new malden's village voice dec 11

www.nmvv.co.uk

VillageoiceNew Malden’s free

December 11 No 74

KT3’s independent community magazine

Please remember to mention the Village Voice when you speak to our advertisers2

SHANNON CORNERS E R V I C E C E N T R E•Diagnostic Equipment •Welding •Repairs •MoT •Clutches •Batteries •Brakes

OPENMon-Fri 8:30am - 5:30pmSaturday 8:00am - 1:00pm

We’ve been aroundfor years!Call us on:

020 8942 9666

OPENMon-Fri 8:30am - 5:30pmSaturday 8:00am - 1:00pm

TYRES FROM

£25£25EXHAUSTS

AIR CONDITIONING FROM £50£50

BUDGET &BRANDED TYRES

SUPPLIED &FITTED

FREE VALVE &BALANCE ON ALL

TYRESPURCHASED

SERVICING FROM£80£80

LOCAL COLLECTION &DELIVERY BY ARRANGEMENT

CALL TODAY AND ASK ABOUT OUR

MONTHLY OFFERS

15% OFFANY PURCHASE

WITH THIS VOUCHER

SHANNON CORNER SERVICE CENTRE

208-212Burlington Road, New Malden,

Surrey KT3 4NP

Email: [email protected]: www.shannontyres.co.uk

BEVERLEY ROAD

MAL

DERN

WAY

A3

BURLINGTON ROAD B282

SHANNONCORNER

ROOKWOOD AVE

ALBERT ROAD

GEORGE ROAD

To advertise email [email protected] or call 020 8336 2915 3

Here at TSD we cater for almost everybuilding service

Please contact our dedicated friendly team for a free estimate or anyadvice you may need

Domestic and Commercial work welcome• Renovations & Alterations• Painting, Decorating & Wallpapering• Porches, Conservatories & Windows• Door and window locks and handles repaired or replaced• Misted/broken sealed double glazed units replaced• Conservatory roofs repaired or replaced• All Aspects of Roofing, Guttering, Fascias & Soffits• Kitchen/Bathroom Installations• Driveways • Fencing, Patio’s & Landscaping• All Aspects Of Plastering & Pebble Dashing• All Bespoke Building Works Carried Out• Loft Conversions• New basements design and build• Plumbing & Heating, New Boiler Installations, Service & Repairs• All Aspects of Electrical Work• Extensions • Carpentry & Flooring• All Aspects of Tree Work & Stump Grinding• Complete Rubbish Removal & Site Clearances• Curtain and Blind design and installation service• Tiling/Stonework• Bespokely made Wardrobes, Chest of drawers and more• Emergency call out for Plumbing, Gas and Electrics• Swimming Pool and Hot Tub design and build• Brick and Block work carried out• Garage door replacements in a large variety of designs

and colours

Testimonial

Dear Tom

I would like to start by saying a big thank you. Myself & Margaret are incredibly happy with theoutcome of our new kitchen. From the verybeginning of the job to the very end your help,advice and knowledge I believe made all thedifference to a perfect finish.We can’t believe the transformation from how it looked before to how it looks now. I can honestly say I have never met a builder who takes such pride in his work. I also didn’t think I would ever meet a builder who is more fussy than the customer themselves. Thank you to all your team who were always polite, thoughtful & professional.

I will of course always be using TSD to carry out all our future work & will always with great pleasure recommend you to friends, family & potential customers.

Best Regards

info@tsdbespokebuildingservicesltd.co.ukwww.tsdbespokebuildingservicesltd.co.uk

529550

TSD Bespoke Building HPV A4L 20/09/2011 14:34 Page 1


The next edition will be available in the Library, Waitrose, Tudor Williams, Chicco Cafe, Heads Fine Foods, Tam Leisure and other outlets from 6th JanNext copy deadline: 14th DecemberPublished byMalden Media Limited36 Rosebery Avenue, KT3 4JSE: [email protected] 8336 2915www.nmvv.co.uk

Also publishingWorcester

Park Life

nmvv.co.ukNew Malden’s Village Voice and Worcester Park Life

Editor’s letterWelcome to the final edition of the Village Voice of 2011

Competitions23 Win £50 to spend at Tudor Williams33 Win A copy of Chalet Girl on DVD

Articles6 Christmas Services in New Malden 11 Histpry - Power to the People17 New Malden’s Poppy appeal uodate19 Kingstons’ festive delights20 New Malden’s Christmas Tree Festival23 View from the CityJustin Urquhart Stewart34 Scout Christmas Postal Service40 Follow the Plot46 Are you a struggling author?48 A Marathon AttemptKath Hill is on a mission!54 Safer Neighbourhood Information56 Dad’s Diary

Local Information36 What’s On42 Clubs 52 Toddler groups 58 Business Index

Puzzles29 Codeword 46 Number Cruncher

Well, the weather is chilling off, woollen garments are being excavated from the depths of wardrobes and drawers and the build up to Christmas that stared months ago for some, reaches its climax. Forecasters are already predicting early snow (my eight year old has been saying that for weeks now) – let’s hope London doesn’t get caught out like in previous years.We have another packed edition for you, including our wonderful allotment writer Libby Rothwell’s final article after two years! Thanks so much to Libby and everyone else who contributes to make this a truly local community magazine.The Village Voice is now in its 7th year and seems to be more popular than ever. It’s always wonderful to get your feedback and I am so pleased that so many of you continue to be avid readers Remember, most homes get a copy delivered every 2nd month, so if you don’t receive the January edition, or aren’t able to pick one up from one of our many distributors, then you can still read it online on our website nmvv.co.ukWith that I’d like to wish you all a very merry Christmas, and happy New Year.

Warm wishes,

Jenny StuartEditor & publisher


DEAR READERSMarch

[email protected]

Our Present to YouLandlords, cut out those additional costs this Christmas Our ‘Full Management’ Service includes:� Gas Safety Certificate � Deposit Registration� Energy Performance Certificate � Rent Guarantee� Tenancy Agreement

� Legal Expenses Insurance� Professional Inventory � Utility Transfers*Subject to terms and conditions. New instructions only.

www.keysresidential.co.uk

For more information on our complete management package please email our Lettings [email protected] today or contact us on 020 8949 2482


Most of us, of a certain age, will know the well know jingle that begins with these words.

I do not know what your thoughts are as the time draws closer. For some it retains much of its magic that we enjoyed as children.!For others it can be a very lonely time, one that they (and maybe you) try to avoid. Only this last weekend (as I write this article) I learned of someone who every year goes on a holiday to avoid being with family etc.

The rhyme continues with ....“the goose is getting fat”.... words that perhaps remind us of the fact that Christmas is also a time when many people struggle to find the money they feel they need to spend at this time of year. The pressure of the adverts on the TV and the displays in shop windows often tend to make this festival a period of pressure and stress, rather than as the angel said to the shepherds at that first Christmas “I bring you good news of great joy”

The next couplet in the rhyme requests some action on our part, not towards our family and friends, but to those who are less fortunate. When it says, “please put a penny in the old man’s hat”. This may not just refer to money. During the months over the winter period the local churches across the borough will be organising night shelters for some of the homeless in the area – offering an evening meal, a warm place to sleep and a cooked breakfast before they face the day.

The Christian community are offering a wide range of different services in the period leading up

to and over Christmas – something for all ages. There will be ones with traditional

carols, Christingle events for children as well as family services on Christmas

Day itself. Tear out page 7 and keep it on your fridge to remind you about what’s happening and when.

And as the final words say may, “God bless you.” ?

Cypress Garden Services“A cut above the rest”

One Off Tidy-upsRegular maintenance

Grass CuttingHedge Trimming

LandscapingTree Surgery

Stump GrindingStrimming and WeedingPath & Patio Washing

Garden Waste Removed Japenese knot weed

removal advice & actionFor a free quote call Andrew Cudd

020 8942 9554 07958 727272

[email protected]

Christmas is coming


Christ Church New Malden Church of England Coombe Road Website: www.ccnm.orgVicar: Rev Stephen Kuhrt Tel 020 8942 0915Sunday 18th December9.30am Children’s Carol Service11.00am Holy Communion6.30pm Carols by CandlelightSaturday 24th December, Christmas Eve11.15pm Midnight Holy CommunionSunday 25th December, Christmas Day9.00am Holy Communion Book of Common Prayer)10.00am All Age Christmas Service

Methodist Church High StreetMinister awaiting appointment: Tel 020 8942 1288Website: www.newmaldenmethodistchurch.comSaturday 17th December (through to 24th) 10am-noon Christmas Tree FestivalSunday 18th December6.30pm Service of Nine Lessons & CarolsSaturday 24th December, Christmas Eve5pm Christingle Service11:15pm Midnight CommunionSunday 25th December, Christmas Day10:30am Family Worship

New Malden Baptist Church Kingston Rd Website: www.nmbc.org.ukRev Johnny Pozzo Tel 020 8942 6912Sunday 18th December10.30am Family Christmas Service6.30pm Carols by Candlelight

Sunday 25th December10.30am Christmas Day Family Celebration(approx 45mins)

St James’ New Malden Church of England Malden Road

Rev Lorenzo Fernandez-Vicente Tel 020 8942 1860Sunday 18th December6.30pm Service of Nine Lessons & Carols

Saturday 24th December, Christmas Eve

3.00pm Crib Service11.30pm Sung EucharistSunday 25th December, Christmas Day8.00am Said Eucharist10.00am Sung Parish Eucharist

6.30pm Said Eucharist

St John the Divine Church of England

Kingston Road (opposite Homebase)Website: www.sjnm.org Tel

020 8942 0915Associate Vicar: Rev Helen Durant-Stevensen Sunday 18th December 6.30pm

Carols by CandlelightSaturday 24th December, Christmas Eve5.00pm Christingle11.00pm Midnight CommunionSunday 25th December, Christmas Day

10.30am All-age Christmas Service

London New Centre Church (Korean) Meets in St John’s, Kingston Road

Pastor Hwang Tel 07790553317 / 020 8949 3692 Please contact Pastor Hwang for details

of Services this Christmas

New Malden Churches invite you to share in their services over the Christmas period

Christmas Services


United Reformed Church Malden RoadRev Bruce Stuart Tel 020 8397 2745Sunday 18th December10:30am Junior Church Nativity Service 4.00pm Carols by CandlelightSaturday 24th December, Christmas Eve5.00pm Children’s Service Sunday 25th December, Christmas Day10:00am Family Service

St Joseph’s Catholic ChurchKingston Road. KT3 3QW. Tel 020 8942 2602Fr Peter Edwards , Fr Jonathon Routh , Dcn John LawsonWebsite: www.st joseph- new malden.org.ukConfessions before Christmas:See Bulletin & Website (in addition to our regular Saturday Confession times) Saturday 17th December7.15pm Parish Carol ServiceSunday 18th December - 4thSunday of AdventUsual Sunday Mass times viz:6pm Saturday, ie. 1st Mass of Sunday, and at9.30am, 11.30am (traditional music & Latin) & 5.30pm.Blessing of Bambini (for family Cribs) at all Masses.4.00pm Christmas

Nativity Tableau in PCDaily Mass at 7 & 10am on weekdays.Saturday 24th - Christmas Eve5.30pm Christmas Vigil Mass 11.30pm Office of Readings & Carols, leading intoSunday 25th December, Christmas DayMidnight Midnight Mass & Blessing of the Crib8, 9.30 & 11.30am Masses of Christmas Day & carols.(NB. No 5.30pm Mass on Christmas Day)

For details of Korean Services please contact the following:New Malden Korean Church(meeting at the United Reformed Church)Rev Jong K Oh; Tel 020 8286 1609God’s Will Korean ChurchPastor Rev Young Kook Kim; Tel 020 8942 7893Korean Roman Catholic Church

(meeting at St Anne’s, Kingston Hill )Father Jal Hak Leonino Lee; Tel 020 8546 4013

Churches Together in Maldenwish you & your household a

HAPPY CHRISTMAS


To advertisecall

020 8336 2915

Sally Harris

Hypnotherapist Every patient is treated individually with

Empathy and Understanding

Mrs Sally HarrisRGN. RSCN. L.N.C.P. S.Q.H.P. EFT

● Clinical Hypnotherapist &Psychotherapist

● Manage Stress, Anxiety,Depression

● Smoking Cessation● Help with Weight Loss

0208 336 1915 The Brookdale Clinic 100 Westbury Road,

New Malden, KT3 5AL

Emotional Freedom TechniqueRelease Negative Thoughts & Feelings

Fast and permanent relief

I TREATCHILDRENOVER 10YEARS


kids Changing roomsby David@Unilet

Heads Fine Foods A genuine family run

butchers shop and

Authorised Stockist for

Real Meat Company

meat and poultry.

# Great selection of

additive free sausages

and burgers

# Pies, pasties, sausage

rolls and much more

all handmade in the shop

# Comprehensive selection

of traditional and modern

choices

The Real Meat Company

Since 1986, the independently

owned Real Meat Company has pro-

vided a clear alternative to intensive

farming. Our unique take on provenance

and accountability delivers peace of

mind and superb

flavour.

“. as passionate about ethical

farming as about producing meat

with proper flavour and

texture.” The Times

www.realmeat.co.uk.

Heads Fine Foods

135 Kingston Road, New Malden,

Surrey KT3 3NX Tel:0208 942 0582

On street parking near the shop.

020 8942 [email protected]

135 Kingston Road, New Malden, KT3 3NX

020 8942 0582

HIGH WELFARE, ADDITIVE FREE, MEAT, POULTRY AND EGGS.

High welfare meat from Head Fine FoodsYou won’t know how good it is until you try it!

High Welfare Meat, a healthier way to eat

31 Dec 2011

Christmas orders now being taken

head fine foods @headfinefoods


We are inclined to take many things for granted these days, but with the sharply increasing costs for gas and electricity, a lot of people are being extra careful on what they spend on these commodities.

What’s that smell? When New Malden came into being, one of the first industries to be set up was the New Malden Gas Company whose premises were situated at the far end of Chestnut Grove at the junction with Elm Road. The company was set up in 1857, and ten years later when the newly formed New Malden Local Board looked for a supplier for the lighting

of the district they naturally first looked at the local company. Unfortunately, Ebenezer Viney’s Gas Works had built up an unpopular image in the village and had suffered complaints from residents about the escape of

“effluvia and smut” from the buildings. This was the production of coal gas which supplied some of the houses locally, but had dangerous and obnoxious by- products. Viney who had earned his money from his father’s upmarket luggage manufacturing business, lived many miles away in Norwood, so the problems affecting nearby residents did not directly affect him. The Gas Works were instructed to find another site probably far away from any residential area, but when this didn’t happen Mr Viney was taken to court and fined 40 shillings plus costs. Meanwhile, the Merton Gas Company declined to extend their mains into Malden, probably because of the small population at the time. In 1868 the Kingston Gas Company were persuaded to provide

lighting for the district, at a cost of £132 for the year, plus a contribution of £34 14 shillings for the erection of the lampposts.

Bright Lights Of Malden There was one lamp in each of the Groves giving out a greenish glow at night. These were the days before mantles were invented (in 1880s), and the flame often used to be blown out by strong gusts of wind. Soon after the flame was protected by a glass cabinet. The following year (1869) the Local Board decided that an additional lamp was required in Cambridge Road (Now part of Kingston Road). This made a total of seven lamps which were lit at sunset and extinguished at sunrise. The Local Board in an effort to save money, had originally wanted the lamps to remain unlit for the five nights in each month when there was a full moon, but the Gas Company would not agree to this, and insisted on an annual contract. The population of the district reached over 1600 in 1871, and the Board decided on an extra eight lamps, one extra in each of the six Groves (Acacia, Chestnut, Elm, Lime, Poplar, and Sycamore), a new one outside Mr Woodroofe’s house (now Charnwood Close), and another between Dr Child’s residence (now Pearson and Maddin), and the Norbiton Park Hotel (now The Fountain).More lamps were erected in later years providing illumination, and safety for the residents.

Bright sparks By the late 1890s the District Council had seen other towns being lit by electricity and in 1896 a lighting

Power to the people 2011 marks the 100th anniversary of electricity being supplied to Malden. Our historian Robin Gill gives us the full story....

High Welfare Meat, a healthier way to eat

Transformyour kitchen

Call your local Wizard

01932 989 679

Why change all of yourkitchen when you can just

replace the doors?

www.kitchen-wizard.biz

No obligation quotation

No VAT to pay !!!


committee was set up to investigate the possibility of bringing electric light to the area. They originally thought they could undertake the whole job themselves, but soon found out that it was impractical, and so started negotiations with other local authorities to obtain electricity. The initial idea was for the Kingston Corporation to supply the district starting with Coombe where the demand was greatest. Malden was adamant that all cables were to be underground, and no generating station was to be erected without their consent. And, of course the cost of the supply was to be no higher that was already charged in Kingston. Sadly agreement could not be reached, and in 1903 the Council entered into discussions with the London Electric Power Company to supply the whole district. In 1904 the alternating current supplied in England was standardised at 50 hertz, before this different power stations produced different sorts of frequency so some appliances that worked in some areas would not work in others. Two years later the modern tungsten filament became available, and replaced the carbon filament bulbs. Tungsten bulbs were brighter, used less electricity and lasted longer. Unfortunately this development was one of the reasons that the protracted negotiations with the London Electric Co eventually failed. Additionally, there had been objections from influential persons such as Admiral and Colonel Fitzgeorge, sons of the Duke Of Cambridge and substantial landowners in the area. Further objections came from the Surrey County Council and, not surprisingly the Kingston Gas Company. Finally electricity became available in the Maldens and Coombe under the Wimbledon (Extension) Order 1911. Wimbledon Corporation laid mains from their substation in Cambridge Road Merton, and separate high pressure cables were laid to a point in Coombe, and another point in New Malden. This would enable consumers to link up to obtain domestic supplies. New houses being built in Malden would automatically be linked to this new supply making electric light etc an added attraction to the purchaser. The whole process cost around £7500 which was loaned to Wimbledon Corporation and repayable over 18 years. The official opening took place at the Council Offices in October 1911, when Sir Charles Henry Davis (Chairman Of The Lighting Committee) formally turned on the lights. On the front of the offices there was a large piece of canvas surrounded by lamps, with a crown of red and white

bulbs in the shape of a crown above. Emblazoned on the canvas sheet were the words “Electricity Supply For The Maldens And Coombe”. It was stated that the whole array amounted to the light of about 3000 candles. The illumination, when switched on, received loud applause on a historic day in New Malden. The Surrey Comet with a straight face, reported that the assembled dignitaries then adjourned for “light refreshments” Amazingly enough, within 25 days of the order being granted, electricity had appeared in New Malden. The work involved included digging 10,000 yards of trenches, and laying 12,000 yards of cable. They had also erected a substation, and a small building behind the fire station for storage. Initial domestic costs were 6d (2 ½ pence) per unit in 1911, reduced to 5d the following year as customers took up the supply. The take up of electricity was slow at first with 72 consumers in 1912. But when the voltage of mains electricity was standardised at 240 volts in 1916, more customers signed up. Before this local

Hypnotherapy Kim Robinson DCH DHP

Clinical Hypnosis“Helping you tohelp yourself”

Remove anxiety Stop bad habits

Eliminate phobias Weight management

All consultations are conducted in strictest confidence

Call or email to request a free informaion sheet

� ere is no fee involved for the initial consultation Telephone: 07740 943137

Email: [email protected]: www.kimnotist.co.uk


power stations produced electricity at lots of different voltages.Over 1000 customers had been connected by 1923, and over 2000 by 1926, and when the gas lamps began being converted to electricity in the late 1920s, over 3000 consumers were registered. Just before the start of the Second World War nearly 7200 customers were connected, and all 863 street lamps had been converted from gas to electricity. A bit of an increase from the original six in the Groves 70 years earlier.

Re-wiring The Kingston Gas Company, who had its Head Office in Church Street, started production in 1854 and finished in 1931, when it was taken over by the Wandsworth Wimbledon and Epsom Gas Company. The National Grid first thought of in 1916, started to be built in 1926, and was completed in 1937. In 1947 the Electricity Act saw the formation of 14 area Electricity Boards, one of them (London Electricity Board) taking over the supply for the Malden area.Two years later, the local gas company was nationalised, and became part of the South Eastern Gas Board. So, this year marks the 100th anniversary of electricity coming to Malden, maybe when you switch on your Christmas lights, instead of saying Happy Christmas, you should say, Happy Anniversary. ?

VVoice

A.C.S. Hards & Co.Solicitors

Bank chambers, 2 High Street, New Malden, Surrey KT3 4DA(entrance in Dukes Avenue)

Provide a Quality Service covering• Property Conveyancing• Capital Tax Planning• Wills and Estates• Family Law & Divorce• Consumer Law• Business Start Up

• Partnership Agreements• Commercial Property• Debt Recovery• Employment• Franchising

We provide upto 30 minutes free consultation on most topics

020 8942 2258 or email [email protected] David Hards or Ian Lipscombe on

It costs nothing to ask...


bentalls


LONDON CYCLESPart of Bright Cycles and Pitfields

www.londoncyclesltd.com

SALES • REPAIRS • SPARESWe specialise in bikes for all the familyBrands Include • Raleigh • Dawes • Trek

Gary Fisher • Giant • Ridgeback • DiamondBack • Mongoose • Falcon • Specialised

Call for friendly helpful adviceParts & Accesories • Child Carriers

Baby Seats • 2nd Hand Bikes

137 Kingston Road • New Malden • KT3 3NX020 8949 4632

57 Approach Road • Raynes Park • SW20 8BA02085424076

We participate in Cyclescheme

BRIGHT CYCLESPart of Pitfields

Poppy Appeal 2011 I would like to thank all the Legion Members, Collectors and public for

their support for this year’s Poppy Appeal. It was also great to see

such a marvellous turnout at both Services on the 11th November and the 13th November at the Memorial.

Our counting for this year’s collection is not yet

complete but I thought everyone would like to know the amount donated as at the date of publication which stands at just over £35.000 well up on last year. My thanks go to all concerned. If anyone would like to give a little more please contact June Fairclough on 02083954437 who would gladly accept any donation. I will of course let you all know at a future date the final amount. Mary GillettSecretary RBL Malden & Coombe02089492342 ?

PCProblems? I’m a New Malden based ITprofessional who can help.Fixed quote before work starts and a no fix, no fee policy.All PC work undertaken including:■ Wireless Network Set up■ Create your own Email address■ New PC set up plus transfer from old PC■ Skype set up■ Off site back up services

I can also supply and advise on buying new PCsand other hardware.

Work can be undertaken at weekends andevenings and rates start from as little as £10.00.

Give Mick Packer a call to discuss your requirements on 07711 980509 or email to

[email protected]

Your Home PC


7, Cheam Common Road, Worcester Park KT4 8TL 0208 330 217048, High Street, Cheam SM3 9Ql 0208 770 7555

(w) www.cheamwindows .co.uk

OUR LATEST ‘N E X T G E N E R AT I O N’ SHOWROOM

NOW OPEN

,SEIROTAVRESNOC ,SEIREGNARO ,SROOD ,SWODNIW GLAZED EXTENSIONS, BESPOKE SHUT TERS & MUCH MORE

Visit us today. . . . . .enjoy a coffee whilst you view our latest styles of windows, doors and conservatories

E s t a b l i s h e d i n 1 9 9 1


Kingston is the perfect place for all your Christmas shopping needs; we’ve loads of top brands, an evening of chocolate, two festive markets and free evening parking. This December in Kingston, for the first time, many of the major retailers will be opening until 9pm, Monday to Friday, giving you even more opportunities to find that perfect Christmas gift, away from the weekend crowds. To make your shopping experience even less stressful, you can park for free in selected car parks. Every weeknight in December, parking is free in Bentalls A & B car parks from 5pm and in John Lewis and Seven Kings car parks from 6pm. If you’re looking for an unusual gift that you can’t find on the high street, then try one of Kingston’s visiting Christmas markets.

The Eden Craft and Gift Fair, located on All Saints Church Lawn, has over 75 exhibitors selling a range of unique crafts. Over in the Market Place, the Traditional Christmas Market returns for its seventh festive season. Don’t leave before you’ve treated yourself to a glass of glühwein. For the chocoholics and shopaholics amongst you, join us for the Markets

Discovery Evening & Chocolate Festival on Thursday 8th December, from 5 to 9pm. Indulge yourself with an evening of chocolate, shopping and entertainment, with special offers and prizes to be won. In the Ancient Market House, major chocolate brands will be selling their treats on the ground floor, with more chocolate surprises to be found upstairs. Plus, the New Malden Guides will be on hand to wrap your festive purchases for a donation to one of their chosen charities. For more details on Christmas in Kingston visit www.Kingstonfirst.co.uk or call 0208 547 1221. ?

Kingston’s Festive Delights

ShoppingKingston Christmas

kingston .co.uk020 8547 1221

SHOPUntil 9pmDecember Weeknights

markets Discovery Evening & Chocolate Festival - thurs 8 DecAncient Market Place & Market House, 5pm - 9pm

*traditional Christmas market - until 28 Dec Ancient Market Place

*Eden Craft & Gift Fair - until 2 JanAll Saints Church Lawn, opposite John Lewis

*Free parking - Weeknights in December Bentalls A & B from 5pm, John Lewis & Seven Kings from 6pm

Kingston_Chessingston_Xmas_Dec.indd 1 11/11/11 16:10:33


Around 24 local organisations will be showing off their artistic flair and decorating trees for their favourite charities. Last year saw entries from a host of local organisations including the Scouts, Guides, Brownies, Tudor Williams and various Church groups. The Festival usually raises a few hundred pounds for charities so make sure you pop into the Church to view the trees and vote for your favourite one.

There is a general collection box if you are undecided, having seen the high standard of all the entries. You can view the trees at the following times:

•10am till 12pm on Sat 17th •6pm on Sun 18th Dec leading up to Carols by candelight at 6.30pm •10am–2.pm and 6pm-7.30pm, again with singers Mon 19th10am–2pm Tues 20th •10am-2pm on Wed 21st•10.00am-2.00pm on Thursday 22 December•10am-2pm on Fri 23rd New Malden Methodist Church is bang on the High Street and the coffee bar in the Church is open

10am-12pm on Saturdays and 10am-2pm on weekdays so why not have a break from Christmas shopping, stop for coffee and cake and take a look at the trees? ?

O Christmas Tree, O Christmas TreeThe sparkly Christmas Tree Festival returns to New Malden Methodist Church on Saturday 17 December this year.

eyecontactopticians

Express Service

Free Kids GlassesContact LensesVarifocalsPrescription SunglassesNHS Eye ExamsGlaucoma ScreeningDigital Retinal Photos

Designer Frames

PradaGiorgio ArmaniFace à FaceTed BakerKoaliFlexonCome in and see our new stock

020 8942 1104191 High Street • New Malden • KT3 4BH


Please arrange a visit to see us in action and come and see for yourself why we are all so

proud of our school


Name

Address

Phone No:

To celebrate the Department Store’s reinvigorated Beds and Furniture Department, Tudor Williams is offering a £50 Gift Voucher to the 1st correct entry pulled out of the box on 24th December. Just complete the wordsearch and fill out the

box below, then hand into, or post to Tudor Williams.See the ad on page 63 for address ?

AlstonsBedCabinetCarpetsChairCintiqueCottonCurtainsCushionsDamaskDeliveryDownDunlopilloDuvetFeatherFloorHeadboardHestiaHypnosKensingtonLatexLinenMattressMobilityMyersOakPillowPinePoliteReclinerSaleSecondService

SetteeSheetsSofaStoolSwingTableThrowsTopperTudor

ValueVispringWalnutWilliamsWoodWool

Competition - win £50 from Tudor Williams

63

Oak Radio Cars 13Rebecca Ward Photography 39Robin Gill Geneology 54RWL (Supplies) 31SBK (Plastering) 57Shannon Corner Service Centre 15Tam Leisure 21Time 4 You cleaning 46TWT 67Tudor Williams 63Unilet 29Westbury (Garage) 42Woodhouse, Davies & Martin Solicitors 42Working with Fabric 55Sport and LeisureHook Acqua Centre 10(New Malden) Library 31Kimberly Personal Train 14NM Tennis & Badminton 37Malden Centre 64Pitfield Cycles 35Tennis Avenue Academy 41Tennis Coaching 55Wimbledon Bridge Club 15

NEW AUTUMN FASHION COLLECTIONS

ON HOBBS, ESPRIT, DASH, IZ, POMODORO, ROMAN ORIGINALS

AND MORE

NOW IN STORE


Credit Default Swaps (CDS) are one of those technical financial terms that are bandied around, apparently more often to confuse rather than to clarify. Here is a great example of where our industry goes out of its way often to create private expressions, keeping the knowledge of what they are up to within the coven and not for the broader masses. Heaven forbid that we should actually be using the same language as the rest of the population. Such practice is common in many professional areas where “technical expertise” is often a great excuse for using obscure terms and obfuscation – lawyers, please stand up.

The truth is that actually a CDS is just a form of insurance, but rather than being on a house or a car or even an individual (as in life assurance) it is on a specific financial instrument like a bond or a mortgage. A CDS reflects the annual cost of insuring against the default of the borrower: the higher the likelihood of default, the higher the CDS price. Now there is nothing wrong with insurance - in fact it is a vital part of the economic and financial structure of the capitalist world. However, like any product, if taken to an extreme it can have some rather strange and generally unwanted consequences. An example of this would be the growth in trading in these insurance policies – CDS – such that they almost have a greater importance than the underlying asset that is being covered. Trading in CDS on, say, Italian government debt reflects the risk of default on the bonds. The more fearful markets get and they more they fear default, the more CDS or insurance will be bought - driving bond yields up to (theoretically) reflect the level of default that the CDS is implying. Higher bond yields are bad news for countries because they make the cost of borrowing higher which then increases the risk of default: the tail wagging the dog. Others are concerned about the complex web of counterparty relationships and obligations that has been built up with CDS trading: you can buy a CDS contract to be protected if the underlying borrower defaults, but someone else – usually an investment bank – has underwritten that

Qualifi ed, professional and experienced staff are happy to give advice and information on all your arboricultural queries

Free QuotesFully NPTC Qualifi ed

Tree Reductions / Crown ThinsTree Felling

Stump RemovalHedgeworks

Tree Surveys & ReportsFire log deliveries

Offi ce: 020 8399 0103 • Mobile: 07980 [email protected] • www.rj-treeservices.co.uk

LOOK FOR THE RED TREE!R.J. Tree Services, Berrylands, Surbiton

View from the cityThis month Justin Urquhart Stewart unravels the mystery of Credit Default Swaps


CDS contract and has the obligation to pay you if the borrower defaults. But how credit-worthy is the bank that has underwritten the CDS contract? What other CDS have they underwritten? Can the CDS buyer really rely on them to pay out? These questions are complex and hard to answer and, in the event of a major default, these uncertainties could lead to paralysis in markets and banks mistrusting each other and refusing to trade. So, instead of acting as a safety net, the Credit Default Swap market may in fact be increasing the risk and the potential collateral damage in the event of default. Investors are completely justified in taking insurance on assets they own – insuring against default of the UK government because they have a large holding in UK Treasury bonds, perhaps. Companies and investors are also justified in taking insurance on other firms with strong links to their business – key suppliers or customers, whose demise would be detrimental to their own business. But what about betting on the failure of another firm, or the default of a government, for a speculative profit? An example everyone can relate to is life insurance. We may take out a policy on ourselves in order to maintain family security. We may even take out insurance on a parent, perhaps to cover any inheritance liabilities. However no one sets up

an open market trading on their mother’s life. By having all sorts betting on her demise, you could end up with the illogical (not to mention undesirable) result that there are more people with an interest in ensuring her departure than preventing it! However, this is exactly the situation we are seeing in current CDS markets - we

have created a mechanism which in some ways encourages betting on a default. Instead of a guy rope of stabilisation, the CDS has become a lever of instability.

So what can be done? A system to allow insurance of your assets and investments

is perfectly logical. A system allowing speculators to insure assets they do not actually own is patently not. In effect, it creates a sub-market trading in the insurance, which puts a greater, but less visible burden upon the underlying asset and creates far larger risk if it were to collapse. This would become an inverted house of cards all balanced on one single card at its base. Call time on these unnecessary sub

markets: CDS should be allowed but only for assets you actually own, or have some

tangible connection with. They should not be used as a trading instrument for market punting. ?


From the Ground Up is SproutingFrom the Ground Up

community

10% OFF* ALL FIRST ORDERS

WITH THIS AD!!

HATE IRONING? HAVE A BAD BACK?

If the answer is YES then Aroma Ironing is here to take care of all your ironing needs! We offer services in:

Dry Cleaning Ironing

Wash and Iron Repairs/Alterations

93 Kingston Road, New Malden, Surrey, KT3 3PA

www.aromaironingservice.co.uk 020 8942 5550

NEXT TO NEW MALDEN’S FAMOUS AROMA KEBAB

4-5 collared shirts = 1kg 5-6 T-shirts = 1kg 3 Trousers = 1kg

FREE PICK UP AND DROP OFF SERVICE NOW AVAILABLE!!

CALL US TODAY ON 0208 942 5550

TO BOOK A COLLECTION TIME!

Prices start from £5.90 per kg.

But the more you bring the cheaper it will be. Visit us in

store or online for more details!!

www.AromaIroningService.co.uk

OPENING TIMES: Mon-Fri - 9am-6pm, Sat - 9am-3pm, Sun – Closed *Offer can only be used once with weighed items. Cannot be used with any other offer/promotion. (Please bring this ad

with you on your next visit)


Happy Christmas!If you’re reading this then so might your potentional customers

Speak to them next year through the Village Voice

Call 020 8336 2915 to advertise, or see our website for more information

www.nmvv.co.uk

Est 35 YEARS

ROBINSON & SONPROFESSIONAL

PAINTERS& DECORATORS

WallpaperingINTERIOR & EXTERIOR

PRIVATE & RESIDENTIALHigh Quality

WORK AT LOCAL RATESExperienced professional

TradesmanCALL FOR FREE ESTIMATE

020 8399 9803RECOMMENDATIONS

FULLY INSUREDA FAMILY RUN BUSINESSEMail: [email protected]

QP July 11 .indd 1 6/14/2011 10:39:06 AM


Each letter in this puzzle is represented by a different number between 1 and 26. The codes for three letters are shown. Once you have filled these throughout the grid you can start guessing words and reveal other letters. As you find the letters enter them in the box below

Codeword

1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8

9 10 11 12

13 14 15 16

17 18 19 20

21 22 23 24

25 26

25 1 14 12 19 23 12 21 5 12 12 2

24 11 17 15 3 18 24

24 9 15 2 19 24 6 19 6 1 19 2

11 6 21 24 16 15 12

20 19 I

10 21S

15 3 14 1 16 16 7L

12

15 14 26 7 7 19

17 19 4 1 14 21 8 12 6 26 15 6

22 11 11 14 21 2

10 15 2 12 7 12 10 2 15 22 7 12

13 26 5 25 19 15 10

15 22 19 25 12 15 23 23 1 21 12 11

19 6 6 7 8 2 15

11 19 10 15 25 24 24 6 13 12 12 7

Contact Darren on:

T: 0203 371 7939 • M: 07877 974913 E: [email protected]

DG Accountancy Services provide a friendly and professional service at an

affordable price.

Based in Epsom and Worcester Park

Services offered include:

For the Sole Trader:• Tax Returns

• Bookkeeping

For Limited Companies:• Bookkeeping

• Statutory Accounts• Corporation Tax

FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION • FIXED PRICE FEE SERVICE

See our website for a full list of services and price guide

www.businesstaxaccountants.co.uk

Age UK Sutton offers practical supportservices around your home

Tel: 020 8770 4090

Helping Hands - Domestic and socialsupport keeping you independent in yourown home from a person you can trust. Helps support a happy

and independent lifestyle Simple practical

affordable help such ascleaning, ironing,shopping and social visits

Handyperson - A service to help youmaintain your home and garden. From - Changing a light bulb to

installing a securitysystem

Mowing the lawn todecorating a room

Trusted people fromyour local community


competition


5


Kim (Felicity Jones) is a 19 year old ex-skateboarder, working in a burger bar for a living. When she stumbles into a chalet girl job, she’s completely out of her depth, both on the snow - she can’t even ski - and with the Madsen family, her uber-posh employers and their ultra-cool son Jonny (Ed Westwick). Desperate to fit in, Kim dusts off an old snowboard and takes to the slopes. Unleashing her talents, she enters the resort’s pro-boarding competition. As she and Jonny grow closer and the finals draw nearer, Kim could have the world at her feet - but can she overcome the obstacles and odds to triumph?

CompetitionWin a copy of Chalet Girl on DVD. Just email your name and address to [email protected] title the email Chalet Girl.Simple!

A feel-good comedy with a big heart and an even bigger supporting cast, including Tamsin Egerton, Sophia Bush, Bill Bailey, Brooke Shields and Bill Nighy. ?


Those of you who have lived in New Malden for a while will probably be familiar with the annual Scout Christmas Postal Service. Its red and black post boxes will be back out at various locations around New Malden in December, ready to take care of all your local Christmas card delivery needs.

The service wholly supported by volunteers in the local Scout movement arrange for the boxes to be delivered around suitable sites within the New Malden community. They

then arrange to collect the post on a weekly basis; this is then sorted back at 1st Malden Scout HQ, franked with the 1st Malden stamp and distributed amongst the scouts to be dropped through the letterbox. All that is asked for the service is a minimum 20 pence donation per card sent. The funds that are raised are reinvested back into the 1st Malden group fund, so that they can be used for activities and equipment.

This year there are some changes to the locations of the post boxes, they can be found at Suttles of Malden, Methodist

Church Coffee Shop, Fountain News, Parkers and our new outlet for this year The Malden Centre. Ther

last collection will be on Friday 16th December So

if you have cards that need to be delivered in the KT3 postcode

area why not take advantage of the 1st Malden Scout Christmas Postal Service. ?

Scout Christmas postal service Get your local Christmas cards delivered cheaply and support New Malden Scouts


Do you have jewellery you no longer wear?Is your jewellery “tired” and in need of a re-vamp?

Visit Adorn Jewellers for friendly, expert advice 155 High Street, New Malden or phone 020 8942 8767

www.adornjewellers.co.ukIn-house Repairs & Commissions · Engraving · New & Antique Jewellery · Valuations · Watch/Clock Repairs · Trophies

David Sutcliffe, your local Goldsmith and owner of

Adorn Jewellers, will give you free expert advice on all

your jewellery needs.

Adorn will repair or totally re-model your existing jewellery to create a beautiful new piece.

Why not create your own custom designed jewellery? From bangles to pendants, rings to earrings, we will help you through the design

process to create a totally unique piece.

Handmade GiftsAdorn will create the perfect personalised gift for your loved ones that refl ect their favourite pastime. • Made in silver, gold or platinum • Engraved with your personal message• Can be set with precious stones

Need help with gift ideas?Here are some gifts we made recently: • Golf ball markers • Guitar plectrums• Bookmarks • Fishing hooks• Keyrings • Poker chips


The Rose Theatre Box Office: 08444 821556 (bkg fee) www.rosetheatrekingston.org (bkg fee) The Snow Queen Fri 2 Dec 2011 – Sun 8 Jan 2012 Morning, matinee & evening performances - see the website for individual dates and performance times Tickets: £8-26 Family Ticket: £70 (2 adults, 2 children) The Snow Queen is a beautiful and popular fairytale by Hans Christian Anderson and perfect for the whole family to enjoy. Kai and Gerda are best friends who do everything together, until one cold night when Kai is whisked away by the evil snow queen to her icy palace far away. Can Gerda save Kai in time? Join her on this magical journey through rivers, forests and snow to find out.

Coombe Girls Christmas Shopping Event is taking place on Friday 2nd December, 3.30-7pm.Over 30 stalls, selling quality jewellery, crafts and gifts, plus tombolas, raffle and refreshments.£1 entrance, 50p OAPs and under 16s 50p, under 5’s freeWe have a few stalls available at £25…if you are interested please contact Delyth on [email protected]. No jewellery or cards please.We especially welcome all girls who came to the prospective parents evening in October…come and have fun!!Christmas trees on sale at the school on Saturday 10th December 10am-12pm.

In support of the Mayor of Kingston’s Charity Pub Challenge THE BROADWAY BAR, in Tolworth, is delighted to announce one of its exciting Quiz nights on:Saturday 3rd December at 8:00PM (arrival from 7:30pm)Always a fun and friendly night, the quiz will be hosted by two very experienced Quizmasters, with the aim of raising as much money as possible for the Mayor of Kingston’s nominated charities, Macmillan Cancer Support and Born too SoonBookings are being taken now at £5 per ticket so please call on 0208 399 7698 or 07771 817346 to reserve your seat. You may put together a team of your own or enter as individuals and we will create a team for you.

The fabulous Corpus Christi Primary School Christmas Fair will be held on Saturday, 10th December. Entrance is FREE for children and just £1 for adults. The event will be held at the school in Chestnut Grove, New Malden, between 12 – 3pm.The fair will be bursting with the usual favourites: toy stalls, mulled wine, mince pies, face painting, festive biscuit decorating, tombolas, lucky dips, stocking fillers, Christmas tea room and much more. Father Christmas himself and some of his hardworking

elves will be with us for the whole fair giving out presents and ready to meet you in his grotto.This year will also have a touch of something festive from Northern Europe with an exciting “Gingerbread House” competition for the children. Gingerbread Houses will be on display for all to see before the judges make their final decision.Children will be able to find the perfect gifts for their family and friends in the Secret Wrapping Room where there will be a selection of gifts on offer with prices starting from 50p. Children c a n choose a present and get help wrapping it up as a surprise for someone at home.There will be a great range of delicious food in addition to the usual festive favourites, such as the ever-popular and busy Korean food stall and our Winter BBQ which will serve up burgers and hotdogs.The fair will round up with the Grand Draw and lucky winners going home with some wonderful prizes.

“GTC Presents: The Real Inspector Hound - by Tom Stoppard We 14th - Sat 17th DecThe plot follows two theatre critics named Moon and Birdboot who are watching a ludicrous setup of a country house murder mystery, in the style of a whodunit. By chance, they become involved in the action causing a series of events that parallel the play they are watching.The Real Inspector Hound, much like Stoppard’s earlier play Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead, examines the ideas of fate and free will, as well as exploring the themes of the ‘play within a play’. Stoppard’s play is an example of absurdism as well as farce, parody, and satire.Barton Green Theatre. Tickets £6 call 07587 196378

“History on your Doorstep” is a project designed exclusively for public libraries building upon what library services already offer. Courses are taught face to face within libraries using on-line resources, and with a trip out to a Records Office or other archive to discover the types of resources available to someone when researching their family history. (In the case of Kingston, it would incorporate a visit to the Local History Room at the North Kingston Centre). The 6 week course will be aimed at beginners and will cover the following topics: civil registration; census returns; parish registers; wills and probate and surnames, and there will be a charge of £35.There’s a taster session on Thursday 8th December 2011. in the New Malden Library 12 noon and the 6 week course starts 13th Jan 2012.

What’s on in December


november

Suppliers to:■ Local Authorities■ Letting agent & landlords■ Hotels & Guest houses

FAST DELIVERY!MOST ITEMS IN STOCK!

SingleBeds

from

£99.95

DoubleBeds

from

£139.95

Pine Beds

from

£84.95

Metal Beds

from

£55.00

Open 7 Days

the Bed & Suite Centre

224-226 Kingston Road, New Malden, Surrey, KT3 3RN

Tel 020 8336 0511 ● Fax 020 8336 5871 ● Email [email protected]

Mon-Sat 9am-6pm

Sun 11am-4pm£99.95 £149.95 £95 £65


After two fine years of sharing her thoughts and tips in the Village Voice, Libby Rothwell writes her final chapter...Walking round the allotment site one chilly morning recently, my friend and I stopped to watch a couple of newcomers digging away on their plot. “Looking good!”, he shouted to them; but as we moved out of earshot he added, “if it lasts”. With all the smugness of Monty Python’s Four Yorkshiremen, we proceeded to compare hardships-of-the-seasoned-allotmenteer experiences, along the lines of:-When I took on my plot, it was knee-high in bindweed and old carpet. -That’s nothing! I had marestail, an old fridge and a rotting shed on mine.-A shed! I dreamt of a shed! When it rained, all I had for shelter was six feet of brambles ….etc., etc. Ah, sheds. Sheds are the symbol of allotment life. A plot with no shed means no storage: you are forced to lug your gardening basics with you every time. Or leave them somewhere on the plot and hope they survive. And even if they do, you very soon find the concept of “basics” expanding to include industrial quantities of oddments: bales of netting, insect mesh, tins of nails, packets of lime (no self-respecting cabbage will grow without it), boxes of birdseed (reward for birds that don’t attack your cabbage), a bucket, a chair or two, bags to take crops home in --the list is endless. But it’s not just a matter of storage. A shed can be a symbol of personal identity too.All allotment sites have sets of rules about what you can and can’t have on your plot. Some are more quirky and restrictive than others. At the Bushy Park Allotments, for example, plot holders cannot devote more than 25% of their plot to flowers. On some sites, bonfires are banned; on others, it’s chickens and rabbits. Some rule out any construction other than a bin for compost or storage. Thank goodness our site is one of the many which allow sheds. There are limitations, of course, on size and materials used, but allotmenteers are a resourceful breed: the more uniformity imposed on them, the more ingenuity they display in asserting their individuality.

From bargain basement offers to self-build des.res., the variety of sheds is enormous. There’s one that looks like half an old railway carriage, with a makeshift, corrugated roof secured by ropes weighted with bricks. Another boasts a door which was once a shower cubicle panel. In contrast, there is the storybook chalet, decorated with handmade wooden trims. For some, it’s the interior of the shed that gets all the attention: state-of-the-art camping stoves for early-morning fry-ups, solar panels for extra power, and

even gingham curtains at the window. One of my colleagues, a dentist by profession, scrupulously scrubbed every crevice inside her shed with a toothbrush. What else would a dentist use? It is possible to make a go of an allotment without having your own shed. Possible, but less likely. Taking a break from your labours over a warming brew , chatting with a friend, surrounded by nature...what more could you wish for?

Thanks Libby for all of your great articles and photos over the past couple of years and for being a great friend of the magazine. JS ?

Follow the Plot

Want to buy a unique Christmas gift?

Treat a loved one to a blissful aromatherapy massage

GIFT VOUCHERS now available

Or treat yourself – you deserve it! Stella Mawhinney, experienced massage therapist, willleave you feeling relaxed and refreshed after

an exquisite treatment.Full body (1 hour) - £45

Target area (30 mins) - £25

Holistic aromatherapy massageat The Groves Medical Centre, KT3 3TX

Call Stella now to purchase your vouchers or book an appointment

07969 761348or email at [email protected]


nmvv.co.uk

♥ ♥

♥ ♥ ♥

♥


MondayNEW MALDEN ROTARY CLUBWhere: Malden Golf Club,Traps Lane,When: Monday evenings at 6:15 for 6:45pm Contact: Barry Collins on 020 8949 8080 MALDEN AND COOMBE LIBRARY CIRCLEChrist Church, Monday nights 7.30 pm prompt. 7 th Exploits of a WW2 Bomber Pilot - Delyth Evans-Wright14th Lord Beaverbrook - Mrs Richards21th High Arctic Circle - David Cordle28th Does your Granny play the Banjo? - John Edwards MALDEN EMERGENCY FIRST AID SOCIETY (MEFAS). Members meet each Thursday evening at 7.30pm for First Aid training. New members required. Everyone welcome. Hall available for hire. Contact Christine on 07966661015.MONDAY NETBALL CLUBWhen: Mondays 8.30pm Contact: Ching Lee 07813 556184ENGLISH CONVERSATION / LESSONS FOR KOREANS Where: Christ Church Centre, Coombe RoadWhen: Mondays & Tuesdays, 10.00 am - 12.00 noonAll welcome: contact Chris Coke 020 8942 7388.ST JAMES PLAYERSWhere: St James Bodley Road When: Mondays 8pm.

TuesdayARTHRITIS CARE New Malden branch Where: Crescent Resource Centre, Cocks Crescent, New Malden When: 4th Tuesday of month 7.30 -9.30pm We aim to provide back-up support for arthritis sufferers and an opportunity for members to enjoy a social evening through our regular monthly meetings. Jocelyn King 020 8942 6745.THE NEW MALDEN LADIES BADMINTON CLUB When: Tuesday at the Malden Centre from 20.30 till 22.00 We are a mixed ability club looking for new members. Please ring Lynda on 8949 2673 or just pop in to see us any club night.HALF SHARESWe are a group of widows who meet together on the 1st Tuesday of every month. We have a speaker and enjoy a cuppa and a chat. Come and join us at 1.45-3.15pm at Christ Church Centre, Coombe Rd For more details contact Lily on 020 8949 1431.THE NEW MALDEN INVESTMENT CLUBOur meetings are held on the first Tuesday of the month at the Grafton Club, Grafton Road, New Malden. We do have a few vacancies and new member are always welcome.Contact the secretary on 020 8942 1926 for further information.

WednesdayMALDEN & COOMBE SOCIAL CLUB FOR THE BLIND WHEN: 2nd and 4th Wednesdays 2pm to 4pm Contact; Mike Ball 02089420819Volunteer drivers/helpers VERY welcomeROYAL BRITISH LEGION MALDEN & COOMBEThe Legion meets every second Wednesday afternoon from 2.30pm at the Grafton Club. Any interested parties in joining please contact Mary Gillett on 020 8949 2342 who will be very pleased to give any information to help or assist.

ThursdayMALDEN CAMERA CLUB Where: New Malden Library, Kingston Road When: Thursday evenings throughout the year at 7.45pm Contact: www.maldencameraclub.org.ukMALDEN CENTRE ORCHESTRAWhere: Malden Centre, Blagdon RoadWhen: 10.00-12.00noon, every Thursday (term time only)Contact: Conductor David Benke on 02087868517.TOLWORTH BADMINTON CLUBWhere: Play at Tolworth Recreation CentreWhen: Club night Thursday evenings 7.30-9.30Standard: Intermediate/advanced level Contact: www.tolworthbadmintonclub.co.uk or ring Pat on 0208 395 9175 or just turn up on a Thursday

To feature inthis section email [email protected]

clubs

Clubs


MALDEN AND COOMBE FLOWER DECORATION SOCIETY At St.James Church Hall Bodley Road

FridayMALDEN ARTS ASSOCIATIONEveryone is welcome including non-artists. We meet once a month on a Friday afternoon in the Malden Centre, Cocks Crescent, Blagdon Road, New Malden, Surrey at 4.00pm.prompt. Visitors are welcome.Contact: Joyce Clay on 0208 540 6578.RSPB Epsom and Ewell Local group. We meet the 2nd Friday of every month at 7.30, apart from July and August, at All Saints Church Hall Fulford Road, West Ewell with guest speakers who illustrate their enthusiasm on a variety of natural history subjects. Our speakers are of a high quality and we welcome anyone who has an interest in this area. We also have several birding outings throughout the year which is arranged to suit all ages. There is a small charge for non-members of the RSPB. www.rspb.org.uk/groups/epsom.

SaturdaySATURDAY DEMENTIA CLUB Age Concern Kingston 2nd Saturday of the month 11am and 2pm in New Malden for people living with dementia, their family and carers, Call 020 8942 8256 and ask for Jyoti or email [email protected]

GeneralEMANUEL RUGBYWhere: Shannon Corner, KT3 4PU When: Adults Mondays & Wednesdays 7.30pm, Saturday 2-3pm. Children Sunday 10:30am Contact: www.emanuelrugby.co.uk [email protected] Fergus McCarthy 0845 8338974 days & evenings.GRAHAM SPICER SNOOKER ROOMAvailible for hire during the day and evenings.Contact Secretary for availibility on 020 8942 2157.MALDEN BOWLING CLUBWhere: Lime Grove, New Malden Tel: 020 8942 0296SUPREME BOWLS CLUBWhere: junction of Thetford Road and Windsor Avenue in the playing field opposite Woodies pub in New Malden. Contact Mick or Diana 020 8942 0294.WEST WIMBLEDON SOCIETY TABLE TENNIS CLUB Friendly social table tennis club in Raynes Park welcomes new members (sorry not complete beginners). For more details call 020 8947 3564. FROM THE GROUND UP local affordable organic box scheme - Kingston’s own - fresh organic veg, fruit, bread, cheese and preserves at exceptional prices. Collection every Saturday from Kingston or Surbiton. Contact [email protected] for details.?

To advertisecall

020 8336 2915

Call us on: 020 8942 4137


TAM LEISURE

COME AND SEE OUR GREAT RANGE OF DISCOUNTED SKIWEAR AND HEATERS

Keep warmthis winter

www.just-camping.co.uk www.intertent.co.uk

For all your indoor and outdoor needs this winter

182-186 Kingston Road New Malden KT3 3RDTel: 020 8949 5435

COME AND SEE OUR GREAT RANGE OF DISCOUNTED SKIWEAR, HEATERS AND SLEDGES


Are you a struggling author?

It’s said everyone has a novel in them but what if that novel (or short story) wants to come out and dance around on the page? How would you get it published? This was my dilemma when I completed my book ‘Ahh! Sims’, a collection of tales about a young boy trying to grow up in 60’s south London. Publishers have a massive unsolicited post load on a daily basis; hundreds of authors send manuscripts and await response. Most will get a ‘Dear John’ response or in my case, ‘Dear Carl’. Don’t be put off – now there’s a way for you to see your inspiration in print, or rather, on screen. You may not be an e-book reader – doesn’t matter, millions are! The phenomenon is relentless – many people download books onto their Kindle, iPad, Kobo, phone, android, even their laptop or computer and it’s growing! Let’s take a look at what you could do. You can send your 50,000+ words to numerous publishers – you never know, it may work. Or you should do what I did with ‘Ahh! Sims’ - self-publish with Kindle/Amazon, and it costs – nothing. Ok, it’s not quite as simple as that – there are a few things you’ll need to consider: Just how do you actually upload your book? How can you make sure it is, at the very least, worthy? Can you get it reviewed anywhere? Where do you find somebody who can produce a professional cover? And how do you market your book? You love your book/story and have agonised over every word but you must get an objective opinion and painful though it might be, need to accept some criticism. Try www.youwriteon.com - this site has budding plus published authors who’ll critique your prose – take most of it on the chin! Either way, you’ll have the opportunity of reading their efforts – that’s the way it works – you read theirs, they read yours. Once you have considered various critiques; adopted some, ignored others, you’ll then want to get it read by

those who might actually pay for the privilege! Kindle is the answer! Go to mine www.amazon.co.uk/Ahh-Sims-ebook/dp/B005MRAZII – scroll to the bottom of page, you’ll see ‘self-publish with us’ click and follow instructions. Wait! You’ll see you need a cover for your book and

yes; internet users will judge a book by its cover. If you don’t know any graphic designers then approach your local art school and ask a student to do it for you (and give them a credit). Be realistic about pricing your book. At the moment you’re getting nothing for it, so price it low. Once it’s on the internet it will not sell itself. You need to let people know about your wonderful work – don’t be shy. Try Facebook, Google+, LinkedIn, local press/library. With Facebook you can set up your own ‘fan’ page’ which generates massive interest – see mine for example www.facebook.com/ahhsims Tell everyone! Even next-door neighbours – one of whom might be me. Good luck. ?

New Malden author Carl Sims offers advice as to how you can get published for free!

ELECTRICIANMartin FlanaganPart P Registered . 17th Edition

■ Full Re-Wires to Single Sockets■ Fault Finding■ Garden Power & Lighting■ Consumer Unit (Fuse Box)

Replacements■ Test & Inspection Certificates■ P.A.T - Portable Appliance Testing

020 8942 5352 or07709 887717Local, reliable, professional - an electrician youcan trust

No Job tooSmall

Free Estimatesand Advice


PAY NO VAT ON ORDERS PLACED INNOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 & JANUARY 2012

Offer not available in conjunction with any other advertised offer. Terms and conditions apply

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Bream Doors Nov11.pdf 1 05/10/2011 07:58


My marathon training has started! I’ve been for a few runs but it hasn’t been easy – as I finished my first run wheezing, coughing and aching, I was convinced I’d done 5 miles, only to plot my route on www.mapmyrun.com and find it was 3.2 miles! My second run faired no better. I was delighted to have clocked up 6.1 – only I’d plotted it in kilometres, not miles! If I can’t even get the distances right at this early stage, how am I ever going to make it to 26.2 miles? I decided to get advice from an expert! And who better to ask than Pete Bodley-Scott, an ex-marathon

runner himself and founder of Christ Church New Malden Running Club. I asked Pete what advise he would give to someone who was new to running. See your GP is Pete’s first piece of advice, so you get the all clear before you start. Set yourself an achievable goal for example, lose half a stone of weight in the next three months or run a 5km race by July 2012. The goal will give you something to aim for as well as help you head outside to run on the cold

winter evenings. Visit a good running shop as it is worth spending money on running trainers to help you stay injury-free. You can also get good advice on the best sort of trainer to suit your style of running at specialist running shops. Think about safety For example, wear bright-coloured clothes and take a mobile phone with you if you are running in the dark winter evenings. Let others know your route, as well as what time you expect to return home. Run with someone else if it makes you feel safer.

A marathoneffort! Kathryn Hill updates us on her training and sponsorship progress and offers some advice to would be marathon runners


Start slowly When it comes to running, Pete advises you don’t push yourself too early on. He says it’s more than ok to go for a brisk walk for your first two or three runs. After that you can jog to a lamppost and then walk to the next one. Build this up over time so that you jog between two lampposts and then walk to the next one. This is a great way of monitoring progress and it won’t be long before you are jogging the whole route. Think in terms of time, not distance Always run for a time to start with, such as 10 minutes, instead of concentrating on distance. Pete says this will remove the pressure of trying to run quickly and will help minimise risk of injury. Remember to take plenty of rest days in between your run days, especially in the first month. This will give your body time to heal and adapt to the new demands you are placing on it. Start eating well. This will help your body repair itself. Choose wholefoods and unrefined carbohydrates when you can, as they will give you the nutrients you need as well as replenish your depleted energy levels.When it comes to training for the marathon itself, Pete has these nuggets of advice: Don’t put yourself any under any unnecessary pressure by setting an unrealistic goal. Aim for something simple such as ‘get to the start line injury-free and enjoy the day’. Find a training schedule that works around family, social

and work commitments and share your plans with family and friends so they can become your support network if the training volume becomes tough. Rest up if you get injured; it’s much better to take off a week or two to get over a niggling injury than not make it to the start line at all. Consider training with friends or join a running club and learn a number of different routes - this will help to keep the training programme interesting. The Christ Church Running Club is a good place to start. It meets on the first Saturday in every month at the Church at 08:50am and follows various routes around New Malden. People of all abilities are welcome to turn up and give it a go. So with Pete’s advice very much in my mind, I’m going to get out there and slowly build up my running time and distance. Thanks to friends, family and local companies, I’m well on the way to reaching my target of £2,000 for the Spinal Injuries Association. If you wish to donate to this worthy cause, please go to www.justgiving.com/KathrynHill71. I’d like to say a very big thank you to the Rotary Club of New Malden for their recent donation. Thank you also to Chicco Caffe, Tudor Williams, Suttles of Malden and the New Victoria Hospital who have also paid to advertise on my running vest. Watch this space!?

big heartthe club with the

Slimming World

FREEFREEFREEonlineonlineonlinesupport

SAVE

£5SAVE

£5up to

Vanessa holds groups at the Graham Spicer Inst. Dukes Avenue, New Malden 52 weeks of the year:

THURSDAY9:30am, 11:30am and 7:00pmFRIDAY9:30am

Please call her for more information on 075045 22453


• Be-Bops (from 18 months upwards)

• Imperial Ballet

• Modern

• Tap

• Flamenco

• Musical Theatre

• Contemporary

• Street

• Hip Hop

• I.S.T.D. Exams

• West End Performances

Classes held in Merton Park and

Wimbledon Chase

St Mary’s Parish Hall Church Church Path (off Church Lane)

SW19

KAREN FORBES

SCHOOL OF DANCE

ESTABLISHED 1986

Call Karen Forbes AISTD.Dip.ANATD

020 8949 7896 www.karenforbesschoolofdance.co.uk

Designed and printed by westwayos.co.uk


1 2 3 4 5 6

7 8

9 10 11

12 13

14

15 16 17

18 19 20

21 22 23

24 25

©Puzzlepress.co.ukAcross1. 12 Across multiplied by one third of 2 Down

(4)4. Ounces in 12 stone (4)7. One nineteenth of 20 Down (2)8. 21 Across plus 23 Across plus two (2)9. 222 squared plus 2 Down plus 23 Down (5)12. 15 Across minus three quarters of 22 Down

(3)13. 2 Down plus 22 Down plus one (3)14. 149 squared plus 50 (5)15. 22 squared (3)16. 16 squared minus two (3)18. 212 squared plus 13 Across plus 21 Across

(5)21. One third of 23 Across (2)23. Inches in six feet (2)24. 25 Across plus 5 Down plus 19 Down plus

one (4)25. 16 Across multiplied by 15 (4)Down1. 6 Down minus 448 (4)2. 19 per cent of 300 (2)3. 12 Across plus 15 Across minus 26 (3)4. 16 Across plus seven (3)5. Square root of 7921 (2)6. 94 squared minus four (4)9. 10 Down minus 996 (5)10. 11 Down multiplied by two (5)11. Feet in four miles (5)15.Onefifthof11Down(4)17. Feet in seven furlongs (4)19. 16 Across multiplied by two (3)20. 19 Down plus 195 (3)22. One eleventh of 15 Across (2)23. 23 Across minus one (2)

LICENCED WASTE CARRIERS (not fly-tipping cowboys!)

Environment Agency Reg: EAN-939396

HOUSE CLEARANCE SPECIALISTSHOUSE CLEARANCE SPECIALISTS

Valuations for Probate or Insurance (fully itemised with photographs—as

approved by the Probate Office)

WE BUY UNWANTED and

JEWELLERY AND SCRAP Better prices paid than companies

currently advertising on TV!!

BROWSERS WELCOMED BUYERS CUDDLED!!

SECOND HAND FURNITURE BOUGHT AND SOLD

We also Buy and Sell Antiques & Collectibles, including: Moorcroft, Royal Doulton, Lladro, Paintings, Clocks, Military Memorabilia, Rail-way-ania, Vintage Toys, Art Nouveau, Troika, Records, Postcards, and other interesting items!

Number Cruncher


Monday 10am to 11.30am Tots In Tow St John’s Church, Kingston Road Contact Penny Welsh 0208 288 1801 1.15 pm 3.15pm. St James Tiddlers Group We welcome all parents and toddlers, plus big sisters and brothers when they’re on holidays. St James Church Hall, Bodley Rd Contact Angie: 020 8942 2093 9.30 - 11.30 Stay and Play (0-18 months) - New Malden Children’s Centre, Burlington Road 020 8336 1561.Tuesday 10am to 11.45am St Joseph’s Toddler Group St Joseph’s R C Church, Montem Road 9.30am to 11.30am Sparkles United Reformed Church, Cavendish Hall, Cavendish Road Contact Peggy Cox 020 8949 3402 to visit. 9-11.30 Stay and Play New Malden Children’s Centre, Burlington Road 020 8336 1561 Wednesday 10am to 11.45am Tots in Tow (see Monday) 10am and 11.45 ST Joseph’s Toddler Group (see Tuesday). 12.30pm - 3.pm Stay and Play (0 - 5 years) - New Malden Children’s Centre, Burlington Road 020 8336 1561 Thursday 9.45 to 11.30am Methodist Church Parent and Toddler Group Methodist Church, High Street, Contact

Greta Curry. 9.30am to 12.30pm 9.30 - 12 noon Childminders’ drop in including school holidays, Norbiton Children’s Centre, The Mount School, Dickerage Road, 0208 942

2559 10.30-11am, Story time aimed at age 3+New Malden Library,Friday 9.30am to 11.30am Christ Church Parent

and Toddler Group Christ Church, Coombe Road Contact Susie Gregerson 020 8241 9423. 9.45am to 11.15am Tadpoles Parent and Toddler

Group New Malden Baptist Church, Kingston Road 020 8942 6912 – not a drop in session so call

first. 10.30-11am, Rhyme time aimed at age 0-3 Kingston Library. 9.30-12.30 Toy Library New Malden Children’s Centre, Burlington Road 020 8336 1561. Also at NMCC Breastfeeding Support Group - 10.00 - 12.00 - first week of the month Twins Support Group - 10.00 - 12.00 - Second and fourth weeks of the month,Tuesday-Friday Parent and Toddler Play Sessions Dickerage Lane Adventure Playground Dickerage Lane, Daniel Slocombe 020 8942 1707,Saturday 10-12noon Who let the dads out is at Norbiton Children’s Centre, The Mount School, Dickerage Lane, New Malden Runs the third Saturday of every month. 10am-12pm Stay and Play - Dads group - - first Saturday of every month New Malden Children’s Centre, Burlington Road 020 8336 1561. ?

2121Advertise in for less than £1 a dayWorcesterPark Life

Come and join a thriving, new music group…

Saturday & Monday Mornings from 9:30am

in the Graham Spicer Institute, New Malden

(at the entrance of Waitrose car park)

Babies & Toddlers aged 6mths-4yrs

Professional and well-planned classes

Rhymes, traditional & new action songs, percussion

instruments and stories

Encourages listening & social skills

Classes for different age groups

Saturday class is ideal for working parents too - come along

and get the chance to make music together!

COME ALONG AND TRY US – FOR FREE!!!

For more information call Sasha on 07954 376 660 or

email [email protected]

Union serve refreshments during the morning for both adults and children.Although we may have a waiting list for a regular weekly place, do feel free to drop in and check us out on either Monday or Friday mornings. You can be sure of a warm welcome. For more information, please contact: Linda tel: 020-8330-2286

WednesdayWorcester Park Baptist Church 9.30-11.30- a lively toddler group, where carers of any kind are welcome to attend and supervise their youngsters. Our age range is from young babies to 3-4 years.Christ Church with St Philip Parent and Toddler Group 9.30 until 11.15am - see Monday

FridayChrist Church with St Philip Parent and Toddler Group 9.30 until 11.15am - see MondaySt. Mary’s Parent and Toddler Group 10.00 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. in the Parish Centre - see Monday

Lake Thomas

Cakes

0208 942 8782 (evenings and weekends)

[email protected]

Offers bespoke hand made cakes for all occasions, from weddings

to birthdays

Come and participate in our unique blend of songs, rhymes, music and drama

020 8942 [email protected]

“I think the parents enjoy it as much as the children”

Confidence building

Funfilled

EducationalWell

structured

Playacting

www.hookswimschool.co.uk

Spaces available – max class size 6Classes after school and Saturday mornings

We teach our swimming lessons in thewater

Phone Cass on 020-8397-7731

Less than 10 minsaway on the A3. K2 or 71 bus route

● Ladies Water Aerobics● Parent & Baby Classes● Pre-School Classes● Private Swimming Lessons● Summer Crash Courses

SWIMMINGLESSONS FORBABIES AND

KIDSBEGINNERS TO

ADVANCED

SWIMMINGLESSONS FORBABIES AND

KIDSBEGINNERS TO

ADVANCED

HOOKAQUA CENTRE

(No JoiningFee -

EveryoneWelcome!)

Fun for under 5s There’s lots going on for pre-schoolers in New Malden


Personal Trainer - JuleeI am a REPS level 3 Personal Trainer. I am also a Salsa and Zumba Instructor. I specialise in helping people tone up and lose weight. I was winner of NABBA Miss Britain Novice Figure 2009. I provide 1:1 personal training or 1:2 personal training.

Testimonial: “My Name is Nici Maskell, I’m 35 years old and a member of the Malden Centre. I had my last child in November 2009 and wanted to get my body in the best shape possible.

I hired Ju-Lee from September 2010 and have been seeing her twice a week and am now seeing the results. My weight has now fallen from 74 – 65KG and my size from 14 – 12. She pushes me, but it has been worth it. I’ve had lots of positive comments from friends, as well as having a new found confi dence.

If you want to change your body, get toned and fi t, I would highly recommend her, it’s given me such a boost.”

Mon Zumba Tone - 8.15 - 9.15 pm.

United Reformed Church, 130 Malden Road, New Malden, KT3 6DR Nr the Fountain Pub.

Wed Zumba Tone - 10 - 11 am.

Top Notch, Blagdon [email protected]

07957654361

NEW

Personal Trainer - JuleeI am a REPS level 3 Personal Trainer. I am also a Salsa and Zumba Instructor. I specialise in helping people tone up and lose weight. I was winner of NABBA Miss Britain Novice Figure 2009. I provide 1:1 personal training or 1:2 personal training.

Testimonial: “My Name is Nici Maskell, I’m 35 years old and a member of the Malden Centre. I had my last child in November 2009 and wanted to get my body in the best shape possible.

I hired Ju-Lee from September 2010 and have been seeing her twice a week and am now seeing the results. My weight has now fallen from 74 – 65KG and my size from 14 – 12. She pushes me, but it has been worth it. I’ve had lots of positive comments from friends, as well as having a new found confi dence.

If you want to change your body, get toned and fi t, I would highly recommend her, it’s given me such a boost.”

Mon Zumba Tone - 8.15 - 9.15 pm.

United Reformed Church, 130 Malden Road, New Malden, KT3 6DR Nr the Fountain Pub.

Wed Zumba Tone - 10 - 11 am.

Top Notch, Blagdon [email protected]

07957654361

NEW

Korean Community Centre, 108-110 Coombe Lane, Raynes Park SW20 0AY

New Malden United Reformed Church, near the Fountain Pub

Personal Training with ju-leewebsite:juleefitness.co.uk

F

If you are a beginner you can come and join 15min before FREE Basic

Mon Zumba Tone 19:15 - 20:15 Basic *starts Jan 2012

Mon Zumba Tone 20:30 - 21:30 All levels

Tues Zumba Tone 17:00-18:00 All levels

Thurs Zumba Tone 17:00-18:00 All levels

Mon Zumba Tone 20:15 - 20:30 Free Basic


• Servicing / Repairs• Diagnostics• Fuel Injection• MOT• Exhausts• Auto Electrics• Lucas Brake Centre• German Car Specialist

Westbury Garage

020 8942 1133NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY

No Extra Work Carried Out Without Authorisation

Fixed Price Servicing To Any Make / Model

21 Westbury Road, New Malden

Dear Local Resident,

MPS Kingston Police have launched Operation Safehouse which is a pro-active operation to combat residential burglary in Kingston. There have been a number of significant arrests and search

warrants carried out at various premises leading to the recovery of believed stolen goods. MPS Kingston police would like to identify owners of the recovered stolen property and have uploaded approximately 50 photos’ which can be viewed on the Kingston Borough Page on www.met.police.uk.Kingston residents are urged by police to be vigilant and report any suspicious behavior particularly people of South American or Mediterranean appearance knocking on house doors asking dubious question. This should be reported immediately via dialing 999. Top burglary crime prevention tips:

• Mark/ etch your property with your postcode, house or flat number. Register items with a serial number at www.immobilise.com.• Do not leave your car keys, valuables or ID documents near a door, letterbox or window and always close and lock all your doors and windows, even if you are only going out for a few minutes.• Always check who's at the door and don't open it if you feel anxious.• Leave some lights on if it will be dark before you get home. • Fit a mortice lock to your front door and other external doors. Consider installing a burglar alarm.• Always keep sheds and outbuildings locked.• Cancel milk or other deliveries if you will be away for days or weeks at a time and.

Coombe Vale and Beverley Safer Neighbourhood team run a Drop in Service with Korean speaking volunteers on the first Wednesday of every

month between 2pm - 4pm at the coffee shop in the Methodist Church on the High Street, near Tudor Williams. On the Third Wednesday of every month we will be there between 10.30am - 12.30pm.

CI Tower Safer Neighbourhood office is open Monday to Friday 12.30pm - 5.30pm,Saturday 10.30am - 3.30pm and we are closed on Sunday’s

If on reading this article you would like any further advice or have some questions on this or any other issue, you would like answered please do not hesitate in contacting the team. We can be contacted on 020 8721 2750 or via email on [email protected]. ?

Safer Neighbourhoods by Sgt Nick Ellis


ALL PLUMBING SERVICESfrom tap washers, toilets & garden taps through

to installation of Central Heating Systems,Kitchens & Bathrooms.

No call out charges • Over 25 years in the trade

Mob : 07973 733649 / Tel : 020 8393 0180

[email protected]

Andy ReevePlumbing & Heating Engineer

Andy ReeveAndy ReeveAndy ReeveAndy ReeveAndy ReeveAndy ReeveAndy Reeve

l Garden designl Lawn mowingl Treatment and

Turfingl Clearance

l Hedge Trimmingl Bordersl Landscapingl Reliable, Friendly,

Fully Insured

A.C. GARDENINGGARDEN AND LANDSCAPE SERVICE

For a free quotation, please ring 07885 778429

[email protected]

Learn to BowlFree Coaching

All Ages & Abilities WelcomeBar • Restaurant

Social EventsLarge Car Park

FUNCTION ROOM FOR ALLOCCASIONS

Jubilee Way, ChessingtonKT9 1TR

Tel: 020 8397 7025www.kgfi ndoorbowlsclub.co.uk

Abilities WelcomeBar • Restaurant

KING GEORGE FIELD INDOOR BOWLS CLUB

The Complete Professional Flooring Specialists

Domestic & Commercial ■

In-House Fully Trained Fitters ■

Major Stockists and Suppliers ■

Free Parking ■

Free Estimates ■

Registered to carry out ■insurance Work

www.simplyfloors.co.uk

10 The Triangle, Kingston KT1 3RT

Call Free on 0800 975 8238Mobile 07836 584117 Fax: 020 8942 1234

Email Quotations: [email protected]

Open Monday to Saturday 10am-4pm

We will open outside office hours at customer request

FREE

ESTIM

ATES


“Hey, since when was Christmas just about the presents? Aren't we forgetting the true meaning of Christmas? You know, the birth of Santa.” Bart Simpson

They know that Santa’s on his way It started months ago, daughters one and two began petitioning for an iPad2 for Christmas. Perhaps they think they would be happier if they had one but that doesn’t mean they’re right. I’m certain that they’d enjoying playing with it but they’re at their most contented when they’re outdoors playing football, cycling or climbing hills. The truth is, they’re not as materialistic as they make out. Sure, they’ll take what’s offered to them and they’ll maintain that they will be pariah’s; the only one in their class if they don’t get the desired gizmo or branded t-shirt. However if,on New Year’s Eve, you were to ask them for their highlights of 2011, what they enjoyed most, it will not be the things they got rather it will be the things they did: the birthday parties, the days at the beach, or the snowman making in the park.

Santa baby, slip an XBox under the tree, for me A survey published by UNICEF UK earlier this year, suggested that British parents were trapping their children in a cycle of consumerism by showering them with goods

which they didn’t necessarily want but came to regard as their right. It was commissioned after an earlier UNICEF report ranked Britain as the worst country in the industrialised world to be a child. They travelled to Sweden and Spain to find out what was going on. In both these countries, they discovered, children were getting fewer “things” but more attention from their parents. The report’s author, Dr Agnes Nairn, said “Parents in the UK almost seemed to be locked into a system of

consumption which they knew was pointless but they found hard to resist”.

All I Want for Christmas is my two front teeth?Another piece of research, conducted by Saga together with Netmums, found that down the generations,

parents are spending more and more on children's presents and

that older people feel far stronger

that Christmas should be about family

time than today's parents. Sixty one percent

of those parents born in the thirties said they had spent less than fifty pounds in total on Christmas presents for their young families. Of the most recent parents, born in the nineties, fourteen percent spent less than fifty pounds and twenty two percent admitted to spending more than two hundred pounds.

Siobhan Freegard, co-founder of Netmums said: "There's a startlingly clear correlation here: over the years, each generation of parents has felt an

A survey by the Daily Mail of 5,363 cards in major supermarkets found only 45 with pictures of the Bible story. Traditional nativity scenes appear on less than 1% of all cards available.

National average spend by parents on presents and stocking-fillers is £168 per child. In the NE of England = £226.In London = £162In the E. Midlanders = £151 Children aged 11-18 = £201Children aged under 4 = £124 LV Insurance

Dad’s Christmas Diary by Ian Duncan


When times are tough you have to shout

about your business

EVEN LOUDER

Be seen and heard by the your localmarket in the Village Voiceand Worcester Park Life.

With competitive pricing, friendly

efficient service and helpful adviceit’s simple and effective

- but then the best ideas always are.

Call jenny on 020 8336 2915or go online

www.maldenmedia.com

When business is slow you have to

STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD

Call Jenny on 020 8336 2915

increasing pressure to spend more money on Christmas presents for their children. For today's parents with young children, this can mean going without things themselves to buy ever more expensive gifts, often getting into debt in the process. Previous generations of parents didn't seem to go to such great lengths to fill their children's stockings and perhaps – in this 'age of austerity' – we should be learning from their attitudes and remembering that Christmas is about more than gifts." Ros Altmann, of Saga added: "The research we conducted shows that more than ninety percent of the over fifties believe that more money is spent on children's presents in this day and age than when they were a child. They feel that Christmas is becoming too commercialised, has lost the 'family time' they used to have when they were children.

Merry Christmas So, what will it be this Christmas? In these hard times, is it appropriate for a traditional approach to a more minimalist Christmas or do

you think giving generous presents to children is fundamental to the occasion? As for the daughters, I’m not sure how they will react to the news Santa won’t be bringing them an iPad this Christmas after all there are only so many games of Cluedo you can play before you fancy a quick go at Angry Birds. ?

HANDYMANTRUSTWORTHY AND

PROFESSIONALNo job too small ■

Free estimates ■Interior, exterior and ■

garden work undertaken

Phone STEWART 0791 314 4514 or

0208 942 0834


Please note that the opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily represent the views of the editor. All advertisements are commercial and not indicative of any endorsement by the editor who accepts no responsibility for any loss suffered directly or indirectly by any reader as a result of any advertisement or notice published in this magazine.

All in-house artwork and editorial presented in this magazine remains the copyright of Malden Media Ltd.

No part of this magazine may be reproduced, stored on any retieval system, or transmitted in any form - electronic, mechanical. recording, photocopying, or otherwise without prior permission from the Publisher.

Index of advertisersCall 020 8336 2915 to advertisewww.nmvv.co.uk

AccountantsDG Accountancy Services29BeautyFake It 17Fine Features 35Glitz’nGlam 13Pure Serenity 41Building, decorating & repairsRobinson & Son painters & decorators 27Stewart Handyman 57TSD Building 3CareAge UK Sutton 29Home Instead 43Car maintenance & repairShannon Corner 2Service Centre Westbury (Garage) 54ChildrenTick Tock 52Cleaning & ironing & Help servicesAroma ironing 26Bits & Bobs 51Ovens2New 43ComputersMick Packer 17Cycles Bright Cycles 17Department Stores &Shopping CentresBentall Centre 14Tudor Williams 59

Education & coursesThe Study School 20Westbury House School 50ElectricalMartin Flanigan (Electrician) 46Unilet(Hifi 28FlooringSimply Floors 9Food, Drink Al Forno 30The Glasshouse 38Heads Fine Foods 10Lake Thomas Cakes 25Royal Oak 14Furniture & blindsThe Bed & Suite Centre 37Golden Thread 32GardeningAC Gardening 55Cypress (Garden Services) 42FL Gardening 42RJ Trees 24Turner Tree Care 9Genealogy Robin Gill 9Health & WellbeingBrookdale Clinic/Sally Harris 9Kim Robinson Hypnotherapist 12Holistic Massage 40Slimming World 49JewelleryAdorn 35Kitchens, bathroom & plumbingAndy Reeve Plumbing 55Dream Doors 47Kitchen Wizard 11

Mark Howell 48Smith & Byford 22SolicitorsA.C.S. Hards Solicitors 13Opticians Eye Contact 20Outdoor SuppliesTam Leisure 44Printing & Print SuppliesFresh Printing 25Property & Housing Groves Residential 33Keys Residential 5Sport and LeisureHook Swim School 52Karen Forbes School 10of Dance King George Indoor Bowls 55Kingston Ballet School 50New Malden Tennis Squash and Badminton Club 45TaeKwonDo 53Zumba Fitness 53Zumba Friendly Trainer 9WindowsCheam Windows 18


Your Local Department StoreYour Local Department Store

HIGH STREET • NEW MALDEN • TELEPHONE: 020 8942 2277

www.tudorwilliamsltd.co.uk

CHRISTMAS MONEY SAVING VOUCHERS

Buy one GET ONE FREELunchtime Roast

Wednesdays 7th, 14th & 21st December, 12-2pm

Roast pork, boiled & roast potatoes, two freshvegetables. Only £8.95.

Please note this is a very popular offer & may sell out.Voucher must be presented at time of purchase.

FREE Father Christmas visitVisit Father Christmas in his grotto &

receive a special Playmobil gift.Saturdays 3rd, 10th & 17th December,

10am-4pm, Toy Department

FREE visit (saving £3.50) with this voucher.One voucher per customer.

SAVE £5Spend £30 or more on a purchase from

Lingerie, Esprit & First Avenue departmentsand get £5 off with this voucher.

Valid until 24th December 2011One voucher per customer

SAVE £5Spend £30 or more on a purchase from Molton

Brown, Elizabeth Arden, Clarins or Lancome, and get £5 off with this voucher

Valid until 24th December 2011One voucher per customer.

Mark Howell 48Smith & Byford 22SolicitorsA.C.S. Hards Solicitors 13Opticians Eye Contact 20Outdoor SuppliesTam Leisure 44Printing & Print SuppliesFresh Printing 25Property & Housing Groves Residential 33Keys Residential 5Sport and LeisureHook Swim School 52Karen Forbes School 10of Dance King George Indoor Bowls 55Kingston Ballet School 50New Malden Tennis Squash and Badminton Club 45TaeKwonDo 53Zumba Fitness 53Zumba Friendly Trainer 9WindowsCheam Windows 18

new malden's village voice dec 11

Documents