The London Plumbers who Care!

Transcription

TheWestminsterNews
Issue 21: September 2009
Price where sold 40p
Belgravia • Knightsbridge • Marylebone • Paddington • Mayfair • Pimlico • Victoria
Out and about - ‘Edward lloyd’s Diary’ PAGEs 8 & 9
Images: Edward Lloyd/Alpha Press
Upmarket jewellers
to flee Mayfair
armed raiders?
A spate of armed attacks on upmarket jewellers and retailers could
threaten the future of one of Westminster’s most lucrative industries.
B
usinesses are weighing the
cost and dangers of operating
in areas such as Mayfair and
Knightsbridge following a series of
violent raids.
Sledgehammer-wielding thieves on
motorbikes stole £2m in jewels from
Mozafaria in Knightsbridge, opposite
Harrods just 13 days after the largest
jewellery heist in British history (£40M)
at Graff’s in Mayfair.
The Mozafaria smash-and-grab raid
was conducted in a mere 39 frenzied
seconds that terrified staff and shoppers
at the exclusive store. Amongst their
haul was a heart-shaped diamond necklace valued at £500,000.
The owners’ daughter Allaleh Mozafarian was at the at the store and greeted the
robbers with the words “please stop” she
told Sky News; “When I was in the washroom I heard motorcycles, a big bang and
my mum screaming in the shop,” she said.
“I thought ‘we are under attack’ then as
soon I came out I saw our two sales assistants running to the back of the shop.
“I wanted to go forward but one of the
Allaleh Mozafarian.
sales assistants wanted to hold me so I
wouldn’t go in.” Mozafaria now joins a
growing list of prestigious London jewellers who have been targeted by violent
robbers, Graff’s Mayfair branch has been
the victim of two multi-million robberies
in the past 5 years, while it’s Knightsbridge branch lost over a 100 items of diamond jewellery worth millions of pounds
when two robbers arrived in a chauffeur
driven Bentley. Mozafaria’s owners have
suggested that the risk of doing business
in London may be too high for them them
to tolerate and its not just Jewellers who
have fallen victim: exclusive fashion
retailer’s have had stock, including handbags worth thousands of pounds, stolen in
what seems to be a growing trend.
Armed criminals who previously would
have preyed on banks, armoured cars
and post offices have been deterred by
improved security and the smaller prizes
on offer and have now decided that the
merchandise on offer at Central London’s
most exclusive and well to do areas is far
more appealing. There is evidence that
points to the recession encouraging criminals to be more daring in their endeavours.
The Metropolitan police are rounding up the Graff culprits whose bravado
shocked the country when they donned
latex masks and sharp suits before taking
an employee hostage and firing shots
at the member’s of public who bravely
tried to intervene as they fled through the
streets of Westminster.
Westminster is preparing to
play a starring role in the New
Year’s Day Parade. on PAGE 3
First & Fast Plumbing & Heating
08001 123 999
For full details of our services in Plumbing, Heating,
Electrics, Drainage and Property Maintenance
visit our website www.1staction.com
Tel. 020 7251 9336
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2
SketchNewsGroup September 2009
Local News
Licensing shake-up to
save taxpayers £1m
Young people in London unfairly
demonised by three fifths of London
adults, new research shows
shake-up to cut
red tape and
use technology
to reduce unnecessary
paperwork in
Westminster has made
licensing more efficient
and has saved taxpayers
£1million.
Westminster City
Council has reorganised
its licensing service to
bring licensing officers
who consider applications
for everything from
pubs and restaurants to
market stalls together
with environmental health
officers who monitor and
enforce those licences
to ensure owners abide
by the law and keep
customers safe.
The move has reduced
some duplication of roles,
esearch launched this week shows that
three fifths (58 per cent) of adults in
London overestimate the number of young
people involved in crime.
Furthermore, a tenth of the London
adults questioned over-estimated youth
crime by a staggering eight times, effectively labelling two in every five teenagers in the London a criminal. In reality
just 5.7 per cent of young people are
involved in crime.
Commissioned by the national charity
Catch22 on behalf of The Philip Lawrence
Awards, the research results show a stark
contrast between how the public perceives
young people and the real contribution
young people make. The research found
that 39 per cent of London adults thought
teenagers had a predominantly negative
impact on their community. Only 7 per
cent associated London young people with
volunteering. Yet the latest figures show
just under half of all teenagers (48 per cent)
have volunteered in their communities.
A
cut bureaucracy and red
tape and encouraged better
communication between
officers.
Documents are also
now scanned when they
arrive and are handled
electronically rather
than on paper, which is
cumbersome and costly to
move between teams and
constantly requires people
to enter extra information.
These changes, which
have been gradual over
the course of two years are
now complete and have
saved a total of £1million.
Cllr Daniel Astaire,
cabinet member for
community safety, said:
“With more than 3,000
licensed premises,
Westminster has more
pubs, clubs and restaurants
than anywhere else in the
UK so it’s vital we have
a strong, high performing
team to consider and
enforce these licences.
“However, we are not
complacent and it became
apparent we could be more
efficient in the way we
ran the team so we have
brought people together,
simplified processes
and made many of them
electronic to ensure we
provide real value for
money for residents and
we will continue to look
for ways we can do more
for less.”
The council is now
piloting the use of online
licence application forms,
which could further
improve efficiency and
drive down costs.
Opinion
The Real Cost
of the EU
In response to Viewpoint, by David Noakes
Dear Editor,
David Noakes’ Viewpoint
article in your last edition was
like a breath of fresh and a
wake-up call to those in this
country who cherish their
independence. Like many
people, I was originaly in
favour of what was then the
cmmon market, but I have since
become increasingly anti-EU
as it is has become clear that
that the ultimate aimis a United
States of Europe, involving a
complete loss of soveignty.
It depresses me to find that
the mojority of people I speak
to have little knowledge of
(or interest) in the EU and are
completely unaware of the
massive cost to us - £138 million
net a day, according to a detailed
analysis by Gerard Batten
MEP. Withdrawl from the EU
would do a great deal to solve
our current financial problems.
Most people are also unaware
that many unpopular regulations
orignated in Brussels, such as
those relating to light bulbs,
postal
charges,
fisheries,
agriculture, etc. The EU has
been very successful in keeping
things quiet, so that national
governments are blamed.
A further disturbing feature
is misleading information
emanating from our politicians,
such as Gordon Brown stating
in Parliament that leaving the
EU would result in three million
unemployed, whereas most
qualified analysts and staticians
agree that there would be zero
impact on jobs. On another
occasion, the Minister for
Europe stated that half our trade
is with the EU; in fact, 80% of
our trade is internal within the
UK, about 10% is with the EU
and the remainder with the rest
of the world. In spite of this,
businesses here have to comply
with EU trade regulation even
though in most cases they do
not tade with the EU.
In short, the sooner we get out
the better.
Eric Nichols
Earl’s Court, London
TheWestminsterNews &
TheKensington&ChelseaPress
Published by
R
The research was launched with a call
on the London public to buck the negative trend and nominate young people in
their community for The Philip Lawrence
Awards. The Awards aim to celebrate
young people and highlight the outstanding
contribution they make in their communities, with the aim of overturning the negative perception wherein all young people
are condemned by the actions of a few.
Joyce Moseley, Chief Executive of
Catch22, says: “We must not fall into
demonising young people. Young people
do not all wield knives and commit crime
- many do far more to improve their communities than any other age group.
“It’s really important that we celebrate
and reward the good work young people
are doing up and down the UK. If all
young people ever hear from adults is
that they are lazy, dangerous and have no
moral values, what is to stop them living
up to those expectations.”
Letters to the Editor
Canine Partners Appreciation for
for veterans Toddle Waddle
Dear Editor,
In the light of the ongoing
tragic events in Iraq,
I wanted to take the
opportunity to write to you
about some positive activity
that is happening for injured
service people.
Canine Partners is
a charity that trains
dogs to help people
with disabilities (www.
caninepartners.co.uk).
It has already provided
assistance dogs to a
number of people injured
whilst serving in the
Armed Forces.
The Charity trains dogs
for 2 years to help people
with mobility problems,
including
lifting,
reaching,
stretching
and fetching. Its highly
trained
animals
can
respond to an array of
commands,
including
turning on lights, opening
doors,
pressing
the
button on lifts & Pelican
crossings,
collecting
items in the shops and
carrying them to the
check-out; in short, many
of the tasks which people
with disabilities may find
only too difficult or tiring
to complete.
Sketch News Group
Susi Rogers-Hartley
lived for her sport before
sustaining an incomplete
spinal injury whilst in the
Royal Navy “It was a dark
time for me. I was in a lot
of pain. I became a recluse,
never wanting to go out and
I lost all my confidence.
Within two weeks of being
partnered with Lex, we
were sailing around the Isle
of Wight on a wheelchair
friendly yacht. Lex gave
me my confidence back
and a reason to get up in
the morning”
Canine Partners has now
established a specific
working group, with the
active encouragement of
the Chief of the General
Staff, to put the word
out to Service medical
establishments, charities
and case officers, that
these amazing dogs
are there almost for the
asking, with a waiting
list of only 6-12 months
followed by the relevant
application process.
With regards,
Colonel Terry Knott
[email protected]
Dear Sir/Madam
I am writing on behalf of the
Meningitis Trust to say thank
you - and congratulations -to
everyone who took part in this
year’s Toddle Waddle, helping
to raise £200,000. The event is a
sponsored waddle for the under
5’s; raising vital sponsorship for
those affected by meningitis as
well as awareness of the disease.
Since it began ten years ago,
Toddle Waddle has raised more
than £2.3 million, an amazing
amount of money, and a sum
which is invaluable to the
Trust. We’d also like to thank
HiPP Organic for its support of
the event, as well as Usborne
books, which donated books
for children’s prizes.
Over half the reported cases
of meningitis are in the under
5s, so Toddle Waddle was
created in order to engage
this age group, their parents,
grandparent, nursery teachers
and childminders.
At the Meningitis Trust we
offer practical and emotional
support to anyone affected
by the disease, and we are
dedicated to raising awareness
of the disease and its symptoms.
We are reliant on voluntary
donations to continue our work.
We are always looking for
people to help with the work
of the Trust by getting involved
in fundraising - whether it’s
taking on a once in a lifetime
challenge, or holding a
sponsored walk, you can be
assured that your efforts will
make a huge difference to
thousands of people across the
UK who are living with the
impact of the disease. Visit our
website for more information
about what we do and how
you can help, www.meningitistrust.org.
Yours sincerely,
Steve Williams
Meningitis Trust
01453 769024
[email protected]
What’s your opinion? Write to the Editor;
by email. [email protected]
or by post: The Editor, Sketch News Group,
Davina House, 137-149 Goswell Road,
London EC1V 7ET
Davina House
137 - 149 Goswell Road
London EC1V 7ET
Tel. 020 7251 9336
[email protected]
Tel. 020 7251 9336
Local News
Westminster takes
to the world stage
T
he borough of
Westminster is set to play
a starring role on global
television – at the New Year’s
Day Parade London.
The borough has accepted a
coveted invitation to participate in
what is recognized as one of the
world’s great street spectaculars.
More than 700 TV stations featured
coverage of the event this year
– and huge crowds in excess of
520,000 lined the streets of the
West End to watch the event.
Westminster’s commitment came
following a meeting hosted by Cllr.
Robert Davis, Chairman of the
London Mayors’ Association.
More than £30,000 is waiting to
be won in a charity prize pot for
mayoral funds pledged by the
organisers Destination Events and
each borough can boost funds
further with the help of a mammoth
street collection.
The borough will be among the
first to take the parade in a new
direction. The 2.2 mile route has
been inverted – with the start being
at The Ritz Hotel and the finish at
Parliament Sq.
Bob Bone, Executive Director of
The New Year’s Day Parade, said
that he hoped that all 32 London
boroughs would enter the 2010 event.
“This is a huge celebration for
London,” said Bob. “I would love
to think that every borough will
be represented.”
“There’s no better way to start
the year than raising vast sums for
worthy causes – and having terrific
fun in the process.”
This year’s theme ‘Let Us Entertain
You!’ encapsulates the philosophy
of the free, family fiesta.
“We aim to lift any residual
recessionary gloom that may still
be lurking.” Said Bob.
“This will give London a real
lift – a great way to transcend
in style – to a brighter, uplifting
new year.”
More than 8,000 performers are
already preparing for the 24th
New Year’s Day Parade.
The new route will see them
process from The Ritz Hotel,
Piccadilly, to Piccadilly
3
Circus, then turn right in to
Lower Regent St, Waterloo
Place, Pall Mall, Cockspur St,
Trafalgar Square, in to Whitehall
and all the way to Parliament Sq.
Colourful scenes in store for New Year’s Eve.
Traffic switches over The Dance of Expression
CHANTRAINE
in South Kensington
Alain & Françoise
Council delivers first phase of traffic improvements
as part of Exhibition Road project
F
ollowing months of preparation, The Royal Borough of
Kensington and Chelsea will
this week implement a number of
traffic improvements around South
Kensington as part of the scheme
to transform the famous Exhibition
Road area into a spectacular space
for all to enjoy.
The Council is removing the outdated
one-way traffic system around South
Kensington Underground Station in
order to create large pavement areas
and improve conditions for both drivers and pedestrians.
In order to implement these changes,
starting this Sunday 16 August, traffic
flow along Cromwell Place north of the
junction with Thurloe Place will change
from two-way to one-way northbound.
On Thurloe Place the section between
Cromwell Place and Exhibition Road
is switching from its previous one way
eastbound set up to a two-way traffic flow.
Exhibition Road, south of Thurloe Place
will be restricted to access only and Thurloe Street will be closed to traffic at its
junction with Thurloe Place, providing a
welcome new space for the large number
For energy, harmony, well-being & Joy. A unique approach to all
aspects of dance for the whole person.
Bringing together the main styles - contemporary, classical, jazz
– creativity, choreography and more…
of pedestrians coming out of the northern
exit of the underground station.
All ages from 4 to adults without age limit.
Cllr Paget-Brown, Cabinet Member
All levels – beginners to experienced dancers.
for Transport, Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, said: “The Exhibi- Day & evening classes in Marylebone, Swiss
tion Road area is one of the most impor- Cottage, South & West Hampstead, Kilburn areas.
Short courses in England & France, Festivals,
tant cultural destinations in the country
performances.
and we experience over 11.5 million
visitors to the area every year. We are
Newcomers Welcome - First Class Free!
making the changes to traffic flows in
the area, in order to improve road safety
and make people’s experience of ExhiInformation:
bition Road more enjoyable - whether
they are a driver or a pedestrian.”
CHANTRAINE
The contractor, Balfour Beatty Civil
SCHOOL OF DANCE
Engineering, is carrying out the changes
on behalf of the Royal Borough on Sun020 7435 4247
day between 6.30am and 8.30am, when
email:[email protected]
traffic flows are at their lowest, with
- Term begins September
every effort being made to minimise
noise and disruption whilst the switcho19th - Enrolment
ver is underway.
throughout the year.
Further changes to the road layout
- Moderate fees, concessions
south of the station will take place in
a few months time and the full traffic
- First class free
management works in South Kensington are still expected to be fully comCreated in France by Alain & Françoise Chantraine since 1958, in Engand
plete by late 2009.
since 1978 Photos: Richard Olivier & Matt Fowler
Tel. 020 7251 9336
4
Local News
London’s newest market proving
to be a big success in Maida Hill
T
he first traditional
street market in
central London to
open for half a century
has proved so popular in
its first month that it has
already applied to extend
its opening hours.
The Maida Hill Market
in the Harrow Road was
given permission by the
council’s planning committee to open six days a
week and for longer hours
after traders reported great
trade in its opening weeks
despite the recession.
The market, which marks a
renaissance in street markets
as a way of attracting people
back to their local shopping
areas, is already proving a
hit with local people who go
there to buy a range of goods
from fresh flowers to a hog
roast, from organic salads
and fresh fruit and veg, to
jewellery and bags.
Although traditional, it also
offers a wide range of events
for the local community.
It also took part in the Mayor
of London’s recent ‘Sing
London’ initiative which saw
a weatherproof piano placed
at its entrance.
Cllr Brian Connell, Westminster City Council’s cabinet member for economic
development and family
policy, said: “I am delighted
the market is proving so
popular.
“As more people hear about
it and it expands I’m sure
it will prove its place at the
heart of the local community
and help regenerate the area,
boosting local businesses and
bringing a community feel
back to an area once blighted
by anti-social behaviour.”
“The market is a key part
of a £1m regeneration of
the former crime hotspot by
Westminster Council, which
includes new paving, lighting, trees and seating areas
and also boasts increased
police patrols and extra
CCTV to deter troublemakers, and has breathed new
life into the area.”
Harrow Road Neighbourhood Partnership, said: “We
always knew this would be
popular and we are delighted
that local people have taken
to the market.
“The new market is helping
to breathe new life into the
area and we’ve very excited
now about the future.
“We are confident it will
continue to grow and prosper
and become increasingly
popular in the months and
years ahead.”
Last month Westminster
City Council’s planning
committee granted planning
permission for the market’s
opening hours to be extended
if necessary.
Prior to a major cleanup, the area had been
A popular place for all ages.
blighted with crime and
anti-social behaviour.
The market, has been
encourages young people to
Gillian Clarke, who runs
supported by local people
become entrepreneurs.
Maida Hill Flowers, one of
through the Harrow Road
Julie Bundy, Neighbourhood the market’s stalls, said: “It
Neighbourhood Partnership Renewal Manager at the
is great the way people here
George Sampson launches
Battle Strikers at Hamleys
B
group, and boasts around 20
stalls offering a variety of
daily essentials, as well as a
store run by local youth club,
The Stowe Centre, which
ritain’s Got Talent winner 2008 6500 RPM and send them into action.
George Sampson was on hand Use the magnetic finger controller
to help launch Battle Strikers, to move your top to attack or defend
a new toy, recently voted for by against your opponent.
Hamleys as THE No.1 toy to have this
Collectible, and fully customisable, for
Christmas, that is set to put boys in a those in the know, Battle Strikers launch
spin! Appearing at Hamleys Toy Store with 16 different Turbo Tops you can
and the Entertainer, Westfield, both tweak and tune to optimum performance.
venues were bursting with excited fans Swap your spares, and look out for the
waiting to get their chance to battle mystery tops that everyone will want but
against George.
will be hard to find
Created by MEGA
– only the most
Brands, Battle Strikers
devoted Battle
are a new twist on the
Strikers Fans are
traditional favourite
likely to get their
children’s spinning
hands on them.
top toy that has 21st
More information
century features such
can be found on
as a unique magnetic
the UK’s dedicated
George Sampson puts Battle Strikers and
fingertip
controller
website which
shoppers through there paces at Hamly’s
and a turbo launcher
kids can sign
that dispenses with the
up to for all the
old-fashioned rip cord! George, already a insider gossip, tips and hints on all things
big fan of Battle Strikers, commented at Battle Strikers, plus start their own blog
the launch on 27th July, ‘I had a bit of a about their own turbo tops, at www.
practice at Toy Fair earlier this year and battlestrikers.com.
have been looking forward to the launch
Throughout the summer, kids will
– these toys are wicked and can do nearly have a chance of trying out the tops in
as many spinning tricks as me!”
Entertainer Stores, plus a lucky few will
Promising to be the next generation
be able to earn a unique web code to
in spinning top toys, Battle Strikers
unlock a privileged area of the Battle
Turbo Tops are equipped with a unique
Strikers website.
magnetic feature allowing kids to take
For further information including
control of the action!
times and participating stores, visit the
Using the Motorized Turbo Launcher,
Entertainer’s website at
charge your tops at speeds of up to
www.thetoyshop.com
have embraced the market and
we have seen loads of people
coming here every day.
“When you set off on a new
venture you can never know
that it is definitely going
to work, but after just one
month our stalls are proving extremely popular and
I already feel that I have a
series of regulars who enjoy
shopping here.”
As part of the council’s
Civic Streets programme, in
partnership with the Metropolitan police, two CCTV
cameras have been installed
and 240 more hours of police patrol are taking place
each month to help make
the area safe.
The wider regeneration
project is also set to include
a shop front improvement
scheme which should revitalise the local shopping centre
and encourage new business
investment.
Tel. 020 7251 9336
Business
Need help with cash flow?
‘The Consultants’ can help!
F
ollowing last months ‘Survivng the Credit Crunch’
article by MSK Global
Ltd., the expert consultants have
kindly offered to answer reader
questions from small and medium
sized business owners in the first
of a regular column dedicated
to helping local business survive
during uncertain times.
Question: I need to speed up my
cash flow - how do I do this?
The Consultants: Pay your bills only
when you have to. Look at your business and concentrate on the important
things. Prioritise the jobs which will
bring you in money now and as soon
as you have completed a project or
job - send the invoice immediately.
Look at your employees carefully.
It is often cheaper to outsource the
work when you need it than employ
someone full time.
Question: My sales are down
and struggling to cope. What
would you recommend?
The Consultants: A number of things
you could do here. One would be to
look at costs and see where you can
make savings. Examples might be bills
such as telecoms, energy, hosting and
premises. Employ a sales person on a
commission only basis. He will work
harder for you. Also look at your team
carefully. Finally it would be an idea
to look at who is still spending money
with you and why. Learn from this.
Question: I signed a lease for larger
premises in 2007 and now regret the
cost. What can I do?
The Consultants: Have a look at your
lease and consider taking legal advice.
Look for a break clause in the lease to
perhaps move to smaller premises. If
there is no such clause, consider asking your landlord for a cut in rent.
Question: How will I get through
this crisis?
The Consultants: Take a long look at
your finances, your sales, your employees and then look again. Ask yourself
what you can do without to remain a viable business. Ask your employees for
advice - they often see and know more
than you think. They want you to succeed too! Don’t concentrate on ‘what
if’... concentrate on ‘what you have
now’ and keep your present customers
happy and wanting more from you.
If you are a business owner and
struggle finding the right solution,
please send your question to [email protected] and get an
answer in the next edition.
5
London plumbers seminar
on customer relations
I
n a week that United Airlines had $180
a plumber, heating engineer or drainage engineer
million written off its value because of an
has an appointment we keep the customer
item on You Tube that gave details in song
informed of his timing and whereabouts.’
about a broken guitar and received over 3.9
‘Good communication is 90% of good customer
million views, London plumbing and heating
relations’ he offered ‘The office works to
company 1st Action held a seminar which
keep the customers informed and if there are
was attended by over one hundred Plumbers
problems we try very hard always to deal with
and Heating Engineers and outlined why the
them as they arise’
customer has never been so powerfull.
The audience were told that the office will handle
Richard Clarke, the company chairman
25,000 plumbing, heating and blocked drains jobs
addressed the audience in Ruislip and stressed
over the next 12 months and every customer must
how the internet had empowered the consumer.
be treated as a VIP.
It had always been important for any
Many plumbers in London
tradesman who was working in a customer’s
have a poor reputation for
house to respect both
their customer service but
the property and the
it was highlighted to the
privacy of the home
plumbers at this seminar
but in 2009 it is even
just how much the whole
more important to
company is doing to make
maintain the goodwill
sure that these customers are
of every customer.
happy customers.
In the case of United
He outlined the
Airlines a badly handled
protection offered to
(L)Marketing Manager Gerry Molloy and
The
ofChairman
AvenueRichard
Q
1stcast
Action
Clarke (R).
claim for a broken
consumers through
guitar cost shareholders
Trading Standards,
of United Airlines a
Consumer Direct and Citizens Advice and the role of
TV programmes like ‘Rogue Traders’ or independent $180,000,000 last week but it was good
to see that these plumbers in London were
website directories such as ‘Trust a Trader’.
aware just how important good customer
‘It is now so easy for any consumer to register
relations was and also just how powerful the
their dissatisfaction to the whole world through
consumer can be on the financial health of a
the internet’ he said.
business in the age of the internet.
‘It is against this background that you must
build a good relationship with your customers.
1st Action Plumbing & Heating
At 1st Action we have already increased our
visit; www.1staction.com
customer care department to ensure that whenever
or call 08001 123 999
Take a fresh look at
your finances
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6
Business
Green shoots as pawnbroker
opens it’s doors in South Ken
S
poradic sightings of green shoots
have been reported in the Royal
Borough. Another verdant example
comes in the form of the latest newcomer.
Suttons and Robertsons, London’s oldest
pawnbroker recently opened the doors to a
new store in prestigious South Kensington.
The new venue will welcome customers
who wish to use their assets such as luxury
watches and diamond jewellery to secure
short-term loans. The company says this
new store will also specialise in fine art.
Situated alongside a wealth of discerning
outlets, including one of London’s most
famous auction houses, the firm believes
its presence in South Kensington will offer
an attractive service to the area for those
who are seeking to raise a cash sum, but do
not wish to permanently dispose of their
goods or have failed to reach their reserve at
auction due to depressed market conditions.
Its short-term loan facility may also be used
to bridge a financial gap until a proposed
auction or sale takes place.
Jim Tannahill Group Director of Suttons
and Robertsons said: “The past twelve
months has seen an enormous uplift in
enquiries of loans against fine art and
antiques with many customers telling us they
have tried to sell items but have failed to
achieve a satisfactory price.” He continues:
“We are confident that our new store will
offer a valuable service to local residents
and those who have specific items of art they
wish to consider pledging for short term
Seeing past misconception.
cash advances, along with the usual watches,
jewellery and antique items we tend to see.”
Suttons and Robertsons pawn broking
service is quick, discreet and totally
Barbados Villa
sECRET gARDEN
bridgetown
confidential, with all enquiries and
transactions being conducted with a
consultant in private.
As well as the pawn broking facility,
Suttons and Robertsons’ new store will also
have a specialist retail arm offering quality
pre-owned jewellery and watches at highly
favourable price points, however, few of
these items will be unclaimed pawned
items, rather being sourced separately by its
jewellery and watches experts.
Misconceptions about pawn broking include
people thinking that the goods are usually
sold by the pawnbroker but in fact our
collection rate is around 89%. People rarely
want to be permanently parted with a family
heirloom, fine jewellery or work of art.
“People need a short term loan for all sorts
of reasons such as holidays, cars, investment
opportunities and even to pay the school
fees. We see quite a few city types who are
anticipating bonus payouts and want to cover
themselves until it’s paid” Tannahill adds.
With Suttons and Robertsons’ average
pledge is around £2,000 and its largest
pledge to date has been for half a million
pounds which was against a collection of
diamonds. They will, said Tannahill, consider
pledges in the region of one million pounds
if required.
With the credit crunch set to continue,
Pawnbrokers are preparing for a further
upsurge in business. “It’s good for people to
know that there is a quick, discreet and easy
solution to financial pressures which do not
involve you having to get into debt, or jump
through hoops with your Bank manager”
concludes Tannahill.
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Local News
7
Mayor of London praises London’s
most accessible attractions
T
he Mayor of London has praised the
London Eye and Tate Gallery after
they were voted the capital’s most
accessible attractions in a recent survey
commissioned in partnership with Direct
Enquiries, The Nationwide Access Register.
The accessibility survey was designed to
gauge the views and experiences of people with
a range of accessibility issues about the capital’s
tourist attractions, restaurants, hotels and public
transport. Many of the 795 respondents had
mobility issues, including wheelchair users,
partially sighted people and parents with prams.
The results will inform plans to make London
more accessible in the run up to the Olympic
and Paralympic Games in 2012.
The survey is one of a number of initiatives to
help take forward the Mayor’s equality action
plan ‘Equal Life Chances for All’, which aims
to bring a fresh approach to equality and inclusion in London. The framework aims to bring
people together rather than divide them and will
be used across the Greater London Authority
group to implement policies and actions.
Accessible
Mayor Boris Johnson said: ‘I want to congratulate the London Eye and Tate for being
fantastic examples of first class, accessible
tourist attractions, that can be thoroughly
enjoyed by all. It is imperative that every industry and business in London works towards
making their venues as accessible as possible
as we prepare for triumphant 2012 Games.
‘A more accessible city is part of my vision to
herald a new approach to what is traditionally
know as equalities – I want an equal society
that recognises people’s different needs, situations and goals, and removes the barriers that
limit what people can do and be. I’m confident
that my ‘Equal Life Chances For All’ framework will help deliver these results and I’m
pleased that hundreds of people have shared
their views on accessibility in my survey.
“There were many comments about the need
The London Eye & Tate Gallery.
for more public toilets and I hope initiatives
like Open London will make a great difference
in addressing this. I will use the results of the
survey to work with businesses, transport and
the hospitality trade to ensure London is as
welcoming to possible to everyone including people with disabilities, older people and
parents with young families.“
Revamp for street
made famous by
Ziggy Stardust
H
eddon Street, just off Regent
Street, London, W1, the
street immortalised on the
front cover of David Bowie’s Ziggy
Stardust album, has undergone a
£1.5 million revamp transforming it
from the dimly lit road featured on
the famous album cover to a continental style al-fresco dining hot-spot.
Heddon Street is now a tranquil
oasis with beautiful terraces adorned
with palms and olive trees. It is home
to restaurants and bars including;
Aubaine, Mo Tea Room, Momo, The
Living Room, Below Zero and the
Absolut Ice Bar, Strawberry Moons,
Piccolino and London’s first boutique
vegetarian restaurant tibits. It’s the
perfect place to meet friends or to
have a break from shopping.
Heddon Street, one of Regent Street’s
two food quarters was recently reopened by Cllr Robert Davis, Deputy
Leader of Westminster City Council,
who said: “The West End is changing
for the better, and the transformation
of Heddon Street from deserted back
alley to thriving al fresco hot-spot is
London Eye
David Sharpe, Director of London Midway
Attractions, Merlin Entertainments Group
said: ‘We are delighted that the London Eye
has been voted London’s most accessible
attraction by such a large margin. Accessibility is at the heart of everything we do at the
testament to that. The Crown Estate’s
commitment and support has been vital
to our own plans and vision to ensure
the West End is truly world class by
2012 when the eyes of the world will
be upon us.”
Part of Regent Street’s £750 million investment and regeneration
programme, the Heddon Street improvements have delivered a place
for people to eat, drink and relax in a
traffic free, attractive environment, at
the heart of the West End.
Commenting on the conclusion of the
improvements, David Shaw, Head of
Regent Street Portfolio at The Crown
Estate, said: “Since work on Regent
Street’s redevelopment started in 2002
we have recognised the need to provide
somewhere for people to eat, drink and
relax in an attractive and calm environment. With the help of our partners,
including Westminster City Council,
Heddon Street now provides this and
is central to Regent Street’s successful
position as an international destination
of quality, heritage, style and success.”
London Eye and we have always striven for
best practice for guests with disabilities of
any kind. We have received many written and
verbal compliments from guests about our
staff and policies but it’s great to have our
hard work recognised by this survey. We look
forward to welcoming more guests with or
without disabilities in the run up to and during the London 2012 Olympics.’
The survey shows that buses are a popular
form of transport, which reflects the fact that
all 8,000 London buses are now fully accessible. The Mayor has asked Transport For
London to do all it can to improve accessibility on the Tube, building on the target of 25
per cent step free stations by 2010. The new
trains to be rolled out on the sub-surface lines
and on the Victoria line have been designed
to improve wheelchair access and a programme to install wide aisle gates - giving
easier access - is underway with 140 installed
already in place.
Survey
The survey results have been released to coincide with the formal launch today of ‘Equal
Life Chance for All’ at City Hall by Deputy
Mayor Richard Barnes. The Mayor invited
comment and engagement from all sections
of London life during a three-month consultation on the Framework. An overwhelming
majority of respondents were in favour of the
new approach.
Deputy Mayor Richard Barnes said: ‘We
want to see a new approach to equality and
inclusion in London, one that brings Londoners together rather than divides them. The
response has been very encouraging and I
hope this equalities framework will bring real
change to the way policies are implemented
and mainstreamed throughout business organisations. A gold standard for London and
all Londoners.’
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Edward Lloyd’s Diary
8
Searcys 39th floor party
Searcys pushed the boat out on the top floor of the Gherkin, to launch
the Searcy Of London Club, and to celebrate the adoption of The Variety
Club for Children as its official Charity. Guests enjoyed the Champagne
and gourmet food, while admiring the breathtaking panorama of London.
From left; Searcys owner Richard Balfour-Lynn with his wife Leslie. Jonathan
Ansell with his Fiancée Debbie King. Nancy Dell’Olio. Rachel Stevens.
Belgravia
Hijinks
Ronnie and Anne Corbett, with their daughter
Sophie, joined residents who converged on Motcomb
Street, to party the evening away. Plenty of Champagne
was supplied by Motcomb’s Wine Bar and the very
hospitable Waitrose, who were doing a roaring trade.
Good natured Belgravia policemen helped to keep the
guests upright.
Ronnie and Anne Corbett with their daughter Sophie.
Hooves in Ham
Childline held their
annual Polo at Sundown
evening at Ham Polo
Club Richmond on
Thames. Celebrities
watched the intense
international players,
and the Juniors, battle
for the trophies, retiring
to the Clubhouse for a
splendid dinner.
From Left; Childine President Esther Rantzen with Junior Champ Flynn Busson.
Arpad Arki Busson. Elle Macpherson with their son Cy.
Tel. 020 7251 9336
Images Edward Lloyd/Alpha Press • www.EdwardLloydPhotography.co.uk
Nevilles Relaunches
Top celebrity hair and beauty venue Nevilles brought Belgravia to
a standstill as it welcomed clients to the new look super salon. Owners
Neville Tucker and Elena Lavagni invited guests to enjoy Champagne
and fine fare.
Clockwise from bottom left; Chloe Mansell with Charlotte Radford. Zoe
Hobbs with Brendan Cole. Imogen Lloyd Webber. Yasmin Le Bon. Melanie
Blatt with Lisa Snowdon. Neville Tucker with Elena Lavagni.
Turrets at the Goring
The Queen Elizabeth Castle of Mey Trust launched its Turret Appeal at the annual Patrons
Party in the garden of the five star Goring Hotel in Belgravia, where guests enjoyed Champagne,
cocktails and the finest canapés. Following the generosity of Patrons, Sponsors and Supporters,
£17,500 was raised towards the £35,000 needed for the new turret which will enable views over the
gardens and the Pentland Firth towards the Orkneys.
From left; Lady Sarah Chatto. Andre Portasio, Lady Elizabeth Anson and Paul O’Grady.
Baroness Margaret Thatcher. Sophie Winkleman with Lord Freddie Windsor.
9
Tel. 020 7251 9336
10
Annetta Apol
A
nnetta Apol practices
acupuncture and Tui
Na massage.
Acupuncture is an ancient
healing system that has been
developed and refined over
more than 2000 years. It is
based on Chinese medicine
and according to this our
health is dependent on the
body’s motivating energy
moving in a smooth and
balanced way through energy
channels. The flow of energy
can be disturbed by various
factors such as emotional
states,
poor
nutrition,
weather
conditions,
hereditary factors, infections
and trauma. By stimulating
acupuncture points situated
along the energy channels it
activates the body’s energy
to restore, maintain and
promote good health. The
treatment is aimed at the root
of the condition as well as
the symptoms.
Acupuncture can be used
preventative or to treat a
wide variety of conditions
such as coughs and flu, hay
fever and allergies, stress
and tension, muscular aches,
digestive problems and
menstrual irregularities.
Acupuncturists who are
members of the British
Acupuncture
Council
have generally studied for
three years or more at BSc
Honours degree level. They
abide by the Council’s Code
of Safe Practice and Code of
Professional Conduct and
comply with current Health
and Safety legislation.
Doctors
and
physiotherapists often use
acupuncture in their practice,
but this is based on western
medicine and their particular
discipline.
Tui Na or Chinese Massage
is also based on Chinese
medicine. It uses ancient
and highly efficient massage
techniques that manipulate
joints and soft tissue to
move and improve energy
and blood flow, help release
muscle tension and ease joint
stiffness. It is used to treat a
wide range of conditions
similar to acupuncture.
Tui Na can be used on its
own or in conjunction with
acupuncture.
My contact details are:
Annetta Apol
LicAc Lic Tui Na MBAcC
07968 848129
[email protected]
I practise at the
following centres:
Special Yoga Centre
2A Wrentham Avenue
Kensal Rise
London NW10 3HA
Paddington Sports Club
Castellain Road
Maida Vale W9 1HQ
Health & Beauty
Addressing Stress
and Addiction
1
:1 Detox is the first
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Nurse supported home
detoxification is effective,
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service is cutting edge and has
evolved with advancements in
the field of drug and alcohol
treatment. We deliver bespoke
addiction treatment packages to
individual clients in the privacy
of their own home.
A lot of professional people
do not want a record on their
GP notes or want to divulge
aspects of their lives to other
people, and often lose their
resolve to undergo professional
detoxification when faced with
entering a clinic for treatment.
But now there is a choice.
Clients can receive the same
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comfort of their own home.
1:1 Detoxoxification supplies
a discreet and effective service,
with none of the stigma or
trauma of hospitalisation, we
offer the opportunity to detox
and destress in total privacy.
Treatment Goals
Our aim is to assist the client
to achieve abstinence from all
mood-altering chemicals and
educate the client about the
problems of addiction, stress
and harmful lifestyles.
Working with each client to
improve the quality of his/her
relationships and career as well
as achieving his/her social,
emotional and physical wellbeing. Assisting family members
and partners in understanding
the process of addictions and
what they can do to help the
client make a full and lasting
recovery.
Detoxing at home, in familiar
surroundings allows a client to
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energy into recovering.
For those who require longer
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call 07974 177712 or
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to Smile About
Ready for a Something
Logo setWhen
for TheSummer’s
Ivory Dental Over
Studio
winning smile?
A
dults today are
now fill orthodontists’
eager to look
waiting rooms.
and feel young,
Although we hear a lot
and as part of that, more
about bleaching nowadays,
are turning to cosmetic
it actually has been around
dentistry. Procedures
for decades. But, as with
run the gamut and
bracing, technology has
include bleaching, braces
simplified things. What used
and veneers. If you’re
to require visits to the dentist
interested in brightening
now can be done at home. An
your smile, it’s important
appropriately fitted “tray” is
to do your homework to
made at the dentist’s office. At
ensure that you get what
home, the tray is laced with
you want.
In the past, aesthetic
dental interventions
were limited. Take
braces, for example.
Anyone old enough
to remember disco
knows how involved
it was to get them.
Each braced tooth had
The value of a beautiful smile?
to be wrapped with
an uncomfortable
a bleaching agent and worn
metal band, and of course,
for minutes to hours at a time,
there were visits to the
depending on the strength
orthodontist for adjustments. of the bleach. The process
But today’s advances
is repeated daily for the
enable crooked teeth to be
prescribed duration to lighten
realigned more comfortably
teeth by several shades.
and less noticeably. It’s no
For those whose teeth are
wonder that kids and adults
worn down from grinding or
chewing, misshapen, or too
Examples
dark for bleaching alone,
veneers are an option. These
are thin coverings made of
resin or porcelain that are
bonded to the front of the
teeth to reshape and recolor
the surface.
Such aesthetic
procedures often require a
multidisciplinary approach,
with coordination of efforts
between general dentists,
advanced biologic & aesthetic dentistry
orthodontists and
The end of summer might be just round the corner but at The Ivory Dental Studio
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Fashion
11
The May Fair, official hotel
of London Fashion Week
T
his September will see the typical insiders will be on the lookout for some
flurry of fashionable activity as
respite from the relentless round of parties.
the fashion world descends on
Those who feel in need of some reviving
London. At the centre of everything
spa time would be hard-pressed to find
proudly stands the May Fair
Hotel, who are delighted
to announce their status as
the official hotel of London
Fashion Week for the second
year running. The May Fair’s
relationship with the British
Fashion Council will cover
six seasons over a three-year
period. Once again the hotel
will look after the well being of
the international fashion pack
in London.
Located right in the centre of the
The May Fair Hotel, at the centre of LFW.
Mayfair village, the May Fair Hotel
is at the heart of London Fashion
Week and the place to see and be seen. The
themselves in more capable,
hotel is bracing itself for action, as it once
rejuvenating hands. The May
again becomes the nerve centre of British
Fair Spa has crafted a number of
style, where the top designers will hold
express treatments to deal with
court with supermodels, fashion scribes and
LFW fatigue, in particular The
the all-important buyers who will make sure Oxygen Revival Treatment; which
the world are wearing the hottest British
will leave you feeling energised,
designers in the months that follow.
glowing with vitality and
And once the action of London Fashion
supermodel-esq in no time.
Week – which celebrates it’s 25th
All bases have been covered so
anniversary this year - is under way,
whether the fashion tribes suffer from tired,
bringing the palpable fashion fever to
aching feet, as they strut from show-toLondon around every season, the fashion
show in their achingly hip but painfully
high Nicholas Kirkwood killer heels or dark
circles from the endless round of late night
partying, the May Fair Spa will guarantee
they’ll be back on their feet and facing the
world with radiance in no time at all.
The hotel will be awash with designers,
models and the movers and shakers
of the fashion world, all enjoying the
stylish space and stunning collection of
world- class signature suites in which to
showcase collections, fashion brands and
more besides. Their plush portfolio of
offerings also includes the Crystal Room,
the Danziger Suite, the Amba Salon, plus a
private cinema for special event screenings.
Charles Oak, General Manager of The
May Fair Hotel said, “We are delighted to
be working with the British Fashion Council
as the official hotel of London Fashion
Week for the second season running.
The relationship and our position as the
Official Hotel of London Fashion Week
has changed perception from what people
thought we were to what we really are - a
young, fashionable and connected central
London hotel.”
Commenting on the 25th anniversary of
the BFC, Charles Oak, said: “London is
unique in its style, but it is personality above
all that differentiates our fabulous city. It is
powerful and edgy, delicate and beautiful,
striking, chic and cool. London can be
dark as easily as it can embrace you, but
most of all it is independent. London is
its own place, it is not beholden to a set
of rules or restrictions. It is this freedom
and dynamic personality that translates
into a unique creative energy and passion
that is so evident in its fashions and style.
Fashion is ultimately about personality so
it has no better home than London.”
While much of London Fashion Week
is accessible only to professionals in the
industry, the May Fair will ensure that
everyone can have some access to the
LFW experience. The May Fair Bar will
crackle with energy and spill over with
the fashion industry elite. Meanwhile, the
Mixology team will unveil an unrivalled
combination of old classics, modern
interpretations and bespoke drinks so that
the London Fashion Week experience can
be enjoyed by all.
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12
Eating Out
The
Oxo
Tower
T
he Oxo Tower is one of
London’s most famous
landmarks. Originally home
to the GPO Power Station it was
most famously home to the Oxo
brand (hence the iconic red lettering)
and is now home to The Oxo Tower
Restaurant and Brasserie.
By Zoe Hall
It is a restaurant that I have always
wanted to try but never got around
to for various reasons and over time
I heard conflicting reports about it;
excellent food but surly staff, wonderful
staff but indifferent food etc so it sat
rather forlornly on my “must try”
list overtaken by other flashier more
outré newcomers. So eight years after
thinking “I really must go” I finally
found myself seated on the restaurant
terrace on a beautifully sunny evening
sipping an expertly made Bellini and
congratulating myself on having finally
made the trip. Even if the restaurant
served nothing but tripe and pale ale
the views would still make the trip
worthwhile. The panorama ranges
from the City to the East - with one of
the Capital’s best views of St Paul’s
Cathedral - to the Strand and Charing
Cross to the West.
For starters I opted for the Lobster
Tempura. Lobster is such exquisite
seafood that I feel it needs very little
adulteration but sadly this one was
badly violated and all its lovely natural
meaty taste swamped by the tempura,
resulting in a sad soggy mess. Luckily
my companion’s King Scallops were all
things scallops should be; moist, juicy
and plump as a Botticelli angel, nicely
offset by saffron and fennel risotto
balls. Other tasty sounding starters
include a Cuttlefish minestrone with ink
pasta and parsley pesto and Langoustine
Caesar Salad. To complement our fish
starters we opted for a light Sancerre
chosen by our excellent sommelier.
Starters are all very well but I only get
truly excited about the arrival of the
main course. We had plumped for the
Chateaubriand between two. A perhaps
slightly heavyweight dish for warm
weather and certainly an expensive one
but I couldn’t resist. I’m glad I didn’t;
it was moist and succulent, muscular
yet tender. A delight. To accompany
our main course we drank a lovely red;
Casa Laostelle Clos Apalta 2004 which
had been aged for 22 months in new
French oak barrels. An intense body
and flavour without being cloying and
heavy. A deliciously smooth offering.
Being a big mouse I chose the
cheeseboard awash with British and
Irish offerings while my companion
tucked into her Chocolate Plate with
gusto. The Chocolate Plate is quite an
oddity and perhaps not to be undertaken
lightly if you are only marginally
keen on the substance as it literally
does what it says on the tin; chocolate
torte, chocolate mousse and chocolate
ice cream are all present and correct.
I should imagine chocolatier Willie
Harcourt-Cooze would be in is element!
The staff were first class; attentive
without being intrusive. My companion
and I swapped seats and a waiter glided
up and smoothly changed our drinks
round before we’d sat back down
again! A nice touch but then The Oxo
Tower is full of nice touches.
OXO Tower Wharf
Barge House Street
South Bank
London SE1 9PH
Tel: 020 7803 3888
Stunning views of London.
Spanish Charm at Camino
King’s Cross has really
cleaned up its act over the
last few years. Testament to
this is the arrival of Camino,
a rather fabulous bar and
restaurant situated in The
Regent’s Quarter courtyard
just a stone’s throw from the
busy Pentoville Road. Richard
Biggs, the owner of Camino
also owns the successful
Cargo and Marketplace and
is involved in The Big Chill
festival so Camino’s hip
credentials were always going
to be firmly in place. Indeed the
bar is now the proud recipient
of The Observer newspaper’s
prestigious “Best Bar in
London” award and I think it
is richly deserved.
breed at least the descent is in
pleasant surroundings. Beer
is served in frozen glasses
giving the original stereotype of
England = warm beer a big kick
in the proverbial.
Camino is half bar, half
restaurant but is split neatly so
that once sat down the vibrant
bustling bar seems a world away.
Seated at the table my dining
young winemakers to come
out of Spain. Grown from his
Monastrell vine, Uno is a simple
yet beguiling blend of redcurrant
and blackberry, a deep rich
purple that left a pleasantly sweet
unsugary aftertaste. No acidity,
no nasty kick upon arrival, just
a gracious full bodied blend that
perfectly complemented the rich
and meaty tapas on display.
By Zoe Hall
Exuding Spanish charm
Camino offers the right blend of
relaxation and serious food and
wine offerings. For a Monday
night the place was buzzing with
Londoners whether stopping in
for a quick drink and tapas on the
way back from work or sitting
down to sample the delicious
restaurant fare or listening to
some Spanish music. The large
courtyard lends itself perfectly
to summertime drinking and
smokers can sit outside happily
safe in the knowledge that
although they may be a dying
Camino; exuding Spanish charm.
companion and I felt giggly and
holidayish thanks to the vibrant
carnival atmosphere and so it
seemed only right to kick off
with a couple of glasses of the
Platinum Brut Cava served in
1960’s style champagne glasses.
The Cava was lovely, biscuity
and crisp and horribly moreish.
Cambra
We then plumped for a bottle
of the Uno, Rafael Cambra.
Rafael Cambra is regarded
as one of the most innovative
Camino are bang on in the
ethical stakes making sure that all
the fresh meat and eggs are free
range and the fish is caught from
sustainable sources, vital in this
era of over farming and fishing.
Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall
could dine here with a clear
conscience.
I fell slightly in love with the
Croquetas de jamon. These were
unlike any croquettes I’d eaten
before, crisp on the outside and
filled with a béchamel ham sauce
rather than stodgy potato. We had
asked for Chuleton, a Rib Eye,
aged for a minum of 28 days,
to come medium rare although
possibly we should have just
asked for medium as Spanish
cooking tends to undercook
rather than overcook beef. It was
slightly gristly for my liking and
not as tender or succulent as I
would have hoped but a welcome
addition nonetheless. To my mind
no tapas is complete without a
sprinkling of juicy Langoustines
and ours were fat and delicious
and extremely fresh.
Chocolate
Desserts often the slightly
disappointing in Spanish
restaurants were simple and
effective. DC had the Pastel de
Chocolate which consisted of
molten hot chocolate pudding
with cinnamon, star anis and
lemon zest ice cream. I was
green with envy until my Crema
Catalana came along and revived
me with its creamy richness.
Staff here are for the most part
warm and friendly and happy
to help with menu and wine
choices and the place is filled
with a happy mix of city workers,
bohemians, tourists and happy
King’s Cross residents safe in the
knowledge that finally there is a
place they can be proud of.
www.camino.uk.com
Tel. 020 7841 7331
CAMINO, The Regent
Quarter, King’s Cross N1 9AF
Landlords!
Are you looking for
good reliable &
trustworthy tenants?
We specialise in the
Japanese market
Rooms, Bedsits, Studios and self-contained
flats required
Please contact:
Kate Pettersen
YHO KHO Property
Tel. 020 7837 4011
07940 922 044
Email:
[email protected]
Tel. 020 7251 9336
Theatre
13
Avenue Q, the Muppet
Puppet Extravaganza!
W
ho would have
thought that a puppet
musical would be
such a stonking success? The
winner of 4 prestigious Tony
awards, Avenue Q us a musical
largely inspired by and in the
style of Sesame Street and Jim
Henson’s Muppet Show.
By Zoe Hall
Most of the characters in the
show are puppets (operated on
stage by actors) and the show is
set in a fictional rundown outer
borough of New York City – Avenue Q. All the puppet characters
and humans are in their twenties
and thirties dealing with grown up
problems and singing about adult
themes such as racism, pornography and homosexuality. Quite
a marked turn from learning
numbers and the alphabet. And
this is what makes Avenue Q so
funny. For my generation who
grew up with Bert and Ernie and
Oscar the Grouch it is great to
see parodies of the muppets as
they might have become.
The action centres around the
arrival in the street of newcomer
Princeton, a fresh faced college
graduate with a BA in English
who is looking to start his life in
New York. However the job he
is due to start vanishes before
he even starts leaving him to
wonder what his “purpose” in
life is and how to find it. Living
in the street he meets the inhabitants; Kate Monster, a sweet and
sassy Kindergarten teacher, Rod
and Nicky (AKA Bert and Ernie
from Sesame Street), Brian and
Christmas Eve (play humans not
puppets), Trekkie Monster (a
hilarious parody of Cookie Monster) with an insatiable appetite
for porn and “Gary Coleman” the
one time child actor and now the
building’s Superintendent.
Also look out for the Bad Idea
Bears – hilarious and slightly
sinister creatures who pop up
and will people to give into their
naughty decadent sides. Things
we all might secretly want to do
but know that the consequences
may not always be good.
The great thing about this innovative use of the puppets quite
The cast of Avenue Q
Iconic Theatreland
signs selling on ebay
A
piece of Theatreland
history went on sale
recentley as 30 iconic
Westminster street signs
appeared on eBay in the first
ever sale of its kind.
Westminster City Council is
replacing more than 90 of the
world-famous signs in the heart
of the West End including those
along the Strand, in Covent
Garden, Leicester Square and
Shaftesbury Avenue.
The first 30 went on eBay
with reserve prices of £100.
However, the most popular
signs, which are often featured
on postcards and tshirts, are
expected to become rare
collectors’ items and fetch
much higher prices.
Cllr Alan Bradley, lead member
for Theatreland, said: “This is
a rare opportunity for people
to own a piece of Theatreland
history. This is the first time
we’ve ever put our street signs
on an auction site like this and
we are anticipating a huge
amount of interest.
“The new signs are part of
wider plans to revamp the
serif typeface, is unique to
Westminster’s street signs and is
not available anywhere else in
the world. Other organisations
are forbidden by copyright law
to reproduce Westminster street
signs, making them even more
highly prized due to their rarity.
The old signs include a black
band at the top with an inset
picture of two traditional
Pierrot-type clowns, while the
new signs have a bright red
band above the lettering and
show an image of a comedy
tragedy mask, synonymous
with the stage.Theatreland
is one of the council’s
Magnificent Seven projects
New Theatreland street signs to revamp the West End in
time for the 2012 Olympics.
than ten years and are being
Work has already taken place
replaced with a new design to
along Shaftesbury Avenue to
create a more distinct character
widen footpaths and repave
for the Theatreland district.
them in traditional York stone
All the signs feature
with alternating black and white
Westminster’s traditional black
sparkly granite outside theatres.
and red capital lettering, which
New street lights, comprising
was created by acclaimed
of traditional Grey Wornum
designer Sir Misha Black
lanterns, with strips of coloured
in 1967 and is universally
lights running down the columns,
will be officially switched on in
acknowledged as a design
the next few weeks.
classic. The font, a sans
Theatreland district to help
create a sense of drama and
excitement in the streets to echo
the performances on stage and
make going to the theatre more
of an occasion.”
The council hopes to raise up to
£10,000 by selling all 90 signs,
which have been up for more
apart from their furry cuteness is
what brilliant tools they are for
exploring all sorts of issues; internet porn (grab your dick and double click), racism (the Japanese
therapist, Gary Coleman and the
monsters vs puppets all show off
their innate racism) homosexuality and unemployment. If it was
just actors singing the audience
could take offence or feel they
are being preached at whereas
the puppets merely evoke gales
of laughter and feel good warmth
and sense!
The love story between Princeton and Kate Monster is sweet but
not sickly and frankly fairly racy,
with hardcore muppet sex not
something the original Sesame
Street or The Muppet Show
would have advocated (although
I think we all really know what
Kermit and Miss Piggy got upto
behind the scenes.) Of course
there are obstacles to their love;
Kate loses her job, Princeton is
terrified of commitment before he
finds his “purpose”, a one night
stand with a vixenish nightclub
singer by the name of Lucy the
Slut (the lovechild of Kermit
and Miss Piggy?). But hey in
these depressing credit crunch
times it’s great to know that
you’re not alone in having a
slightly sucky life, no money
and a complicated love life.
Frankly who doesn’t these days
and maybe if we all had some
puppet/muppet friends who
could help us along the way life
might just seem that bit brighter.
The actors who operate the puppets and inhabit the characters
are astonishing especially Daniel
Boys, Julie Atherton, Joanna
Amphill and Mark Goldthorp.
Catch this little gem while
you can.
Now on at The
Gielgud Theatre W1
020 7434 7584
Horizon_Westminster News
Tel. 020 7251 9336
10/6/09
14:59
Page 1
stunning
waterside resort
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ea
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been so easy, so affordable, or so right a time to invest in Horizon Sky, than
now. A unique, highly successful fully-managed, modern 5 star waterside resort
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With the new easyJet service from Gatwick to Bodrum International direct ‘the easyJet effect’ will greatly benefit the region with a proven track record
for capital growth and increased tourism.
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Carpentry & Cabinetmakers
Domestic & Commercial
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• Kitchens • Bedrooms • Bathrooms
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fax 020 6961 0587
email [email protected]
1B Nightingale Road London NW11 4RG
Health & Fitness
SWISS Tai Chi in Brockley
CLEANING
Let us provide you with
domestic help, We can
provide cleaners at all
times to suit you, regular
or ‘spring – cleaning’
Contact:
020 7602 3285 / 07973 825 255
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ARISTON
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trained personnel
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Beginners classes starting 29th May Learn about
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Interested? Ring or text
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15
Building & Decorating
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builder
Carpentry,
decorating, windows,
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installation, etc
Female
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References available
Also small
building works
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M. Scanlon
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Good rates, short/
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Sign up with London’s
leading agency!
Curtains & Blinds
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We are a bespoke curtain
and blind making service
Re-upholster and sofa furnishings.
Fabrics, Wallpapers, Poles and
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Full Installation Service
Free Home Consultation
Please all Linda or Suzanne on
020 7733 3515 / 07931 978 835
Email: [email protected]
Interiors & General Building Services
JV Interiors Ltd
Based in SW1
• Carpentry • Joinery • Plumbing • Decorating
• General Building • Handyman
We are happy to provide you
with a free qoute or some
friendly advice on any work
however big or small you may
be thinking of undertaking
Plumbing & Heating Services
Tel: 020 7584 1868
Mob: 07796 174 206
Westminster Heating & Plumbing
Fully qualified & experienced Corgi registered Heating Engineers deal with all central
heating problems, boiler breakdowns, new installs, repairs, servicing, gas safety
checks & landlord certifications etc.
Our engineers also deal with all general plumbing works, leaks, overflows, tanks,
cylinders, bathroom refurbishments etc. We have a tiler, Carpenter & Electrician to
carry out all general works.
Unit 35, 95 Wilton Road, Victoria SW1V 1BZ
Tel. 020 7834 1111 - 0870 240 6049
www.westminsterheating.co.uk
Classified Advertising!
Reach out to London’s most influential boroughs
TheWestminsterNews •TheKensington&ChelseaPress
Tel. 0207 251 9336
email: [email protected]
Garden Design / Landscaping
Amanda Broughton
Classified
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Tel: 020 8449 5781
Mobile: 07899 828370
www.abroughtondesign.com
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16
Sport
Londoner’s bask More Convenient
Than
A
Bank
in sun as England
triumph in Ashes
Enjoying the sun and Ashes victory.
L
ondoners basked in the
mini heatwave and cheered
on Freddie and the boys
at specially organised outdoor
screenings of The Ashes final at
three central London locations.
The screenings were part of a
“Great British Summer” themed
programme of events taking place
across three of London’s shopping
and entertainment destinations:
Cardinal Place, New Street Square
and Bankside Mix.
It was completely free of charge
so for anybody feeling the pinch
this year, there was no better way
to enjoy watching England beat
Australia on home soil. And indeed
many people to pulled up a deckchair and enjoyed the atmosphere.
You didn’t even need to be a diehard cricket fan to enjoy the historic
victory. The mix of shops, bars
and restaurants at each of the three
locations meant there was plenty to
keep everyone happy.
The Fast, Convenient
Way To Obtain Cash
If you need a short-term cash advance and
have items of value, Suttons and Robertsons,
one of London’s oldest and most discerning
pawnbrokers, is now open in South
Kensington for fast, discreet loans secured
against the items you own.
You can get an instant decision on LOANS
OF UP TO £1MILLION TODAY. Visit us in our
new premises in the Old Brompton Road
and experience for yourself the convenient
way of borrowing money on your finest
jewellery, arts or antiques.
With over 200 years of experience, Suttons and
Robertsons believe in good service, discretion
and valuing your custom. For more details
visit our website or call us on 0207 591 3974.
A “Great British Summer” for cricket fans.
SuttonS and RobeRtSonS, South KenSington
78 old bRompton Road SW7 3lQ
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Suttons Advert 128x327.indd 1
4/8/09 11:03:32
The
Kensington&Chelsea
Press
Issue 7: September 2009
Price where sold 40p
Out and about - ‘Edward lloyd’s Diary’ PAGEs 8 & 9
Images: Edward Lloyd/Alpha Press
Charles weighs in to
“classical” or
“twee” debate
NEW GATES AT KENSINGTON PALACE
P
rince Charles has weighed into the debate
about the design for a new entrance to
Kensington Palace.
The Prince of Wales has been accused of trying to
influence the decision on the planning of a £12 million
redesign of the Palace (once home to Princess Diana) after
writing a letter to the Royal Borough of Kensington &
Chelsea Council planners who are deciding the fate of the
East entrance to the Grade 1 listed building.
Charles’ charity The Prince’s Foundation for the Built
Environment wrote to planners urging them to approve the
scheme, designed by one of the Prince’s favoured architects, John Simpson.
The Historic Royal Palaces organization, which runs the
Palace, is eager to push through the application to finish
the project in time for the Queen’s diamond jubilee in
2012. The Queen is believed to have approved the plans.
Planning officials are apparently advising Councillors to
turn down the proposal as it would be ‘detrimental’ to the
palace and other opponents claim the cast-iron portico - or
loggia - will ruin the east facade of the palace, commissioned by William III and Mary II in 1689 and designed
by Sir Christopher Wren.
“Embarrassingly twee”
Conservative deputy leader of Kensington and Chelsea
Daniel Moylan, told planning officials: “It [the loggia] is
decoratively over-elaborate and almost embarrassingly
twee and although designed by a leading architect, one
could easily imagine it being replicated in a garden furniture catalogue.”
While English Heritage support the prince’s plans, the
Kensington Society, has branded the design “too dominating and overly detailed”.
Classical architect Mr Simpson was chosen by a panel
that included representatives of The Prince’s Foundation.
The foundation’s design director, Ben Bolgar, has urged
planners to pass the the plans and believe’s the loggia
“would bring the palace back to life and unite it with it’s
much loved gardens”.
The foundation has defended its involvement and said
that it has only commented on “a couple” of planning applications in the last two years. “Surely it is not surprising
that The Prince’s Foundation has been asked to help on
one of the royal palaces.” said Hank Dittmar, chief executive of the Prince’s Foundation.
Prince Charles is well known to be fond of classical
design and has recently been credited and criticised for
having a key role in the withdrawl of proposed plans for
the multi billion pound re-development of Chelsea Barracks. Qatari Diar, the investment arm of the Qatari Royal
family, had submitted plans for a vast development of
modern glass and steel luxury apartments on the site they
purchased from the government in 2007.
Modernist design withdrawn
The plans drew harsh criticism from local residents who
fear the development would not fit well with the conservation area around it and that many of the proposed apartment
blocks were too high and too much like council tower blocks.
Charles wrote to the emir of Qatari Diar opposing their
modernist design. The Qatari’s have since withdrawn the
plans and are now said to be setting up a panel comprised
of 50% classical designers and 50% modernists with
the aim of making a new master plan that will hopefully
satisfy any opposition.
Georgine Thorburn of the Chelsea Barracks Opposition
group expressed her delight with the new proposals for the
barracks and suggested that it might not have been possible without the intervention of His Royal Highness.
Prince Charles and Kensington Palace.
Confession of a
local newspaper
It has been pointed out to us that the story “Confessions
of a parking attendant in the Royal Borough” which appeared in the July edition of Kensington and Chelsea Press
was first published in local newspapers in 2006.
Our source for this story was the BBC website that was disseminating this information from its archives when we first heard
about this story in June of this year. We apologise to readers for
our error in publishing the dated content of this article.
In it we quoted the then managing director of APCOA parking,
Paul Bird, but APCOA have informed us that Mr. Bird has not
been their MD for over two years.
First & Fast Plumbing & Heating
08001 123 999
For full details of our services in Plumbing, Heating,
Electrics, Drainage and Property Maintenance
visit our website www.1staction.com

The London Plumbers who Care!

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