Greenwich & Lewisham Weekender - May 12th 2021

Weekender May 12 2021 • www.weekender.co.uk

Greenwich & Lewisham

Cinema / Theatre / Education / Arts / Music / Food & Drink / Family / Property

Sense of craft Designer Nicholas Daley at the NOW gallery

ADVERTORIAL

News from the Royal Borough of Greenwich

Community Arts Fund now open

Our Community Arts Fund is now open for applications.

The fund supports a range of music, theatre, dance, performance projects and participatory outdoor arts and events. The fund aims to stimulate participation and engagement in the arts within the Royal Borough of

Greenwich whilst encouraging partnerships between established organisations, community groups and schools wherever possible.

For more information and to apply, go to royalgreenwich.gov.uk/communityartsfund

Now more than ever we really need you to consider fostering our children and young people.

Between 10 May and 23 May we will be shining a light on our foster carers and raising awareness of the amazing support they offer to our children and young people.

This year’s theme is #WhyWeCare. Keep an eye on our social channels to hear directly from our foster carers about how rewarding it is to care for children. Follow the conversation using #FCF21 #WhyWeCare If you are 18 or older and have time to nurture a child and provide them a loving, healthy home, we want to hear from you. We offer an excellent support package and 24/7 guidance.

Start your fostering journey by calling the team on 0800 052 1499 or visit royalgreenwich.go.uk/fostering

www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk

@royal_greenwich

royalgreenwich

royal_greenwich

Pick of the Week

By Holly O`Mahony

Brews and jazz

editor

Laura Burgoine

The

Greenwich & Lewisham Weekender is an independent weekly newspaper, covering the boroughs of Greenwich and Lewisham.

We publish every Wednesday, covering every postcode sector of the borough, and boasting, by far, the highest weekly circulation in Greenwich. Each week, we deliver to homes in every Greenwich neighbourhood, with further copies stocked at convenient public stands.

We are also the highest distribution newspaper in Lewisham.

Greenwich’s Old Brewery is welcoming visitors to its leafy beer garden for a series of live jazz sessions on Sunday afternoons. Next up, on May 16, is Kielan, a double bassist and composer studying at Trinity Laban. Kick back with a locally brewed pint and let the good times flow as Kielan’s quintet performs a series of original compositions and songbook tunes.

Old Brewery, The Pepys Building, The Old Royal Naval College, London SE10 9LW. May 16, 4pm - 6pm. www. oldbrewerygreenwich.com/

You can also view each edition online, as well as daily news and events, on our website: www.weekender.co.uk The Greenwich & Lewisham Weekender covers all aspects of life in the boroughs, including music, theatre, comedy, film, events, and food and drink, as well as all your community events and campaigns.

The Greenwich and Lewisham Weekender is a member of the Independent Press Standards Organisation (which regulates the UK’s magazine and newspaper industry). We abide by the Editors’ Code of Practice and are committed to upholding the highest standards of journalism. If you think that we have not met those standards and want to make a complaint, please contact 020 7231 5258. If we are unable to resolve your complaint, or if you would like more information about IPSO or the Editors’ Code, contact IPSO on 0300 123 2220 or visit www.ipso.co.uk

Offices at: Unit A202, The Biscuit Factory, Drummond Road, SE16 4DG. Printed by Iliffe Print Cambridge Ltd – www.iliffeprint.co.uk News: 020 7231 5258 / news@weekender.co.uk Ads: 020 7232 1639 / ads@weekender.co.uk Finance: 0779 883 3758 / em@southwarknews.co.uk www.weekender.co.uk @weeknder_life @weeknderSL therealweeknder Issue: GW208

Local NHS choir join the stars for the BRITs On Tuesday May 11, the BRIT Awards became the first major music event at the O2 arena to welcome back a live audience, with a crowd of 2,500 onlookers attending in person. Even more excitingly, local group the Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust Choir performed on the night, providing a vocal backdrop for soulful singer-songwriter Rag’n’Bone Man and pop ledgend P!nk’s recent collaboration ‘Anywhere Away From Here’. If you missed the live performance, make time to watch it this weekend on the ITV Hub. www.lewishamandgreenwich.nhs.uk/the-trust-choir/

A royal feast Spotted the igloo-shaped pods outside the Queen’s House and wondered what’s going on there? Called the Dining Domes, the bespoke catering concept is offering bubbles of up to six the chance to dine overlooking the UNESCO World Heritage Site and the River Thames. Lunch, dinner and afternoon tea sittings are all available, plus special menus for kids. Book now to bag a table and enjoy a meal in a truly regal setting.

The Queen’s House, Romney Road, Greenwich, London SE10 9NF. Dining Domes running from May 7 - 31, Thursday - Sunday with lunch, dinner and afternoon tea sittings available. Admission: £37.50/£17.50 children. www.rmg.co.uk/whats-on/ greenwich/queens-house-dining-domes

editorial@weekender.co.uk

Greenwich’s Royal Observatory has launched a new digital lecture series: Life on Mars. A members-only affair, the series kicks off with a discussion led by engineering manager for the exomars rover, Paul Meacham, who will reveal what he knows about the upcoming launch of the Rosalind Franklin rover. Paul will be joined in conversation with a Royal Observatory astronomer and together, the pair will discuss the ExoMars project aiming to reach Mars and divulge what they know about our neighbouring planet.

Suitable for ages 7+.

This event is taking place online. May 12, 6:30pm - 7:30pm. Admission: FREE to members. www.rmg.co.uk/ whats-on/royal-observatory-online/ life-on-mars-conversation-paulmeacham

Weekender

Weekender Editor: Laura Burgoine Advertising Manager: Tammy Jukes Media Partnerships: Anthony Phillips Advertising team: Katie Boyd; Clarry Frewin; Lorraine Wood Editorial: Michael Holland; Holly O’Mahony News reporters: Katherine Johnston; Cover Art: Nick Ellwood Design Manager: Dan Martin Design team: Aurelio Medina Finance: Em Zeki - Tel: 0779 883 3758 Managing & Commercial Director: Chris Mullany Managing & Editorial Director: Kevin Quinn

Life on Mars explored

www.weekender.co.uk

Take an outdoor tour of the Old Royal Naval College It’s the final countdown before the Old Royal Naval College swings open the doors to its Painted Hall and gallery spaces, and in this interim period, the venue is inviting the public to take a guided tour of its grounds. Book a tour guide (for £5) for an in-person history lesson from an expert, who will take you through 500 years of history of the site, beginning with the Tudors. Or, download the Smartify app (for free), and select one of three selfguided tours to lead you around the site. There’s also a Smartify desktop experience for those who would rather explore the site from the comfort of their home.

Old Royal Naval College, King William Walk, London SE10 9NN. May 12 - 16, 45-minute tours available between 12pm - 4pm. Admission: £5/ FREE for children. www.ornc.org/whats-on/ spring-2021/

May 12 2021 3

ARTS & ENTS

Return to Slygo: fashion explored through community, culture and craftsmanship Celebrated menswear designer Nicholas Daley is behind a new immersive exhibition at NOW Gallery, Return to Slygo. The designer was selected by the gallery for its prestigious 2021 Fashion Commission. The resulting fully-immersive exhibition is a celebration of Nicholas’s multicultural Jamaican-Scottish roots, explored through his three core values: community, culture and craftsmanship. Holly O’Mahony speaks to NOW Gallery curator Jemima Burrill to find out more…

Holly O’Mahony: Firstly, how are you feeling about being able to reopen the gallery indoors after so many months of closure?

Jemima Burrill: It is a big relief to be opening and we are very excited.

Nicholas Daley’s exhibition was due to open in December, but had to be postponed because of the lockdown.

It is such an exceptional exhibition it seemed a shame not to have it out there. We are now just thankful that we are able to get people in finally; we have a good system in place to ensure everyone is properly socially distanced. It feels good we are allowed to get people in to enjoy this show.

HOM: How did you come to commission and collaborate with artist Nicholas Daley for this year’s Fashion Commission? What attracted you to his work?

JB: We always shortlist three artists.

4 May 12 2021

My colleague Magda Kaggwa suggested Nicholas Daley as she saw his show in Dundee and his proposal sang out. It’s a heady mixture of music, fashion, film and community – a celebration of collective goodwill – which means that it feels like a good exhibition for this moment.

HOM: It’s a celebration of multiculturalism too, right?

JB: The exhibition describes Nicholas Daley’s Scottish-Jamaican heritage, and is also about history and understanding where Nicholas’s ideas come from. His mother and father set up a reggae club in Dundee in the 70s. The club was called ‘Return to Slygo’ and the exhibition, plus the film on show within it, are named after this club. From the film you get a sense of the importance of music and how it feeds into the way Nicholas creates his fashion world. The two interacting together.

HOM: How does the exhibition straddle the line between fashion and art?

JB: Although this is our Fashion Commission, Return to Slygo is about more than fashion. It illustrates how Nicholas has been influenced by the history of his mother and family knitting in Dundee. She produced the beautiful knitted rugs in the exhibition – a highlight of recycled textiles that take over the space. This exhibition is also about collaboration; there are photographs of previous collections with photographers Nicholas enjoys working with.

interchange between black British artists from different generations creating a musical conversation on ancestry, culture and resistance.

The film features music by Sons of Kemet and Nubya Garcia, with a score by Dennis Bovell and poetry by Roger Robinson. There is texture in this show with layers of thoughtful telling of how Nicholas got where he is through objects and sound.

A story grows out of this show to explain how fashion is made.

HOM: You mentioned there’s a cinematic element to the exhibition…

HOM: There’s also an audio element to Return to Slygo – a playlist curated by experimental musician Nabihah Iqbal. How does this complement the designs on show?

JB: The exhibition includes two films: one which looks at knitting and the other which creates a musical event. The director Akinola Davies Junior explores a musical

JB: Nabihah Iqbal’s playlist, where she interviews Nicholas’s parents about their club ‘Return to Slygo’, will be available for visitors to download. This is a significant

editorial@weekender.co.uk

soundscape and a telling of tales that is woven into a complex vision of how Nicholas’s fashion comes from a thoughtful, considered place.

HOM: The exhibition is described as being fully immersive and multi-sensory. How will visitors experience these elements?

JB: Visitors will be invited to take off their shoes, sit down on one of the beautiful rugs and watch a film describing what music means to Nicholas. We were planning on having knitting sessions, but sadly due to Covid restrictions we are unable to do this. The exhibition creates a discussion with other artists; Gaurab Thakali’s designs take up the room above your head with masterful flags and coat the gallery windows with images of people that are part of Nicholas’s life. Meanwhile a series of illustrative vinyls will cover the www.weekender.co.uk

ARTS & ENTS

windows creating an inhabited and fun front to the exhibition.

Visitors will become immersed in all things Nicholas Daley, which is like being part of an important family saying interesting things.

HOM: There will also be merchandise on sale, including Nicholas Daley tote bags and a zine, the profits from which are going towards the charity Tomorrow’s Warriors, which supports emerging artists. Can you tell us more about this collaboration?

Return to Slygo is showing at NOW Gallery, The Gateway Pavilions, Peninsula Square, London SE10 0SQ. May 18 - July 4, Tuesday - Friday, 10am - 7pm; Saturday 10am - 5pm; Sunday 10am - 4pm. Admission: FREE. www.nowgallery.co.uk/ exhibitions/return-to-slygo

JB: This was an important element from the start. Nicholas wanted to create a zine with the photographer Piczo to sell in aid of Tomorrow’s Warriors, a charity and musical collective which NOW Gallery also featured in its event ‘Close from Afar’ with Resolve Collective last September. The zine will feature stills from the film ‘Return to Slygo’ which is part of the exhibition.

HOM: What sorts of feelings and emotions do you hope the exhibition inspires in its visitors?

You’re much less likely to get serious Covid-19 or be hospitalised if you’ve been vaccinated.

JB: The exhibition is a celebration of Nicholas Daley’s authentic and credible fashion brand, but it’s also about joy. I hope visitors are inspired to go away and try recycled knitting, after seeing it presented in the film

by Nicholas’s mother. This exhibition should allow them to see that it takes time and a breadth of creative endeavour to make wise fashion.

editorial@weekender.co.uk

The vaccine protects you and those around you

We’ll let you know when your vaccine is ready for you.

EVERY VACCINATION GIVES US

www.weekender.co.uk

May 12 2021 5

SPOTLIGHT Spotlight

Not your average garden café: artFix to open Sensory Garden in Woolwich Woolwich-based creatives’ hub artFix has opened a public garden in the formerly abandoned area outside its café. Hidden from the road and kitted out with decking, tables and chairs, the garden is already open to the public to sit and enjoy a hot cuppa and a catch up. But the team at artFix have ambitious plans for the space and have applied for funding to turn it into a sensory garden to promote mental health and wellbeing, with a particular focus on supporting members of the community living with dementia, writes Holly O’Mahony…

Should funding be approved, the sensory garden will be opened as a memorial in honour of the great British and Irish author Dame Jean Iris Murdoch (The Sea, The Sea), who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and, on passing away, donated her brain to medical science to help search for a cure for the disease.

The team at artFix will work with the Royal Borough of Greenwich Dementia Group, Greenwich

6 May 12 2021

Peninsula Ecology Group, landscape architects, gardeners and social isolation-combating schemes Men in Sheds and Women in Sheds to infuse the garden with the means to stimulate all five senses.

Flowers and plants will engage visitors through sight and smell; birds and other forms of wildlife will offer plenty to listen to; there will be plants and further natural elements safe to touch; and tastebuds will be

provided for through edible plants in the food and drink available in the café. It will be a space where wildlife is nurtured and nature is allowed to blossom; a quiet spot for reflection that is simultaneously buzzing with natural life.

A space like this, says the team at artFix, will promote feelings of calmness, reduce stress and could even lower blood pressure.

“These are ambitious aims,” admits

Before

artFix events manager Eduardo Vicente Dias, adding that the drive for the project is to create something unique in the centre of Woolwich that the local community could really benefit from.

“The garden is being designed to be welcoming and [offer] contact with nature. This simple contact helps people to relax and reduce anxiety,” he explains. “Generally, an outdoor, safe and pleasant space with direct contact with nature can help to improve mental health, as people will be encouraged to take part and be involved in the garden and its activities to relax and distress.”

What sort of activities will visitors to the garden be able to get involved in? “These include health related sessions such as yoga classes or meditation, and involve volunteering in the garden [planting seeds, watering plants] for young and older people, in an attempt to bring together different age groups in the local community,” says Eduardo. “Other exciting plans are summer barbecues, open air cinema screenings and art classes,” he adds, stressing that while these proposed activities are not available

editorial@weekender.co.uk

yet, the wheels are in motion.

Between the sensory stimulus and wellness programme, the garden should certainly be a calming space.

How will it be especially beneficial to those living with dementia?

“This will be achieved by having an outdoor space that is welcoming to everyone, has good accessibility and has well-trained staff,” explains Eduardo. “It is extremely important that the space can be enjoyed by all, as people living with dementia should feel part of the community.”

Funding is yet to be approved for the sensory garden, but for now, the space is open and welcoming visitors looking for a slice of tranquility in the heart of Woolwich. “Although it is still not a sensory garden, and [could] more accurately [be described as] a patio perhaps, it is now open to visitors to enjoy lovely homemade food from our kitchen, hot and cold beverages as well as great cakes and sweet treats,” says Eduardo.

ArtFix Woolwich, 51 Powis Street, London SE18 6HZ. Monday Saturday, 9am - 6pm, Sunday 10am - 6pm. www.artfix.org.uk/ www.weekender.co.uk

Until 17th May 2021

SUPER SAVER PRICES

18th May- 30th June 2021

SAVER PRICES

OVER 62s

ARMED FORCES

18-21S

UNDER 18s

UNDER 16s

UNDER 12s

UNDER 6s

BARRY KITCHENER UPPER

£450

£265

£265

£265

£175

£100

£50

£25

BARRY KITCHENER LOWER

£425

£260

£260

£260

£175

£100

£50

£25

DOCKERS UPPER

£430

£260

£260

£260

£175

£100

£50

£25

DOCKERS LOWER

£410

£225

£225

£225

£175

£100

£50

£25

ZAMPA’S FAMILY STAND*

£350

£185

£185

£185

£175

£100

£50

£25

COLD BLOW LANE UPPER

£370

£230

£230

£230

£175

£100

£50

£25

COLD BLOW LANE LOWER

£360

£220

£220

£220

£175

£100

£50

£25

ADULTS

OVER 62s

ARMED FORCES

18-21S

UNDER 18s

UNDER 16s

UNDER 12s

UNDER 6s

BARRY KITCHENER UPPER

£495

£292

£292

£292

£193

£110

£55

£28

BARRY KITCHENER LOWER

£468

£286

£286

£286

£193

£110

£55

£28

DOCKERS UPPER

£473

£286

£286

£286

£193

£110

£55

£28

DOCKERS LOWER

£451

£248

£248

£248

£193

£110

£55

£28

ZAMPA’S FAMILY STAND*

£385

£204

£204

£204

£193

£110

£55

£28

COLD BLOW LANE UPPER

£407

£253

£253

£253

£193

£110

£55

£28

COLD BLOW LANE LOWER

£396

£242

£242

£242

£193

£110

£55

£28

ADULTS

OVER 62s

ARMED FORCES

18-21S

UNDER 18s

UNDER 16s

UNDER 12s

UNDER 6s

BARRY KITCHENER UPPER

£560

£330

£330

£330

£200

£110

£55

£30

BARRY KITCHENER LOWER

£520

£320

£320

£320

£200

£110

£55

£30

DOCKERS UPPER

£540

£315

£315

£315

£200

£110

£55

£30

DOCKERS LOWER

£500

£265

£265

£265

£200

£110

£55

£30

ZAMPA’S FAMILY STAND*

£420

£220

£220

£220

£200

£110

£55

£30

COLD BLOW LANE UPPER

£460

£290

£290

£290

£200

£110

£55

£30

COLD BLOW LANE LOWER

£450

£260

£260

£260

£200

£110

£55

£30

*Purchasing restrictions apply in Zampa’s Family Stand. Visit millwalltickets.com for more information.

Benefits Include:

We’re back!

- 250 LOYALTY POINTS

From the TV to The Den. From the code to the card. From the kitchen to the concourse. From the sofa to the stands. From the door to the roar. From the garden to the pitch.

From watching alone... To being

1st July 2021 onwards

H

OME

REGULAR PRICES

HOMEFROM

ADULTS

- £10 (adults) and £5 (concessions) worth of TeamCard points - Exclusive purchase window for away matches

HOME

- Priority period for high-demand Cup fixtures - Discounted tickets for Cup ties

HOW TO BUY:

- 10% discount on matchday hospitality

1. Online at www.millwalltickets.com

- 20% off room hire for non-matchday events - Automatic inclusion in exclusive monthly prize giveaways

2. In person at the Ticket Office, which is open 9.30am-5pm, Monday to Friday

- Five TeamCard points earnt for every £1 spent in The Lions Store - Free access into ‘Arry’s Bar on matchdays

3. By phone on 0844 826 2004* *The call centre will be open from 9.30am-5pm Monday-Friday (calls to this number will cost 7p per minute from your BT landline. Calls from other networks may vary and from mobiles will be considerably more. Booking fees apply).

2021/22 SEASON TICKETS

- Invitation to an open training session Season ticket holders who turn 7 will receive a £35 Lions Store voucher TeamCard points can be redeemed against purchases in The Lions Store

4000+ Sold!

theatre

Lights, (Zoom) Camera, Action!

Blackheath Halls’ Opera Gala Night goes ahead online Blackheath Halls’ annual Opera Gala Night is a highlight of its events calendar – and an important source of revenue for the venue, aiming to bring in £15,000 through ticket sales and donations.

Darlings of the opera world perform and guests, dressed in their best, congregate around communal tables to be dazzled by the spectacle, writes Holly O’Mahony…

Last May, for the first time ever, the event became one of the first major online performances hosted by the Halls. Despite the hurdles that came with reorganising a live event through a digital medium still in its infancy, the event was a success. So much so that this year, with the Opera Gala falling just a night before venues are allowed to reopen indoors to sociallydistanced audiences, the team have decided to play things safe and host the event online again, rather than move the date and risk a cancellation.

Not all aspects of the night will be going ahead as planned. The biggest loss will be the lack of live performances, but the team at the Halls have organised plenty to ensure the night still feels special. Presented by Blackheath Halls Opera Patron, tenor Nicky Spence, the event will see guests seated around ‘virtual tables’, where they can watch pre-recorded performances from some of the country’s most prestigious opera stars. Each table will also be visited by a performer, who will answer any questions about their career and creative process.

8 May 12 2021

At 9pm, Zoom ‘carriages’ will whisk the crowds ‘home’ (a benefit of not having to travel to enjoy culture).

Holly O’Mahony speaks to Rose Ballantyne, Blackheath Halls’ Community Engagement Manager and organiser of the Opera Gala Night, to find out more…

Holly O’Mahony: How have you found the experience of organising the Gala Night online?

Rose Ballantyne: Our first ever online Opera Gala Night last May was a success, but we were still learning about online events at that point and there were some complications. This year’s event will be much more ambitious and slick.

HOM: With indoor entertainment permitted so soon, what made you decide to organise an online event instead of waiting to host a live one the following week?

RB: WIth the roadmap for the reopening of venues still unclear when we

began to organise the event, we soon acknowledged that this was the only sensible solution. We’re quite excited to use all our skills learned over the past year to present something original and creative. It goes without saying that we would rather be presenting a live event; one of the things we’ve learnt this year is that there really is no replacement for the experience of enjoying live music.

However, we have also learnt that challenges really promote creativity.

HOM: As part of the event, you’ll be showing a 30-minute film featuring performances from professional opera stars. Can you reveal who will be performing and what they will be singing?

RB: We have some starry names!

Nicky Spence, our Patron, will be performing alongside fabulous, internationally-renowned performers like Anna Devin, Jess Dandy and Nick Pritchard. The performances will be in lots of different spaces around Blackheath Halls and we are featuring some of opera’s best-loved oratorios.

HOM: Guests will be sat around virtual tables. How will this work?

RB: That’s the idea. Each ‘table’ will be joined by one of the creatives or performers from one of our 20 previous operas who will be able to answer questions about their experience of Blackheath Halls Opera.

HOM: That sounds exciting!

How did you go about securing the artists for the event?

RB: One of the delights of the project for participants in Blackheath Halls Opera is meeting and getting to know opera creatives and stars. We form really strong bonds with many of these artists, and many participants follow their careers avidly, going to shows they are involved in or are performing in.

Some of our favourites from over the years will be joining us on the night.

HOM: Looking ahead, when do you anticipate being able to host live opera at the Halls again?

RB: We are planning a live

editorial@weekender.co.uk

Blackheath Halls Opera with eight performances in September and October. Watch this space!

HOM: The Opera Gala Night will hopefully still raise a decent amount of money for the Halls, despite it being an online affair. Is there anything you think guests will be able to take away from the event online that they perhaps wouldn’t have in person?

RB: We hope they have a really fun and memorable evening. Over the course of the night we hope they experience some exceptional performances, enjoy meeting up with their friends, learn about our plans for our Blackheath Halls Opera 2021 and really understand the value of this project for our local community. And of course, if they are able to, we hope they make a donation to this year’s project.

Blackheath Halls, 23 Lee Road, Blackheath, London SE3 9RQ. This event is taking place online via Zoom.

May 16, 7:30pm - 9pm. Admission: £25pp. www.blackheathhalls.com/ whats-on/opera-gala-night-2021/ www.weekender.co.uk

“

I GET TESTED so I feel more relaxed seeing family members

“

Taking a free COVID-19 rapid test twice-weekly is easy, and helps protect you and those around you

Find out how to get yours at royalgreenwich.gov.uk/rapidtest

History

A river runs through it

Mary Mills These articles have covered the Greenwich riverside from Upper Watergate to Angerstein Wharf – which has been over fifty articles. Angerstein Railway and Wharf really mark the end of Greenwich and the riverside path moves on to Charlton. I thought however that before going to Charlton and on to Woolwich and Thamesmead, I needed to backtrack a bit. When I covered Deptford and went on into Greenwich I crossed Deptford Creek. I did consider going down the Creek on the Lewisham side and coming back up on the Greenwich side – but, no, I carried onto along the River and into Tourist Greenwich. So – I am going to interrupt our journey to Thamesmead and the Bexley border and go down the Creek. I think, however, I am going to start by going down on the Greenwich side – it seems to make more sense.

Deptford Creek is of course really the River Ravensbourne. There is another River Ravensbourne on the other side of the river, but that is somewhere up in the wilds north of Romford and we don’t need to think about it here. Our River Ravensbourne originates in some ponds in Keston – and a very nice place to go for a picnic and see a lot of very interesting ducks. It flows north down through the Bromley borders, keeping to the west of the town in a deep valley with parkland running up the slope to the Churchill Theatre in the High Street. It’s joined by a whole host of little rivers coming from Beckenham and beyond - the Pool River, the Chaffinch, the Beck and many nameless trickles. It runs through Shortlands and on in a valley parallel with Bromley Road to Bellingham and Catford. It runs through all that meadow and parkland at the back of Lewisham Hospital and

10 May 12 2021

then, almost underneath Lewisham Station it is joined by the Quaggy.

All the way down its length were many mills and there are all sorts of remains – like Peter Pan’s Pool in front of Homebase at Southend at Bellingham; that’s an old mill pond.

point at which Deptford Creek joins the Thames. Here in its wide mouth is where the big ships moor when they come to Greenwich. Perhaps our imaginary walk should envisage an aircraft carrier or a big cable layer before we leave the major river.

So – that’s the Ravensbourne which we know as Deptford Creek and with any luck we can go all the way down to Lewisham Station – and see shipbuilders soap works, chemicals, mills, waterworks, engineers, railways as well as one of the most successful of British computer manufacturers. I know that local people at Creekside want to make a proper walk way and are making plans for signboards and information – so let’s do what we can to help.

The new ‘development’ here is called Greenwich Reach East and it’s all very clean, respectable and boring and you are so removed from the two rivers themselves that the whole experience is remarkably sterile. From here we can turn south and start to work our way up the Creek to Lewisham.

Today if we walk along the Greenwich riverside past the Cutty Sark and along a very modern walkway called Dreadnought Walk it takes us to the

The walk way is called Dreadnought Walk presumably because there was a Dreadnought Wharf nearby and because ‘The Dreadnought’ ship was moored in the river here. And anyway it sounds good. ‘Dreadnought’ was the name of a series of ships moored here and used as hospital accommodation by the Seamen’s

Hospital Society. In 1870 the Society came ashore and took over the old Infirmary of Greenwich Hospital and it was renamed the Dreadnought Hospital. The building is now the University Library and the Hospital is a wing of St.Thomas’s. To be fair to Dreadnought- the second ship hulked here by the Society – this was a warship with a most distinguished history. She was a 98 gun second rate ship launched in Portsmouth in 1801. She saw action on many occasions and was a ship of the line at Trafalgar. She was at Greenwich as a hospital ship from 1841.

In the past the Kentish bank of the confluence of the Thames and Ravensbourne wasn’t always like this.

Up until the 1820s the inland area was called Brooks Marsh and contemporary maps show that it was nothing like it is now. It was used as a market gardens, osier beds and recreation. Old maps do show a rather nice looking tree lined path following the riverside, but beyond this was an area of mudflats and muddy islands projecting into the Thames on and off covered by the tide and where osiers grew. I’m fascinated to see that the 18th century map marks the river bank as ‘sea wall’. I have had such arguments in the past with my non-local proof readers who tut tut and change it to ‘river wall’. No, no, I’ve lived near the river all my life and it’s always ‘sea wall’. ‘River walls’ might do for the Ravensbourne but London

editorial@weekender.co.uk

River is something else entirely.

The whole marshy area was stabilised and turned into the solid land we see now by a contractor, Hugh – or David Mackintosh. This contractor was very busy working on all the new roads, railways and docks in East London.

At around the same time they were working on Navy Board contracts in the Royal Dockyards using Roman cement, developed by James Parker in the 1790s, with brick reinforcements.

It is of course perfectly possible that the same technique was used here – and remains as part of the promenade which exists today.

Mackintosh had been commissioned to do the work to stabilise the site by the Phoenix Gas Company who had bought it for a new gas works.

I wrote a whole article about what became West Greenwich Gas Works for Weekender in January 2020 and I had better not do it again. Before the works was built there had been a whole long saga and scandal around the building of the first gas works in Greenwich – and I wrote it all up for the 2019 Journal of the Greenwich Historical Society.

West Greenwich gas works stood on the site for nearly 100 years.

Although this was an important works in use for nearly 100 years very little seems to be known about it. We must assume that www.weekender.co.uk

History ©©RJM Carr

the works continued with little need for comments. Both Phoenix and later South Met were efficient and respectable gas companies. In a few weeks’ time I will write something about its holder station – the gas holders that once stood next to Greenwich Station. In the mid 1880s once the huge East Greenwich works was built it was decided to run West Greenwich down.

In the Great War the company was asked by the Government to use its retorts to make charcoal for gas masks and similar equipment. Gas making finally ended in 1926.

Until the 1940s the site was the base for the South Met Gas Company’s lighterage department looking after the Company tugs and barges.

After that closed the site was sold. It became a roadstone depot and remained so until taken over for ‘regeneration’ in the 1990s.

As we walk along the Creek southwards down what used to the sea wall and which is now ‘Dreadnought Walk’ we pass Admiral Tower – another block of flats named generically for a romantic seafaring past but with little connection to the reality of the area’s past.

Eventually Dreadnought Walk turns into

editorial@weekender.co.uk

Dowells Street – ‘Dowells’ as a name at least has some connection to the area here, as we will see. This is an area where the ships bringing coal from Durham and Newcastle berthed – and every day the local papers listed their names and where they had come from.

Around the point where the road name changes there were pre-1800 a set of steps into the Creek marked as ‘crossing place’ and this is conjecturally where the cross Creek ferry ran from.

As we turn eastwards along Dowells Street the Creek frontage was called Dowells Wharf, or, by an older name, Creek Bridge Wharf. We are essentially on the north side of a small dock running eastwards up to Norway Street.

The Creek turns here creating a bend in its length. Pre-1800 maps show an island in this bend, apparently used for growing osiers. This island roughly equates to the area of the dock and presumably was removed and the space used for the inlet. The ‘Road to Greenwich’ is then shown on maps as on land to the east of the Creek starting from a gate at a point where the island nears the ‘Sea Wall’.

You can read our passed editions online at weekender.co.uk

Then we can start going south down the Creek. www.weekender.co.uk

May 12 2021 11

community trust At The Heart Of The Community

news from charlton athletic community trust

Inclusion a focus for Charlton Athletic’s new Manager and coaching team

Club Captain Jason Pearce (third from left) and First-Team Coach Jason Euell (right) are also part of the discussions

Senior members of Charlton Athletic’s footballing management team took part in an equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) session April as the club looks to build on a long, proud history of promoting equality and tackling discrimination.

Charlton Manager Nigel Adkins was joined by Assistant Manager Johnnie Jackson, First Team Coach Jason Euell and Club Captain Jason Pearce for the session with Charlton Athletic Community Trust (CACT) and the club’s Head of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Dr Michael Seeraj. plus CACT CEO Jason Morgan MBE. Dr Seeraj said: “It was great to have Nigel, Johnnie and the two Jasons involved in a discussion about how Charlton can continue to move forward and build on the great work we do in fighting for equality and social justice. Their passion and commitment was incredible. The

12 May 12 2021

meeting was the first, and formed a key part of our EDI consultation framework, which will also include consulting Charlton supporters.

“This club has a rich and important history of working together and with others to tackle discrimination and inequality. We want to continue to further develop this, both in what we practice and what we promote, and build on the great work so many have done over so many years at this club.”

Adkins said: “I’ve been at Charlton just over the month and I’ve enjoyed learning about the club and getting to know all the staff. In our meeting with Dr Seeraj he explained about the club’s long history of promoting equality and we discussed what we, as a club, want to be doing going forwards. It was a good starting point for us and I’m looking forward to playing my part at the club in this very important area of work.”

At the meeting, it was agreed that club players and staff will Take the Knee prior to upcoming games.

Dr Seeraj added: “Racism and discrimination breed hate, and Taking the Knee is not going to stop racism, but can play a vital role in keeping the problem in sharp focus.

“In addition to Taking the Knee, we are also taking action. The club and CACT launched Charlton’s new EDI consultation framework in March ahead of the club’s annual Red, White and Black Day. The framework sets out the next chapter in the club’s continuing commitment to fighting inequality and comes after a positive recent EFL review of the club’s EDI work.

You can read more about the new equality, diversity and inclusion framework via cact.org.uk/what-wedo/equality-diversity-and-inclusion

New Manager Nigel Adkins (centre) met CACT Head of Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Dr Michael Seeraj (right)

editorial@weekender.co.uk

www.weekender.co.uk

rmg.co.uk

Pre-book tickets now

Welcome back to Cutty Sark Step on board and experience the dramatic history of the fastest ship of its time Part of Royal Museums Greenwich Greenwich Pier

Cutty Sark

Greenwich (only 8 mins from London Bridge)

Classified

Painter & Decorator

020 7232 1639

to advertise in our Classified section

ROOMS AVAILABLE Ridley Villas and Cape House have been providing services to the Hackney Community and surrounding areas over the last 20 years.

Hot showers and other communal facilities are available.

If you are 35 years or older and receiving Universal Credit we can provide you with temporary or longer term acommodation.

Please contact us and let us help you

020 7275 7852

47 Ridley Road, Dalston E8 2NP

BATTERSEA BOOT IS BACK! every Sunday

Harris Academy, SW11 5AP

Contact

0779 8833 758

please visit our website

www.batterseaboot.com

for a quotation.

WANTED

CARS + VANS ANY CONDITION ANY AREA PROMPT & POLITE SERVICE TELEPHONE

020 8659 8988 ANY DAY, ANY TIME, 7 DAYS MOBILE

07850 323 508 CLASSIC & UNSUAL CARS ALSO WANTED

for pitch bookings & details of our new opening times

CASH / CASH / CASH / CASH / CASH

We provide single room accommodation and an English breakfast with tea or coffee every morning of the week.

Coverage: Anywhere in / around London.

CASH / CASH / CASH / CASH / CASH

Call Lorraine in our sales department on

Why not speak to the Weekender team, to find out about our competitive advertising prices in print and online?

Call us on: 020 7232 1639 or email: ads@weekender.co.uk editorial@weekender.co.uk

www.weekender.co.uk

May 12 2021 13

public notices ROYAL BOROUGH of GREENWICH ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 – SECTION 14(1) CANTWELL ROAD, SE18 PLANNED ROAD CLOSURE (ORDER)

ROYAL BOROUGH of GREENWICH ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 – SECTION 14(1) PETERSTONE ROAD, SE2 PLANNED ROAD CLOSURE (ORDER)

1. The Royal Borough of Greenwich makes this Order in exercise of powers under section 14(1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984. This is to facilitate works by SGN who need to carry out repair works.

2. The Order will come into operation on 24th May 2021 and would continue to be valid for 18 months. However, the works are expected to take 3 weeks. The duration of the Order can be extended with the approval of the Secretary of State for Transport.

3. The effect of the Order would be to temporarily prohibit vehicles from entering, exiting, proceeding or waiting (including waiting for the purposes of loading or unloading), outside 51 to 56 Cantwell Road.

4. Whilst the Order is in operation traffic will be diverted via Cantwell Road, Brent Road & vice versa. Prohibitions remain in force, pedestrians are not affected and vehicle access will be maintained wherever possible.

5. Nothing in this Notice will apply to anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform or traffic warden, to emergency service vehicles, or to vehicles being used in connection with the works.

6. The restrictions described above will apply only during such times and to such extent as shall be indicated by traffic signs as prescribed by the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016.

7. Queries concerning these works should be directed to the Royal Borough of Greenwich’s Directorate of Regeneration, Enterprise & Skills on 020 8921 6340.

1. The Royal Borough of Greenwich makes this Order in exercise of powers under section 14(1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984. This is to facilitate works by Open Reach who need to renew a telegraph pole.

2. The Order will come into operation on 19th May 2021 and would continue to be valid for 18 months. However, the works are expected to take 1 day. The duration of the Order can be extended with the approval of the Secretary of State for Transport.

3. The effect of the Order would be to temporarily prohibit vehicles from entering, exiting, proceeding or waiting (including waiting for the purposes of loading or unloading. In Peterstone Road.

4. Whilst the Order is in operation traffic will be diverted via Peterstone Road, Eynsham Drive, Grovebury Road & vice versa. Prohibitions remain in force, pedestrians are not affected and vehicle access will be maintained wherever possible.

5. Nothing in this Notice will apply to anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform or traffic warden, to emergency service vehicles, or to vehicles being used in connection with the works.

6. The restrictions described above will apply only during such times and to such extent as shall be indicated by traffic signs as prescribed by the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016.

7. Queries concerning these works should be directed to the Royal Borough of Greenwich’s Directorate of Regeneration, Enterprise & Skills on 020 8921 6340.

Assistant Director, Strategic Transportation The Woolwich Centre, 35 Wellington Street, SE18 6HQ

Assistant Director, Strategic Transportation The Woolwich Centre, 35 Wellington Street, SE18 6HQ

Dated 01/03/2021

Dated 25/02/2021

(INTERNAL REF: PL/264/LA403582)

(INTERNAL REF: PL/261/LA403119)

ROYAL BOROUGH of GREENWICH ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 – SECTION 14(1) [King George Street] PLANNED ROAD CLOSURE (ORDER)

ROYAL BOROUGH of GREENWICH ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 – SECTION 14(1) EDINGTON ROAD, SE2 PLANNED ROAD CLOSURE (ORDER)

1. The Royal Borough of Greenwich makes this Order in exercise of powers under section 14(1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984. This is to facilitate works by Thames Water who need to carry out sewer repairs.

2. The Order will come into operation on 17th May 2021 and would continue to be valid for 18 months. However the works are expected to take 2 weeks. The duration of the Order can be extended with the approval of the Secretary of State for Transport.

3. The effect of the Order would be to temporarily prohibit vehicles from entering, exiting, proceeding or waiting (including waiting for the purposes of loading or unloading) in, King George Street outside 97.

4. Whilst the Order is in operation traffic will be diverted via Crooms Hill, Cade Road, Hyde Vale and Vice versa. Prohibitions remain in force, pedestrians are not affected and vehicle access will be maintained wherever possible.

5. Nothing in this Notice will apply to anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform or traffic warden, to emergency service vehicles, or to vehicles being used in connection with the works.

6. The restrictions described above will apply only during such times and to such extent as shall be indicated by traffic signs as prescribed by the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016.

7. Queries concerning these works should be directed to the Royal Borough of Greenwich’s Directorate of Regeneration, Enterprise & Skills on 020 8921 6340.

1. The Royal Borough of Greenwich to makes this Order in exercise of powers under section 14(1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984. This is to facilitate works by Open Reach who need to renew a telegraph pole.

2. The Order will come into operation on 18th May 2021 and would continue to be valid for 18 months. However, the works are expected to take 1 day. The duration of the Order can be extended with the approval of the Secretary of State for Transport.

3. The effect of the Order would be to temporarily prohibit vehicles from entering, exiting, proceeding or waiting (including waiting for the purposes of loading or unloading. In Edington Road.

4. Whilst the Order is in operation traffic will be diverted via Edington Road, Boxgrove Road & vice versa. Prohibitions remain in force, pedestrians are not affected and vehicle access will be maintained wherever possible.

5. Nothing in this Notice will apply to anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform or traffic warden, to emergency service vehicles, or to vehicles being used in connection with the works.

6. The restrictions described above will apply only during such times and to such extent as shall be indicated by traffic signs as prescribed by the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016.

7. Queries concerning these works should be directed to the Royal Borough of Greenwich’s Directorate of Regeneration, Enterprise & Skills on 020 8921 6340.

Interim Assistant Director, Transport and Sustainability The Woolwich Centre, 35 Wellington Street, SE18 6HQ

Assistant Director, Strategic Transportation The Woolwich Centre, 35 Wellington Street, SE18 6HQ Dated 25/02/2021

Dated 7th May 2021

(INTERNAL REF: PL/260/LA403071)

(INTERNAL REF: PL//LA405896)

ROYAL BOROUGH of GREENWICH ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 – SECTION 14(1) [Heathwood Gardens] PLANNED ROAD CLOSURE (ORDER)

ROYAL BOROUGH of GREENWICH ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 – SECTION 14(1) [Creek Road] PLANNED ROAD CLOSURE (ORDER)

1. The Royal Borough of Greenwich makes this Order in exercise of powers under section 14(1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984. This is to facilitate works by Thames Water who need to carry out sewer repairs.

2. The Order will come into operation on 17th May 2021 and would continue to be valid for 18 months. However the works are expected to take 2 weeks. The duration of the Order can be extended with the approval of the Secretary of State for Transport.

3. The effect of the Order would be to temporarily prohibit vehicles from entering, exiting, proceeding or waiting (including waiting for the purposes of loading or unloading) in, Heathwood Gardens at the junction with Little Heath.

4. Whilst the Order is in operation traffic will be diverted via Little Heath, Kinveachy Gardens, Woodland Terrace and vice versa. Prohibitions remain in force, pedestrians are not affected and vehicle access will be maintained wherever possible.

5. Nothing in this Notice will apply to anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform or traffic warden, to emergency service vehicles, or to vehicles being used in connection with the works.

6. The restrictions described above will apply only during such times and to such extent as shall be indicated by traffic signs as prescribed by the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016.

7. Queries concerning these works should be directed to the Royal Borough of Greenwich’s Directorate of Regeneration, Enterprise & Skills on 020 8921 6340.

1. The Royal Borough of Greenwich makes this Order in exercise of powers under section 14(1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984. This is to facilitate works by Kiers who need to carry out road resurfacing.

2. The Order will come into operation on 16th May 2021 and would continue to be valid for 18 months. However the works are expected to take 1 week. The duration of the Order can be extended with the approval of the Secretary of State for Transport.

3. The effect of the Order would be to temporarily prohibit vehicles from entering, exiting, proceeding or waiting (including waiting for the purposes of loading or unloading) in, Creek Road and every junction between Deptford Church Street and Horseferry Place between 8pm and 6am 17th – 22nd May. As well as Norman Road at the junction with Haddo Street between 6pm and 5am 16th-17th May. 4. Whilst the Order is in operation traffic will be diverted via Deptford Church Street, Blackheath Road, Greenwich High Road Greenwich town centre gyratory and vice versa. Residents in closed roads will be marshalled through. Prohibitions remain in force, pedestrians are not affected and vehicle access will be maintained wherever possible.

5. Nothing in this Notice will apply to anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform or traffic warden, to emergency service vehicles, or to vehicles being used in connection with the works.

6. The restrictions described above will apply only during such times and to such extent as shall be indicated by traffic signs as prescribed by the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016.

7. Queries concerning these works should be directed to the Royal Borough of Greenwich’s Directorate of Regeneration, Enterprise & Skills on 020 8921 6340.

Interim Assistant Director, Transport and Sustainability The Woolwich Centre, 35 Wellington Street, SE18 6HQ Dated 7th May 2021

Interim Assistant Director, Transport and Sustainability The Woolwich Centre, 35 Wellington Street, SE18 6HQ

(INTERNAL REF: PL//LA405896)

Dated 7th May 2021 (INTERNAL REF: PL//LA407501)

The deadline for public notices is Monday 1pm before Wednesday's publication date.

Email: notices@weekender.co.uk 14 May 12 2021

editorial@weekender.co.uk

www.weekender.co.uk

public notices Royal Borough of Greenwich Town & Country Planning Act 1990 (AS AMENDED) Town & Country Planning (Development Management Procedure)(England) Order 2015 Planning (Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas) Act 1990 (AS AMENDED) Planning (Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas) Regulations 1990 (AS AMENDED) Notice is hereby given that application(s) have been made to The Royal Borough of Greenwich in respect of the under mentioned premises/sites. You can see the submissions and any plans at http://www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk/planning.

If development proposals affect Conservation Areas and/or Statutorily Listed Buildings under the Planning (Listed Building and Conservation Area) Act 1990 (As Amended) this will be shown within the item below.

Anyone who wishes to comment on these applications should be made in writing to Development Planning within 22 days of the date of this notice.

Please quote the appropriate reference number.

Date: 12/05/2021

Victoria Geoghegan Assistant Director - Planning and Building Control List of Press Advertisements - 12/05/2021 Publicity For Planning Applications.

Applicant: J Baker 21/1247/HD Site Address: 19 LIZBAN STREET, BLACKHEATH, LONDON, SE3 8SS Development: Construction of a single storey rear extension Conservation Area: RECTORY FIELD

conditions addressed in this application include Conditions 03 (Approved Drawings), 04 (Development Specification), 05 (Quantum of Development), 08 (Design Guidelines), 09 (Compliance with EIA Mitigation), 14 (Reserved Matters Information), 44 (Cycling), 51 (Parking), 52 (Disabled Parking), 54 (Loading and Unloading) and 81 (Sustainability Measures)

Town & Country Planning Act 1990 for a minor material amendment in connection with planning permission dated 16/01/2020 Ref: 19/0032/F for Construction of a single storey dwelling, (revisions to previous approved application Ref:15/3639/F

by Omitting approved basement). (May affect the setting of adjacent Listed Buildings.) to allow: - Removal of Condition 9 (Restricted Parking Permits) Conservation Area: WEST GREENWICH

Applicant: Knight Dragon Developments Ltd 21/1327/R Site Address: Land at East Parkside, Pilot Walk, Chandlers Avenue and River Way, Lower Riverside, Greenwich Peninsula, London SE10 Development: Submission of reserved matters application (access and landscaping) pursuant to condition 13 (Reserved Matters Application) of planning permission dated 18/12/2015 (Ref:15/0716/O) for the streets, associated public realm, landscaping and access at Land at East Parkside, Pilot Walk, Chandlers Avenue and River Way which surround Plot 19.05. Additional

Applicant: Mr & Mrs Etienne 21/1441/HD Site Address: 3 EUROPE ROAD, WOOLWICH, LONDON, SE18 5QJ Development: Construction of a 4m rear extension. This may affect the setting of the Grade II Listed Graving Docks.

Applicant: Ms Redding 21/1516/MA Site Address: Land R/O Macartney House, Chesterfield Walk, Greenwich, SE10 8HJ Development: An application submitted under Section 73 of the

Applicant: C. Chu 21/1586/HD Site Address: 39 CANBERRA ROAD, CHARLTON, LONDON, SE7 8PF Development: Construction of a part single, part two storey rear extension, front side porch and associated works.

This may affect the setting of the Grade I Listed Building - Charlton House, Charlton Road SE7.

Conservation Area: CHARLTON VILLAGE

Applicant: Mr Lucchini 21/1571/HD Site Address: 5 THALIA CLOSE, GREENWICH, LONDON, SE10 9NA Development: Installation of two clerestorey windows to the flank wall Conservation Area: GREENWICH PARK

Weekender Greenwich & Lewisham

Keep up to date with events online at www.weekender.co.uk

editorial@weekender.co.uk

www.weekender.co.uk

May 12 2021 15

THIS ARTICLE IS PART OF A PAID-FOR PARTNERSHIP WITH THE UK GOVERNMENT

Go with the flow to help halt COVID-19 We are all in this together and that includes everybody regularly taking a rapid COVID-19 test.

Even if you do not have symptoms you could still have the virus and be spreading it unknowingly.

It is quick, easy and free – this is why you should get into the flow of testing.

Where to get a Rapid Covid-19 test Order online: NHS.uk/Get-Tested NHS.uk/Get-Tested

YOU COULD have the virus and not know it – that is true of around one in three people who show no symptoms.

The only way to identify such cases is through rapid COVID-19 tests which we should all get into the habit of using.

With vaccines and social distancing, testing is one of the most vital ways of combating the spread of COVID-19.

Rapid COVID-19 tests are easy to use and give results in up to 30 minutes, so those who test positive can self-isolate immediately and avoid passing the virus on to others.

GP Dr Amir Khan, said: “Remember, around one in three people who have coronavirus do not have any symptoms, but could be spreading it to other people without knowing.

“Rapid testing is effective at detecting people who are infectious and helping us find COVID-19 cases that we otherwise

Collect from: Test centres ‘EFFECTIVE’: Dr Amir Khan says rapid testing helps detect those who are infectious. would not know about, helping efforts to stop the spread of the virus.

Testing regularly, even when you do not have symptoms means we can keep infection levels low and our country safe.”

It is important to report your result online straight away, whether it is positive, negative or void.

It’s easy to do at gov.uk/reportcovid19-result or by calling 119.

Recording all results helps

TEST CENTRE

Most pharmacies establish a better understanding of the spread of the virus across the country and it is anonymous.

Scientists use the information to spot patterns and outbreaks more quickly and accurately; helping reduce the risk of future lockdowns.

Get your free, rapid COVID-19

tests at nhs.uk/get-tested or call 119. Anyone who tests positive should self-isolate immediately and visit nhs.uk/get-tested or call 119 to order a confirmatory PCR test.

Don’t forget you should continue to follow the Hands, Face, Space, Fresh Air rules to further reduce the risk of transmission.

‘I HAD NO SYMPTOMS AND TEST MAY HAVE SAVED LIVES’

CRUCIAL TEST: Alex, left, of JamVans.

ALEX, 29, from Hemel Hempstead, is a removal man for JamVans removals.

He took a COVID-19 test because as part of his job he delivers to hospice charity shops.

He had obeyed all the safety rules.

Five weeks ago he tested positive and was sent for a PCR test which was also positive.

He immediately self isolated.

“Not throughout the entire time I was isolated did I have any symptoms,” he said. “I almost didn’t believe it when I had the initial test and without it I would 100 per cent have carried on working.

“Imagine if I’d given that to my parents, grandparents,

colleagues. If I’m going around the 10 charity shops, I could have been quite a spreader.

“I’m really putting a lot of other people at risk who may not be as young and healthy as I am.

“By having that test it’s potentially saved lives ... and almost definitely stopped the spread of COVID-19.”

PHARMACY

Get tested or collect from: Your workplace

DEPOT