September/October 2019

ISSN 2632-8224 

September / October 2019 

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Issue No: 162 

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INSIDE: Woodford Town FC • Roding Valley walk • Goshawk talk • River Roding flood defences: community event 

Community groups • Local events • Useful numbers • Directory of local businesses 

Independent directory of businesses, news and events in and around South Woodford

2 South Woodford Village Gazette 

4+ Entry 

OPEN Open EVENTS Events 2019 2018 

4+ 4+ Entry 

7+ 7+ Entry 

14th September 

10.30am - - 12.30pm 



12.00pm - - 3.00pm 

1.30pm 1.30pm - - 4.30pm - 4.30pm 

7+ 7+ Entry Open Events 201 

Open Events 2019 

7+ Entry 

11+ Saturday Entry 

16+ Entry 

Saturday 

15th 

15th 

September from 10.30am - 12.30pm 

September from 10.30am 12.30pm 

28th September Saturday 4+ Entry Saturday 

29th 

29th 

September from 1.30pm - 4.30pm 

September from 1.30pm 7+ 4.30pm Entry 


14th September, 10.00am 28th - 12.00pm September 

1.30pm - - 4.30pm14th September, 10.30am - 12.30pm 

4+ Entry 

1.00pm - - 4.30pm 



28th September, 12.00pm 1.30pm - 3.00pm 9th 9th 

- 4.30pm 

November 11+ 28th September, 1.30pm - 4.30pm 

10.00am - - 12.00pm 

17th 

10.30am October 

Entry 

- - 12.30pm 

10.00am - - 12.30pm 14th September 

6.30pm - - 9.00pm 

9th November 



12.00pm - - 3.00pm 

Bursaries and and scholarships available at at 11+, 13+ 13+ and and 16+ 16+ 

A A Leading Independent Education for for Boys and and Girls Aged 44 to to 18 18 

Bursaries and scholarships available 11+ 

at 11+, Entry 

13+ and 16+ 

11+ Entry 


1.30pm - - 4.30pm 

9th November 

10.00am - - 12.30pm 

10.00am Saturday 

Saturday - 29th 

29th 12.00pm September 

September 

from 1.30pm - 4.30pm 

from 1.30pm 4.30pm 

28th Saturday September 

Saturday 

10th 

10th 

November 

November 

12.00pm 

from 10.30am - 12.30pm 

16+ Entry 

from 10.30am - 3.00pm 

12.30pm 

1.30pm - - 4.30pm 

admissions@chigwell-scho 

www.chigwell-scho 

020 020850 


1.00pm - - 4.30pm 

17th October 

6.30pm - - 9.00pm 

Bursaries and scholarships available at at 11+, 13+ and 16+ 

admissions@chigwell-scho 

1.30pm - 4.30pm from 7.30pm - 9.30pm www.chigwell-scho 

A Leading Independent Education for for Boys and Girls Aged from 44 to to 7.30pm 18 18 

9.30pm 

020850 

28th September, 1.30pm - 4.30pm 

28th September, 1.00pm - 4.30pm 

9th November, 10.00am - 12.30pm 

Open Events 2019 

OPEN EVENTS 2018 

4+ Entry 

4+ 4+ Entry 



Saturday 

Saturday 

15th 10.00am - - 15th 

September from 10.00am - 12 noon 

12.00pm September from 10.00am 12 noon 

Saturday 

Saturday 

29th 

29th 

September from 12 noon - 3.00pm 

September from 12 noon 3.00pm 

10.00am - 12.00pm 


12.00pm - 3.00pm 

11+ Entry 

10.00am - 12.30pm 

16+ Entry 

11+ Entry 

A Leading Independent Education for Boys and Girls Aged 4 to 18 

Saturday 

Saturday 

29th 

29th 



from 1.00pm - 4.00pm 

from 1.00pm 4.00pm 


Thursday 

Thursday 

18th 

18th 

October 


16+ Entry 

7+ Entry 

9th November “Achievement is 

17th October, 6.30pm excellent 

“Achievement - 9.00pm throughout 

is 

10.00am - 12.30pmexcellent the 

throughout 

school.” 

the school.” 

Independent Schools 

Independent Schools 

Inspectorate 

Inspectorate 

Bursaries and scholarships available at 11+, 13+ and 16+ 


10.30am - 12.30p 


16+ Entry 


1.00pm - 4.30pm 

17th October 

6.30pm - 9.00pm 

admissions@chig 

www.chig 

Bursaries and scholarships available at 11+, 13+ and 16+ 

A Leading Independent Education for Boys and Girls Aged 4 to 18 

A LEADING 

LEADING 

INDEPENDENT 

INDEPENDENT 

EDUCATION 

EDUCATION 

FOR 

FOR 

BOYS 

BOYS 

AND 

AND 

GIRLS 

GIRLS 

AGED 

AGED 

4 to 

to 

18 

18 

admissions@chigwell-school.org www.chigwell-school.org 020 8501 5700 

admissions@chigwell-school.org www.chigwell-school.org 020 8501 5700

Contents 

Features 

It’s coming home!12 

Natural help14 

Education x6015 

Repowering South Woodford16 

Domestic violence18 

Home… and away19 

DD’s 37th Woodford diary20 

A family laid bare 22 

Valley of discovery26 

Looking for the goshawk28 

Politics and religion29 

Princess Slimarella30 

Monkey and me31 

Natural painter 32 

Outumn 33 

Photo story34 

Floating ideas36 

Every issue 

Local news4, 6, 8 & 10 

Community events39–42 

Community groups44–45 

Index of advertisers46 

Contact Us 

020 8819 0595 

info@swvg.co.uk 

swvg.co.uk 

Welcome… 

market.booth.park. An apt what3words identifier for this issue. 

For those confused by this seemingly gibberish opening, take a 

moment to familiarise yourself with the geocoding system known as 

what3words. Essentially, it’s an algorithm that assigns a unique threeword 

identifier for every three-metre square patch of land (or water) 

around the globe. It makes identifying a remote location or a specific 

point within an open space very accurate, with obvious benefits for 

the emergency services – or those arranging a meet-up in the middle 

of nowhere. But life-saving attributes aside, it also makes for some 

amusingly appropriate word combinations. 

So, market.booth.park? Well, that’s a patch on George Lane, where 

the new monthly farmers’ market… parks its stalls. The door to 

Number 10 Downing Street can be found at slurs.this.shark, which 

seems to suit most of those who have resided there. Closer to home, 

you’ll find origin.events.judge and words.vent.below – Snaresbrook 

Crown Court and South Woodford Library, of course. 

There’s something neat (in both the formal and informal senses 

of the word) about having such a concise means of sharing a 

location. And Mongolia would seem to agree, adopting the service 

for their postal system. But we do lose all sense of context in the 

process: hammer.cake.spider and lost.bend.stole may belong to 

neighbouring houses on Mulberry Way, but without presenting the 

full street address, they could be as far apart as tent.shine.doll and 

tossed.jacket.nuptials. 

And Woodford will always be more and mean more than an address, 

no matter what form it takes. And no threeword 

identifier could ever do it justice. 

And if you need proof of that... 

Watch this space. 

A note to 

businesses... 

If you are a business based 

in South Woodford, or have 

a presence in the local area, 

we can help you get your 

message across to our readers. 

The deadline for inclusion in 

the November/December 2019 

edition is 18 October 2019. 

Calling local 

residents... 

The South Woodford Village 

Gazette proudly supports local 

businesses and we encourage 

our readers to do the same. 

Help us help these businesses 

by mentioning this publication 

when responding to any 

adverts found within. 

Distribution Area 

Useful numbers in and 

around South Woodford… 

LOCAL MPs 

Chingford and Woodford Green 

Iain Duncan Smith MP020 7219 3000 

iainduncansmith.org.uk 

Ilford North 

Wes Streeting MP 020 3475 7901 

wesstreeting.org 

Leyton and Wanstead 

John Cryer MP 020 8989 5249 

johncryermp.co.uk 

LOCAL COUNCILLORS 

Churchfields Ward 

Stephen Adams (Con) 07741 330 461 

stephen.adams@redbridge.gov.uk 

Rosa Gomez (Lab)07741 194 517 

rosa.gomez@redbridge.gov.uk 

Clark Vasey (Con)07741 194 763 

clark.vasey@redbridge.gov.uk 

South Woodford Ward 

Beverley Brewer (Lab) 07741 329 779 

beverley.brewer@redbridge.gov.uk 

Michael Duffell (Con)07741 196 006 

michael.duffell@redbridge.gov.uk 

Suzanne Nolan (Con)020 8708 9609 

suzanne.nolan@redbridge.gov.uk 

REDBRIDGE COUNCIL 

Customer Contact Centre 020 8554 5000 

Council Tax enquiries020 8708 5670 

Anti-social behaviour020 8478 4679 

LEISURE & LIBRARIES 

South Woodford 

Library & Gym020 8708 9067 

Woodford Green Library020 8708 9055 

Wanstead Library020 8708 7400 

Odeon 0871 224 4007 

Wanstead Leisure Centre020 8989 1172 

POLICE 

Emergency 999 

Non-emergency101 

Crimestoppers0800 555 111 

Anti-terrorist Hotline 0800 789 321 

Churchfields SNT020 8345 3616 

South Woodford SNT020 8345 3616 

Follow us on Twitter 

@southwoodfordvg 

South Woodford Village Gazette 

PO Box 2491, Ilford, IG1 8JT 

About Us 

The South Woodford Village Gazette is 

published every other month with a 

circulation of 11,000 copies. Of these, 10,000 

are delivered free to homes and businesses 

across the E18 postcode region and the 

Laings Estate. The remaining copies are 

available from local supermarkets, shops and 

public service locations. 

Published by Marquis Print Ltd. 

Founded in 1992 by Jack Lamport Mitchell. Edited from 2004 to 

2015 by Ken and Sue Lees. 

EAST W 

THE SHRUB 

D D 

R 

OO RD 

D 

10,000 

copies delivered 

across South 

Woodford 

1,000 

copies available from 

local display stands 

HEALTH 

NHS 111 111 

The Shrubberies 

Medical Centre 020 8530 4108 

Glebelands Practice020 8989 6272 


Health Centre020 8491 3333 

Elmhurst Practice 020 8491 3310 

The Broadway Surgery020 8505 3204 

Southdene Surgery020 8530 3731 

Southdene Surgery 

(evenings & weekends)020 3770 1888 

Whipps Cross Hospital 020 8539 5522 

ADVICE AND SUPPORT 

Samaritans08457 90 90 90 

Citizens Advice Bureau03444 111 444 

Marquis Print Ltd cannot be held responsible for any errors or 

omissions, or endorse companies, products or services that 

appear in this magazine. The views expressed in contributed 

articles are those of the credited authors and do not necessarily 

represent those of the publisher. 

©2019 Marquis Print Ltd 

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be 

reproduced without the prior consent of the publisher. 

ISSN 2632-8224 

Woodford 

New Road and 

Broadmead Road 

are shown for 

reference only and 

are not included on 

the delivery route 

UTILITIES 

Electricity (power cut) 105 

Electricity emergency0800 40 40 90 

Gas emergency0800 111 999 

Thames Water (report leak)0800 714 614


Stall applications invited 

as farmers’ market makes 

welcome return to George Lane 

FEELING DEPRESSED, 

ANXIOUS OR ANGRY? 

Do you experience 

habitual anxiety, low mood, 

depression or stress? 

Is your relationship in 

conflict? 

Are you living with long term 

physical pain? 

Have you been affected by a recent 

life event such as bereavement or 

losing your job? 

A monthly farmer’s market is set 

to become a regular addition 

to South Woodford, bringing 

a range of produce and gifts 

to George Lane. Run by Essex 

Farmers’ Markets – which also 

organises a similar event in 

Wanstead – the market is a 

welcome return, having last 

traded here in 2012, when it was 

forced to close due to rising 

costs. “Shoppers who ventured 

down to the second South 

Woodford Farmers’ Market in 

August were pleased to see some 

great stalls, including fabulous 

sausages from The Giggly 

Pig and a cheese stall. These 

added to the impressive plant 

stall and others selling bread, 

cakes, vintage prints, scents and 

cookware,” said Louise Burgess 

of the South Woodford Society. 

The next market is scheduled 

for 15 September (10am to 3pm), 

with plans to return on the third 

Sunday of every month (subject 

to licence). “Please support this 

vibrant market that will benefit 

the shopping area of George 

Lane.” Stall applications are 

invited. Call 01268 733 111 

Are traumatic or upsetting events 

from the past holding you back? 

e: counsellinghelps@gmail.com w: counsellinghelps.uk 

MBACP (Accred) UKRCP registered & fully insured 

Are you seeking to move 

beyond negative habits 

but don’t know how? 

Tried talking with friends but not enough? 

Is now the time to seek professional support? 

Contact Dougie in confidence 07792 128 681 (9am – 9pm) 

Suite 3, 96 George Lane, E18 1AD 

The Railway Children: 

search for local child actor 

The producers of The Railway 

Children – to be performed at 

Forest School in Snaresbrook 

as part of the Wanstead Fringe 

festival – are searching for a 

local actor to play the role of 

Jim. “It would suit a young 

person with acting and singing 

ability, who wants to work with 

a professional theatre company,” 

said producer Katherine 

Mount. Rehearsals commence 

9 September, with performances 

on 14 and 15 September. If the 

successful candidate requires 

time off school, the company 

will apply for licences and 

supply a registered chaperone. 

“For audience members, this 

will be an opportunity to see 

a West End-style musical on 

your doorstep… This heartwarming 

tale is set to a new 

musical soundtrack, bringing 

a touch of magic to the stage.” 

Email info@hordernciani.com 

Community awards 2020: 

nominations open 

Nominations for the Mayor of 

Redbridge’s annual community 

awards are now open. “These 

awards are a great way to 

throw light on those giving 

individuals to recognise and 

celebrate the work they do 

– so please get nominating!” 

said the Mayor of Redbridge, 

Councillor Zulfiqar Hussain. A 

panel of councillors, officers 

and residents will shortlist the 

nominations and select winners 

in six different categories. 

The deadline is 31 December. 

Visit swvg.co.uk/mca20 

Consultation on increased 

London City Airport flights 

A consultation on plans to end 

the ban that stops London City 

Airport from flying aircraft during 

certain times over the weekend 

is open until 20 September. “They 

also want 40,000 more flights and 

more flights early morning and 

late at night,” said a spokesperson 

for campaign group HACAN East. 

In 2016, the airport concentrated 

all its flight paths, which resulted 

in increased noise pollution for 

certain areas, including Wanstead 

and – to a lesser extent – South 

Woodford. Call 020 3858 9911 or 

visit swvg.co.uk/lca 

DRIVING LESSONS 

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A friendly, female, driving instructor (ex-police officer). 

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Email: Gtwaterhouse@gmail.com 

Woody’s School of Motoring 

Woodys_Sch_Motoring 

Office block plans for 

nursery site dropped 

The planning application for 

a nine-storey office block 

development at 10–12 Eastwood 

Close in South Woodford – the 

site of Incey Winceys Day Nursery 

– has been withdrawn following 

strong opposition from local 

residents. “Around 300 objections 

were submitted in a matter of 

days. I understand it was clear 

to the developers they had no 

realistic chance of success if the 

application went to the planning 

committee… I believe this sets 

important precedents for the 

Station Estate and surrounding 

area. It shows developers they 

cannot just put forward badly 

thought out plans… It also 

demonstrates, beyond any 

doubt, the strong views of local 

people and businesses, and 

therefore the importance of prior 

consultation by anyone who has 

major plans for this area,” said 

Councillor Beverley Brewer.

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© Yale Center for British Art, 

Paul Mellon Collection 

© Matt Brown 

First-ever large-scale 

history of Wanstead House 

Wanstead House, by Richard Westall 

The Friends of Wanstead 

Parklands has commissioned 

Dr Hannah Armstrong – 

an expert in 18th-century 

architecture and landscape 

design – to write the first-ever 

large-scale history of Wanstead 

House. “In existence for just 

100 years, Wanstead House 

was regarded as one of the 

most magnificent palaces in 

Europe and the estate originally 

stretched nearly as far as 

Woodford. Tragically, in June 

1822, every item within the house 

was sold at auction, prior to the 

house being demolished,” said 

a group spokesperson. Due 

for publication in 2022 to mark 

the 200th anniversary of the 

‘grand sale’, the book will tell the 

story of the house, its grounds 

and its larger-than-life owners, 

complemented by over 70 

illustrations, some of which will 

be published for the first time. 

Resident leaves £107k to 

National Trust centre 

PCSO Farrance retires after 

a decade of service 

A long-serving local Police 

Community Support Officer 

has retired. “PCSO Graham 

Farrance retired in July after 

serving the local community for 

10 years,” said a spokesperson 

for the South Woodford Safer 

Neighbourhoods Team (SNT). 

PCSO Simon Jones – who 

previously served in the 

Monkhams SNT – has since 

joined the South Woodford SNT, 

which also includes PC Daniel 

Thomas, PC Sarah Burke 

and Sergeant David Lipyeat. 

Call 020 8345 3616 

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National Poetry Day 

Grand Slam and Open Mic night 


community health day 

Participants at last year’s event 

A community health day will 

be held at the South Woodford 

Health Centre (114 High Road) 

on 24 October from 1pm to 

4.30pm, bringing together 

representatives from a range 

of service providers, who will 

conduct demonstrations and 

offer advice on staying healthy. 

“We emphasise the importance 

of looking after your health by 

participating in yoga, tai chi and 

similar activities… by interacting 

with health and care providers 

the need to see a GP or visit 

hospital may be reduced,” said 

organiser Chandra Patel, chair of 

the Patient Participation Group 

at Elmhurst Practice. The annual 

event has been running since 

2016. “Last year, Age UK took part, 

providing valuable information 

for mature people. The Deputy 

Mayor of Redbridge and John 

Cryer MP were also present.” 

Email chandra18@gmail.com 

Recycle and reuse: 

jumble trail in Woodford 

Rainham Hall is a Grade II* 

listed Georgian house 

The Woodford and District 

branch of the National Trust (NT) 

has made a number of donations 

to NT properties following the 

death of former member Gwen 

Clarke, who bequeathed £107,000 

to the group. The beneficiaries 

include Rainham Hall in Havering 

(£15,000), Scotney Castle in Kent 

(£11,000) and Peckover House in 

Cambridgeshire (£10,000). “Gwen 

worked at Whipps Cross Hospital 

and the London Hospital for 

many years as a secretary. She 

moved to Wanstead in 1994 and 

then into Harts House Care Home 

in Woodford… We are so grateful 

she gave us the chance of 

helping so many properties with 

her kindness,” said Clive Boon. 

The centre’s new programme of 

talks begins on 11 September, 

2.30pm at All Saints’ Church 

hall with a presentation on 

Waddesdon Manor (visitors: £3). 

Call 07774 164 407 

Celebrate the 25 th the final collective victory 

as gay people were finally 

anniversary of National recognised, as Poetry Good As You. Day at 

Copies of the book will be 

available for purchase 

and signing. 

our Open Mic night. Why not write a poem using this 

Wanstead Library 

6.30pm-8pm 

year’s theme ‘Truth’ or invent your own www.redbridge-events.eventbrite.com 

idea? Or you can 

Friday 8 February 

come along just to listen or to read your Film Screening favourite and Panel poem. Discussion 


Thursday 3 October, 6.30pm-8.00pm 

Redbridge Libraries 

@RedbridgeLibs 

Thursday 7 February 

Good As You: from pride to prejudice 30 years of gay Britain with Paul Flynn 

Good As You is an important book that celebrates the seismic shift that turned gay men in Britain from enemies to 

friends of the state. It’s a story of how the power of pop culture can place real pressure on the government and the 

media, to make tangible steps towards change. From ‘Smalltown Boy’ to same sex marriage, Paul interviews the figures 

integral to his own personal 

journey and to so many 

young gay men who found 

their voices were finally 

being heard in the 1980s. 

This is the story of public 

outrage and personal loss, 

the (not always legal) highs 

and the desperate lows, and 

FREE, please book with the library on 020 8708 7400 or via Eventbrite 

This special event hosted by Positive East will reflect on 

the progress made in terms of LGBT+ rights and the 

journey made in relation to HIV, along with the journey 

still to be travelled. Positive East will also be screening 

their film “30 years of living with HIV”. 

Redbridge Central Library 

York Room 

6.30pm-8.30pm 

FREE, just turn up 

Free, but please register to read on 020 8708 7400 

Ages 9+ 

If you would like further information about any of these events please contact 

Rhonda Brooks on 020 8708 2409 or email rhonda.brooks@visionrcl.org.uk 

www.redbridge.gov.uk/libraries 

www.redbridge.gov.uk/events 

Tuesday 26 February 

Play Reading Group 

Have you ever wanted to act but not had the time to 

take part in a play? Then come along to this group which 

will read aloud a chosen play, each participant reading 

a variety of characters and there’s no need to prepare in 

advance. The play for this session will have LGBT+ themes. 

South Woodford Library & Gym 

7pm-9.30pm 


RedbridgeLibraries 

LGBT Feb2019 Flyer_4.indd 2 14/12/2018 16:19 

Woodford Creative Hub By Paul will Flynn 

be hosting a jumble trail Published this by Ebury 

September. Open to anyone Press 5 th July 2018 

living in Monkhams, Churchfields 

£9.99 | Paperback 

and Bridge wards, the event will 

Good As You is an important book that celebrates 

the seismic shift that turned gay men in Britain 

see residents set up temporary 

from enemies to friends of the state. It’s a story of 

how the power of pop culture can place real pressure 

on the government and the media, to make 

‘shops’ outside their homes 

tangible steps towards change. 

and invite their neighbours 

From ‘Smalltown Boy’ to same sex marriage, Paul 

interviews the figures integral to his own 

personal journey and to so many young gay men 

browser for a bargain. who “You found their voices can were finally being heard in 

the 1980s. Paul speaks to Holly Johnson about an- 

‘Wonderful book...sensitively 

sell written pre-loved and well researched. clothes, I’m and Davina shoes, 

McCall about the landmark of reality 

TV. He speaks to Gary Hailes about being half of 

honoured to be included’ the first gay couple on EastEnders, and to David 

toys, games, DVDs, books, 

Furnish about being in one of the first publically 

celebrated gay couples in the UK. 

- David Furnish 

furniture, homemade cookies 

But for Paul, Good As You is as much about 

celebrating the unsung heroes out of the limelight. 

or craft,” said event organiser 

Alison, a life-long friend talks about the 

individuals she met and helped undergoing 

treatment for HIV The Lighthouse, while 

Hannah Hole. “We will activist create Rupert Whitaker, a discusses his early 

encounters with an unknown disease, his own 

diagnosis and the impetus behind the Terrence 

map highlighting the Higgins homes 

Trust. 

‘Lively, timely and lovingly 

taking researched: part thoroughly gay, advertise in This the story of Britain’s brothers, cousins and 

via 

sons. Sometimes it is the story of their fathers and 

both the old and the new senses husbands. It is one of public outrage and personal 

flyers and of the on word’ social media, 

loss, the (not always 

for 

legal) highs and the desperate 

lows, and the final collective victory as gay people 

were final recognised, as Good As You. 

locals to - The visit. Sunday Times We are charging 

a small fee to take part (£3) to 

cover the marketing costs and 

any money left over will be 

used for creative projects in 


the community.” The trail will 

take place on 29 September 

from 10am to 2pm. Email 

wcreativehub@gmail.com 

thems, Kylie Minogue about icons, and Will Young


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Storytime with a difference: family drag queen 

performance at local libraries 

The magic of panto and 

storytelling will come to local 

libraries this autumn with a series 

of performances by drag queen 

Mama G. “Created by popular 

panto dame Robert Pearce, 

Mama G tells stories about being 

who you are and loving who 

you want, to children and their 

families, and anyone who’ll listen! 

She has spread her message 

all over the UK at libraries, 

theatres, museums and festivals, 

as well as making appearances 

in America and Canada,” said a 

spokesperson for Petite Pantos. 

The ‘storytime with a difference’ 

will take place in Wanstead 

(2 October, 2pm), Woodford 

Green (4 October, 10.30am) and 

South Woodford (8 October, 

2.30pm) as part of Redbridge’s 

annual Fabula Festival, which 

celebrates the arts and libraries 

and their power to transform 

lives. Suitable for children aged 

three and over, all shows are free 

to attend. “These performances 

will feature published works 

and new writing that will 

make you laugh, think and love.” 

Visit swvg.co.uk/fabula19 

Mama G of Petite Pantos, which produces 

‘pantomimes with a social conscience’, 

championing LGBTQ+ issues, feminism and 

positive representation of race and gender 

It’s a Knockout: businesses 

compete for charity 

Petition for government 

funding for Whipps 

© Cheryl Gabriel 

An It’s a Knockout competition 

organised by Woodford Green 

dental practice Improve Your 

Smile raised £6,800 for Haven 

House Children’s Hospice at the 

end of July. Team Improve Your 

Smile went head-to-head against 

six other businesses – Enigma 

Beauty Salon, Whistle ‘N’ Flute: 

Laundry Lounge, Oven Clean 

Chigwell, Vantage VA, Catalyst 

Design and The Traveller’s 

Friend – each part of the Haven 

House 100 Club, having pledged 

to raise £1,000 each for the 

hospice this year. “The day was 

a great opportunity for all of our 

businesses to get to know each 

other whilst having fun, and 

most importantly raising money 

for our local children’s hospice,” 

said Amanda Green, marketing 

manager at Improve Your Smile. 

The Whistle ‘N’ Flute team won 

the challenge. To donate, visit 

swvg.co.uk/knockout 

Reflections: Woodford Arts Group to stage 

second exhibition at local hotel 

Members of Woodford Arts 

Group will be displaying their 

work at Packfords Hotel this 

autumn in what will be the art 

collective’s second exhibition 

at the Snakes Lane West 

venue. Since their inaugural 

exhibition in the spring – which 

attracted nearly 250 visitors to 

a private viewing – the group 

has welcomed new members, 

whose work will be included 

in the display. On show from 

21 to 27 October, the exhibition 

will have a ‘reflections’ theme. 

“Once again, Packfords have very 

A local health campaign 

group is urging residents to 

sign a petition calling for the 

government to provide funding 

to rebuild Whipps Cross Hospital. 

“Barts Health NHS Trust has the 

go-ahead to develop detailed 

plans for Whipps… But with a 

funding shortfall, the pressure 

will be to lose services we need 

locally and sell too much land 

to the detriment of the size 

and facilities of the hospital… 

Our new hospital needs more 

capacity, not less. Government 

failure to invest in NHS building 

is a real threat to our hospital’s 

success,” said a spokesperson for 

Waltham Forest Save Our NHS. A 

‘Strategic Outline Case’ is due to 

be submitted to NHS England in 

December and the timetable for 

the next stage of the programme 

will be determined following 

the government’s response. 

Visit swvg.co.uk/wxp 

generously agreed to support 

our event, and they will be 

opening a pop-up art cafe for 

the entire week… Our artists will 

be exhibiting a range of media, 

including oils, watercolour, 

sculpture, ceramics, photography 

and ink. All the art on show 

will be new work created 

specifically for this exhibition,” 

said a spokesperson. The art 

group – which was founded in 

2018 and is open to all Woodfordbased 

artists – plans to continue 

holding two events annually. 

Visit woodfordartsgroup.org

SWVG Sleep_Apnoea_182x265_19Aug2019r.qxp 19/08/2019 12:40 pm Page 1 


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River Roding Project: community engagement 

event announced for Woodford 

The Environment Agency has 

announced a day of community 

engagement in Woodford in 

connection with the River Roding 

Project, which aims to improve 

local river defences. “Heavy rain 

has caused the River Roding 

to flood the area eight times in 

the past 100 years: 1926, 1939, 

1947, 1974, 1988, 1993, 2000 and 

2007… Parts of Woodford and 

Ilford are at high risk of flooding,” 

said a spokesperson. The project 

involves the construction of a 

flood storage area to hold back 

high flows upstream in rural 

Essex. Enhancements along the 

Roding Valley are also being 

explored, including riverside 

landscaping and re-naturalising 

the river. “This catchment 

approach will reduce the risk of 

flooding to more than 600 homes 

and businesses in the local area.” 

Residents are invited to find out 

more and give their views at 

Woodford Station, Snakes Lane 

East on 17 October from 12 noon 

to 6pm. A similar event will 

take place on Ilford High Road 

(opposite The Exchange) on 

3 October. Call 03708 506 506 

River Roding flooding at the Charlie Brown’s 

Roundabout in 2000. Photo kindly supplied by 

the Woodford & Wanstead Photographic Society 

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Lottery grant to transform 

Redbridge Museum 

Redbridge Museum is set to 

undergo a major transformation 

following a £99,990 grant from 

the National Lottery Heritage 

Fund. The award will enable the 

museum based in Redbridge 

Central Library to revamp its 

exhibition space dedicated to 

local history. “From Ice Age Ilford 

to suburban Wanstead and 

Woodford… and the cultural 

diversity of today’s communities, 

the new showpiece displays will 

reveal 200,000 years of Redbridge 

history,” said a spokesperson. The 

museum will close in autumn 

2020 and reopen in spring 2021. 

Council takes back control 

of waste collections 

Redbridge Council has ended 

its relationship with waste 

management contractor 

Amey, to deliver the borough’s 

collection services in-house. 

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Dental practice presents 

cheque to stroke charity 

Staff at Improve Your Smile 

presented the Stroke Association 

with a cheque for £1,250 in 

August. The money was raised 

at the Woodford Green dental 

practice’s annual coffee and 

cake morning in May, which 

was supported by TOWIE star 

Chloe Meadows. “Gum disease 

and oral inflammation have 

been identified as risk factors 

for many health diseases, 

including stroke and heart 

disease – another reason to 

look after your teeth and oral 

health!” said Dr Amjad Malik, 

lead clinician at the practice. 

Charlotte Lee, regional fundraiser 

for the Stroke Association, 

thanked the practice: “We are 

dedicated to rebuilding lives 

after stroke, so our thanks go to 

Improve Your Smile for helping 

us to do this and everyone 

who very kindly contributed.” 

Call 020 8504 2704


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IT'S 

C 

MING 

HOME! 

Woodford Town FC 

are set to make an 

emotional return to 

the local area after a 26-year 

hiatus. Council planning for a 

revamped stadium on Ashton 

Playing Fields is pending, with 

the Woods looking to move 

into their new home sometime 

during the 2019/20 season. 

The news has 

delighted and 

rejuvenated 

fans of the 

original club 

– founded in 

1937 – which 

attracted a club 

record crowd 

of over 2,000 

to their former 

Snakes Lane 

ground for an FA 

Cup first round 

tie with Leyton 

Orient in the 

1985/86 season. 

The club has been revived in 

recent years under chairman 

Tony Scott and a determined 

group of local businessmen, 

including current manager Dee 

Safer. Whilst our current crowds 

playing at our temporary Harlow 

Arena ground are a little more 

modest than our 1985 heyday, 

we are a club that embraces our 

history and local community 

despite the obstacles. 

A supporters’ focus group has 

helped design and produce a 

‘third kit’, inspired by former local 

resident Sylvia Pankhurst and her 

involvement in the suffragette 

movement. 

While Woodford has a proud 

history, the current crop of young 

players are making waves in the 

Essex Senior League with a style 

of entertaining football that has 

seen attendances grow rapidly. 

Our raucous supporters are the 

envy of teams much higher up 

the football pyramid. Woodford’s 

faith in youth has also seen 

players move up the football 

ladder after spells with the club. 

Last year, midfielder Riley Scott 

secured a move to Ipswich, while 

Jayden Thompson-Brissett signed 

with Brentford after a string of 

impressive performances for 

Dee Safer’s side. 

People see Woodford Town FC as the perfect antidote to 

corporate and sanitised football higher up the leagues 

Whilst this season has seen 

skipper Jack Grosvenor depart 

on a well-publicised and 

lucrative move to local rivals 

Walthamstow FC, we are pleased 

that the core of last year’s side 

have decided to stay with us. 

This includes ex-Brescia Calcio 

playmaker and captain Andrea 

Mantovani, and ex-Colchester 

United youth player Ellis 

Routledge, who turned down 

As Woodford Town FC prepare to return 

to the local area, assistant manager Neil Day 

explains the club’s strong community ethos and 

introduces a team that counts football legend 

Jimmy Greaves among its former players 

a big-money 

move to the 

States to stay 

with the club. 

We are keen to set up 

a ladies’ team, as well 

as several youth teams, 

as we look to firmly 

establish ourselves in 

the local community. 

The ladies’ team 

would wear the 

fan-designed ‘Deeds 

Not Words’ kit in a 

tribute to local heroine Sylvia 

Pankhurst, a positive gesture to 

a resident who made such an 

impact on social reform with her 

contribution to the suffragette 

movement. 

While support for Woodford 

has steadily grown over the 

last three seasons, there is 

still plenty more to do. Our 

thriving WhatsApp focus group 

is growing daily as people see 

Woodford as the perfect antidote 

to the corporate and sanitised 

football served up higher up the 

leagues. Supporting Woodford 

is very much an experience that 

connects players and fans; the 

singing is literally non-stop, win 

or lose, and recently, a young 

New kit design 

fan was given a 

dream chance 

to come off 

the bench and 

play, even at the 

expense of the team 

claiming a prominent 

pre-season scalp. 

Lloyd Duddridge, a 

local resident, fan and 

committee member 

who has played a 

major part in getting 

the club back where 

he believes we belong, said: 

“The club’s imminent return 

has clearly energised a lot of 

people with an interest in seeing 

senior football return to the local 

area… Long term, it should really 

energise the local community 

as a whole, as they will have a 

grade A sporting facility and an 

inclusive, community-based club 

they can support with pride.” 

The future looks very bright for 

the club and we are looking for 

committee members and match 

day volunteers when we’re back 

in the local area. Or if you just 

simply fancy a loud sing-song in 

a diverse, inclusive environment, 

Woodford could well be the club 

of choice for you. 

For more information on Woodford Town FC, follow the team 

on Twitter @woodfordtownfc


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Natural help 

As the children head back to school, Katie Biggs 

– a local homeopath with a 15-year conventional 

medical background – explains how alternative 

medicine can help anxious pupils 

Homeopathy4Health 

Woodford 

Katie Biggs Dip Hom ACH, RS Hom 

07932 646 306 hompath80.co.uk 

Homeopathyforhealth@gmail.com 

The most recent surveys 

of child and adolescent 

mental health have 

shown that in an average 

school classroom of 30 

youngsters, three will have a 

mental health condition. 

Homeopathy takes great 

care to examine the 

person holistically… 

Over the last decade there has 

been an increase in testing pupils 

due to governmental shifts in 

educational attainment targets. 

Social media has also become 

a part of many teenagers’ 

lives. Both these factors add 

stresses and anxieties, and 

the pressures on our young 

ones are ever increasing. It’s an 

unfortunate truth that the school 

environment can present triggers 

for many such difficulties. 

We know that long waiting 

times and unequal access to 

young people’s mental health 

services are putting lives at risk, 

and emergency services are 

handling more mental health 

cases all the time. So, what is 

available out there that does not 

involve potential side effects or 

dependency forming reliance on 

prescription drugs? 

Homeopathy is the use of highly 

diluted remedies from plant, 

animal and mineral sources to 

gently stimulate our natural 

healing responses. For example, 

aconite is a highly poisonous 

plant, and if consumed in its 

raw, toxic state causes sweating, 

a feeling of imminent death 

or doom, nausea, palpitations 

and difficulty breathing. 

These symptoms will be easily 

recognised by those who have 

experienced a panic attack. 

Homeopathy takes the aconite 

and through crushing and 

succussion (shaking vigorously), 

sometimes up to a hundred 

times, it no longer poses a 

threat, but now holds a natural 

stimulating quality, which when 

taken at the onset of a panic 

attack, switches on the body’s 

natural responses and decreases 

anxiety. 

The leaps made in a child’s 

cognitive and growth rates can 

produce irritation and stress 

on the body’s nervous system. 

Homeopathy can alleviate this in 

a gentle way, allowing the body 

the time it needs to adapt to the 

changes. Homeopathy also takes 

great care to examine the person 

holistically and pick away at their 

qualities, character, history and 

any iatrogenic influence (caused 

by conventional medicines). 

At this time, as a society, we 

have, through research and 

reflection, recognised that we 

have a huge problem with 

mental health decline, especially 

among our children and teens. 

Unfortunately, the government 

has yet failed to produce a robust 

sustainable model of assistance 

and is failing our youngsters. 

Complementary and alternative 

medicines and approaches, such 

as homeopathy, mindfulness, 

cognitive behavioural therapy 

and acupuncture, are a real 

option for parents before 

treading the path to the use of 

conventional antidepressants. 

Katie Biggs is a qualified homeopath with a clinic in Woodford 

Green. Call 07932 646 306 or visit hompath80.co.uk

St Aubyn's School - Savills Essex March 2018 - FPA4.qxp_Layout 1 12/02/2018 10:44 Page 1 


bravely 

fortiter 

faithfully 

fideliter 

happily 

feliciter 

Education x60 

Councillor Clark Vasey (Conservative, Churchfields) 

explains why he campaigned for 60 additional 

school places in Woodford, and why he continues to 

press the council on the issue 

Open Morning 

Saturday, 28 September 2019, 10am until 12 noon 

Headmaster’s introduction at 10.15am 

Full tour of the School 3+ 7+ 11+ 

For further information please contact the Admissions Registrar 

Email: registrar@staubyns.com Tel: 020 8504 1577 

Bunces Lane, Woodford Green, Essex IG8 9DU 

www.staubyns.com 

Offered by Anglican churches in Wanstead, Woodford & Aldersbrook 

Two free drop-ins for all experiencing loss 

Monthly on the first Tuesday 

2.00pm – 3.15pm (note new timing) 

St Mary’s Church, Woodford 

207 Woodford High Road E18 2PA 

Next Dates: September 3 rd , 

October 1 st , November 5 th 

Monthly on the third Tuesday 

10.45am – 12 noon 

Christ Church, Wanstead 

Wanstead Place E11 2SW 

Next Dates: September 17 th , October 15 th , 

November 19 th 

For more information: 

St Mary’s Church: 020 8505 3000 

info@stmaryswoodford.org.uk 

Our aim is to provide: 

A supportive, informal meeting space with a hot drink 

and a friendly welcome for those of all faiths and none 

coming to terms with loss and bereavement. 

An opportunity to meet and share with others going 

through similar experiences. 

Your child starting school 

is a momentous moment 

for any parent. However, 

for parents across Woodford, 

this sense of anticipation was 

replaced with worry as a failure 

by Redbridge Council meant 

Woodford had a shortage of 

school places, while Ilford had 

an excess of up to 200 places. 

I walked the route – at one 

hour and seven minutes, it 

proved our point 

The result of this failure meant 

parents across Woodford saw 

their children dumped in schools 

of more than two miles away. In 

some cases, the distances were 

more than three miles away. 

Two to three hours of walking 

a day would have ruled out 

walking, and the location of the 

school meant public transport 

would, in many cases, take just 

as long and involve almost as 

much walking. The distances 

meant these schools were simply 

inappropriate and would have 

turned family life upside down. 

The priority for Redbridge 

Labour is Ilford and Woodford 

consistently loses out. In 

street cleansing and resources 

generally, Woodford is at the 

bottom of their list, but it is the 

failure to provide enough school 

places which shows Labour’s 

neglect of Woodford at its most 

unfair. 

However, Woodford parents 

did not take this lightly and 

supported by our local MP, 

Iain Duncan Smith and the 

Conservative councillors for 

Churchfields, South Woodford 

and Monkhams wards, they 

exerted maximum pressure 

on the council. To prove the 

distances of the proposed 

schools were not acceptable, 

I walked the route with a 

Churchfields family, and at one 

hour and seven minutes, it 

proved our point. 

From the outset, we called for 

a bulge class, and in a meeting 

with the Head of Education when 

it was clear a single bulge class 

was not going to help all of the 

Woodford families, I called for a 

second bulge class. After months 

of campaigning the council 

finally relented and the solution 

was two bulge classes, one in 

Oakdale and one in Nightingale, 

meaning 60 extra school places 

for the west of the borough. 

This has meant a school closer 

to home for these Woodford 

families. 

The parents affected this year 

now have a school which works 

for their child, but this continues 

to be relevant. If the shortage of 

school places in Woodford is not 

addressed, then a new group of 

families will find themselves in 

this unacceptable position next 

year. The council cannot claim 

not to know this is a problem. 

We have pressed the council 

to review school places in the 

borough. Woodford might not 

be the part of the borough 

which Labour cares about, 

but they must recognise that 

children in Woodford are entitled 

to a local school. We need a 

long-term solution. What we 

need are fair school places for 

Woodford. 

Clark is a Conservative councillor for Churchfields ward. 

Call 07741 194 763 or email clark.vasey@redbridge.gov.uk


Repowering 

SouthWoodford 

Have you noticed the new planters at South Woodford station? 

Attiya Thanvi explains the culmination of the energy garden project 

– which was over a year in the making – and invites others to help it 

grow. Photography by Geoff Wilkinson 

In June 2018, while 

scrolling through 

Instagram, I came across 

#undergroundinbloom, 

introducing me to the NGO 

Repowering London, which 

funds greening projects 

across London stations. I sent 

a recommendation for them 

to run a project at South 

Woodford Station, and then 

forgot all about it. In August 

2018, I received an email saying 

they were interested in coming 

to survey the station and to see 

if we qualified for funding. 

They asked questions about how 

many volunteers we had. This 

prompted me to reach out to 

friends I have met through my 

tutoring business, and to contact 

local mums to see if they wanted 

to get involved. I got a brilliant 

response. We had a couple of site 

visits and design meetings with 

Rhys and Cat from the Energy 

Garden team to assess the 

potential of the site so we could 

design it as well as possible. At 

this stage, I also encouraged my 

children and other young people 

to come along and get stuck in 

with a local community project. 

I knew my daughters and their 

friends were keen to work in the 

local area following their support 

of the local homeless community 

after last year’s adverse weather 

conditions. The children put their 

all into the project, contacting 

their school’s sustainability 

officer for support and ideas 

as well. 

With everyone’s input, it was 

decided we wanted something 

that would help the environment 

and would also be easy to 

maintain. We chose some herbs 

that people are able to pick for 

their own personal use, which 

also added a nice aroma to the 

platform. The design of the 

garden and choice of plants was 

finalised by Christmas following 

Another idea is to create and maintain a small book 

exchange on the westbound platform 

our design meetings, and then 

the wait for permissions began! 

My daughters continued to keep 

the community interested by 

setting up and maintaining a 

Facebook page and Instagram 

account. 

We were hoping we would 

be able to start planting by 

February, which would have 

been the ideal time to plant 

before spring, but things are 

more complicated than they 

seem. We were informed that 

since South Woodford Station 

is an Underground station 

which is actually above ground, 

they needed a whole new set 

of permissions from TfL in order 

to start the project. Rhys and 

Cat remained in touch while we 

waited patiently. 

After a couple of cancelled 

dates, the day finally arrived in 

mid-July. We were all ready for 

the installation of the garden 

on what happened to be one of 

the hottest days of this summer. 

Despite this, all our volunteers 

arrived on time, including four 

from Good Gym Redbridge. 

We started by building planters 

and lining them, lending good 

practical experience for our 

younger volunteers. We were all 

so excited and enthusiastic as we 

filled them with soil and plants 

that we finished well ahead of 

schedule. 

While the first stage of planting 

is complete, in the second stage 

we hope to get help with a 

drip irrigation system and to 

create a living wall on an empty 

advertisement board. Another 

idea is to create and maintain 

a small book exchange on the 

westbound platform. 

I have been going over regularly 

with my family to water the 

plants. We are really looking 

forward to maintaining and 

adding to the garden and to see 

all the plants bloom. I would like 

to take this opportunity to thank 

all the volunteers – we couldn’t 

have done it without you! 

For more information on the energy garden or to get involved, visit 

swvg.co.uk/egarden or email marvelmentors@gmail.com


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domestic violence 

Councillor Rosa Gomez (Labour, Churchfields) spoke 

from personal experience when she presented 

a council motion on domestic violence over the 

summer. Here, she discusses the work ahead 

A Small School 

That Feels Like a Big Family 

A private education may be more affordable than you think 

PARK SCHOOL FOR GIRLS 

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL 

RECEPTION THROUGH TO YEAR 11 

• 100% passed 5 or more GCSEs at Grade 9-4 (2018) 

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• A multi-cultural community producing tolerant, outward looking, 

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• Small classes and a high teacher-pupil ratio 

• Excellent value for money, monthly 

payment available 

Since 2015, levels of 

domestic abuse have 

been slowly increasing, 

meaning it is essential that 

action is quickly taken to 

bring it to an end. On average, 

two women a week and 30 

men a year die as a result 

of domestic violence. It is 

estimated to cost the UK £23 

billion annually, including 

costs to the criminal justice 

system, the health service, 

social care and housing. 

Of course, this ignores the 

personal costs, which cannot 

be quantified in pounds 

and pence. 

Domestic abuse has a personal 

meaning for me; as a result, it 

is imperative to my work as a 

councillor that Redbridge does 

all it can to condemn abusive 

behaviours and to support those 

who find themselves victim to 

domestic violence. It is a great 

personal achievement to have 

recently presented a motion on 

domestic violence before the 

council and even more pleasing 

that my council colleagues 

agreed unanimously to pass 

it. The motion calls for zero 

tolerance of domestic violence 

across Redbridge. As a result, 

the council will be reviewing 

its policies and practices to 

ensure there are no places 

where forms of domestic abuse 

may have become normalised. 

We have committed to making 

sure there are sufficient 

resources to support women, 

men, those with disabilities 

and members of the LGBTQ 

community seeking to escape 

abusive relationships. 

Personal experience means I 

know why it is vital those living 

with domestic violence find help 

at the point they ask for it. For 

this reason, I agree fully with my 

Redbridge Council colleagues 

in calling on the government 

to implement a domestic 

abusers register to keep track 

of those perpetrating this 

violence, thus protecting further 

possible victims, and to properly 

fund services supporting 

survivors. 

Redbridge Chief Executive Andy 

Donald wrote to the Home Office 

regarding the motion. It is good 

to know from their response 

there is work going on nationally 

to support and protect victims. 

However, this stops short of 

introducing a register. 

In Redbridge, we are lucky to 

have great support services and 

wonderful residents who want 

to support those in need. If you 

know someone suffering from 

domestic abuse, Refuge provide 

specialist support services to 

local residents. They can provide 

free, confidential advice. 

If you would like to help those 

escaping domestic violence, 

please consider joining Women 

In Need (WIN) on Facebook. 

They work alongside the charity 

Hestia, regularly appealing 

for donations to help women 

and children fleeing domestic 

violence. I know from experience 

that the support of friends 

made it much easier to move 

away from an unhealthy 

relationship and to build 

something better. 

Rosa is a Labour councillor for Churchfields ward – call 

07799 057 030 or email rosa.gomez@redbridge.gov.uk. To 

contact Refuge, visit swvg.co.uk/refuge or call 0800 169 7759 

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HOme… & Away 

Most parents living apart will have arrangements 

for child access. But what happens when one wants 

to move abroad with the child? Jonathan Diamond, a 

partner at solicitors Wiseman Lee, reports 

If and when this situation 

arises, it is important to 

understand your legal rights 

and what options you have 

to object if you do not feel 

comfortable with the proposed 

move. 

Be aware that the court 

may wish to hear from 

your child in person 

The first thing to know is that it 

is illegal to take a child abroad 

without the express permission 

of the other parent who has joint 

parental responsibility. Doing so 

is considered to be ‘abduction’, 

which is a serious crime. 

Equally, if your child has been 

made subject to a Children 

Act Order – for example, a 

family court judge has ruled 

that your child should live 

with their mother every other 

weekend – it is necessary to 

first obtain permission from 

the courts to change this 

arrangement. 

This means that if you have joint 

parental responsibility for your 

child or a Children Act Order is in 

place, your case will have more 

weight if you decide to object to 

your child moving abroad. 

If the matter goes to court, a 

judge may rule in your favour, 

which means you can prevent 

the move from going ahead. If 

the court decides to allow your 

child to move abroad with your 

ex-partner, the judge may lay 

down terms of how your child’s 

care arrangements should be 

split. For example, a judge may 

state the child should be allowed 

to return to spend the summer 

or Christmas holidays with you. 

This court order is known as a 

‘relocation order’ or ‘leave to 

remove’. 

Before issuing court proceedings, 

it is worth speaking to a solicitor 

who is an expert in family and 

childcare matters. They may 

be able to offer one-on-one 

mediation sessions with your 

former partner, which can 

sometimes be cheaper and less 

stressful than asking the courts 

to rule on the matter. 

If you cannot reach a mutual 

agreement, your solicitor may 

advise taking your case to court, 

providing you have a strong 

argument to object. For example, 

your child may have a close 

network of friends and family 

here in the UK and moving them 

would severely disrupt their 

upbringing and cause them great 

emotional distress. 

Be aware that the court may wish 

to hear from your child in person, 

which could also be a traumatic 

experience for all concerned. 

The country your ex-partner 

intends to move to can also 

be important to your legal 

argument. For example, it might 

be argued that an EU country – 

which has signed up to recognise 

European family law treaties 

– is a safer destination than one 

outside of the EU. This is because 

an EU court will recognise a UK 

court order and help enforce it. 

However, this may change once 

the UK leaves the EU. Exactly how 

is yet to be seen. 

Wiseman Lee is located at 9–13 Cambridge Park, Wanstead, E11 2PU. 

For more information, call 020 8215 1000 

Print SW - Wiseman Lee Ad - May.indd 1 15/04/2019 13:29


DD’s 37 th Woodford Diary 

Some South Woodford scribbles from DD, our 

resident diarist, commentator and observer 

of all things local 

A 

lot of life goes on in 

South Woodford before 

many of us have even 

reached for a toothbrush. The 

early commuters stride down 

(or up) George Lane in the 

hope of a seat on the train to 

the city. Others in more relaxed 

mode have already found a 

seat in one of the local cafés 

that open their hospitable 

doors by seven o’clock, if not 

before. Perhaps just for a 

coffee, perhaps a pastry or a 

sandwich or even a full 

English. 

© Evelyn Rowland 

evelynrowland.co.uk 

Someone who starts his 

day like this is Parvez. 

Sometimes, he may be round 

the corner at Posh Nosh, 

being served by Lily. (I see 

they include hash browns and 

black pudding in their special 

breakfast.) Sometimes, it can 

be the Soul Stop Café where 

Cansu (pronounced Jansu) will 

be on hand with a greeting. Or 

maybe Lauren, with her ready 

smile; she’s in early at Greggs, 

a bit further up. Whichever he 

chooses, he feels it’s “a nice 

sociable start to the day.” He 

was born in India, but has been 

serving our community for 

at least 25 years in a business 

established in South Woodford 

by his father-in-law, who was 

born in Kenya. Both families had 

come to England “in search of 

a better life”. And they found it. 

The business celebrated its 50th 

anniversary in May. If you pass 

by and blink you may miss it. 

Almost certainly many of those 

commuters do miss it, tucked 

in between Clarks Taxis and the 

Precious Metals gift shop just 

outside the station. It is called 

Nu Fit U. 

They all appear 

to be friends of long 

standing… 

I was warmly welcomed when 

I turned up with my notebook. 

An hour and a half went by with 

never a dull moment. Parvez is 

the son of a tailor and learnt his 

business at Burberry’s factory 

in Hackney in the sixties and 

later had his own factories 

on Commercial Road and in 

Shoreditch, the centre of the 

Rag Trade. A Sikh in the heart 

of the Jewish community. “We 

were like one big family.” There 

was no need for me to prompt: 

the story continued. “I made a 

lot of money. And lost a lot of 

money too,” he admitted, but 

smiled broadly when I dared to 

ask if “wine, women and song” 

had featured. “Several fast cars, 

certainly,” he said. Parvez smiles 

a lot. It’s his default expression. 

His eyes definitely twinkle. “As 

long as my heart is good, I’m 

happy,” he said, while drawing a 

chalk line on the hem of a dress, 

which needed to be ready, a few 

inches shorter, within a couple 

of hours. I sensed he wasn’t just 

referring to a strong heartbeat; 

his good-heartedness extends to 

his customers. They all appear to 

be friends of long-standing, even 

if it’s only their second visit. 

A very tall man walked in. 

(Six-foot-eight, he told us). 

“Parvez, you must make me look 

wonderful for my wedding.” 

Out of its protective cover, he 

produced a fabulous deep royal 

blue suit, trimmed with black. On 

with the jacket, in with the pins. 

“We can give you a slimmer look.” 

Off with his jeans (I had stepped 

outside for a moment) and on 

with the Big Day trousers and the 

special wedding shoes to get the 

length exactly right. Faisal had 

arrived by now, one of Parvez’s 

three sons. While the wedding 

finery was occupying Dad, Faisal 

was dealing with the stream of 

clients unable to step inside (no 

room!) but happy to call out their 

requests from the pavement and 

pass in their garments. “Seven 

inches off this skirt, please. I’ve 

marked the length I want with 

a large paper clip.” Some clients 

are collecting their items: “Mine’s 

the toffee-coloured lineny top.” 

“A cream dress with floral design.” 

“Light blue summer cut-offs.” 

Faisal wields the long-handled 

hook to lift them down from 

the crammed hanging rails. The 

shop doubles as the workroom 

and feels rather like a nest. 

Occasionally, they cull a few suits, 

dresses and jackets if they have 

hung there for more than a year. 

They go to one of the charity 

shops. 

Multiple languages are spoken: 

Chinese, Punjabi, good old 

London English. The Nu Fit U 

clients keep coming back, even 

after they’ve moved away: 

Braintree, Clacton, Norfolk. “We 

get quite a number of the West 

Ham football team. They want to 

look smart on the pitch.” Later, I 

spoke to a friend of mine about 

this, Alan Bolding, the team 

chaplain. “Oh yes. They bring 

their strip along to Parvez to be 

adjusted. They don’t like flappy 

sleeves. He’s the real thing: a 

very experienced tailor.” Jack, 

up the road at the Samsung 

shop, added his comments: 

“Parvez? He’s a great guy.” This 

was manifestly obvious to me. 

He takes pride – and pleasure 

– in what he does because it 

involves meeting – and serving 

– people all day long. He loves 

to chat as he machines or trims 

or measures. (Or sometimes, just 

chats.) “Look at these jeans I’m 

working on. They’re poor quality 

really. When I started in the trade, 

we got our fabrics from the great 

Yorkshire mills, Huddersfield, 

Bradford, Leeds. Stuff to last a 

lifetime. Now, it’s all made in 

China, India, Pakistan. It’s still 

expensive but it doesn’t wear 

well. ‘But I paid a thousand for 

it’, a customer will say, looking at 

the frayed seams.” 

How Parvez gets through the 

mountain of assignments that 

pour in is a mystery. I guess it’s 

by working hard (and happily) all 

the hours of the day. Even in the 

winter months, it must feel pretty 

warm in this miniature hive of 

industry. In the summer, the door 

is usually wide open. Why not say 

hello next time you pass by?

September / October 2019 21


Kelvin knew his family 

came from Scotland but 

not much more. When he 

told me his father’s name was 

Mensley Bathie, I was intrigued 

by the unusual first name. 

Bathie proved a relatively 

easy name to trace through 

the public records. I found 

an agricultural background 

and, as one relative was 

an auctioneer in farmland, 

animals and equipment, Bathie 

featured in newspaper articles 

and adverts. 

The Bathie name moved to 

Newcastle-Upon-Tyne in the 

1870s, where the occupations 

became industrial: engine fitter, 

electro-plater, cycle polisher. The 

family lived in Newcastle where 

Mensley was born in 1927. Kelvin 

was born in Cardiff, so the Bathie 

family went from Scotland to 

England to Wales. 

As I was exploring the Newcastle 

records, the Mensley name 

popped up. Kelvin’s great 

grandfather, William Turnbull 

Bathie, had married Violetta 

Selina Mensley in 1898. I took a 

diversion along the Mensley line 

and found that Violetta had been 

one of seven daughters who 

all married, and so the Mensley 

name died out with them, 

explaining why the name was 

given to Kelvin’s father in 1927; to 

keep it alive. 

Luckily, someone else had done 

work on the Mensley line on the 

Ancestry website and this was 

where things took a surprising 

turn. Violetta’s mother was Sarah 

Sayers, who had been only 

15 when she married George 

Mensley. Sarah’s father was Tom 

Sayers, a famous bare-knuckle 

prize fighter, who became the 

world’s first heavyweight boxing 

champion in 1860. If you have an 

image in your mind of a bareknuckle 

fighter, the chances are 

you are picturing Tom Sayers. 

Tom was an illiterate bricklayer, 

born in Brighton, who lived in 

the slums of London. He had his 

first fight in 1849, aged 22. He 

was 5’ 8” and weighed around 

150 pounds. There were no rules, 

no weight divisions and no time 

limits: two men beating each 

other until one didn’t get up. 

Tom’s final fight in 1860 became 

infamous. It ended in a draw 

– the only fight Tom did not 

win – after a battle lasting over 

When Woodford Green resident 

Kelvin Bathie approached family historian 

Linda Gough, his aim was to find out more 

about his father’s Scottish background, 

but the outcome was something 

quite different and proved 

to be a perfect 

example of the 

fascination of 

family history 

research 

two-and-a-half hours against a 

6’ 2” American called John Camel 

Heenan. The police stormed the 

ring and stopped the fight. They 

shared the purse. According to 

various stories, Charles Dickens, 

William Thackeray and the Prince 

of Wales were in the audience. 

Tom died in 1865 of untreated 

diabetes and alcohol. Some 

100,000 people lined the funeral 

route and the procession 

was accompanied by Tom’s 

bullmastiff dog, Lion, sitting in a 

cart. Tom was buried in Highgate 

Cemetery, where he has a 

magnificent memorial, which 

includes a statue of his dog. His 

daughter Sarah married George 

Tom Sayers’ memorial in 

Highgate Cemetery 

Tom Sayers’ great-greatgreat-grandson 

Kelvin Bathie 

Mensley in 1866 when she was 15 

years old. George was the editor 

of Sporting Life and a good friend 

of Tom Sayers. 

For me, the highpoint of the 

research was asking Kelvin: “Have 

you heard of Tom Sayers, famous 

bare-knuckle fighter?” and when 

he replied yes, I was able to say: 

“Well, he is your great-greatgreat 

grandfather!” 

Reflecting on this later, Kelvin 

said: “I thought I came from a 

beige line of dour, hardworking 

labourers and artisans, so your 

discovery of the notorious prizefighter 

has really given me a new 

perspective on my family history.” 

For more information on Linda’s work as a family historian, email 

lindafamilyhistorian@gmail.com or call 07900 294 681 

Would you like to know more about your family history , but simply don’t have 

the spare time? Let me help you with it. 

I am Linda Gough, family historian, living in Woodford. I would be happy to 

undertake any research, whether a small simple project or a complex one. 

I can: 

Find the story of your family through public records 

Fill in the gaps in your family tree 

Check the accuracy of family stories 

If you would like to know more, call: 07900 294 681 

or email: lindafamilyhistorian@gmail.com 

Linda Gough 

Family Historian 

I will answer your questions, tell you how much the research will cost and how long it will take.


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The Roding Valley is one 

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area’s industrial landscape 

but also retaining some of its 

rural charm. It is a great way to 

explore the borough and for 

those looking for a more rural 

getaway. 

The Nature Conservation Ranger 

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scheduled for 7 September, 

which will be our longest walk 

yet, completing the trilogy of 

Roding Valley guided walks 

we have held throughout the 

year. It will take in the entirety 

of the Roding Valley through 

Redbridge, as we make our way 

to Wanstead Park, starting from 

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Totalling around 7km each way, 

we will be travelling along one of 

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The aim of our walks has been to 

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As a dog owner and keen walker 

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finding nice walking routes in 

and around the Roding Valley 

has been something I have been 

doing for many years, not only to 

keep my dog fit but also myself, 

physically and mentally. 

Francis Castro, senior nature conservation ranger 

for Vision RCL, is keen to champion the Roding 

Valley and invites you to join him for a late 

summer walk through this local hidden gem. 

Valley photo by Anna MacLaughlin 

The Roding Valley is largely 

what we term a country park 

and wild space. This does not 

mean we do not manage it, 

but its management is geared 

towards wildlife and protecting 

the naturalness and wildness 

experience, which is what we 

want visitors to take away with 

them. It is not easy, especially 

with the M11 and A406 roads 

thundering right through it (it 

has taken many years, but I seem 

You may get lucky and spot a juvenile otter that has 

strayed south along the river 

to be immune from the hum of 

the motorway), but somehow 

the Roding Valley and the River 

Roding have persevered from 

what has been, quite recently, 

disastrous disturbance and 

destruction, through the passion 

and action of those who have 

and are managing it, as well 

as committed volunteers and 

residents. 

It will never be the same or have 

the same value for wildlife and 

people as before the motorway 

came through. Some people will 

even remember the area before 

the M11 and A406 and how rural 

the Roding Valley used to be 

and the meanders the river used 

to have. However, this does not 

mean it has no value. Indeed, 

we must do the upmost to 

protect what we have and make 

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sometimes be seen using the 

river as well. The valley is also 

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the paths. On the river, you may 

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habitat quality means that, at the 

moment, we have not recorded 

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The Roding Valley late summer walk will depart from the James 

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The North East 

London Local Group 

of the RSPB will be 

hosting a talk by author 

and conservationist 

Conor Mark Jameson in South 

Woodford this September, who 

will be discussing how his book 

Looking for the Goshawk came 

about. Photo by Chas Moonie 

The goshawk is arguably 

the finest, best adapted, 

most versatile and 

rapacious bird we have; the 

top, alpha predator of our 

landscapes, whether forested 

or not. It can be quite at home 

in the bustling heart of London 

or the leafy suburbs. This was 

once the bird they measured a 

man or a forest’s value by. 

Today, it is oddly absent from the 

cultural memory. I have made it 

something of a personal mission 

to try and change this. 

What does its presence 

or absence tell us 

about us? 

I wrote Looking for the Goshawk 

because I was seeking answers 

to questions, prompted by 

encounters with the bird in 

unexpected places – a junk shop, 

an urban play park. I thought 

I knew this bird but these 

incidents challenged me. My 

mind raced with questions. 

How can the goshawk inhabit 

European city centres when we 

have always told ourselves that 

it is a bird of remotest conifer 

VADI 

forests in the British Isles and 

North America? How can such 

a large, dramatic species be so 

secretive? Why has its population 

growth apparently stalled for 

many years, with little or no 

comment made? Or could there 

be many more out there than we 

think? 

Above all, perhaps, why had no 

one written about this before? 

I became fixated with these 

questions, and the idea the 

goshawk could and should be 

anywhere, at any time, in the 

environment around me. Why 

was I not seeing it? What does 

its presence or absence tell us 

about us? 

I use a real-time, journal format, 

wanting the book to be true 

to events, and to present the 

facts in the order that I discover 

GOSHAWK 

them, each time prompted by 

encounters and discoveries; 

aiming to share my findings with 

the reader as they happen. Wild 

nature and fate hold the map. 

The goshawk is my search 

focus and around it pivot other 

themes: of history, literature, 

wilderness, wildness, repression, 

politics, ownership, freedom, 

how we see, how we know 

what we see, the distorting lens 

of wishful thinking, cultural 

memory, amnesia and religion. 

By the end, the goshawk has 

become, for me, the gods’ hawk, 

LOOKING 

FOR THE 

as I believe the Astor – the bird 

of the stars – may have been for 

others in the distant past, who 

revered its nobility and ferocity, 

and its prowess as a provider of 

food, of life. 

My book is, in the end, a book 

about us. When I give talks about 

it, I feel privileged to have the 

opportunity to share this journey, 

to address the questions above. 

I hope I have done them – and 

above all, this extraordinary bird 

whose life history is so wrapped 

up in our own – the justice they 

deserve. 

Conor’s talk will take place in the Gwinnell Room at St Mary’s 

Church, 207 High Road, South Woodford on 10 September from 

8pm (visitors: £4.50). For more information, call 020 8989 4746, 

email nelondonrspb@yahoo.co.uk or visit swvg.co.uk/rspb 

Looking for the Goshawk is published by Bloomsbury. For more 

information, visit swvg.co.uk/goshawk 

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Politics & Religion 

Never discuss politics or religion in polite 

company, so the saying goes. But, keeping it polite, 

Councillor Stephen Adams (Conservative, Churchfields) 

explains why Jesus is at the centre of his politics 


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I 

became a Christian at the 

age of 21 on a park bench in 

Nottingham. Here’s what I 

came to accept: I am a broken 

and imperfect individual 

who rejected God, deserving 

eternal rejection from him. But 

God in his love sent Jesus to 

be punished instead of me by 

dying on the cross and being 

raised again, proving he’d paid 

the price and presenting me 

blameless before God. Jesus 

went to great lengths to serve 

me, so in my thankfulness I 

should be prepared to do the 

same for others. 

Without a servant mindset, 

I would not be able to fulfil 

my role effectively 

Many say that religion should 

stay out of politics. I find this 

an odd statement, since our 

democracy relies on input and 

representation from all elements 

of our society. For me, it is 

impossible to separate the two. 

Jesus is at the centre of my life, 

which includes my work. It is 

because of this that I can serve 

my residents with dedication 

and integrity. Christ makes me 

look outside of myself, and 

towards others. The importance 

of faith is even recognised in the 

private sector through workplace 

diversity groups. I work for one 

of the Big Four accounting firms 

where I help to lead a Christian 

group of around 500 people. 

Theresa May, in her final 

Prime Minister’s Questions in 

Parliament, gave the advice “to 

be true to yourself”. Statements 

such as these are widely taught 

to young children and are 

commonly held values in our 

society. In my opinion, they 

are the antithesis of Christian 

teaching, causing people to 

look inwardly rather than 

outwardly, putting themselves 

first. The Bible challenges me to 

think of others, even when my 

instincts urge me to look out for 

number one. I fear this mindset 

is declining in our society. 

Figures from the Charities Aid 

Foundation show charitable 

giving in the UK is falling in real 

terms, both nominally and on a 

per capita basis. 

Being a local councillor is 

about serving the residents in 

your ward. I have to balance 

a full-time job in the City with 

resident meetings, committee 

meetings, hundreds of emails, 

litter picking, and more. On top 

of this, I volunteer my time with 

charities like Tearfund, who 

help others in poverty around 

the world. Without a servant 

mindset, I would not be able 

to fulfil my role effectively. 

Remembering that Jesus served 

me, especially when I did not 

merit his favour, helps me serve 

others. This is especially true 

during periods of business and 

mental fatigue. 

We are in an era where people 

complain that many politicians 

are self-serving, a claim I believe 

is exaggerated. Nevertheless, 

society gets the politicians 

they deserve. I hope it can be 

said of me that I have been the 

servant of others. As Jesus said: 

“If anyone would be first, he must 

be last of all and servant of all.” 

(Mark 9:35). 

Stephen is a Conservative councillor for Churchfields ward. 

Call 07741 330 461 or email stephen.adams@redbridge.gov.uk


Princess Slimarella 

In the second of a series of short stories by 

members of South Woodford’s Young Writers Club, 

Princess Slimarella is a tale of magic, dragons and 

frogs, by seven-year-old Sihaam Bhatti 

Once upon a time, there 

stood a beautifully 

constructed castle. King 

Slime the frog lived there with 

his disorganised and untidy 

family, but worst of all was his 

daughter! 

King Slime was so annoyed with 

his daughter that he asked a 

talented witch to turn her into a 

sensible human princess so that 

she would tidy the scruffy castle. 

He promised Princess Slimarella 

that he would buy her a pet 

dragon if she tidied every inch 

of the castle, but she had other 

cheeky ideas! 

“I will go to Fire Island and 

bring back a dragon for myself,” 

Slimarella said confidently, while 

picking up her silver armour 

as shiny as the moon, and 

weapons as tough as diamonds. 

She marched off to the witch’s 

strange tower before the king 

could say anything. Slimarella 

commanded the ugly witch to 

find her best tidying spell and 

use it to scrub, clean and polish 

the castle. The witch knew 

exactly what to do. 

Slimarella checked her watch, it 

was the perfect time to go to Fire 

Island. She could get there before 

the dragons went into the forest 

to feed. But she was wrong, she 

got to the island too late. 

When she entered the island 

there were no dragons left to be 

seen! Suddenly she heard some 

sobbing! It came from behind a 

tree. She went to see who it was. 

She stepped behind the tree and 

there sat a sad, lonely, blue baby 

dragon. 

Slimarella asked her: “What’s 

your name?” “Bluebell,” she 

replied, while holding onto a bell 

hanging on her neck. 

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“That’s a beautiful name,” she said 

softly. “Why are you upset?” 

“I haven’t eaten and have 

nowhere to live, all the other 

dragons can go off to feed but I 

am too small to go by myself.” 

Then Slimarella smiled: “Would 

you like to come home with me?” 

“Yes please!” Bluebell said with 

excitement. 

Back at the castle, the witch had 

cast her best tidying spell and 

the castle had not a speck of dust 

anywhere to be seen. 

Bluebell was thrilled with her 

new home and Slimarella was 

thrilled with her new pet and 

decided to stay as a human. 

They all lived a happy life in the 

spectacular castle. 

For more information on the Young Writers Club, email 

youngwritersclub.southwoodford@gmail.com 

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Principal: Michael Da Silva Pearce 

Centre Manager: Bianca Durand 

Saturday Academy Ages 5 - 17 

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10 TH ANNIVERSARY SHOW 

IN THE BUILDING TRADE FOR 30 YEARS 

Visit www.dsp-performing.org 

for further information and to book a place 

E-mail: admin@dsp-performing.org


Monkey & Me 

Kate Panayi started her working life as an 

actress. Here, the South Woodford resident and 

Monkey Music franchisee explains how her career 

path changed after becoming a parent 

SOUTH WOODFORD, LOUGHTON AND 

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Soon after moving to South 

Woodford in 2007, my 

husband and I became 

parents to two boys, Daniel 

and Jack (who are now much 

older than I remember – 10 

and eight respectively!), and 

I started rethinking my plans 

regarding work. 

I absolutely love my job – 

it is such a joy to be able 

to sing for two hours a day 

I came across Monkey Music, 

which seemed to encompass 

everything I love about the arts. I 

loved all the beautiful songs and 

instruments it exposes children 

to – and I was so impressed that 

the curriculum has been tailored 

to start with gentle sounds for 

babies of only three months 

and then cleverly develops 

alongside little ones through 

their preschool years, finishing 

with teaching four-year-olds 

about the orchestra. And the 

fact it wraps it up in a bundle of 

such fun was the cherry on top! 

My eldest son attended classes, 

but by the time my youngest 

son came along, it had stopped 

running in South Woodford. 

Before I knew what was 

happening, I was interviewing to 

buy the local franchise, and the 

rest, as they say, is history! 

I launched classes in September 

2013, the same week my older son 

started Reception and when my 

youngest had just turned two. 

Suffice to say, the first year was 

the toughest thing I have ever 

done! Learning the hundreds of 

songs in the curricula (Monkey 

Music write their own, original 

content), as well as being 

responsible for the business 

side of things was incredibly 

challenging – especially as I had 

no previous business experience. 

However, things went well and 

after finishing my first year, I took 

on another teacher and started 

to expand. 

Classes now run every morning 

of the week, including two lots 

of classes on Mondays and 

Thursdays, so seven weekly 

morning sessions in total. And 

there are now three of us in the 

teaching team – myself, Jo and 

Carla, which is lovely and we are 

a really close and supportive 

team. I am also very proud of 

the fact that we have nearly 300 

wonderful customers who attend 

our classes each week. 

I absolutely love my job – it is 

such a joy to be able to sing 

for two hours a day, which is 

incredibly uplifting in itself. But 

more than that, the happiness 

which is written all over 

little ones’ faces during class, 

witnessing their progression 

throughout the terms and years 

they spend with us, seeing 

their delight as they hear or 

play an instrument, watching 

their bond with their carer – all 

of those things are so special 

and it is a privilege to be part 

of their lives in this way. Not to 

mention the fact children are 

so wonderfully entertaining 

and charming – they make me 

chuckle every single day – what 

more can you ask for from your 

job than that? 

Kate runs Monkey Music classes in South Woodford, Woodford 

Green, Loughton and Buckhurst Hill. For more information, call 

020 8989 7017 or visit swvg.co.uk/monkeymusic


Natural 

Painter 

I 

grew up by the sea, so 

my childhood revolved 

a great deal around the 

beach, fishing off the pier, 

swimming and surfing, and I 

suppose that’s informed what I 

mostly find myself painting – 

marine life. 

Tim Armitage – who didn’t go to art school 

– finds inspiration for his paintings in the 

natural world. He is one of many local 

creatives to join the recently founded 

Woodford Arts Group 

These days, I work outdoors as 

a Forest School Leader, and this 

has started to inform my art with 

more work involving trees and 

plants, but I would say that in all 

ways my work is concerned with 

the natural world rather than 

the man-made one. I work in 

acrylics but would one day like to 

attempt to master the skill of oils 

– I reckon I’m a way off that yet! 

East End, with its street art and 

creativity, and was amazed to 

find so many links to music, film 

and art when I bought a place 

here. I think it’s a great, arty place 

with lots of different things going 

on in an urban landscape, but 

with green space as well – the 

best of both worlds in a city. 

I’m always trying to get better but happily 

accept that quite often a mistake is what makes a 

piece of art work… 

I didn’t go to art school as it 

wasn’t seen as a viable option 

when I was growing up, and 

maybe I’ve always regretted not 

pushing it more. But what’s done 

is done and I’ll just have to be 

content with my A level. 

I like illustrations from books, 

tattoo designs and the work 

of people like William Morris, 

and I try to inject some of this 

decorative stuff into the things 

I paint. 

I’ve lived in London for 24 

years, with 11 of those in South 

Woodford. I’ve always liked the 

I’m always trying to get better 

but happily accept that quite 

often a mistake is what makes a 

piece of art work, so I try to go 

with any problems I encounter 

as, on the whole, I end up with a 

more interesting piece. 

I’d obviously love to sell at least 

some of the work I do but at the 

same time I try to paint what I 

enjoy – and hopefully someone 

else out there might like it too. 

Recently, I’ve joined both 

Art Group Wanstead and the 

Woodford Arts Group and it’s 

great to see work from and talk 

to other local 

artists. One of the great things 

about living in London is the 

huge amount of galleries and 

street art on our doorstep. 

The street art, in particular, is 

a favourite of mine and to see 

oversized pieces of artwork as 

we travel round the city always 

brings inspiration for my own 

work. 

If the weather’s not so great, 

places like Instagram and 

Pinterest are also great places to 

experience new and interesting 

ideas to try out in my paintings. 

As I’ve previously mentioned, I 

really enjoy the work of tattoo 

artists and also contemporary 

jewellery designers. 

Our area has strong creative 

links in all areas, be it film, music, 

literature or art and amateur 

artists can draw inspiration 

from this. 

View more of Tim’s art at swvg.co.uk/armitage. For information on 

Woodford Arts Group, visit woodfordartsgroup.org


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Autumn is the perfect time to get out and explore, 

says personal trainer Amanda Rushton 

Many of us wish for 

summer holidays 

with warm sun, long 

evenings and a chance to 

get away with the family. 

But what happens after 

the holiday, when we head 

back to work and autumn is 

just around the corner with 

shorter, cooler days and a 

feeling of post-holiday blues? 

How do we ditch that sluggish 

feeling and create balance and 

joy? Autumn is the perfect time 

to reflect on a glorious summer, 

and just like nature where we 

prune the trees and think about 

planting seeds for spring, we 

also need to take stock and 

invest in ourselves, think about 

the future and how we can 

enhance our lives. 

Getting outside is a great way 

to start. Fire up your senses, 

leave the phone at home and 

enjoy the warm autumn sun on 

your face, admire the colourful 

leaves, the rich smells and the 

rustling of leaves beneath your 

feet. Create memories with 

friends, family and loved ones. 

Enjoy the feeling of increasing 

your heart rate and breathing 

during a brisk walk and 

embrace an exercise that only 

the outdoors can offer. Take 

your time to really experience 

the outside world and allow 

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Explore a hobby that ignites a 

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might be dancing around the 

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bathroom. Sometimes, laughter 

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PHOTO STORY 

In the first of a series of articles by members 

of the Woodford and Wanstead Photographic 

Society, Alan Simpson tells the story behind this 

image taken at City Hall 

I 

took this photograph a few 

years ago, before mobile 

phones were as ever-present 

as they are now. Such a scene 

today would possibly not 

warrant a photograph or even 

a second glance. 

A photo club outing to London’s 

higher viewpoints included a visit 

to City Hall (as part of the annual 

Open House London festival). I 

therefore took advantage of the 

only time in the year when the 

public has access to the viewing 

gallery on the ninth floor, 

outside London’s Living Room; 

this is where you often see the 

Mayor holding forth in television 

interviews. 

Looking over the barrier, I caught 

sight of these two men absorbed 

in their phones down below. 

Unaware of each other, and in a 

harsh urban environment, the 

scene of which they were part 

conveyed a sense of isolation. 

By using a short telephoto 

lens, I was able to exclude any 

distractions outside the frame 

and focus attention on the two 

figures and their immediate v 

surroundings. 

Of course, the original 

photograph was in colour, but 

the slate grey landscape, the 

somewhat gloomy lighting, 

and the figures’ dark clothing, 

presented a very limited palette. 

Back home, when editing the 

day’s images, I decided that 

this one would benefit from 

converting to monochrome. 

I wanted to home in on the two 

figures even more, so I cropped 

the image quite dramatically – 

the picture you see here is only 

about one third of the original 

scene. With a little lightening of 

the shadows and a boost to the 

contrast, I produced the final 

image that you see here. 

I hope the photograph conveys 

some of what I was feeling 

when I pressed the shutter on 

that day. 

The Woodford and Wanstead Photographic Society meets weekly 

at Wanstead House (first three meetings are free). For more 

information visit swvg.co.uk/wwps 

v 

Wanstead House 

Community Association 

Your local community centre in Redbridge offering a 

wide range of activities for all 

Adult education 

classes: 

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• British History 

• Art& Music 

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• French 

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• Art 

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Wanstead House Community 

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Wanstead, E11 2NT 

• Creative Writing 

• Drawing & 

Sketching 

• Adult Acting 

Workshops 

Clubs offering: 

• Floristry 

• Fashion 

• Dancing 

• Social Clubs 

• Keep Fit and Yoga 

• Chess and Bridge 

• Life Drawing and 

Portraiture 

• Lighter Life 

Slimming Club 

• Tai Chi 

• Short Mat Bowls 

• Calligraphy 

• Photographic Club 

• Children’s 

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Floating 

IDEAS 

The Environment 

Agency is working with 

Redbridge Council to 

reduce flooding to homes and 

businesses in Woodford and 

surrounding areas from the 

River Roding. The river has a 

long history of flooding, most 

noticeably in 2000, when over 

400 properties flooded in 

Woodford. 

Rising at Molehill 

Green in Essex, the 

River Roding passes 

through the Wanstead 

and Woodford area en 

route to the Thames, 

bringing with it a 

very real flood risk 

to local homes. In 

the fifth of a series of 

articles charting the 

River Roding Project – 

which aims to reduce 

that risk – Andy Naish 

from the Environment 

Agency explains their 

incident response to 

flooding. River photo 

by Anna MacLaughlin 

We are currently working on a 

bid for funding from the Mayor 

of London’s Good Growth Fund 

(a £70 million regeneration 

programme to support growth 

and community development 

in London), with a decision 

due around October time. 

If we are successful, we will 

have extra money to carry out 

environmental enhancements 

along the River Roding corridor. 

This will bring a wealth of 

environmental and social 

benefits to Woodford. 

Our staff ensure the River 

Roding is flowing as 

effectively as possible 

On 17 October from 12 noon to 

6pm, we will be hosting a local 

drop-in event at Woodford 

Station to share proposed 

plans of both embankment 

refurbishments and 

environmental enhancements 

with the local community. We 

want your thoughts and ideas on 

how we can help enhance the 

environment. 

We are a diverse team of people 

at the Environment Agency 

who are all passionate about 

the environment, our rivers 

and helping people at risk of 

flooding. We play a vital role in 

planning for and responding 

to flooding from rivers and the 

sea and we work in partnership 

with local authorities and the 

emergency services to ensure the 

responses are coordinated. We 

have a state-of-the-art incident 

room from where we plan and 

respond to flooding and other 

environmental incidents 365 

days a year. As a category one 

incident responder under the 

Civil Contingencies Act 2004, it’s 

our responsibility to warn and 

inform the public about flooding 

and other incidents. 

Before a flood occurs, we work 

with the Meteorological Office to 

understand forecasts for severe 

weather and interpret where 

flooding could impact local 

communities and infrastructure. 

We issue flood warnings to 

people who live near rivers when 

we expect flooding to occur to 

enable them to stay safe and 

reduce damage to property. 

As you may expect, we were 

involved in protecting people 

and property and warning 

residents during the recent 

flooding at Whaley 

Bridge in the Goyt 

Valley. But locally, 

our site-based staff 

ensure the River 

Roding is flowing as effectively as 

possible. This includes carrying 

out proactive work in Chigwell, 

Loughton and Dagenham 

before the bad weather arrives, 

such as maintaining river 

channels, clearing blockages and 

operating flood defences. The 

majority of the riverbanks should 

be maintained by the riparian 

owner, the landowner adjacent 

to the riverbank. 

During a flood, we deploy staff 

to the areas affected to gather 

information on the impacts 

Environment Agency Incident Room 

and provide advice to help 

people respond and recover. We 

provide a flood warning service 

called Floodline (0345 988 11 88), 

so people can stay up to date 

with the latest reports. We also 

respond to a wide range of other 

major environmental incidents 

such as pollution, waste fires, 

fish kills and waste crime, so 

if you see any environmental 

incidents, please report them 

(0800 80 70 60), and if you own 

land next to a river, please be 

aware of your responsibilities 

(swvg.co.uk/watercourse). 

To find out if your property is a flood risk, visit swvg.co.uk/flood 

To register for flood warnings, visit swvg.co.uk/floodwarn 

For more information on the River Roding Project, visit 

swvg.co.uk/rrp or call 0370 850 6506 

The Environment Agency will be holding a community 

engagement day at Woodford Station, Snakes Lane East on 

17 October from 12 noon to 6pm.



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GIRLS AND BOYS 3-11 

Redbridge Classical Dance Studios 

chool in East London to be awarded a license to teach Silver Swans Adult Ballet classes. 

r 

It’s never too 

Redbridge Classical Dance Studios 

e only school in East London to be awarded a license to teach Silver Swans Adult Ballet classes. 

Redbridge 

late 

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shine! 

The only school 

Avon 

in 

House 

East London 

is a small 

to be 

school 

awarded 

where 

a 

children Avon House School 

r license to teach Silver Swans Adult Ballet classes. 

are nurtured in a caring, happy environment, 490 High Road 

enabling them to realise their full potential. 


Essex IG8 0PN 

To arrange a visit please contact the Registrar. Ballet 

020 8504 1749classes 

r 

It’s never 

registrar@ahsprep.co.uk www.avonhouseschool.co.uk for adults too 


For the full programme visit 

Redbridge 

late 

Redbridge 

Classical 

Classical 

Dance 

to Dance Studios 

Studios www.redbridge.gov.uk/events 

The only school The Redbridge only in school East London in East London to be Classical 

late 

to awarded be awarded a a license Dance 

to shine! 

teach teach Silver Silver Swans Studios 

Swans Adult Ballet Adult classes. Ballet classes. 

The only school in East London to be awarded a license Ballet r 

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teach Silver Swans Adult Ballet Ballet classes. classes 

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late to shine! 

Ballet classes 

Ballet for adults classes 

for adults 

Don’t miss all the 

activities taking place 

in Redbridge Libraries 

this October! 

London Borough of 

Black History Month is a national celebration 

which aims to promote Black contributions to 

British Society and to foster an understanding of 

Black history in general. 

Photo:DavidTett 

Silver Swans® classes 

Classes held in Wanstead and Snaresbrook. 

Inspiring 

have been 

Inspiring Friendly Friendly 

specifically 

Uplifting 

designed for the over-55s, 

but whatever your age, if you are looking Uplifting for a new way to keep fit and 

Silver Swans® classes have been specifically designed for the over-55s, but whatever your age, if 

active our ballet classes will put a spring in your step. Whether you’ve 

lver you Swans® are looking classes have been specifically Inspiring designed Friendly for Uplifting the over-55s, but whatever your age, if 

never 

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a new way 

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are Whether looking Silver for you’ve a Swans® new way classes to have keep been fit specifically and active designed our ballet for the over-55s, classes but will whatever put a spring your age, in if 

have something never danced for everyone. before or The want RAD to get developed back into this the programme swing of it, based classes your have step. 

are looking for a new way to keep fit and active our ballet classes will put a spring in your step. 

hether something you’ve never for danced before or want to get back into the swing of it, our classes have 

Whether on everyone. research you’ve never into The 

danced dance RAD developed 

before practice or want for this 

to older programme 

get back learners based 

into the – swing classes on 

of it, are research 

our classes only into dance 

have 

something practice for www.redbridge.gov.uk/events 

something everyone. for older for learners everyone. The taught RAD – The classes developed by RAD Silver developed are Swans only this this taught programme licensed by teachers. Silver based based Swans on research on licensed research into dance teachers. into dance 

practice for older practice learners for older – learners classes – classes are only are only taught by Silver Swans licensed licensed teachers. 

www.rcds-online.com 020 8488 3066 teachers. 

www.rcds-online.com 020 8488 3066 




Photo: David Tett 




Classes Inspiring held in Wanstead Friendly and Snaresbrook. 

Uplifting 

ns® classes have been specifically designed for the over-55s, but whatever your age, if 

king for a new way to keep fit and active our ballet classes will put a spring in your step. 

you’ve never danced before or want to get back into the swing of it, our classes have 

ing for everyone. The RAD developed this programme based on research into dance 

tice for older learners 

www.rcds-online.com 

– classes are only taught 

020 8488 

by Silver 

3066 

Swans licensed teachers. 

www.rcds-online.com Classes 

Classes 

held 

held Wanstead 

Wanstead 

and 

and 020 Snaresbrook. 

Snaresbrook. 8488 3066 



www.visionrcl.org.uk/events 

London Borough of

Community events 

WANSTEAD AND WOODFORD 

WEA CENTENARY FILM CLUB 

A screening of Green Book (2018). 

Date: Monday 2 September Time: 12.30pm 

Venue: Odeon, High Road, South Woodford 

Cost: 20p plus the cinema’s usual charges 

Enquiries: wea.filmclub@gmail.com 

SEP 

2 

RODING VALLEY PARK 

ACTION DAY 

Help maintain pathways and improve the 

area around the tip by removing litter. 

Date: Tuesday 3 September Time: 10am–1pm 

Venue: wooden archway entry, Chigwell Road 

Cost: free Enquiries: 020 8559 2316 

SEP 

3 

WANSTEAD & WOODFORD 

BEREAVEMENT CAFÉ 

Repeated on 1 October. 

Date: Tuesday 3 September Time: 2–3.15pm 

Venue: St Mary’s Church, South Woodford 


SEP 

3 

POLICE CONTACT POINT: 

CHURCHFIELDS TEAM 

Date: Wednesday 4 September Time: 1pm 

Venue: South Woodford Library, E18 2QS 

Enquiries: 020 8345 3616 

SEP 

4 

TEA DANCE WITH 

DJ MR WONDERFUL 


Date: Wednesday 4 September Time: 1.30–4pm 

Venue: Sir James Hawkey Hall, IG8 0BG 

Cost: £5 Enquiries: 020 8708 3044 

SEP 

4 

HEALTH INFORMATION 

DROP-INS 

Date: Wednesday 4 September Time: 3–5pm 



SEP 

4 

SOUTH WOODFORD WARD 

COUNCILLOR SURGERY 

Drop-in session with the ward’s Labour 

councillor. Repeated on 2 October. 

Date: Wednesday 4 September Time: 6–7pm 

Venue: The Salvation Army, 26 Daisy Road 

Enquiries: beverley.brewer@redbridge.gov.uk 

SEP 

4 

RODING VALLEY 

LATE SUMMER WALK 

Booking required. 

Date: Saturday 7 September Time: 9am–2pm 

Venue: meet in Ray Park, Woodford Green 


SEP 

7 

WOODFORD BOWLING CLUB 

ANNUAL FINALS WEEKEND 

Residents are invited to watch the matches 

and find out more about local bowling. 

Date: Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 September 

Time: 10am–5pm 

Venue: Woodford Bowling Club, IG8 0JA 

Cost: free entry Enquiries: 020 8504 2616 

SEP 

7 

POLICE STREET BRIEFING: 

SOUTH WOODFORD TEAM 

Date: Saturday 7 September Time: 4pm 

Venue: Woodville Road, South Woodford 

Enquiries: 020 8345 3616 

SEP 

7 

TEA AND TALK 

AT TOBY’S 

A life-limiting illness support group. 

Date: Monday 9 September Time: 10am–12pm 

Venue: Toby Carvery, Southend Road, IG8 8LG 


SEP 

9 

MARGARET ATWOOD: 

LIVE IN CINEMAS 

An evening with the Canadian novelist, poet, 

literary critic and inventor. 

Date: Tuesday 10 September Time: 7.30pm 


Cost: £18.25 Enquiries: swvg.co.uk/eventcinema 

SEP 

10 

RSPB TALK: LOOKING 

FOR THE GOSHAWK 

A talk for the North East London Local 

Group of the RSPB by Conor Jameson. 

Visitors welcome. 

Date: Tuesday 10 September Time: 8pm 


Cost: £4.50 Enquiries: 020 8989 4746 

SEP 

10 

DISCOVERING 

WADDESDON MANOR 

A talk for the Woodford and District branch 

of the National Trust by Godfrey Thorpe. 


Date: Wednesday 11 September Time: 2.30pm 

Venue: All Saints’ Church hall, Woodford Green 


SEP 

11 



Date: Thursday 12 September Time: 10am 

Venue: Orchard Estate Housing Office, IG8 0AG 

Enquiries: 020 8345 3616 

SEP 

12 



Date: Thursday 12 September Time: 11am 

Venue: Onslow Gardens, South Woodford 

Enquiries: 020 8345 3616 

SEP 

12 

FICTION READING GROUP 

(EVENING) 


Date: Thursday 12 September Time: 6.30–7.30pm 

Venue: Woodford Green Library, IG8 0DX 


SEP 

12 

REDBRIDGE DRAMA CENTRE: 

THE BORDER 

High energy, outrageous Brechtian parable 

from Theatre Centre that explores the 

absurdities of borders. 

Date: Thursday 12 September Time: 8pm 

Venue: Redbridge Drama Centre, E18 2RB 


SEP 

12 


BUSHCRAFT 

IN WANSTEAD PARK 

Bushcraft and survival techniques are a 

useful life skill and include activities such as 

making shelters, tracking and foraging for 

food and water. Suitable for children aged 

10 and over. A Field Studies Council event. 


Date: Saturday 14 September Time: 10am & 1pm 

Venue: meet at the Temple, Wanstead Park 

Cost: £5 (adults: free) Enquiries: swvg.co.uk/bush 

SEP 

SEP 

14 

14 

EAST LONDON 

ME SUPPORT GROUP 

Date: Saturday 14 September Time: 2.30–5pm 

Venue: Wanstead House, 21 The Green, E11 2NT 

Cost: by donation Enquiries: 07957 152 566 

SOUL PARTY: 

EVENING DANCE 

Featuring 60s soul band The Capones and 

Dugout Soul Club DJs. In aid of the Woodford 

Memorial Hall restoration fund. 

Date: Saturday 14 September Time: 7–11pm 

Venue: Woodford Memorial Hall, E18 2PA 


SEP 

14 

THE ANNUAL EPPING 

FOREST CENTENARY WALK 

Walk the entire length of Epping Forest or 

take part in a local section of the event. 

Date: Sunday 15 September Time: 9am–5pm 


SEP 

15 

SOUTH WOODFORD 

FARMERS’ MARKET 



Venue: George Lane, South Woodford 

Enquiries: essexfarmersmarkets.co.uk 

SEP 

15 

WOODFORD GREEN 

SPEAKERS 

The Woodford Green Speakers will be 

holding a mini-toastmaster session as part 

of the Wanstead Festival. Learn how to speak 

confidently in public. 


Venue: Christchurch Green, Wanstead 

Cost: free Enquiries: wgs.toastmastersclubs.org 

SEP 

SEP 

15 

15 

What's happening, what's 

on and where... 

Are you organising an 

event? Let us know: 

email info@swvg.co.uk 

Please note: all events may be subject to change 

and whilst every effort is made to ensure the 

accuracy of the information provided, you are 

advised to check with the organisers in advance to 

avoid disappointment and to confirm event details. 

FINN’S THE HAIR PLACE 20TH 

ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION 

Celebrating 20 years of business in South 

Woodford with food and drinks. 

Date: Sunday 15 September Time: 12–5pm 

Venue: Finn’s, 85 George Lane, South Woodford 

Cost: free entry Enquiries: 020 8989 9976


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FLOWER ARRANGING: 

IMAGINE 

Lee Berrell presents to the Woodford and 

District Floral Arrangement Group. 


Venue: Wanstead Library, Spratt Hall Road 


16 

THE HISTORY OF 

SAINSBURY’S 

A Woodford Historical Society presentation by 

Allison Foster from the Museum of London. 


Venue: Trinity High School, Woodford Green 

Cost: £3 Enquiries: woodfordhistoricalsociety.org 

16 



Date: Tuesday 17 September Time: 12pm 

Venue: Belgique, 253 High Road, IG8 9FB 

Enquiries: 020 8345 3616 

17 

CHURCHFIELDS WARD 


Drop-in session with the ward’s Labour 

councillor. Repeated on 15 October. 

Date: Tuesday 17 September Time: 12–1pm 


Enquiries: rosa.gomez@redbridge.gov.uk 

17 




Venue: Waitrose, 92–96 High Road, E18 2NA 

Enquiries: 020 8345 3616 

19 

FICTION READING GROUP 

(AFTERNOON) 


Date: Thursday 19 September Time: 2–3pm 



BRING YOUR OWN 

BABY COMEDY 

A baby-friendly comedy club for adults. 


Date: Friday 20 September Time: 12pm 



20 

LUNCHTIME 

PIANO RECITAL 

With virtuoso pianist David Silkoff. 

Date: Friday 20 September Time: 1pm 



20 

SOUTH WOODFORD WARD 


Street surgery with Conservative councillors. 


Date: Saturday 21 September Time: 10.30–11.30am 

Venue: outside M&S, 121 George Lane 

Enquiries: michael.duffell@redbridge.gov.uk 

21 


OPEN DAY 

Date: Saturday 21 September Time: 11am–3pm 



21 

BANCROFT’S SCHOOL: 

OPEN HOUSE 

Offering access to the quadrangle, the chapel 

and the tower. 

Date: Saturday 21 September Time: 12.30–2.30pm 

Venue: Bancroft’s School, 611–627 High Road 

Cost: free Enquiries: swvg.co.uk/oh19 

SUKKAT SHALOM REFORM 

SYNAGOGUE: OPEN HOUSE 

Originally the Merchant Seaman’s Orphan 

Asylum, bought by the synagogue in 1995 and 

restored with a Lottery Fund grant. 


Venue: 1 Victory Road, Wanstead, E11 1UL 


22 

OPEN HOUSE LONDON: 

HOLLOW PONDS WALK 

A guided walk from Leytonstone Station 

linking local heritage buildings, Alfred 

Hitchcock and Epping Forest’s Hollow Ponds. 


Venue: meet at Leytonstone Tube Station 

Cost: free Enquiries: swvg.co.uk/hollowpndwalk 

22 

WOODFORD COUNTY HIGH 

SCHOOL: OPEN HOUSE 

Formerly Highams Manor, an elegant 

Georgian manor house built for the Warner 

family with grounds by Repton. Regular tours 

every 15 mins. 

Date: Sunday 22 September Time: 1–5pm 

Venue: High Road, Woodford Green, IG8 9LA 


22 

Forest School encourages outstanding academic progress and personal development, 

offering single-sex teaching in a co-educational environment for girls and boys aged 

4-18yrs. Forest is a city school on the edge of North London with 30 acres of grounds. 

Forest - Where People Grow 

Open Day 

Saturday, 21 September 2019 

8.30am - 1.00pm 

www.forest.org.uk | admissions@forest.org.uk 

0208 520 1744 | E17 3PY

SEP 

SEP 27 

SEP 

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24 

SEP 

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AN INTRODUCTION 

TO HUMANISM 

An annual East London Humanists event 

about leading a happy, meaningful and 

ethical life without any religious beliefs. 


Date: Monday 23 September Time: 7.30–9pm 


Cost: free Enquiries: swvg.co.uk/elh 

23 

CHURCHFIELDS WARD 


Drop-in session with the ward’s Conservative 

councillors. Repeated on 22 October. 

Date: Tuesday 24 September Time: 6–8pm 


Enquiries: clark.vasey@redbridge.gov.uk 


THE SCARECROWS’ WEDDING 

An award-winning adaptation of Julia 

Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s bestselling 

book by Scamp Theatre. Suitable for all ages. 

Date: Wednesday 25 September Time: 1.30pm 



25 

THE WORK OF ELHAP (EVERY 

LIFE HAS A PURPOSE) 

A talk by Judy Anderson from local charity 

ELHAP for the Grove Townswomen’s Guild. 



Venue: South Woodford Scout Hut, E18 2QS 


26 

ROTARY CLUB 

MEMORY CAFE 

A Leytonstone and Woodford Rotary Club 

event. Repeated on 25 October. 

Date: Friday 27 September Time: 10am–12pm 

Venue: Chigwell Convent, IG8 8AX 




Date: Saturday 28 September Time: 10am 

Venue: Churchill statue, High Road, Woodford 

Enquiries: 020 8345 3616 

28 



Date: Saturday 28 September Time: 11am 

Venue: outside M&S, 121 George Lane 

Enquiries: 020 8345 3616 

28 

EXPRESSIONS 

OF LOVE 

The music of Clara and Robert Schumann. 

Featuring St Mary’s Chamber Music Ensemble. 

Date: Saturday 28 September Time: 7.30pm 



28 

WOODFORD CREATIVE HUB 

JUMBLE TRAIL 

For anyone living in Monkhams, Bridge or 

Churchfields wards. 


Venue: Monkhams, Bridge and Churchfields 

Cost: £3 Enquiries: wcreativehub@gmail.com 

29 


SEP 

1 OCT 1 OCT 3 OCT 4 OCT 

RAY PARK 

MAINTENANCE 

Help cut back the meadow and orchard areas. 

Date: Tuesday 1 October Time: 10am–2.30pm 

Venue: James Leal Centre, Ray Park, IG8 7JQ 


PLACIDO DOMINGO: 

50TH ANNIVERSARY GALA 

Placido Domingo returns to the Arena Di 

Verona amphitheatre for this anniversary gala. 

Date: Tuesday 1 October Time: 7pm 



BAT WALK IN 

RAY PARK 

Join bat expert Huma Pearce and use bat 

detectors to listen for echolocation calls after 

sunset. Suitable for children aged seven and 

over. Booking required. Subject to change. 

Date: Thursday 3 October Time: 6.30–7.30pm 

Venue: Ray Park, Woodford Green, IG8 7JQ 

Cost: £5 Enquiries: swvg.co.uk/visionevents 

FABULA FESTIVAL 2019: 

MAMA G 

Combining panto, drag and the traditional art 

of storytelling, Mama G will be sharing tales 

that celebrate being who you are and loving 

who you want. Repeated at South Woodford 

Library on 8 October from 2.30pm. 

Date: Friday 4 October Time: 10.30am 


Cost: free Enquiries: swvg.co.uk/fabula19 

Nurture Curiosity Creativity Excellence 

Celebrate Agatha Christie week with a 

thrilling new case, ‘A Taste for Murder’, 

presented by Moneypenny Murder 

Mystery Productions and set in the era 

of classic country house whodunits. 

Venue: Wanstead Library 

Date: Saturday 14 September 



You will join a cast of colourful characters 

all set on dining with death! When Mr 

Boddy asks Lady Peacock to be his bride, 

the wedding breakfast turns to dead-overdinner, 

as the new vicar, Rev Green, hears 

confessions. Why does Miss White carry 

that cut-throat razor? Where is Miss Scarlet? 

And who betrayed Colonel Mustard? 

This interactive case set at Waddingtons 

Hall will have you investigating the personal 

lives of the most famous suspects 

in history. 

A Taste for Murder! is a classic comedy 

country house crime in which YOU are the 

detective! Can you catch the killer? 

You will be assisted with light refreshments 

but feel free to bring your own drinks. 

Time: 6.30pm-9pm 

Tickets: £6 

Book: via Wanstead Library on 020 8708 7400 or Eventbrite 

www.visionrcl.org.uk/events 

Seeking 

‘Old Reds’ 

OPEN AFTERNOON TALK & TOUR 

Friday 4th October 2019 1.30pm - 3pm 

Please register interest at www.wgprep.co.uk 

Independent Co-educational Day School For 3 - 11 Years 

Assisted Places Available from 7+ 

Tel: 020 8504 5045 - Email: admissions@wgprep.co.uk 

Glengall Road, Woodford Green, Essex, IG8 0BZ


OCT 

OCT 

OCT 

25 

15 

OCT 

26 

OCT 

OCT OCT 

OCT 

OCT OCT 

OCT 

OCT 

OCT 

OCT 

OCT 

OCT 

OCT 

OCT 

OCT 

OCT 

OCT 

OCT 

OCT 

OCT 

OCT 

OCT 

OCT 

OCT 

OCT 

OCT 

OCT 

OCT 

OCT 



Date: Friday 4 October Time: 6pm 

Venue: South Woodford Station, E18 1JJ 

Enquiries: 020 8345 3616 

4 

STAR WARS READS DAY: 

SCI-FI STORYTIME 

Sci-fi storytime and craft events. 

Date: Saturday 5 October Time: 1–2pm 



5 



Date: Sunday 6 October Time: 4pm 

Venue: Rectory Court, High Road 

Enquiries: 020 8345 3616 

6 


WEA CENTENARY FILM CLUB 

A screening of The Bookshop (2017). 

Date: Monday 7 October Time: 12.30pm 


Cost: 20p plus the cinema’s usual charges 

Enquiries: wea.filmclub@gmail.com 

7 


COPPICING 

Help coppice areas of hazel and birch. 


Venue: Onslow Gardens entrance, E18 1ND 


8 

RSPB TALK: 

WADER QUEST 

A talk for the North East London Local 

Group of the RSPB by Rick and Elis Simpson. 





8 

BILLY CONNOLLY: 

THE SEX LIFE OF BANDAGES 

Date: Thursday 10 October Time: 8pm 



10 

STAMP, POSTCARD, COIN 

AND CIGARETTE CARD FAIR 

A Leytonstone, Wanstead & District Philatelic 

Society event. 

Date: Saturday 12 October Time: 10am–4.30pm 

Venue: Our Lady of Lourdes Church, E11 2PR 

Cost: free entry Enquiries: 020 8989 2885 

12 

THE HISTORY OF ONGAR 

HIGH STREET 

A Woodford Historical Society presentation by 

Anne Padfield. 


Venue: Trinity High School, Woodford Green 

Cost: £3 Enquiries: woodfordhistoricalsociety.org 

14 


REEDBED MANAGEMENT 

Help cut the reedbeds in the wildlife pond. 


Venue: James Leal Centre, Ray Park, IG8 7JQ 


15 

TOWER HAMLETS: AN EVER- 

CHANGING BOROUGH 

A talk by Grahame Williams for the Woodford 

and District branch of the National Trust. 

Date: Tuesday 15 October Time: 10.30am 

Venue: Woodford Memorial Hall, E18 2PA 




Date: Thursday 17 October Time: 11am 

Venue: Sainsbury’s, 176 George Lane, E18 1AY 

Enquiries: 020 8345 3616 

17 

RIVER RODING PROJECT 

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT 

An Environment Agency consultation event. 

Date: Thursday 17 October Time: 12–6pm 

Venue: Woodford Station, Snakes Lane East 


17 



Date: Friday 18 October Time: 11am 

Venue: Elmhurst Gardens, South Woodford 

Enquiries: 020 8345 3616 

18 

FRENCH MUSIC 

CONCERT 

The St Mary’s Chamber Music Ensemble. 

Date: Saturday 19 October Time: 7.30pm 



19 

FLOWER ARRANGING: 

THIS AND THAT 

Sally Hardy presents to the Woodford and 

District Floral Arrangement Group. 




21 



Date: Wednesday 23 October Time: 12pm 

Venue: outside Boots, 170–172 George Lane 

Enquiries: 020 8345 3616 

23 



Date: Wednesday 23 October Time: 12pm 

Venue: Belgique, 253 High Road, IG8 9FB 

Enquiries: 020 8345 3616 

23 

BLACK HISTORY MONTH: 

CRAFT SESSION 

Create a design inspired by Kente cloth 

patterns. For children aged eight and 

over. Booking required. Repeated at South 

Woodford Library on 25 October from 11am. 



Cost: 50p Enquiries: 020 8708 9055 

24 

REDBRIDGE MUSEUM 

COLLECTIONS 

A talk by Sue Page for the Grove 

Townswomen’s Guild. Visitors welcome. 

Date: Thursday 24 October Time: 2pm 

Venue: South Woodford Scout Hut, E18 2QS 


24 


PEACE AT LAST 

Olivier award-winning OperaUpClose 

partnered with Gallions Primary School in 

Newham to create a new opera for three- to 

five-year-olds, based on Jill Murphy’s muchloved 

picture book Peace At Last. 

Date: Friday 25 October Time: call for details 



BESOM BROOM 

MAKING 

Traditional besom brooms are made from a 

bundle of twiggy growth from a birch tree 

tied to a handle of hazelwood. 

Date: Saturday 26 October Time: to be confirmed 

Venue: Ray Park, Woodford Green, IG8 7JQ 

Enquiries: swvg.co.uk/visionevents 

THE SWAN CONSORT 

CHORAL CHOIR 

Conducted by Anita Datta 

Date: Saturday 26 October Time: 7.30pm 



26 

CHASING PUMPKINS: 

5K OR 10K RUN 

A 5km or 10km course through Epping Forest 

and around Higham’s Park lake. In aid of 

Haven House Children’s Hospice. 

Date: Sunday 27 October Time: 11am–1pm 

Venue: Haven House Children’s Hospice, IG8 9LB 

Cost: £15 Enquiries: havenhouse.org.uk 

27 

PUMPKIN PLOD 

FAMILY WALK 

A family adventure trail (2km or 5km) through 

the forest. In aid of Haven House Hospice. 

Date: Sunday 27 October Time: 12.30–5pm 

Venue: Haven House Children’s Hospice, IG8 9LB 

Cost: £11 Enquiries: havenhouse.org.uk 

27 




Venue: Waitrose, 92–96 High Road, E18 2NA 

Enquiries: 020 8345 3616 

29 




Venue: the park, off Cavendish Avenue 

Enquiries: 020 8345 3616 

29 

LIGHT-UP HALLOWEEN 

PICTURES 

Craft activity for eight- to 11-year-olds. 





31 

DRACULA: NORTHERN 

BALLET LIVE 2019 

Northern Ballet is resurrecting Bram Stoker’s 

classic horror story for a special live screening. 

Date: Thursday 31 October Time: 7.15pm 



31


join us for a family fun walk through the forest 

Entry starts 

from £7 

Includes pumpkin 

activities, medal 

& treats 

Pumpkin 

plod 

Sunday 27 October 2019 

2k & 5k family sponsored walk 

havenhouse.org.uk/family-forest-2k-5k-walk 

Start & Finish: Haven House Children’s Hospice, Woodford Green, IG8 9LB 

Start Time: 12.30pm for fun & BBQ Part of our wider Pumpkin Fest weekend 

Sponsored by: 

Charity Number: 1044296


Community groups 

SOUTH WOODFORD SOCIETY 

Working to build a stronger community, 

support local businesses and make South 

Woodford a better place to live and work. 

Visit southwoodfordsociety.com 

ULTRASOUND FEMALE CHOIR 

The choir meets every Tuesday from 7.30pm 

at the Woodford Methodist Church, Derby 

Road, E18 2PU. New members welcome. 

Call 07799 196 241 

THE WANSTEAD AND WOODFORD 

ASSOCIATION FOR THE BLIND 

Weekly meetings with entertainment and 

refreshments from 2pm to 4pm every 

Thursday at the United Free Church, 

Woodford Green, IG8 0UP. Call 07840 850 838 

WOODFORD GREEN 

SPEAKERS CLUB 

Public speaking club affiliated to Toastmasters 

International meeting every second and 

fourth Tuesday of the month from 6.45pm to 

9pm at Wanstead Golf Club, Overton Drive. 

Visit wgs.toastmastersclubs.org 


CHESS CLUB 

Every Tuesday, 7.30pm to 10.30pm at 

Wanstead House. All standards of players 

welcomed. Call 07949 881 881 or visit 

wansteadandwoodfordchessclub.co.uk 

LEYTONSTONE, WANSTEAD & 

DISTRICT PHILATELIC SOCIETY 

Second Saturday afternoon and fourth 

Monday evening most months at Wanstead 

House. For those interested in stamps or 

postal history. Call 020 8989 2885 

NCT REDBRIDGE 

Offering support and information to parents 

and parents-to-be. Call 0844 243 6247 

WOODFORD AND WANSTEAD 

ROCK CHOIR 

Every Monday at 7.30pm during term time at 

Wanstead High School. Call 01252 714 276 

REDBRIDGE RAMBLERS 

Three or more walks each week from five to 

12 miles in length. Call 07977 167 550 or visit 

redbridgeramblers.org.uk 

HEALING HEARTS BEREAVEMENT 

SUPPORT GROUP 

An informal group which aims to help 

successful grieving. Meetings are held every 

four to five weeks at the Spire London East 

Hospital, Roding Lane South, IG4 5PZ. Call 

020 8500 4838 or visit healinghearts.co.uk 

WEST ESSEX RAMBLERS 

At least four walks a week, coach rambles 

between April and October, group holidays 

and social events. Call 020 8554 1665 or visit 

westessexramblers.org.uk 

WOODFORD AND WANSTEAD 

PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY 

Formal and informal weekly meetings at 

Wanstead House, 21 The Green, Wanstead. 

Visit woodfordandwansteadphotosoc.co.uk 

BRESSEY TOWNSWOMEN’S GUILD 

Meeting on the third Tuesday of the month 

(7.30pm) at St Mary’s Church, South Woodford. 

Diverse speakers, discussions, social evenings 

and trips away. Call 020 8989 2267 


CENTENARY FILM CLUB 

Meets on the first Monday of each month 

(except August), 12.30pm at the Odeon, South 

Woodford (the cinema’s usual charges apply). 

Visit swvg.co.uk/wea 

WOODFORD GREEN LIBRARY 

READING GROUP 

Friendly, informal groups which meet to 

discuss the month’s chosen book. The 

evening group meets on the second Thursday 

of the month from 6.30pm to 7.30pm and the 

afternoon group on the third Thursday of the 

month from 2pm to 3pm. Call 020 8708 9055 

LEYTONSTONE & 

WOODFORD ROTARY CLUB 

Meeting every Thursday from 6pm at 

Chigwell Convent on Chigwell Road, IG8 8AX. 

Call 020 3597 2921 or visit swvg.co.uk/lwr 

WOODFORD AND DISTRICT 

FLORAL ARRANGEMENT GROUP 

A floral demonstration, raffle and 

refreshments every third Monday of the 

month, 7.30pm at Wanstead Library. Cost: £5. 

Call 020 8530 2427 

PLUMBING SERVICES | HEATING SERVICES | CENTRAL HEATING 

Group 

Established as a 

family business since 1988, 

we have the knowledge and expertise needed to 

ensure that you receive nothing but the best service. Our reputation has been developed 

through hard work and reliability, which is why we are the area's number one choice for 

plumbing and gas-related work. 

• Boiler installations 

• Boiler repairs 

• Burst pipes 

• Central heating installations 

• Energy efficient advice 

• Gas safety inspections 

• General plumbing 

• Ground source heat pumps 

• Heated towel rail fitting 

• Hob and gas oven fitting 

• Immersion tank repairs 

• Landlord safety certificates 

Suite 17, Woodford Business Centre, 115 George Lane, South Woodford, E18 1AB 

Call Us Today 0800 8247 989 

wansteadgroup.co.uk

Jean Fullerton Author Talk 

Join prize-winning author Jean Fullerton, who will discuss her latest book, ‘A Ration Book 

Childhood’, a story that explores a dangerous secret, set in the darkest days of the Blitz. Jean 

was born into a large, East End family and grew up in the overcrowded streets clustered 

around the Tower of London. She still lives in East London, just five miles from where she was 

born. In 2006 she won the Harry Bowling Prize for her novel ‘No Cure For Love’. 

Wanstead Library Thursday 24 October, 6.30pm-7.45pm 

Free, but please reserve a place on 020 8708 7400 

www.redbridge.gov.uk/libraries 





6.30pm-8pm 


www.redbridge-events.eventbrite.com 


Film Screening and Panel Discussion 

This special event hosted by Positive East will reflect on 

the progress made in terms of LGBT+ rights and the 


still to be travelled. Positive East will also be screening 



York Room 

6.30pm-8.30pm 


If you would like further information about any of these even 

Rhonda Brooks on 020 8708 2409 or email rhonda.brooks@ 


‘Wo 

writte 

ho 

Tuesday 26 Februar 

Play Reading Gro 

Have you ever wanted to 

take part in a play? Then 

will read aloud a chosen 

a variety of characters an 

advance. The play for thi 

South Woodford Librar 

both 

7pm-9.30pm ‘L 

FREE, just turn up rese 

RedbridgeLibraries 

THE EAST OF LONDON 

FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY 

Fourth Wednesday of every month, 7.30pm 

at Wanstead Library. Free entry. Call 

020 8530 4514 or visit eolfhs.org.uk 

EAST LONDON ME GROUP 

Support group for those with ME/CFS. 

Meetings held at Wanstead House at various 

dates throughout the year. Call 07957 152566 

or email ianpurser81@gmail.com 

NORTH EAST LONDON LOCAL 

GROUP OF THE RSPB 

A programme of walks and coach trips, plus 

indoor meetings and talks on the second 

Tuesday of the month (September to May) at 

St Mary’s Church, South Woodford (members: 

£4; visitors: £4.50). Call 020 8989 4746 

WOODFORD SYMPHONY 

ORCHESTRA 

The orchestra rehearses every Thursday 

evening at Roding Valley High School in 

Loughton. Call 07939 064 247 


MOVIE MAKERS 

Amateur movie video club meeting regularly 

for screenings and competitions at St Paul’s 

Church, Woodford Bridge. Call 07951 198 713 

SOUTH WOODFORD 

COMMUNITY GARDENERS 

Voluntary group tending to flowerbeds along 

George Lane and on the bridge over the 

A406. Working mainly on Thursday and Friday 

mornings. Donations of plants and time 

welcome. Email gardeners@swvg.co.uk 

LGBT Feb2019 Flyer_4.indd 2 

WOODFORD HISTORICAL SOCIETY 

Promoting an interest in the history of the 

local area, with talks on the third Monday 

of the month (September to April) at 

Trinity Catholic High School (visitors: £3). 

Call 020 8505 3640 

WOODFORD WONDER WOMEN 

Local branch of the Women’s Institute 

meeting from 7.30pm on the third Monday 

of every month at Woodford Memorial Hall, 

209 High Road, South Woodford, E18 2PA. 

Email woodfordwi@yahoo.com 

EAST LONDON HUMANISTS 

Representing people who have no faith but 

share a positive and ethical outlook on the 

world. Regular meetings at Wanstead Library. 

Visit eastlondon.humanist.org.uk 

Birthday Parties 

Half Term 

Holiday Activities 

Swimming 

Lessons 

Available 

Saturday & Sunday 

Afternoons 

Parties run for 

1 hour 45minutes 

Holiday Activities 

Ages 4½ -15 

8:30am - 5:30pm 

Daily swimming session 

plus a variety of 

other fun activities 

Evenings & 

Weekends 

Swimmers must be 

aged 3 years and over 

( 0208 509 6526 

enquiries@sylvestrian-leisure.co.uk 

Sylvestrian Leisure Centre, Forest School, College Place, London, E17 3PY 

www.sylvestrian-leisure.co.uk 

Registered 

in England 

No.3323866

Hi gins Trust. 

0208 530 3 

0208 530 3 

0208 530 3 

0208 530 3 


Advertising in the 

will get your message 

across loud and clear 

The 

Name: 

South Woodford Society 

membership form 

Address: 

DRIVING LESSONS 

Official use 

Phone No: 

Email: 

FOR ALL AGES & ALL ABILITIES 

Membership No: 

A friendly, female, driving instructor (ex-police officer). 

AUTHENTIC TURKISH RESTAURANT 

84–86 HIGH ROAD, SOUTH WOODFORD, E18 2NA 

2-hour lessons / 5 lessons for £99 

Please contact me on 07875080272 

Email: Gtwaterhouse@gmail.com 

(mm/dd/yyyy) 

Application date: 

Woody’s School of Motoring Woodys_Sch_Motoring 

lunch & dinner Take away available: or collection 

2am vadisouthwoodford.co.uk Call: 020 8220 3963 

ht | Shade 

vacy | Style 

ht | Shade 

vacy | Style 

EST 1986 

WOODTHORPE 

WOODTHORPE 

JOINERY 

JOINERY 


your local supplier of wooden plantation shutters 






Next 

issue out 

1 st week of 

November 2019 

GIRLS AND BOYS 3-11 

Avon House is a small school where children 

are nurtured in a caring, happy environment, 

enabling them to realise their full potential. 

WE WILL 

NOT BE BEATEN 

ON PRICE! 

To arrange a visit please contact the Registrar. 

Here’s a bright idea… 

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and free light bulbs for life! 

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Find out more: 

Lee Marquis, Authorised Distributor 

Visit: www.jointosave.co.uk 

Email: lee@jointosave.co.uk 

Call: 020 8819 6645 

Avon House School 

490 High Road 


Essex IG8 0PN 

020 8504 1749 

registrar@ahsprep.co.uk www.avonhouseschool.co.uk 







Serving 

the local 

community 

for over 

160 years. 

Home Phone Broadband Mobile Gas Electricity 

Call: 020 8819 0595 

FEELING DEPRESSED, 

ANXIOUS OR ANGRY? 

Contact Dougie in confidence 07792 128 681 (9am – 9pm) 

e: counsellinghelps@gmail.com w: counsellinghelps.uk 

Email this form or your details to: 

e18society@gmail.com 

Do you experience 

habitual anxiety, low mood, 

depression or stress? 

Is your relationship in 

conflict? 

Are you living with long term 

physical pain? 

Have you been affected by a recent 

life event such as bereavement or 

losing your job? 

Are traumatic or upsetting events 

from the past holding you back? 

Are you seeking to move 

beyond negative habits 

but don’t know how? 

Tried talking with friends but not enough? 

Is now the time to seek professional support? 

MBACP (Accred) UKRCP registered & fu ly insured Suite 3, 96 George Lane, E18 1AD 

Entry £15 

Includes chip 

timed result, 

pumpkin medal 

& treats 

Chasing 

Pumpkins Run 

Yellands 

Property Management Agents 

No oNe has more experieNce 

• ProPerty manaGement 

• ProPerty maintenance 

70 GeorGe Lane 


London e18 1JJ 

Would you like to know more 

about your family history, 

but simply don’t have the 

spare time? Let me help you 

with it. 

I am Linda Gough, 

family historian, living in 

Woodford. I would be happy to 

undertake any research, whether a 

small simple project or a complex one. 

I can: 

National Poetry Day 

Grand Slam and Open Mic night 

Fr e LED light bulb service is available to Gold Energy members (ie. taking Home Phone and Broadband, Gas and/or Electricity) and Double Gold members (ie. taking Home Phone, 

Broadband, Mobile, Gas and/or Electricity) who are either (i) an owner-o cupier; or ( i) a tenant aged over 30 where we have instaled a smart meter in their property. A l the light bulbs in 

the member’s home wi l be changed provided we have an LED equivalent, and the existing bulbs are safely and easily a ce sible. The typical value of £3 0-£5 0 is based on 39 LED 

bulbs at an average retail price of £8 plus a £1 0 charge for fi ting. A light bulbs su plied and fi ted by us are covered by a 36 month wa ranty. In a dition, if a member notifies us at any 

time thereafter that a light bulb we have fi ted is defective or has reached the end of its usefu life, we wi l pos them a replacement light bulb fr e of charge provided that (i) we have b en 

su plying a l their communication services continuously betw en the date the LED light bulbs were originaly instaled and the date we are notified that a replacement LED light bulb is 

required; ( i) their electricity service is being provided by us on the date the replacement is requested; ( i) there are no monies outstanding on the member’s a count with us; and (iv) we 

have not received a termination notice from the member on any of the services we are su plying to them a tha time. 15% quoted saving based on a typical household using 3,1 0 kWh of 

electricity, where 39 traditiona light bulbs are changed to LEDs, with an average reduction of 45W per light bulb (eg. from 50W to 5W) and where each LED light bulb is used for an average 

of 45 minutes per day. If we fit new LED light bulbs in a member’s home and they cease to take any landline, broadband or mobile service from us within the fo lowing two years (which they 

were taking at any time after they requested our fr e light bulb replacement service), they wi l n ed to pay a contribution towards the cost of the LED bulbs we provided; the size of this 

contribution varies betw en £2 - £8 per bulb, depending on how long their bulbs have b en instaled. This offer can be withdrawn at any time. For fu l terms and conditions refer to the Utility 

Warehouse website. 

HEALTHY YOU, HEALTHY PLANET 

Do you want to get you and your planet in better shape? 

Get fit and plant trees with EcoGains 

• Train in your own home 

• Build healthy habits 

A. L. SMITH 

• Make long-term 

improvements to your health 

• Contribute to reforestation 

as you reach your fitness goals 

PAINTING, DECORATING 

AND PLASTERING 

RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL 

INTERIOR/EXTERIOR 

Celebrate the 25 th anniversary of National Poetry Day at 

our Open Mic night. Why not write a poem using this 

year’s theme ‘Truth’ or invent your own idea? Or you can 

come along just to listen or to read your favourite poem. 


Redbridge Libraries @RedbridgeLibs 

Find the story of your family through 

public records 

Fill in the gaps in your family tree 

Check the accuracy of family stories 


South W odford Guide price £875,000 Fr ehold 

t: 020 8491 8080 

or 020 8491 5656 

f: 020 8491 7474 

Sunday 27 October 2019 

• BLock manaGement 

• ProPerty LettinGS 

havenhouse.org.uk/chasing-pumpkins-5k-10k-run 

churchi l-estates.co.uk 

Charity Number: 1044296 

chip timed 5k & 10k route 

Why not promote your business in the next issue? 

Prices start from just £39. 

FIRS ESTATE 

W odford Gr en Guide price £275, 0 Leasehold 


Linda Gough 

Family Historian 

If you would like to know more simply email me 

lindafamilyhistorian@gmail.com 

I will answer your questions, tell you how much 

the research will cost and how long it will take. 

IN THE BUILDING TRADE FOR 30 YEARS 

Thursday 7 February 

Good As You: from pride to prejudice 30 years of gay Britain with Paul Flynn 

Good As You is an important book that celebrates the seismic shif tha turned gay men in Britain from enemies to 

friends of the state. It’s a story of how the power of pop culture can place real pre sure on the government and the 

media, to make tangible steps towards change. From ‘Sma ltown Boy’ to same sex ma riage, Paul interviews the figures 

integral to his own personal 

journey and to so many 

young gay men who found 

their voices were fina ly 

being heard in the 1980s. 

This is the story of public 

outrage and persona lo s, 

the (not always legal) highs 

and the desperate lows, and 

the final co lective victory 

as gay people were fina ly 

recognised, as Good As You. 

Copies of the book wi l be 

available for purchase 

and signing. 


6.30pm-8pm 


www.redbridge-events.eventbrite.com 


Film Screening and Panel Discussion 

This special event hosted by Positive East wi l reflect on 

the progre s made in terms of LGBT+ rights and the 


sti l to be trave led. Positive East wi l also be screening 


Thursday 3 October, 6.30pm-8.00pm 

Free, but please register to read on 020 8708 7400 

Ages 9+ www.redbridge.gov.uk/libraries 


York Room 

6.30pm-8.30pm 

FREE, jus turn up 



•South Woodford •Woodford •Wanstead •Snaresbrook •Aldersbrook 

Join our emailing list to hear about our 

fitness challenges and to receive useful 

information on training and sustainability, 

email “JOIN” to chris@ecogains.com 

BASED IN WOODFORD GREEN 

References available on request 

Call: 07584 075 599 

andysmith@ukpainters.com 


NLLR_Ad 11_S W odford_182x265_OUTLINES.in d 1 10/12/2018 12:26 



Tuesday 26 February 

Play Reading Group 

Have you ever wanted to act but not had the time to 

take part in a play? Then come along to this group which 

wi l read aloud a chosen play, each participant reading 

a variety of characters and there’s no need to prepare in 

advance. The play for this se sion wi l have LGBT+ themes. 

South Woodford Library & Gym 

7pm-9.30pm 

FREE, jus turn up 

If you would like further information about any of these events please contact 

Rhonda Brooks on 020 8708 2409 or email rhonda.brooks@visionrcl.org.uk 





EOR2349-Halloween2019-129x89mm-001.pdf 1 17/08/2019 11:16 

EPPING ONGAR RAILWAY 

DARE YOU RIDE THE GHOST TRAIN 

TO OUR ‘NORTH WEIRD’ STATION WHERE SPOOKY 

GOINGS ON AND HALLOWEEN FUN WILL BE FOUND? 

www.ecogains.com 

chris@ecogains.com 

07307 168 8845 

@ecogains 

‘Wonderful book .sensitively 

wri ten and we l researched. I’m 

honoured to be included’ 

- David Furnish 

‘Lively, timely and lovingly 

researched: thoroughly gay, in 

both the old and the new senses 

of the word’ 

- The Sunday Times 

RedbridgeLibraries @RedbridgeLibs 

LGBT Feb2019 Flyer_4.in d 2 14/12/2018 16:19 

NEW ADULT 

COURSE GUIDE 








2019-20ENROL NOW 

For details of all our Halloween 

Services check our website 

eorailway.co.uk/events/halloween 

By Paul Flynn 

Published by Ebury 

Gain qualifications and learn new skills 

Many courses are free for eligible learners 

TICKET PRICES 

McCarty & Smith 

new clients only Terms and conditions apply 

ADULTS £16 

CHILDREN £10 

Press on 5 th July 2018 

£9.99 | Paperback 

G od As You is an important book that celebrates 

the seismic shift tha turned gay men in Britain 

from enemies to friends of the state. It’s a story of 

how the power of pop culture can place real pressure 

on the government and the media, to make 

tangible steps towards change. 

From ‘Sma ltown Boy’ to same sex ma riage, Paul 

interviews the figures integral to his own 

personal journey and to so many young gay men 

who found their voices were fina ly being heard in 

| www.redbridge-iae.ac.uk 

| 020 8550 2398 

| enquiries@redbridge-iae.ac.uk 

the 1980s. Paul speaks to Holly Johnson about anthems, 

Kylie Minogue about icons, and Will Young 

and Davina McCa l abou the landmark of reality 

TV. He speaks to Gary Hailes about being half of 

the first gay couple on EastEnders, and to David 

Furnish about being in one of the first publica ly 

celebrated gay couples in the UK. 

But for Paul, Good As You is as much about 

celebrating the unsung heroes out of the limelight. 

Alison, a life-long friend talks abou the 

individuals she met and helped undergoing 

eorailway.co.uk 

Time to try 

something new? 

Find out more 

and book now: 

Fo low us: @rediae 

treatment for HIV at The Lighthouse, while 

activist Rupert Whitaker, discu ses his early 

encounters with an unknown disease, his own 

diagnosis and the impetus behind the Te rence 

Window restoration and upgrades in South Woodford 

This is the story of Britain’s brothers, cousins and 

sons. Sometimes it is the story of their fathers and 

husbands. It is one of public outrage and personal 

loss, the (not always legal) highs and the desperate 

lows, and the final collective victory as gay people 

were final recognised, as G od As You. 

McCarty & Smith specialise in the conversion of period timber windows to doubleglazed 

timber sashes, achieving modern insulation requirements while preserving the 

character of your home. Our work is carried out with minimal internal and external 

disruption, so you can enjoy the performance of new double-glazed windows that are 

indistinguishable from the originals. 

For a free quote please email us at: 

information@mccartyandsmith.com 

Unit 2a, 109 Maybank Road, London, E18 1AB Tel: 020 8498 0219 

1st Small Group 

Training Session Free 

Call Amanda or Andy on 07976 288 844 

www.ttspersonaltraining.co.uk 

“It is a comfort to know that 

the phone will ring with new 

customers when the South 

Woodford Village Gazette 

hits the door mats!” 

Kate Panayi, Monkey Music 

esT 

1930 


Redbridge Institute ‘bringing educational opportunities to those who might 

otherwise miss out’ Overall FE Provider of the Year TES Awards March 2019 

Visit our open day on 10 September 2019 at 10.00am - 1.00pm 

26,27,30,31 


01277 365200 

Epping Ongar Railway 

@eorailway 

Visit: swvg.co.uk 

W odford Gr en Guide price £4 9, 95 Fr ehold 

southwoodford@churchi l-estates.co.uk 


South W odford £574,995 Fr ehold 


Fed up waiting? 

Our private GPs 

can see you now. 

020 8530 3333 

Start & Finish: Haven House Children’s Hospice, 

High Road, Woodford Green, IG8 9LB 

Start Time: 11am 

Part of our wider Pumpkin Fest weekend 

www.yellands.co.uk 

Call: 020 8936 1201 Visit: theholly.com 

The Holly Private Hospital, Buckhurst Hill, Essex, IG9 5HX 

W I N N E R 

7.30am to 8.00pm weekdays and 

9.00am to 1.00pm Saturdays. 

Choose from male or female GPs. 

Fast access to longer appointments, 

private prescriptions, onsite 

diagnostics and over 200 specialists. 

– Index of advertisers – 

ACCOUNTANTS 

Alan Patient & Co ....................................11 

ACTING 

DSP Performing ...................................... 30 

BABIES & TODDLERS 

Monkey Music ...........................................31 

BALLET 

Redbridge Classical Dance .................38 

BARBERS 

Agy’s Barber Shop...................................23 

BATHROOMS 

Bathworks ..................................................17 

BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT 

City of London Cemetery ................... 35 

Counselling Helps ....................................4 

Loss & Bereavement Café ................... 15 

CEMETERY 

City of London Cemetery ................... 35 

CHARITIES 

Haven House Children’s Hospice..... 43 

Jeans for Genes Day ............................. 13 

CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES 

Black History Month............................. 38 


Monkey Music ...........................................31 

National Poetry Day ...............................6 

Pumpkin Plod...........................................43 

Sylvestrian Leisure Centre....................45 

ONLY 

Appointments from 

£80 


Specialists in legal 

advice covering: 

- ReaI Estate - 

- Leasehold Enfranchisement - 

- Dispute Resolution - 

- Debt Recovery - 

- Wills, Trusts & Probate - 

- Powers of Attorney - 

- Divorce & Financial Settlement - 

- Children - 

- Notarial Services - 

For more information please 

contact Matthew Barrett on 

T: 020 8505 4777 or email 

mbarrett@thirskwinton.co.uk 

www.thirskwinton.co.uk 


A.S. MAINTENANCE 

GARDEN MAINTENANCE 

AND SOFT LANDSCAPING SERVICES 

FREE 

QUOTES 

• Fencing • Turfing • Hedge Cutting • Weeding 

• Grass Cutting • Planting • Shed bases 

• Slabs and brick work 

AGY’S BARBER SHOP 

Âdouble glazed timber windows 

Âpatented sash window system 

Ârestoration and resin repair 

020 8989 9231 

Âprofessional draught sealing 

Âwooden plantation shutters 

Âleaded lights and stained glass 

72 George Lane, 

South Woodford, E18 1JJ 

SAFE, SECURE & AFFORDABLE 

STORAGE 

SPACE 

50% off for up to 6 weeks at South Woodford: 

020 8504 1700 

www.bwiselfstorage.co.uk 

Âminimal disruption 

mccartyandsmithltd 

Call Alan Smith: 07948 821 918 

smithmaintenance@hotmail.com 

All hairstyles 

catered for 

Beard trims 

Traditional 

hot-towel 

shaves 

Monday to Friday: 9am – 7pm (Closed Wednesday) 

Saturday: 8.30am – 5.30pm | Sunday: 10am – 2.30pm 

1 Raven Road, South Woodford, E18 1HB 

(Just off the Charlie Brown’s roundabout by A406/M11 Junction) 

SOUTH WOODFORD, LOUGHTON AND 

BUCKHURST HILL 

E: southwoodford@monkeymusic.co.uk 

T: 020 8989 7017 

Delivering high-quality learning 

in the heart of the community 

CLEANING 

The Oven Wizard ....................................30 

COMPUTER MAINTENANCE 

Problem Computers .............................. 14 

COUNSELLING 

Counselling Helps ....................................4 

CYCLING 

Woodford Cycle Centre ........................ 37 

DANCE 


Redbridge Classical Dance .................38 

At Redbridge Institute, we offer 

a variety of courses in arts and 

crafts, held in our excellent 

specialist rooms, including 

fully equipped jewellery, 

DENTIST 

Woodford House ......................................9 

photography, clothesmaking and 

pottery studios. 

Whether you’re a beginner or 

an experienced learner, you’ll 

be able to extend your technical 

skills and build confidence in your 

creative ability. 

Visit our website to find a course 

today. 

www.redbridge-iae.ac.uk 

020 8550 2398 

enquiries@redbridge-iae.ac.uk 

Arts and creative 

crafts courses 

Fo low us: rediae 

YOUR LOCAL INDEPENDENT STORAGE COMPANY 

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 

Mon - Fri: 8am to 6pm / Sat - Sun: 10am to 3pm 

DISCOUNT CLUB 

Utility Warehouse .................................. 47 

LAUNCH OFFER: 

50% OFF FOR UP 

TO 10 WEEKS 

DIY & HOUSEHOLD 

Abbotts Stationery, Cards & Gifts .... 10 

at Little Heath: 

020 3848 9494 

DRIVING INSTRUCTOR 

Woody’s School of Motoring ...............4 

Terms & conditions apply. 

Minimum stay is only 2 weeks. 

12 Hainault Works, Hainault Road, Little Heath, RM6 5NF 

(Between Forest Road and the A12 by Chadwell Heath) 

NEW SITE 

OPENED IN 

LITTLE 

HEATH 

ESTATE AGENTS 

Churchill Estates ................... 24–25 & 48 

Yellands ...................................................... 37 

EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT 

Author Talk: Jean Fullerton ............... 45 

Black History Month............................. 38 

Murder Mystery ...................................... 41 

National Poetry Day ...............................6 

FAMILY HISTORY 

Linda Gough ........................................... 22 

FENCING 

A.S. Maintenance ................................... 27 

FITNESS 

EcoGains ...................................................... 7 

TTS Personal Training ........................... 33 

FLOORING 

Antique Wooden Floors ....................... 33 

GARAGE SERVICES 

Woodbridge Autos..................................17 

GARDENS & LANDSCAPING 

A.S. Maintenance ................................... 27 

GIFTS 


HANDYMAN 

E18 Handyman ........................................30 

Stuart Green Property Solutions ...... 18 

HOMEOPATHY 

Homeopathy4Health .......................... 14 

HOSPITAL 

The Holly Private Hospital ..................... 5 

LEGAL SERVICES 

Thirsk Winton LLP...................................29 

Wiseman Lee LLP .................................... 19 

LIFE COACH 

Humaira Naz..............................................6 

LOFTS 

North London Loft Rooms ................. 21 

MOBILITY SCOOTERS 

Right Choice Mobility ........................... 33 

MUSIC 

Monkey Music ...........................................31 

OVEN CLEANING 

The Oven Wizard ....................................30 

PAINTERS & DECORATORS 

A.L. Smith ................................................... 27 


PERFORMANCE ART 


Redbridge Classical Dance ................ 38 

PERSONAL TRAINER 

EcoGains ...................................................... 7 

TTS Personal Training ........................... 33 

PEST MANAGEMENT 

GJB Pest Management.........................23 

PHOTOGRAPHY 

Eightyfour .................................................. 27 

PLASTERING 

A.L. Smith ................................................... 27 

PLUMBING & HEATING 

Wanstead Group ................................... 44 

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE 


PROPERTY MANAGEMENT 

Yellands ...................................................... 37 

RESTAURANTS 

Vadi ............................................................. 28 

SCHOOLS & NURSERIES 

Avon House Preparatory School ......38 

Chigwell School ........................................ 2 

Forest School ........................................... 40 

Park School ............................................... 18 

St Aubyn’s School ....................................15 

Woodford Green Prep School ........... 41 

SOLICITORS 

Thirsk Winton LLP...................................29 

Wiseman Lee LLP .................................... 19 

SPORT & LEISURE 

Pumpkin Plod...........................................43 


STAIRLIFTS 

Right Choice Mobility ........................... 33 

STATIONERY 


STORAGE 

BWI Self Storage ...................................... 10 

SWIMMING 


TRANSPORT & TRAVEL 

Epping Ongar Railway ........................ 23 

TUITION & COURSES 

Kumon ..........................................................8 

MagiKats .................................................... 27 

Redbridge Institute .................................. 7 

Thy English Academy ............................31 

Wanstead House ....................................34 

UTILITIES 

Utility Warehouse .................................. 47 

WEB DESIGN 

Seven Eleven Design ............................ 37 

WINDOW RESTORATION 

McCarty & Smith .................................... 27 

WINDOW SHUTTERS 

Woodthorpe Joinery ................................1


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SELECT DEVELOPMENT OF 

7 LUXURY 

APARTMENTS 

VIEWING BY APPOINTMENT 

LAUNCHING 

IN SOUTH WOODFORD ON 

SATURDAY 7 TH SEPTEMBER 

0208 530 3333 


Independent directory of businesses, news and events in and around South Woodford

September/October 2019

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