With days getting shorter, wetter and windier, deciduous trees and plants are rapidly losing their leaves and the vitality of our gardens is fading fast, but that doesn't mean that our gardens have to look drab. Winter interest will depend on evergreen
CASH-strapped traders have described West Ealing as a ghost town which has become a shopping no-man's-land in the six months since Marks & Spencer closed its doors. With Christmas approaching, both shopkeepers and customers have accused Ealing
BUDDING DJs are on their way to fame and fortune with the help of training from Panjab Radio FM. The Southall station has broadcast during March and April for the past three years and is now hoping to secure one of the 15-year community licences handed
TRANSPORT experts have condemned London Underground's claim that Tube passengers will benefit from an investment programme. An announcement last week outlined the improvements Ealing commuters can hope to see during the first seven years of the publicly-run
VIOLENT patients will be thrown out of hospitals following last week's announcement that medical staff will have the power to refuse treatment if they are physically or verbally assaulted. Last year, Ealing Hospital recorded 135 incidents of abuse towards
Maya Lucy Tyrrell, aged four, tucks in at the South Ealing Playgroup's Sausage Sizzle at the Sherman Labour Hall, Dorset Road, on Monday afternoon. Sausages were definitely the theme of the afternoon but apple-bobbing, face painting and sparklers all
Kung fu movies mean tacky music, bad dialogue and punches that do not connect or at least I thought so, writes Heidi Wyithe. In Kiss of the Dragon there are bum lines, but hardly any drop-kicks go astray and the soundtrack is second to none. Fans of Jet
CHILDREN are facing a race against time to secure essential leisure facilities following a delay in the decision making process. Plans for a new games area on the Islip Manor Estate in Eastcote Lane, Northolt, were backed by 81 per cent of the families
children For childrens shows see THEATRE listings on this page. INFANTS MASSAGE: Five-week courses. Tuesdays and Thursdays. 24 Daybrook Road, Merton Park. % 020 8287 5703. MOTHER AND TODDLER GROUP: For ages 0 to 4, Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 10am to
CHILDREN in care and the elderly look set to suffer again as social services begins to examine where it can recoup a £6m-plus overspend this year. Only two weeks after a report revealed that Ealing Council is failing to deliver on over 60 per cent of
The biggest artists art fair in Britain is taking place at Battersea Arts Centre, writes Yvonne Gordon. The twice-yearly Battersea Contemporary Art Fair, on November 16 to November 18, comprises of about 150 professional UK and international artists exhibiting
THREE men who robbed and then kidnapped and raped a 25-year-old woman in June have been sent to prison by a judge at Isleworth Crown Court. Randi Gladstone, 18, of Rectory Park Avenue, Northolt, Ziad Chehade, 19, of Copley Close, Hanwell, and Richard
For many, November marks the progression towards a cold winter, but for Indian people worldwide it signifies the most auspicious date in their calendar, Diwali. The festival is marked by a visit to the temple where thousands flock to worship the shrine
More than two thousand revellers smacked their lips and got themselves down to Beer on Broadway, the 2001 Ealing Beer Festival at the Town Hall in New Broadway. Ales of 40 different varieties, apple and pear ciders and foreign beers flowed copiously as
Thursday November 8 EXHIBITIONo The work of Martin Bright and Jean Aust will be on display in the Mansion Spaces of the South Hill Park Arts Centre, Ringmead, Bracknell until January 6. Call 01344 484123 for details. JAZZo The John Coverdale Duo will
Police have made an urgent appeal for witnesses after a nine-year-old girl was indecently assaulted as she walked her dog near the River Wandle in Mitcham last weekend. The girl and her young friend were approached by a man at around 2.30pm on Sunday,
Laughter and a positive outlook are the key to a long life for Wimbledon resident Rosie Graham. Mrs Graham celebrated her 100th birthday last Friday when her family presented her with a copy of a photograph taken when she was in her 20s. The fun-loving
A 92-year-old disabled woman was left unwashed and without health care for five days after an NHS co-ordinator took offence at a complaint by her son. Selina Parker, from Mitcham, was admitted to St Helier Hospital on October 10 after suffering a stroke
I refer to your report Islamic School Outrage (News Shopper, October 31). I was shocked to read of the negative attitude of some of the residents of Chislehurst who are protesting at the highly commendable scheme which, at no cost to the taxpayer, will
Former servicemen and women will be joined by residents and dignitaries across Wandsworth and Merton on Sunday to honour those who lost their lives fighting for their country. Remembrance services will be held on four sites across Merton with a two-minute
AT present, the line from Bromley North has one stop at Sundridge Park and then it terminates at Grove Park. To get any further, for instance to Charing Cross, you have to change trains at Grove Park and wait for another train to continue on the same
AS the former chairman of the Bromley Community Safety Partnership I was amazed to see the hypocritical and unjustified scare- mongering over policing from Conservative council leaders (News Shopper October 31). The truth is, in the last year, the Metropolitan
The Nelson Hospitals League of Friends has raised £7,000 to purchase a new bladder scan machine which was presented to staff recently. The new piece of equipment is a portable ultrasound which takes readings and produces an assessment of the bladder volume
Merton is to get nine more neighbourhood wardens to help tackle anti-social behaviour, graffiti and litter, after securing a £445,000 government cash injection to fund the scheme. The wardens will be employed in Wimbledon and Mitcham town centres, and
I have just read in last weekends national Guardian that Mertons social services department has the highest rate of education attainment of children in public care in London and one of the highest in the country. I would like to say well done. Maintaining
STAFF at the Allied Irish bank in St Albans Road, Watford, are celebrating after achieving the Investors in People accreditation. Allied's management development manager Ms Maura O'Mahony, was presented with the accreditation certificate by the bank's
A pregnant woman was tied up and kicked in the stomach by armed robbers in East Dulwich. The woman was working as a cashier at the Money Shop, in Grove Vale, when two men entered the shop at 10.25am on October 19 and threatened a woman customer with a
The mother of a 21-year-old man who was brutally attacked by a gang of thugs in Croydon has revealed her son is now too scared to go out in the town. Timothy Dromey, from West Norwood, had to have his jaw rebuilt with a metal plate after he was kicked
London Zoo: Animal lovers have only a few weeks to view the last elephants to call London Zoo home. Families planning trips to the zoo in Regent's Park have until the end of the year to see one of the centre's largest attractions before the three remaining
A Brixton businessman has received an out-of-court settlement from the Met Police after his two 10ft plastic pigs sporting police helmets and attached to a yellow tank were smashed in a police station forecourt. John Gladdon, who runs a business selling
The magical fever of Harry Potter is set to grip South Woodford Odeon this weekend Two thousand tickets have already been sold in advance by avid Potter fans anxious to see the new release, which stars big names such as Maggie Smith, Alan Rickman and
St Peters Church in Streat-ham is staging a classical music concert to raise cash for its Angels Appeal. Handels Messiah Part One and Mozarts Sparrow Mass will be performed at the church, in Leigham Court Road, on Saturday, November 17. Entry is free,
Witches, warlocks and goblins were among the guests at the opening of a new playground in Cedar Road park, Victoria Rise, Clapham, on halloween. Swings, seesaws and climbing nets have been built on the site of the estates old playground, which was pulled
Eighteen-year-old student Raymona Duncan is proving to be one of Croydon College's rising stars. The Shirley resident sang at the Higher Education graduation ceremony on Friday November 2. The performing arts student, although used to writing her own
Southwark Council last week became the first authority in the country to be forced by the Government to hold a mayoral referendum, writes Simeon Brody. Local government minister Nick Raynsford announced last Wednesday that the council had been instructed
Headmaster Dr John Jennings has been recognised as the man who turned Royal Russell School from good to outstanding. Pupils are gaining above average examination results, with A level results gained in the last few years placing the school amongst the
There were calls of fowl play after Dulwich & West Norwood MP Tessa Jowell won the parliamentary duck race for the second year running. Ms Jowells plastic duck beat about 60 others to win the race at Westminster in July and the prize money from
The Wolvercote Clinic: Fears that a clinic for convicted paedophiles is planned for the area remain strong after a government minister refused to rule it out. Campaigners and councillors packed into a meeting on Wednesday last week to hear Parliamentary
A man who helped bring down crime in his area has received a special award from the Metropolitan Police. Community worker Roberto Cudell worked with drug addicts during his time with the Stockwell Project to help them beat their addiction. He was so successful
Lambeth Council is introducing a new team of complaint busters to deal with concerns about council services. The new independent corporate complaints unit will be based at Lambeth town hall and will work across departments to get complaints resolved.
The plot is non-existent, the script awful but boy can Jet Li deliver on the action front. Kiss of the Dragon is a martial arts film, pure and simple, and fans of the genre will have a blast. Co-written by Li and Leon director Luc Besson, the movie is
A highly successful permit scheme designed to safeguard parking spaces on the council's housing estates for residents and crack down on unauthorised parking by outsiders, is set to be extended by Croydon Council to all its estates. On housing developments
A vision of a 'major university town' that will bring millions of pounds of investment and dozens of jobs is taking shape. Plans to make Brunel University campus in Hillingdon the next Oxford or Cambridge could see £70million of investment coming into
Hounslow: Race crime has more than tripled in the past three years according to shocking new figures. The Hounslow crime audit, released on Thursday last week, showed a 201 per cent increase in race crime compared to a 25 per cent rise in street crime
Brunel University has announced it intends to abandon its Osterley campus by the summer of 2005 once it has closed its education department in Twickenham. The news comes as the Uxbridge-based university prepares to begin a 10-year plan to become west
Hounslow: A covert Home Office operation has filmed five youths, one just 12 years old, terrorising their neighbourhood with racist abuse. The gang was arrested on Friday (Nov 6) at Hanworth's Oriel Estate and a 15-year-old charged with racially aggravated
Budding DJs are on their way to fame and fortune with the help of training from Panjab Radio FM. The Southall station has broadcast during March and April for the past three years and is now hoping to secure one of the 15-year community licences handed
Harrow: Knife crime has been cut and seizures of bladed weapons up 58 per cent, according to latest figures from the police. Chief Inspector Julian Worker told members of Harrow Police Community Consultative Group (HPCCG) on Monday (Nov 5) that 57 knives
SW Herts: Concern has been expressed by South West Hertfordshire MP Richard Page about what is to be done with UK citizens serving with the Taliban. Mr Page received a response from Mr Keith Bradley, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Home
Concert pianist Hayley Elton, who has taught footballers, babies, chimps, and even Victoria Beckham to play the piano, is to offer music lessons via the internet. Hayley, from Dollis Avenue, Finchley, is to launch her new internet service next week, where
The revamping of South Norwood lake is to benefit from the involvement of residents. Thursday, October 25 saw the launch of the Friends of South Norwood Lake Group ensuring residents and park users continue to have involvement in the half a million pound
FIREWORK celebrations in the borough ended up a complete fiasco. Residents are still fuming after a weekend of Guy Fawkes misery which saw the borough's major display cancelled and another show advertised even though it did not exist. Residents have turned
THE Indian Muslim Federation (IMF) held an inter-faith meeting with local churches, urging the promotion of understanding and support for Muslim minorities living in Waltham Forest. The group feels that in a multi-faith borough like Waltham Forest with
PREMIER DIVISION (day two of two) at Ashford: TUNBRIDGE WELLS 213 T. Luckhurst 88, M. Alexander 45, M. McCague 4-64 & 176-3 dec C. Auty 66, win on first innings over ASHFORD 134 C. Denness 7-63 & 98-5 C. Denness 4-32. at Beckenham: BECKENHAM 190
ACCIDENTAL fire deaths in Waltham Forest are among the highest in London, a report has revealed. The borough is in the top third of London areas that suffer from blaze-related fatalities in the home. It is also in the top half of local authorities on
Street robbery has been cited as the Met's number one problem in London, and Croydon is by no means an exception. But when you think that 50 per cent of the borough's street robberies is made up mobile phone thefts, you can't help but feel that some of
POEMS written by McEntee School students after the attacks of September 11 in New York and Washington have been taken to a church near Ground Zero by one of the school's technicians. After the tragedy, students from the secondary school in Billet Road
Hot on the heels of the good news from Croydon Council's Crime and Disorder Audit Summary, the British Crime Survey has confirmed that Crime is down in Croydon. Geraint Davies said: "Last month's Crime Audit told us the good news that Croydon is one of
A BABY boy from Leyton was made to molest his tiny sister during six months of revolting sexual and physical abuse, the Old Bailey has heard. Kevin Carne, 23, of Priory Court, Walthamstow, indecently assaulted both youngsters while they were still in
A new cleaning blitz has started in Croydon this week. The council has stepped up its intensive cleaning effort and now, each ward can expect a cleaning blitz approximately every seven weeks. The aim is to ensure each ward is visited at least five times
CALLS from concerned police and residents have prompted the installation of more than £200,000 worth of equipment to light the routes home for children and adults. Schoolchildren and workers facing journeys home along six of Hounslow's dark alley shortcuts
ANN KEEN was caught holding the baby this week when she visited West Middlesex Hospital's maternity unit. The Isleworth and Brentford MP was one of the first sights one-day old Anna Spaull had seen, besides her mother and nurses on the ward. However Mrs
The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children has introduced the first ever Asian Child Protection Helpline. The free service was launched yesterday (November 7) to enable callers to speak in their first language. Malcolm Ward, NSPCC
POLICE have named the 51-year-old Chiswick man gunned down outside his Wilton Avenue home after one of his accused attackers appeared at the Old Bailey. Officers investigating the shooting of Alan Ball have arrested and charged a 23-year-old unemployed
A COUNCILLOR has renounced the political party whip to stand alone after branding his colleagues 'impossible to work with'. After fours years as Liberal Democrat councillor for Feltham South, John Murphy ditched the party on Monday and declared himself
Stansted: Concerns over the proposed expansion of Stansted Airport have been repeated by Epping Forest Council's development control committee. Members expressed anxieties directly to BAA Stansted in January, voicing disappointment that it had not addressed
ROAD barriers which have been isolating residents in their estate for 18 months are set to stay. On Wednesday last week, the Isleworth and Brentford Area Committee agreed that Isleworth's Woodland Road barriers must remain. The barriers were put across
Watford: Passengers on a train from Preston were left stuck inside the train at Watford Junction on Monday, November 5, after armed police were called out to what turned out to be two children playing with toy guns. At about 1.50pm the British Transport
DIWALI, the festival of lights, is illuminating the High Street for the first time with traders and the council all chipping in for lanterns. Hindu and Sikh communities have invited residents and shoppers to join their celebrations, after councillors
Kent: Kent Police's latest tool in the fight against crime is a James Bond-style car with interactive voice-activated controls. The new patrol car is the most technologically-advanced police vehicle in the country with a touch screen and voice-controlled
A man who was rushed to Mayday Hospital with pneumonia has told how he was prevented from sleeping for three consecutive nights at the "hospital from hell". After waking from the delirious state he was in when he was admitted to Mayday on Saturday October
STEPHANIE McKinley looks poised as she sits. Her body language is neither friendly nor confrontational. She is alert, ready to answer questions. "This could happen to anyone. There are loads of people suffering in silence," she says. "There are probably
AN ELDERLY man, his son and daughter-in-law are in hospital after being attacked in their home by six men in a seemingly random attack. The woman was stabbed twice and the men beaten with an iron bar after the thugs forced their way into the house in
THE proposal to hand care plans for the community over to the government has been applauded by the council. Surrey County Council welcomed the Department of Health (DoH) consultation into proposals to take the statutory requirement to prepare Community
May I thank all those who gave their time and generously supported our recent coffee morning, raising £350. Our next fundraiser Early Christmas Bazaar is on November 17, 2001 at Wraysbury Village Hall between 10am and 12noon. Esme Gray Events organiser
A CHAMPIONSHIP school netball team now has uniforms worthy of its reputation after receiving a colourful new kit. The under-11s netball team at St Ann's Heath School in Virginia Water are currently at the top of the Runnymede and Elmbridge School league
Mr John Phillips, of BAA, claimed recently that Heathrow Airport had nothing to do with the flooding of Spelthorne. The whole drainage system through a massive pipe structure at Heathrow is designed to get water off of the airport as soon as possible.
THIS October may have been the warmest since records began in 1659, but measures are already in place to make sure that when the cold weather does strike the county is ready. Jim Smith, executive member for transport at Surrey County Council, said more
ANIMAL lovers have only a few weeks to view the last elephants to call London Zoo home. Families planning trips to the zoo in Regent's Park have until the end of the year to see one of the centre's largest attractions before the three remaining Asian
BUDDING engineers were drafted in to solve a litter problem this week by using their knowledge of design, maths and fast food to create the perfect 'drive-thru' bin. Year nine pupils from throughout the area joined colleagues at Longford Community School
ORBITAL are 90 minutes away from the President's Cup final after a 3-0 win against N&P Old Boys that was more comfortable than the scoreline suggests. Wells hit two in a first half which Orbital completely dominated, denying Old Boys even a shot on
A COUNCILLOR has renounced the political party whip to stand alone after branding his colleagues 'impossible to work with'. After fours years as Liberal Democrat councillor for Feltham South, John Murphy ditched the party on Monday and declared himself
HOSPITAL staff were stars at Ashford Day as cheers of admiration rang out for six of its long-serving carers. Sister Yoot-Ngoh Chung joined the hospital's gynaecology and colposcopy unit in 1976, while staff nurse Surjit Kundi, Marisol Verrinder from
A PENSIONER has been left broken-hearted after thieves stole her prized parrots. The theft occurred overnight from the garden shed where the parrots were housed between Thursday and Friday last week, as 64-year-old June Morris of Beards Road, Ashford
RESIDENTS are warned to avoid being drawn into a West African scam which could cost them hundreds of pounds. County Trading Standards Officer Peter Denard said: "Officials (supposedly from the Nigerian Government) ask the recipient to participate in the
MORE jobs could be made available if plans to move the democratic headquarters of the county to cut costs and re-direct cash to improve front-line services go ahead. The feasibility of re-locating County Hall from Kingston into Surrey is to be examined
ere violently rejected this week. Top-level councillors at Surrey County Council have condemned the proposal because they feel the county is large enough to sustain its own health authority. David Munro, executive member for adults and community care,
STRIPPERS got official backing to carry on getting them off after councillors reluctantly granted a licence to a private club. The controversial Spearmint Rhino Gentleman's Club has been given permission for naked dancers to entertain clients until April
A FOOTBALL club is praying for the right result to save it from the misery of relegation. But Ashford Town cannot decide their own fate on the pitch. The Ryman League club was hoping that councillors on the Planning Committee granted permission for a
A PATRIOTIC councillor is urging the council to be proud of its heritage by flying the flag. The Union Flag and the Cross of St George could be displayed all year round at the Civic Centre in Uxbridge following a motion to be submitted to Hillingdon Council
THE community responded in full force to news that St Peter's and St Mary's churches in Staines are in danger of closing. Almost 400 people attended a special Gift Day on Saturday, November 3, organised by the clergy to raise desperately needed cash to
DANGEROUS off-road bikers are terrorising young children and dog walkers while ripping up park paths and gardens, an MP has claimed. The motocross enthusiasts who use the BMX track and paths of Lake Farm Country Park in Printinghouse Lane, Hayes are the
AN ELDERLY man, his son and daughter-in-law are in hospital after being attacked in their home by six men in a seemingly random attack. The woman was stabbed twice and the men beaten with an iron bar after the thugs forced their way into the house in
DONORS are being urged to give blood in the run-up to Christmas in a bid to deal with the greater number of road accidents the season brings. The National Blood Service will be at Hillingdon Park Baptist Church Hall in Hercies Road, Hillingdon on November
A VISION of a 'major university town' that will bring millions of pounds of investment and dozens of jobs is taking shape. Plans to make Brunel University campus in Hillingdon the next Oxford or Cambridge could see £70million of investment coming into
AN AMNESTY on live bullets is being offered by the police after a 12-year-old girl was discovered carrying a dangerous gun round. The Metropolitan Police believe that 40 boxes of ammunition have fallen into the possession of children from Hillingdon and
Adolescence is difficult enough without having to think about developing arthritis. But that's what 14,500 young people in the UK have to cope with right now. Not many people realise that arthritis is a crippling joint disease that affects children and
RUDOLF and his friends have been banned from the Christmas Parade but children need not despair, as a pack of cuddly huskies are on hand to ensure Santa's work is done. Traditionally, reindeers have pulled Santa's sled to mark the opening of the Uxbridge
Wealdstone 1 (Nov 4) Bishop's Stortford 1 Wealdstone should have scored in the first 20 seconds of their FA Trophy tie against Bishop's Stortford, if Marvin Morgan had been more composed in front of goal, writes Steve Paull. However, Morgan made amends
Is it not long overdue for the use of fireworks to be curtailed? I realise that I may be considered a misery and a killjoy for posing such a question, but perhaps the firework craze is getting out of hand? From the end of October to the end of November
Harrow Borough 2 (Nov 3) Dorchester Town 3 Harrow Borough were knocked out of the FA Trophy and finished the game with 10 players, writes Tony Booth. Adam Everitt was dismissed for a 90th minute tackle on Brown. The visitors took the lead on four minutes
I am truly sorry for the slaughter of the innocents in America and incensed by the method adopted to strike a blow at the country the perpetrators had a grievance against. But I take exception to the phrasing of our contribution in sympathy to the American
Why is Brent Council so inefficient when it comes to doing any jobs or repairs? It takes weeks to do simple jobs. They never have any money. The pavements around the Kingsbury shopping area are a disgrace. S Walsh Gore Court Kingsbury
I must respond to Mark Versallion's letter (Nov 1, 'Charges row rumbles on') because his belief in the use of National Insurance Contributions is a popular myth. 'National Insurance' sounds like a great idea but it is just another tax. He should assume
A suggestion to J Cope, of Cecil Road, in Harrow, who's nephew and niece are trying to make the world's biggest rubber band ball and ask for spare bands to be sent to the above address, why not follow your post person on their rounds, when they do deliver
I had parked my car on Elmwood Avenue, off Kenton Road, and went to the parking machine to buy a ticket. The machine was not working, so I bought a ticket for one hour from the nearest machine, in Churchill Avenue. Twenty minutes later I returned and
Brentford equalled the club record of consecutive wins in a season with their seventh, courtesy of a 2-0 win over Blackpool. The Bees welcomed back Michael Dobson at right back after a spell out through injury and Kevin O'Connor replaced Stephen Hunt,
I fully endorse the views expressed by Mr S Abey appearing in your issue of October 25, 2001 ('Bus route is just appalling'). This has become an everyday feature and a person who has no other means of transport and who relies on bus route 114 and wants
The body of a pensioner was found in a pool of blood outside Colindale Police Station on Tuesday. Shocked witnesses say a single gun shot was heard at 3.26pm, seconds before the body of a silver-haired man was found lying motionless outside the entrance
The plot is non-existent, the script awful but boy can Jet Li deliver on the action front. Kiss of the Dragon is a martial arts film, pure and simple, and fans of the genre will have a blast. Co-written by Li and Leon director Luc Besson, the movie is
With days getting shorter, wetter and windier, deciduous trees and plants are rapidly losing their leaves and the vitality of our gardens is fading fast, but that doesn't mean that our gardens have to look drab. Winter interest will depend on evergreen
Herne Hill Harriers cross country squad beat national road relay champions Belgrave Harriers by more than two minutes in a six-man cross-country relay race at Reigate Priory. Herne Hills B team finished fifth, beating many clubs A squads, while the clubs
One of life's less pleasant aspects is that from time to time we are called upon to control wild life, which involves the killing of foxes. Civilised people perform this sad task with speed and with compassion, not a quality displayed by your two pro-hunting
A landmark Hendon pub, granted heritage status by Barnet Council earlier this year, is to be demolished after canny developers exploited a loophole. The Load of Hay pub in Brent Street, has been closed for several months but was added to Barnet Council's
Digging deep: Sir Maurice Laing (centre) planted a millennium tree on behalf of the historic Totteridge Manor Association outside St Andrew's School in Totteridge Village on Saturday. Association committee member Tim Roberts said the last official tree
With days getting shorter, wetter and windier, deciduous trees and plants are rapidly losing their leaves and the vitality of our gardens is fading fast, but that doesn't mean that our gardens have to look drab. Winter interest will depend on evergreen
Celebrated theatre company The Lions Part is presenting two thought-provoking plays, Lilies on the Land and A Sleep of Prisoners next Wednesday and Thursday (November 14 and 15) at St. Martin's Church, Hale Gardens, Acton at 4.15pm and 8pm. Marking Remembrance
Pilot Theatre Company is presenting a literary classic adapted to appeal to all ages at Richmond Theatre, The Green from Tuesday (November 13). The group's adaptation of William Golding's Lord of the Flies adds some brilliant stage effects to the dark
The Croydon Folk and Blues Club celebrates its 11th music festival on Sunday July 15, with non-stop performances and plenty of fun for all the family in the beautiful grounds of Ruskin House writes Louise Cole. The Folk and Blues Festival kicks off at
The plot is non-existent, the script awful but boy can Jet Li deliver on the action front. Kiss of the Dragon is a martial arts film, pure and simple, and fans of the genre will have a blast. Co-written by Li and Leon director Luc Besson, the movie is
For many, November marks the progression towards a cold winter, but for Indian people worldwide it signifies the most auspicious date in their calendar, Diwali. The festival is marked by a visit to the temple where thousands flock to worship the shrine
A PUBLICITY campaign which has reduced gun crime by almost a quarter won two prestigious awards last week. Brent Council's 'Not Another Drop initiative', picked up the Best Corporate Social Responsibility Campaign of the year from PR Week magazine. The
CHILDREN in care are being badly let down according to a report which shows that one in four were moved three or more times in the past year. The report compiled by the influential Local Government Chronicle, revealed last week that Brent has the worst
THIS year is the 80th anniversary of the Royal British Legion and residents throughout south west Hertfordshire are being encouraged to attend Remembrance Sunday services which are taking place throughout the area this weekend. Watford Watford Mayor Councillor
A LOOK at the natural habitat and wildlife of Florida is the subject of Ms Joan Thompson's talk to members of West Herts Garden Club at St Matthews's Church hall, Eastbury Road, Oxhey, at 7.30pm on Thursday, November 29. Admission is £3, and includes
I have lived in Chiswick all my life and I cannot believe what is happening to my lovely town in recent times. A few weeks ago a Chiswick resident was showered with bullets on his own doorstep by two maniacs. And more recently, two policemen were shot
Mr John Phillips, of BAA, claimed recently that Heathrow Airport had nothing to do with the flooding of Spelthorne. The whole drainage system through a massive pipe structure at Heathrow is designed to get water off of the airport as soon as possible.
I'm always intrigued by the frequent contention that the existence of Heathrow, since the mid-40s, precludes anyone who has moved into the area since from criticising the airport's operations. Surely, if rational, this same logic should be extended to
For many, November marks the progression towards a cold winter, but for Indian people worldwide it signifies the most auspicious date in their calendar, Diwali. The festival is marked by a visit to the temple where thousands flock to worship the shrine
A WAR veteran facing a two-year wait for an electronic wheelchair is on the move again after a charity stepped in. Sydney Leigh, 81, who lives in sheltered accommodation in Sudbury, was approached by the Solders, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association
Thursday November 8 EXHIBITIONo The work of Martin Bright and Jean Aust will be on display in the Mansion Spaces of the South Hill Park Arts Centre, Ringmead, Bracknell until January 6. Call 01344 484123 for details. JAZZo The John Coverdale Duo will
AN AREA notorious for attracting drunks, flytipping, dumped vehicles and cars parking illegally has undergone a major facelift much to the relief of residents. Brent's StreetCare Officers embarked on the clear-up exercise following a spate of complaints
PLANS to close Harrow Magistrates' Court were branded 'ludicrous' at Harrow Police Community Consultative Group on Monday. "I feel this group should campaign to keep the court going," said a committee member. " If not it means that people from Harrow
GRAFFITI artists were urged to show off their handiwork in a new mural designed to deter vandalism. The display, in Wembley High Road, was unveiled at a ceremony on Sunday last week. "The mural project helps to tackle graffiti by providing youngsters
PREMIER DIVISION (day two of two) at Ashford: TUNBRIDGE WELLS 213 T. Luckhurst 88, M. Alexander 45, M. McCague 4-64 & 176-3 dec C. Auty 66, win on first innings over ASHFORD 134 C. Denness 7-63 & 98-5 C. Denness 4-32. at Beckenham: BECKENHAM 190
Are you helping older homeless people or are you an older homeless person yourself? ACA and Counsel and Care have joined forces to offer a helpline service in the Greater London area called the Older Homeless Persons Advisory Service (OHPAS) for people
Palace United is an affiliation of community groups which have come together to ensure the households they represent in and around Crystal Palace have a full and fair input into any consultation exercise for planning, environmental, policing and other
CRIMINALS are 'chuckling with glee' because police officers have been pulled away from the borough to patrol the inner city, anxious residents fear. Harrow Police Community Consultative Group (HPCCG) members expressed concern about the lack of police
FUNDRAISERS have launched an appeal to raise £150,000 to equip a scanner centre with machines fit for the 21st century. The Paul Strickland Scanner Centre, based at Mount Vernon Hospital in Rickmansworth Road, Northwood, is dedicated to spotting serious
It's a situation that lots of women have to face the ticking of the biological clock finally gets so loud that it can't possibly be ignored. But it's a state of mind that Race Davis, who plays a woman in just that position in Liz Lochhead's Perfect Days
Ever fancied giving opera a try but didn't know where to start? Well, relax there are no bow ties or evening gowns required at South Harrow-based opera company Hatstand Opera's performance next Thursday (November 15). For one night only they'll be presenting
Shivani Bhayani, left, and Rochelle Karunaratne were the first students to test Roxeth Manor School's new ICT suite which opened on Friday last week. Headteacher Jean Pooley said: "The suite will allow children greater access to learning programmes."
THIS year is the 80th anniversary of the Royal British Legion and residents throughout south west Hertfordshire are being encouraged to attend Remembrance Sunday services which are taking place throughout the area this weekend. Watford Watford Mayor Councillor
A GOOD Samaritan who stopped her car to help a collapsed pedestrian to safety received a parking ticket for her efforts. Maria Fowden was driving home when she saw the OAP fall to the ground in Locket Road, Wealdstone. Frightened that the man was in danger
A DAD-of-three faces a £30,000 bill for parking fines issued while he was miles from the borough or tucked up in bed. Ricky Halls' nightmare began six months ago when he left his car in Davey House car park in Harrow town centre. Despite taking care to
THE Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire has announced the appointment of Ms Linda Beatrice Hayes FRSA as a Deputy Lieutenant. Ms Hayes is a trustee/director on the board of the Family Welfare Association, a governor of West Herts College, founder and chairman
SAAB Great Britain has presented Viking Saab, of Lower High Street, Watford, with the Saab Approved Quality Standards Award in recognition of the "outstanding quality and presentation" of its used car selection, which exceeded standards set out by Saab
Slow movement, stiffness and tremor are common problems encountered by people with Parkinson's Disease. But for the past 16 months, Colindale Hospital has tried to encourage smoother body movement and an improved sense of balance in sufferers through
A LOOK at the natural habitat and wildlife of Florida is the subject of Ms Joan Thompson's talk to members of West Herts Garden Club at St Matthews's Church hall, Eastbury Road, Oxhey, at 7.30pm on Thursday, November 29. Admission is £3, and includes
FREE sessions are being offered by Orpington Badminton Club, based at Darrick Wood School Sports Centre, in Lovibonds Avenue. The coaching, for those aged over 16, will take place from 8-10pm on two Fridays July 13 and 20, and is aimed at good players
It's a situation that lots of women have to face the ticking of the biological clock finally gets so loud that it can't possibly be ignored. But it's a state of mind that Race Davis, who plays a woman in just that position in Liz Lochhead's Perfect Days
PREMIER DIVISION (day two of two) at Ashford: TUNBRIDGE WELLS 213 T. Luckhurst 88, M. Alexander 45, M. McCague 4-64 & 176-3 dec C. Auty 66, win on first innings over ASHFORD 134 C. Denness 7-63 & 98-5 C. Denness 4-32. at Beckenham: BECKENHAM 190
Thursday November 8 FILMo Harrow Cine and Video Society Annual Big Screen Film and Video Show at Pinner Village Hall, Chapel Lane from 7.30pm. Admission £3. FLORAL DEMONSTRATIONo Hatch End Flower Club Christmas floral evening with a demonstration by Barry
The manager of a mansion in "Millionaire's Row" which holds stress elimination courses for the public has vowed they will continue regardless of planning regulations. Last week, Barnet Council officers issued Dr Kapil Mathur with an enforcement notice
Residents have criticised Barnet Council's "petty rules" introduced recently in a crackdown on illegal flower sellers. Last week officers erected signs in the borough warning sellers they may face a maximum £1,000 fine if they are caught trading at traffic
I attended the silent vigil on Friday evening at St Marks Place in Wimbledon. I was saddened by the fact it was not supported by more people, such as churches, faiths and other groupings. If we cannot stand together for peace and justice in our local
Your article about cutting back speech and language therapy sessions because of reduced funding in the NHS should alert families who have a statement of special educational needs which includes speech therapy in part three, that they have a recourse to
Residents have criticised Barnet Council's "petty rules" introduced recently in a crackdown on illegal flower sellers. Last week officers erected signs in the borough warning sellers they may face a maximum £1,000 fine if they are caught trading at traffic
I read with incredulity Siobhan McDonaghs contribution in the House of Commons on October 23. To read her contribution one would believe Mitcham and Morden had been transformed by the council into a Shangri-La of south west London. She applauds the council
A VERDICT of accidental death was recorded on a 54-year-old man from Bricket Wood who died at his home after choking on his own vomit. Mr Kenneth Puleston, of Russell Court in Blackboy Wood, was found dead at his home on the morning of Monday, October
A MISSING moggy who went astray for nearly a month was reunited with his owners after his picture appeared in The Watford Observer. Oscar, a male tabby cat had been knocked down by a car and was badly injured when he was brought into the Park Veterinary
A WATFORD martial arts school is celebrating its success after winning a clutch of awards at a national competition held in Watford at the weekend. JSK Shotokan Karate school, which trains three times a week in St Thomas Church Hall in Langley Road and
POSTAL workers in Watford have condemned a company mail-shot containing baking powder, which will be posted to homes in the area and throughout the UK this month. The mailing is being sent out by Glutafin, which produces Gluten-free products for people
A CHRISTMAS fair on November 17 will raise money for social nights for Alzheimers sufferers and people with dementia. Friends of Alzheimer's Concern Ealing provide bi-monthly evenings of entertainment for sufferers and carers to ensure they do not feel
FRUSTRATED residents will benefit from new local authority powers to speed up the investigation and clearance of abandoned vehicles. The government announced on Wednesday last week that it intends to give councils the power to reduce waiting times before
ANDREIA Freitas, a 13-year-old schoolgirl, has gone missing after attending classes at Dormers Wells School in Northolt on Monday November 5. The teenager has lived with her foster parents in Northolt for four weeks and has never gone missing before.
RESIDENTS are free to attend a special conference to help decide which political constituency they will vote in come the next General Election. Ealing's three constituencies at present are Ealing Southall, Ealing North and Ealing, Acton and Shepherds
THE Asian community has been left to fund a crucial advice service after a decision on Tuesday night to stop grant aid for 'strategic reasons'. The Indian Workers' Association (IWA), presided over by Ealing and Southall MP Piara Khabra, provides a multi-lingual
Fast cars, outspoken headwear and a voice that sounds like Stevie Wonder thats Jamiroquai, writes Keith DSouza. Its sometimes hard to believe he has been around for the best part of a decade, but he comes back into the pop world with his fifth album A
THE desire for profit is pushing pensioners into crowded centres with poor service, a senior citizens' group claimed, after the sale of five residential homes won approval. The government this week approved a Private Finance Initiative (PFI) to replace
The 27-year-old manager of McDonalds, in Majestic Way, Mitcham, was smashed over the head with a glass bottle last Friday at around 6.55pm. He had been trying to break up a fight involving three youths when one of them hit out. His assailant was 17, black
Pilot Theatre Company is presenting a literary classic adapted to appeal to all ages at Richmond Theatre, The Green from Tuesday (November 13). The group's adaptation of William Golding's Lord of the Flies adds some brilliant stage effects to the dark
Merton African Caribbean Organisation (MACO) held a fashion show recently at one of a series of events to celebrate Black History Month. Held at Mitcham Methodist Church Hall, the show was partly funded by a £4,470 grant from the National Lottery and
Plough Lane the former home of Wimbledon Football Club is to be demolished, taking with it 79 years of footballing heritage and memories at the ground. Pressure from local residents and Merton Council has forced owners Safeway to announce in the interests
Musicians from St Johns Church joined the Rushmere Choir and Kings College Junior School on Sunday to take part in a special family service aimed at children. The event which was held at the church celebrated the role of music in religion and featured
I read with disgust your report about a Biggin Hill resident with a disabled daughter who was fined by Bromley Council for parking outside her house to enable her daughter to get in and out of the car (News Shopper, October 31). I hope the petty-minded
A gang of 30 youths threw fireworks at firefighters as they tried to extinguish two bonfires in Mitcham. The attack took place at around 6.15pm, on Guy Fawkes night, when the crew attended the fires which had been built in the middle of Batsworth Road
I feel I must write about the recent Hallowe'en or "havoc night" which occurred in West Wickham. These parental-trained yobs, and up-and-coming ones, decided to throw missiles and rotten eggs at people's windows. Again we say, where are the responsible
The hard of hearing could soon have their lives transformed if a nationwide campaign for providing digital hearing aids on the NHS succeeds. Mitcham and Morden Labour MP Siobhan McDonagh urged colleagues in a House of Commons debate last night to support
TO add to Mrs R Burton's letter regarding the proposed non-collection of refuse from the rear of properties (News Shopper, October 24), an important point needs to be made. As a local authority, Bromley Council has a legal duty to provide the best value
Around 40 senior housing executives from Northern Ireland attended a presentation by the Pollards Hill Housing Association (PHHA) to learn more about the neighbourhood renewal work on the estate. The event was held at the Montgomery Close office of PHHA
SINCE the tragic events of September 11, we have seen the European Union, supported by the present Government, push for changes in our way of policing and justice. While many of these changes were already on the agenda, current events have given them
A government survey has highlighted Mertons dismal record of care for the vulnerable, detailing seven areas which need urgent investigation and 14 others requiring attention. The failures comprise nearly half of the 49 performance indicators compiled
Tom Williamson, who has helped people throughout Merton for nearly 40 years, is among this years nominees for the annual Community Awards. Dr Williamson was nominated by four people for giving unstintingly of his time to many organisations helping the
A leading Wimbledon charity is being investigated over allegations of misconduct and abuse of its charitable status. The running of Cannizaro Park Theatre Trust, which organises the open air festival held in July and August in Cannizaro Park, is being
A model view of a New Malden estate was given by residents at a consultation meeting organised by environmental regeneration trust Groundwork Merton. The consultation event for people in Shelley and Byfield Courts in Byron Avenue was held last Saturday
Winter's on its way, the nights are drawing in, and sometimes it's just too much effort to turn out in the evenings, even to go to the theatre. Well, all is not lost. The theatre can now come to you in the form of a new kind of touring company so you
It's a situation that lots of women have to face the ticking of the biological clock finally gets so loud that it can't possibly be ignored. But it's a state of mind that Race Davis, who plays a woman in just that position in Liz Lochhead's Perfect Days
SAAB Great Britain has presented Viking Saab, of Lower High Street, Watford, with the Saab Approved Quality Standards Award in recognition of the "outstanding quality and presentation" of its used car selection, which exceeded standards set out by Saab
A 150-year-old swamp cypress tree in the gardens of Dulwich Picture Gallery, which was due to be felled last week, won a last-minute reprieve after being inspected by tree surgeon Robert Symes. Gallery spokeswoman Kate Knowles said: We were told the tree
THOMAS the Tank Engine has pulled into The Glades shopping centre, in Bromley. The display, which was opened by the Fat Controller, will entertain children throughout the summer holidays from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday, until August 24. There will be
South East: The increasing threat to wild birds and other native animals from feral cats could lead to traps of poisoned meat being set for the feline killers, an RSPCA spokesman said this week. The animal protection agency's regional manager, Rob Dazely
Lambeth residents will get the chance to have their say about transport in the borough at consultation meetings to be held over the next two months. Lambeth Council has produced a key issues paper on transport and arranged workshops across the borough
The Wolvercote Clinic: Claims that the paedophiles held in the Wolvercote Clinic do not pose a threat to the public have been rubbished this week. Mark Anthony, chairman of the Manor Park Residents Association which neighbours the current Epsom location
A pilot project which combines a job centre and benefit agency under one roof has opened in Streatham despite some of the staff being on strike. The former benefits and job centre offices in Station Approach now work together in one office and the combined
AN EX-SECURITY guard at Bromley College who claims he was told to "go back to Africa" is to receive compensation. Patrick Thompson, aged 39, was sacked in June 1999 and took the college to an employment tribunal claiming he was subjected to racist jokes
Every town centre has to deal with the problem of shoplifting and Croydon is leading the way when it comes to tackling theft. In July 1999, shop traders joined forces with Croydon Council and the town centre police to ensure Croydon developed a co-ordinated
West Dene school pupils were awarded thank you certificates by the Croydon Guardian on October 30 in recognition of the popularity of their harvest festival paintings exhibited at Purley Pools recreation centre. Pupils aged four and five produced paintings
Thorpe Park: A family fun park exploited child workers during the summer with some youngsters illegally working up to 50 hours a week. Thorpe Park was fined more than £2,600 on Monday this week for working eight child labourers far more than the 12 hours
Volunteers enjoyed a ladies night at the Croydon Megabowl last Thursday (November 1) where men and women had their legs waxed for charity. The sponsored event at at the Purley Way bowling alley was to raise money for Breast Cancer Awareness. November
Hillingdon: The collapse of Railtrack could mean a stark choice between Council Tax hikes and service cuts, according to a senior councillor. Hillingdon Council believes it lost as much as £1million when the rail company was taken back into government
Hendon: A Harrow man has been charged with the murder of a Kosovan refugee more than seven months after he was brutally beaten and stabbed to death on the night of his birthday. Fetah Marku was pummelled with wooden sticks, kicked, punched and repeatedly
Harrow: Criminals are 'chuckling with glee' because police officers have been pulled away from the borough to patrol the inner city, anxious residents fear. Harrow Police Community Consultative Group (HPCCG) members expressed concern about the lack of
If you're anything like me, you wouldn't know a 50mhz transverter from a Strip Line VHF SWR Bridge. But if these names do ring a bell you might want to check out the website of the Crystal Palace And District Radio Club. These guys must know what they're
Transport experts have condemned London Underground's claim that Tube passengers will benefit from an investment programme. An announcement last week outlined the improvements Ealing commuters can hope to see during the first seven years of the publicly-run
Transport experts have condemned London Underground's claim that Tube passengers will benefit from an investment programme. An announcement last week outlined the improvements Ealing commuters can hope to see during the first seven years of the publicly-run
Violent patients will be thrown out of hospitals following last week's announcement that medical staff will have the power to refuse treatment if they are physically or verbally assaulted. Last year, Ealing Hospital recorded 135 incidents of abuse towards
Isleworth: Three men who robbed and then kidnapped and raped a 25-year-old woman in June have been sent to prison by a judge at Isleworth Crown Court. Randi Gladstone, 18, of Rectory Park Avenue, Northolt, Ziad Chehade, 19, of Copley Close, Hanwell, and
FIVE governors who between them have given more than 200 years of service to borough schools were honoured on Saturday. The quintet received commendations and gifts during an all-day conference for Waltham Forest governors at Lammas School, Seymour Road
POST boxes are filling to the brim because bosses have decided to cut the 9.30am collection in Waltham Forest on the quiet, according to the postal union. Royal Mail workers have been told by managers at Consignia to stop lifting the first morning collection
Millions of television viewers are expected to tune in to see if a 22-year-old singer from East Finchley can beat more than 10,000 hopefuls to reach the grand final of ITV's Pop Idol programme. Nicola Thomas, of Elmhurst Crescent, is due to appear with
Stansted: Stansted Airport operator BAA Stansted has announced a £26.9m operating profit for the last six months an increase of 45 per cent on last year. Turnover from April to the end of September was £76.6m, with growth in the retail and property sectors
It's March 9, 1966, just over an hour since the shooting of south London gangster George Cornell. The Lion pub in Tapp Street, Bethnal Green, is crowded with assorted members of the East End criminal underworld. Suddenly, Reggie Kray enters the main drinking
A government survey has highlighted Merton's dismal record of care for the vulnerable, detailing seven areas which need urgent investigation and 14 others requiring attention. The failures comprise nearly half of the 49 performance indicators compiled
VOLUNTEERS who live and work in Chiswick, Isleworth, Brentford or Osterley are needed to join the Steering Group involved in the development of the Thamesbank Credit Union. It was recently set up as a financial service co-operative, run by the members
Croydon Council and partner tenants' association CAACTA (Croydon African, Asian and Caribbean Tenants' Association) have just scooped a top housing award for their innovative work promoting minority ethnic involvement in local housing issues. They have
HISTORIC treasures in the borough have been saved for future generations with four monuments gaining Grade II listings. Residents had more accolades to be proud of this week after recommendations from members of the Isleworth Society, Hounslow Council
A CARING Twickenham resident helped to raise £1,900 for the Mulberry Centre after taking part in a gruelling 5km run in London's Hyde Park. Eva Peters presented a cheque to the cancer charity, located in the grounds of West Middlesex Hospital, Twickenham
DOCTORS and nurses now have the right to refuse treatment to violent and abusive patients, following new legislation. Announcing the new powers on Thursday last week (November 1), Health Secretary Alan Milburn said: "No-one has the right to abuse, harass
RACE crime has more than tripled in the past three years according to shocking new figures. The Hounslow crime audit, released on Thursday last week, showed a 201 per cent increase in race crime compared to a 25 per cent rise in street crime, a 56 per
Croydon: The mother of a 21-year-old man who was brutally attacked by a gang of thugs in Croydon has revealed her son is now too scared to go out in the town. Timothy Dromey, from West Norwood, had to have his jaw rebuilt with a metal plate after he was
CHILDREN were entertained and grown-ups were informed at the Treaty Centre on Saturday last week as Hounslow Council launched its Charter of Care. The Charter, which came into effect on November 1, outlines the minimum standards to be expected by tenants
A 27-year-old woman has received a record £500,000 compensation pay-out after witnessing her mentally-ill brother murder their mother at the family home in South Norwood. The South London Maudsley NHS Trust made an out of court settlement to Christina
Croydon's Clocktower cultural complex has just scooped a further national accolade, receiving a highly commended' award from the prestigious ADAPT Trust for promoting access to disabled visitors. Croydon's latest accolade is recognition by ADAPT (Access
Tony Graham of the Oriel Estate Tenant and Resident Association said: "The association supports action to stamp out anti-social behaviour which is committed by a small number of people but affects everyone on our estate." The cameras were first installed
BRUNEL University has announced it intends to abandon its Osterley campus by the summer of 2005 once it has closed its education department in Twickenham. The news comes as the Uxbridge-based university prepares to begin a 10-year plan to become west
Bromley: A Bromley telecommunications worker has been found hanged in a French prison following his arrest by police. Alexander Strathearn was found dead in his cell in Longounesse, St Omer. An employee of Greenwich-based telecommunications company Alcatel
Richard Barnes you really do make me laugh ( 'Electronic bus backed by London Assembly man' Times, November 1). I don't want an electric bus system on the roads of London, I want buses banned from the roads. They're a liability! It seems to me that bus
I have lived in Chiswick all my life and I cannot believe what is happening to my lovely town in recent times. A few weeks ago a Chiswick resident was showered with bullets on his own doorstep by two maniacs. And more recently, two policemen were shot
AS THE school bell rang at Gunnersbury Park Museum last Friday, Blue School pupils were transported back in time to experience life at one of the 1890s Board Schools. The Isleworth youngsters better appreciate their own 'kindly' teachers after experiencing
IT was with incredulity that I read the letter from the two Liberal Democrat County Councillors representing parts of Watford (Letters, October 26). They say the County Council proposal for 4,400 houses in Watford is ridiculous. The Liberal Democrat leader
Proposals to put Stanley Technical High School at the forefront of educational and technological thinking in the 21st Century have moved a step closer with the appointment of Pat Mennie as its new headteacher. Pat, who will take up her new post in January
A COVERT Home Office operation has filmed five youths, one just 12 years old, terrorising their neighbourhood with racist abuse. The gang was arrested on Friday (Nov 6) at Hanworth's Oriel Estate and a 15-year-old charged with racially aggravated offences
Police are this week hunting two youths believed to be responsible for maiming three fawns at a deer farm in Coulsdon. Two of the animals died and the other had to be put down as a result of the attacks at Woodlands Deer Farm, How Lane, last month. Eye
BRIXTON ROVERS made it to their first ever semi-final with a nervy 4-3 victory over Reed Rangers in the Arlon Printers-sponsored Chairman's Cup. Rovers raced into a four-goal half-time lead as Neal Cockeral chose this game to open his account for the
WEST HERTS first XI fought out an exciting weekend that ended with brave defeats at the hands of runaway league leaders Peterborough on Saturday, November 3, and National Hockey Association Cup champions Guildford the following day despite taking the
It's March 9, 1966, just over an hour since the shooting of south London gangster George Cornell. The Lion pub in Tapp Street, Bethnal Green, is crowded with assorted members of the East End criminal underworld. Suddenly, Reggie Kray enters the main drinking
I'm always intrigued by the frequent contention that the existence of Heathrow, since the mid-40s, precludes anyone who has moved into the area since from criticising the airport's operations. Surely, if rational, this same logic should be extended to
THE increasing threat to wild birds and other native animals from feral cats could lead to traps of poisoned meat being set for the feline killers, an RSPCA spokesman said this week. The animal protection agency's regional manager, Rob Dazely, claims
SARACENS demonstrated the huge gulf between English and Italian rugby on Saturday, November 3, with a second resounding win over Bologna. The latest 75-10 victory, added to the record-breaking 110-point winning margin the previous week, consolidates Sarries
CLAIMS that the paedophiles held in the Wolvercote Clinic do not pose a threat to the public have been rubbished this week. Mark Anthony, chairman of the Manor Park Residents Association which neighbours the current Epsom location, exclusively told the
FEARS that a clinic for convicted paedophiles is planned for the area remain strong after a government minister refused to rule it out. Campaigners and councillors packed into a meeting on Wednesday last week to hear Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State
Richard Barnes you really do make me laugh ( 'Electronic bus is key to congestion' Times, November 1). I don't want an electric bus system on the roads of London, I want buses banned from the roads. They're a liability! People should stick to the Tube
FRAMED reproductions of masterpieces by some of the world's greatest artists have gone on display in two of the borough's secondary schools to inspire pupils to understand fine art. On Monday, November 5, as part of Sainsbury's Pictures for Schools scheme
NEGLECTED parks are still waiting for desperately-needed work more than six months after the necessary funding was promised. Children and disabled people have not been able to properly enjoy a playground in Mount Pleasant, Deane Park or a green off Brackenbridge
A SEA-loving Ashford teenager has scooped one of British boating's top awards. Andrew Mills (pictured) was named the Thames Valley Region Young Sailor of the Year at the British Nautical Awards on Monday last week. The accolade recognises young sailors
UNDERCOVER checks on shops selling fireworks across the county have revealed that Surrey retailers have a conscience. In a bid to crack down on the number of fireworks sold to children, Surrey Trading Standards enlisted the services of volunteers to visit
The plot is non-existent, the script awful but boy can Jet Li deliver on the action front. Kiss of the Dragon is a martial arts film, pure and simple, and fans of the genre will have a blast. Co-written by Li and Leon director Luc Besson, the movie is
MORE than 1,400 homes and businesses were plunged into darkness during a power cut in Hayes Town Centre on Monday afternoon (Nov 1). Firefighters from Hayes station rushed to the Wilkinson store in Pump Lane, Hayes after a knocking noise led to fears
