Archive
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A walk on the scary side
If you're stuck for something to do on New Year's Day why not join in a walk across Hampstead Heath that unearths some ghostly tales? CHRISTOPHER SPARROW reports. Ever since the Middle Ages, Londoners have journeyed to Hampstead to enjoy the fresh air
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Nightspot backing Christmas drink-drive camoajgn
HARLOW nightspot owner Luminar has joined forces with Essex Police to encourage drivers not to drink and drive this Christmas. The company, which owns Jumpin Jaks and the Chicago Rock Cafe is taking part in this year's drink-drive campaign which was launched
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A walk on the scary side
If you're stuck for something to do on New Year's Day why not join in a walk across Hampstead Heath that unearths some ghostly tales? CHRISTOPHER SPARROW reports. Ever since the Middle Ages, Londoners have journeyed to Hampstead to enjoy the fresh air
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GLA robs borough of three bobbies
The borough is set to lose three police officers in a controversial GLA reshuffle. The Greater London Authority met on Monday (Dec 10) to agree on the new formula used to divide the extra 1, 050 officers they plan to recruit in the new year among all
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Related to Tolkien
No prizes for guessing what Julian Tolkien gets asked almost every time he meets someone new. "Any relation of...?" He says: "It's the usual question, and they usually mean J R R Tolkien. Just sometimes they mean Tim Tolkien, my son, who is a sculptor
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Ministry gets cut-price deal for Dome party
A war of words has started after a Government agency's controversial decision to rent out the Millennium Dome for a cut-price New Year bash. The row centres on how much clubbing empire Ministry of Sound is paying English Partnerships, which maintain the
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Thanks to St Helier's staff
I was taken ill recently and after reading about St Helier Hospital I was very apprehensive of what to expect because this is the first time I had been to hospital in 65 years. I was very surprised by the care and attention I received from doctors, nurses
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Panto season
What would Christmas be like without panto? A world without princes and princesses, the wicked dukes and buxom dames? This unique British tradition is synonymous with the yuletide season, entertaining children in theatres across the country. But from
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Listings December 19-31
Every week in Leisuretime we list the best events going on. If you want an event to be considered for our listings pages send the details to Joan Gardner AT LEAST TWO WEEKS BEFOREHAND at jgardner@london.newsquest.co.uk PANTO To Jan 6 Cinderella with Michael
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Dick Barton - The Tango Of Terror
Dick Barton The Tango of Terror, is the must-see' production at Croydon's The Warehouse Theatre until February 3, writes Christine van Emst . Writer Phil Wilmot has done it again and come up with a cracking plot, madcap characters and a quicker, slicker
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Concert for kids
After the unprecedented success of the London Mozart Players' New Year's Day concert at the Fairfield Halls last year, the orchestra will return on January 1 with Alasdair Malloy's specially-devised extravaganza, It's About Time. Malloy is well-known
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FEWER police for borough
ANGER has erupted in Bexley with the confirmation the borough is to get one less police officer next year under the new formula agreed by the Metropolitan Police. Council leader Councillor Mike Slaughter said he would continue to fight for Bexley to get
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In Brief
PHONE MAST: A mobile phone company has made a planning application to Dartford Borough Council to see whether prior approval is required to put up a 15m high mobile phone mast with three panel antennae and a dish antennae, and an equipment cabin, at Stone
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Woman burnt fighting chip pan fire with water
A MOTHER-OF-THREE suffered minor burns and her children had to be treated for smoke inhalation when she tried to put a chip pan fire out with water. The Northfleet woman, who has not been named, was cooking chips on a gas hob when the pan set fire and
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Festive changes to council services
THE festive season brings a change in council services for Swanley residents. This week, Sevenoaks District Council's office will have normal opening hours. You can contact the office in High Street, Swanley, between 10am and 3pm until Friday, December
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Christingle lights
Angels and shepherds crowded into St Paulinus Church, Crayford for the children's traditional Christingle service. Among those who took part were angel Gemma Vernon, seven and five-year-old Frankie Stack who was dressed as a shepherd. December 19, 2001
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Top architect reveals plan
EXCITED Bexley councillors got their first taste of the plans for the new Bexley Business Academy, designed by renowned architect, Sir Norman Foster. Foster is responsible for the acclaimed Great Court at the British Museum and London's millennium bridge
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In brief
ABSOLUTE YOGA: Dartford Adult Education Centre in Highfield Road, Dartford, is holding a yoga course for absolute beginners starting on January 10. The course runs for 10 weeks from 10am to 11.30am and costs £40. For more information call 01322 221897
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Nativity play brought alive
DOWNSVIEW Junior school pupils thrilled parents with their modern Christmas nativity play, The Good the Bad and the Donkey. Headteacher Mrs Stringman said: "The children are really excited about the play. They like the fact that it's a modern production
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Dartford gets new shoppers' paradise
A MULTI-MILLION pound retail development scheme in Dartford has been given the go ahead by councillors. Plans to knock down stores such as B&Q, MFI and Rosebys in Prospect Place and build 14 new units, four restaurants and a health and fitness
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Disabled face uphill struggle to go shopping
Disabled people are having to travel miles for their weekly shop because the High Street supermarkets are failing to provide specialised trolleys. According to one member of the Sutton Alliance of Disabled People, whose wife is a wheelchair user, they
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In Brief
CARERS' BENEFIT: Gravesham MP Chris Pond asks carers to check they are getting what they are entitled to from the government. This year, the Carers Premium increased and changes were made to Invalid Care Allowances. Write to the MP or call the Carers
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Paedophile strikes again
A SEX offender from Northfleet, who said he was only being "friendly" when he cuddled young children, has been jailed for two years. Blackfriars Crown Court heard how Ernest Roy Blackwell, aged 61, of Pier Road, assaulted an 11-year-old girl in July.
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People can and do change for better
YOUR article concerning the councils employment of a person previously jailed raises interesting points. Firstly, proper application of process is always essential to demonstrate transparency and accountability in public affairs. Secondly, as a society
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Toilets disgrace town centre
AFTER reading the letter in the Guardian from Cllr Sally Buckley "Cllr puts us all straight on toilets", obviously she hasn't visited the council public toilets in the bus station in Selborne Walk, Walthamstow. They are closed more times than they are
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Gremlins get in the works
A REPORT in the Guardian (December 6) quotes a council spokesman as responding to your inquiries in the following way: "hjhj hjhjhj hjhjhj hjhjhj." Now it may be that gremlins are at large in your offices, or were you perhaps seeking to imply that sometimes
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Housing help for vulnerable young
A COUNCIL proposal to help young people find accommodation to support them through tough times is one that all of us should support. Young, vulnerable people can become involved in many activities that affect the community. Your paper has covered letters
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Teen's ASBO is first in town
Court wants us to name Stacey Law TEENAGE troublemaker Stacey Law is the first in Gravesham to have an Anti-Social Behaviour Order (ASBO) made against her. The 14-year-old admitted making life hell for her neighbours in Waterdales, Northfleet. In a victory
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Boss denied victory on first outing in charge
New Carshalton Athletic manager Graham Roberts was denied a victory in his first match in charge of the Robins by a goal in the last two minutes. There were few chances in the first half although Carshalton had a 12th minute goal ruled out for offside
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Strong performaces all round
Collingwood members took part in the third race of the Surrey Cross Country League Division III, which was combined with the Division II fixture and held in Lloyd Park, Croydon, on Saturday. The size of the field meant team members were unaware they had
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Us' youngsters storm to a comfortable win
Sutton United showed their progress with a comfortable win over a side who had beaten them 3-0 on the opening day of the season, writes Tony Dolbear. With four players under 20 in the starting line up there was huge encouragement to be gained from as
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Hairdressing company lifts award
A south London hairdressing company has snipped and clipped its way to glory in the stylists version of the Oscars. The Rush hair group, which boasts a salon in Putney High Street, was named British Southern Hairdresser of the Year at the British Hairdressing
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All-singing Scrooge
l PARENTS in Sidcup were delighted by their children's performance of Scrooge. Pupils at North Cray Primary School, Beden's Road, impressed with an all-singing, all-dancing adaptation of Charles Dickens' Scrooge. The seven to 11 year-olds started rehearsing
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Crime figures fall
Overall crime figures have fallen in Wandsworth and Merton in the past three years despite a continued drop in the number of policemen on the beat. New figures also show that crimes at railway and underground stations have fallen in Wandsworth but risen
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War thoughts made into rug
AFGHANISTAN and its many refugees fleeing from the war have been in the thoughts of a group of Bexley children. The Year 6 pupils, at Slade Green Junior School, used their computers to log onto the Oxfam website and check the current situation in the
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Drawing at the double
Tooting & Mitcham were held to a goalless draw at Windsor & Eton in Ryman League Division One last Saturday. Tooting's reserves also had a goalless draw at home to Croydon Athletic and their next game is on December 29 when they visit
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War thoughts made into rug
AFGHANISTAN and its many refugees fleeing from the war have been in the thoughts of a group of Bexley children. The Year 6 pupils, at Slade Green Junior School, used their computers to log onto the Oxfam website and check the current situation in the
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Fylde too strong despite impressive Park showing
ROSSLYN PARK 18: FYLDE 24 Rosslyn Park did not get the result they wanted on Saturday, but it was a heartening performance against a big Fylde side in National League Two, writes Bernard Wiggins. Money has helped transform Fylde since they were thrashed
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Singing coaches add Pop Idols to client list
They have helped the likes of Take That and the Spice Girls to hit the right note. Now husband and wife voice coaches, David and Carrie Grant from Southgate, are coaching the likes of Rosie Ribbons and 20-stone Rik Waller on ITV1's smash hit show Pop
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Belgrave still on target to win Division Two title
Despite having some injured and ill athletes, Belgrave Harriers women remained on target to win Division Two of the Sweatshop Surrey League with another victory over frozen Richmond Park last Saturday. They covered the shorter first lap at a safe pace
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Pushing through extension to guide dog legislation
Finchley guide dog owner Angus McKenzie MBE is playing a key role in pushing a Bill through Parliament to make it illegal for minicab drivers to refuse to carry a guide dog. Mr McKenzie, from Fitzalan Road, has been an advisor to Walthamstow MP Neil Gerrard
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We three kings of Orient are...
Sacred Heart School's nativity play raised more than £500 last Thursday. Nearly 270 children, aged three to 11, performed The Stable Story in the chapel at Digby Stuart College. To help a pupil who needs a kidney transplant, the Roehampton primary school
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New tram link plan
Proposal will offer wider travel choice TRAMS could run through Greenwich Park to link it to Abbey Wood as part of the proposed Waterfront Transit Scheme. Residents will board the tram at Abbey Wood station and the line will link Woolwich, Charlton and
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No to 'ugly' mast
A proposal to build a 74ft mobile phone mast on scrubland next to the Elstree Tunnel has been refused planning permission. Borehamwood-based One-2-One wanted to build the mast to provide coverage for people using the railway and industrial units near
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Sarah-Louise given award
Sarah-Louise Casey was presented with a special prize when she attended the London Borough of Bromley 2001 Excellence in Sport Awards presentation, held at the Pavilion Leisure Centre. The awards was in recognition of young sporting personalities who
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Stoddart pedals off with cycling trophy
Fashion designer Jeff Banks brought a touch of glamour when he attended Catford Cycling Club's Annual Prize Presentation and Dinner/Dance. Banks was a racing member of the club in the 1960s and although he has since moved away from the area, has retained
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Christmas trees missing from festive street scene
RESIDENTS will search in vain for public Christmas trees on the streets of Waltham Forest this year. After numerous acts of vandalism and complaints last year, council bosses have decided to do away with the festive trees in their borough-wide Christmas
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Post office robber gets eight years
A "CAREER criminal" who robbed a post office at knifepoint has been jailed for eight years. Richard Williams, 37, who had been released from a 13-and-a-half-year prison term on licence less than eight months before, entered the Hale End Road post office
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NOT THE TICKET
DELIVERY of the Christmas post has been hampered in Chingford Mount. Traffic wardens have brought collections to a near standstill by continually ticketing the Royal Mail van. Collections have been reduced to one a day and letters have been overflowing
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Drugs raid on flat of killer
POLICE and council officers have raided the home of murderer Stetson Matthew, now serving life for the killing of pensioner Doris Crystall. His flat was an important base for the local drugs trade, they say. Five people were arrested at the flat in Fred
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BASS PREMIER LEAGUE NEWS
VCD Athletic maintained their lead over Cray Wanderers at the top of the table with a 3-0 away win at Hythe Town on Saturday. Richard Dimmock put VCD ahead after 15 minutes but then had to go in goal when Athletic keeper David Pike was sent off for handling
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Nursery will close if new home not found
PARENTS and staff at a Beckenham nursery are appealing for a new home for their 32 children, through the pages of the News Shopper. Kelsey Park nursery is being forced to close because its building, on the site of Kelsey Park School, in Manor Way, has
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players wanted
l Darenth Rangers FC U13s, midfielders for Bexley B Division side. Chris 01474 707153. l Owls FC U12s, all positions for Gravesend-based side. Ian 01322 229130. l St Vincents Vikings U14s girls team needs a goalie. 01322 2877364. l Bexleyheath Cricket
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Reynolds vents fury
welling United boss Tony Reynolds described his side's 3-1 home defeat to Worcester City on Saturday as the "worst performance" of the season. And he urged his players to repeat the passion they showed against Reading in the FA Cup and get the team out
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Borough loses 12 officers
BROMLEY can expect to lose 12 police officers, next year, despite a promise from the chairman of the Metropolitan Police Authority that no borough would lose out under new proposals. The Metropolitan Police Authority (MPA) calculate how many officers
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Shutters foil would-be robber
AN attempted armed robbery at the Nationwide Building Society was halted when the security shutters came down. A gun-wielding would-be robber entered the society in George Lane, South Woodford at about 4.20pm on Monday, December 10. He approached the
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Christmas train times
CONNEX has released the following details of its services over the Christmas period. Friday, December 21, to Sunday, December 23 normal service. Christmas Eve normal Saturday service with additional trains on some routes during peak times. Christmas Day
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Eateries get health awards
HEARTBEAT awards which recognise a high standard of healthy attitudes and cleanliness have been presented to the Loch Fyne Restaurant and Cafe Hart in Loughton High Road. Health chiefs assess meals on offer and consider if they provide a sufficiently
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Victim kicked in the head
A MAN was punched and kicked in the head by two attackers who had jumped out of their car. The attack happened as the victim walked along Woodford Avenue in Clayhall, at the junction with Beechwood Gardens, at about 9.35pm on Wednesday, December 12. A
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Harber has an off day
JUST four weeks after knocking Wilmington Reserves out of the Kent Junior Cup, Farnborough returned to Oakfield Park last Saturday and left with the points this time having beaten the first team 2-0. The usually reliable goal machine, Adam Harber, wasted
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Tough conditions for the Harriers
THE last of this year's Parkwood Cross Country League fixtures took place last Sunday with heavy, wet underfoot conditions over the University of Kent course in Canterbury. Regulars such as Robert Bradbury, Stephen Munn, David Heeley and Michael Valentine
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New tram link plan
Trams could run through Greenwich Park to link it to Abbey Wood as part of the proposed Waterfront Transit Scheme. Residents will board the tram at Abbey Wood station and the line will link Woolwich, Charlton and the Jubilee line at North Greenwich, if
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Dhami is offered £50,000 for belt
Deposed British Welterwight champ-ion Harry Dhami has been offered a staggering £50,000 to win the Lonsdale belt ..... and then sell it to a multi-million pound Asian businessman! This remarkable offer comes four weeks after Dhami, the first-ever British-born
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Gifts head for Kosovo
CHILDREN from a Chislehurst school filled more than 400 shoe boxes with toys, toiletries and stationary for kids in Kosovo. Girls from Farringtons & Stratford House junior and senior schools, in Perry Street, Chislehurst, were asked to collect
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Flu jabs proving popular
THE take-up of the free flu vaccination by the over-65s in the North Essex Health Authority area which includes the Harlow district is seven per cent up on the same point last year. Halfway through the campaign, 55.6 per cent of over-65s have been vaccinated
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Sex attacker strikes twice
A sex attacker with a knife who poses as a policeman is being hunted by detectives who fear he will strike again. Police are appealing for vigilance after the man preyed on two middle-aged women in Grove Park. He attacked a 59-year-old woman who was walking
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Public debate on fate of a family
A THREE-day public inquiry to decide the fate of three-generations of a travelling family in Biggin Hill took place at Bromley's Civic Centre. A report on whether or not the Delaney family can continue to live in caravans on the land they own at the edge
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An hour in tree to stop suicide attempt
AN HEROIC window cleaner stopped a 14-year-old hanging herself from a tree by clinging to her for over an hour in the freezing cold. Barry Parr, of Winsford Road, Catford saw the girl, a patient at Bethlem Royal Hospital in Beckenham, climb the tree while
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Primary education gets grants for improvement
Primary education across London is set to benefit from new government grants. The Department for Education and Skills (DfES) has issued the grants to London primary schools to improve literacy and numeracy. Bexley will receive about £777,244 out of a
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Rescued from track by hero
A TEENAGER, who risked his life to rescue a woman who toppled onto a railway line, has been praised for his "humanitarian act" by her partner. Brave Sam Collett, 18, was the only person who leapt onto the tracks at Chelsfield station and pulled terrified
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Borough loses 12 officers
Bromley can expect to lose 12 police officers, next year, despite a promise from the chairman of the Metropolitan Police Authority that no borough would lose out under new proposals. The Metropolitan Police Authority (MPA) calculate how many officers
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Ofsted lifts special measures from school
An Orpington primary school, which was put in special measures last year, has had them lifted after showing huge improvements. Burwood special school in Avalon Road, Orpington, has been monitored since April 2000. It was found to be lacking in several
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Bus route to be reviewed
A much maligned bus service is to be reviewed by transport officials following pressure from disgruntled householders. Transport for London (TfL) has agreed to review its current arrangements for the troubled H26 bus service following three years of persistent
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Primary education standards targetted with new grants
THE task of improving standards in primary schools will be more than a million time easier thanks to new government grants. Greenwich and Lewisham boroughs are set to recieve about £1,036,370 and £913,266 respectively, out of a total London-wide grant
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In Brief
GETTING ARTY: An art club for seven to 10-year-olds is being held at Mycenae House, 90 Mycenae Road, Blackheath. The course which is running for three mornings from January 2 to 4 between 10am and noon costs £15, and includes materials. Drawing, painting
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It's home away for Addicks!
FANS of Charlton Athletic may soon be able to watch their heroes play more vital away games, if an application to erect a big screen at the club's home ground is given approval. The Addicks have applied for permission to erect a big screen at the south
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In Brief
MP SURGERY: Government Minister Nick Raynsford will be restarting his surgeries in the new year. The Labour MP will hold the first meeting on January 11, at 32 Woolwich Road, at 7pm. The second and third will be held on January 12, at 11am, at Charlton
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Solley cleared of rape
A POLICE sergeant accused of rape and perjury in the Stephen Lawrence inquiry has finally had his name cleared. Peter Solley, aged 48, of Bexleyheath, was accused of making a statement to the inquiry which he knew to be untrue. But the case was dropped
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Norse warriors in Greenwich
AXEMEN: Viking warriors show off their skills when the Norse invaders recently returned to Greenwich after an absence of around 1,000 years. But rather than raiding, pillaging and killing, these Vikings were more interested in showing-off during their
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Warning on festive fires
A WARNING to take extra care during the festive season has been made by London Fire Brigade. Despite most people being at home to keep an eye on things, brigade safety expert Mick McGurran says: "People must always be vigilant about the risk of fire in
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Leaflet to help you keep your cool at Christmas
A HANDY guide to help everyone prevent festive disasters has been produced by Greenwich Council. The Keeping your Cool at Christmas guide provides useful advice on everything from the hazards of lit candles to methods of preventing stress over the Christmas
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Pop takes the plunge for charity
A GREAT-grandfather took a giant leap out of a plane and plunged 12,000 feet to the ground for charity. Ken Pater, 68, decided to do a tandem sky-dive earlier this month to raise money for mental health charity Mind. Mr Pater, of Timber Close, Chislehurst
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Killer's girlfriend 'saved' from jail
A PLUMSTEAD woman who performed a topless dance-of-death after her boyfriend throttled a care worker has walked free from the Old Bailey. Corinna Young, of Herbert Road, was given 40 hours of community service and two years probation after being convicted
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Ministry gets cut-price deal for Dome party
A WAR of words has started after a Government agency's controversial decision to rent out the Millennium Dome for a cut-price New Year bash. The row centres on how much clubbing empire Ministry of Sound is paying English Partnerships, which maintain the
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In brief
RACE CASE: Two of the Stephen Lawrence murder inquiry suspects accused of racially-harassing on off-duty police officer appeared at Belmarsh Magistrates last Wednesday. David Norris, 24, and Neil Acourt, 25, are due to attend Woolwich Crown Court at 9.30am
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Man forced into van and robbed
A MAN was dragged into a van, handcuffed and searched for cash and credit cards while he was walking along a street. Two men pulled him into a van in Barth Road, Plumstead, where a third was waiting at about 5.30pm on December 11. His coat was pulled
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Nativity with a new twist
Pupils in years three and four of Old Palace School performed their musical The Late Wise Man on December 4 and 5. The play directed by drama teacher Annette Palmer, opens at the palace of the king of Persia, played by eight-year-old Amy Liu, who is waiting
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Emergency services hit by thieves
THIEVES have targeted emergency service equipment in two separate thefts over a three-day period. Vital tools used by the London Ambulance Service and the Fire Brigade were taken in two unrelated incidents. An ambulance parked outside the Flower of Kent
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Hero window cleaner stops suicide attempt
AN HEROIC window cleaner stopped a 14-year-old girl hanging herself from a tree by clinging to her for more than an hour in the freezing cold. Barry Parr, of Winsford Road, Catford, saw the girl climb the tree while he was working in West Wickham. Mr
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Voters to decide council tax rise
Croydon residents will once again have a say on how much council tax they want to pay, as the options for the borough's second referendum were unveiled this week. Croydon Council revealed on Tuesday (December 18) the three preferences available to voters
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Solley cleared of rape
A POLICE sergeant accused of rape and perjury in the Stephen Lawrence inquiry has finally had his name cleared. Peter Solley, aged 48, of Bexleyheath, was accused of making a statement to the inquiry which he knew to be untrue. But the case was dropped
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Parents facing truancy fines
MORE than a dozen parents, who have failed to stop their children being truant from school, face the courts in the new year. The 15 parents, from across the borough, who have ignored warnings from the council will be attending Greenwich Magistrates' Court
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Panto - Wimbledon
The Night Before Christmas. A perfect alternative to pantos. Suitable for children aged six and over. Until February 2. Tickets priced at 5.50 to 12.50. The Elves And The Shoemaker. A classic fairy tale about two elderly shoemakers. Until February 9.
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Panto
Cinderella. Starring Grange Hill's Colin Ridgewell. Until January 5. Secombe Theatre. Peter Pan. The Carshalton Pantomime Company. On until January 26. Secombe Theatre, Cheam Road, Sutton. % 020 8770 6990. December 19, 2001 21:00
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A walk on the scary side
If you're stuck for something to do on New Year's Day why not join in a walk across Hampstead Heath that unearths some ghostly tales? CHRISTOPHER SPARROW reports. Ever since the Middle Ages, Londoners have journeyed to Hampstead to enjoy the fresh air
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Music
SOUTH LONDON CONCERT BAND: Rehearsals for woodwind, brass and percussion players at St Paul's Church in Furzedown on Tuesday evenings. 020 8769 6760. COURT SESSIONS AUTUMN PROGRAMME: Christmas party with the Bluegrass Experience. December 14. St Boniface
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Miscellaneous
DANCE CLASSES: Sunnyhill Primary School, Sunnyhill Road. Hip hop, street dance and ragga. Saturdays. SUTTON CAMERA CLUB: Weekly meetings, Thursday evenings 8pm, The Thomas Wall Centre, Benhill Avenue, Sutton, Room 3. 020 8715 3794. SURREY WINE AND FOOD
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Exhibitions
KINGSMEAD GALLERY: Church Road, Great Bookham. 01372 458481. CLAPHAM ART GALLERY: 61 Venn Street, Clapham Common. 020 7720 0955. DULWICH PICTURE GALLERY: Gallery Road, SE21. The Golden Age of Watercolours: The Hickman Bacon Collection. Until January 6.020
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Panto
HARLEQUIN THEATRE: Redhill. Peter Pan starring Michael Melia (Eddie Royle in EastEnders) as Captain Hook and Lewis Rae (The Bill) as Peter Pan. Until January 6. 01737 765547. CHARLES CRYER THEATRE: 39 High Street, Carshalton, The Night Before Christmas
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Theatre
DORKING HALLS: Reigate Road, Dorking. 01306 881717. ADRIAN MANN THEATRE: NESCOT, Reigate Road, Ewell. 01372 812 972. NEW VICTORIA THEATRE: The Ambassadors Peacocks Centre, Woking. 01483 761144. CHURCHILL THEATRE: Bromley. 020 8460 6677. OVAL HOUSE THEATRE
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Comedy
JONGLEURS: 49 Lavender Gardens, SW11. 020 7564 2500 THE BRIXTON COMEDY CLUB: The Hobgoblin, 95 Effra Road. Marcus Brigstocke, Tom Rhodes, Eddie Brimson, Jamie Matheson. Sunday, December 16. 020 7633 9539. BIG MOUTH COMEDY CLUB: Base Theatre, 59 Bethwin
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Miscellaneous
SINGERS NEEDED: Surrey Harmony Women's Barbershop Chorus need new singers. Every Wednesday 7.45-10.30pm. Coulsdon Methodist Church Hall. 8688 4494. SUPER TEA DANCES: United Reformed Church Hall, Sanderstead Hill. Every Thursday, 2-4pm. 2.50 incl. Tea
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Activities
OLD PORTLIANS CYCLING CLUB: Weekend cycle rides. Meet at bottom of Corkscrew Hill, West Wickham. Start 10am Saturday and 9am Sunday. 8362 7629. December 19, 2001 21:00
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Clubs
KUDOS: The Colonnades, 619 Purley Way, Croydon. 020 8686 0040. THE BLUE ORCHID: House, Garage, R&B, Hip Hop - DJs Fridays and Saturdays. Park Lane, Croydon. 020 8667 0592. BAR LATINO: Park Road, Croydon. Step into the rhythm of Latin America.
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Music
FAIRFIELD HALLS CONCERT HALL: BBC Concert Orchestra, December 13. Philharmonia Chorus, December 14. Croydon Philharmonic Choir, December 15. STOMP! December, 18-23. 8688 9291. CROYDON FOLKSONG CLUB: Ruskin House, 23 Coombe Road, Croydon. The Poozies,
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Woods take local derby
Northwood 2 Uxbridge 0 (Dec 15) Uxbridge travelled to Northwood and the only thing that separated the two sides was clinical finishing in front of goal. Uxbridge shaded the first half and both sides created good goalscoring chances. However, Northwood
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Yeading target promotion places
Yeading 5 Barking & East Ham United 2 (December 15) Yeading 3 Tooting & Mitcham United 2 (December 18) The Ding go seventh in the table after two home wins in a week and with games in hand over those above them, they are well placed for
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Late strike saves Hayes
Stevenage Borough 1 Hayes 1 (Dec 15) The Hayes of old would have crumbled after going a goal down away from home with 13 minutes to go. But rejuvenated Hayes dug deep and found an equaliser in the last minute to claim a share of the spoils at Broadhall
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Christmas Craft Exhibition
Showcasing the work of local craftspeople; Watford Museum, Lower High Street, Watford; runs until Saturday, January 5; admission free. December 19, 2001 21:00
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Art Exhibition
Fine line drawings of Croxley, Rickmansworth, Bushey and Watford by John Kirkham; Croxley Green Library, Barton Way, Croxley Green; runs until Monday, December 24, 10am. December 19, 2001 21:00
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Mum and Dad Argument 2
Presented by Abbi Torrance; The Bull Gallery, High Street, Barnet; runs until Sunday, January 13. December 19, 2001 21:00
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Orbital Dance Club
Ballroom dancing; Orbital Community Centre, Haines Way, Watford; new members welcome; every Tuesday, 2pm to 4pm. Tel: 01923 681054. December 19, 2001 21:00
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Tea Dance
YMCA, Charter Place, Watford; mainly for senior citizens; every Thursday, 2pm to 4pm; admission 1.50. December 19, 2001 21:00
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Belly Dance Classes
A beginners class for ladies; The Oracle, 12 Market Street, Watford; Monday, December 19, 7pm to 8pm and 8.30pm to 9.30pm. Tel: 020 8421 5178. December 19, 2001 21:00
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Argentine Tango
School of Dancing, 14 Nascot Road, Watford; Thursday, December 20, 8pm, followed by practice session; no partner required, complete beginners welcome. Tel. 01923 210016 for further details. December 19, 2001 21:00
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A walk on the scary side
If you're stuck for something to do on New Year's Day why not join in a walk across Hampstead Heath that unearths some ghostly tales? CHRISTOPHER SPARROW reports. Ever since the Middle Ages, Londoners have journeyed to Hampstead to enjoy the fresh air
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Dick Whittington
A 24-carat seasonal spectacle; Palace Theatre Watford, Clarendon Road, Watford; runs until Saturday, January 12. Tel: box office 01923 225671 for times and ticket prices. December 19, 2001 21:00
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The Wizard of Oz
Gala Charity Preview Show; Alban Arena, Civic Centre, St Albans; Tuesday, December 18, 7pm; tickets 15; Wednesday, December 19, to Sunday, January 6, tickets 8.50 to 16. Tel: box office 01727 844488. December 19, 2001 21:00
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Stuff The Turkey It's Christmas!
Presented by Blag Theatre Company; The Pump House, Local Board Road, Lower High Street, Watford; runs to Sunday, December 23, 7.30pm; tickets 7. Tel: box office 01923 772320. December 19, 2001 21:00
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We've wheelie got to like our bins
AS our Christmas refuse starts to pile up, we may take a jaundiced view of a suggestion that Waltham Forest should abandon wheelie bins (see page 3). Anyone who was around when they were introduced will remember the fury with which some householders greeted
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Children: Dick Whittington
A 24-carat seasonal spectacle; Palace Theatre Watford, Clarendon Road, Watford; Saturday, November 24, to January 12. Tel: box office 01923 225671 for times and ticket prices. December 19, 2001 21:00
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Flu jabs proving popular
THE take-up of the free flu vaccination by the over-65s in the North Essex Health Authority area which includes the Harlow district is seven per cent up on the same point last year. Halfway through the campaign, 55.6 per cent of over-65s have been vaccinated
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A walk on the scary side
If you're stuck for something to do on New Year's Day why not join in a walk across Hampstead Heath that unearths some ghostly tales? CHRISTOPHER SPARROW reports. Ever since the Middle Ages, Londoners have journeyed to Hampstead to enjoy the fresh air
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Date
A walk on the scary side
If you're stuck for something to do on New Year's Day why not join in a walk across Hampstead Heath that unearths some ghostly tales? CHRISTOPHER SPARROW reports. Ever since the Middle Ages, Londoners have journeyed to Hampstead to enjoy the fresh air
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Top architect reveals plans
Excited Bexley councillors got their first taste of the plans for the new Bexley Business Academy, designed by renowned architect, Sir Norman Foster. Foster is responsible for the acclaimed Great Court at the British Museum and London's millennium bridge
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The book of the filming of The Lord of the Rings
Jane Johnson felt anxious when plans were made for a film version of The Lord of the Rings. After all, she's been something of a guardian of the book as its publisher at HarperCollins for the past 17 years. And this is the book that determined the course
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Extra 68 cops to patrol the streets
A total of 68 extra police officers will be patrolling the streets after an astonishing revision of the method used for calculating force requirements. Hillingdon now has a target of 463 officers up from its previous force of 395. Currently, there are
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MET rejects police plea
The largest-ever public petition, signed by nearly 38,000 people in Bexley, has failed to bring the borough a single extra police officer. In fact, Bexley might even lose an officer, thanks to proposals due to be decided by the Metropolitan Police Authority
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Raise cash for stroke charity
Have any of your readers got guaranteed places for the Flora London marathon in April 2002? The Stroke Association is currently looking for people with marathon places to run in aid of the charity and help raise vital funds for research into this condition
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Bus lane cameras
I am disappointed to see Sutton following Croydon's lead with bus lane cameras that could trap motorists who may become forced into a bus lane unintentionally. For anyone who has not noticed the very discrete signs going up in Sutton, I would recommend
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Safe crossing is imperative
I refer to your article regarding the lack of school crossing patrols, and the dangers presented to children. Earlier this year I witnessed two near-miss incidents at Barrow Hedges School, both on separate occasions, whilst the school crossing was unmanned
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Try putting your litter in the bins
This was the scene outside the Fish & Chip shop on the parade after a group of school girls had visited during lunchtime recently. There is a litter bin nearby. NAME AND ADDRESS SUPPLIED December 19, 2001 17:44
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High hopes for Hollie
A talented young singer has got her sights set high but she would welcome the assistance of local songwriters. Hollie Clarke, aged 13, from Bromley, performs regularly at So Pink, a weekly live music club for musicians performing original material. Steve
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Earnest activity
THE current adaptation of Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest provides just the right ingredients for audiences to leave with a warm, festive glow. Moving the play to the 1930s demonstrates how timeless the humour of one of the country's most
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Someone hit my car before driving away
I am writing to your paper to say thank you to the person or persons responsible for scratching, hitting and badly denting my car before driving off, getting away without so much as a sorry. I was on a Christmas shopping trip in Sutton on Tuesday, November
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Howes About Jazz - December 19
Finished your Christmas gift buying? Or have you rejected the scourge of consumerism? Either way, there could be something for you in my jazz fans' gift guide, Bookish lovers of the sax need look no further than Dave Gelly's Masters of Jazz Saxophone,
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Stoned poses
Fancy some really good live music this Christmas? Then get down to the Worcester Park Club where the second greatest rock and roll band in the world are playing, writes Gareth Foreman. The Rollin' Stoned were formed in 1998 by Bryon Jones who had already
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Get out the lip gloss
It's Christmas party time at Blackheath Halls this weekend with another 70s night featuring the fabulous ABBA Like, who will perform ABBA hits. Abba Like's live show has been delighting audiences the length and breadth of the country since 1993 and the
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New Year arts-fest
Residents are in for a treat thanks to an unusual festival to celebrate the new year which starts four days before this one finishes! Europe's only First Night festival returns to south east London from December 28 to 31 with a community celebra- tion
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Have you seen this necklace?
A UNIQUE piece of jewellery may be the key to catching a burglar who broke into a house twice in four weeks. The diamond necklace was designed by Kelly Scott and made up by a Hatton Garden jeweller when she worked for a jewellery magazine. It was among
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Sergeant cleared
A DECORATED police sergeant accused of rape and perjury in the Stephen Lawrence inquiry has finally had his name cleared. Peter Solley MBE, aged 48, of Bexleyheath, was accused of making a statement he knew to be untrue to the inquiry. But the case was
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Nativity story
Broomhill play group performed its nativity play to an audience of delighted parents and staff. Pictured left to right are George Donovan, Katie Smith, Joseph Gilby, Matthew Phillips and Kieran Rundle. The group meets at Luntonia Hall, Broom Hill, Dartford
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'No race problem in our boroughs'
RACE relations are "excellent" in Gravesham and Dartford and should be a model for racial integration across the country, according to Asian groups. They were responding to Home Secretary David Blunkett's call for better racial integration and for communities
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Ex-mayor delivers Christmas cheer
TWO young brothers will be rocking around the Christmas tree after a News Shopper reader offered to play Santa. Last week, stereos, bought as Ashley and Daniel Bishop's main Christmas presents, were stolen from the car boot during a shopping trip. Now
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Jailed for charity
IT'S a hard way to try and raise cash for charity. After being charged with having a warped sense of humour and of trying to raise money for Centrepoint, a charity for the homeless, Peter Baylis was searched, given some bedding and locked into cell 10
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'Cowboy' driver acquitted
AN UNDERCOVER police officer who killed a pedestrian while driving like a "cowboy" and a "hooligan" has been cleared of causing death by dangerous driving. PC Gary Moncrieff, from Thamesmead, was accused at Blackfriars Crown Court, of knocking down 27
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Man taken off street and robbed
A MAN was beaten in the street and trapped handcuffed in a van as robbers rifled through his clothes for his cash and credit cards. The attack happened as the man was walking down Barth Road, Plumstead, at 5.30pm on December 11. Two men pulled him into
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Flat was a drug distribution HQ
A DRUG-DEALER used his flat in Slade Green as his distribution centre, where he kept a loaded gun. Stephen Baker's operation was discovered when he panicked after he and his nephew were questioned in a car by police, Croydon Crown Court heard. Baker,
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Tons of toys
Laura Butler aged four and six-year-old Joseph Tworek sit among the many toys donated by children at the annual toy service at Holy Trinity Church, Lamorbey, in Sidcup. All the toys will be given to the children at Queen Mary's Hospital, Sidcup. December
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Mown down by mugger
A SIDCUP man used his new car as a weapon by running down elderly women and robbing them. Justin Lait, aged 31, of Caerleon Close, was jailed for eight years at Croydon Crown Court, after admitting a series of violent robberies using his newly bought
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Christmas at home for plane spotters
NEIGHBOURS welcomed home plane spotter Mick Keane from a Greek prison in time for Christmas but criticised his £9,000 bail as "unfair." Mr Keane, 57, of Burnham Road was one of 12 British people arrested more than a month ago, on suspicion of spying,
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Santa cause.
A CHRISTMAS bazaar at Crockenhill Primary School has raised £1,400 for playground equipment. Pupils, parents, and teachers at the school on The Green, Crockenhill, turned up to enjoy the event which included face painting, lucky dip, tombolla, craft stalls
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Threatened by armed robbery
A TERRIFIED postmaster in a sleepy village was forced to hand over £1,000 in cash when a masked robber burst into his shop and threatened him with a handgun. Police believe the robber, who was wearing a mask and woolly hat, could have robbed the store
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Now we have twice the fun at playtime
PLAYTIME is going to be better for pupils at a Gravesend primary school now their playground has doubled in size. The new playground in Holy Trinity Primary School, Trinity Road, was officially opened by Gravesham MP Chris Pond on Monday. The extension
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School set for Dickens of a time
A DICKENS heritage centre could be built in the house where the famous author lived in Higham. Charles Dickens lived in Gad's Hill School for 14 years, until his death in 1870. Headteacher David Craggs says he is keen for it to be turned into a major
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Council's success with estates
THANK you for the excellent coverage of Lord Tebbit's visit to Chingford Hall last week. For the record, I would like to echo the sentiments in your editorial, "Remember all in HAT's success", in acknowledging the considerable effort of the London Borough
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Christmas party much enjoyed
I WOULD like to say thank you to Rush Croft School at Chingford for a very nice dinner, drinks and entertainment during a Christmas evening for older people in the area. The staff and the children, who waited on us hand and foot and also sang and performed
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Many thanks to kindly bus driver
I WOULD like to say a big thank you to bus driver Doug Negus for his kindness and politeness to me on Monday, December 3, as I was catching a 56 at 4.30pm. I am 68 and was on my own, after dark as well, with my little dog which I had to take to the vet
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Riding roughshod through the forest
OUR members and, I am sure, the silent majority of other forest users, are concerned that for 12 years a minority of horse riders have obstructed and delayed the will of Parliament. The City of London (Various Powers) Act 1989 granted powers to the Conservators
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Richmond rugby stars crash Sutton
Despite having the lion's share of play in this RFU Intermediate cup tie on Saturday, Sutton were unable to break through a superbly organised Richmond defence and had only three penalties from the trusty boot of captain Sam Frost to show for some Herculean
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All-singing Scrooge
l PARENTS in Sidcup were delighted by their children's performance of Scrooge. Pupils at North Cray Primary School, Beden's Road, impressed with an all-singing, all-dancing adaptation of Charles Dickens' Scrooge. The seven to 11 year-olds started rehearsing
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All-singing Scrooge
l PARENTS in Sidcup were delighted by their children's performance of Scrooge. Pupils at North Cray Primary School, Beden's Road, impressed with an all-singing, all-dancing adaptation of Charles Dickens' Scrooge. The seven to 11 year-olds started rehearsing
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War thoughts made into rug
AFGHANISTAN and its many refugees fleeing from the war have been in the thoughts of a group of Bexley children. The Year 6 pupils, at Slade Green Junior School, used their computers to log onto the Oxfam website and check the current situation in the
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Harriers women lose out
Herne Hill Harriers lost to Dulwich in the Surrey Women's Cross Country League meet in Richmond Park at the weekend after Ceri Diss pulled out with flu and another athlete missed the start by half an hour. Harriers (65) lost by a single point, their scorers
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Now for Arsenal
Fulham performed as well as they have done all season to beat Southampton 9-1 in the League Cup quarter-final on Sunday. The Whites have now defeated three Premier Division sides Leeds, Charlton and Southampton in the competition this season, but face
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Fulham flounder as Tottenham run riot
TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR 4: FULHAM 0 Fulham's eight-game unbeaten league run came to an abrupt end on Saturday when Jean Tigana's side suffered their heaviest defeat since the Frenchman became manager in June 1999, writes Mark Caswell. With both teams playing
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Blair: NHS wait is too long in Barnet
The Prime Minister has admitted NHS waiting lists in Barnet are too long. Tony Blair said during Prime Minister's question time on December 12 that Barnet residents are still waiting too long for their operations, but added that extra money and reform
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Policeman cleared of reckless driving death
Croydon: A policeman who killed a Croydon pedestrian when he crashed responding to a 999 call has been cleared of causing death by dangerous driving. PC Gary Moncrieff, 26, was accused of driving like a "bat out of hell" before he ploughed his unmarked
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Traders fear Tesco will deliver a knockout blow
Balham traders fear a decision to allow Tesco to build a new Metro' store at Clapham South may deliver a blow from which they cannot recover. Small businesses were stunned when the supermarket giant was granted permission to build on the old South London
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Teen's ASBO is first in town
TEENAGE troublemaker Stacey Law is the first in Gravesham to have an Anti-Social Behaviour Order (ASBO) made against her. The 14-year-old admitted making life hell for her neighbours in Waterdales, Northfleet. In a victory for your right to be protected
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Family's decorative lights extravaganza
Two months ago, when most people were only just beginning to think about the dreaded Christmas shopping, one family in Wandle Valley had already spent more than £800 on Christmas decorations. The Wilsons, who have eight children, and have both given up
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Appeal court reduces drugs conviction term
Finchley: An East Finchley woman convicted of passing hard drugs to her prisoner boyfriend by hiding them in her bra during a visit had her sentence cut last week. Jennifer Wiseman, 35, of Central Avenue, was jailed after quantities of heroin and crack
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Bowlers skittle rivals
AGAINST all the odds, a Gravesend-based ten-pin bowling team skittled the opposition by winning a regional tournament in Worthing. The team managed to beat 25 others from around the country in the Sussex 6s, including squads like the Norwich Outlaws,
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Campaign launched to save court
A CAMPAIGN is being launched to save Waltham Forest Magistrates Court following a proposal to close it as part of an overhaul of London courts. The plan to shut the Farnan Avenue courthouse in Walthamstow, and move its casework to Stratford, was revealed
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One down, one to go for Vibrant
When the News Shopper reported on Vibrant Netball Club in September, one of their players predicted they would achieve their third successive promotion in the National League. Now the Gravesend-based side has achieved its goal by winning the National
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GUNNED DOWN
POLICE are studying CCTV and television footage in their hunt for the killer of a Walthamstow man who was shot dead at an MTV Lick Party in Bournemouth. Soldier Glen Hudson, 35, was shot in the head at point-blank range at 2.30am on Friday as he drank
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Darts in last eightv
Dartfordians are through to the quarter-finals of the Shepherd Neame Kent Cup with a great win over local rivals Gravesend, who are in a league higher, at Bourne Road, Bexley last Sunday. A hesitant start saw the Darts soon go behind to a penalty and
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Man with fake cash is guilty
A 27-YEAR-OLD Mottingham man was found guilty of possessing hundreds of pounds of counterfeit cash. Police found a wad of fake £20 Scottish notes on Kamram Bessim, of Kersey Gardens, after he was stopped in the early hours of the morning in Penge. Croydon
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Nice and three-sy does it
THREE members of the Europa Gym Club had success at the London Regional Divisional Champ-ionships, held at Heathrow. Leanne Withall, who competed in the 12-13 age group of Division 2, finished an excellent second to win her first-ever medal at regional
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'Ray'sing quality of holiday pics
A CHISLEHURST youngster won a national competition with a snapshot taken on a family holiday. Eleven-year-old Joanna Eames, of Green Lane, won the RSPCA young photographer of the year competition with her picture of a shoal of stingrays taken in Florida
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Police chief moves on
THE borough commander is moving on and has his sights set on promotion. Chief Superintendent Gerry Howlett, 50, has been selected for a six-month strategic command course and will leave Bromley Police in January or February. Chief Supt Howlett, who began
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Lee is the Deres hero
Erith & Belvedere secured their first victory in last five games, when they won 2-1 at Bashley to move up to fifth place in the Dr Martens Eastern Division table. It was a hard-earned victory against a side which is anxious to move out of the relegation
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Sampson gets job
Tony Samspon was appointed the new manager of Dartford Football Club last week following the depature of Gary Julians. Sampson is no stranger to Darts' fan, having played 225 games for the club before he went into football management with Herne Bay. His
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Doctors will be on call
RESIDENTS who need to contact a doctor over the Christmas period can call Emdoc, a scheme aimed at aiding the sick over public holidays. The scheme is the only out-of -hours service run by Bromley GPs, for Bromley GPs. Patients in urgent need of a doctor
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Nice and three-sy does it
THREE members of the Europa Gym Club had success at the London Regional Divisional Champ-ionships, held at Heathrow. Leanne Withall, who competed in the 12-13 age group of Division 2, finished an excellent second to win her first-ever medal at regional
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Emergency men earn top degrees
TWO Bromley ambulancemen were among the first in the country to gain degrees in emergency medicine. Brian Craggs, 46, and Keith Millar, 43, who are based at the Crown Lane station, have both been with the service for 26 years. The pair were among the
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Darts face a crucial period
Tommy Sampson's first game in charge of the Darts ended in a 2-1 defeat at Lincolnsire side Stamford on Saturday. While he would have been encouraged by some aspects of the team's play, he would not be happy with a result which leaves the side precariously
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Welcoming park consultation
RESIDENTS have welcomed the consultation into the further development of Roding Valley Country Park. A presentation was made by the Community Environment Associates, who are conducting the research, to last Tuesday's area two committee meeting. Welcoming
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Trial thrown out of court
A manager at Carshalton College due to stand trial on a charge of death by dangerous driving, for a car crash 20 months ago, has been acquitted. On the eve of his trial the crown prosecution service announced it had no evidence to offer, meaning Robin
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Kathleen's set on stardom
A BUDDING star from Chelsfield says she is determined to continue her search for fame despite losing out in a live TV audition. Nineteen-year-old Kathleen Baker, of Derry Downs, was one of six finalists in the Auctionworld television contest selected
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Dynamic duo have found a silver lining in Poland
BROMLEY Valley Gymnastic Club's Andrew Price and Reece Durbidge were both in superb form in the sports acrobatics men's pairs at an international competition. Andrew, who is 12 and lives in Bromley, and 13-year-old Reece from Gravesend, won silver medals
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No finality on rebuild
AN EXPERT on the history of Crystal Palace is campaigning for sections of the building to be reconstructed with replica parts on its former site. John Greatrax, 52, who was born in the Crystal Palace area but now lives in Peterborough, is the founder
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Crunch time for Fleet
Gravesend boss Andy Ford has no fears about Fleet's tough Christmas run-in, which sees them play five of their next six games away from home. Their crucial 17-day Ryman Premier League spell starts this Saturday when they play at Boreham Wood and culminates
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Cash boost for elderly persons' scheme
A SCHEME which carries out work on elderly persons' homes to reduce the number of possible deaths and injuries through falls has received a £500 boost from supermarket chain Tesco. The Epping Free Fall home safety initiative is free. The money will go
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Teen died climbing into his locked flat
POLICE believe an 18-year-old found dead outside his home in Widmore Road was the victim of a tragic accident. The man, who is not being named until the inquest into his death is opened, was found by his father at the back of his flat last Friday. His
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Garage kicks clampers out
OPPORTUNIST clampers at a petrol station have been given their marching orders by the company that hired them, thanks to the News Shopper. The final straw came when a Hayes mum was clamped by Premier Security, based in Victoria, after she stopped to help
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Plane-spotter home in time for holidays
Isleworth: After 37 days in a dirty Greek prison cell facing spying charges, plane-spotter Antoni Adamiak is back on British soil just in time for Christmas. The 37-year-old Church Road, Isleworth resident almost kissed the ground when he landed at Luton
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Welcome home for 'plane-spotter'
Uxbridge: After 37 days languishing in a Greek prison cell, the first thing Peter Norris did upon arriving back on home soil was kiss his wife Perdita and enjoy a cup of tea. The 52-year-old of Hinton Road, Uxbridge was arrested along with 11 other plane-spotters
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A deeply involving thriller
The Deep End (15): Inspired by the novel The Blank Wall, written by Elisabeth Sanxay Holding in the 1940s, The Deep End is the type of tightly wrapped psychological thriller which harks back to the golden age of cinema that is to say, it is intelligent
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Parents facing truancy fines
MORE than a dozen parents, who have failed to stop their children being truant from school, face the courts in the new year. The 15 parents, from across the borough, who have ignored warnings from the council will be attending Greenwich Magistrates' Court
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Striking over security
JOBCENTRE and Benefit Office staff went on strike to protest against government plans to introduce open plan offices and remove safety screens. More than half of the 200 Jobcentre staff and most of the Benefit Office staff at Catford, Woolwich, Forest
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Man arrested with fake Scottish pounds
A 27-YEAR-OLD Mottingham man was found guilty of possessing hundreds of pounds of counterfeit cash. Police found a wad of fake £20 Scottish notes on Kamram Bessim, of Kersey Gardens, after he was stopped in the early hours of the morning, in Penge. Croydon
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Murphy's law brings about new standards
A SECONDARY school declared by a government department to be "failing," has taken its first steps to recovery according to its new headteacher. Michael Murphy took over at Crown Woods School, in Riefield Road, Eltham in January this year, and has already
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Cops fight to protect their pay
Harrow: Police officers in Harrow are poised to stage mass protest rallies against government plans to change their working conditions. The national leadership of 125,000 officers below the rank of superintendent met on Monday this week to decide whether
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'Cowboy driver' not guilty of causing death
AN UNDERCOVER police officer who killed a pedestrian while driving like a "cowboy" and a "hooligan" has been cleared of causing death by dangerous driving. PC Gary Moncrieff from Thamesmead, was accused at Blackfriars Crown Court, of knocking down 27-
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Parents facing truancy fines
MORE than a dozen parents, who have failed to stop their children being truant from school, face the courts in the new year. The 15 parents, from across the borough, who have ignored warnings from the council will be attending Greenwich Magistrates' Court
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Memorial concert date
The Nicholas Woodall Memorial concert is being held on January 5, at Southwark Cathedral. The concert starts at 6pm. Tickets are £8/£10 and are on sale at the Bromley Youth Music Trust Centre until December 21 or at the cathedral door. Hugh Bean and Jonathan
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Education chief comes under fire
GREENWICH Council has refused to answer a series of questions over the future of director of education George Gyte. The News Shopper requested a response from Mr Gyte after leader of the council Chris Roberts last week admitted the authority, the directorate
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Let's hear it for Hear'Say!
CHART-TOPPING pop sensation Hear'Say entertained 1,000 youngsters during a concert at Kidbrooke School. Some of the children got the chance to see the band, who shot to fame with single Pure and Simple after winning ITV's Popstars programme, as a reward
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Playground pervert is sent to jail
A sex offender who prowled around an Eltham playground "hugging" children was jailed for two years for sexually assaulting an 11-year-old girl. Blackfriars Crown Court heard 61-year-old Ernest Blackwell say he was only being friendly when he hugged children
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New tram link plan
TRAMS could run through Greenwich Park to link it to Abbey Wood as part of the proposed Waterfront Transit Scheme. Residents will board the tram at Abbey Wood station and the line will link Woolwich, Charlton and the Jubilee line at North Greenwich, if
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In brief
COURT DATE: Two of the Stephen Lawrence murder enquiry suspects accused of racially harassing an off-duty police officer appeared at Belmarsh Magistrates last Wednesday . David Norris, 24, and Neil Acourt, 25, are due to attend a plea and directions hearing
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New, improved nursery will take 24 extra
NURSERY places at University Hospital Lewisham will increase by 50 per cent when the creche is expanded, thanks to £210,000 of Government money. At the moment, 50 children, aged three months to five years, are looked after by a team of 18 staff during
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Girl, 15, still missing
A TEENAGE girl from Lewisham has not contacted anyone since she disappeared more than five weeks ago. Fifteen-year-old Elisha Banfield left her foster carer's Lewisham home saying she was going to visit a friend and would be back later, at 2.15pm on November
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Make vroom for Santa
BIG-HEARTED bikers rolled up at Lewisham Hospital to hand out presents on the children's ward. More than 25 bikers from the London branch of the Goldwings Owners' Club of Great Britain drove into the hospital site wearing Father Christmas outfits. They
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Bogus officer in sex attacks
A KNIFE-wielding sex attacker who poses as a policeman is being hunted by detectives who fear he will strike again. Lewisham police are appealing for vigilance after the pervert preyed on two middle-aged women in Grove Park. The man struck on Saturday
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Policeman cleared of reckless driving death
A policeman who killed a Croydon pedestrian when he crashed responding to a 999 call has been cleared of causing death by dangerous driving. PC Gary Moncrieff, 26, was accused of driving like a "bat out of hell" before he ploughed his unmarked Ford Mondeo
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'Cowboy driver' not guilty of causing death
AN UNDERCOVER police officer who killed a pedestrian while driving like a "cowboy" and a "hooligan" has been cleared of causing death by dangerous driving. PC Gary Moncrieff from Thamesmead, was accused at Blackfriars Crown Court, of knocking down 27-
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Secret history of killer nanny
An Addiscombe child-minder, found guilty of shaking to death an eight-month-old baby in her care, had a history of complaints about her aggressive conduct, a report has revealed this week. The damning report was made public just hours after 54-year-old
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Panto - Epsom
Jack And His Magical Beanstalk: Starring Rick Bowers. On until January 12. Epsom Playhouse, Ashley Avenue, Epsom, Surrey. 01372 742555. December 19, 2001 21:00
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General
BATTERSEA BIBLE STUDY: At Battersea Collectables, 495 Battersea Park Road, every Thursday 8pm to 9pm. Friendly class looking at what the bible means in the world around us. Refreshments provided. 020 7228 8820. QUALIFIED HYNOTHERAPIST: Holds classes teaching
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Exhibitions
BLACKLIGHT ART EXHIBITION AT WANDSWORTH MUSEUM: By the South London Arts Collective at Wandsworth Museum Community Gallery, until January 6. Entry is free. For more information 020 8871 7074. GALLERY OF MODERN ART CHRISTMAS SHOW: Featuring work by well
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Comedy
BANANA CABARET: Dan Atopolski, Otiz Cannelloni, Paul B Edwards and Sean Pye appear at Banana Cabaret, 77 Bedford Hill, Balham, on December 14 and December 15. Doors open 7.30pm. 020 8673 8904 for further information. JOHN MOLONEY'S TIME OF THE MONTH:
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Sport
TAI CHI AND CHI KUNG CLASSES: For health, rejuvenation and relaxation at Earlsfield Library, Magdalen Road. Thursday 8.30pm to 9.45pm, 6.50. Friday 9.30am to 11am, 5. Diana Wackerbarth on 020 8870 1850. KODOKAN AIKIDO CLUB: Meets Tuesdays at Wandle Recreation
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Children
MRS WORTHINGTON'S WORKSHOPS: Acting, dancing and singing and other stage classes for seven to 16-year-olds. Patrons include actor David Jason and Gerry Cottle. 020 8767 6944. BALLET CLASSES: Flagmount School of Ballet, Wilditch Community Centre, 48 Culvert
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Date
Theatre
MEAT AND TWO VEG AT THE BAC: Surreal comedy based on Shakespeare's Twelfth Night. December 11 to 22 and January 2 to 6. 8.30pm, tickets 8.75. the box office on 020 7223 2223. THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS: Putney Theatre Company and Group Sixty Four Youth Theatre
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Clubs
THE FRIDGE BAR: 1 Townhall Parade, Brixton. Logic. Saturday, December 1. Pendragon. Saturday, December 15. 020 7326 5100. LOUGHBOROUGH JUNCTION: 242 Coldharbour Lane, Brixton. 020 7738 4000. THE BUG BAR: Under St Matthews Church, Brixton Hill. 020 7738
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Date
Music
CARSHALTON JAZZ CLUB: Charles Cryer Studio Theatre, High Street. % 020 8647 2114. SECOMBE THEATRE JAZZ: Cheam Road, Sutton. % 020 8770 6990. CROYDON AND SUTTON HOME ORGAN CLUB: United Services Club, Carshalton Road, Sutton. Second Monday of every month
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Date
Exhibitions/Talks
SOUTH CROYDON HERITAGE GROUP: Sanderstead United Reformed Church Hall. South of Oxford, December 19. 8651 5707. THE CROYDON SOCIETY: Small Hall, United Reformed Church, Addiscombe Grove. 8655 3158. CROYDON NATURAL HISTORY AND SCIENTIFIC SOCIETY: United
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Date
Pantomime
ASHCROFT THEATRE: Fairfield Halls, Croydon. Cinderella starring Darren Day as Prince Charming and Stephen Mulhern as Buttons. December 20 - January 20. 020 8688 9291. HARLEQUIN THEATRE: Redhill. Peter Pan starring Michael Melia (Eddie Royle in Eastenders
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Date
Comedy
UP THE CREEK TOO COMEDY CABARET CLUB: 3 Brighton Road, Croydon. Eddie Brimson & Geoff Boys, December 13. Tickets 10. Andrew Maxwell & Geoff Boyz, December 14. Tickets 12. Dominic Frisby & Zeron Gibson MC, December 15. Tickets 14
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Date
Theatre
ASHCROFT THEATRE: The Fairfield Halls, Park Lane, Croydon. Maddy Prior & The Carnival Band, December 17. 020 8688 9291. WAREHOUSE THEATRE: Dingwall Road, Croydon. Dick Barton Episode III The Tango of Terror, until February 3. 8680 4060. SECOMBE
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Date
Out of luck Boro beaten
Hillingdon Borough turned in another solid performance but were somehow beaten 3-0, with that little bit of luck nowhere to be seen. After a goalless first half, Somersett netted through Leon Archer (2) and Peter Ulatowski for victory.
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Date
Reflecting Light
Presented by Jeanette Perry; Watford Museum, Lower High Street, Watford; runs until Saturday, January 5; admission free. December 19, 2001 21:00
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Date
Paintings by John Phillips
Local scenes of the Rickmansworth area; foyer of Three Rivers District Council Offices, Northway, Rickmansworth; runs until end of December. December 19, 2001 21:00
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Date
Toys Galore
An exhibition of toys, games and childhood memorabilia;Bushey Museum and Art Gallery, Rudolph Road, Bushey; runs until Saturday, February 23; open Thursday to Sunday, 11am to 4pm; admission free. December 19, 2001 21:00
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Date
Mingles Unattached Over 30's Dance 'n' Rendezvous Club
Remada Jarvis Hotel (A41), Watford Bypass, Watford; no denim, gentlemen shirts and ties required; last entry 10.45pm; every Thursday, 8.45pm. Tel: 020 8393 0914. December 19, 2001 21:00
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Date
Aladdin and his Wonderful Lamp
Dacorum Pavilion, Marlowes, Hemel Hempstead; Wednesday, December 21, to Sunday, January 6; tickets 9.50/12.50 adults, 6.50/9.50 children. Tel: box office 01442 228700 for times. December 19, 2001 21:00
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Silently supporting us all
For most, Christmas is a joyous time but, for some, it is the worst date in the calendar. For the Samaritans, it is the busiest time of the year. Reporter ADRIAN KWINTNER spoke to the director of the charity's Bromley and Orpington branch ... CHRISTMAS
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The other side of Christmas spirits
Christmas is a time for shopping, partying and enjoying the seasonal spirit for most of us. But Bromley's police officers see a completely different side to the revelry. Reporter SARAH WARDEN spent a Friday night with the crew of Operation Nicholas, from
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Flu jabs proving popular
THE take-up of the free flu vaccination by the over-65s in the North Essex Health Authority area which includes the Harlow district is seven per cent up on the same point last year. Halfway through the campaign, 55.6 per cent of over-65s have been vaccinated
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Nightspot backing Christmas drink-drive camoajgn
HARLOW nightspot owner Luminar has joined forces with Essex Police to encourage drivers not to drink and drive this Christmas. The company, which owns Jumpin Jaks and the Chicago Rock Cafe is taking part in this year's drink-drive campaign which was launched
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Festive concert
THE Friends of St Thomas Church in Old Uxbridge Road, West Hyde, will be holding a Christmas concert on Wednesday, December 19, at 7.30pm. The concert, to raise money for the upkeep of the church, will feature the Walbrook Singers. For tickets and more
