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Westminster & INSIDE YOUR FREE WEEKLY Charity salutes Pamela after 40 years’ service WESTMINSTER resident Pimlico News Pamela Sinclair has been elected as Chief Barker of Variety, the Children’s Charity. In her 40-year- long stint at Variety, she has held the position of Chair of the Variety Great Days Out, and is set to continue her position as Chair of the Wheelchairs Established 1857, part of the London Weekly News group FREE Tuesday, January 26th, 2016 Committee. The charity said Pamela’s dedication had helped them donate West End star reveals cancer battle: page 6 more than 4,000 specialist wheelchairs to children and young people across the UK since its inception. PAGE 8 Maternity Mayor gets tough on trucks to help cyclists LONDON Mayor Boris Johnson is set to force ‘penalty’ truck owners to spend up to £1,500 fitting new mirrors in a bid to cut what he says is the ‘unacceptable’ number of cyclist deaths in the capital. Last year nine may force cyclists died on the streets of London – seven of them after accidents involving lorries. Under the mayor’s plan lorries in London would have to have a new side window doctors to so drivers can better see pedestrians and cyclists. PAGE 3 Charlie Mullins: careers advice idea just the job quit NHS IAIN Duncan Smith should be awarded a ‘common sense’ gong for his no-nonsense approach to getting good careers education to BY GEOFF BAKER young people still in geoff@londonweeklynews.co.uk women doctors if Health Secretary school. The Work and Jeremy Hunt’s plan goes ahead. Pensions Secretary The “mother clause” in the deal threatens to send Job FEARS are growing that Lon- that has caused doctors to strike in Centre Staff into the classrooms to deliver don’s women junior doctors – their dispute with the Government good careers advice. “the cogs that run the service” – has been met with fury by women, will be forced to quit the job be- who make up more than half of Lon- PAGE 4 don’s doctors. cause of controversial new pro- Even sources at the highest level posals that would penalise them of the profession are privately criti- Specialistsinused for becoming pregnant. cising the proposal that would in ef- Hospitals across the capital could fect dock the time a woman doctor Herman Miller Aerons suffer a devastating shortage of takes off to have a baby. chairs FULL REPORT, n ROYAL ROLE: English actress Claire Foy is to star as the Queen in a SEE PAGE 7 new TV drama, The Crown, said to feature 60 hour-long episodes at a LONDONAERONS.CO.UK cost rumoured to be over £100 million. ROYAL LONDON, PAGE 13 O f f i c e H o u r s - 0 2 0 7 6 3 9 7 7 7 1 ( o p tion1) WeekendsorEvenings-07973540289 WebuyHermanMillerAeronChairs London’sbestbuyerofAeronchairs 1-1000+chairswanted! AnyconditionGood,BadorBroken WewillbuyANYAeronchair (Wealsobuyanyotherqualityofficechairsandfurniture) THE paper serving the HEART of London 2London Weekly News [email protected] Tuesday, January 26th 2016 Why Boris makes a tidy prophet T HE Mayor of London, Boris a host of major businesses, charities, its kind in the country, the app will dis- design and development co-ordinator Johnson, is calling on Londoners local authorities and schools, with the play clean-up events across the capital at the Union of Kingston Students said: to roll up their sleeves and join aim of attracting one million volun- allowing Londoners to find volunteer- “It was exciting to have Capital Clean- thousands of volunteers preparing to teers. People can also sign up to take ing opportunities near them. An extra up on board, helping to support us in spruce up their local areas in honour of part in the Clean for the Queen event 1,000 volunteers gave up their time to becoming independently sustainable, the Queen’s 90th birthday. FROM through Team London’s website. participate in a Capital Clean-up event which will allow for the project to grow Grants are also now available for the Clean for The Queen campaign di- in 2015 compared to the previous year, and continue.” Mayor’s 2016 Capital Clean-up rector Adrian Evans said: “The mayor’s and the number of hours contributed by Last summer the mayor visited the THE scheme, where Londoners can apply commitment to our campaign is bril- volunteers doubled. Marcus Garvey Park community group for up to £1,500 plus special clean-up liant. London is the most beautiful city Head of sustainability at McDon- in Hammersmith and Fulham, who MAYOR’S kits to brighten up and rejuvenate their in the world and we want it to look its ald’s UK, Howard Gray said: “We un- used their funding to revamp a commu- local areas. This year, the mayor is also very best for the people who live here derstand the importance of having a nal park blighted by graffiti and anti- OFFICE supporting a nationwide campaign, and for the millions of visitors who clean and sustainable local environ- social behaviour, and created a Clean for the Queen, in honour of Her flock to the capital every year. This is ment. Every year, our franchisees and colourful wall mural to make the area Majesty’s 90th birthday, by donating a community inspired, grass-roots mass restaurants organise hundreds of com- more appealing. Volunteers and chil- up to 100 clean-up kits containing litter action event – one that will become a munity projects across the country and dren from local schools undertook the pickers, gloves and rubbish bags for a recurring annual initiative. We feel that dozens across Greater London. We are cleaning, scouring and painting of the special clean-up weekend in March. local people transform neglected areas marking the Queen’s 90th birthday proud to support both Capital Clean-up walls over five events. Capital Clean-up, which has been into much loved community spaces. I with the inaugural clean-up is a won- and enable thousands of Londoners Sean Adamson, chairman of the led by the mayor for five years and sup- want to encourage everyone to sign up derful way to kick-start it to life. volunteer to help make their city a Friends of Marcus Garvey Park com- ported by McDonald’s, encourages to Capital Clean-up and get together “We want to show that millions of cleaner and greener place to live.” munity group, said: “Because of anti- Londoners do their bit and help trans- like-minded neighbours and friends to people in the country care passionately In Kingston, more than 41 volun- social behaviour and rubbish dumping, form neglected parts of the city. Last litter pick, plant, paint and tidy and re- about the litter affecting the nation and teers from the Union of Kingston Stu- we have been working on a project to year the scheme saw a record 4,600 ally brighten local spaces. This year we are prepared to get out and do some- dents used their Capital Clean-up kit to revitalise Marcus Garvey Park and volunteers take part in events across have the extra incentive of making our thing about it. Everyone in this country remove 3.8 tonnes of rubbish from bring it back into community use.” London, collectively clocking up more city as beautiful as possible in honour will reap the benefits.” 130m² of the River Thames in “We’re now cleaning up the park than 17,000 hours of hard work clean- of The Queen.” It will be easier than ever to take part Kingston, including 11 trollies. By and as it’s in between two schools, we ing up parks, streets, estates, residential Clean for The Queen’s special clean- in the mayor’s Capital Clean-up thanks highlighting the amount of rubbish behave painted a mural on the wall to areas and waterways. up weekend on March 4, 5 and 6 is a to Team London’s free speed volun- neath the Thames the project aims to make it a nice focal point, making it a Mr Johnson, said: “These small grassroots community initiative which teering app, which was launched by the deter dumping into the river. nicer, safer, environment for everyone, grants make a huge impact in helping is supported by Keep Britain Tidy and mayor earlier this month. The first of Sarah Dutton, volunteering project especially young people, to enjoy.” CMN YOUR COUNCIL Hammersmith & Fulham Kensington & Chelsea Part of Capital Media Newspapers Limited The London Weekly News Group Westminster & Pimlico News Adult social care 020 7361 3610 Accessible Transport Parking - (Established 1857) 0845 313 3935 [email protected]<mailto: Benefits [email protected] 020 7361 2390 general enquiries Kensington & Chelsea News 0C2l0ea 8n7e5r3 G 6r6e8e1ner hotline P02a0r k7i3n7g1 c 5o6n7t8ro l [email protected] 020 7361 3004 (Established 1857 & 1869) 020 8753 1100 - [email protected]<mailto:par Arts & Leisure [email protected] Fulham Chronicle [email protected]<ma [email protected] 020 7361 3003 Parking - (Established 1888) Ciltoou:cnlecailn [email protected] Parking permits [email protected] penalty charges 020 8753 6681 Hammersmith Chronicle 020 8753 6681 [email protected]<ma Benefits 020 7361 4383 (Established 2015) Electoral services Shepherd’s Bush Chronicle 020 8753 4466 Piltloa:[email protected] 020 7361 3006 [email protected] (Established 2015) [email protected]< 020 8748 3020 [email protected] Parking - permit (new mailto:[email protected] London Weekly News ov.uk [email protected]<mailto:pl Council Tax applications) (Established 2014) Environment [email protected] 020 7361 3005 020 7361 4381 Register Office 020 8753 1081 DIRECTORS Family information service 020 8753 2140 [email protected] [email protected] Karen Sheppard 020 8753 2450 [email protected]<mail Electoral Services Parking - permit [email protected]<mailto:fis@lbh to:[email protected] 0208 768 4903 f.gov.uk Report it 020 7361 3444 (renewals) Philip Evans (Editor) Housing 020 8753 1100 [email protected] 020 7361 3019 07796 951991 0845 313 3935 Switchboard Education [email protected] Hannah Walker Libraries 020 8748 3020 Patient Advice City of Westminster 020 7361 3009 020 883 59721 & Liaison Service Editorial email [email protected] 020 8962 4547 [email protected] Environmental Health Assistant Editor Tim Dixon 01297 446161 Adult Services 020 7641 1000 Planning News Editor Geoff Baker 07864 992274 020 7641 2500 Births, deaths 020 7361 3002 Reporter Jack Dixon 07973 565078 Libraries and marriages [email protected] 020 7361 3012 Sport - Tony MacDonald 07711 169427 [email protected] Advertising 020 7641 6200 0 2 0 7 6 4 1 7 5 0 0 Family Information Trades/ Benefits Elections Registrars Services Services 0208 768 4920/22 0800 072 0042 020 7641 7500 020 7361 4100 Recruitment: 0208 768 4923/24 0207 361 3302 Motors 0208 768 4925/31 Parking Household recycling, [email protected] Property 0208 768 4925/31 020 7823 4567 waste and rubbish [email protected] Streetline Leisure/Ents 0208 768 4921 Children’s Services 020 7641 2000 Housing Retail Advertising Display Manager 020 7361 3001 Garry Cole 0208 768 4926 020 7641 4000 Business line 020 7361 3008 [email protected] CMlaanssaigfieerd and Customer Service 0P2la0n 7n6i4n1g 6500 0G2e0n 7er6a4l1 E 7n0q0u0iries [email protected] Social Services Candy Brown 0208 768 4919 Council Tax 020 7641 6000 Land Charges 020 7361 3013 Distribution Hayley Bright 020 8768 4916 0845 302 3400 Westminster City Hall 020 7361 3554 [email protected] Licensing 64 Victoria Street Libraries LWN 020 7641 6500 London 020 7361 3010 Tell Us Once Housing SW1E 6QP [email protected] 0207 361 3940 Tuesday, January 26th 2016 [email protected] London Weekly News 3 NEWS FROM WESTMINSTER AND PIMLICO Boris loads bigger burden on truck owners to improve cyclists’ safety BY GEOFF BAKER geoff@londonweeklynews.co.uk LONDON Mayor Boris Slow cyclists Johnson is declaring road ‘more at risk’ war on HGVs and is set to force truck owners to WESTMINSTER University research published earlier this spend up to £1,500 fitting month revealed that of the new mirrors in a bid to cut 3,500 bike riders killed or the alarming and “unac- injured last year – a rising number – the ones most at ceptable” number of cy- risk are those cycling more clists’ deaths in the capital. slowly. Last year nine cyclists died This prompted Libby on the streets of London – Purves, writing in The Daily seven of them after accidents Telegraph, to opine: involving lorries. “Ludicrously, it has become de rigeur for commuters on Under the Mayor’s plan lor- bikes to behave as if they are ries in London would be re- in the Tour de France. quired to have a new side Pedaling along sedately window so drivers can better shoud be the norm. see pedestrians and cyclists. Cyclists trundling along “The plan to improve visi- under 8mph had far more bility for lorry drivers would incidents and near misses help cut the dangerous blind than the fast mob, suggesting that when you get to 12mph spots which have caused a sig- plus you are more ‘hardy’ and nificant number of deaths on aggressive, so you get treated the capital’s roads,” said the with more respect by cars and mayor’s spokesman. lorry drivers. “Lorries are disproportion- “Speedsters are overtaken ately involved in fatal colli- less, noticed more, and sions with pedestrians and survive better. Women riders, cyclists. Between 2010 and going slower than men, generally suffer most.” 2014, lorries were almost 10 times more likely to be involved in a fatal collision than cars.” Under the proposals, exist- It also asks whether the re- said: “Implementation of any ing and new lorries would be strictions should be full-time, measures will involve close required to fit a new window in part-time or route-specific. working with stakeholder the lower half of the passen- Leon Daniels, managing di- groups, including the industry ger-side cab door – at a cost of rector of Surface Transport at and Government, and the de- £1,000 to £1,500 per lorry. Transport for London, said: velopment of a legally enforce- the The mayor has launched a “Our Safer Lorry Scheme has able ‘direct vision standard’. consultation in principle on the helped ensure that almost all “There would be further Fish Bowl new plans, to build on the lorries in London now have public and stakeholder consul- 133 Dawes Road Safer Lorry Scheme. vital equipment to create a tation before any decision on ltd London “The danger caused by safer environment for all. implementation is made, and PET SUPPLIES HGVs to other road users is “We now want to go further time for operators to make the SW6 7EA unacceptable and we have to and hear views from all road necessary changes to their lor- 020 7385 6005 reduce it,” said Mr Johnson. users, businesses and the con- ries.” “With the launch last year of struction and freight industries The existing Safer Lorry my Safer Lorry Scheme, we on our proposals to reduce Scheme, Britain’s first, was have already made real deadly blind spots. This will be launched last September and progress. But nine cyclists an important element in deliv- requires all lorries in Greater !Leading Brand Pet Foods were killed in London last ering our aim of eradicating London to be fitted with side- Royal Canin and year. death and serious injury from guards and Class V and VI “Although this is the sec- London’s roads.” safety mirrors. James Wellbeloved ond-lowest number ever and The mayor’s spokesman Many operators started by far the lowest ever per jour- complying in anticipation of ney, seven of those nine cyclist the ban and there is now !Pet Accessories deaths involved lorries and that around 97 per cent compli- is why we have to press on to ance, according to checks con- the next stage. ducted by Transport for !65 Cold Water and “The cost per lorry is mod- London and the Metropolitan Marine Fish Tanks est. The benefit to Londoners’ Police. safety will be significant.” “The mayor and TfL’s ulti- Many casualties occur when mate aim would be to see the !Stockist for Juwel Fish a lorry turns across the path of widespread up-take of low- a cyclist or pedestrian that it entry, panoramic-vision lorries Tanks cannot see. Experts say that if on London’s streets, providing a window was installed in the a major improvement for visi- Opening Times lower half of the passenger- bility and safety,” said the side door, these dangerous spokesman. Sunday: CLOSED blind spots would be reduced. “These lorries, which are Monday: 10:00am-6:00pm The mayor’s consultation appropriate for the roads they asks Londoners whether they use, provide a large improve- Tuesday: 10:00am-6:00pm support the principle of the ment to drivers’ direct vision, Wednesday: 10:00am-6:00pm scheme and what would be the giving maximum visibility to Thursday: CLOSED best way to enforce the new vulnerable road users. The windows – whether through an nBIKE FIRST: London mayor consultation paper also de- Friday: 10:00am-6:00pm extension to the Safer Lorry Boris Johnson wants to do scribes other potential future Saturday: 10:00am-6:00pm Scheme, or higher charges for more to improve on road improvements that could in- non-compliant lorries under safety for cyclists in the clude lower cabs, larger win- 020 7385 6005 the congestion charge or Low capital –and says lorries must dows and increased use of Emission Zone regulations. play a greater part. technology.” 4London Weekly News [email protected] Tuesday, January 26th 2016 NEWS FROM WESTMINSTER AND PIMLICO Why I love Writing for the London Soho Sam Weekly News every week, Bernison London’s most outspoken entrepreneur SAM Bernison is the manger of Fifty and Dean on Old Compton Charlie Street –and lives just around the corner on Rupert Street. He says moving to Soho was one of the best things he’s ever done. Here are Sam’s five reasons why he loves Soho. Pipes Up! 1 Everything’s so close I can get to work in about 30 seconds and then get home again in about 30 seconds so I don’t waste any time or money on travel. 2 The food On Rupert Street there’s a food market so when I look out of the Workplace strategy window or walk out of my front door I’m right in the middle of a food market, with all different types of food. It isn’t healthy but it is good. starts to takes shape 3 The people You see all sorts of strange and weird and wonderful people nTHE PLACE TO BE: Sam Bernison loves Soho. I who just don’t care and it’s fan- AIN Duncan Smith minds need guidance and, for tastic. It’s so great to watch and 5 The noise you get used to it you just kind should be awarded a many, the extra three years of it’s so good that people still feel It’s a weird one but once you get of tune it out. When you want to ‘Common Sense’ drifting puts them at a much T4th hTeeyh ecc ahcnao nmbceem lsi ukoenf it thbyaut.m ping into huboeserthed e Ir t ocyo ouiutl.,d Wnth’hte es nlne Ioe pifsi erus nt dtmiol eofsvoneu’drt lcciaosnnte vlnie srttsoea nti itto oyn ose uvi encr aythnoe nh ese,ta rwer ehatil,cl yhtoh iues gloognigc aflo, rn oh-ins ocnosmenpslee taeply- ENhimEghEpelTor ym(rNiesonktt oiron fT rEabidneuicncogamt)i.ionng, people in London is very slim in the morning each night be- interesting. It’s nice. proach to getting good How do I know this? Be- but in Soho you bump into peo- cause you’ll have people always nIf you live or work in Soho, careers education to cause one of the questions I ple all the time. You can just be walking about, you’ll have glass we’d love to hear five reasons young people still in routinely ask anyone under walking down the street and collectors coming at four in the why you love it. Email Nicky – school before it’s too late. the age of 25 is if anyone meet whoever, which is handy. morning to the bars –but once [email protected] In a flash of blazing logic, gave them much help and en- ttharey W hoarsk r aenadso Pneends itohnast ,S iefc frue-- DannuRdnI GcPaeHnnT sS AimoPniPtshR SOeAcrCeHta: Wryo Iarkin cthoiunrkaignegm aebnot uwt hae nc airt ecearm. Te htoe ture generations of workers answer is usually ‘no’, and are being starved of good ca- wouldn’t the ability to under- that’s even more certain when reers advice, he’s going to stand things like mortgage ap- I ask if they were given infor- send Job Centre staff into the plications and car loan APRs mation on the option of classrooms to deliver it di- be of better use than quadratic choosing an apprenticeship. rect! equations? Truth is teachers by defini- For years schools have It looks to me like the tion are generally university been failing on their legal ob- whole system is geared to get educated people and most ligation to provide young as many young people as pos- carry all the prejudices of people with good careers ad- sible off school premises, their profession, which leads vice and this is extremely se- with sufficient grades to get them to believe that the good rious. Teachers tell pupils into a university or college life only comes after one gets they must study hard, pass course. a degree. exams, GCSEs, AS and A- And while the aim of the And for the few who un- levels etc…, but there’s very system has changed over the derstand that one size does little discussion as to what generations, the scandal of not fit all, they simply don’t they are going to actually do what happens in schools has have the knowledge to offer with their lives and exactly remained. I left school at 15, good non-university careers how some of these generic, and would have left at 14 if I advice. non-career related subjects could, because what they Iain Duncan Smith’s Job will actually help them in the were teaching wasn’t giving Centre initiative clearly world of work. me the skills I needed to get proves the Government’s We have to look at the fun- the job I wanted. I did that off commitment to creating three damentals of our education my own back and got an ap- million new apprentices by system and seriously consider prenticeship. And in 21st cen- the end of the current parlia- the validity of some of the tury Britain, nothing much ment. content of the subjects that has changed. Once the names And I also think that when are taught. As well as the of the 15, 16 and 17-year-olds you take this policy, together challenge of getting our no longer need to be called at with Skills Minister Nick young people work-ready, we morning registration, the Boles’ plan for apprentices, must acknowledge that they tricky business of helping and former apprentices, to go need other skills to make them choose a career be- back into their old schools to them life-ready. comes someone else’s prob- educate the next generation of For example, once you’ve lem. skilled workers, it’s clear that gone past the basics of maths This is as much a tragedy there is a coherent strategy in that get us all through life, as it is a travesty, as young play here. Views expressed are those of the author and not necessarily those of this newspaper London’s leading service company all day- every day! 020 7928 8888 Tuesday, January 26th 2016 [email protected] London Weekly News 5 LONDON WIDE Mayor rejects regulations to limit taxi app firm BY LWN REPORTER [email protected] that the chancellor George Os- This latter proposal is likely borne had personally texted to be resisted by the mayor’s him to lobby against the plans, own party, however. Conserva- UBER have won the latest skir- Boris replied that it was a sub- tive Assembly member Richard mish in their often bitterly ject which “keenly exercises Tracey said he had “significant fought battle against London’s the government”. concerns” about the plans black taxis. However, he said it was a which “will increase fares and London mayor Boris John- “category error” by the govern- reduce choice for Londoners”. son has snubbed a series of pro- ment to assume that “Uber Labour politicians in the nROAD TO RUIN? Many black cab drivers are dismayed by the mayor’s position on Uber posals which would have must be a great thing because London Assembly were quick heavily restricted the minicab it’s Californian and tech” and to call on the mayor to reveal booking app. he said that the rise of the com- full details of all the lobbying The mayor said he had re- pany needed to be managed he had received on the issue jected what he described as carefully. from government. “neanderthal” and “ludicrous” The mayor announced there Labour assembly member calls from London’s traditional would be some new regulations Val Shawcross said: “For taxi drivers to crack down on governing private hire vehicles. months there have been strong the company. Under new proposals to be con- rumours that the Chancellor Mr Johnson had previously sidered by TfL, Uber drivers and Prime Minister have been consulted on plans to limit the will be forced to undertake personally lobbying Boris over number of private hire vehicles English language tests in order Uber. in London, ban several features to retain their licences. Mr “For just as long City Hall of the ground-breaking Uber Johnson also announced a new have stonewalled our FoI at- app and force users to face at consultation on removing the tempts to get to the bottom of least a five-minute delay before congestion charge exemption this. booking a minicab. for minicabs. “The government are there London black cab operators to serve the public interest. It have campaigned heavily for would be incredibly worrying new restrictions to be imposed if senior government ministers on the company, culminating in were secretly lobbying for pri- angry protests at City Hall last vate companies outside the year. Police released footage proper processes.” of a protestor assaulting a Uber said the announcement security guard who was was “good news for Londoners knocked out as protestors and a victory for common tried to force their way sense”. into the building. An Uber spokesman added: However, Mr Johnson “We’re pleased Transport for said it was not possible to London has listened to the “turn the clock back on views of passengers and driv- technological progress”. ers, dropping the bonkers ideas He also admitted that he proposed last year like compul- had been lobbied heavily by nMESSAGE: sory five-minute wait times and the government not to impose Mayor Boris banning showing cars in apps.” any new regulations. Johnson A spokesperson for the Lon- He said his “friends in gov- said it was don Taxi Drivers Association ernment” were “adamant” that not possible said that the mayor had pan- they didn’t want to limit the to turn the dered to the private hire lobby clock back number of private hire vehicles on progress and described the new regula- in London. Asked about reports tions as a “disgrace”. Step into the story Just desserts at of Canary Wharf jail restaurant THE London Society is running a Canary YOU can enjoy a sumptuous three-course lunch Wharf walking tour on Saturday, February 13, on April 15 at Brixton prison’s The Clink, voted between 10am and noon. best ethical restaurant in the 2015 Observer The Wharf is one of London’s planning suc- Food Monthly Awards. cess stories, a feat of civic transformation on a The Clink Charity’s prime objective is to grand scale. Only 28 years after construction make a substantial lasting reduction of re-of- began in 1988, it functions as a financial centre fending rates of ex-offenders by training and to rival the City of London. placing graduates upon their release into the But there is more to the Wharf than com- hospitality industry. merce. It is a socially integrated district where The charity represents a genuine opportunity people work, live and play – and with the ar- for change, offering prisoners the chance to gain rival of Crossrail in 2018 a flourishing future is food preparation, food service and cleaning assured. qualifications as well as experience within an The tour follows major thoroughfares and exciting, operational business and in-depth winds through public spaces to provide a sense guidance to find full-time employment within of place and an understanding of both the built the hospitality industry upon release. The Clink and social complexity of the district. Walkers Charity operates the Clink Restaurants at HMP will be able to understand the challenges faced High Down, HMP Styal, HMP Cardiff and when inserting mega construction projects into HMP Brixton in partnership with Her Majesty’s the historic super-structure of the former West Prison Service. The Clink Charity aims to op- India Docks with its vast tracts of open water. erate 10 training projects by 2017. There will be opportunity to see the work of A garden project was launched in 2014 at such architects as Foster & Partners, Cesar Pelli HMP Send and produce is being grown there and SOM, and consider the future direction the for use at both Brixton and Highdown. The lat- Wharf is taking as development continues into est restaurant opened at HMP Styal in April neighbouring Wood Wharf. The tour includes 2015, the first restaurant in a women’s prison. the upper levels of Foster & Partners’ Crossrail The aim of The Clink Charity is to reduce re- station and concludes at the practice’s spectac- offending rates of ex-offenders by training and ular underground station. placing graduates, upon their release, into em- To book the event, go to the website lon- ployment in the hospitality industry with the donsociety.org.uk support of a career mentoring scheme. 6London Weekly News [email protected] Tuesday, January 26th 2016 LONDON WIDE From a drama to a crisis and back. How a West End star took on her toughest role nTHE VOICE: Siobhan Dillon as Ellen and Chris Peluso as Chris in the West End smash-hit musical Miss Saigon. Picture: Johan Persson F INDING out you have nosis, but was told that at just 30 years specialist breast care nurse. Under- of anxiety was not advisable and so Having cancer has changed Siob- breast cancer at any time is old and with no visible problem, the standably after receiving the diagnosis, along with the Cameron Mackintosh han’s outlook on life and made her ap- a terrible shock but for NHS wouldn’t fund one. Siobhan went into a state of shock but office, the decision was made for Siob- preciate her friends, family and career The NHS breast screening pro- at first tried to carry on as normal. han to take leave from the show until in a different way. She will have to con- Siobhan Dillon it came just days gramme in England includes all “What followed? It felt like one of she was fully recovered. Anxiety and tinue to be monitored and has to take into landing a dream role in one women aged between 47 and 73 for those movies where you get the white depression in those diagnosed with hormone therapy for the next ten years of the biggest shows in the West screening every three years. If you are noise. People are talking, their mouths breast cancer is very common, with to help prevent further problems. End. younger than 50 however, the risk of are moving but you can’t hear the many struggling to come to terms with Siobhan’s also committed to helping Now recovered and back to perform- breast cancer is much lower and words. That happened for about a week the enormity and impact of the disease. others who are diagnosed with the dis- ing, Siobhan’s story is one which younger women have more dense actually but I came and did the show on Along with feelings of anxiety, Siob- ease and has plans to do more charity should act as an inspiration to young breast tissue which makes mammo- the Friday night in denial.” han also felt cheated, having only just work, including opening a cafe which women who are diagnosed with the grams more difficult to read. As the job in Miss Saigonwas still started a dream role, to then have it so will give a percentage of its profits to disease and give hope to those who are Although breast cancer is the most so new, Siobhan’s parents hadn’t yet cruelly taken away. the cause. She already has a fantastic themselves undergoing treatment, common cancer in women aged under been to see the show and were sched- “I really felt like I was missing out name picked out for the place which writes Nicky Sweetland. 40, MRI scanning is only used to detect uled to watch it the very next day. and I felt really angry that I had to miss will promote wellness by serving or- Siobhan shot to fame following her the disease in the those deemed to be at “I did those three shows in a little out. For the first couple of weeks I did- ganic health foods and will provide an appearance on the BBC1 talent search, high risk, and as that wasn’t the case n’t know if I was coming or going. I area for relaxation. How do you Solve a problem like with Siobhan, her tumour was left un- With all knew that I wanted to be on stage but I In the mean time, she is just pleased Maria?The show, to cast the leading detected until six months later. didn’t feel strong enough and mentally to be back on the stage and is loving the role in the revival of The Sound of “I went away and self examined like that has straight enough to perform, but I still challenge of being part of such a fan- Music,was eventually won by Connie there was no tomorrow because I just happened wanted to be here. That’s what really tastic show. Miss Saigonwill close at Fisher but Dillon’s calibre as a leading had this weird feeling. It wasn’t like a I now feel messed my head up. On the Saturday the end of February before it transfers lady was apparent and she went on to physical feeling. It was like a spiritual, matinee before I went off I had this re- to Broadway, so you have just a few enjoy success in the West End produc- vibey, hippy kind of feel.” much more ally strange panic attack type of thing weeks left to catch Siobhan playing tions of Greaseand Legally Blonde, as Around 5,600 women aged under 45 passionate where I thought I’d forgotten the Ellen in this once-in-a-lifetime theatri- well as playing Molly Jenson in the are diagnosed with breast cancer every about words, you know. I was only two cal event. You can visit the website for smash-hit musical Ghost at the Pic- year. Among women aged 35 to 39 in weeks into the contract. I had this weird more details –miss-saigon.com acting and cadilly Theatre. the UK, around 1,300 cases of breast feeling and my heart started banging Siobhan will then be starring along- In February last year, Siobhan cancer are diagnosed each year and al- singing out my chest and because of all the side the multi-award-winning actress landed the role of Ellen in the multi- though it is advised that women self ex- ” worry and everything that had been Glen Close in the English National Siobhan Dillon award-winning smash-hit musical Miss amine at least once every month, in going on it (performing) just made it Opera’s production of Sunset Boule- Saigonat the Prince Edward Theatre, truth most don’t do it at all. Leaflets ten times worse.” vard, which opens at the London Coli- and I was lucky enough to interview and documents are readily available in bit of shock, a bit of denial. I wasn’t So, Siobhan was forced to walk seum in April. her before she took on the part. surgeries which can advise you on the going to let any tears affect the show away, all be it just for a few months. If you would like any help and ad- However, just two weeks later every- best method of identification, with because my parents hadn’t seen me in She rested and undertook the therapy vice on any of the issues raised within thing changed following a frightening techniques which include lying down it yet so I wanted to perform.” programme, which included some high this article please contact The Lavender discovery. Siobhan was diagnosed with or standing in front of a mirror, but it The company manager, Katy, told intensity booster radiotherapy sessions Trust at Breast Cancer Care –which breast cancer and what followed was a was in the shower that Siobhan first Siobhan to take some time off with her which cause severe fatigue. Just two raises money specifically to fund infor- whirlwind six months which included discovered that something had family, but she was determined her par- weeks after finishing her treatment, mation and support for younger women some very low points, but eventually changed. ents would be able to watch her. however, she felt strong enough to be with breast cancer. It is the only fund in resulted in her recovery and return to “The first time I did it in the shower “She (Katy) said ‘They can see the back on stage and couldn’t wait to get the UK dedicated to addressing the par- the stage. was when I felt it and it’s unbelievable show when you come back’ but I started. ticular needs of this age group and its I met Siobhan in her dressing room to me that people don’t just say do it in thought ‘What if I don’t come back? “The first week was really tiring. I website is breastcancercare.org.uk where she told me how she had first the shower, because it takes all of the What if this is really bad and I don’t was always going to come back, in my You can also join thousands of discovered the tumour and explained questioning away from what’s normal make it? What if they don’t ever see me mind, because I felt flippin’ short women in London to help raise money the medical treatment which eventually or what isn’t. You can feel everything, in Miss Saigon?’ Those things go changed when I had to leave, so it was for breast cancer charities by taking led to her return to Saigon. for some reason. Whatever it is, that through your mind.” my goal. With all that’s happened I feel part in the annual Moonwalk in May. “When I found the lump it was a was when I first found it.” After performing three more shows, much more passionate about acting and The iconic event, which has been run- kind of crazy situation because I had a The tumour she found was small, but Siobhan gave in and took some time off about singing. I want to do the best job ning for over 20 years, takes place on feeling about six months prior to diag- following tests was found to be malig- to follow her treatment, which included I can in every single show, and I’m not Clapham Common and is a fantastic nosis that there was something wrong.” nant. Siobhan was called for an ap- first a lumpectomy and then a course of saying that it wasn’t the case before way to help raise funds for breast can- Siobhan had asked the GP for a pointment with the oncologist where radiotherapy. Her oncologist advised hand but it’s just a whole different level cer research. For more details you can mammogram six months prior to diag- she was told the result and assigned a that anything that increases any feeling of appreciation of the craft now.” visit walkthewalk.org Tuesday, January 26th [email protected] London Weekly News 7 LONDON WIDE TV stars get to battle stations BY GEOFF BAKER geoff@londonweeklynews.co.uk from Victoria, we are hardly over 10,000 petition signatures a Crossrail 2 station, and I also cut off either. opposing the proposal. In the ask whether it should be the “I am supporting the No face of this overwhelming oppo- preferred site for a station in Crossrail in Chelsea campaign sition, we believe TfL and the Chelsea and Fulham.” TELEVISION’S Made in because over the last few mayor are duty bound to scrap Chelseastars Hugo Taylor months it has brought the com- the proposal for a station on the and Georgia Toffolo have munity together – young and King’s Road from their plans for nDISMAY: Hugo joined the No Crossrail in old, residents and business, vis- Crossrail 2.” Taylor Chelsea campaign, which itors and shoppers – demon- Greg Hands, MP for Chelsea opposes now claims to have 10,000 strating the overwhelming and Fulham, said: “I firmly be- plans for local opposition to this mad lieve that Imperial Wharf should supporters fighting TfL a new station plan.” continue being seriously consid- plans for a Crossrail 2 sta- The anti-Crossrail cam- ered as an alternative option for station tion on the King’s Road. paigners revealed that more The No Crossrail in Chelsea than half of all responses to the group opposes plans for a TfL consultation for the entire Crossrail 2 diversion through Crossrail 2 route oppose a sta- Chelsea and wants the route tion in Chelsea. from Victoria to Clapham “TfL have revealed that Junction to be direct. there were 19,000 responses to “I cannot believe the powers the consultation in total for the that be are planning a mon- whole route – and the No strous new railway station in Crossrail in Chelsea campaign the heart of such a unique and have copies of 7,250 returns unspoilt gem at Chelsea,” said opposing a station in their vil- Hugo Taylor. nPROTEST: Georgia Toffolo lage, are aware of others which “I love Chelsea because the bring the total to 8,000 –and lifestyle is great, the vibe is some further 1,500 responses magical and there is such a fan- don’s needier boroughs and not supporting local MP Greg tastic community spirit, but this in well-heeled Chelsea. Hands’ stance that the station Crossrail proposal will turn “Spending more than £1 bil- should instead be at Imperial Chelsea into an unrecognisable lion on a huge Crossrail 2 sta- Wharf in Fulham,” said a building site for eight years and tion in Chelsea is a terrible spokesman for the campaign. just another cloned High Street idea,” she said. “The money Chris Lenon, Chair of the upon completion. would be far better spent on an No Crossrail in Chelsea cam- “Our public transport is al- area of London that really paign, commented: “We are ready excellent. Two tube sta- needs redevelopment, instead delighted that Hugo and Geor- tions and five bus routes, our of on the city’s richest area. gia have joined our campaign. community is already well “This station will ruin every- Young and old, residents and served. Spending more than £1 thing that we all love about businesses, visitors and shop- billion on a vanity project that Chelsea. People my age adore pers – they all oppose a station locals simply don’t want would the King’s Road and the here. be dereliction of the highest Chelsea village because it is “As well as London’s over- order.” unique and characterful. With whelming rejection of a Cross- Georgia Toffolo said the two tube stations, five bus rail 2 station in Chelsea in the money should be spent on Lon- routes and access to Crossrail 2 TfL consultation, we now have New ale provides crumbs of comfort for waste campaign A LONDON brewery has Celebrity fans of the beer al- found a way to transform un- ready reportedly include food wanted bread into beer after re- waste champions Jamie Oliver search found that UK and Hugh Fearnley-Whit- households waste at least 24 tingstall. million slices of bread a year. All profits will go to Feed- The Toast Ale brew, which is back, which aims to halve food launched this week, uses one waste by 2030, after it reported slice of fresh surplus bread that 15 millions of tons of food from bakeries, delis and other are wasted every year across sandwich makers to help brew the UK. each bottle. A spokeswoman added that, According to food waste of all food items, bread was the charity Feedback, the aim of “worst offender”, with at least the project is to tackle the 24 million slices being thrown “global issue of food waste” away in UK homes. until it eventually puts itself The amount of baked goods “out of business”. binned in households, she said, Tristram Stuart, Feedback would be enough to prevent 26 founder and creator of the million people across the globe Toast Ale idea, said: “Tackling suffering from malnutrition. the global issue of food waste Jon Swain from Hackney has taken me all over the Brewery said: “We absolutely world. It was at the Brussels jumped at the chance to join Beer Project where I first nBREAD LABEL: Tristram Feedback’s fight against food found out about this innovative Stuart and the new ale, Toast waste. brewing process that turns a “The important thing for us, colossal global problem into a from Thursday, January 28, is as brewers, was to create a beer delicious, drinkable solution. being produced by Hackney that tasted good and stood up “We hope to put ourselves Brewery in east London. It is against other craft beers. We out of business. The day there’s made by mashing the surplus worked hard to brew a beer no waste bread is the day Toast bread into breadcrumbs before that wasn’t just a fad but some- Ale can no longer exist.” brewing it with malted barley, thing that people could enjoy The beer, which will be hops and yeast to make a dis- time after time and would have available online at £3 per bottle tinctively flavoured ale. a significant impact.” 8London Weekly News [email protected] Tuesday, January 26th 2016 LONDON WIDE Safe roads in hands of young designers TRANSPORT for London is safely and with minimal disrup- inform future vehicle design turning to schoolchildren to tion. As towns and cities grow, and we are looking forward to come up with bright ideas for our streets get busier with introducing new talent to Eu- how to make roads safer, by pedestrians, cyclists, cars and rope’s leading truck manufac- asking them to design the next vans and this challenge be- turers.” generation of trucks. comes greater. Truck manufac- Trucks in Britain collectively The Future Truck Design turers are already investing carry 68 per cent of all UK Awards scheme, launched at the considerable resources in inno- freight, and with a growing pop- Freight In The City Expo at vative features to address this ulation and increasing demand Alexandra Palace, is an oppor- and our Future Truck Design for round-the-clock availability tunity for school, college and Awards is an exciting opportu- of goods and services, that vol- university students to develop nity to open the field further. ume will only continue to grow. concepts that make transporting “We are committed to im- The industry’s challenge is to goods in urban areas safer, proving road safety and hope ensure trucks can deliver goods cleaner and more cost-effective. this competition will help shape as safely as possible in towns Organised by Transport for the way we transport goods in and cities, while streets con- London (TfL) as part of the our cities. tinue to get busier with pedestri- Safer Trucks programme, the “Their work could accelerate ans, cyclists, cars and vans. competition has been designed the development of safer urban Vast improvements have to encourage young people to trucks, generate ideas that help been made in the design and understand the complexities in- technology of trucks over the volved in meeting challenges of years, but this is young design- safety and sustainability. ers’ opportunity to present their Prizes on offer when short- ideas – potentially radical and listed entrants present their de- gamechanging ideas – that signs to the leading truck could be incorporated into the designers in Europe include trucks of the future. Individuals, £1,000 cash. teams or classes can submit an The winning entries will also entry in three categories – be showcased at the Transport whole truck design, safety fea- Museum in London’s Covent ture and system of operation–to Garden next summer. www.futuretruckdesignawards.co.uk Ian Wainwright, Head of before March 11. Winners will Freight and Fleet at TfL, said: be announced at an awards cer- “The industry’s challenge is to emony at the Commercial Vehi- ensure goods are delivered cle Show on April 26. WEST2JEWELLERS & PAWNBROKERS n CHARITY STALWART: St disadvantaged and disabled for many years. She was ap- John’s Wood resident Pamela children has always been a pointed to be one of its vice- Sinclair has been elected as source of inspiration to me, presidents in 2007 and Chief Barker of Variety, the and I look forward to a year of launched Variety’s Interna- Children’s Charity, for 2016. further progress and achieve- tional Mobility Programme in In her 40-year-long stint at ment.” the same year. Variety, Pamela has held the The showbiz charity said In addition to her work with position of Chair of the Variety Pamela’s dedication as Chair Variety, Pamela has served as Great Days Out and is set to of the Wheelchair Committee a Governor of Castlebar continue her position of Chair has helped the programme School in West London for of the Wheelchairs Commit- donate more than 4,000 spe- three years. tee. cialist wheelchairs to children The school focuses on chil- Commenting on her ap- and young people across the dren aged from four to 11 No.1 Jewellers pointment as Chief Barker, the UK since its inception. years with special educational title given to the chairman of As well as her work for Vari- needs, in particular children the trustees, Pamela said: ety in the UK, Pamela has also who have severe learning dif- “The fantastic work that Vari- been involved with the activi- ficulties, including autistic ety does in supporting sick, ties of Variety International spectrum disorder. Pawnbrokers very competitive rates. Repairs all types. Next in store for Oxford Street... We buy & sell secondhand watches & jewellery NEXT has signed a deal to ers flock to the east end of Ox- According to the property open a landmark store on Lon- ford Street — once the most agency Savills, 11 brands have don’s Oxford Street in three unfashionable part — in antici- opened “statement” stores on 191 Edgeware Rd London years. pation of Tottenham Court Oxford Street in the past year. The FTSE 100 fashion re- Road’s access to Crossrail in Anthony Selwyn, head of tailer, which this month blamed 2018. central London retail at Savills, W2 1ET warm weather for a rare patch Primark opened a store in said Next’s decision to open in of disappointing Christmas 2012, which it intends to extend the reconfigured Plaza repre- trading, has agreed to take over because trading has been so sented “how the retailers see 020 7262 1521 three floors of the Plaza shop- strong. Retailers Zara have fol- this part of the street. It’s be- ping centre. lowed suit. coming so important.” The Plaza’s owner, German Benetton and New Look A source close to Next said www.west2jewellers.co.uk landlord Sirosa, is planning to have signed up for a new that its planned store at the redevelop it, knocking together scheme due to be built by the Plaza would not be seen as a [email protected] 20 units to create a bigger sell- FTSE 250 property company flagship, however. “Next does ing space. Great Portland Estates in two not have any flagship stores as Next’s plans come as retail- years. a matter of policy,” he said. Tuesday, January 26th 2016 [email protected] London Weekly News 9 LONDON WIDE Demand for property goes ‘inside out’ as buyers rush to claim homes in Hounslow BY LWN REPORTER [email protected] demand revived for the imme- diate future.” A NEW record was set for Despite being home to one London and the UK housing THE west London bor- of the most expensive average market when 215 starter flats ough of Hounslow enjoyed London house prices, demand sold out in three hours in west for property in Richmond upon London. the biggest growth in de- Thames has also seen an in- The collection of studios and mand for property in the crease, up 17 per cent since the one-bedroom apartments at last six months of 2015. third quarter of 2015. Trinity Square in Hounslow, New research suggests that Despite the run up to the fes- created by Galliard Homes, sold with demand up by 50 per cent tive period, London’s outer out off plan in a new sales speed and an average house price boroughs and commuter belt record for the capital. Worth a marginally over £300,000, the remained hot for property de- combined £60 million, they borough looks set to continue mand in the last quarter of were sold on November 5 and this upward trend, with prices 2015. won’t be ready to live in until having increases by 12 per cent Bexley is once again the 2017. already over the course of most in demand property loca- 2015. tion in the UK, with demand TheEvening Standard Meanwhile, the royal bor- still at a staggering 79 per cent. reported that “during the course ough of Kensington and To the east of the capital, of three hours, almost £335,000 Chelsea and the city of West- Havering (71 per cent) and was spent per minute as more minster were in the bottom ten Barking and Dagenham (69 per than 250 eager buyers, some of property hotspots, with only 16 cent) also rank highly, joined whom had camped out per cent of property demand. by the London Borough of overnight, queued to purchase The statistics come from the Hillingdon (66 per cent) to the starter homes that were sold on latest Property Hotspots Index, west and Sutton (66 per cent) a first-come, first-served basis”. produced by eMoov.co.uk. The south of the river, as the final Studios start from 301sq ft index records the change in borough to make the top 10. and the one-bedroom supply and demand for the Each of the boroughs mak- apartments from 484sq ft –both most populated locations ing the top 10 hotspots cur- of which are still smaller than across the UK, by monitoring rently offer an average house the size of some London Tube the total number of properties price lower than the London carriages. sold in comparison to those on average. Picture: Grant Silverman sale. Experts at eMoov.co.uk However, as the capital’s say the likely factors behind the outer boroughs continue to out- Hounslow increase are “almost perform their more central certainly the ongoing infra- neighbours, these five in partic- buyers to the outer boroughs structural and economic devel- ular will be the ones to watch in and commuter zones continues opments in the borough”. 2016, where an increase in to build, the demand for prop- They add: “Hounslow is due prices is concerned. erty will inevitably intersect to profit considerably thanks to Founder and chief executive with the supply of housing its close proximity to the of eMoov.co.uk, Russell Quirk, available. Crossrail development, as well said: “I believe 2016 will see “When this does happen as the delayed decision of the demand for London property prices will rise and commuters third runway at Heathrow, continue to decline from the in- may be forced even further First Choice for which should also see property side out and, as the exodus of afield.” C ULTURE is constantly These are just some of the changing and evolving. places we’ve visited and heard cleaning What is the cutting edge to about. None can, or should, be one generation is old hat to the transported here wholesale but by next and what was revolutionary combining them with our vibrant in one era often evolves into arts scene we can create some- mainstream cultural legacy. thing special that furthers the ! Domestic cleaning We shouldn’t try to pickle our area’s legacy. inheritance nor cast it away but In the first phase of consulta- rather leverage it to benefit pres- UNDER THE tion for the Portobello Village ! Daily, weekly, one-off spring cleaning ent and future cultural develop- proposals, creating space for arts, ment. Art can challenge the status WESTWAY culture and community was one quo and push against long held of the top five responses from the ! End of tenancy cleaning views. It can also strengthen our local community. We have now local identity and pride. The way Westway Trust Chief identified multiple spaces in the we make space for arts and cul- Executive Angela scheme which could be used very ! Office and commercial cleaning McConville says we can’t let ture under the Westway must re- flexibly to support arts, culture North Kensington’s cultural wflehcilts tw rheamt aiins inaglr eoapdeyn uton iqthuaet, lbeegcaacuys pe awses ’irnet too hoistory alingdh tcerde athtiavte seon tfearrp mrisoer.e tIh’man d3e0- ! After building cleaning transformation and boundary conservative local people have offered to work breaking. more closely with us on how ! Residential and common area In North Kensington, we must these spaces can develop in terms celebrate what has gone before vitalise a Liverpool community. of content and ways of operating. and is with us now. We equally Their projects were about a dis- Do contact me if you’d like to get ! Restaurants, pubs and bars must continue to push boundaries appearing community, the polar involved; it’s not too late to join and look outwards for inspiration opposite of the one here, but that the group. if we are to ensure this remains a community came together and Over the last few weeks we’ve ! Ironing, laundry, dry cleaning place of exciting new, ground- created an exciting forward all been mourning the loss of breaking work. Across the UK, thinking vision for themselves. some of London’s cultural icons communities are grappling with Just last week members of my and wondering how under diffi- similar challenges as the race for team visited Coin Street Commu- cult circumstances we make sure Professional, reliable, vetted and modernity clashes with prized nity Builders to see first-hand that new ones can emerge. It will neighbourhoods and communi- how creating artistic outlets, ex- always be challenging to both insured cleaners. ties. Colleagues and I have been hibition spaces, pop-up shops preserve the cultural legacy of a looking at successful projects and programmed public spaces, place – the stories, the styles, the Excellent rates. elsewhere in London and around has turned the Southbank into a artworks, and the people – as the world to see how what popular place for both domestic well as the innovative artistic en- Outstanding value. they’ve done could be applied to and international visitors, in turn vironment that allowed that art to the unique context of the West- supporting local businesses to emerge in the first place. I be- T: 020 8452 2900 way. thrive. We want to learn from lieve now is the time for bold Architecture collection As- these successful approaches, to choices in how we contribute to semble have just won the Turner maintain a sustainable creative the cultural life of the area to re- www.cleaningteamservices.co.uk Prize for their work with resi- environment for the people who tain its vibrancy and central role dents to use art and design to re- live and work here. in London’s cultural heritage. 10London Weekly News [email protected] Tuesday, January 26th 2016 LONDON WIDE Celebrations Police learn to mind their as Leighton’s languages DUE to the growing number of people in London who cannot speak English, the Met has art is secured launched an eight-week drive to recruit new police officers who can understand any of 25 languages. The Met says the capital is home to scores of different communities in which “at least BedYit oLWriaNl@ lRoEndPoOnRwTeeEkRlynews.co.uk fLoerimghetro nh o(m18e3 0an-1d8 9st6u)d. iIot iosf u nLiqourde 30“0T lhaen gMueatg weso”r akrse w sipthoikne nth.ese communities on a daily basis among the capital’s museums in and a key part of gaining their LEIGHTON House Museum, the combining an exceptional collec- confidence is to take into Kensington home and studio of tion of Victorian art with the inti- account their diversity and Victorian artist and President of the macy of a private home. The house needs. Having officers who are Royal Academy Frederic, Lord was designed by his great friend, able to communicate more Leighton, has announced that the architect George Aitchison RA, effectively goes a long way thanks to the unprecedented re- as a showcase for artistic taste and towards achieving this,” said a sponse to the public appeal cam- to entertain and impress the fore- spokesman. paign launched in September 2015, most artists, collectors and celebri- The chosen languages are: Leighton’s painting Interior of the ties of the day. Arabic, Bengali, Bulgarian, Cappella Palatina has now been The exterior of Leighton House Cantonese, Estonian, Farsi, French, German, Greek, Hebrew, acquired for the museum’s perma- gives little clue as to the treasures Hindi, Italian, Lithuanian, Polish, nent collections. that lie within. The highlight of any Portuguese, Punjabi, Romanian, The acquisition was achieved visit is the extraordinary Arab Hall Sinhala, Somali, Spanish, Tamil, with the support of the Friends of which reflects Leighton’s fascina- Turkish, Urdu, Vietnamese and Leighton House, the Arts Council tion with the Middle East, where he Yoruba. England/V&A Purchase Fund and travelled widely. This room was Deputy Commissioner Craig through public donations. built between 1877 and 1881 to dis- Mackey said: “Following the Interior of the Cappella play his outstanding collection of success of the last campaign, Palatina, a previously untraced 16th and 17th century Islamic tiles this is an initiative we are keen painting by Leighton, was probably and also contains mosaic floors, a to repeat. With the number of painted in the 1870s, and depicts gold mosaic frieze, set beneath a languages spoken in the capital there is a massive opportunity the interior of the Cappella Palatina gilded dome, and a calming foun- for us to build on our existing in Palermo, Sicily. The Cappella tain. skills and help support Palatina was built in the first half of The spokesman added: “Also not Londoner’s. This invaluable the 12th century by the Norman to be missed is Leighton’s painting knowledge and skill can be king, Roger II, and is famous for studio on the first floor, with its utilised to help support our the luminous gold Byzantine mo- large north-facing window, picture policing and community saics that line its walls. slot and screen. Leighton produced engagement.” “Leighton was very interested in all the works of his mature career architecture generally, but he seems in this room, including the iconic to have been particularly anxious to Flaming Junewhich is now at the London tests accurately record the interior of this Museo de Arte Ponce, Puerto chapel. Although the study beauti- Rico.” technologies fully captures its atmosphere, with Leighton was born in Scarbor- the play of light across the mosaics ough, Yorkshire in 1830, to a nCELEBRATIONS: Leighton House Museum has now raised the necessary funds to of the future acquire another of the famous Victorian artist’s paintings, Interior of the Capella illuminating the east end of the wealthy medical family, the second Palatina, 1875, main picture top. Below: Leighton’swell-known Flaming June. USING the River Thames to heat chapel, Leighton took pains to of three children. At an early age he Bottom left: an early portrait of the artist homes, testing electric bikes faithfully represent all the architec- showed an interest in drawing and and trialling state-of-the-art tural elements of the building and went on to study art on the conti- smart parking bays are just its decoration – even including a nent, despite his parents’ early some of the innovative projects single figure standing on the left reservations about his choice of ca- to be put to the test in London against a column to give a sense of reer. Leighton did undeniably suc- as part of a Europe-wide scale,” said a spokesman. ceed – Queen Victoria bought his technology drive. “Leighton’s Arab Hall was based first major painting in 1855, and in London is joining forces with on another 12th century interior at 1878 he reached the pinnacle of his cities across Europe in a €25m a palace called La Zisa, also at profession, with his election as project that aims to demonstrate how technology Palermo. This painting demon- President of the Royal Academy of can improve the lives of their strates how captivated he was by Arts. residents. Mayor of London these interiors and how closely they He also received numerous inter- Boris Johnson, in partnership inspired his own Arab Hall. national honours and was highly re- with the Royal Borough of “This is why the museum was so garded by his peers. However, the Greenwich, has been chosen to keen to add this picture to the per- man himself remains something of take part in the Smart Cities and manent collection; to make the con- an enigma. His private life was Communities Lighthouse nection between Leighton’s travels, closely guarded – he lived alone, programme which aims to his skills as a painter and the influ- travelled alone and left no diaries. develop solutions to challenges ences that were brought to bear on Even his letters make little refer- faced by all major cities as they the design and construction of his ence to his personal circumstances. continue to grow and develop.The programme will extraordinary house. Just before his death in 1896, see Greenwich used as a testing “This picture makes these con- Leighton was ennobled, becoming ground for new technology. nections perfectly and will greatly Baron Leighton of Stretton. He is Initiatives there include: enhance future visitors’ enjoyment the only British artist to have been nTrialling 300 smart parking of the house.” awarded this honour and is buried bays that aim to optimise Leighton House Museum is the in St Paul’s Cathedral. parking spaces and help drivers find a space quickly and conveniently. Post office to close despite residents’ campaign to save it nTesting shared electric bikes to see if these support a shift from private cars, while electric THE post office in Kensington’s Kensington and Chelsea council branch will have increased staffing More than 7,000 new homes are vehicles will be piloted for local Earls Court Road will shut its doors has opposed the proposals all along levels which will ensure that being built in the area as part of the deliveries and car sharing. for the last time on January 30 and and at a public meeting in Septem- staffing hours are closely aligned to Earls Court Exhibition Centre de- nUsing the River Thames as a merge into Kensington Crown Post ber organised by ward councillors changes in customer demand. The velopment. renewable energy source to Office in Kensington High Street – and attended by top Post Office branch has already been mod- Councillor Wade told a news provide affordable heat to local despite a long campaign to try to bosses, angry residents stressed ernised and improvements included website: “There are 7,600 new homes. A heat pump will be save it. how much they needed the facility. new style self-service kiosks. homes being built. Who in their used to increase the water The Post Office says the decision The PO argues that the develop- Lib Dem councillor Linda Wade right mind would want to give up temperature before being was taken following feedback from ment is part of ongoing plans to said she thought that they “went their position in the high street in piped through a heat network a 12-week public consultation create a network that is modern, through the procedure of a consul- light of the development? It doesn’t nDOOMED: for space heating and domestic Earls Court Road hot water use in local homes. which ran from last June to Sep- sustainable and profitable. tation but they made up their mind make sense to me. It’s really sad post office tember. The improved Kensington beforehand”. news.”