Monthly newspaper of The Westcombe Society - A voluntary group devoted to fostering a sense of community

Established 1973

Time to listen
Geoff Garvey

Westcombe NEWS
Winner of the 2005-6 London Civic Forum Award for the best commmunity newsletter

Free to 3,200 homes

December 2005 / January 2006 Issue 10

The tale of a tree

reenwich Council and the police have pledged to crack down on anti-social behaviour caused by new licensing laws. Council leader Chris Roberts and Chief Supt Peter Lowton said: Like many of you we share the concern that the new licensing laws run the risk of destroying the peace of our neighbourhoods. From Nov. 24th pubs, restaurants and clubs were able to stay open longer to serve alcohol. Our aim is to take firm action against those who act irresponsibly, serve alcohol to minors or those who are already clearly drunk. The new licensing regulations were among a wide-ranging number of topics raised at the latest Time to Listen meeting, called by Greenwich Council and held at John Roan School on Nov. 21st. Subjects ranged from the telephone masts on Westcombe Court, the burglaries in Coleraine Road in September, Greenwich town centre, trains and traffic lights. On the drink laws, the council promise a robust regime of enforcement : and had set up a hot line - 020 8921 8018 - to be manned round the clock to deal with complaints and problems. There would be extra police and council officials on the streets, focussing on the centres of Greenwich, Woolwich and Eltham, and a rigorous regime of clamping down on crime and disorder. One person commented that it had become quite unpleasant in the centre of Greenwich at night. Cllr Alex Grant admitted it was not a perfect piece of legislation. He added that he was in the Royal Standard and told that though they had been granted a licence until 1.00 am at weekends, they didnt always intend to use these hours. Supt. Carol Grigg insisted that there. would be robust enforcement. A hotline - 020 8921 8018 - had been set up for urgent complaints to be made. The threat to Greenwich Resident Genia Browning spoke out strongly against the standardisation of Greenwich town centre. She feared that large chain retailers like Gap and Tesco

were being enticed in. I hope these are only rumours, she said. There is no reason why Greenwich should be like every other place throughout the country. Cllr Maureen OMara said that Greenwich Hospital Estates was the major landlord in the town centre and she said they had met them last week to make the very same point. One market trader feared there was a plan by Greenwich Hospital to tear down the market and build a modern shopping mall. Cllr Roberts said the Hospital was exacting as much as they could to subsidise their fee-paying school in Suffolk. This money is being squeezed out of Greenwich businesses - Its a disgrace, he commented. The only way to change the situation is by Act of Parliament. Telephone masts The question of the phone masts on Westcombe Court (see Octobers WN) was raised. Residents called for the nonrenewal of the lease, and the removal of the base station. Cllr Grant said he was confident that there were grounds not to renew the lease and a report to that effect was imminent. He added: I have found out that there is no automatic reason why masts have to be on tall buildings. They can go on lamp posts, or houses. Policing Resident Chris Ace raised the events of Sept. 11th when up to 30 hooded youths descended on the area in an attempt to find a cannabis factory in Coleraine Road. Residents had had a very unsatisfactory meeting with the police. We were told that because they didnt have guns or knives it wasnt urgent, she said. Supt. Carol Grigg said that Community Policing was a resource issue. Commuter parking A resident complained that parking by commuters around Westcombe Park railway station was completely intolerable. It was impossible to come back from a car journey and park near your own home. He asked whether the residential permit holders zone could be extended.

2 Re-erecting the tree at the Standard: Council workers laying the cable 1 The Indigo Saxophone Quartet from TCM in action at the Dickensian Christmas Bazaar. The splendid tree was donated by Nat West Bank 3 Fine-tuning the lights 4 Up & Running

Happy Christmas and a Peaceful New Year to one and all!

News briefs . . .
Christmas Tree Christmas came early to the Standard when the Westcombe Society (and Greenwich Council) erected the Bazaars tree on Batley Green. The pictures above show a TCM quartet serenading us during the bazaar, and Council workers and local volunteers erecting the tree. Christmas lights next year?

Christmas Bazaar Winners Congratulations: Jenny Moloney and Maureen Aune won the best Victorian Costume prize at the Christmas Bazaar. (See their pictures on p. 2.) Imelda Taverner of Combe Avenue won the hamper in the lucky programme draw. And a big THANK YOU to Caroline Owens and her helpers for their hard work organizing the event. They used to be indecisive .... but now theyre not so sure. The London School of Musical Theatre, having negotiated the lease of Woodlands from the Council, have now changed their minds, and withdrawn. Apparently, the feeling was that Woodlands was perhaps after all too far away from the glamorous fleshpots of Central London to continue to attract trainees. So Woodlands is up for grabs again. Lets hope the Steiner School are still interested. Watch this space!

Paternal penguins One show no one should miss over the Christmas period is the film March of the Penguins (U) on release from Dec 16. The penguins march - and slide - across 70 miles of snow and ice to their breeding areas. Once the mother has laid her egg, she goes off hunting - and the father tenderly cradles the egg against the elements until the joyful return of the Mums, when the eggs are hatched. The parents then take it in turn to look after the chicks. An example to us all! Demolition company demolished Controlled Demolition, the company that was to demolish the Greenwich District Hospital, has gone into receivership. Squibb & Davies have taken over the contract. If you have a problem, please ring 07736 018 451.

INSIDE

P.2 Picture story of the Westcombe Societys Christmas Bazaar P.4 The Westcombe News wins top prize P.4 How does Santa do it? P.4 Christmas gift suggestions P.5 Calling all pantomime goers & skaters etc: Whats on over Christmas?

Genesis Nursery

Organised and managed by The Pointer School, Blackheath

* A brand new Nursery, purposebuilt and with state-of-the-art facilities for tinies aged 3 months - 4 + years. * 7.45 am to 6.15 pm throughout the year. * Conveniently situated near Manor Park, Lee * Organic food cooked & prepared on the premises * Parents will be pleased to note that we only clean the Nursery with organic non-chemical products * Working from the point of view of Christian belief & staffed by professionals who love children. * A calm & pleasant atmosphere

Santas agent is arranging visits to parties, peoples homes etc. in the week before Christmas. Santa is raising funds for Riding for the Disabled, the Westcombe Societys Christmas Charity. If you would like a visit from Santa, Min. donation 10 a visit. Gifts 5.00 each if required please ring 8853 0948.

RentaSanta Scheme

The Westcombe Society Carol singing Mon. 19th Dec. Meet at Mycenae House at 7.00 pm. Ring 07709 571777 if late!

'We love children'

Opened October 3rd., still a few places available. We advise you to book a.s.a.p. to avoid disappointment. Tel: 020 8318 1333 & 020 8293 1331

Thank you & Welcome Party Sat 25th Feb. 12.00- 3.00 pm at Mycenae House: This is a party for all those who have helped with the societys activities over the year, new members of the Westcombe Society and for all new residents of the area. RSVP - please ring 8293 3429 to give us an idea of numbers.

CHRISTMAS BAZAAR
Sponsored by John Payne Estate Agents

WESTCOMBE NEWS
Neville Grant, The Editor 13 Glenluce Road SE3 7SD Tel: 020 8858 8489

ALL EDITORIAL CORRESPONDENCE TO:

Timothy Crane, Co-editor 183 Westcombe Hill SE3 Tel: 020 8858 2181 WestcombeNews@yahoo.co.uk Deadline for February issue: 15th January 2006 News Editor: Geoff Garvey Environment Editor: David Riddle Pictures editor: Kathy Shutt Layout & Design: Merlinda Marshall ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE David Riddle All queries and comments to: 020 7919 7546 http://westcombe.gold.ac.uk DISTRIBUTION Myles Dove & Barbara Henley Jean-Jacques and Maureen Aune Volunteer distributors please phone 8853 3740, we need your help! ADVERTISING MANAGER Geoff Russell Tel: 8856 1624 All advertisements payable in advance by cheque to The Westcombe Society. DISPLAY: Single column 6cmx6cm: One issue 25, five-plus issues 20 each. Classified Ads (Market Place) charged at 30p per word (A telephone number = one word. Any email/web address = 3 words.) Deadline for all adverts is 8th day of preceding month Printed by: Trojan Press Contact the Westcombe Society at: WestcombeNews@egroups.com Publisher: The Westcombe Society Chair Dick Allard Tel. 8858 7305 Views expressed in the Westcombe News are not necessarily those of the Westcombe Society Back-numbers of the Westcombe News can be accessed on: http:// westcombe.gold.ac.uk/ westnews.html
WESTCOMBE SOCIETY MEMBERSHIP

MANY THANKS TO ALL WHO HELPED TO MAKE THE BAZAAR SUCH A SUCCESS!

Some of our wonderful volunteers slaving/chatting over a hot stove ....

hanks to Mrs Laws of Blackheath High School for Girls for lending us their school, and the following local shopkeepers & traders:

Setting up ..... .... or making sandwiches. The food was delicious!

Jenny with Santa - apparently, he gets quite flirtatious after a glass or two of mulled wine ...

Maureen and Pat on the Westcombe Society stall. Most of the stalls did brisk business

Whats new, Pussycat?

Far too much violence in the media these days?

Two - well, one - satisfied customer

Apple & Orange - Hamper of Fruit; B. Brown - Spa Manicure Voucher; Bentleys, Jeweller, Blackheath Ladies gilt dress watch (retails at 139); Blackheath Gallery - Glass vase; Blackheath Pet Supplies - Wild Bird Food Hamper; Blacks of Blackheath - Miniature Clock; Books of Blackheath - Biography of John Paul II; Boots, Peninsula Park - French Connection Gift Set; Chapter 2, Blackheath - Dinner for 2; Chloe, Blackheath - Necklace; Collins Cleaners - 15 voucher for dry cleaning; Cutting Room, Humber Road - Hairdressing Voucher for 100; Dave & Gina (Post Office) - Boxed Gift Mug & Christmas cards; Elegance Dry Cleaners - 16.50 voucher for dry cleaning; Fosters Cafe - 2 x 1 coins (packet of tea for hamper); Go West - 25.50 Hairdressing voucher; Grace & Favour, Blackheath - Ollie & Nic Wallet and matching purse; Greenwich Picture House - 2 pairs of Cinema Tickets; Greenwich Theatre - Family ticket for the Pantomime & tickets for productions in 2006; Haircombe, Westcombe Hill - Voucher for Haircut; Hirst Family Bakers - Christmas Cake; Hortus, Blackheath - Garden Wasp trap; HQ Hair Studio - Voucher for Free Hairdo; It's a Wrap, Blackheath - Wicker reindeer decoration, unicorn soft toy and 3 other small ones; Ivor Howells - Compact Binoculars; J.K. Minimarket - Champagne & glasses boxed set; John Given - 20 piece porcelain set; La Scarpa - Adult & Childs fashion bags (tombola); Lloyds Chemist - Wash bag & Hot Water Bottle Cover (tombola); London Glass Blowers - Glass Vase; Marnells - Fork & Trowel Set; Matalan - Table lamp; NatWest Bank - Christmas Tree; Next - 20 Voucher; Nickys News - Box of Turkish Delight; Pegga Stores (Cat-itude; Ray Moore Pottery - Pottery Vase; Right Angle Gifts - Vase; Royal Nepalese Restaurant, Station Crescent - Dinner for 2; Sainsburys, Bugsby Way - 10 voucher; Somerfield Tin of biscuits; Sparkes - 25 voucher (hamper); Spreadeagle restaurant - 2 x 50 off a meal vouchers; Standard DIY - Drill bit case. electrical leads for Standard Christmas Tree lights; Cheeseboard, Royal Hill - Tipsy Cake; Gallery on the Heath, Blackheath Framed Map of Europe; Hill Restaurant, Royal Hill Dinner for 2 with wine; Theatre of Wine - bottle of wine; Threshers - 2 bottles of wine; Thyme Restaurant, Station Crescent - Dinner for 2 with wine; Well Bean - Pack of 6 Tropic Bars; Westcombe Hill Food & Wine - 12 bottles of wine (bottle tombola); Westcombe Hill Food & Wine - 12 Bottles wine [tombola]); Which? Communications - Voucher for 100 off a computer

Letters to the Editor

From Nora Miller Vanbrugh Fields Since this is the season for fraudsters to be jolly at our expense I thought readers should be made aware of the Spanish Sweepstake scam which is cluttering up our postboxes. Santa Lucia Security tells people that they have won $615, 810 - it is always the same amount regardless of whether a lottery ticket has been purchased. They then ask for full details of ones bank account. Supposed winers are asked to keep their good news secret as part of the security protocol. Use the recycling bin. Vanbrugh Fields From: LFT Smith In some countries or places (e.g Washington DC) it is illegal to buy alcohol standing at a bar. You must be seated and served at a table. This greatly reduces the pace at which alcohol is consumed ( which is why so many pubs are removing tables) and thus eliminates binge drinking. Why cant licensing authorities here do the same thing - it would reduce the drunk and disorderly element. Isnt it sensible to restrict licenses rather than just oppose them outright?

Please send this membership form to: Mr M A Qavi, 40 Parkside, Vanbrugh Fields, SE3 7QG Name........................................................... Address....................................................... ..................................................................... Tel................................................................ Please enclose payment as appropriate: Family Membership Individual Membership Senior Citizens/unemployed 6 [ ] 4 [ ] 2 [ ]

11 Stratheden Parade SE3 7SX also at Blackheath Village, Lee & Greenwich Lettings & Commercial Depts.

Westcombe Park Branch

020 8858 6101

Independent Estate Agents

Vanbrugh Fields From: L F T Smith I am a mobile phone user. Because of my medical condition it is also an important emergency contact number both for my wife and myself. The only mobile signal we can get at home is orange (since we are in the electronic shadow of the Combe Avenue tower block, which obstructs any line-of-sight signal from any other service transmitted from Shooters Hill). So withdrawing the mast would create a black hole for those who depend on it. The very existence of the tower block creates the problem in the first place. Clearly the equipment must be made safe, but we should avoid a dogin-the-manger approach that stops others enjoying a service which would remain available to VPRA residents. I do not understand the reference to a 10 metre rule in last months WN. The Vanbrugh Park estate website confirms that the guideline is two metres for a rooftop antenna. From: Stuart Saward Westcombe Hill It was good to see Minstrel last month. Your readers might like to know that this beautiful horse was donated by Greenwich Rotary - currently celebrating 100 years of charitable work.

From: Trevor Allman The mast on the Combe Avenue Tower Block should never have been erected. We in the Green Party have always opposed such masts near residential properties - especially as more research is needed on possible health risks. From: Maureen Aune Maze Hill A group of us were preparing the flower beds at the bottom of Beaconsfield Road for bulbs on a warm day in October. It was thirsty work and we were encouraged by the positive comments of people passing by. We were also very grateful for the large pot of tea that the boss of Thyme Restaurant brought out to us. I hope he realises how welcome it was.
Obituaries We are very sorry to report the death of Norman Hearn, much liked and respected by all who knew him. We are very sorry also to report the death of Charlie Jones, chair of the Tom Smith Residents' Association, and some time advertising manager of the Westcombe News. All in the Westcombe Socety extend their deepest condolences to their families.

www.johnpayne.com

Westcombe News December 2005 / January 2005

LOCAL UPDATES
Relentless March of the Masts
M A Qavi

A white Christmas?

stones throw from the Standard, a saga of the clash between technological imperatives of modern life and the eternal struggle to balance mans innate spirituality with his material needs took place at St James Church Hall, Kidbrooke Park Road on 7th Nov. The facts in brief: St James needs money to balance the books. Tele-communication companies need to have more and more base stations/masts to ensure a reliable network for the fast expanding G2 and G3 mobile phones, and they are willing to pay good money to those willing to host such stations and equipment. Enter right, the Church of Englands Archbishops Council which has engaged an outfit called QS4 Limited to handle negotiations between churches and the companies about matters concerning the installation of base units on church buildings. In short, if not a matchmaker, a facilitator. Enter left, the community, who came out in considerable strength one November evening to listen to the two experts we were told were independent - though it eventually transpired they were engaged by QS4 Ltd. The ritual power point presentation of the Independent Experts subtly and repeatedly made the point that the alter-

native to St James not hosting the equipment will be installation of 4 or 5 masts on streets in the neighbourhood to frighten the nimbies. A robust discussion followed. People with young children were concerned about the possible effects of radiation, not presently evident but which may become known in 10 to 20 years time, as happened in the case of asbestos. The Stewart Report of the Health Protection Agency was cited for and against the argument. The morality of St James making itself available for a commercial enterprise was questioned. Would the Church be having CocaCola dispensing machines next? At the close, the Independent Experts seem to have lost the argument. The Rector said the Church Council of St James would, later in November, meet to assess the outcome of the meeting and take a final decision on the matter. The moral of the story is - keep an eye on your neighbourhood Church and keep it in the black if you don't want it to be tempted by Mammon. Editors note: Please also see Letters on page 2. It seems that almost everyone these days claims they need a mobile phone. No one lives in the churches - would they not be ideal? Render to Caesar ... Readers comments welcome!

Westcombe Society cards

he Westcombe Society has reproduced a number of four-sided greeting cards depicting local views around 1900. These rare pictures are greatly treasured by collectors. They include: two different versions of the Lodge in Greenwich Park (one in snow, illustrated above - the other, in high summer, has people in Edwardian dress in it); Westcombe Hill, Greenwich Park (with donkeys), Old Dover Road, Westcombe Hill (Batley Green), Vanbrugh Park (the dips), Vanbrugh Castle, and Blackheath Village (Tranquil Vale). The cards have no greeting printed inside. One of them (illustrated above) might be used as a Christmas card if desired. Packets of eight of these cards are available at a cost of 5.50. You can either buy a packet of eight mixed cards, or a packet of eight containing only the

view shown above. The cards are obtainable from Caroline Owens Tel. 8853 0948, from whom you should arrange collection. Alternatively, you may order by post: the cost per packet of eight is 6.10, p&p included.

Christmas at .....

AND BAR The perfect way to celebrate the Festive Season with Family and Friends
Please call 020 8293 9183 for details 1a Station Crescent, Westcombe Park, Blackheath SE3 7EQ

The National Anthem - according to St Paul

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n United Nations Day this year, a service of thanksgiving and rededication to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the UN was held in St Pauls Cathedral in the presence of the Queen. Two verses of the National Anthem were sung; the second was so appropriate that some wondered if it had been especially crafted for the occasion. It went as follows:
Nor on this land alone, But be Gods mercies known From shore to shore: Lord, make the nations see That we in unity Should form one family The wide world oer.

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Trade Justice campaign

A number of people from Westcombe Park and Charlton took part in the Trade Justice Lobby of Parliament in November. They were among thousands who took part in the lobby, bearing Make Poverty History banners (supplied by the Mothers Union). Here, the United Nations Association delegation and others from Greenwich met up with local MP Nick Raynsford (fifth from the right) in Portcullis House to make the case that rich northern countries are unfairly discriminating against much poorer developing countries by protectionist trade barriers - while at the same time claiming to be committed to free trade.

Westcombe News December 2005 / January 2006

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It seems that this version of the second verse is the norm in St Paul's; it was also used in the Remembrance Day Service. I have done some research and found that the verse is the 4th (last) in a hymn "God bless our native land!" written by William Edward Hickson, 1803 - 70. The hymn is normally sung to a different tune, but could equally well be sung to the familiar National Anthem tune. St Paul's have made more acceptable the 5th line, which originally went: That men should brothers be. Hickson was an educational writer, who studied various European school systems, and also wrote music manuals. He was a member of the Royal Commission on Unemployed Handloom Weavers in 1837, so he clearly had a social conscience. Why he was so universal minded is not clear, but about a hundred years earlier John Wesley famously said: The world is my Peter Greaves parish.

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FEATURES
Christmas Belles Westcombe

at war

Park
Geoff Garvey

Westcombe Not just News a post wins award

he Westcombe News has won a prestigious award for the best amenity society newsletter. The award was made by the London Civic Forum of Amenity and Civic Societies and was against stiff competition.. The London Civic Forum launched its media awards in 1999 to encourage member societies to give more attention to communications, and to recognise excellence. The awards were named after the London Civic Forum's founder president, thePHOTO: late Walter Bor, architect and past Geoff Russell president of the Royal Town Planning verybody knows them as was Gina and Walter Bor (1916 - 99) Institute. alwaysDave, very keen to encourage societies because their names are part communicate and promote their work to of the sign over the Post Office in more effectively. He onceThe lived previously in Stratheden Parade. and was a very influential Blackheath, cramped post office / shop has now figure in urban development both refurbishin this reopened after a complete and abroad. country ment, with new frontage (in pillar box In Britain he will bedisabled best remembered red!) offering easy access and for his work on post-war recona smart modern postalurban counter. struction, and for developing planning But Mr and Mrs Shah - Dave and frameworks that became statutory

office

Albert Gearing concludes his war memoirs

Some of the WN team receiving the award

I L

N
W

shipping companies but pictures of the f ever a book summed up an opulent passengers enjoying themselves and life style then its Water Line- the latsightseeing are far rarer. est publication from the National Then, still on a watery theme, theres Maritime Museum. A crater from a land mine in the the Woolwich RoadTraffic in 1940 Cross River - .a history of This is a 256 page cracker about golden age of cruising, centering on well Londons bridges. which out the mechanical tram lines crater, mines were huge bombs and No, this is notripped a dry-as-dust orf Britsand having fun on the ocean wave. and badly damaged all water, did a lot of damage. One fell in engineering tome. Its a vastly gas and Its a big format hardback - measuring mains. It took a long time to electricity account Road where it joins Ormiston by Chris Roberts of an impressive 11 inches by 9 inches - and entertaining Gina - have in fact been on these same Gina estimates a minimum of 300 cusrepair all the damage. Halstow Road. As those houses had is jammed with the most evocative photo- Thames crossings from Tower Bridge to premises for over thirty years. They tomers a day - but despite this, the Post basements they did not have shelters so Hammersmith Bridge. graphs as passengers sailed the seas, The bombing of Blackheath started off as a delicatessen, but when Office declined to sanction a third desk most of the occupants slept in their baseIts packed full of fascinating facts - did mostly from the 1930's. The middle part of the Paragon on ments. About 4 or 6 were demolished Safeways (now Somerfield) opened the at the new counter. you know, for instance, that underneath A real coffee table monster, its one of was also destroyed, but forBlackheath many people. The houses at the killing All this means long working hours for supermarket, they switched to become Tower Bridge there are steps to the those books you pick up and idly flick tunately has been re-built. Quite a few top of Halstow Road opposite Ormiston Gina and her young assistant Daljit the local video sale and rental store. waters edge that leads to Dead Mans through - and then find you cant drag other houses on Blackheath were also Road, were badly damaged, and pulled Competition again threatened when the behind the grille, with Dave sometimes Hole, where bodies were pulled from the yourself away from the informative caphit. Many large houses were unoccupied down. public library started to lend out videos, assisting and at others managing the water and stored in a mortuary? tions as, second hand, you enjoy the and were requisitioned by theaction council At the Hill ofseas. Humber Then theres the very British of to but Gina and Dave's business had shop, all offering a cheerful and helpful delights of Vanbrugh high life on theend high house people whoChilds. had been out. Road, near the of Waterline Foyle Road, hairdresser Maurice Hebombed was walkThe pictures arebottom from the expanded to include greetings cards and service to this area. Geoff Russell BeforeHammersmith the war the Heath was about 4 houses were hit andthat people Bridge in nothing 1939 Collection - a unique archive was were ing across like he it is today,athere were several killedaway and the side it were when spotted suitcase, noticed ithuge was hidden in ahouses gardeneither shed until was Raymond Briggs dips with gorse bushes. Opposite pulled down. Peacham Road now occusmoking and calmly threw it into the the salvaged by the Museum. Father Christmas is main gates to the Park, there was a huge pies the site. Thames. This book enables us to witness a goldfamous for complainone where the marathon now each Sir John emphasised the importance of About six houses were hit next to hereBloomin was a full programme of lanHe then strolled off to call thestarts, police. en age of traveling aboard these majestic ing about time the fair or circus came to the heath, learning foreign languages - especially Halstow School, and several people were guage activities during International ships. It was put together by curator John As he reached a phone box there was a Christmas! it was all erected in the dip including all Chinese and praised Blackheath High killed. A girl sitting was killed when a in September at John Language Week loud boom and a shower of water shot up Graves, and the pictures were obtained However, volunteers in our neck of the woods are already thinking about blooming the caravans. These dips were all filled School for Girls for introducing bomb fell next to her shelter. Roan School. Pupils became the teachers over the parapet - ... he had unwittingly from a descendant of the family that took Spring - encouraged by Greenwich Councils Greenwich in Bloom campaign. in with bomb rubble during the war, and Mandarin into the school curriculum. On the other side of Woolwich Road, when the Languages Department organintercepted an IRA bomb! most of them. Leader of the Council Chris Roberts is encouraging local groups to do their bit to help so the heath became levelled off. I preThe head teacher of the school, Lisa at the bottom of Halstow Road, there ised workshops in Spanish, Arabic and Said John: There was a danger of the beautify Greenwichs parks and gardens. Barbara Henley, J-J and Maureen Aune, Myles ferred it as it was! Laws, said: Mandarin extends the wide was some waste ground and a public Chinese. Teachers were taught how to Details: Waterline. John Graves Ed. collection just being dumped. However, Dove and Shirley Donahue got cracking on the gardens near the junction of Mycenae and The intensive bombing went on from range of languages already taught at shelter was erected, where many people ask basic questions and order some food National Maritime Museum 30. we bought them and it is a hugely valuHumber Roads. First they weeded and prepared the ground. Then they planting Narcissus September 1940 to January 1941. By Blackheath High and is part of our comfrom the nearby streets who did not have and drink in a cafe by the expert pupils. Cross River Traffic by Chris Roberts. able slice of social history. and Crocus bulbs. They also planted snowdrops in the gardens of Mycenae House. We then I had left my job in Greenwich and mitment to preparing students for the their own shelters slept one night part John Roan also welcomed three new Granta Books. 15. There are lots of histories of ships and now look forward to SE Trains doing their bit on the station! said Barbara. had become a Civil Servant working in demands of an ever-changing world. of it was hit, killing several people. members of staff - Mademoiselle the City , which was still being bombed, Mouchet, Mademoiselle Scholastique so I had to struggle to get to work as Incendiary bombs and Madame Hadey. Bienvenue! best I could. The city was very badly There were many incendiary bombs Congratulations to the four students bombed practically re-built. If I go dropped,at too, whichyou caused a lot of think fires. he who obtained a GCSE in Chinese; and to Looking Santa, wouldnt could and do it. Our polar there now I hardly recognise it! One landed at the back of our in analysis those who obtained GCSEs in French, correspondent carries out a house scientific of the physics required Est. 1978 My younger sister was not happy the guttering above the bathroom. We Spanish, Punjabi and Persian. (which seems logical). This works out to o known species of reindeer can being evacuated and had returned home, were in the shelter, but my brother and I Meanwhile, Sir John Bond, Chairman roughly 1,600 visits per second. fly. are 300,000 also our grandfather came to live with rushed up BUT to thethere bedroom. My brother of HSBC, interviewed by some of the This isthere to say that for household, species of pulled living organisms yet us, so was just 4each of us, but mother A girls reached out and it out of the gutof Blackheath School, said: rare glimpse of Homo High SantaKlausiensis Santa has 1/2000th of a second to park, to tering be classified, and while most of these seemed to cope very well with the and threw it into the garden. We are now competing for jobs caught somewhat the worse for wear atin aa hop out of the sleigh, jump down the and recent Westcombe Society Christmas bazaar comare insects and germs, does not rationing. She also joined the WVS In Woolwich main this road, near the botworld-wide market, in a way thats never chimney, fill thedinners stockings, distribute the pletely rule out flying reindeer, which served school at Sherrington tom of Victoria Way, a huge bomb hit happened before, and schools must preremaining presents under the tree, eat a ... deer would be needed - this increases the BESPOKE 2006 A3 only Santa and maybe a few fairies and Road School. But that is another story the centre of the road, leaving a massive pare their students for this. snack or two, knock back a quick glass payload - not counting the weight of the elves has ever seen. CALENDARS of scotch, get back up the chimney, and sleigh - to 353,430 tons - four times that There are 2 billion children in the WITH YOUR PICTURES get back into the sleigh. Phew! of the Queen Elizabeth. world. BUT since Santa doesn't appear ON A3 250GSM GLOSS M. A. Qavi casts some tons light on a burning issue On average we are now talking about 353,000 travelling at 650 miles to handle the Muslim, Hindu, Jewish and CARD WITH GREYBOARD miles per total trip per second creates enormous air resistBuddhist children, that reduces the work- 0.39 required, the household, equipment a needed, theof any official assistance and were proud of ith the news that the Westcombe BACK WIRO BOUND 75.5 million miles, not counting stops to ance: the lead pair of reindeerwas would load to 15% of the total - 378 million power supply points, the cost estimates, it. In the 1980s Blackheath one of Society's Christmas Tree is (we what mostetc. of us must do at least once absorb 14.3 QUINTILLION according Population labour, the few communities of its joules size inof South hope) to to bethe erected at the Reference Standard this dothe A GREAT WAY TO every 31 hours,Council plus feeding and Per second. Each. At an average (census) ratewe of Bureau. Lewisham were and not helpful at energy. East London to have annual Christmas year, after the Christmas Bazaar, ADVERTISE OR A watering the reindeer etc. In short, they would into flame 3.5 children per household, 91.8 the time. The Traders raised the funds lights, courtesy of its burst traders. asked MA Qavi, a former that's member of PERSONAL PRESENT This means that Santa's sleigh is movalmost create deafmillion homes. One presumes there's at themselves, bought all the wiring and Weinstantaneously, got the lights upand in mid November Blackheath Village Traders' Association, at 650 miles per second, 3,000 from ening booms in their wake. The week least onethe good child in each. other materials, found volunteers and sonic took them down by the second about background for the Christmas ing times the themselves speed of sound. reindeer team would be vaporized Added toBlackheath that is the fact that there are among to do the installation entire of January. Gradually, Lewisham (MIN 10) lights in Village. The on the sleigh adds another within 4.26 thousandths second. some non-Christian children who claim over payload 2 or 3 weekends. Council started taking of an a interest and by In 1984, the newly formed BVTA interesting element. Assuming that each on To say nothing Santa ... . to took believe, in Santa, and whoChristmas are either I remember struggling with ladders the end of theof nineties it came to pass 1A LIZBAN STREET a decision to organise child gets pavements nothing more than a a mediumIn conclusion thenow technology is till little good, or Mr VERY good, that increases the BLACKHEATH, LONDON SE3 8SS Village on many windy that the lights-are left hung the lights. Blackman of Blackheath lego in set (2 pounds), theVillage sleigh is of miraculous; total to nearer 600 million. Sunday November - the used short middle of the year.so if you are going Jewellers (a person with some knowlege sized Tel: 020 8853 2268 carrying 321,300 tons, those not counting Santa has 31 hours oftook Christmas to to close on Sundays days! - and we in for the RentaSanta scheme this year of matters electrical) the initiative, Any chance of a Blackheath Standard Email: dave@trojanpress.co.uk who is, own frankly, overweight. (see page 1) what you are getting is a work with, thanks to the time brought our ladders and gloves). surveyed the Village todifferent determine where Santa, www.trojanpress.com Traders' Association To move roughly 214,200 bargain! being formed? Ed. zones, assuming hethe travels east tomaterials west We did,that, in the end, manage it rein without miraculous and how to hang lights, the

throughout the country. Walter's youngest son, David Bor (above, third from right), presented the awards this year. The judges commented:The Westcombe News is a newsletter of professional quality which lives up to its aims of linking up the local community. and their acquisition basis; of It confectionery, is produced on a near-monthly the Postwere Office franchise ensured that the judges in awe of any society that could a newsletter of such and qualitheyproduce would remain a necessary poptyular withlocal such resource. regularity. Accepting the award behalf flexibly of the to The business hason reacted team , the current editor, Neville Grant, changes in circumstances, but now said: The Westcombe very seems secure for asNews long is as the Shahs a team effort and not just much wish to remain. The closurestoday's of other team, this a prize won that by our posteither: offices in was the area means there whole community, which has done so is a constant queue at this counter much to support the WN over the years.

Blooming Christmas er, well. Spring, anyway!

Language matters

How does Santa do it?

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November 2005 Westcombe DecemberNews 2005 / January 2006 Westcombe News

BLACKHEATH ART SOCIETY Thurs. 8th Dec. 6.30 - 8.30 pm Charity Auction in aid of Save the Children and Winter Exhibition opening night Exhibition continues until Saturday 13th Dec., Tues and Thurs: 10 am-12.30pm & 1.30- 6pm, Sat: 10am-12.30pm & 1.30-5pm. Blackheath Village Library, 3-4 Blackheath Grove, SE3 Tel. 020 8852 5309. Blackheath Art Society produces a regular newsletter and join in occasional sketching days, workshops and visits. We also hold regular E-Shows on our new web site. For further details please ring 020 8853 3405 or go to: www.blackheathartsociety.org.uk Open Studio Dec 17th - 18th Well-known local potter Gilly Budd invites you to view her work at 83 Mycenae Road 10.00 a.m - 4.00 pm Memories of Summer Greenwich-based Internet Gallery Sea Pictures announces Christmas present selling exhibition Memories of Summer featuring three Welsh coastal artists. Go to www.seapicturesgallery.com to view. Until 9th February. Items within the gallery are priced to suit all purses - there is even a bargain basement. Selected items from the gallery can be brought to your home to try out on your walls. Just phone Alaric or Sarah Pugh on 0208 853 3322 GREENWICH DECORATIVE AND FINE ARTS SOCIETY meets at the John Roan School, Maze Hill on the second Monday of the month commencing at 8.00 p.m. New members welcome. Please ring our Membership Secretary on 020 8852 2778. CHILDREN Greenwich Theatre Box office: 8858 7755 Mon 5th Dec - Sat 7th Jan. Pantomime: Aladdin by Andrew Pollard, performed by the Natural Theatre Company. 2.00 pm and 7.00 pm most days (including 26th Dec and 2nd Jan.) (Not open Sundays). Sats. 24th and 31st 3.00 pm and 7.00 pm. Also perfomed some mornings. Tickets 18, 16 and 14 (Cponc. 13, 111, & 9) Children half price Broadway Theatre Catford Grade II art deco theatre listed by English Heritage. Box office 8690 0002 16th Dec - 9th Jan. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Matinees 16th Dec. 17th Dec. 18th Dec. 20th and 21st Dec. Other days (except Mondays) - 5.30 pm Tickets 12, 10, (concs.) Children 2 - 16 half price GREENWICH HERITAGE CENTRE Building 41, Royal Arsenal, Woolwich SE18 4DX Tel. 020 8854 2452 Childrens Saturday Club 10.30 - 12.00 on Saturday mornings for 5 - 12 year olds.. Blackheath Halls Blackheath Conservatoire of Music and the Arts. Children's Art and Music from toddlers to teenagers: For details call 020 8852 0234, or visit www.conservatoire.org.uk

WHATS ON
ARTS COMMUNITY THE WESTCOMBE SOCIETY RentaSanta in aid of Riding for the Disabled. Santas local agent is taking bookings now for visits to homes/parties the week before Christmas! Min. donation 10.00. Gifts supplied 5.00 each. Ring 8853 0948 Charity carol singing Mon 19th Dec. at 7.00 at Mycenae House Sat. 4th March 2.00 - 4.00 pm Childrens Nearly New sale Mycenae House St Pauls Church Deptford Diamond Way, off the High Street Fri 9th Dec 7.30 pm Jakub Jan Rybas Czech Christmas Mass (in English) Blackheath Choir. In aid of Deptford Churches Centre for the homeless and disadvantaged Tickets 7.00 inc refreshments Ring 9692 6548 (day) Tickets also on the door Townswomens Guild Christmas Concert Wed. Dec 14th at 2.00 pm in the Old Library, Charlton House: Christmas Concert by the choir of the N. Kent Townswomens Guild. Tickets 5.00 on the door (inc. mulled wine & mince pies) Tickets bookable on 8856 7356 AGE EXCHANGE Fri. 16th Dec. at 7.30 pm Charity Carol Concert at All Saints Church Blackheath, Followed by mulled wine & mince pies at the Old Bakehouse, Age Exchange, Blackheath Village Tickets 5.00 & 3.00 Tel. 8318 9105 Westcombe Writers' Circle First Thursday of each month 2.30 - 4.30 at Mycenae House. Ring 8305 1652, or 8858 5088. Blackheath Bridge Club welcomes all players to its duplicate sessions held in Mycenae House on Monday and Thurs at 7.15 pm and on Wed. at 1.30 - 4.00 pm. Tel. 8851 2609 Goldsmiths' Rambling Club Every other Sunday. All welcome. 8858 7823 for details Cards for good causes Nov. 2nd - Dec. 17th 10.00 am - 4.00 pm St Alfeges Church, Greenwich Church Street: Multi-Charity Christmas Card shop East Greenwich History Club 13th Dec. 3.00 pm Forum, Trafalgar Road Arches Leisure Centre CLOSED 19th - 24th Dec. for maintenance. Why not go skating instead? See below! Calling all skaters! Greenwichs ice rink in the beautiful setting of the Old Royal Naval College opens on Dec. 3rd. There will be ten one hour sessions per day, starting at 10.00 am. The last session starts at 9.00 pm. Tickets are 9.50 for adults (8.00 concs.), 7 for under sixteens. To book ring 0870 169 0101 or get your tickets from the Greenwich Tourist Information Centre. MUSIC AND DANCE Laban Theatre LABAN Creekside London, SE8 3DZ Box office: 020 8469 9500 Tues. 6th - Sat. 10th Dec. 1930hrs, 12 / 8 (concessions) Movimento5 is the second annual showcase of the best Portuguese contemporary choreography; supported by the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation . Last years season took place at Laban, in Nottingham and at Sadlers Wells. For information please visit www. movimento.co.uk Movimento5 Programme: Christmas Youth Dance Week Thurs. 15 Dec. 1430 hrs - 1830 hrs, Admission Free. Limited availability, tickets can be booked by contacting Jessica Hemming on 020 8691 8600 or email j.hemming@laban.org Annual collaboration between Laban and Greenwich Dance Agency. Young people from Lewisham and Greenwich perform a piece created from one weeks intensive work with a team of dance artists from Union Dance Company

Save the Children Fund Sun Dec 4th Christmas Concert 7.00 pm Old Royal Naval College Chapel Tickets from Blackheath halls 16.50, 13.50 & 8.50 BLACKHEATH HALLS TO BOOK 020 8463 0100 or buy online at www.blackheathhalls.com Fri. 2nd Dec./Sat 3rd Dec. 11.00 am - 8.30 pm Installation for String Quartet The No Orchestra presents 'Installation for String Quartet' Multi-media art installation plus short, live performances which explores new computer technology, blurring the boundary between conducting and dance. Generously supported by the PRS Foundation Installation FREE Performances 3 Trinity College of Music Tues. 6th - 8th. Dec. 7.00 pm, The Swiss Church, Covent Garden Soirees Musicales The Brass Maidens Quintet Admission on the door 5 (4 conc) Tues. 6th. Dec. 11.00pm, The UCL Bloomsbury Theatre, 15 Gordon Street, WC1N 0AH Philip Lawrence Awards Ceremony Music written and performed by 4th year undergraduates. For information ring Janet Lasky T: 079 6640 4021 Admission free Thursday 8th. December 1.00pm, St Alfege Church Trinity Brass Band THEATRE

OTHER EVENTS Age Exchange Thursday 8th Dec.Tea Dance 2.00 pm at Blackheath Village Admission 2.50 including tea and cake JRPA Meeting The next meeting of the John Roan Parents Association is on Wed. 7th Dec. at 7:30 p.m. at Maze Hill. All parents/guardians welcome. GREENWICH HERITAGE CENTRE Building 41, Royal Arsenal, Woolwich SE18 4DX Tel. 020 8854 2452 25 Oct. to 28 Jan. 2006 Time: Tues Saturday 9.00am - 5pm "Trafalgar: Nelson, the Navy and Greenwich" - An exhibition to mark the Bicentenary of the Battle of Trafalgar. Free. Contact: 020 8854 2452 THE FAN MUSEUM Cool: .at the Fan Museum,12 Crooms Hill Greenwich Open until 26th March. Tues. - Sat. from 11.00 am - 5.00 pm and Sunday 2.00 - 5.00 pm Admission: 3.50 adults,2.50 (concs.) Free for OAPs and Disabled on Tuesdays 2.00 - 5.00 pm except groups. Under 7s Free FRIENDS OF BLACKHEATH HALLS Wed. 18th Jan. 8.00 pm Friends Annual Architectural Lecture: Nick Thompson will pm speak on Concert Halls; Dreams and Reality Tickets 8.00 inc. a drink at the bar Tel. 020 8463 0100 www.blackheathhalls.com COUNCILLORS SURGERIES Conservative: Cllr. Rhodri Harris can be contacted on 0208 858 9676 Labour: Cllr. Annie Keys: 8333 7244 Cllr. Alex Grant 8855 7292 Surgeries: First Friday of every month 7 - 8.00 pm Mycenae House. Second Tuesday every month: 6.307.30 pm Committee Rooms, Fulthorp Road SE3 (opposite 47 - 59 Fulthorp Road) Third Saturday of every month: 3.30 - 4.30 pm St James Church Hall, Kidbrooke Park Road

GREENWICH PLAYHOUSE Station Forecourt, 189 Greenwich High Road 22nd Nov. - 18th Dec. The Crime of the Old Village by Bernardo Santareno Presented by Galleon Theatre Company. Tues - Sat @ 7.45pm - Sun @ 4pm TICKETS: 11, 8 (concs.) Ring the box office on 020 8858 7755 boxoffice@galleontheatre.co.uk Broadway Theatre Catford Grade II art deco theatre listed by English Heritage. Box office 8690 0002 1st - 22nd Dec Of Mice and Men adapted from Steinbeck 8.00 pm, some matinees The Albany Deptford Box office 8692 4446 Tues Dec. 6th - Sat Dec 17th. 8.00 pm (Exc. 10th & 11th) Northern Stage presents 1001 Nights Now Set in a Christmas decoration factory staffed by migrant workers in contemporary Britain, 1001 Nights Now is the Arabian Nights revisited by eight leading writers from the Middle East. With Nottingham Playhouse - your only chance to see this in London!. Tickets 9.00/ 6.00 concessions. Mon Dec 12th - Sat Dec. 17th 8.30 pm (doors open 7.30 pm) CHRIS DIFFORD CHRISTMAS SHOW All the classic squeeze hits. Tickets 12.00 (10.00 concessions.) WORSHIP St. George's Church, Kirkside Road: Every Sunday at 11 a.m. Parish Communion (with a Children's Church at the same time). Also, every Sunday at 6 p.m. Evening Prayer (Holy Communion first Sunday of the month). Christmas at St. Georges Sunday 18th December at 6.00 pm: Carols by candlelight Christmas Eve, Saturday 24th Dec. 2 p.m. Carols, and building the crib: for all ages, and especially for children. Lasts 40 minutes. 4.00 p.m: a repeat of Carols and building the crib 11.30 p.m Midnight Eucharist Christmas Day, Sunday 25th December: 10.30 a.m. Christmas Celebration (parish communion for all ages) Collections will be taken for the work of Crisis and Christian Aid. Everyone is welcome to all of these events. Bromley Reform Synagogue Fridays: 8.00pm (6.30pm on the first Friday in month and 7.30pm on the second) Saturday: 10.30 am Information on 020 8460 5460

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Homelessness is a worldwide problem. GEOFF of Sheila Mack, who is GARVEY tells the story

THE WESTCOMBE NET

Lord Nelsons last visit to Greenwich
he scene, according to one eyewitness, was "mournfully grand and impressive" Greenwich Hospitals famous Painted Hall was draped in black. On a dais beneath a canopy lay a coffin, covered by a velvet and silk pall. Flags and trophies surrounded it. On it was placed a coronet, and at its foot, the fallen warriors sword was displayed. The sombre spectacle of Admiral Lord Nelsons lying-in-state glowed in the light from dozens of candles. For three days in January 1806 the heros body lay at Greenwich, so the nation could come to pay their last respects. Up to 90,000 mourners took their turn in the Painted Hall. This was not Nelsons first association with Greenwich. Among his most prized possessions was the sword that had once belonged to the Hospital Treasurer, Galfridus Walpole. Nelson had used it during the close-quarter fighting at the Battle of Cadiz. Recuperating after Cadiz, Nelson came to Greenwich to visit his great friend William Locker, Lieutenant Governor of the Hospital. While there Nelson sat for Lemuel Abbotts famous portrait, now in the National Maritime Museum. But Nelsons return to Greenwich, on Christmas Eve, 1805, was altogether more melancholy. The yacht bearing his body up the Thames was late, struggling against

JONATHAN PARTINGTON of the Greenwich Heritage Centre describes

Helping the homeless in Mexico

T
amateurs there will be experienced people there telling us what to do. Three years ago Sheila - of Beaconsfield Road - trekked through the Andes to raise money to help disabled children. She also fund-raises for an orphanage in the Philippines, which is supported by her local Catholic church - St Josephs in East Greenwich. There Fr. Jim Teeling is the parish priest who raises money and supports St. Anne & St. Joachim Philippine Childrens Trust Fund. Said Sheila: Stories and pictures of life at the home are truly inspirational. Im encouraged by the fact that I can see how the money I raise is actively helping these children. This is a registered charity and Sheilas helping Fr. Teeling by selling Christmas draw tickets and organizing various raffles - the results to be drawn at St. Josephs on December 18th. Shed like help by either buying or selling the draw tickets. There are cash prizes of up to 500, plus many other prizes in aid of the Philippine children or Shelter. Sheila, who has three grown up children - Jaime (correct spelling), Celia and Christopher added: If anyone wants to back my work in Mexico then they can do so by sending a donation to Shelter. She can be contacted on 0208 853 5051.

other of three Sheila Mack is throwing herself in at the deep end in the New Year by helping to build a village in Mexico. Shes going there for a fortnight to literally turn her hand to anything. Sheila, whos 55, said: I suppose you could say Ive had a privileged life and now have the time and energy to help others less fortunate . Shes married to a security consultant and already supports an orphanage in the Philippines via a local catholic church. Shes previously trekked the Andes to raise money for charity, and walked along the Great Wall of China in aid of Breast Cancer last year. Now shes off to Mexico in February under the auspices of Shelter. Shes had to pay 1,300 of her own money for the flight and to finance her stay there and that includes a contribution to the charity for the homeless. Shell be among 25 volunteers working on the site and when they arrive the organiser will decide what individual skills they have that will be suitable for the construction. Said Sheila: Ive no idea what Im going to be asked to do. Possibly push a wheelbarrow around. Im willing to do the most menial of jobs. Even though were probably all

filthy weather. It arrived after dark, with no one to meet it. The casket lay on the shore while help was found. Eventually, Nelsons body was laid out in a small room off the Painted Hall. It was soon re-named the Nelson Room, and today, fully restored, it contains the exhibition Nelson and the Painted Hall. The funeral procession left Greenwich on January 8th. The coffin was borne to a black-canopied state barge at the river gate, preceded by fifes, drums, trumpets and five hundred Greenwich Pensioners. Captain Hardy carried one banner in front of it. Another depicted Britannia weeping, the British lion at her feet. With the body on board and the mourners embarked, the funeral barge, surrounded by a flotilla of others, set off. Slowly, firing minute guns, the procession headed up river where in a magnificent ceremony at St. Pauls Cathedral, the hero of Trafalgar was laid to rest. To coincide with the bicentenary of the battle, Greenwich Heritage Centre is staging a free exhibition Trafalgar: Nelson, the Navy and Greenwich. It looks at what life was like in the area around 1805, and the local legacy of the Napoleonic Wars. For more information please call 020 8854 2452.

Something to sing about

Up Snowdon!
In the 50th Anniversary of the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, a team of 13 girls from Blackheath High School climbed 1085m to the top of Mount Snowdon for their Silver Award. The expedition proved to be a challenge to the girls' self-confidence as well as their thigh muscles. To say they were quite nervous is an understatement, said their teacher, Karen Warwick. But they made it!

enny Probst has just launched a new Kindermusik programme for the community's littlest music makers in Mycenae House. Kindermusik International is the world's leading music and movement programme for children from birth to seven years of age, and has been running for over 25 years in over 35 countries round the world. Parents with newborn babies, toddlers and children up to 7 years old can participate in Kindermusik for a fun, valuable learning experience for all. Mums, dads, grandparents and babies and toddlers participated in an open house event held on 12 Nov. at Mycenae House. The launch event was open to the public free of charge. According to Jenny Probst, We are one of the very few programmes that include parents in activities with their children. The activities in a Kindermusik class

For babies, toddlers, Mums & Dads

enhance a child's total development by strengthening physical, emotional, social and cognitive skills at a very early age, Jennifer Probst explains. Jenny Probst, a licensed Kindermusik educator, is currently offering Kindermusik classes for babies newborn to 18 months. Classes are available on Tuesdays and Saturdays at Mycenae House. For more information, please call Jenny on 020 8320 0805 or visit: ww.kindermusikwithjenny.co.uk.

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ENVIRONMENT
Environment Committee Report
Greenwich District Hospital site In November, there was a series of meetings and workshops, and an exhibition, organized by English Partnerships about the future of the site. Local residents including members of the Westcombe and Greenwich Societies took part. English Partnerships and a design team from Rick Mather Architects outlined provisional ideas for the site. The design included transparent elevations both to Woolwich Road and to the new Urban Square to the rear to allow visual connections, whilst the proposed public facilities such as the Leisure Centre, Library and cafes could be accessed from both sides. There would also be an underground parking area. The main residential area would be to the south of the public areas, and would include Boulevard style roads with trees, gardens, a sunny private square, communal facilities such as a creche - and controlled parking. The initial plans met with overall approval, though serious doubts continue to be expressed over the pressure on infrastructure (especially transport) and the height of some of the buildings.

Dave Riddle

Work & Learn Centre at the Dome This Centre provides a recruitment service for the Meridian Delta Ltd (MDL) site as well as training provision. It will move to more permanent premises on the Peninsula early next year. For information about job opportunities or training, please contact the Work and Learn Centre direct on (020) 8326 3750. Vanbrugh Park Fields CPZ Details of local residents' concerns have been circulated about the latest proposals for parking allocations in the area of Vanbrugh Fields, Highmore Road and the western end of Westcombe Park Rd. The Councils Local Area Planning Committee do not appear to be taking residents demands seriously, so the backing of the Society has been offered. 55-57 Invicta Road, 05/1945/F The same Planning Committee is to hear the Planning Application for two new blocks of flats proposed for the site of Brenton's Coach & Van Hire in Invicta Road. The Westcombe Society has objected on the grounds of over-development and insufficient amenity space.

Speedy Action Glop! A new tag-removal product had been tested by the Greenwich Society. Called 'Geroff', although more expensive, it is much quicker to act than the gel that was previously used. There have been a large number of cleaning sessions, and it is now standard practice to record details of the tags and the numbers removed and to inform the Council and the other local amenity Societies of these at intervals. Figures of around 150-200 tag-removals per month are now being recorded. Thanks are due once again for the tireless efforts of the 'Buster' Team, and to the work being done by Greenwich Council. Westcombe Blog Spot A reminder that the Society now has a 'blog' where hot news and reports are posted regularly. If you wish to comment on any current local issues you can do so, or if you have any items you would likeposted, please send details to dpr@gold.ac.uk.http://westcombe. blogspot.com Details of local planning applications normally on this page - are on the WN website because of pressures of space . On Saturday Nov 12th. a Short Remembrance Day Service took place at the war memorial at the top of Maze Hill. The service was conducted by the Rev. Cynthia Finnerty, and was attended by members of the Blackheath and Charlton Branch of the British Legion, and members of the public.
PHOTO:

Two ton lorry creates two tone wall

IN Novembers WN we asked whether the future was orange or green. Well, now we know: its yellow! In the summer, a lorry backed out of Mycenae House and demolished a fine old brick wall adjacent to Naldera gardens. This Yellow Brick Wall has now been erected, tastefully contrasting with the older bricks. Have the Councils conservation policies hit a brick wall?

The Greening of Greenwich

reenwich Council is proposing to replace the roofs on Combe Avenue with green roofs, and a study is about to be commissioned to look at the potential for wind power and the use of biomass, the WN has been advised by Norma Nyaulingo, Energy & Efficiency Co-ordinator for the Greenwich area. She reports that so far only 6 properties in Blackheath have been fitted with Solar Hot Water systems under the Clear Skies programme, out of a total of 150 properties throughout the borough which benefited from grants amounting to 110,000. Four of the properties were in the Westcombe area. Private owners may (also) have installed their own systems but I dont have access to this info as easily she writes. (We would like to know, so please write to us). Our MP, Nick Raynsford, has told us that Developments in technology are such that we can and should be seeking continuous improvement, and I know that the housing associations doing the bulk of development in Greenwich are doing just that. In this context he was talking particularly of the new eco-homes BREEAM rating system (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) on the Peninsula. In our next issue, we hope to be able to report more of developments of bills currently before parliament and the new Low Carbon Building Programme. Robert Bunzl

The cost of graffiti G

Flagbearers striking their colours at the end of the service

reenwich Council, the police, and Quadrant Housing Trust have been mounting a campaign in schools to publicize the cost of graffiti. Recently, a persistent offender in Bristol was fined 3,000 and given 170 hours community service. Once this gets on ones record, it can become an embarrassment in later life - for example, the US (and many other countries) will not issue visas to anyone with a criminal record. Anyone who witnesses an act of graffiti should call 020 8855 1212.

Calling all gardeners

Dont bring me flowers
Working recently on a foliage garden, it became clear how unrealistic the blaze of Autumn colour (beloved of glossy magazines) is in a domestic setting. You need large amounts of deciduous trees or shrubs (bringing carpets of dead leaves plus months of bare branches). I needed year round colour - avoiding the local authority tropes of variegated phormiums and shrubs - and evergreen perennials which shift colour through the seasons. Catalogues from good nurseries tell you how plants shift colour (or shape) through the year, but a plastic garden centre label will not. However, some common plants such as bergenia have good winter colour and different leaf sizes (B. Helen Dillon has small, upright, leaves; Ballawley has huge floppy foliage - both pink edged in Winter). There is a plethora of shapes and colours in heuchera & tiarella - mostly evergreen. (H. Venus has silvery green leaves with dark veins, pinkish when young; H. Firefly is edged magenta in Winter; T. Iron butterfly has a dark centre on lime leaves). Bugle (ajuga) is good value ground cover or trailing over edges - its leaf colours bronze (some with pink or orange variegations), cream & green or blue-black (the small Chocolate chips). Even michaelmas daisies & perennial geraniums change colour - Aster laterifolius Prince is dark-stemmed with purple flowers whose (yellow) centers turn pink; many geraniums have red stems through the year and scarlet foliage in Autumn. In grasses, buy plants with good colour (especially stipas and phalaris, which vary enormously) and identify which will shift colour (eg Miscanthus Fern Osten turns red over winter). Finally, some points Ive made before - too much gold foliage can be hard to take, while some variegated plants look diseased; contrasting leaf shape (rounded, spiky, fine, broad) is as important as colour, but rembering which plants are dark (blue-green, say) and which are bright (grass green) is invaluable. Take note, too, of where your Winter sun falls - a burst of bright light through bare branches can transform bronze or buff leaves into something special (and in our damp climate this is so much more likely than the frosted seedheads shown in the magazines). Christopher Raven

Mobile 0795 081 5412

A & A LANDSCAPES
Landscape Specialists

Free advice & estimates

Qualified horticulturalist

Improve your garden and your gardening

with expert help and advice on site Get detailed information on planning as and when you need it Contact Christopher on 8691 2240 for a free consultation.

All aspects of soft & hard landscaping work carried out including * Maintenance *Site clearance * Turfing * Tree surgery * Fencing * Patios * Brickwork Tel. 020 8318 2530

Westcombe News December 2005 / January 2006

MARKET PLACE
Please send ads for the Market Place with payment by the 10th day of the preceding month to: Geoff Russell, 32 Kidbrooke Park Road, London SE3 0DU ALL classified adverts 30p per word. Please make cheques payable to The Westcombe Society
ACCOMMODATION GOOD RELIABLE HOST FAMILIES wanted for foreign students. For more info please contact Lynn 8244 7011 or sesgreenwich@aol.com NO ROOM FOR VISITORS? Flats for short-term lets, suit holiday-makers, professionals (Mon - Fri), between house-buying, weekenders. Tel Mrs. Mattey 020 8858 0338 LOCAL B & B, homely quiet accommodation. Also self-catering cottage for short holiday lets, educational courses or professional business people Monday - Friday. Tel: 020 8858 5088. FOR SALE 1930s GLASS FRONTED wooden kitchen dresser, approx. 4ft x 8ft high. 2 drawers and 2 cupboards underneath. 200 - 020 8858 1649 GARDENING AFFORDABLE GARDEN SERVICES, locally established 1991. Hardworking, reliable and experienced. No job too big or small. Also patio pressure washing. References available. Martin 8333 0839 ALL YEAR ROUND gardening maintenance, turfing, hedge & tree pruning. Tel. 8858 0965/ 8333 9112 eves 'Winter wonderland - or sticks & stems again? Make the most of your garden in winter with expert advice & planning. Planting lists & plans to suit you and your site. Natural, low maintenance planting a speciality. Initial visit free of charge ring Christopher on 020 86912240.' PLANTSMAN GARDENER specialising in the conservation and restoration of both historic and contemporary gardens, is pleased to offer his services. Phone Richard 020 8856 7694. HOLIDAYS SARDINIA, BOSA ALGHERO Medieval town house, sleeps 6, terrace, beautiful beaches. 013 0436 7443 WHITSTABLE WEEKENDS / WEEKS. Sea wall house between Oyster Warehouse and Harbour. Sleeps five. Fantastic views. 013 0436 7443 or 020 8858 6578 HASTINGS OLD TOWN, refurbished Victorian town house, 2 minutes beach. Mini-breaks, weeks available, sleeps 6. 020 8355 4861 Finlaybrowne@aol.com CARROUGES, NORMANDY Cottage sleeping 5/6, log fire, CH, barn with table tennis, walking distance from small market town with good restaurants and shops. 150 - 230 weekly. Phone 020 8692 5824, email matheson.pen@virgin.net. BEAUTIFUL SOUTHERN FRANCE - traditional stone character farmhouse - heated private pool luxury refurbishment. 020 8293 3822, www.frenchfarmhouseholiday.com. AND PERSONAL CARE AND THERAPY PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT COACHING from professional, effective Coach and Development Consultant specialising in work/life balance and overcoming self-limiting beliefs. Contact Mark on 079 6134 0330 or m.veary@btopenworld.com. LOW COST ACUPUNCTURE CLINIC. Arthritis, back pain, menstrual problems, migraine and sciatica are just some of the conditions that acupuncture can help. Wednesday mornings 10.00 am to 1.00 pm with Sarah Pritchard LicAc., MBAcC., 20. One hour sessions for anyone on a low income. Blackheath Complementary Health Centre, 184 -6 Westcombe Hill SE3. Appointments 8293 5380 BEAUTY THERAPY Specialist in facials, waxing, makeup, electrolysis, pedicure, manicure, and eyelash tinting. Please phone Rachel Welti on 8858 2884 STATE REGISTERED CHIROPODIST - Vinita Mothersole offers all aspects of chiropody and podiatry. 184 - 186 Westcombe Hill, 020 8293 5380; 13 Montpelier Vale, Blackheath Village, 020 8852 4366 COUNSELLING, COACHING, POSTURAL YOGA, ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE. Blackheath Holistic Health Service Tel. 020 8858 5969/8854 5080. www.bhhs.selondon.co.uk SERVICES and TRADE 2B INTERFACE - BESPOKE WEB DESIGN. Hosting services, logo design, stationary and promotional print. Email: info@interface.com www.2binterface.com, 020 8858 2954. GEEBEE PROFESSIONAL TYPING Services Prompt, reliable, professional. Letters/reports/ CVs/ manuscripts theses, dissertations. Phone Gillian 020 8465 5273 INTERIOR SPATIAL DESIGNER for commercial & domestic properties. Design, planning, extensions etc. Contact Liz Bull, BA (Hons) Interior Architecture on 077 3990 3752 or info@lizbulldesign.com CLOTHING ALTERATIONS, repair and restyling. Blackheath. Contact Galdina tel. 020 7207 7739 / 078 8179 8028 TOM ELLIS BESPOKE CARPENTRY Contemporary or Heritage Designs. Happy to quote. 8519 8947 DAVIDSON PLASTERING. Ceilings repaired or renovated. Artex ceilings skimmed to a smooth finish. Kitchen & bathroom wall tile damage repaired. Insurance work undertaken inc. painting & decorating. C&G qualified. Small jobs welcome. 8316 0990 A MAN AND A VAN Tel: 020 8858 3889 Mobile: 07885 917 842 KITCHENS AT TRADE PRICES. Free design, free delivery. 020 8305 1263 or 078 8591 7842 PLUMBER, from a leaking tap to a new bathroom or kitchen, happy to help. Quotes free. NVQ trained, living locally, David Simpson 079 1633 0246 david.simpson@email.com DECORATING, ELECTRICS Plumbing and Property Maintenance. Established 25 years. References available. Phil McNamara 020 8857 5480, mobile 078 1436 0862. A.B.DECORATING Experienced local family firm. Interior and exterior painting and decorating, fitted kitchens, tiling, gardening, fencing, decking. Portfolio and local references available. Please call Arthur, tel/fax 020 8858 3393, mobile 079 8655 7731, email arthur @bartleybros.co.uk www.bartleybros.co.uk. MALCOLM TIERNEY, CARPENTER & CABINET MAKER Stairs repaired, doors hung, sash windows overhauled and draught-proofed, computer workstation/cupboards and kitchens supplied and fitted. Bespoke furniture made to your specifications. 077 7565 7371. EXPERIENCED INTERIOR DECORATOR offers advice & quality workmanship, on all aspects of decorating. Free quotes. Local references available. Contact Ashley Greaves on 8858 2981. Guild of Master Craftsmen member. MATURE, VERSATILE HANDYMAN. Carpentry, decorating, fencing, light building etc.Always looking for that more interesting task. Steven 8985 2922.

ANTIQUE FURNITURE RESTORATION by NEIL WAKELING, HND. Specialising in all aspects of furniture restoration and fine finishes. 22 years' experience. Telephone 016 2268 7938 or 077 9123 6805. TAROT PALMISTRY & ASTROLOGY: Discover your destiny - love, relationships, career, wealth, family advice. Experienced professional consultants. At the Old Greenwich Market Sat - Sun. Tel Tricia 07947890537. Reader wanted!

TUITION ENGLISH TUITION. All ages, GCSE, A/S levels, Coursework etc. offered by qualified, experienced English teacher. Hellin Halliday BA Hons. (PGCE). Tel: 020 8858 7704 /079 859 03259 PIANO LESSONS A.B. Exams taken if desired -all grades, a holistic approach to teaching and learning. THEORY - for A.B. Grade 5 etc. GCSE MUSIC - extra help with school tuition/ back-up lessons. 020 8856 1200 TRUSHARE COMPUTER TUTOR Beginners a speciality. I come to your home and start from where you are. Desktop publishing, Databases, Email, Internet, Websites and much else. Only 10 per hour. Ring 020 8858 7052 PIANO & DOUBLE BASS lessons. All ages / abilities welcome. Jazz and classical, theory and improvisation, exams preparation. 077 7928 5174 NATIVE FRENCH TEACHER teaches conversational French to adults and children. Couples, children with parents, teenage friends, one-to-one classes offered. Contact Estelle on 020 8858 3825 or www.frenchinsmallgroups.com. SPANISH LESSONS AT MYCENAE HOUSE. Group lessons for beginners, Tuesdays 7.45-8.45 pm & Saturdays 11.00 - 12.00 by qualified Latin American teacher, CLTA. Call Miguel: 020 8305 0874, or email migansiergut@yahoo.com. Also private tuition, all levels, all ages. MATHS (to GCSE) & ENGLISH TUITION and preparation for secondary school selection tests by qualified teacher. Mary Bauckham 020 8858 3814, mary.bauckham@virgin.net. ELECTRIC GUITAR LESSONS. Alumnus of Trinity College of Music. All styles taught, all ages and abilities welcome. Theory and aural training given. Call Tom on 079 7120 4763. ART FOR THE FUN OF IT - just enjoy the process. Mistakes impossible. No experience of art required. Small groups or individual sessions. 14 per hour and a half. Adults: Tues./Wed. 8.00 to 9.30. Children's after-school classes. Email for more information.geraldinefranklin @btinternet.com, telephone 020 8854 7807. The Blackheath Societys Christmas cards are on sale with two designs - The Prince of Wales pond and All Saints Church from a photograph by David Warren - 3.00 or 4.00 per pack of five. Available from the Blackheath Society office in Chapman House, 10 Blackheath Village (Mon-Thurs 9.00 am - 2.00 pm)

Property Maintenance, Painting, Decorating, Plumbing, Central Heating, Shower and Bathroom Specialists

Saunas are not a luxury, theyre essential for healthy living!

The natural way to relieve stress and unwind, you can now have your own custom-made sauna. We can install anywhere: in a whole room or just part of one, in a shed, loft, basement or even a bedroom. Using genuine Finnish materials and equipment, we design, supply and install.

For a free survey and quote call Darren: 07957 307701

SEERS FIREPLACES... a grate place

New GIANT Warehouse 8 Greenwich Industrial Estate Greenwich High Road (next to DLR) SE10

Reproduction set-ups or original antiques - we can tailor a fireplace requirement exactly to your needs & pocket. Marble/stone/cast-iron & wood the choice is yours. We make most items to order FREE of charge and with the best quality products at the lowest prices in Britain - GUARANTEED! Gas coal effect fires from only 175 and we stock amazing flue-less products.
CALL 020 8858 0033 or 020 8293 0273 Qualified expert visit 30 includes full written estimate, deductible against any purchase made.

Sue Whimster
Superior hand-sewn curtains & soft furnishings made to order Wide range of fabrics available Free estimates Phone: 0208 293 0737 Fax: 0208 2937155 Mobile: 07714 215713

Greenwich Trees

Tel: 020 8265 8083

Mobile: 07941 346 758