Forum Topics

WPCC Election 2018 - why I am not standing

Why I am not seeking re-election as a Conservator in the February 2018 election…..and why I am recommending that none of the Conservators elected in February 2015 do so either.We need a clean sweep so that the charity can move forward with confidence into the next triennium.  Our precious open spaces are more important than any individual or group of individuals.Regrettably there is an extremely destructive small group who, in my view, will go to almost any lengths to try and bring the charity down.  This, I believe, is their aim.  The Charity Commission’s statement of 22nd December 2017 made clear ‘It would encourage those with appropriate knowledge and skills to consider standing.’The statement continues: ‘The Commission hopes that after the election all the elected and appointed trustees will work together to take the charity forward. This would include considering mediation to resolve any outstanding issues within the trustee body and putting into place any actions issued by the Commission.’It is not encouraging to think the new Board may have to consider mediation as a starting point.  With new, ‘fresh faces’ and open minds this should not be needed.The Commission has given an indication, but without commitment, that they are looking to close the Statutory Inquiry within the first six months of 2018.It is my understanding, from a meeting I had with the Charity Commission on 18th December 2017, that the Commission wants to bring this whole matter to conclusion so that the trustees can get on with running the charity.  I am equally clear that the only issue that the Commission is investigating is that within the current remit of the Interim Manager.I will be looking to give my five votes to candidates who are able to prove to me that they are not coming with any ‘baggage’ or arguments from recent past disputes. We have many talented levy-payers with sound common sense and appropriate skills including the ability to work collectively who we need to support to take on these important Conservator/trustee roles.  I will give them my full support in whatever way I can.  I will also continue to give my full support to the quite excellent staff that WPCC is fortunate enough to employ.  Prue WhyteElected Conservator

Prue Whyte ● 1909d1 Comments ● 1908d

Great new book - The Ponds of Wimbledon Common

Great new book – The Ponds of Wimbledon CommonThis is a compact little gem which opens eyes and minds!  An easily read , beautifully produced and photographed guide to all the ponds of Wimbledon Common – including Scio Pond,  the one on Putney Heath with a fascinating history.Ideal for the first time visitor/ explorer, but even those who think they are familiar with the amazing ponds on these glorious Commons will find something new.  This  complete and compact guide to the history, location, and flora and fauna of each pond is  a tribute to the enthusiasm and skill of amateur author Dave Treanor It is on sale for £6.99  at the Wimbledon Society Museum in The Ridgeway, the Rangers’ Office on the Common, Wimbledon Village bookshop and Waterstones on The Broadway.  It should be appearing on Amazon shortly. It can also be bought on-line from http://www.treanor.co.uk/books/ Reviewed and recommended by James Leek

James Leek ● 1911d0 Comments ● 1911d

George Crowe and Eileen Widdows' marriage 1931.

Bit of a long shot but these forums have been such a help over the past 10 years. I am trying to contact relatives of the above who were married in Chelsea in 1931. Eileen's father John Widdows and sister Muriel Ellen May Widdows lived at 29 Hestecombe Avenue Fulham in the 1960's. George and Eileen had a daughter Patricia A Crowe born in Chester in 1941. It is believed Patricia married Dennis M Jones in Chester in 1959. Someone with the name B.Trott may have been in the family.

Neil Milkins ● 1914d0 Comments ● 1914d

Starfish Breakfast Run & Picnic on 4th of March 2018

Join Starfish for the annual Breakfast Run and PicnicThis friendly event offers a choice of distances –  2k, 5k, 10k or 15k – and the course is totally flat around Clapham Common, so you can run as fast or as slow as you like. There’s always a supportive and friendly atmosphere, with crowds cheering along the route.Everyone gets a t-shirt and medal, as well as a picnic basket to enjoy on the common afterwards. There is lots to do after your run, with a tombola, free 100m dash for the kids, face painting and stalls for all members of the family.Starfish Greathearts Foundation has teamed up with fitness and events specialists, Innovation Sports, to make the 2018 the biggest and best yet. Entry includes:  -  Starfish branded T- shirt  -  Chip timing   -  Medal  -  Picnic basket including a drink, breakfast muffin, fruit and healthy snacks to help you re-energise after the run.Facilities include pre-race warm up, children's entertainment, toilets, bag drop, sports massage, medical support and water stations.

Starfish Greathearts Foundation ● 1921d0 Comments ● 1921d

The Abertillery Singing Detective.

The Abertillery Singing Detective is now on YouTube.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lQbejlJ22Wc

Neil Milkins ● 1927d0 Comments ● 1927d

Wimbledon police station closure challenge

I wish him well .Our MP Stephen Hammond is also issuing a challenge as to the consultation re the closure..this is a terrible short sighted closure of a vital police station by an incompetent mayor.

Jean Matthews ● 1932d0 Comments ● 1932d

Merton hall

Well done,councillor lati.f f.or speaking up for the residents of old Merton park and surrounding area! This hall was gifted to the local people..the sheer arrogance of the labour councillors who thought they could just give it away ..no consultation..it's time for a change ..Merton labour run council has been in power to long..they have forgotten they are the servants of their residents not the masters..as for the three useless abbey ward labour councillors they should hang their heads in shame

Jean Matthews ● 1946d1 Comments ● 1946d

Merton Abbey Mill's New Build

The plan to demolish the 'Pavilions' and replace them with a 5 storey (plus roof terrace) office block, is totally out of proportion with the other buildings.There is a very narrow gap between the proposed building and the Long Shop, and I wonder what would happen to the businesses there during the building works.

Susan Malcolm ● 2223d1 Comments ● 1946d

Murder Victim Bridget O'Hara.

I have had extensive contact with adult children of 6 of the Hammersmith Nudes' victims who were murdered between 1959 and 1965. Veronica Fleming the daughter of the sixth victim, Chiswick resident Mary Fleming visited Abertillery on the weekend to take part in a major B.B.C. documentary "The Hunt For A Serial Killer." I am still trying to locate relatives of 8th victim Bridget O'Hara who was murdered in January 1965. She had lived in a flat at 41 Agate Road, Hammersmith. Her husband was Micheal O'Hara and Bridget had many brothers and sisters. If anyone can help  please contact me at 07989555376 or n.milkin@sky.com

Neil Milkins ● 1948d0 Comments ● 1948d

Criminal Profiling.

In August 1996, Kim Rossmo, a detective inspector from the Vancouver Police Department (VPD), was contacted by a UK police task force called Operation Lynx. The task force involved police officers from three counties -- Leicestershire, West Yorkshire and Nottinghamshire -- who were all searching for a man responsible for five abductions, rapes and violent sex attacks over the previous 15 years.Rossmo had developed geographic profiling, a method of tracking serial criminals which used data about the location of the crimes. Because of Rossmo's geographic profiling the rapist was caught. Rossmo recently identified Aldensley Road Hammersmith as the centre of a hotspot where he believed the Hammmersmith Nudes' killer lived. Who lived in Aldensley Road when the murders took place? The Dark Son of Abertillery, Harold Jones!

Neil Milkins ● 1954d0 Comments ● 1954d

Policeman by the name of John Widdows.

Does anyone remember a former police officer who lived at 29 Hestercombe Avenue from 1945 until his death in 1962. He had a number of children including Muriel Ellen May Stevens nee Widdows.

Neil Milkins ● 1958d1 Comments ● 1958d

Welsh ex-pats.

If there are any Welsh ex-pats on the forum please google walesonline.co.uk This concerns the  restoration of the graves of 2 children who were murdered by former Fulham, Putney, and Hammersmith resident Harold Jones aka Harry Stevens aka Harry Jones. Help from anyone would be appreciated. Regards. Neil Milkins.

Neil Milkins ● 1997d4 Comments ● 1967d

Carpenter/Handyman

Hi can anyone recommend a carpenter/handyman that is reasonable & reliable

Gwen Gallagher ● 1988d0 Comments ● 1988d

Feature film and documentary.

http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/news/15556944.Gwent_writer_to_get_second_novel_on_notorious_Valleys_killer_turned_into_film_documentary/?ref=fbshr

Neil Milkins ● 2004d1 Comments ● 2004d

Hammersmith Murders.

A new book- The Secret Life Of Freddie Mills has been released by a former Sun newspaper reporter, Michael Litchfield published by a former Sun editor of Bizzare, John Blake. The book alleges that former world boxing champion Freddie Mills was the person dubbed The Hammersmith Nudes' Killer of the 1960's. Evidence proves that Mills has been wrongly stitched up. The book has been publicised in the Sun, the Daily Mail and other newspapers including the Bournemouth Echo the town where Freddie Mills was born. Comments from readers of the Bournemouth Echo have roundly condemned the malicious lies. If you read the Bournemouth Echo story most persons would I believe think the alleged evidence to be preposterous. (google Freddie Mills-Bournemouth Echo.) For instance in the book Freddie Mills had allegedly confessed to John du Rose the officer in charge of the case that he was the killer. But because Du Rose and Mills were Freemasons Du Rose never told his superiors. Even more ludicrous- fact Freddie Mills was desperately short of money when he died yet the book claims he gave the Kray Twins £1000 to assassinate him. Rightly Freddies daughter Susan and his stepson, actor Don McCorkindale are incensed.

Neil Milkins ● 2020d0 Comments ● 2020d

Starfish Breakfast Run and Picnic 24th Sept Clapham Common

Join Starfish for the 10th annual Breakfast Run and Picnic on Clapham Common on Sunday 24th September 2017!Our friendly Breakfast Run and Picnic offers a choice of distances –2k, 5k, 10k or 15k - and this year we have teamed up with fitness and events specialists, Innovation Sports, to make 2017 the biggest and best yet. The course is totally flat around the common, so you can run as fast or as slow as you like. There’s always a supportive and friendly atmosphere, with crowds cheering along the route, and everyone receives a medal and Starfish t-shirt upon finishing. But the fun doesn’t stop after the run! Everyone gets a picnic basket to enjoy on the common, and there will be a tombola, free 100m kids dash and other stalls for all members of the family. Entry includes: Starfish branded T-shirt Chip timing Medal Picnic basket with healthy snacks to help you re-energise after the run!The event is on Sunday 24th September, starting at 9.30am by the band stand in the centre of Clapham Common (Windmill Drive, SW4 9DE). Facilities include secure bag storage, toilets, medical support and water stations. Prices:  2k (under 12s): £8 5k: £17 10k: £20 15k: £23Get your ticket here - https://starfishbreakfastrun2017.eventbrite.co.ukMoney raised will go towards Starfish projects in South Africa, bringing life, hope and opportunity to the vulnerable and orphaned children Starfish cares for. We invest in the future of over 12,000 children a year so they can grow into happy and independent young adults.We look forward to seeing you there!

Starfish Greathearts Foundation ● 2026d0 Comments ● 2026d

test

Jeff Gear ● 3288d14 Comments ● 2073d

Did you miss out on the ballot for the Royal Parks Half Marathon? Starfish has some available spots!

Starfish have guaranteed places in Royal Parks Half Marathon London 2017 on Sunday 8th October, and we are looking for runners to join the Starfish team and help us change lives. With your support Starfish can provide life saving healthcare, education and child protection to children orphaned or made vulnerable by HIV/AIDS in South Africa.Royal Parks Half Marathon is one of the world’s biggest half marathons and with 16,000 runners taking part in the 13.1 mile run, it will be an exciting event for everyone involved. This year it is set to be better than ever as we celebrate the 10th anniversary of this race.Starting in Hyde Park, the 13.1-mile route will take you on through four of London’s stunning Royal Parks – Hyde Park, The Green Park, St James Park and Kensington Gardens – and past many of London’s iconic landmarks. As a part of a Starfish team, you will receive:  A fundraising pack with exciting ideas to help you smash your targets Ongoing support and pre-event information A free Starfish branded running vest! Jaffa Cakes and bananas to boost energy levels And of course, cheering support from the loudest voices on the course to keep you motivatedThe fundraising target for each runner is £350 and your sponsorship will help Starfish provide lifesaving healthcare and education to vulnerable children in South Africa.  Registration ends 1st August, so sign up before it is too late!To register please visit the Starfish website http://bit.ly/2sKZqJT. For more information please email us at ukinfo@starfishcharity.org, or call the Starfish team on 0207 597 3797.

Starfish Greathearts Foundation ● 2082d0 Comments ● 2082d

Run for Starfish Greathearts Foundation in the Virgin British 10k on July 9th 2017!

Lace up your trainers and get ready to run the iconic Virgin British 10K London Run on Sunday 9th July. This historical and exciting run takes you through the heart of London on closed roads, past the world-famous London landmarks in Westminster and the heart of London, including London Eye, Nelson Mandela statue and the Houses of Parliament. Join our team and run for Starfish Greathearts Foundation. Running for Starfish, there is a £20 registration fee to take part, and members of the Starfish team will need to fundraise £150. All funds raised will go towards Starfish’s projects in South Africa, where we invest in the future of over 12,000 children a year that have been orphaned or made vulnerable by HIV/AIDS. This is done through community projects in the areas of healthcare, child protection and education. We support the Starfish running team by providing:  A fundraising Pack including top tips and sponsorship forms Ongoing support and pre-event information A free Starfish branded running vest! And of course, cheering support on the event day and finish line refreshmentsTo register for this exciting run, please visit the Starfish website http://www.starfishcharity.org/get-involved-uk/run,-cycle,-jump/british-10k-london-run-09072017.aspx For any more information about the event and how you can you get involved, please email  ukinfo@starfishcharity.org We look forward to hearing from you!

Starfish Greathearts Foundation ● 2103d0 Comments ● 2103d

john innes building to be turned into pentecostal church

Its incredible that the masonic lodge in old merton park gifted to the people of merton should even be considered for vandalisation..john innes would turn in his graveneither of the two councillors for merton park..labour bothered to turn up and andrew judge abstained siting conflict of interest, he is supposed to represent his constituents.shocking......

Jean Matthews ● 2155d0 Comments ● 2155d

Cleaner Wanted in Barnes SW13

Looking for a highly experienced, reliable cleaner with exceptionally high standards for a 2 bed 2 bath flat in Barnes, very close to public transport. 4-5 hours per week. Must be comfortable working around resident cat! Willing to pay well if person demonstrates consistently high standards and reliability. Please contact through the forum in the first instance and I will then provide contact details. Any recommendations more than welcome. Thanks!

Shilpa Bhatnagar ● 2187d0 Comments ● 2187d

Register now to join Prudential Ride London-Surrey 100 on 30th July

World’s greatest cycling event Prudential Ride London-Surrey 100 is back on 30th July at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Starfish Greathearts Foundation holds 25 guaranteed places in this event. You will cycle through a 100-mile route on closed roads through the capital and into Surrey's stunning countryside. It’s just £20 to register and all we ask is that you raise £500 sponsorship.  You can also enter as a team with your friends or colleagues. With leg-testing climbs and a route recently made famous by the world's best cyclists, this promises to be a truly spectacular event for all involved.Sign up here now: https://goo.gl/wpYQhkIt’s just £20 to register and all we ask is that you raise £500 sponsorship which will help to bring life, hope and opportunity to the vulnerable children Starfish cares for in South Africa. The deadline for registration is Friday, 5th May.And don't forget, every penny raised goes to improving the lives of vulnerable kids in South Africa.To book your place please email stephanie.kitson@starfishcharity.org or call the Starfish team on 0207 597 3797.For more information please visit: www.starfishcharity.org

Starfish Greathearts Foundation ● 2198d0 Comments ● 2198d

Boundary Changes for Wimbledon

Thank you for drawing this to our attention. I have just written as follows to the Boundary Commission:""I would like to add my voice to the many expressing concern with the proposal to tear Wimbledon apart. Anything with the name 'Wimbledon' - Chase, Common, West, Village, Common, Park, South - should form part of Wimbledon with the station at its heart. Please do rethink the current proposal. Surely you can find a way of redrawing the boundaries without the need to break Wimbledon up? This reminds me of a centuries ago Britain with an empire and colonies redrawing the boundaries of countries around the world without any real thought and consideration for the local population"".

Roy England ● 2212d0 Comments ● 2212d

Computer Scam.

Beware of computer scam. Just clicked on a link regarding a false claim that Professor Stephen Hawking had died. The screen froze and a warning was given that my computer was infected with a virus. The only way to get into my laptop was to shut down and restart. All is now fine. The warning was to phone 0800 086 9834 to speak to an engineer from Windows (lies). When I phoned the number the engineer wanted to take control of my computer and would have wanted a huge fee to put it right. When I told him the computer was now fine he slammed the phone down. If you google 0800 086 9834 you will see posts from many others who were given a fright.

Neil Milkins ● 2256d0 Comments ● 2256d

Spinning Marathon at Wimbledon Pedal Studio

Starfish Greathearts Foundation are holding annual Spinning Marathon on Saturday 25th February (1pm - 9pm) at Wimbledon Pedal Studio, 7 Elm Grove Wimbledon SW19 4HE.Qualified instructors from the Pedal Studio will lead back to back Spinning classes. With pumping tunes and fierce competition this will be a day to remember. Teams must clock up a total of 8 hours on a bike but it's up to you how you take on the challenge.You can enter as a team and choose to pedal as a pack or tag each other in a relay. Or for those of you who would like to participate but don't have the time to gather a team you can still take part in this awesome event. Just choose to do a single or multiple classes between 1pm and 9pm on Saturday 25th February and we will add you to an existing team. It’s just £10 to register and all we ask is that you raise £50 sponsorship which will help to bring life, hope and opportunity to the vulnerable children Starfish cares for in South Africa.And don't forget - everything from the Pedal Studio space to the Popchips is donated so every penny raised goes to improving the lives of vulnerable kids in South Africa.To book your place please email ukinfo@starfishcharity.org or call the Starfish team on 0207 597 3797. For more information please visit: www.starfishcharity.org

Elinor Middleton ● 2257d0 Comments ● 2257d

Property Management

Can anybody recommend a good property management company preferably specialising in small blocks of flats. I live in a converted house consisting of 5 flats and we are looking primarily for management of the interior and exterior decorating and general maintenance of the property

Ian R Todd ● 2262d0 Comments ● 2262d

Wedding venue tip

Hi everyoneI went to a friend's wedding this weekend and wanted to share for any bride and grooms to be who might have been out-priced of London.  It has to be one of the most gorgeous wedding venues in kent. Wish I'd known about it for my own wedding! http://theorangerymaidstone.com/weddings/

Nathalie Martin ● 2320d0 Comments ● 2320d

Catholic Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Archbishop of Westminster.

I was shocked to see tonight's B.B.C. 6.00 p.m news. Mr Nichols was asked by reporter Martin Bashir regarding the E.U. crisis, "What is the Christian and Biblical response to this crisis."Mr Nichols replied, "It goes back to the very fundamental question posed by God [to Cain after he had murdered his brother Abel] "Are you not your brothers keeper."Genesis 4v9 actually reports that after God had asked Cain, "What have you done with your brother" it was Cain who stated, "I do not know. Am I my brother's keeper." According to the news report Mr Nichols credits God for uttering words that were uttered by the murderous Cain.

Neil Milkins ● 2331d0 Comments ● 2331d

Seeking teenage musicians to form a band

Our 16-year-old son who is an advanced guitarist is looking to form a band with other like-minded and musically talented teenagers.To help it along we have a live room for rehearsals and a recording studio. Contact me at rayjwhite@me.com if you know of anybody that may be interested.

Ray White ● 2376d0 Comments ● 2376d

The Chairman fails to tell us why

The often declared intention to operate openly and transparently has fallen on deaf ears as far as Prue Whyte, Charman of Wimbledon and Putney Common Conservators is concerned. Does this matter? Is this just me having another so-called "rant"? No, this time the standard of governance has fallen to such a low level that all 60,000+ Council Tax payers need to be very worried indeed.A year ago the Charity Commission imposed a formal action plan. The most important element of that plan was to establish whether a loss had occurred through a 'Qualified Surveyors Report' (QSR) when they sold the access rights at Putney Hospital. A subject that has been discussed here for over three years.So what has changed? This time the board of Trustees have decided to spend over £60,000 on a second unnecessary QSR, without discussing the existing one they commissioned from Montagu Evans LLP. The one that ME offered to review in the light of any additional information the Conservators might provide. The one that their own lawyers said could be considered. Ignored? Completely. This means that the loss-making WPCC Trustees are quite happy to waste yet more money to avoid facing up to their earlier mistakes. Mistakes we as so-called "Levy-payers" have to accept.So, no explanation of why they are acting like this. No reaction to the 150+ people who have signed the FofPC petition, just pretence that everything is alright. Just refer everything to their lawyers. Call no 'Open Meetings' as they promised. Keep the governance of the charity under wraps. People will just get bored and drop the subject, after all what's another £60,000 for the lawyers and the advisers. The much-vaunted new governance processes have been suspended, and how the tax-funded charity is run goes from bad to worse. If they can make such a hash of this, what else is being hidden? Their procedures are now so bizarre that they issue a press statement about their special board meeting before the Trustees have seen the minutes.They lost over £1.5m. It's a year since they were told what action should be taken. The Charity Commission must appoint an interim manager now to sort this mess out. For all our sakes.Nick

Nicholas Evans ● 2382d0 Comments ● 2382d

Help!

I would be extremely grateful everybody could read and sign this petition. https://www.change.org/p/hounslow-council-a-call-for-hounslow-council-to-review-their-discretionary-succession-policyThank you in advance!

Becki Vallis ● 2387d0 Comments ● 2387d

Newest and fastest-growing SW19 dance school

GARNER ACADEMY OF DANCE opened in Southfields in January 2016 at Albemarle Primary School. It now has over 60 students which include 15 boys and 12 adults. It is a Royal Academy of Dance registered school and offers classes in BALLET, TAP & JAZZ DANCE.There are still places available for the autumn term in the following classes:Ballet Bus (ages 3-4)Pre-Primary Ballet (age 4 - 5)Primary Ballet (age 5 - 6)Grade 1 Ballet (6 - 7)Grade 2 Ballet (7 - 8)Adult Ballet Adult TapDance Attack (boys-only class ages 5 - 11)Boys' Ballet (age 5 - 10)Jazz DanceVisit the website to book a free trial class - http://www.garneracademydance.comEmail info@garneracademydance.comTelephone 020 8715 0591

Ben Garner ● 2392d0 Comments ● 2392d

Willing to see your house off-market?

Hello, Have you ever considered selling your property off-market? If so, good. Selling off-market eliminates the absurd commission rates many estate agents charge, along with the considerable amount of stress they bring upon you - and you may already have a potential buyer! Ideally, I am looking for an investment opportunity, with a budget of between £1m and £1.2m. If you feel that your property meets these specifications, please do get in touch. Christian

Christian Lynch ● 2399d0 Comments ● 2399d

London to Brighton Cycle Race!

Starfish Greathearts Foundation has places available in the London to Brighton cycle race on Sunday 11th September 2016! This is a fantastic 54 mile ride down to the south coast. Starting on Clapham Common, you will enjoy a scenic route to the seaside and a delicious lunch to refuel your energy at the half way point in Turners Hill.This race is perfect for cyclists of all abilities, as the spirit of the event is ‘taking part’ not ‘winning’. All you need to do is pledge to raise £100 to the Starfish Greathearts Foundation, and help give life, hope & opportunity to children affected by AIDS in South Africa.We will help you to become a star by providing the following:• Fundraising pack, including sponsorship forms• Ongoing support and pre-event information• A free Starfish branded cycle jersey• Cheering support on the event day and finish line refreshmentsRegistration for this event closes on Friday 2nd September, and there is a registration fee of £40. To sign up, or for more information, please call 02075973797 or email stephanie.kitson@starfishcharity.org We would appreciate it if you could share this information with fellow cyclists and friends that might be interested. We look forward to welcoming you to the team!

Elinor Middleton ● 2403d0 Comments ● 2403d

Aircraft noise - Wimbledon. Advice?

Dear AllWe currently live in town but plan to move to somewhere green, quiet and leafy within London to retire.  I am very disappointed that Putney now seems to be off the list as my partner is very sensitive to aircraft noise.  Thanks to the helpful advice on the Putney forum, I am now approaching Wimbledon residents.  I like Wimbledon Village and the surrounding area and had a look around Edge Hill, for example.  Looks very nice.  How is the aircraft noise, if any, in the Wimbledon area?  Are you able to advise on areas to look at with no aircraft noise?Many ThanksDerek

Derek Payne ● 2505d1 Comments ● 2404d

Royal Parks Half Marathon 2016

Starfish have guaranteed places in Royal Parks Half Marathon London 2016 and we are looking for runners to join the Starfish team and help us change lives. With your support Starfish can provide life saving healthcare, education and child protection to children orphaned or made vulnerable by HIV/AIDS in South Africa.Royal Parks Half Marathon is one of the world’s biggest half marathons and with 16,000 runners taking part in the 13.1 mile run, it will be an exciting event for everyone involved. Starting in Hyde Park, the 13.1-mile route will take you on closed roads through four of London’s eight Royal Parks – Hyde Park, The Green Park, St James Park and Kensington Gardens. After the run, Food & Fitness Festival will provide loads of entertainment and fun activities throughout the whole day. As a part of a Starfish team, you will receive:  A fundraising Pack including top tips and sponsorship forms Ongoing support and pre-event information A free Starfish branded running vest! And of course, cheering support on the event day and finish line refreshmentsThe fundraising target for each runner is £300 and your sponsorship will help Starfish provide lifesaving healthcare and education to vulnerable children in South Africa.  To register please visit the Starfish website http://bit.ly/29JHGHf, and for more information please email us ukinfo@starfishcharity.org or call the Starfish team on 0207 597 3797. Places are limited, don’t miss out!Judith

Elinor Middleton ● 2437d0 Comments ● 2437d

Stolen wallet/purse, keys, mobile etc

My wife had her purse, house keys and mobile lifted from her shopping trolley two days ago while in the TRAID charity shop on Shepherds Bush Green.  While the CCTV clearly shows the culprits we don't hold out much hope of them ever handing over their ill gotten gains. Most likely the stuff has been dumped somewhere so if anyone finds a set of keys for example please PM me so I can check if they belong to her. The wallet/purse had various membership cards all showing her Polish surname which begins Na........  Fingers crossed someone can help.

Derek Hill ● 2458d0 Comments ● 2458d

Vitality British 10K

The Vitality British 10K has returned to the capital, one of the most unique routes in the world! Set yourself a challenge for 2016 and register now with Starfish to run the iconic Vitality British 10K London Run on Sunday 10th July. The historial and exciting run takes you through the heart of London on closed roads, past the world-famous London landmarks in Westminister and the heart of London, including London Eye, Nelson Mandela statue and the Houses of Parliament. You will be joined by tens of thousands of spectators lining the route from start to finish, you can’t miss it ! Join our team and run for Starfish Greathearts Foundation, a charity supporting children orphaned or made vulnerable by HIV/AIDS in South Africa by providing life, hope and opportunity. Running for Starfish, there is a £20 registration fee to take part, and members of the Starfish team will need to fundraise £150 to help bring life, hope and opportunity to the children Starfish cares for in South Africa. We will support you throughout, providing: Fundraising Pack including top tips and ideas  Free Starfish running vest  And of course, cheering and welcome refreshments once you complete the race.To register for this exciting run, please visit the Starfish website http://www.starfishcharity.org/get-involved-uk/run,-cycle,-jump/british-10k-london-run-10072016.aspxFor any more information about the event and how you can you get involved, please email me at ukinfo@starfishcharity.org. We look forward to hearing from you,Judith Solanas

Elinor Middleton ● 2486d0 Comments ● 2486d

Have you got what it takes to be a spy?

Hi all, I have received permission from the forum editor to post in here.I work for Minnow Films, a multi–award winning independent production company renowned for making sensitive and intelligent films across a wide range of subjects, including last year’s Channel 4 series SAS: Who Dares Wins. This is our website: http://www.minnowfilms.co.uk/ We are currently producing an new prime-time series for Channel 4 about the process of becoming a spy, and are looking for a group of 20 ordinary men and women to attempt a course based on the real Recruitment and Training phases of Britain’s Intelligence Services. The course will be as close to the real thing as possible and will immerse the candidates in a world of risk and intrigue.Do you have what it takes? Visit www.minnowfilms.co.uk/spies to download the application form.

sally ainsworth ● 2488d0 Comments ● 2488d

Ride London 2016!

Hello Everyone,Tomorrow is the LAST day to register with Starfish to participate in the Ride London 2016 race! The route starts in Central London as you make your way to the beautiful English countryside. There will be over 20,000 other riders, and it promises to be a great time! If you are interested here are the details!Who: YOU!Where: Starts at Queen Elizabeth Olympic StadiumHow much: £500 fundraising goalWhen: 31/7/2016Follow this link to join! http://bit.ly/1IROpfP

Elinor Middleton ● 2494d0 Comments ● 2494d

LONDON FAMILIES WANTED FOR BBC2 BACK IN TIME SERIES

Wall to Wall Television, the makers of hit series ‘Back In Time For Dinner’ and ‘Back In Time for the Weekend’ are looking for a fun, food-loving family to go on an adventure further back in time.Guided by the experiences of real families in the early 20th century, one family will be fast-forwarded through 50 years of incredible history to explore how we lived and what we ate.Wall to Wall are currently casting in the London area for a family to immerse themselves in history for their series. This time the family will go further back in time to the early 20th century and then on through five decades of dramatic history, experiencing for themselves how British families lived and ate in the years before modern technology and conveniences.Previous living history series Back in Time for Dinner and Back in Time for the Weekend for BBC2 were both extremely well received and were among BBC2’s top rating factual shows last year, averaging 3 million viewers a week. Both series followed a modern family as they lived through each decade from the 50s to the 90s with their home, clothes and diet all transformed accordingly. Everything they did was underpinned by historical data that detailed real spending and eating habits of each period.This is a fantastic and exciting opportunity for a family to share in the amazing experience of being filmed over the summer, taking part in a truly immersive journey back in time.Wall to Wall are currently looking to hear from families with a minimum of two children aged 8+ who are available to film over the summer holidays this year. Anyone interested can simply email backintime@walltowall.co.uk for information.Below are links to interviews with previous contributors, who came away from the series with a rewarding and truly unforgettable family experience. Links:Back in time for Dinner –Brandon Robshaw’s diary for the Independent: - http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/food-and-drink/features/new-bbc-series-savours-half-a-century-of-food-in-britain-from-vesta-curries-to-nouvelle-cuisine-10071775.htmlBack in Time for the Weekend - http://www.theguardian.com/media/2016/feb/02/gadget-free-1970s-was-happiest-period-says-time-travelling-tv-family

Paul Braund ● 2501d0 Comments ● 2501d

Spinning Marathon!

Starfish UK are holding a 12 hour spinning marathon happening Saturday 7th May (7am - 7pm) at Putney Pedal Studio, 4 Fulham High Street, London, SW6 3LQ Qualified instructors from the Pedal Studio will lead back to back Spinning classes. With pumping tunes and fierce competition this will be a day to remember. Teams must clock up a total of 12 hours on a bike but it's up to you how you take on the challenge....You can enter as a team or for those of you who would like to participate but don't have the time to gather a team you can still take part in this awesome event. Just choose to do a single or multiple classes between 7am and 7pm on Saturday 7th May. There is no cost for the classes, saving you an average of £10 per hour. All we ask is that you raise a minimum of £50 on the dayAnd don't forget - everything from the Putney Pedal Studio space to the Popchips is donated so every penny raised goes to improving the lives of vulnerable kids in South Africa  To find out more and book yourself or your team a place, visit https://www.starfishcharity.org/get-involved-uk/run,-cycle,-jump/spinning-marathon-07052016.aspx or contact Stephanie directly on 020 7597 3797

Elinor Middleton ● 2543d0 Comments ● 2543d

Wimbledon WH Smith

So they are closing giving no reason for the closure and giving Colliers Wood as an alternative. Totally useless for me and out of the way. If Smithscarries on with closures they will totally disappear. We already have three banks in Wimbledon why another, we need useful shops or we will turn into another Morden which has charity shops galore and precious little else of any use.

Andrew Bialkowski ● 2639d6 Comments ● 2587d

Refugees At Home - Could you be a host?

This is a new scheme to match destitute asylum-seekers/refugees who have recently got status with generous hosts who have room to spare.There is a huge amount of demand in London for hosts and we would love to hear from anyone interested. We are national - our first placement was in Solihull and we are working on Liverpool and the West Country.But some hosts round here would be fab.If you are interested, please email info@refugeesathome.org or look at www.refugeesathome.org

Sara Nathan ● 2587d0 Comments ● 2587d

Hill Road 1890's

http://i64.tinypic.com/2r2ogg8.jpg

Michael Adams ● 2621d2 Comments ● 2618d

Ride London 2016!

Starfish has 25 guaranteed places available for Prudential Ride London 2016 and we'd love to have you pedaling in the team! Book early early and secure your place in this iconic ride.Prudential Ride London-Surrey 100 starts in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, then follows a 100-mile route on closed roads through the capital and into Surrey's stunning countryside. With leg-testing climbs and a route recently made famous by the world's best cyclists, this promises to be a truly spectacular event for all involved.Over 20,000 participants will ride in the 2016 event and it's a great challenge for both club & recreational cyclists.REGISTER HERE: http://bit.ly/1IROpfPEVENT DATE: 31/07/2016Join the Starfish team and give life, hope & opportunity to children affected by HIV/AIDS in South Africa.

Elinor Middleton ● 2655d0 Comments ● 2655d

London's Largest Santa Run! 06/12

Enter into the festive spirit by joining Starfish for London’s largest Santa Run. You will find Santa’s Grotto, a carol-singing choir, and a snow machine to make for a perfectly festive day - plus all runners gets a free Santa suit! There is a 5k and 10k option to choose from and the run is suitable for all ages (minimum 8 years) so grab your friends, family or colleagues and walk, jog or sprint towards the mince pies! With support of our fundraising team we ask runners to aim to raise £100 as a suggested target, and all funds raised go directly into our worthwhile projects that help children in South Africa. If you would like to take part, here is the link to register by Monday 30th November. Spread the word to your friends, the more the merrier! https://www.doitforcharity.com/book-online.aspx?eid=2901&cid=61228&charity=true If you don’t fancy running this time, but would still like to be part of the festive fun, then come along, enjoy the mince pies and cheer on our Santa’s! To register as a volunteer please email us at ukinfo@starfishcharity.org.

Elinor Middleton ● 2675d0 Comments ● 2675d

Imogen hassalls funeral

i am trying to find any online archive website, wether it be a newspaper or library, where i can see archive material to the late actress Imogen Hassall, including anything related to her funeral or even the plaque for her late week old daughter, that she had with kenneth ives, any help would be appreciated

Peter Scott ● 2712d0 Comments ● 2712d

Chalet Arolla

A luxury ski chalet in the heart of the French Alps, Chalet Arolla marries the traditional and the modern, offering the perfect balance of relaxation, indulgence and exhilaration. Our professional and experienced staff will be on hand to make you feel welcome from the moment you arrive, and they look forward to making sure your ski holiday is the best it can be! This recently renovated, 5 bedroom luxury chalet is located in the calmness of Meribel 1650, and during high season offers ski in, ski out access to the worlds largest ski-able domain in the world. www.chaletarolla.com or contact Charlotte@formulapromotions.co.uk

Charlotte Meins ● 2719d0 Comments ● 2719d

REMOVALS COMPANIES ANYONE???

Can anyone please recommend me a really reliable removal company local to SW19 please? I am moving from my flat to storage and would like it all packed and moved for me. Ideally would like English speaking guys for better communication. Thanks

Imogen Hughes ● 2730d1 Comments ● 2723d

Couples Come Dine with Me is looking for couples in West London!

Do you and your partner enjoy cooking and want to compete for £1000?Couples Come Dine with Me will be filming in West London & the surrounding area very soon, and we are looking for great contestants.Over the course of three nights, three couples that are enthusiastic amateur chefs, who don’t know each other, take it in turns to host a dinner party for the other two couples. At the end of the week the best host couple wins a £1,000 cash prize.We are looking for romantic couples to apply for our show. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, and must not be professionally trained as a chef.The shoot will take place the week commencing 16th November, so you must be available across this week.Email Katie.Harris@shiver.tv a.s.a.p. if you are interested in applying.Thank you!

Katie Harris ● 2732d0 Comments ● 2732d

wimbledon AFC

I am confused as to how the AFC can say that they should get their planning permission based on the fact that they still have many fans in Merton , even though they DO NOT go to watch the games and that they also have many followers who have NEVER seen them play.    How loyal and interested are these "fans". Where is the guarantee that those followers and fans will want to pay for seats to watch them play.   The AFC are not the DONS and I wonder if a lot of people realise that.  Let them stay where ever it is they are, we don't need them.   It is not an essential for boroughs to have their own teams and I am sure we do not want to deprive the borough they are in - do we?

Margaret Whiteley ● 2813d1 Comments ● 2732d

Do you want to preserve and improve the historic environment or ....

Dear fellow residentThe "local" developer who replaced the wonderful King of Denmark Pub on the Rigdway with the eyesore that is the Denmark Lofts is at it again, but on residential streets in the village conservation area --  on Clifton Road no less. Notwithstanding the fact that Merton's own Tall Building strategy regards developments of the scale being proposed the developer is seeking to exceed all reasonable limits and the council's stated objective to conserve and enhance the historic environment. Replacing a wonderful 1940s family home (which was looked after by an old chap who recently passed away) with  4+ storey monstrosity with a huge basement car park, removing much of the planted gardens -- huge demolition, sheet piling, huge dumper trucks and deliveries for what could be 2 years in the making. All next to the older folk who live in Rutland Lodge and Lyston House and causing huge potential risk to the young kids and parents of Kings Junior School, to name a few.BUT -- this is only the first concern because letting one in lets the next one and next one and so on.  Please visit the Denmark lofts on the Ridgeway (9 units and empty restaurant, studio/office and planting that is dying or go to Kemble Hall, 24 Keswick Road, Putney – 22 flats -- on another family house plot in a similar style to what is proposed -- but at least this had the top floor flats in the roof -- that's not the plan for Clifton Road -- the roof is on top -- making this a very high building.Have no doubt that the developer wishes to break the restrictive covenant in the title deed established by Dame Julia Vertue Mansel in 1920 to keep the home at 3 Clifton Road a single dwelling;  remove the existing shrubs and hedges; build apartments that will need to sell for more than 1.5-2.0m each (if there are only 4) -- this is not for the likes of most of us.  BUT what is more likely  -- he gets permission, then works out the selling price is too low, and seeks to convert the permission into even more units -- but "all in the envelope of the existing permission".  We have all seen this before. so we end up with Denmark Lofts again or Kemble Hall -- 9 or is it 22 units rammed on top of one another.  Welcome to high rise living and the complete lost Wimbledon's historic character  Please do have a look at the application and submit your comments/objections to:  planning.representations@merton.gov.ukWith the following information1 Application reference number : 15/P27252 Your name 3 Your address 4 Planning application description  DEMOLITION OF EXISTING HOUSE TO BE REPLACED WITH A FOUR STOREY BLOCK OF FLATS (4 X 2 BEDROOMS) WITH UNDERGROUND PARKING.5 Your commentsHere's the link:   (http://planning.merton.gov.uk/Northgate/PlanningExplorerAA/Generic/StdDetails.aspx?PT=Planning%20Applications%20On-Line&TYPE=PL/PlanningPK.xml&PARAM0=1000089928&XSLT=/Northgate/PlanningExplorerAA/SiteFiles/Skins/Merton/xslt/PL/PLDetails.xslt&FT=Planning%20Application%20Details&PUBLIC=Y&XMLSIDE=/Northgate/PlanningExplorerAA/SiteFiles/Skins/Merton/Menus/PL.xml&DAURI=PLANNING)

Andy Miller ● 2779d0 Comments ● 2779d

Wedding Photography

HelloI have started a new wedding photography business in the Wimbledon area. I am a young, creative photographer who is looking to build a successful business. My web page is still in development: http://hensfieldphotography.tumblr.com/My prices are very reasonable, starting from £300 per day.Please feel free to contact me on hensfield@gmail.com if you would like to find out more.Thank you

Laura Hensfield ● 2787d0 Comments ● 2787d

Final Spaces in the Royal Parks Half Marathon

This week Starfish is offering free registration for the Royal Parks Half Marathon.  Email by 5pm this Friday 7th August to secure your place.Taking place on Sunday 11th October this exciting run will lead you through London's beautiful Royal Parks along paths lined with cheering crowds. We will be with you every step of the way, providing training tips, fundraising ideas, cheering support on the day and refreshments at the finishing line.As part of the Starfish team you will help to provide lifesaving healthcare, education and protection to orphaned and vulnerable children in South Africa. Aim to fundraise £300 and make a big difference to the children we care for. Email us at ukinfo@starfishcharity.org or call the team on 02075973797.

Elinor Middleton ● 2790d0 Comments ● 2790d

Joseph Hood

I hope the idea of a new High school in Whatley avenue is totally quashed, I live in Whatley Avenue and believe me we are already squashed between Joseph Hood School and Rutlish High School.   From the High School we have constant take away food litter thrown scuffles and fights everywhere,from Joseph Hood we have the parents who have to drive to drop off/pick up their children, double parking and taking up the whole of the parking places .    Having said that there is and always has been a place for Joseph Hood school, especially as Merton has spent so much effort to ensure sufficient Junior School placesthat must have included the places at Joseph Hood.  But we in Whatley Avenue truly would crush under the pressure of another High school, it just would not be fair on the residence. Nor on the children of Joseph Hood.

Margaret Whiteley ● 2813d0 Comments ● 2813d

Royal Parks Half Marathon

Register now for the Royal Parks Half Marathon in aid of Starfish Greathearts Foundation on October 11th! This spectacular half marathon in London is the only one and the first of its kind. The stunning 13.1 mile route takes in the capital's world famous landmarks on closed roads, and four of London's eight royal parks - Hyde Park, Green Park, St James' Park and Kensington Gardens.Last year our runners raised an incredible £36,000, helping Starfish to provide, amongst other projects, life-saving healthcare to vulnerable children in South Africa, whose lives have been impacted by HIV/AIDS.With your help, the Starfish team can raise even more in 2015!Registration costs £20, and £300 fundraising pledge target, and if you're interested, please visit www.starfishcharity.co.uk/getinvolved or email ukinfo@starfishcharity.org for more information.STARFISH GREATHEARTS FOUNDATION

Elinor Middleton ● 2816d0 Comments ● 2816d

Celebrate Nelson Mandela day with us!

Celebrate Nelson Mandela day with us! Rugby, games, live music and good food... and all for a great cause! Supporting Starfish Charity which aids South African children orphaned by AIDS.Event is on Sat 18/07/15 from 10AM-5PM, at GJ's Wandsworth Sports Bar, 89 Garratt Lane, SW18 4DW. Tickets are £5 and include a hog roast or veggie burger.Get tickets here: www.gj-s.com or here: www.starfishcharity.org or call: 02075973797. We hope to see you there!STARFISH GREATHEARTS FOUNDATION

Elinor Middleton ● 2818d0 Comments ● 2818d

LAST SPACES LEFT IN THE ICONIC BRITISH 10K!

Run the British 10k for Starfish Greathearts Foundation - a charity working to provide life, hope and oppurtunity to children orphaned or made vulnerable by HIV/AIDS. Please email ukinfo@starfishcharity.org or call 02075973797 for all the details! Registration ends 3rd July 2015 end of day.

Jessica Francis ● 2822d0 Comments ● 2822d