May 2024

ISSN 2059-013X 

Est. 2006 

wnstd.com Issue No: 219 

May 2024 | FREE 

CELEBRATING 

YEARS 

1974 - 2024 

WANSTEAD | CHELMSFORD | SUTTON | SAFFRON WALDEN 

www.thp.co.uk 0800 6520 025 

INSIDE: Skylarks • St Mary’s music festival • Community gardeners’ 21st • No Mow May 

Community groups • Local events • Useful numbers • Directory of local businesses 

Independent directory of businesses, news and events in Wanstead, Snaresbrook and Aldersbrook

2 

Wanstead Village Directory 

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To advertise, call 020 8819 6645 or visit wnstd.com

Contents 

Features 

Park life ......................................................18–19 

Unbroken spirit ...........................................22 

No Mow May ............................................... 26 

Working environment ............................32 

SPPS ...........................................................36–37 

Time for flexitime ......................................40 

Notes of history .........................................46 

History of notes ......................................... 50 

Read all about it ..................................54–55 

Listen and learn ......................................... 58 

Medical emergency ................................ 62 

Reverend reflections ...............................68 

Puzzles & competitions 

Sudoku ............................................................ 28 

Crossword competition .........................42 

Wanstead anagram ................................. 56 

Every month 

Local news ......................................6–10 & 12 

Community events .........73–76, 78 & 80 

Community groups ................................. 82 

Useful numbers .........................................84 

Index of advertisers .................................86 

Contact Us 

020 8819 6645 

Welcome... 

Such a fine sight, to watch a new shoot uncoil, 

Sprouting new life from under the soil. 

A little a day, reaching higher and higher, 

Looking for the sun, a thing of desire. 

Spreading wider, the roots set the pace, 

Both flourish in tandem and always with grace. 

A flower, or two, the bees ready to feed, 

And all this comes from one tiny seed. 

In Wanstead, there are seeds galore, 

Seeds of inspiration, that give so much more. 

We see them across our vibrant community, 

And as they bloom, they create opportunity. 

Opportunity to grow, in all senses of the word, 

Opportunity to progress, and for voices to be heard. 

These seeds of opportunity exist among us all, 

In the minds of those taking action, no matter how small. 

From small seeds of inspiration on show, 

Mighty good initiatives in the town do grow. 

From litter pickers to campaigners, young and old, 

A blossoming community is a sight to behold. 

For in the heart of every seed, 

Lies the potential for a worthy deed. 

Like the community gardeners improving the land, 

With seeds in mind and seeds in hand. 

Unloved patches of Wanstead are in their sights, 

These gardening heroes raise our spirits to new heights, 

With every seed, there comes a plan, 

At the Corner House, that’s where it began. 

And so it grew and so it grows, 

They work so hard, and it clearly shows. 

The seeds we sow today, tomorrow will reap, 

A harvest of joy, for our community to keep. Lee Marquis, Editor 

Calling local residents... 

The Wanstead Village Directory proudly supports local 

businesses and we encourage you to do the same. 

Help us help these businesses by mentioning the 

Wanstead Village Directory when responding to adverts. 

A note to businesses... 

If you are a business based in Wanstead, or if you have a 

presence in the local community, we can help you get your 

message across to our readers. The deadline for inclusion in 

the June 2024 edition is 17 May 2024. 

editor@wnstd.com 

wnstd.com 

wnstd.com/socials 


PO Box 2491, Ilford, IG1 8JT 

The Wanstead Village Directory is 

published monthly with a circulation of 

7,000 copies. Of these, 6,000 are delivered 

for free to homes and businesses across 

Wanstead, Snaresbrook and Aldersbrook. 

The remaining copies are available from 

local shops. Postal subscriptions are 

available from wnstd.com/subscribe 

ISSN 2059-013X 

Published by Marquis IT Ltd. 

Founded in 2006 – and edited until 2010 – by Charlotte 

Thompson and Dean McGlinchey. 

Marquis IT Ltd cannot be held responsible for any errors 

or omissions, or endorse companies, products or services 

that appear in this magazine. The views expressed in 

feature articles are those of the credited authors and do 

not necessarily represent the views of the publisher. 

Printed by Premier Print Group, G02 Lock Studios, 

7 Corsican Square, London, E3 3YD 

©2024 Marquis IT Ltd All rights reserved. No part of this 

publication may be reproduced without prior consent.

4 


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May 2024 

5 

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To book a tour or talk on the early life 

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hitchcocktalksandtours@gmail.com or visit our 

website: hitchcock-talks-and-tours.com 

Please mention the Wanstead Village Directory when responding to adverts

6 


Pub petition: Wanstead will be a poorer 

place if The George closes 

A petition urging 

Wetherspoons not to sell 

The George in Wanstead 

has received widespread 

support. It follows 

confirmation the historic 

venue is on the market. 

“The George is currently 

under offer but will remain 

open and trading as a 

Wetherspoons pub until it 

is sold,” said a spokesperson 

for the pub chain, which 

has run the site since April 

1992. Amidst rumours the 

venue could be turned into a gastropub, many 

signing the petition are fearful of losing an 

affordable community asset. “The George is 

a local landmark, offering excellent food and 

drink at reasonable prices. It offers a haven 

for people through the generations. The fact 

2,500-plus people have signed the petition 

so far shows the sense of feeling in the 

community. Wanstead will be a poorer place if 

The George closes, so I urge Wetherspoons to 

think again about selling,” said Councillor Paul 

Donovan. Visit wnstd.com/savethegeorge 

From Manor Park 

to Hollywood 

Actress Greer Garson 

– who was born 

in Manor Park on 

29 September 1904 – 

will be the subject of 

a Wanstead Historical 

Society presentation 

this month. “She was 

a major star at Metro- 

Goldwyn-Mayer 

during the war, 

famous for playing 

strong female 

characters, including 

Mrs Miniver. She 

starred in over 

30 films,” said a 

spokesperson. The 

talk will take place 

at Wanstead Library 

on 13 May from 8pm 

(visitors: £3). Call 

07949 026 212 

Wanstead 

Festival 2024 

This year’s 

Wanstead Festival 

will take place 

on 15 September. 

Exhibitors, 

performers and 

caterers are invited 

to apply to take 

part in the annual 

community event. 

“This popular event 

attracts thousands 

of people, who come 

together to enjoy 

a fun-filled day on 

Christchurch Green. 

Don’t miss out on this 

great opportunity 

to showcase your 

business,” said a 

spokesperson for 

Vision RCL. Visit 

wnstd.com/festival 



7 

Live animals on display for this year’s 

Wanstead Wildlife Weekend 

An early – and truly spectacular – 

display of bluebells in Wanstead Park 

©Alison Stenhouse 

Live animals will be on show in Wanstead Park 

next month as part of the annual Wanstead 

Wildlife Weekend. “We have booked an 

exciting display from a company with a good 

reputation for animal welfare. They will be 

showing live British wildlife, such as rodents, 

a barn owl, a snake, invasive marsh frogs and 

even a rescue hedgehog,” said a Wren Wildlife 

Group spokesperson. Taking place on 22 and 

23 June, the weekend of free events will also 

include bushcraft workshops, a spider hunt 

and pond dipping. Visit wnstd.com/www24 

Exhibition offers more time to catch 

the beauty of local bluebells 

Wanstead Park’s bluebells were on show 

earlier than usual last month. “The display 

was truly spectacular this year. Bluebells 

countrywide bloomed a week early, which 

was down to a wet and not-too-cold spring. 

Some may also put this down to the effects 

of climate change. Visitors flocked to see the 

iconic flowers in great numbers, and there was 

very little trampling to be seen, so well done 

everyone. The discreet signage has done its 

job advising people to keep to the paths,” said 

Gill James of Friends of Wanstead Parklands. 

Decorating 

spaces 

INTERIOR 

DECORATING 

FURNITURE 

PAINTING 

Art Group Wanstead has opened a bluebellthemed 

exhibition at The Stow Brothers. 

“The early spring made it easy to miss the 

bluebells in Wanstead Park at their peak. But 

you can continue to experience their beauty 

by dropping in to the estate agents to see 

bluebell artworks by our members,” said 

Donna Mizzi. The display at 117A High Street 

Wanstead will be open until mid-June, with art 

also available for sale. Art Group Wanstead is 

open to amateur and professional artists with 

a local connection. Visit wnstd.com/art 

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8 


Pick up a leaflet and find out how to 

welcome wildlife into your garden 

Wanstead High School’s centenary 

ball is open to all 

© Geoff Wilkinson 

Wanstead Climate Action has produced a 

leaflet to give residents ideas on how to 

attract birds, bugs and other creatures into 

their gardens. “Our gardens are increasingly 

important as wildlife havens and corridors, 

or they can be with just a few additions and 

adjustments, for example, being less tidy 

and leaving leaf and log piles around will 

provide food and shelter for beetles,” said a 

spokesperson. The A3 folded leaflets can be 

collected from The Stow Brothers (117A High 

Street), which is sponsoring the initiative. 

Wanstead High School will be holding a ball 

next month to celebrate the school’s 100th 

anniversary. “Everyone is welcome, be they 

current parents, former pupils or members of 

the community who are keen to support the 

school by helping us raise funds,” said a PTA 

spokesperson. The event – which will be held 

in a marquee at Eton Manor RFC on 15 June – 

includes a three-course dinner and will feature 

eighties cover band The Nightshift, fronted 

by two parents from the school (tickets: £60). 

Visit wnstd.com/100ball 



9 

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Hair cuts from £45 

Hair colour from £75 

Win tickets to Wanstead Park’s 

open-air summer shows 

Redbridge Council addresses concerns 

over High Street tree root pruning 

Award-winning open-air theatre company 

Illyria will return to Wanstead Park this 

summer with three family-friendly 

performances. The new season begins 

on 21 July with Gilbert and Sullivan’s The 

Gondoliers, followed by The Hound of the 

Baskervilles on 13 August and Doctor Dolittle 

on 24 August. All shows will take place in the 

park’s Temple enclosure. In May, June and July, 

the Wanstead Village Directory will be offering 

a pair of tickets as the prize for the crossword 

competition. Visit wnstd.com/parkshows 

Redbridge Council has issued a statement 

following concerns over the roots of High 

Street trees being cut. “We carried out planned 

root pruning works to several trees located by 

footpaths that were being resurfaced. Root 

pruning is standard practice to help maintain 

the footpaths in a safe condition… We carry 

out root pruning on a regular basis with 

contractors who are highly experienced in 

this kind of work. This important maintenance 

ensures our trees can continue to flourish 

while pavements remain safe for pedestrians.” 


10 


Sycamore sorrow: Nightingale Green 

tree felled by high winds 

Protecting our swans: volunteer 

offers crucial tips for breeding season 

© Geoff Wilkinson 

A large Sycamore tree on the edge of 

Nightingale Green was blown down by high 

winds last month. Local photographer Geoff 

Wilkinson, whose Gallery 84 overlooks the 

site, said: “Nightingale Green is probably the 

least known of the Wanstead greens, but for 

us it is a pleasure to look out on every day. The 

trees that line the Nightingale Lane edge of 

the green, whatever the season, are always a 

pleasure to see, so the loss is a blow. I’m sure it 

will regrow or be replaced, but only time will 

bring it back to its former stature and glory.” 

With swan breeding season underway, a local 

swan rescue volunteer has offered guidance to 

help protect the birds. “Never throw food onto 

a nest; the females will not eat often during 

the incubation period and it will just attract 

predators. Keep dogs under control; there is 

no way of knowing how your dog will react to 

a bird with a two-metre wingspan protecting 

its nest! And never share specific locations of 

nests online; there are folks who will target 

these for wildlife crime,” said Louisa Green. To 

report an injured swan, call 07970 404 866 

Gift vouchers 

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• / Please / mention the Wanstead Village Directory when responding to adverts

12 


Free activities in Wanstead as part of 

Mental Health Awareness Week 

Community gardeners take over 

empty plot on Lakehouse Estate 

To mark Mental Health Awareness Week 

(13 to 19 May), Vision RCL will be delivering 

a timetable of free events in Wanstead and 

across Redbridge. The local activities on 

offer include Pilates and Zumba at Wanstead 

Leisure Centre and a watercolour painting 

taster session at Wanstead Library. “We 

recognise the importance of developing 

and maintaining positive mental health, and 

are committed to providing services which 

can positively impact wellbeing,” said a 

spokesperson. Visit wnstd.com/visionevents 

A formerly empty garden plot at the junction 

of Blake Hall Road and Blake Hall Crescent has 

been taken over by a group of community 

gardeners. “After much negotiation and 

paperwork, the plot was handed over to us by 

Simon Stodel, Neighbourhood Engagement 

and Education Officer at Redbridge Council. 

On 20 April, 13 volunteers met at the site. We 

prepared the area, sowed wild flower seeds 

provided by the council and planted a variety 

of plants,” said Rosemarie Coffey from the 

Lakehouse Estate and AHS Gardeners. 

JOB VACANCY FOR 

COMPANION & DRIVER 

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• Gentleman is charming and quite 

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• References and DBS check needed 

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Please contact Jean for more details: bjrum1@icloud.com 



13 


14 


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A family run business and one that prides itself on quality, honest 

and affordable services to our clients. 

• House re-wire 

• Installation of new circuits 

• Internal and external lighting 

• Consumer unit replacement 

• Lighting installation 

• Testing and inspection 

Call 07836 769 209 or 020 8556 5253 

• Fault finding and correction 

• Temporary power supply 

• Generator installations 

• Installing external power 

• All types of commercial work 

• Industrial work 

swradleyelectrical.com 

swradley@hotmail.co.uk 

Join us us for Care Home Open Week 

Monday 24th 24th June June 

Meet Meet the the team team and and tour tour the the 

home home at at our our Cheese Cheese and and Wine Wine 

evening. evening. 

Tuesday 25th 25th June June 

Craft Craft Fair Fair with with local local stalls stalls and and 

sellers sellers 

6.30PM 

3-6PM 

Wednesday 26th 26th June June 

Gentle exercise class with Activelee, 

Gentle exercise class with Activelee, 11AM 

come come and and join join us us for for a free free lunch lunch 

afterwards 

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63 

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London 

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Friday 28th 28th June June 

Join 

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us 

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for 

for 

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an 

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Wimbledon themed party with live 4-6PM 

Wimbledon themed party with live 

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and 

and 

afternoon 

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tea 

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To To book your your place, or or to to find find out out more information, 

e-mail or or call call the the team on on 0203871 6070 



 

15 

 

Join our 

extended family 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


16 


FINCH Contracts 

A Wanstead based building company, 

established since 2007. 

A small but friendly team with over 

38 years of experience in the building sector, and 

having lived in Wanstead all my life, we bring good 

knowledge of the houses in this area. 

• Extensions 

• Conversions 

• Kitchens 

• Bathrooms 

• Total Refurbishments 

Tel: 020 8281 1009 

Mobile: 07976 572 692 

www.finchcontracts.com 

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info@compassionatefunerals.co.uk 

www.compassionatefunerals.co.uk 



17 

GROSVENOR RD, E11 

Ceiling panels to match the existing 

ceiling to a neighbour’s property 

BELGRAVE RD, E11 

Large cove cornice to 

match to existing profile 

DOVER RD, E12 

Entrance hall block cornice to 

match to the existing design 

Traditional Craftsmen in high quality interior decorative and architectural 

fibrous plasterwork with an extensive catalogue of period mouldings 

Specialist works include a fully bespoke service for modern solutions; 

exterior render mouldings as well as stucco finishes. 

Please call 01708 252400 or email info@hpslondon.co.uk 

for a free estimate, survey or advice. 

heritageplasterservices.co.uk 


18 


Park 

Life 

I 

enjoy roaming Wanstead Flats, looking 

for birds to photograph at different 

times of the year. During the wet and 

windy conditions in April, there seemed 

to be a scarcity of birds, but when I visited 

recently, there was a lot more activity 

with many birds looking their best in 

their breeding plumage and singing 

loudly to attract a mate. Most noticeable 

were the Skylarks with their beautiful 

warbling song. 

Skylarks can be seen hopping in the meadow 

grass, sometimes perching on a log to sing, 

and at other times rising up into the sky. They 

sing loudly as they go higher and higher until 

they are just a dot in the distance, hover for a 

while and then plummet back to earth again. 

It is thought that singing at a great height 

helps to spread the sound further to attract 

any local female Skylarks. 

Wanstead Flats is the nearest Skylark breeding 

site to central London, and as Skylark numbers 

have been declining in recent times, a plan 

to help them survive in this location was put 

in place by cordoning off two areas during 

the breeding season. Skylarks are ground 

nesters, so their nests are very prone 

to disturbance by footfall, dogs off 

the lead and predation by foxes and 

rats. The plan to protect them seems to have 

paid off, with a small yearly increase in their 

numbers (at least four birds fledged the nest 

last year). 

To photograph them, it is best to locate the 

source of the singing, and once a bird is 

spotted on the ground, follow it as it hops 

about. If you are lucky, it will perch on a log 

or post and present a clear view. However, 

to get a picture of one as it soars into the sky 

is challenging to say the least! Lying flat on 

my back in the grass seemed to be the best 

position, ignoring any curious glances from 

passers-by! 

Although some walkers have 

expressed their resentment at 

the temporary barriers, 

most people view it 

as a very small 

price to pay 

for more 

views and 

sounds 

of these 

beautiful, 

iconic birds. 

To view more of Diane’s wildlife photos, 

visit wnstd.com/dalli 



19 

In the 11th of a series 

of articles featuring the 

images of local photographers 

who document the wildlife of 

Wanstead Park and the surrounding 

area, Diane Dalli presents her shot of 

a Skylark on Wanstead Flats 


20 


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22 


When Wanstead resident Paul Canal found himself as runner-up in a 

street fight with a Range Rover, his spirits – unlike his leg – were not 

broken, thanks to the kindness of locals 

Imagine this: no one expects the Spanish 

Inquisition, right? But even less expected 

is being rugby-tackled by a Range 

Rover right outside the Wanstead Co-op 

on a dreary December night. That was 

my unexpected twist on 8 December. The 

shock soon gave way to a world of pain 

as I found myself doing an impromptu 

somersault down Grove Park, my attempts 

at creative swearing hardly doing justice 

to the situation. Picture an 18-stone human 

pinball versus a 2.5-tonne metal giant 

from Solihull. 

As I hit the deck, my brain went into overdrive, 

juggling tasks like a circus act – trying to break 

my fall, checking for any spinal injury issues, 

and somehow keeping a death grip on my 

groceries. As I skidded to a stop, dreams of 

playing for the Eton Manor 1st XV were put 

on hold and I realised I was in a bit of a pickle, 

stranded like a beached whale in the middle 

of the road. 

But then, my personal cavalry arrived in the 

form of local heroes Carrie Hards and Christine 

Twomey, along with a few other Wanstead 

warriors. 

Quick checks ensured my brain was still in the 

game (insert obligatory “not much to damage” 

joke here) and that I wasn’t about to repaint 

the road red. The diagnosis? A fashion crisis 

in the form of a ruffled jacket and possibly a 

busted leg. 

Thanks to a traffic snafu on the A406, my new 

chill-out spot became the tarmac, which, 

spoiler alert, is surprisingly unwelcoming. 

Despite some locals’ desperate pleas for me 

to relocate before their curry went cold, the 

Wanstead Safer Neighbourhoods Team (SNT) 

stood guard like modern-day knights, 

ensuring I wasn’t moved until help arrived. 

Their dedication warmed me more than the 

space-age blanket they wrapped me in. 

The night’s silver lining? A ride in a police van 

(because who needs ambulances?) got me VIP 

treatment at the hospital – apparently, arriving 

in handcuff-style is the fast pass there. The 

King George squad were rock stars, confirming 

my leg’s new status as ‘officially broken’ but 

keeping the spirits high and the pain low. 

Five months on, I’m back on both feet with 

a heart full of gratitude for every act of 

kindness – from those first on the scene to 

the driver, who turned out to be a decent 

guy. A huge shoutout to resident angels 

Carrie and Christine, to the many passers-by 

who stopped and helped, the Wanstead SNT, 

heroes without capes, and the Eton Manor 

crew who helped me move house as I looked 

on immobile. 

Above all, thanks to my wife, Karen, the true 

hero of this saga. If you see her, treat her to an 

iced coffee; she’s earned it. 

Paul Canal is a Wanstead resident and 

Conservative councillor for Bridge ward. 



23 

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24 


Selecting an independent school can be a 

daunting task given the many options 

available, ranging from preparatory to 

secondary and 'all through' schools. 

At Loyola, we strongly advocate the benefits 

of remaining in a preparatory school for the 

duration of their primary education, as it 

provides an excellent foundation for a 

successful future. 

To gain insight into education at Loyola , we 

had the pleasure of asking James, a Year 6 

pupil who has attended Loyola from the age 

of three, just like his brother. 

Q Firstly, congratulations on your multiple 11+ offers and scholarships from several 

top independent schools and securing a place at a leading Grammar School. How 

were you prepared by the school for the various styles of 11+ entry exams? 

A That is a difficult question; as the school prepares you through your whole time 

here. But once you have decided which schools you are applying for, you are set 

appropriate past papers for those schools, covering Maths, English, Verbal and Non- 

Verbal reasoning. You are also taught various styles of writing, such as a persuasive 

argument and creative writing so you are fully prepared for the exams. We also used 

Atom Learning for those schools that used computer-based exams for their entrance 

process. Additionally, we did interview practice, puzzle/problem solving and team 

skills to help with our preparation. 



25 

Q Aside from your fantastic 11+ results, what have been 

some of your proudest achievements during your time at 

Loyola? 

A In 2023 my class entered the UK Independent Schools 

Mathematician of the Year competition, in which I came 18th 

in the country. In my last year I was also appointed as a 

Senior Prefect and Captain of Rugby and Swimming. 

Q What extra-curricular activities have you taken part in and 

which are your favorite? 

A My favorite extra-curricular activity is Rugby and I have enjoyed competing against 

other schools. I have also played some cricket and football and with two of my friends, 

we organised a fund-raising hockey match for Haven House. As a member of the Choir, 

we sang at the Royal Albert Hall. I have also been a member of the Lego, Chess and 

Sketch club. I also had a go at learning to play the piano. 

During the holidays, I have been to Ollie’s Soccer Club at school and Ms Coupland’s Get 

Creative Club. Now the 11+ has finished, we have trampolining, badminton, sailing as 

well as Activity Week, which is really soon. I am excited about the next residential to 

Wales and also as a class to perform the ‘X-Factory Play’ later this term. 

Q What have you enjoyed the most during your time at Loyola Prep School? 

A It has been an enjoyable time at Loyola, but one highlight among many, was the 

residential activity week in year 5, as it was good to get away with my friends and have 

fun after COVID. 

Q What are your future aspirations? 

A My future aspiration is to become a Maths teacher. 

Q What advice would you offer to any new pupil 

starting at Loyola? 

A Embrace the opportunities and never give up. 

Q Lastly, if you were to sum up your experience at 

Loyola in one sentence, what would it be? 

A Fun, enjoyable and full of good memories. 

LOYOLA PREPARATORY SCHOOL 

103 Palmerston Road, Buckhurst Hill, IG9 5NH ~ 020 8504 7372 

BOOK YOUR TOUR TODAY 


26 


no mow may 

With winter behind us, many will be tempted to mow, strim, cut back 

and tidy their gardens. But Wanstead resident Karen Myers explains why 

you should resist and join in with No Mow May 

A 

recent survey by the charity 

Buglife found the UK’s flying insect 

population has declined by as 

much as 60% in the last 20 years, and 

scientists have confirmed land-dwelling 

insect populations continue to collapse 

by around 9% every decade. This freefall 

in the mainstay of our ecosystem is due 

to a variety of reasons, including climate 

change, intensive farming methods, 

pesticide use in parks, on kerbsides and 

in private gardens, habitat loss and a new 

trend to carpet gardens in plastic grass. 

So, what can we do to reverse this worrying 

decline and, in some cases, the complete 

extinction of our beautiful buzzing friends? 

The answer is, plenty! If you have some 

outside space, a balcony or even a window 

ledge for flowers, you can make a real 

difference. Studies tell us that short, clipped 

and mown monoculture lawns, which have 

been popular for so long, are actually a barren 

wasteland for insects. By allowing some areas 

of your grass to grow longer, you will be 

providing shelter and important early food 

sources for a variety of pollinators. Perhaps 

also consider making part of your lawn into an 

area for wild flowers. This will reward you with 

a stunning show of colour, as well as attracting 

a wide range of insects. It is about this time 

that bees and other pollinators emerge from 

a long winter of hibernation, and they are 

absolutely starving – areas of grass left to 

grow give opportunities for daisies, clover and 

dandelions, which are not only beautiful but 

also provide sustenance for insects. 

Have you noticed, in a tucked away area 

on the eastbound platform at Snaresbrook 

Station, a pile of logs for a beetle shelter? 

Amongst many other benefits for nature, this 

small act of human kindness has encouraged 

a pair of beautiful Chaffinches to regularly 

visit the platform. Replicated across Wanstead 

gardens, this simple deed could provide the 

easy win of a plentiful food source for birds. 

Hedgehogs occasionally slumber through 

summer days in long grass, so you could 

also be providing a safe haven for some of 

Wanstead’s few precious colonies of hogs. Do 

always take care to check first when strimming 

or mowing as hedgehogs do not run away 

when they sense danger, they just curl up. 

If you do decide to help the bees, butterflies 

and other insects this May (and hopefully in 

June onwards), please steer clear of using 

pesticides and choose plants for your beds or 

balconies that are pollinator-friendly, such as 

Dog Rose (Rosa canina), Meadow Cranesbill 

(Geranium pratense) and English Lavender 

(Lavendula angustifolia). 

If we all pulled together, Wanstead gardens 

could provide a vital safe haven for our local 

insect population and wildlife in general. We 

just need to relax a little and share our space 

with nature. Happy gardening everyone! 

For more information on No Mow May, 

visit wnstd.com/nomow 



27 

Get closer to the moments 

that matter 

BOOK YOUR 

FREE 

HEARING 

HEALTH CHECK 

TODAY 

Expert eye and ear care for the 

whole family. 

At Bayfields, we prioritise your quality of 

life. That’s why our comprehensive exams 

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your lifestyle. 

Embark on a journey to better eye and 

ear health, Book your appointment at our 

South Woodford Practice today. 

Call 020 8989 1996 or book online at 

BayfieldsOpticians.com 


28 


Garden Design, 

Construction 

& Maintenance 

For a Garden to suit your needs 

• For gardens large or small • Friendly, reliable service 

• Free initial consultation 

Contact Tony Sephton B.Eng 

Tel: 020 8521 4225 Mob: 07940 715 221 

Email: tonysephton66@gmail.com 

29, Melville Road, Walthamstow E17 6QS 

Creative 

Giftware 

A family business based in Wanstead, specialising in 

embroidered homeware and gifts for all occasions 

Call: 0208 530 1244 

84 Nightingale Lane, Wanstead, E11 2EZ 

Sudoku 

Fill in the grid so that each 

row, column and 3x3 box 

contains the digits 1 through 

to 9 with no repetition. 

3 1 2 4 

6 8 

1 2 

1 2 4 9 

9 6 

3 5 6 

6 8 5 4 

4 6 3 7 

9 

Solution on page 42 

Anagram: The George 



29 

Aesthetic doctor 

specialising in 

natural-looking 

results 

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TREATMENTS 

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REJUVENATION 

DERMAL FILLERS 

PROFHILO 

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AND SKIN CARE 

BASED IN BAAN SPA, SOUTH WOODFORD 

107 George Lane, E18 1AN 

Dr Sabba: 020 3633 4908 

@drsabba 

DR SABBA 


30 


MG Décor 

Your local painting & decorating company 

For all your interior decorating and exterior 

painting requirements 

Fully insured 

OAPs Special rates 

Free estimates 

Call: 0208 530 3992 or 07899 005002 

Email: mgdecor1@icloud.com 

John Cryer MP 

working hard for Leyton & Wanstead 

6 Gainsborough Road, Leytonstone, E11 1HT | Tel: 020 8989 5249 

john.cryer.mp@parliament.uk | johncryermp.co.uk | @JohnCryerMP 

John 

How to 

Advice surgeries: 

I am now holding face-to-face surgeries 

again as well as also still holding them 

by telephone, coffee mornings and street 

surgeries. It is important that I am accessible 

to residents. You can also still call, email and 

write to me at the above contact addresses. 

Newsletter: If you want to receive an email 

update from me about what has been going 

on locally and in Parliament, email me with 

your name and address and the subject: 

OPT IN NEWSLETTER 

Much of the casework 

I receive is time 

sensitive, and often 

my team find they can deal with it without 

the need for you or them to wait for an 

in person appointment. So please get in 

contact by email, letter or phone with any 

issue you have and we can work out the 

best way we can help you.Please have any 

relevant information about your case including 

reference numbers to hand. 

My team and I will do our very best to help. 

Email: jo 

www.joh 

Coronavirus continues to be a chall 

us at work, our businesses, schools, 

Information and my service to you 

ment of Health and Public Health E 

ance), travel advice and statistics on 

many such as over 70s and vulnerab 

To make an appointment to speak to me please call 020 8989 5249 or email me 

at john.cryer.mp@parliament.uk. My team and I will do our very best to help. 

This information can be found here: 

Because of the Covid-19 pandemic I 

To advertise, call 020 8819 6645 or visit wnstd.com 

I am accessible to residents. You can


31 

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32 


WORKING ENVIRONMENT 

Councillor Jo Blackman, Cabinet Member for Environment and 

Sustainability, shares her journey of reconnecting with nature through 

local volunteer conservation work 

The state of the world, degradation 

of the environment and climate 

doom can leave us feeling anxious 

and frustrated. Our busy lives and overexposure 

to the digital world can also 

take its toll on our stress levels and 

mental health. But it is well documented 

that connecting to the environment can 

decrease stress and improve your mental 

health. Being in nature brings benefits, as 

does the physical exercise of the activity we 

undertake there. 

Whilst I spend a lot of time working on 

environmental policy as cabinet member 

for the environment on Redbridge Council, 

and through my work with environmental 

charities, too little of my time is spent actually 

in the environment. So, I recently dedicated 

two days to help two charities with local 

conservation work. 

I spent a day in waders with the river charity 

Thames21, an organisation helping to bring 

stakeholders together to look after our 

rivers. We helped enhance the habitat in the 

River Roding adjacent to Wanstead Park by 

installing deflectors, which are basically logs 

secured to the riverbed, providing a home 

for wildlife and slowing the flow of the river. 

I spent another day on dry land helping the 

Epping Forest Heritage Trust (where I am a 

trustee) conserve the acid grasslands – which 

also provide a vital habitat for nature – by 

removing saplings and clearing bramble. 

On both days we were joined by volunteers, 

some local and some from further afield, a 

mix of ages, backgrounds and professions. 

All shared the common desire to get out 

from behind their desks and do something 

to help the environment. Very few of us had 

any previous conservation experience and 

both charities provided all the equipment 

and advice needed. Whilst the work would 

have been very slow going individually, as a 

group, we made good progress. After several 

hours, we were able to look proudly at the 

contribution we had made to conserving 

these important spaces. It gave me fresh 

insights into the challenges facing nature in 

our urban environment – including climate 

change, litter, invasive species and pollution. 

And it renewed my resolve to do all I can in my 

work as a councillor, as well as with charities, 

to preserve and enhance our environment. 

Many companies allow staff to spend one or 

two days a year volunteering, though many 

people don’t take advantage of this. There are 

also opportunities to volunteer with Vision in 

the Roding Valley and other Redbridge parks 

as part of their conservation work. And for 

those who can’t devote a whole day, there are 

plenty of opportunities locally to spend an 

hour or two helping out – with our amazing 

community gardeners or litter pickers. 

Jo Blackman is Labour councillor for 

Wanstead Village ward. 

For more information on conservation 

volunteering, visit wnstd.com/cv 



33 

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wanstead@martinco.com 


34 


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35 

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September 2024 Fees from £3,800 per term / £11,400 annual 

admissions@ahsprep.co.uk / 020 8504 1749 

490-492 High Road, Woodford Green, IG8 0PN 

www.avonhouseschool.co.uk 


36 


In April 2003, the power of ‘feduppery’ 

kicked in big time when I was walking 

past the Corner House Garden, a sorry 

sight indeed! Waist-high in weeds and 

full of takeaway food rubbish and pigeon 

spikes that had descended from on high. 

What a sight! What did the hundreds of 

people who walked past it every day think 

about it? Something had to be done. 

With the encouragement of the Wanstead 

Society and agreement of the council, a small 

group of us got going to turn this sad patch of 

soil into the cottage garden that has graced 

our High Street for the last two decades. 

Weeds and rubbish out, compost and leaf 

mould from our own gardens added and 

joined by plants from our gardens and those 

of passers-by. Hey presto! In its first summer, it 

was a great improvement and by the second 

year (pictured here) it was a total delight. 

The hollyhocks had always been there 

but they were joined by seven-foot 

high mulleins, a British native, achillia, 

crocosmia, anthemis, poppies… the 

list is endless. We used wild flowers 

and cottage garden plants that would 

need little maintenance and wouldn’t 

be fast food for the slugs. 

An old-fashioned garden is a constantly 

changing procession of flowers, each 

flowering in its season. There’s always 

something new to see. This iconic garden has 

been a favourite with Wansteadians ever since 

its inception. I loved it when an elderly lady 

told me: “I haven’t seen that flower since I was 

a kid. It was in my nan’s garden.” Yes! We’ve 

arrived. That’s what we wanted. A cottage 

garden in the middle of a London high street. 

Not bad! 

That was the beginning of the story and it 

was a long time ago. We still carry on in an 

effectively ramshackle way, but we are a bit 

more official now, meaning we are a small 

charity, have insurance, a bank account, 

have done our first-aid courses etc. However, 

our propensity for land grabbery proved 

insatiable. Our real estate portfolio is bulging. 

We maintain over 40 patches of former SPPS 

(Sad Patches of Public Soil) from near to the 

Green Man roundabout in Leytonstone down 

to Snaresbrook. Our patches range 

from modest tree pits to perennial 

borders and full-sized gardens. We have 

a Gravel Garden where the drug dealers 

used to do their stuff. They disappeared. A 

traffic roundabout has been turned into the 

quirkiest garden patch ever with a “Back in 

10 minutes” sign and the present jewel in the 

crown is a wall garden. I don’t mean a garden 

surrounded by a wall. I mean a garden on top 

of a wall. Basically, no sad patch of unloved 

earth is safe from our depredations. 



37 

SPPS 

It’s been 21 years since Marian Temple first 

put a garden fork into what she calls an 

SPPS (Sad Patch of Public Soil). Out of that 

small action grew the dedicated Wanstead 

Community Gardeners, who invite you to 

celebrate with them this month 

We’ve had 21 years of this. Time to celebrate. 

On Sunday 19 May, we will be in the back 

garden of the Corner House for tea and 

cakery. With photos of our years of activity, 

we’d be delighted to see and chat with you. 

Please join us and celebrate 21 years of street 

gardening in Wanstead. 

The Wanstead Community Gardeners 

will be holding a celebration with 

refreshments and displays in the back 

garden of the Corner House (opposite 

the Co-op) on 19 May from 2pm. For more 

information, visit wnstd.com/wcg 


38 


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39 

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40 


Time for flexitime 

Jo Cullen from local solicitors Edwards Duthie Shamash takes a look at 

the improvements to employee rights following last month’s changes 

to the flexible working request regime 

Flexible working is a way of working 

that suits an employee’s needs, for 

example, having flexible start and 

finish times, or working from home. All 

employees have the legal right to request 

flexible working. On 6 April 2024, changes 

to the new flexible working request regime 

came into force. The headline changes 

include: 

• An employee can request flexible working 

from their first day of employment; there is 

no qualification period. 

• When making a request, an employee no 

longer has to explain what effect, if any, 

they think their requested change will have 

on their employer and how any such effect 

might be dealt with. 

• An employee is entitled to make two 

requests in any 12-month period. 

• An employer will not be permitted to refuse 

a request unless the employee has been 

consulted. 

• The time for an employer to make a 

decision is reduced from three to two 

months. 

The new rules are very much to the benefit 

of the employee, giving them the ability 

to request flexibility from their first day of 

employment. There has been much debate 

about this Day One right and the impact the 

change may have on employers. However, 

flexible working is increasingly a topic for 

discussion during the recruitment process, 

and the impact may not be as great as 

initially expected with prospective employees 

looking to agree varied terms before starting 

employment. 

Whilst an employee has the right to request 

flexible working, an employer does not have 

to agree to the request if it is not feasible and 

the rejection reasoning falls within one of the 

business reasons that continue to apply as set 

out in the legislation. 

Employers will have to deal promptly with 

requests within the new set time limits, 

although there is still scope to extend this 

time by agreement. Any request must be fully 

considered and discussed. Where a request is 

not to be agreed, a full consultation must take 

place and all steps taken clearly documented, 

including details around variations to the 

proposed changes or alternative roles to 

reduce the risk of an appeal and, ultimately, a 

claim being issued. 

Employers will need to be ready to implement 

these changes and ensure they are familiar 

with the new rules and the updated Acas 

statutory code of practice on requests for 

flexible working. 

Edwards Duthie Shamash is located at 

149 High Street, Wanstead, E11 2RL. For 

more information, call 020 8514 9000 or 

visit edwardsduthieshamash.co.uk 



41 

Edwards Duthie Shamash 

Solicitors 

Sports 

and Leisure 

Injury Claims 

We have expertise in handling sports and leisure injury claims. 

When playing sports or performing leisure pursuits, there is 

always some element of risk but you may still be able to claim 

compensation when your injury is somebody else’s fault. 

Our solicitors will handle your claim on a No Win, No Fee basis and 

deal with matters in a compassionate and professional manner. 

Email: bradley.wright@edslaw.co.uk 

Scan the QR code to visit our website 

Call us on: 0208 514 9000 

allinfo@edslaw.co.uk | www.edslaw.co.uk | 

Wanstead | Waterloo | Stratford | Ilford 


42 


Crossword competition 

Win two tickets to an outdoor theatre show in Wanstead Park 


Across 

1. Electrical units (4) 

5. Douse, spray (6) 

8. Wide smile (4) 

9. Party game (8) 

10. Not hurt (8) 

11. Valueless (4) 

12. Chef’s garment (5) 

14. Fall asleep (3,3) 

16. Minor quarrel (4) 

18. Stimulating (8) 

20. Appeased (8) 

21. Three squared (4) 

22. Hay fever cause (6) 

Down 

2. Actress Hart (7) 

3. Mr Claus (5) 

4. Villain actor Alan (7) 

5. Regular payment 

instruction (8,5) 

6. Educated (7) 

7. Metal alloy (5) 

13. Court do-over (7) 

15. Supply capital (7) 

17. Keyboard 

instrument (5) 

19. Type of boom (5) 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

8 9 

10 11 

12 13 14 15 

16 17 18 19 

20 21 

22 

For the chance to win two tickets to 

The Gondoliers in Wanstead Park on 21 July, 

courtesy of Illyria, send your crossword 

solution, name and address to: 


PO BOX 2491, Ilford, IG1 8JT 

Alternatively, email your entry (subject line: 

May 2024) to: crossword@wnstd.com 

Closing date: 22 May 2024 

One winner will be selected at random from all correct entries received before 5pm on 22 May 2024. 

The winner will receive their prize within 28 days of the closing date. Full T&Cs at wnstd.com/tc 

Congratulations to Syd Redington of Cambridge Road, 

Wanstead, who won a pair of Wanstead Park bluebell 

mugs in last issue’s crossword competition. 

April Crossword Solution 

C A N V A S T H O N G S 

R I U W S A 

S O I L B R O C C O L I 

M L M A L 

B A N A N A T R A 

G R H N 

R O S E I C E B T 

C N S R 

P H R A S E A N O R A K 

O P U T L 

P O K E R H A I L 

L I U E 

C O V E R T S A L I N E 

May Sudoku Solution 

8 3 1 7 9 2 6 5 4 

2 6 4 5 8 3 1 9 7 

9 5 7 4 1 6 8 2 3 

6 1 2 3 4 7 5 8 9 

4 8 9 2 5 1 7 3 6 

3 7 5 9 6 8 4 1 2 

7 9 6 8 3 5 2 4 1 

1 4 8 6 2 9 3 7 5 

5 2 3 1 7 4 9 6 8 



43 

Are you considering a move 

but not sure where to start? 

Petty Son & Prestwich can help! 

Are you planning to downsize or move out of the area? 

Our relocation team can help you find your next home. 

Watch our video guide to moving at pettyson.co.uk 

11 Woodbine Place, Wanstead, London E11 2RH 

T: 020 8989 2091 E: enquiries@pettyson.co.uk W: pettyson.co.uk 


Save the date 

FREE ENTRY 

WANSTEAD 

FESTIVAL

A family frie 

honouring our lo 

face paintin 

Saturda 

Wanstead L 

Further info 

Sunday 15 September 2024 

Christchurch Green, Wanstead 

If you are a local business and want 

to take part in this festival, there are 

sponsorship packages available. 

If you are interested in exhibiting or 

the sponsorship packages, contact 

Redbridge-Events@visionrcl.org.uk 

vrcl.uk/wansteadfestival

46 


NOTES OF HISTORY 

Parish organists of the past will be celebrated this month as the May 

Music Festival returns to St Mary’s Church. Plus, there’ll be a variety of 

performers, all with a local connection, says festival director Alison Wells 

Following the inaugural festival last 

year, we are very pleased to present 

this year’s event, which has a feast 

of music and performers, all with a local 

connection. 

As you’ll see on the poster, we start with a 

saxophone quintet led by Melanie Henry, an 

Aldersbrook resident whom I first encountered 

when we were both professors at Trinity Laban 

Conservatoire. Melanie is bringing a quartet 

of brilliant young players from Trinity Laban, 

including another Aldersbrook resident, and 

they promise a highly entertaining evening 

of a wide range of music with Melanie herself 

playing and compering. 

The organ day, which proved very popular last 

year, will feature a talk about organists past 

and present of the Parish of Wanstead. There 

have been a few well-known composers, for 

example, Healey Willan (1880–1968), who was 

Director of Music from 1900 until 1903 and 

who later emigrated to Canada in 1911. He was 

an expert on plainsong and we are aiming to 

have a few of his organ pieces played in the 

concert. 

Also well known was Montagu Phillips (1885– 

1969), who succeeded Healey Willan, although 

he was better known for his popular songs 

rather than his organ works. However, we’re 

hoping to include some of his compositions. 

Parishioner Davis Watson has also been 

digging around in the archives to find out 

more about the previous Directors of Music 

and has found interesting characters there, 

including some ancestors of present-day 

parishioners. Davis and Michael Tivey, one 

of our team of organists, will be giving a 

talk about them – and they promise a few 

organist-related jokes! This will be followed 

Healey Willan 

by a recital of organ music by members of the 

parish team and other local organists or those 

connected with the parish. 

And the Bank Holiday Monday will see the 

extraordinary spectacle of All Rest, a sitespecific 

composition by local composer 

Simone Spagnolo, setting words by the 

writer Serena Braida. The audience will join a 

chorus of ghosts as they take you around the 

churchyard to meet some of its inhabitants. 

Featuring six solo singers and instruments, 

this is a world premiere coming to Wanstead. 

Be sure not to miss it. 

Tickets for all events are available from 

Wansteadium using the QR code on the 

poster and there will also be tickets available 

on the door. Please note, tickets for All Rest 

will be limited to 40, so book up early for that 

one. Why not buy a season ticket for all three 

events and save a little on the price? We’re 

really looking forward to welcoming you all to 

our beautiful church of St Mary’s. 

For more information and to book tickets, 

visit wnstd.com/may24 



47 

May 

ST MARY’S 

PRESENTS 

F estival 

Music 

SATURDAY 25TH MAY 

7.30pm 

Adults £15 

U16s £10 

SUNDAY 26TH MAY 

4.00pm 

Free Admission 

Donations welcome 

MONDAY 27TH MAY 

6.00pm 

Adults £15 

U16s £10 

Sax Collective 

Local saxophonist, Melanie Henry and the Opus Sax quartet, present a 

programme of trios, quartets and quintets written, or transcribed, for the 

saxophone. With influences of Baroque, Medieval, folk and jazz and featuring 

composers such as Felix Mendelssohn, Percy Grainger, Mick Foster, George 

Gershwin, Gordon Goodwin and Althea Talbot Howard, expect an evening of 

entertaining listening and conversation, exploring the rich and varied sound 

world of the saxophone. 

Celebrating St Mary’s organ and the organists of the Parish, 

past and present 

The afternoon will begin with a talk about the Parish of Wanstead organists 

of the past - some famous, some with “interesting” lives, one buried in the 

church yard at St Mary’s and two who are relatives of current choir members 

This will be followed by tea and cakes and then there will be a recital by 

organists of Wanstead. 

All Rest 

Specially commissioned for St Mary’s, All Rest will offer an itinerant, sitespecific 

performance portraying a fictional dreamscape about the people 

dwelling in St Mary the Virgin, Wanstead. Six characters and a chorus of 

ghosts will take the audience on a journey through the grounds of St Mary’s 

and the graveyard, offering a glimpse of past and future images, as well as 

individual and shared moments. With music by Simone Spagnolo and text by 

Serena Braida. 

SEASON TICKETS AVAILABLE FOR ALL CONCERTS 

Please use the QR code to purchase tickets. A number of tickets will be available on the door. 


48 

Meet our local 

Specialists and Clinicians… 

Dr Kiran Beneng BDS(Hons), MFDS RCS(Eng), DipDSed, MOralSurg(Ed) 

“ 

Consultant Oral Surgeon 

I have been working as a Consultant Oral Surgeon at Guy’s Hospital 

since 2012. I qualified from King’s College London in 2003 and have 

worked in various hospitals and dental practices across London and 

Kent. I have always loved the community feel of Wanstead, having 

lived here myself, and I look forward to meeting you. 

Dr Nadia Amin BDS (Lon), MFDS (RCS Eng) 

“ 

Dental Sedationist 

I am a member of the Society for the Advancement of Anaesthesia 

in Dentistry and the British Society of Special Care Dentistry. I 

understand that coming to the dentist can be daunting for many and 

I’ve always wanted to help overcome this barrier to dental care. I 

have extensive experience in the provision of dental sedation. 

Dr Suky Ghuman BDS Birmingham 2009 

“ 

Dentist with Special Interest in Facial Aesthetics 

“ 

“ 

I qualified from the University of Birmingham in 2009 and facial 

aesthetics has always been a specialist interest of mine. I am trained 

in the use of treatments to tackle wrinkles and sweating, as well as 

helping those with TMJ problems. I am also qualified in dermal fillers, 

medical skin peels and cosmeceutical skin care. 

Dr Vikas Agarwal BDS MFDS RCSEd MClinDent MPros RCSEd FDS RCSEd 

“ 


Specialist Prosthodontist, Implantologist and Cosmetic Dentist 

I completed specialist training in Prosthodontics from Barts and 

The London Dental School in 2014. I am a Member at The Royal 

College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, where I obtained my Fellowship. I 

provide implants, cosmetic and prosthetic dentistry and full mouth 

reconstructions for that ‘new you’ smile. 

“ 

“ 

Mr Raj Dubal BDS (Lon) MFDS RCS (Ed) MClin Dent (Pros) MRD RCS (Ed) PG Cert (Dent Ed) FDS RCS (Ed) ISFE (Rest Dent) Ed 

“ 

Consultant in Restorative Dentistry and Fixed 

and Removable Prosthodontics 

Having grown up in the Wanstead and Woodford area my whole life, 

I am now a Consultant in Restorative Dentistry at The Royal London 

Dental Hospital and enjoy spending part of my week treating our very 

special local community at Smile in London, Wanstead. 

“ 



49 

Smilein London 

At Smile in London, our patients receive the highest 

standards of dental care with a gentle touch. 

Husband and wife team, Amit and Preeti Gupta 

founded Smile in London Dental Practice in 2008 and 

have since grown their team so that our Wanstead 

community does not have to venture too far to receive 

advanced and specialist treatments. 

Founders Amit and Preeti Gupta 

Our friendly team have trained extensively and 

developed considerable skills, enabling them to optimise 

your oral health with expert advice on the treatment that is right for 

you. They are committed to dental health and rehabilitation which is 

conservative, patient-centred, and evidence-based. 

Saturday appointments available 

Find us at 19 Cambridge Park, Wanstead, E11 2PU 

smileinlondon.co.uk info@smileinlondon.co.uk 020 8532 9990 


50 


HISTORY OF NOTES 

Ahead of a Living Landscapes concert in Aldersbrook this month, 

The Woodford Singers’ musical director Kath Savage offers some insight 

into her own musical journey 

I 

trained in music at Dartington College 

of Arts, studying singing and flute, 

launching my solo career with several 

performances of Carl Orff’s Carmina 

Burana, subsequently singing for several 

years with The Cornel Music Group, and 

also with the BBC Northern Singers. 

After further freelance work in the 

National Tour and West End production 

of Cabaret, I met my husband, a West End 

musical director. 

I also worked for the Council for Music in 

Hospitals giving concerts for long-stay 

patients in hospices, hospitals and prisons, 

bringing music to those not able to venture 

out, and to some who had lost their 

connection with the art for whatever reason. 

I became increasingly interested both in 

the physiology of the voice itself and the 

psychology of singing. 

Singing has always been a huge part of 

my and my family’s life. Believing I could 

sing anything, I took on everything that 

was offered, so my voice deteriorated with 

overwork; I lost confidence and indeed the 

very essence of my being. As I now know, 

many performers suffer such burnout and 

I am eternally grateful to two mentors 

who helped pick me up and put me back 

on track. 

This, plus marriage, changed my direction 

from performing to teaching, leading several 

school music departments. For 12 years, I was 

the singing coordinator at Performers College, 

one of the UK’s major stage schools, and later 

taught at Bird College. It has been a privilege 

to nurture developing voices, guide young 

professionals and rehabilitate ‘shot’ voices, 

which continues to be most rewarding in my 

own private practice. 

In 2011, I came into contact with a small 

number of women eager to sing, but who 

sought guidance to develop into a musically 

tight and high-quality choir. This small group 

soon became the nucleus of The Woodford 

Singers, now numbering 30 committed 

members, who I am proud to lead and work 

with on Wednesday evenings. 

The choir started with a handful of singers 

and some shaky performances in small 

venues. We now perform to sell-out audiences 

across Essex and North East London, and 

we’re looking forward to celebrating our 15th 

anniversary in 2026. Next year will see our 

second performing tour, this time to the Isle 

of Wight. Another important development is 

the patronage of Canadian composer Sarah 

Quartel, who will soon be travelling to the UK 

to watch ‘her’ choir perform. But readers won’t 

have to travel quite so far; we’ll be performing 

in Aldersbrook this month. 

The Woodford Singers will perform at 

St Gabriel’s Church, Aldersbrook on 19 May 

from 5pm (tickets: £10; under-12s: £5). To 

book tickets, visit wnstd.com/ws19may 

For more information on The Woodford 

Singers, visit woodfordsingers.co.uk 



51 

The Woodford Singers 

present 

Living Landscapes 

Inspirations from the mountains to the sea 

With Guests: The Heron Quartet 

Music by Bob Chilcott, Ola Gjeilo & Sarah Quartel 

Sunday 19 th May 2024 

5pm 

St. Gabriel’s Church 

Aldersbrook Road 

Wanstead, E12 5HH 

Tickets: £10 (£5 for children under 12) 

Available on the door, or by scanning the QR code for the link to 

www.ticketsource.co.uk/the-woodford-singers 

The Woodford Singers’ Patron: Sarah Quartel 


52 


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54 


It has been an honour and a privilege to 

serve the Wanstead community from the 

heart of Anne’s Newsagents for the past 

26 years. As we turn the page to our next 

chapter, Anne’s Newsagents will transition 

into new hands. While we look forward to 

the future with excitement, we can’t help 

but feel a bittersweet sentiment as we 

reflect on the past. 

In 1998, we embarked on a journey from 

Southampton to London, seeking the vibrancy 

and diversity this magnificent city offers. We 

found our haven in Wanstead – a lovely family 

area known for its strong community vibes. As 

we reflect on the years gone by, our hearts are 

filled with cherished memories of countless 

customer interactions. From lighthearted 

chats about lottery dreams and passionate 

football debates to sharing homemade food 

and experiencing the kindness of receiving 

birthday cards, gifts and flowers – every 

moment has etched a permanent place in 

our hearts. 

We’ve had the privilege of watching young 

families blossom, witnessing children mature 

into adults and observing the enduring 

essence of Wanstead. These experiences 

have been priceless, highlighting the unique 

character and continuity of our community. 

As we prepare to turn the page, we look 

forward to a change of pace, embracing 

the opportunity to relax, embark on family 

holidays and reconnect with relatives 

across the globe. While we will deeply miss 

the daily interactions that have brightened 

our days, we are filled with excitement for 

the new adventures that await us. 

We cannot express enough our gratitude 

for the support, business, loyalty and, 

most importantly, the friendships you have 

graciously offered us over the years. You have 

been an integral part of Anne’s Newsagents 

and our lives, and for that, we thank you from 

the bottom of our hearts. 

Anne’s Newsagents is located at 

86 Nightingale Lane, Wanstead, E11 2EZ 



55 

READ ALL 

ABOUT IT 

Having spent the last 26 years running 

Anne’s Newsagents opposite Nightingale Green, 

Ash and Paula Patel bid a fond farewell and reflect on 

their memories. Photo by Geoff Wilkinson 


56 


GEOFF WILKINSON PHOTOGRAPHY 

Quick 

Before it 

Goes! 

A collection of photos by local 

photographer Geoff Wilkinson 

depicting London’s East End 

Call 020 8530 1244 or visit 

geoffwilkinsonphotography.co.uk 

Eightyfour Gallery, 84 Nightingale Lane, Wanstead, E11 2EZ 

Lovat Lane, London, EC3 

locally-based 

Wanstead 

Anagram 

Puzzle 

WHERE IN WANSTEAD? 

The village 

sign has been 

replaced 

with the 

anagram of 

a location or 

landmark in 

Wanstead. 

Clue: Still 

time for a 

cheap drink 

here before 

it’s gone, perhaps. 

Answer on page 28 



57 

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58 


Listen and learn 

In the 39th of a series of articles, David Bird from the Redbridge Music 

Society introduces guitarist Adam Brown, who will be returning to 

Wanstead to perform this month 

Redbridge Music Society, currently 

celebrating its 75th anniversary 

season, continues its current project 

of bringing high-quality live chamber 

recitals to the borough with a solo recital 

given by classical guitarist Adam Brown. 

On 14 May at Wanstead Library, Adam will 

perform a programme of guitar music with 

a Spanish and Latin American flavour. 

Scottish-born Adam Brown lived in Wanstead 

for a number of years and taught guitar 

at Forest School. He studied at the City of 

Edinburgh Music School before starting 

studies with the internationally famous 

guitarist Carlos Bonell at the Royal College 

of Music London, where he received a 

BMus (Hons) degree and several prestigious 

awards. He then studied with classical guitarist 

Sharon Isbin at the Juilliard School in New 

York City, obtaining a Master of Music degree 

and subsequently becoming the first guitarist 

to receive the Artist Diploma, the Juilliard 

School’s most prestigious performance award. 

He gained a Doctorate in Musical Arts at the 

University of Southern California where he 

studied with the celebrated guitarists William 

Kanengiser and Pepe Romero. 

Adam has performed throughout Europe, the 

United States and South America. Numbered 

among his many concert appearances are 

recitals at Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully Hall 

in New York, St Martin-in-the-Fields, the 

Southbank Centre and the Wigmore Hall in 

London. He has performed at such renowned 

music festivals as Aspen (USA), Spoleto (Italy), 

Amsterdam International Guitar Festival 

(Netherlands), Edinburgh International Fringe 

Festival and the International Guitar Festival 

at Kings Place, London. He has also performed 

throughout the United Kingdom as a Making 

Music Selected Artist. 

Adam’s first solo album on CD, The Rebels 

Within, featured 20th-century masterpieces by 

composers such as Benjamin Britten, Lennox 

Berkeley and others. His second album, 

Gladios, released in 2010, highlighted the 

melodic lyricism of music from Latin America 

and showcased works by prominent Latin 

American composers such as Lauro, Montes, 

Piazzolla and Barrios. Without Limits – An 

American Century of Music for Guitar, released 

in 2013, explored the guitar’s pre-eminent 

role in American cultural life by presenting a 

number of contemporary genres that cross 

boundaries between classical and popular 

music. Adam’s more recent album Pássaro 

de Madeira, released in 2019, returns to the 

musical migrations and creativity of Latin 

America, providing distinctive insights into its 

rich and diverse culture. 

Please come along to hear Adam perform and 

to support Redbridge Music Society’s 75th 

anniversary! 

Adam will perform at Wanstead Library 

on 14 May from 8pm (tickets on the 

door; visitors: £12; members: £8). Call 

07380 606 767. Redbridge Music Society is 

affiliated to Making Music. 



59 

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62 


Medical Emergency 

In the third of a series of articles charting the challenges facing 

Aldersbrook Medical Centre, Paul Wildish from the patient participation 

group explains some of the small campaign victories achieved so far 

It’s already two weeks into April as I write 

this and the patients of Aldersbrook 

Medical Centre (AMC) still have no 

resolution to the question: who is going to 

run our doctor’s surgery after June? 

Those who have been following our story here 

will know that AMC’s patient participation 

group (PPG) have been busy organising street 

protests, lobbies and meetings. We aimed 

to convince the managers of NE London 

Integrated Care Board (ICB) that the new 

contract they wanted to impose on us fell 

far short of our reasonable expectations of 

service and medical care. 

The AMC PPG has been determined in its 

resistance to the ICB when it constructively 

forced out our current GP providers by 

offering a renewed contract with a 10% cut 

in the budget if they wanted to stay. For a 

practice already working on a break-even 

basis, this was impossible for our Richmond 

Road providers to be able to manage. They 

felt forced to give notice that they couldn’t 

continue under those conditions. Since 

then, the ICB has tried to spin a tale that the 

providers had decided to hand in their notice 

out of the blue and that they wanted to give 

patients ‘security’ by making our surgery a 

‘branch’. This would make AMC an add-on to 

any interested local GP practice that wanted 

to bid to take us on but not necessarily 

guarantee us the same level of service. 

Since we last reported in this publication, we 

have taken our case directly to ICB, sending 

delegates to question their plans and putting 

forward our alternative viewpoint at two 

ICB meetings. We were well supported by 

patients staging friendly protests at the foot 

of the ICB offices in Stratford. We were also 

able to put our case to Redbridge Council’s 

PPG Chair Terilla Barnard 

speaking at the Health 

Scrutiny Committee meeting 

Health Scrutiny Committee. Our delegation 

was supported by AMC patients who filled 

the public gallery, demonstrating to the 

councillors our commitment to the cause. We 

were pleased to receive a good hearing from 

councillors on the committee. Following Sarah 

See’s response on behalf of the ICB, councillors 

Sheila Bain, Daniel Morgan-Thomas and Bob 

Chattaway asked probing questions, which 

drew out the inconsistencies of the ICB’s 

position. We came away much encouraged 

with the knowledge the issue would be 

followed up at a future council meeting. 

While it feels it’s a hard slog to gain any 

traction, we have won some significant 

concessions, most importantly the ICB 

abandoning the idea that AMC should be a 

‘branch’ of another practice. Instead, they have 

recognised it should be a second site, fully 

staffed and realistically funded. We have also 

persuaded the ICB to reopen negotiations 

with the Richmond Road providers, whose 

long-term continuation at AMC is the patients’ 

preferred solution. 

For more information about the 

Aldersbrook Medical Centre patient 

participation group, visit wnstd.com/amc 



63 

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64 


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65 

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66 


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67 

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68 


Reverend Reflections 

In the seventh of a series of articles, Revd James Gilder of Wanstead 

Parish asks if Wanstead is too ‘nice’, prays for The George to remain a 

Wetherspoons and announces new opening times for Christ Church 

Why do you live in Wanstead? 

Perhaps it’s because you have 

always lived here. Maybe like 

me, you moved here for your work, or 

because you like what Wanstead has to 

offer for your family. This place is certainly 

quite different to everywhere around 

it, and in many ways, that’s a really nice 

thing. We have lots of green space, good 

transport links into and out of London, 

and a variety of pleasant houses and other 

accommodations that go into making our 

town what it is. People don’t often end 

up in Wanstead by accident – there’s no 

denying it is a very nice place to live, and 

no-doubt there are many who look on with 

a degree of envy at an E11 postcode. 

But can a place be too nice? All too often 

these days, ‘nice’ equals ‘expensive’. And I think 

we can all agree that Wanstead is definitely 

an expensive place to live. It is a reflection 

of our times that I’d be surprised if a single 

one of the teachers in our local schools, for 

example, actually lives in our community, 

because they can’t afford to – let alone those 

who work in our local shops or who clean our 

offices and homes. Sadly, we live in a place 

that has become so ‘nice’ that basically it risks 

becoming only a partial community, closed 

off to those on even average salaries. We have 

seen this happen all over our capital city, and 

it’s a sad hollowing out of society that I feel we 

ought to try to fight against. 

Which brings me on to The George. This pub 

often feels like one of the last bastions of 

‘old Wanstead’. Whatever you think of the 

politics of the Wetherspoons management, 

it is undeniable that, in The George, they 

have maintained a very decent pub which is 

affordable to all. It is a pub which is wellfrequented 

from morning ‘til night; and a 

haven for those who need to make a cup 

of coffee last all day. When our parish was 

approached last year about creating a ‘warm 

room’ for those who couldn’t afford to heat 

their homes, it was remarked that (a) this 

was somewhat ironic given the average 

temperature of the church and (b) that The 

George effectively provides this facility already 

and does so extremely well. Its proposed 

closure is yet another nail in the coffin of 

Wanstead for ‘normal’ people – for all of us 

who don’t always want to pay for a pint with 

a tenner. I hope and pray this decision is 

reversed, and – if not – perhaps we ought 

to see if we could open a social club which 

provides a similar facility. 

For those wanting somewhere to cool off and 

be still over the summer, I’m pleased to say 

Christ Church will be open every week day 

from at least 9am to 3pm, from the beginning 

of May to the end of the Wanstead Festival 

in September. Please feel free to come in 

and enjoy the peace and quiet of the space, 

whether you are religious or not. We would 

love you to pay us a visit. 

To contact Reverend James Gilder, email 

wansteadparishadmin@uwclub.net 



69 

ROBINS 

PIE & MASH 

Celebrate the May Bank Holidays 

with a traditional English meal 

- Pie, Mash & Liquor: £5 - 

VENUE HIRE & OUTSIDE CATERING FOR WEDDINGS & EVENTS 

We provide everything you need: Pie & Mash / Desserts / Staff / Cutlery / Crockery 

Call Nicole: 020 8508 1513 Email: nicole@robinspieandmash.com 

14 HIGH STREET, WANSTEAD TEL: 020 8989 1988 

Monday to Saturday: 10am – 5pm Sundays: 10.30am – 5.30pm 

GREAT VALUE 

MEAL DEALS 

You can also find us at: 

40 South Street, Romford (t: 01708 752 552) 

21A Town Square, Basildon (t: 020 8508 1513) 

PIE, MASH & LIQUOR, SMALL ORANGE OR TEA, 

APPLE PIE & CUSTARD – £7.50 

POACHED SALMON, MASH & LIQUOR – £8 

50 Station Road, Chingford (t: 020 8524 1824) 

53 High Street, Chelmsford (t: 01245 491 274) 

15 Clarence Street, Southend-On-Sea (t: 01702 436 396) 


70 


Rightio Plumbing & 

Heating 

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71 

ESTABLISHED BUILDERS SINCE 1985 

Our building projects cover areas in 

East London including Wanstead, 

South Woodford, Woodford, Aldersbrook, 

Walthamstow, Leyton & Leytonstone. 

Our services include 

Loft Conversions 

Extensions 

Refurbishments 

New Builds 

Architects & Planning 

Party Wall Agreements 

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glenwardbuilders@gmail.com 

glenwardbuilders.co.uk 


72 




73 

Community events 

STILL LIFE 

EXHIBITION 

Ten artists will show a range of their work. 

Date: Friday 3 May Time: 6.30–8.30pm 

Venue: Compassionate Funerals, Hermon Hill 

Cost: free Enquiries: wnstd.com/still-life 

MAY 

3 

SAUGA PLANT 

SALE 2024 

Hosted by Supporters of Aldersbrook 

Uniformed Groups Association (SAUGA). 

Date: Saturday 4 May Time: 10–11.30am 

Venue: St Gabriel’s Church Hall, Aldersbrook 

MAY 

4 

WALKING FOR HEALTH: 

CHRISTCHURCH GREEN 

This walk features some gentle slopes and 

uneven terrain. Repeats every Saturday. 

Date: Saturday 4 May Time: 10.30–11.30am 

Venue: meet on Wanstead Place 

Cost: free Enquiries: wnstd.com/walking 

MAY 

4 

WANSTEAD 

COMMUNITY MARKET 

Monthly market offering a wide range of food 

and craft products. 

Date: Sunday 5 May Time: 10am–4pm 

Venue: Wanstead High Street 

Cost: free Enquiries: aceeventsltd.co.uk 

MAY 

5 

What’s happening, 

what’s on and where... 

Are you organising an event? 

Let us know... events@wnstd.com 

Please note: all events are 

subject to change. Please 

check with the relevant 

organisers to confirm details. 

Booking may be required. 

FAMILY BIKE RIDE TO 

FAIRLOP WATERS 

A gently paced, family-friendly ride organised 

by the Redbridge Cycling Campaign. 

Date: Sunday 5 May Time: 11.30am–3pm 

Venue: meet at Wanstead Park Tea Hut, E12 5HA 

Cost: free Enquiries: wnstd.com/rcc 

MAY 

5 

MUSICAL THEATRE 

FAMILY QUIZ 

Test your show tunes knowledge. 

Date: Sunday 5 May Time: 2.30–4.30pm 

Venue: Redbridge Drama Centre, E18 2RB 

Cost: £10 Enquiries: wnstd.com/visionevents 

MAY 

5 

EDINBURGH FRINGE 

COMEDY PREVIEW 

Featuring Rob Auton and Sara Barron. 

Date: Sunday 5 May Time: 7–9pm 


Cost: £11.50 Enquiries: wnstd.com/visionevents 

MAY 

5 

WANSTEAD & WOODFORD 

WEA FILM CLUB 

A screening of Anatomy of a Fall (2023). 

Date: Monday 6 May Time: 12.30pm 

Venue: Odeon, South Woodford, E18 2QL 

Cost: 20p plus the cinema’s usual charges 

Enquiries: weafilmclub18@gmail.com 

MAY 

6 

BEREAVEMENT CAFÉ 

AFTERNOON SESSION 

Date: Tuesday 7 May Time: 2–3pm 

Venue: St Mary’s Church, South Woodford 

Cost: free Enquiries: 020 8505 3000 

MAY 

7 

WANSTEAD CLIMATE 

ACTION MEETING 

Date: Tuesday 7 May Time: 7.30–9pm 

Venue: The Bull, 129 High Street, E11 2RL 

Cost: free Enquiries: wnstd.com/climate 

MAY 

7 


74 


ELECTRONIC 

KEYBOARD CONCERT 

An East London and Essex Electronic Keyboard 

Club event featuring Chris Powell. 

Date: Wednesday 8 May Time: 7–10pm 

Venue: Wanstead Library, Spratt Hall Road 

Cost: £12; under-16s: £2 Enquiries: 020 8530 3717 

MAY 

8 

WANSTEAD 

WORDSMITHS 

A monthly group for writing and sharing 

poetry and prose. No experience required. 

Date: Thursday 9 May Time: 6.30–7.45pm 



MAY 

9 

REDBRIDGE JOBS AND 

APPRENTICESHIPS FAIR 

Access live vacancies and apprenticeships 

across a wide range of sectors. 

Date: Thursday 9 May Time: 10am–1pm 

Venue: Redbridge Town Hall, Ilford, IG1 1DD 

Cost: free Enquiries: wnstd.com/wrk 

MAY 

9 

THE HISTORY OF 

SPITALFIELDS 

A talk by Jill Finch for the Woodford Historical 

Society. Visitors welcome. 

Date: Thursday 9 May Time: 2.30pm 

Venue: All Saints Church Hall, Woodford Green 

Cost: £3 Enquiries: woodfordhistoricalsociety.org 

MAY 

9 

SOUTH WOODFORD 

FIVE-MILE WALK 

A walk from the station – along tracks beside 

the River Roding – to Wanstead Park. Hosted 

by the West Essex Ramblers. 

Date: Friday 10 May Time: 10.30am–1pm 

Venue: meet at South Woodford Station 

Enquiries: west-essexramblers.org.uk 

MAY 

10 

ILFORD HOSPITAL 

CHAPEL OPEN DAY 

Memorabilia, refreshments and guided tours. 

Date: Saturday 11 May Time: 10am–2pm 

Venue: Hospital Chapel, Ilford Hill, IG1 2AT 

Cost: free entry Enquiries: 020 8514 8286 

MAY 

11 

Smart Heat 

Solutions 

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& General Plumbing Specialists 

• Energy efficiency & how to 

lower your bills advice 

• Central Heating Installations 

• Ground Source Heat Pumps 

• Gas Safety Inspections 

• Landlord Safety Certificates 

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75 

RAIN GARDEN DESIGN AND 

POND IN A POT WORKSHOP 

Learn how to create a pond in a pot, as 

well as the basics of creating a drainage 

system for a rain garden. Hosted by the 

Woodford Greeners. 

Date: Saturday 11 May Time: 12–4pm 

Venue: Ray Park Community Garden, IG8 7JF 

Cost: free Enquiries: wnstd.com/greeners 

MAY 

11 

OPEN WEEKEND AT THE 

TEMPLE IN WANSTEAD PARK 

Date: Saturday 11 to Sunday 12 May Time: 12–5pm 

Venue: the Temple, Wanstead Park, E11 2LT 

Cost: free Enquiries: wnstd.com/temple 

MAY 

11 

EAST LONDON ME/CFS 

SUPPORT GROUP 

Offering conversation, information and 

support for those with ME/CFS. 

Date: Saturday 11 May Time: 2.30–5pm 

Venue: Wanstead House, 21 The Green, E11 2NT 

Cost: by donation Enquiries: 07957 152 566 

MAY 

11 

WANSTEAD PARK 

LITTER PICK 

Help keep the park tidy. Hosted by the Friends 

of Wanstead Parklands. 

Date: Sunday 12 May Time: 11am 

Venue: the Temple, Wanstead Park, E11 2LT 

Cost: free Enquiries: wansteadpark.org.uk 

MAY 

12 

LINKSIDE LAWN TENNIS CLUB 

OPEN DAY 

All ages and abilities are welcome to play 

tennis for free. 


Venue: Overton Drive, Wanstead, E11 2LW 

Cost: free Enquiries: linksidetennis.co.uk 

MAY 

12 

WANSTEAD BOWLING CLUB 

OPEN DAY 

Try your hand at bowls. All welcome. No 

equipment needed. Wear flat shoes. 

Date: Sunday 12 May Time: 12–4pm 

Venue: Wanstead Bowling Club, Overton Drive 

Cost: free Enquiries: wnstd.com/bowls 

MAY 

12 

Weald Hall 

Landscapes 

Weald Hall Landscapes are 

experts in Patios, Driveways 

and Indian Sandstone. 

We work with clients throughout Essex, London 

and Herts, delivering bespoke solutions on all 

sizes of driveways and gardens, ranging from 

urban courtyards to country estates. 

Our Services include: 

• All driveways and patios 

• Indian sandstone paving 

• Block paving 

• Fencing 

• All Brickwork 

• Turfing 

• Decking 

• Garden paths 

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For more information or for a free estimate 

contact David Sealey on: 

Mob: 07734 107 353 // Tel: 01992 523830 

Email: info@wh-landscapes.co.uk 

WHL_0212_Ad_120x85_2014_AW.indd 1 21/02/2014 11:55 


76 


WANSTEAD VILLAGE WARD 

COUNCILLOR SURGERY 

Councillors Jo Blackman, Paul Donovan and 

Daniel Morgan-Thomas. Repeated on 27 May. 

Date: Monday 13 May Time: 10.30–11.30am 

Venue: Allan Burgess Centre, High Street, E11 2AE 

Cost: free Enquiries: wnstd.com/councillors 

MAY 

13 

NHS RETIREMENT 

FELLOWSHIP 

For retired NHS and social care staff. 

Date: Monday 13 May Time: 2pm 

Venue: Our Lady of Lourdes, E11 2PR 

Cost: £3 Enquiries: 020 8514 8286 

MAY 

13 

EAST LONDON 

BOOK CLUB 

Monthly book club. This month’s meeting 

will be discussing Small Days and Nights by 

Tishani Doshi. 

Date: Monday 13 May Time: 6.30–8.30pm 

Venue: The George, 155-159 High Street, E11 

Cost: £1.50 Enquiries: wnstd.com/elbc 

MAY 

13 

HOW SACRED 

ARE THE DEAD? 

A talk by Professor Ronald Hutton for the West 

Essex Archaeological Group. Visitors welcome. 

Date: Monday 13 May Time: 7.30pm 

Venue: Woodford County High School, IG8 9LA 

Cost: free Enquiries: weag.org.uk 

MAY 

13 

MRS MINIVER: FROM MANOR 

PARK TO HOLLYWOOD 

A presentation about actress Greer Garson 

by Janet Seward for the Wanstead Historical 

Society. Visitors welcome. 




MAY 

13 


EVENING SESSION 

For people struggling with feelings of loss. 


Venue: Christ Church, Wanstead Place, E11 2SW 


MAY 

14 

MENTAL HEALTH 

AWARENESS WEEK: PILATES 

A class to help strengthen the body and 

improve overall fitness and wellbeing. 


Venue: Wanstead Leisure Centre, E11 2JZ 

Cost: free Enquiries: wnstd.com/visionevents 

MAY 

14 

THE GARDENS OF 

SISSINGHURST 

A talk by Ruth Martin for the Aldersbrook 

Horticultural Society. Visitors welcome. 

Date: Tuesday 14 May Time: 7.30pm 

Venue: Aldersbrook Bowls Club, E12 5DY 

Cost: £5 Enquiries: wnstd.com/ahs 

MAY 

14 

WILDLIFE OF 

SOUTHERN AFRICA 

A talk for the North East London Local Group 

of the RSPB by Ben Chapple. 

Date: Tuesday 14 May Time: 8pm 

Venue: St Mary’s Church, South Woodford 

Cost: £4.50 Enquiries: wnstd.com/rspb 

MAY 

14 

REDBRIDGE MUSIC 

SOCIETY RECITAL 

Featuring guitarist Adam Brown. 



Cost: £12; members: £8 Enquiries: 07380 606 767 

MAY 

14 

THE BICENTENNIAL OF THE 

NATIONAL GALLERY 

A talk by art historian and National Gallery 

guide Lydia Bauman for The Arts Society, 

Woodford Green. Visitors welcome. 


Venue: Bancroft’s School, High Road, IG8 0RF 

Cost: donation Enquiries: wnstd.com/artssociety 

MAY 

14 

MENTAL HEALTH 

AWARENESS WEEK: PAINTING 

Brush away your stress while creating some 

colourful gift tags and a bookmark. 

Date: Wednesday 15 May Time: 11am–1pm 



MAY 

15 



77 

Venues 

Let us find the 

Venues for every occassion: 

- Weddings 

- Parties 

- Team Building 

- Meetings 

- Conferences 

- Wakes 

Scan the QR Code 

and enquire about 

our venues. 

Find out more at: 

visionrcl.org.uk 


78 


ONE UKRAINIAN 

SUMMER 

Join author Viv Groskop as she discusses 

her latest work, One Ukrainian Summer, with 

acclaimed chef Olia Hercules. 

Date: Thursday 16 May Time: 7.30–9.30pm 

Venue: Wanstead Tap, 352 Winchelsea Road 

Cost: £10 Enquiries: wnstd.com/tap 

MAY 

16 

HAVEN HOUSE SPARKLE 

WALK 2024 

Haven House’s annual charity walk around 

Wanstead, Woodford and South Woodford. 

Date: Friday 17 May Time: 6–10pm 

Venue: meet next to Christ Church, Wanstead 

Cost: £10 Enquiries: wnstd.com/sparkle24 

MAY 

17 

LAUGHTER IN ONE ACT 

(OR LESS!) 

Amateur dramatics company WOADS returns 

after a nine-year absence for an evening of 

one-act plays. Sunday matinée at 2pm. 

Date: Friday 17 to Sunday 19 May Time: 7–9pm 



MAY 

17 

MENTAL HEALTH 

AWARENESS WEEK: ZUMBA 

A cardio fitness class incorporating high- and 

low-intensity moves inspired by Latin dance. 

Date: Saturday 18 May Time: 9.30–10.30am 

Venue: Wanstead Leisure Centre, E11 2JZ 


MAY 

18 

WANSTEAD PARK WARD 

COUNCILLOR SURGERY 

Councillors Sheila Bain and Bayo Alaba. 

Date: Saturday 18 May Time: 10–11am 

Venue: Allan Burgess Centre, High Street, E11 2AE 

Cost: free Enquiries: wnstd.com/councillors 

MAY 

18 

WANSTEAD COMMUNITY 

LITTER PICK 

Help keep Wanstead tidy. 

Date: Saturday 18 May Time: 10am 

Venue: meet at the Woodbine Place bus stop 

Enquiries: jo.blackman@redbridge.gov.uk 

MAY 

18 

FOOD, FUN AND 

CRAFT MARKET 

An array of handmade products from local 

traders. Plus, face painting, bouncy castles, 

entertainment and tours of the church tower. 

Date: Saturday 18 May Time: 10am–2pm 

Venue: Woodford Memorial Hall, E18 2PA 

Cost: free Enquiries: woodfordcraftmarket.co.uk 

MAY 

18 

LOCAL MAKERS 

MARKET 

Handmade products from local designermakers. 

Including screen prints, ceramics, 

jewellery, homewares and textiles. 

Date: Saturday 18 May Time: 11am–4.30pm 

Venue: Christ Church Hall, E11 2SW 

Cost: free entry Enquiries: wnstd.com/makers 

MAY 

18 

QUIZ NIGHT AT OUR LADY 

OF LOURDES CHURCH 

Date: Saturday 18 May Time: 7.45pm 

Venue: Our Lady of Lourdes, E11 2PR 

Cost: £8 Enquiries: ourladyoflourdeswanstead.com 

MAY 

18 

SOUTH WOODFORD 

COMMUNITY MARKET 


Venue: George Lane, South Woodford 

Enquiries: aceeventsltd.co.uk 

MAY 

19 

GREAT SOLAR 

ECLIPSES 

Jerry Workman and Steve Karpel will describe 

some of the memorable total solar eclipses 

they have seen. A North East London 

Astronomical Society event. 

Date: Sunday 19 May Time: 1.30pm 


Cost: £3 Enquiries: stevek1951@hotmail.com 

MAY 

19 

THE WOODFORD SINGERS: 

LIVING LANDSCAPES 

The Woodford Singers will be performing a 

programme inspired by landscapes. 

Date: Sunday 19 May Time: 5pm 

Venue: St Gabriel’s Church, Aldersbrook, E12 5HH 

Cost: £10 Enquiries: wnstd.com/ws19may 

MAY 

19 



79 


80 


FLOWER ARRANGING 

DEMONSTRATION 

Kathy Stangaard will demonstrate flower 

designs with a ‘Back to the Future’ theme. 

A Woodford and District Floral Arrangement 

Group event. Visitors welcome. 

Date: Monday 20 May Time: 7.30–9.45pm 



MAY 

20 


MORNING SESSION 

For people struggling with feelings of loss. 

Date: Tuesday 21 May Time: 10.30–11.30am 

Venue: Christ Church, Wanstead Place, E11 2SW 


MAY 

21 

ARCHAEOLOGY 

IN ESSEX 

A talk by Simon Coxall for the Woodford and 

District Centre of the National Trust. 

Date: Wednesday 22 May Time: 2.30pm 

Venue: All Saints Church Hall, Woodford Green 


MAY 

22 

PUTTING YOUR ANCESTORS 

ON THE MAP 

A presentation by professional genealogist 

Dr Nicolas Dixon, explaining how to find 

information concerning studio photographers 

and pinpoint the locations of family 

photographs using a variety of online 

resources. An East of London Family History 

Society event. Visitors welcome. 

Date: Wednesday 22 May Time: 7.30pm 



MAY 

MAY 

25 

22 

ELMER DAY: 

BOOK SWAP 

Celebrate children’s book character Elmer the 

Elephant’s 35th birthday with a special book 

swap day. Also featuring storytelling with 

Marian Hoddy (11am) and craft activities (2pm) 

for children aged three and over. 

Date: Saturday 25 May Time: 10.30am–4.30pm 



ST MARY’S MUSIC FESTIVAL: 

SAX COLLECTIVE 

Local saxophonist Melanie Henry and the 

Opus Sax quartet present a programme 

of trios, quartets and quintets written or 

transcribed for the saxophone. 

Date: Saturday 25 May Time: 7.30pm 

Venue: St Mary’s Church, Wanstead, E11 2LN 

Cost: £15 Enquiries: wnstd.com/may24 

MAY 

25 


ORGAN AND ORGANISTS 

Celebrating St Mary’s organ and the organists 

of the parish, past and present. A presentation 

will be followed by tea and cakes and there 

will also will be a recital by local organists. 

Date: Sunday 26 May Time: 4pm 


Cost: free Enquiries: wnstd.com/may24 

MAY 

26 


ALL REST 

All Rest will offer an itinerant, site-specific 

performance portraying a fictional 

dreamscape about St Mary’s. Six characters 

and a chorus of ghosts will take the audience 

on a journey through the grounds. 



Cost: £15 Enquiries: wnstd.com/may24 

MAY 

27 

RED RIDING HOOD AT 

REDBRIDGE DRAMA CENTRE 

A play designed to open up the world of 

books to young audiences. Presented by 

Booster Cushion Theatre. 

Date: Thursday 30 May Time: 11–11.50am 



MAY 

30 

WE’LL ALWAYS 

HAVE PARIS 

The Highams Players present a feel-good play 

with laughter and tears. 

Date: Thursday 30 May to Saturday 1 June 

Time: 8pm (2pm and 7pm on Saturday) 


Cost: £10; children: £5 Enquiries: 020 8924 6987 

MAY 

30 



81 

We’ll Always Have Paris 

By 

Jill Hyem 

At 

Wanstead House 

21 The Green, Wanstead E11 2NT 

30 May, 31 May and 1 June 2024 

CURTAIN UP TIMES 

8pm Thursday & Friday 

2pm Saturday Matinee 

7pm Saturday Evening 

Doors Open 

30 minutes before 

Curtain Up 

TICKETS 

Inc. Programmes & Refreshments 

Adults £10 

Children £5 

BOX OFFICE 

020 8924 6987 

Email: boxoffice@highamsplayers.co.uk 

BOX OFFICE: 020 8924 6987 

or at the door before performances 

Email: boxoffice@highamsplayers.co.uk 

or at the door before performances 


82 


Local community groups 

ALDERSBROOK LINE DANCING CLUB 

Thursday evenings (8pm to 10pm) at 

Aldersbrook Bowls Club (£4). Beginners 

welcome. Call 07983 618 856 

ALDERSBROOK BOWLS CLUB 

New members welcome. Located at 

34 Aldersbrook Road, Aldersbrook, E12 5DY. 

Call 020 8989 8282 

ALLAN BURGESS CENTRE 

Offering a wide range of activities for the 

over-55s. Freshly cooked two-course lunches 

available (£7; booking required). Located at 

2 Grove Park, Wanstead. Call 020 8989 6338 

EAST LONDON AND ESSEX ELECTRONIC 

KEYBOARD CLUB 

Concerts held every second Wednesday of 

the month from 7.30pm to 10pm at Wanstead 

Library (visitors: £12). Call 020 8530 3717 

The 

Art Shop 

117c High Street, Wanstead, E11 2RL 

020 8989 0154 

theartshopuk@yahoo.co.uk 

wansteadartshop 

A treasure trove of gifts and art and craft 

supplies, plus a picture framing service. 

EAST LONDON ME GROUP 

Support group for those with ME/CFS. 

Meetings held at Wanstead House at various 

dates throughout the year. Call 07957 152566 

or email ianpurser81@gmail.com 

NCT REDBRIDGE & DISTRICT 

Offering support and information to parents 

and parents-to-be. Call 0300 330 0700 

THE EAST OF LONDON 

FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY 

Fourth Wednesday of every month, 7.30pm 

at Wanstead Library. Free entry. Call 

020 8530 4514 or visit eolfhs.org.uk 

WANSTEAD AND WOODFORD BLIND CLUB 

Social club for people with sight problems 

meeting Thursday afternoons (2pm to 4pm) in 

South Woodford. Call 07840 850 838 

WANSTEAD AND WOODFORD 

CENTENARY FILM CLUB 

Meets on the first Monday of each month 

(except August), 12.30pm at the Odeon, South 

Woodford (the cinema’s usual charges apply). 

Email weafilmclub18@gmail.com 

WANSTEAD HISTORICAL SOCIETY 

Meeting on the first Monday of the month 

(September to May) from 8pm at Wanstead 

Library. Call 07949 026 212 

WANSTEAD SOCIETY 

Making Wanstead a better place to live and 

work. Visit wansteadsociety.org.uk 

WOODFORD AND DISTRICT FLORAL 

ARRANGEMENT GROUP 

A floral demonstration and refreshments 

every third Monday of the month, 7.30pm at 

Wanstead Library. Cost: £5. Call 020 8530 2427 

WOODFORD AND WANSTEAD 

PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY 

Meeting virtually or at Wanstead House every 

Monday to share photography tips and advice. 

Visit wnstd.com/wwps 


* Ballet * Modern * Jazz * Tap * 

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Baby Bear dance Ballet school with an Parent excellent dance reputation. school & Child with an excellent Classes reputation. 

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back into the swing of it, our classes 

have something for everyone. 

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Photo: David Tett 

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84 


Useful numbers in and around Wanstead 

ADVICE & SUPPORT 

Citizens Advice Redbridge 0808 278 7872 

National Debtline 0808 808 4000 

Samaritans116 123 

HEALTH 

Aldersbrook Medical Centre 020 8518 8080 

Out of hours GP 020 3770 1888 

Whipps Cross Hospital 020 8539 5522 

Wanstead Pharmacy 020 8989 0597 

Wanstead Place Clinic 020 8926 1450 

Wanstead Place Surgery 020 8989 1968 

The Evergreen Surgery 020 8518 8746 

Wanstead Village 

Dental & Health Centre 020 8530 2126 

LEISURE & LIBRARIES 

Aldersbrook Library 020 8496 0006 

Sylvestrian Leisure Centre 020 8509 6526 

Wanstead Leisure Centre 020 8989 1172 

Wanstead Library 020 8708 7400 

SATISFACTION 

GUARANTEED 

• Interior/Exterior Painting 

• Woodwork Restoration 

• Wallpapering 

• Decorating • Varnishing 

Tel: 07943 848 437 

contact@jasonsdecorators.co.uk 

jasonsdecorators.co.uk 

UNBEATABLE 

PRICES 

LOCAL COUNCILLORS Wanstead Village ward 

Jo Blackman (Lab) 07435 258 060 

jo.blackman@redbridge.gov.uk 

Paul Donovan (Lab) 07741 197 406 

paul.donovan@redbridge.gov.uk 

Daniel Morgan-Thomas (Lab) 07741 194 993 

daniel.morgan-thomas@redbridge.gov.uk 

LOCAL COUNCILLORS Wanstead Park ward 

Bayo Alaba (Lab) 07918 273 096 

bayo.alaba@redbridge.gov.uk 

Sheila Bain (Lab) 07741 904 843 

sheila.bain@redbridge.gov.uk 

LOCAL MP Leyton and Wanstead 

John Cryer MP (Lab) 020 8989 5249 

johncryermp.co.uk 

LOCAL MP Chingford and Woodford Green 

Iain Duncan Smith MP (Con) 020 7219 3000 

iainduncansmith.org.uk 

POLICE 

Emergency 999 

Non-emergency 101 

Action Fraud 0300 123 2040 

Anti-terrorist Hotline0800 789 321 

Crimestoppers0800 555 111 

SNTsntji-wanstead-village@met.police.uk 

SNTsntji-wanstead-park@met.police.uk 

REDBRIDGE COUNCIL 

Adult Social Service 020 8708 7333 

Benefits 020 8708 5690 

Children’s Services 020 8708 3885 

Council Tax enquiries 020 8708 5670 

Customer contact centre 020 8554 5000 

Housing 020 8708 4002 

Report antisocial behaviour 020 8478 4679 

UTILITIES 

Electricity (power cut) 105 

Electricity emergency 0800 40 40 90 

Gas emergency0800 111 999 

Thames Water (report a leak)0800 714 614 



85 

Probate problems? 

Our expert team will help you navigate 

the maze of Estate Administration. 

Solicitors I Notary Public I Mediators 

SHOREDITCH I WANSTEAD I BUCKHURST HILL I LOUGHTON I HORNCHURCH 

0203 649 0550 I hskipper@barrettslaw.co.uk I barrettslaw.co.uk I @barrettslaw_ 

0587_BARRETTS_A5_WAN_MONTH_MAY_PROBATE_ART_PREP.indd 1 16/04/2024 15:30 


86 

ACCOUNTANTS 

THP Chartered Accountants 1 

AERIALS 

Aerials Direct60 

ARCHITECT 

LOUD Architects 38 

ART 

Geoff Wilkinson Photography 56 

The Art Shop82 

BALLET 

Redbridge Classical Dance 83 

BATHROOMS 

Bathworks31 

BEAUTY 

Dr Sabba29 

Skintap 52 

BUILDERS 

Finch Contracts16 

Glenward71 

North London Loft Rooms 23 

Trim Loft Conversions 39 

CARPENTRY & JOINERY 

K&D Joinery 53 

Woodthorpe Joinery88 

COMMUNITY 

Save Our Spoons 6 

Wanstead Festival 44–45 

COMPUTER MAINTENANCE 

Computer Solutions 20 & 56 

CULTURAL EXCHANGE 

The Hilse 52 

DANCE 

Eve Wright School of Dancing 4 

Redbridge Classical Dance 83 

DECORATORS 

Decorating Spaces7 

Jason’s Decorating84 

MG Décor 30 

DENTIST 

Smile in London48–49 

Woodford House15 

DOORS 


ELDERLY CARE 

Chestnut Manor Care Home14 

Home Instead 63 

Homesdale 65 

ELECTRICIAN 

SW Radley Electrical Contractors14 

ESTATE AGENTS 

Churchill Estates 66–67 

Martin & Co33 

Petty Son & Prestwich 43 

The Stow Brothers 87 


– Index of advertisers – 

EVENTS & ACTIVITIES 

Beauty And The Beast 79 

Chestnut Manor Care Home14 

Family Fair64 

Laughter in One Act (or less!)72 

Linkside Lawn Tennis Club13 

May Music Festival 47 

The Gondoliers42 

The Woodford Singers51 

Wanstead Bowling Club 4 

Wanstead Festival 44–45 

We’ll Always Have Paris81 

FITNESS 

Dodgy Tickers Fitness 8 

Sylvestrian Leisure Centre2 

FLORIST 

Lillies of Wanstead5 

FRAMING 


FUNERAL DIRECTORS 

Compassionate Funerals16 

FUNFAIR 

Family Fair64 

GARAGE SERVICES 

DC Dodd Motor Repairs60 

GARDENS & LANDSCAPING 

Growing Gardens28 

Lancasters Gardencare57 

Weald Hall Landscapes75 

GIFTS 

Creative Giftware28 


Keating Jewellers10 


GUTTER CLEANING 

Gutter Cleaning Service20 

HAIRDRESSERS 

Carmen 9 

HANDYMAN 

E18 Handyman20 

Stuart Green Property Solutions 38 

HOLIDAY PROPERTIES 

Dovehouse Developments 11 

JEWELLERS 

Keating Jewellers10 

JOB VACANCIES 

Companion & Driver12 

Public Sector Recruitment 11 

LOCKSMITH 

Barry & Sons 11 

LOFT CONVERSIONS 

North London Loft Rooms 23 

Trim Loft Conversions 39 

OPTICIANS 

Bayfields Opticians & Audiologists27 

PHOTOGRAPHY 


PLASTERING 

Heritage Plaster Services17 

PLUMBING & HEATING 

Heating Plus21 

Rightio Plumbing & Heating 70 

Smart Heat Solutions 74 

POLITICS 

John Cryer MP 30 

PRINTERS 

City Copy Centre 52 

RECRUITMENT 

Public Sector Recruitment 11 

RESTAURANT & CAFÉS 

Robins Pie & Mash69 

ROOFING 

Cox and Sons Roofing 34 

SCHOOLS & NURSERIES 

Avon House Prep School 35 

Loyola Preparatory School24–25 

Woodford Green Prep School61 

SOLICITORS 

Barretts Law 85 

Edwards Duthie Shamash41 

SPORT & LEISURE 

Linkside Lawn Tennis Club13 



STAIRS 


TEA DANCES 

Eve Wright School of Dancing 4 

TOURS 

Hitchcock Talks & Tours5 

TREE SERVICES 

Scott Whitehead Trees 70 

TUITION 

MagiKats 34 

VENUE HIRE 

Vision RCL Venues77 


WARDROBES 


WASTE DISPOSAL 

Arbis Waste Disposal 11 

WINDOW RESTORATION 

McCarty & Smith 59 

WINDOW SHUTTERS 


YOGA 




87 

CONTACT US NOW FOR YOUR FREE VALUATION 

WANSTEAD → 117A HIGH STREET E11 2RL 

hello11@stowbrothers.com 0203 397 2222 

FOLLOW US: 

➻ @STOWBROTHERS ➻ STOWBROTHERS.COM 


WOODTHORPE 

JOINERY 

your local supplier of wooden shutters and blinds 

Wanstead • London • T: 0203 589 4879 

E: info@wjoinery.co.uk • www.wjoinery.co.uk 

Light | Shade 

Privacy Light | Shade | Style 

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FITTED WARDROBES 

ALSO AVAILABLE 

Celebrating 13 Years 

as your local supplier of window shutters 

WOODTHORPE 

WOODTHORPE 

JOINERY 

your local supplier 

JOINERY 

of wooden shutters and blinds 

your local supplier of wooden shutters and blinds 

Wanstead • London • T: 0203 589 4879 

E: Wanstead info@wjoinery.co.uk • London • • T: www.wjoinery.co.uk 

0203 589 4879 

E: info@wjoinery.co.uk • www.wjoinery.co.uk 

Independent directory of businesses, news and events in Wanstead, Snaresbrook and Aldersbrook

May 2024

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