City Matters Edition 015

LIFE’S A SCREEN
2017 is being billed as the year of
the moving image at the Barbican;
see the bigger picture for yourself
all this month Page 7
WORKING IT OUT
Getting on the fitness wagon can
be problematic; we explore the
trends providing the motivation to
keep you on track Pages 12&13
CITY MATTERS
11-17 January 2017 The City of London’s FREE hyperlocal newspaper Edition 015
Chiefs fuel the call
for ban on diesels
CORPORATION WANTS THE CAPITAL TO FOLLOW ITS LEAD IN AIR CRISIS
THE Corporation wants the rest of London to
join the Square Mile and prohibit the purchase of
new diesel-run private hire vehicles (PHVs) under
a radical proposal to alleviate the Capital’s air
quality crisis.
The authority, which has a fleet of more than 300
vehicles, implemented its own policy in August
2016 and banned the acquisition of diesel-fuelled
motors for its business operations.
And now, in response to Mayor Sadiq Khan’s air
quality consultation, the Corporation is calling on
the rest of London to undergo a similar transition.
“Diesel PHVs travel huge distances in central
London and cleaner alternatives to diesel are
readily available,” explained Jon Averns, the City’s
public protection director.
demand for change: London
is in an air quality crisis and the
City believes it has a solution
Ground broken
on £19million City
YMCA project in
Errol Street PAGE 2
Exposure
“They [diesels] are releasing pollutants, including
nitrogen dioxides and particulate matter, which
can cause asthma, heart disease and cancer.
“London’s businesses and residents want to
see effective action from the authorities to reduce
public exposure to air pollution in the short term.
“It is important that action is taken at the earliest
opportunity to protect the health of Londoners.”
The consultation had invited stakeholders to
critique proposals to introduce a new Emission
Surcharge and to bring forward the Ultra-Low
Emission Zone – which will require all cars,
motorbikes, vans, minibuses, buses, coaches and
heavy goods vehicles to meet exhaust emission
standards to enter or pay a daily charge – from
2020 to 2019. More than eight out of 10 (81%) of
respondents backed the Emission Surcharge, which
will penalise the oldest and least environmental
friendly vehicles still on the road. A £10 daily fine
is being considered.
Meanwhile, there was widespread support (77%)
for the Mayor’s call to government for a diesel
scrappage scheme to help Londoners switch away
from polluting cars.
Among its own feedback, the Corporation also
explained that it wanted to see existing diesel
PHVs removed from fleets as soon as possible to
protect the public from exposure to toxic emissions
– with current licences phased out by 2020. Some
of the consultation results have been acted on
immediately.
A spokesman for City Hall said: “The Mayor has
implemented a programme of air quality alerts to
the public on high pollution days, after four-infive
said they’d like to receive them. He has also
announced the introduction of Low Emission Bus
Zones, prioritising the greenest buses on the worst
polluted routes as part of the wider programme to
reduce emissions from the Capital’s bus fleet.”
Around 9,400 deaths per year in London are
attributed to air quality related illnesses, and
more than 15,000 Londoners voiced their opinions
during the two-month consultation.
Albanian drug
dealer sentenced
to three years and
deportation PAGE 3
Unwanted presents
are helping to turn
around the lives of
at-risk children PAGE 5
3rd February 2017

Page 2 | 11-17 January 2017
News Matters
On this week
down the years
15 January 1973: US
President Richard
Nixon orders a halt to
American bombing in
north Vietnam following
peace talks in Paris.
12 January 2001: The
first foreigner to coach
the England football
team, Sven Goran
Eriksson, flies in to start
his new job.
14 January 2002: With
no reported cases of footand-mouth
disease for
three months the UK’s
farming community can
now look to the future.
the ice man:
Sven-Göran Eriksson
Corrections &
clarifications
The editorial team
at City Matters
strives to ensure all
information printed
is true and correct
at the time of
publication.
If you notice a
story has been
printed with an
error or omission,
please contact
us through the
website and we will
be happy to amend
as appropriate.
Alternatively, to
speak to a member
of the news team,
please contact us
on the number
below.
A £19m redevelopment
to tackle homelessness
CITY YMCA London has announced the
start of a £19million redevelopment of its
Errol Street accommodation.
Contractors have already started tearing
down the existing building to make way for
a new flagship facility due to open in autumn
2018.
Charity chief executive, Gillian Bowen,
said the announcement marks a significant
step forward in the ability to see the YMCA’s
vision fulfilled.
She said: “Over the last four years we have
been working with a single focus, to create a
new accommodation giving thousands more
young people the chance to make a future
of their own choosing. Today that vision is
within our grasp.”
The number of homeless young people in
London has doubled over the last five years,
CITYMATTERS.LONDON
Pixie among those to get pumped up
CLOSE to 90,000 people rocked up at Hearts in
Harmony’s outdoor music festival last month,
with pop star Pixie Lott among those to stop in
and support a worthy charitable cause.
The City Heart Beats gig and its packed bill
was held under Spitalfields’ white outdoor dome
and raised thousands of pounds in donations,
all of which will be sent directly to Great
Ormond Street Hospital to help purchase a new
defibrillator for sick children.
Electric violinist Dan Baczynski kicked
off proceedings with reinvented modern
hits, followed by talented pianists Gabriele
Baldocci and Nathan Tinker, who took requests
and when the complex is complete it will
provide 146 much-needed bed spaces.
The building will offer a new model of
care support and supervision, incorporating
en-suite bedrooms, social spaces and a fitness
facility.
The inclusion of move-on accommodation
will also give youngsters the opportunity
to live independently whist still in reach of
available support.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan has signed off
on an £8.76m grant to help cover the costs,
but the charity retains the challenge of raising
a further £3.5m over the next two years to
ensure that the new home is built to the
desired specification.
With 82% of the funding already
committed, City YMCA London is now
launching The Errol Street Appeal, offering a
range of ways to invest, from ‘buying a brick’
to inviting businesses to sponsor a room for
£25,000.
Errol Street Appeal chairman, Colin
Passmore, who is also a senior partner at
Simmons & Simmons, a founder room
sponsor, said: “Securing the funding for this
vision has been a fabulous process.
“We’re delighted to have the support of the
London Mayor, the City Bridge Trust and a
range of leading foundations and individuals.
“Our thanks go to them all for placing their
faith in the City YMCA London team. After a
great start we are now calling for others across
London to support the appeal.”
The City of London Social Investment
Fund, The Garfield Weston Foundation, The
Worshipful Company of Clothworkers, and
LandAid are also major funding partners.
and impressed the crowd with their sharp
improvisations.
Next came folk fusion group Folkies Collective
– the multinational four-piece Americana band
boasting haunting vocals and guitars, playing
their own renditions and a Dylan cover to close
their set.
Sollo cellist Riccardo Pes brought classical
vibes to the stage, followed by the Inner Vision
Orchestra from the Baluji Music Foundation of
visually impaired musicians, ably led by Baluji
Shrivastav OBE, playing world music.
Soul and R&B act Lyra then wowed onlookers
with a mix of their own original material and
face-lift: City YMCA London
and (inset) how it may look
after its £19m redevelopment
Passengers call
for devolution
RAIL passengers want
City Hall and Transport
for London (TfL) to take
control of suburban rail
routes into London, a
poll has revealed.
Transport secretary
Chris Grayling blocked
a proposal by Mayor of
London Sadiq Khan to
take over the running
of services at the end
of 2016 on political
grounds.
But a study by
the Greater London
Authority found that
more than half of the
1,000 people surveyed
(52%) believe Mr
Grayling has made an
error in judgement.
“Commuters deserve
to be able to get to work
and back on a reliable
train service,” said the
Mayor.
“This polling clearly
demonstrates that
commuters want the
government to give
control of commuter
rail lines to TfL, so
they can get the more
frequent, reliable and
affordable service that
they deserve.
“It’s time for the
transport secretary to
stop burying his head
in the sand and listen to
what commuters want.
“This is much more
important than party
politics – it is about
people’s jobs, time with
their family, and quality
of life.”
The dispute continues.
Something
to share?
Send your City of
London stories to
jo@citymatters.london
covers, including a particularly rhythmic
rendition of Lucy Pearl’s Don’t Mess With My
Man.
Angelic lyric soprano Natasha Day was later
on stage singing Christmas carols and classical
arias, accompanied by accomplished pianist
David Malusà. The standing audience later
enjoyed improvised jazz from the Arrietty
Ensemble.
Finally, show-stopping vocal quartet Skye
provided Christmas-inspired harmonies and
popular classics, such as ever-popular The
Snowman, closing with Con Te Partirò, better
known as Time To Say Goodbye.
on song: the gig
was hailed a hit
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CITYMATTERS.LONDON 11-17 January 2017 | Page 3
News Matters
Penalty for car
Cocaine dealer to
Officers must
park break out
hit the books
A MAN from Hackney
to secure rise
has been ordered to pay
SQUARE Mile bobbies
out more than £200 for
will have to sit an exam
damaging a car park
to climb the pay scale
gate and driving on
under a controversial
Hampstead Heath.
reform.
Pinkas Friedman was
face deportation
The Home Office
fined for forcibly opening
has unveiled a new
the locked gate at the
scheme under which
East Heath car park
PCs with between two
and driving on to the
and four years’ service
Heath – managed by the
AN Albanian national has been jailed for
jacket pocket, and a further one in another will be eligible for a
Corporation – after his
three-and-a-half years after being caught
pay leap from £24,975
car was locked in after
pocket. Qosja was promptly arrested for
peddling cocaine by City of London Police.
sentenced: Elton
to £26,016 – subject to
closing time.
possession with intent to supply, as well as
Qosja is behind bars
Elton Qosja, 25, was sentenced at the Old
illegal entry into the UK.
passing a test.
Paying up after Bailey just before Christmas for possession
His companion, also from Albania, was
It brings an end to a
of a class A drug with intent to supply, after
system when length of
canine attack
arrested for the same offences, while the
pleading guilty at an earlier hearing.
man who received the wrap of cocaine, was
service was the primary
A DOG owner has been Sergeant Matt Timms from the Project
factor in determining
arrested for possession.
fined after his “out-ofcontrol”
canine attacked
Servator team, who picked up Qosja close to
remuneration. Those
Meanwhile, other Project Servator officers
Bank Junction on 15 November, said: “Qosja
who fail will complete a
a walker and his pooch.
were continuing to observe the Mercedes
thought he could move freely through the
development plan with
Armando Pereira
from the earlier transaction. When a man was
City of London and carry out his drug deals
senior force officials.
pleaded guilty to all
spotted getting into the driver’s seat, he was
with impunity.
Home secretary
charges at Highbury
also searched.
Amber Rudd said
Corner Magistrates’
Suspiciously
When a further wrap of cocaine was
that establishing a
Court following an
“But quick-thinking from both our Project
discovered on him he was also arrested for
link between pay
incident on Hampstead Servator officers and Crime Squad ensured
possession of a class A drug.
and professional
Heath. He was ordered that both he, his friend, and his customers,
Qosja will be deported after the completion development will help
to pay £250 in fines, were quickly stopped and dealt with by
of his sentence. His companion faced no improve the Force.
£500 in costs, a £90 officers.”
further action but was placed in the custody However, the Police
compensation fee, and a The court heard how plain-clothes officers
of immigration services to face deportation. Federation of England
£30 victim surcharge. first spotted Qosja and another man acting
In addition, the driver of the Mercedes and and Wales said there
Bob Warnock, the suspiciously. The former then jumped into
the man with the bag, who both admitted was “still a way to go”
City’s superintendent of a dark blue Mercedes on Lombard Street
buying cocaine from Qosja, were both issued before an assessment
Hampstead Heath, said: before getting out again two minutes later and
cautions.
that is fit for purpose is
“Being confronted by leaving the area.
Sergeant Timms added: “We hope this signed off.
an animal that is out of
control can be terrifying
and we do not tolerate
visitors that cannot keep
dogs under control.”
Officers suspected a drug deal had taken
place so continued to follow the pair.
They headed on to Foster Lane, off
Cheapside, where Qosja met up with another
man and was seen to place an item, later found
to be a wrap of cocaine, into his bag. All three
men were subsequently searched under the
Misuse of Drugs Act, the court was told.
Qosja was found to be in possession of 10
wraps of cocaine in a cigarette box in one
shows that it is simply not worth the risk –
if you’re carrying or dealing drugs within
the Square Mile, you will be caught, and we
will do everything in our power to bring you
before the courts.”
A spokesman said
the test must in no way
be an attempt to keep
pay down by setting the
bar artificially high.
Charter the
jewel in the
LMA’s crown
SMALL on size but massive in terms of
historical significance, a tiny strip of parchment
that dates back to 1067 is the focus for a series of
celebratory events this year to mark the 950th
anniversary of the Corporation’s extensive
archives.
The William Charter, the oldest item in
the City’s collection, will be on display at the
Guildhall Art Gallery until 27 April after
being installed last week to launch the special
programme of events.
The document, which is written in Old
English and was presented to the City of London
by William the Conqueror nearly 1,000 years
ago, confirmed the legal rights of the Capital’s
citizens.
During the course of 2017, the Corporation’s
Clerkenwell-based London Metropolitan Archives
(LMA) will be showcasing some of the most
impressive items from its 300million-piece
collection, and exploring the stories of London
and its residents from the Norman Conquest
through to the present day. The programme has
historic artefact:
the William Charter
left the Corporation’s director of archives, Geoff
Pick, thoroughly excited looking forward.
He said: “The archives are, arguably, the
best of any city in the world and it is entirely
appropriate that we are marking 950 years of
the City’s stewardship of these remarkable
collections.
“LMA’s team of archivists and conservators
take great pride in caring for these items and
documents, which are of immense value in
preserving and celebrating London’s written
memory. My colleagues and I are looking
forward to this year’s programme of events, and
we hope that visitors to LMA will enjoy viewing
items from the collections.”
Welcome
In February, a photography exhibition,
entitled The Londoners, will feature prints and
photographs of working people over the last 500
years.
Meanwhile on London History Day (31 May),
young people will ‘take over’ LMA to welcome
guests to a Norman-themed trip through time.
A 22-metre long, early 19th-century, handcoloured
copy of the Bayeux Tapestry – the
longest item in the archives’ collections – will
form the centrepiece of the event.
Then, in September, the LMA will welcome
even more visitors as part of its annual Open
House; before American letters from the War
of Independence go on display at the City of
London Heritage Gallery in December.
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Page 4 | 11-17 January 2017
News Matters
Winter Wander
stepping on to
the City’s scene
LOCALS have been
urged to pull on their
walking boots ahead of
Transport for London’s
Winter Wander
programme.
A total of 44 free
guided walks are set to
take place in the Capital
over the weekend of
28 and 29 January,
with the City featuring
prominently in the
strolls around London.
All are led by expert
guides and on average
span 1.5miles.
Booking is essential
via the TfL website.
New face in the
hotseat to lead
Asian offices
THE Corporation
has appointed Sherry
Madera, ministercounsellor
and deputy
director general at the
British Embassy in
Beijing, as the City’s
special adviser for Asia.
She will lead the
authority’s offices
in Beijing, Shanghai
(China) and Mumbai
(India) to promote
the interests of
UK-based financial and
professional services in
the region.
Airport team
is raising the
bar for fitness
STAFF PUT TO THE TEST EVERY DAY
FRESH research for 2017 has demonstrated
that airports are among the most active
workplaces in the country, rivalling postal
routes, construction sites and farms.
Chiefs at London City Airport interviewed
staff in a variety of roles, including cabin
crew, terminal managers and the on-site fire
service, surveying the equipment they use and
distance travelled on foot using pedometers.
Findings
“We knew the London City Airport team
worked hard, but even we were surprised
to find they are Olympic-level walkers,
champion weightlifters, and do enough bicep
curls to make any gym-goer sweat – every
day,” said a spokesman when analysing the
findings.
With up to 300 flights arriving and
departing every day, baggage handlers have
an important role to play in order to maintain
flight turnaround times.
On average they process in excess of seven
tonnes of hold luggage each day – more than
one tonne greater in weight than an African
elephant.
It is airport managers who clock up the
greatest mileage on foot – an impressive
9.1miles on average for each shift in and
around the 18,000sqm passenger terminal,
which is equivalent to 37 laps of an Olympic
race track.
Even at an altitude of 40,000ft cabin crew
staff manage to clock an average of three
miles during a one-and-a-half hour flight.
Equipment
Back on the ground, aircraft marshallers,
who work on the airfield come rain or shine,
direct up to 20 flights during a shift using an
array of different arm signals, meaning that
not only do they walk on average five miles,
but do 160 ‘bicep curls’ with their batons.
Lifting some of the heaviest equipment
is the on-site fire brigade, who train in
300-degree heat and wear 10kg uniforms,
sometimes training with 12kg of breathing
apparatus and 16kg fire hoses.
River be blessed
REPRESENTATIVES of Southwark Cathedral
and City church St Magnus the Martyr gathered
on London Bridge for the Blessing of the River
ceremony on Sunday, writes Lionel Wright.
The ceremony began with a procession from
St Magnus, which arrived from the north bank.
It paused midway across the bridge at the
boundary between the two parishes before the
clergy and parishioners were joined by their
Southwark Cathedral counterparts.
Although both churches have historic ties to
the Thames and London Bridge, the ceremony
only dates back to the beginning of the current
century.
Father Philip Warner, the priest of St Magnus
the Martyr some 100 years ago, was previously
posted in Serbia. He drew on the Orthodox
Christian tradition of blessing a cross by
dipping it in water, and combined this with the
ancient feast of the Baptism of Jesus by John the
Trio land New
Year’s Honours
THE City proved that three is the charm as
Square Mile figureheads featured not once,
not twice but thrice in The Queen’s New Year’s
Honours list.
George Gillon, a member of the Court of
Common Council, was recognised for services
to the Corporation and the Scottish community
in London with an MBE; while Gordon Haines
JP, a member of the Court of Aldermen, picked
up the same title for voluntary and charitable
services to the community, as well as for his
environmental conservation work in the
Capital.
Elsewhere, an employee of the Corporation,
CITYMATTERS.LONDON
Awards delight
for musical pair
A COUPLE of maestros
won big at the British
Composer Awards.
City University
London lecturer
Dr Claudia Molitor
finished with a gong in
the Sonic Art category,
while performance
officer Leo Chadburn
took home the Chamber
Ensemble prize.
The winners
were announced at a
ceremony at the British
Film Institute last
month, with their work
later broadcast on BBC
Radio 3 programme
Hear and Now.
Council pledges
£1million grant
CITY University
has bagged nearly
£1million in funding
from the Engineering
and Physical Sciences
Research Council.
The £980,000 grant
will finance a project
entitled SCAMPI:
self-care advice,
monitoring, planning
and intervention.
The scheme’s
objective is to
prototype a new
computerised toolset
to support people with
chronic conditions, and
their carers.
Baptist to create the current Thames ceremony.
Sunday’s Blessing of the River was conducted
by Dean of Southwark Cathedral Andrew Nunn
and Bishop Jonathan Clark of Croydon, which is
part of the Diocese of Southwark.
The service included readings by parishioners,
most notably Psalm 46 (‘The river makes glad
the City of God’), and prayers for those who live
and work on the Thames, as well as those who
have died on the river.
The ceremony ended with the Bishop of
Croydon casting a wooden cross into the river.
distinctive: the
annual ceremony
comes to an end
lately director of public relations Anthony
Halmos, was awarded Medallist of the British
Empire status for his efforts during the 800th
anniversary commemoration of Magna Carta.
In total, some 1,197 individuals were honoured
in this year’s list.
And the City trio were joined by yet another
recipient of early 2017 praise with ties to the
borough; recently retired police sergeant Tim
Slade bestowed The Queen’s Police Medal as
part of the new year announcement.
Dedicated
A former Essex Police officer, Tim has also
represented the Met and the Square Mile force,
and has been recognised for his “exemplary
service”, particularly for his time training police
dogs.
He, along with 20 other officers from all
ranks, will collect his medal at a dedicated
ceremony in April.

CITYMATTERS.LONDON 11-17 January 2017 | Page 5
Pay row victory
for bus drivers
A BLANKET pay
structure for Transport
for London bus drivers
will come into effect in
April.
The long-running
dispute over remuneration
has roots in staff picking
up varying levels of pay
according to the routes
they operate.
But the 25,000 drivers
across the Capital will
be able to bank on a
new starting salary of at
least £23,000 when the
Mayor’s draft budget
activates in four months
time.
Helping to find
people shelter
THE City’s populace
has been asked to
contact homeless charity
StreetLink if they spot
anyone sleeping rough
in the Square Mile this
winter.
The service can be
reached on 0300 500
0914.
Something
to share?
Send your City of
London stories to
jo@citymatters.london
Badge of honour
A BLUE badge for those less able to stand
on public transport will be introduced on a
permanent basis in spring next year.
The ‘Please Offer Me a Seat’ badge and
accompanying card were trialled earlier this
year to help those who need a seat but have
difficulty getting one.
The six-week trial was held in response to
Transport for London (TfL) passenger feedback,
which suggested that those with hidden
disabilities and conditions, or those undergoing
treatments, can often find it difficult to explain
that they need a seat. More than 1,200 people
Unwanted gifts to
lift at risk children
AROUND 3,300 City residents will throw
away or forget about an unsuitable gift
that could help vulnerable children and crucial: funding and the support of leading figures,
young people, according to a new survey by such as boxer Amir Khan (centre), goes a long way
Barnardo’s.
The poll for the children’s charity revealed
that four in 10 Londoners have confessed to
either binning gifts or putting unsuitable
presents in a cupboard and forgetting about
them. While one in 10 sold them online, a
third (34%) of the 553 Londoners surveyed
gave them to a charity shop.
Transform
The online research by YouGov also found
that, for the second year running, the selfie
stick is considered one of the least sought after
Christmas presents by nearly half of people
in London (45%), closely followed by musical
socks (43%), bathroom scales (29%), and
animal slippers (28%).
Barnardo’s is now appealing for people to
donate unsuitable gifts to its shops, including
its central London branch in George Street,
Marylebone. Money raised from their sale
will help to transform the lives of the most at
risk children, young people and families in
the UK.
Lynn Gradwell, director of Barnardo’s in
London, said: “We all receive the odd gift at
Christmas that isn’t quite right. Rather than
throw these unloved presents away or stick
tested the scheme, which is similar to the Baby
on Board badge project.
During the trial, 72% of journeys were said
to be easier as a result of the badge. In 86% of
journeys participants reported feeling more
confident when asking for a seat, while 98% said
they would recommend the badge and card to
somebody who requires it or would benefit.
Alan Benson, chairman of not-for-profit
organisation Transport for All, said: “We are
pleased to hear the trial was successful and that
TfL and the Mayor will be launching it next year.
“While this will help many customers, there
will be those who don’t want to use a badge and
card. We want to see those people supported too,
and for everyone to get a seat who needs one.”
them in a cupboard you can help Barnardo’s
support some of the most disadvantaged
children in London and the rest of the
UK.
“By taking any unsuitable gifts to our
stores, you will be engaging in an act of
kindness that will make a difference to a child
30%
discount in
Gift Cards
with this
voucher
out there somewhere who really needs your
support.”
As an extra bonus, people who donate their
unsuitable Christmas gifts to Barnardo’s will
be rewarded with a £10 ‘Re-Gift’ voucher
to spend in store and online at high street
fashion retailer Evans.
News Matters
Feast your eyes
on illegal treats
EVERYTHING needed
for a Christmas feast
was confiscated from
City Airport passengers
returning from a
winter getaway last
month.
A mountain of
consumables –
including jars of
cranberry sauce,
brandy butter, pâté,
mincemeat, mulled
wine and liqueurs, ready
made bread sauce, and
golden syrup – plus
Christmas crackers and
even snowglobes were
confiscated from the
190,000 people who
passed through the
terminal in December.
Trio to spend a
year in prison
THREE men who
attached a card
skimming device to a
cash machine in the
City have been jailed
for a total of three
years.
Nicolae Popa (33),
Catalin Milu (29) and
Ionut Dinca (20), all
foreign nationals with
no local addresses,
pleaded guilty to
possession of articles
for use in fraud and
were each handed
12-month prison terms.
proud quartet: the Lord Mayor, Professor
Barry Ife, Roger Wright and John Bennett
It’s a New Year so why not treat yourself with a
visit to Primas Beauty Clinic, next to
St Paul’s Cathedral.
Pair’s academic adulation
TWO leading figures were recognised at
the Guildhall School’s Board of Governors’
Dinner towards the end of 2016.
The City’s Lord Mayor, Dr Andrew
Parmley, presented Professor Barry Ife, the
principal of the Guildhall School, with a
deserved fellowship; while Snape Maltings’
chief executive, Roger Wright, was also
recognised with an honorary fellowship.
The trio were joined on the night by the
chairman of the Board of Governors, John
Bennett.
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Page 6 | 11-17 January 2017
Business Matters
Square Mile needs
greater assurance
THE man at the top of the Corporation’s policy
planning tree has called for greater certainty in
2017 as the City fights for stability post-Brexit.
“Important strategic business decisions are
being delayed and much needed investment
postponed or withdrawn altogether,” explained
Mark Boleat as he assessed the Square Mile’s
standing six months after the EU referendum.
Financial and professional services employ
more than 2.2million people across the UK,
and contribute more than £71bn in taxes to the
public purse every year.
And the doubt the City’s financial services
has been plunged into by the decision to leave
the EU kept Mr Boleat extremely busy towards
the tail end of 2016.
“These industries are not just vital to the UK
however, as London serves as Europe’s financial
hub, financing growth and prosperity across
the European continent,” he said.
Nervousness
“I have spent the last six months seeking to
ensure that the City’s importance is recognised
by key decision makers in the UK and Europe,
and I will continue to do so going into 2017.
“Firms’ nervousness can only be allayed if
they know how they can continue running
their business. A transitional arrangement
should be agreed as soon as possible.”
While he remains confident of a prosperous
future, Mr Boleat says commitments must be
made across the board if London is to continue
to be a world leader.
He added: “I have no doubt that whatever
happens in 2017 that the City of London will
remain the world’s leading financial centre.
“However we must continue investing in
infrastructure and education while working to
secure the best possible business links with the
European Union and the world.”
Firms ruling out
apprenticeships
77% DON’T AND WON’T SUPPORT SCHEME
THE main barriers to businesses in
London employing apprentices are a
lack of resources, not knowing legal
requirements, and being unable to
find those with the correct skill set, a
new survey has found.
London Chamber of Commerce
and Industry made the findings in a
ComRes poll after a previous survey
had discovered that at the end of 2015
only 6% of businesses quizzed had
employed an apprentice.
Resources
In addition, 77% of firms not
only did not currently employ an
apprentice, but had never done so and
did not intend to in the future.
The latest survey into the reasons
behind the lack of apprentices found
that 35% of London businesses say not
having the financial resources to train
and manage an apprentice is one of the
main barriers.
A third (33%) said they did not
have the necessary human resources
available, while not knowing what
the legal requirements are to hire
an apprentice affected 23%. A
obstacles: the LCCI
wants change
further 21% said not being able to
find apprenticeship candidates with
the necessary skills to fulfil their
businesses’ needs was a barrier, and
16% did not know where to go to
hire an apprentice. Chief executive
of LCCI, Colin Stanbridge, said: “We
were very concerned to note the low
take up of apprentices in London as we
believe they have a central role to play
in closing the widening cross-sector
skills gaps across the UK.
“This is why we commissioned the
new research and now that we are more
aware of the reasons behind business
reluctance the government needs to
educate businesses of the benefits of
hiring apprentices.
Hurdles
“Encouraging young people to
engage with industries which are
vital to the UK’s economy, such as
construction, manufacturing and
freight, will enable businesses to make
the most of the skills which are present
in our resident workforce.”
He explained that greater teamwork
was essential in toppling barriers that
prevent people getting into work.
“We need to see much better
collaboration between businesses
and the government as it is only by
understanding the hurdles that they
can be overcome.”
CITYMATTERS.LONDON
Spain’s pain
is City’s gain
CITY residents
seeking to escape the
UK in the new year
might be tempted
to bag a bargain
and visit Madrid or
Barcelona.
Latest research
reveals that Airbnb
accommodation
could be over 18%
cheaper per night
compared to staying
in a hotel in both
cities.
“Although both
cities are traditionally
popular tourist
destinations, recovery
from the economic
crisis has been
rather slow,” said
Dirk Bakker, head
of EMEA Hotels at
Colliers International,
as he explained how
Airbnb has capitalised
on the travel market’s
uncertainty.
“Airbnb has
been quick to
take advantage by
providing travellers
with more choice and
a cheap alternative
during this recovery
period; because of
this we have seen a
massive growth in
demand for Airbnb
services.”
LEAP of faith for
new partnership
Vacancy: Sales and marketing apprentice
Attractive training package
City Matters is a free publication proudly incorporating the longstanding City
of London & Docklands Times. We are seeking an apprentice salesperson to
join our team.
Apprentice sales staff will work closely with the Sales Director to help drive City
Matters forward. Successful candidates will receive comprehensive in-house
training and be expected to have a working knowledge of the City of London.
Vacancy: Part-time bookkeeper
Flexible working hours
City Matters seeks a part-time bookkeeper to join its busy team.
Flexible working hours ideally suited for individuals coming back into the
working world or those with young families.
For an informal chat about either of the roles please contact:
020 8640 6015
MORE jobs and greater support of economic
growth have been promised under a new
membership of London’s Local Enterprise
Partnership (LEP).
The pan-London LEP, dubbed the London
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice of application for the grant of a Premises
Licence under Section 17 of the Licensing Act 2003
Notice is hereby given that Dorsett London Hotel
Limited has applied to City of London Corporation for
the grant of a Premises Licence in respect of Premises
to be known as Dorsett City Hotel, 9-13 Aldgate High
Street, London, EC3N 1AH. The proposed licensable
activities and their hours are: 1. Supply of alcohol and
regulated entertainment in the form of films: 24 hours
a day, seven days a week. 2. Provision of late night
refreshment: 23:00 hours to 05:00 hours the following
day, seven days a week. 3. Provision of regulated
entertainment in the form of recorded music: 07:00
hours to 03:00 hours the following day, seven days a
week. 4. Opening: 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
5. Non-standard timings as detailed in the application.
Please see application for full details. Any
representations regarding the above-mentioned
application must be received in writing by Licensing
Authority, City of London Licensing Authority, Markets
and Consumer Protection, PO Box 270, Guildhall,
EC2P 2EJ no later than 3rd February 2017 stating the
grounds for representation. The register of City of
London Corporation and the record of the application
may be inspected at the address of the council, given
above, during normal business hours or on the
council’s website - www.cityoflondon.gov.uk
It is an offence knowingly or recklessly to make a false
statement in connection with an application. A person
is liable to an unlimited fine on conviction should such
a false statement be made.
Poppleston Allen
37 Stoney Street, The Lace Market, Nottingham,
NG1 1LS
Economic Action Partnership (LEAP), brings
together Mayor Sadiq Khan, London Councils,
and business leaders across all the city’s main
sectors.
It will provide strategic oversight of the Royal
Docks Enterprise Zone, which has the potential
to deliver up to 40,000 jobs and 4,000 homes
in east London; the London Growth Hub, a
new online gateway to business support in the
Capital; and London’s European Structural and
Investment Funds.
“This partnership provides a fantastic
opportunity to ensure growth funding is
invested in a way which makes a real difference
to London’s economy,” said Mr Khan.
Prosperous
“London is open for business and I look
forward to working with the members of
LEAP to take forward my new economic
development strategy for the Capital, generating
the jobs and growth we need to keep London
prosperous.”
The Mayor will chair the new board, with the
Deputy Mayor for business, Rajesh Agrawal,
taking on the role of co-deputy chair alongside
a yet to be announced representative from the
business community.
The Deputy Mayor for planning, regeneration
and skills, Jules Pipe, will also sit on the board,
with the remaining members drawn from
London boroughs and businesses.
A place for a trade union representative
has also been allocated for when the group is
finalised. The new board is due to meet for the
first time on 1 February.

CITYMATTERS.LONDON 11-17 January 2017 | Page 7
Entertainment Matters
2017 OVER AT THE BARBICAN IS
ALL ABOUT THE BIG PICTURES...
the fine line:
Ghost in the Shell
up and away: Los Angeles
Plays Itself, comprising
retro footage such as this,
is a serious study
Screen time
FROM feminism in film and cinematic crafts
to the highly anticipated results of a poll to
find the 10 most important movies according
to Londoners, 2017 at the Barbican is all about
the moving image.
Film in Focus is a series of world-class arts and
learning projects, commissions and events that
put film at the forefront of the Barbican’s art,
music, theatre and, of course, film programmes.
Kicking things off is the first of a six-part
Cinema Matters programme, a year-long
examination of the cultural significance of the
medium. ‘Part 1: Industrial Light and Magic’
looks at the technologies and business of film
and its implications for storytelling.
Magic
Barbican cinema curator Tamara Anderson
describes the series of screenings as an
examination of “the fundamental ‘magic’ of
the movies”.
“Cinema is not only the chief artistic
innovation of the 20th century; it is also a
business and a technology,” she says.
“We wanted to look at what effect the ‘business’
of film has had on the type of stories told in the
movies, and their mode of storytelling”
“The huge sums of money invested to produce
a film mean the filmmakers must aim to reach a
mass market.
“And so the movies have served up lashings of
sex and violence; and they have given us stories
that rely heavily on spectacle, on suspense, on
thrills and spills. They have also given us an
avalanche of happy endings.”
Put these three screenings on your must-see
list and check out the rest of the Film in Focus
programme at barbican.org.uk/film.
Pan’s Labyrinth
Guillermo del Toro’s 2006 smash hit remains
the most successful film ever to come out of
Mexico, grossing US$80million worldwide. Set
in 1943 in the aftermath of the Spanish Civil
War, the story centres on a young girl, Ofelia,
who escapes into the magical labyrinth of her
fantasies.
18 January, 8.45pm
Cinema 3
Ghost in the Shell/Lapis
Mamoru Oshii’s 1995 anime Ghost in the Shell
is set in a future where the boundaries between
man and machine have evaporated. Currently
the subject of a controversial remake starring
Scarlett Johansson – the Hollywood version has
been accused of whitewashing – this is your
chance to see the moment a then cutting-edge
combination of traditional cell animation and
the latest CGI took the world by storm. Stick
around for a screening of James Whitney’s
Lapis, a 1960s abstract film made using
primitive computer technology that pioneers
the concept that film should be a visionary
experience.
26 January, 8.45pm
Cinema 3
Los Angeles Plays Itself
Leading American essayist
Thom Anderson examines the
tangled relationship between
the movies and their hometown,
Hollywood, Los Angeles.
Anderson delves into LA’s role in
playing other cities, or serving
as an anonymous backdrop,
asking if the buildings really are
that non-descript or whether
the cultural dominance of
Hollywood itself has denied LA
the ability to be distinct.
29 January, 3pm
Cinema 3
twists and turns:
Pan’s Labyrinth
The Old Bank of England
Few pubs in central London can match the opulence of The Old Bank as a
private party setting. We have two beautiful function rooms available for
you to hire during the week – while at weekends, you can exclusively hire
the entire pub.
Our dining room can accommodate 28 guests seated, or 40 standing. The
smaller club room, meanwhile, is ideal for intimate gatherings, seating 16
guests and leading out into our lovely walled courtyard.
For larger groups, we can even open up the two rooms to create one
fabulous space — with room to stand 70 guests, or seat 44.
Call us today on 020 7430 2255 to discuss your requirements, and
we’ll help you plan your big event at this very special venue.
The Old Bank of England, 194 Fleet Street, London EC4A 2LT
020 7430 2255 | www.oldbankofengland.co.uk
@OldBankFleetSt facebook/TheOldBankOfEngland

Page 8 | 11-17 January 2017
Community Matters
What’s on when &
where in the City
CITYMATTERS.LONDON
time to learn:
babies at play
EXHIBITION / Punk
The Punk movement hit London in 1976 and
changed music, fashion and attitude forever.
The music was frantic, loud and unlike
anything heard before. Suddenly those on
the periphery had a voice, individuality was
celebrated and a community of passionate and
creative young people was formed. Clothes
were customised using whatever punks could
get their hands on; the more provocative
the better. Time is running out to hear the
experiences of young men and women who
encountered the London scene first-hand.
From the handmade mixtape sleeves and
DIY fanzines, to the radical clothes sold on
punk scene: a movement goes under
the microscope. Photo by: John Selby
the King’s Road, this exhibition displays
the personal objects and tells the stories of
ordinary punks of the late 1970s.
Until 15 January, 10am to 6pm
Museum of London, 150 London Wall
EC2Y 5HN
WORKSHOP / Mini Moles Babies Group
Join the museum for this weekly session for
babies and carers every Wednesday morning
during term time. Special one-hour sessions
are designed to support guests and their baby,
who learn together in a unique environment.
For babies six months old to walking, this is a
free session but families must book in advance.
Remember to select an adult ticket as well as a
child, and that there is generally only one child
per adult admitted. Call 020 7001 9846 for
more details.
Until 29 March
Museum of London, 150 London Wall
EC2Y 5HN
FESTIVAL / International Mime Festival
There has already been plenty of clowning
around at the 40th anniversary of the London
International Mime Festival, and more is on
the way until next month. Featuring wordless
performances from juggling to clowning and
dance to puppetry, the annual show is being
held at London venues including the Barbican
and Shoreditch Town Hall. It’s the longestrunning
festival of its kind, maintaining the
popularity of an artform which helped launch
the careers of Toby Jones, Simon McBurney
and Sacha Baron Cohen. Don’t miss it before
the curtain call.
Until 4 February
Various venues
CONCERT / Rattle/Sellars/London
Symphony Orchestra
Sir Simon Rattle and Peter Sellars pit their
creative partnership against one of the most
formidable and exciting operas of the last 50
years: Ligeti’s Le grand macabre. Set in a land
of despots, debauchery and drunkenness, Le
grand macabre is a wild journey through the
end of the world, bolstered by music from one
of the most imaginative composers of the 20th
century. Ligeti wasn’t so sure that you could
even class it as an opera, and he despised the
term ‘anti-operas’ so trendy among his peers.
So Le grand macabre has become the first,
the only, and possibly the last ever example of
an anti-anti-opera. Because with a theatrical
vision as expansive and brilliant as this, it’s
hard to imagine anything that comes close.
14 and 15 January, 7pm
The Barbican Centre, Silk Street EC2Y 8DS
POP-UP MARKET / Guildhall Lunch Market
Guildhall Yard hosts a regular lunch market
with more than 20 stalls serving up mouthwatering
dishes from around the world. Feast
on proper Greek wraps, Jamaican jerk chicken,
cracking Korean dumplings and plenty more
besides. There are also plenty of sweet treats,
including gourmet brownies and decadent
doughnuts. Ditch the packed lunch, leave the
40th instalment:
don’t miss the
International
Mime Festival
office and get out into the fresh air.
12 January, noon until 2.30pm
Guildhall Yard, Aldermanbury EC2V 7HH
ICE SKATING / Broadskate at Broadgate
Christmas may be behind us but in the depths
of winter it is always acceptable to get your
skates on. Skate under the stars, feast on street
food and seasonal menus, share mulled wine
with friends and much more at Broadskate in
Broadgate until next month. From London’s
longest-running outdoor ice rink and its winter
terrace to some of the City’s most incredible
pop-up events, Broadgate is still the place to be
this side of new year.
Until 2 February
1-2 Exchange Arcade EC2M 3WA
To act as a City Matters Collection Point
contact: 020 8640 6015
www.citymatters.london
Find Our Collection Points:
Coffee Stall
In front of St Mary Abchurch,
Abchurch Lane, London EC4N 7BA
EL Vino Wine Merchant
6 Martin Lane, Cannon St, London EC4R 0DP
James Shoe Care
59 Moorgate, London EC2R 6BH
Jeeves Dry Cleaners
131 Fleet St, London EC4A 2BH
J Rogers & Sons - Shoe repair shop
28 Liverpool St, London EC2M 7PD
Guildhall Library
Aldermanbury, London EC2V 7HH
Lord Raglan Pub, St Martins le Grand
61 St Martins le Grand, St Pauls London EC1A 4ER
Merchant House Pub London
13 Well Court, London EC4M 9DN
Middle Library
Middle Temple Ln, London EC4Y 9BT
Pod Good Food
75 King William Street, London EC4N 7BE
Protestant Truth Society Inc - Book Shop
184 Fleet St, London EC4A 2HJ
Romo Coffee
1 Minster Court, Mincing Ln, London EC3R 7AE
Scott’s Shoe repair & Dry Cleaners
City Thameslink Station, Holborn, Concourse
London EC4M 7RA
Scott’s Shoe repair & Dry Cleaners
City Thameslink Station, 65 Ludgate Hill
London EC4M 7JH
Sweetings Restaurant
39 Queen Victoria St, London EC4N 4SF
Temple Brew House
46 Essex St, London WC2R 3JF
The Natural Kitchen
176 Aldersgate St, London EC1A 4HR
The Old Bank of England Pub
194 Fleet St, London EC4A 2LT
Ye Old Cheshire Cheese
145 Fleet Street, London EC4A 2BU

CITYMATTERS.LONDON 11-17 January 2017 | Page 9
Food Matters
JUST ANOTHER MONTH OR ARE YOU EATING HEALTHY THIS JANUARY?
feel good factor:
the clean option
Detox
stack ’em high:
the live and let
live choice
Retox
A FACE-off like no other is going on in
branches of Tom’s Kitchen across the Capital
this month, and the only question in need of
answering is: Which side are you on?
At the start of every year the focus inevitably
turns to healthy eating and what super foods
need to be passing our lips to make up for a full
month of indulgence.
Influencer
However, the age of ‘retox over detox’ is now
upon us and a special challenge is reminding
diners that going clean is not the only option
around this month.
This January, Tom’s Kitchen, which best
serves the City from its St Katharine Docks
branch, is pitting London-based healthy food
and drink company Rude Health and social
media influencer and Instagram account
‘KS_Ate_Here’ head-to-head with the ultimate
Retox vs Detox menu, available throughout the
LET’S DO...
GETTING BACK TO BRITISH /
Browns Old Jewry
British is best – or so some say – and
you’ll find plenty of home favourites
at Browns. Tuck into the steak and
Guinness pie for an idea of what the
menu is all about, or ditch the pastry all
together and sink your teeth into a 7oz
fillet, 8oz sirloin or 9oz rib-eye. On top
of that they open early for breakfast and
offer afternoon tea. Rule Britannia.
8-10 Old Jewry EC2R 8DN
whole month. Rude Health is a London-based
healthy food and drinks company, co-founded
and led by Nick and Camilla Barnard.
Not afraid to stand up for real, honest
food, Rude Health only use ingredients
that are easily attainable and found in
most kitchens – nothing artificial and
nothing refined.
Meanwhile, Kar-Shing Tong started
getting involved in the food world
around 2012, with a particular passion for
street food.
With a growing number of followers
every day, his Instagram account
has now reached over 49,000
followers and documents the
best and most indulgent street
food dishes that London has
to offer.
KS has been included
in features on the top
QUICK AND EASY / Nuvo
Labelling Nuvo just a sandwich bar would not do the Cannon Street establishment justice.
Sourdough sandwiches – also known as flatwiches – are the speciality, but crispy wraps, pitta,
healthy salads, juices and smoothies plus Monmouth coffee all make the bill alongside stonebaked
pizzas. It makes for an appealing array of options when you just can’t put a finger on what
you’re hankering for; though either way you’ll be more than satisfied. But don’t take our word for
it, Nuvo has recently won its third British Sandwich Association Independent Sandwich Bar of the
Year award – talk about a tasty hat-trick.
68 Cannon Street EC4N 6AE
HEARTY ITALIAN / Manicomio
A restaurant, café and bar rolled into
one, Manicomio is a place where
hungry patrons can tear into a pile of
pasta or grab a quick snack on the fly
courtesy of the takeaway deli counter.
In fact, it is so popular as a lunch
option that the queue runs right out the
door when break time hunger strikes.
Sample the grilled mackerel, grilled
vegetables and salsa verde before
treating yourself to a slice of tiramisu
to help get you through the afternoon.
The entire deli menu is also available
for pre-ordered delivery to local offices,
so even those who reside on the far side
of the Square Mile can try them at least
once with minimal hassle.
6 Gutter Lane EC2V 8AS
Instagram accounts to follow by the likes of
Buzzfeed. Founded by renowned chef
Tom Aikens (inset), Tom’s Kitchen has
worked closely with both teams to
create two dishes that are polar
opposites, whilst also using fresh
ingredients and unique flavour
combinations.
For those in need of a
health kick after an indulgent
Christmas, Rude Health has
created a delicious smoked
salmon tartare, served with
a wasabi crème fraiche
and cured egg yolk.
A good source
of protein and
omega-3 fatty acids,
the dish is ideal for
diners looking for
a light lunch (£10)
or dinner (£18) after a month or two of pure
gluttony.
In contrast, KS’s contender is the ultimate
‘cardiac stack’ burger, featuring chicken
schnitzel smothered in homemade pickles,
crispy sage chicken skin, streaky bacon and
smoked Applewood cheese.
Feasting
The burger is then topped with its very
own duck fat potato rosti, sandwiched between
a duck fat brioche bun and served with a side
of triple cooked chips (£20) – perfect for those
who aren’t quite ready to let go of the festive
feasting.
Available for lunch and dinner at all Tom’s
Kitchen restaurants across the country,
including the Somerset House branch over in
Strand, the dishes will go head-to-head against
in the ultimate food fight until February rolls
around.

Page 10 | 11-17 January 2017
CITYMATTERS.LONDON
by JM Barrie
devised by
the Companies
‘Unforgettable. Magic’
Guardian
‘Superb. Inventive’
Daily Telegraph
Until 4 Feb
South Bank, London SE1
A co-production with
Photography by Sam Robinson

CITYMATTERS.LONDON 11-17 January 2017 | Page 11
Shopping Matters
Trends worth
noting down
IT would appear the
UK is not so much of
a cashless society as it
is touted to be.
A record-breaking
£730million was
withdrawn from
the country’s ATM
network on the Friday
prior to Christmas
(23 December) – with
consumers taking on
average £87 from the
hole in the wall.
Alternative
According to data
from the UK Cards
Association (UKCA),
the whopping
figure represents
a 13% increase on
2015’s record day
for withdrawals (24
December), on which
£634m was taken out.
UKCA admitted its
surprise at the trend
of increased cash
withdrawals given the
growing popularity
of alternative ways of
spending.
Contactless
payments made up
more than one in five
(21%) of payments in
August 2016, a 7.9%
spike on the same
period in 2015.
AMAZON has put together a list of the
delightful dozen bestsellers from each month
in 2016.
Joe Wicks and his health-orientated cookbook
took top spot in January, while February bowed
to the allure of the sheet face mask, driven
primarily by its A-list celebrity endorsers.
March meanwhile belonged to the Spider
Catcher – which does exactly what it says on the
tin – as sales soared by 232%.
Fitness clothing was the must have in April;
the Panini stickerbook dominated the European
SHOPPERS STAYING AT HOME DESPITE DEALS
New year’s sales
fail for retailers
IT was a case of ‘thanks, but no thanks’
this month as retailers failed to entice
shoppers to the new year sales – with
deceptive scene: the footfall
some estimates putting the number of
at One New Change fell
bargain hunters out on the first day of
January down by as much as 25%.
Shopping centres were the most badly
hit by the decline in post-Christmas
spending, with footfall tumbling by
almost half (49.5%) compared to the
same figures in 2016, according to data
from Springboard.
Traditionally
Insights director at the retail analyst,
Diane Wehrle, urged for caution on the
part of stores as they await an upturn in
fortune.
“Retailers traditionally see the first
trading weekend of the year as a sign of
things to come, and if this still rings true
the industry is set for a rocky 2017,” she
said.
“The ease and comfort of online
shopping proved too enticing for
shoppers keen to snap up further
discounts in the sales rather than bracing
the cold outdoors. Shopping centres in
particular have a challenge ahead in
2017. Having experienced a decline in
footfall during 2016, these destinations
need to up their game in order to provide
additional reasons to draw shoppers away
from their devices with an offer going
Amazon looks back on 12
months of chart toppers
football Championships in May; and all manner
of inflatable pool toys – shaped as unicorns
and swans and everything between – filled the
baskets in June.
There were no prizes for guessing that copies
of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child (left) – the
latest offering from author JK Rowling in the
form of a stage play – would outsell all else in July;
the popularity of the magical franchise saw the
book go straight to number one in the
charts.
Perhaps wanting to toast the last of the
summer nights, Rosé wine enjoyed somewhat
of a resurgence in August and sales climbed
530%.
Scramble
Spending eased in September so Amazon
highlighted a spike in sales of Roald Dahl
children’s classics before normal service
resumed in October with Halloween firmly on
the minds of the public.
Lion mane costumes for dogs (sales up
17,600%) held the biggest pull for owners
seemingly keen to embarrass their poor
pooches.
The Danes inspired us in November; The
Little Book of Hygge – aka the Danish book of
how to live well – hitting the top of the bestseller
lists before attention turned to the Christmas
scramble.
Musically, December belonged to Now That’s
What I call Music 95; literary honours were
shared between parody book Five on Brexit
Island and Jamie Oliver’s Christmas; while
animal magic once again stole the show with
The Secret Life of Pets topping the DVD most
wanted list.
beyond retail.” Freezing temperatures
and reduced opening hours were cited
as the main reasons for people staying at
home, as was unreliable transport, with
Southern Rail in particular coming in for
some stinging criticism after prolonged
strikes.
A 2.3% hike in train fares have also
caused consumers to tighten the purse
strings since the turn of the new year.
Meanwhile, experts suggested punters
should have cashed in on the new year
deals with some predicting the end of
price deflation which has defined the last
three years.
The British Retail Consortium (BRC)
confirmed that overall shop prices
rose by 0.2% between November and
December, and announced that the
annual fall in prices slowed to 1.4%.
The weaker pound has caused an
increase in import costs since Brexit,
and retailers are being forced to up
their prices despite the threat of online
alternatives.
Pressures
Helen Dickenson OBE, chief executive
of the BRC, said: “We’ve said for some
time that we expect to see underlying
inflationary pressures, notably from the
post-referendum fall in the value of the
pound, feed through into shop prices.
“It’s too early to confirm that this is
what we’re seeing in December’s figures:
timings of seasonal discounts can cause
monthly fluctuations at this time of year
and retailers have continued to find ways
to mitigate the impact on consumers.
“However, we expect the general trend
in inflation to be upwards over 2017.
“The magnitude of the exchange rate
movement and commodity price rises,
combined with the increasing costs of
doing business, means that retailers will
have little choice other than to pass on
some of these rising costs into prices, but
effect will be lessened by the intensity of
competition.”

Page 12 | 11-17 January 2017
Wellness Matters
Weight room offers
food for thought
Fun facts from the gym
Those who work out eat more chocolate
Yes, you read that right. According to Market
Research World, those who pump iron at the
gym are 18% more likely to indulge in the
sweet stuff. A top tip is to strike a balance
between empty calories and foods that
compliment your workout.
People don’t visit the gym as much as you
think
We all have that one friend who cannot wait
to clock out so they can get on the weights
every evening – but they are the exception
to the rule. On average people frequent the
gym twice a week, so don’t feel guilty if your
regime is a little more modest.
Memberships spike in the new year
No great secret but did you know that
January memberships make up 12% of all
subscriptions to gym services? The Fitness
Industry Association say that after just 24
weeks most people have quit or stopped
attending, so hang in there.
Workouts are often laced with lies
Such is the stigma surrounding gyms that
people tell fibs about their physical exertions.
More than one in 10 (13%) are believed to lie
about going to the gym on a regular basis.
CITYMATTERS.LONDON
WONDERING HOW BEST TO MOUNT AN ASSAULT ON THE
It’s time you
IT’S that time again; a time when the thought
of following through with your ‘new year, new
me’ resolution seems the least desirable thing
in the world.
Those who planned ahead and have already
signed on the dotted line of a gym membership
form are halfway there already, but many are
still overawed by the prospect of exercise after
an indulgent winter holiday.
Gearing up for a regular programme of
workouts at the gym can be as much of a mental
challenge as it is a physical one, which is why
City Matters is here to highlight some of the
trends that are set to take the fitness world by
storm in 2017.
Who knows, some may just supply the
inspiration needed to conquer the gym this
January.
Dance cardio
Let’s face it, most of us tend to enjoy exercise
more when we don’t consider it to be exercise
at all.
So expect to see an even greater swell of
dance-orientated workout classes springing up
across the City in the coming months.
The glory of busting a move to stay trim is that
dance caters for people of all shapes, sizes and
styles – with learning a new skill a secondary
perk to joining the sessions.
Our City Matters pick and one to watch in
2017 is SwingTrain; in which instructors lead
participants through a series of follow-along
moves inspired by vintage street dances (see
Page 15 for an extended SwingTrain feature).
swingtrain.com
Boxing
Sometimes getting back into the fitness routine
can be an almighty scrap, but it doesn’t have
to be.
Besides from the obvious benefits of increased
stamina, muscle definition and hand-eye
co-ordination, workouts derived from the
fundamentals of boxing can help people feel
more confident in their ability to protect
themselves.
The world can be a scary place at times and
you never know when techniques picked up in
the ring could come in handy. Classes were huge
in 2016, and that trend looks set to continue in
pad’ll do for 2017:
combative approach
2017. However, it’s not just boxing that takes the
limelight at Fight City Gym in Worship Street,
with the facility equally serving fighters of
Muay Thai Kickboxing and Krav Maga, as well
as those looking for a dedicated strength and
conditioning training environment.
The club even runs ‘White Collar Boxing’
events for the extremely dedicated few – let’s get
ready to rumble.
Fight City Gym
15 Worship Street EC2A 2DT
Megaformer (The Lagree Method)
Think extreme Pilates; a Megaformer class will
have your muscles pleading ‘never again’ for the
following 72 hours.
The elaborate contraption was carefully
constructed to precisely enact effective
resistance and range of motion, and the specific
workouts that Sebastien Lagree has designed
adhere to strict tempo and duration standards
to ensure that users reach the proper threshold
of exercise intensity to stimulate the body’s
adaptive changes.
It may sound slightly sadistic but with
celebrities such as Bella Thorne hailing this
latest fad and more A-list names signing up
to the movement, the foundation is there for
Megaformer sessions to gather some serious
momentum.
Studio Lagree
35-37 Chiswell Street EC1Y 4SE
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CITYMATTERS.LONDON 11-17 January 2017 | Page 13
Wellness Matters
GYM NOW THAT CHRISTMAS IS OVER AND JANUARY IS HERE?
worked it out
Technology can be
man’s best friend
MOVE over pooch, its the
digital age and that means
technology is now the human
race’s greatest ally.
Apps like Kayla Itsines’
Sweat With Kayla and Nike
Women’s refreshed NTC
helped shape the landscape
last year, and now that 2017 is
here they are the easiest way
to settle into an ‘anywhere,
anytime’ approach to getting
your sweat on.
Aaptiv and Sworkit are also
ones to keep a look out for on
the App Store, and provide
“on-demand training and
coaching” to your handheld.
Here are some other
favourites to sample.
making a splash:
aqua spin sessions
Map My Fitness
Free; Android, iOS
This clever bit of software
logs in excess of 600
different pieces of data and
is compatible with more
than 400 devices to give
users a complete picture of
performance.
Users can search for nearby
running routes and also share
their favourites. The app
saves data on pace, distance,
and calories burned for
GPS-based workouts, and you
can use this info to set new
goals – helpful for those who
like to track their progress.
Live-stream classes
Get back into the routine from the comfort of your
own home.
Everyone has insecurities, and those who have been
out of the fitness cycle will no doubt be apprehensive
about getting hot and sticky in front of strangers
during those first challenging few weeks back. So why
not dust off the cobwebs behind closed doors?
The trend delivers exactly what it says on the tin,
with dozens of personal training websites streaming
directly to your smart device and delivering ‘face-toface’
advice via the web.
And because the session is ‘live’ there is the
added motivation to not thrown in the towel, as is
all too easy when mimicking a workout from
YouTube.
As the world becomes ever-more reliant on
technology to get us through the day, fitness
enthusiasts can expect major changes to the way they
pump iron in the coming years.
With virtual reality headsets also coming to the
fore things could get more interesting still... the web
is your oyster.
Aqua spinning
Thought that spin sessions couldn’t get much tougher?
Think again.
Getting in the saddle has been a staple of the gym
routine for many years, and its significance has
grown to such an extent that pioneers are taking it to
new extremes.
The market leader in terms of variation from the
original is the aqua spin class, which is pretty self
explanatory; all the exertions of a standard spin class
with added water resistance.
Prepare yourself for a sweat like no other and
expect to lose 800 calories in an hour-long session.
And it should come as no surprise when you consider
that the resistance offered by water is 12 times what
you’ll find on dry land.
Lose weight, shape your whole body, tone your
on the rise: aerial
skills classes
arms and legs, and sculpt your buttocks and core
muscles all without the need for expensive cycling
gear. Where are those goggles?
AquAllure
Crowne Plaza, London Docklands, Royal Victoria
Dock E16 1AL
Aerial skills classes
Not for those without a head for heights, but extremely
popular due to its versatility.
Aerial skills classes involve two lengths of fabric
rigged to the ceiling, and begin with basic holds and
movements until participants are able to wrap and
manoeuvre their way around their draped apparatus
to create whimsical routines full of daring twists and
turns.
It’ll take some practice, with plenty of lumps and
bumps certain to be picked up along the way, but in
time this particular fitness trend promises plenty of
photo-worthy opportunities in 2017.
“Just two minutes away from the underground
station, it is fully equipped with changing rooms,
showers, hairdryers, lockers and everything else
you could wish for in a state of the art gym,” says
the website of Gymbox Farringdon, where Flying
Fantastic classes take place on a regular basis.
“The studio has a ceiling height of just under 4m,
and is perfect for classes such as aerial hoop where
high ceilings are not critical.”
Strength and flexibility as well as body awareness
will help tighten the waistband in the coming months;
certainly one for the ‘outside of the box’ fitness fans.
Gymbox Farringdon
201a Old Street EC1V 9NP
Fitocracy
Free; Android, iOS
Billed as the social network
for fitness fanatics, Fitocracy
allows its users to showcase
their physical exploits,
creating a community that
pushes itself to outdo each
other’s personal bests.
Log points on different
exercise routines, level up and
gain achievements... Oh, and
do some exercise, too.
CARROT Fit
£2.99; iOS
A drill sergeant in your
pocket is what you get when
you download CARROT Fit.
Built around a sevenminute
workout, the app
throws in ‘motivational’
comments to keep you
focussed on the task at
hand because, let’s face it,
sometimes we just need a
push in the right direction.
Have something
to share?
Send your City of London
stories to the news desk via
tom@citymatters.london

Page 14 | 11-17 January 2017
CITYMATTERS.LONDON

CITYMATTERS.LONDON 11-17 January 2017 | Page 15
City Spotlight
Trust steps up to
combat isolation
come rain or shine:
Photos by Mark Wheeler
THE City Bridge Trust
has awarded national
charity Living Streets an
£85,900 grant for a unique
walking project which
aims to help older people
live more active, healthy
and independent lives.
The project, in Enfield
and Redbridge, aims
to improve health and
wellbeing and enhance
independence of older
people at-risk of isolation
through increased
walking.
Julia Crear, regional
director (south) for
Living Streets, explained
that the cash injection
comes at just the right
time.
She said: “Redbridge
is the 11th most inactive
borough in London,
and faces a need to
create opportunities for
its ageing population
to connect with their
community.
“There’s no magic
Weekly dance sessions have got the City moving solution to these health
or social isolation
problems – but walking
is a step in the right
direction.
On track with
musical fitness
DUNCAN BANNATYNE
wanted to try it in health
clubs and Piers Linney
was looking for “the
Zumba of Swing.”
Now, under the
guidance of investor
Deborah Meaden, Swing
Patrol is launching
its joyful cardio
fitness workout called
SwingTrain.
Developed by Scott
Cupit, the award
winning dance teacher
and entrepreneur whose
pitch secured investment
on BBC Dragons’ Den,
SwingTrain is an elating
exercise experience
accompanied by
the vintage vibes of
swing, gospel, rhythm
& blues and jazz – a
marked difference
to the electronica
that accompanies the
majority of cardio
exercise classes.
The Swing Train
total body workouts are
inclusive and suitable for
all levels of fitness and
co-ordination.
Qualified SwingTrain
fitness instructors lead
participants through a
series of follow-along
moves inspired by the
vintage street dances of
Charleston, lindy hop,
and shag.
The full body cardio
workouts exercise legs,
arms and core, as well as
developing coordination
and mental agility
through memorable
routines.
Each SwingTrain
session lasts for an hour,
including warm-up and
warm-down time.
In January 2017, Swing
Train will officially
launch with over 50
instructors holding
classes in London and
around the rest of the
country.
An international
presence is also being
built, initially with
sessions starting in
Berlin, Germany and
Canberra, Australia.
Swing Train creator
Scott said: “As is the
Swing Patrol ethos,
SwingTrain sessions
are designed to foster
friendships as well as
fitness.
“The atmosphere is so
supportive and uplifting
that participants don’t
even realise they’re
burning up to 500
calories an hour
because they’re smiling
so much. The best thing
about SwingTrain is
that it’s accessible to
everyone, no matter
their age, fitness levels
or abilities.
“All that’s required
is a desire for a positive
experience.”
Get yourself in
the swing of it
EVERY week the ballroom of the Bishopsgate Institute opposite
Liverpool Street Station hosts a swing dance class. Similar events in
34 other locations in London attract over 1,500 students.
The word ‘swing’ used to refer to the big band sound of the interwar
years. In recent decades the term has come to embrace a range of
dances, including the 1920s Charleston.
A leading force in the movement is Swing Patrol. Launched by Scott
Cupit, the company started initially in his native Australia, where it
continues under his business partner. In 2014 Scott appeared on TV’s
Dragons’ Den and made a successful pitch to the panel and Deborah
Meaden for investment in UK Swing Patrol.
He’s now preparing to launch Swing Train, a chain of fitness shops
where swing and other types of music will be combined in a ‘joyful
cardio fitness workout’. Like swing itself, Swing Patrol is several things
at once.
Students, mostly in their 20s and 30s, go to classes and learn
dances, including the Lindy Hop, Balboa, Shim Sham Shimmy and the
Collegiate Shag. Among these the Lindy Hop is key. “Lindy Hop is the
mother of all swing dance,” says Scott.
Currently 120 members belong to four headline troupes with
names like ‘Skyliners’ and ‘Dixie Dinahs’. They perform in swing-era
costumes at corporate events and parties, and to fellow students at
performance events. A recent example was Swing Patrol’s ‘Christmas
Extravaganza’ in the plush, starry-ceilinged marquee of the South
Bank Ballroom at Waterloo.
Swing Patrol also has a high profile on Twitter, Facebook and
Instagram. Its 2015 record-breaking mass Charleston at Spitalfields
can be seen on YouTube.
With just three full-time staff, Swing Patrol’s business model
evidently incorporates some fancy footwork too.
Troupe members are usually part-time dancers who perform
in the evening after a range of daytime jobs. However, Robyn from
Melbourne, who teaches two classes and trains the Skyliners, said: “At
the moment I’m working as a temp PA in the NHS to help pay the bills.
But I see myself as a dancer first. There are others like me.”
Last but not least in the Swing Patrol formula is the community side.
Going to a Swing Patrol event is like entering a parallel universe ruled
by joy. “People are almost pathologically friendly!” Rhiannon from
Doncaster joked during the final dance of the Extravaganza.
By tradition journalists are meant to observe and, if things get too
hot, ‘make their excuses and leave’.
But after a while the temptation to put down the notebook and join
in the dancing (badly) with hundreds of others become too much to
resist.
Accessible
“Walking is an easy
and accessible way
for people to fit more
activity into their day,
improving their mental
and physical health
and allowing them to
engage with their local
community.
“However, the
environment in London
often prevents older
people from being active.
“This funding will
allow us to place older
people at the heart of
the project with the aim
of improving levels of
physical activity through
walking, encouraging
them to take an active
role in their community
and improving streets for
walking.”
The trust has awarded
around 7,500 grants
totalling over £350million
since it was established in
1995.
Trust director David
Farnsworth said: “City
Bridge Trust is committed
to supporting Londoners
to make the city a fairer
place to work and live.
“We are pleased to have
helped so many projects
through the fund that are
opening up opportunities
and enhancing lives.”
Something
to share?
Send your City of
London stories to
jo@citymatters.london

Page 16 | 11-17 January 2017
In Profile
CITYMATTERS.LONDON
CAMPAIGN TO BREAK DOWN THE STIGMA SURROUNDING SUICIDE
Fight against silence
IT’S mid-December and around 40 people
are gathered in a no-frills conference centre
tucked behind Westminster Abbey.
A Christmas tree twinkles in the corner
as a microphone is passed around the room.
Everybody has a story to tell – hesitantly at first,
then more animatedly as more get involved. The
subject matter? Suicide.
Michael Mansfield QC presides over all this
with a thoughtful expression, nodding every
now and then but mostly keeping quiet.
Since founding the Silence of Suicide
networking initiative 18 months ago with
partner Yvette Greenway, the high-profile
barrister has barely stopped talking about one of
society’s last great taboo subjects. It’s someone
else’s turn.
Michael’s daughter Anna took her own life
in May 2015. There are few experiences more
devastating than the loss of a child, not least
when the circumstances surrounding the death
were what Michael labels “the elephant” in a
room full of mourners at Anna’s funeral.
Discourse
“I never really realised the stigma surrounding
suicide until that day at the funeral,” he says.
“I’m not afraid to talk about it and when I
got up and acknowledged it, people came up
to me afterwards and said, ‘thank goodness
you said something, we were afraid to mention
it’.”
Michael and Yvette founded Silence of Suicide
(SOS) as a series of free public networking
events aiming to bring people affected by suicide
together to encourage an open discourse and
break down the taboos around mental health
and suicide.
Following the success of the inaugural SOS
event in Leamington Spa soon after Anna’s
death, the pair have travelled all over the
country to facilitate the forums, often with the
support of high-profile speakers like footballer
Clarke Carlisle, who has been open about his
own attempts to take his life.
Sometimes 20 people will turn up, other times
it’s more like 200. But every event functions as
a “safe space”, giving people permission to talk
about this prolific killer – there are more than
6,000 suicides in the UK every year. “Yvette
came up with the name ‘Silence of Suicide’
because of the silence before and after,” Michael
says. “People don’t want you to know they’ve
made the decision to end their life so they’ll
lull you into a false sense of security, pretend
everything is fine.
“Then after they’ve gone through with it,
the people left behind feel like they can’t talk
about it.”
Michael has been open about the shock he
felt upon learning of Anna’s suicide, which he
describes as coming “out of the blue”, not long
after she was diagnosed with depression.
In the weeks before her death the motherof-two
had been given notice of a redundancy
at work, a factor Michael believes contributed to
her decision.
“I think she just wanted to resolve it all,”
he says.
“Stress is what drives people to make these
decisions, stress of redundancy, of not being
enough, and people get to a stage where they feel
they need to end their lives.”
Stress levels in the Square Mile have been
in the spotlight following the Brexit vote, with
determined to make a difference: Yvette
Greenway and Michael Mansfield QC
some mental health experts attributing the
uncertainty surrounding Britain’s decision to
leave the European Union to “a mental health
crisis” in the financial sector.
Research from the Bank Workers Charity
revealed that 65% of employees worked up to
30 hours more per week than contracted; 42%
had trouble relaxing, and 60% admitted to poor
quality of sleep.
In May the former Lord Mayor of the City of
London, Jeffrey Mountevans, launched ‘This is
Me’, a City-wide mental health campaign that
encourages workers who have experienced
a mental health problem to share their story
with colleagues via a video message or chat
room.
Michael believes the campaign shows “an
effort in the right direction”, but remains
convinced that face-to-face contact, rather than
more screen time would be more effective.
“We ran a session at [law firm] Linklaters
as part of their Mental Health Week and we
suggested they just set aside a room with a few
couches and tea and coffee where people are
going to be able to talk and not feel like they
are going to get reported to their boss as a weak
link,” he says.
These ‘safe spaces’ are a vision he and Yvette
have for the national rollout of SOS – a place in
each town and village where people can go to
share their experiences and help others to open
up.
For this, they need funding, and additional
volunteers to help run the centres.
“We’re hoping that through these networking
opportunities people can make connections
and eventually take control and start holding
their own events,” Yvette explains.
Everybody in the room seems to agree that
more needs to be done at government level
to shift the approach towards mental health
from one of “disaster recovery” to being more
proactive and preventative.
Experience
To this end Michael and Yvette met with
Prime Minister Theresa May late last year to
discuss how the government can better provide
services to support people affected by suicide.
She invited them back to advise on the
government’s next Suicide Prevention Strategy,
which is currently in development.
Both believe the government is taking mental
health “seriously”.
“It is clear that the Prime Minister
understands that suicide needs to be higher on
the agenda,” Yvette says.
“We’re taking what we’ve learned, and our
experience and the experiences of others,
and feeding them into what we hope will be a
strategy that makes a real difference.”
At the conclusion of the meeting, people hang
around chatting, exchanging business cards,
refilling their teacups. Nobody seems to want to
leave. Yvette, who flits between groups, comforting
some, laughing with others, isn’t surprised.
“Talking is incredibly therapeutic – it
certainly has been for us, for Michael,” she says.
“We can all manage our situations to a
degree, but if you can just get people together,
get them sharing their experiences, give
people permission to talk about it, they’ll find
a respite.”
For further information about Silence of
Suicide visit www.sossilenceofsuicide.org
Bikeworks
You can bring your bike into our shop to be repaired
We’re open seven days a week so give us a call
Your business
Each year we visit almost 100 companies across London
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