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SEnine magazine for April
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S S EE nine
Totally independent, serving the community for over 6 years
Eltham SE9 APRIL 2013 Arctic Srar
www.senine.co.uk
One of London’s oldest music stores. Over 90 years in Eltham.
We stock a large range and variety of musical instruments and printed music, including Associated Board Publications
.
32 Well Hall Road Eltham SE9 6SF tel: 020 8850 1263
Why risk buying from the internet or a catalogue shop when you can buy from the specialists?
www.normansmusic.co.uk
Free advice and guidance on all our products before and after your purchase.
PENTACLE Contracting Services provides a highly fl exible resource to meet the multi-varied requirements within the Building and Construction sector. Off ering a combination of expert management skills and best practice methods, in addition to a commitment to service excellence, our team provides clients with the confi dence that their project will be completed on time and within budget.
We operate across a broad range of markets
Barn Conversion to a Recording Studio - Saff ron Walden Grade 2 Georgian Town House Refurbishment - Greenwich
PENTACLE Contracting Services Ltd
Green Way Eltham, London SE9 5SZ
Telephone: 01245 409 661
E Mail: [email protected]
Website: www.pentacle.uk.com
New build projects
Refurbishment
Maintenance and Repair
Listed Buildings
Conservation works
Conversion
Private Sector
Residential
Public Sector
Brighten up the long dark days of winter with
music. We have a wide variety of instruments and
printed music available.
Fourth Saturday of the month 10.00amShrewsbury House, Bushmoor Crescent SE18 3EG
Clive Efford MP
Fourth Friday of the month 6.00pmSt Mary’s Community Centre, Eltham High Street SE9
First Tuesday of the month 11.00amAnstridge Community Centre, Anstridge Rd SE9 2LL
Second Friday of the month 6.00pmSlade Hall, Pendrell Street, London SE18 2PJ
Third Tuesday of the month 11.00amMiddle Park Community Centre, 150 Middle Park Avenue SE9 5SD
First Friday of the month 11.00amHorn Park Community Centre, 96 Sibthorpe Rd SE12 9DP
Second Saturday of the month 10.00amSt Mary’s Community Centre, Eltham High Street SE9
Third Friday of the month 11.00amColdharbour Library, William Barefoot Drive SE9 3AY
Clive holds eight advice surgeries a month, where constituents can meet him in private. He will see everyone who comes along, but it is best to telephone beforehand so that you can get some indication of when you will be able to see Clive.
SURGERIES
10.00ammmmG
132 Westmount Road, Eltham London SE9 1UT
T: 020 8850 5744E: [email protected] W: www.cliveefford.org.uk
Suspended until further notice due to renovations
SEnine
2 It is your community, you have the right to a say in what happens
Enjoy life:
Enjoy Eltham.
Cover: Langerton House. West side of Court Yard. Water
colour by Daniel Warry (no date).
Cover photo by: From the collection of water colours now
on display at the Greenwich Heritage Centre.
Cameo: Frank Bond. See page 4
Main Office Mark Wall [email protected]
Editor: John Webb [email protected]
Advertising Mark Wall [email protected]
Phone: 020 8333 7493 (For all matters)
Web: www.senine.co.uk
Publisher: SEnine Ltd: PO Box 24290, Eltham, SE9 6ZP
Totally Independent
Friends Membership. Support for the magazine is always appreciated. You can
help the magazine with an annual Friends Membership
The standard membership is £24.00 per year (in the delivery area)
Royal Mail membership £36.00 per year (Outside the current delivery area and delivered by messenger or post)
Send your name, address and contact details along with
payment to 'SEnine Friends' PO Box 24290 Eltham SE96ZP
Or visit our web site www.senine.co.uk to pay on line.
We look forward to hearing form you.
Closing Dates. All copy must be received by about the 15th* of each
month to appear in the next edition. Contributions and Stories are
always welcome from the residents of Eltham. Submissions are
subject to our overall editorial policy. *Some months do vary, check our web page www.senine.co.uk for exact dates.
We only use the very best industry standard vegetable oil based inks. We use environmentally friendly papers, from a
sustainable source, with a chain of custody from well managed forests through the supply chain to our printer.
Apart from me off ering my
sometimes blunt opinion in this
column, we rarely take the time to blow
our own trumpet.
I thought that this month we would
print a small selection of extracts from
letters we have received in the past 30 days.
We do try hard to capture and refl ect
the width and breadth of everything
that is happening in the SE9 area.
It might be timely to mention that the
magazine relies heavily on advertising
from businesses in the area. With the
current state of the economy this
revenue stream is under pressure
and therefore support from readers,
in the form of 'Friends' membership,
while always important, has taken on
increased signifi cance.
I can only encourage you, if you enjoy
reading SEnine, to consider off ering
your support. Membership of this
exclusive group is only £24.00 for the
whole year (£36.00, outside our current
delivery areas, for Royal Mail delivery).
So to the letter extracts;
Thank you all so much for creating the
SEnine magazines. We always look
forward to reading it and hearing all the
news both past and present about Eltham
D Pitman
Congratulations for your excellent well
produced magazine. I read it cover to
cover. It puts the (names deleted, Ed)
magazines to the bin.
MM Corr
A very informative read. It does the rounds
fi nishing at Dover
M Potter
Please fi nd enclosed our friends
membership cheque plus a donation for
the good work you are doing on behalf of
the residents of Eltham.
We congratulate you on a magazine
that is well produced, and the snippets of
'Historic Eltham' that you include, together
with current and future news and events,
makes it an enjoyable read.
Our thanks to the dedicated team you
have behind you.
G & P Noble
Please fi nd enclosed my cheque for friends
membership and delivery to my home of
your excellent and informative magazine.
It keeps me up to date with the goings on
of Royal Eltham!
BP Burch
Another years exciting reading
L Oakley
I enjoy reading the SEnine
EM Bigwood
Keep up the good work
A Norbury
I look forward to receiving
the SEnine Magazine.
MA Kingham
It's an excellent magazine
AW Coare
Keep up the
good work
P&T Duignan
Great SEnine magazine
M Webb
The SEnine Magazine is always very
popular with residents, indeed many pop
in and out of the hall several times a day
when they know the magazines are due,
as they are often in short supply! So do
carry on the good work.
SJ Staples (Warden) Thomas Philipot's
Almshouse.
I do enjoy it. Keep up the good work
PM Langmaid
Thank you for continuing to publish such
a good local magazine
M Haslam
Thank you for all your editions which are
so very interesting
J Loosemore
If you are in a position
to support us, details
are below, thanks.
SEnine
3
OPINION, FROM MY DESKISSUE NUMBER 77
This publication is subject to copyright - if you want to use something, ask we will usually grant permission
APRIL 2013
by John Webb
Arctic StarAn Eltham veteran has received a medal from Prime Minister David
Cameron - more than 70 years after having joined the Navy at the start of the Second World War.
For much of the War, Frank Bond took
part in the Arctic Convoys which
succeeded in taking vital supplies to
the Russian ports of Murmansk and
Archangel.
While on his vessel, HMS Suff olk, he
witnessed the sinking of HMS Hood and
was involved in the subsequent pursuit
and sinking of the German battleship
‘Bismarck’.
This War service has now been
offi cially honoured with Frank and
fellow veterans receiving the ‘Arctic
Star’ medal. They were conferred at a
ceremony with David Cameron, along
with veterans from Bomber Command,
who received a ‘clasp’ in remembrance
of their ordeals.
The Prime Minister said: “They are
heroes and I think it is right that we are
honouring them for their service 70
years ago. When you hear their stories,
it’s truly humbling.”
Frank joined the Navy in 1939, joining
as a ‘boy sailor’ before his 16th birthday,
inspired by his time in the Sea Scouts as
a youngster.
After a period of training, he was posted
to HMS Suff olk, a cruiser, which was to
protect merchant vessels through the
frozen waters to the Arctic Circle.
More than 3,000 sailors died and the
mission to keep open supply lines
to the Soviet ports of Murmansk and
Archangel was described as the "worst
journey in the world" by Winston
Churchill.
It was an experience which was to
shape his life, in which he withstood
punishing temperatures and was under
constant threat of attack from German
forces.
After the war, he also had a posting on
HMS Belfast which Frank continues to
visit each Wednesday as a volunteer on
the vessel, now a fl oating museum on
the Thames at Southwark.
Frank began his Navy career aged 15,
joining up for 12 years in 1939; after
leaving he joined HM Customs and
Excise, for 20 years in Hong Kong.
Since retiring, Frank and fellow members
of the Russian Convoy Club have re-
visited Russia, meeting their opposite
numbers and talking to schoolchildren
about their experiences.
The UK government’s
move to recognise
the veterans was
prompted by a
suggestion from the
Russian government
that they receive
the ‘Ushakov Medal’, which was being
off ered to sailors who had come to the
country’s aid during the Second World
War.
While sailors from the United States,
Australia, Canada and New Zealand
have been glad to take up the
Russians’ gesture,
our government
declined on
behalf of British
servicemen, leaving
veterans such as
Frank with a sense
of grievance.
“It’s been a long time
to wait”, said Frank,
who nonetheless
will wear the medal
with pride.
Many of the
veterans have
died during the
intervening years, and Frank is at the
younger end of those who survive.
“I don’t think of myself as a hero, I just
did my duty. As a youngster, it was
an incredibly exciting time. It’s only
looking back that you realise the terrible
dangers”, he said.
Many vessels were sunk by enemy action,
with the merchant ships themselves
coming under close attention.
One of Frank’s duties was to remove the
build-up of ice on HMS Suff olk, which
could threaten to de stabilise the vessel.
“I was young, we were well protected,
and we didn’t think about the extreme
cold”, said Frank who left the Navy as a
chief electrician.
Frank and wife, Eileen, who died in 2009,
settled in Eltham on retirement, where
their two daughters had attended St
Mary’s primary school. He now has
three grand-children.
“I would have been proud to wear the
Russian medal and I think the Arctic Star
is a response to that initiative”, he said.
SEnine
4 Don't be a litter lout, fi nd a bin
FEATURE
Eltham Terrace Club
5pm - 2am
6 days a week (Closed Sundays)
2A Well Hall Rd(Above McDonalds)
Eltham, SE9 6SF020 8859 [email protected]
Darts
PoolPokerSnooker
Kalooki
Backgammon
Chess
Free Membership. Application must be made (online) 48
hours before you intend to visit. Photo
I/D required. Members 18 y/o plus
FunExciting
SecureFriendlyRelaxed
www.elthamterraceclub.com
Cut & Blow Dry's Short Hair £36.95 Long £39.95Highlights (Bleach) with Cut & Blow Dry (foil)Short Hair £75.00 Med Hair £85.95 Long Hair £95.95Tinting extra per colour £13.50
Cut & Blow Dry's £20.00Highlights (Bleach) with Cut & Blow Dry (foil) Short Hair £49.95 Med £59.85 Long Hair £69.95Tinting extra per colour £8.95
Senior Stylist Off er from
Alan, Jason, Karen Brenda and Hayley
Ring for your
appointment today Appointments not
always necessary
190-194 Eltham High Street
Hair &
Beauty
Stylist Off er from Zoe and Kim
Beauty with SeetaHigh Defi nition (hd) brows £25.00
Mon - Thur 9 - 6 Friday 9 - 7
Saturday 9 - 6
020 8859 5228
020 8850 2931
Serving the Community
104 Westmount Road Eltham SE91UT
Monday to Thursday plus Sunday 6.30am to 9pm
Friday and Saturday 6.30am to 10pm
Eltham Park Londis
Post Offi ceMonday to Friday 9am to 5.45 pm
Saturday 9am to 5pm
£3.501lt Original
or Orange
£1.00£1.69
Quilted 4 pack
2 for £3.00
1.5lt Highland
Spring WaterSpring Water
2 for £1.50
Becks 6 Pack
Price Marked £6.49
Off er £5.49Off er £5.49
Coke or Diet Coke
Buy 1 get one free
Fairy Platinum
Original or Lemon
£1.79 now £1.00
Half Price
£5.45
£10.90
SEnine
5Strong People Strong Families Strong Community
The long-derelict site will be cleared
by its new owners, Citygrove
Securities, which has a strong record of
developing town centre sites across the
country.
But the sale to Citygrove by the
Cathedral Group, who have lost more
than £7m on the venture, has come with
no contracts to occupy the planned
hotel, supermarket and residential units.
All negotiations by Cathedral with
supermarket chains and hotel
operators over the past fi ve years had
led to ‘contacts rather than contracts’,
according to Citygrove chairman Toby
Baines.
The group is now committed to
‘demolition on spec’ as soon as possible
to rid Eltham of the visual intrusion
caused by the rotting site, and the
health and safety considerations of the
main sewer crossing the site.
In parallel, Citygrove is undertaking
a fundamental re-think about the
potential of the site, which may include
elements of Cathedral’s proposal or a
much increased residential element.
Cathedral planned around 100
residential units, but more could be
accommodated on site if the scale
of the proposed supermarket and 78
bed hotel were reduced or cut out
completely.
These may entail a fresh planning
application to Greenwich Council. Local
residents will hope to use the change
in ownership to reduce the height of
the proposed development which
they said was out of keeping with the
n e i g h b o u r i n g
Eltham Palace
conservation area
and would over-
shadow their
homes.
Mr Baines told
SEnine: “This is
an excellent site
which is badly
in need of re-
development. We
will be having a
good look at the
options but we’re
keen to involve
local residents and
hear their concerns before deciding the
best way ahead.”
Cathedral had been plagued by the lack
of commitment shown by the leading
supermarket chains, who have been
hit by the recession and rapid changes
in shopping habits caused by the
popularity of the internet.
Favoured outlets are now smaller
units, along the lines of Sainsbury’s
Local, Morrison’s M and Tesco Express
as shoppers increasingly do their
bulk purchasing online, topped up
by convenience visits at accessible
locations.
Grove Market Place Demolition of the Grove Market Place will begin in June,
SEnine has learned.
Toby Baines
Some people said that they couldn’t
write poetry or were too shy to
enter.
But the entries for the ‘Celebrate Eltham
in Verse’ competition have shown that
there are lots who have been brave
enough to put pen to paper and write
fantastic poems about our town.
There are poems, from both adults and
children, about the history, the parks
and woods, the High Street, famous
people, memories of Eltham past and
just what a great place it is now!
The entries are now in and being judged
and winners will be notifi ed shortly. A
Celebratory Event has been arranged at
the Eltham Centre on 23rd April 2013,
part of the World Book Night event.
The prizes and certifi cates for the
winners will be presented and poems
will be read. The presentation will take
place at 7pm, but there will be a display
of poems, illustrated by pictures of
Eltham old and new, from 6pm. Even if
you are not a winner, your poem may
be selected for display. Whether you
have entered a poem or not do come
along to join in to Celebrate Eltham
in Verse. Come and support our local
poets. Everyone is invited to attend this
free event. It may inspire you to write
your own poem?
Poetry Presentation Night
SEnine
6
NEWS
Buy Local, Support the Town Centre
At the Court Yard Surgery
28 Court Yard,
Eltham SE95QA
020 8850 7623
Open 6 days
a week plus
home visits
Lorna McGucken & AssociatesBSc(Hons) HCPC 12250
1 s t H e a l t hF o o t C l i n i c
Full range of beauty treatments.
Dermalogica stockists.
Gift vouchers.
Graham Webb salon 202-204 Eltham High Street
Eltham SE9 1BH Telephone 020 8850 6311
www.beautywithineltham.co.uk
DON’T BE SHY GIVE IT A TRY !
Ladies and Gents, whatever your age, you are very welcome to come along to try your hand at Bowls. Never played before? No problem, as qualifi ed coaching members will get you started.
Come and have a FREE taster session.
Just telephone the Secretary, Terry Davies
on 020 8467 0101.
For more detailed information, visit our website:
www.dukeofkentcourtbowlsclub.com
BBQ's
WhistWhist
Day TripsDay Trips
Holidays AbroadHolidays Abroad
Christmas Lunch
Dinner / DanceDinner / Dance
Refreshments
DUKE of KENT COURT BOWLS CLUBDUKE of KENT COURT BOWLS CLUBLooking for a Friendly & Welcoming Club to join?Looking for a Friendly & Welcoming Club to join?
Then this is the club for you! Then this is the club for you! With more than just Summer Bowls With more than just Summer Bowls
for your social life.for your social life.
Darts
situated adjacent to
127 Dunkery Road, Mottingham, SE9 4HY
Maths & Maths & Engl ish Engl ish Tuit ionTuit ion
• Follows the national curriculum.
• Learn and practise, maths and English.
• Step up a level at school.
St Luke's Church Westmount road, Eltham SE91XX
Contact : Radhika Gummadi
020 84693726 or 07528438407020 84693726 or 07528438407
Every Wednesday
5 to 6:30pm (contact us for weekend class timings)
SEnine
7Find and Support Local Tradesmen
Although I’m now able to watch
hundreds of channels, I have a
problem with our new
television.
That is, how do you
turn it on? And
then, how do you
turn it off again?
I’ve heard it’s called
‘function creep’:
elementary household
items boasting a control
panel like a jumbo jet.
Does a toaster need a ‘bagel
function’? And a kettle which has four
heat settings with a ‘simmer’ option?
I’d be happy with one that worked for
more than a fortnight.
Things have come a long way in my
life-time, brought up as I was watching
my dear late mother washing clothes
in the kitchen sink, and wringing them
through the mangle. No wonder her
poor hands suff ered.
Help came with the a twin tub, wet
clothes hauled out and dropped into
a spinner. Dirty water blurted down
the sink while the machine did its stuff ,
wildly and noisily, once the lid was
down.
The fi rst hint of trouble came with
our fi rst automatic washing
machine. The man from Brown
Muff ’s elegant department
store in Bradford had
to show mum how
it worked. And he
returned next day
to check she was
getting the
hang of it.
T h e n
came the
phase when the
men from Comet
would dump a new
appliance on the doorstep, refusing to
bring it into the house, leaving you to
work out how it worked for yourself.
I read that, despite having oodles of
new functions on their washers, most
people only ever use one or two. Less is
defi nitely more.
The new beasts now talk to you when
each cycle has completed. We’re
thinking of having ours switched to
Italian so that we can brush up on a
foreign language.
All this interactivity can be very
annoying. Leaving aside satnav, our car
tells us when seat belts are unfastened,
lights are left on and the petrol’s low.
Frankly, I think the car has a low opinion
of our intelligence functionality.
I have always liked things to be
straightforward. When some in my class
at school hankered after Swiss Army
knives, I was content to have a slim
penknife with a tartan
handle and just the
two blades. Ideal
for whittling sticks.
Bliss!
Jane Webb has lived in Eltham since '85 with her husband and daughter. She has taught at several local primary schools'
FOOT PAIN IS NORMAL ISN’T IT?FOOT PAIN IS NORMAL ISN’T IT?Our Podiatrist/Chiropodist, with over 20 years experience is able to treat
and advise on a huge variety of foot problems, no matter how large or small, whether they are causing you pain or are just unsightly.
Common complaints include:
Hard skin, corns & cracked heels
Ingrowing nails
Arch and heel pain
Verrucae
Bunions
Diabetic feet
020 8294 0066 020 8294 1113
James Grabham
MChS SRCh DPodM
Eltham Podiatry
93 Eltham Hill
Eltham SE9 5SU
DON’T IGNORE FOOT PAIN!CALL JAMES GRABHAM NOW
Home visiting service available
Free Parking
Function CreepSEnine
8 Vote at elections, it is your right
JANE’S JOTTINGS
MANGAL PHARMACY
MANGAL PHARMACY 59 WELL HALL ROAD ELTHAM SE9 6SZ
020 8850 6860
146 WELL HALL ROAD ELTHAM SE9 6SN
020 8859 0036
8 GREEN PLACE GREENWICH PENINSULA SE10 0PE
020 8305 0748
WWW.MANGAL.NET
Free prescription collection
and delivery service.
StarSStarS BarberBarber
Professional Hair StylistGents Hair Cut £7.00
Child's Hair Cut (U11) £5.00
O.A.P Hair Cut £5.00
Cut and Wash £10.00
Shave and Hot Towel £7.00
Beard Trim £3.00
07446 552409136 Well Hal l Road Eltham SE9 6SN
Nex t to Eltham R ail Station
7 days a week
Mon to Wed
9am - 7pm
Thu & Friday
9am to 8pm
Sat 9am to 6pm
Sun 10am to 3.30pm
Mention this adver t to receive Mention this adver t to receive £1.00 off hair cuts, Mon - Thu£1.00 off hair cuts, Mon - Thu
Conditions apply
51 Welling High Street Welling, Kent DA16 1TU
F I R E P L A C E S
020 8303 1131
Well ing-- Modern & Traditional
Fireplaces
Large showrooms
Wide Selection on
Display
Site Survey & Fitting
Service
Friendly Service
Easy parking
Over 20 years in
business
We service gas fi res
Issue landlords
certifi cates.
Now has anNow has an• • Free Collection & Free Collection &
Delivery Delivery
• • Next day returnNext day return
• • 10% Discount for 10% Discount for
OAP's OAP's
• • Open 7 Days a WeekOpen 7 Days a Week
277 Eltham High Street SE91TY277 Eltham High Street SE91TY
07716 377 959 or 020 8355 450507716 377 959 or 020 8355 4505
[email protected]@hotmail.com
Shirts £1.10 each• or 5 for £5.00 Dresses £1.50 each Trousers £1.40 each Bedding from £1.00 Pillow cases £0.50 Duvets from ..... • Single £12.00 • Double £14.00 • King £16.00 All other items £1.20 per lb weight
Don't forget our laundry service. We do service washes for:Horse Rugs - Towels Rugs - BlanketsSports kits - Duvets Work overall - Bedding & Throws.
Under new management
SEnine
9 Don't wait for people to be friendly, show them how.
This month, three spectacular
sculptures will be unveiled in Well
Hall Pleasaunce based on characters
from children’s author E Nesbit’s
imagination. Here, Margaret McCarthy
reviews ‘Four Children and It’ a new
book by Jacqueline Wilson which draws
on that same unique source.
When I fi rst heard Jacqueline Wilson was
to write Four Children and It, based on E
Nesbit’s Five Children and It, I wondered
how this could be achieved.
Of course, the Eltham-based author had
left us with the possibility that perhaps
the book’s mystical character, the
Psammead, could be found again.
A f t e r
r e a d i n g
W i l s o n ' s
book, I
do think
it is a real
s u c c e s s
b r i n g i n g
t o g e t h e r
all the
adventure
and magic
of Edith
Nesbit and
reminding children about what is really
important in life, their families.
Five Children and It was fi rst published
in book form in 1902 when Edith was
living with her husband Hubert Bland
and their children at Well Hall, Eltham.
It tells the story of fi ve children, Robert,
Anthea, Jane, Cyril and ‘the Lamb’ (the
baby of the family) who travel from
Camden Town in London to spend time
in the country.
As in all good magic stories Father had
to go away suddenly on business and
Mother had gone to look after Granny,
so the children were left to entertain
themselves. This is when the adventures
began.
In Jacqueline Wilson’s story we meet
two very modern families. Rosalind and
her brother Robbie, who usually live
with their mother, have come to stay in
the country with their father, David, and
his new wife, Alice.
They have had a daughter together,
Maud, and Alice’s own daughter, Smash,
is there too. Quite a mix but very up-to-
date in today’s world.
At fi rst
t h e
children
d o n ’ t
like each
o t h e r .
But then
c o m e s
the idea
of a
p i c n i c
in the
w o o d s
and the
real story
b e g i n s .
D a d
wants to
have his
picnic by
a sandpit
as he did
w h e n
a boy
and this
reminds Rosalind about the book,
Nesbit’s Five Children and It she is
reading where fi ve children fi nd a
Psammead in a sandpit!
While their parents have an afternoon
nap, the children fi nd the Psammead for
themselves and they start their summer
adventures.
The wishes the Psammead grants them,
like the originals, end at sunset and
include being the best at climbing trees
and being rich and famous. But when
this 'famous' wish wears off , they are left
to make their own way home from the
O2 Arena in Greenwich.
When it looks as if they won’t be able
to hide from their parents anymore they
ask the Psammead for Rosalind and
Robbie’s Dad and Alice not to notice
anything magical that might happen.
My favourite chapter, however, is when
the children go back in time and meet
Edith’s original children.
They become instant friends. Their last
wish is for their “Hearts Desire”, although
they don’t really know what this could
be, but the Psammead is happy to
oblige. The children ask if they will see
the Psammead again.
The Psammead mumbled something,
but it was scrabbling so hard we couldn’t
quite hear what it said. It gave one last
scrabble and disappeared entirely.
“Was that a yes?”, said Smash.
I do hope it was.
Edith did write another book whilst still
living in Eltham about the fi ve children
who hatch a Phoenix. In one adventure
the children are stuck in a tower and the
Phoenix has to ask the Psammead for
help.
The Psammead is a character that we
could do with fi nding more often, but
now we will not have to wait for another
100 years. It will soon be alive and well
in the Pleasaunce, with the Phoenix and
a Dragon for company.
Psammead Found in PleasaunceSpectacular sculptures to be unveiled in Well Hall Pleasaunce
Margaret McCarthy is Chairman of The
Edith Nesbit Society
SEnine
10 Join in a Community Activity
BOOK REVIEW
The 1st Royal Eltham scout group
is the oldest group in south east
England which has a fantastic history
of providing fun and educational
experiences for young people across
Eltham and beyond.
The group currently
consists of two beaver
colonies, two cub
packs and a scout
troop which regularly
participate in camps
and activities with other
groups throughout the
year.
One of the group’s
prospering cub packs
is Eddison Fox pack,
run by sisters Anne
and Pack Leader Jean
Smith. They have both
recently been awarded the Silver Acorn,
one of the highest possible honours
available to scout leaders. They have run
the pack since 1977.
But despite the great work done by the
likes of these two sisters the 1st Royal
Eltham scout group is short on leaders
and so is asking anybody interested to
come forward quickly.
There is no shortage of children to
take part, with an average session for
Eddison Fox cub pack having around 20
participants for their two hour slots on a
Thursday night.
Indeed the pack recently attended a trip
to Downe campsite for the weekend
and two members Samuel, 10, and
Ciaran, 11, said that going on camps
and hiking were some of the best things
about Cubs.
The boys believed that any young
people interested in learning new skills,
gaining exciting badges and having fun
at the same time should “defi nitely” join
the cubs, but they also said that you
have to be “well behaved and dedicated”
to get the above benefi ts.
The large number of young people
who are members of the 1st Royal
Eltham are able to
consistently have
fun and enriching
experiences because
of the work of their
leaders; whilst there
is lots of hard-work
put in behind the
scenes, it is clear
that the fi nal result
(the children having
fun and learning) is
very rewarding. The
1st Royal Eltham
therefore is asking
for any prospective
leaders to get in
contact with them
and also stresses that new members
to beavers, cubs or scouts are always
welcome.
Website (go to ‘contact us’
page):www.1stroyaleltham.org.uk/
index.html
Phone number for Group Leader
Christine Baker: 020 8857 2045
Ages:
Beavers: 6-8 .. Cubs: 8-10½ .. Scouts: 10½-14
Two Eltham cub leaders will be taking part in the National Scouting Parade at Windsor this month after winning long
service awards. George Evans met their pack.
Pack Sisters
People interested in the future
of Avery Hill Park are being
invited to attend a meeting in
April.
The Friends group, which works
with the council to improve
facilities in the park, is holding
the meeting on Tuesday April 16
at the Environment Centre, Bexley
Road on Tuesday 16th at 7.30pm.
The meeting will also discuss the
council's planned cycleway through
the park which is threatening
to destroy the network of paths
between the park and Southend
Crescent.
Further details from Nuala Geary on
07982 728898
Avery Hill Park Call for Help
SEnine
11Don't be a Litter tosser, put it in a bin
SCOUTS
Until Saturday May 18 ‘This Eltham Of Ours’,Art exhibition featuring paintings of Eltham 1910-1920
Tuesdays to Saturdays, entry free
Greenwich Heritage Centre, Woolwich SE18 4DX from
9am – 5pm,
Saturdays to May 19‘Ships of Stone: The Islands of Mervyn Peake’Art exhibition with the works of the famous illustrator
Gerald Moore Gallery at Eltham College, Mottingham
Lane SE9 4RW
Details: www.geraldmooregallery.org or 020 8857 0448.
Free entry - 12noon – 4pm
Saturday March 30‘The Magic of Musicals’Songs from the shows
Shane Hamsheir and friends
Bob Hope Theatre. Proceeds to Help for Heroes
£10 from 8850 3702 or www.bobhopetheatre.co.uk
7.30pm
Sunday March 31Easter egg hunt sponsored by the Tudor BarnWell Hall Pleasaunce
Entry free
11am – 2pm, last entry 1pm
Sunday April 7‘Don’t Stop Believing’Rocking to Beat Cancer
Bob Hope Theatre - £10
All proceeds to cancer charities
2.30pm and 7.30pm
Tuesday April 9Fit for Life exercise courseTwelve week programme
Age UK Bromley and Greenwich
Sherard Road resource centre
Sessions free; booking in advance on 8315 1850
10am – 12noon
Friday April 12IT courses for beginners and improversTwelve week programme
Age UK Bromley and Greenwich
Sherard Road resource centre
£60 for 12 week programme; booking in advance 8315
1850
Beginners 10am – 11.30am; Improvers 12noon – 1.30pm
Saturday April 13Imagine the BeatlesTribute Band
Bob Hope Theatre, Wythfield Road
£12.50 (conc £11) 7.30pm
Wed April 17 to Sat April 20The Revenge of Sherlock HolmesSidcup Operatic Society
A musical mystery based on Conan Doyle’s characters
Bob Hope Theatre, Wythfield Road
Tickets from £10.50 8850 3702
7.45pm (plus 2.30pm Sat)
Sunday April 21Bluebell walkGuided walk, Eltham Nature Club
Kemnal Woods , off Sidcup bypass
Meet Kemnal Park cemetery BR7 6RR
More details www.elthamnatureclub.co.uk
£1.50 members, £3 non-members - 2-4pm
Tuesday April 23Celebrate Eltham in Verse Community poetry competition, winners announced.
Display of poems and local photos.
Free event starting 6.30pm
Awards and poems being read at 7pm
Wednesday April 24 – Saturday 27Jekyll and HydeMusical based on RL Stevenson novel
Bob Hope Theatre
£13.50 (conc and Weds, Thurs £11.50)
7.45pm (also Sat 2.30pm)
Tuesday 14 to Saturday May 10Calendar GirlsBob Hope Theatre productions
£9 (conc £8 Tues – Thurs)
Tuesday 28 May to Saturday 1 June‘Grease’, the musicalRavensbourne Light Operatic Society
Bob Hope Theatre
Wythfield Road
£11.50 (£13.50 Fri and Sat)
www.bobhopetheatre.co.uk or 8850 3702
7.45pm (plus 2.30pm Sat
Every MondayGreenwich Community ChoirEltham Park Methodist Church on Westmount Road
7.45pm. All Welcome.
An opportunity for people aged 18+ to enjoy singing in a
fun choir. It meets every Monday during term time.
Every Monday Opera Appreciation 7.00pm All Welcome. Royal Blackheath Golf Club Phone
Pam Norris on 020 8850 6710
Every TuesdayGreenwich Soul Choir rehearsalsEltham Green Community Church, Westhorne Avenue
7.30pm, contact: 07958 612 582
Alternate WednesdaysEltham KnittersSocial craft group.
St Mary’s Community Centre. 2-4.30pm
Every ThursdayEltham Chess & Games ClubAll ages and abilities welcome. St Mary’s Community
Centre, 7.30 – 9.30pm (Recess all Aug & Sep 1st)
Contact Alan 07944 445 322
Every ThursdayEltham Choral SocietySt Luke’s Church, Westmount Road, New members
welcome. 7.30pm. www.elthamchoral.org.uk
Second Monday of MonthEltham Park TownswomenMethodist Church, Westmount Road - 2pm
Fourth Thursday of MonthCivil Service Retirement FellowshipSocial meetings, talks and free raffle. Also open to non-
civil servants. Meets United Reformed Church, Court Road
Contact: Phyllis 020 8265 0810. -10am – 12noon
Third Saturday of Month Fairtrade Coff ee MorningThe Methodist Church Westmount Road Eltham SE9
Proceeds from sale of coffee & cakes to various charities.
10.30 until 12noon
Every SundayEltham Cycle Club: ridesStart Eltham Park 9.30am. All ages and abilities, varied
routes. www.limitededitioncycling.co.uk
Second Monday of the MonthBritish Cactus and Succulent SocietyEltham branch meet at the Lionel Road Community
centre Westhorne Avenue SE96DH. 7pm for a 7.45pm
start. Contact the Secretary - Jim Earles
020 8851 1076. http://www.eltham.bcss.org.uk
Last Sunday of Each Month(Except August and December)
Eltham Park PSA Orchestral Concerts3pm start - Free entry. All welcome.
Eltham Park Methodists Church, Westmount Road,
Eltham. Details 020 8850 8945
Monday & Wednesday EveningsMartial Arts taster session Reality based Martial Arts & self defence school. Teen' &
adults welcome. Learn to defend yourself while having
fun.
Eltham CKD. web www.eltham-ckd.co.uk
020 8304 3500 or 07919 356980
SEnine
12 Eltham has something for everyone
WHAT'S ON
BOB
HOPE
THEATRE
COMING ATTRACTIONS
April at Bob Hope has two musical
treats to enjoy. Up fi rst is Sidcup
Operatic Society with The Revenge of
Sherlock Holmes, A Musical Mystery.
This is a glorious romp through
Victorian England, accompanied by
operetta, music hall and musical theatre
numbers. Written by Leslie Bricusse,
who has written many of your favourite
musicals, directed by Chris Williams,
choreographed by Alicia Thompson,
musical direction by John Howells this
is just not to be missed.
Sherlock Holmes is an enduringly
compelling character. Between
his logical reasoning, his forensic
knowledge and his mastery of disguise
the twists and turns of every Sherlock
Holmes tale keep you transfi xed, and this
plot is no exception. Sherlock Holmes –
Andy Noakes – retires after losing his
arch enemy Moriarty. Believing Bella
Spellgrove – Jackie Mitchell – is being
attacked, Holmes invites her to stay. His
housekeeper –Trudi de Lisser-Boyle – is
against this, but doesn’t need to worry
as Holmes murders Bella. Or does he?
Lestrade – Stuart Pinel – is the detective
who both brings Holmes in, and is
tricked into letting him escape. Mrs
Moriarty – Sarah Pinel –has a cunning
plan. But you’ll have to see the show to
fi nd out who triumphs.
The second April delight is Jekyll and
Hyde The Musical, also by Leslie Bricusse,
though this time with music by Frank
Wildhorn, directed by Sheila Arden,
choreographed by Lydia Penn, musical
direction by Steve Trill, this again must
be seen.
Brought up to date this is no Hammer
Horror, more a psychological thriller that
will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Former child actor and current local
teacher Daniel Lawrence is Jekyll and
Hyde, who came to Bromley Players just
to get this part. He has
two women in his life, his
fi ancé – Kate Streets – who
is part of his doctor life, but supportive
of his crazy ideas and prostitute Lucy –
Sarah Leanne Howe. As he is drawn to
his dark side, he is more drawn to Lucy,
and we see him battling within himself.
This is a challenging musical for Bromley
Players, but picking the right piece
ensures a lot of performers audition,
and a very strong cast. This is one of the
musical director’s favourite musicals and
the passion for this piece will enthral the
audience. The music is beautiful and the
story is engaging. Another musical gem
at Bob Hope.
Holmes, Jekyll and Hyde hit the stage
Also at Bob Hope in April
One night only
Imagine the Beatles Tribute Band
Sat Aril 13th - 7.30pm
SEnine
13Be a good neighbour
PREVIEW by Beattie Slavin
020 8850 2772
140 Well Hall Road
SE9 6SN
Near Eltham Station
Come & meet our friendly team in our 97th Anniversary year
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When Joe Yates takes a walk in the
woods, he calls it going ‘on location’.
And summer holidays with the family in
Cornwall have now become more of a
‘shoot’.
For 17 year old Joe dreams all day about
movies; conceiving them, scripting them,
casting them, fi lming them, editing them
and releasing them.
So far, 26 of his two minute home-made fi lm
shorts have hit his You Tube account, ever
more professional in content and concept.
His love of fi lm-making was fi rst awakened
when the family bought a modest
camcorder to record their holiday in Florida
and Joe was 14.
For some time after that, it was mainly Joe’s
hands that were on the controls until a burst
of summer holiday work last year allowed to
him to buy a more sophisticated version.
And a work placement with a Covent
Garden advertising agency opened his eyes
to the world of professional fi lming.
“We’d always loved watching fi lms as a
family but when I had a go at making my
own, there was no looking back”, said Joe,
who is in the Arden post-16 centre at Crown
Woods College.
Joe has formed his own production
company Kitchen Knife Studios, whose
latest release ‘Red Cliff ’ is about a teenage
girl going through a traumatic experience
on a coastal path. It took three days of his
family’s trip to St Ives last summer and
stars his sister, Ellie, a willing performer but
encouraged by the promise of a shopping
trip to buy the necessary make-up.
His recruitment of Ellie is a mark of Joe’s
career to date. His location fi lming in
and around SE9 and central London can
comprise a team of anything up to 15
friends, all with roles to play and under his
direction.
This often arouses the curiosity of passers-
by. One recent ‘shoot’ in Oxleas Woods was
interrupted by two police offi cers who,
after ascertaining nothing suspicious was
happening, off ered to take a part in the
fi lming.
At Arden, Joe is taking the Film Studies A
level course, along with three other students,
under Head of Media Dan Gleghorn. He is
hoping to go on to Ravensbourne College of
Design and Communication at Greenwich
Peninsula to do a degree in fi lm studies.
Mr Gleghorn: “Joe had gained a great deal of
practical experience before he even started
our course, so he’s able to tell us some
things.
“We’re able to give him a wider theoretical
understanding of the subject to add to his
practical abilities”, he said.
At fi rst, Joe’s favourite genre was suspense
and thriller movies, hoping he could tap in to
some of the magic of his favourite directors
Hitchcock, Spielberg and Christopher
Nolan. Now, he’s widening his scope to take
in romance and relationship stories.
But, after 26 fi lms, Joe’s fi nding it harder
rather than easier. He said: “I’ve learned that
there’s a great deal of attention to detail
and planning needed, and I have to fi t it all
around work at school.”
So ‘Eltham – the Movie’ may have to wait
its turn. With the area’s history in mind, his
favourite fi lm, a re-make of ‘Back to the
Future’ might be a runner.
Joe’s fi lms can be seen at
w w w . y o u t u b e . c o m / u s e r /
KitchenKnifeStudios
"Action"SEnine
14 Help keep Eltham tidy! Put your litter in bins.
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SEnine
15Make a diff erence in your community
While the action was taking place
in central London on 2 June 1953,
celebrations were being acted out
in homes, streets, gardens and parks
throughout SE9.
On the same day this year, the
traditional Bank Holiday fayre in Well
Hall Pleasaunce is being moved to the
Jubilee Day, Sunday June 2, to mark the
anniversary.
We would like SEnine readers to
participate in the celebrations by
sending in their memories of the
day together with any pictures of
themselves with family and friends.
Perhaps you have some photos hidden
away that parents or grandparents left
you.
Any memory, long, short or fl eeting
would be welcome; if you prefer we
can contact you to listen to your stories
so that they can be included in our
coverage in May and June’s editions.
Please send them in any time from now
onwards or by the end of April.
Contributions should be sent in to
SEnine, PO Box 24290, Eltham SE9 6ZP,
email [email protected] or phone/
text 07894 711765.
To start the ball rolling, here are some
from Brenda Freeman of celebrations
in Middle Park, which we carried in the
magazine back in 2009.
“I was nearly ten and my sister was
almost eight. We went to a street
party in Churchbury Road in Middle
Park. There was bunting, sandwiches,
balloons and a band playing. It was
held on the green and there were races
and competitions; my sister and I
entered the fancy dress contest as well
as some other races.
“Everyone was talking about it. It went on
for the whole afternoon, the grown-ups
were dancing and had a bit of a sing-
song. Everybody was happy for a change,
the whole street was out celebrating and
there were decorations everywhere like
Union Jack fl ags and I even remember
seeing some ration cards knocking around
the place.
“We got to wear paper hats, later on
we all sat down at the tables and had
sandwiches and cake.
“My Nan helped with our costumes, I was
dressed as a nurse and my sister was the
casualty in the pram. The nurse costume
was something I had got for Christmas
and it was my Nan’s idea to dress my sister
up with bandages and plasters which she
didn’t like one bit.
“We won fi rst prize in the fancy dress and
had our photos taken. The prize was a
giant colour jigsaw puzzle of the Queen’s
coach. I remember the coach was a lovely
gold colour and we took it home and put
it together that same night.
“I also came second in a race. It was great
having all the boys and girls in the street
out playing. Everyone got commemorative
mugs and plates but unfortunately ours
got broken since.
“Later on we all went over to my auntie’s
house to watch the coronation on TV as
she was the only one who owned a TV.
We had more sandwiches and crowded
round watching the little black and white
box.”
This summer, our Queen celebrates 60 years since her coronation at Westminster Abbey.
SEnine is seeking pictures or stories
T he traditional egg hunt
will take place in Well Hall
Pleasaunce on Easter Sunday.
Sponsored by the Tudor Barn,
there will be 600 eggs to be won
from 11am.
Competitors will be required to
look in the Pleasaunce to look for
letters to solve a clue.
The hunt will take place between
11am – 2pm with the last entries,
which are free, at 1pm. Entry forms
are available from the Greenwich
Park Rangers on Moat Island.
Under 10 year olds only.
600 Hidden Easter Eggs
SEnine
16
CORONATION
Take a walk in the Tarn
Eltham Hill School
Eltham Hill School
Eltham Hill School is the only school in the Royal Borough of Greenwich to be authorised to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma for Post 16.
All IB Diploma students studying at Eltham Hill from September will be given an Apple iPad to support their academic studies.
SEnine
17Join a local community group
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Our experience in health and safety gives us an advantage with working in schools, colleges and high street stores with the confi dence of public safety.
We also carry out a design and build service with experienced architects, surveyors, structural engineers and interior designers.
London and Kent construction is a solid player in the construction market with a portfolio of clients and building projects. We also have a great team of talented tradesmen and tradeswomen which has grown in strength over the years.
London and Kent construction is centrally located in Eltham SE9, giving easy access to southeast London and northwest Kent, however we do work in other areas by arrangement.
We provide free detailed quotes and professional advice
We survey and provide design services for planning permission
All aspects of building works undertaken, from new build to
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We have a portfolio of building work available for you to see
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Landlord and property management services
Punctual and polite we always commence work on time
SEnine
18 Be active in your community
And to keep the body healthy too, a
new ‘Fit for Life’ programme, starts
this month as well.
The computer course is aimed at
helping older people to stay afl oat in a
world which is increasingly dominated
by new technologies.
With complete beginners in mind, the
12 week course will enable people over
the age of 50 to join the digital world
and will be held at the group’s Resource
Centre in Sherard Road.
Starting on Friday April 12, the course
off ers hands-on jargon-free tuition
giving people the confi dence to use a
computer to access key services and
keep in touch with friends and relatives.
Tutor Richard Ward said: “Increasingly
there is a risk of people becoming
isolated because they aren’t able or
haven’t the confi dence to go online.
“It’s not only the ability to buy things
and fi nd things out; it’s also inter-acting
with children and grand-children who
spend more of their time using email
and Facebook to communicate”, he said.
“Older people can feel left out. Also,
some services are only available through
the internet”, he said.
The benefi ts of online communication
are great for people with mobility
problems or who have friends and
relations at a distance. There will also be
advice on what equipment people will
need to get online.
Age UK Bromley & Greenwich also off ers
a 12 week Friday morning course for
‘improvers’, who have some basic skills
but would like to discover more; the
course also starts on Friday April 12.
Both courses cost £60 each for the 12
weeks. Anybody interested should
contact Louise Donovan on 020 8315
1850 or write to her at Age UK Bromley
& Greenwich, Community House, South
Street, Bromley BR1 1RH.
Also at the refurbished Resource Centre,
opposite the old baths site in Sherard
Road, the Fit for Life programme starts
on Tuesday April 9 and runs from 10am
to 12noon.
The programme aims to help people
maintain healthy lifestyles in a friendly
atmosphere and will give advice on
basic fi tness regimes and exercise which
people can do to keep active.
For those with limited movement,
the exercises can even be undertaken
seated.
Also starting on 15th April for 5 weeks,
“Let’s Cook and Eat”, a new healthy
cooking programme for people 50+.
Both the “Let’s Cook and Eat” and Fit for
Life programme are free but places are
limited so if you are interested please
book your place now!
Amanda Hone, marketing offi cer at
Age UK Bromley & Greenwich said: “The
Resource Centre, previously used by
Age Concern Greenwich as a day centre,
is being refurbished to host a range of
exciting new activities including the
IT and Fit for Life programme and it is
already home for the Eltham Men in
Sheds project.”
For further information about the
Resource Centre call: 020 8315 1850 or
email: [email protected].
The local silver heads are to learn to surf with greater confidence, thanks to a course being organised by
Age UK Bromley & Greenwich.
Conquering The Internet
Bromley
& Greenwich
SEnine
19Help keep Eltham safe - report suspicious activity!
EDUCATION
When Cameron Corbett designed
his estate at Eltham Park he
not only built a variety of houses but
allocated space for schools, places of
worship and shops. The fi rst shops
were at Well Hall Parade between the
railway and into Greenvale Road, and
in the High Street opposite Southend
Crescent.
Land designated for the main shopping
development was to be at the centre of
the estate in Westmount Road around
a new railway station he
hoped would replace
that of Well Hall, opened
in 1895, on the new
Bexleyheath Railway.
The railway company
thought otherwise as
assurances were given
to land owners at Well
Hall for the retention
of the station and after
court proceedings the
new station was built
and Well Hall retained.
Shooters Hill and Eltham
Park station opened
in 1908 at Westmount
Road with the canopied
ticket offi ce at road level
and covered access to the platforms. It
was the most sumptuous station on the
line to particularly cater for the fi rst class
season ticket holders.
To the north of the station
land fronting the road was
reserved for six shops to be
built in a distinctive style.
By August 1910 the shops
were being completed and
were numbered from the
railway as 1-6 Shooters Hill
Parade. In early August the
fi rst shop to open at No 6,
by the present Eltham Park
Gardens, was AH Wood
(now Tanners) selling home
grown fruit and vegetables
direct from their farm at
Upper Ruxley to be followed at No
2 by Robins Stores selling ‘practically
everything for the house’; they also
had the concession for the post offi ce
and opened on 12 August 1910. The
other shops opening a little later were
Eltham Park Dairy at No 1, ‘The Cabin’
newsagent and confectioner run by
Mr J Hinchcliff (now Fletchers) at No 3,
Madame Jeanne for millinery and art
needlework at No 4 (now Stargrill), and
Gross & Dixon butchers (now Abbey
plumbers) at No 5.
Robins Stores
specialised in
p r o v i s i o n s
a n d
g r o c e r i e s
t o g e t h e r
with china,
g l a s s ,
earthenware,
b r u s h e s ,
b r o o m s ,
p a i l s ,
baths and
h o u s e h o l d
ironmongery
all sold with
p e r s o n a l
service, no
check-outs in those days! The business
was owned by Mr TJ Robins who had
other shops at Sidcup, New Eltham,
Woolwich, Bromley, Crayford and St
Mary Cray. In 1918 the writer’s aunt, Hilda
Lewis, went to work at the store which
was then solely for the sale of food. In
the shop, to the right of the central
entrance door, was a public telephone
box kiosk where each call cost 2d.
Beyond the kiosk was a long grocery
counter behind which customers were
served. Fronting the opposite wall was
the provisions counter and the bacon
slicer. At the rear
was the post
offi ce counter;
behind was the
parlour where
rest breaks
were taken by
the staff which
comprised a
manager, then
Mr Songhurst
who lived in the
fl at above the
shop which was
accessed from
a staircase by
the post offi ce
Eltham Park Post Offi ceJohn Kennett looks at the history of Eltham's oldest post office.
Opening advert, August 1910
Shooters Hill Parade, 1910, with Mr Wood’s delivery cart
Hilda Lewis at Robins, 1920
SEnine
20
HISTORIC ELTHAM
counter, one assistant on provisions and
two assistants on the grocery counter
together with another in the post offi ce.
Rationing of food was in force for part
of the First World War and a sign by
the window advertising ‘free sugar’
was rather misleading as the sugar was
simply ‘free, off ration’. Hilda met her
future husband Frank Armstrong when
he came to work during the summer
months in the ticket offi ce at Eltham
Park Station, as it was then abbreviated,
and to do holiday relief duties. He
returned to Eltham for this seasonal
work until 1926. On their marriage at St
Luke’s church, Westmount Road in 1928
she left Robins on removal to a new life
in Croydon.
In the early 1920s extra shops were
built in Westmount Road between
Eltham Park Gardens and Greenvale
Road and the former ticket offi ce and
waiting room at Eltham Park station was
converted into ‘Station Parade’ shops
when the facilities were removed to
platform level. Some renumbering of
properties was necessary and about
1923 the Robins shop address was
changed to 104 Westmount Road;
in 1924 permission was granted for
the present pavement pillar box to
be installed. Shops were also built
between the railway line and the Well
Hall side of Glenlea Road in 1926 for
the Royal Arsenal Co-operative Society
(RACS). The increased competition may
account for Mr Robins selling his shop,
in the early 1930s, to Mr GW Reader.
By 1937 until just after the Second
World War the business was in the
hands of James Wilson who traded as
a grocer with vegetables and fruit and
salads daily and a post and telegraph
offi ce. In 1949 till the mid 1960s No
104 Westmount Road traded as Birch’s
Stores with the same format and
counter service with hams being boiled
at the back of the shop; one local lad did
the bicycle delivery round but hated
the hilly parts around Castlewood Drive.
Until 1972 it was in the hands of the
Mitchell family, with Mr AE Mitchell as
the postmaster.
Under the Spar grocery banner from
1973 it became a mainly self service
business run by Mr Gibbs. Goods were
displayed on either side of the shop
with a central display and till with the
main till by the right hand front window.
On this side, to the rear, was the
serviced cheese and deli counter
with the post offi ce opposite; a
centre door at the end led to the
staff room.
Early in 1977 the new owner was Mr
Pravin Patel. One Sunday morning
in September 1982 the shop was
visited by former shopworker
Mrs Hilda Armstrong who was
kindly shown round the shop by
Mr Patel, who happened to be
at the premises,
and recalled her
memories of working
there. During his tenure
the original shop front
was replaced by the
present arrangement.
In November 1996
the business was purchased by Mr
Suryakant C Patel. In April 2003 a Royal
Mail employee making a delivery to the
post offi ce was followed and attacked
with both men falling to the ground
knocking down a display stand. The
robber grabbed a bag which contained
stamps and postal orders and fl ed to
a waiting car in Eltham Park Gardens.
Extra postal work came to the shop
following the closure of the post offi ces
at Well Hall and Eltham High Street
in 2004 and 2008 respectively. Since
December 2012 the business has been
with his daughter Sapna Patel, assisted
by her husband Sandeep.
Following closure and a refi t the
premises emerged on Monday 18
February 2013 as an enlarged store
under the Londis name but still with
the post offi ce which is now the longest
surviving postal operation in the same
building in the SE9 area*.
All pictures are from the John Kennett collection
O
w
f
1945 advert for J Wilson
1985 before removal of the old style telephone box
The Eltham Park Post Offi ce, 2005
Birch’s Stores, 1950s
1982 advert, Spar Grocers
SEnine
21
HISTORIC ELTHAM
Marathon Run for Actor Actor James Farrar has been pounding the streets
as well as treading the boards to prepare for a gruelling charity effort
James, 26, is taking part with his
friend Sam Hevicon in this year’s
London Marathon on April 21st to
raise money for the charity Retinitis
Pigmentosa Fighting Blindness
(RPFB).
James, who lives in Eltham, has a
very personal reason for wanting to
support RPFB.
He said: "My sister Lucy went
blind at a young age with retinitis
pigmentosa so I've always wanted
to help her in any way possible.
"I'm doing this to raise funds and
awareness for a charity that we firmly
believe has a cure in its sights."
Retinitis pigmentosa is a rare genetic
condition that leads to loss of sight
and often blindness.
The RPFB charity provides services
to help people with sight loss and
supports funding research into
potential treatments.
James, who has been playing Liam
Gilmore in Channel 4 soap Hollyoaks
since last August, added: "I've wanted
to do the London Marathon for a few
years but not had the opportunity
due to work commitments.
"Now, with the guarantee of being
in the country for work I have time
to train and take part in April.
"But I didn't appreciate how much
the training would take over my life.
Since January 1st I've not touched a
drop of alcohol.
"I don't like doing things by half so
I've treated my body very well.
"I've been following a training
programme which involves a mix of
long runs at race pace and shorter,
faster runs. I expect to have run over
500 miles in total in training."
James has just finished his stint on
Hollyoaks and is now going to be
playing a lead role in a play, Gutted,
at the Theatre Royal in Stratford, East
London.
He said: "I'm really looking forward
to it. It's the most challenging part
I've had yet."
His fundraising target for the
marathon is £2,000. You can sponsor
James online at www.justgiving.
com/jamescfarrar and follow his
progress on his Twitter
@jamesfarrar_
James as Hollyoaks Liam Gilmore
Story by Matt Bell
Contact Sally for details
0751 009 4170or [email protected]
Fitness Classes
St. Luke’s Church,
Westmount Road,
Wednesday 7-8 pm
Thursday 7-8 pm
Fi
St
W
W
T
50 plus Ladies
Classes (all levels)
Eltham Park
Methodist Church
Westmount Road,
Monday 11.00am - 12.00pm
Wednesday 2.00pm - 3pm
5
C
E
M
W
SEnine
22
FEATURE
Join you local neighbourhood watch scheme
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Eltham Station
Our minimum fare is still only £4.50
Call 020 8859 7666
West End £35.00Heathrow £55.00Stansted £55.00Victoria £30.00Gatwick £45.00City Airport £25.00
Add £7.00 for estate cars and fare and a half for 5-8 seater
£5.00 OFF OutboundFor Airport bookings - outbound journeyQuote MD-OUT at booking or clip this coupon
Name
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Date
Wheel chair access cars available with 24 hours notice
Saloons, Estates, 5, 6, 7 & 8 seater cars available
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Employment Law AdviceFamily Law Advice
Probate & WillsLitigation
We refuse to pay estate agents for recommendations – we prefer to give you impartial advice and represent your best interests, without outside infl uences.
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We would love to help you with:
SEnine
23
SEnine
Take an interest in local events
Stephen Ball is a highly talented
young sportsman who excels
equally at track athletics and cricket.
Having just celebrated his third England
indoor 800m title to top the UK
rankings in his age-group, Stephen, 16,
of Rennets Wood Road has become a
runaway success in just fi ve years.
Taking an interest in cricket at 11 years
old, Stephen realised through training
he was also very good at running.
Coming from a family who haven’t
had much sport infl uence or history, it
was his natural ability and enjoyment
in sports that saw Stephen wanting to
take his hobbies further.
Signing up to become a member of the
Cambridge Harriers, an athletics club
based in Sutcliff e Park, Stephen began
training professionally. Now he trains
three days a week with the help of
personal trainer, Morgan Wass, As well
as self-funded training, Stephen is part
of teams for his school, BETHS Grammar.
First running for Kent in local events,
Stephen has gone on to running across
the country 118 times, of which he has
won 62 and fi nished in the top three 98
times out of his races on the track. With
this, his fi rst UK number 1 ranking came
in 2011 as the U15’s 600m winner.
Stephen is now three-time indoor 800m
champion for London and twice so far
for Kent.
After watching and attending the
London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics,
Stephen sees the 2020 Olympic games
being a potential target.
As well as currently studying for his
GCSEs, Stephen is also coaching. He
took the “Young Leaders in Cricket
Award” through Bromley Cricket Club,
which involved training in coaching,
fi rst aid, scoring, umpiring and ground
preparation. He now makes use of
this training at Bromley CC during the
spring and summer helping out with
the juniors.
Alongside cricket training, Stephen is
also part of a sports leadership course
where he helps teach during year 6 PE
lessons at Beadonwell Primary School
every Friday.
Stephen says, “It doesn’t get in the way
of school”
“I fi nd it fun and that’s the main reason”
He goes on to outline current and future
plans;
“I’ve found through the years that I
enjoy a lot of sports, but only thought
about getting into cricket professionally
alongside running”
“My immediate plans for now are just to
run and play cricket and see which one
I can do best in! I’ll continue both sports
until I can’t anymore.”
Stephen also hopes to attend university
studying Sports Science or Electrical
Engineering.
The thrilling race, in which Stephen led
from the front, holding on to win Mo
Farah-like on the fi nal lap.
Olympic PotentialEltham young sportsman Stephen Bell has just lifted a national athletic title
and ranked the country ’s No1 for his age. SEnine’s Nicola Jones spoke to him.
Unique Business OpportunityWith the continuing growth in on-line shopping and
m-commerce (mobile phone commerce), it is vital
that businesses equip themselves with the necessary
skills to remain competitive in a digital marketing world.
Funding has been secured to off er marketing and
e-commerce training (normally costing £400 per person)
FREE to local businesses, providing participants commit
to 36 hours of training.
Training includes the following modules:
• Marketing and Consumer Behaviour
• Selling vs Marketing
• Digital Marketing Essentials
• Marketing Components
• Developing a Marketing Plan
• Implementing Traditional and Digital Marketing
Campaigns
• Monitoring Digital Campaigns
• Measuring Marketing Eff ectiveness
• Traders Associations and Chamber of Commerce
networking
• Using LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter
This will be delivered in 3 hourly sessions on a weekday
(early) evening over a 12 week period, at the Eltham
Centre in Archery Road (start date to be agreed).Training
will only take place if there is suffi cient interest from local
businesses (a minimum of 10 participants is required).
To register your interest, please contact:
Alison Harris, Royal Borough of Greenwich,
Tel: 020 8921 3479 or
email [email protected]
Application by 22 April 2013 - LATEST.
SEnine
24 Local Business - use it or lose it
SPORT
JOHN GINTY & ASSOCIATESDENTAL SURGEONS
www.johngintyandassociates.co.uk
0844 375 [email protected]
The practice provides a full range of NHS and private dental treatments and a private hygienist service, including;
• Crowns, Bridges and Dentures
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and whitening
• Treatment of gum disease
• Sedation Dentistry
• CAD/CAM technology for colour matched
(non mercury) fillings
• Replacement of missing teeth with
implants
• Denplan; a monthly payment plan
Appointments available Monday to Saturday
19 Glenshiel RoadEltham
SE9 1AQ
SEnine has now a low cost classifi ed section for small business to promote themselves. This would be very suited to the trades and services industry.
If you are a plumber, gas fi tter, bricklayer, handyman, window cleaner, rubbish removal, in fact any business that needs promoting.
Or perhaps you provide a service, we can help.
Classifi ed space is also available for people wishing to buy or sell items, such as furniture or cars.
We Guarantee if you do not get at least one call (We can generate calls but can't sell it for you, that is your job) we will run your advert again free of charge*. We trust you, as an Elthamite, to be truthful.To book your space email; classifi [email protected] *Will be noted as a 'no response' free advert
SSSESSSSSS nine has now a low cost classifi ed section forrrrrrrrrr ssmssssss all business to promote themselves. This woulddddddd bbebbbbbb very suited to the trades and services industry.
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SEnine Classifi eds
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2 Eltham High StreetEltham London SE9 1DA
020 8850 1562www.whiteharteltham.co.uk
The White Hart is a traditional Carvery & Steak house on Eltham High Street
We pride ourselves on a fantastic service and hope you will certainly agree.
Carvery including; beef, turkey and gammon operate 7 days a week, Mon 12 midday - 10.30 pm,
Tue to Sat Evening 4pm-8pm, (early bird discount 4pm-6.30pm Tue - Fri). Sunday. Lunch from
noon until 6pm. The Carvery also operates Lunchtimes Wed - Fri Noon - 2pm. We are Open for
breakfast Tue - Sat 9.30am
The Full Grill & Restaurant Menu operates from noon until 9pm Tue - Sat. Try our Wonderful
Steaks from the Grill, T-Bone, Sirloins, Rump, Try our Famous HRM Mixed Grill
We invite you, your family and friends to visit the restaurant or just pop in for a drink in the bar.
Next quiz night 3rd April 2013 - Rocking to Beat Cancer
Father's Day, Sunday 16th June 2013. Bookings already being taken,
Limited availability. After a Fully Booked & Successful Mother's Day, Book
Early to avoid being disappointed
SEnine
25When in doubt, do the right thing
SEnine’s Adam Gillham caught up
with its designer, architect Paul
Cookson, 68, who has lived in the area
nearly all his life.
How did you get involved designing
the Eltham Town sign?
I was asked by the Eltham Society to
design the sign and the pole it stands
on.
They told me what they wanted in the
sign, for example the Parish church and
the Tudor Barn, and I came up with the
design.
I also had to get planning permission,
the sign made and delivered to site.
What other buildings/projects have
you worked on in Eltham?
I've worked on a number of Victorian
houses in Court Road, and designed an
Alzheimer’s garden for a care home in
Chislehurst.
The furthest I've worked on a project is
in Porthcawl, South Wales.
Among some of the projects I have
worked on locally include the chapel
at St Thomas More school. That was
a parting gift for the school after my
children had left and I stopped being
a governor. It was actually built by
parents.
Have you done other work for the
Catholic Church?
Yes, I also re-ordered (re-designed) the
Sanctuary at Christchurch in Eltham
High Street; and several other local
churches, including St Lawrence’s in
Sidcup and St Patrick’s in Chislehurst
which was a converted cinema.
Where did you go to school?
I went to St Mary's RC primary school
in Eltham before going to St Joseph's
Academy in Blackheath. It was a
grammar school and I had to pass the
11 plus to get in there.
How did you get into architecture?
They didn't really encourage me into
architecture at school. I had to do A-level
art in my lunch break and Technical
Drawing after rugby practice.
They pointed me in the direction of
estate management and I had a place
at London University but my art teacher
told me I should be an architect.
It changed my mind and so I started
to look at architecture colleges around
London. and I got a place at the Brixton
School of Building, which I think is now
part of the University of Greenwich. It
takes seven years to qualify.
Is it well paid?
I haven't necessarily done it for the
money. Design is something I just like
doing.
What was your fi rst job in the
industry?
"I went to work for Sir Frederick Gibberd
and Sons in 1969. He designed the
famous Liverpool Cathedral.
While I was there I worked on an offi ce
block and the Baptist church in Lincoln.
I then went to work as a partner in a
practice in Eltham but 30 years ago I
decided I wanted to work for myself and
I've been doing that ever since.
Are there any of the new buildings in
London you particularly like?
The Shard - without hesitation.
There are some buildings I like and some
I don't. When you design something,
there are always a percentage of people
who like it and a percentage of people
who don't. You have to design it as you
see it.
Have you always lived in the SE9
area?
I was actually born in Lancashire but
we moved to New Eltham when I was
a baby.
I am married to my wife Barbara and we
have lived in Green Lane in New Eltham
for the past 40 years.
We have three children and we have
just become grandparents to identical
girl twins.
The Eltham Town Sign has been renovated after 20 years standing in pride of place off the High Street.
Design for a LivingSEnine
26 Help keep Eltham tidy! Put your litter in bins.
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Small jobs to complete rewiring.
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Phone or pop in to chat with us.
17B Lingfield Crescent Eltham SE9 2RL
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ST MARY’S COMMUNITY COMPLEXST MARY’S COMMUNITY COMPLEX
020 8850 2040 Main Offi ce 180 Eltham High St
Anstridge Hall
Anstridge Road SE9 2LL
Flintmill Hall
Flintmill Crescent SE3 8LU
Lionel Road Hall
Westhorne Avenue SE9 6DH
Progress Hall
Admiral Seymour Rd SE9 1SL
St Mary's Community Complex 180 High Street Eltham
Halls and Rooms for Party Hire
at aff ordable prices. Commercial
Conference Hire Available at
great prices too!
During April we will be celebrating our
20th Anniversary of being an independent
organisation.
Call in and have a look around.
We have a lot of diff erent activities going on,
join in or join a group.
Our web site has a full list of all the groups that
meet, across all our properties.
SEnine
27Don't fi nd fault, fi nd a remedy
Middle Park Primary School’s
cricket team have been really
Lording it over their peers.
The school’s cricketers have won their
way to north London’s ‘home of cricket’
twice in recent months, thanks to some
impressive bowling and batting eff orts
which have left their rivals stumped.
Their journey began at Thomas Tallis last
year when they hit 17 other teams over
the boundary and won the Greenwich
Schools’ knock-out competition.
The team comprises eight players in
each game from an overall squad of
11. Each player bowls one over, which
has four balls.
Not content with winning on their
own turf, the Middle Park team also
triumphed on their fi rst journey to
Lords where they fi nished in the top
two from fi ve teams from across the
capital.
Although knocked-out after three
games in their second trip to Lords, in
the grand fi nal, the team had a thrilling
day, being given a guided tour of the
famous ground.
PE coordinator at Middle Park Jo Hardy
said: “Our success is down to hard
work, determination and playing as a
team. We’ve done really well this year
and we’re really proud of them.”
The team plays cricket, as well as
football, hockey, basketball, netball,
tennis and badminton, and has been
coached by teachers Diane Lockwood
and Lee McCarron, with some expert
sessions with volunteers from the
Greenwich Cricket Association.
“Some of the other schools had a great
deal more coaching than us, so we
did really well to get so far on our raw
talent,” said Jo.
It’s where hallowed ground is
becoming hollowed and the holy is
getting holey.
The sound of tea and scones being
consumed is usually the norm for a
vicarage garden. But at St Saviour’s
Church in Middle Park, it’s now the
echoes of excited young voices which
have taken over.
In a possibly unique link-up between
the church and nearby Middle Park
Primary School, the vicarage garden has
been converted into a Forest School for
Year 1 pupils.
Rev Wendy Saunders is the fi rst to admit
that the top end of her vicarage garden
used to fall some short of the standards
required for parish use.
“It was a complete jungle”, she said.
“There was a dense mat of trees and
brambles.”
The seed of an idea burst forth in a
Governors’ meeting at the school.
She said: “I’d been toying with the idea
of giving over the land for a community
allotment. But the discussion moved on
to the need for a space for a new forest
school and suddenly I put one and one
together.”
Bringing the project together required
help from the William Boreman
Foundation who chipped in a grant for
£5,000 which paid for a professional
landscaping team to clear the land.
It also helped to pay for tools, training
and a shed, all of which enabled the
project to get off the ground.
Headteacher Donna Adkinson said: “We
have a Forest School area back at school
which is used by FS1 and FS2 and we
has been looking for ways to extend the
programme into Year 1.”
“The vicarage garden is ideal and we’re
very grateful for the off er”, she said.
Forest School leader Sandra Drummond
said: “Being outdoors in a safe
environment is vital for the children.
They learn to take risks and can use
their own initiative on what to use
for materials. It’s good for their self-
confi dence and communication skills.”
The new area will be used twice a
week by the school, giving it time
to recover between visits. But Rev
Wendy isn’t worried about the
hubbub interrupting her sermon
preparation.
She said: “The sound of children
playing is wonderful, there’s such an
infectious energy about it.”
Middle Park play at Lord's
Vicarage Garden becomes Forest School
SEnine
28 Smile , it feels good
MIDDLE PARK PRIMARY SCHOOL
September 2013: the start of an
adventure to remember for a local
Eltham teenager!
Lucy Bidgood, 17, of Whinyates Road in
Eltham, is going on a once in a lifetime
trip to South Africa. But not for a holiday,
to benefi t those less fortunate than
herself.
As a part of her year in South Africa, Lucy
will be working with charity ‘Project
Trust’ at an outdoor activity centre that
gives ‘at risk’ young people a chance to
experience something new and build
team working, communication and
trust skills - all while having fun!
Lucy, who attends Chislehurst and
Sidcup Grammar, will be helping the
experienced and qualifi ed instructors
deliver a professional service by assisting
in activities such as rock climbing,
kayaking and more!
The hard work doesn’t start in September
though; it has already begun. Lucy
attended a selection course to see if she
was suitable for the programme. And
she was!
It was a fi ve day event on the Isle of
Coll, off the coast of Scotland and was
attended by many young people, all keen
to join the programme by completing
team building and leadership activities
all designed to test the budding young
philanthropists to see if they can have
the skills and stamina to face the tasks
on a Project Trust gap year. The theory
being if you can survive the harsh
weather of Scotland in the winter- you
can survive anywhere.
Fortunately, no challenge is too much
for Lucy. The task now is to raise £5400
required to set off for her year in the
vibrant surroundings of South Africa-
but she has a plan!
“I am planning diff erent
fund raising nights
all with themes”, said
Lucy. “A race night
and also a band night
will complement my
sponsored events that
will enable me to get
to South Africa by
September. I am really
looking forward to the
challenge and I am sure
that the experience of
living and working in
South Africa will be very
rewarding.”
Project Trust has been providing once
in a lifetime, gap year experiences
since 1967. It is an educational charity,
sending 17-19 year old school leavers to
work voluntarily in Africa, Asia and the
Americas during a gap year. The aim is
to provide volunteers with rewarding
and educational experiences they will
never forget, without taking work away
from local people.
To fi nd out more about Lucy’s out of this
world adventure and to view her blog,
go to www.ptadventure.me.uk for more
details.
SEnine magazine distributor Lucy Bidgood is spreading her wings. David Hall reports.
Gap Year in Africa
Tarot Card Readings
Monica07539 965830
Mottingham London SE9
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Mobile: 07944 575 848 Home: 020 8850 0354Email: [email protected]
Building Contractor
For free estimates and advice contact
Bill Treadgold
Reasonable rates and reliable
SEnine
29Put your money where your house is - shop locally
YOUNG ELTHAM
A walk to see one of the area’s most
spectacular natural sights is being
organised by Eltham Nature Club.
The annual bluebell display can be seen
at its best in Kemnal Woods in New
Eltham.
Eltham nature club will be holding an
organised walk to see the bluebells on
Sunday April 21 at 2pm.
The meeting place will be the new
Kemnal Cemetery car park on the
westbound carriageway of the A20
Sidcup Bypass BR7 6RR.
Members £1.50, non-members £3.
Annual membership is £5. More details
from 07894 711765 or
www.elthamnatureclub.org.uk.
An old resident of Eltham is poised
for a return to the town for the fi rst
time in more than 150 years.
Having gradually inched its way through
north London, the red kite has been
spotted south of the river.
A sighting of the soaring chestnut-
coloured bird of prey has been made
in Greenwich Park and, with the species’
population undergoing a rapid increase,
its arrival on the woodlands of Shooters
Hill or one of Eltham’s extensive parks
can only be a matter of months away.
One of the most successful conservation
stories of recent times, the red kite was
confi ned to a small section of mid Wales
for many years after being persecuted
for centuries.
But re-introduction schemes by the
RSPB, among them in the Chilterns, have
re-established colonies of breeding
birds across the country.
Highly valued in the Middle Ages as a
natural ‘street cleaner’ which scavenged
for dead animals, it was once offi cially
protected by Royal decree. But it
eventually became considered a
pest, not only in towns but also in the
countryside by farmers fearing for their
livestock.
Despite an intimidating appearance and
a wing span of nearly two metres, the
birds are actually quite timid; they will
take small live prey but hardly represent
a major threat to livestock. Most of
their diet consists of carrion and, now
that thousands are fl ying around our
countryside, there have been very few
reports of confl icts with farmers. In fact,
with today’s motorists accounting for
countless deaths of wildlife across the
country, there’s no shortage of food for
them, a particular favourite haunt being
the M40.
One confl ict of interest reported
recently was a red kite swooping low
to steal a family’s unattended barbeque
sausages, but the suggestion that it
also had a go at their pet Pekinese is
probably fanciful.
The recent reports of sightings are the
fi rst in London since the fi rst part of
the 19th century, so if and when the
fi rst one soars and circles above Oxleas
Meadows, it will be an ornithological
event worthy of celebration by
something a little stronger than a cup
of tea in the Shooters Hill café.
Prodigal KiteSEnine
30 Take a walk in the Pleasaunce
NATURAL ELTHAM
Richard and Jill Kane of Footscray
Road Eltham were on holiday in
Cornwall when they met a boat builder
who was soon to set out to sail around
the world. He was concerned for the
welfare of his dog, and within a few
hours, the 2 year old Irish Red White
Setter, Frodo Baggins, had adopted
Richard and Jill.
Dogs have had an infl uence on their
lives. Married for 30 years they met
when Jill's dog took a liking to Richard,
as they say the rest is history.
After a break from work as an HGV driver,
Richard, originally from Orpington, was
looking for something to do when Jill,
born and bred Eltham, showed him a
pamphlet describing a pet nutrition
franchise.
"I did some research, went to meet the
franchisor and liked what I heard and
saw" said Richard.
"They were really thorough, knew their
business and being a family run concern
gave a really close feel to the operation"
Richard took the franchise and so began
the Trophy South East business.
Richard's area covers all of the SE9 post
code as well as the SE12, BR and DA
post codes.
"While the business model was good,
it was the quality of the pet food, and
ethical sourcing and production that
convinced me this was worthwhile"
said Richard.
"Trophy food off ers superior nutrition
and needs no further supplements for a
healthy balanced diet".
Richard is able to off er a complete range
of specialist diets for all your pets from
dogs, cats, small mammals, poultry,
caged birds, fi sh and more.
"Whatever a pet’s nutritional
requirements, we have an extensive
range that should fulfi l the need" said
Richard.
Richard also supplies a full range of
treats and accessories including collars,
leads, toys, food, containers and bowls,
as well as fl ea and worm control.
"It really is a one stop shop operation,
and the good thing is we deliver free to
your door" said Richard.
NEW
It was not because of Frodo Baggins, but he did influence the decision.
Trophy South East
Richard Kane
020 3667 2749 or 07794 663 974
Experience the Complete Trophy Pet Food Service
• Free Home Delivery
• Free Nutritional & Special
Needs Advice
• Quality super premium
Pet Foods
• Meat is fi t for human
consumption
• No testing on animals
• Customer Service &
Nutritional Hot line
• Treats & Accessories
• Micro-chipping Service
• Informative Website
• Lifestyle Pet Foods
Free samples, Try the Trophy Taste Test
Richard, your local Trophy
nutritional adviser is pleased
to off er you free samples of
the foods to try before you
buy or conduct a Trophy
taste test allowing your pets
to choose their favourite
Trophy food. We know your
pets will enjoy their new
food, but this is a way to
reassure you that you are
making the right choice for
a healthier lifestyle.
Don't struggle with heavy tins and bags, let Trophy do the work for you• Complete Food
Exclusively manufactured in
their own the factory in UK
using quality ingredients
• Delivery free
At a time to suit you
• Payment
All major credit cards cash and
cheque
• No obligation
At no time will you be obliged to
buy from us and you will never
be pressured into doing so.
Trophy South East
Richard Kane
020 3667 2749 or
07794 663 974
Looking After Your Pet
Local Business
SEnine
31Your Community is what you make it
BUSINESS ELTHAM
SEnine
32 Support local traders - shop locally!
020 8859 303322 Well Hall RoadEltham SE9 6SF
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
FREE VALUATIONSThinking of selling? Phone for an appointment for one of our experienced valuers to call.
M O R T G A G E FACILITIESNeed an update on the mortgage situation? Contact us to speak to our Independent Financial Adviser.
SURVEYSAlready found a property? Call our Chartered Surveyor for survey advice and for a fee quote.
LETTINGSConsidering letting your home? Phone for advice on lettings and rents.
020 8859 [email protected] Well Hall RoadEltham SE9 6SF
More properties available at: www.bernardskinner.co.uk
Focus on the ELTHAM PARK areaA sought-after place to live with the acres of openparkland and extensive woodlands, and yet convenientfor the station and High Street, and with a number ofschools in the immediate area. There is a range ofproperty types and sizes in the area.
Here are some properties currently for sale:
Price £360,000 F/H
Plenty of accommodation on offer with this 4bedroom semi-detached home situated inBerryhill, which could hardly be any closer tothe woods. With a loft conversion and extendedat the rear this is an appealing family homewith attractive décor and a high spec. finish.In addition to 4 bedrooms there are 3 livingareas and a gloss finish kitchen, a familybathroom plus an ensuite shower room.
Price £350,000 F/H
This 3 bedroom house is situated in one of the‘Glen’ Roads. It is one of a small group ofsemi-detached homes in this road and is just afew hundred metres from the park itself and ashort walk to the station. This is no ordinarysemi - it offers surprisingly generous roomsizes, the 3rd bedroom is definitely not aboxroom and there are 2 separate living rooms,a decent size kitchen, and bathroom withseparate wc.
Price o.i.e.o £145,000 L/H
A 1 bedroom flat which would suit someonelooking to stay in the Eltham Park area butneeding to downsize, or, for a buyer seeking arental income from property this would be agood renter at around £725 pm. It offers aliving room plus double size bedroom, modernfitted kitchen and white bathroom suite, doubleglazing and central heating. It is handy for boththe High St and station, and has a long lease.
Castles in the air?
A shocker buried in the council’s draft ‘core strategy’, currently out to consultation, is that the borough will need to accommodate more than 25,000 new homes over the next ten years. Apart from the new tower blocks planned for Kidbrooke, it seems that most of these will be alongside the Thames at Deptford, Charlton, Thamesmead, plus a New York-style waterfront development in Woolwich. These would rise to up to 21 stories in ten blocks above the river between the leisure pool and the town centre, accommodating around 6,000 people. One of these blocks has been romantically named K2, presumably after the world’s second highest mountain. The proposals are put forward by the council’s best friends, Berkeley Homes, who have run a rather low-key consultation exercise. Not surprisingly, and not wishing to frighten the horses, this proposed mega-development wasn’t accompanied by the usual over-hyped write-up in Greenwich Pravda, a wake-up call to anyone naïve enough to consider the freebie to be anything approximating to ‘informational’.
Bridging the gap…
Despite their varied political affi liations, SPY has been receiving rumours that Roberts and the mop-head Mayor of London are close mukkas. Some evidence for this has come to light. It seems the blond bombshell has surprisingly thrown his weight behind Greenwich’s campaign for an extra Thames road bridge in the borough. Boris has been carefully phrasing his opposition to a six lane Thames Gateway Bridge at Thamesmead, which was the previous unsuccessful incarnation of the plan. But SPY learns that he’s in favour of a Bridge on the Gateway to London at Thamesmead, a subtle diff erence. His dotty proposal for a new ferry there was one of his tacky jokes, it seems. Although an extra tunnel at Blackwall is a higher budget priority, the Comic Conservative has accepted an extra bridge in east London is ultimately inevitable, given the booming populations on both sides of the water. But planning such a span won’t be easy. High enough to allow mast vessels to pass underneath; low enough not to impede fl ights to and from City Airport; attractive enough to be an impressive entrance to the capital. The Goldilocks Gateway possibly? The problem has always been how to deal with the extra traffi c fl ows without swamping the lanes around Abbey Wood or carving a motorway through Oxleas. The answer might be a bridge at Woolwich? You read it here fi rst.
On the up-market?
The draft core strategy says that ‘the existing character of Eltham will be retained and enhanced’ with additional high quality retail, an improved range of restaurants and leisure facilities, measures for bus priority to reduce traffi c congestion, and improved north/south links. Just how this is going to be achieved is not explained. However, given the burgeoning high-intensity Woolwich, SPY idly wonders whether Eltham’s existing character might not be more appropriately protected in Bexley or Bromley borough?
Make a deep hole, stop digging…
No word from the Grove Market Place’s new owners, Citygrove, who are said to want to start demolition this summer. SPY understands the fi nal nail in the coffi n of the former owners, Cathedral Group’s dreams were when Morrison’s pulled out of the planned supermarket vacancy, preferring the quicker-fi x of snapping up 42 former Blockbuster stores, including the one at Welling. Also, Cathedral’s hotel proposal was being upstaged by the planned 100 bed hotel at Burger King on the A20. This all left Cathedral nursing a £7m loss. The looniest suggestion so far is that the Grove might be turned into a community gardening site while a re-think takes place. An odds-on certainty is that is whole thing will become mostly housing.
Hidden heritage…
Well done to the borough museum aka Greenwich Heritage Centre for dusting off 40 or so old watercolours of Eltham painted by local artists Gertrude Ashworth and Daniel Warry. These were done at the start of last century and give a fascinating glimpse of times past. It has been decades since they were last taken out of wraps, during which time the world has developed the internet and instant means of communication such as mobile phones, iPads, Facebook and Twitter. SPY’s cultural correspondent believes it’s unthinkable for the works to be taken out of circulation again for another few decades. Any schoolchild in the borough would be capable of copying and pasting them onto a website for everyone to enjoy in the comfort of their own homes. That, and the rest of the centre’s collection of Eltham memorabilia, which the Heritage Centre should start putting on the internet for the interest, enjoyment and education of the local population. The exhibition ends in May.
Trust them…
SPY understands that the council has plans to move the Heritage Centre into an independent trust, an idea Bexley had years ago, which might bring about a much-needed shake-up. Also, the Trust would have responsibility for prized buildings such as the Tudor Barn and Charlton House, about time an intelligent overview was taken of these unique historic buildings, which are currently at the mercy of a thousand and one council jobsworths, with no interest in their heritage value at all.
IT = Immersion Trouble
Our friends in the council’s communications department have, it seems, a habit of not telling the whole truth to SPY, particularly when it comes to problems with their buildings. We remember their lamentable eff orts at trying to disguise the truth about the Eltham Centre fi re. They’ve done it again. SPY contacted them last summer, having had fi rst-hand accounts of water leaks in the new Woolwich Centre. "Isolated problems, which have been dealt with by the original building contractor at their own cost”, said the spinmeisters. Not so, SPY now learns. In fact, the leaks damaged the council’s new IT data nerve centre, from which it intended to run the 3,400 terminals across the council’s estate. The damage was so serious that the company who supplied the new equipment, costing nearly £300,000, decided it was not a warranty issue and wouldn’t pay for the repairs. It also caused a three month delay to the roll-out of the new IT system across the borough. Maybe it was also the cause of the recent breakdowns to the system, knocking out the IT of offi ces and libraries across their estate. One IT chief at Greenwich described the situation as “very much like a row of tortoises holding traffi c up as they progress through the Blackwall Tunnel. User experience was therefore variable and directly dependent upon whether you were held up behind a tortoise”. The analysis of the council’s IT experts was that the “fundamental problem relates to the number of users logged onto the system, which is demonstrated by the fact that the system works well outside core working hours when the load is less”. In other words, it was fi ne after everybody had gone home. SPY thinks some need reminding the residents are paying council tax for people to tell the truth, not cover it up.
SEnine
33Have your say, your opinion counts
Yalways newsy, sometimes
inaccurate or irreverent, often
controversial or gossip, but never
the opinion of SEnine.
I very much hope that the indoor athletics facility mentioned in the February SEnine does not materialise within Sutcliff e Park. This corner of the Park is a valuable green area enjoyed by people of all ages. To build on it would be completely contrary to Greenwich Council's policy on Metropolitan Open Land.
However there is a site nearby which may be well suited to meeting the aspirations of Cambridge Harriers who understandably wish to improve their facilities. This is the former Meadowside Leisure Centre which has been used as offi ces by Berkeley Homes for several years. Now that Berkeley are planning to move their base nearer to Kidbrooke Station this is an ideal time to think about restoring the Meadowside building for leisure users.
Paul Webbewood
What is in a Name?
Either go to the SEnine web site atwww.senine.co.uk
or write to the Editor at:
SEnine, PO Box 24290
Eltham SE9 6ZP
Do you have an opinion?
Do you have a 'pet' groan?
Have you had a good or bad
experience?
Why not write and tell us.
Dear Jane (not Jayne)What a shame it makes it quite a pretty name. Still to the phone book I will go, I have a wish to be in the know. But yes you are right a gilded lily I will be, for Jayne is my surname as you see. I'm very proud of my surname Jayne, it's been in the family as long as I can remember. There was a Bishop Jayne way back in time. Bishop of Chester. So there you go there is a Jayne and now you know. ME Jayne
I very much hope that the indoor athletics
Sutcliff e Park
My husband and I fi nd the SE9 magazine a very high quality, interesting read - its great to fi nd out what is happening in Eltham, and also to read what has happened in the past. I confess that we don't always have a lot of time to read it cover to cover, but when we do, we love it. The photos are good, there is just the right amount of advertising, and the articles are interesting.
After reading the article in the latest issue on Mervyn Peake, an author whose books my husband has read, he commented that there are quite a few famous people linked to Eltham. So I Googled this, and found quite an extensive, impressive list, and thought that if you are running short of stories for a future issue, including this impressive list would be of interest to your readers, if you haven't already produced this list and I missed it.
Just as an aside I was wondering if you could include a future piece on the history of the Eltham Bowls Club in Halons Road, Eltham?Keep up the good work.Lorinda Hemingway
My husband and I find the SE9 magazine a very
Fame linked to Eltham More extracts
from Letters on
Page 3
The old sorting offi ce of
the post offi ce, behind
the Old Post Offi ce Pub in
Passey place has taken on
a new lease of life with the
opening of a gym.
Catering to all levels of
ability, men, women and
kids, the gym off ers classes
in boxing, Thai, Aerobics
and general fi tness.
Private tuition and ladies
only classes are available as
well as kids classes.
The inspiration behind the
venture are Phil Peters and
Mark Daverport.
Mark said; 'We off er
fantastic training facilities
and an unparalleled range
of classes suited for all
levels from beginner to
professional'.
The gym is supported by
a team of professional
trainers.
'We believe that combining
great coaches and great
facilities in a friendly
environment gives our
members the best chance
of achieving their goals'
said Phil.
The gym is open every day,
9am to 9pm (closes 5pm
Sunday) for classes with free mat days
on Friday and Sunday.
For more information call
07 878787 164 or pop in to 4 Passey Place
SE9 5DQ were you will be welcomed.
Fighting FitA mixed martial arts and combat sports gym has
opened its doors in Eltham
Rob Ruki of Eltham works on his
Muay-Thai techniques Dougie Cordaroy (left) of Middle Park
works out with Trainer Dan Harris
SEnine
34 SEnine does not necessarily agree with or support any letters published.
MAILBOX ....... Have your say
You can make a diff erence in your community
SEnine
35
ELTHAM
HARRISON INGRAM
rede
finin
g th
e a
rt o
f
sellin
g h
omes
ESTATE AGENTS RESIDENTIAL LETTINGS PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
156 Well Hall Road, Eltham, London, SE9 6SNT: 020 8859 4419 F: 0208 859 8207 E: [email protected]
www.harrisoningram.co.uk
EXTENDED SEMI-DETACHED HOUSE
BIG THROUGH LOUNGE
SEPARATE RECEPTION ROOM/BED 4
THREE BEDROOMS
FITTED KITCHEN WITH APPLIANCES
OWN PAVED DRIVEWAY FOR PARKING
SPACIOUS MAISONETTE
BRIGHT LOUNGE THRU' TO DINER
FITTED KITCHEN
TWO DOUBLE BEDROOMS
DOUBLE GLAZED
WARM AIR CENTRAL HEATING
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IDEAL FOR PROFFESSIONAL SINGLES/COUPLE
LOUNGE WITH DUAL ASPECT WINDOWS
FITTED KITCHEN WITH APPLIANCES
DOUBLE BEDROOM
AVAILABLE 22ND APRIL
To Let Eltham: £950 pcm To Let King Henry Wharf: £725pcm
Shooters Hill: £125,000 OIEO Blackheath: £320,000
Eltham: £280,000 Royal Eltham Heights: £145,000
BRIGHT MODERN GROUND FLOOR APARTMENT
GOOD SIZE LOUNGE
MODERN FITTED KITCHEN
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LOUNGE WITH BALCONY
TWO DOUBLE BEDROOMS
KITCHEN & BATHROOM/SEP WC
GCH & DOUBLE GLAZING
IDEAL FIRST PURCHASE
SEnine
36
Three Bedroom Extended Semi Detached House Through Lounge, Double Glazed French Doors To Garden Downstairs Cloakroom Shower With WC Extended Modern Fitted Kitchen With Granite Worktops Totally Refurbished in The Last Five Years Newly Installed Central Heating System
Arbroath Road £275,000
1930's Extended Semi Detached House With Driveway To Front Set On An Impressive Corner Plot Two Reception Rooms Kitchen/Diner With French Door Leading To Garden Double Glazing & Gas Central Heating Chain Free
Mayday Gardens OIEO £350,000
Two Bedroom Purpose Built Flat Walking Distance To Eltham Town Centre & Train Station In Good Decorative Order Throughout Modern Kitchen & Bathroom Communal Parking To Front Long Lease
Woodington Close £175,000
Pick up litter and bin it
Greenwich Borough Property Group
@conranestates
facebook.com/conranestates
conranestates.co.uk
mobile friendly website
Three Bedroom Mid-Terrace Double Fronted House Two Reception Rooms Conservatory Upstairs Modern Suite Bathroom Well Maintained Rear Garden Walking Distance To Eltham Town Centre & Station
Well Hall Road £270,000
SEnine
37
ELTHAM / MOTTINGHAM42 Well Hall RoadEltham SE96SFT: 020 8378 5450E: [email protected]
GREENWICH/ BLACKHEATH221 Greenwich High RoadGreenwich SE10 8NBT: 020 8312 8312E: [email protected]
CHARLTON / WESTCOMBE46 Charlton Church LaneCharlton SE7 7ABT: 020 8293 0454E: [email protected]
ASSOCIATED PARK LANE121 Park LaneMayfair W1K 7AGT: 020 7409 4693E: [email protected]
LETTINGS MANAGEMENT DEPT221 Greenwich High RoadGreenwich SE10 8NBT: 020 8312 8316E: [email protected]
FINANCIAL SERVICES DEPT221 Greenwich High RoadGreenwich SE10 8NBT: 020 8312 8317E: [email protected]
Branches across London
Three Bedroom Split Level Purpose Built Flat Above Commercial Premises
Spacious Lounge With Access To A Balcony Terrace Modern Fitted Kitchen Double Glazing & Gas Central Heating Lease of 101 Year Approx To Be Confi rmed By Solicitor
Bexley Road £152,995
Large Four Bedroom Mid Terrace Corbett House Spacious 27ft Through Lounge Modern fi tted kitchen & Bathroom Master Bedroom With En-Suite Bathroom Access To Large Cellar Within Easy Access To Catford High Street And Town Centre
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Three Bedroom Terrace House Off Street Parking Spacious Through Lounge Conservatory With Patio Doors Leading To The Garden Usable Loft Area With Gas Central Heating Rear Garden With Part Patio Part Lawn And A Shed
Earlshall Road £290,000
Look out for you neighbour
Your advert in this space is just £25.00+v
That is just over a £0.02 per 100 houses.
Designed, printed and delivered.
Cheaper than a fl yer.& more eff ective.
Wanted
Plumber, Electrician, Handyman, any trades or
service to fi ll this space.
Call SEnine 020 83337493 to book your advert.
Classifi ed Adverts Entries start from just £25.00 +v (2cm). Or book for a
year, pay in advance and pay as little as £240.00+v,
that's £20.00+v per entry (2cm). Call 020 8333 7493
Sunshine Window Cleaning
Regular & one-off cleans available. Competitive
Prices*. Free quotation. We are local & reliable.
Call Martin on 07821 403 577 Ref available
Gas Engineer Central Heating and Gas work.
Breakdown, repairs & Installation. Gas Safe Reg,
Insured, Lives Locally.
Call Steve on Mob 07 930 327 889
Clancey Electrical. Local tradesman.
All electrical work, no job too small.
Kitchens & Bathrooms installed.
Free quotes. Call Mike 07837 881 330
Cleaner Eltham
Do you require a regular cleaner?
Call Elana on 07701 023 455
Reliable and effi cient.
Joan Chapman sadly passed away Wednesday the 13th March, aged 91.
After 60 years of living in Greenvale Road Eltham she was moved to The Sidcup Nursing and Residential Centre.
The doctors say she died of a rare disease - old age, something they rarely see.
The funeral will be at 1.15pm at the Falconwood crematorium on Tuesday 9th April.
This day would have been her husband George's birthday but sadly he died some 15 years ago.
Joan leaves two children, Pamela and Robert, and three grandchildren, all married. There is also a new addition to the family her great grand daughter Chloe who is just 5 months old. It was felt that Joan recognised the baby but only for a brief moment.
Joan was very well known especially in the fashion industry and travelled the world with all the famous models.
She will be sadly missed by all who knew her.
Joan Chapman RIP
In MemoryRobyn Mary Ellis (nee Wall), died in Perth, Western Australia on March 17th 2013.
Robyn, so young at 67, will be sadly missed by her Husband, Barry and Sons, Simon and Matthew, Daughter Marianne, Grandchildren and extended family. Robyn will also be very sadly missed by her 6 siblings, and many nephews and nieces.
Rest, your job here is done well, the pain now gone.
Love, your brother, Mark.
In a town where Jude Law and
Frankie Howerd first trod the
boards, Eltham has a new club where
tiny actors can take their first steps.
Theatre Tots, which operates across
south east London, now has a weekly
session at St Mary’s Community
Centre, where parents and children
can have fun on a theatrical theme.
The 45 minute sessions feature
music, songs, imagination, games
and stories, for pre-school children
from two years and older.
They are led by the director of Theatre
Tots, Laura Sydonie, a professional
actor who formed the company five
years ago; it now has a team of 10
teachers running groups in schools,
nurseries and community centres.
In Eltham, the group meets at St
Mary’s in the High Street on Monday
mornings and offers free taster
sessions for parents who want their
children to ‘have-a-go’. After that,
they are pre-booked £5 a session.
Laura said: “It’s about having fun,
building confidence, encouraging
children to express themselves and
exercise their imaginations.
“We saw a gap in the market and the
group has expanded rapidly across
the area, the UK and as far as China
where we have a branch”, she said.
Laura graduated in drama from
Birmingham and trod the boards
herself around the world for many
years before taking up family duties
and teaching full time.
“I’ve always enjoyed teaching as well
as performing”, she said, “Theatre
Tots aims to teach drama skills which
help in everyday life as well as in
performance. Imagination is useful
in many places!”
Theatre Tots meets at St Mary’s on
Mondays at 11am. More information
from Laura on 07801 072776, www.
theatretots.com or St Mary’s on 020
8850 2040.
Tiny's tread the BoardsSEnine
38
W. UDEN & SONS LTDFAMILY FUNERAL DIRECTORS
ESTABLISHED 1881
The Family Business that still off ers a personal service
51 - 53 Passey Place, Eltham SE9 5DATel: 020 8850 2868
Covering all areas Pre-paid Funerals Monumental Masons
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Branches also at:Petts Wood, Dulwich,
Forest Hill, Sidcup,
New Cross & CamberwellIn the care of Nicholas & Matthew Uden
Butt JokeA stir was caused recently when
Herbaceous arrived on the plot
dwarfed by a huge new water butt
carried on his shoulders.
The amusement derived from the fact
that rain was driving almost horizontally
onto the sodden turf, made spongy
from months of constant downpour.
When asked by a curious onlooker, the
Old Man said he was preparing for the
next drought which he fi rmly predicted
was due to start any day now.
In truth, gardening is a skill well suited
to the contrarian who is willing to play
the long game. Herbs ticks both those
boxes.
His point is that, when the sun is shining
he mends the roof. When it snows, he’s
out buying t-shirts.
It was a technique he fi rst developed
in his days of offi ce life. On the fi rst hot
day of summer, he’d ring the building
supplies section and ask for a heater.
When the fi rst frosts hit, he’d request an
air conditioning unit.
The easily-obtained pieces of equipment
were then hidden away for when they
were needed and, of course, as rare as
hens’ teeth.
A similar logic applies to the annual
sweet corn championship, preparations
which start in his mind over the winter
months. Three crop sowings take place,
at weekly intervals, to ensure perfect
cobs on autumn show day, whatever
weather conditions pertain.
The big risk to all this future planning is
the tendency to overlook the present.
This was no less apparent than when
Herbaceous headed for home after
his triumphant arrival with his bumper
water butt.
Sheltering under their spacious
umbrellas, the fellow plot-holders
enjoyed the sight of the Great Forward
Planner gradually getting soaked to the
skin in the torrential downpour.
‘Don’t suppose you’ll be wanting one
of these until the sun comes out’, was
the sarcastic comment aimed in his
direction.
SEnine
39Never stop trying
HERBACEOUS
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