28th May 2020

Nurse & doctors’ hospital wedding

lockdown meltdown

Page 4

Issue 1481

Established: 1987

50p

May 28 2020

www.southwarknews.co.uk

Stabbing, vandalism and parties in the parks

7 ge a nP o e se

2 NEWS

www.southwarknews.co.uk/news

Contents NEWS Pages 2-19

Southwark News, Thursday May 28 2020

MPs TELL OF FURY OVER AIDE’S LOCKDOWN TRIP

OPINION Pages 16-17 family announcements Pages 20 arts Page 22 history Page 23 jobs Page 24 Public notices Pages 25-27 SPORT Page 28

During the crisis, contact us if you have a story on 07973175511 or email editor@ southwarknews.co.uk

For a free digital advert ads@ southwarknews.co.uk

We are a London Living Wage employer Do you have a story

for our news team?

Call 0207 231 5258 You can WhatsApp us on 07494 070 863.

By Katherine Johnston katherine@southwarknews.co.uk MPs in Southwark have slammed Boris Johnson’s support for his chief aide Dominic Cummings and cast doubt on a lengthy statement explaining the 260-mile round trip he made from London to Durham in the middle of the lockdown.

After it emerged Cummings had not only relocated with his family to his parents' estate in county Durham, while having suspected COVID-19, but had also later visited a local beauty spot, Southwark’s MPs shared their dismay that one of the architects of the UK’s response to the pandemic had seemingly flouted his own rules.

Boris Johnson defended Cummings’ actions at press conferences over the weekend and after the adviser made his formal statement on Monday evening.

The PM, backed by cabinet ministers, said Cummings had made the decision 'as a father', who had 'no alternative' and in every sense had acted 'responsibly, legally, and with integrity'.

The controversy has now sparked a huge backlash - both from those who believe it’s

one rule for him and another for the public, and from people shocked at what they perceive to be a witch hunt and ongoing harassment of Cummings and his family.

Bermondsey MP Neil Coyle said: "So many did as they were asked and denied themselves access to loved ones even in endof-life circumstances.

"An apology would have been enough two days ago but he's too arrogant."

He branded health and social care secretary Matt Hancock’s support of Cummings as ‘spineless’.

Harriet Harman said the government should "show empathy for lockdown heartbreak not defiance", saying she'd had a 'deluge' of emails from appalled constituents.

The Camberwell & Peckham MP also shared a video message by Labour leader Keir Starmer saying Cummings had treated the British people with contempt. Starmer said if he were Prime Minister the adviser would have been sacked.

Dulwich and West Norwood MP Helen Hayes said her team made numerous enquiries with Public Health England on behalf of her constituents who were in various 'difficult circumstances' during the lockdown.

"The advice was always not to travel," she explained. "Boris Johnson was defending the indefensible."

Southwark Liberal Democrat leader, Anood Al-Samerai, said: "My husband and our twoyear old had symptoms in mid-March. The three of us did not leave home for fourteen days, not even for a walk.

“I would have loved childcare or to see the grandparents, but we did the right thing and what 111 told us to. But more scary than Dominic Cummings' hypocrisy is the damage to rule of law."

They were among many left perturbed by Cummings’ controversial press conference held at Number Ten’s rose garden on Monday evening. In a long, prepared speech, Cummings said he did not regret his actions, but did see that he should have responded to allegations earlier.

He said the family had moved to Durham partly due to intimidation and threats in London, and so his family could help if needed with looking after his son after his wife became ill - worried they could both become incapacitated.

During the broadcast he admitted going back to work after his wife was unwell saying she did not have the symptoms of a

cough and fever at that point. He said he did not consult the Prime Minister before driving to his parents' estate.

He claimed his much-discussed visit to Barnard Castle - apparently on his wife’s birthday - was merely a 'test drive' to make sure his eyesight was up to scratch before attempting a journey back to London.

He said he could understand why some people were angry - and blamed the media for whipping up the public's ire with 'inaccurate' reports.

Throughout he insisted that the rules have always made exceptions for certain circumstances - including for parents with young children.

Cummings has also refused to apologise and not offered to resign. But the press conference appears to have only raised more questions about his behaviour.

Neil Coyle - who described the televised conference as a ‘self-pitying drivel - and a yawnfest to boot’ - says nearly 150 constituents have contacted him in the last few days about the issue - with just one believing Cummings' account.

“Nothing in this statement is different to that faced by tens of thousands of families' situations up and down the country throughout the lockdown - but 99.9 per cent stayed home and protected the NHS,” he tweeted.

On Tuesday, Helen Hayes said emails on the subject were still landing “just as fast as they were before press conference.”

She said: “The point is not whether he was in a difficult situation but that rules he wrote required people with much greater difficulties to stay at home and most did. Hypocrisy born from total absence of empathy.”

Harriet Harman says it is hard to describe her constituents’ anguish. One couple who both work full time, and both came down with COVID-19, had to manage looking after two children while the mother was pregnant with their third child.

They had the option of travelling a hundred miles to stay in a cabin in their sister’s home to benefit from extra support but chose not to go. They now feel criticised by the government for not going - and not trusting their parental instincts - during a traumatic time.

Other constituents who braved staying at home in the most agonising of circumstances include a woman whose daughter had lost a baby, and a little girl who was kept apart from her terminally ill grandmother, not knowing if she’d ever see her again.

The Southwark News is proud to be the only independent, paid for newspaper in London Editor: Kevin Quinn Deputy Editor: Katherine Johnston Chief Reporter: Josh Salisbury Sports Editor: John Kelly Arts Correspondent: Michael Holland Weekender Series Editor: Laura Burgoine Media Partnerships: Anthony Phillips Sales Manager: Tammy Jukes Advertising: Clarry Frewin, Lorraine Wood, Samantha Ratcliffe Design: Dan Martin, Aurelio Medina Finance: Em Zeki Subscriptions/Announcements: Katie Boyd Managing & Commercial Director: Chris Mullany Managing & Editorial Director: Kevin Quinn Published weekly on a Thursday at: Unit A302, The Biscuit Factory, Drummond Road, Bermondsey, London SE16 4DG. News and Sport: 020 7231 5258 Advertising: 020 7232 1639 News: news@southwarknews.co.uk Advertising: ads@southwarknews.co.uk Printed by Iliffe Print. Tel: 01223 656500 www.iliffeprint.co.uk

Southwark News started life as the Bermondsey News in 1987, as an A-4 photocopied sheet of paper and rapidly grew to cover the entire borough and the surrounding area. As the borough grew, so did the newspaper.

It is owned and run by Chris Mullany and Kevin Quinn.

Former reporters for Southwark News, they bought the title in 2002, after the founder Dave Clark died suddenly from cancer four years earlier.

Both directors live in the borough. A dedicated team of staff work tirelessly to cover as much of what is going on as possible and strive to ensure that a community-led, independent newspaper can survive and excel in a market dominated by national and multinational media groups.

Follow our social media to be updated on South London news

southwark-news

@southwark_news

Southwark News 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 0207 231 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

Southwark News, Thursday May 28 2020

Gemma and family

www.southwarknews.co.uk/news

Kristin

Katie and family

"We've been in lockdown together. I've been homeschooling my kids and doing lots and lots of playing!"

dulwich families in lockdown

By Katherine Johnston

katherine@southwarknews.co.uk An out-of-work photographer has taken more than 80 portraits of locked down East Dulwich families throughout the pandemic.

Irma Arrowsmith told the News when the pandemic hit and she could no longer work as a family photographer she was 'missing everything' about her job.

“With all my family shoots indefinitely postponed, and wanting to stay creatively challenged, I decided to reach out to the local community to see if families would be interested in a free 'lockdown portrait' to document this extraordinary moment in their lives.

“All the participating families are getting my photos of them for free - as my way of saying thank you for taking part and as a small gesture of solidarity in these strange times.”

The resulting project, Life in Lockdown, features portraits all taken at least two metres apart and within a 30 minute walk of Lordship Lane. All were shot on Irma’s daily bit of exercise.

The families posed on doorsteps, balconies, in their front gardens or at their windows.

“So far I have photographed around 80 families - all different, and all with a story to tell,” Irma says.

“I have met key workers, vulnerable people shielding from the virus, mums with newborns, pregnant mothers, those who are working from home or furloughed

or who have lost their jobs or income due to the pandemic - and even people who have tragically lost loved ones to COVID-19.

I've also seen some excellent beards and DIY home haircuts!

“Eventually I hope to turn the collection into a local exhibition and possibly even a book.”

Nancy, Laurie and Wynn One family photographed are currently living in a half-finished home as building work was cancelled.

Nancy’s explains: "My little boy is called Wynn (four) and my daughter is called Laurie (seven). They go to Judith Kerr primary school.

“The house we live in is currently being renovated after three years standing empty.

“It should have been finished over a year ago, so lockdown for us has been a little stressful, as we are still living in a building site!"

Sara and family Sara says the lockdown has helped her find inner calm and enjoy having more time with her kids.

"At first we found it a tad strange to adjust to the changes, to hide the fear from our children.

“Then we realised let’s forget the stress of the outside world and enjoy the rare time we have together and make happy memories through the pandemic, we can share with the children when they are older.

NEWS 3

“The doorstep photo shoot was an enjoyable experience, something different and a great memory to keep."

Kristin "We've been fortunate in that both of our jobs allow us to work from home and our daughter's school is engaged, sending her assignments and other activities weekly.

“This has provided our family stability in a time of so much uncertainty.

“However, we are originally from Portland, Oregon, which is where all of our family is.

“We've been lucky to be able to visit regularly in the past, but right now they feel very much on the other side of the world."

Katie Katie recently welcomed a new addition to the family - Devon.

The family of six has lived in East Dulwich for 20 years and had been considering moving before the lockdown came into force to make more room for their growing family.

“Lockdown has meant a busy house, but one full of noise, fun and play.

“The kids have bonded really well with their baby brother and Irma has captured this perfectly in her lockdown photographs,” she says.

See the full Life in Lockdown photo series at https://www.irmaarrowsmith.com/life-inlockdown Follow Irma Arrowsmith on Instagram @irma_arrowsmith and Facebook: @ irmaarrowsmithphotography

Nancy and family

4 NEWS

www.southwarknews.co.uk/news

Southwark News, Thursday May 28 2020

Photo by Rebecca Carpenter

Nurse and doctor get hitched at St Thomas'

By Josh Salisbury

josh@southwarknews.co.uk A nurse and a doctor who had to cancel their wedding over coronavirus have instead tied the knot at St Thomas’ Hospital, where they work.

By Josh Salisbury josh@southwarknews.co.uk An appeal to help clothe and feed families evacuated from a serious tower block blaze in Deptford last week has had an overwhelming response.

At least 28 families have been affected by the blaze on Childers Street last Thursday evening, which took firefighters almost three hours to get under control.

It caused 100 people to be evacuated from their homes, but luckily there were no reported injuries. Several were left with just their clothes and slippers to take with them.

According to community organiser, Sharleen Baxter, who has set up an appeal to help those affected by the serious blaze, most of the evacuated residents have been placed in temporary hostels or rooms while they await permanent rehousing.

An appeal to donate clothes, toiletries, nappies and other essentials to be distributed saw a flood of donations.

“Thank you so much for amazing amount of donations of clothes, food, toiletries,”

said Ms Baxter on Tuesday evening as the News went to press.

“At the moment we cannot take any more, the hall is filled!”

However, a fundraising page remains live to help those in need, as those awaiting rehousing will need to replace furinute and appliances that were lost in the blaze.

A £14,000 target has been set on the fundraiser, which is equivalent to £500 each for the affected 28 families.

At the time of writing it has raised nearly £5,000. “This has been devastating for the 28 families affected and everyone who lives nearby but the amazing local community, charities and businesses have been extraordinary!” said Ms Baxter.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation by the Brigade, which said it was an especially difficult blaze to tackle as it was in a roof hatch.

Half of a flat on the fifth floor of a sixstorey block and most of the roof were damaged by the fire. Part of the roof of an adjacent block of flats was also damaged by the blaze.

To donate to the fundraiser, search 'Deptford Fire Residents Help Go Fund Me'.

former Millwall player dies at just 23 Christian, who signed for the Lions as a teen, was found in his home on Tuesday afternoon

By Josh Salisbury

josh@southwarknews.co.uk Teammates of a former Millwall defender who was found dead at his home on Tuesday have paid a moving tribute to him as a “humble” and “incredibly popular man.”

Christian Mbulu, aged just 23, was sadly found deceased at home near Preston on Tuesday afternoon.

A spokesperson for Lancashire Police said they were not treating the death as suspicious. The tragic news has left his former club reeling.

“Everyone at Millwall Football Club is devastated to learn of the tragic passing of former player Christian Mbulu at the age of just 23,” said Millwall FC in a statement.

“Our hearts go out to his family and friends at this immensely difficult time.”

Millwall player, Jed Wallace, added: “So shocked tonight.

Honestly just one of the most polite and humble lads I’ve met in football.

“Unbelievably sad news today. You’re going to be missed by so many Christian.

RIP my friend. Life isn’t fair!”

Mbulu had signed his first

professional contract with the Lions aged nineteen, before going on to play for Motherwell, Crewe Alexandra and Morecambe.

Motherwell FC has also paid tribute to the talented player as “pleasant and friendly.”

“We are shocked to hear of the news of Christian’s death,” said Motherwell chairman, Jim McMahon.

“He was such a friendly, pleasant and dedicated young man who we loved having around Fir Park.

“Our thoughts are with his family during this incredibly difficult time.

We hope their privacy is respected by everyone as they try to come to terms with their loss.”

The centre-back had begun playing for the Lions in 2015, signing the contract on his nineteenth birthday, where he spent three seasons.

Following his release from Millwall, he also played for Motherwell for a season, before signing a short-term contract at Crewe Alexandra.

He then signed for League Two side Morecambe in January, making three appearances for the team.

Morecambe also expressed their shock at the footballer’s sudden passing. In a statement, the club said: “His loss will be painfully felt by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

“Christian came to the club in January and proved to be an extremely popular member of the squad,” it added.

Photo by Millwall FC

community rally for evacuees of deptford block blaze

Jann Tipping, 34, and Annalan Navaratnam, 30, got married at the Grade 2 listed chapel inside their workplace at the end of April.

The pair, both from Tulse Hill, had been due to say ‘I do’ in August, but had to cancel that ceremony because family would not be able to travel safely from Sri Lanka and Northern Ireland.

But rather than postpone completely, the love-struck couple decided to get married as soon as possible with all their guests watching remotely.

The chaplaincy team at St Thomas’ helped them organise a wedding at the chapel, which dates back to 1870.

A date was set suddenly within two weeks – meaning Jann and Analan had just a fortnight to buy a dress, rings and suit.

“We wanted to have the ceremony while everyone was still healthy, even if it meant our loved ones having to watch us on a screen,” said Jann, an ambulatory emergency nurse.

“We wanted to make sure we could celebrate while we were all still able to.

“The chaplaincy team worked hard to get permission for us to be married, which we appreciated greatly at a

time when so much was going on.”

Annalan, who has been working as a registrar at St Thomas’ for a year, said he had wanted to marry Jann from the moment he popped the question.

“Jann and I wanted to get married from the moment I proposed,” he said.

“We’re so happy that we have been able to commit ourselves to one another and that the hospital has been able to support us to do that.”

The ceremony, on April 24, was “lovely,” added Jann. “The chapel is beautiful, although it did feel surreal getting married where we work, and in a hospital,” she said.

“St Thomas’ is such a special place to us both, and especially to me, having been here for the last six years. Now there is an extra reason why it’s so important to us.”

At the end of the wedding, the couple hosted a virtual drinks reception for their guests, which included their first dance and speeches – and even sent a case of champagne to their would-be guests’ houses to celebrate.

The chaplain who married them both, Revd Mia Hillborn, said she was delighted to have been able to perform the ceremony with just the couple and legally-required witnesses.

“I was delighted to be able to get special permission to marry Jann and Annalan in the beautiful chapel at St Thomas’,” she said. “It was a lovely service and I was thrilled to be part of it.”

PRODUCED IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE UK GOVERNMENT

Protecting jobs and supporting business The Government has announced an unprecedented package of support to protect jobs and support business

across the UK during the coronavirus outbreak.

There is a wide range of financial support available to firms of

all sizes. Today we take a look at how some companies have benefited from the help available.

‘£10,000 grant has made life less stressful’ CASE STUDY 1 HOMEWARE BUSINESS REBECCA UDALL feared for her business selling luxury homeware when the coronavirus outbreak escalated.

Rebecca, 26, from Malton, North Yorkshire, who specialises in European linen, had already heard from suppliers in Italy what the situation was like there.

As the country went into lockdown, sales were hit and it became difficult to get products from Europe.

But help was at hand from the Government in the form of the Small Business Grant.

Rebecca said: “I watched Rishi Sunak’s speech when he launched the grant and then I got in touch with my accountant to see when it would be available.

“My local council emailed

me about a week later saying they were awaiting further details from the government. They didn’t confirm if I would be eligible, but I hoped I would.

“My experience has been very positive. I got a letter to complete an online form, which was very straightforward to do, and then I had £10,000 in my bank account about a week later. For me it was very quick and easy.

“The support from the Government has been fantastic. Because it’s a grant rather than a loan, you don’t have to pay it back. It just gives you confidence and makes life a bit less stressful. I’ve also done the VAT deferral – because I’m such a small business it’ll give me the ability to use the cash over the next year and hopefully grow my business.”

REBECCA UDALL: ‘Government support is fantastic’.

Chancellor’s measures to safeguard firms and their staff The Chancellor Rishi Sunak has announced a range of measures* for businesses and workers to protect them against the current economic emergency. Here are some examples.

The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme has enabled businesses to put employees on a period of temporary leave (furlough) and apply for a government grant to cover 80 per cent of those workers’ usual monthly wage costs, up to a cap of £2,500 a month. The scheme available until the end of October has already protected 7.5 million workers and almost 1 million businesses The Self-Employment Income Support Scheme will allow eligible self-

employed individuals to claim a taxable grant of 80 per cent of their average monthly profits, up to £7,500.

UK VAT-registered firms have been given the option to defer VAT payments until the end of June.

There will be no interest or penalties on any amount deferred.

The Government has introduced a business rates holiday for the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors and nurseries in England.

Other schemes are in place in the other nations within the UK. Commercial tenants who cannot pay their rent because of coronavirus will be protected from eviction The Government’s Bounce Back Loans Scheme provides loans of up to £50,000 to small businesses, with a 100 per cent government-backed guarantee for lenders.

The Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme is available for loans or finance of up to £5m.

The Government will provide the lender with an 80 per cent guarantee to support the lending. *Eligibility criteria applies.

Headline to go here

FINANCIAL HELP: Chancellor Rishi Sunak

n Details of the support available to businesses across the UK can be found at www.gov.uk/coronavirus/business-support

‘Critical to Scouts’ survival’ CASE STUDY 2 SCOUTS SCOTLAND

HELPING HAND: Scouts Scotland supports 12,000 volunteers and 40,000 young people.

SCOUTS SCOTLAND chief executive Katie Docherty says the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) has been absolutely critical to the survival of Scouts Scotland as an organisation.

Almost 80 per cent of Scouts Scotland’s 62 staff have been furloughed as outdoor education centres and campsites have been closed and fundraising events have postponed due to the coronavirus lockdown.

The organisation, which supports 12,000 volunteers and 40,000 young people in

Scotland, has suffered a £1.5 million shortfall as a result.

Ms Docherty said they had received some funding from the Scottish Government, but that furlough scheme is “the lifeline that’s keeping us going just now”.

She said: “It’s the furlough scheme that’s allowed us to keep paying our staff whilst we have no income coming in.

It’s been absolutely critical.

We would have had to make most of our staff redundant otherwise.”

The CJRS has been extended until the end of October by the UK Government in order to protect businesses and jobs across the country.

Keep our distance, wash our hands, think of others and play our part.

6 NEWS

www.southwarknews.co.uk/news

clayton’s on a roll again

Southwark News, Thursday May 28 2020

Calls double as young and old suffer in the lockdown

By Katherine Johnston katherine@southwarknews.co.uk An out-of-hours mental health crisis line operating in Southwark, Lambeth and Lewisham has seen double the number of calls since the lockdown started.

Watch the video

nline

southwarknews.co.uk

By Katherine Johnston katherine@southwarknews.co.uk A man who was in intensive care at Lewisham Hospital with COVID-19 is now back roller skating just two weeks after being discharged.

Clayton Jean-Charles, aged 55, was taken by ambulance to University Hospital Lewisham when his symptoms deteriorated after nine days of being unwell.

“After experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 – high temperature, extremely sore throat, shortness of breath – I stayed at home and self-

isolated, but my temperature got worse and I developed a fever.

“My wife contacted NHS 111 when the fever got worse: I was starting to hallucinate and felt terrible,” he says.

After not improving with oxygen treatment, Clayton was then moved into intensive care and put on a CPAP machine to help him breathe, before later being moved to a cardiology ward after beginning to recover.

Three weeks later he was able to go home - on April 29.

“There were two things that really kept me going while I was in hospital – wanting to see my family and four girls again, and the encouragement of all the staff,” he says.

“They all worked so hard, and treated patients with such compassion and care. It was so inspiring.

“I cannot describe how amazing the staff were, and am welling up a bit just thinking about it.

“It was a life-changing experience to witness the grace, kindness and understanding of all the doctors, nurses, physios and other healthcare staff.

“I looked forward to seeing them every day and they were so positive and caring.

“The physios gave me exercises to help me get back to normal and were

incredibly patient and positive.

“I work as a plumber, but have been truly inspired by how wonderful the physiotherapists were and am now determined to train to do part-time physiotherapy work. It really has been a life-changing experience.

“I still have a bit of a way to go to get back to full health, the fact that I was well enough to go roller-skating in the park less than two weeks after being discharged shows how much better I am.

“I sent a short film of myself rollerskating to the staff who treated me to say thank you. I really can’t thank them enough; they are amazing.”

By Kevin Quinn

kevin@southwarknews.co.uk Eight fire engines and around 60 firefighters tackled a house fire in East Dulwich on Monday morning.

The occupants of the house on Melford Road escaped the blaze before the brigade arrived at 7.04am and thankfully are reported as unhurt.

A woman from a neighbouring property was also assessed at the scene by London Ambulance Service crews.

The whole of the first floor and the roof were badly damaged.

Fire crews from West Norwood and surrounding fire stations were at the scene and brought the fire under control in less than ten minutes.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Photo by @MartinLeaPhoto

residents escape SE22 blaze

Photo by Ruhul Amin Shuhel

Solidarity in Crisis is a service run by Certitude, a London-based Care provider, which specialises in supporting adults with disabilities, mental health needs, and people with autism.

In April calls were 90 per cent higher than in January, with the numbers expected to reach even more of a peak this month as people feel overwhelmed by the pandemic.

The majority of calls were related to anxiety over COVID-19 and employment.

Most come from young people aged eighteen to 25, or the over-65s.

Callers are also seeing an increase in men contacting the service, although women remain four times more likely to pick up the phone asking for help.

Solidarity in Crisis manager

Alexander Robertson, says: “We are seeing that many more people than usual – and particularly younger people - are feeling overwhelmed by multiple issues.

“They are worried about housing, jobs and financial issues and they don’t know where to go for support.

“Our peer supporters are able to talk people through their initial crisis and then signpost them towards a range of different services.

“We operate out-of-hours - in the evenings and at weekends - as this is when people tend to feel most overwhelmed.

“I would urge anyone living in the areas we cover, who is feeling like they are not coping, to give us a ring.

“Our highly-trained peer supporters are ready to listen and bring their personal experience of mental health issues to any situation.”

The Solidarity in a Crisis helpline is Freephone: 0300 123 1922, Text 07889756087 or 07889756083 and is open Monday to Friday 6.00pm – 12.00am, Saturday and Sunday 12.00pm – 12.00am.

The police cordon at Browning Street

walworth man found stabbed in the street

Condition is ‘not life-threatening’

By Katherine Johnston

katherine@southwarknews.co.uk A man in his 20s was found with stab injuries in Walworth on Friday night.

The victim's condition is said to be 'not life-threatening' after paramedics rushed him to hospital.

He was found in Browning Street after police were initially called to

the Rockingham Estate to reports of a stabbing at around 7.39pm.

London's Air Ambulance was seen nearby, at Nursery Row Park, within the hour.

Officers confirmed there had been no arrests so far.

Anyone with information should call police on 101 or Crimestoppers via 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppersuk.org

Southwark News, Thursday May 28 2020

www.southwarknews.co.uk/news

Photo by Peckhamite

lockdown meltdown

A packed Burgess Park

Brockwell Park, May

Rubbish, injuries and parties in the parks

By Katherine Johnston katherine@southwarknews.co.uk The lockdown in Southwark appeared to be well and truly over this bank holiday as scores of people met up for BBQs, picnics, football games and parties complete with loudspeakers - in parks across the borough, leaving piles of rubbish in their wake.

Bins were overflowing in Burgess Park with glass scattered over areas where large groups had been congratulating to listen to music. Some had even put up gazebos, seemingly unafraid of getting fined.

Grass was left scorched by BBQs currently banned in all Southwark’s parks - and, due to public toilets still being shut during the pandemic, human waste, toilet tissue and baby wipes were strewn in bushes.

One pet owner told us their dog had to be rushed to the vet due to being injured on broken glass. Others tweeted Southwark Council to complain, including resident Gus Ballentyne, who

described the park as being so full of rubbish it resembled ‘a landfill site’.

In an unverified video posted online and claiming to be from bank holiday Monday, police vans dispersed a huge group in the park - tallying with what residents on the nearby Aylesbury Estate have told us was a long weekend of police helicopters and sirens going back and forth down Albany Road.

Another resident said police were called ‘at least ten times’ on Friday night to break up parties and fights, finally leaving the area at around 4.30am, while another resident said police were spotted dealing with what appeared to be a rave by the lake at around 10pm on Tuesday night.

Meanwhile, a burnt-out car had appeared in West Dulwich’s Belair Park on Monday morning, and angry residents shared pictures of large groups in Southwark Park and Brockwell Park - including playing football - still forbidden in large groups under lockdown rules.

Hugo Wareham, a member of the the Friends of Burgess Park group that helps

second stabbing in a week

By Katherine Johnston

katherine@southwarknews.co.uk A boy believed to be in his 'midteens' was stabbed on Albany Road on Tuesday evening, in broad daylight and in front of horrified passersby.

The attack is one of a series of violent incidents to take place after the lockdown has been eased and over the bank holiday - and second knife attack in Walworth in the last week after a man was stabbed in Browning Street on Friday.

The News has been told that the victim was attacked while in a group of around a dozen people near Wells Way, with one passerby who happened to be in the area saying they saw the boy 'crumple over' shortly after voices were raised and the atmosphere had become 'threatening'.

Another caller said that tensions had been escalating around the Aylesbury Estate and the wider area, with a

heavy police presence in recent days and loud lockdown-flouting parties taking place in Burgess Park.

A Met spokesperson said: "Police were called at approximately 6.40pm on Tuesday, 26 May to reports of a male found suffering a stab wound in Albany Road, SE5.

"Officers, London Ambulance Service and London’s Air Ambulance all attended the scene. The male – believed aged in his mid-teens – was taken to hospital for treatment.”

Southwark Police later confirmed the teenager’s condition was not ‘lifethreatening’ and he had been stabbed ‘during a fight’ A crime scene was in place, and roads closed, on Tuesday night. At the time of going to print, there had been no arrests.

Anyone with information should call 101 or tweet @MetCC and quote CAD 7135/26May. Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

NEWS 7

Rubbish in Burgess Park

look after the park for the community, was one of those disgusted by the behaviour - and upset on behalf of the dedicated council staff left cleaning up.

He claims there is minimal police presence during the day, and says the unfenced park needs more routine patrols.

In an open letter to Southwark Council and Southwark Police, he said: “We need urgent action in Burgess Park. Litter, continued BBQs, broken glass, drug

paraphernalia, people smoking weed, drunk people fighting, people driving scooters in the morning and afternoon on the paths, homeless people sleeping in wooded areas and a general feeling of abandonment.

“There is next to no social distancing.

“We do realise that Burgess is a big park to manage but at the moment there is absolutely no management of illegal activities or a general police presence .

“People are doing as they please BBQs reported at 12 noon to 101 are still there at 5pm.

“People are blatantly smoking and dealing drugs - no police, no council.

“When we venture to the Royal Parks or Kennington Park there are many police officers and yet in the largest park in Southwark we have no police for days - we need our councillors to be on top of this as well as the police.”

Southwark’s borough commander, Chief Superintendent Colin Wingrove, told the News: “Our policing approach across Southwark remains as before with our officers positively engaging with our communities and explaining the self-distancing regulations.

“We continue to police by consent and enforcement remains the last resort.

“The vast majority of the public are adhering to the government restrictions and we thank them for their continued efforts.

“Burgess Park is patrolled regularly and is included in our patrol plans. Like many of our parks and open spaces it has been busier since the lockdown rules changed and weather improved.

“We work closely with Southwark Council wardens in patrolling Burgess Park and making it a safe and enjoyable place for everyone to visit whilst

complying with the self-distancing regulations.

“We will continue to work in partnership and maintain regular visible patrols in parks and open spaces across Southwark.

“Additionally, we continue to focus on reducing violent crime, providing increased visible policing in hotspot locations to make people safer.”

Deputy leader at Southwark Council, Rebecca Lury, thanked those who were following the guidelines and protecting the wider community while respecting shared spaces in the borough.

She confirmed the parks were patrolled ‘seven days a week’ and said visits had increased during the busy bank holiday.

“Any illegal behaviour seen by residents should be reported to the police, and we have been supporting this process with intelligence from officers and CCTV,” she said.

“We ask that people please take their litter home with them. There is simply not enough capacity in our park bins to manage a huge amount of additional rubbish, despite extra cleaning staff being deployed over the bank holiday.

“Barbecues are not currently permitted in any of our parks, and there is signage telling visitors this. Our staff did challenge people about their use and stopped barbecues over the weekend.

“However, we appeal to people to use common sense when using our parks.

“We are still in lockdown and are still fighting a deadly disease. Please think of others and stay at home as much as possible. When outside you must stay at least two metres away from other families, and please respect park staff and all park users.”

8 NEWS

www.southwarknews.co.uk/news

Southwark News, Thursday May 28 2020

walking for Jimmy

By Josh Salisbury josh@southwarknews.co.uk More than £1,000 has been raised with a socially distanced walk in memory of murdered teen, Jimmy Mizen.

An annual sponsored walk, called 21 Bridges, has been held in popular Jimmy’s name since 2013, on what would have been his 21st birthday.

The keen Millwall fan was murdered following an altercation in a Lee bakery, aged just sixteen.

However, this year the event couldn’t go ahead as planned due to the pandemic – until a Millwall Lioness decided to do the 30-mile walk herself to raise money for a small charity which educates youngsters on knife crime.

“A lot of smaller charities are suffering right now, because they can’t hold events for fundraising,” said Kelly Webster, who played in goal for the Lionesses last season.

“But I didn’t want it to miss a year, I wanted to be able to say it’s been held every single year.”

Jimmy was murdered during an altercation aged just sixteen For her socially distant sponsored walk

on Saturday, Kelly began in Richmond, before following the path of the river to end up at the finishing line at Tower Bridge.

She was joined by her friend, Jamie Chapman, for the walk, who is the older brother of Millwall mascot, Harvey Brown.

The run-up to Saturday’s mammoth walk was not without difficulties, says Kelly, who lives in Bermondsey.

A t-shirt company had been due to deliver printed tees for the walk, and couldn’t, meaning Kelly’s partner was forced to make them at home.

“Everything seemed to be a barrier, but we didn’t let it bother us,” said the 43-year-old.

“It’s a very good charity, they do a lot of work in the community. They go into schools, I think a lot of kids listen to the story of what happened to Jimmy and I think it really affects them.”

Jimmy’s parents, Margaret and Barry, have been overjoyed with the reaction from kind-hearted supporters, says Kelly.

And Jimmy’s older brother, George Mizen, even helped by printing out route cards for the pair to follow during their walk.

“Barry and Margeret met us along the

route, I was overwhelmed by the end,” said Kelly. “It did really help, me and Jamie were in agony by the end.”

To find out more details about the sponsored walk, you can visit Kelly’s fundraising page by searching 'GoFundMe Kelly Webster'.

More details about the charity set up by the Mizen family in Jimmy's name can be found at forjimmy.org.

Jimmy Mizen

all change at London Bridge

By Josh Salisbury josh@southwarknews.co.uk London Bridge has been sectioned off into different lanes for pedestrians, to help with social distancing.

Work is ongoing on the crossing as part of the City of London’s maintenance of the bridge, which means cars are currently banned from the bridge.

This ban may carry over into the long term, after plans announced

by Mayor Sadiq Khan earlier this month raised the possibility of permanently banning cars from both London and Waterloo Bridges.

Currently, pavements on the bridge are being split into oneway sections for pedestrians, so

that they do not mingle as they walk.

Work on the opposite side of the bridge as part of the maintenance are due to begin next month, and will carry on until October.

TfL said earlier this month that cars could be banned from both London and Waterloo Bridges in future under ambitious plans to create “one of the largest car-free areas in any capital city in the world.”

Mayor Sadiq Khan also said that streets between London Bridge and Shoreditch could be limited to foot traffic and bikes only.

“I fully appreciate that this will be incredibly difficult for many Londoners. It will mean a fundamental re-imagining of how we live our lives in this city,” he said.

London South Bank Uni to move classes online

While campus is closed uni is still open

By Josh Salisbury

josh@southwarknews.co.uk London South Bank university will move its lectures online for the next academic year, it has announced.

The move affects the first semester of the academic year, with moves towards some campus provision of classes if safe to do so after that.

The university’s campus, which is based in Elephant and Castle, is currently closed in line with government guidance, although students continue to work from home.

Some students also remain in halls of residence at the university.

In its latest update on how coronavirus is affecting the institution, LSBU said: “The safety and wellbeing of our students and staff is our top priority, and for that reason, we have taken the decision to deliver our lectures online in semester one.

“Depending on advice from the UK

Government, and where we think it’s safe to do so, we plan to enhance this remote delivery with some oncampus provision.”

Open Day events are also being held online, in accordance with lockdown restrictions, said the university.

“While the LSBU campus may be closed, the University is very much still open and our staff are continuing to deliver our priorities, projects and education provision through online and virtual means,” added the university.

“We are really proud of all our staff and current students, who are adapting to these news ways of working and learning. Thank you for your support.”

It comes after other universities have pledged to move all teaching online for the next academic year, including Cambridge University.

However, at the time of writing, LSBU has plans for online lectures for the first semester only, which covers late September to late January.

Cuckooing victim is saved from dealers on Old Kent Rd

A vulnerable cuckooing victim whose home had been taken over by 'drug users' has been moved to safety, writes Katherine Johnston...

‘It will mean a fundamental re-imagining of how we live our lives in this city’ - Mayor Sadiq Khan

Southwark Police issued a closure order on the address in the Old Kent Road area last week.

They say the home had been linked to 'persistent anti-social behaviour'.

The male victim is now being protected at a secure location and given specialist support.

As the News has reported, authorities including Southwark MPS and the council have been concerned cuckooing is on the rise during the lockdown as drug users and dealers attempt to evade officers.

Southwark News, Thursday May 28 2020

www.southwarknews.co.uk/news

NEWS 9

Thirty five local independent businesses – from Japanese restaurants to ice-cream parlours, to olive oil retailers to psychologists - have so far taken up the News’ offer of a month’s free digital advertising, with the paper giving away over £14,000 of advertising to date.

the News gives away over £14k of advertising so far

The scheme was launched at the start of the coronavirus crisis, with owners Chris Mullany and Kevin Quinn deciding they wanted to try to help other local small businesses, with trade falling close to zero over the lockdown period.

And with new inquiries coming in every day from desperate local business owners, they have committed to continuing to give away free digital adverts for as long as the crisis continues.

“We’re a small business ourself, so we feel your pain – and we want to try to help ensure that the lifeblood of south London survives and thrives beyond this difficult situation”, said Chris. “Each business gets 75,000 page views over a month, with these free adverts taking the place of revenue-generating national advertising on our digital network. And it is 100% free of charge – our designers are even creating the adverts for each business and then we upload and run them. Every time we go on our sites and see all those free adverts, we get a kick from feeling we might in some small way be helping them see this through – we really hope so.”

If you run an independent local business, you can find out more about the scheme here: www.southwarknews.co.uk/comment/free-advertisingcoronavirus-crisis

Southwark News, Thursday May 28 2020

www.southwarknews.co.uk/news

NEWS 11

council will back schools if they don’t reopen Southwark demands more answers on safety

By Katherine Johnston katherine@southwarknews.co.uk Southwark Council has written to the education secretary, Gavin Williamson, asking for evidence that returning to school on June 1 next week will be safe for children and staff.

In the letter, Cllr Ali - the cabinet member for children, schools and adult care, asks whether the June 1 date will stick even if infections climb as the lockdown is relaxed, and says government promises such as a thousand laptops for pupils without computers to use at home have never materialised.

She also highlights how vulnerable many in Southwark - including BAME families are to the virus, and concerns over contact tracing.

Cllr Ali told the News: “We are working with our schools to carry out risk assessments to assess whether more children can safely return to schools in Southwark from June 1 in line with government guidance.

“Any decisions on reopening will be based on those risk assessments, which schools should develop with input from teaching staff.

“If any school’s risk assessment shows it cannot open safely then the council will support them to remain closed until such time as they can open safely.

“Our priority is making sure our children return to school safely at the right time, not rushing to meet a specific deadline.”

The government hopes children from reception, year one, and year six, will be able to get back in the classroom from next Monday.

These age groups are deemed particularly vulnerable to missing out on both their academic and social development by staying at home until the new school year.

Many schools are already open in some form or another but to a significantly reduced degree. By mid-May around 815 pupils were attending schools in

Education secretary Gavin Williamson

Southwark. The majority (88 per cent) were in primaries, with 10 per cent in secondaries. Most have keyworker parents.

Others are believed to be particularly vulnerable.

As the News reported last week, teaching unions in Southwark have branded the government’s hopes to reopen schools in June as ‘reckless’ and say their members will refuse to work in unsafe conditions.

And several councils including Bury, Wirral, Hartlepool and Calverdale, all in areas of the north where COVID-19 infections remain high, told their schools to stay closed for now and criticised the government’s plans.

Cllr Ali’s letter strikes a significantly stronger tone than comments made by council leader Peter John last week while speaking to the News.

He had said the issue was "not in local councils’ hands. It’s for the schools to make that decision or the government."

And he added: “Parents will also make a decision on whether to take their kids back and we will support them in whatever decision they make.”

In her letter, Ali, says the council is treating the government’s announcements with ‘some caution’.

“You refer us to the gap in attainment for disadvantaged pupils. Of course, this widening gulf is a major concern, and this is something we have been drawing to the attention of national government for many years.

“While there can be no doubt that a return to proper schooling would help less advantaged pupils, it is also clear that poorer families are more vulnerable to infection with the coronavirus and more vulnerable to serious complications, so sending large numbers of children back to school must surely only take place if schools really are safe environments and if the public health advice is clear that is will not will not unnecessarily put children, teaching staff and our wider community at risk.”

Cllr Jasmine Ali

Her view is echoed by education unions across the borough who have raised concerns about PPE and the safety of BAME staff and parents.

Last Monday 16,000 National Education Union members held the largest union conference call in history to discuss the plans which members formally oppose.

Southwark’s UNISON’s branch branded the June 1 date ‘reckless move by the government’, telling the News in a statement: “Reopening schools and nurseries will place the black community, and the children of key workers at great risk by allowing the virus to re-enter circulation.

“Everyone is worried about a second spike.”

And a survey by NASUWT, the teachers’ union found that only five per cent of 29,000 teachers think it is safe to reopen in June.

Councillor Ali’s letter to education secretary Gavin Williamson I am writing to ask you for your reassurance that it will be safe to start your phased return to school from 1 June.

Schools and parents are understandably concerned about the safety of pupils returning to school. COVID-19 has had a devastating impact on our communities and while I welcome the news that the number of daily deaths is now falling, it is concerning that the infection rate appears to be climbing after the loosening of lockdown restrictions last week.

As Southwark’s lead member for children, schools and adult care I have witnessed the distressing way that the rate of Covid-19 infection increased in care homes.

I must seek assurances from you that the phased return in June is in line with public health guidance, without the risk of harming the health of pupils, their families and school staff.

I understand that on May 28 the government is to review the latest scientific advice on the safety of schools reopening, but if a decision is not made until that date it will give schools no time to prepare for potentially reopening on 1 June.

And, if at that time the rate of infection has increased, will the government still go ahead with the current timetable for reopening schools?

Southwark Council is committed to giving every young person in our borough the best start in life and I am of course deeply concerned about the impact the current pandemic has had on the wellbeing of children in our borough, particularly the most disadvantaged.

But how can we accept your assurance that your proposed phased return on June 1 will benefit pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds?

After all, while I welcomed the news that you would be sending over 1000 home computers for use by pupils that need them, they

have still not materialised. You will forgive us, therefore, if we treat your announcements with some caution.

You refer us to the gap in attainment for disadvantaged pupils. Of course, this widening gulf is a major concern, and this is something we have been drawing to the attention of national government for many years.

While there can be no doubt that a return to proper schooling would help less advantaged pupils, it is also clear that poorer families are more vulnerable to infection with the coronavirus and more vulnerable to serious complications, so sending large numbers of children back to school must surely only take place if schools really are safe environments and if the public health advice is clear that is will not will not unnecessarily put children, teaching staff and our wider community at risk.

The majority of Southwark’s schools, colleges and early years settings have remained open throughout this period to support the children of key workers and children with a social worker.

Rather than a phased return based on form groups, I ask that you consider a more carefully targeted return for those families on the edge of care and/or from families who have found home-schooling challenging because of additional pressures including work, housing, financial and domestic issues.

Given that Southwark is a diverse borough I am deeply concerned that evidence shows how people from BAME backgrounds are at least twice as likely to die as a result of COVID-19 infection.

Is this something that you have factored in to your schools plan, and if so, how? It is often said that schools are the fourth emergency service and Southwark schools have proved this 100 percent correct in recent weeks.

We are working with our schools on their risk assessments so that

they can be confident that they are safe for staff and children and I am surveying parents to obtain their views.

Our schools will have to find new ways of working to facilitate social distancing, which will have an impact on all students, not least those with special education needs.

What provision will your department make to mitigate extra costs that schools will incur as a consequence?

The education trade unions are also seeking reassurances and I share their concerns.

It is especially troubling that the health secretary’s sudden announcement of testing for all over five years of age who show symptoms appears not to be backed with any explanation of how this massive increase is to be delivered, and that after all these months no meaningful programme of contact tracing is in place.

I ask for your reassurance that schools will not be asked to open to full year groups until clear and robust arrangements are in place for comprehensive testing in any schools where there is a suspect case of Covid19, including clear systems to notify councils’ public health teams of suspected cases so we can support schools.

I appreciate the pressure that you must be under. However, my experience of adult social care, namely the lack of collaboration on care homes (see attached my unanswered letter sent to your counterpart in Health) has been deeply troubling.

I ask you now to make sure that our children, teachers and school staff are kept safe.

I ask that you answer my questions and work collaboratively with Southwark, other local authorities, schools, parents and trade unions on a workable plan for the opening of schools, when the science says it is safe to do so.

I look forward to your response and urgent action.

How to get help

help for vulnerable

If you know a vulnerable Southwark resident who is unable to leave the house and may not have friends, family or neighbours to support them, you should let the council know immediately.

Call 0207 525 5000 and choose option 3

Email covidsupport@southwark.gov.uk

You can complete an online referral form by visiting www.southwark.gov.uk/ health-and-wellbeing/public-health/for-the-public/coronavirus

Financial support for households Southwark Council’s Emergency Hardship Fund is open to people who have lost their job or are struggling financially as a result of COVID-19.

This includes support while waiting for the first Universal Credit payment.

Essential Information

focus on one group

Dad’s house in Elephant and Castle

Nunhead Knocks is helping people in the Nunhead and Peckham areas, including with prescription deliveries via Krystal Pharmacy.

This is a group set up by Nunhead Rocks founder Claire Sheppard. The group has set up secure systems for managing personal information.

Dads House is an Elephant and Castle based charity supporting single dads and their families.

It is open on Tuesdays and Fridays from 11am to 4pm. The charity is now appealing for donations of food, toiletries, and other essentials to ensure they are fully stocked. The charity is based at Unit 239 of the shopping centre.

If you need help call 02074594428 or message via their website at www.nunheadknocks.com

Housing help If you are struggling with rent or rentrelated costs, and receive Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit, the council may be able to either give you a ‘discretionary housing payment’, or ‘extended payment of housing benefit’.

If you are living in Southwark Council temporary accommodation and need help with any Coronavirus-related issues, call 020 7525 1093.

Call 020 7525 2434 or apply via www.southwark.gov.uk/benefits-and-support/emergency-support

fooD

If you are made homeless the emergency out of hours service number is 020 7525 5000.

Domestic and sexual abuse mental health If you are unable to afford food some food banks and organisations can arrange deliveries if you are unable to leave the house.

Free services include Southwark food bank.

You will need to be referred with a voucher to access support.

Call 020 7732 0007 or email foodbank.support@pecan.org.uk

Physical health If you are unwell and think you may have Coronavirus, use the online 111 Coronavirus service here https://111. call 111.

If you arenhs.uk/covid-19/ worried about domestic or In life-threatening emergencies, call sexual abuse, the Solace Advocacy 999. service is open to all and Support If you you need a GP women and men think aged sixteen or appointment, call your surgery - do over in Southwark. not walk in.

King’s College Hospital and Guy’s and St Thomas’ emergency departments are still open for emergency patients, Call or in need of other urgent treatment. 020 7593 1290

or visit solacewomensaid.org

Pembroke House, based in Walworth, 020 7703 3803 and info@pembrokehouse.org.uk Borough Free Fridge, St George The Martyr, Borough High Street, Tuesdays 3-5pm There is a full list of organisations on Southwark Council’s website.

If you need help with deliveries/ errands Mutual Aid Groups can be a valuable resource Southwark’s COVID-19 Mutual Aid groups have been set up by volunteers in your area to support their neighbours.

These are self-organising groups and usually not council-affiliated or charityrun. Be careful when sharing information and requests on social media.

The Southwark Facebook group is named “Southwark Mutual Aid Covid 19”.

There are also ward-level and even street-level groups on Whatsapp. To find yours, visit www.tinyurl.com/mutualaidsouthwarkmap.

In the first instance, we recommend contacting the council if you are in need of extra, or specialist support. For example, if you receive at home care or have complex health needs.

If you are struggling with support or have a problem you need help with, your MP, or your ward councillors, can also help. For example, if you are unable to get food delivered or have problems with utilities or services.

Rough sleeping If you see a rough sleeper or know someone is sleeping on the streets, alert StreetLink whose outreach workers can get them into safe accommodation.

Either download the app, call 0300 500 0914 or visit www.streetlink.org.uk If they are in immediate danger or need urgent care call 999.

The South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust has a support line for those in need of support, open 24/7.

Call 0800 731 2864

Southwark News, Thursday May 28 2020

www.southwarknews.co.uk/news

NEWS 13

global disaster

By Josh Salisbury josh@southwarknews.co.uk The Globe theatre is among major Southwark cultural venues which have warned they face financial ruin as a result of the pandemic.

Currently theatres are barred from opening under the terms of the lockdown, and have been for the past two months.

The Bankside venue told a Parliamentary committee that if it was unable to open its doors by September it would need an emergency £5m to survive.

“Without emergency funding and the continuation of the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, we will spend down our reserves and become insolvent,” said the Globe, a replica of Shakespeare’s original, in a submission to the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee.

The ‘furlough’ scheme has since been extended to October since The Globe made its comments.

However, the world-renowned venue

added: “We are a model for the nonsubsidized arts sector that is well-run, well-managed and financially resilient, but in the face of a crisis such as this one, there is no mechanism to help us.

“This has been financially devastating and could even be terminal.” It added that it had not been able to access funding from the Arts Council due to its size.

Other renowned venues serving Southwark, such as the South Bank Centre, has said it has been forced to use its funding from the Arts Council simply to keep its empty buildings running.

The chair of the committee, Julian Knight MP, said he would write to Culture Secretary, Oliver Dowden over the plight of Shakespeare’s Globe.

“For this national treasure to succumb to Covid-19 would be a tragedy,” he said. He added: “Like many theatres and venues across the country, it faces a struggle for survival and an uncertain future.

“The lifting of lock-down will not automatically mean business as usual for the creative industries.”

Southwark residents being urged to donate old phones to help keep people connected

By Josh Salisbury josh@southwarknews.co.uk Southwark residents are being urged by a charity to donate their old smartphones to people in need, to tackle digital exclusion during the lockdown.

An initial trial of the ‘Community Calling’ project is taking place in Southwark, and will see 800 handsets being donated to residents in need in the borough.

Those in need have been identified by a range of community groups, such as Time and Talents, Pecan Food Bank and Solace Women’s Aid. Each of the partner organisations had identified those who would most benefit from access to a smartphone, including

those from low-income backgrounds, asylum seekers and victims of domestic abuse.

The initiative is being run by O2 and the environmental charity, Hubbub, which estimates that 1.9m households don’t have access to the internet.

“At a time when we can’t physically visit our friends and families, many people are relying on their phones and computers as their only point of contact with others,” said Cllr Evelyn Akoto, who holds the public health portfolio at the council.

“This is especially tough on those who are vulnerable and have to isolate completely, and those who cannot afford, or are unable to get access to, a mobile phone or a computer.”

Phones donated by Southwark

residents will be data cleaned before used by someone else, according to the brains behind the project.

O2 will also provide pay as you go Sims and top-ups to be used with the phones.

“The Southwark community has been particularly affected by the recent pandemic, so we’re working in partnership with Hubbub, the local council and community groups to ensure we can distribute these devices to those who need them most,” said Tracey Herald, from the phone network.

If you’d like to donate your old smartphones to the Community Calling project, visit www.hubbub.org.uk/ communitycalling/ for more details.

If the trial is successful, O2 also aims to have the initiative rolled out nationwide.

One in four firms considering redundancies Southbank Centre faces ruin

By Josh Salisbury josh@southwarknews.co.uk The Southbank Centre may be forced to remain closed until April 2021, it warned this week, amid a projected £5m loss for 2020/21.

This bleak forecast is the centre’s best-case scenario for its finances during the pandemic.

In an update on how it is being affected by the orders for venues to close during the pandemic, the centre said it will have burned through its reserves by September.

The centre, the UK’s largest arts and cultural venue, said it was among the latest in industry to sound the alarm about its long-term future without more government support.

“It is with an incredibly heavy heart that we today share further details about the future of the Southbank Centre,” said chief executive, Elaine Bedell.

“We know we are not alone in this

and stand with our friends, partners, and colleagues – both here in the UK and abroad – during this time of unprecedented challenge.

“We’re doing all we can to safeguard the Southbank Centre we currently know and love for the years ahead.

“However, this crisis has hit hard, and we join a number of other organisations and venues in sounding the alarm about the long-term health of UK arts and culture.”

The organisation, which runs the Queen Elizabeth Hall and the Royal Festival Hall, said it will have used £4m of support from the government’s furlough scheme, and warned redundancies may be needed in the future.

It also said that it had used the remainder of its grant from Arts Council England to maintain the upkeep of its buildings.

Without further government support, the SE1 institution said it may cease to be a going concern in the near future.

Cafe Provencal in Herne Hill will not be reopening its doors when restaurants are allowed to reopen

By Katherine Johnston katherine@southwarknews.co.uk One in four small businesses in London are considering redundancies due to the financial impact of Coronavirus, according to a new survey by the Federation of Small Businesses.

Responses from 350 London traders also showed that around a third of them had been forced to close since the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak, with 36 per cent saying they were not sure whether they could reopen.

Thirty-seven per cent said that due to the demands of keeping up with

payments as business ground to a halt, they had already made redundancies or were planning to. Seven in ten have furloughed staff to aid the survival of their business.

The poll comes after the News reported one restaurant and bar in Herne Hill, Cafe Provencal, had permanently closed its doors, citing COVID-19 as the last straw after a fire and two floods.

“The impact of the coronavirus pandemic has been felt right across the small business community, with thousands of small firms all over London fearing for their futures.

“The government has steppedup with a huge range of support for

millions of small businesses and sole traders, from income support schemes, to cash grants, to help with accessing finance and business rates breaks," said FSB chair Michael Lassman.

“Policymakers now need to realise that the economy will not go from zero to a hundred overnight once we’re into the recovery phase.

“The crucial support that’s on offer needs to be kept under review, and adapted to reflect the new normal as we chart a course back to economic recovery.

“Small firms in London are struggling with many self-employed individuals omitted from government schemes and many sectors missing out on vital Grants and rent and rates support.

“We are calling on London landlords to support our tenants.

“The negative impact of losing businesses would be more people unemployed empty units that will be difficult to fill, as very few companies are seeking to take on leases at this time.

“We need to see Landlords working side by side with their tenants at this crucial time.”

Many small business owners are not entitled to use the Self-Employed Income Support Scheme as they are directors of limited companies.

Southwark MPs including Harriet Harman have called for the scheme to be extended.

14 NEWS

www.southwarknews.co.uk/news

Photo by Roswitha Chesher

southwark angels

Southwark News, Thursday May 28 2020

Gwyneth and Lucy

Helping in crisis

Meet Me on the Radio!

A new weekly radio show from members of Deptford arts centre is now broadcasting on Borough High Street radio station, Resonance 104.4FM.

Meet Me on the Radio is produced by members of The Albany, an arts centre in Deptford, in partnership with Entelechy Arts and Souncamp, an artists collective.

In normal times the Albany holds a weekly arts club for older people called ‘Meet me at…’ with support from Lewisham Council.

Regular events including a choir, gardening activities, films and 21st Century tea dances, trips and adventures all over London, a Dementia-friendly film and movement club and befriending projects.

With COVID-19 presenting serious risks for older people, their activities were put on hold in March, so they’ve decided to make a socially distanced radio show so people keep connected - especially those who don’t use the internet.

Meet Me on the Radio will include news and sounds from the Albany garden, sonic journeys through Lewisham, and conversations with artists and community members.

Chief Executive and artistic director of the Albany, Gavin Barlow, said: “We’re excited to launch this new venture for ‘Meet Me at…’ in partnership with such fantastic organisations.

“The programme has already evolved to include so many activities, interests and skills so a radio show seemed like a natural fit.

“One of the best things about the programme is people of all backgrounds and ages coming together, so we hope that as many people as possible tune in and enjoy Meet Me on the Radio each week.”

David Slater, artistic director of Entelechy Arts, said: “Meet Me on the Radio puts the passions and experience of the oldest in our communities at the heart of the creative fightback against COVID-19- enforced isolation.

“Prepare to sit back, listen and have all your preconceptions about ageing blown away.”

Meet Me On The Radio broadcasts on 104.4FM every Tuesday at 11.30am. For more information visit resonancefm.com

Call a friend

Since the lockdown began, at least 40 volunteers have befriended older residents in the borough through Link Age Southwark.

The charity helps match seniors with volunteer gardeners, friends, and shoppers particularly important for those self-isolating who may not have family nearby.

Lucy and Gwyneth are one new pair of pals whose telephone friendship is going from strength to strength.

Gwyneth, who is in her 90s, explained: “I’ve found it very educational in that I’m hearing about young people, what they’re thinking, dreaming about, enjoying, hoping to achieve.

“And Lucy is interested in my experiences in the Second World War, so we’ve found different levels to communicate on about our experiences.”

Lucy said: “Being a telephone befriender has given me an unexpected chance to get to know someone new, at a time when all social plans are on pause, and to start a friendship that I hope will continue long after lockdown.”

Food is one of their favourite topics of conversation and they are already planning where they can go for a meal when they are able to meet in person.

“It’s been great to have something in the diary to look forward to every weekend, and I also like knowing that I am helping someone else to feel more connected and hopefully a bit happier at this time,” Lucy added.

The charity will be launching a Crowdfunder on June 3 to help continue its COVID-19 response efforts, and also to run a gardening project.

Melissa Whittingham, Link Age Southwark’s volunteer coordinator, says the project will bring a bit of colour and charm to people feeling isolated at home, as well as helping them on a practical level with keeping their gardens tidy and in good condition.

“Gwyneth and Lucy epitomise our vision of friendly local communities, where older people thrive,” she said.

“We are also delighted to share the news that our work has been recognised this month through being awarded the Investing in Volunteers Quality Standard by NCVO.” Find out more: www.linkagesouthwark.org

Southwark News, Thursday May 28 2020

www.southwarknews.co.uk/news

NEWS 15

Arnold’s 100 mile CYCLE Thirteen-year-old Arnold Prichenfried has cycled 100 miles, all in laps around Brockwell Park, to raise money for the Maudsley Charity.

The Charter School North Dulwich pupil, who is in year 8, completed 58 laps over the course of a week.

He has now smashed his initial £150 target - with more than £700 on his JustGiving page at the end of last week.

“I chose the Maudsley Charity because even before the Coronavirus it was hard for people to get the right help, so now that the NHS overall is so busy it must be even harder.

“I got the idea out of nowhere. I just thought that I don’t really use my bike much so I thought that this would be the perfect way to stay active.

“While I was doing it I felt really happy, so it taught me a lesson that giving to others can make you feel really proud.

“I feel that mental health is such a covered-up issue that isn’t talked freely about and it is also something that we are all very likely to experience whether it is a family member’s death, to being bullied - it all adds up.

“It is best to learn about how to handle it from a young age.”

Donate online at: www.justgiving.com/ crowdfunding/arnold-priechenfried

a hot Eastern surprise

Crystal Palace charity Invisible Palace has linked up with Paxton Green Time Bank and award-winning Gipsy Hill restaurant and takeaway, Eastern Cuisine, to provide over 60 meals a week to members of the community who are either isolating due to age or health, or experiencing food poverty.

One older recipient told the charity her weekly food parcel and hot meal made her feel ‘almost as if she were back in the real world’. Another, who had never had a takeaway meal before, was brought to tears by the gesture.

On Thursday, May 14, Dulwich and West Norwood MP Helen Hayes, and councillor Andy Simmons joined the volunteers to help deliver meals to the Kingswood Estate.

Sharif Ahmed, from Eastern Cuisine, said “Cooking hot and tasty meals for people who are

Tesco gives its FareShare

Food charities FareShare and the Trussell Trust are benefitting from more than 200,000 donated meals from Tesco.

122 trucks full of Tesco food donations have been delivered to the two charities across London - including in Southwark. 110 tonnes

of food has been sent toFareShare’s centre in London, to help 220 local charities with 261,910 meals-worth of food.

Enough long-life food to provide almost 1,000 meals for people in crisis is being supplied to Trussell Trust food banks each week.

finding these times particularly challenging is very important to us.

“When it is safe and allowed our doors will open to invite volunteers from the two partner organisations to come and dine together and celebrate the work they have done”.

Eastern Cuisine has sponsored several community groups and charities over recent years including Crystal Palace Subway, Link Age Southwark, Friends of Gipsy Hill and the restaurant’s partner on this initiative Invisible Palace.

For the last four years the restaurant has held a festive buffet for 50 people through Link Age Southwark.

Eastern Cuisine is now also providing free daily meals for residents aged 70 and above in the surrounding streets.

16 OPINION

www.southwarknews.co.uk/letters

Southwark News, Thursday May 28 2020

Comment from

Westminster

NEIL COYLE

MP for Bermondsey & Old Southwark

Boris the appeaser I n the last few weeks I have heard from local people making huge sacrifices in order to respect the lockdown and protect the NHS and our wider community.

The man who could not hold his mum’s hand as she passed away at St Thomas’ hospital. The woman whose mum has leukaemia and has seen no family for months. The constituent whose gran died in a care home in Lincolnshire with no family around her. I am so sorry that so many have suffered so much and would like to thank everyone for your resilience and patience in these unique and challenging times.

Almost everyone has given up personal freedoms for this period.

Sadly, tens of thousands of people have died and many more have contracted the virus despite the sacrifices made by almost all of us during the lockdown. Had everyone taken the selfish, arrogant attitude of Boris Johnson’s closest advisor, Dominic Cummings, the outcome would have been far worse. That neither of them can see how upset and angry people are with their disrespect for the rules is appalling.

Johnson has always likened himself to Churchill but seems more like Chamberlain to me: trying to appease the virus instead of marshalling all efforts in attacking it. The early international advice and science was ignored. The lockdown was too late. Allowing some to

break the rules is unacceptable.

Even now, he is trying to bring parliament back prematurely after his embarrassingly weak commons performances. He thinks a braying mob of Tory backbenchers egging him on will help, but I suspect Keir Starmer’s laser-focused questions and pinpoint scrutiny will continue to show up his many inadequacies.

Whilst working from home, I have had some more wins that will benefit our community. The chancellor backed my call to extend access to the business support scheme to help firms who do not pay rates directly. After I highlighted the issue, an extra £617 million was provided which should help many employers in railway arches as well as traders at Borough Market for example. My campaign to ensure anyone fleeing domestic abuse has access to a safe, permanent home was accepted by ministers who are taking my amendment on the issue forward in the Domestic Abuse Bill. After a year of raising the matter, ministers are also now increasing access to PrEP, a drug which prevents the spread of HIV. In these extraordinary times, I will keep fighting our corner and know that, for many, there will still be much hardship ahead. This crisis has also shown that our community remains very strong and has seen neighbours pull together to help each other. I hope that continues as we go forward together. In the meantime, please keep following the advice and stay home whenever possible. Thank you again for your patience and please keep doing your bit to help save lives and protect our amazing NHS.

READERS’ VIEWS Editorial: Reopening schools risks more harm than good You need some germs in your life to build your immune system.

Think we have gone a bit OTT with the sanitising Anne Stone, via Facebook

I'm in two minds over all this. Obviously there is a risk, but is it any more of a risk then parents taking their kids shopping as some obviously have been or going to a packed Burgess or Southwark park? Or buying shopping which is packaged in plastics and most people don't wash the packaging. I know I don’t buy a milk bottle and bring it home and wash it or a pack of pasta and wash it... Do we as parents disinfect our post?

Do we wash parcels that have been delivered? Does everyone get what I'm saying?

Rose Villiers Read, via Facebook

Opening schools next month is ‘reckless’ say unions I don't feel comfortable sending my son back yet as much as I would love to. I'd never forgive myself if he caught the virus or brought it home to me, I'm his only parent, I need him and he needs me. I fear a second wave of this virus coming. Pneumonia a few years ago left me wiped out, so I dread to think how I'd manage with Coronavirus x Lynsey O’Connor, via Facebook

Extended construction hours slammed by SE1 councillor This has been going on since the beginning of lockdown. Our block has had builders in and around the building, ignoring social distancing, leaving the lifts and corridors dirty. Residents have made numerous complaints, all being replied to with nonsense from the council. Works have been going on at weekends, first thing on Sunday morning. During a 'lockdown' we haven't been able to avoid the continuous noise and disturbance. It’s been pretty awful.

Li Williams, via Facebook

Is Boris right to defend his chief adviser Dominic Cummings?

Well done Boris. It’s good to see a leader who refuses to be bullied by the far left and biased mainstream media. Strange that those baying for Cummings’ blood say nothing of Stephen Kinnock MP driving 200 miles to wish his dad happy birthday, or Tahir Ali MP attending a funeral with 100s of other mourners. Where was the false OTT media outcry and demand for sackings then. It’s clearly obvious it’s a politically driven witch hunt. Even Alastair Campbell didn’t get this much baiting and we all know what he did.

John Davies, via Facebook

This man is the architect of the plans that stopped people being with relatives as they were dying, stopped people seeing friends & family when they were in need, stopped people going to funerals of loved ones, stopped people from going to places of worship when they needed comfort most...

How can anyone defend his actions???

George Bowden, via Facebook

May is a busy gardening month

T

he unseasonably warm weather in April brought early and spectacular displays of spring flowering trees and shrubs. But at the start of May winds turned north easterly bringing much lower temperatures and heavy showers; the first rain for many weeks.

May is an exhilarating month – the gateway to summer - and full of blossom and vibrant growth. Now it is the turn of Elder, Hawthorn, Peonies and summer Jasmine (with its heady scent) to join the early flowering

Lilac, Mexican orange (Choisya), Roses, Wisteria and Californian lilac.

The elegant and symmetrical Horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum) seems to flower earlier each year, and by mid-month the large candlelike blooms had started to fade. This quick growing giant can reach over a hundred feet in a few decades and so they tend to be a feature in parks and large open spaces. There are compact varieties of Chestnut more suited to (large) gardens – Aesculus pavia with deep red flowers in June/July and Aesculus parviflora (white flowers); either variety are attractive trees.

Another traditional May-time shrub is Lilac (Syringa) but was in full bloom by the end of April. It is a small tree making it ideal for a town garden. The flowering season is fairly short, but Lilac is worth having for the exquisite perfume. Grow seasonal plants around the base (autumn/winter bulbs and summer annuals) so there are other flowers before and after Lilac time.

There are several varieties including Syringa microphylla ‘Superba’ which grows to six feet and has pink flowers

(suitable for large containers).

Syringa chinensis reaches about nine feet and has lavender flowers.

May is a busy month in the garden; weeds are making a bid to take over and need to be removed quickly.

With no rain since the beginning of the month regular watering is vital – especially for containers and window boxes. Increase stocks of the shrubby herbs - cuttings can be taken of Rosemary, Sage and Marjoram; prepare sections of plant material four to six inches long, remove the bottom sets of leaves.

Using rooting compound can speed up the process; place cuttings into potting compost in containers. Once the roots are established, plant out and water well during the first weeks.

The birds have been very active through April and May - with busy bursts of nest building and foraging - and glorious tuneful singing in part designed to defend their territory.

During the dry weather ensure water is available; wash and refresh containers regularly - birds get diseases from stagnant/dirty water.

Daddy saved my life: Read the extraordinary story of baby Tommy Thank you for an amazing write up, as Tommy’s grandmother, I can’t put into words what a rollercoaster this past year has been. Evelina hospital have been nothing short of amazing in saving our beautiful grandson’s life.

Lauraine Davies, via Facebook

Lauraine Davies that is such good news to hear, finally, your family can relax and enjoy your gorgeous, beautiful grandson. So happy for you after such a stressful year for you all. Wonderful news in this dreadful time for all. Bless you xx Sandra Treadwell, via Facebook

You have all been through so much, been a long year for you all. As we know Tommy is a little fighter and now he can start to have the life he deserves. Xx Tracy Smith, via Facebook

Little Tommy is a star, hopefully after all this he goes on to lead a fantastic life. Take care miracle man.

Harry Chapman, via Facebook

Southwark News, Thursday May 28 2020

www.southwarknews.co.uk/letters

OPINION 17

Give some people an inch they’ll take a mile

L

ockdown has presented many challenges but at least when we were told to stay at home the guidance was clear.

Now the waters have been muddied. Schools may be reopening - but we’re not 100 per cent sure - and although people aren’t allowed to play contact sports, travel far for ‘non essential trips’ or meet up in groups beyond your own household and one extra person - how can police really enforce this?

The drama at the heart of government over Dominic Cummings’ 260-mile round trip could not have come at a worse time - and the PM’s continued defence of him has weakened the nation’s collective resolve.

Suddenly, a minority - but a very significant one - is being so brazen as to meet up to play football, have BBQs and even parties with loudspeakers in the green spaces families depend on for their physical and mental health. The mess they’ve left behind shames us all - it’s absolutely disgusting on every level that people could be so selfish and careless.

But the government should have known this would happen. If you give some people an inch they’ll take a mile.

Police and council staff need a lot more backup over bank holidays. Warm weather, public holidays, and school holidays are known for being peaks in anti-social behaviour and also violent crime.

Now children and young people have more freedom again, they’re at higher risk.

Two young men were stabbed within days of one another - one found in Browning Street and one attacked in front of dozens of people next to Burgess Park.

In times of crisis governments can push through radical plans, and get support for massive changes, in a way that can seem impossible in normal times.

That’s why the government is steaming ahead with a huge transport shake-up to get more people walking and cycling safely, so they can adhere to social distancing and stay fit and healthy for years to come.

During the lockdown most types of crime dropped sharply. One of the most forward thinking things the government could do now isn’t radical at all - it’s basic.

Give the police the resources they need so the gains that we have made during the crisis aren’t squandered.

SOUTHWARK NEWS DIARIST

What the Dickens?

Dale Gibson

It’s part of a regular makeover of the tank, which has a longstanding history in the area.

(It was placed there as part of a planning dispute with Southwark Council).

Pictures of the tank given the “NHS Thank You makeover” have now begun making the rounds on social media – with plenty of quips to match.

“When you have a battle at the Eastern Front at 7:30 but need to clap for the NHS at 8:00,” says one social media user.

“Absolutely criminal that they missed the opportunity to write "tank you" on the front instead,” adds another.

Bermondsey bees under lockdown too!

It’s not just humans who are under lockdown during the coronavirus pandemic.

It’s bees too. According to Bermondsey bee keeper Dale Gibson, beehives are contending

Clues Across

4 Investigated professional plot (6) 8 Stayed the course and finished round the old city (7) 10 Knowledgeable after the finish that’s the position (7) 11 It’s no joke getting behind at sea (5) 12 Mr Wood, senior, we presume? (5) 13 Getting a rise? (9) 16 Was Robin Hood so bandy, then? (3 6) 19 What’s the wild dog doing? (5) 20 Where one is expected to take steps (5) 22 Classical welcome to the right communist is declared (7) 23 Stumped on the golf course (7) 24 Unruly sets I’d stop (6)

Clues Down

1 Praise about a former country (6) 2 Lied about being out of work (4) 3 They provide a firm basis for pressing matters (7,6) 5 Holidays somehow delayed Rolls Royce test (3 6,4) 6 Fifty in the band are dazzling (8) 7 Dry out the organ dull (6) 9 She could be an ideal girl (5) 14 Risks about a pound in church (8) 15 He somehow drew with the District Attorney (6) 17 Presumably you don’t mind if they are cross (5) 18 Is in awe of many mad dares (6) 21 It can take a hammering (4)

QUICK PUZZLE

Bermondsey tank does the rounds and is a hit

As the News has reported, a disused tank on the corner of Mandela Way has been painted blue in tribute to the NHS.

CRYPTIC PUZZLE

Clues Across

with their own version of a pandemic – called the European Foulbrood (EFB).

When a hive gets infected, their entrances are shrunk, to make it easier for guard bees to police who enters the hive to avoid spreading infection.

It’s quite a curious parallel, says Gibson of Bermondsey Street Bees. “That’s quite an outbreak of a serious notifiable bee disease and here we are living alongside a human epicentre of infection,” he told The Independent.

Kicking up a stink in SE16

Old school Bermondsey and Rotherhithe folk are known for being plain talking.

Our attention is drawn to a particularly blunt sign that one resident has put outside their home in SE16, after complaints about dog fouling.

“Pick it up!” the sign reads. “Stop letting your poxy dog s*** outside my house. Have some respect. Dirty wrongon.”

4 Photographer’s apparatus (6) 8 Claws (7) 10 Sinews (7) 11 Disturb (5) 12 Bottles (5) 13 Scent (9) 16 Helper (9) 19 Equipment (5) 20 Gum (5) 22 Sinister (7) 23 Paying attention (7) 24 Most vile (6)

Clues Down

1 Overwhelm (6) 2 Watering places (4) 3 Disturbances (13) 5 Annual commemorations (13) 6 Extreme selfishness (8) 7 Estimate (6) 9 Back (5) 14 Water sports (8) 15 Self possession (6) 17 Rip (5) 18 Muddle (6) 21 Non alcoholic (4)

Solutions to last week’s crossword Cryptic

ACROSS: 1 Excuse 7 Funeral 8 Tastier 9 Miser 10 Arrogance 12 Nil 13 Onus 15 Leghorn 17 Sods 19 Ale 21 Clergyman 22 Sisal 23 Vainest 24 Baggage 25 Denser DOWN: 1 Extracts 2 Casern 3 Shingle 4 Gnome 5 Prison 6 Slur 7 French leave 11 Oils 13 Only 14 Spinster 16 Ragtime 18 Design 20 Embers 21 Clear 22 Sobs

Quick

ACROSS: 1 Sampan 7 Parting 8 At large 9 Elite 10 Resentful 12 Tag 13 Chid 15 Reprove 17 Scan 19 Ado 21 Challenge 22 Beech 23 Ceasing 24 Bedtime 25 Attend DOWN: 1 Sparrows 2 Molest 3 Arrange 4 Cruel 5 Finish 6 Ogle 7 Performance 11 Earn 13 Cede 14 Diverged 16 Valiant 18 Amends 20 On time 21 Chair 22 Baby

HELP STOP THE SPREAD OF CORONAVIRUS

KEEP YOUR DISTANCE PROTECT THE NHS SAVE LIVES If going out stay with members of your household or one person from outside your household - 2 metres apart.

2m

Stay 2 metres away from other people when you go out Wash your hands often with soap and water or use sanitiser Do not leave home if you or someone you live with has a high temperature or a new, continuous cough

www.southwark.gov.uk/coronavirus

 covidsupport@southwark.gov.uk  020 7525 5000  @lb_southwark

 facebook.com/southwarkcouncil

4277 - Corona virus Southwark news 268x345 Phase 2 v1.indd 1

If you are very unwell or have symptoms that last longer than 7 days visit www.111.nhs.uk, call NHS on 111, or your local GP.

@southwarkcouncil

20/05/2020 11:49

Southwark News, Thursday May 28 2020

www.southwarknews.co.uk/news

DIABETES covid-19 link?

By Katherine Johnston katherine@southwarknews.co.uk A third of patients who died in hospitals with COVID-19 had diabetes, according to NHS research, shedding light on the risk to the 8,000 people in Southwark who do not realise they are living with the condition.

Previous studies analysing data from English hospitals showed around a quarter of all who died had diabetes.

Other ‘co-morbidities’ listed showed eighteen per cent had dementia; eighteen per cent had respiratory problems; fourteen per cent had chronic kidney disease; and ten per cent were diagnosed with ischemic heart disease.

The latest figures, showing the number who had diabetes rose to a third, were published on March 20 by NHS England.

Researchers analysed 23,804 registered COVID-19 deaths in hospitals between March 1 and May 11.

They found that Type 1 diabetes are more at risk of dying from COVID-19 than those with Type 2 diabetes.

Type 1 diabetics are more than three times likely to be killed by the virus than a patient who does not have diabetes.

And although Type 2 diabetics have a lower risk they are still twice as likely to die from COVID-19 than non-diabetics.

However, the largest risk factor so far appears to be age - with those under 40 much less likely to become with COVID-19. Men are also at higher risk.

Type 2 diabetes is also more prevalent in some ethnic groups. People from South Asian and black African and Caribbean descent also have a higher risk of becoming diabetic - all groups with large populations in Southwark and who are disproportionately affected by the virus.

Type 1 diabetes is an incurable autoimmune condition usually diagnosed in early childhood. Type 2 diabetes is mainly associated with lifestyle factors

- obesity and diet - and accounts for around 90 per cent of all diabetes diagnoses. It can usually be prevented through keeping fit and eating healthily.

Despite major public health efforts to prevent diabetes, seen as a major national concern, last year we reported that the number of confirmed diabetics in the borough has risen to a record high - 16,720. This equates to 6.2 per cent of the population.

Many people do not realise they have type two diabetes until their condition has already caused significant health complications, meaning the true number of people affected in Southwark could be vastly underestimated.

It is now believed around 8,000 people in Southwark could not realise they are living with diabetes. This also means many could be failing to take the steps they need to protect themselves from COVID-19.

As a general rule, people with diabetes are not classed as ‘clinically extremely vulnerable’ and therefore do not need to be fully shielded - but this depends on each individual’s health and whether they are living with other conditions, too.

Everyone with diabetes is in the 'clinically vulnerable group' which means they should follow stringent social distancing advice.

Signs and symptoms of Type 2 diabetes, according to the NHS, include needing to urinate more than often, especially at night, feeling thirsty all the time, tiredness, unintended weight loss, itching around the genitals or repeated thrush, cuts taking longer to heal, and blurred vision.

If you are worried, contact your GP who can arrange a blood test.

No deaths for five days

By Katherine Johnston

katherine@southwarknews.co.uk Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Trust reported no COVID-19 deaths for five days in a row last week.

The latest available NHS figures show the trust did not have a single COVID-19 fatality from May 16-20. So far, 223 patients have lost their lives to the virus while being treated at its sites.

It was one of six major hospitals in London to see no deaths from the virus in a 48-hour period.

King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust has also seen a marked drop in COVID-19 cases.

A total of 489 of patients across its hospitals have died from the disease, with the highest toll recorded on March 31 - with 27 deaths.

It had no fatalities from the virus for the first time on May 12, but so far has not had two consecutive days without deaths since the crisis began. May 12, May 16, and May 19 saw no COVID-19 deaths at King’s.

Southwark has had 1,264 confirmed positive COVID-19 cases so far. It is currently the fourteenth most affected borough after cases spread across the country.

Birmingham still has the most number of confirmed infections (3,425) followed by Sheffield (2,519) and County Durham (1,967).

NEWS 19

Baby Alex blessed by the big boss

By Josh Salisbury josh@southwarknews.co.uk A baby boy from Walworth has been blessed by the Archbishop of Canterbury after his mother was unwell following his birth.

Ellen Eames, 38, had dangerously high blood pressure at the end of her pregnancy with baby Alexander at the end of last month and was admitted to St Thomas’.

Following the birth, Ellen needed to stay in hospital to get her blood pressure down. Her husband Ken also had to go home after the birth because of coronavirus.

“Luckily my recovery from the birth was fine but emotionally it was a very hard week for me and for Ken, who was spending his first week as a father at home by himself and wasn’t allowed to visit us,” said Ellen, who is herself a vicar.

Because the family did not know how long it would be before their baby could get to church, where he would be blessed, Ellen asked if her little boy could be blessed in the hospital instead.

“In normal circumstances we would have asked a priest to bless Alexander on his first visit to church but I didn’t know how long it would be until churches would re-open,” she said.

“I also didn’t know when I’d next be near another priest. There is something very important about being ministered to by someone else.”

After arranging the blessing with the hospital team, Ellen was shocked to

discover it would be none other than the Archbishop of Canterbury himself performing the ceremony.

He has been volunteering with the hospital’s chaplaincy team during the pandemic, and little Alexander was his first chaplaincy visit.

Ellen said: “It made it extra special to have such an important visitor. I'd never met the Archbishop before even though I'm a priest in the Church of England, of which he's the spiritual leader.

“It meant a lot to me that my baby could receive a blessing, especially at a challenging time.

“It was comforting to be reminded of God’s blessing and that Alexander is part of God’s story, despite being in hospital and in the middle of a difficult time for everyone.”

Shortly after the Archbishop visited on Easter Sunday, Ellen and Alexander were allowed back home.

While the family have not been able to introduce their new-born to anyone else, Ellen says it is wonderful to be back home.

“Since then, even though we haven’t been able to introduce Alexander to any relatives, it’s been wonderful to be home together just the three of us,” she said.

By Katherine Johnston

depending on geography and not everyone can access [it].”

She says the transition back to a more regular service will also pose challenges.

“I think there has been a real stoicism and determination to get on and help patients, including getting more routine work up and running, but this crisis has taken an emotional toll on the NHS workforce, and that might not be fully seen for quite a while.

“We also have doctors increasingly worried about the people who haven’t come in for treatment, and what the impact of that is going to be like over the coming weeks.

“And there’s the combination of stress over the lockdown and missing family and friends, caring for very sick patients, and the risks of going into work especially for people from BAME backgrounds.

“The NHS has been underfunded and under resourced for a long time, but we will need a commitment for more mental health support for a long time after this crisis.”

Recommendations include making temporary extra support services during COVID-19 - such as added counselling and wellbeing hubs - permanent; improving access to occupational health professionals, more research into NHS staff suicides and prevention; and essentials such as being able to use annual leave after working for long periods and having 24/7 access to places where staff can rest and eat food.

Doctors need help too! katherine@southwarknews.co.uk Nearly half of London doctors are suffering from burn-out that, for many, has only intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The British Medical Association, says 48 per cent of doctors in London are suffering from poor mental health and wellbeing due to work-related anxiety, stress and depression, with 35 per cent of those surveyed saying their mental health has deteriorated since the crisis.

The union is calling for more support for doctors, saying it is vital that specialist support put in place to help during the COVID-19 crisis is kept longterm.

The chair of the junior doctors committee at the BMA, Dr Sarah Hallett, who is based at a large trust in southeast London, told the News: “Already most people were working at their very limits and now for many across London hospitals their rotas are a lot more intense and they are working more of the longest shifts - around thirteen hours.

“Many doctors are working in different teams, in different places, and doing work they’re not as used to due to be being redeployed.

“Mental health problems in the NHS were there before. This is an ongoing problem.

“Although there is some great support set up to help people it is patchy

20 FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS

www.southwarknews.co.uk

Birthday

Southwark News, Thursday May 28 2020

Tribute

EMMA

Death Notice It’s in great sadness that we announce the sudden death of our beloved mum

NORA CONNEELY (NEE DOLAN) who sadly passed, but peacefully, at her home on Wednesday 13th May 2020 (Thankfully not the covid-19 virus) Nora was surrounded by her family.

Nora was aged 89. Formerly of Peckham, London, Born in Ireland (Toormakeady county Mayo). Her surviving family, sons and daughters Barney, Eamon, John, Nora Barbara, Mary, Anne, Peter…

Rest in peace Mum

24/07/1930 - 13/05/2020 Loved very much today and always forever in our hearts. Will be missed so very much by all her family Sons, Daughters xxxxxxxx All her Son in laws and daughters In laws and all her Grandchildren and her great-grandchildren X

To place a family announcement in the paper please email

em@southwarknews.co.uk

Announcements must be placed by 4pm on the Tuesday before Thursday’s publication

Emma, we love you more than words can ever say Thinking of times together, every single day You were kind and caring, Emma, that’s what we will remember How you loved Xmas so much, putting your tree up in November Once the presents were open, on every Xmas day You would turn and look at us. It’s my birhday next! You’d say Even though now, we are apart Emma (daughter, sister, auntie) you will forever be in our heart You left us suddenly, Emma, you never said goodbye.

But one day we will meet again, way up in the sky Sleep now, Emma, we love you very much and when we see the brightest star we know you’ve been in touch.

The family of the late

Emma Williams

would like to thank Albins especially Joanna & George for their care and kindness during this difficult time.

We would also like to thank family & friends

R.I.P Emma loved & missed by all xxx

Book in your half price announcements For weddings, births & birthday milestones.

Social media included (when requested)

22 ARTS

www.southwarknews.co.uk/arts

Southwark News, Thursday May 28 2020

what’s on

in Southwark

Nunhead Sculptor Creates Unity and Respect for School Artist and sculptor Rafael Klein is one of Nunhead’s most recognised artists. One, because he has lived and worked there for so long and, two, because much of the street art you see around the borough will have been created by him, writes Michael Holland...

With public sculptures in the Old Kent Road, Peckham’s Friary Estate, Tustin Estate, Peckham Rye, Paterson Park, Camberwell and Nunhead Station, it is impossible not to know Klein’s work even if you may not recognise the man as you pass him when he is out walking his dog.

Rafael has brightened up many local schools by redesigning their entrances, railings and play areas, making them more welcoming, while always using the ideas and sketches of the pupils (Kender Primary, Pilgrims’ Way, Horniman School). He has now completed another pupil-inspired sculpture, and this time for Woodmansterne in Lambeth.

How did you come to be doing the gates? ‘Kate Broadbent, the Acting Deputy Head of Woodmansterne, visited my studio during the Nunhead Art Trail a few years ago, where we had a lovely chat - she knew some of my public art projects in local schools.’

Woodmansterne is a new school with both Primary and Secondary buildings.

Rafael says of his first visit there, ’It struck me that the new buildings were excellent, but the entrance to the school

was drab and uninviting. We discussed creating a new artwork for the entrance which would project the creativity and dynamic nature of the school.’

The school wanted to use their ‘school values’ as the theme, and after guidance from the artist in a presentation to the whole school, where he showed slides

of previous school transformation projects and talked about his work as an artist, the staff organised the creation of drawings to Rafael’s instructions. He says, ‘Only then did I begin to develop the final design, based on all of their drawings.’

The drawings, all done by the

But those years have had their moments. ‘I’m proud that I organised a tour of 50 arts centres and theatres in the UK, and held an audience all by myself for two hours… Or the time the New York Times called me a “comic”.

That made my parents proud.’

He wasn’t finished. ’I love talking to people,’ he says smiling, and I am caught off guard. ‘Okay,’ he chimes back in, ‘I love talking AT people. I love that I can say whatever I want; the only consideration is that people must find what I have said funny… It used to be like that, now no person in the club or online, or anywhere in the world, can take offence at what the comic has said.’ He looks dejected at people not taking offence.

I looked back to show that I expected some clarification on this because we are in a world where people even feel they have a right to be offended for other people, but there was nothing forthcoming.

What do you love about getting up in front of a crowd? ‘I love the feeling when the gig is over. When I have come off stage and people seem happy, and I think “Phew, I’ve dodged that bullet.” Relief is the best feeling in the world.’

And now Covid-19 has put an end to all those feelings of relief: ‘The virus has killed my profession - The pubs

and theatres are closed and people are acting too afraid to be close to each other or thinking that others are too afraid to get too close to them…

Stand-up is like making love, it’s best in crowded basements.’

But did Lewis have a Covid-19 plan? ‘I didn’t have a plan,’ he says instantly. ‘What did Anne Frank think when she walked up those stairs for the first time? Who could have expected the world going into such a complete panic? I stocked up on frozen meat and tinned fish. Okay, I hoarded. I bought some UV milk, which is something that I probably will never use. I decided to be nice to my girlfriend.’

And what about once we get back to normal? ‘I am either going to be retired when things “get back to normal” or will do something else, or be an even better comic… We have destroyed our world and await the arrival of the new world.’

Anything you’d like to add? ‘I am not afraid of the coronavirus, I am afraid of the fear of the coronavirus.’

I hope Lewis could spend this time writing a new show to take out on the road after lockdown, because then he can upset people to their faces once again.If anyone has been offended by this article you have made Lewis Schaffer a happy man.

Say It Loud I’m Offensive and Proud

Nunhead comedian Lewis Schaffer doesn’t care who he upsets. And this is not part of his schtick, it’s all of his schtick. He boasts this as a career lowlight: ’Dying on stage in front of 1400 people at a corporate meeting in a marquee in Battersea Park My wife stopped loving me after that,’ writes Michael Holland...

Wherever he is, whatever he’s doing, he will always be goading someone, whether that is online in Nunhead or on the streets of New York where his career began.

How did it start, I asked. ’New York Jews were once thought of as being funny, so when I saw a comic on TV who seemed like me I thought I could do that,’ he says before quickly adding, ‘I found out that I couldn’t…

Plus, I had a bipolar mother who kept me on my toes emotionally, and a friend who bullied me into an audition at the Comic Strip…’

Almost 30 years on and living in ‘an ex-council flat sold off to a foreign investor - me.,’ Schaffer now hosts an open mic night in the Borough, he MCs comedy shows in pubs in Southwark and beyond, and has a regular radio show on Resonance FM. Or he did. Now his catchphrase is: ‘I used to be a comedian before the Covid.’

children, include Unity (large circle), Responsibility (leaves), Respect (hands), Cooperation (gears), and Aspiration (Wings).

The school is still in lockdown so not many children or staff have seen the finished artwork. ‘However,’ the sculptor reveals, ‘the feedback from

those who have seen it has been swift and very positive…Kate Broadbent wrote to me the day after it was finished to say, “Hi Rafael, I’ve just been to see the gates! They look absolutely wonderful.

Everyone who’s seen them loves them!

Thank you!” And now I really can’t wait until all the children return and have the lovely surprise of seeing their own artwork incorporated into these new gates.’

That early positivity has already led to discussion about other areas of the school that could do with the Klein touch: ‘The corridor leading from these gates to the front of the school,’ he says, ‘and a very dull entrance for the Secondary school. So we will see.’

It is obvious that schools hold a special place in Rafael Klein’s heart when he speaks about them with true and honest passion: ‘In these crazy times children are being kept away from perhaps the most important place for them after their own homes. They are separated from their friends and all the excitement, activity, and learning a school provides. It is therefore great to be able to incorporate some of their own artwork into a school improvement… I would love the opportunity to work with any other schools who might find this project inspiring. It certainly can give children a renewed sense of ownership and pride in their own school.’ www.rafaelklein.com www.woodmansterne.lambeth.sch.uk

Southwark News, Thursday May 28 2020

www.southwarknews.co.uk/history

HISTORY 23

History Planting a tree as part of her beautification campaign

Bringing Ada Salter off the side lines Ada in her later years

For so many families cooped up in their flats during this pandemic with no garden the borough's green spaces are such a welcome relief and in Bermondsey and Rotherhithe this was down to the Salters.

MP Dr Alfred Salter is well-known and talked about, but much the greenery we see today is down to his mayoral wife Ada and her beautification campaign that came as she mourn the loss of her daughter taken by a different epidemic scarlet fever.

On the 150th year of her birth four years ago, a book is attempted to bring Ada Salter “in off the side-lines” of the history pages and give her the attention and respect she deserves.

Historian Graham Taylor’s book, ‘Ada Salter: Pioneer of Ethical Socialism’, portrays the revolutionary politician, environmentalist and social reformer as she should be: not as the wife of famed doctor and MP Alfred Salter, but as an exceptional figure in her own right.

He told the News: “I wrote the book because she had been neglected – lots of famous women are neglected by history.

When researching this book I found that in fact, she was as significant if not more significant than Alfred.”

Her life was certainly varied as she powered through numerous movements during the late 19th and early 20th century.

Born in Northamptonshire, it was not until she moved to Bermondsey at the age of 31 that she really made a name for herself. She worked at the Bermondsey Settlement, where Taylor said she was “very successful with the roughest and the toughest of the girls.”

Ada Salter leading the 1911 Bermondsey Uprising

Graham Taylor’s book Ada Salter: Pioneer of Ethical Socialism He said: “Bermondsey was one big slum, with whole families living in entire rooms and one tap for 20 houses.

Nine baby bodies were found in one block. But she treated the girls as equals, which worked very well for her. She used her Quaker belief and said: ‘There is something of God in everybody.’”

She moved into politics and was quickly successful, becoming the first women councillor to be elected in Bermondsey in 1909.

However, tragedy struck the following year when her eight-year-old daughter Joyce died of scarlet fever.

Taylor said: “Joyce died during a scarlet fever epidemic in the slums. Ada always insisted on living in the slums, against Alfred’s wishes, but she couldn’t

be persuaded otherwise.”

This tragedy appeared to spur her on, for within a year she had led one of the most famous women’s rights protests in the 20th century.

Ada, having then co-founded the Women’s Labour League, helped rally 14,000 women as they went on strike in the borough. The women marched through Bermondsey chanting slogans, leaving 21 factories near empty – eighteen of which would subsequently introduce pay rises.

Taylor said: “Bermondsey was totally paralysed. It was quite usual for someone to lose their fingers in a machine or have their face shredded by exploding glass.”

After the mock military action of the

protests, Ada, a devout Quaker, threw herself into pacifist campaigning during a very real war. When WW1 broke out, she founded the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom and in 1915 went toe-to-toe with Lenin at a Women’s Conference.

Taylor said: “Lenin’s wife and mistress were both there and had been programmed to support conflict. Ada was pacifist and stuck to her guns.”

After the war, Ada achieved another first when she was elected Mayor of Bermondsey in 1920, becoming the first woman mayor in the capital.

It was at this time that she began her ‘beautification’ campaign, the results of which can still be seen in the borough today. Taylor said: “She

planted 7,000 trees and covered the whole of Bermondsey and Rotherhithe in flowers. “Every open space she filled with playgrounds, with art and with music.

Bermondsey was transformed from one of the drabbest, dreariest parts in London to a place where people came to visit.” Some of these places still remain today, including playgrounds in Tanner Street Park and Druid Street. What has proved less permanent, however, is the respect Ada Salter so clearly deserved.

Graham Taylor’s book goes some way in repairing this injustice.

Ada Salter: Pioneer of Ethical Socialism

by Graham Taylor was published in December and is available from Amazon and publishers Lawrence & Wishart.

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

TELEPHONE

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

07850 323 508

CASH / CASH / CASH / CASH / CASH

CASH / CASH / CASH / CASH / CASH

WANTED

CLASSIC & UNUSUAL CARS ALSO WANTED

Southwark News, Thursday May 28 2020

www.southwarknews.co.uk

COMMUNITY NOTICES / PUBLIC NOTICES 25

CAMBERWELL CONSOLIDATED CHARITIES THE TRUST COULD PROVIDE YOU WITH FINANCIAL HELP IF YOU:

• •

•

Are over 65 years old Have lived in the Old Parish of Camberwell (which includes Dulwich and Peckham) for more than 2 years Receive only a state pension

Please ask the Hon Clerk for an application form.

Janet McDonald Telephone: 07538 071 457 89 Worship Street, London EC2A 2BF Please let other people know about us too Registered charity no 208441

If you are a charitable or community-oriented organisation and want to let people know about your services, please call

Follow the fox... urbanfox.london

0207 232 1639

Our key activities helping local people make life better: Bede Learning Disabilities Service, Bede Youth Adventure Project, Bede Starfish Domestic Violence Project.

www.bedehouse.org , tel: 0207 237 3881

LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK

T HE

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 SECTION 14(1) (CAMBERWELL GROVE, DIAMOND STREET, TENNIS STREET,PORTLAND STREET The

ESSENTIAL guide to EDUCATION

PLEASE CONTRIBUTE AND HELP US TO KEEP PROVIDING YOU WITH LOCAL NEWS AND SPORT

(TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC) 1.

The Council of the London Borough of Southwark hereby gives notice, that to enable works to be carried out by Lanes, Thames Water, Conways and Erith, it intends, to make an order the effect of which will be to prohibit vehicular traffic from entering part of the above named roads.

2.

Whilst the works are in progress, or whilst the authorised traffic signs are displayed, no person shall cause any vehicle to enter, proceed, stop, wait, load or unload in: (a) Camberwell Grove, between Stories Road and Grove Hill Road (sewer works, by Lanes) (b) Diamond Street, at it’s junction with Southampton Way (thames water works) (c) Tennis Street, between Mermaid Court and Newcomen Street (highway works, by conways) (d) Portland Street, between Albany Road and Hopwood Road.(crane operation, by erith)

A message to all our readers: We are continuing to bring you all the latest news on the Coronavirus and other important local issues, news, sport and local life.

As the only independent paid-for newspaper in London, we rely heavily on local businesses advertising with us to provide the revenue that pays our journalists. Understandably, most local businesses are cancelling their advertising in these uncertain times. So we are now offering free digital advertising to all local, independent businesses (see page 2).

We aim to continue publishing in print every week, and will be publishing stories online – including on the rolling blog we set up this week, to bring you constant live updates.

We would be very grateful if you would consider supporting us by subscribing online. You can either pay the 50p cover price for weekly news, (charged at £2 a month), or make a discounted 6 monthly (£11.00) or Annual (£20) contribution. Payments are processed by Paypal so you can be sure that they are secure, and you can cancel at any time.

You can also send a cheque made out to Southwark Newspaper Ltd. If you feel able to contribute regularly and help keep us bringing you the news and sport, we would really appreciate your support!

Best wishes from all of us at the News.

3.

The alternative route for affected traffic (2a) Grove Hill Road, Bromar Road, Ivanhoe Road, Avondale Rise, Bellenden Road, Chadwick Road, Grove Park. Grove Park, Chadwick Road, Lyndhurst Way, Holly Grove, Bellenden Road, Avondale Rise, Ivanhoe Road, Bromar Road, Grove Hill Road. (2b) Branch Street, Chandler Way, Diamond Street. (2c) Mermaid Court, Bowling Green Place, Newcomen Street. (2d) Albany Road, Camberwell Road, Walworth Road, Browning Street, Brandon Street. Albany Road, Thurlow Street, Flint Street, Rodney Road, Stead Street, Brandon Street. Brandon Street, Portland Street, Merrow Street, Walworth Road, Camberwell Road.

4.

Exemptions will be provided in the Order to permit reasonable access to premises, so far as it is practical without interference with the execution of the said works.

5.

The restrictions will not apply to any vehicle being used in connection with the said works, or for fire brigade, ambulance or police purposes or anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform.

6.

The works will be in operation for (2a) 12th – 25th June. (2b) 15th – 18th June (2c) 15th – 19th June. (2d) 12th June, if due to adverse weather conditions then the restriction will be in place on either the 13th 14th or 15th June.

7.

Further information may be obtained by contacting Road Network & Parking Management on 0207 525 2014.

Dated this 28th May 2020 Nicky Costin Road Network & Parking Business Manager Southwark Council Environment and Leisure Network Management PO Box 64529 London SE1 5LX Ref: (2a) 5352/003345MHVX—001002 (2b) 5300/000809395010045-012 (2c) 5396/ -505661-1 (2d) 5282/crane

26 PUBLIC NOTICES

www.southwarknews.co.uk

LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 SECTION 14(1) (ASYLUM ROAD, SHAD THAMES) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC) 1.

The Council of the London Borough of Southwark hereby gives notice that to enable highway works and a crane operation to be carried out, it made an order the effect of which will be to prohibit vehicular traffic from entering part of the above named road.

2.

Whilst the works are in progress, or whilst the authorised traffic signs are displayed, no person shall cause any vehicle to enter, proceed, stop, wait, load or unload in: (a) Asylum Road, at it’s junction of Old Kent Road (southbound lane of carriageway) (b) Shad Thames, between Lafone Street and Horselydown Lane

3.

The alternative route for affected traffic (2a) Old Kent Road, Peckham Park Road, Commercial Way, Peckham Hill Street, Peckham High Street. Old Kent Road, Gervase Street. (2b) via: Curlew Street, Lafone Street, Gainsford Street, Horselydown Lane, as applicable.

4.

Exemptions will be provided in the Order to permit reasonable access to premises, so far as it is practical without interference with the execution of the said works.

5.

The restrictions will not apply to any vehicle being used in connection with the said works, or for fire brigade, ambulance or police purposes or anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform.

6.

The works will be in operation for (2a) 8th – 12th June. (2b) 4th June between the hours of 08:00hrs and 14:00hrs

7.

Further information may be obtained by contacting Road Network & Parking Management on 0207 525 2014.

Dated this 28th May 2020

Southwark News, Thursday May 28 2020

Notice of Application for a Premises Licence made under Section 17 of the Licensing Act 2003 Please take notice that I / we Mercato Metropolitano MM E&C Have made application to Southwark Council for a new Premises Licence in respect of Mercato Metropolitano MM E&C 42 Newington Causeway London SE1 6DR The relevant licensable activities and proposed times to be carried on, or on from the premises are Days

Start time

Finish time

The retail sale of alcohol:

Mon to Weds Thursday Friday & Sat Sunday

08:00 08:00 08:00 08:00

23:00 00:00 01:00 00:00

The provision of regulated entertainment:

Plays-films boxing or wrestlinglive musicrecorder musicindoor sports events

08:00 08:00 08:00 08:00

23:00 00:00 01:00 00:00

The provision of late night refreshment:

Thursday Fri & Sat Sunday

23:00 23:00 23:00

00:00 01:00 00:00

Opening hours:

Mon to Weds Thursday Friday & Saturday Sunday

08:00 08:00 08:00 08:00

23:00 00:00 01:00 00:00

A register of all applications made within the Southwark area is maintained by: The Licensing Service, Hub 1, 3rd Floor, 160 Tooley Street, London, SE1 2QH A record of this application may be inspected by visiting the office during normal office hours by appointment on 020 7525 2000; details are also available on our website at http://app.southwark.gov.uk/licensing/licenseregister.asp

Nicky Costin Road Network & Parking Business Manager Southwark Council Environment and Leisure Network Management PO Box 64529 London SE1 5LX Ref: (2a) 5194/ -498084-2oldpermitno/5194/-505437-1newpermitno (2b) 5165/LBSCR11256-2 LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK

It is open to any interested party to make representations about the likely effect of the application on the promotion of the licensing objectives. Representations must be made in writing to the Licensing Service at the office address given above and be received by the Service within a period of 28 days starting the day after the date shown below. http://www.southwark.gov.uk/business/licences/how-to-lodge-a-representation Note: it is an offence to knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application. A person guilty of such offence is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding level 5 on the standard scale.

Date of application: 21st May 2020

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 SECTION 14(1) (SPURGEON STREET, PARK STREET)

LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK

TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC 1.

Mon to Weds Thursday Friday & Sat Sunday

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 SECTION 14(1) (BORLAND ROAD)

The Council of the London Borough of Southwark hereby gives notice that to enable LB Highway and UKPN works to be carried out, it made, an order the effect of which will be to prohibit vehicular traffic from entering part of the above named roads.

2.

Whilst works are in progress, and whilst the authorised traffic signs are displayed, no person shall cause any vehicle to enter, proceed, stop, wait, load or unload in:

3.

(a) Spurgeon Street between Great Dover Street and Burbage Close. (b) Park Street, between Bear Gardens and New Globe Walk

4.

The alternative route would be via: Great Dover Street, Bricklayers Arms Roundabout, Great Dover Street, Bartholomew Street, Deverell Street. Deverell Street, Bartholomew Street, Great Dover Street. (2b) Sumner Street, Emerson Street, Southwark Bridge Road, Southwark Street, Borough High Street, Bedale Street, Winchester Walk, Stoney Street, Park Street, as applicable.

5.

Exemptions will be provided in the Order to permit reasonable access to premises, so far as it is practical without interference with the execution of the said works.

6.

The restrictions will not apply to any vehicle being used in connection with the said works, or for fire brigade, ambulance or police purposes or anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform.

7.

The works will be in place for (2a) 22nd June – 4th July. (2b) 8th – 14th June

8.

Further information may be obtained by contacting Road Network & Parking Management on 0207 525 2014.

Dated this 28th May 2020.

TEMPORARY WAITING AND LOADING RESTRICTIONS 1.

The Council of the London Borough of Southwark hereby gives notice, that because of works

by BT, it intends, to make an order the effect of which would be to prohibit vehicular traffic from waiting and loading at any time in part of Borland Road.

2.

Whilst the restriction is in place, and whilst the authorised traffic signs/road markings are displayed, no person shall cause any vehicle to wait, including waiting for the purpose of loading and unloading at any time in: (a) Borland Road, on the northern kerb line between No’s 7 and N’s 9 (b) Borland Road, on the southern kerb line between No’s 16 and No’s 10

3.

Exemptions will be provided in the Order to permit reasonable access to premises, insofar as it is practical without interference with the execution of the said works.

4.

The restrictions will not apply to any vehicle being used in connection with the said works, or for fire brigade, ambulance or police purposes or anything done with the permission or at the direction of a police constable in uniform.

5.

The restriction will come into force for on the 16th June.

6.

Further information may be obtained by contacting Road Network & Parking Management on 0207 525 2014.

Dated this 28th May 2020 Nicky Costin Road Network & Parking Business Manager

Nicky Costin Road Network & Parking Business Manager Southwark Council Environment and Leisure Network Management PO Box 64529 London SE1 5LX Ref: (2a) 5305/ 445977 (2b) 5253/10778209

Southwark Council Environment and Leisure Network Management PO Box 64529 London SE1 5LX Ref: 2(a) 5304/OP1W0WAQJ234KPOLE1A

To place a public notice, please email em@southwarknews.co.uk Cut off is Tuesdays at 4pm

Southwark News, Thursday May 28 2020

www.southwarknews.co.uk

PUBLIC NOTICES 27

LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING ACT 1990 (AS AMENDED) PLANNING (LISTED BUILDING AND CONSERVATION AREAS) ACT 1990 The planning applications listed below can be viewed on the planning register at https://planning.southwark.gov.uk/online-applications/ You can use facilities at your local library or ‘My Southwark Service Points’ to access the website.

How to comment on this application: You should submit your comments via the above link. Comments received will be made available for public viewing on the website. All personal information will be removed except your postal address. Online comments submitted without an email address will not be acknowledged and those marked ‘confidential’ will not be considered. Written comments can be submitted to; Southwark Council, Chief executive's department, Planning division, Development Management, PO Box 64529, London SE1 5LX. Reason for publicity. The applications are advertised for the reasons identified by the following codes: AFFECT - development affecting character or appearance of a nearby conservation area; OR development affecting setting of a nearby listed building(s); DEP - departure from the development plan; EIA - environmental impact assessment (these applications are accompanied by an environmental statement a copy of which may be obtained from the Council - there will be a charge for the copy); MAJ - major planning application; STDCA - development within a conservation area; STDLB - works to or within the site of a listed building; FELIX POST UNIT AND OLD AGE PSYCHIATRY BUILDING MAUDSLEY HOSPITAL DENMARK HILL LONDON SOUTHWARK SE5 8AZ (Ref: 20/AP/1302) Demolition of existing buildings and construction of new centre for Children and Young People to include outpatients, inpatients, school, research and clinical floorspace, associated roof terraces, cycle parking, and landscaping. (Within: Camberwell Grove Conservation Area CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Sonia Watson 020 7525 5434) MARLBOROUGH CRICKET CLUB DULWICH COMMON LONDON SOUTHWARK SE21 7EX (Ref: 20/AP/1341) Demolition of existing cricket pavilion and small changing facility and erection of new cricket pavilion (class D2) and new day nursery (class D1). (Within: Dulwich Wood CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Vendela Gambill 020 7525 7976) MAUDSLEY HOSPITAL DENMARK HILL LONDON SOUTHWARK SE5 8AZ (Ref: 20/AP/1355) Erection of a new waste bin compound within hospital site. (Within: Camberwell Grove Conservation Area CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Anthony Roberts 020 7525 5458) SOUTHWARK PARK DAY CENTRE 345 SOUTHWARK PARK ROAD LONDON SOUTHWARK SE16 2JN (Ref: 20/AP/1390) Full planning permission for the demolition of 345 Southwark Park Road and all site preparation works, for a residential-led mixed use development comprising 22 new affordable social rent homes and 24 new private homes (containing a mix of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments), associated cycle and wheelchair

car parking, 340 sqm flexible ground floor office and community use floorspace (B1/D1); associated hard and soft landscaping and public realm works. Reason(s) for publicity: MAJ MAJ (Contact: Alexander Cameron 020 7525 5416) SOUTHWARK PARK DAY CENTRE 345 SOUTHWARK PARK ROAD LONDON SOUTHWARK SE16 2JN (Ref: 20/AP/1390) Full planning permission for the demolition of 345 Southwark Park Road and all site preparation works, for a residential-led mixed use development comprising 22 new affordable social rent homes and 24 new private homes (containing a mix of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments), associated cycle and wheelchair car parking, 340 sqm flexible ground floor office and community use floorspace (B1/D1); associated hard and soft landscaping and public realm works. Reason(s) for publicity: MAJ MAJ (Contact: Alexander Cameron 020 7525 5416) BERMONDSEY TELEPHONE EXCHANGE LONDON SOUTHWARK SE1 5RQ (Ref: 20/AP/1410) Upgrade of existing electronic communications base stations comprising replacement antennas, one additional and three replacement equipment cabinets, and ancillary apparatus. (Within: Thorburn Square CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Daniel Cooklin-Smith 020 7525 5471) BRIDGE HOUSE 4 BOROUGH HIGH STREET LONDON SOUTHWARK (Ref: 20/AP/1403) Installation of external lighting to the stone facade of the east wing of the building. (Within: Borough High Street CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDLB (Contact: Martin McKay 020 7525 1818) 151 BROOK DRIVE LONDON SOUTHWARK

SE11 4TG (Ref: 20/AP/1411) Change of use of ground floor shop unit (A1) with alterations to the existing dwelling above the shop to create two self-contained residential flats (C3) (Within: Elliot's Row CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Freya Cunningham )

Dulwich Village CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Samuel Hepworth 020 7525 5465)

62 SUTHERLAND SQUARE LONDON SOUTHWARK SE17 3EL (Ref: 20/AP/1409) Conversion of rear window to door and addition of wrought iron balustrade to existing flat roof to form roof terrace (Within: Sutherland Square CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Gemma Williams 07926087097)

SIMON BEVAN - Director of Planning

Dated: 26 May 2020 - comments to be received within 21 days of this date.

3 CAMBERWELL CHURCH STREET LONDON SOUTHWARK SE5 8TR (Ref: 20/AP/1414) Temporary display of an externally illuminated shroud advertisement (Within: Camberwell Green CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Samuel Hepworth 020 7525 5465) 58 NUNHEAD LANE LONDON SOUTHWARK (Ref: 20/AP/1384) Demolition of existing garages; Erection of new boundary wall to existing properties; Erection of purpose built block of flats to provide 8 number double bedroom units with associated bin & cycle stores, landscaping of site to provide private and communal spaces. (Within: Nunhead Green CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Glenn Ruane 020 7525 5447) 1 TOWNLEY ROAD LONDON SOUTHWARK SE22 8SW (Ref: 20/AP/1424) Construction of vehicle cross over (Within:

Notice of Application for a Premises Licence made under Section 17 of the Licensing Act 2003

Notice of Application for a Premises Licence made under Section 17 of the Licensing Act 2003

Please take notice that I / we Strongman’s Tipple Ltd Have made application to Southwark Council for a new Premises Licence in respect of Unit 7, Thrive Co-working Business Hub, Surrey Quays Leisure Park, 1 Teredo Street, London, SE16 7LW The relevant licensable activities and proposed times to be carried on, or on from the premises are

Please take notice that I / we Talking Drum London Ltd Have made application to Southwark Council for a new Premises Licence in respect of 610 Old Kent Road, London, SE15 1JB The relevant licensable activities and proposed times to be carried on, or on from the premises are -To allow for the following non standard timings: New Year Eve licensable activities to cease at 02:30 hours and the premises to close at 03:00 hours

The retail sale of alcohol:

Days

Start time

Finish time

Monday to Sunday

09:00

23:00

A register of all applications made within the Southwark area is maintained by: The Licensing Service, Hub 1, 3rd Floor, 160 Tooley Street, London, SE1 2QH A record of this application may be inspected by visiting the office during normal office hours by appointment on 020 7525 2000; details are also available on our website at http://app.southwark.gov.uk/licensing/licenseregister.asp It is open to any interested party to make representations about the likely effect of the application on the promotion of the licensing objectives. Representations must be made in writing to the Licensing Service at the office address given above and be received by the Service within a period of 28 days starting the day after the date shown below. http://www.southwark.gov.uk/business/licences/how-to-lodge-a-representation Note: it is an offence to knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application. A person guilty of such offence is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding level 5 on the standard scale.

Date of application: 26th May 2020

Email em@southwarknews.co.uk to place a notice.

Cut off is 4pm on Tuesdays.

-To remove the condition from the license that 'That there shall be a personal license holder on the premises at all times when the premises are authorised to sell alcohol' and replace it with a condition stating: ' That a written document authorising specified staff to make sales of alcohol on behalf of the premises’ DPS shall be kept at the premises and shall be prominently displayed at the bar service area where it can easily be seen and read. The authorisation document shall be kept free from obstructions at all times. The authorisation document shall be shown to officers of the council or police on request”.

Days Start time Finish time The retail sale of alcohol: Sunday to Thursday 12:00 23:30 Friday & Saturday 12:00 00:00 The provision of late night refreshment

Sunday to Thursday Friday to Saturday

23:00 23:00

23:30 00:00

Opening hours:

Sunday to Thursday Friday & Saturday

12:00 12:00

00:00 00:30

A register of all applications made within the Southwark area is maintained by: The Licensing Service, Hub 1, 3rd Floor, 160 Tooley Street, London, SE1 2QH A record of this application may be inspected by visiting the office during normal office hours by appointment on 020 7525 2000; details are also available on our website at http://app.southwark.gov.uk/licensing/licenseregister.asp It is open to any interested party to make representations about the likely effect of the application on the promotion of the licensing objectives. Representations must be made in writing to the Licensing Service at the office address given above and be received by the Service within a period of 28 days starting the day after the date shown below. http://www.southwark.gov.uk/business/licences/how-to-lodge-a-representation Note: it is an offence to knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application. A person guilty of such offence is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding level 5 on the standard scale. Date of application: 21st May 2020

inside

Sport Southwark

former lion dies at just 23

page 4

STEVE EYES GRADUAL RETURN

Lions Chief Exec hopeful as small group training begins

By Staff Reporter news@southwarknews.co.uk Millwall are hoping for a return to competitive football from around June 20th, as they returned to training in small groups on Tuesday – with the club aiming to provide the behind-closed-doors matches to season ticket holders.

Chief Executive Steve Kavanagh has reaffirmed the desire to complete the season, with both Chairman John Berylson and manager Gary Rowett saying in recent weeks that it was vital to play the remaining games.

Speaking to the club website this week, Kavanagh said that if initial training sessions went well, then the next step would be full contact training coming back.

“Our stance as a club throughout this

incredibly challenging time has been that the season should be completed on the pitch if it was safe to do so,” Kavanagh said.

“It is very encouraging that the governing bodies, following appropriate advice and guidelines at all times, are eager to complete the remaining fixtures in that way which is a stance supported by the vast majority of Championship clubs who have taken on the challenges by seeking solutions in a positive manner.

“Consultation around stage one of the return to training was comprehensive and players and management were in full agreement.

“We are now on a pathway to getting back to playing but it’s important to note that there are still some pivotal steps to go through before we’ll be able to resume the season.

“What is key is that we’ve got some muchneeded clarity on the processes behind returning to training and that has helped to further focus the minds of our management team and players who have all worked incredibly hard during the past couple of months, both in a physical and technical sense, to ensure we’re as prepared as possible for this next step. All at Millwall are desperate to get back on the pitch and finish the season successfully.”

A club spokesman told the News this week that a date of around June 20th was currently being looked at for the league’s restart, and confirmed that livestreaming of matches was being considered for season ticket holders.

“There is nothing we would all love more than to come together again and tackle the rest of the season as one,” Kavanagh added.

“As we all know and appreciate that is

unfortunately not going to be possible but only because the health and safety of the public has to come before anything else.

“Our fans are so imperative to the success of the team and they will undoubtedly be missed during this period. The players will have to adapt accordingly but I have every faith in their ability to do so.

“While of course far from ideal for many reasons, getting back to playing without supporters in attendance is a necessary move in the current health climate. Being unable to play even without crowds would make the return of them seem an even more distant prospect. This is a step-bystep process and once the current season is complete then we can hopefully look - when safe and appropriate - at reintroducing fans into stadiums in order to help answer some of the long-term financial issues football

faces as a result of this crisis.

“What is important moving forward in the immediate short-term is that every Millwall fan who wants to watch the remaining games should be able to do so easily and effectively.

“It’s also important that fans feel part of this and are able to show their backing in different ways than usual and we’ll be consulting with supporters about how that can be achieved.

“We hope to have to further clarity on how the season will be played out as and when the next phases of training have been completed safely and successfully.

Once that information is finalised and communicated to clubs then we will look to inform supporters, specifically season ticket holders, of the plans we’re making to ensure their value-for-money is protected as best as possible at an unprecedented time.”

SURREY CCC GIVEAWAYS AS PART OF CHARITY AUCTION

By Staff Reporter

news@southwarknews.co.uk Surrey Cricket Club are offering a pair of tickets for a Kia Oval Test with a guided tour of the broadcast centre, along with a signed Surrey CCC playing shirt and copy of the Surrey 175th anniversary book, signed by Alec and Micky Stewart – as part of an online charity auction.

A catalogue of 62 lots are now open for bidding at cricketauction.co.uk where cricket fans can secure international match hospitality experiences at Lord’s, The Kia Oval, Trent Bridge, Edgbaston, Emerald Headingley and Emirates Old Trafford as well

as the shirts of Ben Stokes, Jofra Archer & Jack Leach.

Glamorgan, Leicestershire and Derbyshire have offered unique coaching sessions with their professional players and coaches and Sussex have gone one step further by offering the use of their ground for a T20 fixture.

The auction forms part of the Together Through This Test campaign, cricket’s coordinated response to Covid-19 that seeks to highlight initiatives across the professional and amateur game.

All donors have nominated a charitable cause to receive the proceeds from their lots.

“There’s a huge sense of community and goodwill across cricket and we all saw an opportunity to collaborate for the greater

good,” said Nottinghamshire Commercial Director Michael Temple, who brought the auction together.

“Every single Club has joined the MCC, ECB and PCA by contributing lots and nominating causes that mean something to them. We hope that cricket fans will find a compelling reason to bid knowing that the proceeds will be donated to causes deserving of the game’s support.”

Trent Bridge sponsors John Pye Auctions are supporting the initiative by waiving all fees and commissions and will host the lots on their secure online auction platform.

“When Trent Bridge approached us about discussing a national effort to raise money for good causes, we were happy to collaborate

and put our full support immediately behind it,” said John Pye’s Business Development Director, Sheldon Miller.

All lots are now open for bidding at https:// www.cricketauction.co.uk The recycled paper content of UK newspapers in 2014 was 83.5%