Archive
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Help catch the pervert
It's disgusting that a man is going round trying to grab children off the streets ( 'Child stalker's fourth snatch attempt' Times Nov 29). It sends a shiver down my spine when I think of those poor little kids and what that monster would have done to
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Jermyn needed 40 stitches after unprovoked attack
Barnet: A 20-year-old man needed more than 40 stitches in a head wound after he was involved in a brutal attack in High Street, Potters Bar, late on Saturday night. Jermyn Landon, of Ware, was walking to the BP garage in High Street, at around 11.15pm
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Vic keeps straight face for sculptress
Shooting Star Vic Reeves dropped into Whetstone on Saturday to show off his "generously-shaped lips" when he posed in a charity art exhibition for sculptress Frances Segelman. The TV funnyman managed to keep still for two hours at the event held at the
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Christmas in concert
A CHRISTMAS concert in Gravesend attracted around 150 residents on Saturday. Gravesend Salvation Army Band and the East Kent Girls' Choir were among the musicians entertaining the crowds at the National Children's Homes (NCH) concert at Milton Road Methodist
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Cement works to close
ONE of north Kent's key employers for the past 153 years is to close with the loss of 240 jobs. Blue Circle Industries' decision to close Northfleet Cement Works by 2005 is seen as inevitable by industry insiders as the Eastern Quarry is running out of
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Calling for campus cop
BEXLEY College has appealed to the police for support in trying to control trouble on its St Joseph's campus. The campus, in Woolwich Road, Belvedere, has now been turned into a sixth form college, with students aged 16 to 19 taking GCSEs, A levels and
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Stone in wax
ROCK idol Mick Jagger's wax work double is on display at Bluewater's Rock and Pop exhibition. The local celebrity has joined 40 other pop stars from Madam Tussauds including The Spice Girls, Prince, George Michael, Madonna and many more. It is the first
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From tramways to electric trains
TRAMWAYS played an important part in the borough's early transport infrastructure.o In 1881 a horse tramway was opened by the North London Suburban Tramway Co between Stamford Hill and Ponders End with a depot at the aptly named Tramway Avenue. The northernmost
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Yule all be in the dark
ONE of Swanley's most popular Christmas attractions is under threat. This year's High Street yuletide lights could be the last says the town's chamber of commerce after battling to find the £8,000 needed to fund them. It fears the Christmas lights will
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Captivating Kathakali magic
YOUNGSTERS at a Sidcup primary school were treated to a display of ancient Indian story-telling. A performer from the internationally-renowned Kala Chethena Kathakali Theatre Company entertained the children at Days Lane Primary School with a demonstration
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Search on for prison escapee
A PRISONER desperate to be reunited with his young child and lover is on the run this week after fleeing police in a dramatic chase. Scott Stockbridge absconded from Springhill Prison, an open facility in Aylesbury, Bucks on November 2, after serving
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Bottleneck uncorked!
Bexley's biggest traffic bottleneck, Bexley Village, could soon be a thing of teh past thanks to proposals by the council. The village is currently gridlocked twice a day with traffic queuing back onto the A2 and the North Cray dual carriageway at peak
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Seven-year battle for payout ends in victory
f=Clarion MT s=10 w=10 l=10.5A SEVEN-YEAR-OLD boy left brain damaged after complications during his birth at Enfield's Chase Farm Hospital won a record £3.5 million compensation deal on Monday.o Seven-year-old Anthony Michaels, from Enfield, was starved
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Windfall to assist tourism
BUSINESSES affected by the events of September 11 could benefit from a new £1 million support programme. As part of the London Tourism Action Group's (LTAG) £4 million tourism aid package, Business Link for London, an advice and support service for small
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Stalemate hard to take
As many Brentford and Queens Park Rangers Football Club fans will agree, supporters have waited patiently for 36 years for these two sides to meet in the same division, and what happened when they did not a lot. When Rangers were relegated from Division
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Praise for hospital
At a time when it is common to read horror stories of how hospitals have mistreated patients and misdiagnosed patients, it is reassuring to finally hear some good news ('Ashford excels in stroke table' Guardian, November 29). According to research compiled
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Police release Lawrence man on bail
Police in London have released on bail a 27-year-old man questioned in connection with the murder of black teenager Stephen Lawrence. Detectives have not released details of the man's identity but it is understood he is not one of the five suspects previously
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Bees better than QPR
The first derby in 36 years between west London rivals Queens Park Rangers and the super Bees cannot be allowed to pass without a few words. Wasn't it marvellous. I've been following Brentford for long enough to have a good memory of that last time we
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Accept T5 decision
I'm really starting to get quite bored with all the moaning about the decision to give Terminal 5 the go-ahead. It's not such a big deal! I live near the airport and yes, it is very noisy but people should be big enough to admit that after a while, you
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Disaster in the making
What price safety? After weeks of hearing politicians and pro-T5 supporters congratulating themselves for approving the new terminal, we finally discover that the safety risks posed by the development have been largely ignored ('Air disaster risk rockets
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Doctors' fury at parking fee
DOCTORS in Lewisham are furious at an 800 per cent price hike in parking permits which give them reduced benefits. Changes to Lewisham Council's parking policy mean doctors will now have to pay an annual fee of £200 to see their patients when they previously
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Smacking has no effect
When I started school, I was called to the front of the class to be smacked, which began a chain of events that led to a phobia of physical contact and being away from my parents. But it is effective in stopping bad behaviour. If I started my schooldays
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Chickening out of Christmas sales
BEWARE of buying chicken is the message to shoppers after the RSPCA revealed the appalling suffering the birds experience in their short lives. The RSPCA has launched a campaign to highlight the catalogue of illness, from sudden heart failure to leg pain
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War always ends in tears
I write with regards to a recent letter ( 'Just for the record' Times, November 22). I think I am right in thinking that Turkey is illegally occupying the north of Cyprus. People were fighting for the freedom of Cyprus. Brits, Greeks, Turks and Cypriots
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What will this war achieve?
How can we stand by and accept in our name the most barbaric, depraved torture and massacre of human beings, including the Taliban by the Northern Alliance? It is dehumanising all of us. We would not tolerate this treatment in our own country, even for
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At the heart of Heathrow
HEATHROW Airport has installed heart defibrillators in all four of its terminals as part of a government drive to improve the survival rates of heart attack casualties in public places. The initiative makes Heathrow the first airport to trial the equipment
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Reds face tricky Cup replay
Uxbridge 1 Tooting and Mitcham Utd 1 Ryman League Cup Uxbridge grabbed an equaliser with only two minutes left on the clock to force a replay in this Ryman League Cup first round tie. Dean Wordsworth slid in to meet a fine Stuart Goodall cross and force
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Ding second best to Woods in seven-goal thriller
Northwood 5 Yeading 2 (Dec 4) Middlesex Senior Cup Round Two What a difference eight days can make. After a battling League Cup win at Purfleet, the Ding, without a game on Saturday, were back in cup action at Northwood on Tuesday, but never really got
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Remembering September 11
GOD got groovy when one church's congregation dressed in jeans and baseball caps for the Sunday service. The pews of the Christian City Church, which meets weekly in the Paddock Suite at Kempton Park racecourse, Staines Road East, Sunbury, dressed casually
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Fine win hauls Hayes out of the drop zone
Hayes 2 Leigh RMI 1 December 1 The Missioners hauled themselves out of the relegation zone with this battling victory over fellow strugglers Leigh RMI on Saturday. It was a pair of strikes in seven minutes which turned a half-time deficit into a valuable
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TO THE POINT
Get a life! I am surprised A Shepherd can be so upset about dogs fouling the pavements (News Shopper, November 28) when just a general look around the area shows bigger problems of vandalism, graffiti, garden walls pushed over, broken glass, litter, used
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Why is Martin's Hill treated such?
It was sad to stand at the Bromley Memorial to the fallen on Martin's Hill at 11 o'clock on the 11th day of the 11th month with just a sprinkling of people who had come to honour the dead and to remember their friends and relatives lost in conflict. The
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Hockey
Woking 3 HEHC 1 (Dec 1) In recent weeks a win has proved elusive for Hounslow and Ealing 1st XI, who were hoping to rectify this on Saturday in Woking. With the home advantage, Woking attacked from the start, putting the H&E defence under sustained
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Where are the parents?
Emma Couts-Wood's piece on the lawless youth of North Kent contains no mention of the most important element in the matter - parents. If a thirteen year old is roaming the streets - at any time let alone at night (when most mischief is committed) then
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'Scoring three and losing is disappointing'
GAVIN Mahon gave an insight into the players' feelings after the Wycombe game. "To come away from home and score three goals and then lose is disappointing." In a week where he has been linked with a high-profile move to Crystal Palace, Mahon refused
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Regular listings
AIKIDOo Spelthorne School of Gymnastics, College Road, Ashford every Mon, Tues and Thurs from 8pm. Beginners and experienced welcome. Call Jim on 01784 464769. ARTo The Shepperton Artists meet on Thurs at 7pm at the Greeno Centre, Glebelands Gardens.
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Let down badly by Labour
I was so glad when Labour came to power. My husband and I thought life would be better and most of all transport would be sorted out more fairly. How wrong we were. The poor motorist is treated like a criminal. Local councils make it almost impossible
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Sloppy Bees throw it away at the end
Wycome 5 Brentford 3 (Dec 1) AN EIGHT-goal thriller left players and fans stunned to be making the short journey home with nothing to show for their efforts. The Bees started better and opened the scoring after 12 minutes. A Gibbs corner found its way
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Stop disgusting trade in donkeys
Having learnt of the terrible conditions that Polish horses, donkeys and foals are transported to Italy in, I wish to ask readers to help stop this disgusting trade. These animals cross six countries to reach their destination where they are slaughtered
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Neighbours far from home
This summer Australian actress Elisha Gazdowicz was feeling a little bit homesick but she should be fine by now. Neighbours' Jessica has now been joined by a fellow Aussie and another famous face from Neighbours, tearaway Toadfish, alias Ryan Maloney,
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Questioning the sale of Turkeys
In view of recent events plus the fact that American Thanksgiving Day will be on the fourth Thursday of this month, can I make the point that if we question the sale of Turkeys in supermarkets using this American celebration as good justification, Pilgrim
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Not all dog owners are the same
I write to the letter which appeared in your edition of November 28 concerning dog mess. Please do not tar all dog owners with the same brush! I own dogs and clear up after them. The council dog waste bins are often full, so there are responsible dog
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Does anyone have a clue?
Harking back to an old copy of the News Shopper (News Shopper September 19) regarding my remarks about the coronation of King Edward I, there is a slight error shown. The date of Magna Carta receiving the seal of King John at Runnymede should read 1215
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Anger at blind discrimination
I am writing to voice my anger at the discrimination faced by blind and partially sighted televi-sion viewers which is causing frustration across the country. I have a sight problem but enjoy watching television as much as anyone. It is my main source
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Arts for arts sake
Mark Adam's letter to you last week, declaring that "youths need an outlet" was a clear indication of how his own education in art had been 'sidelined', as he himself puts it. If he believes that allowing our young boys and girls to deface and despoil
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High spirits
Noel Coward's ghostly comedy, Blithe Spirit, is coming to Laleham Village Hall this weekend. The Tower Players' Christmas treat tells the story of widowed novelist Charles Condomine and his second wife Ruth, who are enjoying happily married life until
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Not enough police to patrol this town
RE: 'Proof We Have Too Few Police' (News Shopper, November 14). A few weeks ago, during a party in Biggin Hill, police were called to an incident. Two lads had left the party and had driven off in a car. The car smashed into two or three parked vehicles
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Garlic, croissants? It's the French
'OH LA LA!' cried delighted visitors to Staines town centre last week when they discovered a real French Market in town. The traders were invited to cross the Channel and set up shop on Thursday, November 29, as part of an initiative by the Staines Partnership
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Nothing wrong with campaign for peace
The anonymous reader who wrote in about the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament's activism against wars (News Shopper, November 28) may not realise the CND's motives. I am not a member, but I feel it important to clarify its actions. The CND is not preaching
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Junior athletes grab first place
Harrow took full advantage of near perfect running conditions to take first place in the 24th London Heathrow Youth Games Cross-Country Championships. More than 1,450 runners took part in the meeting from 27 of London's 33 boroughs. Harrow, with a team
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Christmas Lights add festive fun to Wanstead
WANSTEAD High Street has been decked out in sparkly Christmas lights for the first time this year thanks to generous funding by Wanstead Business Partnership and ward councillors. The High Street received £2,500 towards the cost of the lights and enjoyed
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This is not the Bromley I remember
I grew up in Bromley and, 30 years later, I recently re-turned to live in the borough with my family. One of my reasons for moving in - on my return to London from living in Yorkshire - was that I thought it would be a good place for my children. Now
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Whose fault?
Teachers, council officials, social workers and journalists are among those criticised for their handling of allegations against a five-year-old boy that led to a mass boycott of a Friern Barnet primary school. A six-month investigation headed by former
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Difficult to recruit
There are a considerable number of old and infirm people living alone in the Borough of Bromley, many in very sad conditions, who rely on a 'Meals on Wheels' service, provided by voluntary drivers for a midday meal, every day of the year, including weekends
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Different term dates are a pain
I am writing in particular about the half term dates in 2002. Although I live in the borough of Bromley my son attends a Croydon school and my daughter a Bromley school, this partly due to the fact that Anerley borders Croydon. Next year Bromley and Croydon
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I'm in a rage
Yet another day begins and I am in a rage because I have seen the same bloke who passes-by nearly every morning and lets his dog crap right on the pavement, and he isn't the only one. I see it all the time. I have one thing to say to these scum dog owners
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Setting record straight
In response to Rob Yeldham's letter (Tory hypocrisy just goes on and on. November 14) I feel compelled to write and set the record straight. Conservative councillors called on the Met Police Authority to provide a level of service in Bromley comparable
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"I remember when......"
I recently had occasion to go into Iceland to replenish my fridge and surprise, surprise they were selling boxes of broken biscuits. What memories this brought back, because when I was young and I am thinking of the time when I was between 11 and 13 years
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Chubby ginger wins with trimmer figure
A FAT cat from Sidcup has won his way through to the finals of a national competition. But he is not a top executive who has just awarded himself a mega bucks pay rise. He is a six-year-old ginger tom called Purrseus who successfully lost more than 27
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City status a good bet at bookies
Greenwich: A Greenwich punter is taking a chance on the town's long-shot bid for City status. The council has launched a campaign to become the third city in London to get the title, joining Westminster and the Square Mile. But when Mayor Terry Malone
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Please help this man
My concern is about a young man who sits all day and every day in the forecourt of Elmers End train and tram station. This lad, aged about 16-17 just sits with head bowed and unseeing eyes and doesn't move an inch. Just sits there with hands clasped starring
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Silence from Bromley Council
With regard to the EU Regional Assembly Offices being set up here and in Brussls. There seems to be a conspiracy of silence and secrecy in the Bromley Borough Council regarding this issue. I have for about 12 weeks sent letters to the council leader and
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Outburst beggers belief
Rob Yeldham's petulant outburst in last week's News Shopper beggars belief. Of course, Bromley Council should complain about declining Police numbers and it would be failing in its duty to local residents if it ignored the problem. The real spin merchant
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Regular listings
AIKIDOo Spelthorne School of Gymnastics, College Road, Ashford every Mon, Tues and Thurs from 8pm. Beginners and experienced welcome. Call Jim on 01784 464769. ARTo The Shepperton Artists meet on Thurs at 7pm at the Greeno Centre, Glebelands Gardens.
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Waste of council tax money
I read with interest about the West Wickham resident fined for putting domestic rubbish in a Council litter bin. Unfortunately, the full story reveals a disgraceful waste of Council tax payers money and a mis-direction of Council Officers' efforts. What
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Council leader in row with top cop
BEXLEY: Clash over chief's remark about police numbers A SECOND public row over policing has erupted between Bexley's council boss and its top cop following a lull in hostilities over the summer. Councillor Mike Slaughter criticised Chief Superintendent
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Extra funds insufficient
Bromley's share of £22m given to the Metropolitan Police to cover the extra costs of securing London against terrorism has already been spent. Chancellor Gordon Brown announced £22m funding to the Met, to cover the extra costs of policing London between
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Lager thieves
Teenage robbers stole a case of Stella Artois lager from Threshers off-license in Nursery Road, Sunbury on Sunday last week (Nov 25). The two youngsters, aged15 or 16, entered the shop at 6.45pm, swiped the lager, worth £36, and fled. One is around 5ft
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Hard ro believe BYMT closure
I find it very hard to believe that Bromley Council should even be considering such drastic and far-reaching funding cuts for BYMT. Bromley musicians have shown in an exceptional way what young people can achieve, given the right support. They have made
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Sea school formed
I wish to bring to the attention of any of your readers who may have an interest, the recent formation of the Gravesend Sea School/College Association. The Gravesend sea school was founded in 1918 following the first world war and existed until 1996.
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Double car parking standards
I read the letter from R Peel of St Paul's Cray with interest. As a disabled person myself, the double standards really annoy me. This week I had occasion to spend an evening out in Orpington with my friend from Dorset, who is currently suffering with
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Spruce up for station
A FACELIFT has finally been given to Swanley's police station, thanks to a donation and hard work by community workers. Beejay Garden Supplies, of London Road, donated 150 shrubs so work on the police station's grounds could be completed. Community service
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M25 farm threat lifted
VICTORY has been secured in the battle against plans to use Simplemarsh Farm as a service area for the M25 motorway now that the developer has withdrawn its appeal. The decision was announced at a pre-inquiry meeting held by inquiry inspector, Stuart
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Law says kids can kill
UK law currently allows a child of any age to use a shotgun to kill animals for pleasure. Last April, parliament's Home Affairs Select Committee warned the government that an age threshold of somewhere between 12 and 14 had to be introduced, but the government
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Songs for the season
Norwood Green Choral Society's Christmas concert will be taking place at The Holy Angels Church, High Street, Hounslow on Saturday December 15. As well as a good variety of traditional songs, the choir will be performing A Celebration of Christmas by
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Shoppers get discount vouchers
RESIDENTS will be able to get discounts in a host of shops tomorrow (Thursday) thanks to a voucher scheme. Gravesend's retailers have come up with a reward voucher entitling residents to special deals in town centre shops after 6pm. Participating shops
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Why waste is out front
I am writing in response to recent correspondence in the News Shopper's Letters page concerning the Council's proposals that householders will have to place their waste for collection at the front of their property. The Council's recent decision to ask
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High spirits
Noel Coward's ghostly comedy, Blithe Spirit, is coming to Laleham Village Hall this weekend. The Tower Players' Christmas treat tells the story of widowed novelist Charles Condomine and his second wife Ruth, who are enjoying happily married life until
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Hitman Leon turns on the style as Bees win again
Barnet 2 Hereford United 0 Nationwide Conference Leon Bell, Barnet's 20-year-old midfielder, underlined his class with two magic moments in the 2-0 win over Hereford United on Saturday. Barnet's fourth win in a five-match unbeaten league run lifted them
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Restriction order for offender
A TEENAGER from Gravesend, accused of a string of offences, was sent to a secure unit after appearing before magistrates. The 15-year-old, who cannot be named, faces a long list of charges including GBH and shooting a cat with an air rifle. Dartford magistrates
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Euro takes money in tax
Councillor Hyland has announced (November 29) that Bromley is to receive a grant of £160,000 from the Euro-pean Social Fund for a scheme to support people with mental heath needs in Bromley. But he has not mentioned that for every £1 the European Union
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Beating the vandals!
SOUND MOVE: Belvedere Community Forum chairman Ernie Stockbridge (right) and Peter Alexander with pupils Paula Barnes, Thomas Jeffries, Sarah Willis and Ming Tan-Wong and a stereo to replace equipment at Woodside Special School which had been trashed
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Tale of two castles
IT'S hard to think of Windsor Castle as a proper castle. Its stonework is too clean, its surroundings too polished it looks like a picture on the box of a giant jigsaw puzzle. But, in fact, Windsor has been a proper castle since the Conquest, although
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Controversial system set up
GREENWICH: Local government changes style A CONTROVERSIAL new system of government will kick off in Greenwich Council when it holds first cabinet meeting, next Wednesday (December 12). The cabinet will be made up of a leader, two deputies and seven other
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Avoid the seasonal calorie calamity
Christmas is a cruel time of year for anyone who wants to lose weight or cut down on calories. Even regular exercisers have to work extra hard to find the motivation, and the energy after all that food, to get to the gym. Gym instructor Mike Gallagher
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Prince Charles helps hospital
PRINCE Charles's architecture ideas will influence the building work at Lewisham Hospital. The Prince's Foundation said the Prince of Wales has agreed to take on the role of design champion for the NHS. University Hospital, in Lewisham, is planning phase
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School's green facelift
MORE than 1,000 shrubs were planted by volunteers to add a dash of green to a primary school. Thirty volunteers rolled up their sleeves to plant hawthorn and blackthorn at Northcourt Primary School, in Dickens Road, Gravesend. They were planted around
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Timetable to turkey success
d=4,6What will your Christmas be like? Will you be kissing Santa under the mistletoe or frantically mashing the turnip to get the hard bits out? Relax, just follow our countdown to Christmas and it will all fall into place effortlessly. Particularly if
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Wildlife home in orchard
MORE than 30 people helped with planting a community orchard at Woodlands Farm. Sponsored by Barclay Sitesavers, the aim is to create a home for wildlife and help conserve ancient apple and cherry varieties which would once have been common in the area
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An antique visitor
STUDENTS will be searching their homes looking for lost treasure after receiving valuable advice to get them started. Laars Tharpe, the ceramics expert from popular BBC television programme The Antiques Roadshow, popped into St David's School on Tuesday
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Connex has new scheme to penalise free riders
FARE dodgers on commuter services to and from London will be punished by an innovative football-style red and yellow card system. Train operator Connex will scrap its current method of issuing £10 on-the-spot fines in a bid to claw back the &
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Just Poles apart!
ONE of the most successful exhibitions at the National Maritime Museum received a special visit from the King of Norway. Accompanied by HRH the Duke of York, who is a trustee of the museum, King Harald of Norway toured South: The Race To The Pole. This
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MP doc's skills called on
DARTFORD MP Dr Howard Stoate came to the rescue in the House of Commons when a member of the public fainted. During the debate on the new Terrorism Bill, the MP who is the Commons' only practising doctor, was summoned to the public gallery where an elderly
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Rent rise 'fairer' for all
COUNCIL rents are set to rise as part of a scheme to make councils and housing association charges fairer. The central proposal is that rents charged by housing associations and councils should be set on a common basis, and not vary from area to area
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Lifeline for High Street
Grand revamp plans could aid Erith's suffering traders A PLANNING application to redevelop Erith's town centre was lodged with Bexley Council on Monday. For the traders who have managed to survive the gradual decline of the town, the news will be a lifeline
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Williams folly
To sacrifice an idyllic cricket pitch and an avenue of mature and ancient oaks to the corporate altar is criminal. It's scarcely surprising, considering bombastic projects like the Tally Ho Arts Centre, that Alan Williams is backing the new stadium against
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Magazine hits news shelves
PLANS for the Queen's Golden Jubilee and changes to the town centre will feature in this month's free council magazine. Spelthorne Council's magazine 'Exciting Times Ahead' contains the latest on Tilly's Lane, Staines' High Street and the Two Rivers retail
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Green concerns voiced by experts and pupils at forum
YOUNG nature lovers gathered on Monday this week to discuss various environmental issues at Spelthorne Borough Council's offices in Knowle Green, Staines. The event, which was sponsored by the council and BP, involved 50 youngsters from six secondary
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Club affects many
I write in response to letters by Messrs Ballard and Moody ('Bias from Bees' and 'Traffic chaos', November 26) regarding the planning application of Barnet Football Club. There has existed a 10,000 capacity in Barnet Lane for almost a century, a capacity
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Police release Lawrence man on bail
Police in London have released on bail a 27-year-old man questioned in connection with the murder of black teenager Stephen Lawrence. Detectives have not released details of the man's identity but it is understood he is not one of the five suspects previously
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Deep-end on us, say Orcs
A SWIMATHON organised by Dartford Lions Club, based in Spital Street, has raised more than £4,000. Up to 200 swimmers took part in the event at Fairfield Pool, Lowfield Street, Dartford, raising money for the Lions Hospice. The hospice, in Coldharbour
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Met is second worst force in the country'
A damning report by a Sunday newspaper has labelled the Metropolitan Police the second worst in the country. The Observer report graded the country's police forces in terms of detection rates, complaints, sick leave and response times to incidents and
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Firms vying for hospital deal
A £16million deal to build the third phase of Edgware's new community hospital has finally gone out to tender after an eight-month delay. Six companies are vying for the deal and are expected to return first-stage tenders to Barnet Primary Care Trust
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Former Afghan PM not happy with new regime
A former acting prime minister of Afghanistan, now living in Finchley, attacked the UN yesterday over the imposition of a new government on his homeland. Ahmadshah Ahmadzai, who fled Afghanistan when the Taliban came to power in 1996, says the interim
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A new chapter
I would like to be among the first to welcome the new chapter for Chiswick Library (Guardian, November 29). The improvements, if approved, will enhance what is already an excellent facility. But, like many, I am frustrated by the lack of state-of-the-art
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Daniel 'gets through' in style
CHART-TOPPER Daniel Bedingfield believes his childhood in Lewisham is the secret behind his sudden success. He believes the multicultural environment in the borough aided his music, and helped him to reach number one in the singles' chart last weekend
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Jenkins left cold
Harpenden 14 Finchley 13 London League Division Three (North-West) Vivian Jenkins, who began his rugby career with Finchley in 1930, before switching to London Welsh and gaining 15 international caps, celebrated his 90th birthday on Saturday. He was a
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Whose fault?
Teachers, council officials, social workers and journalists are among those criticised for their handling of allegations against a five-year-old boy that led to a mass boycott of a Friern Barnet primary school. A six-month investigation headed by former
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city status a good bet at bookies
A GREENWICH punter is taking a chance on the town's long-shot bid for City status. The council has launched a campaign to become the third city in London to get the title, joining Westminster and the Square Mile. But when Mayor Terry Malone was invited
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Hospital is 'appalling'
How depressing to read that stroke care at West Middlesex Hospital has been described as 'appalling' ( 'West Mid stroke care 'appalling' Guardian, November 29). The report makes for worrying reading and the excuses given, regarding a lack of funding,
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Let us know your views on Urgent Treatment Centre
With reference to your story ('New threat to 24-hour centre', Edgware & Mill Hill Times, November 29). We have recently reviewed services at the Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) and have found that the overall service has grown from strength to strength
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Unaware of development
I am absolutely livid about the work that is taking place on the former Kone Lifts Estate, whose entrance is in Wellington Road, Hounslow, by developers Wimpey. I live directly in front of this estate and I am horrified to discover that three townhouses
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Accept T5 decision
I'm really starting to get quite bored with all the moaning about the decision to give Terminal 5 the go-ahead. It's not such a big deal! I live near the airport and yes, it is very noisy but people should be big enough to admit that after a while, you
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Education cuts not beneficial
I'm a parent of a child who needs the special lessons available at Grangewood Special School in Eastcote and I would like to say that your report is absolutely true ( 'Parents angry at cuts in special classes' Times, November 29). My daughter has been
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The fine art of grabbing attention
UP AND coming artists are displaying their amazing talents at Brunel University's exhibition of applied arts. Claire Trease, of Ickenham, expressed her creativity at the university's Beldam Gallery with a dazzling display of handwoven and dyed silk scarves
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Cash for community
REGENERATION projects are being given a huge lift with a multi-million pound investment. Hayes and West Drayton Partnership has earmarked £4.1 million for new projects out of the government's Single Regeneration Budget allocation of £21 million. These
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Fire deaths among the lowest in London
THE danger of dying in a fire is less in Hillingdon than in almost any other borough. Findings from London's Fire Authority show that Hillingdon has one of the lowest annual death rates with 2.4 deaths per million population (pmp) due to accidental fire
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Clean team targets illegal fly-tippers
A NEW team is tackling flytipping and rubbish dumping after the borough was found to be the worst in London and the home counties by the Environment Agency. Hillingdon Council has hired enforcement officers after 1,129 instances of unlawful tipping incidents
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Noddy in Ruislip
NODDY, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and the original Batmobile will be brightening the streets from 4.30-9pm tonight (Dec 6). The cartoon characters will be on parade in Ruislip High Street as part of the Toy Parade. The colourful event will also see shopkeepers
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School leaps up the league table
PUPILS and teachers at Swakeley's School were heartily congratulating each other after leaping up the league table to become one of the country's most improved schools. The school, in Clifton Gardens, Hillingdon saw an increase of 19 pupils gaining five
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College building
Building is due to start early in the New Year on a £1.8m training centre at Uxbridge College. The Community Hospitality and Training Leisure Centre will be an extension of the Hayes Community Campus and will be fully equipped with a fitness room, gym
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Chicken aid
Shoppers are being urged to help ease the suffering of broiler chickens before they are slaughtered. A new report by the RSPCA provides evidence that many of the 820 million chickens bred for their meat in the UK each year experience a catalogue of illness
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Chorus of approval
RYEFIELD Primary School entered into the festive spirit with its Christmas fair on Saturday last week. The event raised £2,000 for the Ryefield Avenue school in Hillingdon, as over 600 people flocked to see a range of sights, including the school choir
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Nice town is now a mess
I was born and raised in Hayes and lived there for more than 20 years until I moved away 10 years ago. Last week, I visited for the first time since I left and I have to say I was horrified by what I saw. I cannot tell you how much I was looking forward
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Athletics
Thames Valley Harrier Andrew Hennessy continued his series of good performances in the Metropolitan Cross Country League when he finished second at the third meeting of the season at Horsenden Hill, Perivale on Saturday. Steve Norris gained the better
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Scrappy Rs glad to grab a point
QPR 2 Colchester United 2 December 1 It ended all square at Loftus Road with Kevin Gallen grabbing a second half equaliser after Mickey Stockwell and Joe Keith had overturned Rangers' early lead to go ahead before the interval. It was Gallen's second
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Keep your garden safe and secure
WITH the temperature dropping, winter is now setting in and so it's time to finish clearing up the garden. One important job is to rake up the many leaves in order to keep good hygiene and to prevent diseases. It's also a good way of getting rid of the
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Uproar at £1m golf move
PLANS to spend £1m on moving three holes off a golf course so a school can be built on the site were branded "scandalous" by residents. The proposal sparked the latest row in a long-running battle over where to build a new secondary school in Bromley
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Drew's riding high
Riding in cars with boys (12) SPANNING a period of over 20 years, this comedy-drama (based on a true story) follows the life of writer Beverly Donofrio. From her adolescent years in the 60s, we witness the life changing moments which shape her future
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Hockey
Woking 3 HEHC 1 (Dec 1) In recent weeks a win has proved elusive for Hounslow and Ealing 1st XI, who were hoping to rectify this on Saturday in Woking. With the home advantage, Woking attacked from the start, putting the H&E defence under sustained
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Sad situation
In July 1997, you published a letter on the eruv controversy. It is sad that this matter is still unresolved. Can we have some plain answers please? Who (and when) specifically decided on poles and the wire and the permissible size of gaps, none of which
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'Scoring three and losing is disappointing'
GAVIN Mahon gave an insight into the players' feelings after the Wycombe game. "To come away from home and score three goals and then lose is disappointing." In a week where he has been linked with a high-profile move to Crystal Palace, Mahon refused
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Sloppy Bees throw it away at the end
Wycome 5 Brentford 3 (Dec 1) AN EIGHT-goal thriller left players and fans stunned to be making the short journey home with nothing to show for their efforts. The Bees started better and opened the scoring after 12 minutes. A Gibbs corner found its way
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Brown on top form
Watford 7 Hendon 45 Herts/Middlesex League Division Three Andrew Brown was man of the match, contributing 21 points, three tries and three conversions, for Hendon who led 26-7 at half-time. The visitors had to survive an early onslaught, but their speedy
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Hendon win right to join Barnet in Trophy draw
Barnet have been drawn away to Fisher Athletic while Hendon must visit Cambridge City in the FA Trophy third round on Saturday, January 12. For Barnet fans, the clash with Fisher will trigger memories of the greatest day in the club's history. Back in
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Yelland forced to taste first defeat
James Yelland, 26-year-old superbantamweight from Finchley, lost his unbeaten record when his six-round clash with Canning Town's John McKay was stopped in the last round at York Hall, Bethnal Green, last Wednesday. Yelland's run of five wins and a draw
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Police release Lawrence man on bail
Police in London have released on bail a 27-year-old man questioned in connection with the murder of black teenager Stephen Lawrence. Detectives have not released details of the man's identity but it is understood he is not one of the five suspects previously
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Payne answers call to rescue crisis club
Colin Payne has enjoyed a passionate involvement with football. He has been manager of four Ryman League clubs, player-manager of another and has enjoyed a fair measure of success. But now he's facing his toughest task to date, reviving the flagging fortunes
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Points lost
Bank of England 2 East Barnet OG 2 Southern Amateur League Division Two East Barnet had to settle for a point, conceding a late equaliser to Bank of England at Roehampton on Saturday. EBOG went 2-1 ahead through Goran Kucinovic, with his 19th goal of
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What's on in town
WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 5DANCE: Senior citizens. St John's Church, Bourne Hill, Palmers Green. 2pm-4pm. 8363 2285. SHOP: Cards for Good Causes Multi-charity Christmas Card Shop. Palmers Green United Reformed Church, Fox Lane, Palmers Green. Monday to Saturday
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Hat-trick hero
Camberley 0 Wingate & Finchley 3 Ryman League Division Three Danny Fitzpatrick's first hat-trick for Wingate and Finchley, gave them a comfortable win at bottom club Camberley on Tuesday and hoisted them to sixth place. Fitzpatrick struck in the 20th
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Local sites
In a desperate bid to get with the people, Webworld is on the look out for local websites. Yes, nothing too saucy, too rude or lewd, just an honest, hardworking, god-fearing website for the Guardian to review. If you have a website on any subject and
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In back of the Net
When Phil Presland wrote to Webworld and said: Here is an interesting sports website I had to laugh. The words sports and website can mean only one thing to me boring. However, I put personal prejudice aside and logged on, writes Heidi Wyithe. Luckily
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Racial equality policy shortlisted
HARROW Council could be awarded beacon status for the second time after being shortlisted for its promotion of racial equality. In the coming weeks, the council will be visited by a team of officials and given the chance to make presentations to further
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Jewish community 'failing' foster kids
A WORSENING fostering crisis has prompted a charity to issue urgent calls for more Jewish families to open up their homes to children in need. Staff at Norwood Ravenswood, based in Broadway House, Stanmore, have admitted that they still do not have enough
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Council has clear sight
BRENT Council has been nominated as one of the country's most visionary organisations. The nomination for BT Vision 100 Index follows a visit from the Improvement and Development Agency (IdeA) executive director Mel Usher. The Index is a list of the UK's
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Neighbours far from home
This summer Australian actress Elisha Gazdowicz was feeling a little bit homesick but she should be fine by now. Neighbours' Jessica has now been joined by a fellow Aussie and another famous face from Neighbours, tearaway Toadfish, alias Ryan Maloney,
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Young spirits soar at concert
MUSIC was on the agenda when children at Saxon Primary School were treated to an array of talent on Friday last week. The four to 11-year-olds at the Briar Road school listened in delight as the South East Music Centre played a selection of popular songs
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Neighbours far from home
This summer Australian actress Elisha Gazdowicz was feeling a little bit homesick but she should be fine by now. Neighbours' Jessica has now been joined by a fellow Aussie and another famous face from Neighbours, tearaway Toadfish, alias Ryan Maloney,
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Xmas refuse rota
ROTAS have been distributed to every home with a wheelie bin this week to remind residents of Christmas refuse collection. There will be no collections from Christmas Day until December 28 and a blank day again on New Year's Day. The first week of the
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Panto fun
Christmas is coming and so the pantomime season is here again, writes Gareth Foreman. Oh no it isnt, I hear you cry, Oh yes it is and theatres across South West London will be home to all the well-loved panto stories, plus a few not so well known tales
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Keep your garden safe and secure
WITH the temperature dropping, winter is now setting in and so it's time to finish clearing up the garden. One important job is to rake up the many leaves in order to keep good hygiene and to prevent diseases. It's also a good way of getting rid of the
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Date
Drew's riding high
Riding in cars with boys (12) SPANNING a period of over 20 years, this comedy-drama (based on a true story) follows the life of writer Beverly Donofrio. From her adolescent years in the 60s, we witness the life changing moments which shape her future
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Date
Audley's a knockout
HUNDREDS of fans braved the cold to see a home-grown hero switch on the lights in Wembley town centre on Thursday last week. Olympic Gold medallist Audley Harrison, who hails from Kingsbury, delivered a knockout start to the festive season. The lead-up
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Don't cry fowl this Christmas
MOST cooks operate on the KISS principle at Christmas Keep It Simple, Stupid! and who can argue with that sentiment. But within that framework there are many ways of ringing a few subtle changes without too much hassle and with minimum risk. Try this
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Life's miseries
From the perspective of elderly folk living in Barnet there are two sources of misery that the council does not seem able to address despite all their promises. Firstly the abysmal bus service on the 263 route. We have to be resigned to up an hour's wait
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Williams folly
To sacrifice an idyllic cricket pitch and an avenue of mature and ancient oaks to the corporate altar is criminal. It's scarcely surprising, considering bombastic projects like the Tally Ho Arts Centre, that Alan Williams is backing the new stadium against
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No Mayor spells a nightmare
PROTESTERS claim the borough will be run by 'arrogant part-timers' after the council decided to continue using a leader and cabinet structure. Ealing has had a leader and cabinet for 18 months and that was made permanent on November 20. But campaigners
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Muslim children bullied at school
VICIOUS assaults on members of the Muslim community have risen dramatically since the September 11 terrorist attacks. Children are being bullied and taunted at schools because of their religion, while Muslim women are encountering greater isolation due
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Evening of good cheer for all
Crowds enjoyed a magical evening as Wimbledon town centre kicked off the festive season in style with street performers, a parade and spectacular fireworks. Shoppers and their families were entertained last Thursday by a variety of attractions from unicyclists
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Doctor out over MMR controversy
The consultant who sparked fears that the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccination can lead to autism and serious bowel disorders has been forced out of his job at the Royal Free Hospital. Professor Andrew Wakefield, who worked as a consultant gastroenterologist
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Jeannine beats cancer and takes on the desert
A RESIDENT is prepared to undertake the challenge of a lifetime, just a few years after recovering from life-threatening cancer. Mrs Jeannine Green, 53, of Winton Road, Farnborough, was given just a slim chance of survival when she was diagnosed with
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Go to Birmingham
So, 57,000 people from all over the country signed up the petition to encourage Barnet Council to obliterate 30,000 square metres of Green Belt to build another football stadium. Why, since less than 2,000 people bother to turn up for matches? What business
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Lucky strike
Your enjoyment of Jay And Silent Bob Strike Back is really going to hinge on two things; your familiarity with the not-so-dynamic-doped-up-duo and your tolerance for what Mary Whitehouse (may she rest in peace) would no doubt have called a torrent of
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A wise choice as winner
Owls about that: nine-year-old Matthew Martin of Sellwood Drive, Barnet, won his family a holiday with this imaginative picture of a swooping barn owl. The youngster entered the competition organised by Center Parcs to encourage interest in the British
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Best than Zero
I am a fan of people in bands having made-up names, writes Stuart Moses. It suggests some thought has gone into the concept behind the music. But does the music of the amusingly-titled Dr_A, Sneaky and Crash_303 match up to their imaginations? Opening
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Please weed this TV stalker out
Celebrity seed pedlar Alan Titchmarsh has become a waking nightmare for HARRY COLE ... When I was a child, there was an actor named Eric Von Stronheim who was a villain in so many films he was billed as The Man You Love To Hate. Sadly, Eric got left behind
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Rocky seas
Described as a comedy romance, Meat And Two Veg is making a welcome return to Battersea Arts Centre (BAC), writes Gareth Foreman. Staged by Cartoon De Salvo (pictured), the tale is loosely based on Shakespeares Twelfth Night, yet the heroes of the piece
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Three new advice centres to open
THREE new citizens' advice bureaux are set to open next year, offering advice on issues such as education, employment, benefits and immigration. The new centres will bring the total of CABx in Ealing to four and will be located in central Ealing, Hanwell
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Time for electoral change
Shadow Chancellor Michael Howard, speaking in Hendon, wouldn't reveal details of his policy "with three years at the earliest before the election" (Tax, health and future elections', November 29). Well the electoral law isn't quite so precise, or so restrictive
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Keen sportsman defied the odds
ORPINGTON: Six weeks to live turned into a half century A DOWN'S Syndrome man from Orpington who was given only six weeks to live when he was born has died at the age of 52. When John Wood, of Court Road, was born with the genetic disorder and a severe
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Learning boost for ethnic minority kids
A NEW research project designed to raise educational achievement and reduce school exclusions has benefited 31 Black African and Caribbean boys. The scheme, a Quality Projects initiative by Ealing Council, has been devised to improve the life chances
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Madness on Merseyside
The 51st State 18 3/5 AN EXTREMELY odd mix of British and American stars feature in this transatlantic drug underworld movie with screen legend Samuel L Jackson going head-to-head with Robert Carlyle under the direction of Ronnie Yu (Bride of Chucky,
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Very upset at BYMT closure
I am very upset to hear that Bromley's education department are considering winding down to nil the funds for the Bromley Youth Music Trust. I've lived in Bickley for most of my life and was a member of the Bromley Youth Orchestra from the age of 8 until
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I support BYMT
Further to your article in this week's edition (November 14), I write to support your campaign to save the Bromley Youth Music Trust. Our son, Andrew, has enjoyed eight years of working his way up through the various bands at the BYMT. For the past three
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BYMY encourgaed my son in music
We write at this time in response to the article which appeared in the November 14 edition of the News Shopper, regarding the cuts in funding for Bromley Youth Music Trust. Based on the encouragement our son received from BYMY, he is currently studying
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Distressed at proposed closure
I was distressed to read the article on the plans which could lead to the closure of the BYMT. I have supported the BYMT over many years and our three children have all attended the orchestras and bands. The BYMT has been (and still is) hugely important
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Deeply dismayed
I am deeply dismayed to learn of the proposed cuts in the funding of the Bromley Youth Music Trust, which may result in the closure of the Bromley Youth Chamber Orchestra. I quote from the article in this week's local News Shopper in which you referred
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Potter day
Potter-mania is coming to Little Ealing Primary School as it hosts a wizard- themed fancy dress contest. The Christmas bazaar will be at Weymouth Avenue, South Ealing, from 2pm until 4pm on Saturday (Dec 8). A sleigh loaded with presents will be drawn
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Band are devastated
I am writing to add my support to your campaign to safe guard the future of the Bromley Youth Music Trust. For five years my niece has played in the Concert Band and Symphony Orchestra, and worked with BYMT's peripatetic teachers for five years before
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Xmas party
Southall MP Piara Khabra attended a Christmas party on Sunday (Dec 2) organised by Age-Link, a social club for pensioners of which he is a patron. Age link groups from Ealing, Acton, South Acton, Southall, Greenford, Northolt and Hanwell all enjoyed the
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Scouts recall past at group's 90th birthday
A VAST array of Scouts both past and present gathered to celebrate the 90th birthday of the 1st Farnborough Scout Group. Seven former Scout leaders were among the group of 70 "old boys" who spent an afternoon reminiscing at the Scout Hut, in Farnborough
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Points lost
Bank of England 2 East Barnet OG 2 Southern Amateur League Division Two East Barnet had to settle for a point, conceding a late equaliser to Bank of England at Roehampton on Saturday. EBOG went 2-1 ahead through Goran Kucinovic, with his 19th goal of
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Shots fired
Two shots were fired across the street at a 30-year-old male by two men on Church Road in Acton at 4.40pm on Monday (Dec 3). The bullets missed their target, hitting the window of a shop while the two suspects escaped towards South Acton Estate. The area
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Hat-trick hero
Camberley 0 Wingate & Finchley 3 Ryman League Division Three Danny Fitzpatrick's first hat-trick for Wingate and Finchley, gave them a comfortable win at bottom club Camberley on Tuesday and hoisted them to sixth place. Fitzpatrick struck in the 20th
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Chickening out of Christmas sales
BEWARE of buying chicken is the message to shoppers after the RSPCA revealed the appalling suffering the birds experience in their short lives. The RSPCA has launched a campaign to highlight the catalogue of illness, from sudden heart failure to leg pain
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Wacky fun
CHARACTERS from the Wacky Warehouse Wacky Gang joined forces with the NSPCC recently for a day of fancy dress and fun at the Myllet Arms in Western Avenue, Perivale. Wacky Wesley and Spike of the Happy Kids are seen above playing with children in the
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Eruv confusion
If Patricia Wilson's opposition to eruv poles is based on her fears of telegraph poles being struck by lightning can we expect she will be vigorously campaigning for the removal of lampposts, mobile phone antennas and traffic lights on the same basis?
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It's a shocking betrayal of trust
The News Shopper campaign to save Bromley Youth Music Trust (BYMT) has received massive backing. We launched the campaign last month to fight council proposals to cut the trust's funding. Support has come in from several high-profile people, among them
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No cash for robber
A robber escaped empty-handed after brandishing a foot long metal bar at a Mitcham post office. The terrifying attack happened at 6.30pm last Wednesday when a 22-year-old man entered the Church Road shop, demanding money from the till. The 52-year-old
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Ocelot is home for sub-urban fox
There have been several articles, over the years, about the urban fox, so I thought you may be interested in the picture of the sub urban fox I took recently in Chatham Dockyard. Apparently he lives quite happily on HMS Ocelot, a Royal Navy submarine
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TO THE POINT
Word of praise As the only things one hears about Social Services seem to be bad, I would like to give a few words of praise. After my 94-year-old mother had a fall in September last year, they went out of their way to make her life as comfortable as
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Crimes are not art
Your reader Mark Adam's letter (News Shopper, November 14) regarding graffiti kids expressing themselves, is he totally mad? Let's get this straight once and for all. Graffiti is a crime. It is a criminal offence. You will be arrested and charged if found
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British justice is 'a disgrace'
A woman has branded British justice a disgrace after having her compensation bid for witnessing the death of a policeman thrown out of the High Court. Elizabeth Fagan, 39, who lived in Wimbledon at the time of the accident in 1995, would have made legal
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Town centre shops dispute rumbles on
A £40 million shopping and leisure complex is still being considered despite deep-seated opposition from residents and traders. Councillors last week decided to leaflet every home and business near the planned development behind the Town Hall in New Broadway
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Councillor's family flees blaze terror
A MAN has been arrested in connection with a house fire which forced a councillor, her partner and children to flee their home in the early hours of the morning. Labour councillor Liz Brookes, her two teenage children and partner were treated for smoke
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Hospital denies diseased kidney killed patient
Reports that a transplant patient died after receiving a diseased kidney have been strenuously denied by St Georges Hospital, which carried out the operation. A national newspaper claimed Dhanapalan Asbury, a 57-year-old book-keeper who lived in Raynes
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Bus will run all night
The 93 bus will now run 24 hours a day as part of a package of bus improvements in the area. The bus, which runs from Putney to North Cheam via Wimbledon and Morden, will run half-hourly throughout the night. Daytime services will also be more frequent
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Arrests for man killed
Police have arrested four men in connection with the murder of a man in Merton earlier this month. Sellathurai Balasingham, a Sri Lankan Tamil, was bludgeoned to death on November 6, on the Mitcham housing estate where he lived. The latest arrests follow
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SW London postal service is second worst in country
Frustrated Royal Mail customers fed up by postal delays have been told their delivery service is the second worst in the country. Figures released by Postwatch a consumer representatives council have shown that only 86.4 per cent of first class mail is
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Car wash gets Green Belt lovers in a lather
A decision by Barnet Council to allow a car wash to operate from Green Belt land at Copthall was this week described as "scandalous" by the Mill Hill Preservation Society. Chairman John Turtle accused the council of being "shifty" in allowing the Mr Valet
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Funding for bike schools
Merton residents can improve their biking schools thanks to funding from green charity Groundwork. An instructor will meet would-be cyclists anywhere in the borough and take them out over their chosen route, whether to school, work or in a park. Funding
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Soapbox: What's gone wrong, Ken?
With the sacking of Steve Norris, Ken Livingstone is finally showing his true colours, writes BRIAN COLEMAN, the Conservative Greater London Assembly member for Barnet and Camden: Yes it has finally happened: power has gone to his head and he has become
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Little tips go a long way to improving our planet
A Wimbledon woman has compiled a book containing 365 ways in which people can help the environment in everyday life. Annabel Short, of Somerset Road, in Wimbledon Village, is a freelance journalist who has worked on The Ecologist Magazine and National
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Mill Hill spreading seasonal cheer
Christmas cards showing winter scenes from Mill Hill will sit proudly on coffee tables across the globe this festive season. Eric Partridge, 75, president of the Milldon Art Society, came up with the design in a competition to raise funds for the Mill
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Garlic, croissants? It's the French
'OH LA LA!' cried delighted visitors to Staines town centre last week when they discovered a real French Market in town. The traders were invited to cross the Channel and set up shop on Thursday, November 29, as part of an initiative by the Staines Partnership
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Guilty owners want dog back for Christmas
Two dog-owners convicted of animal cruelty this week said they wanted their pet back in time for Christmas. Paul Rowell, 39, and Leanne Cobb, 27, left Khan, their six-year-old German Shepherd, tied to a concrete post for several days in the back garden
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Date
Neighbours far from home
This summer Australian actress Elisha Gazdowicz was feeling a little bit homesick but she should be fine by now. Neighbours' Jessica has now been joined by a fellow Aussie and another famous face from Neighbours, tearaway Toadfish, alias Ryan Maloney,
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Date
Diary of events - December 6-12
Theatre ASHCROFT THEATRE: The Fairfield Halls, Park Lane, Croydon. Three British Tenors with Barry Clark, Jeffrey Cresswell & Tomos Ellis, December 6. 020 8688 9291. WAREHOUSE THEATRE: Dingwall Road, Croydon. Dick Barton Episode III The Tango
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Date
Keep your garden safe and secure
WITH the temperature dropping, winter is now setting in and so it's time to finish clearing up the garden. One important job is to rake up the many leaves in order to keep good hygiene and to prevent diseases. It's also a good way of getting rid of the
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Date
Beatles' legacy will never be forgotten
I just got up, turned on the radio and heard of the death of George Harrison. They're playing Beatles tracks and the memories have come flooding back. As a teenager of the sixties I remember listening to my tranny under the covers on Sunday night for
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Pure Magic!
I was one of the privileged few to see a production of The Magic Flute at Old Palace School. The play was performed to a select audience on four nights during November writes Linda Kirby. The director of the show, James Edwards, created a show of exceptional
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Date
Railtrack gets it right
Congratulations to Croydon Council for finally prevailing upon Railtrack to do something right and provide the anti-fouling measures underneath Norbury Bridge over London Road which once was an eyesore and is now attractively painted. Many thanks Croydon
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Date
Dave and Grace are on top song
Mr Musical, Dave Willets, and the sultry Grace Kennedy, combined their talents on Wednesday evening at Fairfield, to present a cracking show with wall-to-wall, non-stop hits from the shows and movies. A disappointingly small audience were entertained
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Take care to stamp down postal costs
With Christmas looming, may I, through your columns, make a plea for postal users to ensure stamps are well stuck down onto their parcels? Last December, I received a post office card telling me that a parcel awaited my collection from the East Croydon
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Date
Eruv confusion
If Patricia Wilson's opposition to eruv poles is based on her fears of telegraph poles being struck by lightning can we expect she will be vigorously campaigning for the removal of lampposts, mobile phone antennas and traffic lights on the same basis?
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Date
Don't cry fowl this Christmas
MOST cooks operate on the KISS principle at Christmas Keep It Simple, Stupid! and who can argue with that sentiment. But within that framework there are many ways of ringing a few subtle changes without too much hassle and with minimum risk. Try this
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Date
Microwave tower concerns
Once again local residents are having to face a fight to prevent a microwave tower being built in a residential area. This time the proposed tower is to be situated on South Croydon Bus Garage and local residents are protesting. The proposed tower is
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Date
Kane not able to win tie
Tooting & Mitcham were held to a 1-1 draw at Bromley last Saturday in the FA Trophy second round. Conrad Kane put Tooting ahead after 75 minutes, but James Taylor scored for Bromley with six minutes to go. The replay was due to take place on Tuesday
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Date
Fulham Ladies reserves beat Leeds in cup game
Fulham's women footballers went one better than the men on Saturday, with the reserves beating Leeds United 4-0 to reach the quarter-finals of the League Cup. The Whites took the lead in the fourth minute when Anne-Marie Collins converted Terri Warren's
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Evan's above the rest
Graveney School pupil Evan Williams races for the line to become the first Wandsworth borough runner to finish the London Heathrow Youth Games cross country championship in the boys 11-12 years age group. Evan, 11, was 30th overall in a field of 157 athletes
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Date
Man cannot afford to pay his bail
Finance worker Gholami Sacki, charged with taking part in a £100million money-laundering scheme, remained in prison on Friday because he could not afford to pay the £120,000 bail. Iranian-born Sacki, 46, of Evesham Road, New Southgate, who has already
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Date
Mum stuck on baby magnets
The magnetic appeal of a Croydon mum's simple idea to celebrate the birth of her daughter has seen it spiral into a full-time business. Joanna Leapman, 31, from Upper Norwood marked the birth of her baby Lara at Mayday Hospital by turning photographs
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'We want our dog back for Christmas'
Two dog-owners convicted of animal cruelty this week said they wanted their pet back in time for Christmas. Paul Rowell, 39, and Leanne Cobb, 27, left Khan, their six-year-old German Shepherd, tied to a concrete post for several days in the back garden
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Date
Big crowds expected as museum scraps charges
Attendances at Hendon RAF Museum are expected to go sky high after admission for everyone was made free from last weekend. After a two-year campaign by Hendon MP Andrew Dismore, children and pensioners visiting the Colindale museum were allowed in for
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Louise visits the Fairfield
Tickets are now on sale for Louise, who comes to the Fairfield Concert Hall on February 25. Her Changing Faces UK Tour 2002, is bound to sell out fast, so book early on 020 8688 9291. December 5, 2001 17:00
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Prisoner of Japan seeks compensation
Criteria concerning compensation payments to those interned by the Japanese during the Second World War are 'disenfranchising' British citizens, according to retired Hendon teacher Isaac Abraham. Mr Abraham, 67, of Green Lane, was nine years old when
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Date
Eruv confusion
If Patricia Wilson's opposition to eruv poles is based on her fears of telegraph poles being struck by lightning can we expect she will be vigorously campaigning for the removal of lampposts, mobile phone antennas and traffic lights on the same basis?
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Cadets' families to go for compensation
The Ministry of Defence faces a barrage of compensation claims from families of air cadets killed or injured in an horrific coach crash. Lawyers acting for the family of survivor James Topping have already launched a claim against the MoD. They are seeking
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Sad situation
In July 1997, you published a letter on the eruv controversy. It is sad that this matter is still unresolved. Can we have some plain answers please? Who (and when) specifically decided on poles and the wire and the permissible size of gaps, none of which
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Thank you all for a wonderful show
I want to thank everyone, particularly the young, who took part in the Lord Mayor's Show in the City of London on Saturday, November 10. It was a wonderful day and I was impressed by the splendid activities of thousands of people who made marvellous contributions
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Tory MP is wrong to dismiss T5 objections
The November 21 edition of the Financial Times noted that David Wilshire, the Tory MP whose Spelthorne constituency borders Heathrow, had a very strong opinion about the outcome of the Terminal 5 inquiry. He said: "Hopefully, the obsessed knockers of
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Respect care workers
So Councillor Jan Leigh thinks there is nothing in the council's proposals to use agency staff for all new homecare work to warrant a one-day strike. According to her, this is because home helpers will not suffer in any way. Perhaps they will not, but
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Cooking up a storm to order
The genius of a world-calibre chef has begun to rain hard on South Croydon's pub-life, and may the storm clouds never clear! The bright green doors of the Earl of Eldon on Brighton Road swung open to reveal Mark Dixie, a few of his favourite kitchen gadgets
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Man cannot afford to pay his bail
Finance worker Gholami Sacki, charged with taking part in a £100million money-laundering scheme, remained in prison on Friday because he could not afford to pay the £120,000 bail. Iranian-born Sacki, 46, of Evesham Road, New Southgate, who has already
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A fond farewell to Jay and Silent Bob
Jay And Silent Bob Strike Back (18) 104mins: 3 out of 5 Your enjoyment of Jay And Silent Bob Strike Back is really going to hinge on two things; your familiarity with the not-so-dynamic-doped-up-duo and your tolerance for what Mary Whitehouse (may she
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Take a stroll down by the riverside
A brochure promoting the riverside walk between Battersea and Putney has just been published. The Riverside Walks booklet was officially launched by the Mayor of Wandsworth, Councillor Ron Smith, in Putney's Bar M last week. It includes places of interest
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Forget your change, where's my food?
The Putney branch of Snappy Snaps has donated £300 in prize-winnings to the Blue Cross animal charity after promoting Take Your Dog to Work Day earlier this year. The High Street store won the money in a nationwide competition to find the best window
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A trip around the world in 80 days...on a motorbike
By her own admission, there is nothing extraordinary about Morag Taylor's life. But that is set to change next August when the 44-year-old mother-of-two aims to travel around the world in no more than 80 days on the back of a motorcycle. Organised by
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Kane not able to win tie
Tooting & Mitcham were held to a 1-1 draw at Bromley last Saturday in the FA Trophy second round. Conrad Kane put Tooting ahead after 75 minutes, but James Taylor scored for Bromley with six minutes to go. The replay was due to take place on Tuesday
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Now it's hip to be square
The star of Box Story, soon to perform at the Clocktower on December 14, is 51-year-old Bobbi Baker, but her age can be mentioned because its one of the first things she pronounces on stage. The performance artist is known for producing exciting solo
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Award-winning choir tunes up to aid Afghanistan's needy
An award-winning choir held a concert in Balham to raise money for a children's charity last month. The London Adventist Chorale performed at Balham's Seventh Day Adventist Church in The Boulevard to raise money for UNICEF, one of the charities helping
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Flag flies free at Eco-School
Pupils and teachers at Norwood Park Primary School celebrated after discovering they could continue flying a green flag over their school because it had retained its much-coveted Eco-Schools award status. Their Eco-Schools award was re-established, at
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Barton's back
He's back and he's selling out fast. Dick Barton Special Agent is at The Warehouse Theatre from Friday, December 7 until February 3. This season it's a Latin flavour adventure with The Tango of Terror episode. Previous Barton escapades have been a riot
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Soapbox: What's gone wrong, Ken?
With the sacking of Steve Norris, Ken Livingstone is finally showing his true colours, writes BRIAN COLEMAN, the Conservative Greater London Assembly member for Barnet and Camden: Yes it has finally happened: power has gone to his head and he has become
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Help for home buyers
People buying homes in parts of Battersea and Roehampton could save up to £1,500 on the purchase price because of a relaxation of stamp duty rules. Properties priced between £60,000 and £150,000 in Latchmere and Roehampton wards will no longer have the
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It's Christmas
Santa's elves will bring a touch of festive cheer to Wandsworth Shopping Centre tomorrow and next Friday thanks to interactive performance company Ladder to the Moon. Ellie and Eddie the Elves will be handing out copies of Santa's shopping list giving
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Volunteers saved by last minute cash injection
A SCHEME to provide desperately needed services to the vulnerable has been saved from the chop after receiving a last minute cash injection. Grants of nearly £92,000 from the Community Fund and up to £75,000 from Bridge House Estates this week have ensured
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Commuters face strikes
Commuters' festive celebrations could grind to a halt if South West Trains (SWT) staff vote in favour of strike action over Christmas. SWT employees started voting earlier this week on whether to stage a series of strikes over pay and conditions. The
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Maureen fosters love and care
A FOSTER carer who has housed needy children for more than a decade has been honoured with a prestigious silver award. Maureen Simpson, who has fostered 14 young people during the past 10 years, received her glittering trophy from Hounslow Mayor, Cllr
