Vol. 8 ● Issue 2 ● May 2016
Priceless
Delivered to selected homes in Esher, Claygate, Hinchley Wood, Molesey, Walton on Thames and Hersham
IS TO BEING ABLE TO SEE MY KIDS
WHEN SWIMMING Did you know swimming with contact lenses puts you at risk of infection? CENTRE FOR SIGHT may well be able to help you achieve your dream through Laser eye surgery or lens implants. Our highly skilled surgeons in the business for over 20 years and leaders in the field have a phenomenal track record. Find out more or Book a Consultation at CENTRE FOR SIGHT. Lens Implants | Implantable Contact Lens | Laser Eye Surgery CALL 01342 306020 or VISIT www.centreforsight.com
2
ESHER TYRE & EXHAUST
SPRING MADNESS - Free collection & delivery with prior booking locally - Servicing from only ÂŁ49.99+vat - Air-con re-gassed from ÂŁ30 - Save up to 50% off main dealer servicing - Tyres from just ÂŁ24.99+vat
F F O % 15 on of
i t c u d o r p n O this voucher
ust 2013 expires end Aug
Offer
)BNQUPO $PVSU 8BZ 5IBNFT %JUUPO t 3
I’ll make you famous!* So there the I was, pottering around in my local supermarket (Waitrose, supe supermarkets but other ot are available), when a lovely lady came up to love me and said: ‘I know you, don’t I?’ yo When I confessed Wh that she probably didn’t, but had proba seen me here, she proceeded to say nice things about the magazine. Thank you! You have absolutely no idea how much it means to me! But then I thought, hmmmm, famous at last then? So I scuttled home and waited for the phone to ring....surely, the next gig will be ‘The only way is Surrey’? or ‘I’m not really a celebrity but get me out of here anyway as I scream a lot when I see a rat’? or even ‘Nonentity Big Brother’? Alas, the phone has been silent, except for the nice man from Microsoft who identified a weakness in my security software and offered to fix it remotely for me. Then there was another very nice man, who offered to come and collect all my money and take it to a safe place for me. All very helpful but no personal appearances involved.
Inside this month........ What’s On in May
6
Dittons Fair
8
Anyone for Tennis?
10
Perfect Plants
12
Sam Beare Dragon Boat Race
18
Crossword
20
Recipe of the Month
24
Martin Lewis on Student Loans
30
Your month in the Stars
36
Notes from Westminster
38
Police 5 (Minutes)
40
Vol. 8 Issue 2 May 2016
Priceless
Ah well, back to obscurity it is for me! ( *quoted from Billy the Kid in Young Guns II)
Shelley June copy deadline: 16th May 2016 Ads & editorial Tel: 0208 941 3569 Email: info@yourelmbridge.co.uk Web: www.yourelmbridge.co.uk
Delivered to selected homes in Esher, Claygate, Hinchley Wood, Molesey, Walton on Thames and Hersham
Printed by: Evonprint Ltd. Tel: 01273 494 631 Delivered by: 3Colours Ltd. Tel: 020 8965 3339 Š Fleetside Publishing Ltd 2016 -- All rights reserved. We do not take responsibility for the views expressed by contributors of articles or for the accuracy of claims made by advertisers within this magazine. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior permission from the publisher. The publisher cannot accept any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions or any other cause.
4
Come and celebrate the opening of Jack’s Kitchen, your local Bar & Brasserie. Bringing modern cuisine of the world to your palate, along with delectable cocktails and up-market weekend brunches and quintessential afternoon tea in a relaxed atmosphere. Try our handpicked whiskeys of the world along with carefully paired wines to go with scrumptious dishes, like rested Porterhouse Steak and Lobster. 2 COURSE £14.99 3 COURSE £19.99 Chef ’s seasonal menu with a glass of Prosecco
HAPPY HOUR Buy one, get one free Available Mon-Fri 12pm to 6pm Based on selected house drinks
25% OFF A la Carte and Brunch Menu inclusive of glass of wine or Prosecco
JACK’S KITCHEN, HOLIDAY INN KINGSTON, PORTSMOUTH RD, SURBITON, SURREY, KT6 5QQ Complimentary parking
FOR BOOKINGS & INFO PLEASE CALL 020 8786 6520 Jackskitchen_Kingston
@JacksKingston
Jack’s Kitchenen
What’s on in May? A small selection of events in Elmbridge....
THE FOUNTAIN GALLERY 26 Bridge Rd, Hampton Court, East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9HA
14:00 - 16:00
Tel: 020 8941 5865 email info@fountaingallery.co.uk
An opportunity to visit one of the oldest buildings on the Claremont estate dating from 1715. It was designed by Sir John Vanbrugh for the Duke of Newcastle. Today the Belvedere Tower is owned by Claremont Fan Court School who kindly let us open it for the public on various weekends in the summer months.
Open Tuesday – Sunday 11.30am - 5.30pm The Fountain Gallery is an artists’ cooperative of artists offering an exciting programme all year round. Visitors to the Gallery will be able to meet the artists showing their work. 3 – 15 May Suzy Abrahams & Julian Barham Suzy’s strikingly colourful rhythmic paintings explore the freedom of colour, line and shape. She is joined by Julian Barham and his ceramic tableware and ornamental stoneware.
The Wonderyears Concert Seniors Rock Chorus and Band in aid of Shooting Star Chase Children’s Hospice Care on Saturday 14th May 2016 7.30pm at The Hythe Centre Thorpe Road Staines opp. Magna Carta School
17 – 29 May Modus Embroidered Textiles Group Modus is a group of nine really innovative textile artists who are returning for their second Fountain Gallery visit. Their work is highly varied and their original pieces in all sizes use many different and non-traditional techniques.
Tickets £10. to include homemade cakes tea/coffee Telephone Barbara on 01784 451599
Claremont Landscape Garden Portsmouth Road Esher KT10 9JG
Walton & Weybridge AOS present:
Belvedere Tower Open
at the Cecil Hepworth Playhouse Walton on Thames
Jack the Ripper
Enjoy stunning views from the Belvedere Tower across the Surrey countryside and towards London
10th- 14th May 2016 Email - bookings@wwaos.org.uk Online - www.ourboxoffice.co.uk (booking fees apply)
Sat 07 May 2016
6
JACK THE RIPPER A Musical Play! Book & Lyrics by
Music by
Ron Pember AND Denis de Marne
Ron Pember
Sylvia Jones sylviatheaker@ntlworld.com 01932 788701
7
The Dittons Fair
Giggs Hill Green, Thames Ditton Sunday 8th May from 1pm This is a hugely popular event, with something for everyone and entry is Free. A packed arena programme includes the much loved Dotty Dog Show, Imbercourt Dog Display Team, with performances by Stagecoach Hinchley Wood and SoEl Dance Academy, amongst others. The Dittons Scouts, who organise the event, run over 25 classic stalls at pocket money prices: crazy golf, putting, pup guns, toys, books, plants, boot the ball, coconut shy, nerf guns... to name but a few, including signature Pig Racing! Grateful thanks to all our local community sponsors and their generous donations of vouchers and services, which promises to make a spectacular prize Tombola this year. Fairground attractions for those seeking a thrill: bungee trampolines, giant inflatable slide, whirrling teacups, swing merry-goround and more. Refreshments available include BBQ, Ices, Candy Floss, Popcorn and a fabulous Tea Tent patronised by Bachmann’s award winning patisserie, and other
homemade goodies. Over thirty crafts and charity stalls make a shopping bazaar within the Fair, with a range of jewellery and gifts on offer. The fun starts at 1pm with an opening performance by the Hinchley Wood Secondary School Samba Band. Supporting the event for the tenth year as Platinum Sponsors are Gasgoigne Pees, with marquees provided by our friends at Undercover Tents and signage by Fastsigns. All proceeds help to fund the annual scouting programme for more than 150 children at the Dittons HQ, ‘The Shack’ on Willowbank, Claygate Lane. Visit our website, produced by Tip Top Commuters at www. thedittonsfair.co.uk.
8
PRO-FIT
DOUBLE GLAZED WINDOWS DOORS conservatories
WINDOW SYSTEMS LTD
Pro-fit Window Systems Ltd supply & install Double Glazed Windows, Doors and Conservatories We are an established family run business who focus on serving householders within the community.
No High pressure sales persons No Gimmicks GENUINE QUALITY PRODUCTS AT COMPETITIVE PRICES
TEL: 020 8288 8893 FAX: 020 8288 8894
164 Leatherhead Rd Chessington Surrey KT9 2HU web:www.pro-fitwindowsystems.co.uk Email:info@pro-fitwindows.org.uk
9
Anyone for Tennis?
FAMILY AND FRIENDS TENNIS TASTER DAY The Great British Tennis Weekend is a great way for families and friends to learn about tennis and try it for free in their local area. On Sunday 22nd May, Ember Tennis Club, Grove Way, Esher is holding a fun afternoon for all to play tennis in a friendly environment. Tennis is a sport for everyone, and this is a perfect way to try it out for the first time or to return to the game.
to teenagers, ladies only and all adults. There will be cardio tennis, and top tips from our resident coach. There will also be a speed gun to time your serve! We will have spare rackets – please wear non-marking trainers. The afternoon will be very relaxed, and we hope everyone, adults and children alike will come along and have a go. If you do want to join, there will be some special offers on the day for membership and coaching courses. Ember tennis club is situated in Grove Way, Esher – the entrance is adjacent to number 2, postcode KT10 8HL. More details can be obtained by emailing tennis@ embersportsclub.org.uk
The afternoon will run from 12-4pm, with lots of activities and there will be a BBQ on offer. We will have a beginner’s zone, mini tennis for under 10’s, a ball machine, table tennis and courts allocated 10
ember tennis j
k
l
m
k
l
n
k
o
p
k
j
q
lawn
club
r
s
s
t
u
v
l
t
w
q
x
k
y
z
q
all
W
X
!
+
"
t
0
#
$
1
5
t t t
"
$
'
2
1
3
@
$
%
-
.
4
5
:
4
&
,
6
=
'
/
@
7
2
8
8
2
A
$
#
9
5
#
/
@
)
$
#
$
%
"
*
'
+
'
$
1
=
@
;
2
8
2
A
<
1
7
:
5
9
B
6
=
2
@
:
2
8
=
2
;
:
4
8
C
1
>
<
1
1
8
4
5
?
2
=
8
5
@
1
5
4
1
?
E
3
=
1
4
s
}
~
|
`
Z
a
[
b
\
]
]
Y
Z
^
[
\
c
!
:
=
8
C
3
1
4
d
+
B
=
4
=
1
4
4
=
B
,
0
2
C
=
1
B
2
<
1
B
J
1
;
=
4
4
1
3
+
e
6
4
1
+
1
4
4
=
B
=
7
B
J
2
8
8
<
2
@
:
=
4
1
+
1
1
4
e
6
-
4
1
,
7
1
1
C
I
4
+
2
J
3
J
C
=
%
6
1
4
4
=
B
1
<
6
B
f
8
I
4
@
:
:
6
2
@
:
=
4
;
how to find us:
D
!
1
n
come and have some fun on court!
:
5
z
,
!
5
2
(
Y
]
t t t t t t t t t
Ember Junior Tennis
l
q
free tennis taster, all welcome!
standards welcome
_
|
family & Friends open day
5 modern carpet courts (2 floodlit) 2 artificial grass courts Various memberships available, no joining fee
{
C
B
2
4
C
B
6
@
=
2
8
=
F
1
D
G
1
2
3
1
8
6
@
2
5
1
C
g
I
B
5
6
E
"
G
1
<
2
H
1
@
6
<
7
1
5
1
=
4
;
E
I
4
2
4
C
1
4
;
2
;
=
4
;
D
< +
U
1
3
0
2
4
1
?
=
5
:
2
@
@
1
B
B
&
, R
2
H
1
7
2
3
5
=
4
6
I
3
I
4
=
6
3
5
6
I
3
4
2
<
1
4
5
B
D
4
1
h
5
5
6
3
"
S
contact /
J
J
)
B
$
%
"
"
0
+
#
M
/
0
.
0
K
#
%
(
&
)
$
'
/
#
'
L
+
$
>
:
1
3
A
N
1
G
2
9
A
P
i
L
0
contact
,
L
+
6
+
!
0
0
N
O
O
N
P
O
N
=
Q
@
R
1
S
4
@
1
C
1
4
4
=
B
6
2
@
:
T 1
1
5
1
4
4
=
B
D
U
8
I
4
C
1
8
8
V
;
<
2
=
8
D
@
6
11
<
U
U
<
<
1
1
3
3
5
1
B
:
4
=
4
7
=
1
B
V
4
8
=
>
I
=
1
D
3
@
=
6
1
B
D
I
H
Perfect Plants Yellow Leaves By Steve Law http://brightonplantsblogspot.co.uk/
One of the most common symptoms of unhealthy plants is the leaves turning yellow. This is known as ‘chlorosis’ and it simply means that the green pigment (chlorophyll) used to turn sunlight and carbon dioxide into plant material (photosynthesis) is either not being made or it’s disappearing. Either way it’s the equivalent of an animal losing the ability to eat. Plants can survive without fertiliser for some time but they can’t do without the sugars that photosynthesis produces for long because that’s what makes cellulose and starch, which are basically what plants are made of. So far so good. The problem I’ve come up against is that it’s often assumed that chlorosis simply means the soil is too alkaline. That is one reason for chlorosis but it’s not the only one or even the main one. One obvious reason leaves turn yellow is that they are dying. This is most obvious in autumn leaves – many of which are some shade of yellow, orange or red before they fall because that is the colour of another pigment (mostly carotenoids – so called because they’re what give carrots their colour) that is only visible when the chlorophyll is taken back into
the plant at the end of the season. (Carotenoids are cheap and easy to replace. Chlorophyll is more expensive and worth storing.) Remember - evergreens also shed their leaves – just not all at once. This is all perfectly natural and healthy, but many plants’ leaves turn yellow and drop because they are stressed. We tend to assume that plants are either healthy or dying but they can live a long time in chronic stress. Obviously plants wilt and collapse if they completely dry out but if they are never quite wet enough they will show signs of stress. The leaves may be stunted and turn yellow and drop prematurely. The plant may get more pests and diseases (slugs, aphids and mildew especially). The leaves may turn reddish or purplish or just look dull and unhealthy. Lack of feeding is another form of stress. The older leaves of starved plants turn yellow and eventually drop, and the plant becomes leggy, as chlorophyll and other valuable materials are recycled to the new shoots. Obviously this can’t go on for ever and as a general rule, if a plant is losing more leaves from the bottom than it is producing at the top, something is seriously wrong. The classic chlorosis I
12
mentioned at the top – in ‘lime-hating’ or calcifuge plants – affects the new shoots, not the older leaves. This happens because these plants can’t take up certain nutrients – usually iron or magnesium – in alkaline conditions and therefore can’t make chlorophyll. The same thing happens if the plant can’t make chlorophyll for other reasons though, for example if something is wrong with the roots but the plant is trying to grow anyway. Over-watering, root rots, freezing and insect infestations can all weaken or kill the roots and cause the new shoots to be yellow. Finally, low temperatures can prevent chlorophyll forming, so for tender plants trying to grow in autumn and spring, the new growth might be yellow. It’s not a big problem if the plant is otherwise healthy. On a happier note, some plants are grown precisely for their yellow (or ‘golden’) foliage. I’m not really a fan, but many people like them. Note though that the lower levels of chlorophyll mean the plants are usually slower growing and often weaker than normal (which may be a good thing in restricted spaces) and that too much sun can bleach or scorch the leaves.
Out on a Limb tree services
=]ddaf_ÛÝÛGjmfaf_ÛÝÛGdYflaf_Û JlmehÛI]egnYdÛÝÛ?]\_]k 8dkgÛ=]f[af_ ÛCYofÛCYqaf_ÛYf\Û>Yj\]fÛDYafl]fYf[]
=j]]ÛHmglYlagfkÛÝÛ=mddqÛ@fkmj]\ 41 Chaucer Way Rowtown Addlestone KT15 1LQ
Paul Emberton BSC (HONS)
07958 407608 paul@paultree.com
Easicut Mowers Garden Machinery Specialists 4BMFT t 4FSWJDF t 3FQBJST Most makes of garden machinery
Shear Sharpening Service Free local collection & Delivery
01932 770459 www.easicutmowers.co.uk
Longacres Centre ThompsonsGarden Garden Centre Nutty Lane, Shepperton, TW17 0RQ
13
æ
ç
ï
è
é
ô
é
ÿ
é
è
í
ø
£
¡
§
¬
ª
¢
®
·
¸
´
À
±
¤
£
±
³
Â
²
»
¹
¥
¦
°
º
Á
Ç
£
¡
¯
¹
À
»
¢
Ã
§
³
Å
¾
©
£
µ
·
Æ
¨
ª
¯
½
Á
§
´
¼
Ä
¦
ª
§
®
¨
«
¯
¨
´
¶
¨
¡
õ
ÿ
ê
ô
ï
ê
í
ñ
ë
í
õ
ô
ð
ÿ
ï
é
ê
ÿ
é
é
ó
ë
þ
í
é
è
ò
ÿ
í
ÿ
ú
ó
é
é
ô
þ
é
ê
ê
è
ó
ô
î
ÿ
ó
ó
ê
ô
ì
è
ñ
ú
í
ë
ô
ò
ê
ð
õ
¨
é
í
ê
ó
Ç
È
É
Ê
Ä
Ë
º
°
Ê
è
ð
ê
ê
è
é
ë
é
õ
Â
Æ
»
Ì
Í
Ç
Î
Ï
Ð
Á
»
Ç
ô
æ
ô
è
ç
î
è
é
ö
ù
ÿ
ê
è
ó
þ
ÿ
ë
è
ù
ÿ
ó
Ê
Á
Ç
ë
ë
ê
Î
»
É
Â
Ê
Â
Ñ
Ê
³
»
¼
Ê
Ä
Ë
Á
¹
»
À
Ò
Ó
Ä
Ô
Ä
»
¹
Ñ
Ê
õ
ÿ
é
ô
ì
è
÷
Ô
º
Ä
Õ
Ä
»
Ñ
Ö
Ô
Ñ
À
Ì
Â
Ñ
Ç
Å
Ì
Â
Ô
¹
º
Ä
É
Ê
Ä
Ç
Ë
Ê
Ä
Â
Ê
»
À
Ç
×
Ä
±
Ç
¹
Ó
Ì
Â
Ò
»
Ø
Ê
Ç
Â
Í
Æ
Á
Æ
Ä
Ì
Ê
Á
Á
Ç
Ë
Î
»
¼
Ç
Â
Ñ
º
Ç
Â
Ê
Î
Ô
Ç
Ø
Â
À
Ê
»
Ä
¼
Á
Ä
Î
Ê
Á
Á
Ç
Î
»
Ø
Â
Ê
Ä
»
Ç
Ø
Á
»
Ç
Á
Ì
¹
Ó
Á
À
À
Á
Ç
¹
Ê
Â
»
Ç
Å
Ä
Ç
Â
¹
Å
Ñ
Ë
Ä
¼
Â
Å
Á
¹
º
Ä
º
Ê
Ó
Ä
»
Â
Ê
À
Æ
Ù
Ì
Ì
Õ
Â
¼
Ô
Ã
¹
Ë
º
Ê
Ä
Á
»
º
Õ
Â
Á
Ç
Ê
Ò
Ç
¶
Ê
Ä
Ä
¼
Ø
Ç
Ä
Â
¹
À
Â
Å
Á
Ì
Ê
Ä
»
»
Ç
Û
Ê
Ñ
Ü
¹
Ê
Ä
Ç
»
Å
º
»
Ä
»
Ç
Ä
Ç
Þ
Â
¼
»
Õ
À
Ä
Ù
Ä
Ç
Ë
Ç
Ä
¹
Ê
Ê
¼
¹
Ô
»
Ê
Ç
Â
Å
À
Æ
·
Á
×
Î
º
·
¹
¾
À
Ø
Ñ
Ç
Ë
º
Ô
Â
Ê
Æ
·
½
×
ß
¾
Ø
Æ
Æ
Ä
Ö
Â
Ê
Ê
Á
Ô
Ç
Î
Ñ
Ë
Ê
¹
Â
º
À
Ä
À
Ê
Ä
Á
Ë
Ö
Ç
Ô
Â
Â
Ç
Ê
Æ
º
Ä
Ð
»
Ê
Á
Ì
º
µ
à
Ë
»
Ö
Â
Ç
Ø
À
Ä
»
Ì
Ä
Ë
Â
Ç
Ä
Ò
Ç
Ä
À
á
¾
·
ß
â
½
ã
¿
½
½
¸
Å
´
Â
Õ
Ñ
±
Ó
Ù
»
¹
¹
Ä
Ç
Ê
É
Ã
Ä
Â
¶
¹
Ä
º
¯
º
Ó
Ä
É
¹
Å
Æ
»
Á
À
á
Â
à
Ë
Ä
ä
Ä
Ì
º
Ä
Ê
Ø
»
Ê
Á
Ì
º
×
Â
Ê
Î
×
Ñ
Ù
×
Ú
å
14
Ä
Õ
Ì
Á
¹
Ä
á
Ó
Ó
Ó
×
Ä
Ì
º
Ä
Ê
Ø
»
Ê
Á
Ì
è
ë
ÿ
Ú
Á
º
ö
×
Â
Ê
Î
×
Ñ
Ù
ô
¹
»
Ë
¹
ô
ó
ó
ë
ì
ê
õ
í
ì
è
ë
è
ô
þ
Â
Æ
ÿ
è
ê
è
Ç
Ý
ö
ê
Å
º
ù
ì
ó
ª
Â
ê
ý
þ
õ
ÿ
±
Ç
ê
ü
ê
ô
þ
¿
»
ë
õ
í
¥
§
õ
ô
í
î
ê
è
î
é
û
÷
ó
è
ì
ê
ÿ
ë
è
í
ê
ê
ò
õ
ì
ï
ê
ì
ô
ô
è
ó
ô
é
í
÷
ë
è
è
ô
÷
õ
ê
ÿ
ë
è
î
ú
û
ó
ó
ñ
ó
ö
ù
ö
ð
è
þ
è
þ
ÿ
ÿ
ô
í
é
î
ù
õ
è
ù
õ
é
ô
ê
ú
é
ê
í
ó
ô
ö
ó
è
û
ë
ë
ò
è
ë
ó
ë
ì
õ
ÿ
ê
ô
î
õ
ê
û
è
ï
ó
õ
é
ô
ê
ö
í
ó
ì
ë
þ
ö
ó
ò
ê
ê
ô
ê
è
ñ
ï
ê
ó
í
é
ê
ê
ì
è
õ
ê
ë
ê
ê
ñ
ô
ô
ô
é
è
ò
ï
ÿ
ì
ÿ
ë
ê
ó
ì
è
ë
û
ì
ï
ë
ï
ë
è
ú
ì
ô
õ
è
ò
ô
î
ê
û
î
ó
í
ì
ù
í
ø
è
ì
ø
þ
õ
í
é
ú
ó
õ
ì
è
é
è
ô
ë
÷
þ
ò
é
ó
ò
è
ö
ó
æ
ê
õ
è
ò
é
õ
Tree Surgery Tree Felling Stump Grinding Hedge Maintenance Fruit Tree Pruning Gardening Planting and soft Landscaping Tree Surveys Fully quali ed Arborists £5 Million Liability Insurance CHAS Accredited contractor
020 8393 3222 info@turnertreecare.co.uk www.turnertreecare.co.uk
The Dent Professor MOLESEY P Plastic bumper repairs P Alloy wheels restored P Paintwork scratches P Bumper scuffs P Dent removals P Stone Chips
Member of the British Pest Control Association Full Public Liability Insurance Cover Wasps • Bees • Rats • Mice • Ants Fleas • Squirrels • Moths • Moles
Mobile service, we come to you Full workshop facilities
Free estimates Tel: 0208 397 8821 Mob: 07917 667290 E: enquiries@thedentprofessor.co.uk Web: www.thedentprofessor.co.uk
Tel: 020 8979 1670
All debit and credit cards accepted
Mobile: 0773 389 5213
15
New Musical NO-ONEfor Director ADMITTED Treble Clef Choir AFTER START OF ELMBRIDGE CHILLER Neil Armstrong, Rebecca Hack and Will Busby in a scene from “The Cat and the Canary”.
Treble Clef are delighted to introduce you to our new Musical Director. His name is Tim Woodford and he is now based in Surrey. Tim began his musical training as a chorister at St. George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle and furthered his musical career at Hurstpierpoint College, West Sussex and Surrey University where he specialised in choral conducting, singing, piano and organ. Upon graduating, he has spent much of his time teaching, performing, composing and conducting many choirs in Surrey, including The Surrey Youth choir, Surrey Children’s choir and Holmbury St. Mary, Woking and Fleet choral societies. Tim has conducted and performed on the piano and organ in prestigious venues such as the Royal Albert Hall, the Royal
Festival Hall, the Barbican and The Vatican. During the last 2 years he has been training choristers at Crediton Parish church, one of whom was BBC Girl Chorister of the year (2014). Last year 2 of the 4 national finalists were once again choristers from his church. Treble Clef’s Summer Concert this year, under Tim’s musical direction, will be “A Night at the Musicals!” The date to put into your diaries is Saturday 25th June 2016 at Christ the Prince of Peace Catholic Church, Portmore Park Road, Weybridge starting at 8 pm. Tickets are £10 for adults, accompanied under 12s free. Ring 01932 843201 to book your seat in advance and enjoy a relaxing evening of all your favourite songs from the shows.
16
FOR EVERYTHING IN LUXURY BATHROOMS & SHOWERS
Open: Mon to Fri 8am-5pm Sat 9.30am-3pm 121 ANYARDS ROAD, COBHAM, SURREY, KT11 2LJ (Car park to rear of building) Tel: 01932 866471 / 868523
tjbathrooms@ntlbusiness.com • www.tjbathrooms.co.uk FREE DESIGN & PLANNING SERVICE 17 SURREY KT7 0QP 020 8398 4324 Also at: 122 SUMMER ROAD THAMES DITTON,
Woking & Sam Beare Hospices Dragon Boat Fun Day
Woking & Sam Beare Hospices have officially launched their Dragon Boat Fun Day, sponsored by Trident Honda, taking place on Sunday 3rd July 2016 at Goldsworth Park Lake. As always, teams will be paddling against each other and the clock to raise vital funds for the Hospices. New for this year alongside the Dragon Boat racing, there’s even more going on with fun and entertainment for all the family.
cream, Pimm’s tent and lots more. It’ll be a great day out for all the family and fingers crossed the weather will be with us!”
Having recently launched a new three year partnership with the Hospices and as the headline sponsor for 2016, Trident Honda have entered a group of 14 staff who will be competing in the event this summer. Richard Roberts, Managing Director at Trident Honda said “Trident are delighted to continue to support the Hospices, when we asked the team if they would like to take part they jumped at the chance! On the day we will have at least 14 on board, there is a threat that I might have to be in the boat, and knowing the team we will be doing everything we can to be closer to the front of the fleet than the back!” The Hospices’ Events Fundraising Manager, Danielle Le Cuirot, is delighted to be returning to Goldsworth Park Lake with the event. “We’ve had teams sign up quicker than ever for this year’s event with 12 groups already registered, so anyone thinking of taking part should get their forms in soon! Whether you want to take part with colleagues or just get a group of friends together and have some fun, it’s a great team building opportunity and way to support a local charity at the same time!” “New for this year is the ‘fun day’ element, there will be even more going on including face painting, games, a BBQ, bouncy castle, ice
18
Team places in this popular event are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. The minimum age to take part is 12 and anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Teams can be made up of 12-20 people and each team will have their own area on the bank of the lake, all equipment and training will be provided on the day. The Dragon Boat Fun Day will be held in memory of Hospice Fundraiser Kris Cook who tragically suffered a cardiac arrest after cycling 46 miles whilst taking part in the Prudential Ride 100 in 2014. Kris grew up close to the lake where he pursued his love of water sports so the Dragon Boat event is the perfect way to remember him. For further details and to register please contact the Events Team on 01483 881752 or visit www. wsbhospices.co.uk/dragonboat
19
A
C
%
E
M
9
B
7
9
0
A
.
$
$
"
7
0
%
&
'
(
)
!
*
+
"
#
,
-
"
F
0
G
G
H
I
J
K
1
K
J
F
+
L
-
D
.
/
1
2
5
:
<
>
/
0
"
1
3
4
1
3
3
9
:
N
7
"
!
6
7
9
9
.
8
3
;
=
?
@
0
<
/
/
3
/
!
9 3
9
9
!
20
B
7
"
"
0
7
=
1
9
"
#
O
21
22
23
}
~
~
~
~
V
T
~
Q
W
¢
Z
U
~
~
~
f i
W
T
h
a
m
n
k
w
i
d
m
a
h
m
n
i
¡
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
T
Q
W
X
Y
Z
S
[
X
T
S
\
V
Q
R
X
£
m
c
f
i
d
m
`
i
^
h
]
^
g
h
_
`
a
b
c
d
e
f
b
d
a
m
n
t
b
i
^
h
d
b
m
s
f
`
b
k
_
b
h
i
c
f i
h
j
d
c
f
d
^
f
_
b
m
f
c
f
`
`
j
n
d
f
l
l
m
^
j
d
o
j
l
j
f
m
b
e
f
b
k
c n
i
d
a
m
`
q
q
r
c
s
b
b
t
k
_
v
c
c
s
s
b
c
^
b
m
j
d
m
s
^
f
`
b
`
l
^
d
l
s
l
d
m
^
h
`
c
b
^
j
f
a
f
n
^
^
b
^
i
j
f
¤
^
i
j
f
^
o
a
`
l
^
o
f
i
^
j
f
b
c
d
e
f
b
d
c
d
h
m
k
i
m
s
^
j
¥
w
i
f
_
b
i
b
^
j
f
a
i
m
b
i
m
_
b
f
f
¤
m
d
m
^
b
`
r
c
l
d
m
a
h
c
`
m
n
¨
t
i
t
f
i
i
`
¥
_
f
^
^
j
f
§
k
b
f
h
h
¥
b
k
§
b
]
o
©
{
r
d
m
t
^
f
`
t
m
^
d
c
^
j
f
j
h
d
f
l
l
m
d
`
o
m
h
¥
r
h
i
`
j
^
j
f
c
h
n
i
d
c
h
l
b
e
f
m
l
s
s
i
s
^
b
^
j
f
k
w
i
d
m
a
h
m
n
¤
d
^
j
^
j
f
i
^
d
f
b
k
k
f
`
j
c
w
b
h
n
t
m
s
_
l
a
m
s
_
b
i
i
m
b
l
¥
b
k
§
b
k
o
h
t
^
i
j
f
r
h
d
m
t
^
f
v
h
f
`
¥
b
m
¤
d
^
j
`
c
i
^
i
c
h
i
l
o
m
a
m
o
s
k
f
i
f
i
k
i
l
a
i
b
n
j
d
b i
b
`
l
u
^
j l
n
t
j l
`
m
l
§
m
d
d
h
l
d u
a i
h
n
]
^
o
i
c l
f
a i
m
j
p
j
m
l
l
]
d
n
i
j
^ o
s i
c
¦
` i
b
l
`
l
`
j
c
w
b
h
n
t
m
s
a
f
a
a
f
h
^
j
f
m
s
h
s
^
j
f
f
i
l
r
h
m
i
s
¤
r
i
i
h
f h
^
j
b
t
j
h
f x
`
j
_
`
h
d
c
y
j
i
m
i
s
k
t
c
n
d ª
{
q g
k n
k i
h
c
c
f
a
`
i
h
m
^
q
j n
l
f
s
s
j i
h
l
f
b
b
f
l
s
a
`
o
^
_
i
f
k
b
f
i
s
h
s
d
m
^
i
j
f
f
n
l
r
h
w
r
d
«
^
t
f
i
d
m
^
b
h
i
j
f
c
f i
q
j
i
^
i
^
|
¥
z
i
f
f
`
f
y
^ n
h
f
s
h
a
m
n
f
i
¥
k
b
f
¬
`
f
e
h
d
m
h
^
f
t
n
i
a
^
j
f
k
h
f
`
j
_
`
h
d
c
i
m
s
s
i
s
i
z
i
^
j
f
r
d
«
^
t
f
c
h
k
b
k h
d
m
d
`
j
b
m
¤
i
f
s
d
^
j
^
j
f
^
n
c
b
i
n
b
m o
24
i
s
f
m
®
b
h
w
i
¯
f
s
j l
f
f
`
f
s ¥
s
`
b
r
f
m n
i
h
d
`
j
^
b
ST R N NO YLE AN EW W S & GE AV C OF AI OL LA OU BL RS E
For a beautiful new kitchen...
just change the doors
Have you always wanted the kitchen of your dreams, but can’t quite justify paying the expensive price tag that comes with it? Now you can by just swapping the doors and worktops.
Less cost, less time, less mess...
• Huge choice of Doors, Worktops, Appliances, Sinks & Taps • Free Estimating and planning • 50% deposit with balance on completion www.dreamdoors.co.uk
For a FREE NO OBLIGATION home visit telephone 020 8399 1226 Or visit our showroom: 406 Ewell Road, Tolworth, Surrey KT6 7HF Email kt@dreamdoorsltd.co.uk25
View our credentials at
Planning to Fail by
Kevin Waters The old adage springs eternal; failing to plan is simply planning to fail. As an estate planner I have the good fortune to meet lots of people from all walks of life and a common thread that links them all is they have woken up to the facts of life. They have woken up to the fact that they are not immortal, they have responsibilities and unless they plan things they are going to leave a much diminished pot to their loved ones. Whatever you have built up through your own hard work or through the endeavours of others perhaps via an inheritance, the all seeing eye of the HMRC will quite happily take a large percentage of that estate or inheritance. Currently you are allowed an individual’s Nil Rate Band allowance of £325,000, which might not allow much comfort or headroom with today’s property prices, with 40% of the remainder lost to Inheritance Tax. This is even more disheartening for those in their twilight years who want to pass on as much of their estate as possible to loved ones, such as children and grandchildren, to give a helping hand with life’s peccadillos such as paying off a mortgage or helping the next generation get a foot on the property ladder. Worse still is the Generational Inheritance Tax trap. Simply put it means that without professional planning the next generation continues to
pay inheritance tax again on their original inheritance as it is added to their own future estate and that of their offspring and on and on it goes! So what can you do to stop the rot and protect your hard earnt assets? Firstly, get yourself a will. It’s not as complicated or time consuming as you might think and when it’s done you can sit back in smug satisfaction that you are ahead of 70% of the population who don’t get that far! Secondly, with professional advice, consider transferring some of you assets into a trust. Recently there has been a lot written about trusts in the press. The truth of the matter is that trusts have been around for centuries and are no longer the preserve of the rich and landed, they are for ordinary people, completely legal and above board. Thirdly, take out power of attorney/s on yourself and your loved ones now, whilst you’re able and well. It’s simple advice that does not have to cost the Earth, in fact you can get a will pack from the Post Office if you want to do it yourself. A word of caution, please take into account that your will and all it entails are intended to protect and direct your life’s assets it is not something to be taken lightly. You should carefully consider your options and my advice is to seek professional assistance. So take care and please start planning, it’s never too late… or too early.
26
T
P
P R O T E C T I O N Wills, Trusts, Power of Attor ney
°
±
²
³
´
µ
¶
·
µ
¸
±
¹
º
»
»
¼
½
µ
³
¾
º
¸
¸
±
¿
³
ĂĚǀĂŶƚĂŐĞ ŽĨ ƌĞĐĞŶƚ ĐŚĂŶŐĞƐ ŝŶ ůĞŐŝƐůĂƟŽŶ͍
WŽǁĞƌ ŽĨ ƩŽƌŶĞLJƐ tŝůů tƌŝƟŶŐ ͻ dƌƵƐƚ ĂĚǀŝĐĞͬƉƌŽƚĞĐƟŽŶ ĨŽƌ ůŝĨĞ ƉŽůŝĐŝĞƐ͕ ƉĞŶƐŝŽŶƐ Θ ŵĂũŽƌ ĂƐƐĞƚƐ ͻ WƌŽƚĞĐƚ ŚĞŝƌƐ ĂƐƐĞƚƐ ĨƌŽŵ ƉŽƚĞŶƟĂů ĚŝǀŽƌĐĞ ĐůĂŝŵƐ ĂŶĚ ĐƌĞĚŝƚŽƌƐ ͻ ŶƐƵƌĞ LJŽƵƌ ĂƐƐĞƚƐ ƉĂƐƐ ƚŽ LJŽƵƌ ďůŽŽĚůŝŶĞͬĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ ͻ &ŝŶĂŶĐŝĂů Θ DĞĚŝĐĂů WŽǁĞƌ ŽĨ ƩŽƌŶĞLJ ͻ ZĞĚƵĐĞ /ŶŚĞƌŝƚĂŶĐĞ dĂdž ůŝĂďŝůŝƟĞƐ ͻ /ŵƉŽƌƚĂŶƚ ĚŽĐƵŵĞŶƚ ƐƚŽƌĂŐĞ ͻ WƌŽĨĞƐƐŝŽŶĂů ƉƌŽďĂƚĞ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ͻ WƌĞŶƵƉƟĂů ĂŐƌĞĞŵĞŶƚƐ
͞WƌŽƚĞĐƟŶŐ LJŽƵƌ ŚĂƌĚ ĞĂƌŶĞĚ ĂƐƐĞƚƐ ĨŽƌ LJŽƵ ĂŶĚ LJŽƵƌ ůŽǀĞĚ ŽŶĞƐ͟ À
Á
Â
Â
Ã
Ä
Å
Ä
Æ
Ç
È
Ç
É
È
Ä
Ç
ŵĂŝů͗ ǁŝůůƐ>dΛĞŵĐĂƐƐĞƚƉƌŽƚĞĐƟŽŶ͘ĐŽ͘ƵŬ tĞď͗ ǁǁǁ͘ĞŵĐĂƐƐĞƚƉƌŽƚĞĐƟŽŶ͘ĐŽ͘ƵŬ D ƐƐĞƚ WƌŽƚĞĐƟŽŶ ǁŽƌŬ ŝŶ ĂƐƐŽĐŝĂƟŽŶ ǁŝƚŚ ŽƵŶƚƌLJǁŝĚĞ dĂdž Θ dƌƵƐƚ ŽƌƉŽƌĂƟŽŶ >ƚĚ͘
CONSUMER CHAMPION
is the option of attempting to get a chargeback from your bank.
are a small minority of frauds out there. Here’s how to spot them…
by JAMES WALKER
If it’s too good to be true, it probably is – Be suspicious of anything that is obviously far too cheap. It could be fake, stolen, or even just a ‘phishing’ scam to get money from you for a product that doesn’t really exist.
Price is King – Find out the market value of a vehicle. If it’s suspiciously cheap, there is more than likely a reason.
Beat the eBay scammers! How to avoid the pitfalls of buying from online auctions and classified ad marketplaces Tens of millions of people use eBay every week and, as with any busy marketplace that attracts a lot of people, there will always be some unscrupulous elements that are trying to separate you from your money. But how do you know what to look for? And how do you make sure you have the best chance of getting your money back? I’ve put together a simple guide to protect you when you step out into a busy online marketplace – whether it’s eBay or any other listings site. General Principles Keep a record – Make sure you make a note of (or save) all correspondence with the seller or buyer. That way, if something goes wrong and you need to complain, you’re armed with plenty of evidence Use Paypal where you can – Even though Paypal charges 20p plus 3.4 per cent of the sale price, you have a better chance of getting some form of refund. In fact, even in cases of fraud, if you pay by a simple bank transfer you might not get your money back. There is some protection if you use a credit card for purchases over £100 under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act and, for debit card purchases, there
Do your research. Have a look at the prices of similar products, or search the internet for stories of similar scams, or even just ask friends. Ask plenty of questions – Don’t be embarrassed to ask about the product. If it’s a genuine sale, the seller will have no problem in answering any questions you might have. If something doesn’t feel right to you, walk away. There’s more protection if you buy from a trader rather than a private seller - If you buy online from a business, then they are bound by the Consumer Act 2015 and Distance Selling Regulations. Part of this is that you have 14 days to return any goods you’ve bought online. If you buy something from a private individual, however, this does not apply. If you feel you’ve been scammed, tell someone – report it to the site owners, the police and Action Fraud. The Big Buy – Cars eBay has hundreds of thousands of cars listed for sale, and sites such as Auto Trader and PistonHeads.com and Gumtree host ads for even more. Used cars on these sites can be sold by private sellers or traders, and the vast majority are honest ads, but there
28
Fake Pictures – Fraudulent ads will often ‘steal’ a set of images from another genuine advert. One way to test this is to rightclick on one of the images, select ‘copy image link’ and paste that into a Google search. This will then reveal if the image is on another advert somewhere and therefore whether the ad is genuine or not. Fake Escrow – A genuine escrow service allows sellers to send goods safe in the knowledge that funds exist and are being held safely until the goods have been delivered. As a scam, however, a fake escrow site run by the ‘seller’ often asks for money to be paid into a specific service before the seller will bring the car for you to view. Costs of shipping the car from one country to another, or problems with timewasters are commonly used excuses. The Right Place – Whether you’re buying from a trade seller or a private individual, make sure you’re comfortable with the location of the purchase. It seems obvious, but an anonymous car park or a pub is far from safe. The seller’s house or garage forecourt is a much more secure location to do business, as you have some means of contacting them if things go wrong. James Walker is the founder of online complaint-resolution tool Resolver.co.uk. Follow James via @resolvercouk, or email James@resolver.co.uk
Ă&#x160;
Ă&#x2039;
Ă&#x160;
Ă&#x153;
Ă&#x160;
Ă&#x160;
Ă&#x17D;
Ă?
Ă&#x2019;
Ă?
Ă&#x152;
Ă&#x2DC;
Ă&#x2013;
Ă&#x2013;
Ă&#x2022;
Ă&#x2022;
Ă&#x17E;
Ă&#x2022;
Ă&#x2022;
Ă&#x2DC;
Ă&#x201D;
Ă&#x;
Ă&#x152;
Ă&#x152;
ĂĄ
Ă&#x201C;
Ă&#x2019;
Ă?
Ă?
Ă&#x;
Ă&#x2019;
Ă&#x2019;
Ă?
Ă&#x2013;
ĂŁ
Ă&#x2018;
Ă?
Ă&#x17E;
Ă&#x152;
Ă&#x2122;
Ă?
Ă&#x17E;
Ă&#x2019;
Ă?
ĂĽ
Ă&#x152;
Ă&#x2018;
ĂĄ
Ă&#x2022;
Ă?
Ă?
Ă&#x152;
ĂŁ
Ă&#x2014;
Ă?
ĂĄ
Ă
Ă&#x17D;
Ă&#x2013;
Ă&#x2018;
Ă?
Ă&#x2122;
Ă&#x2DC;
Ă&#x2013;
Ă?
Ă&#x2022;
Ă?
Ă?
Ă&#x201C;
Ă?
Ă&#x2DC;
Ă&#x152;
Ă&#x2019;
Ă&#x2018;
Ă&#x2DC;
Ă&#x161;
Ă?
Ă&#x152;
Ă&#x;
Ă?
Ă&#x152;
Ă&#x2122;
Ă
Ă&#x2019;
Ă&#x17E;
Ă?
Ă&#x2013;
Ă&#x161;
Ă?
Ă?
Ă&#x2122;
Ă&#x201C;
Ă&#x2022;
Ă?
Ă&#x201D;
â
Ă&#x2019;
Ă&#x203A;
Ă&#x2022;
ĂŁ
Ă&#x;
Ă&#x17D;
Ă?
Ă&#x2DC;
Ă&#x2DC;
Ă&#x201C;
Ă?
Ă&#x17D;
Ă&#x2DC;
Ă
Ă&#x;
Ă?
Ă&#x2022;
Ă&#x2018;
Ă?
Ă?
â
ĂŁ
Ă&#x2DC;
Ă
Ă&#x;
Ă?
Ă&#x2022;
Ă&#x2018;
8QGHUĂ&#x20AC;RRU KHDWLQJ
Ă&#x160;
Ă&#x160;
Ă&#x160;
Ă?
Ă?
Ă&#x153;
ä
Ă&#x160;
Ă&#x160;
Ă&#x152;
ĂŚ
Ă?
ç
Ă?
Ă&#x2DC;
Ă&#x152;
è
ĂŠ
Ă&#x2018;
ĂŞ
Ă&#x17D;
Ă?
Ă&#x2022;
Ă?
Ă?
Ă?
ĂŞ
Ă&#x2019;
Ă&#x2039;
ò
Ă?
Ăł
Ă&#x2014;
ĂŤ
Ă´
Ăľ
Ă?
Ă&#x203A;
Ă&#x2018;
Ă&#x2DC;
Ă?
Ă&#x201C;
Ă&#x2022;
ĂŹ
á
ø
Ăş
Ă´
Ăš
ĂŽ
Ă˝
Ăž
Ă´
Ăş
Ăş
ĂŻ
ĂĄ
ĂŞ
Ăş
Ăľ
Ă?
Ă&#x2122;
ĂŠ
Ăź
Ăš
Ă&#x2122;
Ă&#x152;
Ăż
Ă&#x152;
Ă?
Ăž
Ăž
Ă&#x2122;
Ă&#x2013;
Ă&#x2039;
Ăź
Ă&#x2DC;
Ă&#x2022;
ĂŞ
Ă&#x152;
Ă&#x152;
Ăť
Ăł
Ă&#x203A;
Ă?
ĂŚ
Ăş
Ăź
Ă?
Ă&#x2039;
Ăš
Ă&#x152;
Ă?
Ă
Ăś
Ă?
Ăź
Ă&#x2018;
Ă°
Ăł
Ăą
Ăľ
Ăž
Ăş
Ăş
á
Ăś
Ăź
Ăş
Ăł
Ăľ
Ăź
Ă˝
Ă´
á
Ăł
Ăş
Ăź
Ăž
Ăš
Ăľ
Ăź
Ăł
Ă´
Ăş
ø
ò
Ăł
Ăź
Apps Court Farm Sunday Car Boot Sale Entry for buyers and sellers from 7am Check our website for weekly updates! Follow us on Twitter! @AppsCourtFarm Apps Court Farm, Hurst Road, Walton on Thames, Surrey, KT12 2EG enquiries@appscourtfarm.com www.appscourtfarm.com 01932 244822
29
Martin
LEWIS Student Loans There’s been a furore in Parliament about the scrapping of student grants. And every time politicians get lairy over such issues, the news focuses on the scrap and the real truth of what’s actually happening gets lost.
difference that once you have repaid what you borrowed (plus interest) it stops. For far more help on this, see my full 20 student loan mythbusters guide at www.mse.me/ studentloan.
I’ve been swamped with panicked questions about student grants from students, future students, graduates and their parents, so I want to mythbust what’s really happening. In many ways people are panicking unnecessarily about the grant changes, but missing the really damaging change, which is a retrospective hike in student loans.
I’m going to use examples for English students studying in England. For students from Wales, whether you go to university in Wales or elsewhere in the UK, the amount you borrow tends to be less, but the way you repay is the same.
Student finance: the basics When you go to university, if you’re a first time UK undergraduate you don’t need to pay upfront. The Student Loans Company pays your tuition fees for you and gives you money for living, then you owe it.
I’m going to focus on the situation for students who started in or after 2012 in England, for elsewhere in the UK the loans tend to be smaller. Q. So what’s happening to student grants?
You only start repaying when you leave university and, even then, only if you earn over £21,000. If you don’t earn over that you don’t repay. The amount you repay is proportionate to earnings. You repay 9% of everything above £21,000 (eg, earn £31,000 and, as it’s £10,000 above the threshold, you repay £900 a year). If you haven’t cleared what you owe within 30 years, the debt is wiped. If you never earn over £21,000, you never repay. In many ways, financially it’s a no win no fee education. An easy way to think of it is a bit like an extra income tax, with the one
A: Until now, students from lower income families (roughly below £43,000 income) had some of their loan replaced by a nonrepayable grant for up to £3,400. From September 2016 grants are being scrapped in England and Wales. Yet there’s much confusion about this. There are two big things to note: 1) This only applies for new starters starting from 2016. Those already at university and getting grants will keep getting them.
...................continued over the page......
30
Weybridge Pet Centre & Grooming Parlour Livestock Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, Hamsters, Fish Dog grooming by fully qualified groomers Wide range of pet foods & Accessories www.weybridgepetcentre.co.uk
27b Church Street, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 8DG 01932 847479 Open 9am Â&#x2013; 5pm Monday-Saturday
31
Student Loans continued.....
threshold was due to rise each year from April 2017 in line with average earnings.
2) This doesn’t mean they’ll have less money coming in. New 2016 starters will get a bigger loan to replace what they would’ve got in grants. In fact, the loan figures for new starters (not continuing students) have been upped by a chunk. This is useful, as often the big issue that hits students isn’t the size of the loan, it’s that they don’t have enough money to live on day-to-day. Rents alone eat up much of this.
Yet the Government has now decided to freeze it for at least five years, meaning many low- and middle-earning graduates will pay thousands more back than they thought they would when they signed up. After all, if we go back to thinking of it like a tax, if you were to pay 9% of everything earned above £22,000, but now repay everything above £21,000, that’s a hike.
Q. Isn’t this likely to really hit poor students hard? A: You may be surprised that I’m going to say no. In many ways the big problem is the confusion and psychological deterrent, not the practical finances. For most students it makes no practical difference. The replacement of a grant with a loan will ONLY cost more for those who leave university and have longterm very high earnings. That’s because if you compare the current and new system, the fact it’s a loan and not a grant would only cost you more if you would’ve repaid your entire tuition fees, remaining maintenance loan after the grant, and interest in the 30 years before the debt wipes anyway.
It’s received little publicity though, as it doesn’t immediately seem such a big problem. Here I need to declare an interest: I was head of the Independent Taskforce on Student Finance Information in 2012 when the system changed. The Government repeatedly told me the threshold would rise, and I, of course, told people, and used it in all my cost calculations. Well I refuse to missell these loans in hindsight. So I am actively campaigning on it – I’ve written an open letter to the Prime Minister and have personally hired lawyers to see if it can be challenged (read it at www. mse.me/studentloanhike). The big problem, even more important than the additional cost, is the message this sends. The Government is not just freezing it going forward, it’s freezing it for everyone who signed up since 2012 - effectively changing the contract after people have signed up.
Most students won’t, so there’s no cost to them. In fact, my calculations estimate only those on STARTING salaries of £35,000 and up, and then above inflation pay rises would actually pay more. So if the system remains as it is now, it’s only those from poor backgrounds who go on to be big earners who this is negative for.
The regulator would not allow any commercial lender to change its terms this way. This could destroy any trust current and future generations can have in the student finance system, and perhaps, even more widely, in the political system as a whole. I said above that the impact of replacing grants with loans isn’t actually as bad as many think under the current terms. Yet the real concern is, as the Government has shown it’s willing to change loan terms even after you’ve got them, who knows what may happen in the future.
However, the big question is ‘will the system remain unchanged?’ Q. What’s this retrospective hike to student repayments? A: As I explained earlier, since 2012, graduates only repay 9% of what they earn over £21,000. The government had said this
32
!
"
#
$
%
"
Meeting All Your Needs To Give You Your Freedom And Independence:
"
Scooters • Stairlifts • Riser Recliner Chairs Bath Lifts • Wheelchairs • Everyday Essentials Wheelchair and Walker Hire Scooter Service • Collection and Delivery
…and so much more
“
What wonderful service. Nothing is too much trouble Mrs C
”
29, High Street, Shepperton, TW17 9AB shepperton@all-mobility.co.uk
Tel 01932 224044 33
IT’S ALL CHILDS PLAY Break free this bank Holiday with Screen-free May Day It’s May and as Spring makes its way for Summer our spirits lift so that even the blossom seems to bounce on the trees. I know that there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes, but given the choice, most of us adults would prefer a summer walk than a trudge on a cold damp dark Winter’s day. With hopefully some good weather promised this Bank Holiday, a family trip to the park or seaside, walk in the woods, or trek in the countryside is the perfect way to spend your May Day. What’s more, the great outdoors is just the antidote for prising children away from their computer games and gadgets, and adults from their phones! Of course back in the days when mobile phones were the size of house bricks who would have thought of taking a phone with them on a walk? And not wishing to show my age, Pac Man and Binatone were just occasional pastimes not every day fixes! You’d have to live on another planet not to have noticed just how much technology shapes our lives. In fact, research reveals how children’s play has dramatically changed in just one generation because children are playing less outdoors and with natural and open-ended objects. The other nail in the coffin is the changes to manufactured toys themselves as these have become increasingly active. At first glance it might seem a bonus that dolls can now cry, urinate and talk but what then of the role of the child, for the doll no longer depends upon the child to provide its voice and actions? In some cases, toys have become little more than passive entertainment and unlike a handful of sticks and mud, require children to invest very little of themselves. Gone are the days when it was considered ‘Okay’ for children go and play until it gets dark, now children are forced to live much more cossetted lives with very few opportunities to experience the exhilaration and escapism of playing freely. Of course we can’t return to those days of free range children but this does present a challenge to parents of how best to support our children and offer them plentiful opportunities to experiment, explore and grow away from adult’s eyes. Cast your mind back to a favourite childhood memory and I doubt an adult featured prominently, if at all. So how can we safely offer a taste of this to our own
children? We live in a computer and screen-based world where computers undeniably make our life easier and enhance it in many ways, but are a poor substitute for children learning in a handson way. They provide little, if any, enrichment for the senses, the gateway to all learning, and no food for the soul. I fear that we have lost the chance to wallow and enjoy the gift of time as life is so fast paced. To make it worse TV programmers use frequent screen changes to maintain young children’s interest. The sad fact of this speeding up of life is that a trip to the seaside or a farm on the TV is often more exciting and fun than its slower reality. ‘Boring!’ we hear children cry when a lovely day out is planned. Social networking brings huge benefits but its immediacy primes children, and us adults to expect everything immediately, as well as limiting communication between parents and their offspring. Who hasn’t witnessed physically present parents who are more emotionally connected to their phones than their infants? Don’t get me wrong, technology is such a huge part of our lives that we positively need to embrace it, but setting limits is vital as carefree time spent exploring outdoors, running vigorously and playing are key to the development of well-rounded children and fighting the obesity battle. You can’t beat the feeling of release provided by exploring how a worm moves, discovering a new shoot, mixing up a witch’s potion, rolling down a grassy bank, playing hide and seek or building dens. Being outdoors and vigorous play are not only good for the body and soul but also free. May is a great time to get outdoors as a family so leave the phone at home and make the most of any sun by making this Bank Holiday a screen-free one! By Sue Gascoyne sue@playtoz.co.uk
34
&
'
,
@
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
@
(
-
O
G
P
)
.
Q
J
R
/
M
0
*
1
2
+
3
2
4
5
1
6
7
8
8
9
:
:
;
<
=
>
?
I
You can turn a creative pursuit into a moneymaking venture in early May. The New Moon on the 6th is ideal for landing a lucrative job, getting a pay rise or increasing your prices. Getting paid what you are worth is imperative. When more funds arrive, put a percentage of them into a savings account. Having a financial cushion will protect you from uncertainty. If you're self-employed, it will be easier to find steady work and good customers during the first half of the month. Have you been thinking of opening your own business? The middle of May is the best time of the entire year to do so. On the 21st, a legal decision could be rendered in your favour, allowing you to leave the past behind and forge a brighter, happier future. An old romantic partner may try to reconnect as June approaches. Be wary about getting involved again, even if there is powerful chemistry between you. @
S
T
A
T
D
@
O
G
P
Q
J
K
L
M
N
E
F
U
J
K
L
M
Love, romance and adventure are yours for the asking in May. If you're thinking about updating your appearance, the New Moon on the 6th presents the perfect opportunity to do so. Don't be afraid to spend a little more money than usual on clothes, toiletries and spa treatments. Your creative powers will be more impressive than ever; devote more time to painting, playing music and designing works of beauty. Are you looking for love? You could find it at a garden, park or campground. If you're already in a relationship, you and your amour will enjoy a relaxing break together. The Full Moon on the 21st will attract money from an inheritance, legal settlement or refund. Save this windfall for equipment repairs, it's important to keep your car, computer and appliances in good working condition. A disagreement over values could put strain on a friendship or romance towards the end of the month. V
C
E
B
W
B
E
F
U
J
J
X
Y
N
Z
[
X
\
J
K
L
M
Keeping a low profile will be enjoyable in early May. Solitary activities like reading, writing and communing with nature can keep stress at bay. This is also an opportune moment to enjoy the company of pets. The New Moon on the 6th will prompt you to adopt a more spiritual approach to problems. Suddenly, money and status could become relatively unimportant. If you need a bank loan, scholarship or grant, submit an application during the first half of the month. Your business or romantic partner will have exciting news on the 21st, courtesy of the Full Moon. Your lives will become much more adventurous as a result. Go ahead and yield the spotlight to your partner during the second half of May. They've worked hard for this recognition; let them bask in their fame and acclaim. Be receptive to advice from an accomplished but stuffy expert. It's best to play it safe at work as June approaches. ]
@
W
]
C
A
Z
[
X
\
J
J
X
Y
N
Z
[
Q
U
J
^
G
Y
Your social life will sparkle with excitement at the beginning of the month. Be sure to attend a party on the 6th, when the New Moon will put you in the path of some interesting, attractive people. If you're looking for love, you could find it with a tremendously accomplished person. Are you already in a relationship? Your partner will be proud to be on your arm. Acquiring marketable skills will improve your job prospects. Sign up for an adult education course in May. The Full Moon on the 21st will yield impressive results of a health regime. You'll look good and feel great during the second half of May. If you mistakenly offend a colleague, offer a sincere apology. Back up your words with actions. By demonstrating good will, you could make a friend out of an old rival. Lean on your romantic partner for support when your confidence wavers. _
C
`
Z
[
Q
U
J
a
M
I
N
@
[
b
[
L
M
J
^
G
Y
You'll achieve great prominence in your career throughout early May. This is also a wonderful time to run for office. Launch your campaign on the 6th, when you will have the strength of the New Moon behind you. Your hard work and accomplishments will win the respect of people from all walks of life. If you're happy with your current position, take this opportunity to improve your workspace. Thriving plants, vibrant colours and comfortable furniture will make you much more productive. Ask your superiors to make improvements during May. The Full Moon on the 21st marks an exciting turning point in your love life. You could meet someone special at a sporting event, gym or walking the dog. If you're already in a relationship, schedule a fun trip with your amour. Money could be tight in late May; cut back on household expenses. Stretch resources as far as they will go. Prepare meals instead of eating out.
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
j
i
k
l
m
n
l
o
p
q
r
s
l
r
t
u
r
v
m
w
v
x
A chance to expand your horizons will arrive in early May. This is a wonderful time to study, write and travel. The New Moon on the 6th could prompt you to visit a beautiful country that has always captivated your imagination. If you're looking for romance, you will find it on this trip. Do you already have a partner? It will be virtually impossible to resist your charms during the first half of the month. Take this opportunity to ask for a favour or push your agenda. Getting a pet is a distinct possibility. The Full Moon on the 21st could find you buying or selling a property. This transaction will improve your financial standing. Be patient while a loved one adjusts to a change in your home life. You'll embrace this transition, but a relative will not share your enthusiasm at first. Be as supportive as possible. y
d
z
e
h
q
r
s
l
r
t
u
r
v
m
n
l
o
p
g
{
l
|
u
r
v
m
w
v
x
Your love life will heat up considerably in May. If you're single, you could meet someone special at a restaurant, garden or luxury goods store. Are you already in a relationship? You and your amour will feel like you're falling in love all over again. The New Moon on the 6th will mark an especially passionate encounter. Alternatively, you might receive an impressive windfall from a legal settlement, insurance refund or dividend. Take this opportunity to rest, relax and pamper yourself. The Full Moon on the 21st is ideal for attending a party. You may cross paths with a bold entrepreneur at this gathering. If you play your cards right, you could enter into a business alliance. Be conservative with your initial investment. It will take time and hard work to build a solid venture. Be patient; slow and steady wins the race as May turns to June. Hasty decisions will be cause for regret. q
}
g
e
~
d
g
g
{
l
|
u
r
v
m
n
l
o
p
|
r
t
u
r
v
m
m
x
A close friendship or romance will be a profound source of pleasure in early May. If you want to get engaged or married, the New Moon on the 6th presents the ideal opportunity to do so. Are you already in a committed relationship? Your partner may have some exciting news; be sure to go out and celebrate. A stalled group project could come back to life during the first half of the month. Don't be surprised if you are asked to take the helm of this organisation. The Full Moon on the 21st brings in some extra money; use it to upgrade your car, computer or phone. Having equipment that operates well will further improve your earning potential. Be prepared to refuse a loved one's request for a loan at the end of May. The last thing you need is to mix friendship with finance; keep these realms strictly separate. q
h
f
d
h
e
d
q
|
r
t
u
r
v
m
w
v
x
p
r
{
r
t
u
r
v
m
k
l
A fitness program will yield impressive results at the beginning of May. If you've been longing to get in shape, use the strength of the New Moon on the 6th to propel you forward. Establishing better eating, exercise and sleeping habits will be relatively easy. Your career prospects will also improve during the first half of the month. Don't hesitate to accept more responsibilities at work. You'll quickly earn the respect of both your peers and superiors. Negotiating a pay rise is a distinct possibility in money minded May. Let your best friend or romantic partner lavish you with affection on the 21st. That's when the Full Moon will illuminate your charms. Being receptive to love will make you a better friend, partner and relative. Beware of discouraging a family member from pursuing their dreams at the end of the month. You have very different priorities, so you're bound to take divergent paths. }
h
~
e
d
}
g
e
r
{
r
t
u
r
v
m
m
x
p
i
v
m
l
o
Love, romance and adventure will find you in May. If you're single, this is the best time of the entire year to meet someone special. Be sure to attend a party or social gathering on the 6th, when the New Moon will turn you into a virtual love magnet. Are you already in a relationship? Plan a special evening for you and your amour. The two of you will find each other irresistible. Planning a fun holiday together will greatly enhance your relationship; choose a destination that appeals to both you. On the 21st, the Full Moon will prompt you to pull away from work and enjoy some solitary activities. Reading, writing and communing with nature can recharge your batteries. Don't let pushy relatives and friends interfere with your private time. It may be difficult to gain access to an exclusive club or institution at the end of the month. Don't let it bother you. h
h
e
d
q
i
v
m
k
l
p
r
u
v
i
v
l
o
Home life will be a profound source of pleasure in early May. Take this opportunity to stock the pantry, tidy your surroundings and do the laundry. Comfortable surroundings will keep stress at bay. Hosting a dinner party is strongly advised for the 6th, when the New Moon will cultivate an atmosphere of happiness and harmony. Money from a scholarship, grant or loan could become available in the first half of the month, causing you to heave a sigh of relief. Take this opportunity to enjoy some creature comforts. You're not especially materialistic, but it is important for you to enjoy sensual pleasures from time to time. The Full Moon on the 21st marks an exciting turning point in your social life. You could meet an influential teacher at a party. Let this instructor take you under their wing. Sparks might fly between you and someone close towards the end of the month. ~
d
q
}
q
r
u
v
i
v
m
l
o
p
v
{
o
m
l
o
You'll be pleasantly busy in the opening days of May. Running errands, stocking the pantry and returning phone calls will make the days fly by on wings. The New Moon on the 6th will bring good news about a family or community matter. This will be cause for celebration. Hosting a party will bring everyone together in a spirit of harmony. Your love life will also get back on track, thanks to your amour's increased availability. If you're single, it will be easy to meet someone who is supportive, kind and enthusiastic. Resist the temptation to speed up the courtship phase. Instead, enjoy getting to know someone special before making a serious commitment. The Full Moon on the 21st will bring fame and acclaim. Use this positive attention as a springboard to bigger and better career opportunities. A well connected friend could get you a job interview at the end of May.
Notes from Westminster By
¡
¢
£
¤
¥
¦
Dominic Raab MP for Esher and Walton
£
Since the revelations in relation to the Panama papers, a lot of myth and fiction have been flying around. The truth is, this government has taken unprecedented steps to clamp down on tax evasion and unscrupulous tax avoidance. Since 2010, the government has introduced 40 tax changes to close loopholes, raising an extra £12 billion. More than 25 further measures are planned, forecast to raise £16 billion. In the international arena, the government has championed new global standards on tax transparency. As a result, 129 countries have committed to international standards for exchange of tax information between countries, and 95 countries have committed to the new global common reporting standard on tax transparency. From September, UK police and law enforcement agencies will be able to see exactly who really owns and controls every company incorporated in our Crown dependencies and overseas territories that function as financial centres, such as the Cayman Islands, British Virgin Islands, and Jersey. This means that the UK authorities will receive information on accounts of UK taxpayers in all those countries, making it harder for would-be tax evaders to hide their wealth. As a result, the gap between the amount of tax that should be paid under the rules and the amount that is actually collected has fallen to its lowest level in percentage terms since estimates began 10 years
ago. Nonetheless, the government is not complacent and will continue to lead the international community in cracking down on tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance. First, a new criminal offence will be brought in to enable prosecutions against companies that assist with tax evasion. Second, in June this year, Britain will become the first country in the G20 to have a public register of beneficial ownership, so everyone, not just the authorities, can see who owns and controls each company incorporated here. Third, a new £10 million cross-agency taskforce, with representatives from HM Revenue and Customs, the National Crime Agency, and the Serious Fraud Office is being set up to see what further action needs to be taken following the Panama leaks. Of course, tax planning, such as through ISAs and pensions, is entirely legitimate and fully recognised by the law. It is natural that people want to keep more of the money they earn and pass things onto their children. This is why the government has lowered the burden of key taxes on individuals and businesses, including the measures in last month’s Budget which will cut income tax for 57,000 people in Esher & Walton constituency. We should aim for low taxes, but taxes which people and businesses pay in full.
38
39
Police 5 (Minutes) Policing in Your Neighbourhood By Sarah Milligan Elmbridge Neighbourhood Inspector young people, parents and other third parties, as well as giving advice about keeping safe online. The campaign is primarily being promoted using social media channels such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter in order to reach teenagers aged 11 – 16 to share videos and safety tips. Messaging will also be publicised to parents through schools across the county using school newsletters and online portals. Parents can also get an understanding about the new apps young people are using from O2 and NSPCC NetAware website. CEOP’s Thinkuknow website is also useful for parents as well as children aged 5 upwards.
There has been a lot going on within Surrey Police – often behind the scenes - so we have had an incredibly busy start to the new financial year. Policing In Your Neighbourhoods has finally landed after much organising and planning, resulting in a significant uplift in the number of officers policing the borough. The aim is to ensure that we continue to deliver local policing by prioritising those crimes and issues that cause the greatest threat, risk and harm to our communities, having more emphasis on protecting vulnerable people rather than responding to volume crime. We are looking forward to coming out to the different areas of the borough to discuss the changes, what that might mean to you as individuals and communities and to make sure that we understand the issues that matter to you. We have a new look website that has been designed from a mobile-first perspective as over 80% of our website visits now come from a mobile device. Why not visit us on www.surrey.police.uk and meet the new ‘faces of Surrey Police’ on your area?
Finally, Police Officer recruitment is now open. Our aim is to have a workforce that understands and represents our communities and values, as well reflecting team and individual diversity. We are open for recruitment until the end of May 2016. So if you want to make a difference, contribute to making Surrey a safe place, have a willingness to learn and a determination to succeed, why not visit our website www.surrey.police.uk/ jobs/police-officer-jobs/ which will explain the process of how to embark on a career in the Police Service.
Surrey Police is currently running a campaign to raise awareness of online Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) among
Telephone Surrey Police on 101 and ask to speak to a member of the Safer neighbourhood Team for your area. www.surrey.police.uk 40
41
The Pink Pages ©
ª
«
¬
®
¯
ª
°
±
²
ª
ª
°
±
³
´
²
µ
°
±
¶
·
ACCOUNTANTS Complete compliance and support services for business and personal clients. Talk to us - we’re friendly, approachable and very, very useful 01932 340492
PESTERS
CAR DEALER We offer our customers competitive prices and the very best value for money. From special offers on new, nearly new and used Audi cars, to discounts on Audi servicing. 01932 22040 www.walton.audi.co.uk
WALTON AUDI
CARE HOME High standard of residential care 24/7; trained & qualified staff; respite care available. For more information contact The Manager Tel: 0208 979 3788 www.royalcambridgehome.org
ROYAL CAMBRIDGE HOME
CLEANING SERVICES The weekend comes and now you have to CLEAN? We know the value of free time so...Make More TIME FOR YOU. We offer a professional and reliable domestic cleaning service. Contact Kristina & James on 0208 144 7663 email: Weybridge@timeforyou.co.uk
TIME FOR YOU
COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY Qualified counsellor experienced in many issues such as emotional, physical & childhood sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, relationship issues. The High Street, Walton on Thames. 07716 243847 www.ml-counselling.co.uk.
MARIA LONERGAN COUNSELLING
FINANCIAL SERVICES Welcoming firm of Independent Financial Advisers in Weybridge offering clear, personalised solutions to all elements of our clients’ financial planning needs Tel: 01932 830664 www.wardwilliamsfs.co.uk
WARD WILLIAMS FINANCIAL SERVICES LTD
GARAGE Not just tyres & exhausts! MOTs, clutches and brakes, winter checks, Servicing of all makes – save up to 50% off main dealer servicing. 0208 398 1727 Hampton Court Way, Thames Ditton
ESHER TYRE & EXHAUST
LEGAL SERVICES/SOLICITOR Serving businesses and private individuals since 1940. The local Solicitors firm with City and International experience. Professional, competitive service and timely practical advice. 56 Church Street, Weybridge www.meadowsryan.co.uk 01932 852 057
MEADOWS RYAN SOLICITORS LTD.
LOCAL ADVERTISING Read and retained by readers in 10,000 homes in Elmbridge every issue. Value for money advertising that works! Call us on 0208 941 3569
YOUR ELMBRIDGE
PRINTING For quality printing, delivered on time and on budget , call Stephen on 01273 494 631 www.evonprint.co.uk
EVONPRINT LTD
PUT YOUR BUSINESS IN the Pink Pages ~ call 0208 941 3569 TODAY ¸
¹
º
»
¼
¹
½
¾
¹
¿
À
Á
Â
¿
¿
À
Á
º
Ã
Ä
¸
Å
Æ
Ç
¸
È
É
Ä
Ê
Ë
Ì
È
Í
Í
Î
Ï
Î
Ð
Ñ
Ò
Ó
Ô
Õ
Ö
Ñ
º
¼
×
Ø
»
¸
¹
º
»
¼
¹
½
¾
¹
¿
À
Á
Â
¿
¿
À
Á
º
Ã
Ä
¸
Å
Æ
Ç
¸
È
É
Ä
Ê
Ë
Ì
È
Í
Í
Î
Ï
Î
Ð
Ñ
Ò
Ó
Ô
Õ
Ö
Ñ
º
¼
×
Ø
»
§
¨
42 30
Û
Ü
ç
Ý
ä
Þ
ß
å
à
á
à
ò
ò
â
ò
à
ó
ã
é
Ý
ä
Þ
Þ
ä
ã
î
å
ë
æ
ß
à
ä
ç
î
è
ä
é
å
Ý
æ
à
Þ
ã
ç
Ý
è
Þ
é
ê
Ý
Þ
ë
ã
ì
ç
é
í
à
à
î
ï
â
ï
é
Ý
å
ë
ñ
ã
ô
à
ë
á
ç
ð
õ
æ
à
â
Þ
à
ë
è
ö
à
ß
ç
à
ô
ë
ç
à
Ý
Þ
è
ï
ä
à
î
à
æ
à
î
ñ
û
ú
ü
ý
þ
ÿ
þ
ä
Þ
å
õ
à
à
ø
é
à
ñ
ü
ü
â
ì
é
å
ä
Þ
à
é
é
ä
ô
ä
ç
à
Þ
÷
à
é
Ý
ß
ñ
Ý
Þ
Ý
ñ
ï
ú
ç
é
ß
é
÷
ç
ë
à
ï
ä
é
à
à
ç
Ý
é
ñ
Ý
÷
ì
Þ
Þ
ä
ä
ñ
ã
÷
ù
þ
PET SERVICES HAPPY DOG
THE CAT WHISPERER
At work all day long? Not able to give you dog the long daily walkies they need? Let me do the walking! 1-2-1 dog walking or more from the same family. House sitting service available. Retired Surrey Police. Call 0795 738 3907 Cat sitting service. I’ll care for your cats and small furry animals while you are away from home. Stress free for your pets as they stay in their own homes. Experienced and reliable. Fully insured. Refs available. Call Ben on 07962 869 465
SCHOOL FACILITES TO LET ESHER HIGH SCHOOL
Top quality Sport Centre & Performing Arts facilities at Esher High School to let outside of school hours. Email lettings@esherhigh.surrey.sch.uk or click on www.esherhigh.surrey.sch.uk/174/ facilities or phone 01372 468068
Are you‘in the Pink’? Put your business in Pink Pages
£180
for only + vat per year 42 call 0208 941 3569 for details
PUT YOUR BUSINESS IN the Pink Pages ~ call 0208 941 3569 TODAY Ù
Ú
43 31
See the dream.... live the dream...
...enjoy outside living, inside your home.
Tel: 01932 77 1155 ") &/,$ $//23 s 3,)$).' $//23 s &2%.#( $//23 www.novaglass.co.uk