Forum Topics

Singers wanted for choirs!

SEEKING TENORS & BASSES!The West London based ADDISON CHAMBER CHOIR and the ADDISON JAZZ ENSEMBLE are each looking for a couple of extra Tenors and Basses for the 2015 season. Some sight reading skills are helpful and an informal audition is required.The CHAMBER CHOIR have a large repertoire but have become particularly known for their high quality performance of music by a wide range of contemporary composers, many of whom have written pieces especially for the choir. Concerts include our own and others e.g. the Brandenburg Festival and the London Festival of Contemporary Church Music, and a performance at Kings Place later this year.  The Music Director is David Wordsworth.The JAZZ ENSEMBLE sing jazz standards, occasionally pop, and pieces written especially for the Ensemble by the talented Jill Jarman.  We perform in the Addison Jazz concerts and in the Brandenburg Festival.Bursary - a bursary to attract and retain young singers who demonstrate talent and wish to join may be available on application.  The bursary covers all fees and music for one year and is conditional on committing to singing at all performances during the year.Rehearsals are held at the Polish Centre in Hammersmith, London W6 0RF. Chamber Choir on Wednesday evenings 6.30pm-7.45pm, Jazz Ensemble on Monday evenings 6,30pm-8pm.  We’re a very sociable choir and there are plenty of opportunities for meeting like minded friends! There are also two Addison unauditioned larger choirs for people of all abilities: the Oratorio Choir and the Jazz Choir, should these be of interest.To arrange an informal audition or for more information, contact Julie Davies our Membership Coordinator on 07531 447960, or email us at info@addison-singers.org.uk , or see our website http://www.addison-singers.org.uk/

Morna Wheatley ● 4285d0 Comments ● 4285d

Gardening with a Difference

As you can see from my newly registered email address I am connected to an organisation called Our Barn. This is (loosely) a youth club for young people aged 16-25 with learning difficulties or other disability. We are very excited to be working in partnership with the National Trust at Osterley Park to start a gardening project. The idea is to impart horticulture, work, life and social skills to a group of young people, helping them move on from the structure of a formal education setting (mostly from special schools and colleges) and into the wide world.We are looking for keen gardeners to volunteer with us on Fridays (starting in March). We will be working under the guidance of Osterley's Head Gardener to carry out work in the Tudor kitchen garden (you may have seen it in the gardening magazines), alongside our trainee Horticultural Therapists and senior support (care) workers. This is going to be a fun and very special project. Our eventual aim is to provide gardening services to the local community, including local elderly and disabled people, creating actual jobs for a small number of learning disabled people. If you are interested in volunteering as a gardener we would love to hear from you. Contact me on karen@ourbarn.org.ukMore information about Our Barn on our website: www.ourbarn.org.uk KarenCo-Founder and Manager, Our Barn Youth Club

Karen Adams, Our Barn ● 4286d0 Comments ● 4286d

Labour break election pledges – cutting Council Tax by just 1% and pushing up charges

Hammersmith and Fulham Council have sneaked out their budget for 2015/16. It represents a catalogue of broken pledges.There will be a one per cent cut in the Council Tax. During the eight years of Conservative administration the Council Tax was routinely cut by three per cent annually. Equally routinely Labour claimed they could do much better than this eliminating millions of wasteful spending.Furthermore the modest Council Tax saving (just £7.35 for a Band D household) will for many be offset by inflation busting increases in Council charges. Inflation is currently one per cent – as measured by the Consumer Price Index – or two per cent – as measured by the Retail Price Index. Hammersmith and Fulham Council has opted to increase charges by 2.4 per cent. On the grounds that was the inflation rate in August!When Labour were in opposition they used to call these charges “stealth taxes”. They pledged to reduce not just Council Tax but “all Council Taxes”. The pledge was not to increase them in line with inflation – or only a bit more than inflation. The pledge was to cut them.Back in 2012 I blogged about some specific examples that the Labour council leader Cllr Stephen Cowan had expressed particular moral indignation about. He pledged to cut the bulky waste collection charge back down to £20. (It will actually be £24.85.)Cllr Cowan felt the increase in charges for booking a Junior Football Pitch from £45 to £48 per game was an outrage. He’s putting it up to £53.There was much recent talk about boosting market traders in the North End Road. But the charge for a weekly stall goes up from £83.64 to £85.60p.Cllr Cowan condemned the extra charges on small businesses to remove trade waste. Yet he is putting up the charges further.Booking fees are going up – but then Labour don’t pay them anyway.The promise to cut parking charges has been curiously forgotten.Burial charges increases were something Labour got very emotional about in opposition. They were most emphatic about how immoral they were. In power they are increase the bill for a resident scattering ashes to £82.50p.Then we have even began to scrutinise Labour’s spending cuts – such as to the Phoenix Centre in Shepherd’s Bush. Much of the budget detail has not yet been made public.This is a budget of broken promises. No wonder that amidst their shame and embarrassment Labour have quietly released it on a Monday evening to such little fanfare.

Harry Phibbs ● 4288d0 Comments ● 4288d

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Dark Brown Brindle from the W12 area is missing

From DogLost website.....http://www.doglost.co.uk/dog-blog.php?dogId=80795#.VKcdcaFFDIUmissing from Ashchurch Court, Ashchurch Grove, Shepherds Bush West London(just off the Askew Road), W12 9BS, SQUIDDY ALSO RESPONDS TO BEEGEE Female Staffordshire Bull Terrier (Spayed) Long linear scar on undercarriage from spaying operation. Odd number of nipples - 9 nipples rather than 8 - 9th nipple unusually small compared to the rest. Small scars to heels of both rear legs. Slight scar to front left paw from canuala used in operation.  Not microchipped

Carol Burge ● 4291d0 Comments ● 4291d

Strike Looms For Ambulance Service In January

The pay for nurses and ambulance staff has not been raised in line with inflation every since the financial crash. They have effectively been subsidising the NHS. And on top of this Jeremy Hunt refused the recommendation of a 1 (just ONE) percent rise made by the NHS independent pay review body earlier this year.What else can they do but strike if no one will listen? They have an excellent case for a rise.

Una Hodgkins ● 4291d0 Comments ● 4291d

NORTH END ROAD

In the aftermath of Elizabeth Jallum's death on the North End Road - and following another death last year and a further accident last week - there should now be a determined effort to return the shops and the market to the residents and shoppers who are its lifeblood. we saw on 6th December how the street can be successfully pedestrianised to the benefit of all. Why not make this a permenant feature?

Guy Wilkinson ● 4291d1 Comments ● 4291d

Chelsea Academy Sixth Form Open Evening

We would be delighted to meet you at our Sixth Form Open Evening on Thursday 8th January from 6pm.To find out more about our Outstanding Academy please visit http://chelsea-academy.org/sixth_form.

Holly Power ● 4301d0 Comments ● 4301d

Art Project for Community and Local Businesses

Hi Hammersmith.I'm writing to you as I'm an art student currently studying for my foundation diploma at the University of the Arts London and would like to enquire about wall space in the borough that may be available to artists.I am currently working towards my final project in March 2015 and will be undertaking a street art project to engage with the local community through public art. My aims and intentions with the project are to create a sense of empathy and understanding by exploring crisis in early adulthood. With my project well underway I am eagerly searching for wall space in the local community in order to enable my work to engage with the public. From my research I have found that a number of similar projects have been successful in bringing together local communities in other boroughs and would appreciate the opportunity to enable my artwork to do the same. The projects have also been successful in bringing new people to the local area, which has seen a increase in business and trade. Would it be possible to advise if anyone would be open to such a venture or would know anyone that might be open to the possibility of some delightful artwork gracing their property or business?Please do get in touch if this is a possibility. Yours Faithfully Daniel Raymond – Project Confusion

Daniel Raymond ● 4304d0 Comments ● 4304d

Choose the right care this Christmas

People in Hammersmith and Fulham are being encouraged to choose the right care for their need this Christmas to help ease pressure on NHS services.Many common winter illnesses and injuries, such as colds and flu, can be treated at home with a well-stocked medicine cabinet containing:-Paracetamol and ibuprofen for pain relief -Decongestants for cold and flu symptoms such as blocked noses or sinuses-Tablets or liquids to help with heartburn and other digestion problems-Antiseptic wipes for cuts, grazes and minor wounds-Rehydration remedies-A thermometer-Plasters and sterile dressings-AntihistaminesYour local pharmacist can provide professional, confidential advice and treatment without an appointment. You can see a pharmacist for a range of problems including coughs, colds, skin conditions, aches and pains, and stomach complaints or emergency contraception. They may prescribe you with over-the-counter remedies and will be able to advise on medicines that are safe to use with any other medications you are already taking.There are a number of pharmacies open in Hammersmith and Fulham over Christmas. Click on the link below for more information.http://www.hammersmithfulhamccg.nhs.uk/media/14425/hammersmith_and_fulham_nwl_pharmacy_xmas_rota_20141.pdfIf you’re still unsure which care option to choose, NHS 111 is a round-the-clock phone service, free to call from landlines and mobiles. NHS 111 offers expert advice for situations when you need help urgently but it isn’t an emergency.The telephone team are fully-trained and supported by nurses, paramedics and other medical professionals. If they think you should see a healthcare professional, they will direct you to the correct service for your need, including GP practices that are open at weekends.Dr Tim Spicer, chair of Hammersmith and Fulham CCG, said: “During the winter months, an increase in winter illnesses and injuries puts additional pressure on health services, so it’s important to use your NHS wisely.“Self-care is important all year round but can be particularly essential during the winter months. It’s vital to drink lots of fluids to stay hydrated, and be sure to wrap up warm.“We would also encourage people to check in regularly with any neighbours or family members who might be vulnerable in the cold and the dark.“A&Es come under a lot of pressure at this time, so using services sensibly not only means that you will get the most suitable advice or treatment as quickly as possible, it also frees up emergency services for people with life-threatening illnesses or injuries.”

Louisa Elliott ● 4307d0 Comments ● 4307d

W11 Children's Opera perform at the Posk Theatre this weekend

W11 Opera is a little gem of an opera company. They have commissioned over 30 new operas in 40 years and they are all performed by children. This year we are reviving our 2000 Production "Deep Waters" by awarding-winning Composer Cecilia McDowall and librettist Christie Dickason. "A wild storm batters a small boat; four children fall overboard and descend to the bottom of the sea.  They can breathe in this supernatural, subaquatic world where the fish are scheming to survive; the children soon realise that they have a dangerous mission to undertake.Deep Waters blends wit with a warning: divisive practices lead to deep trouble."There are 4 performances over the weekend of 13th/14th, so why not try an alternative to Panto this year? It's also an opportunity to discover the Posk Theatre (opposite Latymer Upper School in King Street) which has a wealth of facilities and a wonderful Polish cafe too.http://www.w11opera.org/this-year/box-office/

Madalyn Roker ● 4312d0 Comments ● 4312d

HEALING TOMORROW

This is to remind you that the monthly healing centre at the London Buddhist Vihara, The Avenue, Chiswick, will be open tomorrow, Monday, 8th December between 11am and 1pm.  Second Monday of the month.The therapy helps any condition, from stress right through to physical illness.There is no charge made for the healing (all the healers are working on a voluntary basis), although a donation would be welcome.  All donations are given to the Vihara.You don't need to make an appointment or book but if you want further information before coming please give me a ring on 0788 189 6449.

Pat Smith ● 4317d0 Comments ● 4317d

Rugby Parking

Are you a reg to the Twickenham Rugby Ground for the matches and need to park?The United Resident Association and the Bridgelink Center are renting out our Car Park on match days.The car park has only 10 parking spaces so first come, its situated on Summerwood Rd, Isleworth Tw7.Cars £15 to park.Please contact me on 07561149063...

Simon Anderson ● 4332d0 Comments ● 4332d

CHRISTMAS BAKING WORKSHOP FOR KIDS

Busy Bakers​Festive Baking and craft workshopWe are hosting a Christmassy Workshop at our favourite venue - Drink me, Eat me!Why not drop off you little ones, and escape to the shops to do some Christmas Shopping - while they delve deep into gingerbread, cupcakes, glitter, stickers and oh sooo much more! You are also more than welcome to stay in the venue - there is a cafe next door to the room we will be in.Date: 19th December 2014Time: 1-3pmAges: 3.5 years - 12 yearsAddress:Drink Me, Eat me, 250-252 King Street, W6 0SPCost: £30 (10% off second siblings)The children will have a snack within the two hours. Please let me know asap if you would like your little ones to join in with the fun!www.busybakers.comjess@busybakers.co.uk

Jessica Meyrick ● 4340d0 Comments ● 4340d

Hammersmith Bridge Closure Likely to Be Lengthy

There are details of the accident this afternoon on the front page of this web site. There is some suggestion that a police car may have been involved and on Twitter there are a number of people saying there was a fatality. If either or both are true the Bridge and Castelnau are likely to be shut for a while yet and this evening's rush hour will be horrendous. Fingers crossed the Twitter rumours are spurious.

Paul Corcoran ● 4343d1 Comments ● 4343d

What's important in the local community

Hello all! I'm a local resident in Hammersmith (live on Parfrey Street, opposite the hospital) and I'm currently developing a website to make local issues more engaging. As it's a business and I know there are strict anti-advertising rules here I will refrain from posting the url. What I'd like to know is who you would all recommend I speak to (even if that is yourselves) in order to get a picture of what we want to happen in the local area. I'm looking for local businesses struggling to engage with customers, people active in politics, activists, anybody with something pertinent to say really. And to get a discussion going here as well - what are the issues that matter in Hammersmith & Fulham (big and small)?--------Just to give a brief background to what I'm doing - the website is an open suggestions box designed to provide a voice and an outlet for the smaller, often marginalised issues that really matter to people and local business. As I'm a resident in the area, I want to test the site in a place I'm familiar with.Thanks all,Ed Barton (on twitter @ed_barton)

Ed Barton ● 4343d0 Comments ● 4343d

Chelsea and Westminster Report "Raises More Doubt" about Charing Cross A&E Closure

Please join us: saveourhospitals.net. WE ARE up in arms about the proposed closure of our local teaching hospital, with a blue-light A&E and 360 acute beds, and the Hyper Acute Stroke Unit (the best in the country!) for the Imperial group of hospitals (Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust)?See www.saveourhospitals.net and sign our petition: https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/moratorium-on-a-e-closures-and-hospital-reorganisationsPlease also sign the petitions for Clive Efford's bill here:https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/back-clive-efford-mp-s-bill-to-save-our-n-h-s-2or here:http://epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/68064And there are plenty of ways of expressing support. Come to the vigil starting on Thursday 20th November at 7pm outside the House of Commons:http://www.savelewishamhospital.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/nhs-sleepover-with-lewisham-logo.png

Una Hodgkins ● 4345d0 Comments ● 4345d

ENERGY THERAPY TOMORROW

Energy Therapists will be at the London Buddhist Vihara, The Avenue, W4 1UD on Monday, 10th November, between 11am and 1pm (last session 12.45).  The session takes about 15-20 minutes and I am sure that you will feel really good at the end of that time, with lots of vital energy to enable you to enjoy the rest of your day, at least.A number of therapists come in each month and give their services free.  The Vihara kindly allow us to use the hall at no charge so a donation is most welcome  -  all donations are given to the Vihara.These sessions are not related to any religion, everyone is welcome.If you want more information, give me a call: 0203 719 4668

Pat Smith ● 4345d0 Comments ● 4345d

Coming Up this Autumn and Winter at Apothecary Gallery CIC

Apothecary Gallery CIC has several exciting new events this Autumn and Winter.As well as two major environmental shows set to take place in 2015 the gallery will be displaying a variety of exhibitions including the work of local artists and our Annual Arts Education Programme.NOVEMBER:Local Artist Diana Braybrook We Are Ourselves a Part of NaturePaintings & DrawingsExhibition runs: 11th to 17th November 2014Private View: Tuesday 11th November 6-9pmEntry: FREEThe exhibition will be open to view by appointment after the private viewAbout the Artist:Diana is a West London artist who currently has her studio in the stable block at Osterley Park & House. She trained initially at Camberwell College of Art before gaining a BA in History of Art & Architecture.In the past couple of years she has exhibited at Mine Gallery, Carshalton; Landmark Arts Centre, Teddington; PM Gallery, Ealing; W3 Gallery, Acton as well as in the Garden Gallery at Osterley Park.NOVEMBER:'West London Original Prints Show'Apothecary Gallery is pleased to be hosting an exhibition of the work of 12 local artist printmakersTo accompany the exhibition there will be an artist talk and end of show drinksExhibition runs: 24th November to 1st December 2014Private View: Monday 24th November 6-9pmArtists Talk with Sumi Perera RE: Thursday 27th November 7pmEnd of Show Drinks: Sunday 30th November 6-8pmThe exhibition will be open to view by appointment after the private viewTo apply for tickets for the artists talk please contact dianecomtefrost@gmail.comARTS EDUCATION PROGRAMME:The programme has continued to be an enjoyable and useful vocational experience for the students taking part; supporting both their studies and their transition from school to further and higher education and the work place. All colleges are local to Hammersmith & Fulham and the programme has helped to promote a sense of local community and support.If you would like to support the programme further please visit http://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/growing-transferable-skills-through-art for information on how to make a donation.All donations are welcome and will help to develop the programme and keep it running.If you would like further information on the Arts Education Programme please visit the gallery website http://www.apothecarygallery.org/#aboutFor further information on these and all of our events at Apothecary Gallery CIC please contact us on info@londonapothecary.co.uk or telephone us on 0207 3815727

Rosey Grandage ● 4354d0 Comments ● 4354d

Dog Owners Wanted

I'm a masters student living in W6 and am looking for dog owners for a short documentary (10 minutes!) I'm making for the course.Anyone interested?! The film will only be seen by my tutors, and I'll just accompany you during a walk or two. I'm happy to help with dog walking duties to thank you for your time!If you're interested, drop me an email...louise.potter.14@ucl.ac.uk

Louise Potter ● 4356d0 Comments ● 4356d

Theory about Hammersmith Property Prices

I was perplexed to read an article on this site about local property prices reaching new highs. The reasoning looks sound based on the numbers used but given the economic situation and general sentiment it doesn't make much sense that property prices are peaking.The recent sale of a terrace house in our street that was previously rented got me thinking that there might be a technical reason for this. If landlords are now limited on rents they can charge housing benefit tenants they have the choice between private sector tenants and selling their property. As private sector tenants are less secure and have a higher turnover many may be choosing to sell. This means lots of larger higher priced properties are coming onto the market.The average is therefore been driven up because a bigger proportion of bigger properties are being sold.This should carry on happening for a few years yet as leases come to an end and tenants move on. If so this is excellent news because the amount of money it was costing to house people in these expensive properties was massive so the savings will be correspondingly huge.

Danny Kopech ● 5153d20 Comments ● 4357d