hillingdon people september-october

September/October 2011

Veterans’ tales

You say ‘no’ to HS2

Hillingdon’s summer of fun

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hillingdon people magazineSeptember/October 20112

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CHEATSWhen somebody with a council or housing association home rents it out

without permission or obtains a home through providing false information, they

are guilty of housing fraud. They are using up valuable housing spaces and

depriving families and vulnerable people on the waiting list. It’s not fair.

If you suspect someone of unlawfully sub-letting

call us on 0800 389 8313 or

email us at [email protected]

Your report will be treated in the strictest confidence and can

be given anonymously.

Summer celebrations in Hillingdon

hillingdon people magazine hillingdon people magazine



24

25

hillingdon feature

hillingdon feature

While the sun shone, residents were able to get

outdoors and enjoy the ‘wonder’ of Hayes Carnival and

take a traffic-free ride through the streets of Hayes

at the Mayor of London’s SkyRide Hillingdon.

Around 15,000 people attended

Hayes Carnival, including

the parade and carnival

at Barra Hall Park. Mayor of

Hillingdon, Cllr Mary O’Connor

and Olympic mascots Wenlock and

Mandeville, presented the winners

of the best float competition with

their awards. Library Services

and Minet Junior scooped

the top prize in the floats and

minibuses category, and Transition

Heathrow won the cars, bands

and marching group category.

Keeping with this year’s theme of

‘Wonders of the World’, the main

stage showcased the best music from

the borough including an Irish folk

band, the Dhol Squad and a samba

band. An array of Caribbean,

Thai and Chinese cuisine was

also on offer for visitors to enjoy.

The outdoor theme continued

when thousands of cyclists

took to the streets of Hayes to

take part in Hillingdon’s first

SkyRide, enjoying the borough’s

green spaces on their bikes. TV

presenter Jeff Brazier, SkyRide

Ambassador, was at the event,

along with Mayor of Hillingdon,

Cllr Mary O’Connor, and Cllr

Keith Burrows, Cabinet Member

for Planning and Transportation.

Cov er photo by toby va nde v elde

After reading, please recycle this magazine

hillingdon people magazine September/October 2011 3

hillingdon contents

12 On the cover: family fishing fun daysMore than 1,200 people enjoyed fishing activities at the council’s free fishing days.

9 Older People’s PageOver-60s fair – advice and support for older people; get involved with the Older People’s Assembly.

10 Armed Forces WeekExclusive interviews with war veterans from Afghanistan and World War Two.

13 High Speed Rail responseThousands of residents say ‘no’ to HS2.

17 Green Flags boost for borough parksHillingdon now has 19 Green Flag standard parks.

19 Hillingdon People surveyLet us know what you think about this magazine.

24 Summer events get thousands involvedHayes Carnival and SkyRide Hillingdon get thousands of residents outside to enjoy activities.

Regulars4 News35 Hillingdon volunteers36 What’s on?39 Hillingdon contact numbers


Editorial and advertising enquirieshannah Collins 01895 250828

[email protected]

For a copy in large print or on tape, call 01895 250828

published by London Borough of Hillingdon © 2011Design phil burton 01895 250670 Printed by Warners Midlands plChillingdon people, 3e/07 Civic Centre, high Street, Uxbridge, Ub8 1UW.

products and services advertised in this magazine are not necessarily endorsed by the council.

Cllr Ray PuddifootLeader of the Council

Welcome to the autumn

edition of Hillingdon People. As what passes for a British summer comes to an end we can look back over three months of activities and free events that residents of all ages and backgrounds have been able to enjoy. SkyRide, Medfest and Hayes Carnival are some of the examples where residents came to together to enjoy activities. Once again, we hosted two successful family fishing fun days, which saw more than 1,200 young, and not so young, people enjoy a variety of fishing-related activities at the fantastic surroundings we have at Little Britain Lake.

I am delighted we have increased the number of Green Flags, taking our overall number to 19. Hillingdon has more land under Green Flag status than any other London borough.

Residents have also come together to oppose plans for HS2. As a result, we were able to deliver more than 12,000 postcards to the government, the majority of which oppose the plans, and we will continue to press them to scrap the current proposals.

As a result of a huge rise in the birth rate we have had to formulate and fund a plan to provide around 750 additional school places over the next two years. This will be a formidable task and there is no time to dither or delay if we are not to fail a generation of children. Every Hillingdon child will have a primary school place as near to their home as possible. To ensure this, as part of our £100m investment, we have announced plans for a new school on Lake Farm in Hayes. As there are no other suitable sites in Hayes we have said that we will vary our green belt policy as it is important we choose a site with some green land so that children have good quality playing fields as well as high quality buildings.

Hillingdon continues to buck the trend of service reductions common in some councils and in these financially difficult times I am pleased that a recent residents’ survey showed an increase in the level of satisfaction. My thanks to council staff for all their efforts in putting residents first.


Help with getting back into workTenants and leaseholders who aren’t in work are being supported to get back into work through the council’s Training Initiative for Leaseholders and Tenants (TILT).

Since the programme was launched last year, almost 60 per cent of participants have secured a job.

TILT is a free 12-week programme that includes career coaching, job search skills, CV preparation, motivational and interview skills and four weeks of work placement that could lead to employment. The one-to-one support helps guide the candidates through the programme.

So far we have delivered two sets of TILT with plans for another to start in October 2011.

The work placements are provided by partner organisations that work with the London Borough of Hillingdon Housing Service.

If you are interested in making that first step back into work and need a bit of support to see you through, email hhs-communityinvolvement [email protected] or call the Community Involvement Team on 01895 277038 to enrol and start in October 2011.

Business as usualIn August, many of the UK’s biggest cities were badly affected by rioting. The riots showed how important it is for councils to work with their residents, partners in the police, voluntary sector and local businesses. In Hillingdon, this has always been the case and fortunately there were only a few comparatively minor incidents.

The approach in Hillingdon, led by the police, was to ensure that as far as possible, it was business as usual. Following reports on social media that there could be trouble in Uxbridge Town Centre, the police had significant extra numbers of officers on duty over a number of days. The council offered support by putting in place additional CCTV coverage, regular emptying of litter bins and the removal of loose paving slabs and other equipment to reduce the risk of them

being used as missiles.Council staff, including

the Chief Executive Hugh Dunnachie, staff from the Community Safety, Civil Protection and Communications teams met regularly throughout the week with officers from the police to co-ordinate Hillingdon’s response to keeping the borough safe.

Residents were kept up-to-date through the council’s website, and Facebook and Twitter sites, while anyone calling the council’s contact centre was also given up-to-date information. Hundreds of residents called the contact centre, there were almost 7,000 unique visitors to our council website and there were 20,000 page views. The council’s Twitter account gained more than 800 new followers and there was a 100 per cent increase in people going to our Facebook site.

The council received positive comments

through Twitter such as ‘Fantastic updates from @Hillingdon on their Twitter and Facebook page’ and ‘Thank you for doing a really good job keeping us updated on events tonight’.

Cllr Ray Puddifoot, Leader of the Council, said: “We condemn anyone involved in the disgraceful criminal acts that took place in parts of London and other cities in the UK.

“Although thankfully we only saw some relatively minor incidents, Hillingdon was well prepared. Residents valued to regular updates we were able to provide through our website and social media, helping to reassure them.”

You can find the latest information from the council through our website at www.hillingdon.gov.uk, where you can also connect to the Facebook and Twitter sites.

Christmas ice rink returns

For keen ice skaters, the borough’s ice rink will be back again this Christmas. As Hillingdon People went to print, the details were being

finalised, but there will be more information in the November/December edition, and on the council website at www.hillingdon.gov.uk

Business as usual in Uxbridge town centre

inbrief


hillingdon news

A Hillingdon Youth Council member has been presented with the Diana Award for his ‘outstanding, sustained and selfless contribution’ to the community.

Ahmed Siddiqui, 17, who said he was inspired by Princess Diana, was given the award by Cllr David Simmonds, Cabinet Member for Education and Children’s Services. Along with the certificate and badge, Ahmed and a family member have been invited for a free visit to Althorp, Diana’s childhood home.

Ahmed said: “Following her (Diana’s) inspirational example, I can only hope that as my family and community have valued and supported me to push myself out there, I can do the same for as many people as possible, encouraging and attracting them to the idea that family, be it immediate or the people around them, are the most important

thing in the world. I believe that it’s due to the many mentors and coaches I’ve had the pleasure of working with that I’ve been able to attain my potential in every arena of life, be it debating in the House Of Commons with my peers, or on my own being interviewed on BBC News, as well as being a part of the 2012 Olympics Young Leaders.”

Cllr Simmonds added: “Ahmed is a great representative for young people in Hillingdon, and I am very pleased that his hard work and effort has been recognised by the Diana award.”

Hillingdon Youth Council is a group that represents the young people of Hillingdon and provides a voice for young people who live, study or work in the borough of Hillingdon. Search ‘Hillingdon Youth Council’ on Facebook for a chance to have your say and get your voice heard.

Keen on the theatre?Are you 12-19 years old? Do you live or go to school in Hillingdon? Are you creative, enjoy acting, film making and the performing arts? Would you like to experience a real theatre environment with opportunities to take part in showcases and productions?

The 360 Youth Theatre is based at Compass Theatre in Ickenham, and runs a variety of drama, film, music, photography and singing workshops.

Fees are £20 a term or £50 a year, and the first three sessions are free.

For more information call Matt Bateman on 01895 465572 or email [email protected]

Summer sounds successThe Summer Sounds festival, organised by Hillingdon Music Service, was a resounding success with more than 400 young people taking part in the five concerts.

The festival took place in July and showcased the talents of Hillingdon music students. Concerts were held in Uxbridge and at Harrow Arts Centre. Members of the HMS brass band were awarded the Mayor’s Cup for outstanding achievement after raising more than £7,000 by taking part in charity concerts.

Younger students took part in the Junior Summer Sounds event, which included the junior strings, band and fiddlesticks orchestra.

The music service’s Wider Opportunities projects and the Hillingdon Schools’ concert band also performed a concert on 4 July to kick start the festival.

Women on wheelsWomen are being encouraged to take part in a girls’ only cycle ride to increase the numbers of women using two wheels to get around.

The rides last between an hour and an hour and a half and there are two more rides this year for you to get involved with – Thursday 15 September, meeting at 6pm at the Waters Edge, Ruislip Lido, and Sunday 25 September meeting at 1pm at Minet Country Park. To book a place, email [email protected]

Do you have photos of the Queen?As part of the celebrations to mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012, the council is planning a photographic exhibition of her visits to the borough. If you have photos you would be happy for us to use in the exhibition, please get in touch. You can email [email protected] or telephone 01895 250702.

Seized noise equipment donatedSpeakers seized by the council’s Noise team have been donated to the borough’s young people’s centres for them to use.

The speakers were confiscated from a persistent noise offender and have been put to good use.

Hillingdon’s Noise team work with residents to reduce complaints about noise, many of these relate to amplified music.

Hillingdon has some of the lowest levels of anti-social behaviour (ASB) in London and levels have fallen significantly over the last five years. The council is keen to ensure that ASB levels are kept low and that the concerns of residents continue to be addressed.

Find out more at www.hillingdon.gov.uk/asb

Inspired youth wins Diana award


hillingdon news

Residents in Hillingdon will be among some of the first in London to take part in a trial of electric vehicles.

Twenty borough residents are being given the opportunity to test drive a pure electric version of the Ford Transit Connect during 2011-2012.

Data gathered during this tral will be used to evaluate the social and technical aspects of living with an all-electric vehicle.

The pilot is one of only eight UK trials of electric plug-in hybrid and fuel cell vehicles, delivered as part of the Government’s £25m Ultra-Low Carbon Vehicle Demonstrator programme.

The council is working in partnership with the Ford Battery Electric Vehicle Consortium, which includes Ford Motor Company Ltd, Scottish and Southern Energy

Swoops net counterfeit wineThe council’s Trading Standards team have been working with partners to clamp down on illegal practices in the borough.

The team, working with with HM Revenue and Customs and the police, seized more than 1,000 bottles of counterfeit wine in a four-day operation. Along with the alcohol, some tobacco was also uncovered. Customs officers also seized a large quantity of non-duty paid wine and tobacco.

Cllr Jonathan Bianco, Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Business Services, said: “This sends out a strong and clear message

Families to trial electric cars

and the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow.

The project has also funded the installation of a network of 10 publicly accessible charge points throughout Hillingdon with further domestic points being placed in the homes of residents taking part in the trial.

Cllr Keith Burrows, Cabinet Member

for Planning, Transportation and Recycling, said: “As one of the largest boroughs in London with a high percentage of green spaces, Hillingdon has always been at the forefront of initiatives to promote greater respect for our environment and the health of our planet. We are delighted

to be involved in this latest project which will see our network of charging points for electric cars grow as well as provide a unique opportunity for some of our residents to get involved.”

The project is fully funded and so is not costing local taxpayers anything and, as well as green benefits, could deliver cheaper travel.

to retailers and individuals that selling or supplying counterfeit alcohol or cigarettes is not acceptable. Our trading standards team may be just around the corner and you risk losing all your goods and could face prosecution.”

Inspector Nick Aldworth said: “Alcohol is a driver for various crime-types and clearly anything that is intended to circumvent the statutory controls on alcohol has the potential to fuel crime. The police are encouraged by these multi-agency operations that are so often more successful than individual organisations working in isolation.”

A total of 28 premises were visited in Hillingdon, mainly small off-licenses and grocery shops. Trading

Standards Officers were looking for counterfeit alcohol and tobacco, while Customs officers were interested in non-duty paid goods. Police officers were checking to see that licence conditions were being complied with.

The council is looking to prosecute businesses where appropriate, and also calling licences in for review by the council’s licensing sub-committee.

The team also successfully prosecuted a car dealer who sold an un-roadworthy BMW.

Hillingdon Motor Company Ltd, of New Broadway, Uxbridge Road, Hillingdon, was fined £4,000 after pleading guilty to two charges – supplying an un-roadworthy car and falsely describing it as in good condition.

Uxbridge Magistrates’ Court heard how Trading Standards arranged for an independent mechanic to examine the BMW 325i Sport following a complaint by the new owner. The mechanic found serious corrosion, which had been deliberately hidden, and meant the car was not fit to be used.

The £4,600 car’s valid MOT was also issued by the owner of the garage, Mohammed Jhangir.

The company was also ordered to pay legal costs of £2,215 and compensation of £963 at Uxbridge Magistrates Court on Tuesday 12 July.

For help and advice on consumer matters visit the Consumer Direct website at www.consumerdirect.co.uk or contact 0845 40404506.


hillingdon news

Top chef recognises Hillingdon Junior Chefs

Celebrity chef Brian Turner presented medals, certificates and cookery books to more than 50 Hillingdon students after they completed a catering course.

The students have all gained a GCSE equivalent Level Two

qualification after completing the four-week professional catering taster course sponsored by Hillingdon Training in partnership with the University of West London. The course included industry visits to leading Heathrow hotels.

Brian also presented Danny Clifton (Harlington), Charlie Preston (Abbotsfield), Ella Szelewska (Ruislip High) and Chris Johnson (Rosedale College) with a personalised chef ’s jacket in recognition of their outstanding achievement on the course.

Foundation Trust: Governors and Members

fellow public members of the FT, seven are members of the Trust’s staff elected by their colleagues; and four are appointed by partners such as the London Ambulance Service and the council. Details of current governors are available on the website.Council of governors’ meetingMembers of the public are welcome to come along to council of governors meetings. The next one takes place on 19 October from 5.30pm in Committee room 6 at the Civic Centre, Uxbridge.

Becoming a member of the Trust Anyone over the age of 16 and living in Hillingdon can become a member of the Trust. It’s easy, quick and costs nothing, and it means you are kept informed about developments at your local hospitals. All you need to do is visit the FT website and download a membership form. Members can also take advantage of the discounts at a range of major online retailers that are available to NHS staff, through the NHS Discounts website.

Find out more about FT, governors and becoming a member at www.thh.nhs.uk. You can also read the trust’s annual reports online through the website.

Following Hillingdon Hospital’s designation as a Foundation Trust (FT) this year, the governors have now taken up their statutory responsibilities, and you can become a member of the FT. The governors’ roleAmongst other things, they give the views of FT members to the Trust Board, and appoint the Trust Chair and non-executive directors. They will also approve the appointment of any future Chief Executive. Who are the governors? There are 27 governors. 16 are members of the public elected by their

Mental health charities boosted at Mayor’s official launchThe Mayor of Hillingdon has officially launched her charity appeal for 2011-12 where she will be supporting mental health charities in the borough.

Hillingdon Mind, Hillingdon Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), the Woodlands Centre and the Riverside Centre will benefit from funding through the Mayor’s Charity Appeal.

Cllr Mary O’Connor, Mayor of Hillingdon, said: “As someone who has worked in the NHS and seen first hand the devastating effects mental illness can have on sufferers and their families, I felt compelled to support these particular charities.

“I hope our residents will join me over the coming year to raise funds, awareness and ultimately help remove the stigma that is attached to mental health illnesses.”

The Mayor recently visited the Recycle-a-bike scheme, based in Uxbridge High Street, which employs people with mental health problems to refurbish unwanted bikes donated by the public.

Residents and businesses can help the Mayor’s Charity Appeal by making a donation, or through offers of support. For more information please email [email protected], contact the Mayor’s Office, Civic Centre, Uxbridge, Middlesex UB8 1UW, or call 01895 250763.


hillingdon news

Zig zags mean keep clearFor residents, one of the most annoying things about living by a school is parents parking on the ‘zig zag’ markings while dropping their children at schools. It’s also dangerous for children.

From the start of the new academic year, the council’s Road Safety and School Travel team will be working with schools in the borough to ensure that parents are aware of these issues, and to address them where necessary.

Parking restrictions that are put in place around schools, including the yellow zig zag keep clear markings, pedestrian crossing and yellow lines, are all there to protect the safety of the children.

The council receives numerous complaints from residents who sometimes find themselves unable to leave their homes due to the inconsiderate parking of some parents while doing the school run. Traffic wardens ticketing cars parked illegally are also often abused.

Cllr Keith Burrows, Cabinet Member

for Planning, Transportation and Recycling, said: “Unfortunately conflicts of this kind are all too common, and sometimes lead to petitions to the council.

“Even if those with children in their care are often busy and in a hurry, this is no excuse for inconsiderate and sometimes illegal behaviour that also sends a poor message to the children themselves.

“Too often, simple common sense and civility are lacking, and we hope that we can help tackle this shortfall through our campaign.”

Review of polling districtsThe council has a duty to review polling districts and polling places every four years and we are currently asking for your thoughts on this.

We are looking for your comments on any aspect of the allocated polling district or polling place that we use for elections.

If you were happy with where you voted at the last election, or not, we would like to hear your views. Contact us if you’re not sure what your current allocated polling station is.

It would be helpful to give alternative places that may be used as polling places.

Details of the existing arrangements and Polling Stations are available on the council’s website at www.hillingdon.gov.uk, under ‘Have your Say’ as well as at libraries and the Civic Centre .

You can email [email protected] or write with your comments to Electoral Services, London Borough of Hillingdon, Civic Centre, High Street, Uxbridge, UB8 1UW.

When giving us your

Uxbridge town centre will soon be home to new signs which are aimed at helping to direct pedestrians around frequently visited places.

Uxbridge Library and Hillingdon Sports and Leisure Complex will be among the places signposted using Legible London signs.

The Legible London scheme is a new pedestrian information system designed

to make navigating town centres easier. It includes maps which include realistic walking times and illustrate important landmarks.

Cllr Keith Burrows, Cabinet Member for Planning, Transportation and Recycling, said: “Walking is a great way of getting around. As well as being free, healthy and environmentally friendly,

walking can often be quicker than public transport. I hope these new signs will encourage more of our residents and those visiting or working in Uxbridge to explore the town centre on foot.”

The Legible London signs have already proved successful across the capital including in the West End, on the South Bank and in Richmond.

views, please bear in mind that we aim to locate polling places a convenient distance from the majority of electors’ homes in places that are easy to find and easily accessible. We also follow these points when determining where a district boundary should be and where to locate polling stations: •Each polling

district should serve approximately equal numbers of electors and there are currently 82 districts in the borough;

•wherever possible we try to use ‘natural’ boundaries, for example railways, major roads, waterways of a minor road estate should, where possible, be in one polling district;

•Polling locations should be ‘logical’ – electors should not have to travel past another polling place to get to their own: and none should be shared by different wards;

•The review does not include moving ward boundaries, which is dealt with differently.

The consultation finishes on Friday 30 September so make sure you have your say by then.

New signs to help you get around


hillingdon older people

Get involved with the Assembly for Older People

Age UK Hillingdon are once again running their annual 60+ Fair

for the borough’s older people to get advice and support.

This year’s event is taking place on Tuesday 11 October in the Mall Pavilions, Uxbridge, from 10am to 5pm.

The event will feature entertainment and information specifically relevant to London Borough of Hillingdon residents over the age of 60. Entertainment begins at 10am with the school choir from Dr. Triplett’s Primary School (CE). Chairs will be provided so whether you would like to sit back and watch or join in some of the taster sessions provided by local groups there is something for everyone.

More than 20 stalls will provide information and assistance covering a range of topics including health, hobbies and finance.

Entertainment programmes, including a full list of information stalls will be available from your local library from September. For any other information please contact Sarah Millen at Age UK Hillingdon on 020 8756 3056.

Over-60s fair returns

Older people are invited to get involved with making decisions about services for them through the Assembly for Older People, which holds regular meetings.

The meetings are held in the Council Chamber at the Civic Centre and include different speakers, covering a wide range of topics. The Leader of the Council and Older Persons’ Champion, Cllr Ray Puddifoot, often attends the meetings or sends a written report and is involved in putting the agenda together. The Assembly for Older People is an opportunity for us to hear the views of our older residents and to report on progress made against the targets set in the Older Persons’ Plan.

The next meeting is being held on 27 September from 2pm to 4.30pm, and the meeting in December will be on 13 December.

Cllr puddifoot said: “The Assembly for Older people is an opportunity for us to hear the views of our older residents and to report on progress made against the targets set in the Older Persons’ Plan. They can also hear talks from speakers covering topics relevant to them, offering advice and support.

If you would like to be added to the mailing list to hear about future Assemblies and copies of the minutes, please email Alison Coote at [email protected] or telephone 01895 277336.


hillingdon heroes

Connie PalmerFormer Land Army girl Connie Palmer, 92, mother of two, grandmother of five.“I was 22 when I went out to Oxfordshire. I was sent out in the field working with about four or five girls, there were about 50 girls, it was beautiful.

“I worked in a huge garden for an elderly gardener. He was told he had to have me to help him. In the end I won him over. I learnt how to work in the garden and I helped him such a lot that he said he wished I was his daughter. I grew beans, peas, potatoes just for the hostel.

“My husband, Frank, had gone before I joined. He made me promise I wouldn’t join the services and I kept my promise. He went overseas and I became very miserable and upset – I missed him so much. We’d known each other since childhood and had

grown up together and we had all these plans and then he had to go. He was a carpenter and when he went into the army he was made to do combatitive signalling.

“We had 14 days together once we were married. He was sent to Wales and I didn’t see him before he went. We would communicate by special mail. It was like hell being separated. I had a lovely family around me and I used to hitchhike home to see them.

“When he came home he came to my mum and dad’s house and my sister Lilly fainted – she opened the door with her mouth open. I had the job of going and telling his mum and dad. I told his mum, ‘your Frank is home’, she went all mad running around in circles. I could hold my feelings in because other people were suffering but I was excited and delighted to have him home.”

As part of the council’s work to support our armed forces, during Armed Forces Week, the Mayor of

Hillingdon, Cllr Mary O’Connor MBE, hosted a tea party for borough veterans. Guests included representatives from the Normandy Veterans’ Association, the Burma Star Association, the Ghurkha Association, the Battle of Britain Association, the Women’s Land Army and Timber Corps, the RASC/RCT Association and members of the Royal British Legion.

At the event, the Mayor formally accepted the Uxbridge Branch Standard of the Burma Star Association after the branch closed. The Standard will be displayed in the Mayor’s Parlour at the Civic Centre.

Hillingdon People spoke to some of the men and women who attended and heard their unique and moving stories.

Honouring our heroesHonouring our heroes


hillingdon heroes

Ryan ByrneRyan Byrne, 31, was in the infantry for four years before coming out in 2006. He did two tours in Afghanistan of six months each.“A roadside bomb killed my friend and injured me – I have shrapnel in my leg. My family had always been in the army so it was what I wanted to do and when I was aged 16 and nine months I joined-up.”

Since leaving the army Ryan has also suffered from post traumatic stress disorder and suffers from flash backs.

“It’s hard, sometimes I can’t leave the house and sometimes I don’t sleep. I wish I was still

there. It’s hard to explain what it’s like over there. You do shifts of 24 hours on, 24 hours off and the work involves patrols, night watch and generally keeping an eye on what’s going on. It’s a great community – you’re always together.”

Ryan took part in the Royal British Legion 27 mile library walk in June. He said: “I was volunteered for the walk and that’s how I met some of the councillors – they were really good with me and helped me through it.

“It’s good to know about the armed forces and the work they are doing but it also helps the service people to know they are supported and to see that support being shown.”

Arthur PrestonBurma Star veteran and Hayes resident Arthur Preston, 91, joined the RAF in 1937 when he was just 17.“I was in India before the Second World War and then our Squadron started in Burma. It was terrible for the army – for everyone. I was in Burma when the Japanese over ran it.

“Life was quite hard just after the war - I still have one of my ration books. I think it’s important that we have events like this to remind people of what happened and why we have still got our way of life. We see these coffins coming back from Afghanistan and we need to remember our history so we can learn from our mistakes.

“I think Hillingdon should really be congratulated for their efforts.”

Remembrance Day events in HillingdonTo mark Remembrance Day on 11 November, events will be held across the borough, both on Remembrance Day itself and on Remembrance Sunday (13 November).

The council will be observing the two minutes’ silence at a special ceremony on the Civic Centre forecourt at 11am on Friday 11 November, attended by the Mayor of Hillingdon and Leader of the Council. The start and finish of the silence will be signalled by the firing of maroon rockets across the borough.

At the time Hillingdon People went to print, timings for other services were being confirmed; please visit the council website at www.hillingdon.gov.uk for more information nearer the time.

Honouring our heroesHonouring our heroes

Angling Scouts receive their badgesFishing enthusiasts from the 2nd Ickenham Scout Group have been awarded their angling badge at a ceremony in the Mayor’s Parlour.

Twenty scouts were presented with their angling badges by Mayor of Hillingdon, Cllr Mary O’Connor MBE. The Mayor was joined by Leader of the Council, Cllr Ray Puddifoot, and also Les Webber MBE, Alan Keep and John Castle, from Angling Projects who have supported and worked with the council over the last two years to provide the Scout Angling Badge Programme.

The Scout Angling Badge programme is provided free of charge and open to all scout groups in the borough. For further information please contact Lyn Summers on 01895 556640 or on [email protected]

contactsFor more information about fishing in Hillingdon, visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/fishingclubs where there is a list of clubs you can join in the borough.


hillingdon community

Fishing for all is a huge successMore than 1,200 people of all ages tried fishing and took part in other free activities at the council’s Family Fishing Fun Days.

John Wilson, who was voted The Greatest Angler of all Time in a 2004 poll by readers of the Angling Times Newspaper, added: “It went very well, one of the nicest things for me was seeing so many people of different backgrounds and ages taking part. I don’t know of any other event like it, it really shows that fishing can be a family activity.”

The Family Fishing Fun Days are run with the invaluable support of Les Webber’s Angling Projects, both local and out of borough angling clubs including: Uxbridge Rovers AC, Gerrards Cross and Uxbridge AS, West Drayton AC, Intertype, TAC, Meriden and Watford Piscatorial along with other individual fishing enthusiasts all of whom very kindly volunteer their time to assist the council in holding these increasingly popular events each year.

Prize winners from both days were: Jake Lawlor, Cody Drake, Matthew Sullivan, Noah Groves, Ondine Watson, Sophie Reardon, Callum Lawrence, Brandon Kennedy, Harrison Taylor, Harry Higgins, Sam Holding, Alice Holding, Mason Smith and Jessica Noakes.

Leader of the Council, Cllr Ray Puddifoot, said: “Hillingdon has some fabulous

green spaces and open waters and I am delighted that so many of our residents, young and not so young, came together to enjoy the fun days.

In an age where our lives are dominated by computers, I hope that the experience will have encouraged particularly our younger residents to value and enjoy our natural environment and perhaps take up angling as an outdoor activity.”

Les Webber, who has worked in partnership with the council on these events since 2009 said: “The fun days were a great success for all those involved. The

London Borough of Hillingdon is a very forward thinking council in relation to fishing and understands how it can help the local community. Fishing doesn’t need to be an expensive hobby; a starter kit for children similar to those used at the fun days can be purchased for around £15 from your local tackle shop.”

Keith Arthur, a fishing personality who appears regularly on TV and fronts the Talk Sport radio show, Fisherman’s Blues said: “There are an unbelievable number of people attending these free events. Fishing has remarkable social potential. It’s a very much part of the British way of life, so it’s good for integration.”

You tell us ‘NO’ to HS2

contactsFor more information visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/highspeedrail

contactsFor more information about fishing in Hillingdon, visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/fishingclubs where there is a list of clubs you can join in the borough.


hillingdon community

Thank you to everyone who returned their HS2 consultation card, telling us whether you support the government’s proposals for a high speed rail link through the borough.

and would almost certainly see the question of a third runway back on the agenda. I’m delighted that at least two of the borough’s MPs are supporting this issue.”

The borough’s MPs have also spoken out against HS2 and condemned the proposed route in their consultation response to the DfT.

Chairwoman of Ruislip Against HS2, Lottie Jones, said: “This would be a disaster for the borough if it got the go ahead. There are so many hundreds of local people who do not realise the serious impact this will have on their lives.

“Hillingdon Council has put together a comprehensive response to the government’s consultation that represents the main points of residents and reflects their views.”

We received 13,221 cards in total, with 90 per cent of you voting against

the plans. The postcodes with the largest response percentage were UB9 and HA4.

The cards were boxed up and delivered to the Department for Transport (DfT) along with the council’s official response to the consultation.

Leader of the Council, Cllr Ray Puddifoot, said: “Residents have responded overwhelmingly against the proposed route, which, if given the green light, would destroy their quality of life for no sound reason.

“Although we are not against the concept of high speed rail the proposed route is the worst choice both financially and environmentally

Reisdents of Hillingdon have given a resounding ‘no’ to the plans for a new high speed rail link

contactsFor more information on schools in the borough, visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/schools. Here you will find term dates, contact details for all the borough’s schools and information on benefits you might be entitled to around education.

The largest possible site boundary that would be required (5 hectares) for 5 forms of entry. The majority of the site area would be play space.

Plans for new Hayes school approved


hillingdon learning

school place for every child in Hillingdon is an absolute priority for the council. The council is investing significant sums of money in providing excellent school facilities, both at those schools which will take additional children and at any new school.”

He added: “It is essential that we provide school places as close as possible to where children live and we have already said we will vary our green belt policy for schools as it is important that we choose a site with some green land so that children have good quality playing fields as well as high quality buildings.

“Lake Farm is a good option as it is well located and will be an important addition to the south of the borough and in particular the Hayes area, which has already benefited from investment in new facilities such as Botwell Green Leisure Centre and Library.”

Plans that would see a new school built in Hayes to boost the borough’s

primary school places have been approved by the Cabinet.

The plans were discussed as part of an update on the provision of primary schools in Hillingdon. Between 700 and 950 additional primary school places will be required in the next three years and the council is investing more than £100m to ensure there are places for every child.

The proposed new school would be built at Lake Farm, Hayes, and it would have at least three forms of entry. Additional places will also be created at Colham Manor, Grange Park, Brookside, Cranford and William Byrd Schools

Cllr David Simmonds, Cabinet Member for Education and Children’s Services, said: “This is a national issue and providing a primary

Across the country there is a shortage of primary school places, due to a baby boom. In Hillingdon, we are committed to making sure there are primary school places for every child in the borough, and that these places are as close to their homes as possible.

contactsFor more information on schools in the borough, visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/schools. Here you will find term dates, contact details for all the borough’s schools and information on benefits you might be entitled to around education.

As the schools re-open their door for a new academic year, now is a good time to think about learning something new yourself, whether it’s refreshing your school skills or enhancing your knowledge on a subject you enjoy. Hillingdon People looks at the options open to you.

contactsFor course information or to enrol visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk, or pick up a course brochure at any of the borough’s adult learning centres, libraries or in the Civic Centre, Uxbridge.

Are you interested in volunteering in your free time but not sure where to begin?We’d love to meet you, as we run a wide volunteering programme and we’d appreciate your help. Come along to one of the Advice and Guidance Days or call 01895 464079.

Are you looking for work or planning to start your own business?If you’d like to update your CV or would just like some support in searching for the right position, why not come along to a FREE drop-in Job Shop session? You can go on to join our Work Club, where you can meet other job-seekers for support and encouragement in getting that job.

Planning to start your own business? Our Enterprise Club provides an opportunity for like-minded people to meet regularly to share ideas and to grow that all-important business network.

Information, Advice and Guidance DaysWhen WhereSaturday 3 September 10am to 2pm

Brookfield

Tuesday 6 September2pm to 8pm

Ruislip Manor

Thursday 8 September2pm to 6pm

Rosedale

Thursday 8 September7pm to 9pm

Brookfield

Saturday 10 September10am to 12pm

Brookfield


hillingdon learning

Learn something new this school year

Cllr David Simmonds, Cabinet Member for Education, said: “These courses are a fantastic opportunity to explore a hidden talent, develop your career and meet like minded people. I hope lots of our residents will enrol and enjoy learning something new.”

For more information about courses starting in September, come along to an Information, Advice and Guidance Day. Specialist staff will be available on these days to talk you through a range of options and you will be able to have an initial assessment interview for those courses that lead to a qualification.

If you are unable to attend please telephone the relevant centre where someone will be happy to help you.

The start of the new school year is upon us, and if it’s making you think about learning

something new then Hillingdon Adult and Community Learning might have just what you’re looking for.

There is another packed year of courses and activities, covering a wide range of topics at centres throughout the borough, supporting residents across all aspects of their lives, families, work and community development.

If you are looking for something less formal, there are courses that can offer this, while if you want to gain a qualification you can do this too, along with courses that can help you progress in your career.

You can now enrol online, making it even easier to sign up and learn something new. View course information, enrol and pay for your course online, anytime, anywhere.

contactsTo find out more about your local library and what’s on offer visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/libraries

New libraries open to residents


hillingdon leisure

Two newly refurbished libraries have reopened with improved services as part of the council’s multi-million pound library refurbishment programme.

Eastcote and Northwood Hills libraries reopened to the public in July, offering residents an

even wider range of services in a more modern environment.

Both libraries are brighter and lighter and include new book stocks, free WiFi, brand new Apple Mac computers and Starbucks coffee facilities where all profits go back into maintaining the libraries’ state-of-the-art facilities.

Cllr Henry Higgins, Cabinet Member for Culture, Sport and Leisure, said: “We recognise the importance of libraries as the cornerstones of our communities. While others are making cuts, we are investing in our well used and well loved libraries and will continue to take an innovative approach to the many services we offer through them.”

Around 30 children from Hillside Primary School, Northwood, attended the opening of Northwood Hills Library and enjoyed story time along with local residents and library users.

Members of the Women’s Institute joined the Mayor of Hillingdon at the official opening of Eastcote Library, in Field End Road.

In May, this major refurbishment programme was recognised at the national annual Bookseller Industry Awards, winning the Library Innovation of the Year category.

The borough’s libraries have also seen a major increase in usage, with some branches increasing visitor numbers by up to 80,000.

In August, Uxbridge and Charville libraries hosted an exhibition of artefacts from the Victoria and Albert museum. Objects from the museum’s collection were at the libraries for visitors to handle and hear more about their story.

Hillingdon Festival of History and LiteratureThis October, libraries across the borough are playing host to a series of events as part of Hillingdon History Month. Many of the authors will be available to answer questions after the events.

Victoria’s Wars5 October, 7.30pmUxbridge Library

TV Historian Saul David talks about the Indian Mutiny, Rorke’s Drift and the Second Afghan War – and how those conflicts both shaped the age and resonate still today.

Crime Time12 October, 7.30pmUxbridge Library

Bestselling crime novelists David Dickinson and Imogen Robertson talk about their latest books and the art of writing and researching crime fiction.

History Girls13 October, 7.30pmBotwell Green Library

Acclaimed historians Kate Williams and Alex von Tunzelmann discuss their latest books and the subject of women in history, from Emma Hamilton to Jackie Kennedy

If Walls Could Talk19 October, 7.30pmUxbridge Library

Author and broadcaster Lucy Worsley discusses the intimate history of the British house in this entertaining and engaging event

The Victorian Age26 October, 7.30pmWinston Churchill Hall

Acclaimed biographers David Waller and Helen Rappaport shed light upon Victorian Age through the prism of the literature of the period – and the marriage and mourning of its Monarch.

contactsFor more information on the Green Flag visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk


hillingdon environment

Results due for floral competitionThe results of the Hillingdon

in Bloom and London in Bloom competitions are due

to be announced in September.London in Bloom judges visited

the borough in July and toured Hillingdon’s green spaces. There are three main sections: horticultural achievement, environmental responsibility and community participation. The judges were impressed with the standard of entries and said schools had submitted ‘strong entries’ this year.

There are a number of trophies and certificates of excellence up for grabs and the judging categories for the competition are designed to include residents, businesses, schools as well as public parks and open spaces in London. Hillingdon is hoping to maintain and improve on its success from last year.

Winners of Hillingdon in Bloom, the borough’s own horticultural competition, are also due to be announced in September.

More Green Flag parksAnother three of the council’s parks have been granted prestigious Green Flag Award status, bringing the total to 19 – one of the highest totals in London.

Eastcote Gardens, Hill Lane Park in West Ruislip, and Willow Tree Wander in Ickenham,

have been given the award. The council has also maintained Green Flag status for 16 other sites.

Green Flag Awards recognise parks and green spaces that have reached a national standard, and winners must apply each year to renew their status.

The full list of the borough’s parks and open spaces to fly the flag are:•Churchfield Gardens, Ruislip•Warrender Park, Ruislip•Ruislip Woods•Harefield Village Green•Yiewsley Recreation Ground•Hillingdon Court Park•Fassnidge Park, Uxbridge•Cowley Recreation Ground•Uxbridge Common•Little Britain Lake, Cowley •Cranford Park, Hayes•Lake Farm, Hayes•Barra Hall Park, Hayes•Minet Country Park, Hayes

•Norman Leddy Memorial Gardens, Hayes

•Little Harlington Playing Fields, Hayes

•Eastcote Gardens•Hill Lane, Ruislip•Willow Tree WanderCllr Jonathan Bianco, Cabinet

Member for Finance, Property and Business Services, said: “We now believe we have more land under Green Flag status than any other London borough. It is a fantastic achievement and one that we should all be proud of. We are lucky to have so many parks and open spaces with such high standards and I hope many of our residents and visitors will enjoy them this summer.”

The Green Flag Award uses eight criteria to judge against: a welcoming place, healthy, safe and secure, well maintained and clean, sustainability, conservation and heritage, community involvement, marketing and management.

GREEN PARkSFrom the top: Cllr Jonathan Bianco displays the new Green Flag at Norman Leddy Memorial GardensChurchfield Gardens (x2)Eastcote House Gardens

contactsFor more information, including a programme of events and confirmed acts, please visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/bigfest


hillingdon event

18

Uxbridge will be buzzing with stalls and

sideshows throughout the afternoon of Sunday 23 October, transforming the high

street into a Victorian wonderland. In amongst

vintage fairground stalls will be steam powered music, penny farthings, Victorian magic, jugglers, stilt-walkers, the world’s smallest circus and a spectacular theatre show – taking place inside the skirts of a 15ft opera singer!

Victorian craft activities and curiosities will keep children busy, while the main stage

is back!The borough’s annual creative festival returns, and this year BigFest will travel back in time to the golden age of circuses and music halls.

outside the Civic Centre will feature performances by some of Hillingdon’s most successful acts, with a bill topped by Chris and Wes – our very own street dancing duo and winners of Sky 1’s Got to Dance competition. Chris and Wes will be supported by Ashley Dawes, who recently made it to the finals of the nationwide ‘Live and Unsigned’ competition, beating 10,000 competitors to reach the finals at the O2 Academy Islington.

Other attractions include a dance arena with performances throughout the afternoon, and a Victorian games area.

The fun starts at noon and runs until 4pm.

Cllr Henry Higgins, Cabinet Member for Culture, Sport and Leisure, said: “Bigfest is always a great day, and a fantastic experience for people to get involved with. We have some amazing talent in the borough and this is a chance for you to see the best of Hillingdon.”

contactsFor more information, including a programme of events and confirmed acts, please visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/bigfest


hillingdon people survey

Putting our residents first is the council’s vision, and all our work is aimed at achieving this. 70 per cent of you tell us you feel well informed about the work we are doing and that Hillingdon People is your preferred method of finding out information about the council. We want to continually improve the magazine, so please tell us what you think.

Please take a few moments to complete this questionnaire and you will be entered into a prize draw to win £25 worth of Chimes shopping centre vouchers. If you would like to give us your views but don’t want to be entered into the prize draw please return it to us without your name and address.

It’s free to send back to us, so you don’t even need to add a stamp.

1 Which stories or features do find useful/enjoy reading? Please tick those you find interesting

Council news (such as new initiatives)

Hillingdon older people (stories for older people)

Young Hillingdon

Safer Hillingdon

The Leader’s column

Environment (such as recycling)

Interviews with residents who have used council services

Feedback on recent surveys

Information on how we spend your money

News for young people

Campaigns (such as ‘say no to HS2’)

Interviews with council staff about their jobs

Time on your hands (requests for volunteers)

Interviews with community groups

Hillingdon contact numbers

What’s on (events)

Other (please give details)

2 Please tell us what other information you would like to see in Hillingdon People Please give details

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______________________________________________________________________________________

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3 Hillingdon People is delivered direct to your door, and we also send copies to the borough’s libraries, but where else would you like to see copies of the magazine?Please give details

______________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

have your say and win £25

worth of Chimes shopping centre

vouchers



4 Have you ever read Hillingdon People on the council’s website? Yes No (go to question 8)

5 If yes, do you find the online version: easier to read than the printed magazine? Yes No

has an easy to use menu of sections? Yes No

has well organised sections? Yes No

6 When you read Hillingdon People online did you Read the magazine? Look at advertising? Look at back issues?

Look at deadlines and dates? Report a missed delivery?

7 What improvements can we make to the online magazine?Please give details

______________________________________________________________________________________

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8 How many people in your household read the magazine (please give number)?

9 Please tick which editions of the magazine you have received through your door.

If you are not receiving regular copies, please tick this box and put your name and address at the end of the survey.

10 Where else do you find out about council news or events? Local newspapers (please give newspaper name):

Council’s website (www.hillingdon.gov.uk)

Councillors

From council staff

Consultations and surveys

Leaflets and posters

Smile! Magazine

4HillingdonFamilies

Other ways (please give details)

11 How well informed do you feel about Hillingdon Council? very well informed well informed informed enough not well informed

not informed at all



12 We’ve been publicising the following areas of the council’s work this year. Which of the following have you heard about?

13 Please tell us which of the following sources you use to get your general news and information.Please tick ALL that apply

BBC News

BBC 24

Channel 4 News

Daily Express

Daily Mail

Daily Mirror

Evening Standard

Financial Times

Five Live

Five News

ITV News

London Paper

Newsnight

Radio2

Radio 4

Sky News

The Guardian

The Independent

The Metro

The Observer

The Star

The Sun

The Telegraph

The Times

Please post to:Hillingdon PeopleLondon Borough of HillingdonRRYK–LXRE–SXZCUxbridgeUB8 1UW

or send it free from your local library.

The survey is also available online at: www.hillingdon.gov.uk/hillingdonpeople

Closing date is Friday 28 October 2011

2012hillingdon people magazineSeptember/October 201122


Information about youPlease tick one box in each question so we can make sure that Hillingdon People provides news relevant to you

14 Are you? Male Female

15 To which age group do you belong? Under 16 16-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65-74 75+

16 Do you have a disability? Yes No If you have answered yes, please state the nature of your disability:

______________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

17 If you have a visual impairment, would you like to receive a large print copy?

Yes (please give your name and address below)

No

Name: _______________________________________

Address: _____________________________________

____________________________________________

____________________________________________

Postcode: ________________________

Thank you for taking

the time to fill in this

survey

Please post to:Hillingdon PeopleLondon Borough of HillingdonRRYK–LXRE–SXZCUxbridgeUB8 1UW

or send it free from your local library.

The survey is also available online at: www.hillingdon.gov.uk/hillingdonpeople

Closing date is Friday 28 October 2011

7hillingdon democracy

2012www.hillingdon.gov.uk/schools

Are you a Hillingdon resident?

Do you have a child starting secondary school next year?

If so, you need to apply for a school place by

31 October 2011

For full details, deadline dates and to apply online, go to:

www.hillingdon.gov.uk/schools

If you do not have internet access, you can obtain a brochure and paper

application form from any Hillingdon primary school or

by calling 01895 556644.


Make sure you can use your vote

a voice in all future elections and most notably the London Mayoral and Assembly elections in 2012.”

Registering to vote has never been easier. If the details on your registration form are correct, you can register by using the internet registration service, contacting the council’s free phone number or returning the form by post. If there are changes these need to be made to the form and posted back in the prepaid envelope.

Every house in Hillingdon should by now have received a mauve voter registration form. Duplicate forms and more information can be obtained by emailing [email protected] or calling 01895 250251.

Hillingdon Council is encouraging all residents to make sure they are

included on the electoral register. No registration means that residents lose their right to vote in the coming year.

Registration forms were delivered to every home in Hillingdon during August, and now the council is legally required to follow up those households who have not returned their forms.

This costs local tax payers thousands of pounds each year, so a prompt reply will save time and money. The information you send back forms the Register of Electors, which is used as a basis for any election in this country

including local government, general and Mayor of London elections.

The information, as required by law, is also used by credit agencies for all financial transactions – for example opening a bank account, getting a mortgage, getting credit, applying for a contract mobile phone. If you are not on the electoral register, you will often be refused.

Lloyd White, Head of Democratic Services and Returning Officer, said: “The right to vote is incredibly important and one which should not be taken for granted.

“Residents must register every year to secure their right and by acting today they will ensure that they have



hillingdon feature

While the sun shone, residents were able to get outdoors and enjoy the ‘wonder’ of Hayes Carnival and take a traffic-free ride through the streets of Hayes at the Mayor of London’s SkyRide Hillingdon.

Around 15,000 people attended Hayes Carnival, including the parade and carnival

at Barra Hall Park. Mayor of Hillingdon, Cllr Mary O’Connor and Olympic mascots Wenlock and Mandeville, presented the winners of the best float competition with their awards. Library Services and Minet Junior scooped the top prize in the floats and minibuses category, and Transition Heathrow won the cars, bands and marching group category.

Keeping with this year’s theme of ‘Wonders of the World’, the main stage showcased the best music from

the borough including an Irish folk band, the Dhol Squad and a samba band. An array of Caribbean, Thai and Chinese cuisine was also on offer for visitors to enjoy.

The outdoor theme continued when thousands of cyclists took to the streets of Hayes to take part in Hillingdon’s first SkyRide, enjoying the borough’s green spaces on their bikes. TV presenter Jeff Brazier, SkyRide Ambassador, was at the event, along with Mayor of Hillingdon, Cllr Mary O’Connor, and Cllr Keith Burrows, Cabinet Member for Planning and Transportation.



hillingdon feature


hillingdon proud

The council is encouraging residents, as well as those who work and study in the borough, to get involved in a range of civic pride activities.

As part of the week, residents in the Uxbridge Road area (wards Barnhill, Brunel, Charville, Hillingdon East, Uxbridge North and Uxbridge South) will also be able to get electrical goods removed for free. For more information please see the website at www.hillingdon.gov.uk/proud.

Tell us what makes you PROUD!By telling us what makes you

feel proud of Hillingdon, you can win an all-inclusive annual gym membership worth more than £500! The pass can be used for swimming, the gym and classes at your favourite council leisure centre. There is also an annual swimming pass available for a young person

Feel PROUD was launched in July and you can get involved in a number of ways which

all have the aim of promoting the fantastic resources the borough already has, improving areas that residents tell us are important and celebrating the rich heritage of Hillingdon including support for our armed forces and our veterans past and present.

Pride of PlacePride of Place (PoP) events are taking place on Saturday 24 September at St Margarets Church Hall, and Uxbridge Library from 10.30am to 1pm.

The Community Café at St Margarets Church Hall is an opportunity for residents in the Uxbridge Road area to find out more about what is happening near where they live and how they can get involved to help themselves, their neighbours and their community. You can meet and chat to the council’s Cabinet Members and other councillors.

The information fair at Uxbridge Library will include information on council services and council officers will be available to answer questions.

Currently, as part of PoP,

residents are able to vote for a project to receive Chrysalis funding in the Uxbridge Road area. The projects have been suggested by residents, and you are able to vote for the one you want to win through the PROUD section of the council website and at local libraries. The project with the most votes will receive Chrysalis funding and be turned into reality. The winner will be announced at the Community Café event.

Alongside the Community Café event is an Environmental Question Time where residents can pose environmental questions to Cabinet Members – Cllr Keith Burrows (Cabinet Member for Planning, Transportation and Recycling) and Cllr Jonathan Bianco (Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Business Services). This event will be held at the Civic Centre on Monday 26 September from 7pm-9pm. If you would like to attend, or submit a question to be answered at the event, please let us know. The main topics for discussion will be environment, planning, highways, transportation, waste and recycling. Simply register your attendance by visiting www.hillingdon.gov.uk/proud or by post to 4W/05, Civic Centre, High Street, Uxbridge, UB8 1UW.

of Hillingdon

contactsYou can find out more about Feel PROUD including information about the history of the borough and ways in which the council are supporting Hillingdon’s heritage at www.hillingdon.gov.uk/proud

PROUD of our history and heritageAs a council, Hillingdon is proud of the heritage and history within the borough, including the RAF bunker in Uxbridge, and the serving forces based at RAF Northolt.

War memorials around the borough have been cleaned and refurbished as a mark of respect for servicemen and women. There are 69 memorials to war dead in the borough, with 21 of these open to the public. The rest of the memorials are in closed buildings.

As part of being proud of our heritage, we are putting up blue plaques across the borough to celebrate and remember people of national or local importance who have resided in Hillingdon.

Blue plaques have been awarded to William Wilberforce, who campaigned for the abolition of slavery, Alexander Fleming, biologist and Nobel Prize winner, Lord Bernard Miles, actor, writer and director, and First World War heroes Robert Ryder VC and Cecil Kinross VC.

If you know of a former resident you think should be considered for a plaque, please get in touch. You can email the Projects, Events and Improvements team on [email protected]. Suggestions must have been born or lived in the borough, made an important contribution to human welfare or happiness and be recognisable to the well informed passer-by.


hillingdon proud

who is under 16 for telling us what makes them feel proud to live or study in the borough.

The short survey is available on the council website at www.hillingdon.gov.uk/proud until the end of September. Two randomly selected people will win the prizes which have been kindly donated by Fusion and GLL, Hillingdon’s leisure providers.

You can also watch videos of other Hillingdon residents speaking about what makes them feel PROUD through

the council’s website at www.hillingdon.gov.uk/proud.

Walter Hart lives in Ruislip and is featured on the website and on posters around the borough. He is a member of the Normandy Veterans’ Association and fought for his country in the Second World War.

Walter said: “I very much appreciate the help that Hillingdon borough has given to the Normandy Veterans’ Association and the RAF Benovolent Fund, and RAF Northolt and Uxbridge.

The residents of the borough should appreciate the work they (the council) have done to help the service personnel in the borough.”

ASB – Taking it out of the picture


hillingdon community safety

Spitting and littering are anti-social and make our streets and green spaces less pleasant areas to be in. Residents have told us that they want us to take tougher action against anyone who litters, so as part of our crackdown on anti-social behaviour (ASB) in Hillingdon, we are working with our partners to clamp down on all forms of littering.

to police officers in your Safer Neighbourhood Team or officers from the council’s Anti-Social Behaviour Investigations Team if there is a particular problem or you know of repeat offenders.

Cllr Douglas Mills, Cabinet Member for Improvement, Partnerships and Community Safety, said: “Dropping all forms of litter is unacceptable, including spitting paan, khat and gum. Litter on our streets is an eyesore and costs the council a lot of money to clean up. It is also unhygienic.

“Anyone caught dropping litter of any description can be fined £80 for this. Our residents have told us they support strong action against people dropping litter and we hope this fine is a deterrent.

“By reporting any fly-tipping to us, you are helping us to take anti-social behaviour out of the picture.”

Littering costs the council £2.5m every year. This includes cleaning the roads

and parks and collecting litter. Litter louts drop more than 7,000 tonnes of litter on the borough’s streets, that’s equivalent to 878 double decker buses!

Anyone caught dropping litter in Hillingdon can be fined up to £80, with ‘litter’ including cigarette butts, chewing gum, as well as the more traditional rubbish that gets dropped like sandwich packets, drinks cans or bottles.

You can help keep the borough’s streets clean by putting your

rubbish in a bin, or taking it home with you and throwing it away there, and by recycling where appropriate. There are recycling bins in all the main town centres in Hillingdon where you can recycle bottles, cans and paper.

The council will soon be introducing wardens to patrol the borough. They will have powers to issue fixed penalty notices to people littering, including spitting chewing gum and dropping cigarette butts.

Littering can also include fly-tipping, which carries a maximum penalty of £5,000. Common items that are fly-tipped include: vehicle parts like tyres, oil and

petrol; builders’ waste like rubble, bricks, bathroom

suites; trade waste; white goods; furniture and garden waste.Fly-tipping has

serious environmental impacts, including polluting the environment and it costs around £100million a year (nationally) to clean up.The council is clamping down

on all forms of spitting, including chewable khat, paan and chewing gum. Anyone caught spitting can be given

an £80 on the spot fine.You can help us by speaking

Hillingdon’s high streets: no place for anti-social behaviour

www.hillingdon.gov.uk/asb

ASB – Taking it out of the picture

hillingdon community safety

contactsYou can report fly-tipping easily, by reporting it online through the council’s website

– visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk and click ‘Report it’. To do this you will have to log-in or register so you can track your reports. You can also email reports on [email protected] or, if you don’t have access to the internet, call us on 01895 556000.


on the wayon the way

contactsAn exhibition showing the proposals will be at Yiewsley and West Drayton libraries between 20 and 23 September. A highways engineer will be able to answer questions at Yiewsley Library on 22 September from 10am until 1pm, and on the same day at West Drayton Library from 2pm until 5pm. Alternatively, please contact Aram Cheraghi on 01895 250445 or email [email protected]


hillingdon improvements

Work will shortly be starting on improvements to Yiewsley and West

Drayton, following successful refurbishments in Ruislip, Harefield and Green Lane, Northwood. More than £2m of dedicated funding from the Mayor of London’s Major Schemes programme will be spent, the largest investment of its kind in the borough. Many of the ideas being implemented came from local residents.

The improvements will include a new contemporary bridge make-over for the canal bridge (Colham Bridge) and better lit, more pleasant environment for pedestrians at the railway bridge near Tavistock Road.

The consultation results showed us that some of the things people liked most about High Street, Yiewsley, and Station Road, West Drayton were the public transport links, the range of shops and services, the availability of parking and flowers and landscaping. However, it was felt the bus stops were poor and buses often added to congestion because of this. Other points that were raised as negative in the consultation included the undisciplined nature of the parking, the overspill of some shops onto the pavement, peak time traffic congestion and that there were too many lorries using the roads.

Cllr Keith Burrows, Cabinet Member for Planning, Transportation and Recycling, said: “As with our other improvement programmes across the borough, we have listened to what residents want from these high streets and are working to put some of their suggestions into practice. I hope the works will improve the area and encourage more people to use their local town centres.”

Improvements for Yiewsley and West Drayton

Do you havegood quality unwanted

furniture or electricals?To advertise in this magazine telephone Hannah Collins on 01895 250828please mention Hillingdon People when responding to adverts


advertisements

contactsFor more information and advice on the opportunities available contact the volunteer centre (part of Hillingdon Association of Voluntary Services). Ring 01895 442730, or visit www.havs.org.uk/volunteering


volunteer inprofileJohn Barrett from Welbeck Centre, Hayes

Want to volunteer?•Hillingdon Carers, Young Carers Project

in Harlington are looking for volunteers to help out at their Saturday Club.

•The Welbeck Resource Centre, Hayes, needs garden maintenance volunteers.

•Healing Gardens, Uxbridge/Denham are looking for volunteers to help out with various aspects of their project.

•LBH Parent Support Team are recruiting advocacy volunteers.

How did you get involved?I live locally to the centre; I was passing by and noticed a sign in the window asking for the help of volunteers. I went inside for a chat and a cup of tea and the people were really friendly! I started volunteering two days a week and that gradually became three days.

What are the benefits of volunteering?Volunteering gives me somewhere to go and talk to people. I’ve lived locally in the area for years but I never really got to know the people in my local area until I started volunteering; now I feel like I know everyone!

What would you say to potential volunteers?Come down and have a chat! If you’ve got the time to spare then why not?

Where do you volunteer?With the London Borough of Hillingdon as a Gardening Maintenance Volunteer; I am based at the Welbeck Community Resource Centre in Hayes. I also volunteer at Barnhill Community Centre where I assist with general maintenance.

What are your day to day activities?I volunteer at the Welbeck Centre on a Monday, Wednesday and Friday where I assist with the garden project. The project helps elderly pensioners, disabled people and on occasion young, single mothers with their gardens. This can involve weeding, mowing and cutting hedges. We also tend to the garden of Mead House Day Service, Hayes.

up and you want help to publicise it why not let us know about it?

Ted Hill, HAVS’ Chief Executive, said: “The calendar is proving a welcome addition to our information and support services.

“By checking it out residents can get advance notice of what community events are on in their neighbourhoods and elsewhere locally while organisers can make sure their events don’t clash with similar ones.”

In addition, the calendar carries other useful information such as the dates of conferences, courses and training sessions run by HAVS and others for those in the voluntary sector.

To access the calendar log on to: hillingdonconnected.org.uk (or havs.org.uk).

Send event details (title, description, date, time, venue, contacts and hyperlinks) to [email protected] Give at least 14 days notice. Only not-for-profit events accepted.

For more information email as above or phone 01895 442722.

Want to find out online what community

events are taking place in the borough? Then click on the Community Calendar.

It can be found on Hillingdon Connected, the website of Hillingdon Association of Voluntary Services (HAVS).

The calendar has day-by-day listings of local events planned by charities, voluntary organisations and other not-for-profit groups.

You’ll find information about a variety of events – everything from family fun days to play schemes and arts and crafts to fundraising activities. There are also links to organisers’ own websites and their publicity pages.

Since its launch in 2010 the calendar’s content has steadily grown but there’s plenty of room for many more events to be included.

Any local organisations – including clubs, schools, churches and societies – can have their events posted on the calendar free of charge.

So if your organisation has an event coming

Your community calendar

When: 29 September, 8pmWhere: Beck Theatre, Grange Road, Hayes,Cost: £22, with concesions £2 off. Groups of 10 or more get one ticket in ten free.Contact: Call the Box Office on 020 8561 8371 or visit www.easytheatres.com

Magic of MotownGet ready to party as the smash-hit concert show from America authentically revives the harmonies, slick moves and legendary musicianship that were the making of Motown.Performing hits from The Supremes, Temptations, Four Tops, Jackson 5, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Mary Wells, Martha Reeves and Lionel richie and more.The Magic of Motown - signed, sealed, delivered!

When: 11 – 15 October, 7.30pm and Saturday matinee at 2.30pmWhere: Winston Churchill Theatre, Manor Farm Site, Pinn Way, RuislipCost: £13 (£11 concessions) Groups of 10 or more get 10% offContact: Call the box office on 020 8868 4096 or visit www.klos.art.officelive.com

AnnieBased on the newspaper comic strip ‘Little Orphan Annie’, Annie is set in New York in December 1933, at the time of the Great Depression. It is the story of 11-year-old Annie who has been in an orphanage since she was a baby, but it convinced her parents will come back for her. She and the other orphans are badly treated by the drunken orphanage manager and Annie dreams of the day when she will be reunited with her parents and become part of a real family. The show features inspiring songs including (The Sun’ll Come Out) Tomorrow and other great songs and characters.This amateur production is by arrangement with Josef Weinberger Limited.

When: 23 OctoberWhere: Uxbridge High StreetCost: Free!Contact: For more information, see the council website at www.hillingdon.gov.uk/bigfest

BIGfestThe council’s annual celebration of the best of the borough’s arts and culture is once again hitting Uxbridge. This year’s theme will be ‘Big Top’ and there will be circus and street performers in the High Street and a mix of music and circus acts for the main stage outside the Civic Centre.


If you’re looking for something to do in Hillingdon, the What’s on pages of the council website have had a re-fresh, visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/events to see what’s happening in your area.

MusicRuislip Lions Club presents Last Night of the PromsSaturday 17 September, 7.30pmThis concert features The Friary Guildford Band, with soloist Corinne Hart.Contact: Box Office 07806 766993Cost: £12Winston Churchill Hall

Classic ConcertsSunday 18 September and 20 November, 3.30pmThe September concert will be a piano recital by Haruko Seki, playing music by Saint-Saens, Debussy, Joplin and Gershwin.The November concert will feature The Edmund String Ensemble and will include Piano Quintet in A minorCost: Tickets £6, to include refreshments, at the door or on 01923 821869Contact: Call 01923 821869 to bookSt Edmund’s Church

TheatreMurder Mystery Evening - The Case of the Invisible CorpseFriday 30 September, 7.30pmWatch the scenes, interrogate the suspects, search for hidden clues and enjoy a sumptuous three-course meal as you solve the mystery unfolding before your very eyes!1835. Edinburgh University is under investigation after the recent case of the infamous Resurrection Men, Burke and Hare. However, new and more deadly things are afoot through the Greyfriars night...Contact: Call the Box Office on 020 8561 8371Cost: £35 per ticket, Premiere card £5 offBeck Theatre

LeisureHillingdon Citizens’ Advice Bureau Advice FairTuesday 13 September, 9.30am to 4.30pmHillingdon CAB is holding its annual Advice Fair with more than 20 stalls offering help, information, leaflets and give-aways. There will also be CAB Advisers on hand to give advice and self-help materials about money advice and debt management.The Mall Pavilions


If you wish to publicise an event, please email details to [email protected] or send to Hillingdon People, 3E/07 Civic Centre, High Street, Uxbridge, UB8 1UW. Events are selected at the editor’s discretion.

Charville Community Centre Bury Road, Hayes

Deane Park Hall Long Drive, South Ruislip, HA4 0HS.

Hayes and Harlington Community Centre Station Road, Hayes, UB3 4HR.

Manor Farm site Pinn Way, Ruislip, HA4 7SU.

Mall Pavilions High Street, Uxbridge, UB8 1LN.

Methodist Church Hall Oaklands Gate, Northwood HA6 3AA.

Venues Mount Vernon Hospital Northwood, HA6 2RN.

Northwood College Maxwell Road, Northwood, HA6 2YE.

St. Edmund’s Church Pinner Road, Northwood Hills HA6 1QS

St Lawrence Church Bridle Road, Eastcote, HA5 2SJ.

St Paul’s Church Hall Tiverton Road, Ruislip Manor, HA4 0BP.

Ruislip Methodist Church Ickenham Road, Ruislip, HA4 7BZ.

Uxbridge Community Centre The Greenway, Uxbridge

The Bible - In Voice and VerseSaturday 1 October, 7.30pmA special concert of words and music celebrating the 400th anniversary of the King James Bible with a journey from Genesis to Revelation featuring Handel, Haydn, Mendelssohn and more.Send cheques payable to Eastcote Parish Church with a s.a.e. toSt Lawrence Parish Office, 2a Bridle Road, Eastcote, HA5 2SJ.Cost: £8Contact: More information at www.invoiceandverse.co.ukSt Lawrence Church

Magical Extravaganza on IceTuesday 25 October, 7.30pmEnter the mystifying world of Magical Extravaganza on Ice, a fusion of illusion and dancing on ice. The performance features ice skaters who have competed in British and European competitions, as well as performing in professional ice shows all over the world.Join us on a mystical journey and be transported to another world of enchantment, make believe and dreams.Contact: Call the Box Office on 020 8561 8371Cost: £15, restricted view £10 (check with the Box Office for details), concessions £1 off, family ticket £50 (one adult and three children or two adults and two children), Premiere card 10% offBeck Theatre

Pilates Classes Tuesday evenings and Wednesday morningsFive classes covering all levels from beginners to advancedContact: call Virginia King on 01895 232551Various in Eastcote

Clan Social ClubThird Wednesday of the monthClan Social Club is a friendly club for unattached people aged 50 plus. Come and meet the members, make new friends and find out more about the club. Contact: Tony on 020 8230 8680 or Pamela on 020 8841 9087

Women’s InstituteThird Thursday of the month, 1.30pm to 4pmContact: 01895 463654Hayes and Harlington Community Centre

Singing 4 FunEvery Thursday 7.45pm to 9.45pm Singing 4 Fun is a club set up for adults who love to sing. No auditions. Sing the songs you want to sing, help and advice from experienced singers, take part in group numbers, work on singing techniques and performance skills and perform in showsNext term dates:25 August – 13 October(please note this term is only 8 weeks)Cost: £35 for the term (£25 members), £6 pay-as-you-go (non members)Contact: www.singing4fun.com email [email protected] room, Compass Theatre

Irish Support Advice ServiceThursdays 1pm to 3.30pm A group for the over 65s, including music, line dancing, exercise classes, raffle, bingo, fun and laughter.Contact: Ann on 020 8741 0466St. Raphael’s Parish Centre

Hatha yoga classesVarious daysClasses for beginners and intermediate students in Northwood and Eastcote.Contact: Ammie on 07956 855445 or email [email protected], or visit www.yogawayoflife.co.uk

Social BuddiesVarious days and timesSocial group for anyone aged 30-55. Lots of events taking place every week, mainly in Middx area. Events include pub nights, quizzes,live music/tribute bands, walks, badminton, meals and theatre to name a few. Contact: Visit www.meetup.com/SocialBuddies/

Swimming classesSaturdays, from 10 SeptemberThese new classes start for children, aged three to 14.Contact: For more information call Hamid on 07403 450972.Northwood College

Annual Sponsored WalkSunday 18 September, 8am to 1pmThe annual sponsored walk in aid of Michael Sobell House Hospice. If you’re an enthusiastic walker, sign up now to get involved. You can walk three, seven or 12 miles, along with canal sides of Northwood, Moor Park and Rickmansworth.Mount Vernon Hospital

ExerciseStretch-a-ciseThursdays, 11am to 12pmNew exercise classes at South Ruislip Community Centre, for older people and people with disabilities. A gentle work out followed by a cup of tea and a chat. Come and join the fun!Cost: £4Contact: Please call 020 8842 0547 or 020 8423 6088Deane Park Hall

Jan’s Dance and FitnessVarious day and timesClasses include bums and tums (Tuesdays 6.30 to 7.30pm at St Paul’s Church), tap dancing (Tuesdays 8pm to 9.30pm at St Martin’s Church) and nifty fifty active senior fitness (Wednesdays 1.45m to 2.45pm at Ruislip Methodist Church)Contact: 07979 952277 or visit www.jansdanceandfitness.com

CraftsDuck Pond Farmers Markets1 October and 5 NovemberMonthly market including stalls from local farmers, mostly housed within the Great Barn at Manor Farm in Ruislip. There will be produce grown, reared or made by local producers, along with activities for children and entertainment for adults.Contact: Visit www.duckpondmarket.co.uk for more informationGreat Barn, Manor Farm site

Duck Pond Arts and Crafts Markets15 October and 19 NovemberLocal, independent crafters, food producers and small local businesses will be offering their wares at this traditional market, held inside at the Great Barn.Contact: visit www.duckpondmarket.co.ukGreat Barn, Manor Farm site

Northwood Craft MarketSaturday 6 October and first Saturday in the month,10am to 1pmCome along to find beautiful crafts & gifts for sale, all handmade by local craftspeople.Contact: [email protected], www.northwoodcraftmarket.co.ukMethodist Church Hall

DanceLine dancingWednesdays and ThursdaysClasses for beginners and easy level.Wednesday classes are 10.30am to 12.30pm for beginners and 1.45pm to 3.35pm for easy level, at Uxbridge Community Centre.Thursday classes are 8pm to 10pm, for improvers at the Charville Community Centre.Cost: £3.50 for the Wednesday classes, £4.25 for the Charville classesUxbridge Community Centreand Charville Community Centre

2012www.hillingdon.gov.uk/schools

Are you a Hillingdon resident?

Do you have a child who was born between

1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008?

If so, you need to apply for a school place by

15 January 2012

For full details, deadline dates and to apply online, go to:

www.hillingdon.gov.uk/schools

If you do not have internet access, you can obtain a brochure and paper

application form from any Hillingdon primary school or

by calling 01895 556644.


advertisement

Golden numbersDo it online 24/7 at www.hillingdon.gov.ukenvironment and Street Scene01895 556000Mon – Fri, 8am to 6pmanti-Social behaviour0800 694 0240Mon – Fri, 8am to 6pmCouncil tax01895 250000Mon – Fri, 8am to 6pmhousing01895 556666Mon – Fri, 8am to 6pmSchool admissions, Childcare and early years01895 556644Mon – Fri, 8am to 6pmFamilies’ Information Service0800 073 4800Council Main Switchboard and out-of-hour service01895 250111Mon – Fri, 8am to 6pmplanning, trees and landscapes01895 250230Mon – Fri, 8am to 6pmFraud hotline0800 389 8313hillingdon Social Care direct01895 556633Mon – Fri, 8am to 6pmhillingdonFirst01895 556677electoral Services and registrars01895 558250Mon – Fri, 8am to 6pm

Learninglibrary information desk01895 250600advice and guidance (young people)01895 257855enquiries about school transport01895 250008truancy hotline01895 250858

Advice and supportage UK hillingdon020 8756 3040Consumer advice08454 040506Citizens’ advice bureau0844 848 7903hayes one Stop Shop01895 [email protected] autistic Care and Support020 8606 [email protected] to 5pmhillingdon Independent domestic violence advocacy Service020 8246 174 hillingdon Women’s Centre01895 259578nhS Wellbeing CentreBoots, High Street, Uxbridge020 3214 5699p3 Jobshop – employment Services020 8581 1056p3 navigator hayes housing advice and Support Centre 020 8581 1054/5 [email protected] navigator yiewsley housing advice and Support Centre01895 462074/5victim Support hillingdon01895 421200

Community informationhillingdon Fire StationUxbridge Road, Hillingdon, Middlesex UB10 0PH020 8555 1200 ext [email protected] (no third runway action Group)[email protected] 253355Social Security (benefits agency)020 8426 3000three valley Water0845 782 3333

Care servicesCareline01895 250380adoption and fostering01895 277850drugs or sexual health advice for young people up to 21 years01895 257285

Planning building control enquiries, inspection requests and dangerous structures01895 250804 /05/06/07/08dangerous structures (out of hours)01895 250111land charges enquiries01895 250689

Local democracyCouncillors’ names, addresses and advice surgeries01895 250600Council meeting dates and agendas01895 250636Conservative group office01895 250316/250728electoral registration01895 [email protected] group office01895 250780/250271Mayor’s office01895 250763

[email protected] Green Sports and leisure Centre020 8561 0956hillingdon Sports and leisure Complex, Uxbridge0845 130 7324highgrove pool, ruislip01895 630753Queensmead Sports Centre, South ruislip020 8845 6010active lifestyles Gym, Minet020 8573 2956

Environment and street sceneCurrent and proposed roadworks in hillingdonwww.hillingdon.gov.uk/roadworksenvironmental protection Unit01895 277406Food, health and Safety01895 250190noise team and animal welfare01895 250155pest Control01895 250184 / 277417ranger patrol Safety issues in parks01895 239241trading Standards01895 250164

Hospitalsharefield hospital01895 823737hillingdon hospital01895 238282Mount vernon hospital01923 826111northwick park hospital020 8864 3232Watford General hospital01923 244366nhS direct advice line0845 4647

PoliceMetropolitan police non-emergency number.0300 123 1212Textphone18001 0300 123 [email protected] Safety Unit (to report race crime)020 8246 1766

2012


hillingdon people september-october

Documents

hillingdon people surveylet

mayor of hillingdon

vulnerable people

hillingdon contents12

wonder of hayes carnival

streets of hayes

fishing activities

skyride ambassador