaping town’s future Orpington community invited to share their views on the future of The Walnuts Shopping Centre at Community Planning Weekend

R

ESIDENTS, businesses and the wider community are invited to take part in a series of workshops and an exhibition to share their ideas and aspirations for The Walnuts Shopping Centre and thoughts on the wider town centre. The events are part of a Community Planning Weekend at The Walnuts Shopping Centre.

are committed to working closely with the local community to help shape its future at the heart of Orpington town centre.

The Community Planning Weekend is a chance to share local knowledge and contribute to creating a new vision for the shopping centre through facilitated workshops and handson planning groups. An exhibition will explain the background of the

Following the public workshop days, the team will analyse and summarise the outcomes and draw up a Vision for The Walnuts Shopping Centre.

This will be presented back to the local community at a ‘Report Back’ presentation.

Everyone in the Orpington community is invited to attend.

Community Planning Weekend Public Workshops and Exhibition

Friday 20 March 2020 1:45pm - 5:30pm Saturday 21 March 2020 11am - 4pm

Report Back Presentation

Tuesday 24 March 6:45pm to 8:30pm Following the acquisition of The Walnuts Shopping Centre last year, operating partner Areli Real Estate, JTP and Cascade Communications are organising the event on behalf of new owners Tikehau Capital. Areli

shopping centre and team members will be on hand to answer questions.

Participation is on a drop-in basis – there is no need to pre-register – you can stay for a short while, a few hours or for the whole event.

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

Venue

Former Argos unit Walnuts Shopping Centre Orpington BR6 0TW 3

Welcome...

by Orpington 1st BID Executive Director, Sharon Baldwin

W

elcome to the Spring edition of The Orpington 1st Magazine, connecting you directly to those that help shape our town centre.

As we enter not just a new year but also a new decade, we can all look forward to the vison of a modern and vibrant town taking shape, one which delivers for everyone.

As high streets up and down the country are challenged with adapting to the changes in customer behaviour, with the increase in online shopping and with changing expectations of businesses and the services they oer, Orpington is set to take on that challenge with a robust response and innovative transformation.

We are delighted that with the recent acquisition of the Walnuts Shopping Centre by Tikehau Capital, we have in their operations partner, Areli, a collaborative, socially minded and ambitious partner with whom all stakeholders can work.

15,000 copies are printed of each edition of The Orpington 1st Magazine. 13,000 are delivered to homes across Orpington with a further 2,000 available to pick up at locations across the town centre.

The magazine is also available to read online, sent to a subscriber base of 6,000, and promoted to a combined social media following of over 10,000.

Orpington 1st Business Improvement District www.orpington1st.co.uk Orpington1st 01689 829 527 info@orpington1st.co.uk If you would like to advertise in the next edition please contact us.

Contents 3 6 9 11 12 17 20 23 24 29 30 33 34 37 38

Orpington 1st, which is made up of all the businesses in the town centre, has invested £1.5 million in the town since 2013 and continues that investment through a broad and diverse programme of support and improvements, making it better for business and better for customers.

As we prepare the town for the exciting year ahead we have already started our Spring clean, making sure that the environment in which we live and work is well managed and welcoming, and we will once again be working to connect and add value to our green spaces, making spaces that support the wellbeing of all users.

From the return of the pop-up pallet park to the installation of living walls we have some great projects planned for the spring.

Our events programme continues to grow, and as we look back at our Christmas events we can see just how many people are attracted to take part and visit the town, providing residents with some great entertainment and the business community with an opportunity to showcase their services.

From Easter trails to VE day celebrations and from Wimbledon to Tokyo, 2020 will be an exciting year so keep up to date by visiting www.orpington1st.co.uk and join us in making a vibrant town centre.

Walnuts Centre development wants your input Look back at Light Up Orpington Vote for Orpington’s Finest New Year, New Career?

Meet Gareth Bacon, MP Scarecrow Trail packs a punch Look back at the 2019 Santa Dash St John Ambulance centennial HSL: creative comforts Better for Business Rotary Young Chef Awards Honours for Restaurateur New Businesses, Fresh Looks Smart Policing in Town Raising money for homeless

Orpington

T

HOUSANDS of families enjoyed a fun and festive evening in Orpington on Thursday 14th November as the town’s annual Christmas lights switch on event ‘Light Up Orpington’ took place.

Funded and organised by the Orpington town centre business community, Orpington 1st, the event saw the High Street transformed for a Christmas extravaganza with two stages hosting a full line-up of live entertainment, food, drink and gift stalls, fairground rides and a spectacular firework display.

Many local businesses took the opportunity to join in the festivities with a number hosting additional activities.

The big day also saw the opening of The Walnuts Shopping Centre’s free Santa’s Grotto with the large queues kept entertained by members of Orpington Magic Society.

Orpington 1st BID Manager, Chris Travers, said, “It’s been another brilliant night with a great atmosphere.

Light Up is established as an event that Orpington can be proud of and huge credit should go to the business community for its continued investment in our town centre, creating occasions like this which the whole town can enjoy.”

Ahead of the countdown to the fireworks, Santa himself was joined on the main stage by a few friends from the Orpington Village Hall’s pantomime, Mother Goose, along with ward councillors and Orpington 1st Chairman, Martin Price, who paid tribute to the volunteers from Orpington Rotary and the London Fire Cadets.

An incredible firework display wowed the crowds before some rock’n’roll from Vince Lighting & The Thunderbolts brought proceedings to a close.

Posting on Facebook, Orpington resident Bridget Daly, said, “All events going on were amazing and to top it the fireworks were the best ever. So thank you to all involved in organising and running such a lovely event.”

6

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

orpington1st.co.uk/events

Lights Up for Christmas Stephen Sangster tweeted, “Congratulations to Orpington 1st and all the businesses and support staff for the light switch on. Another very successful event enjoyed by the whole family.”

Lots more fab photos on

orpington1st

7

Affordable German Kittchens Read our 5 star re eviews at www.trusttpilot.com

Buy N Now ow P Pay ay 20 021 19.9% APR REPRE ESENTATIVE

The Walnuts Shop pping Centre Orpington, BR6 0TW 0 Tel: 01689 770195 5 www.kutchenhau us.co.uk Credit is subject s bject to statu t s and affordability. Terms and condition ns apply. L&C Designs Ltd, d 7-9 The e Walnuts, Orpington BR6 0TW (R Register No. 815381) trading as Kutchenhaus tchenha s Orpington is a credit broker and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Condu uct Authority. Credit is provided b

by Hitachi Personal Finance, a trading style of Hitachi Capital (UK K) PLC, authorised and regulated d by the Financial Conduct A Authority (Register no. 704348).

8

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

orpington1st.co.uk/news

Photos from the 2019 awards ceremony.

Vote for Orpington’s Finest!

A

A·Mano

s awards season reaches a climax, Orpington’s business community gets ready to celebrate at the Bromley Borough’s premier awards ceremony.

Showcasing the best in business and promoting excellent service, Orpington’s Finest Awards 2020 is sponsored by Perrys, Valentine & Turner and The Walnuts Shopping Centre, and supported by Insight 6.

Along with ten independently judged categories, Orpingtonians are once

again being given the opportunity to vote for their Favourite Business and Best Employee. Throughout February, visit www.orpington1st.co.uk and cast your vote for your favourite town centre based business, whether a café, shop, hairdressers or estate agent – and/or – the person you think should be crowned ‘Best Employee’ for 2020.

Perhaps it’s the barista whose smile brightens your day or the sales assistant for whom nothing is too much trouble?

Let us know and you’ll be entered into a free prize draw for £100 cash!

Voting closes on 1st March 2020.

The winner of the prize draw will be contacted the week commencing 1st April. If the winning voter is under 18 years of age, a parent or guardian must collect the prize.

The winning business and employee will be publicised following announcement at the gala awards ceremony, held at ODEON Orpington for the fifth consecutive year.

Kütchenhaus

Compassion Homecare

Masala Dabbas The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

9

WALNUTSSHOPPING WWW THEWALNUTSSHOPPINGCENTRE COM

10

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

Anna Taylor, owner of Chrysalis Recruitment Centre

orpington1st.co.uk/news

New Year, New Career?

L

OOKING to make a flying start to the 20s? Chrysalis Recruitment Centre now have a registered onsite National Careers Service Advisor available to meet with individuals on a one to one basis to discuss career options and requirements, free of charge.

The National Careers Service (NCS) provides free and impartial information, advice and guidance to help you make decisions on learning, training and work.

Residents across Orpington and surrounding areas can now book a free National Careers Service appointment with local advisor, Anna Taylor, owner of Chrysalis Recruitment Centre.

During appointments, attendees will receive professional advice on how to move forward; whether it be within training or employment, as well as practical support which can include help with CVs, support with job searching or completing online applications. NCS advisers can also discuss any barriers individuals feel they may be facing and help to resolve these in order for them to access work or training.

Anna said, “We have already been able to help lots of local people with

impartial careers advice and guidance – offering services such as CV Writing, interview skills and understanding their transferable skills if they are looking for a complete career change!

“We are looking forward to meeting many more individuals in 2020 and aim to support them with practical advice which can lead to employment opportunities or further training.”

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

You can meet with your local advisor, Anna, at Chrysalis Recruitment Centre, 104 High Street, Orpington, BR6 0JY To enquire about booking your free appointment, contact Anna on 07802 725 400 (text message) or email Anna.Taylor@Prospects.co.uk

11

Gareth Bacon MP. It’s a pleasure to write my first column for this magazine as your new Member of Parliament. I would like to thank you for placing for your trust in me to represent Orpington and its surrounding villages in Westminster, and for being so welcoming to me and my family.

Gareth with Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

I

T’S barely been two months since the election but the change in Westminster is tangible.

There is a renewed optimism about the future of our country, a determination to deliver, and laser-focus on the nation’s priorities.

My first few weeks as your Member of Parliament have been dominated by delivering on our election pledges: we got Brexit done; we enshrined in law the largest and longest cash injection into the NHS; and we’ve delivered the largest funding boost to policing across the country.

I have also begun my work to deliver on Orpington’s local priorities – one of which is to ensure that businesses in the area are able to thrive. There are four

12

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

areas on which I will be focusing to deliver for Orpington’s vibrant town centre.

First, I will be lobbying ministers and local government to invest in broadband across Orpington and the villages. Too many residents and businesses struggle to get a strong broadband connection in our area, which means they struggle to compete online and offer shoppers a convenient service.

Second, I will be championing a review of business rates. It’s simply unfair that retailers in Orpington’s town centre are burdened by taxes, while online retailers such as Amazon get off light. It’s important that businesses pay their share for the public services we all enjoy, but we need a fairer system which lifts the disproportionate burden on local retailers.

There is no simple solution, but one possible reform is to shift rates from a flat property value on business premises to a proportional basis on profits. This will enable retailers to invest and

Gareth in town with Orpington 1st BID Manager, Chris Travers.

A strong voice for Orpington. cut costs for shoppers. One thing is clear, business rates which are four hundred years old are not fit for the modern, online economy Third, I would like to find consensus on regenerating the Walnuts Shopping Centre and the area beyond. While I do not have a planning remit as an MP, I would like to help bring together all stakeholders to find a common vision for Orpington’s town centre.

I will be meeting with the Areli group to discuss their regeneration plans further.

Finally, I want to see more visible policing in Orpington. It’s not just residents who want the reassurance of more bobbies on the beat, but businesses too.

This year London will receive an additional 1,369 police officers thanks to new government funding, and I will be pushing for Orpington to get its fair share. I will also be speaking with the Borough

Commander about the creation of a new Town Team to step up policing in the town centre.

I was pleased to meet with Chris and Sharon, who helped to inform this four-point plan. It is reassuring to know

that local retailers have such a strong community advocate in the Orpington 1st Business Improvement District.

I look forward to working with them to deliver for Orpington’s town centre and businesses across the constituency.

2020 Surgeries As your Member of Parliament I will regularly hold surgeries to meet you and hear your concerns. If you would like to attend a surgery please email gareth.bacon.mp@parliament.uk to find out the location.

• • • • •

February 28th March 13th March 27th April 24th May 22nd

• • • • •

June 12th July 3rd July 17th September 11th September 18th

• • • • •

October 9th October 23rd November 6th November 20th December 4th

If you would like to follow my activities in Westminster and Orpington, you can sign-up on my website www.garethbacon.com/sign-up The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

13

14

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

VOTE NOW for

and win ÂŁ100!

Visit www.orpington1st.co.uk to vote for your Favourite Business & Best Employee and be entered into a free prize draw *for full Ts&Cs see www.orpington1st.co.uk Sponsored by:

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

15

16

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

Scarecrow Trail Winners Pleased as Punch orpington1st.co.uk/news

T

HROUGHOUT October half term families were invited to follow the Scarecrow Trail Map, taking them to eighteen stops across the town centre before posting a vote for their favourite in the special postbox in Orpington Library to enter a free prize draw.

Congratulations to Mia, pictured below with sisters Zoe and Lilian and Bella Italia Orpington Manager, Amy. She and her family were the lucky recipients of a family cinema ticket courtesy of ODEON Orpington and a £50 voucher courtesy of Bella Italia!

Orpington businesses certainly put a lot of effort into their scarecrows - but there could only be one winner, and in a closely fought contest, Orpington’s most popular scarecrow for 2019 was voted as 9Round’s “Gary” pictured above with 9Round manager Alex and Lamar. We’re sure you’ll agree he’s a knockout (Gary, that is).

Orpington 1st Executive Director, Sharon Baldwin said, “we had a great response to the trail, so thank you to all the families who took part. It proved a fun way of encouraging people to explore their town. Well done to all the businesses for their magnificent creations and of course congratulations to Mia.”

Below, a couple of other favourites who just missed out - Linay & Shipp and Fiesta Mexicana.

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

17

TRANSFORM YOUR LIFE WITH OUR RISE & RECLINE CHAIRS! O

EASY ACCESS BATH & WET ROOMS Walk-in Bath

For many people a rise and recline chair is an essential part of a comfortable life. Therefore it needs to be right for you. We offer a free measuring service to ensure that your chosen chair fits properly.

O

Comfortably recline, lie or sit, with excellent support to aid circulatory problems. Stand easily and painlessly once again.

O

Made to measure so they fit you perfectly, with a choice of back style and fabric. Free home visit and measuring service.

O

We simply take several measurements and then build a chair to that specification, this guarantees the correct support which is key for comfort.

O

All this, and it is even delivered to you. A good selection of stock chairs available for same day delivery.

O

A walk-in bath can replace your existing bath. It features a sealed door that swings either out or in.

O

Easy access for those with limited mobility; maintaining your independence, for many years to come.

Wet Rooms Wet rooms can be a very practical solution for people with limited mobility as they remove the need to have to step up and down.

They give small bathrooms more space, giving you the extra freedom to move about.

O

O

Have your home surveyed FREE with quotations and plans supplied. Installed in a matter of days by local installers who really care.

BEST R SELLE

Full range in store

VTB Mobility, 247 High Street, Orpington, BR6 0NY TEL: 01689837800 837800 VTB Mobility, 247 High Street, Orpington, BR6 0NY 01689 18

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

© VTB 2017 any infringement will result in legal action

Approved Stockist Available Standard, Waterproof or Leather Upholster

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.

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

01689 825155 1st Floor, East Wing, Priory Buildings, Church Hill, Orpington, Kent BR6 0HH

www.compassionhomecare.co.uk The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

19

A sea of Santas descended on Orpington town centre on Sunday 8th December for the third Orpington Santa Dash, organised by Orpington 1st Business Improvement District (BID)

Santa Clauses

T

HE 2019 festive fun run saw a record number of participants as 400 hundred men, women and children, plus a few four-legged friends, donned their Santa suits and painted the town red, with dashers ranging from first time runners – including ward councillor William Huntingdon Thresher (pictured below) - to fitness aficionados from across Orpington and beyond.

Festivities began in Orpington’s Priory Gardens in ideal weather conditions as Dashers gathered for a mass yuletidethemed warm-up led by local fitness gurus, JP and Lucy West, owners of The Fitness Link.

A two kilometre course led Santas around the gardens and onto the high street, before crossing the finishing line in Market Square to the sound of seasonal hits. All participants received a souvenir medal and a reusable water bottle, distributed by volunteers from Orpington Rotary, and several of the town’s businesses ran special Santa offers for the day.

Orpington 1st BID Manager, Chris Travers said, “We’re delighted with the turnout for this year’s event, so well done

20

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

orpington1st.co.uk/events

Running Through Town! and thank you to all our Dashers.

They’ve all contributed to making a fabulous atmosphere and it’s great to see so many of them using our shops, cafés and restaurants afterwards.”

Santa Dasher, Maxine Horsfield, took to Facebook to say, “Orpington 1st - thank you for such a fantastic well organised event. Loved it.” @banzai_voyage wrote on Instagram, “Well done to Orpington 1st for putting on such a great community event”; whilst Alex Powell posted “Thanks @thefitnesslink for a great festive warmup and @Orpington1st for

another great event in the heart of Orpington.”

A fun and festive way for families to get active, the Santa Dash follows another successful event as the town’s Christmas Lights were switched on at ‘Light Up Orpington’.

Orpington 1st Executive Director, Sharon Baldwin, added, “The town centre business community is committed to ensuring Orpington continues to be a vibrant place to live and visit, and events like this demonstrate what a brilliant town we have.”

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

21

Misted Glass?

Windows or door problems, handles, hinges & locks easily fixed.

I can also change your existing door locks to a high security system.

All done at a very reasonable cost.

BEFORE

AFTER

I have over 30 years experience. Locally based in Farnborough.

There is no call out charge and all my work is guaranteed.

For a no obligation call me today, you won’t be disappointed

01689 639833 or 07767 882005 Or email me at grant@alldoubleglazingrepairs.co.uk

22

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

2020: A Year of Celebration for Orpington St John Ambulance Volunteers

2

020 marks 100 years of the Orpington Unit of St John Ambulance providing training and first aid services at events and it is now busy planning a year of celebrations of their centenary.

While St John Ambulance volunteers were active in Orpington during the First World War, it was not until 1920 that a formal unit was established.

Since then continuous training sessions have been held for volunteers, first aid has been provided at numerous events some that still run to this day, and first aid training and demonstrations have been provided to members of the public.

Throughout the year of celebration, the Unit are planning a series of events for local residents to find out more about the Orpington Unit and its history as well as an opportunity to learn first aid with sessions planned to be held in January, May and October.

Further details will be released shortly.

Unit Manager, John Matthews said, “We are incredibly proud to be celebrating our centenary of service to the Orpington community. It is thanks to our hard-working volunteers who have given their time for free over the past hundred years and many other supporters that we are able to celebrate 100 years and we hope to promote their service over the next year. The centenary also provides us with a perfect opportunity to find out more about our history and how we have served the community.”

John is keen to hear from anyone with any information, whether they volunteered for the Unit, or have been treated by its volunteers, or anybody who may have photographs of St John Ambulance volunteers in Orpington.

“During the next year we will not just be looking to the past but also the future as we make plans to continue to serve the town of Orpington for the next 100 hundred years and implement the strategy St John Ambulance released on St John’s Day in 2019.”

To provide your stories and photographs of the Unit or to find out more about volunteering with St John Ambulance in Orpington, please contact John Matthews on John.

Matthews1@SJA.org.uk.

For more information on St John Ambulance, including how to make a donation, volunteering opportunities, and details of training for the public, schools and businesses, visit www.sja.org.uk or call 08700 10 49 50.

24 HOUR LICENSED MINI CAB AND COURIER SERVICE Bromley • Beckenham • Biggin Hill • Chislehurst • Hayes • Orpington • Shirley • West Wickham

£5 OFF* Airport Transfers *Applicable to Non Account, Cash Bookings Only, Ref: Orpington 1st

Ring Cannon Cars on 01689 822222 to book Voucher No:

Name:

Voucher Expiry Date 31st January 2021.

One voucher per household and only valid if the customer requests a Voucher Expiry Date 31st July 2019.

2020. One voucher per household and only valid if the customer requests a voucherjourney journeyat atthe the point point of of booking. booking. Please Please present present this this completed voucher completed voucher voucher to to the the driver driver on onthe theday dayof ofthe the journey.

Individual vouchers are to be used once only and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers. journey. Individual vouchers are to be used once only and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers.

/CannonCars

@cannoncarsminicabs @CannonCars CannonCars.co.uk The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

23

H

USBAND and wife Jeffrey and Patricia Burrows started High Seat Limited in 1968.

Operating as a mail-order business for nearly 40 years with a factory showroom in Dewsbury, West Yorkshire, they opened their Letchworth showroom, the first of their retail stores, in 1995.

Now known as HSL and owned by second generation William and Debra Burrows, the company employs over 500 people and has established a reputation for quality and service, handcrafting well-built, beautifully upholstered comfort furniture.

In autumn 2014, HSL’s Orpington store became the first in the South of England to open in a High Street location. Five years on its success has been celebrated with a comprehensive refurb, an occasion marked with a visit from Mayor of Bromley, Cllr. Nicholas Bennet.

Karen Godfrey (Area Manager), Matt Farrar (Head of Retail), Terri Read (Team Leader), Lisa-Marie (Comfort Specialist), Cllr. Nicolas Bennet, Guy Critchlow (CEO of HSL) and Orpington 1st Chairman Martin Price.

24

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

Clever Comfort CEO, Guy Critchlow, said, “Our Orpington store has undergone a major refurbishment inside and outside, showcasing our beautiful furniture including new ranges to suit everyone. For over 50 years, HSL have handcrafted quality furniture here in the UK, bringing true comfort to thousands of happy customers and we are proud that our store has been here on the Orpington High Street and part of the local community for over five years.”

The fresh look to their shopfront and the new product lines have caught the eye of many visitors to the town centre and the store has been going from strength to strength.

Terri, team leader at HSL Orpington, said, “Our recent refurbishment has been a complete transformation – both in the way our store looks and the feel we now get when coming into work.

We’ve always been so proud of HSL and our 50 year British heritage of handmaking furniture, but now seeing our chairs, sofas and beds in such beautiful, classic and contemporary lifestyle settings not only fills us with even more pride, but allows our

Above: HSL Comfort Specialist, Lisa-Marie ensuring the Mayor of Bromley feels right at home.

customers to envisage how the furniture will look in their homes.

“The new look window displays are certainly attracting more customers.

It’s been wonderful to meet so many new faces.

“As a team of Orpington locals, we are proud to serve the town – helping to push forward HSL’s vision of changing the way people think and feel about comfort.”

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

Visit HSL at 168–170 High Street 01689 867 820 25

Neuter your Cat for £5 Do you live in our Bromley area (BR1 - 4 or SE20, SE23 & SE26) and would like some help to get your cat neutered? We are offering you the chance to have your cat neutered for just £5.

For more information please contact Bromley Cats Protection on :

020 8650 5556 www.cats.org.uk/bromley/contact- us

Reg Charity 203644 (England and Wales) SC037711 (Scotland) NEU_2343

26

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

ALL CREATURES CLINIC — SMALL ANIMAL PRACTICE —

• Caring professional team dedicated to providing the best veterinary service for your pet • Easy Parking • 24 hour emergency service Monday-Friday 8.30 to 6.00pm Saturdays 8.30 to 3.00pm

01689 856220 51 Windsor Drive, Chelsfield BR6 6EY

SALE NOW ON visit our website www.tilevillage.co.uk

01689 890909 94 Crofton Lane Orpington, Kent BR5 1HD The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

27

28

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

Better for Business Contact the BID team 01689 829 527 BID Manager Chris Travers chris.travers@ orpington1st.co.uk

BUSINESS RATES RETAIL RELIEF

T

HE government looks set to increase the ‘Retail Relief’ on Business Rates in the upcoming budget statement from Chancellor of the Exchequer, Sajid Javid, on March 11th. The current version of the relief was introduced on 1 April 2019 following extensive lobbying from the BID industry, whereby eligible businesses which meet certain use criteria and have a rateable value of less than £51,000 can apply for one third off their rates bill.

From 1 April 2020 it is anticipated that this will be increased to 50%. The relief would be extended to include cinemas and music venues and run until March 2021. The government has said it “is committed to levelling up the UK by supporting high streets up and down the country” and “is committed to launching a fundamental review of business rates. Further details will be announced in due course.” The extension of the relief scheme is welcome, however Orpington 1st will, along with BID colleagues across the country, continue to push for wholesale reform of what is an unfair and antiquated tax.

SPRING IS IN THE AIR

I

T’S never too early to start a spring clean programme, so as soon as we took down the Orpington Christmas Lights, our attention turned to ensuring the removal of rubbish from alleyways and access points into the high street.

We removed two truckloads of fly tipping from the area at Berwick Way and are working with landowners, residents and the Council to resolve this ongoing issue, seeking permanent changes to the storing of waste and management of land.

Before

We have also taken the opportunity to clean and paint damaged street furniture and to remove fly posting and graffiti to ensure that the town centre remains well presented ahead of our extensive summer planting programme.

LEVY PAYERS SAVE WITH CD WASTE AND ORPINGTON 1ST

O

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.

The BID team met recently with Gareth Bacon MP and discussed a range of issues including Business Rates and Policing.

After

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

29

O

N Saturday 1st February, The Rotary Satellite in Orpington, supported by Orpington Crofton Rotary and Maidstone Dawn Patrol Rotary, brought the South East England finals of the Rotary Young Chef of the Year to London South East Colleges’ BR6 Restaurant in Orpington, for a second consecutive year.

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.

The judging panel, which included LSEC Head of Hospitality Tania Summer, had the difficult job of selecting two young chefs who will go on to cook in the area finals in March, and hopefully, the Nationals at the NEC Birmingham in May. Two students from Darrick Wood Secondary School, Ella and Sam, were amongst the eight finalists, all of whom demonstrated impressive levels of culinary flair, with Ella finishing in silver medal position.

orpington1st.co.uk/news

Local young chefs rise to the challenge Sharon Baldwin, Executive Director of Orpington 1st, and one of the judges for the day, said, “The standard set by this group of young people has been extraordinarily high. To watch them hard at work all morning with preparation and planning, and then deliver such exquisite dishes has been really inspiring. The importance of the hospitality sector is growing within town centres and it’s great to see a wealth of young and enthusiastic talent.”

Orpington’s Ella with her runner-up trophy 30

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

Jo-Ann Wright from Mid Kent College was judged cream of the crop and received first prize from Mayor of Bromley, Cllr Nicholas Bennett, who was very complimentary about the students’ work, and acknowledged the support given to them by their families and schools. He also highlighted the benefit of the fantastic facility provided by London South East Colleges in BR6 Restaurant, not just to Orpington but to the whole Bromley Borough.

Assistant Rotary coordinator, Brenda Parsons, said, “We’re delighted to have brought the South East England finals of the Rotary Young Chef competition back to BR6, and thank the team for their hospitality. We wish both Ella and Jo the very best of luck in the area finals.”

If you would like to find out more about community and youth activities run by the Rotary satellite in Orpington Feel free to contact Brenda Parsons at orpingtonsatellite@ rotarysoutheast.org The Rotary satellite in Orpington meets monthly at the Premier Inn and is proud to partner Orpington 1st for many of its activities.

Winner, Jo-Ann Wright with London South East Colleges Head of Hospitality Tania Summer

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

31

RT PP O SU LY FR IE N D

ACCESS ALL UK CLUBS

OPEN 24/7

QUALITY EQUIPMENT

AT DISCOVER WH ...

FERENT IF D S U S E K A * M S S! WITH A FREE 3 D

CLASSES INCLUDED

PERSONAL TRAINING

AY PA

TO BOOK CALL 01689 422027 OR VISIT ANYTIMEFITNESS.CO.UK/ORPINGTON Anytime Fitness Orpington, 313 High Street, Orpington, BR6 0NN

ANYTIMEFITNESS.CO.UK Ts&Cs apply. Speak to a team member for full details.

ASIAN AND CONTINENTAL FOODS

123 HIGH STREET ORPINGTON KENT BR6 0LG 01689 821418

OPEN 9AM

7PM MON – TO SUN

WE ARE A NEW BUSINESS AND WOULD LIKE TO WELCOME YOU TO OUR STORE… FRESH SEASONAL EXOTIC FRUITS HERBAL & AYURVEDIC PRODUCTS SAVOURY SNACKS & SWEET TREATS CHILLED & FROZEN VEG AND MEAT SHAYONA PRODUCTS DRY FRUITS & NUTS MARKET FRESH VEGETABLES HERBS SPICES & SAUCES RICE FLOURS & OILS POOJA ITEMS IDOLS, HARS & DIYAS ORGANIC RANGE OF RICE FLOUR & SPICES

WE HAVE SEASONAL OFFERS OF A RANGE OF PRODUCTS. WE ARE HAPPY TO DISCUSS ANY REQUIREMENTS THAT YOU MAY HAVE. 32

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

First Class Honours for Orpington College Restaurant Manager

T

HE Manager of London South East College’s BR6 Restaurant, Marcel Dueren, has achieved a first class honours degree in teaching and professional training, receiving top marks for his thesis, which has now been handed to the College’s senior leadership team for consideration to become part of its teaching and learning policy resources.

Marcel joined the Orpington Campus five years ago and has had an influential effect on how students are taught, giving hands-on, experienced-based training leading them to employment in some of the most distinguished hotels and restaurants in the UK. Marcel has enjoyed an illustrious career in the hospitality sector, beginning his illustrious career with an apprenticeship in hotel management.

German-born Marcel went on to take a wide range of positions such as restaurant supervisor, bar manager, head waiter, and hospitality general manager for companies in London and cities across Europe.

Receiving official confirmation of his first Marcel Dueren class standard from specialists, professional chefs, hotel and Canterbury Christ Church University, restaurant managers, catering service Marcel said, “I’m truly blown away providers and many others. I want with this. Although I’ve put so much them to go on and reap the benefits into the course and burnt midnight oil that the hospitality sector can bring.” to achieve the highest possible grade, Head of the College’s Hospitality it’s still a huge surprise to reach such team, Tania Sumner, said, “It is heights. wonderful to hear of Marcel’s success “I can honestly say that I have this year and we hope this will inspire dedicated the last five years of both students and fellow staff to my career to making sure I pass continue learning and up-skilling on my skills and knowledge to a throughout their working lives and beyond.” new generation of front-of-house

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

33

New Business

Restaurant Manager, Ross

ALTO GUSTO

W

ELCOME to the Italian world!

Founded by Angelo Mancuso with a mission to serve high quality products at affordable prices, Alto Gusto invites customers to experience great food, amazing drinks, multiple glasses of fizz, live music events, and most of all to have fun.

Alto Gusto, 254 High Street, 01689 874488, altogusto.co.uk

Angelo inherited his love for the restaurant business from his parents and his grandfather, who owned a restaurant

in Serrastretta, Southern Italy.

Combining his passion with his management skills, Angelo’s journey took him from Calabria to the Aosta Valley and finally to Kent, England.

Dynamic, stylish, lively and colourful with a fresh food philosophy, the prosecco bar and Italian restaurant opened its doors to Orpingtonians in November 2019 and has enjoyed excellent reviews.

7G

A

RRIVING at the end of 2019 with a super smart fitout, 7G’s (7th Generation) Orpington store is their fifth, with more on the way. Superb customer service led by manager, Greg, complements a huge range of E liquids and devices, pod systems and CBD products. They also sell phones and accessories, and offer phone repairs.

Visit 7G at 252 High Street 7GRetailStores 34

7G_RetailStores

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

Fresh Looks orpington1st.co.uk/shopping

4 LOCOS

F

OLLOWING the success of their Purley restaurant, four friends (“4 Locos”, meaning four crazy people) decided to bring their vision to Orpington.

Situated in The Walnuts shopping centre, a stone’s throw away from the ODEON, the Argentine steakhouse boasts vibrant décor, with relaxed service from friendly staff who are knowledgeable about their products.

A meat focused menu with top quality produce sourced from Argentina is prepared in house and served fresh daily, whilst the free-range grilled chicken, cauliflower and chickpea curry, pan-fried seabass - not to mention their divine homemade desserts - ensure all diners are catered for. The wine menu boasts a fabulous selection from Argentina with an important focus on Malbec, the king of South American wines, and an exceptional spirit and cocktail collection is also on offer

4 Locos, 40c The Walnut Shopping Centre, 01689 831 111, 4locos.co.uk

Club Manager Ellis demonstrating some of the new equipment

ANYTIME FITNESS

T

HERE HAS been lots going on at Anytime Fitness Orpington. Under new management for nearly a year now, a range of improvements have included the arrival of brand-new state of the art equipment and refurbished private bathrooms.

As well as a strong community culture that welcomes and supports people of varying ability, the team have also built strong relationships

with other Orpington based businesses.

Members can now take advantage of some fantastic “Member Benefits” and by showing their key fob will receive discounts at shops and restaurants such as Nando’s, Mr Simms, Easy Coffee, and Thai Derm Massage.

Club managers Jay and Ellis, said, “We have met some fantastic people since taking over the club last year and heard some really inspirational member stories. We are committed to providing a top of the range facility that supports and motivates all those who are taking on their personal fitness journeys. Join the Family, Join Anytime.”

313 High Street, 01689 422 027 anytimefitnessorpington

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

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

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

24 HOUR LICENSED MINI CAB AND COURIER SERVICE Bromley • Beckenham • Biggin Hill • Chislehurst • Hayes • Orpington • Shirley • West Wickham

Orpington 01689 822222 Download our Smartphone Booking App Make a booking - Track the vehicle on a map - Textbacks on arrival to your number or another buddy number - Manage your favourite addresses

/CannonCars

36

@CannonCars @cannoncarsminicabs CannonCars.co.uk The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

orpington1st.co.uk/community

Smart policing

I

HOPE Christmas and the New Year have been busy for the businesses of Orpington. The last few months have been quite busy for us. Following complaints about the behaviour of a small minority of recidivist criminals we have been busy targeting them and their behaviour.

Over Christmas a prolific thief was convicted and, following a successful application to Bromley Magistrates, PC O’Keeffe was successful in obtaining a CBO banning Mr Nigel Spicer from Orpington High Street, Priory Gardens and the Walnuts Shopping Centre.

PC Cummings-Palmer arrested Mr George Martin on the Retail Park and, again following an application to the Magistrates, he was banned from entering the venue. Following complaints about soiled persons found in and around the High Street PC Mills has issued CPN warnings requiring these individuals to remove themselves from the locality. I would like to take the opportunity to thank the Orpington 1st BID and partner agencies for their assistance in gaining the evidence to take action through the courts on these matters.

PC O’Keeffe was successful in gaining closure notices on an address planning an unlicensed music event on the Ramsden – work relating The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

A column by Acting Inspector Baker to this continues with our housing partners. PC Mitchell gained a Closure Order on a garage used by drug addicts in St Mary Cray to live in, but no longer as they have gone. On a topical note Orpington resident Mr Kevin Lusala was sentenced to a minimum 26 years in prison for a murder in Penge recently Looking forwards there is still lots to do and in a couple of days our first six new recruits start at Bromley. Please visit the Met Police website or contact your local neighbourhood team if you are interested in joining the Police and we will be happy to help.

Pictured top: PCSOs Nurten Durmaz and Hazel Woolger giving out Smart Water packs to customers at The Walnuts Shopping Centre.

37

Photography Competition winner, Stephen Sangster with his copy of the 2020 calendar

Town calendar raising money for homeless

O

RPINGTONIANS have donated generously to the Loose Change For Real Change scheme in exchange for copies of The Orpington Calendar 2020, raising over £500 so far.

Launched in town last year, the scheme aims to persuade residents to donate money to tackle the problem of homelessness, rather than giving directly to street beggars.

Distinctive house shaped collection boxes make it easy to donate, with all proceeds going to Bromley Homeless Shelter.

Available from Orpington Library, the Orpington calendar features photographs taken at town centre events as well as selected entries from the Orpington Photography Competition, which encourages residents to take a celebratory look at their surroundings. There are just a few copies left so if you haven’t got yours, pop into the library now!

Bromley Homeless Shelter provides guidance to homeless people, or those at risk of homelessness, throughout the year as well as running a Night Shelter during the winter months.

Homeless Link, the national membership charity for organisations working with the homeless, reports estimates of a 165% increase in rough sleeping since 2010.

It’s often said that not everyone who begs is homeless and not all homeless people will beg. Nevertheless, people who do beg are often some of the most vulnerable in our society, and many will be struggling with health issues.

Orpington 1st BID Manager, Chris Travers, said, “There is 38

tremendous generosity of spirit in Orpington and through the ‘Loose Change 4 Real Change’ scheme residents have the option of donating to a worthwhile organisation aiming to support homeless people rebuild their lives, rather than to individuals. We want to encourage support for those who are vulnerable and in need, whilst also working with the appropriate authorities to address the issue of those individuals begging in an increasingly aggressive and intimidating way.”

Alongside the business community’s work with Met Police, work is being undertaken by the local authority and homeless charities to provide support to those on the streets, alongside enforcement action to those who are involved in criminal activity.

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

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Spring 2020

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

LOOK OUT FOR COLLECTION BOXES AROUND ORPINGTON TOWN CENTRE SEE ORPINGTONÅ’ST.CO.UK FOR LOCATIONS

SUPPORTED BY

Accidents happen... ...but if you have been involved in one that was not your fault, we can help.

At Thomas Dunton Solicitors we’ve been helping people get back on their feet for over 40 years.

Our specialist personal injury lawyers offer no win no fee funding, so what have you got to lose? We strive for maximum compensation and rehabilitation for all of our clients.

Call us today to start your compensation claim.

T H O M A S D U N T O N 62/,&,7256

217–219 High Street, Orpington, Kent BR6 0NZ • Freephone 0800 146340 Email: accident@thomasdunton.co.uk For more information, call us or visit our website

www.injuryadvicelawyer.co.uk