The Brent Magazine 137 December 2013

ISSUE NO.137 • FREE FOR PEOPLE WHO LIVE AND WORK IN BRENT PUBLISHED BY BRENT COUNCIL • NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2013

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Peek behindBrent shopwindowsFind out why you should shopand eat locally this holiday season

Peek behindBrent shopwindowsFind out why you should shopand eat locally this holiday season

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Fresh take on meals on wheelsBrent Council is trying a new way of delivering fresh meals to residents homes

Keeping Brent in businessLots in store for Brent shoppers

Christmas in CricklewoodFind out what festive fun is on offer

Thousands wowed by civic centre spectacularOfficial opening is a dazzling success

Spotlight on SENWorld renowned author speaks at Brent conference

Update

Brent people

All in a day’s work

Secret history

Competitions

Time out

One Stop Service 020 8937 1200

www.brent.gov.uk

The Brent Magazine is available in large print and on audio tape. Please ring 020 8937 1106

Issue No. 137 November/December 2013 BDU 6953 11.13

The Brent Magazine contactsDistribution queries and editorial 020 8937 1062 [email protected] Advertising 020 8937 1076 [email protected] Published by the London Borough of Brent, Brent Civic Centre, Engineers Way, Wembley HA9 0FJ

The London Borough of Brent does not accept responsibility for any goods or services offered by advertisers. Publication of an advertisement does not imply recommendation by the council of goods or services advertised.

Printed on 100% recycled paper. Please use your local paper bank when disposing of this and other paper.

My feet are a little sore, I’m a bit strapped for cash and I’ve gained a few pounds. Sounds like all the usual symptoms of the holiday season right?

Wrong! No this has all been happily

self inflicted thanks to the arrival of the new London Designer Outlet, where I can be found most lunchtimes and dare I say it, quite often after work.

It’s such an exciting addition to Brent bringing with it thousands of jobs and visitors.

But the council hasn’t forgetten about the businesses on Wembley High Road and has launched an innovative project to ensure shop owners benefit from all the new custom (page 12).

Read about a new mystery shopper scheme and make sure you give some of the local restaurants a try – there are some real edible gems.

And while we’re on the topic of food, TBM has been exploring a new way of providing meals on wheels that has been adopted by the council (page 11) which sees local community groups doing the cooking for those who need meals delivered to their door.

Happy holidays!

Orla Sedze, Editor The Brent Magazine

Welcome

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Contents12

UPdate

4 THE BRENT MAGAZINE NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2013

Budget simulatorEver heard how the council spends its cash and thought you would make better choices if you were in charge?

Brent Council is asking residents to help it decide how it spends and saves money by using its interactive simulator. The simulator shows the impact spending decisions have on council tax and the overall budget.

The council wants as many people as possible to complete the simulator and it will take the results into account when it sets its budget for 2014/15.Visit www.budgetsimulator.com/brentcouncil before the end of the year.

Wembley Park is the new shopping destination

Grab your comfy shoes because the doors to Wembley’s London Designer Outlet are now open and the sales end never!

Shops include Adidas, Caffé Nero, Clarks, Gap, Guess, M&S, Nike, Pizza Express, H&M and Pret A Manger. The new nine-screen Cineworld – the only cinema in a three-mile radius – also opened its doors and is showing all the latest blockbusters.

The outlet has created thousands of jobs and is expected to drive more shoppers than ever to Wembley. Wembley Park also announced plans for a new artisan markets programme that will bring top-quality food, drink and artisan produce to the streets of Wembley Park and provide a significant new attraction for the local area.

For more info on the LDO and Wembley Park visit www.wembley.co.uk/at-the-park

Waltz into the new year in style with professional ballroom dance classes starting from 13 January 2014 at the civic centre.

Your lesson will take place in the Grand Hall, the largest event space in the building.

Classes are open to all ages and levels - so why not put your best foot forward and

let our professional ballroom dance teacher lead the way.

A lesson is £4 per person and the classes will run twice a month on alternate Mondays and Wednesdays from 12 - 12.45pm.The council is also considering holding evening ballroom classes. If you are interested please call 020 8937 5288.

There’s loads going on this December in Brent. From an authors talk on how to feed a family for under £5, family workshops themed around fruit and veg, live music, and local food businesses serving-up scrumptious tasters to be devoured, you will feel full of healthy goodness.

To top it all, we have Brent’s poet laureate Simon Mole hosting a spoken word celebration event!

We have something for everyone, with events

running from 6-13 December at Brent Civic Centre.

To find out more just visit www.brent.gov.uk/events

Dance class strictly for you

Feed the imagination this December

Local groups pick a ton of fruit

5

A view from the top

Wembley is a very special part of our borough. It has a particular place in our nation’s affections as the site of many great moments, but soon it will be known for more than just Geoff Hurst’s 1966 World Cup winning hattrick. Soon, Wembley will be an international destination for leisure and retail.

That’s my vision for Wembley, and the opening last month of the London Designer Outlet – a world-class centre for designer shopping, boutique eating and drinking and exciting new independent businesses – was a vital step in making that vision a reality.

Brent Council’s Wembley regeneration plan is designed to work for all our residents. It will result in 12,000 high-quality and affordable homes being built in the area and create over 10,000 new jobs for local people. Through our Wembley Works employer partnership programme we’ve already found jobs for hundreds of Brent residents at the LDO.

I grew up in Brent. I’m passionate about ensuring our borough’s a great place to live, work and visit, and I know that if we work together as a united community we can turn the challenges we face into opportunities and emerge from tough times as a stronger and fairer borough.

Cllr Muhammed ButtLeader of Brent Council

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2013 THE BRENT MAGAZINE

Scratch and park extendedVisitor parking scratchcards can now be used until 31 August 2014, Brent Council has announced.

Although the council had planned to phase them out by the end of October, following the closure of the parking shops which sold them, the authority has now decided to allow more time for

residents to get used to the new system.Councillor Jim Moher, Lead Member for Highways and Transportation, explained: “There

are some people who need more time to make the transition to the online or phone system we have offered as part of changes to parking services. That’s why we’ve listened and made this significant change to a scheme which is otherwise now working well.”

New scratchcards will not be on sale. To set up an online parking account or buy visitor parking visit www.brent.gov.uk/parking or call 020 8937 4972.

UPdate

Brent’s fruit picking groups had a bumper harvest this year saving over 2.5 tons of fruit from going to waste in local gardens.

Kensal to Kilburn Fruit Harvesters, which started in 2009, and Willesden Fruit Harvesters, which formed last year, both received start-up funds from Ward Working.

Alongside Mapesbury Residents’ group, they have picked over 2.5 tons of pears,

apples, grapes, quinces, medlars, passion fruit and figs so far this year.

Fruit is given to local schools and charities, such as Kids Company and food banks. Over 100 volunteers, including schools, have helped pick fruit and make juice, chutney and jam.

To get involved email [email protected] or [email protected]

Hire energy monitor for freeAre you concerned about rising electricity bills?

Why not loan an energy monitor for free from Wembley Library to see the amount of electricity you are using.

You can view the range of monitors available at www.brent.gov.uk/energymonitors where there are three different types to help you monitor your electricity so you can reduce your usage.

It’s easy to loan a monitor, just visit Wembley Library and present your library card.

Above: Michael Stuart (Kensal to Kilburn) and Viv Stein (Willesden Fruit Harvesters) deliver a small selection of fruit they’ve picked to the civic centre to Councillor Butt

UPdate


The nursery education grant (NEG 2) helps parents on a low income get the best pre-school care for their two year old children – 15 hours a week, absolutely free.

However, what some parents don’t realise is that many child minders, as well as nurseries, are also able to provide free 15 hour places.

What’s more, in many cases, a child minder might be a better option for some tots and their families, than a nursery.

Brent’s early years and family support operations manager, Sasi Srinivasan explains more: “Because it’s called the nursery education grant, some people understandably assume it’s just that and might not apply for it if they don’t happen to have a nursery nearby or their local nursery’s oversubscribed.

“That’s a real shame, because child minders are equally equipped to provide excellent care to babies, toddlers and older children.”

For further information on NEG 2 telephone 020 8937 2462 or email [email protected]

Grant is not just for nurseries

No pens Weds! Pupils at a school in Brent ‘downed pens’ for a day last month, but this was not a form of protest, they were in fact taking part in a national event that encourages learning through talk and listening.

Preston Park Primary School in Wembley took part in ‘No Pens Wednesday’ in October, a national event run by the Communications Trust where every lesson is focused on learning through speaking and listening activities.

The days events included role playing, drama, cooking, maths games, following instructions and treasure hunting.

Free public performanceBrent will be playing its part in the worldwide campaign to eliminate violence against women with a public performance called Hurried Steps at the civic centre on 25 November. The powerful play about domestic violence forms part of an event marking international White Ribbon Day which also features the Leader of Brent, Cllr Muhammed Butt, publically signing an anti-violence pledge and culminates in the release of symbolic white balloons. For further information telephone 020 8937 4965.

Doors to Brent’s Rock School have opened and young people have access all areas.

A brand new initiative launched by Brent Music Service, the rock school, will assist aspiring young rock musicians to develop their talents by providing opportunities to explore new sounds and improve their playing techniques.

There are also plenty of exciting performance opportunities, and even the

possibility of performing at Wembley Arena!

This new initiative is free and open to all intermediate level (minimum of Grade 3 / 4 or equivalent) players of guitar, bass, keyboard, drums or vocals who are residents of, or go to a school in Brent.

For information on how to apply email [email protected]

Rehearsals are every Tuesday from 6 – 8pm at Kingsbury High School.

Rock class is in session

Cllr Muhammed Butt joined senior military figures for the historic signing of the Armed Forces Community Covenant to support Brent’s veteran community on 28 October.

UPdate

7 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2013 THE BRENT MAGAZINE

Brent is taking part in an international day of events aimed at empowering people with disabilities and opening doors to a more inclusive society.

The ‘International Day for People with Disabilities’ takes place Tuesday 3 December. Brent Council and Brent Housing Partnership have organised an event open to all residents to address key issues such as looking for work and accessing services.

Head down to the civic centre where you will have the chance to meet and hear from health, employment, leisure and housing providers and

find out about all the opportunities available to you. The event is also a chance for you to have your say on how we can improve services and facilities.

To attend email [email protected] or call Minal on 020 8937 2366. We can also arrange for support for you on the day.

Empowering residents with disabilities

Mini-stroke: not just a funny turnHas your face ever tingled? Did you stumble over your speech for a short time? Have you experienced pins and needles down your arm?

These can all be signs of a Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA). The Stroke Association is calling on Londoners who have had a TIA (also known as a mini-stroke) to take part in the charity’s new survey. Each year, around 50,000 people in the UK have a TIA/mini-stroke. The charity wants to raise awareness of TIA/mini-stroke, what action people take when they have one and how it’s affected them.

The survey is available online at www.stroke.org.uk/tiasurvey and runs until 30 November, or if you would like to receive a printed copy please, ring 020 7566 0300.

Save the date for National Holocaust Memorial Day Join us on National Holocaust Memorial Day to remember those affected by the Holocaust and genocides from around the world.The event will explore the journeys people were forced to undertake and honour the survivors with a programme of guest speakers and musical performances.Monday 27 January, 2014, 5:30-6:30pm, Brent Civic Centre, Engineers Way, Wembley HA9 0FJ. For more information call 020 8937 1097.

Pupils at a new university will be hard pushed not to stare longingly out of their classroom window and who can blame them when they are being taught in rooms overlooking the hallowed turf of Wembley.

Wembley Stadium will soon play host to a team of students now that 25 per cent of the building will be used to create the University College of Football Business.

Opening next year, courses will include BA Hons in International Football Business, BA Hons in Sports Business and Sports Law, work experience at the stadium and mentoring from England goalie Rachel Brown-Finnis.

For more info or to enrol visit www.ucfb.com

University in a league of its own

Left: Rachel Brown-Finnis, England and Everton goalie, who will be a student mentor at Wembley

Two young musical proteges from Brent have won highly sought after four-year music scholarships from the Mayor of London’s Music Fund to help them develop their skills as musicians.

Hannah McKoy-Salt (left aged 9) who plays the violin is from Princess Frederica Primary School and Saffron Adewusi (right aged 9) who plays the trumpet is from Mount Stewart Junior School.

Mayor helps musicians in the making

BRENTpeople

Farra and Lawrence Gomez are two brothers from Brent who founded their ownsuccessful sauce-making company which fuses the best of African and British recipes.

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2013 THE BRENT MAGAZINE 9

Papa’sspice

This original twist has already resulted in them being finalists in the category of Best New Food Product at the Naturaland Organic Awards 2013 and BBC GoodFood Champions.What was your father’s influence in yousetting up your company PaPa Spice? The recipes are inspired by our father whowas a chef for the president of Gambia inwest Africa for 25 years. He was a very hardworker, who wasn’t paid much but was veryparticular about the quality of his work.When we were growing up, his favouritesaying was ‘I don’t mess with my kitchen’meaning it had to be immaculately clean,the food had to be healthy and only freshingredients could be used.

When did you first learn to cook? Lawrence watched our mum cook andthen he started working as a porter at The Ivy restaurant, working his way upfrom making starters to dinners. Farra is more of an experimental cook, he cannot go into a kitchen and follow astraightforward recipe. Farra does thebusiness side of PaPa Spice and Lawrence manages the kitchen. What is the idea behind Afro-Brit™cookery? Afro-Brit™ is about fusing recipes. If youorder a meat dish at an African restaurantyou get chilli as a side but no mint orcranberry, when you order lamb or turkey at a British restaurant you get a

choice of mint or cranberry but no chilli. We love both so decided to put mint in our chilli sauces – which is unheard of. The only rules we have are to keep it healthy and do not usepreservatives or additives.What are your memories of growing up in Brent? We grew up in Chalkhill in Wembley and loved it. We used to spend all dayplaying football and basketball. Brent is an amazing place to grow up and we will never go far from the area. Ourkitchen is in Park Royal and the supportwe get from the local community is great.www.papaspices.com

Customers who receive meals on wheelsare now able to opt for meals suppliedby a network of local community groups as well as order ‘meals to go’from their favourite restaurants andtakeaway food outlets.

As well as saving taxpayers around£300,000 a year, customers are seeinggreater choice and quality for the same price.

Ashford Place is one of the fivecommunity groups the council hasworked with to deliver this offer andCarmen Llorente, Capacity BuildingDirector at Ashford Place, told TBM whatthis means to their customers and alsothe local community.

“When we were approached by the

council to take part in this scheme wewanted to make sure that it met the needsof the customer but also of those in thecommunity” Carmen explained.

“Our menus are very varied - Western,Afro Caribbean, vegetarian, Asian andhalal. They are all home cooked andprepared by qualified and experiencedchefs who make sure they meetnutritional values and provide a balanceddiet. But they are not ‘one size fits all’and we can provide specific requests forindividual customers.

“For instance, one of our customerslikes fruit but only likes exotic AfroCaribbean fruit, so we supply it. We alsohave customers who don’t like salt in theirfood so we leave it out of their order. We

label everything for the customer so theyknow what they are getting.

“We don’t use traditional ‘takeaway’containers for the food but good qualitycontainers that allow us to put differentfoods in compartments, even down tokeeping gravy separate for those wholike it on their meat but not on their veg, or vice versa.

“We even supply plates and cutlery so the customer doesn’t have to do anywashing up, just put the lid back on andgive it back at the next delivery.

“The feedback we are getting is reallygood. The scheme is also benefiting thedisadvantaged and unemployed as wecan offer local apprenticeships and jobopportunities. It’s a win-win all-round!”

Fresh takeon mealson wheels


Meals are freshly prepared and deliveredpiping hot to the homes of Brent residents

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KeepingBrent inbusinessWith the holiday seasonaround the corner, MeanwhileSpace, a pioneering social enterprise, is injecting Brent’shigh streets with some festivefizz whilst helping localtraders cash in on the UK’s annual spending spree.

Words NANCY LUDWIG Photos CARMEN KLAMMER AND PHIL TULL

THE BRENT MAGAZINE NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2013

While award-winning projects like theQueen’s Parade pop up shops in Willesdenhave been successful in attracting trade,getting punters to visit local stores to baga bargain is no mean feat.

Luckily retail experts like MeanwhileSpace’s Associate Director Diana Grisalesare here to help shopkeepers in Brent stayin business during challenging times.

“Shops and cafes in Wembley Triangleespecially have lost a lot of customers inrecent years but now the London DesignerOutlet is open they could potentially havea lot of new customers and they need tobe ready.” explains Diana.

“Wembley Fringe is a new programmewe’re running to help traders identify their assets and attract customers back.

“A lot of the businesses have been herefor 30 years and they’ve never had to thinkabout merchandising or marketing, so this

has been really good for them.”Wembley Fringe encompasses clever,

customer-catching ideas; including theHidden Gems Award, where consumersvote for their favourite stores and the topnominees attend a ceremony to celebrateat the civic centre on 6 December.

A voucher scheme has also been set upwhere shoppers are given £10 to spendlocally in return for providing honestfeedback on each individual business.

“By having to write a review in exchangefor free vouchers, the customer becomesthe critic and it makes businesses open topositive and negative feedback, which isquite a brave thing to do” Diana said.

Food for thoughtIf there’s one thing Wembley does well it’sfood, but some cafes and restaurants inthe area aren’t the best at letting people

know just how great theiroffer is. That’s why a large

part of Wembley Fringe is dedicated toputting these businesses on the culinarymap, with a range of enticing offers totempt the taste buds.

Wembley’s restaurant rehabilitationkicked off with a grand tour of the foodoutlets that make it such a tastesensation. An invited panel of 20 lucky,local, gastronomes set off on their fact-finding feast of five eateries last month.

Each of the participating food outlets laidon free food to tempt the taste tourists.

Volunteer food critic Amisha Gundechasaid: “When I heard about this tour Ijumped at the chance. I ended up enjoyingloads of restaurants I would never havetried. The Blue Room had fantastic foodand a really nice atmosphere. I’ll definitelybe going there again.”

Queens Parade shop manager Livija Dale prepares a christmas window display

BRENTpeople

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Pop-up kitchenAway from Wembley, Meanwhile Space ishelping fledgling food businesses get offthe ground at its Carlton Kitchen project in South Kilburn.

The scheme, which includes activityspace, a café and workspace offers start-up,community and existing food businessesthe chance to deliver activities, services and businesses related to food from the premises.

Project Manager, Cassandra Walker, toldTBM: “Setting up a food business can bean expensive and complicated process. Soallowing people to test ideas and reach thecommunity not only saves massive amountsof money and hassle, but enables them toget direct feedback on their product.

“So far we have a regular foodbank,food growing, herbalists, supper clubs andevents companies all working side by side.

“We’re planning a big spreadthroughout the festive season so I hopelots of people will visit us and trysomething new.”

For more information about WembleyFringe and Carlton Kitchen visitwww.meanwhilespace.com

Bina Relwani, owner of Wonderland kid’s clothing store on Wembley High Road, is one of the traders taking the Wembley Fringechallenge to attract more shoppers to the area.

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2013 THE BRENT MAGAZINE

What’s on at Queen’s Parade Throughout December, Queen’s Paradewill be open late every Thursday until9pm. They will also be holding specialshopping days on 5, 12 and 19 December offering a host of funfestive activities, including:

• Christmas cards, gift wrapping andlantern making workshops

• Beautiful table decorations• A Secret Santa service• RafflesMulled wine and mince pies are on offer too!

This season’s fun launches with a specialevent on 5 December and ends with aclosing party on the 19 December.

Follow Queens Parade on Facebook formore info.

The Wembley Food Tour stopped at the Liquor Station

Dosa Express, EalingRoad

Lago Blu Italian restaurant onWembley High Road


The local community is ensuring the season of goodwill extends to local people, traders, visitors and those most in need.

The festivities start with Winterfest on Saturday 23 November from 1 to 6pm, outside the Crown Moran Hotel and on Yew Grove.

Around 2,000 visitors will enjoy a hand-made gift market, hot food stalls, street theatre, a laser-light show, arts and crafts, mulled wine, stage entertainment and carols.

Winterfest is organised by Cricklewood Improvement Programme (CIP), which was set up by Ashford Place (formerly known as Cricklewood Homeless Concern) in 2009. It involves local

ThThThThhhhThThe e eee llolololoololocacacacacacacacal llll lll cocococococococommmmmmmmmmmmmmmmununununuuniititiitititi y y yyyy iiisisisisis ee eensnsnsnsnsururururururininininninining gggg ggg thhththhthththhthheee e eeee

The spirit of Christmas is alive and well in Cricklewood and everyone’s invited.

community and resident associations supported by funding from the Mayor of London and Brent and Barnet councils.

Danny Maher, Chair of CIP, said: “Winterfest is a great opportunity to enjoy a fun, festive afternoon in Cricklewood and support local businesses at the same time.”

Danny is also Chief Executive of Ashford Place whose workers and volunteers will be making sure local people who are down on their luck aren’t left out in the cold over the next few months.

Ashford Place, along with local churches and a mosque, is running a winter shelter for homeless people.

Danny Maher and Sanjay Patel outside local shop Carters

It is also offering Christmas dinners for those who need it and hosting its regular carol concert.

Danny said: “We are about getting people to come together and work together, that’s the formula for a successful community. We want to bring a bit of Christmas cheer to everyone who needs it.”

Carters is one of the local shops which will have a festive feel, including a specially decorated shop window.

Joint owner Sanjay Patel said: “It’s a tradition for us to have a Christmas window. It’s part and parcel of the spirit of Christmas, you need to feel part of the community.”

donations on

on

15NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2013 THE BRENT MAGAZINE

www.brent.gov.uk/recyclemore

GreenPagesNovember/December 2013

Brent

Remember!2 December 2013

The way your bins are collected

is changing.

Find out how your property

is affected.

INSIDE:Your guide

to the new

bin collection


020 8937 5050

Continues on the next page...

GreenPages


What happens if I forget to put my bins as near to thestreet as possible?

From the week starting 2 December you must ensure that you put your bins as near to the street as possible. If you do not put your bins in the right location, we will leave a tag on your bin, like the one shown left. This will remind you to put your bins as near to the street as possible next time.

If you do not comply, we will not empty your bins.

Why is Brent changing its bin collections?We are changing the way that we collectwaste from your property to make thecollections more efficient and quicker.

I am unable to move my bins. What will happen?We provide a special assisted collection servicefor residents who are unable to move their bins out for collection. This service is only available to residents who have a disability or health condition and live in a property where no one is able to move their bins for them. An assisted collection means that our operatives will come in to your front garden to collect your bins from a location that we have agreed with you.

If you currently receive an assisted collection these changes do not affect you. Our operatives will continue to collect your bins as usual. If you believe you need an assisted collection, please contact us.

Green Pages is Brent Council’s quarterly residents’ recycling newsletter produced by Brent Council in association with Veolia. For further information visit www.brent.gov.uk/recyclemore or call 020 8937 5050.

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Bin collection changes – your questions answered

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2 December

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21NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2013 THE BRENT MAGAZINE

Over 5,000 local people celebrated the official opening of the ultra-modern Brent Civic Centre by enjoying music, dance, arts and performances catering for all of the borough’s diverse community.

The day included free workshops and performances from the Tricycle Theatre, English National Ballet, Kilburn’s Institute of Contemporary Music, London School of Samba, Hypnotick Dance Group, Mahogany Carnival Arts and many more.

There was also a succession of performances in the main foyer from local bands and the council’s music service, a 5k fun-run around Wembley Stadium, Adanta African dance and theatre, mass Zumba, a poetry slam and Angels Cheerleading Academy.

The day culminated with Brent Mayor Cllr Bobby Thomas and Council Leader Cllr Muhammed Butt being joined on stage by 21 young ambassadors, one for each of Brent’s wards, to cut a ribbon and declare Brent Civic Centre open.

The finale was a breath-taking outdoor evening performance by circus group

Upswing on the outside of the building which combined aerial dance, pyrotechnics, costumes, stilt walking and music, all supported by Arts Council England.

The day of events and the new community building both got the thumbs up from local people.

Pictured below, Hubert Pereira, at the event with his twin Harold, said: “It was a good event, the music was really good. The building is fantastic, very modern, a real architectural marvel.”

Moving into the new civic centre will save the borough around £2.5 million a year and the building has been recognised as the greenest public building in the UK.

Cllr Butt said: “The event was about bringing people together to celebrate this fantastic state-of-the-art building, our vibrant borough and the local talent who performed

on the day. “It was a

fantastic experience. Everyone really enjoyed the day and celebrated the work the council has done to make the civic centre truly a community building.”

Picture of the day:Congratulations to Khalid Obeirne who took part in our twitterthon and won a pair of tickets to tour Wembley Stadium.

Spectator Joe Harbinson said: “It was a good day, very well organised. It was nice to see such a strong community building in an area next to an icon like the stadium.”

Mum Sameer Bhole said: “It was really nice, we appreciated the day. Inside, it was really nice for the children too.” Bhauna Thakershi, enjoying the event with her son and husband, said: “We all loved it!”

22 THE BRENT MAGAZINE NOVEMBER DECEMER 2012 22 THE BRENT MAGAZINE NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2013 27 JULY 2013 THE BRENT MAGAZINE

Cllr Muhammed Butt, with 21 young ambassadors from each of the borough’s wards, cutting the ribbon to declare Brent Civic Centre open


The fi rst features the internationally renowned clinical psychologist and

author, Professor Tony Attwood (pictured right). His visit on 13 January has been organised by the Brent Outreach Autism Team (BOAT), a council-run service for children and young people who have been diagnosed on the autism spectrum and who attend mainstream schools.

Professor Attwood has lectured worldwide about his research with young people on the autism spectrum. He has published several scientifi c papers and books including ‘Asperger’s Syndrome – A Guide for Parents and Professionals’, which has sold over 350,000 copies - during a career spanning over 30 years.

Born in the UK, he now lives in

Australia running a private practice and travels extensively to present workshops

and programmes for parents, professionals and individuals with Aspergers.

The event is open to parents, carers, professionals and residents and will explore ‘managing feelings and the emotions of children and young people on the autism spectrum.’ It takes place from 6 – 9pm in the Drum at Brent Civic Centre. Tickets cost £15 for parents and £25 for professionals. To book contact Imogen BoSmith on 020 8937 3826 or

email [email protected] council is also hosting the Brent

Parent Special Educational Needs Conference on 29 January. Acting Director of Children and Families,

Sara Williams, will talk about new education reforms for anyone upto 25 year olds and what it will mean for youngsters with SEN in Brent.

Brian Lamb, OBE, a consultant specialising in SEN and disability issues and a former government advisor will give a national perspective about the changes, and Daisy Russell from the National Parent Partnership Network (NPPN) will speak from a parents point of view.

Cllr Michael Pavey Lead Member for Children and Families said: “Special Educational Needs is a hugely important part of what we do as a council. I’m delighted that these two events will raise awareness of this priceless work and hope that they will generate some exciting new ideas for the future.”

To book a free ticket telephone or email

lunch will be provided.

www.brent.gov.uk/sen

Psychologist and author, Professor Tony Attwood

Two events aimed at informing and involving parents and carers of children with special educational needs (SEN) are being held at the civic centre early next year.

Spotlight on SEN

27 ENIZAGAM TNERB EHT 3102 REBMECED / REBMEVON

020 8937 4901


From dumped bags of chicken carcassesto abandoned furniture and builders’waste – some of Brent’s high streets areblighted by illegal dumping.

It’s the job of the Environmental CrimePrevention Team to help clean up Brent’shigh streets and residential areas.

“The council doesn’t collect businesswaste,” explains enforcement officerDennis Lewis. “Traders are responsiblefor disposing of any commercial waste ina safe and environmentally friendly way,including recycling where possible. It’s myteam’s job to educate people about theirresponsibilities and stop waste beingillegally dumped. Residents rightly hateseeing rubbish piled up in their highstreets and dumped food waste whichonly attracts rats.”

The team has recently stepped up itsenforcement actions in town centres suchas Willesden, Harlesden and Kilburn witha new initiative involving red sacks.“Instead of dumped waste being clearedup immediately it’s now put intodistinctive red sacks. The red sacks reallystand out and carry a warning messageabout fines if you are caught illegallydumping waste,” says Dennis.

Our team then investigates and willtake firm action against anyone whodumps waste illegally. “We issue fixedpenalty notices of £300 for failure tolawfully get rid of trade waste, and ifyou don’t pay the fine you can beprosecuted,” he adds.

ALL IN Aday’s work

Envirocrime –why we’re seeing

Brent Council’s Environmental Crime Prevention Teamare dealing with illegally dumped waste by educatingtraders and residents and prosecuting offenders.


In other cases they prosecute offendersin the courts and the fines issued can besubstantial. Anyone prosecuted by BrentCouncil and found guilty will receive acriminal record and will find his or herdetails published on Brent Council’swebsite under the prosecutions register.

Envirocrime –why we’re seeing red

GUILTYMartin J Corcoran, Lynton Close Offence: Flytipping Fined £550 Costs £500 Victim Surcharge £55Khan Naeeb of Khan Autos, High Road, Wembley Offence: Failure to produce valid waste transfer notes Fined £450 Costs £700 Victim Surcharge £45 Director of Armaan Film Production Ltd, Windermere Avenue, Wembley Offence: Failure to produce valid waste transfer notesFined £500 Costs £806.60 Victim Surcharge £50 Loula Hardi Ofleh, Church Road, HarlesdenOffence: Failure to produce valid waste transfer notesFined £200 Costs £1212.50 Victim Surcharge £20

Want to see more? www.brent.gov.uk/prosecutionregister To report fly-tipping or illegally dumped waste call 020 8937 5050.

SECREThistoryy

The advent of the From Facebook and YouTube to buses and billboards we are surrounded by adverts. They pop up on our phones and tablets and we encounter hundreds daily. Whether you like them or not advertising is big business, but have you ever wondered about the origins of the humble advert.

The term ‘advertising’ was coined in 1655 however English newspapers date back to the1620s and from early on these papers carried advertisements.

With the festive season approaching we decided to take a trip down memory lane to have a look at some of the seasonal advertising from 1870-1900. Brent Archives hold microfilms of Brent’s first local papers of which the earliest is The Kilburn Times, first published in 1870. The adverts in these papers are as interesting as the news.

Newspapers in this period had advert-only front pages, with more ads scattered inside. The publishers liked the income, but they did not want advertising to overwhelm news, so banned large fonts. Advertisers cleverly worked round this, leaving spaces to draw the eye to the ad, or filling columns with repetitive text.

Few ads were illustrated, and virtually no Christmas ones are. Some of the shops featured in the adverts are local, like the Kilburn Bon Marché, but others are in Marylebone.

Some shops did not bother making their ads seasonal. H. Green of Kilburn kept advertising wedding and birthday presents even in mid-December. As time went on Christmas adverts became more numerous and sophisticated.

Though the style may be different, the Christmas adverts do not feel that outdated. They start later in the year, but are just as commercial as advertisements today.

In a time when religion was more powerful than now, at least in the middle class, religious sentiments are totally ignored. Christmas adverts stress presents, food, drink, and shopkeepers making money!

www.brent.gov.uk/archives

y

S

advert



Advertise here fromonly £275 and reach99,000 households.

[email protected] CALL 020 8937 1076

Brent

Win TricycletheatreticketsTricycle Theatre isoffering one luckyreader a pair of ticketsto see ‘Once a Catholic’by Mary J. O’Malley onTuesday 3 December.

The nuns at OurLady of Fatimapreach chastityand diligence asthe swingingsixties approach.

Final exams loom.The day ofreckoning is nigh.But for the girls inclass 5A, their lastyear in uniform is set to be one ofdiscovery of the less holy kind…

To win tell us:What is the name of the class the girls are in?Terms and conditions: non exchangeable, non refundable. Only valid for 7.30pm performance on Tuesday 3 December 2013.

Clothes Show Live 2013 is set to be the hottest ticket on thefashion calendar this year.

And luckily for readers, TBM hashooked up with the clothes showteam, to offer four fashionistas a ticket for themselves and fourfriends to this year’s mostprestigious fashion event atBirmingham NEC from 6 – 10 December.

Over 500 leading fashion andbeauty brands, non-stop catwalkshows, gorgeous celebrities,tempting bars, and inspirationalfashion demonstrations will all be spread over five exciting days.There’s something for everyone so whatever your style, it’s time to make space in your wardrobe. clothesshowlive.com T&C: Tickets arevalid across all daysof the show


Win health club membershipfor the family worth £1200

COMPETITIONS

Send your entries on a postcard with your name, address and daytime telephone number to: (name of competition) The Brent Magazine, 4th floor, Brent Civic Centre, Engineers Way, Wembley, Middlesex HA9 0FJ or email [email protected] (add the name of the competition to the subject line and provide your contact details). Competition deadline is 27 November 2013.

WIN CLOTHES SHOW LIVE TICKETSWIN CLOTHES SHOW LIVE TICKETS

Win health club membershipfor the family worth £1200 Get fit and have fun with the family courtesy of EveryoneActive, the new operators of Vale Farm Sports Centre, whoare giving readers the chance to win a 12 month family membership.

This fantastic prize will give two adults and two children 12months unlimited access to the centre. The adults will haveuse of the spacious 50 station gym, over 40 exercise orindoor cycling classes every week and unlimited swimming inVale Farm’s beautiful six lane, 25 metre swimming pool.And the kids receive swimming lessons for 12 months, use ofthe gym and specialist classes.

The lucky winners will also be able to use any EveryoneActive gym and can go online to book and plan activity or download training plans, video classes andmore.

To flex your muscles as a family tell us:How many lanes does the pool at ValeFarm Sports Centre have?

everyoneactive.comTerms are: No purchase necessary, not exchangeablefor cash, child membership for 16 and under, gym andclasses available to children aged 11+

TBM

COMPETITIO

N W

INN

ERS

Congratulations

Emma Donabie who

won a wedding and

Vivenne Saskya Brown

winner of a party in

the Drum at Brent

Civic Centre

CHILDRENNORTH WEST LONDON NCT,THE CHARITY FOR PARENTSWeekly meet ups forpregnant women and newparents each week inBrent – make friends andget information andsupport. We also organisesales of baby clothes andequipment. Volunteers tohelp run our group arealways welcome.www.nct.org.uk/branches/north-west-london

SING & SIGN CLASSESLearn the fun way classesin Queens Park, Kensal Rise& Willesden Green. CallVersha 07790 955 576www.singandsign.co.uk

LGBT YOUTH CLUB Lesbian, Gay, Bi andunsure under 19s youthclub. Wed in Kilburn07931 336 668www.mosaicyouth.org.uk

SHACADEMY A creative speech, dramaand confidence companyfor young people. One toone tuition for childrenleading to accreditedexams. Regular theatreand confidence workshopsat Mini Picassos.shacademy.co.uk07812 160 251

WEMBLEY BOYS’BRIGADE & GIRLS’ASSOCIATIONAnchors 5-8 year olds,juniors 8-11 year oldsmeet 6.15-7.30pm Thur.Company section meet7.15-9pm. Park LaneMethodist Church, Wembleywww.parklanemethodist.org.uk

COMMUNITYWILLESDEN LOCALHISTORY SOCIETY.Wed 20 Nov. Talk byDavid Unwin, ‘WillesdenBuilding Departmentmemories’. 7.30pm atSt.Mary’s Parish Centre,Neasden Lane, NW10.Members free, visitors £1

TAI CHIPractice in a lovely, calm,bright space, every Tue10-11.30am. Ideal forolder learners, ChalkhillCommunity Centre, 113 Chalkhill Road,Wembley HA9 9FX. Call 07747 444 895£6 per class drop in or£20 per month.

PAINT YOUR OWNPOTTERYPop up studio for all ages.Only pay for what youpaint. Items from £5. Sat 23 Nov, 2.30-5pm, St Michael’s Church Hall,Knatchbull Road, NW10.www.wonderfullymadeby.com

THE WEMBLEY &DISTRICT CENTRELocal group of theNational Trust. We meeton the third Thur of themonth, 8-10pm at theSudbury NeighbourhoodCentre, 809 Harrow Road,Wembley. Great variety ofspeakers booked for 2013.Call 020 8902 1324.

BRENT PENSIONERS’FORUM First Wed of every month10-12noon at Brent CivicCentre, Engineers Way,Wembley. Includes a varietyof knowledgeable guestspeakers, pensioners’ issuesdiscussed, etc. Everyonewelcome. Call Vi Steel on020 8795 3151 or [email protected]

NORTH WEST LONDONLESBIAN AND GAY GROUPMon 8.30pm, TenterdenSports Centre, Preston Road,Wembley. 07941 707 884

QUEENS PARKCOMMUNITY SALEBuy and sell good qualitysecond-hand and hand-made items. Held in theheart of our communityon the 1st and 3rd Suneach month, in SalusburyRooms, alongside theFarmer’s Market. Call07591 172 509 or visitwww.queensparkcommunitysale.co.uk

DANCENEW TEA DANCE ATBRENT CIVIC CENTREMon (not bank holidays)and Wed at The GrandHall, Civic Centre, EngineersWay, Wembley. Doors open12.30pm, Tea Dance from1.30-4.30pm. £5.00 perperson. Licensed bar andrefreshments available. Call 020 8937 4340

ENCEE ACADEMY – DANCEKathak dance classes, Sat &Sun. Bharatnatyam danceclasses, Tue & Sat. Bollywood,Wed &,Fri. Senior CitizenYoga, Fri morning. Startingsoon, tabla, Hindustanivocal classes. Patidar House,22 London Road, Wembley.Call: 020 8795 1648email: [email protected]

LEARNINGBACESFrom Afro-Brazilian musicand drumming to Yoga, at Brent Adult andCommunity EducationService we’ll have a class tosuit you! Pick up a brochurefrom libraries or from oneof four centres or visitwww.brent.gov.uk/bacesfor our course listing.

GCSE TUITION CLASSESMaths, Science andEnglish. £14.50ppphMITEC, Wembley, 020 8900 0505

MATHS DENSat, Maths tuition forchildren aged 7-11 insmall groups. £10 perhour Tel: 07974 225 [email protected]

IMPROVE YOUR SPANISHLearn quickly with thisimmersion programme,the assessment isabsolutely free and thelearning plan is tailoredto your needs. £15ph.10% discount when pre-booking 10 [email protected] 143 784

GERMAN CONVERSATIONCLASSES Preston Park area foradvanced speakers, i.e.post GCSE. Please call020 8452 5239 for info.

ENVIRONMENTBARN HILLCONSERVATION GROUPSun, Fryent CountryPark; Tue, Thur, Sat RoeGreen Walled Garden020 8206 0492www.bhcg.btck.co.uk

MUSICHIP CAFÉExciting, uplifting andinspirational live musicwith an eclectic mix ofmusicians ranging fromjazz, gospel and soul. Next event 30 Nov, at theBlue Check Restaurant,Wembley. Please [email protected] orcall 07939 239 053 formore info. (No bookingsvia the restaurant).

ACE CAFÉ DECEMBERMUSIC - ALL FREE APARTFROM THE NEW YEARSEVE PARTY.Wed 4, 6-11pm, Hot RodNight with DJ JimmyGuntrip. Sun 22, 7pm,Annual Xmas CarolService. Sat 28, 7-11pm,Rhythm n’ Cruise Rockin’Record Hop with DJJimmy Guntrip. Tue 31,9pm-2am, New Years EveParty with the Roomates +DJ Flat Top Dave. (Includeshot supper & free raffle).£15 Advance/£20 Door.Sorry no under 18s.

MANOR AND PHILBEACH SINGERSTue 7.30-10pm GoodwillHall, Chichester Rd,Kilburn Park. No singingexperience needed, noauditions 020 8455 8865

SPORTS & LEISUREDEMEL PRO FOOTBALLACADEMYFootball coaching forchildren, age 3-12 years,Newman College. Sat from10am-1pm to enhanceyoung talent and provide afun and safe environmentin football. Contact Melissaon 07872 553 922 or [email protected]

FUN & FITNESS CLASS.Ladies only. Tue 8pm. £5Kingsbury Baptist ChurchHall, Slough Lane,Kingsbury NW9 8XL. All levels welcome, justturn up. Increasesenergy, cardiovascularfitness, weight loss andthe ability to cope withstress. Registered ExerciseProfessional. For info call07944 523 260

SEA URCHINSThur 8pm, swimming clubfor young people andadults with learningdifficulties. WillesdenSports Centre, NW10. Free.Call Jean 020 8452 6912

TIMEout

What’s going on…Your guide to what’s on in Brent during November and December 2013.To get your event listed for free, email us using the subject heading ‘What’s On’. Describe your event,in no more than 50 words, tell us what section you want your ad to appear, include a pic and a titleand email [email protected] or tel 020 8937 1062.

THE BRENT MAGAZINE NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2013 34

BACESSee: Learning

Paint your own potterySee: Community

BRENT ARCHIVES George Furness House 2-12 Grange Road Willesden NW10 2QY020 8937 3541 [email protected] THE DRUMBrent Civic CentreEngineers Way Wembley HA9 0FJ020 8937 4340TRICYCLE THEATRE CINEMA AND GALLERY269 Kilburn High RoadLondon NW6Theatre Box Office020 7328 1000Cinema 020 7328 1900Disabled access to auditorium and cafe,induction loop in auditorium Minicom 020 7625 5105

EALING ROAD LIBRARY Coronet Parade, Ealing RoadWembley HA0 4BA 020 8937 [email protected] LIBRARYCraven Park Road Harlesden, NW10 8SE020 8937 [email protected] LIBRARY42 Salusbury Road Kilburn NW6 6NN020 8937 [email protected] LIBRARY PLUSKingsbury Road Kingsbury NW9 9HE020 8937 [email protected] LIBRARYBrent Civic CentreEngineers WayWembley HA9 0FJ020 8937 [email protected] GREEN LIBRARYGeorge Furness House 2-12 Grange Road Willesden NW10 2QY 020 8937 [email protected] GREEN LIBRARYThe Lewinson Centre 165-167 High Road Willesden NW10 2SG020 8937 [email protected]

LIBRARIES

WEMBLEY STADIUMEVENTSEngland vs Chile, 15 November TBC

England vs Germany, 19 November TBC

Rugby League World Cup Semi, 23 November TBC

Subject to change

www.wembleystadium.com/events

TIMEout

ISA FOOTBALL ACADEMYSoccer coaching forchildren in Reception -Year 6. Evening &Weekends. Indoor andoutdoor venues in NW9& NW6. Unique trainingsystem led by UEFA A(Level 4) coach. CallGeorge 07957 229 [email protected]

BEATBOX FIGHT KLUB8.15-9.15pm Tue, St Maryand St. Andrews parishhall, Dollis Hill Lane, NW26HE. Full body workoutusing boxing gloves andpads to a fast beat. Allwelcome. For info callDonna 07957 458 537or email [email protected]

CAPOEIRA CLASSES

A combination of Dance,Music and Martial Artsfrom Brazil. A fantastictool to improve co-ordination, strength,flexibility, team work skillsand self defence. Tue andThur 4.30-5.30pm and Sat1-2pm, Willesden SportsCentre. Prof.Topera 07403085 918 www.capoeira-esporao.com

ACTIVE WITH BRENTTue, Return to Football, 7-8pm, £2, Ark Academy,Bridge Road, Wembley.Just turn up. Tue, 50+gentle Aerobics, KingsburyFitness First, 1.30-2.30pm. Call 020 8937 3722.Healthy Walks Programmewww.brent.gov.uk/sports

GENTLE EXERCISECLASS FOR OLDERPEOPLEAge UK Brent isstarting a newexercise class inNeasden. Friday

pm. An hour’sgentle exercise at theSPA London Centre,519 North Circular

Road, Neasden,NW2 7QG. Call

Ken on 020

89657711

AIKIDO CLASSESWed 8-10pm, StAndrews Church, ScoutHall, Church Gardens,Harrow Road, Sudbury.Contact Steve on 07775 588 343

YOGAClassical Hatha Yoga forBeginners, St Luke’sChurch, Fernhead RoadLondon W9 3EH. Wed7pm-8pm. £8 drop-in/£40 for 6 sessions.Call Nina 07984 781 880or email [email protected]

ADULTS BOXING ANDCROSS-TRAINING CLASSESReal Fitness, WillesdenGreen. Boxing and Cross-Training classes for adults at all levels offitness and ability. Inaddition to gym andweights facilities, ourclasses include, Boxing/Kick-boxing, Bootcamps,circuit training &Personal Training, FIRSTCLASS FREE. For moreinfo call 07572 433 412

PRESTON PARK BOWLS CLUBFree coaching and loanof bowls. Preston ParkRecreation Ground,Carlton Avenue East.Ring 020 8933 9358 or020 8204 1223

for details.

ROUNDWOOD PARK BOWLS Tue and Thur pm. From2.30pm, RoundwoodPark, Harlesden Road,Willesden, London, NW103SH. Free tuition and loanof bowls available forbeginners. Contact 020 8459 1325

WU SHU KWAN CHINESEKICKBOXINGSat 3-5pm, WillesdenSports Centre,Donnington Road, NW10 07835 244 398. Sat 10am-12midday, St Augustine’s ChurchHall, Wembley Hill Road,HA9 07958 908 892www.wushukwan.com

ZUMBA CLASSES FOR ALLMon 8.15-9.15pm andSat 10-11am, St Mary & St. Andrews ParishHall, Dollis Hill Lane,NW2 6HE. Wed 8-9pmRaw Spice, Cinnamonsuite, 117-115 WestHendon Broadway, NW9 7BP. All welcome,£5 per person.

SELF DEVELOPMENTINNER SPACE WEMBLEYFree courses andseminars: Meditation,Positive Thinking,Overcoming Anger etc.Inner Space, 528 HighRoad, Wembley, HA97BS. 020 8903 1911www.innerspace.org/wembley

SOUND MEDITATION One hours relaxingSound meditation on 3rd Thur of every month.Willesden NW10 4EL.Cost £10. Call Sandira07940 804 098 or email [email protected]

MEDITATION/COMBAT STRESSAuthentic mindfulnessmeditation techniques on weekly basis ingroups or 1-2-1coaching. Suitable for all levels. Led by Karuna, a formerBuddhist monk. Visitwww.akanista.com/meditation-classes [email protected] call 07784 436 783

ALL EVENTS ARE SELECTED

AT THE EDITOR’S DISCRETION

VENUES

Sound meditationSee: Self development

Capoeira classesSee: Sports and leisure


There will be:

• Places for 4 to 5 year olds (90 places are available)

• A brand new school with state-of-the art buildings,equipment and facilities

• The highest quality teaching and learning

• A strong focus on core skills of Literacy andNumeracy as well as developing pupils’ skills across the seven areas of learning in the Early Years Foundation Stage

• A supportive and caring environment for pupils to thrive in, pastorally and academically.

Following on from WembleyHigh Technology College’ssuccess as one of the highestachieving schools in Brent,we are delighted to announcethat a brand new LowerSchool is planned to open inSeptember 2014. Places willbe available for Receptionage children.

For more information about the school and our admissions policy, contact the school for a Prospectus or visit our website at www.whtc.co.uk

New Primary School at Wembley High

Documents

The Brent Magazine 137 December 2013