the south west (rwpb) december 2014

This Residents’ Journal represents a fresh, innovative approach to local media, while retaining a traditional feel. We will deliver intelligent editorial with integrity and depth on subjects that matter to the residents

and business community.

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Giles EllwoodPublisher

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South WeSt Residents’ Journal

R U N W I L D M E D I A G R O U P

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Dear Resident,

Managing Editor Francesca Lee

Assistant Editor Lauren Romano

Main Editorial Contributor Jennifer Mason

Editorial InternTom Hagues

Distributed to selected homes in the Borough of Richmond upon Thames, as well as Wimbledon, Putney, Barnes and Coombe, the Residents’ Journal is a platform for locals to discuss issues and events that matter. Please do not hesitate to get in contact

with your news, email [email protected].

Snow White 2012 at the New Wimbledon Theatre, by Simon Annand. See page ten for more information.

Members of the Professional Publishers Association

Editor-in-Chief Lesley Ellwood

Managing DirectorEren Ellwood

General Manager Fiona Fenwick

Senior Designer Daniel Poole

Publishing Director Giles Ellwood

Executive Director Sophie Roberts

Client Relationship DirectorFelicity Morgan-Harvey

Business Development ManagerNicola Bloomfield

Brand ConsistencyLaddawan Juhong

Production Hugo Wheatley,

Alex Powell Oscar Viney, Amy Roberts

On behalf of the Residents’ Journal team we would like to wish all our readers a very merry Christmas. For me, the word Christmas conjures up all sorts of memories. I remember when I was a child and excitedly put out a few carrots, mince pies and a glass of milk for Santa and his

reindeer, before reluctantly going to bed and hardly being able to sleep a wink all night. On Christmas Day morning I’d peer out my bedroom door to find a big sack of presents, unwrap them with gusto and then sit down to a big hearty Christmas dinner with all the trimmings.

Now as an adult, my Christmas tends to revolve around seeing loved ones, over-indulging and a nap (yes, I admit: it’s not very rock ‘n’ roll!). With those traditions in mind, in this issue we’ve spoken to past interviewees to find out theirs; from attending Christmas carols services to

watching festive films with the family, read all from page 16.

Whatever way you’re celebrating this year, we hope you have a fabulous time!

Happy Christmas!

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HEX HEX rug. Design: Bertjan Pot. TRÉPIED floor lamps. Design: Normal Studio.

Ligne Roset Westend23-25 Mortimer Street

0207 323 1248www.ligne-roset-westend.co.uk

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Residents’ JouRnal

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NOTEBOOKKeep your finger on the pulse with our roundup of local news

Sport for everyoneThanks to an £85,000 grant from Sport England, the inclusive and disability-friendly sport and exercise events for residents of Richmond will now be better than ever. The council’s Richmond Inclusive Sport and Exercise (RISE) initiative, which is now in its sixth year and going from strength to strength, will use the money to develop a major programme over the next three years. There will be something for all ages and abilities to enjoy, including canoeing, wheelchair basketball, tennis, football and archery, to name a few.

(richmond.gov.uk/RISE)

SW19 Panto starThe New Wimbledon Theatre recently announced that Dallas star Linda Gray will make her panto début as the Fairy Godmother in this year’s show Cinderella. Linda will join an all-star cast that includes Matthew Kelly and Tim Vine for one of south-west London’s most popular events.

For full panto details, see p13

© Gertan / Shutterstock.com

Swimming for fundsDuring one week in October, south-west London’s baby and toddler swimming company Puddle Ducks raised more than £650 for The Children’s Trust, the UK’s leading charity that helps children with brain injuries – by holding ‘pyjama parties’ at its classes in Balham, Tooting and Richmond.

Husband and wife team Peter and Cathy Weller, who run Puddle Ducks in south-west London, explained the natural affinity between the company and their chosen charity: ‘The Children’s Trust works to improve and save the lives of children all over the UK, which is what we’re ultimately working towards. Fun and bonding are at the heart of our classes and, because of this, the children don’t even realise they’re learning to swim and acquiring a skill that could save their lives.’

Nationally, Puddle Ducks raised more than £22,000 for The Children’s Trust in 2013.

(puddleducks.com/southwestlondon)

Local limitsNew 20mph speed limits will be introduced on Hampton Hill High Street following a public consultation, but not across Kew, Whitton or Heathfield, Richmond Council’s cabinet decided in autumn. The cabinet member for highways and streetscene Cllr Stephen Speak explained that road safety is paramount, so the council will prioritise engineered solutions and 20mph zones at accident hot spots and near sensitive locations like schools and high streets. None of the three areas consulted showed majority support from residents for a 20mph limit borough-wide.

The local consultation follows a nationwide interest in introducing 20mph speed limits in residential areas – an issue the council claims has been frequently raised by borough residents. However, the council insists that action will only be taken in situations where 51 per cent or more of consulted households agree to the proposal.

(richmond.gov.uk)

Courtesy of New Wimbledon Theatre

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SW19

Going for goldDundonald Primary School has received its second gold sustainable travel award from Transport for London, as well as a Gold Sportsmark from the Merton Schools Sports Partnership. Last month, Mayor of Merton Councillor Agatha Akyigyina visited the school to congratulate the pupils and staff on their successes.

(dundonald.merton.sch.uk)

SW19 & SW20

Improved resultsIn the months since this year’s GCSE results were announced, the Department for Education has been putting together its provisional results for 2014. These show that Merton is one of only six education authorities in the whole of England and the only borough in London to show improved results for 2014 in comparison with last year’s figures. Merton is now ninth out of 32 London boroughs for better GCSE results, up from 23rd last year.

Merton has also seen the fastest-improving GCSE results in London over the last five years, increasing from 52.4 per cent A* to C grades (including English and Maths) in

2009/10, to 64 per cent in 2013/14 – above the London average of 60.6 per cent and the national average of 52.6 per cent.

Merton Council cabinet member for education Cllr Martin Whelton was delighted at the news. ‘I’d like to thank all our young people for achieving this success, along with the teaching staff and their families for their hard work and support. As a council, we will continue to work hard in Merton to ensure our results keep on improving and that our young people have the best possible start in life.’

(merton.gov.uk)

SW19

Small green fingers

Wimbledon Chase Primary School has been awarded joint first place for its World War One garden in the UK’s Best School Garden Category 2014 of the national ‘Top of the Plots’ competition, run by the Daily Mirror newspaper. The garden, which pupils grew and nurtured to commemorate the World War One centenary (with a little help from dedicated volunteer Tony Cullen and committed teachers Beverly Morgan, Ewa Bucior and Sam Wright) includes a trench, wildflowers and thousands of poppies and is the third of the school’s creations to be awarded a prize at the awards.

Wimbledon Chase Primary School, Merton Hall Road, SW19 3QB, 020 8542 1413 (wimbledonchaseschool.co.uk)

SW19 & SW20

Transport supportProposals to extend the current Tramlink service from Wimbledon to Sutton town centre have been strongly backed by the public, according to the results of a consultation run earlier this year by Merton and Sutton Councils. Of the record 9,846 people who took part, 84 per cent agreed that the proposed extension would bring major economic and social benefits to the area.

The overwhelming public enthusiasm is matched by cross-party support at all levels of government representing the two boroughs. They include both council leaders, both leaders of the council opposition parties, all four MPs and two assembly members.

(tfl.gov.uk)

Courtesy of TfL

Courtesy of merton.gov.uk

Get creativeThe Barnes Music Festival has extended the deadline

for entries to its Young Composer Competition ahead of the festival in March 2015. Composers aged 16-32 are

invited to submit a new choral work to celebrate the 800th anniversary of the sealing of the Magna Carta. The winner will receive a £500 prize, and will have their composition performed live at the festival’s closing event – the evensong celebration on 29 March.

Deadline for entries 23 December, final adjudication on 6 January, see website for full details (barnesmusicfestival.com)

Mayor of Merton Councillor Agatha Akyigyina with headteacher Fiona Duffy and children from Dundonald Primary School, who were presented with their three awards at a special celebration assembly

bibiphoto / Shutterstock.com

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TW9 Official openingRecently, HSH Princess Marie-Therese von Hohenberg and Mrs Anthony Bailey (great-granddaughter of H.I. and R.H. Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary) officially opened the Museum of Richmond’s latest exhibition 1914-1918 Richmond at Home and at War – Local Stories and their International Links. As a direct descendant of the first public victim of what would become

World War One, the Princess’ speech was a personal reminder of the human impact of war as she discussed her great-grandparents’ assassination.

The exhibition will run until 22 April. Museum of Richmond, Old Town Hall, Whittaker Avenue, Richmond-upon-Thames, TW9 1TP, 020 8332 1141 (museumofrichmond.com)

HSH Princess Marie-Therese von Hohenberg, Mrs Anthony Bailey and her husband His Excellency Mr Anthony Bailey in discussion with the Mayor of Richmond Councillor Jane Boulton, courtesy of the Museum of Richmond

TW9 New recyling timetable for townmeadThe Townmead Road Re-Use and Recycling Centre is now closing an hour earlier throughout the winter months for health and safety reasons.

The new times will be:Mondays: 10am-5pm (last admission 4.45pm)Tuesday-Saturday: 8am-5pm (last admission 4.45pm)Sundays: 9am-4pm (last admission 3.45pm)

The centre will return to its previous closing times when the clocks go forward on 29 March.

(richmond.gov.uk/townmead_road)

TW1 Strawberry sketchingLast month, as part of The Big Draw – the world’s biggest drawing festival – families from across south-west London took part in an event at Strawberry Hill House, creating a giant walk-in theatre book at Horace Walpole’s gothic castle. Charlotte Hawkes, education co-ordinator, told the Journal that more than 280,000 people from the UK and 20 other countries participated in The Big Draw, so Strawberry Hill House was delighted to host one of the events.

(strawberryhillhouse.org.uk)

Family taking part in The Big Draw at Strawberry Hill House, courtesy of Strawberry Hill House

TW9 A new readMichael Bee (local Kew model, actor, designer and writer) and Brian Howard Heaton have drawn on their extensive creative experience to bring to life their new book Thru the Catflap – a comical story about five neighbourhood cats on the rampage in the fictional village of Bumblewick.

Available to buy now for £8.83 in local bookshops and online at amazon.co.uk

SW15 Award-winningLocal business Putney Pharmacy has recently been awarded the accolade ‘Community Pharmacy of the Year 2014’ at an awards ceremony at Park Plaza, Westminster, which was attended by the Secretary of State for the Health the Right Hon Jeremy Hunt MP and Dr Dan Poulter, Parliamentary minister of Health. Since its refurbishment in 2013, the pharmacy has been hub of healthcare for community, with five consultation rooms offering services such as podiatry/chiropody, travel health, reflexology and homeopathy, as well as access to a nutritionist, and is known for its personalised service.

Putney Pharmacy, 278 Upper Richmond Road, SW15 6TQ, 020 8788 2431 (pharmacy.biz)

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ON THE BOXFilm recommendations for the festive season

residents’ picks

the journal picks

ELFThis film is hilarious. I especially love the part when Will Ferrell (aka Buddy) is decorating the store and finds out that Santa is visiting. ‘SAAA-NTA!’

Tessa Robinson, East Sheen

HOME ALONEThis film was the inspiration behind countless obstacle courses and booby traps (not to mention an accidentally dislocated shoulder) chez Romano – if the Wet Bandits ever showed up in south London, we’d have been ready for them.

Lauren Romano, Assistant Editor

THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROLWho doesn’t love The Muppets’ special brand of magic, especially at Christmas time?

Beth Roper, Putney

CHRISTMAS WITH THE KRANKSFun for the whole family and easy to watch – a comedic comment on how parents cope once the kids have left home.

Tamir Davies, Editorial Intern

NATIONAL LAMPOON’S CHRISTMAS VACATIONIt’s touching, but not in a sickly way and it covers the calamities and ridiculous Christmas situations that everyone has experienced once or twice in their life.

Tom Hagues, Editorial Intern

THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMASDisney, Tim Burton, animation, songs, Halloween and Christmas? That’s a lot to pack in, and it fits together perfectly in this alternative festive film.

James Lees, Richmond

THE SNOWMANIt’s a classic with beautiful music that always gets me in the mood for Christmas.

Francesca Lee, Managing Editor

LOVE ACTUALLYI could watch this over and over for that scene where Andrew Lincoln holds up the cards at Keira Knightley’s door with the Christmas carol playing in the background. It’s one of the most romantic films.

Sarah Jones, Putney

THE HOLIDAYFunny, uplifting and a little cheesy – with an excellent festive soundtrack. What more could you want from a Christmas film? Plus, I love Jack Black as a rom-com hero.

Jennifer Mason, Editorial Assistant

MIRACLE ON 34TH STREETThe quintessentially tear-jerking Christmas film that will have even adults embracing a little festive magic.

Marion Lewis,Richmond

SPARTACUSOld films about the Roman Empire are not only interesting, they can also be a useful tool in emptying the sitting room of noisy family members for a bit of peace and quiet at Christmas.

Henry Hopwood-Phillips, Editorial AssistantEL

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entertaining?OH YeS it iS!

Jennifer Mason prepares to dodge dames and battle villains as she investigates the wonderfully wacky world of pantomime

Aladdin 2013 @ NWT, Matthew Kelly by Craig Sugden

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The line reads: ‘exit, pursued by a pink spotted cow’. I like to imagine that this is the kind of stage direction you often find in the scripts of the liveliest of festive theatre

productions: the pantomime. Generations of families have celebrated the yuletide season with a trip to the theatre to watch beautiful princesses, brave heroes, comedic sidekicks, evil baddies and cross-dressing dames prance around on stage in a traditional panto. While the shows themselves repeat on rotation (Cinderella, Aladdin, Jack and the Beanstalk and other fairytales proving most popular) there’s always something new – primarily due to the combination of slapstick and (hopefully) witty contemporary satire trafficked during the production.

Going to a pantomime has been a Christmas tradition in my family for as long as I can remember. Now that we’re grown-ups, catching a cheesy show has become more about how entertaining it is to torture my younger sister (who can’t abide all the

‘he’s behind you’ hilarity) than seeing a great piece of theatre. For our purposes, the tackier the show, the better – the very act of screaming ‘oh no it isn’t’ along with hundreds of small, excited children is our cue to feel festive. For us and many others, Christmas simply isn’t complete without a good (or terrible) panto.

The art form (and I mean ‘art’ in a sense as loose as Mother Goose’s bloomers) as we know it today traces its origins back to the 16th-century Italian Commedia dell’arte – a form of entertainment that consisted of several stereotyped characters improvising their way through a number of set pieces. These are personalities we would recognise today: the brave hero, the foolish old man, the devious servant, among others. The genre developed in Britain between the 17th and mid-19th centuries into something known as Harlequinade, defined by the Oxford English Dictionary as ‘that part of a pantomime in which the harlequin and clown play the principal parts.’ The story of the

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Harlequinade revolved around a comic incident in the lives of its five main characters: Harlequin, who loves Columbine, and Columbine’s greedy father Pantaloon, who, along with the mischievous Clown and the servant Pierrot, tries to separate the lovers. The action usually involved chaotic chase scenes with a policeman – something that’s still an integral part of many modern panto plotlines.

In the 1800s, Harlequinade began to change. Thanks to the legendary Joseph Grimaldi, the character Clown came to dominate the stage, and the world of pantomime was born. Grimaldi himself started the convention of cross-dressing dames; in 1820 he played the baron’s wife in a performance of Cinderella that proved so popular the tradition has continued ever since. Slapstick humour became an essential feature and, although spoken lines were added, by the 1880s when the shows began to tell much-loved fairytale stories, the stage was set for a tradition that continues to entertain children and adults alike each winter.

The first pantomime in south-west London, Puss in Boots, was performed at the Richmond Theatre in 1899, and Wimbledon followed suit 11 years later with its inaugural show Jack and Jill. In those early years, many of the performances were touring productions playing for one week only, and often local theatre-goers would be able to enjoy several during a season. It was only later that the four-to-six-week

‘panto season’ that we know and love came into being; attracting on average 220,000 audience members per show each year to these two local theatres.

These days there are plenty of opportunities for people to catch their favourite stars treading the boards in outrageous costumes – and the leading names are getting bigger and bigger. To date, the highest-grossing box office in the New Wimbledon Theatre’s history was the 2010 show Peter Pan, starring legendary Baywatch heartthrob David Hasselhoff in his pantomime début. The theatre has

also hosted other showbiz names for their first dabble, including the likes of Dame Edna Everage (a born panto dame if ever there was one), Pamela Anderson, Priscilla Presley and Jo Brand.

We’ve all heard the popular joke about celebrities who choose to appear in seasonal shows: ‘Speaking of your career: it’s behind you!’ But there’s often more to a star’s desire to join a pantomime cast than an opportunity to revive a flagging livelihood. Jennifer Ellison famously said: ‘If you do panto, everyone says you are washed up, but I love all the booing and hissing.’ Audience participation in all its laughing and shouting glory is unquestionably the main reason pantomime is such a special and popular theatrical experience. I recall the exquisite agony I felt as a child of being unable to communicate to an on-stage hero that the bad guy was standing right behind them. As an adult I enjoy laughing along with the undercurrent of inappropriate humour that sails right over the younger audience’s heads.

To those still sceptical over whether the genre deserves such an elevated place in our theatres’ repertoires, I say, perhaps it’s time to try again; to rediscover the magic you once felt on seeing flying carpets and live animals before your very eyes (a Bengal tiger once prowled the stage at the New Wimbledon Theatre – an experience I fear will not be repeated in our modern age of health-and-safety regulations). In the end, what makes panto something to be treasured is that, despite all its crazy, over-the-top excitement, when done well it brings a little bit of magic into the lives of the audience, whether they’re six, 16 or 60. n

There are plenty of opportunities for audiences

to catch their favourite stars treading the boards in

outrageous costumes

Peter Pan 2010 @ NWT, Louie Spence & David Hasselhoff

Snow White 2012 @ NWT, ensemble finale by Simon Annand Snow White 2012 @ NWT, Snow White & dwarfs by Simon Annand


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ON-STAGE SEASONAL FUN

Top festive shows that will have you singing along, staring in wonder, or laughing out loud

Cinderella5 December to 11 January

There’s an all-star cast appearing in Cinderella at the new Wimbledon Theatre this winter, including Matthew Kelly and Matthew rixon who will bring the house down once again as the two Ugly Sisters in the classic rags-to-riches story that sees Cinderella transform into the belle of the ball with the help of her Fairy Godmother. With laughter, music, magic and even real Shetland ponies, it’s guaranteed fun for the whole family.

Tickets from £11.90, for full performance times, see website. New Wimbledon Theatre, 93 The Broadway, SW19 1QG, 0844 871 7646 (atgtickets.com/wimbledon)

lighting up the stage at the dominion Theatre this winter is irving Berlin’s classic tale of two ex-army pals who team up with a pair of sisters to save a Vermont ski lodge that has fallen on hard times. Sing along with your favourite tunes including Sisters, Blue Skies and, of course, the legendary White Christmas with the

talented cast, which includes aled Jones (of Walking in the Air fame) alongside Tom Chambers in the lead roles.

add sparkle to this year’s Yuletide celebrations with a little mischief, a few misunderstandings and a whole lot of romance all set to some of the greatest songs ever written; a real feel-good

festive favourite to warm your heart.

Tickets from £44.50, Tuesday to Saturday at 7.30pm, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday matinées at 2.30pm (Christmas schedule varies, see website). Dominion Theatre, 268-269 Tottenham Court Road, W1T 7AQ, 0845 2007 982 (dominiontheatre.com)

The lion, The WiTCh and The WardroBeUntil 4 January

When the Pevensie siblings are evacuated to a grand house in the english countryside, they discover a wardrobe which hides a gateway to the magical world of narnia, where it is always winter but never Christmas. it is a land enslaved by the power of the White Witch, and the siblings must join forces with the majestic lion aslan, the loveable Mr Tumnus and his friends to free narnia from her evil clutches.

Tickets from £11, for full performance times, see website. Rose Theatre Kingston, 24-26 High Street, KT1 1HL, 020 8174 0090 (rosetheatrekingston.org)

PeTer PanUntil 14 February

Magic is in the air at the Polka Theatre as audiences’ imaginations take to the skies with Peter Pan and Tinker Bell in the never-ending battle with the dastardly Captain hook. Join them in a fantastical world of pirates, mermaids and tick-tocking crocodiles in J.M. Barrie’s enchanting classic bursting with original songs, puppetry, swashbuckling fun and fairy dust at south-west london’s premier theatre venue for children.

Tickets £17.50, concessions £11.50, for full performance times, see website. Polka Theatre, 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB, 020 8543 4888 (polkatheatre.com)

SnoW WhiTe and The SeVen dWarFS5 December to 11 January

Model, actress, Strictly Come Dancing star and richmond Theatre patron Jerry hall takes on one of panto’s evillest roles this year, starring as the Wicked Queen in the theatre’s Christmas show Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. hall will perform alongside CBeebies presenter Chris Jarvis as Muddles, and musical theatre star aimie atkinson in a pantomime based on the classic fairytale.

Tickets from £11.90, for full performance times, see website. Richmond Theatre, The Green, TW9 1QJ, 0844 871 7651 (atgtickets.com/richmond)

WhiTe ChriSTMaS – Until 3 January

FURTHER AFIELD

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The Calendar

A selection of the best events happening in the area

Throughout December

’TIS THE SEASON

There’s plenty going on this month at Ham House to get you in the mood for the festive season. Whether you’re seeking an altogether different kind of chill from the house’s eerie Christmas-themed ghost tours, unleashing your creative side in one of the craft workshops, taking a stroll in the frosty grounds or warming up with some festive treats at the Orangery café, there’s a whole host of activities to enjoy in the run-up to the big celebration.

For full listings, see the website. Ham House & Garden, Ham Street, Ham, Richmond, TW10 7RS, 020 8940 1950 (nationaltrust.org.uk/ham-house)

’tis the season

live from new york

12 December to 1 January

CHRISTMAS AT COURT

History lovers should make their way to Hampton Court this month for a series of events over the festive period. Between 12 and 23 December, visitors can enjoy the sight of the palace and gardens illuminated by an interactive light trail. After Christmas, from 27 December to 1 January, those interested in finding out more about how Henry VIII and his court celebrated this time of year can experience some truly Tudor entertainment.

Light up the Palace tickets £10 (£5 concessions), entry 5pm to 8pm; Tudor Christmas free with admission; regular admission £17.05 online, £18.20 on the day, concessions available. Hampton Court Palace, KT8 9AU, 0844 482 7777 (hrp.org.uk)

13 December

LIVE FROM NEW YORK

Wagner’s epic comedy Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg is back on stage in New York for the first time in eight years, and for one night only it will be broadcast live at the Curzon Cinema in Richmond as part of the Met Opera Live 2014-2015 season. Among the longest operas still performed and unique in Wagner’s body of work as it is the only one of his famous operas in which there are no supernatural or magical powers or events, the story revolves around the real-life guild of Meistersinger (Master Singers), an association of amateur poets and musicians.

Tickets £31, 5pm. Curzon Cinema, Water Lane, Richmond, TW9 1TJ, 0330 500 1331 (curzoncinemas.com)

christmas at court

Image by Nick Wilkinson newsteam.co.uk

NT John Miller

Johan Botha as Walther von Stolzing, Beatriz Schiller Metropolitan Opera

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kew the festivities

an education

at the theatre

17 December to 31 January

AT THE THEATRE

This month, local favourite the Orange Tree Theatre puts on a production of the first play by Pygmalion and Androcles and the Lion playwright George Bernard Shaw ever to be staged. Widowers’ Houses is a sharp comedy about London’s eternal struggle with housing and the problems of the buy-to-let classes. It follows the budding romance between Harry and Blanche as the former attempts to keep their fledgling relationship in line with his moral standards.

Tickets from £15, performances at 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Orange Tree Theatre, 1 Clarence Street, Richmond, TW9 2SA, 020 8940 3633 (orangetreetheatre.co.uk)

19 December

AN EDUCATION

Christmas Eve 2014 will mark the 250th anniversary of the publication of The Castle of Otranto, Horace Walpole’s iconic Gothic masterpiece inspired by his atmospheric mansion in Strawberry Hill. To mark the occasion, Nick Groom, professor of English at the University of Exeter, will deliver a special anniversary lecture which will be followed by festive drinks and canapés in the Gallery. The event will also celebrate the launch of Groom’s new edition of The Castle of Otranto for Oxford University Press.

Tickets £24, 7pm-9pm. Strawberry Hill House, 268 Waldegrave Road, Twickenham, TW1 4ST, 020 8744 1241 (strawberryhillhouse.org.uk)

Until 3 January

KEW THE FESTIVITIES

Wrap up warm for Christmas at Kew. This year’s brand-new glittering trail is a mile-long adventure that winds its way through the breathtaking landscape, creating a magical after-dark experience. Highlights include a shimmering tunnel of lights, twinkling holly bushes, trees festooned with lit-up presents and plumes of fire dancing to music inspired by The Nutcracker, as well as secluded spots bathed in fairylights and bedecked in mistletoe for a few stolen Christmas kisses.

Tickets from £15, children aged four to 16, £10; children under four go free, 5pm to 10pm (timed entrance between 5pm and 8.15pm). Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew,TW9 3AB, 020 8332 5655 (kew.org)


George Bernard Shaw The Castle of Otranto with foreword by Nick Groom, £4.99 Oxford University Press

Palm House bathed in green light for the Christmas at Kew festival, credit RBG Kew

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ChristmasLocal residents and business owners tell us

about their favourite festive traditions

This

J Nichole SmithPet photographer, co-owner and founder of Little & Large, Twickenham

‘As a newly married couple, one American and one Brit, we have quite a task ahead of us when it comes to combining our christmas traditions. my favourite of my husband’s family’s traditions is going to the pub for several pints before midnight mass on christmas eve, and the best one i’ve brought with me from the USA is cooking (and eating) ‘holly cluster’ cookies – deliciously gooey and green marshmallow-and-cornflake treats. i’ve been making them with my mom since i was five.

‘one of the traditions we’re starting together is to go on trips and give gifts of experiences instead of things. For us, it brings the sentiment of christmas back to what we believe it should be; spending time with each other and our families.’

(mylittleandlarge.com)

Phot

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Mel

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lure

SArAh AUStiN Founder of the Really Helpful Club

‘i celebrate christmas with my family in the cotswolds, where i grew up. For me, it has always been about family and friends, great food, lots of fun, games and chatter, walks in the countryside and coming home to a real fire. last year, my family and i had just

got our new cocker spaniel puppy, which made it even more magical for everyone.

‘my family loves christmas, especially the build-up and all the excitement that comes with it – from buying presents, decorating the tree, christmas parties to, most of all, my children’s nativity plays. one of our favourite days is the Wimbledon christmas Fair and the treasure hunt in Wimbledon Village. No christmas is complete without a carol service – this year, we’re going to christ church in West Wimbledon to raise funds for South london Younger Parkinson’s Network, a local charity that the really helpful club supports. i can’t wait to attend as my son will be singing there with his school choir.

‘We also love a family outing to the pantomime, and this year we will be going to see Snow White and the

Seven Dwarfs at richmond theatre, starring Jerry hall.‘We will be spending New Year in cornwall.

there’s nothing more restorative than a walk on a beautiful beach on New Year’s Day – it certainly helps to clear the cobwebs from the night before! my husband and son will, no doubt, go for their usual New Year’s Day surf, followed by a hot chocolate and a surfer’s breakfast at our favourite café on Polzeath Beach. there’s no better way to start the New Year.’

(reallyhelpfulclub.com)

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Gavan Knox Aka Mr Mom, creator of American-style cupcakes and bakes

‘Christmas traditions are plentiful in our house and they kick off early with something we call ‘Lights a Pit’on’. It’s a tradition we’ve carried on from my husband’s family.

on this day we switch on the Christmas tree lights, watch festive movies and eat seasonal goodies. In the morning our children ice Christmas cookies that I baked earlier. These are a spiced orange cookie that I’ve made since my husband and I have been together – they’ve become somewhat of a festive mainstay during the holiday season.

‘In the afternoon it‘s movie time with the children snuggling down for Elf or The Grinch while they tuck into some of the Christmas cookies and hot chocolate. Later on in the evening, with the kids in bed, the grown-ups settle down for a showing of A Christmas Carol (it must be the George C. Scott version from 1984) with mince pies and port. It’s the perfect way to start the festive season.’

(mrmoms.co.uk)

Ben ShawMinister at Boathouse Church, Putney

‘originally, Christmas wasn’t about the many things we know today. It was devoid of tinsel, reindeer and fairy lights. Don’t get me wrong, I do like a good mince pie and a glass of mulled wine, but if you do your homework, Christmas is about reconciliation. It’s there, tucked away in the carol Hark the Herald Angels Sing: ‘God and sinners reconcile.’ My favourite tradition, therefore, is to ponder and celebrate the real meaning of it all; God seeking to repair and reconcile a broken world by ‘avatar-ing’ himself in a human being born into poverty and then going on to teach, preach and eventually die to bring about divine reconciliation. That, to me, is the greatest Christmas gift of all.’

(theboathousechurch.co.uk)

JuLIa DoBSonFounder of local brand Village England

‘In recent years we have started having the big family meal on Christmas eve, leaving Christmas Day to relax – taking our time to open a few presents over a late brunch. Since the boys were born, Mr Dobson and I have been very excited about Santa, though this has been a little diminished by all the questions from the eldest about the ‘snowy’ footprints by the fireplace and the half-eaten carrot (‘but why?’) and complete dismissal from the youngest. of course, with little people it’s best to get everyone all wrapped up in coats and scarves and mittens to spend an afternoon in the park – a great opportunity to really test out those new toys until it’s time for the Queen’s speech. I’m sure this year the boys will start to really understand the concept of Christmas, but one thing they’ll never get is their fair share of the mince pies! Surely that’s one part of Christmas that is just for grown-ups..?’ n

(villageengland.com)

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giftguidethe

1. Sweet smellsA beautiful perfume gift set by Cartier with a sensual and floral lily fragrance.Baiser Volé Eau de Parfum Christmas Gift Set, £90, available from Debenhams, 315 Lavender Hill, Clapham Junction, SW11 1QL or Centre Court Shopping Centre, 4 Queens Road, Wimbledon, SW19 8YD (debenhams.com)

2. Wrap up in redStay stylish à la Kate Middleton in this bright crimson coat, the perfect colour for the festive season.Cadiz Belted Coat, £425, available from LK Bennett; 164-166 King’s Road, Chelsea, SW3 4UR, 020 7351 9659; 92 Northcote Road, Clapham, SW11 6QN, 020 7223 4522; 3 Hill Street, Richmond, TW9 1SX, 020 8944 8841 (lkbennett.com)

3. A touch of cashmereAdd a chic accent to winter ensembles courtesy of this eye-catching cashmere and silk blend scarf. Mercy Delta Safari Teal Cashmere Scarf, £165, available from March, 821 Fulham Road, SW6 5HG, 020 3638 0204 (marchfashion.co.uk)

4. Neck nuzzlerSouth-west London brand Ally Bee creates luxuriously soft knitwear, including this snuggly Alpaca Roll Neck Jumper, perfect for braving the chilly winter weather.Alpaca Roll Neck Jumper in Grey Marl, £299, available from Ally Bee (ally-bee.com)

For Him5. Time fliesSuitable for day or evening occasions, this versatile timekeeper, with its ultra-classical dial, is perfect for the modern man who still appreciates a vintage touch.Frédéric Chopin Stainless Steel Watch, £880, available from Harrods, 87-135 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, SW1X 7XL, 020 7730 1234 (harrods.com)

6. Man-size mugChristmas isn’t complete without a swig of mulled wine or eggnog, and what better way to enjoy it than from this personalised festive mug.Personalised Christmas Joy two-handled mug, from £125, available from Emma Bridgewater; 739 Fulham Road, SW6 5UL, 020 7371 5264 (emmabridgewater.co.uk)

7. Warm handsLuxurious leather gloves to protect paws from the harsh winter weather.Paul Smith London Vintage Multistripe Leather Gloves, £125, available from House of Fraser, Westfield Shopping Centre, Ariel Way, W12 7GA, 0844 800 3765 or 80 George Street, Richmond, TW9 1HA, 0344 800 3755 (houseoffraser.co.uk)

8. Cool CommunicationThe latest sought-after model from Apple.iPhone 6, from £539, available from the Bentall Centre, KT1 1TP, 020 8233 3400 (apple.com/uk)

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guide

9. Treehouse funWith enough entertaining activities to amuse toddlers for hours, this is a great way to keep little ones occupied on Christmas morning.Tree Top Adventure, £90, available from Jojo Maman Bébé, 72 Northcote Road, SW11 6QL, 020 7223 8510; Unit 30, The Exchange Shopping Centre, SW15 1TW, 020 8780 5165 or 63 The Broadway, SW19 1QD, 020 8540 0468 (jojomamanbebe.co.uk)

10. An exotic rideRichmond-based brand NotOnTheHighStreet sources the most unusual gifts around, and this elephant rocker is certainly one of the best on offer for kids who like a little adventure in their playtime.Wooden Rocking Elephant by James Harvey Furniture, £2,450 (notonthehighstreet.com)

11. Grin and bear itIn the year that Paddington Bear makes his big-screen début, pick up this cute collectible for fans of our favourite blue mac and red hat-wearing bear.Limited edition Paddington Bear, £170, available from Selfridges, 400 Oxford Street, W1A 1AB, 020 7318 3939 (selfridges.com)

12. Close knitComfortable, stylish and season-appropriate, this jumper is just festive enough to pass muster on Christmas Day and wear all winter long.Tommy Hilfiger Harry Fair Isle Jumper, £150, available from Peter Jones, Sloane Square, SW1W 8EL, 020 7730 3434 (johnlewis.com)

13. Story timeSupport their love of literature with the latest reading gadget from Kindle – the thinnest ever, with a new high-resolution screen and reinvented page turns.Kindle Voyage, from £169, available from Waterstones stores across south-west London and online (amazon.co.uk)

14. Scarf styleHelp to keep your kids toasty warm with this soft, fashionable wool scarf.Kenzo black and red printed wool blend scarf, £324, available from Harvey Nichols, 109-125 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7RJ, 020 7235 5000 (harveynichols.com)

For Pets15. Photo poochesKeep your dog close to your heart always with a tailored photo shoot.Gift certificates from £199, available from Little & Large, 10 Staines Road, Twickenham, TW2 5AH, 020 8914 8425 (mylittleandlarge.com)

16. Leather luxuryOne of the snazziest dog beds available.Large leather dog bed, £2,600, available from Mungo & Maud, 79 Elizabeth Street, SW1W 9PJ, 020 7467 0823 (mungoandmaud.com)

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Treat your most deserving friends and family with these perfect presents

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Our schedules are awash with clubs, but for everyone except

the Mr Motivators of this world, as the winter nights creep in and temperatures plummet, there are surely few quite as appealing as the Crumble Club. Yes, you read that correctly – a club devoted purely to the act of eating crumble, which founder Cat makes fresh to order and delivers to your door ready for you to pop in the oven.

Crumble is the underdog of puddings;

it’s not quite up there with the fiddly roulade, nor does it require the same slavish vigil at the stove that a syrup sponge demands; let’s be honest, it’s not likely to feature on The Great British Bake Off any time soon, so why choose to found a business based on the humble crumble? ‘It has comforting connotations, but it is also underrated,’ Cat explains. ‘Having said that, it can evoke memories of soggy school dinners served with dollops of wallpaper paste-consistency custard, but when it’s made well it’s delicious.’

In Cat’s take on the traditional fruity classic, wholemeal flour is mixed with oats, poppy seeds, linseeds, pumpkin seeds and a blend of treacly muscovado and crunchy demerara sugars. ‘Our list of ingredients is short and sweet and we use fresh, locally-sourced produce wherever possible,’ she says. Cat can also adapt her recipes to make them gluten-free or vegan-friendly.

‘I am flexible and I try to keep things seasonal. When I get hold of some rhubarb I’ll use that; and in the autumn I’m forever foraging in the hedgerows for blackberries. I’ve recently perfected an apple and salted caramel, and an apple and

The Journal meets Cat Simpson, the founder of the latest

sweet-laced venture to hit Putney: Crumble Club

chai-spice version too.’ Cat also hopes to branch out with a selection of crumble cakes to supply to local cafés and she’s calling on her vegan friends to test some new recipes. Also on her varied agenda is running another marathon – when the Journal meets her she has just returned from an epic 250K race through the desert in Chile. ‘I used to complete one nearly every month,’ she laughs. She’s got a long way to go until she catches up with her husband, however, as he ran his hundredth this summer, which he celebrated with a (you guessed it) victory crumble.

‘I’ve always liked feeding people and I enjoy being my own boss – that’s what drives me. Setting up on your own is not as scary as you think. I spent ages at my desk in an office job worrying about this and that – and then I just left. It was the best decision I made,’ Cat beams, like the cat that got the cream. n

A crumble to feed two/three people costs £4; £7.50 for two; £11 for three; £15 for four. One-person sized orders can be made on request. Crumbles are made to order and delivered to the local area and to Wandsworth, Sheen and Richmond within 48 hours. (crumbleclub.co.uk)

Rumble for crumble

I’ve always liked feeding people and I enjoy being my own boss

– that’s what drives me

Parson’s Nosew w w . p a r s o n s n o s e . c o . u k

BUTCHERS

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When I think about the process of jewellery making, my imagination runs wild with visions of talented

artisans hunched over desks strewn with precious gems and metals; of alchemists forging stunning pieces out of raw materials and of boxes filled with priceless twinkling trinkets. Sitting with Kate Hopwood, I realise that my fanciful notions are not as far from the truth as you might imagine.

Kate’s studio is crammed with the paraphernalia of her trade and she’s always prepared for new concepts. ‘I usually have ideas stored up in the back of my mind, sometimes for years,’ she tells me, ‘so often I already know how I want things to look before I start making them.’ This was the case with one of Kate’s new ventures – a collection of metal “gemstones” – cast from both naturally shaped crystals and more structured fool’s gold. ‘I always knew I wanted to make a cast collection from gemstones. These pieces have a lovely weight to them and they’re extremely satisfying to wear,’ she says, pointing out the simple yet stunning gold nugget necklace she’s currently sporting. ‘Being able to wear what I make is definitely one of the perks of the job!’ she laughs.

One of Kate’s most popular collections, Halo, is also one of the more complicated designs to make.

The Richmond-based jewellery designer and boutique owner introduces Jennifer Mason to a glittering world of precious metals

‘First, I bind the wire together and run solder into the joins so it becomes a solid piece,’ Kate explains. ‘Then, I hand-make the little granules by heating wire until it becomes molten, before snipping it into tiny spheres and finally soldering them onto the hoop.’ This unusual design comes in two finishes, she elaborates. ‘If the piece is made from white gold it

just needs polishing up and it shines beautifully. However, I can also make an oxidised silver

version which has a much more industrial feel. It’s very striking and it highlights the contrast between the silver hoops and the golden granules.’

The process takes up to five hours for one small piece, but Kate insisits it’s the kind of work she prefers. ‘Part

of what I love about my job is that each collection requires a different process. It

keeps things varied and interesting,’ she says.Of course, creating her own pieces (and

designing bespoke commissions) is just half of Kate’s business. The rest of her charming boutique is filled with work by independent British designers that she’s met at jewellery fairs or through her store. ‘There’s such a talent pool to choose from in the UK, I’m spoiled for choice,’ she gushes. But choosing who to showcase in her small boutique is not without its difficulties, I soon learn. ‘Often I’ll have in mind a particular kind of item that I’m looking for, rather than a specific designer,’ Kate explains. ‘For example, right now I’m trying to source more dangly earrings. I like people who offer something different; often that’s a more contemporary feel which balances out the more organic style of my own collections.’

Perusing the shelves here is certainly a different experience to your average jewellery shop. ‘What I offer is something akin to a craft fair inside a permanent store,’ Kate agrees. ‘I think people often don’t realise there’s much more out there than just the high street brands. My business is about promoting individual designers and offering customers something they won’t find anywhere else.’ n

Kate Hopwood

Above: The Halo Collection; Right: The Crystal Collection

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Kate at work in her studio

Need to kNow:

Kate Hopwood Jewellery, 11 Brewers Lane,

Richmond, TW9 1HH, 020 8948 0886

(katehopwoodjewellery.com)

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All thatglitters

Golden hues and festive treats to spruce up your home this Christmas

1. Atticus light pendant, £499 (darlighting.co.uk) 2. Wilderness two-tier antler chandelier, £895 (alexanderandpearl.co.uk) 3. Brussels Sprouts wreath, £31 (tch.net) 4. Laura Ashley gold bauble lit wreath, £35 (lauraashley.com) 5. L’Objet Fortuny canape plates assortment, £140 (amara.

com) 6. Iittala Kaasa miniature fireplace, £389 (cloudberryliving.co.uk) 7. Applique Christmas stocking with glass beads, £47 (nutmegandsage.co.uk) 8. Virginia Hayward Hamper Snowed In, £500 (virginiahayward.com) 9. Hermione sofa in red Designers Guild velvet, £1,899

(darlingsofchelsea.co.uk) 10. Alpine church cushion, £108 (janconstantine.com) 11. 10ft tree with lights, £500 (tesco.com) 12. Georg Jensen Mobile Fir Tree & Two Doves Decoration, £49 (johnlewis.com) 13. Coach House Bling sequinned hanging deer head, £79.95 (selfridges.com)

14. Red Queen’s guard decoration, £18.95 (liberty.co.uk) 15. Red beefeater decoration, £18.95 (liberty.co.uk)

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Isobel Woolf (Chair) presenting a cheque to Richard Sewell (Rector, St. Mary’s Church Barnes)

Phot

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Claire & Jamie Singer - Hosts of the Barnes Charity Fashion Show Wrap Party

Isobel WoolfJudy Gowing, on behalf of the Friends of Viera Gray House, & Christine Penney

Guests enjoyed the festivities

An enjoyable time was had by all

Lisa Rollin Anne Gretton & Janet Monksfield

Nina Dimond-Brown & Lisa Mac

Nina Dimond-Brown, Lisa Mac & Isobel Woolf

Lisa Ross & Tom Ridley

Sarah Templeman & Jeremy Frearson

Patrick Findlater and Janet MonksfieldJeremy Frearson and Eddie Hartley

It’s a wrapOne month after the hugely successful 2014 Barnes Charity Fashion Show, the great and the good of SW13 gathered

to celebrate at the official after party. The Journal showcases some behind-the-scenes snaps from the event

Wedding Jewellery | Bespoke Commissions | Repairs/Redesigns11 Brewers Lane, Richmond, TW9 1HH | 0208 948 0886

Contemporary Handmade Jewellery

k a t e h o p w o o d j e w e l l e r y . c o m

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health & beauty NeWSStay happy and healthy this winter

TO DO Fight the fluDid you know that even if you don’t fall into the risk categories to be eligible for a free NHS flu jab, you can still pay for one privately in pharmacies and supermarkets across London? Councils in south-west London are urging residents to stay healthy this winter by getting vaccinated; children aged between two and four, people over 65, carers, pregnant women and those who have certain medical conditions or weakened immunity can receive a free jab.

Private flu jabs available at Boots, Superdrug, Lloyds Pharmacy, The Co-Operative Pharmacy, Asda, Sainsbury’s and Tesco stores across south-west London (nhs.uk/flu)

NEW TREATMENTS environ

New for this winter, B London Boutique is offering Environ skincare treatments, which use high concentrations of absorbable vitamins A, C, E and beta-carotene to help rebalance, regenerate and rehydrate the skin, reduce pigmentation and fine lines and repair and protect against photo-damage and pollution. Treatment options include the Active Vitamin, the Frown, the Hydra Boost, the Body Sculpt and the Cool Peel.

From £75, B London Boutique, 16 Barnes High Street, SW13 9LW, 020 8876 7577 (blondonboutique.com)

TRIED & TESTED Smoothskin Gold IPl hair RemovalFinding the time to shave every day or enduring weeks of fuzz while waiting for a wax are problems that most of us will understand. However, with the launch of a new IPL laser hair removal product, the Smoothskin Gold, those experiences could soon be things of the past. This futuristic gadget brings the world of expensive salon laser hair removal to you with easy-to-use settings, including a ‘detect and set’ feature that automatically sets the laser level to match the skin tone of the area you’re covering, and enough laser power to last through six years’ worth of treatments when following the specified programme.

£299, available at Boots stores across London, including 109 Putney High Street, SW15 1SS; 4 Queens Road, SW19 8YE; 60-64 George Street, TW9 1HF or online (smoothskin.co.uk)

FAST RESULTS yuKO three-week shine treatment

Sleek, shiny, well-conditioned hair is something everyone searches for, especially during the winter months when split ends and fly-aways are the enemy of polished looks. For south-west London residents, however, help is at hand in the form of a longer-lasting, nourishing treatment that seals split ends and leaves your hair feeling healthy and beautiful. Hair expert Sharon Landmann says that this formula is perfect for distressed, damaged or over-coloured hair as she layers on the different components in a relaxing and soothing experience that, happily, allows plenty of time to relax in her salon’s extremely comfortable washing station massage chairs. After a primer and several layers of conditioning treatments, Sharon finishes with a cuticle sealer which locks in moisture and leaves the mane feeling positively strokeable.

From £50, Lulu Blonde, 20 Ridgway, Wimbledon, SW19 4QN, 020 8947 2469 (lulublonde.com)

The Journal reveals its top hair and beauty secrets to protect against the harsh effects of the winter weather

Cheat the

Chill


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hair

BumBle and BumBle Hairdresser’s invisiBle Oil rangea moisture-intensive blend of six nourishing oils, this crystal-clear, light-as-air formula works on all hair types. infused with the superpowers of coconut oil, argan oil, macadamia nut oil, sweet almond oil, safflower seed oil and grapeseed oil, the new collection transforms hair in six ways – helping to soften, silken, tame, de-frizz, detangle and protect.

From £15, available from Boots stores and Bumble And Bumble stockists across south-west London, SpaceNK, 39A High Street, Wimbledon, SW19 5BY, 020 8947 9399, 34 Hill Street, Richmond, TW9 1TW, 020 8940 4332 or online at bumbleandbumble.co.uk.

‘When used together, this range left our hair strokeable, soft and manageable.’

The Journal rating:vaTika CaCTus rangealthough at the distinctly more affordable end-of-the-price spectrum, the new vatika Wild Cactus Oil range is designed to nourish and help repair hair, encouraging healthy new growth – perfect for those trying to lengthen their locks. Cactus oil, as the main ingredient, has a high concentration of omega fatty acids and vitamin B5, as well as the ability to store water for long periods of time – an excellent weapon against the debilitating chill of the British winter.

From £2.49, available from Superdrug, Tesco, Asda and Wilko stores across south-west London, or on amazon.com (vatikanaturals.co.uk).

‘left our hair feeling squeaky-clean but still very soft and nourished. excellent value for money.’

The Journal rating:

aveda dry remedy rangeWhile the beauty world obsessed over the benefits of argan oil, aveda researchers went out and found something better – buriti oil; an intensely moisturising ingredient harvested from the fruit of the moriche palm, which flourishes in Brazil’s wettest areas. The dry remedy range can instantly help improve the condition of parched hair by up to 66 per cent, leaving it soft, supple and shiny.

From £19.50, available at Aveda salons across south-west London, or online at aveda.co.uk.

‘The oil in these products left our hair shiny and easy to manage and smelling like we’d been to the hairdressers – all without any greasy residue.’

The Journal rating:


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skin

L’KerabeLLe Keratin rangeKeratin has long been lauded as a saviour for dry, frizzy hair. Specialists in keratin treatments, L’Kerabelle’s new range is packed with the elixir that claims to help repair the hair’s natural protective layer of keratin that becomes damaged through exposure to sun, salt and harsh weather. the products are low in salt, too, to ensure that your barnet has bounce.

From £12.75, available at Making Waves, 54 Church Road, Barnes, SW13 0DQ, 020 8748 5654, Hector’s Global Hair With Zeal, 73 Lower Richmond Road, Mortlake, SW14 7HJ, 020 8878 7069 or online at dnlhair.co.uk.

‘this range covers everything; a great smell, soft-to-touch, shiny hair – plus we found we didn’t need to use any other styling products afterwards.’

The Journal rating:

baLance Me SteLLar beauty baLMDescribed as a ‘one-pot wonder’, this balm rehydrates skin on both the face and body and regulates skin prone to uneven oil production. containing an antioxidant-rich vitamin e complex, more than 60 per cent organic shea butter, plus mango, coconut and cocoa butters, this treatment has multitude of purposes. enjoy as a hydrating overnight mask, a lip balm, cuticle cream and to calm itchy insect bites, to help prevent cold sores and soothe burns, cuts and grazes.

£18 for 30ml, available from Waitrose East Sheen, 292 Upper Richmond Road West, SW14 7JG, 020 8878 4792, Whole Foods Market Richmond, 1-3 George Street, TW9 1AB, 020 8334 4130 or online at balanceme.co.uk

‘it was soothing on our skin, but we found it a little greasy at times. Definitely one for dry rather than oily skin.’

the Journal rating:

eve LoM MoiSture MaSKcreated as a solution for skin exposed to damaging influences like harsh weather and central heating, this mask is formulated with a targeted blend of ingredients, including the eve Lom advanced moisture complex. Designed to rehydrate the skin and to prevent future water loss, this mask should be used once or twice a week to help protect and repair.

£65 for 100ml, available from B London Boutique, 16 Barnes High Street, SW13 9LW, 020 8876 7577 and SpaceNK, 39A High Street, Wimbledon, SW19 5BY, 020 8947 9399, 34 Hill Street, Richmond, TW9 1TW, 020 8940 4332 or online at evelom.com

‘We could practically feel our skin heave a sigh of relief as we slathered on this mask – it would be a great addition to a long-haul flight survival kit.’

The Journal rating:

nuDe ProgeniuS oMega treatMentthings get scientific for this new anti-ageing oil that’s rich in omega three, six, seven and nine, providing a precisely balanced diet for the skin. Happy customers report up to a reduction in wrinkles just one hour after application, and extra hydration after 24 hours. impressive – especially given its relatively high-street price.

£58 for 30ml, available from SpaceNK Wimbledon and Richmond or online at nudeskincare.com.

‘after a few applications, we noticed our skin was glowing and felt firmer and well-nourished.’

the Journal rating:

SiSLey bLacK roSe PreciouS oiLcomposed of five plant-based active ingredients, including extract of avocado, camelina oil and plum oil (rich in omega three and six acids, with restorative and hydrating properties) this silky-smooth dry oil prepares and nourishes to help restore suppleness, vitality and renewed vibrancy in dry or dehydrated skin.

£136 for 25ml, available from House of Fraser, 80 George Street, Richmond, TW9 1HA, 020 8940 7761, Ely’s, 16 St George’s Road, Wimbledon, SW19 4DP, 020 8946 9191, SpaceNK Wimbledon and Richmond or online at sisley-paris.com.

‘it was as luxurious on our skin as the price suggests, without leaving an oily feel. We kept wanting to stroke our cheeks!’

the Journal rating:

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Local events

Creative ChristmasStrawberry Hill House will host two child-friendly craft sessions this month. Make personalised Christmas cards on 13 December or use traditional marbling techniques on 14 December to design wrapping paper and tags for that extra-special gift.

13-14 December, £9 per child, 1pm, suitable for ages three and over, children under eight must be accompanied by an adult. Strawberry Hill House, 268 Waldegrave Road, Twickenham, TW1 4ST, 020 8744 1241 (strawberryhillhouse.org.uk)

Christmaswith the kids

sw13 sing-a-longSing along with the Frozen gang at this special viewing of the most popular film to come out of the Walt Disney studios in recent years. Join Elsa, Anna, Sven, Kristoff and the lovable Olaf in a frosty and fun adventure.

14 December, £10, £5 children, concessions available, 11am. The Olympic Studios & Cinema, 117-123 Church Road, Barnes, SW13 9HL, 020 8912 5161 (the-studios.co.uk)

A magical nightTake a ride with Santa and his sidekicks in the popular

annual show Santa Claus and the Magical Christmas Journey. Christmas Eve is going according to schedule when suddenly, over Wimbledon, the sat nav goes haywire and breaks, leaving Santa stranded without his list of postcodes to deliver presents to. Who will save Christmas? A festive adventure filled with songs, nursery rhymes and stories for little ones.

1-24 December , from £12.50, performances at 10.30am, 2.30pm and 4.30pm. New

Wimbledon Studio, The Broadway, SW19 1QG, 0844 871 7646 (atgtickets.com/wimbledon)

Making munchies Keep sweet-toothed terrors busy decorating their very own gingerbread house in a creative event at the OSO Arts Centre. Parents are in charge of supervising their offspring, but they can do it with a glass of mulled wine in hand.

14 December, £15 per child plus £5 non-membership charge, 2-4pm. OSO Arts Centre, 49 Station Road, Barnes, SW13 0LF (mrssw13.com)

© Disney & related picture studios

Events to keep the children distracted in the run-up to the big day

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Further afieldFollow the starDidn’t know about the fourth wise man who made the long journey to see baby Jesus in the manger? Neither did we – but he and his camel are starring in the new production The Fourth Wise Man at the Unicorn Theatre this winter. It’s sure to be a funny and heart-warming show that will leave you with a decidedly Christmassy glow.

Until 4 January, tickets £10-£16, for full performance schedule, see the website. Unicorn Theatre, 147 Tooley Street, Southwark, SE1 2HZ, 020 7645 0560 (unicorntheatre.com)

Where to meet SantaJolly old Saint Nick will be making an appearance across south-west London in time for Christmas

SQUIRES GARDEN CENTREWeekends 22 November-24 December

Santa will be in-situ all month, giving out presents to good boys and girls.

Free, 10.30am-4pm Saturdays, 10.30am-3.30pm Sundays (22-23 December, 10.30am-5pm; 24 December, 10.30am-2pm). Santa will not be at his grotto from 1pm-2pm daily.

Sixth Cross Road, Twickenham, TW2 5PA, 020 8977 9241 (squiresgardencentres.co.uk)

WWT WETLANDS CENTRE6-7 December

Aside from the big guy in red, there are lots of other festive activities taking place this weekend, including meeting some friendly huskies, shire

horses and reindeer.

£5 per child plus admission, 10am-4pm. WWT London, Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes, SW13 9WT,

020 8409 4400 (wwt.org.uk)

HAM HOUSE6-7, 13-14, 20-23 December

Follow the trail through the gardens until you find Father Christmas with his goodie bag of gifts.

£3.50 per child plus admission, 10am-3.30pm. Ham Street, Ham, Richmond, TW10 7RS, 020 8940 1950

(nationaltrust.org.uk/ham-house)

EDDIE CATZ8-23 December

Father Christmas comes to Eddie Catz in Wimbledon this month with his magical winter wonderland, giving little ones a chance to make

sparkling reindeer food and write a letter to Santa. There will also be a professional photographer on

hand to capture the moment.

Weekdays £15, 10am-12pm and 3pm-6pm; weekends £20, 10am-6pm; 22-23 December £20. 42 Station Road, SW19

2LP, 020 8540 9956 (santasgrotto.london)

courtesy of WWT London Wetlands Centre

A breath of frosty airWrap up warm and head out in the fresh winter air to explore the WWT London Wetlands Centre, where, despite the cold, there’s still plenty to see. From colourful ducks to nature crafts, a Twelve Days of Christmas trail and even a special How the Wetlands Saved Christmas show exploring the outdoors just got festive.

20-24 December, free with entry, 10.30am-11am and 2.30pm-3pm winter show, 11.30am-12.30pm and 3.30pm-4.30pm festive nature crafts. WWT London, Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes, SW13 9WT, 020 8409 4400 (wwt.org.uk)

Let’s go exploringBe whisked away to the icy world of the South Pole, where only the bravest explorers venture, in a new production by the award-winning theatre company Little Bulb. Antarctica is an unforgettable journey with songs, puppets and plenty of snowy surprises – travellers will have maps to read and critters to spot in this interactive show.

2 December to 4 January, tickets £14, children and concessions £9, weekdays 2-18 December at 10.30am and 1.30pm, all other dates (including weekends) at 11am and 2.30pm. Battersea Arts Centre, Lavender Hill, SW11 5TN, 020 7223 2223 (bac.org.uk)

Image by Paul Blakemore

© NT Arnhel de Serra

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Parent traP: naPPy Valley net richmond NappyValleyNet.com has become an online sensation in the four years since founder Susan Hanage, aka. Annabel, launched it, with more than 130,000 visits to the site every month. An invaluable tool for parents based in south-west London who are seeking to swap tips and share advice, we’ve teamed up to post some of the most pressing topics posted on the site

Unsure about school play datesI wonder if I’m being overcautious with regards to play dates. Suddenly I’ve found myself in after-school playtime territory and I’m totally bewildered at how keen some mums are to organise them, often quite happy to let a relative stranger pick up their child after school and take them to their house.I wouldn’t let a nice mum from the park take my child to play at a different location, so why is it so different in this situation?

Top replies:

Thu 23 Oct, 2014 8.43am

Your child’s school is (along with their home) the most important place in their life. Relationships are made in the playground that may last a lifetime. I love play dates; much like dinner parties, you tend to reciprocate and soon you won’t need to pick up your son/daughter some days as they’ll happily trot off to their friends’ houses to play, leaving you with some free time.

You do hear scary stories, but they tend to be about smaller issues like catching nits or cultural differences (‘Why don’t we say Grace?/Why can’t we watch TV in the living room with our dinner on trays?’) rather than child safety.

Thu 23 Oct, 2014 9.31am

I completely understand your reservations, however I’d urge you not to turn down play dates on this basis as they’re so important. Perhaps you could arrange to have them at your house/the playground/go out for tea to start with until you are comfortable with the children and their parents, and then you can start branching out.

When I was a teacher, I’d advise parents to set up these arrangments, as having the chance to build social skills is a crucial part of growing up, including having the confidence to interact with others in unfamiliar environments.

Thu 23 Oct, 2014 10.42am

I understand your concerns, but I really don’t think that you have anything to worry about. Play dates are an important part of growing up. I have three children who must have been on 100 or more between them, and the worst stories usually come down to ‘so-and-so wouldn’t let me wear her Princess Elsa dress!’ The excitement a child shows when planning and looking forward to these occasions is a wonderful thing to witness, and it can be where friendships are cemented. It is also very helpful for parents to occasionally be able to call on each other for help when they have appointments or are unwell, for example. In terms of the extra workload, as the children get older, they often disappear upstairs to play together, only emerging to be fed, so don’t worry, they’re not too much extra trouble.

Thu 23 Oct, 2014 12.01pm

I think it’s a positive thing that so many children would like to play with your little one after school. It’s daunting moving into play date territory, especially when you don’t know the other parents well, but I have found them to be a great way to build new friendships (for the child and the parent). Perhaps you could have another child over first and invite the mother/father/nanny too?

Thu 23 Oct, 2014 5.51pm

It’s definitely a tricky area and one that I also struggled with when my son started school last September. The way I handled it was to be completely honest with other mothers about it, and I was pleasantly surprised to find that it was a common concern. I hosted a number of these events with other parents and accompanied my son to a couple without it being

uncomfortable at all. By the end of the first term I was completely relaxed about it as I felt I knew the

other children and parents well enough.

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Planning & DeveloPment

Keeping you in the know about important street plans affecting south-west London

STREET

Church Walk

Clarence Lane

Gloucester Road

Lower Common South

Vicarage Road

Walpole Road

pLannEd WoRk

Storage of materials, cabin, spoil for the gasworks in Church Walk and Fairway

Footway reconstruction

Carry out carriageway patching repairs

Gas main replacement

Carry out footway patching repairs

Install 5m of one-way poly duct in footway

daTES

Until 5 december

Until 19 december

1-12 december

Until 26 January

Until 19 december

Until 5 december

WoRkS oWnER

Southern Gas networks 0845 026 0015

Wandsworth 020 8871 6000

Richmond Upon Thames 020 8891 1411

Southern Gas networks

Richmond Upon Thames

British Telecommunications plc 0800 800 150

Planned roadworks and closures in and around December

Planning applications

daTE RECEIVEd: 10 SeptemberaddRESS: Gartmoor GardenspRopoSaL: Erection of rear extension over rear addition

daTE RECEIVEd: 13 octoberaddRESS: Chilton RoadpRopoSaL: Construction of single-storey rear and side extension

daTE RECEIVEd: 15 octoberaddRESS: Evelyn RoadpRopoSaL: Construction of a fence, arbour and bin/recycling store

daTE RECEIVEd: 15 octoberaddRESS: Richmond park RoadpRopoSaL: proposed hip to gable loft extension and new box dormer to rear

daTE RECEIVEd: 16 octoberaddRESS: kingston RoadpRopoSaL: Removal of existing shop front

daTE RECEIVEd: 17 octoberaddRESS: Russell RoadpRopoSaL: Erection of a hip to gable and rear roof extension

Parking payment upgradeLocal residents will be thrilled to hear that cashless parking services are now available across the borough in all 14 council-owned car parks, offering an alternative to hunting for elusive change down the back of car seats. RingGo allows drivers to pay via the app by calling, sending a text message or paying online; it even lets you top up your ticket without returning to your vehicle.

Merton Council cabinet member for environmental cleanliness and parking councillor Judy Saunders said: ‘not only have we saved people money by freezing the cost of resident parking permits for the last four years, but we’re also making it easier for people to park in our town centres. RingGo cashless parking makes life a lot more convenient and reduces the risk of receiving a parking charge notice, which brings great relief to our residents.’

The pre-existing ticket machines have been left in place so that people can still pay with cash if they prefer, but the council plans to roll out the new cashless service across all 3,600 council-operated on-street parking bays by January.

(myringgo.co.uk)

Free RinGo App, Hartfield car park, Wimbledon

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CounCils

Merton Council London Borough of MertonCivic CentreLondon Road, SM4 5DX020 8274 4901merton.gov.uk(Large or Bulky Household waste collection, Merton Council: 020 8274 4902)

Richmond CouncilCivic Centre 44 York StreetTwickenham, TW1 3BZ0845 6122 660richmond.gov.uk

Wandsworth CouncilThe Town Hall Wandsworth High StreetSW18 2PU020 8871 6000wandsworth.gov.uk

Post offiCes

Church Road96 Church Road, SW13 0DQ

Danebury Avenue31a Danebury Avenue SW15 4DG

East Sheen234 Upper Richmond Road WestSW14 8AG

Haydons Road317 Haydons RoadSW19 8TX

Raynes Park1a Amity Grove, SW20 0LL

Richmond16-17 George Street, TW9 1JSpostoffice.co.uk

Vets and Pets

M.A. Dog Training and Services07547 [email protected]

Richmond Vets161 Kew Road, RichmondTW9 2PN020 8940 1090richmondvets.co.uk

The Vet on Richmond Hill 38 Friars Stile RoadRichmondTW10 6NQ 020 8948 3737thevetonrichmondhill.com

dentists

Arthur Road Dental Practice172 Arthur RoadWimbledonSW19 8AQ020 8946 2646dentistsw19.com

Roseneath Dental CareCorner of Mount Ararat & Paradise Road, Richmond TW10 6PA, 020 8940 9955roseneath.co.uk

The DirecToryWhether whim or wish, all of the essentials are taken care

of in our round up for harmonious living

Stephen Powell Orthodontics2a Barham RoadWimbledonSW20 0EU020 8946 3064 orthodontist-wimbledon.co.uk

doCtors

Coombe Medical Practice13 Brook GardensKingston upon ThamesKT2 7ET020 8605 0044coombemedicalpractice.co.uk

Richmond Practice - Private doctors’ service19 Sheen Road (Opposite Waitrose carpark) RichmondTW9 1AD020 8940 5009richmondpractice.co.uk

Seymour House Surgery154 Sheen RoadRichmondTW9 1UU020 8940 2802 richmondsurgery.co.uk

LifesaversSheen Lane Health CentreSheen LaneSW14 8LP020 8876 3901sheenlanehealthcentre.co.uk

oPtiCian

David Clulow Opticians5 George StreetRichmond, TW9 1JY020 8332 0345davidclulow.com

soliCitors

Dixon Ward16 The Green, TW9 1QD020 8940 4051dixon-ward.co.uk

Russell-Cooke Solicitors2 Putney Hill, SW15 6AB020 8789 9111russell-cooke.co.uk

Cleaners

Bright And Sparkling 113 Harbridge Avenue, SW15 4HA07717 307095bright-and-sparkling.co.uk

Holy Cross25 Sandal RoadNew Malden, Surrey, KT3 5AR020 8395 4225holycross.kingston.sch.uk

eDUCaTiONRokeby SchoolGeorge Road, Kingston uponThames, Surrey, KT2 7PB020 8942 2247rokebyschool.co.uk

IBSTOCK PLACE SCHOOL(Pre-preparatory, Preparatory and Senior School: ages 3-18)Clarence Lane, Roehampton, SW15 5PY020 8876 9991ibstockplaceschool.co.uk

ortHodontists

Wimbledon Orthodontic Practice‘Registered Specialist Orthodontists practising in the area since 1996’18 Tabor GroveWimbledon, SW19 4EB020 8944 0180info@wimbledon-orthodontist.co.ukwimbledon-orthodontist.co.uk

- 34 - - 35 -

Architects

Andrew Catto Architects154 Putney High Street, SW15 1RS020 8785 0077 andrewcatto.co.uk

Bob Trimble Architects36 York StreetTwickenham, TW1 3LJ020 8538 9303 trimblearchitect.co.uk

GPS Architects14 The GreenRichmond, TW9 1PX020 8940 8244gpsarchitects.co.uk

Holden Harper26 High StreetWimbledon, SW19 5BY020 8879 0310holdenharper.co.uk

Regallis Associates‘A south west London staple which has delivered bespoke architectural designs to suit conversions, extensions or complete refurbishments since 2003’The Mews12 Lower Richmond RoadSW15 1JP020 7384 2228regallis.co.uk

Antiques

The Gooday Gallery14 Richmond HillRichmondTW10 6QX020 8940 8652thegoodaygallery.com

MuseuMs/GAlleries

Henry Boxer Gallery (visits by appointment only) 98 Stuart CourtRichmond HillTW10 6RJ020 8948 1633 outsiderart.co.uk

Lacy Road Gallery30 Lacy RoadSW15 1NL020 8789 1777 lacyroadgallery.co.uk

Landmark Art GalleryLandmark Arts CentreFerry Road, TeddingtonTW11 9NN020 8977 7558 landmarkartscentre.org

Orleans House Gallery Riverside TwickenhamTW1 3DJ020 8831 6000

Richmond Hill Gallery 26 Richmond HillRichmond, TW10 6QX020 8940 5152 therichmondhillgallery.com

Riverside Gallery 36 Barnes High StreetSW13 9LP020 8878 0040 riversidegallery.co.uk

Strawberry Hill House (Horace Walpole’s Gothic Castle) 268 Waldegrave Road Twickenham, TW1 4ST020 8744 1241 strawberryhillhouse.org.uk

The Architect’s GalleryThe Powder Rooms69-71 Broad StreetTeddington, TW11 8QZ020 8977 6999 thearchitectsgallery.com

The Museum of RichmondOld Town Hall, Whittaker Avenue Richmond, TW9 1TP020 8322 1141 museumofrichmond.com

The Russell Gallery12 Lower Richmond RoadPutney, SW15 1JP020 8780 5228russell-gallery.com

home & Culture

The Twickenham Museum 25 The Embankment Twickenham, Middlesex, TW1 3DU020 8408 0070 twickenham-museum.org.uk

Will’s Art Warehouse180 Lower Richmond RoadPutney Common, SW15 1LY020 8246 4840 wills-art.com

Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club Church RoadWimbledon, SW19 5AE020 8946 6131

Wimbledon Windmill Museum Windmill RoadWimbledon Common SW19 5NR020 8947 2825 wimbledonwindmill.org.uk

theAtres

New Wimbledon TheatreThe BroadwayWimbledonSW19 1QG020 8545 7900

Normansfield Theatre The Langdon Down CentreNormansfield2A Langdon Park, TW11 9PS0333 121 2300 langdondowncentre.org.uk

Orange Tree Theatre1 Clarence StreetRichmond, TW9 2SA020 8940 0141orangetreetheatre.co.uk

Polka Theatre 240 The BroadwayWimbledon, SW19 1SB020 8543 4888polkatheatre.com

Putney Arts Theatre Ravenna Road, Putney, SW15 6AW020 8788 6943 putneyartstheatre.org.uk

Richmond Theatre The Green, Richmond, TW9 1QJ 020 8332 4500

Step on Stage Academy of Performing Arts The Whitehouse Community Centre45 The Avenue, Hampton, TW12 3RNsteponstageacademy.co.uk

Teddington Theatre Club Hampton Hill Playhouse90 High Street, Hampton HillTW12 1NZ0845 838 7529 teddingtontheatreclub.org.uk

The Bearcat Comedy Club The Turk’s Head28 Winchester RoadSt Margaret’sTwickenhamTW1 1LF020 8607 9190 bearcatcomedy.co.uk

The Half Moon 93 Lower Richmond, SW15 1EU020 8780 9383 halfmoon.co.uk

The Richmond Shakespeare Society The Mary Wallace TheatreThe Embankment, Twickenham TW1 3DU020 8744 0547 richmondshakespeare.org.uk

The Rose Theatre24-26 High StreetKingston, KT1 1HL020 8546 6983 rosetheatrekingston.org

entertainment

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- 37 -

Your local agents

Carter Jonas44 White Hart LaneSW13 0PZ020 8878 1115 (carterjonas.co.uk)

ChestertonsBarnes Village133 Church RoadSW13 9HR020 3603 4320 (sales)020 3603 9065 (lettings)

East Sheen254a Upper Richmond Road WestSW14 8AG020 8104 0580 (sales)020 8104 0580 (lettings)

Kew306 Sandycombe RoadTW9 3NG020 8104 0340 (sales)020 8104 0340 (lettings)

North Barnes192 CastlenauSW13 9DH 020 8748 8833 (sales) 020 8748 7733 (lettings)

Putney153 Upper Richmond RoadSW15 2TX020 8246 5959 (sales)020 8704 1000 (lettings) chestertons.com

Douglas & GordonPutney 127 Lower Richmond Road SW15 1EZ 020 8785 6666douglasandgordon.com

HamptonsBarnes 67 Barnes High StreetSW13 9LD020 8658 7344 (sales)020 8970 7895 (lettings)

East Sheen 252 Upper Richmond Road WestSW14 8AG020 8454 7247 (sales)020 8936 3028 (lettings)

Putney184 Upper Richmond RoadSW15 2SH020 8454 7243 (sales)020 8454 7259 (lettings)

Richmond 8 The QuadrantTW9 1BP020 8454 7251 (sales)020 8454 7261 (lettings)

Teddington 164 High StreetTW11 8HU020 8970 7902 (sales)020 8970 7906 (lettings)

WimbledonHigh StreetSW19 5BA020 8454 7249 (sales)020 8454 7265 (lettings)hamptons.co.uk

Knight FrankBarnes & Putney81 High StreetSW19 5EG020 8946 0026

EsherThe Old Post HouseHigh StreetKT10 9QA01372 464496

Richmond5 Duke Street TW9 1HP020 8939 2803

Wimbledon 81 High StreetSW19 5EG020 8946 0026knightfrank.co.uk

Marsh & Parsons Barnes73/75 Church RoadSW13 9HH020 8563 8333

East Sheen202 Upper Richmond Road SW14 8AN 020 8878 2828

Richmond1 The Quadrant TW9 1BP 020 8939 1770marshandparsons.co.uk

Robert Holmes & CoWimbledonWillow House35 High StreetSW19 5BY020 8947 9833 (sales and new homes)

11-13 Church RoadSW19 5DW020 8879 9669 (lettings)robertholmes.co.uk

SavillsBarnes52 Barnes High StreetSW13 9LN020 8939 6900

East Sheen298a Upper Richmond Road West SW14 7JG 020 8018 777

Putney198 Upper Richmond RoadSW15 2SH020 8780 9900

Richmond40-42 Hill RiseTW10 6UA020 8614 9100

Wimbledon1 High StreetSW19 5DX020 8971 8111savills.co.uk

WinkworthBarnes2 Barnes High StreetSW13 9LB020 8255 0088 (sales)020 8878 7966 (lettings)

Putney196 Upper Richmond RoadSW15 2SH020 8788 9295

Wimbledon37 Church RoadSW19 5DQ020 8946 2930 winkworth.co.uk

- 36 - - 37 -


Savills announces the launch of its new East Sheen office

PROPERTY WATCH

New beginnings

Savills is pleased to announce its latest office in East Sheen, which opened its doors on 3 November. The property market in south-west

London has performed exceptionally well over the past year, with Savills’ new office responding to demand from vendors, landlords, buyers and tenants alike. The East Sheen sales team is headed up by Michael Randall, who has 17 years’ experience as a local agent, while Emily O’Garra will lead the lettings department.

Michael told the Journal: ‘There’s a great variety of housing stock in East Sheen, providing families with highly sought-after lateral space and larger gardens in comparison with other areas of London. A significant number of properties fall into the £1million to

£3million price bracket and are well-positioned to meet the consistent buyer demand we’ve experienced in this section of the market.’

Emily continued: ‘Nestled between Barnes and Richmond, we’ve seen an increasing number of tenants extending their property search into East Sheen. The new office is perfectly positioned to expand our remit and complement the existing Savills offices in the area. This leafy, residential patch is particularly popular with families thanks to its strong community spirit, proximity to Richmond Park and outstanding local schools.’ n

Savills East Sheen, 298a Upper Richmond Road West, SW14 7JG, 020 8018 7777 (savills.co.uk)

FIFE ROAD FOCUS

Guide price: £5.95millionAn exceptional newly-built detached property offering more than 5,000 sq ft of spectacular living and entertaining space, finished to an exacting standard throughout and purpose-built to fulfil the highest sustainability specification.

Guide price: £5.5millionA detached residence occupying a plot of more than half an acre, with magnificent south-facing gardens and floor-to-ceiling windows backing directly onto Richmond Park.

For further information on either property, contact Savills East Sheen on 020 8018 7777

This is one of the most desirable and exclusive addresses in East Sheen, located in a picturesque conservation area adjacent to Sheen Common and Richmond Park, offering easy access to excellent local schools, shops and sporting facilities and just a short drive from Richmond.

Savills currently has two properties available on Fife Road:

- 38 - - 39 -


Luke Ellwood and James Williams have worked together for 10 years, and eight of those have been spent building the stellar reputation of the Knight Frank Richmond

office. As James prepares to branch out to lead the team at the brand’s new Barnes and Putney office, we caught up with the pair to discuss why their partnership is successful and why Richmond has been such an important training ground.

‘We’ve always worked very well in business together with regards to how we pitch to our clients,’ James begins. ‘I’ve learned a lot from Luke; attention to detail, professionalism and the way in which clients are dealt with. The beauty of south-west London is that it has a very different feel – and it needs a certain type of character to look after it. Those skills can only be taught by someone with

the kind of experience and in-depth knowledge that Luke, as the south-west London regional head responsible for seven offices, has.’

Both James and Luke are keen to stress that the opening of the new Barnes and Putney office won’t change the fundamental dynamics of their partnership. ‘Our relationship and the partnership between the two offices is a microcosm of the Knight Frank ethos – working together as a big team and collaborating with the rest of the network,’ Luke explains. ‘The new office highlights one of the most important things we’ve learned in the business, which is to be able to constantly adapt to new situations,’

he continues. ‘The market is always throwing up challenges, whether you’re talking about the proposed mansion tax and concerns about a general election, interest rate rises or problems in the Eurozone. When the market becomes difficult, our skills and expertise allow us to continue to operate in an efficient way.’

‘In the Marines, we used to have a saying: improvise, adapt and overcome,’ James chimes in. ‘I think that fits quite well with the conditions of our job. Things aren’t exactly easy out there in the market at the moment, so we have to improvise and adapt to make headway and, in doing so, we overcome the obstacles.’

Although more unstable times are approaching in the run-up to next year’s general election, neither Luke nor James foresees serious problems in their patches. ‘The local property market is a relatively stable one,’ Luke elaborates. ‘Despite the loom of a

potential mansion tax hanging over our heads, most of the clients looking to buy or sell property in this area are doing so for important life reasons – whether that’s moving closer to good schools, downsizing after the kids have left home, or leaving central London to find a bit more for their money,’ he continues. ‘There’s no panic selling, no forced scenarios – people will sell their properties when the conditions and values are right for them, meaning that this local market tends to survive tougher periods very well, as those circumstances don’t change.’

James will be replaced in the Richmond office by experienced and knowledgeable local agent Oscar Doyle, but that doesn’t mean an end to this important partnership. ‘We’ll continue to work as we have done for years; as a team,’ James confirms. ‘We share the same ideals as far as looking after clients and giving them the best service and even though I’m now based in Barnes, the synergy between the two areas is such that our new office just feels like an extra desk in the Richmond branch rather than an entirely new location.’ n

Richmond office: 5 Duke Street, TW9 1HP, 020 8939 2800; Barnes office: 56 Barnes High Street, SW13 9LF, 020 3371 3130 (knightfrank.co.uk)

It takes twoThe Journal meets two agents representing the perfect

Knight Frank partnership in south-west London

Our relationship and the partnership between the two offices is a microcosm of the Knight Frank ethos

20 Montague Road

Old Friars, The Green, Richmond TW9 A wonderful Grade II* Listed house Positioned in the centre of Richmond overlooking Richmond Green. 12 bedrooms, 5 bath/shower rooms, 6 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, utility, 2 studies, 4 cloakrooms, large south‐west facing gardens, cinema building, offices, greenhouse, cellar, garaging, off‐street parking. Approximately 1254 sq m ﴾13,500 sq ft﴿

Freehold

Guide price: £12,750,000

﴾POD140426﴿

KnightFrank.co.uk/richmond [email protected] 020 8939 2800

KnightFrank.co.uk

SW Resident's Journal Dec 14 - Old Friars 7 24/11/2014 11:03:30

Roedean Crescent, London SW15 An amazing lateral family house Exceptional house with large garden backing onto Palewell Common. 6 bedrooms, 4 bath/shower rooms, 6 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, entrance hall, separate studio, garden, garage, off‐street parking, carriage driveway. EPC rating D. Approximately 624 sq m ﴾6,716 sq ft﴿

Freehold


﴾RCH130029﴿

KnightFrank.co.uk/richmond [email protected] 020 8939 2800

KnightFrank.co.uk

SW Resident's Journal Dec 14 - Richmond House 4 24/11/2014 09:57:47

Lonsdale Road, Barnes SW13 Four bedroom house in a prime location in Barnes An excellent opportunity to acquire an un‐extended semi‐detached period house. 4 bedrooms, family bathroom, 2 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, utility, loft room, cloakroom, front and rear gardens. EPC rating E. Approximately 200 sq m ﴾2,152sq ft﴿.

Freehold


﴾BNS140006﴿

KnightFrank.co.uk/barnes [email protected] 020 3371 3130

KnightFrank.co.uk

SW Resi Journal - Dec 65 Lonsdale 27/11/2014 16:09:11

Larpent Avenue, Putney SW15 Another quality home by Kellerlondon An exceptional family house set behind an original Victorian front facade. 6 bedrooms, 5 bath/shower rooms, drawing room, study, kitchen/family room, utility, gym, cinema room, wine cellar, landscaped garden, terrace, lap pool, off street parking. EPC rating E. Approximately 506.3 sq m ﴾5,450 sq ft﴿.

Freehold


﴾BNS140002﴿

KnightFrank.co.uk/barnes [email protected] 020 3371 3130

KnightFrank.co.uk

SW Resi Journal Dec - Larpent 27/11/2014 17:42:51

Belvedere Grove, Wimbledon Village SW19

Beautifully light and with well-proportioned rooms and lovely garden. Master bedroom with en suite bathroom, 4 further bedrooms, 2 family bathrooms, family room, drawing room, kitchen/breakfast room, cellar, WC, garden, off street parking. EPC rating E. Approximately 237.6 sq m (2,557 sq ft) Freehold

Guide price: £3,250,000 KnightFrank.co.uk/wimbledon [email protected] 020 8946 0026

(WND130049)

Coombe Park, Kingston Upon Thames KT2Prestige and Quality Stunning, recently built 7 bedroom home. Master bedroom suite with his and her dressing room, 6 further bedrooms (4 en suite), family bathroom, reception hall, drawing room, dining room, kitchen/ breakfast/ family room, utility, cloakroom, garden. EPC Rating C. Approximately 626.7 m sq (6,746 sq ft) Freehold Guide price: £4,750,000 KnightFrank.co.uk/wimbledon [email protected] 020 8946 0026

(WND130244)

KnightFrank.co.uk

Charming family period house

Head Office

Marylebone & Regent’s Park

Mayfair & St James’s

Knightsbridge & Chelsea

Hyde Park & Bayswater

Holland Park & Notting Hill

Wandsworth Common

Fulham Bishop’s Park

Fulham Parsons Green

Barnes

Barnes Village

GR

OW

TH

HelpinG mORe Of lOndOn THan eveR befOReAcross the capital, our teams work hard to help sellers and buyers realise their dreams and ambitions. Our expanding network of London offices covers Knightsbridge & Chelsea, Mayfair & St James’s, Hyde Park & Bayswater, Holland Park & Notting Hill, Marylebone & Regent’s Park, Fulham, Wandsworth and now open in Barnes and Barnes Village.

Head Office T: 020 7518 3200

Barnes T: 020 8878 1115

Barnes Village T: 020 8741 7400

Fulham Bishop’s Park T: 020 7731 3333

Fulham Parsons Green T: 020 7751 8898

Holland Park & Notting Hill T: 020 7371 1111

Hyde Park & Bayswater T: 020 7402 1552

Knightsbridge & Chelsea T: 020 7584 7020

Marylebone & Regent’s Park T: 020 7486 8866

Mayfair & St James’s T: 020 7493 0676

Wandsworth Common T: 020 8767 7711

1

savills.co.uk

Savills WimbledonJames [email protected]

020 8971 8111

3/4 reception rooms ø family kitchen ø 6 bedrooms ø 3 bath/shower roomsø landscaped garden ø stylishly refurbished and extended ø Wimbledon Park 600mø 274 sq m (2,949 sq ft) ø EPC=D

AN OUTSTANDING PERIOD FAMILY HOUSEdora road, sw19

Guide £2.35 million Freehold

1

savills.co.uk

Savills PutneyCaroline [email protected]

020 8780 9900

4 reception rooms ø kitchen/breakfast room ø 6 bedrooms ø family bathroom ø cellarø garden ø shared driveway ø separate garage ø 364 sq m (3,918 sq ft) ø EPC=E

A SUBSTANTIAL PERIOD HOUSE WITH MAGNIFICENT SOUTH-FACING GARDENdryburgh road, sw15

Guide £2.495 million Freehold

LETTINGS LAYOUT ONLY

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21savills.co.uk

*£36 inc VAT for each additional tenant/occupant/guarantor reference where required. Inventory check out fee – charged at the end of or early termination of the tenancy and the amount is dependent on the property size and whether furnished/unfurnished. For more details, visit www.savills.co.uk/fees.

Furnished £2,600 pcm+ £276 inc VAT one-off admin fee and other charges may apply*

3 bedrooms ø 2 reception rooms ø kitchen ø 2 bathroomsø communal gardens ø off-street parkingø 93 sq m (1,010 sq ft) ø Council Tax=D ø EPC=D

MANOR FIELDS, sw15

Savills Putney [email protected] 020 8780 6117

Unfurnished £2,300 pcm+ £276 inc VAT one-off admin fee and other charges may apply*

2 bedrooms ø reception room ø kitchen ø 2 bathroomsø communal gym and swimming pool ø parkingø 85 sq m (917 sq ft) ø Council Tax=F ø EPC=C

KEBLE PLACE, sw13

Savills Barnes [email protected] 020 8939 6914


4 bedrooms ø double reception room ø dining room ø kitchenø 2 bathrooms ø garden ø 267 sq m (2,874 sq ft)ø Council Tax=G ø EPC=E

THE CRESCENT, sw13

Savills Barnes [email protected] 020 8939 6914


5 bedrooms ø 2 reception rooms ø kitchen ø 3 bathroomsø garden ø off-street parking ø 321 sq m (3,455 sq ft) ø Council Tax=H ø EPC=B

MERCIER ROAD, sw15

Savills Putney [email protected] 020 8780 6117

LETTINGS LAYOUT ONLY

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21savills.co.uk

*£36 inc VAT for each additional tenant/occupant/guarantor reference where required. Inventory check out fee – charged at the end of or early termination of the tenancy and the amount is dependent on the property size and whether furnished/unfurnished. For more details, visit www.savills.co.uk/fees.

Flexible furnishings £6,950 pcm+ £276 inc VAT one-off admin fee and other charges may apply*

5 bedrooms ø 3 reception rooms ø conservatory ø kitchenø 3 bathrooms ø garden ø off-street parkingø 299 sq m (3,218 sq ft) ø Council Tax=H ø EPC=F

CHRISTCHRUCH ROAD, sw14

Savills Richmond [email protected] 020 8614 9114

Flexible furnishings £6,000 pcm+ £276 inc VAT one-off admin fee and other charges may apply*

5 bedrooms ø 2 reception rooms ø kitchen ø 2 bathroomsø garden ø off-street parking ø 273 sq m (2,938 sq ft)ø Council Tax=H ø EPC=F

BELMONT ROAD, tw2

Savills Richmond [email protected] 020 8614 9114


5 bedrooms ø reception room ø kitchen ø 2 bathroomsø garden ø garage ø 287 sq m (3,090 sq ft) ø Council Tax=Gø EPC=F

COPSE HILL, sw20

Savills Wimbledon [email protected] 020 8971 8100


5 bedrooms ø 3 reception rooms ø study ø conservatoryø kitchen ø 3 bathrooms ø garden ø garageø 446 sq m (4,785 sq ft) ø Council Tax=H ø EPC=E

ST. AUBYNS AVENUE, sw19

Savills Wimbledon [email protected] 020 8971 8100

Opening Doorsin London Since 1856

To celebrate opening in Richmond and East Sheen we’ll sell your property for FREE

marshandparsons.co.uk/sell-your-home-for-free

This Residents’ Journal represents a fresh, innovative approach to local media, while retaining a traditional feel. We will deliver intelligent editorial with integrity and depth on subjects that matter to the residents

and business community.

Published on a monthly basis with the kind support of a select handful of relevant advertisers, we will present regular editorial contributions from prominent local residents and members of the independent local business

community, as well as seasoned journalists who live locally.

If you live or work in these areas and have a particular interest in contributing to the Residents’ Journal, we would be delighted to hear from you. Please email us at [email protected];

or telephone us on 020 7987 4320.

Giles EllwoodPublisher

Proudly published by

South WeSt Residents’ Journal

R U N W I L D M E D I A G R O U P

South WeSt www.residentsjourna l . c o . u k

t: 020 7987 4320

Residents’ Journal

dece MB er 2014 • i ssue 20

the south west (rwpb) december 2014

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