4th February 2021

Page 28

Issue 1516

Established: 1987

50p

February 4 2021

southwarknews.co.uk

Page 4

millwall Exclusive:

two times a charm for maik Page 20

‘road closures are hampering vaccine rollout’ Page 8

fight to save little lily

teenage killers jailed for a total of 43 years Page 4

See page 4

calls for teachers to get vaccine next

2 NEWS

www.southwarknews.co.uk/news

Contents NEWS Pages 2-20

Southwark News, Thursday February 4 2021

GUY’S & brompton merger goes ahead

Hospital bosses say it means there will be world-class centre for heart and lung disease

By Josh Salisbury

OPINION Pages 18-19

family announcements Page 22 property Page 23

Public notices Pages 25-26 SPORT Pages 27-32

cheeses from both Britain and Europe.

He said preparing his business for Brexit had been “highly stressful”, and that while obtaining orders from France had been relatively easy so far, he was concerned that this might not be the case when it came to importing from other EU countries.

“We do get cheeses from other parts of the EU, including Greece, and it's not

clear to me that the simplicity that we had experienced in getting cheese from France is going to be matched by getting cheese from Greece,” he explained.

“We don't know how that's going to pan out just yet, but it might well be that there's more problems coming from other parts of the EU.” Max Secci, whose Drunk Cheese stall sells cheeses imported from Italy, faces similar uncertainty. The company stockpiled pallets of cheese last year when “things weren’t clear at all”, but Secci predicts that future imports will become “quite expensive”.

While stockpiling provides temporary security, the company will eventually have to make new orders with its European suppliers – and this is when Brexit’s consequences for some businesses will become clear.

Additional costs for EU imports will likely mean an increase in the prices of both companies’ products, and the traders can only hope the subsequent impact on their

Guy’s and St Thomas’ hospitals have officially joined in a merger with the Royal Brompton and Harefield.

Arts Page 21

jobs Page 24

The new enlarged Trust will see the Royal Brompton forming a ‘clinical group’ within the organisation with the aim of transforming for lung and heart conditions.

The longstanding plan means children’s services at the Royal Brompton will move to an enlarged Evelina in around five to six years’ time.

Meanwhile, Trust bosses hope to build a new centre for heart and lung conditions at St Thomas’. Both will be subject to public consultation.

Trust CEO, Professor Ian Abbs, has hailed the move as a “once in a generation opportunity to build a lasting, worldrenowned heart and lung centre.”

“We have already demonstrated that by working together we can achieve more for our patients, not least during our current pandemic response, where partnership working has helped us care for many patients requiring the most specialist treatment,” he said.

However, Southwark councillors have previously raised fears that the merger could lead to job losses and service cuts.

Speaking at a scrutiny meeting of the plans in November, Cllr Bill Williams said: “There’s always a business case for a merger, it’s never purely ever bringing two brands together to create a super brand, it never is.

“I think people are naive to believe it.

You’re going to have a six month review, inevitably there will be redundancies, whether they’re voluntary… but there will be job losses.”

Senior figures at both hospital trusts

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Hard cheese decisions to be made at borough market after UK’s departure from the EU

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moved to quash fears of redundancies, saying any review would be about ironing out operational issues.

“We’re convinced we’re going to need as many people as we currently have to continue providing the services we currently run,” said Robert Craig, director of development at the Royal Brompton.

Chelsea-based councillors have also raised fears that the Brompton’s hospital estate could be sold off. Mr Craig also rejected this in November, saying: “As far as we can see in the foreseeable future, we’re going to continue using it as a hospital.”

By Darcy Jimenez news@southwarknews.co.uk Borough Market traders have told the News how the UK’s departure from the EU has left them feeling uncertain about the months to come.

Dominic Coyte’s business, the Borough Cheese Company, offers hand-selected

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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, 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

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Established: 1987

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LIONS HALT FLYING HORNETS Pages 30-31

LOCKDOWN:

STAYING AT HOME HORRORS

Plight of residents living in the cold, with sewage, rats and deafening noise Pages 8-9

SOME PARKING FINES WILL BE SCRAPPED Page 10

business will be minimal.

“Every time in the past that the prices have gone up, the amount of cheese we've sold has gone down, and that's a concern,” Coyte explained.

“If that is also matched with a depreciation in the pound, that could mean that prices would go up, and that would shrink the business somewhat.

“However, overall, I'm optimistic that we've got a sufficiently good business model.”

Secci also told the News: “It's just a matter of changing our prices accordingly and seeing if the customers accept this change, because this is not something we decided ourselves – we actually had no voice in the situation.”

It’s just a matter of changing our prices accordingly and seeing if the customers accept this change

The Southwark News is proud to be the only independent, paid for newspaper in London 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.

20/01/2021 11:55

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Southwark News, Thursday February 4 2021

NEWS 3

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millwall pitch in for our paramedics

Inspired by the late, great Captain Tom, partially paralysed Sean walks the Den

By Josh Salisbury josh@southwarknews.co.uk A partially paralysed Millwall fan has walked around the pitch of the Den in his latest bid to raise money for London’s paramedics.

Sean Ash, 39, made headlines last month when he walked a mile from his house, despite being paralysed below the waist because of the rare and severe Cauda Equina Syndrome.

Sean, who grew up on Bermondsey’s Millpond Estate, has raised nearly £60,000 to date for the London Ambulance Service, inspired by the example of Captain Tom. But after completing his milelong walk, Sean set himself another challenge - walking the perimeter of the pitch at his beloved Den. Speaking to the News on Tuesday afternoon, after he finished the walk, he said: “I chose Millwall because my dad used to take me here as a kid, I used to be a season ticket holder.

“It meant a lot to my family, and it’s been a huge part of my life. I used to dream of playing on that pitch, and now I know that will never be able to happen.

“But doing this, it’s a dream come true.” Sean suffered the life-changing paralysis last year, and has told the News how he struggled with “dark days” in the aftermath of surgery.

He has limited movement below the waist and uses splints to help move

his feet.

However, taking to his Zimmer frame has earned him plaudits and recognition from all over the country - and even a service medal from the London Ambulance Service, where he works as a call handler.

“They gave me the service medal for what I’ve done,” he said. “I met the CEO and chief executives. When they presented me with the medal, it just meant everything to me.

“I can’t put it into words, I felt so appreciated it was amazing.” All money raised from Sean’s walk will help paramedics on the frontline.

The 39-year-old may yet do future walks to raise awareness of Cauda Equina Sydrome, and money for good causes.

But for now he is resting from what is a physically demanding and gruelling feat. “This walk has really affected me more than the previous ones, even though the distance was much shorter.

“I’m still out of breath and I’m shattered, I’m going to struggle in the next few days. But I got through it!”

To donate, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/goingthextramile.

help top lions’ fan be honoured with garden and plaque Ty was a ‘true warrior’ as he battled cancer

By Josh Salisbury josh@southwarknews.co.uk Tributes have been paid to a Millwall fan remembered by friends as “the loveliest man you could ever wish to meet” after he sadly passed away from cancer.

Ty Hemblade, 53, who was a familiar face at The Den as a season ticket holder, sadly passed away on January 23.

Friends paid tribute to Ty as an “absolute fighter” and have since launched a fundraiser to help put

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together a garden in his memory. They also hope to put a plaque at Millwall for Ty. Ty’s friend, Ellen Butler, who works at Millwall, said: “Ty was such a big part of all of our lives. He was the loveliest man you could ever wish to meet.

“He was so genuine. He never complained, and he was such a fighter, a true warrior. He was always smiling - every day you saw him he had that smile.”

The father and grandfather had begun to organise the memorial garden himself, but the project will now be taken up by his wife, Sam. Lions supporters had previously rallied around Ty in 2019, who won an award for volunteering with Cancer Research UK, after his ‘final holiday’ to Kos was cancelled by the collapse of Thomas Cook.

LOCKDOWN SPECIAL

The former firefighter, from Chatham in Kent, had hoped to go to Kos for “one final family bash” but it was cancelled when the holiday firm went into administration.

However, kind-hearted fans, some of whom were complete strangers, put their hands into their pockets to raise £5,500, giving Ty his holiday.

While in hospital in December, doctors had only given Ty two weeks to live. “He proved everyone wrong,” said Ellen, with him celebrating both Christmas and his birthday.

Ty’s funeral will be held on February 22, and a link will be circulated for those who cannot attend in person but wish to pay their respects to the popular family man.

If you wish to donate to make Ty’s memorial garden happen, search ‘For our beloved Ty GoFundMe’.

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4 NEWS

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Southwark News, Thursday February 4 2021

lily, 6, needs your help!

By Josh Salisbury

josh@southwarknews.co.uk A family is in a race against time to save the life of their six-yearold daughter Lily, after she was tragically diagnosed with a rare and deadly brain cancer.

Lily McKelvey, six, was discovered to have diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), a deadly form of child cancer, after falling ill last month.

Those with the condition sadly typically have a life expectancy of six to nine months. Around thirty British children a year are diagnosed with the condition.

Parents Jack and Lizzie have set up a £370,000 fundraiser to send Lily for treatment in America to save her life.

The heartbreaking news came just weeks after they discovered that only child Lily is to be a sister to a baby brother, due in June.

“We were told that it is terminal, without radiotherapy Lily would die in 6 months and with radiotherapy Lily would live no longer than 12 months,” said Jack and Lizzie on a GoFundMe page launched for Lily’s treatment.

“Our whole entire world came crashing down, the pain of how we are feeling is unexplainable. Our little girl is only 6 years old.”

Lily is currently having radiotherapy to try to control the spread of the tumour but family say it is in the States

that Lily can get treatment which could save her life.

Lily’s aunt, Lucy O’Sullivan, who lives in Camberwell, said: “She’s only six, and she deserves a chance. I’m just hoping that she’s going to be our miracle and she’s going to get through this and defeat the odds.

“She’s such a lovely little girl - she loves to dance, she’s very girly, she’s obsessed with cats. She’s got a little cat called Polly, who she adores. She’s so clever, Lily’s so excited about her little brother on the way, too.

“She reminds me so much of my sister, Lizzie, when she was her age. As a parent it’s your worst nightmare.

“I’m just trying to get as much exposure as possible. This could affect any one of us, and there’s nothing else I can do as an aunt.”

So far, £113,000 has been raised of the £370,000 total to take Lily to the States.

Brave Lily, who lives with her parents in Marks Tey, near Colchester, is currently having treatment at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge in an effort to maintain her health as long as possible.

After finishing the treatment, she may be able to travel to New York to a doctor who treats DIPG, in a way that is not available in the UK. “Our Lily is so precious to us and we will go to the end of the earth to fight for her precious life. Life without Lily is

Life without Lily is unthinkable.

We have to fight for her

unthinkable. We have to fight for her,” say her parents on the GoFundMe page.

Southwark businesses have rallied around to donate to the fund to help Lily with live-saving treatment after being contacted by Lucy.

The appeal has even been shared by top footballer Rio Ferdinand, who grew up in Peckham.

“We’ve had so much support from people in my local area,” said Lucy, 43.

“There’s lots of small businesses that have approached us to do things for Lily. It’s really heart-warming that they’re helping out. People are just so kind, especially when times are so hard.”

To donate to the fundraiser to give Lily McKelvey life-saving treatment, search ‘Help Lily with life saving treatment’.

You can keep up to date with Lily’s journey by joining the Facebook group, ‘Love for Lily’, @love_4_lily_ on Instagram, and @lily_mckelvey on Twitter.

Those who might wish to fundraise for Lily can contact her aunt Lucy on her email lucyjosullivan1978@gmail.com

Lily McKelvey and her family

calls for concrete plans and dates for teacher vaccinations Stock picture

Could the vaccine be given during the February half term?

By Katherine Johnston

katherine@southwarknews.co.uk Teachers and politicians in Southwark have called on the government to prioritise teachers in the next stage of vaccinations.

Southwark Council’s education boss, Cllr Jasmine Ali, is supporting Labour leader Keir Starmer’s call for teachers to be given vaccination priority in the coming weeks.

Starmer has said teacher vaccinations could take place during the February half term before schools fully reopen; to minimise risk.

Although education secretary Gavin Williamson has said school staff would be given ‘top priority’ in the next phase, there have been no concrete details or set dates, and some MPs and government advisers have argued there is a moral duty to vaccinate the most clinically vulnerable people first.

Currently, any key worker groups including teachers and other frontline workers will not be vaccinated until all care home residents and workers, over 80s, over 70s, and then over 50s and people aged 16-64 with underlying health conditions have had their jobs.

The exact dates and priorities given to other frontline workers, from transport staff to postal workers, has not been decided but are expected to be announced soon.

The government’s current plan is based around a phased return from March 8 after a review on infection rates and the new variants of the virus and their

The Prime Minister has already forgotten what he told the nation at the beginning of this lockdown, that schools are a ‘vector for transmission foothold in the UK held on February 15, with further details published on February 22 - potentially leaving little time to prepare.

Karl Eastham is a teacher and Southwark Labour councillor for Chaucer ward. He told the News: "As a teacher in Southwark, I want nothing more than to be back in the classroom.

“After a series of failures on access to technology and free school meals, the government has got to get it right this time.

“Giving us a date is not enough. I want the government to work with schools and councils so that we can be reassured that school return is safe and sustainable

so we can get the education of our young people back on track."

James McAsh, also a Southwark Labour councillor and a primary school teacher, tweeted: “We don’t need a date pulled out of nowhere. We need clear criteria for when it’s safe, subject to public scrutiny.

“Fire fighters don’t announce in advance when they’ll leave a fire - they stay until it's been put out.”

Last year unions, teachers and parents were left divided over when and how to close schools - with many reluctant to harm children’s education but concerned classrooms were one of the main drivers of transmission in the community.

According to Department for Education

figures, the rate of COVID-19 infection among primary and secondary teachers is 1.9 times higher than in the general population.

The rate among teaching assistants in special schools is seven times higher.

Infections among pupils is believed to have peaked around Christmas, when one in eighteen secondary pupils In London and one in 23 primary pupils had COVID-19.

Lack of PPE, poor ventilation, limited space and crowding issues in schools have all been highlighted as causes for concern.

Joint general secretary of the National Education Union, Dr Mary Bousted, emphasised that reopening had to be

done ‘sustainably’.

"We all want schools to open, but like the Prime Minister we want them to open when it is safe to do so. This has to be done sustainably and safely,” she said in a statement after Johnson’s announced hopes for reopening in March.

"We agree with Boris Johnson that this is a balancing act. He has a duty to assess the easing of lockdown according to the progress and effects of vaccination, a reduction in cases and the various other criteria he has set out.

“But in setting out a potential date of 8 March, falling once again into his characteristic and too often misplaced optimism, he is pre-empting a decision that will have to be made in mid-February at the very earliest.

"If we come out too early, we will end up in lockdown again.

“Hinging his argument for schools according to the first four vaccine groups developing immunity by 8 March, is not enough in itself.

“This may protect the elderly and most vulnerable adults in the population, but it does not protect parents. It fails completely to recognise the role schools have played in community transmission.

“The Prime Minister has already forgotten what he told the nation at the beginning of this lockdown, that schools are a 'vector for transmission'.”

There are also calls for other sectors to benefit from early vaccination. High on the agenda are police officers, transport workers and supermarket staff.

Metropolitan Police Commissioner, Cressida Dick, has said she was ‘baffled’ that officers were not protected despite the risks and number of incidents involving her staff being coughed and spat on.

6 NEWS

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Southwark News, Thursday February 4 2021

Keep riding school ‘afloat and their horses alive!’

Photos by Jaye Montebello

Owner’s desperate plea to save her 18 horses and school

By Kit Heren news@southwarknews.co.uk

The owner of Dulwich Riding School may be forced to sell her home and camp on site in order to keep her eighteen horses alive, if her last-gasp fundraiser proves unsuccessful.

The fate of the longstanding riding school, near the north side of Dulwich Common, is a grim reminder of the problems facing such institutions that still have to look after animals despite no income coming during lockdown.

Jaye Montebello told the News she will have no option but to sell her house and move onto the site, whose lease has 23 years to run.

“Our only other option would be to put [the horses] down, but we couldn’t even put them down because it costs £500 per horse,” she said.

“Obviously I am not going to let this happen one way or another,” she added.

“Worst-case scenario I would be selling my house and putting a caravan on site. Because we have a continuing lease, financially going down isn’t an option.”

The much-loved school has been

famous Montague arms could be TURNED INTO FLATS AND SMALL PUB

By Josh Salisbury josh@southwarknews.co.uk Peckham’s historic Montague Arms pub faces being demolished under fresh proposals, which would see it being turned into a small pub with flats.

The Queen’s Road venue, known affectionately as the Monty, was famous for the cult bands it attracted and its quirky, macabre décor – including human skeletons.

The NME had interviewed Nick Cave and Shane McGowan in the pub, which regularly topped lists like the Rough Pub Guide Book, and was once described by The Sun as one of the nation’s “strangest, and best, boozers.”

The live music venue closed in 2018, before reopening as a gastropub.

The current building, on the

Peckham/New Cross border could now be knocked down.

Councillors for the ward in Lewisham have publicly opposed the demolition, saying they will “try everything possible” to save it.

In an open letter, Cllrs Bell, Millbank and Sorba of Telegraph Hill ward, said: “The post-COVID world will need to rebuild our society.

“Pubs and entertainment are a vital part of restoring social interaction that we’ve lost since the first lockdown.

As such, we will be objecting to the planning application to demolish the pub.

“We will also ask that the decision goes to a planning committee of elected councillors if it is not refused by officers.

“At the committee we will ask for the refusal to grant the planning permission

for the demolition of the former pub.

We will try everything possible to save it.”

The plans would see the boozer – which had held regular LGBT events – replaced with a four-storey building with a smaller pub, nine flats, and an office.

The applicants expect the cost of the demolition to be at least £2m, according to the application for permission.

In documents submitted to Lewisham Council, they admit that the building “is likely to be of value to local people due to its use as a public house.”

However, they add: “The replacement building would provide public benefits including space at ground floor level which could be used as a public house and through the provision of housing.”

A date has not yet been set for the plans to be heard.

teaching children and adults to ride since 1961. Jaye took over management from her mother several years ago, after her grandfather founded the school.

But the centre was forced to shut in the first Covid-19 lockdown last March, and was only able to open intermittently and with reduced numbers from the summer. The school closed fully again when the government announced subsequent lockdowns.

Expenses have stayed at their usual level of around £2,000 per week throughout. Ms Montebello was unable to furlough her four full-time employees because she needed them to look after the eighteen horses. The school has survived so far through a contingency fund left to Jaye by her mother and support from the council in the first lockdown.

But the money will run out in a matter of weeks. A fundraiser has seen donations of more than £6,800 pour in in just over a week - but if the school runs out of money, Jaye told the News she would be forced to sell her home.

Animal sanctuaries are also struggling to cope in the lockdown.

“Knowing that you can’t just shut the gates and walk away gives you the thought that one way or another you’ve got to make it work."

A determined Faye said she and her colleagues were still positive and grateful for the support of their customers since the first lockdown.

“People are doing their best - we get carrot deliveries on a daily basis, we’ve had tea and biscuit deliveries to the staff. We’ve got a waiting list with 600 people on it ready for when the doors open, so I’ve got no worries that we can’t go back to work if we can reopen.”

As well as the full-time staff, twenty local teenagers volunteer at the school, in return for training and free riding lessons.

Fundraiser Britt Burnett, who has been a customer for fifteen years and whose children also ride at the centre, said it would be “heartbreaking” if the school closed.

She said: “It’s a real part of the community. Sometimes you might associate horse riding with privilege, but at Dulwich Riding School it’s a real mixed bag both in terms of clientele and the people who work there.

“It would just be desperately sad if the school went under. It’s somewhere I’ve been going for fifteen years and it’s the only exercise that I enjoy.”

To find out more and to help save Dulwich Riding School go to justgiving. com and search for Dulwich Riding School – they are looking for £10,000 to stay afloat and as the paper went to press they had raised £7,465.

Worst-case scenario I would be selling my house and putting a caravan on site

angel victim of hit and run

Lost her left eye and dragged 50 metres

By Josh Salisbury josh@southwarknews.co.uk Police have launched an appeal after a dog was seriously injured in a hit and run – leaving her needing surgery to remove her eye.

The owner was walking nine-yearold Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Angel, on a lead at the north end of Croxted Road, Herne Hill, when the dog was hit by a van on New Year’s Eve at around 11.15pm.

Angel was dragged approximately fifty metres along the road and

was seriously injured on her head.

Eventually her left eye needed to be removed.

But the van driver did not stop, and instead drove off in the direction of Norwood Road. The dog and her owner were both wearing hi-vis jackets.

Police are keen to speak to anyone who witnessed the collision or who may have dash-cam or CCTV footage of the incident or vehicle.

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 or Tweet @MetCC quoting reference CAD 8129/31DEC20.

To remain 100% anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

PRODUCED IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE UK GOVERNMENT

Why your business must act now to continue trading with Europe

NEW RULES for doing business with Europe are in place and you must act now to continue trading with the continent. The UK Government has already minimised disruption, staggering border control changes. But you must ... n Make customs declarations when exporting goods to the EU – couriers, freight forwarders or customs agents can help. n Ensure you have an EORI number starting with GB, check new rules for importing and exporting, and that your goods meet origin rules.

The way we do business with the EU has changed.

Many firms are already adapting to the new rules and making plans for the future. If your business has not introduced changes, it is not too late. But you must act now! This is what you need to do. n If exporting, you need to check the EU business you’re exporting to is also ready. If you’re due to travel to the EU for work, you may need a visa or work permit. n If you want to hire from outside the UK, including the EU, you must be a Home Office licenced sponsor under the UK’s new points-based immigration system.

TEAMWORK IS VITAL Teamwork is the secret of UK transition success, according to an award-winning Cumbrian family business.

“There are UK Government website resources,” confirms Barry Leahey, MD of ninth generation family firm Playdale Playgrounds.

“There’s also the Department for International Trade. The CBI has an excellent website, there’s lots of assistance on there, as does the IOD and local chambers.

“We’ve accessed all these great resources to create an action sheet. All the information is out there.

“You’ve got to do your research but you only have to do it once,” continues the business

PLAYDALE PLAYGROUNDS boss who “sells fun all over the world”, his 100-plus workforce supplying 51 countries.

“In the first weeks of January we’ve got goods on the road. What we’re finding is our European partners, who we’ve prompted, have also been breaking old habits and creating new ones “I think everything’s going smoother than we expected.”

MAKE CHANGES Trading with Europe has changed.

So, to avoid disruption to your company’s operations, you need to make changes too.

Visit the gov.uk/transition site and use the Brexit checker tool to access personalised actions for your company.

HEADING FOR EUROPE: New rules are now in place for trading with the continent.

‘IT’S NOT A HASSLE’ Companies still preparing for the new rules should not “bury their heads in the sand.”

“It will sort itself out. You have to deal with things you’ve never dealt with before. But, once you’ve put the systems in place, it’s not as big a hassle as you think,” assures James McGoldrick.

Bradfords successfully supplies luxury hampers, baskets and gift sets to the EU and beyond thanks to following UK Government guidelines.

“The UK Government website was very good, it took you through everything,” he confirms, reassuring other operators who must now swiftly follow suit that “these things are all quite quick actually.”

BRADFORDS BAKERS His firm’s preparation ensured EU trade is now “incredibly busy” and it is currently operating at an estimated 350% up on last year’s trade.

“It helped that we had all our ducks in a row. The UK Government website was very clear on certain things we had to do.”

‘YOU’RE NOT ALONE’ “We’re all in this together” reassures a South Wales company chief whose family firm is successfully trading under the new rules.

Two thirds of Neath-based Naissance’s essential oil sales are with “important trading partners” within the EU. “My advice is don’t bury your head in the sand,” advises Jem Skelding, who employs over 100 staff.

“We’re all trying to figure this out. If you are struggling with it, or finding it difficult, you’re not alone, there’s help and advice.

“The UK Government website has lots of useful information.

“The light at the end of the tunnel is we’re seeing progress, things are improving. Try to see

NAISSANCE the positives.” Jem stresses urgent action from business is required regarding VAT, GDPR, EU workers, duty deferment, terms and conditions, contracts, customs declarations and agents as well as Economic Operators Registration and Identification numbers.

“As things settle down, new opportunities will undoubtedly present themselves.”

8 NEWS

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Southwark News, Thursday February 4 2021

Teenage killers jailed for total of 43 years

Carlos Roachford The scene of Clinton Evbota’s murder Victim: Clinton Evbota

It was a ‘wicked and cowardly’ attack on a troubled estate

By Kevin Quinn kevin@southwarknews.co.uk The killers of eighteen-year-old Clinton Evobta were handed prison sentences totalling 43 years last Friday and the judge commended the work of a detective on the case.

The three killers aged sixteen, eighteen and nineteen were among eight people arrested after the murder on Camberwell’s Brandon Estate on October 10, 2019.

The youngest to be jailed, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to six years behind bars.

Eighteen-year-old Carlos Roachford and Rio Williams, 19, both from Stockwell were found guilty of murder after the trial at Woolwich Crown Court in December.

Williams was jailed for 19 years and Roachford 18 years.

The Met’s Specialist Crime Command, said it had not been possible fully to establish why Clinton was targeted, but the judge awarded a commendation to Detective Constable Gibson, who spent hundreds of hours painstakingly studying CCTV footage to identify those responsible.

The vicious killing of Clinton, who grew up on the estate but had moved to Kent with his family, shocked and outraged the residents. The youngster, who had returned to see friends, was the third teenager to die on the estate in a year and a half.

As well as delays to installing CCTV Brandon Estate residents at the time criticised the council use of their community hall, heating outages and lack of engagement and have since been

Rio Williams invited to an Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting and subject to reports and regular updates with officers and councillors to try to resolve problems on the Brandon.

On the fatal night that Clinton was stabbed the News understands that elderly residents, who had been playing bingo in a nearby tenants’ hall comforted him in his final moments.

He was found stabbed on Grimsel Path on the estate at 8.21pm, but despite being treated by Air Ambulance medics he died at the scene. A post-mortem gave the cause of death as multiple stab wounds.

The court heard that on that night Williams and Roachford had

By Katherine Johnston katherine@southwarknews.co.uk

By Katherine Johnston katherine@southwarknews.co.uk A third of waste collectors are currently off sick or self isolating, with delays expected across the borough.

According to an update shared with residents from Southwark councillors, 30 per cent of staff in waste collections teams were absent by mid-January, with a particular shortage of HGV drivers.

Residents were warned to expect some delays in collections, by one or

two days. Any missed collections will take 3-4 days to resolve rather than within the usual 48-hours.

Some services such as bulky waste collections and new bin deliveries would be limited to urgent cases only.

The council said it was redeploying other staff where possible, extending operating hours and adding in extra weekend collections as well as ‘prioritising services with the highest public impact’.

Despite this, some areas - including those notorious for fly-tipping - have seen rubbish build up.

can ever absolve the pain of losing a loved one who had so much of his life to live, but I hope they can take some comfort in knowing that we have done all that we possibly could to get justice for them.

"I am proud of the efforts of my team, who have put everything into investigation. They have worked above and beyond to secure these convictions and significant sentencings. Detective Constable Gibson is especially deserving of praise for his efforts."

From the eight original arrests 18-yearold Giovanni Bennett from Kennington was found not guilty of both murder and possession of an offensive weapon.

A 16-year-old from Camberwell, 18-year-old Calvin Lopoua, from Streatham, and a 17-year-old were also found not guilty of murder, but were found guilty of possession of an offensive weapon. They have been sentenced to rehabilitation and supervision orders.

And a 14-year-old boy, who was also arrested on suspicion of Clinton’s murder was released with no further action.

not even have proper beds to sleep in.

Between July and September 2020 there was a 22 per cent rise in referrals to its advocacy service compared to the same period in 2019. Overall, last year was the charity’s busiest year in Southwark since its programme began in 2014.

Mariel (not her real name) fled her abusive partner with her children during the pandemic but had no money and was waiting to access benefits.

Solace used emergency funding to help her pay for bedding, towels, plates and glasses for their new home - all in place the day she arrived.

Since the pandemic, the charity’s emergency fund has already helped over 200 families with similar grants to help them get by - and feel at home.

Many have experienced financial abuse in the past and need support to become independent again. These grants are often the first time they can buy something for themselves.

“Winter is isolating and stressful at the best of times and it can be a time that many of us dread,” said Simrin Bakshi Choudhrie, a patron of Solace.

“For the women and children Solace supports, this winter in particular will be one of their toughest ever.

“Trying to survive cold weather restrictions, the pandemic-imposed restrictions and domestic abuse while in lockdown, is beyond comprehension, pushing women and their children into even more vulnerable and dangerous situations.

“As patron of Solace, I have heard directly from women about what their realities truly look like and why the services we run are needed more than ever.

“I urge you all to support our emergency winter appeal, so we can reach out to many more women and children who are suffering and give them the life-saving support they deserve and need.”

One woman told Solace that money it provided for a microwave ‘made all the difference’ to her family during the latest lockdown while living without her own kitchen.

“We can now eat something hot everyday. It’s helping keep the children warm and full,” she said.

Another described leaving her partner and moving into a damp temporary accommodation without, at first, even a kettle.

“Not being able to make myself a hot drink made me feel cold and completely alone,” she said.

To support Solace visit: www.solacewomensaid.org

fleeing with just the clothes on your back

Abuse survivors in need of basic household goods

A third of bin collectors off

congregated with the 16-year-old and more associates, when they spotted Clinton and gave chase.

Witnesses describe seeing Clinton pursued by a group of knife-wielding males before he was fatally attacked.

The court was told of the harrowing scenes both before and after Clinton's murder. He was stabbed at least once, but continued to run and tried to climb a tree in a desperate bid to escape, but he was pulled down and attacked by the group, who then fled the scene.

In an attack that the leading detective called ‘wicked and cowardly in the extreme’ the court also heard witnesses describe how they were ‘laughing and smiling as they ran off’.

Detective Chief Inspector Mick Norman, the lead investigator said: "Clinton Evbota's last moments were something no person should have to suffer. He was outnumbered and chased by a group who attacked him without mercy. Their actions were wicked and cowardly in the extreme.

"Clinton's family have endured so much throughout this trial. No sentence

Domestic abuse survivors are living in temporary accommodation without enough money for bedding, homeware or even a kettle while they wait for Universal Credit, says Solace Women's Aid, as it calls for donations to its emergency winter appeal.

The organisation, which works in partnership with Southwark Council to help women fleeing domestic abuse into safe housing, has seen surging demand since March 2020.

The number of domestic abuse victims referred to its services soared by nearly a quarter over summer 2020, and has remained high throughout the latest lockdown.

The charity says it needs help to cover the costs of basic items for women and children who often leave their abusers with nothing but the clothes on their backs and then face a wait for Universal Credit. Some do

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Southwark News, Thursday February 4 2021

‘extreme capacity pressures’ on southwark test and trace

By Katherine Johnston katherine@southwarknews.co.uk Test and trace in Southwark was under ‘extreme capacity pressures’ in early January as the Kent variant of Covid-19 caused an exponential rise in cases.

According to new data published

by Southwark Council’s health and wellbeing committee, between January 5 and January 19, just 225 people were successfully reached by local authority contact tracers out of a total of 1,286.

More than 300 were then redirected to the national Test and Trace run by the NHS due to limited capacity locally.

In a sign of the ongoing difficulties with administering the programme, local handlers found that 560 people could not be reached either due to ignoring calls, refusal to cooperate, or not enough information being handed over to enable them to make contact.

In October Southwark became one of

only four local authorities at that time to have rolled out its own version of Test and Trace to fill gaps left by the central government’s scheme.

Weeks later, in November, we reported that Southwark’s callers were reaching over 85 per cent of people compared with the 60 per cent achieved by the national scheme.

The News understands that the service is currently on track to achieve the target 80 per cent plus figure overall this month after the extremely busy start to the year.

The Southwark Council report notes: “The high levels of transmission observed in early January 2021 has given rise to extreme capacity pressures on local contact tracing with as many as 200 cases referred to the local team on some days.

“With transmission numbers down over the last week, the volume of referrals is approaching more sustainable levels but capacity remains

stretched.”

Home tracing visits which had been implemented in December had also been temporarily stopped due to safety concerns over the increased transmission rates of variants of the virus.

During a similar period - between January 12 and 18, outbreaks were largely concentrated in care homes and workplaces across Southwark.

According to council data, 32 open outbreaks were reported within that period - sixteen of which were in care homes, three in early years settings, and eight in workplaces.

An outbreak is defined as two or more confirmed cases of COVID-19 at a given site which are linked.

Encouragingly, the number of new infections is continuing to fall in the borough. In the week up to January 24, the seven-day incidence rate dropped by 37 per cent to 391 per 100,000 people.

MP asks police to investigate Corbyn’s ‘Holocaust’ leaflet

By Josh Salisbury josh@southwarknews.co.uk Piers Corbyn, the prominent anti-lockdown activist and brother of former Labour leader Jeremy, has been slammed for offensive leaflets comparing vaccines to the Holocaust.

As reported by the News in December, the leaflet offensively compares vaccines to the infamous Auschwitz death camp.

It links to a website promoting misleading or untrue claims about the safety of vaccines. The coronavirus vaccines are both safe and effective at preventing serious sickness from Covid.

Corbyn, who has admitted to helping design the leaflets, was facing a fresh backlash this week after the flyers were posted through doors in Southwark and Lambeth.

Bermondsey and Old Southwark MP, Neil Coyle, has since asked police to investigate the leaflets.

“Their views are disgusting to everyone who knows someone who has passed away. To use Auschwitz imagery is unbelievably sickening,” he told a national paper.

“I hope prosecutions follow and no one else is subject to these weird leaflets or cranks on their doorstep.”

Dave Rich, the policy lead at the Community Security Trust, an antisemitism monitoring group, previously told this paper: “His abuse of the Holocaust to promote his dangerous views about vaccines is utterly sick.”

When contacted for comment on the leaflets in December, Mr Corbyn replied: “The leaflet exposes the fascistic nature of the NewNormal and NewWorldOrder. People who appear to be saying it is somehow anti-Semitic are deranged.”

‘homeless top priority for vaccine’ Vaccine scams need to Report says those in hostels have frailty akin to 80-year-olds

By Katherine Johnston katherine@southwarknews.co.uk Rough sleeping charities including Thames Reach and St Mungo’s have called for homeless people to be prioritised for COVID-19 vaccines, as one in four have health conditions that put them at serious risk of the virus.

In a new report, published last month, St Mungo’s said the government had a ‘once in a generation chance’ to end rough sleeping but now needed to treat the issue as a public health one, and not just a housing problem.

Recommendations in Housing and health: working together to respond to rough sleeping during Covid-19 included restoring the one billion in funding cut from local authorities’ budgets, and closer work between housing and health agencies to built on the success of ‘everyone in’ - the scheme which saw rough sleepers housed in hotels and other temporary accommodation during the pandemic.

The charity’s research found that 24 per cent of the people it supports have a health condition that makes them clinically vulnerable to COVID-19; ranging from illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease and severe respiratory conditions. St Mungo's has also found that eighteen per cent of those it helped into emergency hotel accommodation in 2020 were not registered with a GP at the time - even though, despite

popular misconception, you do not need a fixed address to do so.

Meanwhile, Thames Reach said that the vaccination roll out had been mainly based on age brackets, but people living in hostels often display levels of frailty akin to people in their 80s. An average of seven chronic health conditions per resident is often more than the average suffered by a 90-yearold in the general population.

The charity, like others in the sector, is also calling for its outreach workers to be vaccinated.

Steve Douglas CBE, St Mungo’s chief executive, said it was vital that the achievements made during the pandemic in helping people access lasting support were ‘not wasted’.

“We know from their stories told in this report, and from our experience as front-line practitioners, that health and homelessness are inextricably linked,” he said.

“Everyone In was so effective because that is what happened.

“We worked together with health and local authority housing colleagues to identify the services and medical support that our clients needed. It was so much more than just providing a safe place to stay.

“Doctors and nurses were in the hotels, medication prescribed was delivered on site.

“We made it easier to get the help so many clients desperately needed, and the results are undeniable.

“People’s health improved – some for the first time in years. It undoubtedly saved lives.

“Now we need to make that ‘emergency’ response and the ‘Everyone In’ principles of joint working become the norm.

“It is not difficult to do, but will need a different approach – starting by including those who are experiencing homelessness being included in the priority group for accessing Coronavirus vaccines.

“We urge all MPs, and everyone working across government, to read this report and to take the learning from it. This is a once in a generation chance to make the changes needed to achieve our shared goal of ending rough sleeping. It must not be wasted.”

Ian, a St Mungo’s client who had been sleeping rough for five years before being accommodated during ‘Everyone In’, said: “Since coming off the streets, my health has improved. It is so important to be healthy and this is not possible when sleeping rough, especially during a pandemic.

“My weight was down to nine stone, but now it’s up to eleven. If it wasn’t for St Mungo’s, I’m sure I’d be in a bad way health wise. In effect, they saved my life.”

Some local authorities have already decided to redirect vaccinations to ensure homeless people are inoculated as a priority - including councils in Oldham and Liverpool.

be reported to the police

By Katherine Johnston katherine@southwarknews.co.uk The Met is encouraging anyone who sees or is victim to a vaccine scam to report it to the authorities.

Although the number of confirmed fraud cases are described as ‘small’, officers believe many incidents are not being reported to police, leaving other people vulnerable to scammers.

Three COVID-19 vaccine scams were investigated by the Met’s cyber crime unit in December last year.

The vaccine is free on the NHS and patients will be contacted by their GP or doctor to arrange an appointment.

They will never be asked for their bank details.

Detective Sergeant Josh Pool, from the Met's cyber crime unit, said: "Sadly, criminals will exploit any opportunity to take people's hard earned money. Even a global pandemic will not stop them.

"It's positive to see that so few people have fallen victim to fraudulent vaccine scams in December, however we are concerned that people may not always be reporting when they have been deceived to us or to other authorities such as Action Fraud.

“With the rollout of the vaccine picking up pace, we want to remind the public how they can help keep themselves safe."

In one example reported to the Met, a text message was sent out telling possible victims that they were eligible to apply for the vaccine.

When the recipients clicked through to the link on the text message, they were taken to a website with NHS branding. They were then asked to provide their sort code, account number and long card number.

Similar scams are delivered by email, voicemail or text, and ask for personal details.

Report scams to either the Met’s website: https://www.met.police. uk/ or Action Fraud: https://www. actionfraud.police.uk

Bankside Yards Consultation Native Land are bringing forward a fresh set of proposals for one of the buildings within the Bankside Yards masterplan.

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BE AT THE HEART OF DECISIONMAKING AT YOUR LOCAL HOSPITAL 2021 Elections to the Council of Governors King’s College Hospital At King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, our Council of Governors play a vital role in giving a voice to our patients, members of the public, staff and partner organisations, so that they may help shape the services we deliver and ensure that those services meet the needs of the communities we serve.

Nominations Now Open!

Nominations are now open for our 2021 governor elections in the following constituencies: • • • •

Public (Lambeth) – 3 vacancies Public (Southwark) – 3 vacancies Patient – 4 vacancies Staff (Nursing & Midwifery) – 1 vacancy

• Staff (Allied Health Professionals) – 1 vacancy • Staff (Medical & Dentistry) – 1 vacancy • Staff (Admin Clerical & Management) – 1 vacancy

If you are passionate about your local health services, are a Lambeth or Southwark resident, have been a patient of King’s, or are a carer for a King’s patient or are a member of staff in one of the above groups and would like to be the voice of your local community, please consider standing as a governor.

Nomination forms can be downloaded, completed and submitted on our dedicated election portal: www.cesvotes.com/Kings2021. Alternatively, please request a hard copy from our Returning Officer, Ciara Norris, on 020 8889 9203 or email Ciara.Hutchinson@cesvotes. com. The deadline for nominations is 5pm on Monday 8th March, 2021.

You can visit our website for more information: https://www.kch.nhs.uk/about/organisation/ council-of-governors/election. You may also give us a call on 020 3299 4004 or email kch-tr.FTO@nhsnet.

To be eligible, you must be 16 or over and a member of King’s living in a constituency in which an election is being held. If you are not yet a member of King’s, you can join free by emailing kch-tr.members@nhs.net. To be nominated and to vote in this round of elections you need to be a registered member by 5pm on Monday 8th March, 2021.

PLEASE NOTE: You are not eligible for nomination if you are currently a Governor at another NHS Foundation Trust.

14 NEWS

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Southwark News, Thursday February 4 2021

Rapist targeted teenager in Peckham as she walked home alone from work

By Josh Salisbury

josh@southwarknews.co.uk A rapist who attacked a woman he asked for directions as she walked home from work in Peckham has been convicted.

Taofiq Laguda, 46, was convicted of one count of rape and one count of theft at Woolwich Crown Court last Wednesday.

Laguda spotted his victim walking alone at night when he approached her at around 1.30am on 24 January last year.

The eighteen-year-old victim had just finished working at a restaurant in Peckham and had decided to walk home as the bus was taking too long to arrive.

The trial heard how Laguda pulled up beside the victim in his wife’s car and asked for directions before offering her

a lift towards Deptford.

Soon after she got into the car, Laguda’s demeanour changed, and he told his victim that he could not stop where she wanted. Instead he drove into a dark and secluded area of an estate in Greenwich.

Jurors heard how the victim tried to open the door, before being threatened

by Laguda, who said: “Get in the back or I’ll kill you.”

The 46-year-old raped his victim before driving off with her handbag containing her phone and money in the car.

The victim managed to get help from a passing stranger, who then contacted the police on her behalf.

“This was a terrifying sexual attack on a young victim who had believed she had encountered a good Samaritan on her way home from work,” Momata

Matin, from the CPS, said.

“Taofiq Laguda lured his teenage victim on the pretext of needing directions and giving her a lift in return.

“But Laguda was not looking for directions, he was cruising around in his wife’s car, without her permission whilst she was abroad, and hoping to find exactly this type of situation – a lone female in the dark.

“The prosecution case included DNA evidence, strong witness testimony, evidence from number plate recognition and phones to prove Laguda was responsible for the attack.

“During police interview Laguda also claimed that the victim had had consensual sex with him in his car – the jury did not believe his lies.”

Laguda, of Barking and Dagenham, will be sentenced at Woolwich Crown Court on 25 February.

appeal: do you recognise him?

By Katherine Johnston katherine@southwarknews.co.uk Police are appealing for help identifying a man suspected of exposing himself on a Dulwich bus last year.

The incident was reported to have taken place on the P12 bus travelling in Overhill Road in Dulwich at around 5.45pm on November 1, when a man exposed himself to a woman passenger.

Detective Sergeant Ian Beattie, from the Met, said: "Maintaining a safe network for those travelling on buses is vital.

"Sexual assaults on buses in London are very rare but when they do happen we prioritise supporting the victim and catching those responsible.

"The technology available to use is very strong and we encourage anyone who is a victim of witnesses of such offence to contact police so we can work to track down the perpetrator. " His comments were echoed by Mandy McGregor, TfL’s head of transport policing and community safety, who said: “The bus network is a low crime environment but when heinous acts like these are committed we are relentless in our pursuit of the perpetrators."

Woman rescued from burning Peckham flat

Lighting gas heater believed to be the cause

By Josh Salisbury josh@southwarknews.co.uk Fifteen firefighters rescued a woman from a burning Peckham flat last Wednesday.

Man arrested after a stabbing near London Bridge Station

By Kevin Quinn kevin@southwarknews.co.uk Police arrested a man last Friday afternoon after a stabbing on Borough High Street.

The victim, in his 20s, suffered minor injuries, was taken hospital and has since been discharged.

Cordons were in place around London Bridge after the attack, to allow the police to conduct a forensic examination of the area.

Officers were called at 3.40pm to Borough High Street, near the junction London Bridge Station and they arrested a 20-year-old at the scene.

Firefighters have described the “heavy smoke” pouring out of the windows of that flat on Goldsmith Road shortly before 2pm.

They rushed inside wearing breathing gear to find the woman in the living room of her ground floor flat.

She was taken to hospital for treatment by paramedics.

Fire investigators believe the blaze was caused by a naked flame being used to light a gas heater accidentally falling on to ignitable materials. Part of the five-roomed flat remains damaged by the fire.

“On arrival we could see heavy smoke coming out from the windows of the flat,” said Stuart West, from the Old Kent Road fire department, who was on scene.

“Crews quickly entered the building

Extension lead warning after fire

By Katherine Johnston

katherine@southwarknews.co.uk London Fire Brigade has issued a warning to 'never overload sockets' after two homes in Dulwich were destroyed by a blaze on Saturday.

Fire broke out in the property, a house converted into flats in Carson Road, at around half eleven at night.

Four people left the building before crews arrived, with two men needing treatment for smoke inhalation.

A maisonette flat on the first floor and a loft conversion were gutted by the fire, which the brigade says was likely caused by a fault in an extension lead.

The blaze was brought under control by 1am after four fire engines and around 25 firefighters arrived from West Norwood and Brixton stations.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “Overloaded sockets are one of the most common causes of electrical fires.

“Some electrical appliances use more power than others, so be mindful of not overloading your extension leads.

“Power-hungry appliances such as kettles, toasters and microwaves shouldn't be on the same extension.

“It's also important to fully unwind drum extensions leads. If you leave them coiled, they can overheat and cause a fire.”

and rescued a woman who was in the living room of a ground floor flat, who was then taken to hospital.”

He issued a warning about the dangers of using naked flames to light heaters, especially if there is ignitable material around.

“If you use items like matches or lighters at home, be especially careful if you have a lot of flammable items, like books, magazines or papers,” he said.

“We’d also like to remind people who may be using portable heaters during the colder months to make sure that heaters are well maintained and in good working order.

“Don’t take risks with older heaters, if it’s showing signs of damage replace it with a new one or get it tested and repaired by a qualified technician.”

Heaters should also be positioned away from linen or furniture, and in a place where they won’t get knocked over, Mr West added.

Three fire engines attended the scene, and managed to get the fire under control in an hour.

Advice for using extension leads safely • Some appliances use more power than others, so be mindful of not overloading your extension leads.

Power-hungry appliances such as kettles, toasters and microwaves shouldn't be on the same extension.

• Always use a fused ‘inline’ type – not the plug-in cube type – but be really careful not to overload it. This is all too easy if you add extra adaptors/ extensions, or appliances that use lots of power like kettles, tumble dryers or heaters.

• It's also important to fully unwind drum extension leads. If you leave them coiled, they can overheat and cause a fire.

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Southwark News, Thursday February 4 2021

south-east london has the Lowest vaccine rate

Only 60% of over 80s have been given first dose

By Katherine Johnston katherine@southwarknews.co.uk

South-east London has recorded the lowest vaccination rate in the country, as officials say a lack of reliable data and limited government funding is hampering efforts on the ground.

The NHS region, which includes Southwark and neighbouring boroughs Lambeth, Lewisham, Bexley and Bromley, has only given 60 per cent of its over 80s their first dose, compared with a national average of around 80 per cent.

The figure makes it both the worst performing region in London and in England for reaching the most clinically vulnerable age group. The second lowest area in the country was East London, at 63 per cent coverage.

Cllr Evelyn Akoto Although some areas of the city have reported higher figures, London as a whole is still lagging behind.

Last week we reported that Southwark Council had been snubbed by the government in an announcement that £23 million was being handed out to some local authorities - including Lewisham - in extra funds to help ensure vulnerable people and minority groups were able to access COVID-19 vaccines.

As reported, there is concern some

groups are more likely to be ‘vaccine hesitant’ or reject offered jabs altogether.

Cllr Evelyn Akoto, Southwark Council’s public health chief, had described not being invited to bid for the scheme as ‘infuriating’.

In a letter to local government secretary Robert Jenrick also signed

by MPs Harriet Harman, Neil Coyle, and Helen Hayes, and council leader Kieron Williams, Cllr Akoto called for more support for the borough, and information about why Southwark had been left out.

She said: “In Southwark over 120 languages are spoken, 25 per cent of residents identify as black, and almost 50 per cent of young people identify as black or minority ethnic.

“There is no question that with rates of vaccine hesitancy highest among younger age groups, we have a ticking time bomb on our hands.”

Harriet Harman has also called for more in-depth borough-by-borough vaccination statistics to be published by the government, currently only available by NHS region.

£2 million improvements begin in bermondsey’s blue

By Josh Salisbury

josh@southwarknews.co.uk Regeneration work of Bermondsey’s Blue has begun, which will see a £2m transformation of the marketplace.

It comes after a community campaign, spearheaded by the area’s business improvement district with others, was successful in getting £2m of funding for the overhaul.

It will see the pitches at the market improved, nearby shop fronts overhauled, and among the biggest changes, a new walkway created from the market to Blue Anchor Lane and then onto Bermondsey station.

"The regeneration will herald a new era and going 'Down The Blue' to shop and socialise, will continue

as a long-standing local tradition, ensuring that the Blue remains the heart of an increasingly diverse community,” said Russell Dryden, of the Blue Bermondsey BID. Warwick Landscaping, the contractor, arrived on site last week, and work has begun this week.

Among the other improvements to the marketplace are more cycle racks, changes to Big Local Works to create” an employment and training hub,” and creation of Community maker-space in disused railway arches.

It is the latest of upgrades to the area. In October, a new community mural was unveiled in the railway underpass on St James’ Road.

The nearby John Bull arch is set to be painted in the spring by mural artist, Paul Butler; creator of the famous Cable Street mural.

nearly 30,000 locals have dangerous cladding L&Q's Arch Street is one block in Southwark that was found to be wrapped in unsafe cladding

By Katherine Johnston katherine@southwarknews.co.uk Nearly 30,000 people are living in homes with dangerous cladding across Southwark and Lambeth, new figures show.

path moved forward to save 34 mature oaks in dulwich wood

Part of the council’s vow to care for its 80,000 trees

By Katherine Johnston katherine@southwarknews.co.uk

A damaged and unsafe wall in Dulwich Wood will be moved forward and rebuilt to protect 34 trees from being felled.

The mature oaks in the Upper Dulwuch Wood site had breached the wall and made the footpath below unsafe.

Rebuilding the wall on the same

site was discovered to be particularly difficult as their roots had grown underneath and there was limited space for construction.

A plan, developed with Dulwich residents, has now been approved which would give over pavement space to the trees and rebuild the 50 metre wall along the former kerb line.

More than 80 per cent of respondents to the consultation backed the idea.

Currently, the footpath has been boarded up to protect walkers from any falling masonry, with pedestrians redirected along Farquhar Road.

If the Magistrates Court approves the highway change, the council

could begin work this year.

Cllr Catherine Rose, cabinet member for leisure, environment and roads said: “I’m delighted that we’ve been able to find a way to maintain these trees. We consulted with local residents and this is a reflection of all that hard work.

“We are committed to caring for and growing the 80,000 trees on council land, as is evidenced by our recently unveiled plans to plant 10,000 new trees across the borough.

“We always do our best to find viable ways to maintain established trees and I’m delighted that our dedicated trees team has come up with this solution.”

According to data compiled by the Labour Party, at least 209 high-rise buildings in both boroughs have yet to have their dangerous cladding removed.

These figures - likely an underestimate - mean around 16,982 people in Southwark and 12,110 people in Lambeth are affected nearly four years after the devastating Grenfell Tower fire.

Across London, at least 554 buildings now have ‘waking watches’ in place, costing leaseholders thousands while they live in unsafe homes they cannot sell.

The figures were released by Labour on Tuesday as MPs were set to debate the party’s opposition day motion on measures put forward by Keir Starmer to resolve the crisis.

Starmer’s plan called on the government to step in and pay for cladding removal up front before pursuing those legally responsible to recoup funds, along with tougher legislation and a crackdown and ‘rogue builders’.

Although not legally binding, a majority of MPs backed Starmer’s plan, with 263 in favour and zero against.

A number of Conservative MPs who had been ordered by Boris Johnson to abstain did not back Labour but did criticise the government’s handling of the scandal.

Surprisingly, Robert Jenrick, the

Labour leader Keir Starmer

housing, communities and local government secretary, did not attend the debate; instead sending a junior minister who had only been in post for fifteen days.

Although the government has a policy of abstaining from any opposition day motions put forward by Labour, the PM has said an announcement on cladding should be expected soon.

Key questions homeowners need answered include whether more financial support will be offered to help people living in homes with other types of defects - including lacking fire breaks - and whether the government will plough ahead with a mooted ‘loan scheme’ that would see upfront funds given to freeholders later recouped through service charges - essentially a tax on not-at-fault leaseholders.

It has also emerged that many types of potentially unsafe cladding are still being used on new builds under eighteen metres high in the absence of stricter regulations.

Before the debate, Helen Hayes, Labour MP Dulwich and West Norwood, told the News: “The Tories have tried to avoid this crisis for too long.

“Every day that passes puts tens of thousands of people in London at unnecessary risk and leaves them with unfair, catastrophic costs, while their lives are on hold and they face the day to day anxiety of being locked down in dangerous buildings.

“This has gone on too long. It is not the fault of leaseholders and they should not be made to cover the costs.

“The government must urgently step in to ensure everyone has a safe, secure place to live.”

Southwark News, Thursday February 4 2021

www.southwarknews.co.uk/news

NEWS 17

southwark angels Helping in crisis

don’t be alone at Walworth garden

A new support group at Walworth Garden is helping to combat loneliness and isolation during the third national lockdown, writes Blathnaid Corless...

'Growing to Grow' is an eight-week social and therapeutic horticulture programme offering gardening sessions for anyone struggling during the pandemic.

Revised government guidelines mean up to fifteen people can now meet up as part of a formal support group.

Oli Haten, Walworth Garden’s CEO and head gardener, said: “If there’s one thing we’ve noticed in this third lockdown, it’s that people are no longer afraid to admit

that they feel isolated or lonely.

“The basis of our programme comes from the belief in the concept that occupation is good for you, and that communion with the soil is good for you.”

Mr Haten also spoke of the safety measures in place to ensure the programme runs smoothly. “We enforce mask wearing and social distancing, and we have a one-way system around the garden centre," he explained.

“After the success of our first eight-week programme, we now have a waiting list and are looking to expand.

“We want to try and reach as many people as possible, but we need more

funding to do that.”

Horticulturalist Tracy Browne, who runs therapy classes at Walworth Garden, said: “I think the best part of the programme is that we provide a safe space for people to talk about the stress of lockdown, while meeting new people. Some people we teach already have gardens, and others discover skills they didn’t even know they had. In the last group I taught, there were two women from Southwark who lived in the same flat block and had never met, and they became friends.”

Walworth Garden is open seven days a week. Visit walworthgarden.org.uk for more information.

RideLondon goes virtual RideLondon has been cancelled due to Coronavirus fears and will be replaced with a virtual event.

It is hoped the annual cycling festival, planned for the end of May, will return in its usual format in 2022.

Will Norman, the Mayor of London’s Walking and Cycling Commissioner, said: “It is very disappointing that RideLondon cannot take place in May, but with London still in the grip of the COVID-19 pandemic it is the most responsible decision.

“We know many Londoners have taken up cycling over the past nine months and we are doing all we can to support this and help avoid the risk of a damaging car-led recovery, including rolling out new cycle lanes across our city.”

Hugh Brasher, event director of RideLondon, said the decision was disappointing, especially for the charities that have benefitted from more than £80 million in fundraising since 2013, but that he hoped people would show their support by joining a virtual version. An online challenge held in August 2020 after last May’s cancellation raised three million.

“We are currently working with the mayor’s office to deliver a virtual event in the summer designed to inspire as many people as possible to cycle more often and also to engage some of the hundreds of thousands of new or lapsed cyclists to raise money for the many charities whose income has been so affected by COVID-19,” he said.

eco-school green flag

Sarah Wordlaw, deputy head of Comber Grove, receiving the donated laptop

More laptops for kids Education recruitment agency Vision Teaching dropped off this donated laptop to Camberwell’s Comber Grove Primary this week as it supports the nationwide campaign to bridge the digital divide during lockdown.

The company is giving laptops to schools all over London after sourcing unwanted or donated devices and making them safe and ready for students to use.

It says its campaign was

even more important given that national children’s mental health week started on Monday (February 1), with many pupils' self-esteem and learning affected by missing out on their education.

Staff and supporters have raised funds for the appeal through donations, virtual events, and the company’s director doing a sponsored headshave. www.gofundme.com/f/helpvision-support-online-leaningfor-pupils

Greenwich’s Blackheath High School has been awarded the prestigious 'Eco-Schools Green Flag' in recognition of its commitment to environmental action and learning.

Its pupils have learned about energy use, ran energy-saving switch-off campaigns that have reduced the school’s CO2 emissions, and carried out environment and energy audits as well as clearing up litter and plastic in the local area.

The girls’ school has also built a 'minibeast hotel', a stag beetle nursery, and introduced wildlifefriendly planting to increase biodiversity on its site.

In celebration of its 140th Anniversary last year, Blackheath

High invited all members of the school community to make green pledges.

One such pledge was to introduce ocean plastics to its curriculum, with the help of Common Seas, an anti-plastic pollution not-forprofit.

Head teacher Carol ChandlerThompson, said: “At Blackheath High we are all hyper-aware of the environmental crisis, and I am so proud of how committed our girls and staff have been in playing their part to combat it.

“This award is a real testament to their hard work. But it doesn’t stop here. We have many more exciting environmental initiatives in the pipeline which will see us make even more of a difference.”

18 OPINION

www.southwarknews.co.uk/letters

Southwark News, Thursday February 4 2021

Comment from

Westminster

NEIL COYLE

MP for Bermondsey & Old Southwark

Government’s COVID ‘whoppers’ C aptain Sir Tom Moore passing away is incredibly sad.

He entered hospital with pneumonia but also had COVID. His contribution to the NHS and to our country is an example to us all.

In January, the UK passed the grim tally of over 100,000 people dying from COVID. It is horrifying that we have reached this position, but it is even more tragic is that it was not inevitable. Many lives could have been saved if decisions had been taken more swiftly and if ministers had locked down our airports and borders to avoid infections. It has taken a year before travellers are even being tested and yet the government boasts it has ‘done everything it could’.

The government ‘risk register’ warned of the likelihood of a pandemic, but Ministers disposed of NHS PPE supplies and then gave contracts to their friends who failed to produce the goods. The tracing system still does not work because ministers refused to allow the NHS and public health teams to manage it, instead outsourcing it to another firm that has failed to deliver.

Insufficient help has been given to allow people to isolate and many selfemployed people have had no help at all. Care homes full of vulnerable people had COVID patients admitted to them and public trust was eroded when Johnson and his ministers lined up to defend Dominic Cummings and his 600 mile road trip for an eye test.

The public wants facts not fiction from Ministers but their ‘world-beating’ claims increasingly look like worldbeating whoppers now we have the highest death toll and worse economic damage of any major country.

Even now, when the vaccine rollout should be good news, ministers risk overegging success. London has not had the supplies of the vaccine needed and now lags behind in the number of older people who have had their first jab. Please do get yours when you can – it is crucial to us all!

But we must continue to take care until everyone has had both shots. You are not immune when one jab is administered and can still catch COVID. The local police are having to deal with 35 incidents of COVID rule breaking every day currently as people think we are out of this when they hear exaggerated claims of how

many people have been vaccinated.

I remain very concerned about children in Southwark still being routinely failed.

The Education Secretary boasted that 750,000 laptops would be available by the end of the first week of term.

The reality in our borough is that one school spent over £40,000 of its own funds due to government delays; another requested 60 wireless routers but was provided just 10; and another requested 50 laptops and was given just three. It simply is no compensation for the disruption and disadvantage our children and grandchildren are experiencing, or their teachers and schools who want to continue providing as best an education as possible in these difficult circumstances.

It has instead been left to charities like the Newcomen Collett Foundation, working with our council to pick up the pieces, fundraising to step in. If you are able to help with money or IT equipment, please visit crowdfunder. co.uk/laptopsforlearning to support their aim of helping children in Southwark.

Please contact me if your child needs extra kit to continue learning and I will also do everything I can to help.

Reduce food waste: ‘Know Green when it’s really off and let’s start on-site composting on eleanor estates’ Southwark

margolies

Eleanor Margolies writes about theatre and on environmental issues, and is an active campaigner for urban green spaces and clean air. www.eleanormargolies.co.uk @ellanOrnell

D

o you ever wonder about eating food ‘after the date’?

‘Best before’ labels on products like tea bags and carrots lead people to throw out edible items worth an average of £346 a year!

For most foods, it’s fine to use your senses instead: does this look and smell okay? A new campaign to simplify labels is encouraging us all to get to know our onions.

Apps like Olio and Too Good to Go help people offer food that would otherwise be wasted, and find what’s available within a

short walking distance. Olio’s Food Waste Heroes pick up produce that supermarkets are about to throw out at the end of the day, while the Albrighton Community Fridge, set up by Hubbub, organises this on a larger scale to tackle food poverty.

But there’s another kind of leftover that really shouldn’t be wasted.

The more fruit and veg you eat and cook from scratch, the better.

But it also means more onion skins, potato peelings, carrot tops, orange and banana peel. If you live in a Southwark house (or flat in a converted house), you can leave out a caddy of food waste to be collected for large-scale composting. But that’s not an option for tens of thousands of people living in blocks of flats, where there’s no food waste collection and veg trimmings have to be put into the ordinary rubbish bins.

This mixed waste is treated at Veolia’s Old Kent Road site and then

incinerated. But nature already has an effective process for dealing with organic matter. Composting produces natural fertiliser through the action of bacteria and worms, needing little human intervention; putting compost bins in gardens avoids the need for trucks and collection schedules. With so many more people cooking at home, it’s a perfect moment to set up composting schemes on estates. Involve residents in planning the location and logistics, connect to food growing projects, and it could even produce a small income for the community.

The Southwark Council Climate Strategy includes an ambition to ‘reduce food waste on Southwark estates through onsite composting’ but nearly two years after the declaration of a climate emergency, we’ve seen little action. We have the recipe and ingredients – let’s get cooking.

READERS’ VIEWS 'It's a rat tax': Council could nearly double cost of pest control removing rats from homes Lib Dem Councillor Victor Chamberlain is exactly right in addressing this, I too turned down a property offer due to rat infestation and the same rats were eating their way through about 181 properties on that estate Caroline Gardens. A rat tax hits the poorest and yet again Southwark Council still fail people expect us to pay rather than to admit it is their lack of internal accountability, fund managing decades and lack of services and maintenance to residents decades has led to this. Thank you Victor Chamberlain!

Karen Connolly, via SN website

It’s because of cutbacks that we have more rats all over the country. Less street cleaners, smaller general waste bins, only emptied once every two weeks, instead of every week. Everyone knew what would happen but, not the people who put these changes in place, so now we have to pay for their mistakes, these people will get away with it too, they always do, what is our council tax been spent on?

Tom Hambleton, via SN website

Walworth LEN: Multiple fines 'capped at three' with some scrapped after Southwark News report My company has numerous electric vehicles but are still banned from bus gates and LTN’S. What is the point? Ubers can but we can’t. Making deliveries to elderly pregnant shielding isolating residents etc has added extra mileage congestion delays and almost impossible to deliver. Thank you Southwark for your greed and stupidity imposing this nightmare on us.

Lawrence, via SN website

Vulnerable pensioner forced to use bags as toilet after housing association delays repairs to her plumbing The same happened to me. I had no heating, no hot water and no flushing toilets for eight days, yes eight days... The only water I had was a cold water tap in the kitchen. I had to keep filling buckets to tip down the toilets. It was disgusting.

Kelly Brown, via Facebook

Bermondsey residents trapped next to noisy construction work for Thames ‘super-sewer’ during lockdown That’s not right to impose this on people during lockdown, preventing them from working from home and children from learning.

Caroline Lly, via Facebook

I get that the noise can be frustrating but they are just there doing their jobs. The people working there have no control over where they work or when. They have removed their welfare unit and one of the diggers to keep this lady happy. The work being done is essential if they don’t wish to have a burst pipe and flooding in their building in the future.

Sandra Marie Williams, via Facebook

County lines crackdown leads to more than 900 arrests Now this is a headline I can get behind.

Mark Webb, via Facebook

Prosecute anti-vaxxers spreading misinformation, says Neil Coyle Can we then please also fine government ministers for spreading lies and misinformation? And the PM? The law should not just apply to some topics or people.

Bettina Pickering, via Facebook

Pearly King of Bermondsey speaks out about near-death Coronavirus experience to urge people to follow the rules You can try but there are still people out there who would rather believe stuff on WhatsApp from other idiots rather than from people who went through it.

Bao Lou, via Facebook

So sorry to hear you’ve been this poorly Jimmy Jukes, but so relieved to hear you're on the road to recovery. Take care mucca x Amanda Burke, via Facebook

Southwark News, Thursday February 4 2021

www.southwarknews.co.uk/letters

OPINION 19

Confusion over who is at most risk

T

he UK has already got ahead on vaccine supply. Effective distribution and take-up are the next steps.

Distribution has experienced teething problems, with London lagging behind many other areas of the country in first doses given.

Sadiq Khan previously said the city had not been given its fair share as the government did not take into account the larger number of patients registered with GPs here compared with regions less densely populated. These blocks are showing signs of being resolved as logistics improve.

Vaccine hesitancy is an altogether more difficult challenge to crack. And then there is the question of who comes next.

It is shocking to think that there are those refusing to have the jab, or not turning up for appointments, when so many other people currently not eligible to receive a vaccine are desperate to do so.

Clinically and morally, government advisers say, the most vulnerable must be vaccinated first.

But throughout the pandemic there has been confusion over who is most at risk - and why.

Someone with underlying health conditions is particularly vulnerable to COVID-19 and will carry a greater risk of becoming seriously ill or dying from the disease.

However, if they are now shielding or working from home and limiting social contact, is their overall risk much less than a teacher in their 40s or 50s still going into a partially opened school?

What about a police officer who has PPE but, by the nature of their job, has to share a car with other staff and is more at risk of interacting with

potentially aggressive, unwell people in crisis?

Could vaccinating teachers earlier by a few weeks, if supply is available, help to not only protect hard-working staff working under incredibly challenging circumstances, but also help break transmission?

Is vaccinating police as early as possible the only morally right thing to do when the definition of their job is to put themselves in danger to protect others? Where is their protection?

Encouraging research shows vaccination does help slow transmission, and not just prevent illness.

A new study has estimated that a single dose of the Oxford vaccine reduces transmission by 67 per cent. This rises to 82.4 per cent after the second dose is given twelve weeks later.

Research is ongoing to establish an understanding of how effective other vaccines are at preventing transmission, too.

Schools did play a significant part in the widespread transmission of the virus throughout the community as the Kent COVID-19 variant took hold.

Vaccinating key workers, whether police, shopkeepers or transport staff, would be a fitting way to show how much their efforts over the last year have been appreciated. But more than a thank you, it could be necessary to make a phased return to schools work without high levels of staff sickness - currently a huge drain on many industries.

If supply can meet this demand, and we are on track to achieve current age-related vaccination targets, surely moving teachers and other key workers up the list is the only choice to make.

What theDickens?

SOUTHWARK NEWS DIARIST

Playing name games Pity the poor member of council staff who appears to have made the same blunder twice this week.

Southwark electoral services emailed residents this week about the Mayoral elections, and apologised for accidentally getting their names the wrong way around surname first, forename second.

“Please be assured this error was in the email and not in the details we hold for you,” officers reassured residents.

“Please see the corrected email below.” The email however, made the same mistake again.

“Third time lucky with that mayoral elections email eh?” replied one recipient. Well, we’ve all had days at work like that.

He’s not the bishop, he’s a very naughty boy

Bizarrely, somebody this week attempted to pretend to be the Bishop of Southwark on social media.

The convincing account purporting to be the bishop even tweeted about services it had held.

It has now been suspended by the powers that be after Southwark Diocese were contacted.

“We are aware of it and have reported it,” it said. The account has now been suspended by Twitter.

Public health advice from the 1930s London Libraries last week unearthed documents from the thirties giving public health advice, and it seems much applies to today.

“Your son and heir needs sun and air,” ran one public health slogan from Bermondsey Borough Council.

Another: “Catch your cold quickly in your hankie, don’t broadcast germs!”

But perhaps the most bizarre is this: “Habits make health. Good habits = good health; bad habits = Nunhead.”

“Some useful advice here,” it says. “Though what they had against the people of #Nunhead remains a mystery!”

CRYPTIC PUZZLE Clues Across

1 They’re simply revolting (6) 7 Is love no longer set apart? (7) 8 Hold money round the disturbed worker (7) 9 The bottom of the drain (5) 10 Less severe about the fast with a mixed gin 12 You sound beastly! (3) 13 In return, made some cheese (4) 15 Morally improved and could be deified (7) 17 Back part of the forearm (4) 19 Accomplished palindrome (3) 21 Division of equal bird and altered atom (9) 22 Animal sounds sweet (5) 23 Number one part is malodorous (7) 24 A good line for sunbathing chap (7) 25 Soon my return is nameless (6)

Clues Down

1 Official musical instrument? (8) 2 Ornament from Bengal (6) 3 How King Edward got to know (7) 4 I am taken in by the bell, though still on the move (5) 5 Conducted round and finally settled (6) 6 A lordly lock (4) 7 In dispute roughly ten are neutral (11) 11 12 gets a letter in jug (4) 13 Produce a paper on the effect of the ocean rising (4) 14 Diana’s night-light? (8) 16 I mentioned no men in the issue (7) 18 A spring of plenty (6) 20 Deny and is in a lower position (6) 21 But they’re not mountain dogs (5) 22 Very small but has sound power (4)

QUICK PUZZLE Clues Across

1 Border (6) 7 Not professional (7) 8 Undo (7) 9 Relationship (5) 10 Scantily (9) 12 Prosecute (3) 13 Comprehends (4) 15 Plunder (7) 17 If not (4) 19 Floor covering (3) 21 Pertaining to victory

(9) 22 Member of jury (5) 23 Capacity (7) 24 Small boat (7) 25 Fanatic (6)

Clues Down

1 Quartet (8) 2 Moves bit by bit (6) 3 Spanish nobleman (7) 4 Worry (5) 5 Spirit (6)

6 Set of three (4) 7 Apt (11) 11 Naked (4) 13 Rebuff (4) 14 Least big (8) 16 Vast (7) 18 Muscular (6) 20 Bondage (6) 21 Experiment (5) 22 Jest (4)

Solutions to last week’s crossword Cryptic ACROSS: 4 Divers 8 Contact 9 Cleric 10 Stevedore 11 Wine 13 Props 14 Paragon 16 Couples 18 Wrote 19 Erne 21 Tormented 22 Lotion 23 Repeals 24 Rodent DOWN: Posterior 2 Stove-pipe 3 Acids 5 Idle 6 Earwig 7 Sicken 9 Cream 11 Warranted 12 Northerly 15 Felon 16 Cellar 17 United 20 Ember 21 Town

Quick Puzzle ACROSS: 4 Ruffle 8 Ferrule 9 Unsafe 10 Donations 11 Gage 13 Plait 14 Misused 16 Utility 18 Prate 19 Nero 21 Fortunate 22 Assail 23 Develop 24 Easier DOWN: 1 Decollete 2 Armadillo 3 Slain 5 Urns 6 Fracas 7 Evened 9 Until 11 Gun runner 12 Gestation 15 Stool 16 Unmade 17 Irises 20 Steed 21 Fine

20 NEWS

www.southwarknews.co.uk/news

The Dulwich Alliance calls for a re-think to LEN scheme

By Katherine Johnston katherine@southwarknews.co.uk surgeries say hard road closures in Dulwich are ‘hampering vaccine rollout’ as a new coalition calls for the LENs to be scrapped and replaced with camera-controlled permit schemes - with health workers and blue badge holders exempt.

At Southwark Council’s cabinet meeting on Tuesday, representatives for Dulwich Alliance - formed of GP surgeries, residents and traders called for a new approach to traffic restrictions, saying their proposals could help heal a divided community.

At the meeting they delivered a petition with over 500 signatures.

They are demanding an end to 24hour road closures and advocate an ‘area-wide, camera-controlled exemption scheme that allows fair and reasonable access during restricted hours’ - with a full public consultation.

The plan is backed by Elm Lodge Surgery in Dulwich Village, which has gone on record saying that its community vaccination has been ‘hampered’ by patients with limited mobility struggling to travel to Tessa Jowell Health Centre. The surgery is advocating exemptions for blue badge holders and health and social care workers as a ‘common sense’ approach.

“While we recognise that many of our younger patients will benefit from the nudge to cycle or walk more, the introduction of camera gates and the changes at the village traffic lights have had a significant negative impact for many of our frail elderly and disabled patients,” a spokesperson said.

“A number have expressed to us they don’t know how they would get to the surgery during the restricted times.

“Our community vaccination efforts have also been hampered as patients with limited mobility have been unwilling to travel to the Tessa Jowell Health Centre during restricted times.

“Our GPs and nurses are concerned that the restrictions make it a lot more time consuming to carry out home visits for housebound patients and we are aware that it makes the work of carers even harder.

“It would seem common sense to have an exception to the restrictions for blue badge holders and for health and social care workers on duty.”

It is a view echoed by Lordship Lane’s 306 Medical Centre, whose spokesperson said: “We now take longer routes to visit our patients, who also need to take longer routes when attending the nearby Tessa Jowell Health Centre for blood tests and appointments.

“What would have taken five minutes, now takes at least 20 minutes. Our community nurses also struggle as these changes add to their journey times.”

Speaking to the News on Monday, Dulwich Alliance co-founder Richard Aldwinckle stressed that the group was not suggesting ‘a return to square one’ and was supportive of measures to improve air quality and make roads safer.

Southwark News, Thursday February 4 2021

surgeries say road closures are ‘hampering vaccine rollout’

Business owners from Melbourne Grove who have highlighted problems with the scheme and its implementation, photographed in October 2020

This scheme discriminates against people who depend on their cars for mobility The group’s new report, Dulwich Says No, will help build consensus among those living, working and regularly travelling through East Dulwich and Dulwich Village, and develop a ‘fairer’ scheme that will make life easier for disabled drivers and key workers.

In the report, the alliance analysed 1,900 responses made between June 2020 and January 2021 to a public consultation on the road changes on Southwark Council’s Streetspace websites.

The report claims detailed comments show around 71 per cent are against the scheme currently in place and that this figure has not changed over time while the scheme ‘beds in’.

According to their findings, 76 per cent of respondents indicated they were against the closures in Dulwich Village, including the 24/7 junction closure, with 62 per cent against the 24/7 closures in East Dulwich.

Hard road closures - which physically prevent through traffic - do not make exceptions for key workers, disabled badges, or indeed electric vehicles.

As we reported in December, London Ambulance Service, Metropolitan Police and London Fire Brigade have all pushed for camera-operated restrictions.

A spokesperson for the Dulwich Alliance said. “This is a badly planned scheme, imposed without any consultation, that clearly isn’t working.

“The alliance strongly supports Southwark’s stated aims of reducing pollution and encouraging active modes of travel such as walking and cycling.

“However, this scheme discriminates against vulnerable people who depend on their cars for mobility.

“It shifts traffic and pollution onto surrounding streets where children also live and go to school, it is

damaging the viability of our local shops and businesses, and it is causing tremendous anger and social division, pitting neighbour against neighbour.

“This is entirely the council’s fault and it needs to act on these findings, not ignore them or run yet another consultation just because it doesn’t like these results.”

The report is backed by the Dulwich Village Association, representing more than 35 businesses in Dulwich Village.

Formal objections to the Low Emissions Neighbourhood have been made by 98 per cent of its traders, many of whom say customers are let down by poor public transport links.

Southwark Council has routinely highlighted that those against the schemes are in a ‘minority’. During its initial borough-wide public consultation, before the schemes were put in place from July 2020 onwards, more than 6,000 people visited a dedicated online map to highlight areas in the borough where roads were narrow and cycling dangerous or difficult to help identify areas in need of improvement. Over 10,000 agreements were registered.

Responding the group’s claims, Cllr Catherine Rose, who holds the roads portfolio at Tooley Street, struck a diplomatic note and said: “We value

and take into account all entries on the Commonplace website. However, Commonplace is one tool amongst many that we’ll use as part of our review.

“In order to give everybody a fair and equal opportunity to participate, we will conduct a full consultation, as is the case with all of our LTNs. “This is a legal requirement and unlike Commonplace, it will ensure that local people are prioritised, names and addresses are recorded, and people are limited to one response per person.”

As the News has previously reported, the council has shown signs it is not against a re-think. Cllr Rose previously vowed to ensure the hastily implemented LENs would be made into a ‘coherent’ plan, with a final review of the project held in June 2021, with long-term decisions based on public feedback in the interim.

What is clear is the need to both reduce pollution and increase road safety, and help tip the balance more in favour of those who do not own a car - who are, in fact, the majority in Southwark.

Currently, fifty-eight per cent of households are car free in the borough yet, over the last decade, traffic has increased across all types of roads, most sharply in side streets favoured by walkers and cyclists. Half of all journeys made by car, in London, are just three kilometres long.

Advocates of the low emission

neighbourhoods and low traffic neighbourhoods see firm action as a key measure in pushing forward real change - along with other measures such as the ULEZ roll out and improved public transport.

Targeting side roads does have clear safety benefits. According to a City Hall report, by September 2020 there had been 125 deaths on London's roads so far that year, up 12 per cent from 2018.

The majority had been walking when they were fatally injured.

Although traffic has increased across London as a whole in the last decade, volumes have risen most sharply in side streets favoured by walkers and cyclists.

Four thousand Londoners died due to toxic air in 2019, according to research from Imperial College, and researchers now have clear evidence pollutants are linked to diseases like Parkinson’s, Alzheimers and brain cancer, as well heart and lung conditions.

At the same cabinet meeting, a number of Dulwich residents aired their support for modal filters. Julie Greer told councillors that that area-wide timed restrictions will “not deliver any meaningful health or environmental benefits” and the opportunity to discourage vehicle use for short and unnecessary journeys would be missed.

“Filters do not prevent anyone from driving anywhere in Dulwich,” she said.

“Their preferred route may be affected, but no one is blocked in.”

Southwark News, Thursday February 4 2021

Photos by The Other Richard

what’s on

www.southwarknews.co.uk/arts

ARTS 21

in Southwark

Papatango: fatherhood behind bars The 2019 Papatango New Writing Prizewinner Shook by Samuel Bailey – which was due to transfer to the West End when the pandemic hit – has been filmed and will be available to watch online from Friday 5 February until Sunday 28 February 2021.

Featuring the original cast - Josef Davies (Jonjo), Josh Finan (Cain), Andrea Hall (Grace) and Ivan Oyik (Riyad) – and with the original set/costume designs by Jasmine Swan and sound design by Richard Hammarton, the capture of the play was directed by Papatango’s Artistic Director George Turvey in collaboration with BAFTA-winning and multiEmmy-nominated director James Bobin.

George Turvey, Artistic Director of Papatango, said today, “Having suffered the loss of the West End transfer, we are delighted to have found a way to share Sam’s fantastic play with a wider audience. We are hugely grateful to James, the cast, and the whole creative team for pulling together under difficult circumstances to make it possible. We hope that audiences around the world enjoy watching it as much as we did making it.”

The play, inspired by true stories, looks at three young offenders who are due to become fathers while incarcerated. As Cain, Riyad and Jonjo embark on parenting classes under the instruction of Grace, their different histories slowly emerge and their different futures take shape. Both funny and poignant, Shook

examines the young people society shuts away.

Shook won the 2019 Papatango New Writing Prize, debuting to critical acclaim at Southwark Playhouse, and was nominated for 7 OffWestEnd Awards and The Stage Debut Award for Most Promising Playwright. It became the best-selling world première in the venue’s history, and sold out on tour across England and Wales.

Following his debut, Samuel Bailey is now under commission from Paines Plough and Theatre Royal Plymouth, as well as developing a new film with the award-winning director Peter Cattaneo (The Full Monty) for 42. He was born in London and raised in the West Midlands. He began writing plays in Bristol and developed work with Bristol Old Vic, Tobacco Factory Theatres and Theatre West before moving back to London. He is an alumnus of the Old Vic 12 and Orange Tree Writers’ Collective. Shook was originally supported by the MGCfutures bursary programme, and was his debut full production.

Tickets are £10, and give audiences access to stream the show for 48 hours after purchase via www.papatango.co.uk/shook – captions available.

Papatango will mark the production’s online première with a live Q&A with the cast and creative team across its social media channels at 7.30pm on Friday 5 February until Sunday 28 February 2021.

Actor, musician, composer and studio engineer Christo Squier says he became fascinated with sound after moving to London to study music performance, writes Michael Holland.

Christo was encouraged to pursue his interest in the performing arts by his understanding parents, so after studying he ‘continued to explore the worlds of theatre, music and avantgarde performance’ while working at a rehearsal and recording studio. These days, he claims, ‘Lots of my energy goes into creating material for 9 piece artbrass band Perhaps Contraption’, but his musical career - Pre-Covid - saw him touring Europe and performing in ‘sold out houses every night in really amazing venues.’

Another highlight for Christo was Perhaps Contraption winning the Haizetara international street music competition in Spain in 2015. ‘We had no

idea we would win so it was a huge shock and honour,’ he remembers.

And there was also playing at Glastonbury, although this didn’t leave many joyful memories: ‘One year we performed 10 times throughout the festival; far too many shows to pack into 3 days! It was a really wet one, and it was just far too exhausting!’ Christo recalls that trudging around the festival quagmire left an overall memory of ‘mud and drudgery!’

I wanted to know what it is that Christo loves about his work.

‘I like to surprise audiences, to try to instil a sense of wonder,’ he begins. ‘The social aspect of working in the arts is very important to me, you get to connect with a huge variety of people.’

How has Covid-19 impacted on your profession?

‘All of my performance work has disappeared overnight. It’s completely destroyed the way the band survived…

This, combined with visa restrictions for touring Europe caused by Brexit has completely destroyed what we do. It’s so depressing.’

I could feel Christo’s depression. ‘We’re trying to be as creative as possible and create new work for digital platforms; thankfully we have a bit of funding for a couple of things, but apart from that it’s looking very bleak indeed.’

How have you got through this crisis?

‘I’ve just tried to keep creating and keep practicing. I’ve mainly been working on finishing our latest album, Nearly Human, so it’s allowed me to channel lots of energy into that and some new compositions.

If I just stop making things that’s when it gets more difficult for me. I have to find ways to stay nimble and enthusiastic with my work - Getting outside and in the sun every day is also really important for my mental health.’

How has your life changed as we try

Photo by TAYO LEE NELSON

From full Houses to home-Schooling

to get back to normal?

‘I’ve definitely got better at homeschooling my ten-year-old son!’

Anything you’d like to add?

I have a new single coming out on February 5th, it’s a collaboration with Fiona Fey and it’s a cover of an Ivor Cutler song called ‘In the Chestnut Tree’.

I’m very proud of it! It will be on all major platforms.’

‘Perhaps Contraption will also be streaming some new material Thursday 25th Feb as part of an online concert.’

Tickets from £5 https://budsspawn. nutickets.com/54971559 Check out the world of Christo Squier and Perhaps Contraption with these links: www.perhapscontraption.co.uk www.squiersquier.co.uk

22 FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS / COMMUNITY NOTICES community notices

www.southwarknews.co.uk

Southwark News, Thursday February 4 2021

Memorial

GARY DORAN

Send in your FREE

Valentine’s messages to

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

dan@southwarknews.co.uk

Another year without you Always in our hearts Love and kisses Mum Dad Maxine Kaye and family

To appear in NEXT WEEK’S EDITION Text only - max of 20 words

To place a family announcement in the paper

please email ads@southwarknews.co.uk Announcements must be placed by 4pm on the Tuesday before Thursday’s publication classified

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

Wanted Records

To advertise your business within our Classified section please contact Lorraine on

020 7232 1639

ROCK, POP, PUNK, INDIE, REGGAE, SOUL...

LPs AND SINGLES - WHOLE COLLECTIONS WELCOME

Call: 07956 832314 / 020 8677 6907 Or Email: vinylwanted@aol.com

ALSO INTERESTED IN NON CHART CD COLLECTIONS

Painter & Decorator

Removals • Handy man Coverage: Anywhere in / around London.

Contact

0779 8833 758 for a quotation.

0207 232 1639

WANTED

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

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

07850 323 508 CLASSIC & UNSUAL CARS ALSO WANTED

CASH / CASH / CASH / CASH / CASH

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

CASH / CASH / CASH / CASH / CASH

Registered charity no 208441

TO BOOK THIS SPACE call Clarry on

020 8103 1481

or email clarry@urbanmedia.london

Southwark News, Thursday February 4 2021

www.southwarknews.co.uk

PUBLIC NOTICES 25

LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK

LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK

ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 SECTION 14(1) (CHELTENHAM ROAD, ROLLS ROAD, MAWBEY PLACE)

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

(TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC)

(TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC)

1.

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

1.

The Council of the London Borough of Southwark hereby gives notice that to enable works

by Agility, J Browne and NTS Traffic, it intends, to make 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:

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) Bermondsey Street, at it’s junction with Long Lane (slip road) (b) Browning Street, between Cotham Street and Brandon Street (c) Park Street, between Redcross Way and Maiden Lane

(a) Cheltenham Road, between Hichisson Road and Ivydale Road. (b) Rolls Road, between Coopers Road and Oxley Close (c) Mawbey Place, between Coopers Road and Mawbey Road 3.

The alternative route for affected traffic for (2a) Stuart Road, Rye Road, Surrey Road, Inverton Road, Merttins Road, Athenlay Road. (2b) St James Road, Old Kent Road, Dunton Road, Mandela Way. St James Road, Southwark Park Road, Dunton Road, Mandela Way (2c) not appicable

4.

The existing one way working in Mawbey Place, and Harmony Place, which lies between Fortune Place will be made two way for access and egress purposes.

5.

The existing one way working in Fortune Place, that lies between Mawbey Place, and Harmony Place, will be made two way for access and egress purposes.

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 operation for (2a) 19th – 20th February. (2b) 22nd – 23rd February. (2c) 24th – 25th February.

Dated this 4th February 2021

8.

Further information may be obtained by contacting Road Network Management at ttmo@southwark.gov.uk

Dated this 4th February 2021 Ian Law Traffic Manager London Borough of Southwark Network Management Traded Services Environment and Leisure 160 Tooley Street PO Box 64529 London SE1 5LX Ref: (2a) 5652/02311376 – newdates (2b) 5654/9898166 (2c) 5655/81333813 LONDON BOROUGH OF SOUTHWARK ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 SECTION 14(1) (ASHBOURNE GROVE) (TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF TRAFFIC) 1.

2.

The Council of the London Borough of Southwark hereby gives notice that to enable a crane operation to be carried out by Kevin Chorley Limited, it intends to make an order the effect of which will be to prohibit vehicular and pedestrian traffic from entering part of the above named road.

Whilst the works are in progress, or whilst the authorised traffic signs are displayed, no person shall enter or cause a vehicle to enter, proceed, stop, wait, load or unload in Ashbourne Grove at the junction of Lordship Lane.

3.

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.

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.

3.

The alternative route for affected traffic for (2a) as indicated by the signs displayed. (2b) Brandon Street, Townley Street, Morecambe Street, Cotham Street, Charleston Street. (2c) Redcross Way, Southwark Street, Southwark Bridge Road, Great Guildford Street, Southwark Street, Southwark Bridge Road, Sumner Street, Emerson Street, Park Street. Park Street, Emerson Street, Sumner Street, Southwark Bridge Road, Southwark Street

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 works will be in operation for (2a) 20th February. (2b) 22nd – 24th February (2c) 22nd – 24th February with back up dates of the 8th – 10th March.

6.

Further information may be obtained by contacting Road Network Management at ttmo@southwark.gov.uk

Ian Law Traffic Manager London Borough of Southwark Network Management Traded Services Environment and Leisure 160 Tooley Street PO Box 64529 London SE1 5LX Ref: (2a)5656/MV7038081 (2b) 5637/003345MPMG-03 (2c) 5657/LBSCR11424-3 TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING ACT 1990 HEARING TO BE HELD AS A VIRTUAL EVENT Opening on 16th 17th and 18th February 2021 at 09:30 REASON FOR HEARING Appeal by TFC Camberwell Ltd relating to the application to London Borough of Southwark for Redevelopment of the site involving the demolition of all existing buildings and the erection of a 7 storey storey building comprising a A1 retail unit (95 sq.m) and 27 residential units (7 x 1bed, 10 x 2 bed, 10 x 3 bed) with associated disabled parking, car club bay, refuse storage, cycle storage and landscaping. at 303 Camberwell New Road, London.

An Inspector appointed by the Secretary of State will hold a Hearing opening on the date shown above to decide the appeal. The Hearing will be held as a virtual event run by an Inspector in the normal way, but with the parties invited to join via Microsoft Teams or telephone.

Documents relating to the appeal can be viewed on the Council website (18/AP/1878). Anyone wishing to attend the Hearing must make that interest known to the Planning Inspectorate Case Officer as soon as possible prior to the Hearing, either by email or telephone after reading the Hearing Attendance Information set out below. When contacting the Case Officer, it would be helpful if you could confirm whether you want to take an active part in the discussions or anticipate attending just as an observer (see below).

Hearing Attendance Information

5.

The diversion route will be a) Melbourne Grove, Chesterfield Grove, Lordship Lane or b) Lordship Lane, Chesterfield Grove, Melbourne Grove.

Before deciding whether to take an active part in the Hearing, you need to think carefully about the points you wish to make. All written submissions from application and appeal stage will be taken into account by the Inspector and re-stating the same points won’t add any additional weight to them.

6.

The works will be in place on the 9th February 2021 from 08:00 until 14:00 and on the 16th February 2021 from 08:00 until 14:00. This is to facilitate the removal of plant from the Co-Op on the 9th February and the installation of plant on the 16th February.

If you feel that taking part in the Hearing is right for you in whatever capacity, you can participate in a number of ways:

7.

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

Dated this 4th February 2021 Ian Law Road Network & Parking Southwark Council Environment and Social Regeneration Network Management PO Box 64529 London SE1 5LX Ref: 5572

To take part using video, participants will need to have access to Microsoft Teams (via an app or web browser). This link gives further information on how to use this. https://support.office.com/en-us/teams.

Alternatively you can take part by telephone. NB Calls would be to an 020 number which will incur charges. https://www.gov.uk/call-charges If you just wish to observe the event, you should make that clear in your response to the Case Officer.

If you wish to take an active part in the proceedings, please make clear in your response the particular topic areas you are interested in.

If you want to take an active part but feel unable to for any reason, and/or the points you want to make are not covered in the evidence of others, consider whether someone else could raise them on your behalf Registered participants in whatever capacity will receive individual joining instructions, providing details of any requirements, guidance and support, whether joining by Teams or telephone.

To place a notice, please email em@southwarknews.co.uk

Planning Inspectorate Reference: APP/A5840/W/19/3233375 Case Officer contact at the Planning Inspectorate: Name: Des Bowring Tel: 0303 444 5241. Email: north1@planninginspectorate.gov.uk

or c all 07798 833758.

Deadline is 4p m e very Tue sda y.

26 PUBLIC NOTICES

www.southwarknews.co.uk

Southwark News, Thursday February 4 2021

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; 67 BELLENDEN ROAD LONDON SOUTHWARK SE15 5BH (Ref: 21/AP/0114) Installation of roof terrace (Within: Holly Grove CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Anthony Roberts 020 7525 5458) 10 DENMARK HILL LONDON SOUTHWARK SE5 8RZ (Ref: 21/AP/0141) Rear extension at first, second and third floor levels (Within: Camberwell Green CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Yvonne Sampoh 020 7525 4929) 26-34 UPPER GROUND LONDON SOUTHWARK SE1 9PD (Ref: 21/AP/0179) Refurbishment and reconfiguration of the existing building; demolition works associated with internal and external alterations and extension to provide a five-storey building comprising office accommodation (E Class) and associated cycle Parking, servicing and all necessary enabling works (Within: Old Barge House Alley CA) Reason(s) for publicity: MAJ STDCA (Contact: Andre Verster 020 7525 5457) 59 - 61 LANT STREET LONDON SOUTHWARK SE1 1QN (Ref: 21/AP/0148) Change of Use of ground floor premises at no.

59 from Use Class B8 (warehouse) to Sui Generis (mixed B8 warehouse and A4 drinking establishment) to allow public wine tasting events (Within: Liberty of the Mint CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Mumtaz Shaikh 020 7525 0585) UNIT 10 TO 11 DOCK OFFICES SURREY QUAYS ROAD LONDON SOUTHWARK SE16 2XU (Ref: 21/AP/0235) Additional works linked to Listed Building application 20/AP/2467 (Change of use of the Former Dock Manager Offices from existing use class D1 (business school) to a Project Hub (use class E); external and internal alterations; remedial works, including to the front facade of 1-14 Dock Offices; installation of plant;

temporary landscaping; and external lighting.

The internal and external alterations comprise the removal of internal partitions and creation of a double height space with new balustrade and exposed roof structure; restorative works to the existing staircase; the infill of the non-original skylight; replacement of non-original window glazing with slimline double-glazing; and the rationalisation of plant and installation of new plant. The remedial works comprise the repair and/or replacement of damaged brickwork; repointing of areas of damaged mortar; repairs to structural cracks; and the cleaning of the facade.) comprising the creation of two new openings at ground floor level Reason(s) for publicity: STDLB (Contact: Tracy Chapman 020 7525 1948) 128 COURT LANE LONDON SOUTHWARK SE21 7EA (Ref: 21/AP/0228) Replacement of doors, windows and two roof lights to the rear of the property. (Within: Dulwich Village Dulwich Wood CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Anthony Roberts 020 7525 5458) 182 RYE LANE LONDON SOUTHWARK SE15 4NF (Ref: 21/AP/0243) Change of use from betting office (sui generis) to amusement centre (adult gaming centre) (sui generis) (Within: Rye Lane Peckham CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Daniel Cooklin-Smith 020 7525 5471) 67A GROSVENOR PARK LONDON SOUTHWARK SE5 0NJ (Ref: 21/AP/0213) Single storey rear extension with 2no. roof lights to flat roof (Within: Grosvenor Park CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Ibrahim Azam ) WICKWAY COMMUNITY CENTRE ST GEORGES WAY LONDON SOUTHWARK SE15 6PL (Ref: 21/AP/0239) Redevelopment of the site comprising the

demolition of existing building and erection of two buildings at nine storeys in height. The Application Scheme will provide a 458 sqm (NIA) community centre (Class F1a), a 105 sqm (NIA) nursery (Class F1b) and residential accommodation including 86 units (24 1bed units, 46 2bed units and 16 3bed units) and associated communal facilities. The scheme includes highway improvements, landscaping, car and cycle parking for residents and visitors.

Reason(s) for publicity: MAJ (Contact: Sonia Watson 020 7525 5434) 8 FIELDING STREET LONDON SOUTHWARK SE17 3HD (Ref: 21/AP/0253) Erection of single story extension to rear of property. Replacement of existing valley roof with flat roof terrace. Addition of greenhouse to terrace. (Within: Walworth Road Sutherland Square CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Yvonne Sampoh 020 7525 4929) 60 SUNRAY AVENUE LONDON SOUTHWARK SE24 9PT (Ref: 21/AP/0263) Ground floor single storey rear and side extension (Within: Sunray Estate CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Anthony Roberts 020 7525 5458)

The relevant licensable activities and proposed times to be carried on, on or from the premises are (please include all proposed start times and finish times) Finish time

The supply of alcohol by or on behalf of a club to, or to the order of, a member of the club:

Monday to Sunday

11:00

00:00

The provision of regulated entertainment:

Occasional live/ streamed music

17:00

00:00

The provision of late night refreshment:

Monday to Sunday

11:00

00:00

Opening hours:

Monday to Sunday

11:00

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 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 (or by email via licensing@southwark.gov.uk) and be received by the Service within a period of 28 days starting the day after the date shown below.

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 £5,000.

Date of application: 29th January 2021

104 GORDON ROAD LONDON SOUTHWARK SE15 3RP (Ref: 21/AP/0310) Construction of L-shaped rear dormer roof extension (Within: Nunhead Green CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Ibrahim Azam ) Dated: 02 Feb 2021 - comments to be received within 21 days of this date.

SIMON BEVAN - Director of Planning

17 BARTHOLOMEW STREET LONDON SOUTHWARK SE1 4AJ (Ref: 21/AP/0258) Demolition of existing pergola and construction of a garden office in rear garden Reason(s) for publicity: STDLB (Contact: Jessica Potter 020 7525 0036) 17 BARTHOLOMEW STREET LONDON SOUTHWARK SE1 4AJ (Ref: 21/AP/0256) Listed building consent for ground floor rear

Please take notice that I / we Dulwich & Sydenham Hill Golf Club Ltd Have made application to Southwark Council for a new Club Premises Certificate in respect, of Dulwich & Sydenham Hill Golf Ltd, Grange Lane, College Road, London, SE21 7LH

Start time

42 SCOTTS SUFFERANCE WHARF 5 MILL STREET LONDON SOUTHWARK SE1 2DE (Ref: 21/AP/0285) Construction of dormer windows on the north and south facing roof slopes and additional rooflights on the east and south facing roof slopes. (Within: St Saviours Dock CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Louise Dinsdale )

10 CASINO AVENUE LONDON SOUTHWARK SE24 9PH (Ref: 21/AP/0262) Single storey side/rear extension (Within: Sunray Estate CA) Reason(s) for publicity: STDCA (Contact: Anthony Roberts 020 7525 5458)

Notice of Application for a Club Premises Certificate made under Section 71 of the Licensing Act 2003

Days

extension, raised patio, first floor alteration, floor plan redesign and all associated works.

Reason(s) for publicity: STDLB (Contact: Jessica Potter 020 7525 0036)

LICENSING ACT 2003 APPLICATION FOR GRANT OF PREMISES LICENCE Cubana Waterloo Ltd has applied to the London Borough of Lambeth for the grant of a Premises Licence, in respect of the following premises: Cubana, 48 Lower Marsh, London SE1 7RG which would authorise the following licensable activities: Supply of alcohol drinks in biodegradable cups for takeaway/off-sales between 12:00 and 23:00 daily The record of this application may be inspected during normal office hours by an appointment at the Licensing Section, London Borough of Lambeth, 3rd Floor, Civic Centre, 6 Brixton Hill, London, SW2 1EG, or via the licensing authority’s website, at www.lambeth.gov.uk/licensing A responsible authority or any other person may make representation to the licensing authority in respect of this application. Representations must be made in writing, either by post to the above address, or by email to licensing@lambeth.gov.uk and must be received no later than February 25th 2021 It is an offence to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with a licensing application, and the maximum fine for which a person is liable on summary conviction for that offence shall not exceed level 5 on the standard scale (£5,000).

Southwark News, Thursday February 4 2021

www.southwarknews.co.uk/news

NEWS 27

Clubs could be forced to take out loans as funding dries up

There have been no fans in grounds for the majority of the season

By John Kelly johnk@southwarknews.co.uk DULWICH HAMLET have received huge support after they released a statement last Sunday in which they hit out at the National League’s handling of the season and warned their existence is under threat.

The Hamlet listed a timeline of events showing the financial mess clubs have been forced into, culminating in a disagreement between the League and the government over funding available to cover costs in the absence of gate income.

Clubs had received funding as games go on behind closed doors, but could now have to take out loans. Even then, the Hamlet said, “clubs will not know before the end of February and possibly later whether they are to receive loans to cover costs they have already incurred”.

The club said they have asked the League if there would be any consequences for clubs refusing to get into debt just to finish the season, but hadn’t received a response as of last weekend.

Dulwich have only played once this year after multiple postponements across the league due to positive Covid-19 tests forcing squads and staff to self-isolate.

Some teams have played six more games than others in National League South this

season.

Clubs are to vote this week on the future of the 2020-21 campaign.

The Hamlet statement said: “Last week we celebrated our 128th birthday. This week we face decisions that are likely to determine whether we see our 129th and so we have started a consultation with club officials, directors, shareholders, our supporters’ trust and our whole fan community.

“We have been dependent on our community to see us through this difficult period and would like to thank everyone who has volunteered, and so we feel it is important we now listen to that community.

“Having steered the club away from the brink of extinction in 2018 and cleared huge debts along the way to finally achieve a financially stable and self-sustaining model, we are now being asked to voluntarily place the club back into significant debt as a direct result of the following events: “In summer 2020 the club received frequent written assurances from the National League that the 2020-21 season would not commence before crowds could return so clubs would have income to cover costs.

“In September 2020 the National League abandoned that stance and made all clubs

commence the season on the assurance that they had secured a commitment for funding based on the forecast data submitted by clubs at the League’s request outlining expected lost revenue for the six months from October to March from playing behind closed doors.

“After the first games were played, the National League informed clubs that the grant funding was only three months, not six, but the sports minister did confirm in parliament that the allocation would be ‘absolutely focused on gate receipts’. We budgeted accordingly.

“The National League then informed clubs that it had come up with its own allocation method and funding would not be ‘absolutely focused on gate receipts’ giving some clubs considerably more than expected and others (including us) with considerably less.

“In November 2020 it was announced that any future funding for the next three months starting in January 2021 was no longer guaranteed to be grants.

“In December 2020 clubs were informed that it was highly unlikely that the funding for 2021 would be grants and instead require clubs to get into debt by taking out loans to continue in the competition.

“On January 1, 2021 the period of grant funding expired and all clubs entered

a period of incurring costs for which no income could be generated and no funding was confirmed.

“Two weeks ago the government confirmed that 2021 funding would be loans, denied ever informing the National League that grants were a consideration beyond December and challenged the league to produce evidence to the contrary. As no evidence could be produced, attempts by the League to reverse that decision have failed.

“As a result, the application process for loans was communicated to clubs and includes three important facts: “Clubs will not know before the end of February and possibly later whether they are to receive loans to cover costs they have already incurred.

“Not all costs are eligible to be covered by the loan, wages are capped at less than the current furlough level, something that will impact clubs at our level badly but the impact on the league above with higher wages will be substantial.

“The government’s current position is that funding decisions will be based on a return to normality on April 1 and normal levels of income by the start of next season meaning, (1) there is no commitment to funding in any form after March and, (2) clubs will be highly unlikely to meet the ‘exceptional circumstances’ required for

a grant to be offered as they cannot claim they will have insufficient revenue in future to repay a loan.

“This week all clubs will be asked to vote on a resolution from the National League on the future of the league season (which is not due to finish until two full months after the period covered by loans).

“The club has submitted multiple requests to the League in writing asking for confirmation of the consequences of clubs not proceeding with getting into debt just to complete their competition.

No responses have been received.

“We completely understand and sympathise with the clubs who can continue regardless as they have the independent means to do so or they received more than they expected from the last grants.

“We understand those clubs may be frustrated by the situation of other clubs such as ours who are owned by their communities or who received less than expected from the last grant funding allocation, but our primary responsibilities are as the temporary custodians of clubs who have been here long before us to ensure they are here for a long time to come.”

Go to southwarknews.co.uk for the latest on the future of this season’s National League South.

the league.

“Alyssa was a key member of the squad during her time in south London, and her determination and drive were matched by her abilities and skill on the pitch.

“We will miss having your infectious enthusiasm with us and wish you all the very best of luck back in the States.”

Miranda added: “Thank you Millwall Lionesses and all of the fans for your support. I’ll be back soon.”

By Sports Reporter

the extensive road closures required to put on the world’s greatest cycling festival and the number of participants and spectators, a decision was made to focus on delivering a virtual event for 2021 and to concentrate on bringing the event back in 2022.

Will Norman, the mayor’s walking and cycling commissioner, said: “It is very disappointing that RideLondon cannot take place in May, but with London still in the grip of the Covid-19 pandemic it is the most responsible decision.

“We know many Londoners have taken up cycling over the past nine months and we are doing all we can to support this and help avoid the risk of a damaging car-led recovery, including rolling out new cycle lanes across our city.”

In its first seven editions from 2013 to 2019, RideLondon had 100,000 participants of all ages and abilities in seven different events on trafficfree roads. To date, a total of more than £80 million has been raised for thousands of charities.

Lionesses say goodbye to United States midfielder

By John Kelly johnk@southwarknews.co.uk MILLWALL LIONESSES midfielder Alyssa Miranda has left the club to return home to the United States.

The Lionesses are currently out of action as “non-elite” sport can’t go ahead during lockdown.

The club said: “Alyssa made an instant impact since arriving at the Lionesses last season, and has been an integral part in the club’s re-establishment in

RideLondon festival May 2021 cancelled amid crisis sport@southwarknews.co.uk IT HAS been confirmed that the RideLondon festival of cycling, scheduled for the end of May 2021, will not take place due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The decision was taken by London authorities after engagement with partners involved in the planning of the event.

Organisers of the event were looking at many different scenarios but with

Photo by Ollie Jarman

Hamlet lay bare league crisis

28 SPORT

www.southwarknews.co.uk/sport

EXCLUSIVE

By John Kelly johnk@southwarknews.co.uk MAIKEL KIEFTENBELD has revealed how Gary Rowett helped him fulfil a career dream – and then extend it after bringing him to Millwall last week.

Kieftenbeld, 30, joined the Lions on a free transfer to link up for a second time with Rowett.

Rowett said he was surprised his former midfielder at Blues was available, and Kieftenbeld also admitted the move “came out of nowhere”.

Kieftenbeld had been a regular in Aitor Karanka’s side this year, playing four games in 2021, before he discovered that Birmingham would not be offering him a new deal with his contract due to expire in the summer.

Former Netherlands under-21 international Kieftenbeld says he has enjoyed “every moment” of his time in England and he had no intention of leaving despite Blues making it clear he would be surplus to requirements.

That’s when Rowett became the pivotal figure for the second time in Kieftenbeld’s career. The midfielder said it was a “big dream” when he was with Groningen in Holland to play in England.

Rowett made that a reality, taking him to the second city in July 2015. Kieftenbeld made his debut in a 2-1 win at home to Reading in August 2015 – the combative midfielder announcing his arrival with a booking – and wasn’t on the losing side in his first six games.

Kieftenbeld went on to make 184 appearances and score six goals for Birmingham. He played under seven managers at St Andrew’s, including Gianfranco Zola and Harry Redknapp.

This is just the second move of his career, but he immediately felt at home at Calmont Road.

“It’s been a really good first week, to be honest. It was easy to settle in, the lads really helped me,” Kieftenbeld told the News. “They were really nice, it’s a good group of players.

“Of course I knew some of the staff members, too. I was happy there were two games straightaway so I could learn a lot more about everyone.

“It was quite a big move and it came out of nowhere. It went through really quickly, two or three days. I didn’t have much time to think about a move to London.

“I had five-and-a-half years at Birmingham and really enjoyed it there. I had a contract until the summer and was thinking I was playing so we’d see in half a year.

“But then this came up, a new adventure.

Normally when you’re out of contract and it comes to January you wonder what you are going to do. Are you going to extend your deal or the club won’t offer you anything?

“We found out that Birmingham didn’t want to give me a new deal, that they would prefer to let me go so they could sign other players.

“This was the best option. I was surprised also I could go for free, because I was in the starting XI, I’d played a lot of games in the last couple of weeks.

“I can imagine [Rowett] was surprised.

There are no hard feelings towards Birmingham, I had an amazing time there.

“But in the last few years there have been a lot of different managers, with different ideas about football. I guess that was the case this season, too, they’re probably looking to the future and so made different decisions.

“I can remember when I went to Birmingham. I had played for Groningen for five years so it was a big step in my

Southwark News, Thursday February 4 2021

Maikel Kieftenbeld was booked on his debut against Watford - the 84th yellow card of his career

TWO TIMES A CHARM Midfielder said it was always a big dream’ to play in England

career and my life.

“In interviews when I was in Holland I always said I had one big dream and that was to play in England. All the stories I heard about the mentality, the fans, I wanted to play there.

“When Gary Rowett gave me the option to go to Birmingham it was an easy decision for me. I’ve been here for more than five years and I’m enjoying every moment of it.

“First he gave me the chance to go to England and now he’s given me the chance to stay in England a bit longer.

“The whole package has to be good.

You want to sign for a nice club with a good fanbase, in a nice city, because that’s important as well. You have a life outside of football and you want to enjoy that.

“As much as I like English football, if you put me in a village in the middle of nowhere I wouldn’t be happy and be able to play football there.

“This club is also steadier than my last few years at Birmingham after all the craziness of so many managers. I had a good time there but it was never really quiet, every season there was something going on.

“If you look at Millwall this manager has been here for a while, a lot of the players have. At Birmingham I saw so many players come and go. It’s more stable here.

“So all of that made me want to sign for Millwall.”

The only current downside for Kieftenbeld is that he can’t travel to his home town of Dalfsen, 100 miles east of Amsterdam.

But he is wary of complaining too much when others have seen their health and livelihoods affected so badly by Covid-19 and the restrictions governments brought in to combat it.

“It’s really difficult. Also for my girlfriend, she moved over this season,” Kieftenbeld explained. “Of course we’re really pleased to be together but it’s pretty hard for her, for me.

“There were things I was looking forward to, when people came over to visit, or going back during international breaks. That’s kind of a reset button for me, mentally.

“Everybody is struggling, everybody has their own problems. If you look at my problems and compare them to other people’s problems, then I’m not one who should complain.

“But if you ask me, yes it’s tough. I haven’t been home since July when normally I would go every two months.”

Kieftenbeld has already shown his tenaciousness in a Lions shirt – he was booked on his debut against Watford, bringing his career tally to 84 yellow cards

The midfielder in the thick of the action against Cardiff and four red cards before Tuesday’s game against Norwich – and hopes to soon be able to show that aggression to Millwall fans when they return to The Den. “I think that’s what’s natural for me, it’s always how I’ve played,” Kieftenbeld said. “I try to give a lot of energy to the team. When [Rowett] signed me for Birmingham someone told him I wasn’t the typical Dutch footballer and he said, ‘well then he might be the player for us’.

For the Championship.

“I love to pass the ball but I don’t mind a tackle either. Hopefully the fans are back soon and I can show them what I’m about. I’m sure they’re following it now on the TV or the internet.

“I love to win the ball back for my team and give it to team-mates who are a bit more comfortable in front of goal.

“I’m really happy we can still do...I don’t really want to call it a job but it is a job, playing football.

“We’re lucky that we are able to go out and do it.”

Southwark News, Thursday February 4 2021

George Evans

www.newsatden.co.uk

MILLWALL 29

New man rocks up to find familiar faces

‘Technical, flexible’ ex-City player should have no problems settling in EXCLUSIVE

By John Kelly johnk@southwarknews.co.uk GARY ROWETT has raved about the prospects of George Evans in his Millwall team – with the former Manchester City man able to play in a number of positions.

Action Plus

Evans, 26, joined Millwall from Derby on Monday for an undisclosed fee on a long-term deal.

Evans made one appearance for The Sky Blues, coming on as a late substitute in an EFL Cup game at Sunderland in September 2015 when he briefly shared the pitch with the likes of Sergio Aguero, Kevin De Bruyne and Raheem Sterling.

Cheadle-born Evans had loan spells with Crewe, Scunthorpe and Walsall – linking up with Tom Bradshaw at the latter – before he joined Reading in 2016.

Evans made his Reading debut in the same team as Jake Cooper, a 1-1 draw at home to Sheffield Wednesday in January 2016 when

Cooper scored his side’s goal.

Derby became Evans’ sixth club when he joined the Rams in August 2018. In total he has made 172 senior appearances and scored 10 goals.

Millwall were in the market for a defender in January after Murray Wallace broke his foot. Ryan Leonard has been playing as a right-sided centre-back, but Rowett feels he is missed in midfield.

Evans offers the same flexibility, and Rowett also praised his technical ability. Rowett likes his teams to be able to quickly switch play from one side of the pitch to the other, and Evans possesses good long-range passing ability.

Rowett feels his new player can be effective in a number of positions.

“I think he can play anywhere in a back three and anywhere in a midfield three. He’s shown that flexibility,” Rowett said.

“The thing for us is he’s a little bit different to what we’ve got. He’s got good size, he’s got good athleticism and he’s a very, very good passer of the ball over distance as well as playing between the lines and

threading balls in to people.

“When we can find that technical player that has some really good physical attributes as well, and then he knows players in our group already: he played with Jake Cooper at Reading, Mason Bennett and Scottie Malone at Derby, and even Tom Bradshaw at Walsall.

“He’s got those natural links. It’s quite nice to know players and be able to settle in quickly.

“I think he’s got a lot to offer. You saw him at Reading under Japp Stam, he was that holding midfielder who could get them on the ball and really get them playing and moving the ball up the pitch quickly.

“He can also do a similar thing for us in different formations and systems.

“We’ve seen that with Lenny, we’ve seen how valuable he is. But the challenge with playing Lenny in the back three is we haven’t got him for the midfield three.

“Having a similar type of option that allows us to free Lenny up or free George up to play in a different position is something we really wanted moving forwards.”

Lions and Bluebirds continue remarkable run SKYBET Championship Cardiff City - 1 Moore 71’ Flint 9’ og MILLWALL - 1

Millwall forward Kenneth Zohore tries to race clear

Date: Saturday 30 January, 2021 Attendance: 0 Man of the match: Jed Wallace Referee: Matt Donohue

By Lucas Ball at Cardiff City Stadium sport@southwarknews.co.uk MILLWALL EARNED their fifth point from three Championship games as they drew 1-1 with Mick McCarthy’s Cardiff over the border in Wales last Saturday.

It was, remarkably, the seventh consecutive draw between the two sides and fourteenth in their last nineteen meetings, as well as Millwall’s thirteenth of the season, at least two more than anyone else in the division before this week’s games.

The defensive stability that Lions fans had become accustomed to under Gary Rowett has returned in recent league games, with two clean sheets back-to-

back against Huddersfield and Watford before the trip to the Cardiff City Stadium.

As at Huddersfield, Millwall took an early lead away to the Bluebirds, though this time through an own goal rather than a sublime Scott Malone finish.

Jed Wallace latched on to a poor headed clearance from Sean Morrison and drove down the left and into the box, before putting a low ball across goal that

was turned into his own net by Aden Flint.

Cardiff had chances to equalise in the first half through Kieffer Moore and Joe Ralls.

Kenneth Zohore could have doubled the Lions’ lead from a Wallace cross – but he misfired on his weaker right foot after good movement to find space for the chance.

Zohore had another excellent

opportunity to double the lead minutes after half-time but saw a good effort brilliantly saved by Alex Smithies.

Cardiff’s equaliser was, nonetheless, deserved - though the way in which Millwall conceded will be disappointing after Ben Thompson gave the ball away cheaply in midfield.

Harry Wilson took up possession and played a good through ball to Moore, who finished superbly into the far corner, dinking the ball over Bartosz Bialkowski.

Key to Millwall’s mini-resurgence has been the switch from a 5-2-3 to a 5-32. The three-man midfield adds more energy and tenacity, and stops the Lions from being overrun so much in the centre of the park.

It allows Ryan Woods to sit in front of the defence and offer protection, as well as letting him dictate the play from a deeper role when Millwall are on the ball.

With more players in midfield, the back five are less likely to be dragged out of position, which should allow Millwall to be more solid, more often.

Energetic players are needed either side of Woods, making any of Ryan Leonard, Thompson or Maikel

Kieftenbeld good options there, with Shaun Williams able to come in for Woods in the holding role.

The aim is to win the ball further up the pitch, and then launch counter-attacks as opposing teams scramble back.

Add to that their extra pace in attack now with a strike-force of Zohore and Wallace, and Millwall look a more threatening outfit - creating two good chances aside from the goal on Saturday for the first time in a long time.

Millwall need more creativity on a more consistent basis to try to get Zohore firing on all cylinders. Recent signs are more encouraging and show that the Lions have enough quality to move away from the relegation-battling sides.

Cardiff: 3-5-2: Smithies; Morrison, Flint, Nelson; Ng, Vaulks, Bacuna (Wilson, 62), Ralls, Bennett; Ojo (Murphy, 62), Moore (Glatzel, 83).

Millwall: 5-3-2: Bialkowski; McNamara, Leonard, Hutchinson, Cooper, Malone; Thompson (Bodvarsson, 78), Kieftenbeld, Woods; J Wallace, Zohore.

30 MILLWALL

www.newsatden.co.uk

Lions too kind TO Krul THE LINE-UPS 3-5-2

33 Bialkowski 4 Hutchinson

18 Leonard 16 23 Kieftenbeld McNamara

5 Cooper

19 8 Woods Thompson

Bennett 78’

Ferguson 78’

14 Malone

Romo 77’

13 Zohore

7 J Wallace

Smith 82’

22 Pukki 14 Cantwell

11 Placheta

8 Vrancic

Idah 89’

Hernandez 80’

Dowell 75’

30 Skipp

7 Rupp

30 Giannoulis

4-2-3-1

34 Gibson

5 Hanley

2 Aarons

1 Krul

Head to Head 36% 15 2 2 14

Possession Shots Shots on target Corners Fouls

Jed Wallace handed glorious late opportunity by Canaries goalkeeper SKY BET CHAMPIONSHIP MILLWALL - 0 NORWICH - 0

Date: Tuesday 2 February, 2021 Attendance: 0 Man of the match: Jed Wallace Referee: Steve Martin

By Lucas Ball at The Den

McLean 80’

64% 17 2 4 6

Southwark News, Thursday February 4 2021

sport@southwarknews.co.uk IT WAS the moment when Millwall could have made a huge statement that they are back in the play-off race.

In the 94th minute of a rip-roaring game, Norwich inexplicably decided to hand their hosts one more chance to breach their defence.

What the away side were thinking was anyone’s guess. With the whistle in referee Steve Martin’s mouth, goalkeeper Tm Krul was 20 yards out of his own box when instead of launching the ball forward he played a square pass to Kieran Dowell near the centre circle. With Jed Wallace closing in, Dowell panicked and handed the Millwall forward the invitation.

As Krul scrambled back towards the

wide-open goal, Wallace shot on his weaker left foot, but watched as the ball curled agonisingly wide of the right-hand post. It wasn’t an easy chance, but the way Wallace fell on his back and clutched his face in disappointment told you he felt he should have made more of it.

It would have been no more than the Lions deserved after they had threatened Krul’s goal a number of times and also had legitimate claims to two penalties, though boss Gary Rowett didn’t make a huge deal of those decisions afterwards.

The Lions were clearly buoyed by their recent performances, looking more like the side that charged towards the top six last season, as they kept a third clean sheet in their last four games. It was only the sixth time this season that Norwich – who went five clear of Swansea at the top of the table after this result – had been held goalless in the league this season.

Millwall meanwhile were ten points off sixth before Wednesday’s games, not an unbridgeable gap.

Millwall had less of the ball but when they did go forward they had a strong figurehead around whom to build attacks.

Kenneth Zohore was again impressive as he bullied Grant Hanley, particularly in the first half. Zohore tormented the Scotland

international and set up Scott Malone on the edge of the box just past the half-hour mark, but Krul saved the wing-back’s effort.

Millwall largely limited the visitors to efforts from outside the box in the opening period as Rowett’s side kept a compact defensive shape.

But Norwich are always a threat. Teemu Pukki broke through in stoppage-time but Shaun Hutchinson made a brilliant block and then Bart Bialkowski relatively comfortably saved the Finnish striker’s follow-up effort.

Zohore and Malone linked up again early in the second half, this time the latter the provider with a deep cross but the West Brom loanee, stretching at the back post, headed over an inviting goal from close range.

Malone had another good chance as the game went in the final ten minutes when Wallace’s blocked volley fell to him in the box, but he shot wide.

Matt Smith had an effort well-blocked by Hanley minutes later.

Hutchinson appeared to be shoved over in the 90th minute as he tried to get his head to the loose ball, but Martin wasn’t convinced.

Mason Bennett had also had a penalty

appeal ignored, before the former Derby attacker tried to pick out Wallace but gave his team-mate too much to do.

Wallace then had that late, late longrange attempt, but the Canaries were let off the hook.

This was one of Millwall’s most impressive displays of the season. They were consistent for 90 minutes rather than starting well and then sitting off. They maintained their energy, commitment and desire for the whole game, which was admirable after Rowett once more named an unchanged side.

Maikel Kieftenbeld was again impressive as he did a job on Norwich star man Todd Cantwell, helped by Ryan Leonard.

Cantwell’s quality is undoubted, but he was marked out of the game and pressed so well that he couldn’t create anything in an attacking sense and had to drop deeper and deeper to even get on the ball.

Millwall were impressive in that sense, rarely affording Norwich’s creative players - such as Mario Vrancic - the time and space to pick out defence-splitting passes, instead forcing them into long-range efforts which were often off target or comfortable stops for Bialkowski.

Once more, the energy provided by Ben Thompson and Kieftenbeld aided

Southwark News, Thursday February 4 2021

www.newsatden.co.uk

Kenneth Zohore has one of Millwall’s best chances but heads over

MILLWALL 31

Defender’s comeback is delayed

By John Kelly johnk@southwarknews.co.uk MURRAY WALLACE will remain in a protective boot as his he recovers from a broken foot.

Millwall had hoped Wallace would be out of the boot this week to start the next phase of his recovery.

Wallace hasn’t played since he was sent off against Coventry on January 2, before he picked up the injury.

That prompted Millwall to search for a new defensive recruit in January. The Lions settled on George Evans from Derby County, with the former Manchester City player able to operate in defence or

Championship preview

midfield.

“Muzza’s going to be out for a little bit longer,” Lions boss Gary Rowett said. “He’s in a boot and we were hoping the boot could come off this week, but it looks like it may have to stay on a little bit longer.

“It’s disappointing but that’s one of the reasons we brought George Evans in, it gives us that flexibility in a back three and a midfield three.

“I certainly think George being unavailable tonight [against Norwich] limited us in the changes we could make.

“But moving forward he’s going to be a really good addition for us.”

Millwall

VS Sheffield Wednesday

The Den, Saturday, February 6 Kick-off: 3pm

Lions aim to continue run Jed Wallace can’t hide his disappointment after his late miss

The sides drew 0-0 last November

By John Kelly johnk@southwarknews.co.uk MILLWALL ARE aiming to match their best unbeaten run in the league this season when they host Sheffield Wednesday at The Den this Saturday.

Millwall’s press - though the former needs to add more composure and defensive intelligence to his game as he was often caught dwelling on the ball and sometimes out of position.

What was refreshing was the fact that Rowett didn’t settle for the point late on.

His substitutions were aggressive and forward-thinking as the Lions shifted to a 4-4-2 in an effort to win the game - and they would have been fully deserving of the three points.

Bennett’s pace and strength gave the Canaries a different problem late on and he has perhaps given Rowett more of a headache when it comes to team selection after showing what he can do through the

middle.

Wallace, though, has taken to his new role as a striker in a front two like a duck to water and has looked back to his best in the last two games.

He pressed smartly with Zohore when Millwall stepped up and offered so much energy in attack, often leading breaks and usually finding a team-mate with his passes.

Millwall need that, with Wallace being so crucial to the fortunes of this team.

His confidence helps bring other players into the game and his driving runs often relieve some pressure at key moments when it looks as though the opposition may be getting on top.

His footballing intelligence has, at times, been a weak point but he has been incredibly smart with his pressing and with the ball in the last couple of fixtures, usually making the right choice when it comes to deciding between taking players on or locating a team-mate.

If Wallace can continue this form, Millwall can perhaps begin to look up the table towards those top-six places – though that Achilles Heel, the lack of quality in their finishing, continues to hold them back.

There have been plenty of positives over a four-game unbeaten run, and if they can start taking the good chances they are creating then another tilt at the play-offs may not be out of the question.

The Lions haven’t lost in four games and have only conceded once as they look like they have recovered their resilience.

Now they just need to find that spark in attack.

Kenneth Zohore is getting closer as he builds towards peak match fitness, and his new partnership with Jed Wallace is promising.

The front duo, however, would have been disappointed they didn’t take gilt-edged chances against Norwich on Tuesday.

George Evans should be available to make his debut, but the match is likely to come too soon for midfielder Billy Mitchell.

Millwall are only ten points off the playoffs but have hinted recently they have enough to go on another run in the second half of the season, as they did in 2019-20 and 2017-18 when they went from the bottom half to sixth with two games left.

They have come through a tough set of fixtures and, on paper at least, February looks like it could offer a big opportunity, with games against the likes of Birmingham, Wycombe, Luton and Derby.

Possible Millwall starting XI: 5-32: Bialkowski; McNamara, Hutchinson, Evans, Cooper, Malone; Leonard, Woods, Kieftenbeld; J Wallace, Zohore.

Match odds: Millwall 5/6 Draw 23/10 Wednesday 7/2 Last meeting: Championship (November 7, 2020): Sheffield Wednesday 0-0 Millwall

SKY BET CHAMPIONSHIP TABLE Table correct before Wednesday’s games

1 Norwich City 2 Swansea City 3 Brentford 4 Reading 5 Watford 6 Bournemouth 7 Middlesbrough 8 Blackburn 9 Bristol City 10 Stoke City 11 Preston NE 12 Barnsley 13 Luton Town 14 Millwall 15 Huddersfield 16 Cardiff City 17 QPR 18 Coventry C 19 Nottingham F 20 Derby C 21 Birmingham 22 Sheffield W 23 Rotherham 24 Wycombe W

P W D L GD Pts

27 16 7 4 14 55 26 14 8 4 18 50 25 13 9 3 21 48 26 14 5 7 11 47 27 13 8 6 11 47 27 11 9 7 14 42 27 11 7 9 6 40 26 11 6 9 13 39 26 12 3 11 -1 39 27 9 11 7 3 38 27 11 3 13 -3 36 27 10 6 11 -5 36 26 9 6 11 -7 33 27 6 14 7 -3 32 27 9 5 13 -8 32 26 8 7 11 2 31 26 7 9 10 -7 30 27 7 9 11 -11 30 27 7 8 12 -8 29 26 7 7 12 -8 28 27 6 10 11 -12 28 26 8 7 11 -8 25 * 24 6 5 13 -8 23 25 3 7 15 -24 16

* Sheffield Wednesday deducted 6 points

Sport Main: Lions boss Gary Rowett is happy with his forward options Inset: New signing George Evans

inside

Southwark

Hamlet lay bare league mess

No late-night dash despite setback Millwall saw striker recalled – and then winger pick up injury

EXCLUSIVE

By John Kelly johnk@southwarknews.co.uk MILLWALL MANAGER Gary Rowett has said the club were not “desperate” to do any more business on deadline day – despite Troy Parrott’s departure and a potential injury to Connor Mahoney.

The Lions signed Maikel Kieftenbeld and George Evans on permanent deals this month, and extended striker Kenneth Zohore’s loan from West Brom until the end of the season.

Parrott, 18, was recalled by Spurs on Monday after he was an unused substitute in the previous two league games. The forward immediately joined League One Ipswich Town.

Evans, 26, signed from Derby County

before Monday’s deadline on a longterm deal for an undisclosed fee. Evans can play in the centre of defence and in midfield.

Mahoney made his first competitive appearance since November 7 in Millwall under-23s’ 1-1 draw against Charlton on Monday, but went off just before halftime.

Rowett was hoping that Mahoney would fill the gap left by Parrott.

Mahoney was due to have a scan later this week.

But Rowett said that potential setback didn’t alter transfer plans on Monday, with the Millwall boss pleased with this month’s business.

“You’re always open-minded in any window. If someone turns around at 10 o’clock at night and offers us a fabulous player that we think can help us, then great,” Rowett said.

“But I’m always loath to do something last-minute that’s reactionary.

“We’ve got to remember that we extended Kenneth Zohore’s deal in this window. That’s like another signing.

“We’ve got Bradders [Tom Bradshaw], Jon Dadi [Bodvarsson], Mason Bennett, Matt Smith, all who haven’t played as many minutes as they would have liked recently.

“So therefore my concern wasn’t necessarily on bodies and numbers, it was on a certain type of player. Then again hopefully Connor won’t be too bad.

“I don’t think we could have just chased something in the last hours in the desperate hope it worked. I’m never a big fan of that.”

Rowett ideally wanted to trim his squad to further strengthen, but Millwall had no suitable offers for their fringe players.

Visit www.newsatden.co.uk for all the latest Millwall news online

Rowett added: “There was no one we were desperate to offload, apart from the obvious ones who haven’t featured for a long time. You’re always open-minded about that.

“But at this moment in time with the League One wage cap being as it is you’re looking at letting a player out on a quarter or a fifth of his wages [with Millwall paying the rest], which doesn’t make very good business sense or football sense, either, to lose a player and not be able to replace them.

“We haven’t got a huge squad. We’ve got 20, 21 senior players and a few young players. We’re going to need lots of options.

“There wasn’t anything we desperately wanted to do and there wasn’t anything financially to sway us to do anything.

“We’ve said it before, it’s a difficult market. There wasn’t lots happening.”

Page 27

Midfielder praised but won’t be risked

By John Kelly johnk@southwarknews.co.uk BILLY MITCHELL is unlikely to be risked against Sheffield Wednesday at The Den this Saturday despite making his competitive comeback this week.

Mitchell played a planned 45 minutes as the Lions’ under-23s drew 1-1 against Charlton on Monday, George Alexander on the scoresheet for Kevin Nugent’s side.

Midfielder Mitchell hasn’t played a senior game since the 4-1 win over Huddersfield on the last day of last season.

The nineteen-year-old suffered a hamstring tear in pre-season and then the same injury again as he attempted a return in a Professional Development League game in November.

Lions boss Gary Rowett praised Mitchell for how he has responded to the injuries.

“He’s been out for a long time and he’s only been involved in one game,” Rowett said. “If you’ve been out for the best part of three months, to come back and play 45 minutes in an under-23 game, I think it’s a big ask to then go and step into the first team.

“What I would say is Billy looked good. It shows that if you work diligently enough when you’re out injured you can come back in good physical shape.

“I don’t think it will be too long before we see Billy out there with us. But we’ve also got to be careful because he’s a young player that we value a lot and he’s had two hamstring injuries.

“We’ve got to make sure he doesn’t get another one.”

Billy Mitchell The recycled paper content of UK newspapers in 2014 was 83.5%