Forum Topics

Rugby World Cup Saturday 20th October 2007

Once more unto the breach, dear friends, once more; Or close the wall up with our English dead. In peace there's nothing so becomes a man As modest stillness and humility; But when the blast of war blows in our ears, Then imitate the action of the tiger: Stiffen the sinews, summon up the blood, Disguise fair nature with hard-favour'd rage; Then lend the eye a terrible aspect; Let it pry through the portage of the head Like the brass cannon: let the brow o'erwhelm it As fearfully as doth a galled rock O'erhang and jutty his confounded base, Swill'd with the wild and wasteful ocean. Now set the teeth and stretch the nostril wide; Hold hard the breath, and bend up every spirit To his full height. On, on, you noblest English, Whose blood is fet from fathers of war-proof- Fathers that like so many Alexanders Have in these parts from morn till even fought, And sheath'd their swords for lack of argument. Dishonour not your mothers; now attest That those whom you call'd fathers did beget you. Be copy now to men of grosser blood, And teach them how to war. And you, good yeomen, Whose limbs were made in England, show us here The mettle of your pasture; let us swear That you are worth your breeding- which I doubt not; For there is none of you so mean and base That hath not noble lustre in your eyes. I see you stand like greyhounds in the slips, Straining upon the start. The game's afoot: Follow your spirit; and upon this charge Cry 'God for Harry, England, and Saint George!'

Kevin Farnan ● 6434d6 Comments ● 6433d

St. Pauls Vicar,,,,Name.

Can anyone help? I have been trying to remember the name of the vicar who was at St. Pauls for a number of years. Through the 50s until the early 70's, I think. He might have been in place earlier.

Neil Chippendale ● 6438d10 Comments ● 6434d

Inherit nothing...?

Interesting idea expressed in a letter in today's Times extoling the idea of a  100% inheritance tax.Before you all choke on your Sanatogen,the thinking behind it would do Edward de Bono proud,imo.The idea is to make society a meritocracy.It would involve a 0% tax rate throughout your life(a sure voter winner!)and all your assets going to the state on your demise.The money raised would,theoretically,fund a better education and health system and a better infrastructure to give each new generation a more level playing field.

Keith Iddon ● 6437d3 Comments ● 6436d

Builder/Bricklayer required

The wall to my front garden needs replacing; can anyone recommend a local builder/bricklayer for this small job? What is required is a reliable tradesman preferably not addicted to listening to Radio 1(or equivalent)at volume. Any recommendation would be appreciated.

Christl Blofeld ● 6439d1 Comments ● 6436d

Government muffling Heathrow noise report

This is the report in the Times, referred to in the article on the front page of BrentfordTW8There is also a lively topic on the sister ChiswickW4 site.It is certainly warming up, with the T5 opening due and the Crossrail to Heathrow goahead.http://travel.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/travel/news/article2584834.ece"Minister sits on damning report on impact of Heathrow noiseBen Webster, Transport Correspondent Aircraft noise causes much more annoyance than previously thought, according to a study for the Department for Transport which the Government is attempting to conceal while it plans the expansion of Heathrow. The existing method of measuring aircraft noise, adopted a quarter of a century ago, is too narrow and outdated, the study concludes. It fails to take account either of the huge growth in the number of flights or the public’s growing demand for quietness. While individual aircraft have become quieter, the number of flights at Heathrow has grown from 273,000 in 1982 to 477,000 last year. The study also found that aircraft noise causes greater annoyance to people on higher incomes, those in the social groups A and B and those aged 35 to 64. The current method takes none of these factors into account. Related LinksWatchdog delivers sharp attack on BAA BAA calls for long runway at Heathrow The Attitudes to Noise from Aviation Sources in England (Anase) study, a draft copy of which has been obtained by The Times, undermines the case for building a third runway at Heathrow. The runway, which the Government has said should open between 2015 and 2020, would create new flight paths and result in an extra 500 flights a day over London. The 2003 aviation White Paper pledged that the runway would only go ahead if it resulted in “no net increase” to the size of the area around Heathrow affected by 57 decibels of aircraft noise, the level deemed to mark “the onset of significant community annoyance”. But the new study suggests that significant annoyance starts at around 50 decibels. While there are 258,000 residents inside the 57-decibel area, ten times that number live inside the 50-decibel area. Jim Fitzpatrick, the Aviation Minister, last week rejected calls to publish the study early in a letter to the “2M” group of 12 local authorities covering two million residents living under Heathrow’s flight paths. He claimed that the study had yet to be finalised, even though it was ordered six years ago and the draft reveals that the DfT had seen a copy three months ago, on July 5. Mr Fitzpatrick wrote: “It would be premature to suggest that the report will lead to any change in approach – we shall want to reflect on it . . . We would not accept that the launch of the Heathrow consultation cannot precede Anase.” His attempt to downplay the significance of the study contrasts with the commitment given in 2001 by the then Aviation Minister, Bob Ainsworth, when he commissioned the study, saying at the time: “This study underlines the Government’s commitment to underpin our policy on aircraft noise by substantial research that commands the widest possible confidence.” A spokesman for the 2M group said: “It is outrageous for the Government to hide this study, which reveals how the impact of aircraft noise has been seriously underestimated. They are trying sneak through the third runway consultation without giving the public the full facts.” The study concludes: “At the same level of aircraft noise exposure, people are more annoyed in 2005 than they were in 1982 . . . People today have higher expectations of their rights to a peaceful and harmonious living environment and are more openly critical of policy-making and government, than people at the beginning of the 1980s.” The study found that people found flights between 11pm and 3am were 80 per cent more annoying than those during the day. But flights between 3am and 7am were only 35 per cent more annoying. The number of Heathrow flights between 11.30pm and 6am is currently restricted to about 16 a night."

Duncan Walker ● 6442d6 Comments ● 6438d

LOST CAT

A neighbour of mine has lost her cat and needs to find him ASAP due to the cat needing medical attention.His name is Bowie and he is a big fluffy white cat with 1 blue and 1 brown eye.He was last seen in Weavers Close on Thursday 11th October.A reward on offer 4 his safe returnIf you see him please contact Emma on 07722 830 252Thanks

Simon Anderson ● 6439d1 Comments ● 6439d

Christmas Lights to Go Ahead

Brentford High Street Steering Group are delighted to anounce that Brentford will have Christmas lights this Christmas.  Following our appeal many firms in Brentford have kindly donated towards the Christmas lights and we at BHSSG are all absolutely delighted and extend our thanks to all who have helped.  The original scheme, although very ambitious, was planned to light up the whole High Street from Pets at Home through to the Watermans Art Centre.  Following negotiations we have managed to get the cost originally quoted reduced and money raised to date will allow us to light up key sections of the High Street.  Hopefully the whole scheme will happen during the course of the next few years.  The benefit of the chosen scheme is that we can easily add to it for years to come.We would still welcome any donations should anyone be interested in helping towards a very exciting Christmas here in Brentford.  Any donation small or large would be very much appreciated and your generosity will be acknowledged.  We are hoping to have a lighting up ceremony on Friday 30 November with lots of festive fun.Please contact Julia Quilliam 020 8847 4737.   

Julia Quilliam ● 6458d12 Comments ● 6440d

Heathrow - Two key anti-expansion petitions

The governement are soon to launch a 'consultation' on Heathrow expansion. This will propose the ending of runway alteration (no rest bite from plane noise of most days) and the building of a third runway (a new flight path over north Brentford and Chiswick).Hounslow council have started a "SAY NO" campaign. If you want to sign, here is the link:http://eforms.hounslow.gov.uk/ufs/ufsmain?formid=HEATHROW_EXPANSIONThere is also a Downing Street Petition here:http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/LHRAirport/I would strongly encourage every concerned resident to sign both.

Phil Whitehead ● 6440d0 Comments ● 6440d

St Lawrence Church

Well done Andrew (Dakers) on pursuing the case of the upkeep of local historic buildings. See article on front page of our forum “Government Called On To Save Hounslow's Historic Buildings”.One of the building mentioned is the St Lawrence Church at Brentford Bridge. We had a topic before on the selling of this: ‘St Lawrence Church, Brentford up for sale’ (posted 05/07/04) - St Lawrence's Church, on the corner of Brentford High St and Augustus Close is up for sale for £1.5m, agents are Dunphys, and in September 2004 a Sold notice went up.Andrew mentions in the article on the Liberal democrat website that St Lawrence Church is up for sale. Do you Andrew or anybody else know who owns it now? Is it Geronimo? If so, why are they selling this part off separately from the other properties they have on the South of the High Street?

Duncan Walker ● 6482d19 Comments ● 6441d

Hounslow Library services

Wonderful stuff this modern technology!Fancy being able to renew library books on-line, and not have to ring up or traipse down with them.  Often we remember too late in the day, and the library is closed.It looks like their whole catalogue is on line too - has anyone used any more of the on-line services?

Sarah Felstead ● 6455d5 Comments ● 6441d

Tugs

Hi,Does anyone have any pictures or historic info about River Literage Tugs that used to run out of Brentford dock back in the 50s

Colin Bruce Tompkins ● 6444d4 Comments ● 6441d

If only I had the money - Ebay item

Another great Brentford ebay item for sale.A 1790's Edmonds long case clock. Edmonds were an old estblished Brentford clock making company.http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/LONDON-5-PILLER-LONG-CASE-C1780_W0QQitemZ200159433023QQihZ010QQcategoryZ60249QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Neil Chippendale ● 6444d5 Comments ● 6442d

Pictures

I've been 'offline' for sometime time now due to getting a new pc/internet problems.Can anyone please remind me on how to get photos onto the website?

Kevin Farnan ● 6443d4 Comments ● 6442d

Street Cleaning

Just thought I'd mention that we had a team of street cleaners around here yesterday, and very good they were too. The streets looked really clean and free from debris, weeds etc.Very impressive.

Vanessa Smith ● 6448d7 Comments ● 6444d

HEALING IN CHISWICK

Another reminder that the monthly healing centre at the London Buddhist Vihara, The Avenue, Chiswick, will be open tomorrow, Monday, 8th October between 11am and 1pm.  The second Monday of this month.  Healing helps any condition, from stress right through to physical illness.  We make no charge for the healing (all the healers are working on a voluntary basis), although a donation would be welcome.  All the donations are given to the Vihara.There is no need to make an appointment or book but if you want any further information before coming please give me a ring on 0788 189 6449.

Pat Smith ● 6445d1 Comments ● 6444d

Quality of life in London...going downhill on skis?

As a pseudo Londoner(moved here July 1977)I am dumbstricken almost weekly by reports of stabbings and shootings.I am not naive enough to think that in the 'good old days' they never happened,but,imo,the rate of increase in these crimes is quite alarming.The latest report of the nurse/carer who was shot dead in a cross fire incident is surely the nadir..are all us innocents at risk like her?I can't imagine a time since I've been in London(except for the last 7 years or so)when a report like this wouldn't have been an absolute bolt out of the blue.Now it seems to be getting almost commonplace.Depressing,isn't it?

Keith Iddon ● 6448d9 Comments ● 6446d

New Houses to be torn down

Although this story in the Chronicle this week is about new houses going up in Isleworth and having to be torn down because their positioning was amended by the developers and not ratified by planning I thought people should know that in this instance the Council and Councillors can feel extremely pleased with themselves. In fighting this developer's wantonness we are effectively laying down the gauntlet at every developer's door.  If they think they can get away with something they will try it on.  Only through the community and Council's vigilance are we going to protect our borough.  These developers are going to have to demolish some of what they started to build.  What we should do, is set massive penalties against each infraction.  I reckon £5 million, yes, million on each infraction should get them to tow the line.  Nothing like 'eating their profits' to ensure a development follows the outline and full planning stages.

Eileen Henderson ● 6447d1 Comments ● 6447d

Childrens' Homes

Looking to contact any people who lived in the childrens' homes at The Ride, opposite Boston Manor Park in the 1940s and early 1950s, or anybody who attended St Paul's & St Lawrence School during those years.  I believe the name of the headmaster was Mr Potts, other teachers there included, Mr Richards, Mr Barlow (used to slap us on the back if we were'nt paying attention), Ms Gladstone.  Some of the students were Colin Tompkins, Maureen Kemish, Michael Dilkes (or Wilkes), Albert Worbley, Donald Bandy, The Huggins twins (I believe the names were Carol and I cant remember the other first name)   Would like to hear from any people who may be familiar with these names.

Paul Langseth ● 6447d3 Comments ● 6447d

Camogie in London

Just a reminder to all that Tara Camogie Club, based locally at Greenford, welcome new players of all standards.  We have both junior and senior teams and have are trying to get an underage team (12-16yrs) started. See www.camogie.co.uk or call Sheila 0777 1957 341.

Sheila Fernandes ● 6447d0 Comments ● 6447d

What's On at Acton Market this Saturday

If you are stuck for something to do this Saturday, why not bring the kids down to Acton Market? This Saturday sees the beginning of a weekly roster of entertainment.From 10am until 5pm this Saturday, there will be art and play workshops for children.  And from 2-4pm, there will be a classical music concert by students from Trinity Music College in Greenwich.As always, our Arts and Crafts Market traders will be on hand from 10am with a wide selection of goodies, along with all of our Farmer's Market traders selling fresh food, cheeses, cakes, meat and fish. The farmers market traders pack up around 1pm, so get there early! The location is on the Mount/King Street, outside of Morrison's.

Michelle Laurie ● 6447d0 Comments ● 6447d

Community Boat

Does anyone know who are the trustees?

Chris Dakers ● 6450d1 Comments ● 6449d

N.I.C.E.?

Good Luck to the Alzheimer's Society and all the relatives of sufferers who are appealing in the High Court against NICE's crackpot and unfair decision not to prescribe drugs that are proven to work and slow the decline of this cruel disease. All to save £2.50 a day per patient, this is a mean and spiteful thing to do, especially when so much money is wasted paying managers and consultants to interfere in the running of the N.H.S. If the powers that be had to look after all the people suffering from dementia and associated diseases they'd soon know how cheap prescribing the drugs is as against residential care. Instead because this is all left to 'carers' who of course are free of charge they couldn't care less. It is a bloody disgrace.

Vanessa Smith ● 6548d55 Comments ● 6451d

www.brentfordhighstreet.com and Wedge Card Launch

Last night saw the launch of www.brentfordhighstreet.com and Wedge Card - a loyalty card for independent shops - at Grounds Coffee and Wine Bar.  There are still some minor corrections that we need to put through the web site, as well as a few gaps to fill in the directory of High Street shops and services, but please visit the site, and let us know what you think.You may also like to create a user account on the site and rate/ review the shops and services.  The site includes information on the Wedge Card, which is available for £10 from participating shops.Best, Andrew

Andrew Dakers ● 6474d14 Comments ● 6451d

Barratt Phallus for the north quarter

So Hounslow Councils planning committee has approved the 25 story Barratt Phallus for the north quarter. I don't suppose any of the councillors (who raised no objections) plan on living in this giant carbuncle, which will dominate/blight the local skyline and rob so many people of sun light. Personally I think it’s a very poor decision for the locals and will usher in a whole new planning policy, which will see lots more ugly islands in the sky. Much to the detriment of the area in general.Still I guess the local poor have to live somewhere, the riverside development aren’t for them are they.

Philip Walsh ● 6465d29 Comments ● 6451d

Syon Lodge for sale

Syon Lodge on London Road, TW7 5BH, where the author George Manville Fenn lived, is now up for sale after a restoration. Asking price is £6,950,000. The ad says: "A splendid Grade II* listed period house built by Robert Adam in 1770.One of the most important houses in West London which has been extremely well modernised into a fine family house having been offices (Crowthers). It has 9 bedrooms8 receptions5 bathroomsLarge Garden TerracePrivate parking1.0500 Acres"It looks a marvellous house, see photos on:http://www.knightfrank.co.uk//WS1035625

Duncan Walker ● 6548d25 Comments ● 6451d

Moscow

I am off to Moscow for a few days next month and have heard some good and bad things about the place but has anyone on here any tips or suggestions?Thanks

Paul Fisher ● 6454d12 Comments ● 6452d

Should London ban plastic bags?

Londoners are being invited to have their say on whether or not a tax on disposable bags, or even an outright ban, would be appropriate for London. http://www.londoncouncils.gov.uk/doc.asp?docId=20764Questionnaire for Londoners:http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=vHf2oyKCRAnEgLOxG3KgWw_3d_3dJL

Jim Linwood ● 6454d3 Comments ● 6454d

Badminton

Any suggestions for the best place to play, and for tuition, locally?

Sarah Felstead ● 6464d6 Comments ● 6454d

Studio Flat To rent.

A friend of mine is trying to rent his Studio Flat in Isleworth (Weavers Close)Situated Behind Mogden its a lovely quite street with a lovely river at the top of street5min walk from Tesco Supermarket, 15min walk into Hounslow bus stops within 1min walking distance and Rail Station 5mins away.Its situated in a Block of 3 other studio Flats and its Totally Quiet.It has a Front and Back Garden, Private car Park at the rear and own intercom.The Studio is situated on the 1st floor at the rear.Its a Beautiful little Flat and would suit a Professional or working person or a single quiet Female.If Interested contact Jonathan Mills at Parkgate on 0208 940 2991

Simon Anderson ● 6455d4 Comments ● 6455d

Keep Warm this Winter!!!

Free electric blanket testing is being offered to older residents by Hounslow Council in the Run-up to winter.Hounslow Trading Standards is offering free electric blanket testing on October 3Rd at Chiswick Town Hall from 9am - 12.30Pm and Brentford Age Concern, Alexander House from 130pm - 5pm.Staff will also be out on October 4th at Montague Hall in Hounslow from 9am - 1230pm and at the Age Concern Feltham in Harlington Rd West from 130pm - 5pmTesting will take 10minutes and is by Appointment by calling 0208 583 5121/5124

Simon Anderson ● 6461d80 Comments ● 6456d

Children's Norsk in Chiswick

We are starting a club for Norwegian / part-Norwegian families living in West London.The main focus of the fortnightly get-together is to support our children in acquiring good Norwegian.A Norwegian primary school teacher will be present each week to teach the group (non-Norsk partents welcome to join in) while parents can enjoy a coffee or lunch.  The children will be free to stay and play together afterwards. Please contact me by email if you wish to find out more.

Paula Gjesdal ● 6457d0 Comments ● 6457d

Structures next to Thames at Twickenham Road bridge

Does anybody know what these structures are, next to the Thames footpath at Richmond? This one is on the Surrey side of the Thames, in between the Richmond Road and Twickenham Rail bridges. There is one exactly opposite on the Middlesex bank of the Thames:They look like entrances to a tunnel across the Thames. I wonder if they are related to the bridges in some way? The Twickenham Railway bridge was built in 1848 and the Richmond Road bridge in 1933. The architecture of the structures look more 19th century, so maybe built at similar time to the railway bridge?What do you think?

Duncan Walker ● 6458d3 Comments ● 6457d

Traffic Accidents in South Ealing Road on August 14

On Friday, August 14, there was a traffic accident in South Ealing Road in the area near the cemetery, blocking traffic in both directions for some time. An ambulance attended, as well as four or five police cars. Obviously, somebody had been injured.Being 'only' human, I really would like to know what happened and whether the injured person has recovered, or is likely to.Does anybody know? Does anybody know where such information can be obtained?

Christl Blofeld ● 6459d5 Comments ● 6458d

Bogus Meter Reader in the Area - Police Warning!

Police are warning elderly people to be on their guard, after an Isleworth pensioner let a rogue meter reader into his home.The 84yr old Percy Gardens resident allowed the man - described as a 5ft 9in Asian-into his house last Wednesday Afternoon.The conman claimed to be from the Electricity board, produced a photo card and persisted to checking the meter.He left when the pensioner got suspicious after the man asked him to turn on the kettle so he could check the Electricity.

Simon Anderson ● 6461d2 Comments ● 6458d

Manchester PCSO`s watch young lad drown

I could not believe my eyes when I read this story and its became a dreadful world when some would rather save their jobs then a childs life.I think we should all start questioning what training our local PCSA`s recieve just in case something like this occurs here.I do think our local PCSO`s do a wonderful job and service in our community and we should not of course tar them with the same brush as these two Manchester cowards.http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/manchester/7006412.stm

Paul Fisher ● 6461d12 Comments ● 6460d

Lord Gilmore  Park Avenue (Syon Park)

The BBC News website has published news tonight of the death of Lord Gilmore at West Middlesex Hospital.He lived just within the boundary of Brentford, near the London Apprentice public house.http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk_politics/7007648.stm

Jim Lawes ● 6461d4 Comments ● 6460d

Henry Moore sculptures at Kew Gardens

They have started to arrive....the massive scultures by Henry Moore. They are magnificent.These are 28 large sculptures by Henry Moore, placed carefully in different locations around the gardens.See webpage for details:http://www.kew.org/henry-moore/index.htmIf you click the tabs at the top of this page you can see photos and details about the scultures and their placement.The exhibition formally begins on the 15th September, but last week, I saw them being loading into postion by trucks. I overheard one guy saying that the one they were just placing at Victoria Gate was 7 tons in weight and there were bigger ones.I can say it will be well worth a visit or two.

Duncan Walker ● 6487d14 Comments ● 6460d

HALLOWEEN COSTUME BALL 27TH OCTOBER

Hi guys Its that time again where has the year goneFantasy land party shop will be holding there famous fancy dress costume ball 27th oct sat venue tba and time it will be hopefully in brentford.prizes for the best costumes adults only.tickets will be £5 from fantasy land 61 ealing road where you can also get everything you need for halloweenfrom wigs,face paints,scarey costumes,masks, coloured hair spray, halloween decorations, accessories and lots lots more pop in for a look around were are open 12-5pm tues-sat and appointmentsall the best hope some of you can make the party www.fantasylandpartyshop.piczo.comemail fantasyland@hotmail.co.ukDebbie x

Debbie Dewar ● 6465d3 Comments ● 6461d

Christmas dinner

Sorry, everyone, but with Christmas all around us ... my question is - if we decide to go out for Christmas lunch - any suggestions as to the best place to go?

Sarah Felstead ● 6464d5 Comments ● 6461d

Christmas Lights and Cards for Brentford

As you may be aware Brentford High Street Steering Group (BHSSG) has been working for the past year to inject new life into our shopping area.  Recent succeses include local area committee support for a new car park, attracting the WedgeCard loyalty scheme to the area and the launch of a new marketing-led High Street website.  We are now looking to introduce Christmas lights along the High Street and Albany Parade.We are the only town centre in the Borough that does not have Christmas lights.  Its now time that we lift spirits and encourage more trade in the holiday season with an impressive lighting display.We don't have much time and we need to raise money to be able to acheive our goal.  In the first year the cost will be most significant as we need to get the existing lamp posts adapted by the Council and purchase the lights.  The Council have agreed to store the lights when not in use but we will need to find our own storage container. We are approaching local business for sponsorship and inviting contributions including a container.  Any help from readers of this forum would be very much appricated.As part of the project we are looking to produce Christmas cards with scenes of Brentford which will be sold to raise money for the decorations and to also help a local charity, probably the Brentford Toy Library. We would love to hear from anyone who might have any interesting photographs of winter/snow scenes of Brentford who would be happy to donate them to the project.  Your name, as a way of thanks would be printed on the cards.  We are also looking for local businesses/groups who would be willing to sell the cards.Please contact Julia Quilliam at Quilliam Property Services  206 High Street  tel 020 8847 4737.Many thanks to you all.

Julia Quilliam ● 6470d10 Comments ● 6462d

www.BrentfordHighStreet.com where are you?

Despite being up for almost two weeks now the new website to try to publicise and promote the shops and services available in the High Street, Brentford, there is notable lack of presence in the articles on this web site - no news article - only a cursory listing in the bowels of local links.The new website is not in competition with BrentfordTW8.com for the same Internet user, and with only minor exception, does not enroach on any content from BrentfordTW8.com - to the contrary, it willing notes the Calendar as being the BrentfordTW8.com calendar.The site is backed (amongst others) by local businesses, the local authority, two councillors from opposing parties, and is designed as a means to encourage growth in trading in the Brentford High Street.Come on - lets all get behind Brentford High Street !! The website is just another marketing tool to achieve that.Perhaps the editor of BrentfordTW8.com would like to comment?---------FOOTNOTE: Yes careful observers will note my association to the website in question, but rest assured, there was CONSIDERABLE volunteered activity to get the site possible in the the very short timescale given.

Stephen Browne ● 6463d10 Comments ● 6462d

Star Act Performing Art School Brentford

Former 90s popstars Lee Brennan and Celena Cherry are determined to help local youngsters get the chance to follow in their footsteps.Lee, the lead singer of boyband 911, and Celena, lead singer with girlband The Honeyz, are launching performing arts stage school Star Act on Saturday, September 29 at Brentford School For Girls in Boston Manor Road, Brentford.The 33-year-old Lee says: "We have first hand experience of what it takes to be an all-round performer and want to pass that on to others.advertisementonly one youngster from the school achieves their dream of becoming a pop star that would be wonderful. But there are other levels of success."Those who want to make a career as performers may not necessarily do so in the pop world, which is such a competitive industry, but could perform as singers or dancers in clubs or on cruise ships. Some might want careers as actors rather than singers."As joint directors of Star Act, Lee and Celena plan to help create a new generation of performers aged five-16 years old by holding courses covering 12 weekends.Lee explains: "Students will be taught singing, dancing and acting in a fun and positive learning environment. Star Act is dedicated to developing and enhancing stage skills, regardless of ability through building confidence, technique, self-expression, team work and imagination."When I started with 911 I didn't have a clue about how to perform. Unlike Celena, I hadn't been to stage school. I joined the band at the age of 21 in 1995 by a stroke of good luck. I wrote to my local radio station in Carlisle and they put me in touch with promoter Steve Gilmour, who became 911's manager."So how does it feel after achieving 10 consecutive top 10 UK singles, including a platinum selling number one, and selling out Wembley Arena, to switch to teaching?"Forming Star Act is similar to the excitement I had when I first joined 911," explained Lee."It's a new challenge and it will give me a big kick to help others succeed in the business. But, obviously nothing can replace the buzz of performing to thousands and all the adoration you get from the fans.Lee, who co-wrote If You Come Back to give Blue a number one hit single six years ago, still appears with 911 for selected performances at club gigs, university balls and 90s weekends.He reflects: "Spike, Jimmy and I have grown up and have far more respect for each other now. But we will probably stop performing together after next year as we are all moving on."Jimmy wants to be a policeman, and last year I married my girlfriend Lindsay (who was a member of girl band B*witched)."I have still got other things lined up. I'm playing the lead role in Aladdin this Christmas after being Peter Pan in more than 280 shows around the UK in the past four years. It was in Peter Pan that I got together with Celena in 2004."Celena, who attended theatre school from the age of four, achieved success worldwide with girlband The Honeyz, including five top 10 UK hits and a top selling debut album.More recently she has appeared on Channel 4's Hollyoaks, BBC 1's Doctors, Sky One's Dream Team and ITV'S Hit Me Baby One More Time.As Lee says: "Celena and I have a lot to offer would-be performers. Our school will be professional and disciplined, but above all it will be fun."* Places in Star Act work on a first come first served basis. For information call 0800 0828 557 or email: info@ staract.co.uk. Check out staract.co.ukWhat a great opertunity right on the door stepDebbie Dewar

Debbie Dewar ● 6465d1 Comments ● 6463d

A Mural in Brentford

I noticed an excellent set of murals on Albany Road.  The pub shown seems to be modelled on the Brewery Tap :-

Michael Fletcher ● 6469d6 Comments ● 6463d

Halloween costume ball at the princess royal brentford

Hi guys Its that time again where has the year goneFantasy land party shop will be holding there famous fancy dress costume ball 27TH OCTOBER 2007at:THE PRINCESS ROYAL PUB EALING RD BRENTFORD prizes for the best costumes adults only.tickets will be £5 from fantasy land 61 ealing road where you can also get everything you need for halloweenfrom wigs,face paints,scarey costumes,masks, coloured hair spray, halloween decorations, accessories and lots lots more pop in for a look around were are open 12-5pm tues-sat and appointmentsall the best hope some of you can make the party www.fantasylandpartyshop.piczo.comemail fantasyland@hotmail.co.ukDebbie x

Debbie Dewar ● 6463d0 Comments ● 6463d

Scottish Widows development site at Kew Bridge

Does anybody know what the latest position is on the proposed development here?The Kew Bridge end of Brentford is looking very tacky at the moment, what with this derelict site and the Kew Bridge Station listed building looking in a sorry state.

Duncan Walker ● 6469d5 Comments ● 6464d

Authors who lived in the Brentford Area and Brentford appearing in literature

I’ve started to search for which authors have lived in the Brentford area and also which books Brentford appears in. So far I have found the following. Does anybody know of any others?George Manville Fenn  (1831–1909)Syon Lodge, London Road, IselworthHe was a prolific writer of boys’ adventure stories.George Manville Fenn's books online http://www.athelstane.co.uk/gmanfenn/index.htmElizabeth Helme, (~ 1750 -1812)Her husband William Helme took up the position of schoolmaster in Brentford, where he became well known for his teaching. He was also a published writer. He published largely educational works Elizabeth too began working at the Brentford school and later became headmistress.• Louisa; or the Cottage on the Moor (1787) • The Farmer of Inglewood Forest (1796) • Albert, or The Wilds of Strathnavern (1799) • St Margaret's Cave (1801) • St Clair of the Isles (1803) • The Pilgrim of the Cross, or Chronicles of Christabelle de Mowbray (1805) • Columbus; or, The discovery of America, as related by a father to his child (translated from the German original by Campe) (1811) • Magdalen, or The Penitent of Godstow'' (1812) • Modern Times (1814) (published posthumously) Gladys Mitchell (1901 -1983)www.gladysmitchell.com/Gillian Clegg in ‘Brentford Past’ says: “Galdys Mitchell was educated at the Rothschild school in Brentford High Street and later taught History, English, Spanish and athletics at St Paul’s School. As a child she lived in Windmill Road and later York Road. In 1938 she was sharing a house with her friend Winifred Blazey at 18 Swyncombe Avenue. M itche wrote over 50 novels, most of them featuring her eccentric detective Mrs Bradley. ‘The Rising Moon’ is about a killer who runs amok on the streets of Brentford.”Philip Larkin considered THE RISING OF THE MOON to be Gladys Mitchell's best novel. The sleepy Thames-side town of Brentford is evoked memorably, and seen as a place of adventure and mystery, with murder acting as a dangerous game in the fairy-tale world that is life as seen through the eyes of the two boy heroes at the centre of the book: Simon and Keith Innes.In addition to her 66 Mrs. Bradley novels Mitchell also used the pseudonyms of Stephen Hockaby (for a series of historical novels) and Malcolm Torrie (for a series of detective stories featuring an architect named Timothy Herring) and wrote ten children's books under her own namea BBC television series, based to a degree on the The Mrs Bradley Mysteries (starring Diana Rigg) was produced in 1999.Robert Rankin (1949 -)He lived on the corner of Albany Road. Rankin refers to his style as 'Far Fetched Fiction'.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_RankinPercy Bysshe Shelley (1792 – 1822)Went to school  in Brentford, at he entered the Sion House Academy  (now demolished and the Royal Mail sorting office, Londo Road is there) 1802-04

Duncan Walker ● 6644d52 Comments ● 6465d

Civic Centre webcast and that Central Hounslow Area meeting!

When I should be getting on with my work, I find myself occasionally browsing cyberspace (occasionally is an understatement!)..and nipping along to the Civic Centre website to hear and watch some of the Council Meetings.To my surprise last night, I tuned into the recent Central Hounslow Area Committee (Monitoring) and watched aghast at the discussion going on  and the decision to perhaps boycott the Council/Executive and to submit a complaint to the CRE..the racial equality people. It's long winded debate but fascinating to hear what's said..and by whom.Then this morning the Brentford, Chiswick and Isleworth Times has the matter as it's front page lead story.There's a lot to listen to..and to read.  The Ombudsman's verdict about the behavior of the Cranford and Heston Area Committee (as a group)(and some years back)...the webcast of the full Borough Council when the matter was previously discussed and voted on....and the input of various Councillors and Council Officers at that Hounslow Area meeting.Maybe this is all too complicated for a quick read. It's certainly a subject and a Council Matter incident not to be ignored.  It may be though too big a subject to discuss on this Forum. I recommend the webcasts.. much more interesting than some presentations on the TV!Have you a view on the topic?http://www.hounslow.ukcouncil.net/site/#pp10434

Jim Lawes ● 6475d28 Comments ● 6465d

IsleworthTW7

Just had a look at the Isleworth forum site apart from the terrible layout it looks like the Simon Anderson Show!

Helen Fogarth ● 6468d28 Comments ● 6466d

FARMERS MARKETS?

Are there any Famers Markets still going in Brentford?

Mark Welland ● 6466d1 Comments ● 6466d

Meet Mary Mcleod

Mary is holding a meet and greet in October for residents of Isleworth and Brentford.It gives you a chance to meet the Conservative Lady who will stand in the Next Elections to become the MP for Isleworth and Brentford.Come along and Listen to what she has to say or ask her a question.The even will be held at The Bridgelink Centre Summerwood Rd (Ivybridge Estate) on October 4th from 1030 till 1230pm.Everyone welcome!!

Simon Anderson ● 6479d8 Comments ● 6467d

York Mineral water co ltd

Hi i was wondering can any one remeber the York Mineral water co ltd that was based in brentford i have found some old bottles and wish to find out more on them

Brian Smart ● 6468d1 Comments ● 6468d

Grumpy old woman rant!

I have just seen on the B.B.C. London News that the little oik who was stuffed in a litter bin by a policeman has been awarded 'an undisclosed sum' in compensation. Shame they don't stuff a few more little scrotes in bins. Just typical of what goes on in this country - it really beggars belief.

Vanessa Smith ● 6483d47 Comments ● 6468d

Jim Lawes and his pictures:

Jim, glad you are back with the photos, did you have to replace the camera or did you get the old new one fixed?

Edward Fitzgerald ● 6470d7 Comments ● 6468d

Bart is no more - R.I.P.

For anyone who is a cat-lover and who also goes to the excellent Butts Dental Practice - sad news. Bart the resident cat who actually belonged to Anna Ford a nearby resident, has been killed in a road accident. He was only eight years old. For some reason Bart loved the dentist's waiting room and became a feature over many years, he used to wait outside and sneak in when a patient turned up, in the end he was just an accepted feature. A real character, he will be missed.

Vanessa Smith ● 6470d5 Comments ● 6469d

For Joan and Jim

Sarah Felstead ● 6473d7 Comments ● 6469d

Monmouth Avenue, W5:  Ealing Borough or Hounslow?

The border lines between the London Boroughs..and the dividing line of the various Postcodes don't match sometimes and can cause a headache.For example the sprawling London Borough of Hounslow creeps intoHammersmith W6...(near Stamford Brook), and it also creeps into Acton W3 near Acton Town Station.The whole of that open space Gunnersbury Park is in Acton W3..but it all comes within "Hounslow Borough"Another surprise is that the Borough of Hounslow also creeps into Ealing W5 at the top of Clayponds Avenue.including both those blocks of Clayponds Gardens flats. There must be other examples to the west and south of the Borough or Hounslow.Now there's no problem with all that..but where confusion really exists is when there is a suspicion that Council's Street signs are incorrect. See pictures next page.

Jim Lawes ● 6471d4 Comments ● 6469d

Healthy eating in pregnancy

Another hair brained initiative from this government. While I agree that women should get the very best treatment available during and after pregnancy, who I wonder thought up this latest offering which i cannot get my head around.It is proposed to give a grant of £120 to encourage "Healthy Eating" during pregnancy! Has anyone any idea how this will work, won't some of it be spent on cigarettes, Big Macs,Coke,Alcohol etc. I believe that this money would be better spent, on ensuring that a midwife, and just as important, a place in a maternity unit is available to them all, when the time arrives. How often do we hear of mothers being left to get on with it themselves, and thus putting themselves at risk! I wonder what Ann Keen thinks about this idea........Good?

Andrew Michael John Atkinson ● 6471d4 Comments ● 6470d

UK Survival in the 21st Century

I found this report http://www.after-oil.co.uk/UK Survival in the 21st Century, by John Busby thought provoking. It considers the measures to be taken to ensure the survival of the United Kingdom in a new century during which the world’s oil will run out.I thought it was a useful and clear exercise in considering the different variables, and even if he may have got certain things wrong, it still shows an overall logic to consider this complex system. It would make a good script for a film.In the following two postings I have copied his two scenarios for Britain in 2025 - the first assumes that none of the recommended actions have been taken; the second assumes that all have been implemented.

Duncan Walker ● 6470d2 Comments ● 6470d

Strand Union Infant Establishment

I am asking for TW8's help again. Further to my research I have since found out that a relative from the 1901 census Frank ANGELL aged 14 years, was listed as a pauper in the Strand Union Infant Establishment, at Edmonton, Middlesex. Could anyone enlighten me to what sort of 'establishment' this could have been? Again I thank you for any information.Joan from Australia.

Joan Perry ● 6471d5 Comments ● 6470d

Plastic recycling at Tesco

Has anyone seen the new fangled recycling centre at Tesco in Mogden Lane? I don't know who they took advice from - if they did - but to say it is inadequate is an understatement. Given the bulk of plastic and the fact that there have been 4 skips there to deal with the amount people were taking there the new facility is ridiculous. For a start it is far too small, where we were taking bags full of waste over, to get it in this new thing you have to feed it in bit by bit - can you imagine the queues this will cause - so in the end who will bother? I have seen plastic bags full of plastic waste dumped there already, surely having seen the sheer amount that was being collected they'd have used some common sense and worked out that this is a bulky material to recycle and therefore requires large receptacles to cope with it, the other recyling bit etc. isn't much better. If anything this will discourage people from recycling, well at least it lives up to Tesco's motto - Every little helps - yes, little being the operative word where this is concerned.

Vanessa Smith ● 6656d62 Comments ● 6471d

Well Done To The Staff At Hounslow Council

IRRV PERFORMANCE AWARDS 2007 - Finalists announcedThe Institute of Revenues, Rating and Valuation (IRRV) has now announced the finalists for  their Performance Awards 2007. Commenting on the awards, David Magor, Chief Executive of the IRRV, said "It's a pleasure to recognise and honour the players and teams that are shaping the future of Local Government. We have received our highest number of entries to the awards this year, and have been impressed by the quality of the nominated teams both nationally and internationally." The finalists for the IRRV Performance Awards 2007 are as follows: Excellence in Anti-Fraud • Cherwell District Council • Greenwich London Borough Council • Hounslow London Borough Council • Preston City Council Excellence in Customer Service • Barking & Dagenham London Borough Council • Hounslow London Borough Council • North Warwickshire Borough Council ( There are seven other categories not copied on this message)

Paul Fisher ● 6483d5 Comments ● 6471d

Problems with your builder?  C4 wants to hear from you...

I am an Assistant Producer working for betty, an independent TV production company that specialises in people-based documentary films and series’. We are currently making a three part documentary series for Channel 4 about the nuances of the working relationship between builders and their clients and are looking for people who might be interested in getting involved with the filming process. We are looking for homeowners & builders in the Greater London area who have run into severe problems on a large scale domestic building project and need some help to get it back on track. We will offer the services (for free) of a leading industry expert to work with the homeowners and the builders to help resolve any problems.  The programme is a great opportunity to reach an amicable solution that gets everything running smoothly again for all concerned. The first two episodes reached an agreeable solution for both parties and I am confident that we can do the same for those involved in our final episode. My initial aim is to have an informal chat with the homeowners to determine whether or not the project meets the criteria of the documentary and I will then work on contacting the builder to explain the premise of the series.  Again we have managed to achieve this with our first two episodes and barring disaster we should be able to make it work the third time around.  The filming period is likely to last 2-3 weeks with our industry expert, Jeff Howell, spending 2 days each week at the building location.   Please do get in touch for an informal chat should this project interest you.  Alternatively please pass on my contact details to any relevant contacts.  Best wishesFiona Wilson0207 907 0869 / fiona.wilson@betty.co.uk

Fiona Wilson ● 6471d0 Comments ● 6471d

HEALING IN CHISWICK

Another reminder that the monthly healing centre at the London Buddhist Vihara, The Avenue, Chiswick, will be open tomorrow, Monday, 10th September between 11am and 1pm.  Healing helps any condition, from stress right through to physical illness and no matter what is said on the television programme, it is not just a placebo!!!  There is no charge made for the healing (all the healers are working on a voluntary basis), although a donation would be welcome.You do not need to make an appointment or book just turn up, but if you want any further information before coming please give me a ring on 0788 189 6449.

Pat Smith ● 6473d0 Comments ● 6473d

Brentford Festival 2007 Sunday 2nd September 2007

Thanks to Heidelberg in Brentford and Ruth Rolleson (Marmalade), graphic designer also of Brentford we have 15,000 excellent quality A5 flyers to deliver throughout the borough to remind people that there will, again be a Brentford Festival in Boston Manor Park. Can you help by delivering to the houses/flats in your area?I have boxes and boxes of leaflets at the Pavilion Cafe in Boston Manor Park which is open from 9 - 4 Saturday's and Sundays's if you are able to collect or, if you do not have a car then I just need your address with details of how many you need and what streets you are going to deliver to and I will drop them off when I can.With the help of young offenders and their supervisors, Luke Kirton and his team and Gordon who dropped in for a coffee we have managed to distribute 1000 today!!!!! Please help with the other 14,000.Thanks in advance.   linda.massey@virgin.net

Linda Massey ● 6529d26 Comments ● 6475d

The Bill

Did Anyone see this weeks episodes of the Bill?It was Filmed in Old Isleworth in South street in the DIY Shop.Good to see TV Companies using our area as Location Shoots.

Simon Anderson ● 6475d1 Comments ● 6475d

At the sea side ...

Sarah Felstead ● 6517d29 Comments ● 6475d

What's in your wallet?

New Brentford card is amazing. The free card gives Brentford residents special prices from local shops, restaurant, bars, dentist, hair and beauty, cycle shop and health club.I used my card to get 20% of at the Italian Restaurant and 20% of Cocktails at the Copacabana Bar.

Shah Kau ● 6516d10 Comments ● 6476d

Bringing the community and police together .......

Can anyone tell me how we can go about setting up local community groups who can assist the police with combating crime, reporting crime and preventing crime. I am well aware that Brentford attracts people who are only here to committ crime and cause misery to the local, hard-working and honest residents.....I for one want to do all i can to work with my neighbours and the local police to make Brentford a safe and secure place to live.Basically guys, i think if we can come up with a common plan, working with the police in tackling all anti-social behaviour and taking on a 'zero tolerance' stance, we can make Brentford a nicer, safer place to live.....you never know it may help the house prices as well!Hopefully we can learn more from the police on how us residents can do our bit....

Louisa Button ● 6483d5 Comments ● 6477d

Albany House planning application

I noticed this planning application for Albany House, 41 High Street, Brentford, TW8 0BB, click on System Reference:P/2007/2072.“Planning Detail Date: 16/08/2007System Reference: P/2007/2072Planning Reference: 00607/41/P26Applicant: Barratt West Ltd, Great West Road Brentford Middlesex TW8 9BDAgent: Planning Perspectives LLPDetail:Demolition of existing buildings and erection of two six-storey buildings comprising 69 flats, 189m2 commercial floor space, and 56 basement level parking spaces”These are the derelict buildings on the High Street between the Watermans and The Premier Lodge Hotel, at the traffic lights at the bottom of Ealing Road. They overlook the river and Lot’s Ait. My first thought was, does Brentford need even more flats, and I wondered whether two 6 storey buildings would block off the river and view across to Lot's Ait and Kew Gardens. Does anybody know more about the planned development?

Duncan Walker ● 6480d15 Comments ● 6477d

Demolition of D.E.R 1994

Can you remember this building? Did you work there?  June found this newspaper article about the demolition of D.E.R (Domestic Electrical Rental) which was sent to her by an Uncle. My sister June worked for D.E.R for 3 years, two which were spent at Apex House working as a Junior Clerk/Typist. I worked there for 2 months as Junior Clerk before we emigrated to Australia in 1966. Newspaper clipping following.

Joan Perry ● 6480d4 Comments ● 6478d

Damaged Pavements - continued

Continuation of Pavements - update.

Sarah Felstead ● 6612d32 Comments ● 6480d

I never thought I'd say it...

I know I'm a bit of a grumpy old git sometimes,butI have to admit that my dealings lately with LBH have left me feeling that they have got their act together to a large extent.Received a very thorough and explanatory email from Chris Calvi-Freeman about the road works on London Rd.(after I had emailed Cllrs.Hardy and C. Andrews--they passed it on).I have had a couple of other reasons to speak to staff at the cc recently and all has,tentatively,proved satisfactory.Now for the noise team and the police...!

Keith Iddon ● 6481d2 Comments ● 6480d

Syon Safer Neighbourhood Team - Metropolitan Police

Please allow me to introduce myself. I am Sergeant Pete Murphy 50TX. I joined the Metropolitan Police Service in January 1993. During this time I have served in several London Boroughs including, Richmond; Hounslow; the Territorial Support Group, Hammersmith & Fulham and returned to Hounslow in 2002.Three weeks ago I took charge of the Syon Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) based within Brentford Police Station. Prior to this I enjoyed running the Osterley & Spring Grove SNT. The Syon Team consists of 1 Sergeant, 2 Constables and 3 Police Community Support Officers (PCSO's).Community policing brings the police and the community together to solve problems of crime. If we work together, we can make our community a safe place to be in. I am keen to have an excellent rapport with the Brentford Community. When you see us out & about either on our foot or cycle patrols, please can I encourage you to stop & say ‘hello’ to your local police team.If you have any information on crime or matters you think should involve the police, please contact your local Safer Neighbourhood Team. To check which team covers your area please use the following link: http://www.hounslow.gov.uk/committeeboundaries-lbh-map-3of3.pdfTo contact the Syon Safer Neighbourhood Team:Phone: 020 8721 2532 or 020 8247 5989E-mail: Syon.snt@met.police.uk Other local Safer Neighbourhood Teams can be contacted on the following telephone numbers:Brentford SNT: 020 8721 2533Osterley & Spring Grove SNT: 020 8721 2809Isleworth SNT: 020 7161 9005We look forward to hearing from you!

Sgt. Peter Murphy ● 6495d20 Comments ● 6482d

Well done

Well done to Torron for having the presence of mind to save his friend.(see story on the home page).  His mother should be very proud of him and his friend grateful.

Pat Kingham ● 6482d3 Comments ● 6482d

new to the area...

Hello - does anyone have tips on interesting clubs to join or community projects I could get involved in, in Brentford. I am fairly new to the area and would really like to meet some frinedly neighbours and feel more at home... Brentford is lovely I am very glad to be here.

Alex Rowell ● 6491d5 Comments ● 6483d

Free - white desk

Desk - white, with white handles1m30 wide, 72cm high, 60cm deep.  Left side is a cupboard with one shelf, right side is 4 drawers.The top has a couple of very slight stains, hardly noticeable.  It could serve as a dressing table with the addition of a mirror.Probably came from Ikea but I can't remember.  Any takers?

Susan Lawrence ● 6484d1 Comments ● 6484d

Silen Witness

No not the Ferry Quays vandal, but did anyone see the tv program Silent Witnes last night (and again tonight I believe)When Harry went home, he was at 1 Point Wharf over looking the harbour area and viewing San Marco's.Not sure what flat number but would interested to know how this arrangment came to be?

Steve Bonnici ● 6484d0 Comments ● 6484d

boat trips

Anyone know if there are any boat trips available along the canal at weekends - I know it was being done during the festival but my sister in law is visiting this weekend (a week too late to enjoy all the activities)and would like to take my daughter (her god daughter) on a boat trip.

Gerardine Padbury ● 6484d0 Comments ● 6484d

Idea re regeneration and Watermans

Folks, has anyone previously discussed or thought of, in the context of the Brentford regeneration project, relocating Watermans Arts Centre to the Magistrates' Court , and vice versa?Suddenly occurred to me last night (and no I was reasonably sober), and the more I think about it, the more it makes sense.An arts centre right in the middle of Brentford would surely have a lot more visitors than in its' current location.Court location is probably not so critical - if you don't turn up as and when required, a warrant will be issued and you'll be taken there by the constables of the parish! Arts centres must dream of using these tactics to get people through the doors...So what do you think? Madness? or could I be onto something?

Jeremy Hillman ● 6502d51 Comments ● 6485d

Position yourself on 'The Political Compass'

Here's a series of questions which position you on a chart according to your beliefs. It's good fun to see how close you are to certain characters like the Thatcher, Dalai Lamai, Milton Friedman. It only takes 5 minutes to do and good fun.It is on the website 'The Political Compass': http://politicalcompass.org/indexIt's introduction is:"The old one-dimensional categories of 'right' and 'left', established for the seating arrangement of the French National Assembly of 1789, are overly simplistic for today's complex political landscape. For example, who are the 'conservatives' in today's Russia? Are they the unreconstructed Stalinists, or the reformers who have adopted the right-wing views of conservatives like Margaret Thatcher ? On the standard left-right scale, how do you distinguish leftists like Stalin and Gandhi? It's not sufficient to say that Stalin was simply more left than Gandhi. There are fundamental political differences between them that the old categories on their own can't explain. Similarly, we generally describe social reactionaries as 'right-wingers', yet that leaves left-wing reactionaries like Robert Mugabe and Pol Pot off the hook. The test is entirely anonymous. None of your personal details are required, and nothing about your result is recorded or logged in any way. The answers are only used to calculate your reading, and cannot be accessed by anyone, ever. The idea was developed by a political journalist with a university counselling background, assisted by a professor of social history. They're indebted to people like Wilhelm  Reich and Theodor Adorno for their ground-breaking work in this field. We believe that, in an age of diminishing ideology, a new generation in particular will get a better idea of where they stand politically - and the sort of political company they keep."Have a go.

Duncan Walker ● 6495d19 Comments ● 6485d

St John Parish

Could anyone tell me if St John Parish, Southall is still there? This is part of my ancestry research. Many thanks. Apologies if I'm in the wrong county forum asking this question.Joan.

Joan Perry ● 6486d11 Comments ● 6485d

Brentford Waterside Festival

Rather later in the year for 2007, doubtless hoping it's warmed up by then, and held over 5 Sundays to ensure one at least is sunny!Sunday 29 July 2007 to Sunday 26 August 2007First and last are family days, second and penultimate for 'young professionals', middle one for senior citizens.Sadly, perhaps because it's too late now to be useful propoganda, ISIS have failed to sponsor it this year. However credit where credit's due, BW have come up trumps.I'm trying to get an 'aqua-bike' demo and competition going for those who don't mind getting wet. Any ideas of your own? Let me know and I'll pass them on.

Nigel Moore ● 6577d42 Comments ● 6485d

Baby tea tree products

Can anybody please tell me where I can buy teddy tea tree products. Have googled it and had information but no links to where I can purchase it. Hope someone out there can help me !

Gillian Hoare ● 6487d1 Comments ● 6487d

Windmill Road, Brentford's memorial bench

You'll have seen the immaculate bench in Windmill Road..opposite York Road...as you are passing by..and you may recall the story behind it.  Forum Search should produce previous messages.This is a delicate few days ahead..the anniversary of young James Naughton's passing on the 25th August 2004.  We..as a cyberspace community...wish Fran and family every comfort at this time. Fran is fab lady.You may be able to pay the bench a visit..but wherever you are you may be able give the anniversary a thought. That's the story of the bench."Jimboe" RIP

Jim Lawes ● 6491d2 Comments ● 6488d

Change insurance settlement rules

Hello, Please follow the following link and sign the petition to make insurance settlements for personal injuries fairer. http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/Re-claim/Thank youR.Williams

Robert Williams ● 6507d1 Comments ● 6489d

Reports that new Hounslow  logo will cost a million

Labour Cllr. Matt Harmer condemned the plan as an exercise in vanity and accused the Conservatives of trying to put their stamp on the borough with a scheme that would provide no benefit to residents. John Connolly of the Hounslow Independent Alliance said, "It would appear that the same Council that recently cut services to the elderly and disabled has no shortage of cash to massage senior councillors' allowances and egos." My god what a waste of money we have I dont know how many community halls that all need that kind of money to do badly needed repair works and what does this bunch do, waste money on as Matt put it on a vanity exercise.

Dave Hughes ● 6509d56 Comments ● 6489d

Curios of Brentford and the police

I thought this would make some interesting background for our Sgt Murray and his Syon Safer Neighbourhood Team – Curios of Brentford and the police.Any more?1. Slipper of the YardI read this article http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/main.jhtml?xml=/news/2005/08/25/db2501.xml&sSheet=/portal/2005/08/25/ixportal.htmlon the death last week of the great detective ‘Slipper of the Yard’, and was intrigued to find that,  “ …he joined the police in 1951, aged 27. He was posted to Brentford, but found life too quiet - and, to the irritation of his superintendent, had himself posted to Chelsea, where he spent five years….”2. Dixon of Dock GreenThe BBC TV series (1955 -1976) shot of the doorway to the police station and the lamp was filmed at Brentford Police station. Here’s a clip of the opening sequence:http://www.bbc.co.uk/cult/classic/titles/clip5.shtmlYou can see a photo of the station entrance in Gillian Clegg’s book ‘Brentford Past’ (page 39). “It was opened at 42 Brentford High Street in 1870 and pulled down in 1969 after a new station was built in Half Acre.”There is more about the police station on ‘Brentford High Street Project’ websitehttp://www.bhsproject.co.uk/section3.shtml#423. Gladys Mitchell, Brentford author (1901 -1983)Her book The Rising Moon’ is about a killer who runs amok on the streets of Brentford. It is essential reading for budding detectives and I found superb in trying to picture the locations in Brentford as described then in about 1910-20. From an earlier thread on the forum, ‘Authors who lived in the Brentford Area and Brentford appearing in literature’, we found this information about her:See website: www.gladysmitchell.com/Gillian Clegg in ‘Brentford Past’ says: “Gladys Mitchell was educated at the Rothschild school in Brentford High Street and later taught History, English, Spanish and athletics at St Paul’s School. As a child she lived in Windmill Road and later York Road. In 1938 she was sharing a house with her friend Winifred Blazey at 18 Swyncombe Avenue. Mitchell wrote over 50 novels, most of them featuring her eccentric detective Mrs Bradley.

Duncan Walker ● 6489d6 Comments ● 6489d

Eating Out in/around Brentford

Hi there,We have just moved to the area and are looking for somewhere nice to take the parents for a meal this Saturday night. We aren't exactly flush with money, any ideas where would be the best place to take them?Thanks for your help!Laura

Laura Dicker ● 6491d8 Comments ● 6489d

ST JOHN'S ROAD BRIDGE RECONSTRUCTION COMPLETED

Following completion of the major reconstruction of St John's Road Bridge, St John's Road reopened to through traffic on Thursday 16 August.The Council will be progressively removing the temporary traffic management (lines and signs) from Linkfield Rd, Grainger Rd and Amhurst Gardens on Tuesday 21 and Wednesday 22 August, and these streets should be fully open to two-way traffic by Wednesday afternoon. London Buses will return the H37 and 117 services to their St John's Road route on Tuesday morning (21 August), and the northwest-bound H28 will also switch from Linkfield/Grainger to St John's Rd at the same time. The H28 will return to its Amhurst Gardens route (both directions) on Friday morning (24 August). The Council will launch a consultation in September, aimed at ascertaining the best permanent traffic arrangement for Amhurst Gardens. London Buses will also be consulted, regarding future arrangements for the H28 service, which uses this street.  A report will be brought in due course to the Isleworth & Brentford Area Committee.The Council would like to thank all local residents, bus users and motorists for their co-operation whilst the essential bridge reconstruction works were being carried out.Chris Calvi-FreemanHead of TransportLondon Borough of Hounslow

Chris Calvi-Freeman ● 6493d3 Comments ● 6490d

Up,up and away

Is there anyone out there who is going to let the rest of us know what increases in their allowances our Councillors voted for at the Borough Council last night? I'm sure the staff would just love to know as they've been offered a measly 2%. Didn't take this Tory/ICG 'coalition' lot long did it? 1 year and two months to be precise.

Vanessa Smith ● 6519d70 Comments ● 6490d

Philip Lawrence's killer allowed to stay

I really do think that we are stupid in this country - why have the Immigration and Appeals Tribunal said that it would be a breach of his 'human rights' to deport him to Italy? It's hardly Guantanamo Bay is it? I really hope the Home Office kick up a stink over this. So - he doesn't speak Italian and has no relations there - tough, he hasn't earned the right to stay here. Why is it we never stand up for ourselves here. Giving asylum to oppressed people whose lives are threatened is one thing, thinking a convicted murderer has earned any 'rights' let alone 'human' ones is an insult. I do feel for Mr. Lawrence's family, what a kick in the teeth.

Vanessa Smith ● 6493d19 Comments ● 6491d

Grand Union

Can anyone give me any information regarding a Charity Company called "Grand Union" pleaseI want to know who they are, What they do, what they provide or a website address.Thanks

Simon Anderson ● 6497d14 Comments ● 6491d

Let Ealing Southall result be a warning to the Tories

You can't win Brentford & Chiswick. Stand aside and give the party with the real momentum the chance to tackle Ann Keen.I'm utterly delighted Lit came third.

Conal Stewart ● 6524d27 Comments ● 6491d

Updated London Cycle maps.

Transport for London has published the third series of its Local Cycling Guides - all free and very nice maps they are too!  :-)https://www.tfl.gov.uk/tfl/roadusers/cycling/cycleroutes/default.asp

Sarah Felstead ● 6491d0 Comments ● 6491d

Is it a record ?

The amount of time it is taking to complete the,now legendary,unwanted road widening scheme on London Rd. between the Coach and Horses and the canal bridge.I spoke to a nice lady called Poonan Pathak at the cc and it is all the faulty of those paragons of virtue bt and bgas.I drive past there daily and there is usually very little going on and often no one working there.It has been going on for months now and has caused more problems for traffic and pedestrians than it will ever'solve'imho.It is a bloody eyesore too and another example of how Brentford does not matter. I wonder if the main thoroughfare through Chiswick would have been treated in the same off hand way?

Keith Iddon ● 6492d5 Comments ● 6492d

A wonderful find....

Not sure if I'm meant to use the forum for this but I stumbled across a wonderful shop in Northfields full of the most beautiful hand picked items not found in every high street store - when all around us our high streets are turning in to mirror images its a joy to find somewhere for that extra special purchase. It's called The Mill, 151 Northfield Avenue, Northfields, London W13 - it's a nice high street actually - http://www.themill151.com  Where every shop seems to be part of a chain its wonderful to find somewhere with a bit of individuality

Rebecca Coates ● 6492d3 Comments ● 6492d

The Camp for Climate Action  at Heathrow

Yesterday the protestors started to arrive and have erected the protest Camp for Climate Change on the Northern fringes of Heathrow on playing fields in a village at Sipson, where the proposed third runway is planned to be built. They intend to highlight the problem of airport expansion and the damage it does to the environment. They are very organised with marquee tents and lectures and talks on the issues.  See their website: http://www.climatecamp.org.uk/And article: http://www.guardian.co.uk/transport/Story/0,,2147503,00.htmlIf kept peaceful I think it is a great exercise in putting across the objections to airport expansion, outside the controlled channels of lobby groups.What do you think about the issues and tactics here?Their statement on their website is:"Eight days of low-impact living, debates, learning skills, and high-impact direct action tackling the root causes of climate change. Why?The science is clear: global emissions of carbon dioxide must go into rapid decline within the next decade. If they don't, humanity faces a bleak future.To achieve this in a way that respects global justice means 90% cuts in developed countries like the UK. How will we cut emissions and end inequality? How will we achieve this in the face of an economic system intent on expanding at any cost, with corporations stealing the language of change to disguise business as usual? Ordinary people will have to join together to create real solutions and take direct action against the root causes of the problem.This year the Camp for Climate Action will be at Heathrow, the world's busiest airport and a bigger source of CO2 emissions than most countries. It's sheer lunacy in this time of ecological crisis, but the aviation industry are pushing to almost double the airport's capacity by increasing flights and building a third runway. The battle to stop them will be one of the most important environmental battles in Western Europe.What we do now decides what the future holds. Those who came before us didn't know the problem, those who come after us will have severely limited options. We have both the power and the responsibility to make a radically better world.By uniting in collective action this summer we can begin to make it happen."

Duncan Walker ● 6500d42 Comments ● 6493d

Have a look at this great photo of Brentford High Stc.1955

http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=200143578814&fromMakeTrack=true&ssPageName=VIP:watchlink:middle:au

Neil Chippendale ● 6495d4 Comments ● 6494d

Vaseline and Bonjela....

Turns out that GP's in Wales are prescribing items like these(readily availably cheaply over the counter) now that prescriptions are free in Wales but more expensive for the rest of us.I s'pose it was only a matter of time before this generous provision was abused.What next...free elec. and gas for them,free trains and buses?Anyone know the thinking/reasoning behind this daft and unfair decision to give them free scripts whilst saddling us with the bill?

Keith Iddon ● 6495d3 Comments ● 6494d

Reducing the population the best solution?

I have been thinking that maybe a solution for ‘Earth out-of-control’ is to halve the population, then we can better live within our resource means and maybe rebuild them. Also it would give us more psychological space. What about a target of halving the population to 3 billion and live within our means? The government’s economic logic of ‘we must have population growth to sustain our economies’ seems a dangerous model. I had a search for information on overpopulation and found this site which has some useful stats.http://www.overpopulation.org/There seems to have been a lot of talking about this problem over the past 30 years and little progress made, apart from awareness in some quarters, which is a start.The population has doubled from 3bn to 6bn today from 1960, so the world I was brought into as a child had ½ the people fighting for the same resources.I also found this fascinating calculation:http://www.carbon-info.org/carbonnews2/carbonnews2_081.htm"July 2007While not advocating genocide, the new head of the Science Museum has an unusual view about how global warming should be dealt with: get rid of a few billion people.Chris Rapley, who takes up his post on September 1, is suggesting that by improving contraception, education and healthcare it will be possible to stop the world's population reaching its current estimated limit of between eight and 10 billion.'That in turn will mean less carbon dioxide is being pumped into the atmosphere because there will be fewer people to drive cars and use electricity.Researching Mr. Rapley's point, Carbon-info.org has discovered that surprisingly short timescales are involved in reducing the population.It is possible to calculate the time (t) it will take for the UK's population to shrink from 60 million to 25 million based on the number of women, who decides to have 1 child or 2 children.While a controversial subject, the calculations shows that if 40% of women have 2 children, 40% have 1 child and the last 20% no children, then it will take about 34 years before the UK population reaches the 25 million target.It is therefore theoretically possible, by offering incentives to women and families, to reduce the UK population to 25 million in about 1.5 generations!The calculation can also be applied to the world population. And while clearly a very difficult thing to achieve in practice, it is potentially a cheap and quick way of reducing the world CO2 output, if it could be implemented on a voluntary basis."--So things can be done fairly quickly.

Duncan Walker ● 6505d16 Comments ● 6495d

Looking For Brother  XXplease read xx

Hi everyone i know that there isnt many lost people posts in here but figured that this was worth a shotif anyone knows Shaun Hiley, either directly or in directly please can you tell him to contact his sister, its a matter or urgency that we find him he hasnt been around for two years or so now and the last i knew he was doing building work in and around london, staying with people near brentford footbal club.. the places he is likely to drink are the irish pubs, he did talk of one but i can not remember the name, so if anyone knows of any pubs that are classed as irish pubs then please let me know on here.. i can contact them and see if they no him.. any way shaun is of large build, black hair tattoes on arms and i think a small one on his hand. he used to drive a green mercedes car and a transit van for work. he is into fishing and i believe he took part in some tournements too if you have any info then i would be most grateful to hear from you via here thank you for your time

Dawn Hiley ● 6498d3 Comments ● 6495d

The big list of Local Websites. (TW7 and TW8)

You'd be surprised how many active websites there are in Brentford and Isleworth..and they are a great source of local information.You will have seen this list before..which I have compiled over the past 3 months.....and I'm sure it's better standing on its own without the Calendar....somewhere near PAGE ONE of this BrentfordTW8 Forum!!Add a message,or information if you wish. The plan is to update this WEBSITES LIST every now and again and tidy the headings up when appropriate.Personally, I find it invaluable as a quick way to get that URL!   So: Copy and Paste and go go go.STARTING NEXT MESSAGE!

Jim Lawes ● 6744d14 Comments ● 6495d

Boris Johnson is short-listed for Mayor

Boris Johnson is one of four Conservative Party members to be shortlisted as a possible candidate for Mayor of London.The competitors will now take part in a primary election, in which anyone on the London electoral register may vote, whether they are members of the Conservative Party or not.The other three contenders on the shortlist are IT consultant and former Hackney councillor Andrew Boff; businesswoman and Kensington & Chelsea councillor Victoria Borwick; and economist Warwick Lightfoot, also a Kensington & Chelsea councillor.More than 40 applications for the Conservative mayoral candidacy were received. Anyone wishing to vote can register from Monday, regardless of whether they are a member of the Conservative Party,or any other party or no party at all.A postal vote will end on September 26 and the chosen candidate will be named at the end of the September.

David Giles ● 6521d25 Comments ● 6496d

What counts as junk mail?

I've spent a little time recently delivering postcards about Brentford festival door to door. I don't put these through letterboxes bearing the No Junk Mail sticker, as I don't want to annoy anyone, but it seems a pity that by displaying this sticker people are not receiving information about local events. It's for this reason that I haven't used my No Junk Mail sticker - I accept that I have to deal with pizza leaflets etc if I want to make sure I get news about things happening in the area. What do people think (especially people who do display the sticker)? Does news about Brentford events count as junk mail?(Incidentally the festival is on Sunday 2 September in Boston Manor Park - see www.fobm.org.uk for more information.)

Virginia Fassnidge ● 6517d7 Comments ● 6496d

Info wanted: Any community groups in Hounslow who own parks & community gardens?

Hi, I sit on a strategy group called London Parks & Green Spaces Strategic Forum, its a forum made up of people from CABE, Lee Valley Park, the ODA, English Heritage, Natural England, RSPB, Royal Parks & Gardens etc. One of my colleagues is seeking information on community groups who own or have effective control over a garden or park.  The purpose is to find out what the problems are and how such places can be increased across London as I understand it.If you know of any please let me know.

Conal Stewart ● 6498d4 Comments ● 6496d

Cafe Belugio?

Can anyone tell me where I can find Cafe Belugio?It is mentioned in Westside as being in Brentford. I have googled it but nothing shows up. Any clues greatly appreciated, as I would like to try it out tomorrow.

Angela Peel ● 6497d1 Comments ● 6496d

1000's of CD's for recycling

I work for Windmill Studios in York Road Brentford.  (www.windmillstudios.net)We are having a HUGE clear out.  Our recording Studios has an absolute huge and extenstive collection of thousands and thousands of CD's for sound production purposes.  All the CD's are library music.... KPM/Carlin/Chaplin/BMG etc. etc.If these would be of any interest to anyone, just come and get what you want!I will be adding later on today an extensive range of redundant Audio Visual equipent from our hire stock... which will be name a silly price and come and get it ASAP.Regards,Fran Naughton

Fran Naughton ● 6497d2 Comments ● 6497d

Sunday 12th August Gunnersbury Park: The London Mela: noon-9pm

Check out the action packed website..perhaps!http://www.londonmela.org

Jim Lawes ● 6511d11 Comments ● 6497d

parking ticket

anybody have the number or address of the peeps i can contact to contest a ticket?doesnt appear to be anything on the ticket itself.ta

Jamie Halliday ● 6497d3 Comments ● 6497d

Hanworth Park by-election result

I posted the following a few moments ago and it disappeared.  Anyway, here are the results of today's Hanworth Park by-election:Paul JABBAL (Conservative) - 1054 (41.11%)Colin ELLAR (Labour)       -  729 (28.43%)Simon MARTIN (Lib Dem)     -  507 (19.77%)Vanessa SMITH (HIA)        -  201 ( 7.84%)Anthony AGIUS (Green)      -   73 ( 2.85%)I would like to congratulate Councillor Jabbal on a fine victory and look forward to working with him for hopefully the next three years.

Phil Andrews ● 6531d32 Comments ● 6498d

Bu site yi kullanan Turk varmi?

Meraba,Ben Fusun Demirer,Londraya tasinmadan once Devlet tiyatrolarinda uzun yillar oyuncu olarak calistim.1983 den beri Londrada yasamaktayim ve bu surec icinde bircok eski arkadasimin izini kaybettim.Esim eski arkadaslarimin izini bulmak ve butun  Dunyada ki Turk arkadaslarla baglanti kurmam icin, bana bir web sitesi kurdu.Simdi bu site tum Turklerin kullanimina acik ve tamamen bedava. Ismi; www.neredesindostum.com.Nekadar cok kisi kullanirsa okadar basarili olacagina eminim. Lutfen uye olun ve kuresel Turk toplumunu olusturmamiza yardimci olun.En iyi dileklerimle

Fusun Demirer ● 6499d3 Comments ● 6498d

Door to door Salesmen

In the last 2 months I have had two visits from the door to door sales people who turn up with a crate full of tea towels, dusters and cleaning tools etc.On the both occaisions I have politely thanked them for their time but declined to purchase. On both occaisions the sales people have been rude with the second telling me to "F*** off then" as he left.Whilst I am young and it is water off a ducks back, I am annoyed that they are bussed in to be rude to people and worry for the elderley residents in my road.

Ilika Shelley ● 7876d7 Comments ● 6499d

Casualty units

I see Casualty Plus has closed its Brentford surgery. I found this very useful, particularly for my Sons bangs and bruises.What is the concensus of the best casualty in these parts - West Middx? Ealing? any others?

Adrian Orchard ● 6500d1 Comments ● 6500d

Any Stuff????

Hi all.Ive done this before and sold stuff to raise money for the Hospital.I am looking for stuff to sell at Car Boot or Table Top sales to raise MORE cash for G.O.S.H (Great Ormand St Hospital)I am looking for any of the following items:Cd's , Videos, Dvds, Toys (not Cuddly), Household Goods (not Furniture), Jewellery, old Mobile Phones etc etc...You must live locally so i can arrange to collect.If you can help send me a email please.

Simon Anderson ● 6500d0 Comments ● 6500d

Met Police - Communities Together Strategy

The police website with daily information relating to the Camp for Climate Action at Heathrow will be updated daily as of Monday 13th August can be found at www.met.police.uk/communities_together/

Sarah Felstead ● 6500d1 Comments ● 6500d

Lost and found

Anybody living near Brook Road South? Can you put a note tonight through the door of no. 9 stating that a wallet, credit cards etc have been found. The person is ex directory so I can do nothing until tomorrow.  Give my email address linda.massey@virgin.net and also post your actions on this website.  Thank you in advance

Linda Massey ● 6501d1 Comments ● 6501d

Channel 4 Dispatches undercover

Massive discussions in the press, TV and radio, on Jade Goodys' outrageous bullying of Shilpa on BB! Hardly a mention of Channel 4s' undercover investigation, of the extremists in a Birminghams Green Lane mosque. I await with interest and concern to see what action (if any) is taken against these people, by the gutless PC politicians who queued up to complain about this woman, who is a complete nutter. I was particularly outraged about a remark made, concerning a British soldier who happened to have a muslim name, who died in Afghanistan fighting the Taliban. I am also disgusted about being referred to as a "kaffur" and their wish to destroy our democracy. If they don't like us, then I suggest they all go to Saudi, where I am sure they will be happier. If these people, who thankfully are only a minority of the muslim community, are not stopped, we will have a massive problem to deal with in the future.  They are poisoning the minds of children, and politicians have got to act now to prevent another 7/7 or a 9/11.Our feet would not touch if we spouted the hatred that they did in this programme

Andrew Michael John Atkinson ● 6704d70 Comments ● 6501d

A meesage from Ivybridge-online admin.

Due to circumstances beyond our control our main website www.ivybridge-online.com will be offline until Monday 12th August. Please accept our appologies for any inconvenience caused by this. We hope you view the site again when it returns. Our forum board at http://ivybridge-online.forumotion.com is still available for your use. _________________ Thank You Admin - ivybridge-online

Tony Smith ● 6502d2 Comments ● 6502d

The new residents' association on Ivybridge - in response to the Chronicle

Anybody who had the misfortune to read the article in yesterday's Chronicle would have been left with the impression that the sole abstainer from the new association is about to launch a one-man rival residents' group.The author of the article also misquoted me in such a way as to give an impression that I had met resistance from members of NITA in my efforts to help bring the new association together. In actual fact had he not chopped my comment in mid-sentence it would have been clear that I was referring to the opposition which I had encountered from the New Labour Party working in collusion with the old management at Hounslow Homes, who were pathologically opposed to the concept of a united association on the estate.  NITA have always been entirely helpful and it was a real pleasure to work with them throughout the process.Under the circumstances I think the negative comments attributed to the Vice Chair of the new association, Al Ayoby, should likewise be taken with a large pinch of salt, and seen in the light of the reporter's apparent and unexplained determination to talk up a division which doesn't exist.The new association is a fact of life and I have every confidence that it will go from strength to strength.  However there are of course those who will work against it for their own selfish, political ends and I'm grateful to the author of the Chronicle article for flagging this up so that the residents can be alert to it.

Phil Andrews ● 6510d29 Comments ● 6502d

SOIL

We are clearing an area of our garden and removing soil - anyone know what we can do with it, rather than just ditching it at the refuse centre? 

Lucy Fergusson ● 6506d3 Comments ● 6502d

CCTV at Leisure Centre

My wife just had her bike stolen from outside the Leisure Centre.She went inside to ask about the cctv only to be told that it was a dummy camera.How daft is that?Apparently she isn't the first to lose a bike here and be surprided that there is no cctv.Perhaps they should install a working one - might be a good deterrent. Might even catch the thieves.

Ian Silver ● 6502d0 Comments ● 6502d

The cost of a cola can

I was stunned by this extract on how much energy and materials we consume just to make aluminium cans. I think we will need to start considering more the environmental costs in any product life cycle."From Natural Capitalism – by Paul Hawken, Amory Lovins, and L. Hunter Lovins (Pages 49-50)“A striking case study of the complexity of industrial metabolism is provided by James Womack and Daniel Jones in their book Lean Thinking, where they trace the origins and pathways of a can of English cola. The can itself is more costly and complicated to manufacture than the beverage. Bauxite is mined in Australia and trucked to a chemical reduction mill where a half-hour process purifies each ton of bauxite into a half ton of aluminum oxide. When enough of that is stockpiled, it is loaded on a giant ore carrier and sent to Sweden or Norway, where hydroelectric dams provide cheap electricity. After a month-long journey across two oceans, it usually sits at the smelter for as long as two months.The smelter takes two hours to turn each half ton of aluminum oxide into a quarter ton of aluminum metal, in ingots ten meters long. These are cured for two weeks before being shipped to roller mills in Sweden or Germany. There each ingot is heated to nearly nine hundred degrees Fahrenheit and rolled down to a thickness of an eighth of an inch. The resulting sheets are wrapped in ten-ton coils and transported to a warehouse, and then to a cold rolling mill in the same or another country, where they are rolled tenfold thinner, ready for fabrication. The aluminum is then sent to England, where sheets are punched and formed into cans, which are then washed, dried, painted with a base coat, and then painted again with specific product information. The cans are next lacquered, flanged (they are still topless), sprayed inside with a protective coating to prevent the cola from corroding the can, and inspected.The cans are palletized, forklift, and warehoused until needed. They are then shipped to the bottler, where they are washed and cleaned once more, then filled with water mixed with flavored syrup, phosphorus, caffeine, and carbon dioxide gas. The sugar is harvested from beet fields in France and undergoes trucking, milling, refining, and shipping. The phosphorus comes from Idaho, where it is excavated from deep open-pit mines — a process that also unearths cadmium and radioactive thorium. Round-the-clock, the mining company uses the same amount of electricity as a city of 100,000 people in order to reduce the phosphate to food-grade quality. The caffeine is shipped from a chemical manufacturer to the syrup manufacturer in England.The filled cans are sealed with an aluminum "pop-top" lid at the rate of fifteen hundred cans per minute, then inserted into cardboard cartons printed with matching color and promotional schemes. The cartons are made of forest pulp that may have originated anywhere from Sweden or Siberia to the old-growth, virgin forests of British Columbia that are the home of grizzly, wolverines, otters, and eagles. Palletized again, the cans are shipped to a regional distribution warehouse, and shortly thereafter to a supermarket where a typical can is purchased within three days. The consumer buys twelve ounces of the phosphate-tinged, caffeine-impregnated, caramel-flavored sugar water. Drinking the cola takes a few minutes; throwing the can away takes a second. In England, consumers discard 84 percent of all cans, which means that the overall rate of aluminum waste, after counting production losses, is 88 percent.' The United States still gets three-fifths of its aluminum from virgin ore, at twenty times the energy intensity of recycled aluminium, and throws away enough aluminum to replace its entire commercial aircraft fleet ever three months.”

Duncan Walker ● 6513d6 Comments ● 6503d

Lager and gin drinkers.  Earn cash for talking about it..

Hi folks, I have 3 seperate market research groups.  If interested please say which group and email me at jcmccooke@aol.com with name, dob, email address and mobile number.cheersJohn07949 008253 Group 1Males aged 23-27.  Must be premium bottled lager drinkers who do not really drink Budweiser but nevertheless do not reject it out of hand. Monday August 20th in the West End for 2 hours from 830pm.  Pays £45.Group 2Females aged 36-45.  Must be gin drinkers as 1st choice and have Beefeater Gin as their most regularly consumed.Wednesday 22nd August 2 hours from 630pm.  Pays £50Group 3Males aged 30-40.  Must have a lot of disposable income.  Must be gin drinkers as 1st choice and must all have a favourite gin other than Beefeater but at the same time must not reject Beefeater.  Thursday 23rd August 2 hours from 845pm.  Pays £50.

John McCooke ● 6503d0 Comments ● 6503d

Clothing collection scam?

I have just had posted through our door, this morning Monday 2/7/07, a suspicious leaflet “Third World Clothing Collection Urgently needed Wednesday – Collecting 8am – 3pm from Intersecond Ltd., Company Reg No 5713257…” I think it is a scam.I checked on the Charity Commission website: http://www.charity-commission.gov.uk/ , if their company registration number was a charity and it is NOT. I checked Companies House and they are a private company. I have found other people complaining about this operation: http://www.northlancing.com/Comments/Comments%20page.htmI have just reported this to Hounslow Council and their Trading Standards people will contact me back.Hounslow Council do have a general warning on their websites of such Charity Clothing scams: http://www.hounslow.gov.uk/news_mod_home/news_mod_year/news_mod_month/news_mod_show?year1=2006&month1=9&NewsID=22939Has anybody else come across this leaflet?

Duncan Walker ● 6542d21 Comments ● 6503d

Daft isn't it...?

How all those interpreters and translators in Iraq who have been helping our troops are having great difficulty getting visas. etc. when we have countless people over here who are wanted in their own countries and not sent back in case they are held to account and possibly killed,the fate that awaits said interpreters if not granted UK visas.

Keith Iddon ● 6505d7 Comments ● 6504d

Hounslow Council

Yesterday morning at around 9.15 I attempted to telephone a number supplied to me by a council employee and this number is evidently that of the site manager of Cedar Court.  This number does nothing but ring.  Never answered and no answermachine message.  I then called Hounslow Homes at about 9.30.  I just want to know what is the procedure (if any) for placing a skip in the car park of Cedar Court.  I was told someone would get back to me that day.  By 2.30 I had not heard so I called again.  The person who answered that call immediately hung up.  I called again and spoke to someone who said that a note had been made and I would hear within 24 hours.  I have just called again and been told that it is now a 48 hour call back.  Nice tactics for keeping the public at bay!I wrote to the housing department in May 2006 and they answered with a stock letter that bore no relation to the issues raised in my letter to them, in December!  I wrote to them again in April this year, I am still waiting for a reply.We employ these drongos - what on earth do they do all day.  They don't return calls and they don't answer letters, they are incapable of discussing anything on the telephone it is like talking to a robot.  No matter what you want or what you say all you get is "that's all I can do is take a message and someone will get back to you".  Brilliant! and these people want hefty wage increases year in year out for what?How much red tape can there be for placing a skip in a car park?  If it has anything to do with a council I suppose that is a stupid question in the first place but honestly its not a trick question are there rules or are there not?  Why is this estate manager not contactable and where does the caretaker of Cedar Court live?  I now know his name but I dont know him and wouldn't know him if he jumped up and bit me.  Does anyone out there know the answer to any of my questions?

Bernadette Paul ● 6506d7 Comments ● 6505d

Brentford Area Action Plan (BAAP) submitted 20/7/07

I have just received a letter from the Hounslow Council saying that the Brentford Area Action Plan (BAAP) has been submitted to the Secretary of State on 20/7/07.You can read it (118 pages of it) on their website:http://www.hounslow.gov.uk/brentford_area_action_plan.pdf

Duncan Walker ● 6523d14 Comments ● 6505d

Mobile Phones on Buses

Is anyone else fed up with getting on a Bus and having to sit there all threw your journey listen to total rubbish music playing from some young persons mobile?Nearly every time i get on a bus someone is sat on it playing there music out of their mobile so the rest of us can hear it, by the time you get to your destination its a pleasure to get off the bus.I honestly believe Bus Companies should ban mobile phone music on the Buses why should the rest of us have to suffer?

Simon Anderson ● 6509d14 Comments ● 6505d

American car factories on the Great West Road

I am researching into the above - Hudson, Lincoln & Packard.I would be grateful if any members with stories and/or photographs would get in touch with me.I have very little on the Lincoln Cars factory so any help there would be appreciated.Many thanks,Andrew

Andrew Minney ● 6505d2 Comments ● 6505d

Council facilities for Leasholders

I know that it seems like we all have a go at the council for their appaling service but it really is true.You might be forgiven for thinking that payin service charges and ground rent and council tax entitles you to some basic level of service from the council but that appears to be not the case. Take this case in point: I wanted to hold a small birthday party for my son who will be 1 this year, so rather than do what most people do, that is just hold it anyway and ignore everyone else, I decided to be considerate and check with the council first to make sure it was all above board (we apprantly have an informant in Cedar Court that delights in making hard-working, high-paying residents's lives difficult)I was told flatly that under no circumstances could I hold any sort of gathering in our communal gardens (which are quite pleasant) and that I would be treated harshly if I did otherwise (presumably the informant would be watching)It was going to be a family gathering for a young infant's first birthday, not a rave or steam powered fun-fair with some jelly and ice cream etc on a picnic table.So in summary I cannot use the gardens for any purpose whatsoever, other than for my neighbors to let their dogs deficate in it, unless I want the wrath of the council on me.Remind me, why do the council extract so much money from me each year? What on earth do I get? Nothing that is the fact.What do law abiding, hard working people like me have to do to get some fair and equitable treatment rather than stung for thousands of pounds to pay for councillors pay rises and staff strikes and their very generous pensions?

Niel Gavin ● 6506d3 Comments ● 6505d

A Ghurkha VC Soldier

We can welcome all and sundry to this country, without blinking an eyelid. We overlook the reason they choose to live here. On many occasions no background checks are made to see if they are wanted for murder, rape and other serious crimes committed elsewhere. The Italians have just requested the extradition of a man living here alleged to be from the mafia. And yet…………………Consider the case of the brave Ghurkha VC 84 year old Tul Babadur, who not only had his medal taken from him by the army, who then insultingly gave him peanuts for it, (one recently sold for £500,000) for allegedly “safe keeping”, and this wonderful, caring compassionate, and grateful government, are asking a judge to decide if he can live in this country, where he has served both bravely and loyally in the Ghurkha Rifles for 18 years. Ok to fight our battles, but not OK to live here. Moral…….don’t fight for this country as a foreign national, if you want to live here after serving this country faithfully, and you have done our dirty work. .................................................................Instead hijack a plane in Russia or a place of your choice, force the pilot to land at Heathrow, then on landing, have a bit of a showdown with the SAS and local police, then head for Hounslow, and the welcome mat will be put out there, right outside the house acquired especially to meet your every whim. Don't worry about the nasty judges, they won't send you home, but you may have to spend a little time in one of our Hilton Hotels....er! erm! I mean prison! Oh! I nearly forgot, we won’t expect you to rush out and work when you get out, you will be very exhausted and traumatised with the ordeal of this little skirmish…….so just relax and enjoy your stay and to be sure to let us know if there is anything else you need, we will pop in from time to time to see if you are all OK……….Don't worry your heads in the meantime about Council Tax, or utility bills, but go easy using the mobile phones, and dont forget which side of the road we drive on over here, so keep safe and drive carefully.

Andrew Michael John Atkinson ● 6577d16 Comments ● 6505d

Stolen milk churns

Had two of our 10 gallon milk churns stolen off our floodlit forecourt last night. They were chained up (heavy duty chain) full of gravel (so very heavy) with flowers on the top.Question - we have two more on the other side - are these going disappear too or should we have to heave them in every night?

Linda F Wright ● 6507d7 Comments ● 6506d

Recycling

I tired reving up an old thread but no joy - it did get off track - so trying again because I am fed up. I started recycling again about a month ago after a couple of years of not bothering due to poor service and so far;Week 1 - No collection until a neigbour called the councilWeek 2 - Collected 2 days late presumably because someone called againWeek 3 - No collectionWeek 4 - collected but health and safety risk of neighbours' boxes piled on top of mine in the walkway to the front doorI also had the pleasure of witnessing rush hour traffic in Clifden Rd tonight because they decided to collect the recycling at 18.15, presumably because they couldn't be bothered this morning.I am getting extremely fed up with constantly hearing about how we are all going to get fined if we don't recycle properly when we have a local government that charges extortionate council tax, will probably implement fines at the drop of the hat but can't be a**ed to provide a basic service (or have no control over those to whom they have sub-contracted because they agreed a nonsensical contract in the first place).I am on the verge of taking all my recycling to Tescos soon (64 points in 1 week on plastic alone which of course Hounslow don't collect) but I have to drive it there so kind of defeating the object really.I look forward to the fines!!!

Claire Peleschka ● 6520d13 Comments ● 6506d

Neighbournet - first with the news!

I have just heard that the two petitions I submitted to 10 Downing Street have been approved!http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/pay12x/http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/pay12xwater/Will I recognise any signatures?:-)

Sarah Felstead ● 6506d0 Comments ● 6506d

Does your garden produce a glut of fruit or veg in July/August? Donate the excess!

I'm celebrating six months of being cigarette free with a small charity event, a dinner party which I hope will raise £300-400 for a cancer charity. I want to maximise the money raised by keeping costs down while preparing a fresh and elegant meal for approximately thirty people, so I'm hoping for a bit of help. If you tend to get too many tomatoes, courgettes, plums or whatever and you can't use them all, I'd be happy to take them off your hands and serve them up for charity! I am awaiting final confirmation of the date in late July or early August, but can prepare and freeze anything that arrives much earlier.Also, as I'm doing this for the first time, I'd be grateful for advice and ideas.

Holly Hodges ● 6562d8 Comments ● 6506d

Councillors' increased Responsibility Allowances are well merited

The news item on this site abut the increase in councillors' allowances with the picture of Councillor Peter Thompson, Leader of Hounslow Councl, is more like a Labour Party press release than objective journalism.It is a pity that Councillor Peter Thompson was not able to give his side of the story.The Leader of Hounslow Council has not awarded himself a pay rise. That is not within his power. Hounslow Council has democratically decided to increase the allowances paid to the Leader of the Council, the Deputy Leader, the Executive members and ordinary councillors of all parties so that the allowances in Hounslow are consistent with allowances paid to councillors in other London Boroughs,such as neighbouring Liberal Democrat controlled Richmond. This increase has been supported by Conservative, Liberal Democrat and Community Group councillors.The Labour councillors have predictably opposed the increases but that is to be expected as the Labour group still has not reconciled itself to its historic defeat last year and has sulked ever since.If Labour were in power, I am sure they would have voted for the increases.Hounslow Council arrived at the figures using London Councils' - an umbrella organisation made up of all London Council Leaders of all parties - average allowances table. In my view, the Leader of the Council,Councillor Peter Thompson and Deputy Leader, Councillor Mark Bowen and the other councillors deserve these increased allowances. The Leader, Deputy Leader and Executive members are responsible for leading and running a Council with major and incresaing responsibilities, a budget of hundreds of millions of pounds and for directing a large workforce of council officials, many of whom earn significantly more than the allowances paid to the Leader or Deputy Leader.Council Leaders, Deputy Leaders and Executive members have to devote large amounts of time to their council duties. This inevitably affects their earning capacity and promotional opportunities in their regular non-political employment and careers.An allowance of £34,000 is modest compared to the salaries paid to the Chief Executive, Council Departmental Directors, Head Teachers and many other Council employees. It is also modest compared with an MP's salary of over £60,000 per year and the additional value of MP's pensions, expenses, alowances and other benefits which is of course well over £100,000 a year.The responsibilities of the Leader of a Council like Hounslow are in my view much greater than the responsibilities of a mere backbench MP like Alan Keen.In recent years the EU and the UK Central Government has imposed considerable extra responsibilities on local Councils, without providing the additional funds needed by Councils to perform these duties. It is to Councillor Peter Thompson and his colleagues' credit that Hounslow Council is now much better run than ever before and has for the first time managed to freeze the Council Tax, after many years of constant increases under the previous incompetent and inefficent Labour administrations.With the singular exception of Councillor John Connnolly, the former Labour Leader and Mayor, very few Labour Councillors have ever been close to being as competent or as effective as Councillors Thompson, Bowen or other present Exective members such as Gerald McGregor.The present Executive of Hounslow Council is probably the best qualified Executive Hounslow has ever had. We do need competent and effective leadership in local Government. In order to do this we have to compensate our councillors fairly so they do not suffer financially due to performing their civic duties.It is particularly important to have councillors with managerial, professional and public and private sector experience who are capable of dealing with professional and well qualified EU, Central and Local Government officials, MP's, Ministers and the directors and leaders of public and private sector organisations as equals and not as supplicants or cyphers.The old adage "if you pay peanuts you get monkeys" is very true. This increase in allowances will greatly increase the chance that we will have a well-run Council in the years to come as more and more good people make themselves available for selection as candidates and election as councillors.

David Giles ● 6515d9 Comments ● 6508d

Dog found

Beautiful young alsation dog found this morning in middle of Great West Road at Gillette corner.  She was running between cars with her lead on and cars were stopping for her or driving around her.  There was a contact number (company) saying she was chipped - and giving a reference number, but the owners had forgotten to register her!  She was very thirsty and frightened so could have travelled quite a distance.

Sarah Felstead ● 6508d3 Comments ● 6508d

Sat 11th August ("Open House") Brentford Landmarks Day

Another date for our diaries..although I'll be away!The Brentford and Chiswick Local History Society and the Hounslow Heritage Guide seem to have organised..as before successfully..for many buildings to open their doors free of charge..though donations will be welcomed!Glad to see that the event already appears on the TW8 front page Calendar (down left side column)....as follows.  Well done and thanks for that. That Calendar column is a good one.BRENTFORD LANDMARKS DAYSATURDAY, 11 AUGUST 2007Doors Open: 11.00 amLast Entrance: 4.00 pmOpportunity to see inside some of Brentford’s landmark buildings as part ofBRENTFORD LANDMARKS WEEKENDThe following buildings will be open:**St Paul’s Church  (tours, exhibition, lunches)**St Faith’s Church  (family history, bookstall, refreshments)**St George’s Church (to be confirmed on the day) WOW..the old piano Museum!!!!!!!!** Brentford Free Church (open to visitors until 2.30 pm)**The Resource Centre (Alexandra House) opposite Fat Boys with big car park!**Brentford Library (display on Nowell Parr)  CAN WE GO UPSTAIRS???**Kew Bridge Steam Museum (free entry to THE TOWER!!)     YOU MEAN WE CAN CLIMB TO THE TOP!!     (5 feet height restriction not sure what that means)**Boston Manor House (tours at 3 pm and 4 pm) Oldest house in Brentford???  and have tea at the cafe before it closes at ..5pm?**The Toll House  Brentford Lock.. over to you Nigel! For further information about Brentford Landmarks Weekend contact:Janet McNamara 020 8560 3718000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

Jim Lawes ● 6511d9 Comments ● 6509d

Most expensive bitter in Brentford

Is it the £2.97 for a pint of Pride at the Brewery Tap?

Colin Murphy ● 6521d28 Comments ● 6510d

The ward of Osterley and Spring Grove TW7 matters!

Jump on your bikes and cycle around the Park!  Visit the Hare and Hounds Pub. or visit the Garden Centre. You haven't been to Osterley Park House..or to the Shop..or the old stables cafe? You haven't seen the ducks and the swans in the lake? Perhaps pop along have a look at the vegetables for sale at the  Farm Shop. The Wycombe House Cricket Club is waiting for the sunny weather too! There's a Bowls Club next to the Library in St Mary's Crescent..but you may have missed the hockey season at the Indian Gymkhana ground in Thornbury Avenue. And then there's the Grasshoppers Club and Centaurs.The Brentford Football Club even have their training ground just along the road...in Jersey Road. (once upon a time called Scrattage Lane!)There's the Harrods Warehouse,and the expanding Sky TV headquarters in Grant Way and you may not want to shop at Tesco's but on a good day you can recycle your rubbish there!Residents are up in arms about the redevelopment of the Brunel College site..and even more so about the Campion House overdevelopment.Anyway, it's an area (a Council Ward too) attached to dear Brentford at Gillette Corner and Syon Lane..so I hope you don't mind if I start an informative,pictorial and newsy thread! Please join in!!

Jim Lawes ● 6577d11 Comments ● 6510d

Ann Allridge Butfoy

I would like to send a big thank you to all who posted messages about Gran[Ann Allridge] . Its amazing, most of you would not of met her in person but you all knew her so so well,and you also thought so much of her . It makes us all so very proud as a family that people thought so much of her.All of our family have seen all you messages and we were all very moved at what you all had to say.So we would like to thank you all for being such good friends to Ann and thank you for you beautiful messages....I had asked Jim to say a thank youo for me but i thought i would sign up myself and do it !!! Might even join in in a few conversations sometime. I know i have a huge reputation to live up to after my Gran!!!!Thanks again everyone From Monica Butfoy

Monica Butfoy ● 6510d2 Comments ● 6510d

Great Brentford Picnic

Well done to all the people who were involved in yesterdays Great Brentford Picnic including the gardeners of CIP who gave St Pauls a quick makeover, to the pooper scoopers and to the various people who helped set up the gazebos.  This was a thoroughly enjoyable event - thanks for organising it for the people of Brentford.

Linda Massey ● 6511d1 Comments ● 6510d

Great Brentford Picnic

Hi all,The school summer holidays are now upon us and it won't be long before you are looking for things to do to keep your children entertained this summer.We are pleased to once again be holding the Great Brentford Picnic in St Paul's Recreation Ground on Wednesday 1st August from 12noon to 4pm.This free event is being organised by West Play, Soul In Brentford and the Children's Fund through the Brentford Community Network.This year we are celebrating national play day, the theme of which is 'our streets too'(see www.playday.org.uk for more info) with activities to include traditional street games, build your own street from cardboard, drumming workshops provided by the African Caribbean Kelewele Arts Project, multi-sports from Brentford Community Sports Trust's Positive Futures Team, arts and crafts activities including sock puppet making and make your own keyring, a scavenger hunt and lots more including a visit from the Fire Brigade and the Brentford Safer Neighbourhood Team.We ask that you bring your own picnic although The Open House Cafe will be selling refreshments on the day.Come rain or shine we will be there and we hope to see as many of you there too!

Luke Kirton ● 6524d11 Comments ● 6510d

Cannabis and the bigger department more money scam.

According to a revue of data concerning cannabis and mental illness a claim is being made that the young who smoke cannabis are up to 40 times more likely develop mental illness. This appears to be the same data Lady Runciman (who headed the inquiry that led to down grading) described in yesterdays Standard as unscientific and anecdotal.

Philip Walsh ● 6517d16 Comments ● 6511d

Residential re-hab for our service people

Headley Court Families Accommodation16 - July - 2007"SSAFA (the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association) Forces Help wishes to buy a residential property in Ashtead, Surrey in order to provide ‘home from home’ accommodation for the immediate family members (spouses, parents and children) of servicemen and women receiving treatment for serious injuries sustained during military operations. We wish to provide this facility in direct support of the Defence Rehabilitation Centre at Headley Court (run by the MOD). The team at Headley Court provides outstanding rehabilitation treatment but, regrettably, current operations in Afghanistan and Iraq have resulted in an increase to the numbers of severely injured soldiers needing help. It is vital that both they and their families are fully supported during this difficult time". The lovely caring compassionate NIMBY folk of Ashtead village Surrey have made strong objections to this home that is being proposed for wounded service paople in their village, one suggested it would be a "fire hazard".So! OK to fight for their country, but when they are injured "don't come here, it will lower the value of our property!" I hope their bloody roofs fall in on them!........ I wonder if they will object publicly, so that they will have to justify their disgusting attitude?

Andrew Michael John Atkinson ● 6525d9 Comments ● 6511d

Can you help deliver flyers for the Brentford Festival

I need to get thousands of postcards out into Brentford as we will not be mentioned in the HM magazine this year prior to the event.  If you can let me know which streets you can deliver to and how many postcards you need your help will be very much appreciated.  If your street has already been allocated then perhaps you can help with a neighbouring street.  Contact me on linda.massey@virgin.net   Thanks in advance.

Linda Massey ● 6527d17 Comments ● 6511d

Junction roadworks at McDonalds

Does anyone know what is going on with the roadworks at McDonalds and how long it is going on for?

Steve Bonnici ● 6513d8 Comments ● 6511d

Shene Wanderers - 5 a side football Monday nights

We have a few spaces for players in a group which meets at Shene Sports Centre, (middle pitch) Hertford Avenue SW14 on Monday nights at 9.00pm. We play on astroturf under floodlights. Age range from 18 upwards. Changing rooms/showers available. Match fee £3.00.  For more information call Mark Rogers on 01372 463342.

Chris Shepherd ● 6512d0 Comments ● 6512d

giving up a council property?

can anyone help me??? i am living in a 1 bedroom flat and am desperately in need of a bigger place as i have children.  does anybody out there know anyone who is giving up their council place that is a 2 or 3 bedroom? please help!!!

Kelly OBrien ● 6512d3 Comments ● 6512d

A surprise in the post.

Today I received something very special in the post. It may not seem much but what a lovely surprise. I would like to share it with you.

Joan Perry ● 6514d11 Comments ● 6512d

Can anyone recommend a cleaner?

I know this has come up before, but my search for 'cleaner' turns up nada, so maybe you won't mind refreshing my memory!I am looking for a cleaner for a one-bed flat starting at the end of September, preferably for two or three hours every fortnight if possible but that's negotiable.I'm a couple of minutes from Brentford station if that helps. I have a dog, but she needn't be here if it's a problem.Thanks!

Holly Hodges ● 6513d1 Comments ● 6512d

Ferry Quays Ghost Town

I was lucky to have a day off work recently on one of the few days we have had sunshine. I suggested to the family that we go for a walk around Ferry Quays and maybe try out one of the restaurants there for lunch. It was a beautiful day but we did not see another soul while we were there and although the restaurants looked nice none of them - Pappadums, Glistening Waters or San Marco had a single customer. The lack of human activity was slightly unnerving and we didn't linger.Something has gone wrong with the balance of this place which is a shame as is it potentially fantastic asset for the area. A lot of important decisions are being made about the area at the moment. I think the people making them need to understand what has gone wrong here so that mistakes aren't repeated.

Dan Evans ● 6521d34 Comments ● 6512d

CAN YOU HELP?

Forum MessageTopic: CAN YOU HELP?      Forum Home  Posted by: John Davies Date/Time: 31/07/07 22:46:00  1st Osterley Scout Group is looking for someone to take over as Treasurer.The job involves keeping the accounts, collecting term subscriptions, looking after the finances of our two major annual fundraising activities and reporting to the Executive once a month. Obviously some knowledge of accountancy would be useful but not essential.It is not necessary for you to have had any previous connection with the Scouting Movement. Because there is some involvement with young people from time to time, it will be necessary for you to be CRB cleared.All leaders, helpers and Executive members of 1st Osterley Scout Group are volunteers. They do what they do to give our young people the opportunity to have fun while learning to become better citizens.This is an opportunity not only to help the Group but for you to make new friends and have some fun, who knows, you may even find yourself going camping!If you are interested please email me direct.Thank you,John Davies,Chairman, 1st Osterley Scout Group --------------------------------------------------------------------------------Forum Home

John Davies ● 6513d0 Comments ● 6513d

Flashing light on Gilette corner

Hi to all,Last night i noticed a flashing light next to the shell garage on the gilette corner...does anyone know what it is for?!?!Looks kinda like a speed camera flash...but i dont think it is one.CheersRich

Richard de Matos ● 6594d20 Comments ● 6513d

Open day today: Great West Railway depot up the road!

We've often spoken about the railway line from the old Brentford Docks up to Southall.   Indeed much of the line is still used! It starts behind PC World...and follows the Grand Union Canal to the Three Bridges in Windmill Lane (near Noons Food Factory) and branches left infront of Armstrong Way (Matelan Factory Outlet) and Collet Way to join the main line railway just before Southall Station.At the end of Collet Way is the entrance to the Great Western Railway Preservation Society headquarters and outbuildings..and they have another OPEN DAY today Sunday from 11am.One can wander around a wide area of disused railway lines, old railway sheds, various steam engines and carriages...meet the enthusiasts..and have tea and refreshments. You will be supporting their efforts too.If you manage to visit for a hour or two..you'll visit pastures of our local area that you perhaps didn't even know existed.So travel up past the Sultan of Brunei's pad at Avery Farm (he visited his home there 2 years ago apparently!)..over the narrow bridge (three bridges) left into Armstrong Way..and on to Collet Way.The website for news and information is www.gwrpg.co.uk

Jim Lawes ● 6515d6 Comments ● 6513d

A bright new future for Ivybridge as residents join together

It was an honour and a privilege to have chaired the packed Extraordinary General Meeting of the New Ivybridge Tenants' Association (NITA) on Thursday evening at which twenty years of bickering, feuding and fighting was finally consigned to history with only one dissenter from the whole crowd of NITA, Ivytag and other residents present.Residents voted almost unanimously to dissolve NITA and to create a new association which will be known as the United Residents' Association of Ivybridge.  The move follows a series of meetings of the Ivybridge Working Group which comprised members of both NITA and Ivytag, as well as residents unassociated with either.  Ivytag has also announced its dissolution with immediate effect.At the start of the process I had hoped that the new committee would have a roughly even number of former NITA and Ivytag people so as to "keep it fair". By the time the meeting came around it didn't much matter which organisation who had served in the past, everybody (or almost everybody) had already moved on.From recollection I believe the new committee consists of 23 adults and a group of six to eight young people.  A wonderful achievement by the people of Ivybridge and one which I am immensely proud to have helped bring about in the face of resistance and often indescribable hostility from political elements and other members of the "old guard" in the local housing movement.The success of this project serves to demonstrate that anything can be achieved when there is a will to unite rather than to divide, to create rather than to destroy.  It vindicates the work of all of us who have striven to ensure that party politics do not dominate our local community life, and who have insisted that everybody is treated equally and given a fair crack of the whip whatever their views or affiliations.A big well done to Tina Howe (Chair), Al Ayoby (Vice Chair), Ron Robinson and Mohammed Jarche who will comprise the new "top table", and I would also single out as estate residents Tony Smith and George Burrell for the sterling work which they did in bringing the Ivytag "side" on board during the sometimes difficult earlier days.  I would also pay tribute to Susanna White (now moved on to pastures new), Sue Witherspoon, Yvonne Birch and Barbara Perry at LBH Housing client-side, who supported me throughout what must have appeared to them a disproportionate obsession as I fought all comers to keep the project on track, and Bernadette O'Shea, Chief Executive of Hounslow Homes, who provided the essential seal of approval when she took over which had previously been sadly missing.A thoroughly marvellous achievement of which all concerned can justifiably be proud.

Phil Andrews ● 6516d10 Comments ● 6513d

Bang fireworks

what the hell is going on it is july and we have blasted fireworks, they are not pretty just like bombs in Iraq who the hell is doing this a looney bin escapee??  The dogs and cats around here have gone mad so have I no one can blame us, why the hell...........

Jo Smith ● 6516d4 Comments ● 6514d

Brentford Free Church Fire

Sorry to see the firemen removing the ridge tiles and the blackened timbers tonight.Can anyone confirm that it was the result of a lightning strike ?

Tim Henderson ● 6535d9 Comments ● 6514d

Brentford Privilege Card - have you signed up?

Just in case you haven't picked up on the launch by Copacabana of Brentford's first loyalty card here is some info.  I used mine for the first time at Pappadums last night and got a 10% discount.New businesses joining since the launch party on Saturday are: BUYWISE of Albany Parade (opposite Premier Travel Inn Hotel)is offering 10% hardware, D.I.Y. and gardening products when spending over £10TOPNOTCH Healthclub is waiving the joining fee for people who wish to get monthly membership (mention the Privilege Card to apply for the offer) This offer is in addition to the 1 day free trial membership.For more information visit:  www.copa.wizwoz.com or email Shah for a card: copacabanaclub@hotmail.co.ukBest, Andrew

Andrew Dakers ● 6520d2 Comments ● 6516d

Problems with the recycling collection in Brentford

Am I the only one that finds it impossible to get my recycling bin emptied? This Saturday was my daughter's birthday so there was more than usual so I made an extra effort to rip the plastic fronts from all the Barbie boxes (because they refuse to take boxes if they're left in), flatten the boxes and even put all the paper in a plastic bag. The green box was then left in the street (becaus they don't like looking over the 3ft wall). When I came home I found that the recycling men had lifted the lid of the black bin kept in the front garden only to dump all the recycling in it. They didn't even put the lid back on to hide it. What wasn't dumped in my bin was left in the green box. This appears to be a continual problem and I have called the council on numerous occasions over the year to complain but nothing ever changes. Sadly I have decided to give up. Does anyone else have similar problems?

Claire Peleschka ● 7268d35 Comments ● 6517d

Hounslow Byelaws

Dear allFollowing a bit of related casework and also the recent Local Gov't Whitepaper saying that ‘The making of bye laws will be fully devolved to local authorities’ the Lib Dems in Hounslow have started looking at Hounslow's current byelaws.  Some are rather entertaining and certainly 'of their time'.Knowing the number of local history buffs on BrentfordTW8.com I thought you would enjoy taking a look at the summary we have produced and perhaps have ideas for changes:http://www.hounslowlibdems.org.uk/pages/HounslowByelaws.htmlTwo areas where I would like to explore the potential for local byelaws are light pollution and rainwater runoff from from front gardens. Best regardsAndrew

Andrew Dakers ● 6520d5 Comments ● 6517d

Cannabis and the bigger department more money scam.

According to a revue of data concerning cannabis and mental illness a claim is being made that the young who smoke cannabis are up to 40 times more likely develop mental illness. This appears to be the same data Lady Runciman (who headed the inquiry that led to down grading) described in yesterdays Standard as unscientific and anecdotal.

Philip Walsh ● 6517d3 Comments ● 6517d

NAFFE - could you help?

I'm going through some of my Mother's items and noticed she was in the NAFFE. Not sure of spelling it's unclear. It was through the war years. She could have been 17? Is someone able to tell me what it stood for or the correct spelling so I can do a search.Thanking you once again.Joan

Joan Perry ● 6518d15 Comments ● 6517d

Alan & Ann Keen on the "theyworkforyou.com"

Just come across this website which gives info on the voting record, expenses etc of the two MPs. Not sure if its been mentioned before.http://www.theyworkforyou.com/mp/ann_keen/brentford_and_isleworthhttp://www.theyworkforyou.com/mp/alan_keen/feltham_and_heston

Neil Chippendale ● 6575d37 Comments ● 6518d

Should there be a Referendum on the new EU Treaty ?

According to RTE News, Ireland will be holding a referendum on the new EU Treaty.See: http://www.rte.ie/news/2007/0623/eu.htmlIreland has a written Constitution and each time there is a new EU constitutional treaty, Ireland holds a referendum.That seems to be pretty sensible and democratic to me.On one occasion, the Irish voted to reject a new EU treaty. So have the Danes, the French and the Dutch. The proposed new EU Constitution was rejected by both the French and the Dutch with the result that EU, under its present German Presidency, has had to replace it by a so-called Treaty which would not have to be subject to a referendum in certain countries such as the UK where it is likely to be rejected.Britain has never held a referendum on the various new EU treaties the British Government has entered into since the EEC was replaced by the EU. Instead successive British Governments has transferred powers to the EU without the consent of the British people and conferred new powers on the EU without the consent of the British people.The new EU Treaty agreed this week by outgoing lame duck Prime Minister Tony Blair is an EU Constitution in all but in name. Mr Blair will be leaving office before the British Parliament will have the opportunity to review or debate or vote on the Treaty so it will be the responsibility of his unelected successor, Gordon Brown, a Scottish MP, who is unelected by and unanswerable to the electorates of England, Wales and Northern Ireland, to persuade Parliament to ratify the new Treaty. That doesn't seem very fair or deomocratic to me.In view of the facts that 1.the provisions of the new Treaty were not mentioned in the Labour Party's Manifesto for the last General Election, 2.Mr Blair had promised a Referendum on any new EU Constitution, and3. Mr Blair fought the last General Election on the basis that he would serve a full term, but has reneged on that promise,and he has been replaced by Gordon Brown without an election inside or outside the Labour Party, and without the consent of the British electorate, and 4. The new Treaty fundamentally alters the legal and constitutional relationship between this country and the EU, and5. Creates new posts of EU President and Higher Representative for Foreign Affairs, and6. Creates a new legal identity for the EU whereby the EU and not the UK will represent the people of Britain internationally in many areas of international and internal EU matters, and 7. Removes the British veto in a number of key areassurely the new Treaty should be submitted for ratification by the entire electorate of the United Kingdom in the same way as the Irish will have the opportunity to ratify or reject it ? 

David Giles ● 6551d19 Comments ● 6518d

Magistrate to be disciplined?

The lunatics are still running the asylum it seems. In the news today, it told of a magistrate who walked out of court, because a lady who was appearing before him for alleged criminal damage, refused to remove her veil. He said that he would not proceed with her case until her identity was verified! Needless to say her lawyer is going to complain, and I sense compensation (for hurt feelings?) coming on. Meanwhile he (the magistrate) who has many years experience faces disciplinary action........what a bloody mad world we live in!We are in the midst of serious threats from people, who want to kill and maim this countrys' citizens today, and yet we still pussyfoot around with them. Everyone without exception, should be made to identify themselves. I'm afraid its' security first and religious beliefs  last IMHO!

Andrew Michael John Atkinson ● 6545d64 Comments ● 6520d

Vyborg - Blizzard!

Sarah, Jim, Gerry, Gareth,In a very short while, the Vyborn webcam will be totally obliterated by snow .. remember my very first posting on the "Wardrobe thread"?I am still working on a script for the restaurant series follow-up, but meantime am also seeking a suitable Sarah song (how about that bit of alliteration??????) to stop her keening* away about being left hanging with the sweaters, so my hands are full at present.*Irish funeral wail/not a pun on our unseated MPSarah, so far all I can come up with is Phil Lynott's "My Sarah" - totally unsuitable, and might give rise to our not being allowed in the wardrobe 'alone together', if you get my drift?Anyway, posters all, take a look at Vyborg tonight.  Brrh!

Ann S. Allridge ● 7467d11 Comments ● 6521d

Local Events and News

I've just been on this site http://www.yourlocalguardian.co.ukIt has up to date news stories from the local area and country, and has a great events calendar for local up and coming and current events! You should check it out, its worth it.

Phil Scott ● 6526d5 Comments ● 6521d

CIP to close the Hounslow Tourist Information Centre

Is this closure a direct result of the cut in CIP's budget.I always felt that they provided a very useful service providing info on not just tourist attractions with the LBH, such as Chiswick House, Syon House, Hogarth House, Osterley House, Gunnersbury Park Museum and the Steam Museum but also information on London and the rest of the country.

Neil Chippendale ● 6525d8 Comments ● 6522d

White Ellar-phant Roof Collapses

I have just been advised that the roof of the Lampton Conference Centre has just collapsed and the space is now under a couple of inches of water. Could this be the opportunity the Council needs to provide a replacement swimming pool for the one Hounslow residents lost around 20 years ago?

John Connelly ● 6524d8 Comments ● 6522d

Bedfont Lakes Country Fair

The event runs from 12 noon to 5pm and is a great day out for all the family. Attractions this year include:Falconry Climbing Wall Farm Animals Fairground Dog Show Craft Stalls Living History Displays Sheepdog/Geese Demonstration Fun Fair Food Stalls and Bar Children's EntertainersAnd More..... Bedfont Lakes Country Park was billed by Hounslow Matters in January 2006 as the top tourist attraction in the borough of Hounslow. Come and see why on Sunday.Please visit this link for further details:http://www.friendsofbedfontlakescountrypark.co.uk/events.htm#fair07We look forward to seeing you on Sunday. Entrance on Bedfont Road.Regards,Christine WatersChairFriends of Bedfont Lakes Country Park(Registered Charity Number 1118958) Please visit: www.bedfontlakes.co.ukwww.bedfontlakesfriends.co.uk www.friendsofbedfontlakes.co.ukwww.bedfontlakescountrypark.co.ukwww.friendsofbedfontlakescountrypark.co.uk

Paul Fisher ● 6523d0 Comments ● 6523d

School Governors

Can you acess a list of School Governors of a particular School on Line?If so does anyone know how i do it please?Thank YouSimon AndersonHttp://isleworth.buyforum.net

Simon Anderson ● 6524d3 Comments ● 6524d

White 'ellarphant' becomes WET 'ellarphant'

News is that the £4million 'void with no name or purpose' built by the Ellar led administration and left to moulder by the new Tory/I.C.G. since February has had a roof collapse this morning, with a resulting flood of an inch of water. You really couldn't make it up!

Vanessa Smith ● 6524d3 Comments ● 6524d

Sad case of poor access to sports facilities in Hounslow

Here's a an interesting statistic from the CPA scores I work with... comapring Housnlow ith the London scene, the west london sub-region, and our neighbours.The % of population within 20 minutes of a range of three different sports facility types*London-wide 48.5%West London CSP 22.61%Hammersmith & F 22.16%Ealing 46.56%Richmond 53.20%Hounslow 8.48%*as defined by Sport EnglandShocking, eh? You just wonder with a cuts obsessed coalition of Tories and Junior Tories in power how much worse things will get by the next council elections.

Conal Stewart ● 6524d0 Comments ● 6524d

Dodgy Labour Leaflet in Ealing Southall By Election

It has been reported that the Labour Party in Ealing Southall has described their candidate Mr Sharma as "Vikendra Sharma MP" in an election leaflet. The leaflet is described as a Residents Survey and asks responses to be sent to Virendra Sharma MP.Mr Sharma is not an MP and has never been an MP. It remains to be seen if he will ever be one.This misleading claim is a clear breach of electoral law and could lead to Mr Sharma's disqualification if he is elected.Once again Labour has demonstrated breadth-taking arrogance as well as profound ignorance of the law and a contempt for the democratic process.

David Giles ● 6526d10 Comments ● 6524d

Chiswick Golf Club Membership

I have won a year’s membership to Dukes Meadows Golf Club, beside Chiswick Bridge, (worth £200) but neither I nor any of my friends are interested in golf. Does anyone have any idea what I could do with it?Neil

Neil ODwyer ● 6527d8 Comments ● 6524d

New Cameras on A4

Hi everyone, There are new cameras on the A4 (sited above the current camera outside PC World).  They are a group of about 5 cameras on both sides - does anyone know what they are for pls? Thanks in advance

Lena Armstrong ● 6526d5 Comments ● 6525d

Postage

Anyone know if its the same price for postage to France as it is in the UK?

Simon Anderson ● 6525d1 Comments ● 6525d

Guitar Lessons

Anybody interested in learning to play the guitar? £15 per hour. All styles catered for, please call 07949659640.

Rory Tregaskis ● 6525d0 Comments ● 6525d

St Johns Rd closure...when will it end?

My mother has had a leaflet put through her door saying that this work is now scheduled to finish at the end of July.  Only a couple of weeks ago at the public meeting it was given as some time in June & as this is now the 3rd or 4th new end date, do not hold your breath!

Lynn Clark ● 6618d20 Comments ● 6526d

MegaMosque

Received this in my email - thought you may be interested in it and respond either yay or nay on the link which comes from the PM's office.PLEASE READ I don't know if you have heard about this but Ken Livingstone is apparently planning to use tax payer's money to build an enormous mosque costing an estimated £100M  in the docklands, London. Wouldn't it be better to spend the money on a new hospital or improved transport facilities, surely anything but such a scheme as this? The mosque will apparently be BIGGER THAN ST PAUL'S.! The plan is for the mosque to be so big that people flying in from all over the world for the 2012 Olympics will see it as the biggest landmark in London, bigger than St Paul's, Westminster Abbey or Wembley Stadium. The vote so far is 56 % in favour, as the Muslim community in the UK is casting it's vote in droves, and as usual the British are burying their heads in the sand. It is an undemocratic use of British Tax payers money, especially when our Churches that are 100's of years old get no government funding to keep their structures standing, and we are supposedly a Christian Nation. To vote to "Scrap the 'Mega-Mosque"  please sign the official Government petition in the link below. http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/ScrapMegaMosque

Eileen Henderson ● 6532d14 Comments ● 6526d

Workshop Wanted

Does anyone know of anyone who might have a workshop to rent.Needs to be west London area and have light and electricity.Must be dry and secure.I have searched the Internet high and dry and the nearest one I can find is Wembley.If anyone has any ideas that would be great. I have already looked at self storage in the area but have not really found anything suitableThanks for your help

Steve Bonnici ● 6530d5 Comments ● 6527d

Labour councillors defect

I wonder if any Labour councillors from here in Brentford will defect, particularly those who have been deselected...........are they all leaving a sinking ship? LATEST NEWS"Labour's defence of the Ealing Southall constituency has taken a major blow with the defection of 5 local councillors to the Conservatives.They include Gurcharan Singh who was hoping to be selected to contest the seat but failed to make the short-list to be the Labour candidate. It had been rumoured he would stand as an independent but he is now backing Tony Lit.The Conservatives will be hoping that the defections will boost their share of the vote in areas in which they have traditionally struggled particularly amongst the Sikh community"

Andrew Michael John Atkinson ● 6531d10 Comments ● 6528d

Hooray for our Posties

After every election campaign I am always left with a great deal of admiration for our Postmen, what with fighting with all shapes, sizes and positions of letter boxes, who nearly always win by taking the skin off your knuckles, they also have the dreaded dog on guard to put up with. There is the beast that snatches anything that pokes through the letter box, the silent one that waits for the tasty fingertips, and the little ones who throw themselves at the inside of the door and are still barking 15 minutes later. Not to mention negotiating all manner of paths - some of which are surely health and safety hazards, and the stairs - oh! the bloody stairs. So I'd like to say thank-you to the men and women who deliver our mail, and Good Luck in their fight for decent pay. Maybe a suggestion - what about a standard size for letter boxes? And secure post boxes for flats in the entrance lobby?

Vanessa Smith ● 6532d10 Comments ● 6528d

Carpenter

Does anyone have a recommendation of a good local carpenter?

Deirdre Moran ● 6529d3 Comments ● 6528d

Green Dragon School car boot sale

A fund raising event for Green Dragon School is taking place on Sunday 15th July. A car boot sale will be held from 10am to to 2pm in the Car Park beside the Community Hall on North Road.As well as the sale there will be a Kids Sponsored Penalty Shoot-Out (starts 11am), Cafe, Face Painting and Tombola.Any money raised goes to Green Dragon School Aftercare Scheme. If you wish to have a car boot stall the cost is £10. Please ring 07765 095862 to book a space or for further information.There is a 50p entrance fee for the event.

Lesley Mitchell ● 6531d0 Comments ● 6531d

REMINDER - Brentford High Street community feedback event - Tuesday 19th June 2007, 7pm, Watermans

I would like to take this opportunity to remind you that the community feedback event of the Community Planning Project for Brentford High Street takes place tonight (Tuesday 19th June 2007) in the theatre at Watermans Arts Centre, High Street, Brentford (7pm-8.30pm).The Brentford High Street steering group met for the first time in October 2006.  Backed by a group of councillors from across the political spectrum and a number of community groups, our goal is to see Brentford High Street regenerated in an economically, socially and environmentally sustainable manner – a beacon for communities elsewhere.  With financial support from Hounslow Council’s Community Investment Fund, our first step has been to produce a clearly defined expression of the local community’s vision for the future of Brentford High Street in the first half of 2007.  Tonight we will report back on the draft recommendations coming out of workshops since the launch event in January.  These consider:- Historical context - Local economy - Environmental sustainability, leisure, culture & sport - High Street design and liveability - Marketing and image - Children and young people The steering group looks forward to you joining us on tonight and contributing to the review of the community’s vision for the future of High Street before the draft report is finalised.  For more information on the work of the steering group and sub-groups visit www.brentfordhighstreet.co.ukPlease forward this message to any neighbours you think would like to attend tonight.  Finally, please accept my apologies in advance if you get more than one copy of this email!Yours sincerelyAndrew DakersChair, Brentford High Street Steering GroupM: 07788 116159This project is supported by Brentford Chamber of Commerce, Brentford Community Council, Brentford High Street Traders’ Group, BrentfordTW8.com, Grand Union Community Development, Hounslow Council, Hounslow Education Business Partnership, the New Economics Foundation and West Play

Andrew Dakers ● 6555d11 Comments ● 6532d

"It's not far, but we're K££n to get there!" - ICG sponsored walk - Saturday, 21st July 2007

STATEMENT:MEMBERS of the Independent Community Group (ICG), including councillors, will be undertaking a nine-mile sponsored walk from Brentford to the Houses of Parliament on Saturday, 21st July to raise funds for charity. Under the theme "It's not far, but we're K££n to get there", several members will make the short journey along the Chiswick High Road and through West London. The walk was announced at the recent Borough Council meeting, and members and councillors from other political groups have been invited either to participate or to sponsor those who are walking. Half of the money raised will be donated to the Mayor's charities, and the other half will be presented to Brentford & Isleworth MP Ann Keen at one of her many surgeries to be handed to Make Poverty History, for whom she has campaigned, or to any other registered charity or charities of her choice. ICG Organiser Councillor Phil Andrews commented:  "Nine miles is not very far and nobody should require an overnight stopover.  However, we are keen to complete the walk and to raise as much as we can for good causes." Anybody who wishes to take part, or to sponsor the walkers, should contact the ICG at icg@communitygroup.org.uk with their details, or leave a message on the 24-hour answerphone on 020 8891 6359.  Cheques made out to "ICG" should be marked "ICG sponsored walk" on the rear and posted to: ICG, P.O. Box 218, Isleworth, TW7 7SA.

Phil Andrews ● 6532d0 Comments ● 6532d

DINNER ON SATURDAY FOR £5

Delicious Sri Lankan Vegetarian Meal will be served between 5.30 pm - 9.00 pm on Saturday, 14th July, at The London Buddhist Vihara,  The Avenue, London, W4 1UD.  The cost will be:-£5 per person (children under 12 are free). All funds raised will go to the upkeep of the London Buddhist Vihara.Everyone is welcome.

Pat Smith ● 6534d0 Comments ● 6534d

HEALING IN CHISWICK

A reminder that the monthly healing centre at the London Buddhist Vihara, The Avenue, Chiswick, will be open tomorrow, Monday, 9th July between 11am and 1pm.  Healing helps any condition, from stress right through to physical illness and no matter what is said on the television programme, it is not just a placebo!!!  There is no charge made for the healing (all the healers are working on a voluntary basis), although a donation would be welcome.There is no need to make an appointment or book but if you want any further information before coming please give me a ring on 0788 189 6449.

Pat Smith ● 6536d0 Comments ● 6536d

SmallBerryGreen Primary School Summer Fete

My Son's school will be holding there Summer Fete on Friday 6th July from 315 till 5pm in the Main hall of the School situated in Turnpike Way or Opp West Middx HospitalLots of Stalls inc Tombola, Face Painting, Refreshments, lots of Children Games, Teddy Tombola, Bric and Brac and there will be a Drinks Raffle (tickets purchased on the day and a ordinary Raffle (which I've tickets if anyone wants any at 20p each) All Proceeds go to the SchoolALL WELCOMEPlease Come along and support the School.ThanksSimon

Simon Anderson ● 6549d8 Comments ● 6538d

New Forum

By Now you probably will be aware of the new Forum a friend and I have set up for Isleworth.Anyway my friend and I have set up a forum for Isleworth where you can post info or find info regarding Isleworth.Keep up with the latest from Mogden Sewage Works.Keep up with the latest Crime issues.Post a Classified AddPost or Find an EventFind Useful Phone Numbers and Website Links.The Forum is open to ALL and its free to register:The rules are simple:No attacks on any other member.You MUST register your "Name" as a user name, handles with not be permitted.You can register at:http://isleworth.buyforum.netLook forward to seeing you over there posting:

Simon Anderson ● 6539d2 Comments ● 6539d

Ann Keen breaks her long silence in the House of Commons

Now that she has been appointed a Parliamentary Under Secretary at the Department of Health, Ann Keen MP has been obliged to end her long silence in the House of Commons. She spoke twice in Westminster Hall yesterday according to www.theyworkforyou.com:Spoken by Ann Keen : 2 Westminster Hall debates ===============================================Dental Services (Sutton and Merton) (3 Jul 2007) http://www.theyworkforyou.com/whall/?id=2007-07-03a.230.1&s=speaker%3A10330#g233.0Ann Keen: "I congratulate  the hon. Member for Carshalton and Wallington (Tom Brake) on securing this debate on dental services, and I thank him for his kind and supportive comments at the beginning of his speech. I also congratulate him on the imaginative use of his website, the pictures with his local dentist, and his survey of his constituents. It is certainly the way forward to consult all..."Dental Services (Sutton and Merton) (3 Jul 2007)http://www.theyworkforyou.com/whall/?id=2007-07-03a.230.1&s=speaker%3A10330#g236.1Ann Keen: "My experience is that when a contract is working well in the NHS, and when we are building on a good relationship with PCTs and dental services, it is obviously wrong to go back on it. We should build on the success of NHS dentistry and PCT involvement. The system of the 1990s and before did not work but, since 2006, the new contract has led to proven improvements in oral health and in NHS..."Comment: I think that some of her constituents who have problems finding an NHS dentist may have a few words to say to Mrs Keen if they ever get a chance to meet her !In view of the fact that the Hounslow PCT is over £20 million in debt and has been under-funded by the Government in recent years, some of her constituents may want to ask Mrs Keen what is she going to do about solving the NHS problems in her own constituency.

David Giles ● 6540d1 Comments ● 6539d

Swimming locally

I like to swim to keep fit but I am increasingly frustrated by the pool at the Fountains Leisure Centre. I'm not particularly tall but my arms tend to hit the bottom of the pool sometimes when I swim. Is there any alternative place to swim locally with a pool of 25m. I'd be prepared to join a club if it wasn't too expensive.

Nicola Brown ● 6548d5 Comments ● 6539d

Jobs

Hi all,I'm moving down to Brentford from Middlesbrough next week and I'm looking for a part time job to accompany my studies at Roehampton uni. Ideally, I'd like a job in Brentford as this is where I'll be living. Just wondered if anyone knew of any part time jobs available at the moment, maybe in a shop or something similar.Thanks for your help, looking forward to moving to your neck of the woods!Laura

Laura Dicker ● 6544d2 Comments ● 6540d

Ann Keen appointed PUS

The MP for Brentford and Isleworth has been appointed Parliamentary Under Secretary at the Department of Health. First of all, I would like to congratulate Mrs Keen on this appointment who has a former nurse has always taken a keen interest in the NHS. Heaven knows the NHS is in such a mess that the appointment of someone with Mrs Keen's experience should be a positive development.This is a junior paid sub-ministerial position whuch will involve her working under Alan Johnson, the new Secretary of State for Health who replaced the much criticised Patricia Hewitt MP. It will of course mean that she will have less time to represent and work in her constituency.Given Mrs Keen's poor record as an MP, is this a good or a bad thing for her constituency ?

David Giles ● 6544d6 Comments ● 6540d

Triple Crown Pub

Does anyone know why the Triple Crown Public House on Twickenham Rd has closed down and been boarded up?

Simon Anderson ● 6576d23 Comments ● 6540d

Social Housing Continued.

JustinI think you may not have noticed my update on this under the previousthe previous thread. In the light of the "Tonight" programme which was transmitted on Monday at 20.00hrs, and reproduced on the Telegraph.co.uk website. You will see that Alan Johnson and others were out by 500% in their estimate of that only 1% of council housing is given to immigrants "You always hark back to the view that the lack of availability of council housing for local people is caused by immigrants jumping the queue. I don't believe that this is the case. In Barking, where Margaret Hodge is the MP, the Evening Standard investigations showed that no council housing had been given to recent immigrants in the last year. It is likely that this situation is mirrored in Hounslow. It would be very easy for you to prove me wrong but you don't seem to want facts to get in the way of your opinions". I am still of the opinion that we may never know the true figure, but giving 200,000 homes to immigrants in front of ALL of our citizens is completely wrong!200,000 'social homes' given to immigrants By Gary Cleland Telegraph.co.ukLast Updated: 1:58am BST 02/07/2007Five times more immigrants are given social housing than previously claimed, the Government has admitted.Just weeks ago ministers insisted only one per cent of social housing is given to immigrants, in an attempt to quell widespread fears that they are treated better by local authorities than people born in Britain.But after an investigation by ITV's Tonight With Trevor McDonald programme, the Government has admitted that 200,000 of Britain's social homes - five per cent of the total - were given to immigrants last year.There is a waiting list of 1.5 million for the four million social houses in Britain.Priority for houses is given to those most in need. Immigrant families cannot automatically be put to the top of the queue, but often fall into needy groups by being homeless or living in overcrowded accommodation.The Government's original figures were published on May 21 in the midst of a controversy surrounding an article by Margaret Hodge, then the industry minister, claiming British families had more right to social housing than new migrants.An internal Labour row saw then-deputy leadership hopefuls Alan Johnson and John Cruddas rebuke Mrs Hodge, with Johnson accusing her of using the "language of the BNP".However, the Government was yesterday forced to confirm that the five per cent figure claimed by the television report was correct. But it denied any intention to mislead, claiming it had simply updated its calculation system since May.A spokesman for the Department for Communities and Local Government said: "It is bizarre that people should criticise the government for carrying out further analysis."Unconvinced, Sir Andrew Green, of Migrationwatch UK, said: "If the Government doesn't know how many foreigners are in social housing they damn well ought to."

Andrew Michael John Atkinson ● 6541d1 Comments ● 6540d

WATCH YOUR BAGS

in the premier lodge last night and nearly lost my handbag, to a lone woman, who looked like she just came in to avoid the rain, the very nice bar man alerted me to what was happening and she was seconds away from nicking my handbag... however, I heard this morning a handbag was stolen in the Watermans Arms and the Albany, so if you see this woman, white about 40, hippyish dressed, brown hair, red lipstick, hang on to your hand bags, don;t let them out of your sight, I never knew this would happen in one of my locals, but it does, so be extra vigilent.

Louise Boulger ● 6546d2 Comments ● 6540d

Ann Keen and Brentford Football Club

Seems that our MP, I still vote in the UK, hosted an exhibition stand along the Committee Corridor in the House of Commons, yesterday, titled "Brentford FC in the heart of our community".It was "An exhibition depicting what is special about Brentford FC as a community owned football club. The Club is pioneering a new model for engaging all sections of the community, using the power of sport to promote education, health and well-being"Well done Ann for being involved in this.

Neil Chippendale ● 6541d0 Comments ● 6541d

Ann's Latest Question

Courtesy of theyworkforyou.comWritten Answers Tuesday 26th JuneAnn Keen :To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what representations Ministers in her Department have made to the London borough of Hounslow on its relationships with its local Members of Parliament; and if she will make a statement. Phil Woolas (Minister of State, Department for Communities and Local Government):No representations by Ministers from this Department have so far been made to the London borough of Hounslow about its relationship with local Members of Parliament.------------------------------------------------------------------I don't know what answer she was expecting.Archie Leech (?) has provided the following comment on the site:It seems that this woman rarely asks a question but whenever she does it almost invariably has something to do with herself and her own political problems.Her relationship with the London Borough of Hounslow is precisely what she herself has made it by "reserving the right" to withdraw her co-operation from the new administration until it appoints a cabinet which is to her liking.She can normalise the arrangement at any time simply by dropping her sulky stance but refuses to. Phil Woolas was absolutely right to give her short shrift.

Tim Henderson ● 6545d5 Comments ● 6543d

Ann K££n primes Gilligan and Evening Standard for FIFTH anti-ICG hatchet job

Andrew Gilligan of the London Evening Standard is set to produce a fifth attack on the Independent Community Group, possibly on Monday, at the behest of Ann K££n MP.I have it on good authority that the Standard will reveal the previously undiscovered fact that in the 1980s I was a member of the National Front.  If I am correct this will be the fifth such revelation to appear in the Standard, the four most recent all having been made within the past fourteen months.In the build-up to the local elections in 2006 the Standard published a claim that I had a criminal conviction for a racially-motivated assault on a black police officer.  This is a complete fabrication, and I wrote to the Editor at the time to request an apology.Far from providing an apology, Gilligan decided to call my bluff this April by repeating the allegation, this time using the even more lurid description of "a race-hate attack against a black police officer".Whilst I have a lot of work to do with my new role at the Council and don't wish to have all my time eaten up fighting legal actions which can be costly, I decided following the most recent such allegation that enough was enough and this particular matter is now in the hands of solicitors.  I am particularly keen to deal with this this time around because the most recent allegation seems to have been written in the full knowledge that it was false.This time Gilligan has actually attempted to make contact with me to enable me to provide him with a one-liner which he could use to create an impression of having given both sides of the story.  Whilst I am not prepared to give an interview to such a specimen, he did unfortunately manage to have a brief telephone conversation with my wife Caroline during which he confirmed that his latest effort, like the last ones, is being penned at the request of Mrs. K££n.When asked by Caroline whether he felt it was compulsory to write and re-write the same story over and again every time Mrs. K££n so demands, especially as the story is so old and tired that even the small local papers don't consider it news any more, he replied meekly: "Well she is a Member of Parliament".The Standard is not traditionally a strong supporter of the New Labour Party and it was this paper which actually broke the "Mr. & Mrs. Expenses story in 2005.However it seems clear that Mrs. K££n or somebody close to her has something over the Standard which requires them to produce repeated and if necessary defamatory attacks on her opponents whenever she should demand.I intend to investigate the relationship between Gilligan/Evening Standard and the K££ns and to produce a dedicated website showing my findings.One kind individual has already provided me with a useful lead on this matter.  If anybody who has any information which they might wish to share with me, in confidence if necessary, please send it to me at phil@communitygroup.org.uk.  Many thanks.

Phil Andrews ● 6572d47 Comments ● 6543d

Gumley House Summer fete this Sunday - family fun day !

Gumley House Convent School is having its annual summer fete this Sunday, 12-4pm. Entrance is £1 per adult, under 11's free. On-site car parking @ £1.A fun day for families and children of all ages, there are all the usual stalls plus bouncy castles, swing boats, chocolate fountains etc.Loads of hot food including a BBQ and international cuisine.This year we have 4 quality bands playing on stage from 12:30 to 4pm.Please come and join us, we're just along the road from Syon Park and West Middlesex Hospital - map link below.http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=tw76xf&ie=UTF8&z=16&iwloc=addr&om=1

Jeremy Nako ● 6545d1 Comments ● 6543d

Coley Thermometers

Hi there. My sister, June and myself, Joan from Australia, are doing some research on where our father used to work. The company was called Coley Thermometers based in Brentford.  Our father worked there after WWII until he left in 1963. The company was still there in 1972. Unfortunately he has passed away. Does anybody know what has happened to  the company.With kind thanks. June and Joan (nee Martin)

Joan Perry ● 6622d126 Comments ● 6545d

Law and Disorder

"Tough on crime, Tough on the causes of crime"What a joke this has turned out to be. Shootings, stabbings on our streets, 4 murders over the weekend alone. Added to this our police advised/ordered not to upset those who wish to incite murder, burn our flags on the streets and insult our sovereign with apparent impunity. My family along with millions of others fought wars under this flag, and I am fed by PC politicians and senior police officers, pussyfooting around with these morons, who are quite happy to take what we have to offer them, and yet at the same time abuse our freedoms. My question to Gordon Brown would be, "when are you going to treat the extremists, responsible for this outrageous behaviour, as the criminals that they are, and arrest and prosecute them with the full force of the law, just as you would do with errant pensioners who demonstrate or refuse to pay exorbitant Council Tax bills"? It took years to lock up Hamza and his followers, albeit at a cost of millions to the taxpayer, so perhaps someone might wake up, and get off their ar**s and possibly do something about it, but I won't be holding my breath!

Andrew Michael John Atkinson ● 6549d13 Comments ● 6546d

Narrow Gauge Steam Loco in Isleworth in the 1960s

From around 1965 to 1967 a 2' gauge ex-Great War ALCO pannier tank steam locomotive was kept in Isleworth at the premises of the Osterley Sea Scouts. It subsequently went to the Ffestiniog Railway in North Wales and operates there under the name "Mountaineer". Does anyone have any photos of the loco during its sojourn in West London ?

Richard Greenhough ● 6546d0 Comments ● 6546d

Thank our lucky stars

...   that we are not affected by the rising water, breaking river banks and threat of dams bursting.  I can't imagine how it must be, to be fearful of rain.

Sarah Felstead ● 6548d18 Comments ● 6546d

Friday Fireworks over Syon Park!

Anyone seen those amazing fireworks over Syon Park last Friday?  Must have cost a fortune.  Anyone know if it was a corporate do or what?

Leigh Jennings ● 6550d7 Comments ● 6548d

Cheap as Chips!

Losing your pet can be a devastating experience, which is why Osterley and Spring Grove Safer Neighbourhood Team is pleased to be supporting the 5th annual National Microchipping Month in June 2007.  Following the huge success of the 2006 event, The Metropolitan Police, the Kennel Club and the National Trust will be holding “Cheap as Chips!” on Sunday 24th June 2007 at Osterley Park (in front of Osterley House) to encourage owners to get their dogs microchipped as the preferred method of permanent identification. “Cheap as Chips!” will be held from 10am to 2pm, in front of Osterley House and this is a great opportunity for local dog owners to discover more about the importance of microchipping.  With thousands of dogs going missing every year, implanting a microchip vastly increases a dog’s chances of getting home safely. It is an inexpensive form of identification that cannot be lost, altered or intentionally removed once implanted.  The process is quick and painless and will give peace of mind to the owner as they can ensure they are reunited with their pets sooner rather than later.  For vets, dog wardens, rescue centres, dog wardens, police and local councils it is a simple, practical and quick procedure that can help an individual owner and their pet. There will be a small (£10) fee for the service, so it really is as Cheap as Chips!For further information about “Cheap as Chips!”, please contact PC Chris Lavender from the Osterley and Spring Grove Safer Neighbourhood Team on 020 8721 2809. 

Osterley Safer Neighbourhood Team ● 6574d3 Comments ● 6550d

Gillian Clegg's new book

I will be sending for a copy very soon.  It sounds like a very interesting pulication, especially the barges and C.H.G. Good luck on your retirement, Gillian;  you are handing over to a very able lady - Carolyn Hammond.It is wonderful to have such people in charge of our 'fading memories'.

Ann S. Allridge ● 6552d2 Comments ● 6550d

The Express Paper - Adelaide 1946

I was sorting through some of Dean's boxes and came across this newspaper, The Express, Adelaide, Saturday, December 28, 1946. Thought you might be interested in a couple of items. Dean would have been 6 months old.

Joan Perry ● 6552d4 Comments ● 6552d

History of Ridgeways Wharf

I found, by chance,  this very good history of Brentford's Ridgeways Wharf (click on link):http://debra.truth.posiweb.net/liabletoflooding/assets/history.pdf

Duncan Walker ● 6555d11 Comments ● 6552d

Meet your local Police Saturday morning

This new joint surgery is something Cllr Shirley Fisher has been trying to get organised for many months with the local Police and hopefully residents from the Syon Ward will come out and show their support.If it is a success then more joint surgeries in addition to the normal ones held by the three Syon Cllrs will be organised.Syon Ward Safer Neighbourhood Team would like to invite you to their summer surgery. You can come and speak to your local Police Officers as well as a Syon Ward Councillor. The surgery will be held at the Rose Community Centre, Hawthorne Road, Brentford from 10:30 till 12:00 on Saturday 30th June 2007. They will be promoting the use of an online service called IMMOBILISE. This is where you can register your property for FREE; including mobile phones, pedal cycles and most household electrical items. So if you ever have items stolen they will be able to trace the rightful owner and return your property. The team are currently warning that Satellite navigation theft is on the increase; make sure you remove the unit and the holder. Thieves are interested in all your property from mobile phones, laptop computers, handbags and briefcases don’t leave them on show. They are also telling residents to secure all windows and doors to keep your belongings safe as the weather gets hotter. Crime prevention advice can be obtained free from your local police crime prevention officer on 0208 247 6423. They would like to hear from anyone who wants to get involved in starting up a neighbourhood watch scheme. To find out more speak to them at the summer surgery or call them on 0208 247 5989.

Paul Fisher ● 6552d0 Comments ● 6552d

MP's Amendment to the Freedom of Information Act

I saw  this posting on the Ealing Forum posted by Colin Vaughan. It says everything that I wanted to say, I have also posted it on the Chiswick W4 with Colin's approval. Let us know what you think? I note that The Commons has just passed an amendment to the Freedom of Information Act, that exempts MPs from revealing their personal details. Many were against this move,including Simon Hughes among others, who says that it will bring Parliament further into contempt with the Public, and indeed it is set to get a rough ride in the Lords. It is said that this ammendment is designed to protect constituents from having personal correspondence revealed, but apparently the DATA protection Act already does this. The real reason this ammendement was brought in was actually it is alleged, to avoid MPs having to reveal finacial information perks etc. Democracy in this Country it appears, has suffered another blow the arrogance of it all shows no bounds.

Andrew Michael John Atkinson ● 6586d15 Comments ● 6553d

The Politics of Cows- A Friday Special

SOCIALISMYou have 2 cows.The State takes one and gives it  to your neighbour  who doesn't have a field to put it in. COMMUNISMYou have 2 cows.The State takes both and gives you some milk. Then the cows die due to neglect. FASCISMYou have 2 cows.The State takes both and sells you some milk.  Then the cows die in the war. NAZISMYou have 2 cows.The State takes both and shoots you. Then the cows are killed in the war. EUROPEAN UNION BUREAUCRATISMYou have 2 cows.The  EU takes both, shoots one, milks the other, and then throws the milkaway  because the quota has been exceeded ...TRADITIONAL CAPITALISMYou have two cows.You sell one and buy a bull.Your herd multiplies, and the economy grows.You sell them and retire on the income.SURREALISMYou have two giraffes.The government requires you to take harmonica lessonsAN AMERICAN CORPORATIONYou have two cows.You sell one, and force the other to produce the milk of four cows. Later,you hire a consultant to analyse why the cow has dropped dead.ENRON VENTURE CAPITALISMYou have two cows.You sell three of them to your publicly listed company, using letters ofcredit opened by your brother-in-law at the bank, then execute debt/equityswap with an associated general offer so that you get all four cows back,with a tax exemption for five cows.The milk rights of the six cows are transferred via an intermediary to aCayman Island Company secretly owned by the majority shareholder who sellsthe rights to all seven cows back to your listed company.The annual report says the company owns eight cows, with an option on onemore.You sell one cow to buy a new president of the United States, leaving youwith nine cows.No balance sheet provided with the release.The public then buys your bull.A FRENCH CORPORATIONYou have two cows.You go on strike, organise a riot, and block the roads, because you wantthree cows.A JAPANESE CORPORATIONYou have two cows. You redesign them so they are one-tenth the size of anordinary cow and produce twenty times the milk. You then create a clever cowcartoon image called 'Cowkimon' and market it worldwide.A GERMAN CORPORATIONYou have two cows. You re-engineer them so they live for 100 years, eat oncea month, and milk themselves.AN ITALIAN CORPORATIONYou have two cows, but you don't know where they are. You decide to havelunch.A RUSSIAN CORPORATIONYou have two cows.You count them and learn you have five cows. You count them again and learnyou have 42 cows. You count them again and learn you have 2 cows. You stopcounting cows and open another bottle of vodka.A SWISS CORPORATIONYou have 5000 cows. None of them belong to you.You charge the owners for storing them.A CHINESE CORPORATIONYou have two cows.You have 300 people milking them.You claim that you have full employment, and high bovine productivity.You arrest the newsman who reported the real situation.AN INDIAN CORPORATIONYou have two cows.You worship them.A BRITISH CORPORATIONYou have two cows.Both are mad.AN IRAQI CORPORATIONEveryone thinks you have lots of cows.You tell them that you have none.No-one believes you, so they bomb the  hell out of you and invade yourcountry. You still have no cows, but at least now you are part of aDemocracy....A NEW ZEALAND CORPORATIONYou have two cows.The one on the left looks very attractive.AN AUSTRALIAN CORPORATIONYou have two cows.Business seems pretty good.You close the office and go for a few beers to celebrate._______________________

David Giles ● 6559d2 Comments ● 6553d

Steam train passing this weekend

This Sunday we saw a steam train passing on the rail bridge behind The Island on Brentford Lock.We have never seen such before.Anyone know what the occasion was?Loads of white steam and TUF TUF. Unfortunately it was gone before I managed to locate my camera.

Jorgen Molna ● 6562d8 Comments ● 6553d

Sir Tim Berners-Lee awarded The Order of Merit

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/6750395.stmCan you imagine life without the World Wide Web now?His mother was my maths teacher at The Green School & she used to talk about Tim being at Uni at the time.  She & her husband were involved in innovative research & work in IT too.  She obviously had a brilliant mind, but too brilliant to convey to us lesser mortals...maths was never my strong point!

Lynn Clark ● 6557d5 Comments ● 6553d

2 Hyde Park Calling tickets available, Saturday

We can't make it. Anyone interested in the tickets? Peter Gabriel, The Feeling and more...

Holly Hodges ● 6553d1 Comments ● 6553d

Enfield Road - Chip Shop

Now Audrey has bought up the question of a chip shop in Enfield Road, and a neighbour who is doing a history project on Enfield Road, has never heard of a chip shop? Fishmonger, yes, The Ditch, yes, (was Enfield Road East and now very smart Enfield Walk [the name] who does this?) So where was the Chip Shop, Jim kindly did a photo of the fishmonger on the corner of Grove Road, not the ditch, perhaps we could ask Jim to come back and do a photo of both sides of 'The Ditch' Enfield Walk taking both names, yes, the old one is still there.  And see what comes up, basically anyone who ever lived in Enfield Road? What number?  Who were the neighbours and who else do you remember? Who had a relative living there? etc.  Come back 10 4.  that dates me. So now I sit back and see!!Jo

Jo Smith ● 6555d4 Comments ● 6553d

Well deserved and not before time.

I'll be rising a glass to Sir Ian Botham,scourge of the Aussies and a man who played it hard,fair and to the limit.Wish we had another one like him.

Keith Iddon ● 6557d17 Comments ● 6554d

Your neighbours are moving, Jim.

We often wonder what a 'conservation area actually means' well check out the write up for the site.

Sarah Felstead ● 6558d9 Comments ● 6554d

Please Stop

Can i ask the person who is posting comments about me and Phil on here behind a made up name to STOP please.I am getting blamed for it and i don't need this stress so please if you have any respect for me PLEASE STOP!!

Simon Anderson ● 6556d11 Comments ● 6555d

Roofer - recommendations please

I am looking for recommendations for a reliable roofer.  My bay flat roof needed a bit of work, I contacted somone out of my local paper and they have made matters worse - it was raining in my bedroom on Saturday!  I contacted the firm (one man) and he has returned twice (eventually after about 50 calls each time) offering up various solutions, none of which have worked.  I have now lost total faith in him, hence my request for recommendations.  I live in Isleworth.

Alison Hawkes ● 6556d3 Comments ● 6555d

Brentford revisited...pictures from the Forum and elsewhere

Once Forum TOPICS fall off the end of page 10..they disappear into the dungeons of TW8 cyberspace!Only using the FORUM SEARCH do you have a chance to recover and see again some of those whisso postings..whether they be text or pictures.Bill Drinkwater once posted some classic pictures..but they are not easy to find. Shame.  Nigel has plenty in his archives..and no doubt other forum members do too.So, a random 100 or so coming up.  My apologies!  Feel free to add yours.This is just a relaxing pictorial thread..hopefully

Jim Lawes ● 6703d112 Comments ● 6555d

The Master is back!

Don't you just love it!  I shall never look at a stone statue in the same way again either.  Amazing stuff, BBC.(Dr Who, in case you are wondering!)

Sarah Felstead ● 6557d2 Comments ● 6557d

Tory/ICG Cuts - Housing Need, Day Centre charges, CIP, and Watermans.

Council Meeting - 7.30 Tuesday 6th March at the Civic Centre.Well it looks as though the Tories have managed to pusuade the ICG to make cuts to front-line services (on top of the cuts already pushed through the previous 2 Council meetings; day centre escorts, Community Teachers, the Language services, the schools music service, increased parking charges etc).  None of the following proposals have been to Scrutiny, or for consultation to vulnerable users or their families - so they were not revealed by the Executive until Friday.The price of no increase in Council Tax?Well; Cut one or both of the ONLY two Tenancy Relation Posts, who provide legal advice to private Sector Tenants dealing with Landlord issues including eviction.Delete a post in Homeless Persons Unit – reducing capacity to help people who are, or about to be, HomelessDelete a Housing Grants officer post – helping disabled people get adaptations in their homesCharge £2 per day to all users of Day Care Centres (Old people currently pay £1, Disabled people pay nothing at present, unless they have lunch)Cut grant to Watermans by £60,000 (from total grant of £240,00).  May mean a double cut for Watermans as the Arts Council grant matches the Council Grant.Cut CIP Budget by £200,000, bound to affect Parks, leisure centres, or both.  etc etcViews please!Cllr Ruth Cadburyon behalf of the Labour Group of Councillors

Ruth Cadbury ● 6662d88 Comments ● 6560d

Boston Manor Park cafe open Sats and Suns 9-4 !

Boston Manor Park was busy Saturday late afternoon...and you ought to pop in a have a look...even today..Sunday. the cafe will be open.You can drive into the car park..off Boston Manor Road, or cycle in as I did, or wander in ..perhaps with your dog!  The grass areas and flower beds are a delight to see and with children using the playground equipment, adults visiting the House and the grounds, some having picnics...and there's so much walking and cycling you could do there.It was special to see the area around the "lake"..with birds and ducks..lots of baby squirrels chasing around..and some 15 people around.watching the action..with small children so excited.However it was to see the cafe open which caught my eye..and the fact that top service is available from 9am till 4pm  Saturday and Sunday in a very tastefully decorated outbuilding..all profits in aid of the Park..means that ..you ought to pay it a visit. The place is a Brentford gem.

Jim Lawes ● 6564d14 Comments ● 6560d

Ordering a Pizza in 2010

So true its scary though I would not fancy the Sprout Combo!!http://aclu.org/pizza/images/screen.swfYou will need your speakers.

Paul Fisher ● 6565d8 Comments ● 6561d

Petision to request a Police investigation into the Keans expenses claims

The speculation and refusal to clarify expenses claims has gone on far to long. If you also feel its time for the Police to investigate the allegations surrounding these claims, please post the word  ' Yes ' on the thread

Philip Walsh ● 6567d4 Comments ● 6563d

Keans expenses not important then vote no on this thread

Just trying to put things into perspective and am sick of the on going (For years) debate without answers.

Philip Walsh ● 6567d3 Comments ● 6563d

Liberty Organisation

YOUR RIGHTS UNDER SECTION 44:Shami Chakrabarti of the Human Rights group "Liberty" has published the following information, which I am sure, that in this time of terrorists threats, will be most helpful for the police to carry out protection duties for public safety. You will note that those stopped do not have to give THEIR names, but the police have togive all THEIR personal information..........Hardly surprising that we have the problems we have. No mention of males being searched by females either...why not?  • The police can only give you a pat down, remove outer clothes (eg jacket, hat), search your bags and have you empty your pockets • You do not have to give your name and address • You do not have to explain why you are there • You are not allowed to flee the search, but you are not required to be actively compliant. You are allowed to 'go limp' as passive resistance during the search if you wish not to comply • There is no permission to collect DNA data during the search • You do not have to comply with any attempt to photograph or record you • Women cannot be touched by male police during these searches • Make notes about the officers searching you - name, number and police force • Note the time and the events preceding the search • Note the specific wording used by the police to explain their authority to search you • Ask the police for the reason that they are searching you. Specifically, are they searching for terrorists or are they simply trying to deter, delay or inconvenience you? Very helpful that, better some inconvenience or delay, than risk of another 7/7 incident! Afterwards: • Hold on to the Search Record or any other documentation the police give you (or note if you don't receive one)• Make brief notes about the search while you still remember all the details • Do not write anything down on the day, that you don't want disclosed to the police. Police may search you again and be able to read anything that you have written down • Please complete and submit Liberty's search monitoring form • Consider making a complaint to the Independent Police Complaints Commission • Write to Lord Carlile, the independent monitor of the implementation of anti-terrorism legislation (Lord Carlile of Berriew QC, The House of Lords London SW1A 0AA) • Consider pressing charges if the officers used unnecessary force during the search.

Andrew Michael John Atkinson ● 6565d1 Comments ● 6563d

Fulcrum Challenge

Check out page 8 & 9 of The Hounslow Informer this week.  A very successful venture.Son is in the photograph and was part of the team who went out to dig the foundations.http://www.fulcrum-challenge.org.uk/fulcrum/

Sarah Felstead ● 6565d1 Comments ● 6563d

Another Interesting Ebay Item

A very good original early photograph of the Thames at Brentford is for sale on ebay.The Barges, Brentford. Real Photo 1911http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/The-Barges-Brentford-Real-Photo-1911_W0QQitemZ260124171939QQihZ016QQcategoryZ63814QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Neil Chippendale ● 6569d10 Comments ● 6563d

Anyone know...

who bought the Syon Mission Church on Beech Ave. in Feb.?I didn't even know it was up for sale.

Keith Iddon ● 6596d7 Comments ● 6563d

'Bust My Ass...'

Anyone see this programme last night on bbc3?It was a good insight into the erosion of our freedom to protest and how curtailing it has all been put under the banner of counter-terrorism.Seems New Labour don't like us telling them we think they are not very good and the police can't wait to make arrest normal intelligent and rational people who express views that are deemed'offensive',though who does the deeming is a mystery.

Keith Iddon ● 6566d1 Comments ● 6563d

Care: leaving front doors open ..even for a little while. Thief about!

My Osterley neighbour left his front door open TODAY an hour or so ago...to allow his interior fresh paint to dry. Some windows were open too.A smartly dressed scalleywag..passing by..decided to try his luck and wandered in..pretending to be concerned that the front door was opened.He was caught...endeaving to grab some property...and then seemingly let off.You can never be too careful these days. Beware..leaving front doors open...even if popping next door to speak to a neighbour!

Jim Lawes ● 6567d7 Comments ● 6564d

DAMAGED PAVEMENTS UPDATE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I've just taken a HUGE tumble walking down Brook Lane South caused by me going head over heals due to a 'blown section of  resurfaced tarmac.My handbag went flying, both my shoes ended up a foot behind me (which will gage for you the extent of my fall) - it was like a fall in ski-ing! My mobile (MY NEW MOBILE!) was in my pocket and the screen has smashed. My left hand is killing me as it took the impact on me trying to break my fall.  My right knee is swollen and cut. The fall hurt so much it made me physically sick. I've just limped into my office, shaken and in tears with the pain.A work colleage is going to drive back to the location later to take some pictures of it.In the meantime, can anyone advise me who I should report this to please.Thank you,SHAKEN UP FRAN

Fran Naughton ● 6566d6 Comments ● 6565d

I hope I'm wrong ,but...

England 0 Brazil 2 is my tip.

Keith Iddon ● 6573d13 Comments ● 6566d

Helicopter  on 30/05/2007

Anyone know why there was a helicopter hovering ove green gragon lane between 12am and 1am?

Ed Knowles ● 6574d4 Comments ● 6566d

Neighbourhoodfixit.com

This is a new non-commercial, ad free website that you may all find useful at www.Neighbourhoodfixit.comJust type in your postcode, click on the precise spot on the map, and whatever you report, graffiti, fly tipping, broken paving slabs, street lighting etc is sent to the council. It can then be updated when rectified and shows what else has been reported and fixed in your area, and a within a 10km radius.

Trevor Clarke ● 6657d7 Comments ● 6567d

Jim Lawes :Youtube trolleybuses

Jim,I may already have said thanks for those brilliant trolleybus journeys.  What memories!  Like Joan and the Coley Thermometers, the trolleybus thread brought tears to my eyes...the music made it even more poignant!Thanks again.

Ann S. Allridge ● 6568d3 Comments ● 6567d

Harry Holland book

Has anybody read the Harry Holland book and if so what is your opinion, I found it a good read as I knew some of the people mentioned in it and the places named but I did find there was a lot of name dropping. Also they way the author has written it it sounds like Harry was a cockney barrow boy not a lad from Brentford. I knew him in the old days and he was always a polite man and respectful to his elders. Maybe we need a new boxing club in the area to get the boys of the streets and instill some discipline. My husband boxed as a teenager like a lot of boys did in those days, both my boys took it up when they were young and they turned out well.

Helen Fogarth ● 6570d2 Comments ● 6567d

Street rubbish/waste bins - who to contact?

At the corner of Glenhurst Road and Windmill Road, behind the memorial bench which has recently been installed, there is a pile of rubbish consisting of those barriers used when there pavement is being dug up. Does anyone know who I might contact to see if they are being collected, and who is responsible for disposing of/collecting them? They are beginning to act as a magnet for other rubbish, and the grass is literally growing over them.The bench is lovely by the way, and I don't mean to tarnish it by association.I also was interested in requesting placement of a couple of extra bins in the area - chiefly, the E2 bus stop across from the new TVU dorms (where the cigarette ends are nearly ankle deep), and a dog waste bin by the footbridge in Layton Road (or somewhere nearby). I'll send an email to the council, but there must be someone specific I can ring in case the email isn't successful...?

Nancy Newland ● 6617d13 Comments ● 6567d

Most expensive flip flops?

.. a pair of seemingly-ordinary-bog-standard-plastic ladies flip flops (well they were in with the ladies shoes) a snip at a few pence short of £30!  Sole trader, Brighton yesterday.  :-(

Sarah Felstead ● 6569d1 Comments ● 6568d

Parking Fines set to rise

I don't really want to be critical of the 'news editor' of this site but I find the above headlines for a news item on the front page reminiscent of a typical Daily Express headline.As I understand this item, this is the long awaited and sensible change of parking fines to differentiate between those motorists who selfishly abandon their vehicles on yellow lines and delay other drivers or obstruct pedestrians and those motorists who have attempted to park legally on a parking meter or in a car park but who have not paid the right amount or overstayed the time period. Yes the fines for the former category of motorists will rise to £100 but the fines for the latter category will in fact fall to £60. .... but I suppose the headline 'Parking Fines set to fall' wouldn't provoke the same 'what are they doing to car drivers now' reaction!

Verification Required ● 6570d5 Comments ● 6569d

School List

If i wanted to get a list of people who attended a School i went to in a certain year is there anyway of doing this?

Simon Anderson ● 6574d6 Comments ● 6572d

MOGDEN -  ICG take Thames Water to task at IBAC meeting

Isleworth and Brentford Area Committee (Monitoring)A meeting of the Isleworth and Brentford Area Committee (Monitoring) took place in the Brentford Free Church, Boston Manor Road, Brentford on Thursday, 17 May and Thames Water presented its plans to seek planning permission to increase the capacity of Mogden by more than 50%. Thames are hoping to begin the expansion in  the spring 2008 and finish by 2012.The late hour and time constraints curtailed resident participation at the meeting  but it was noted that Thames Water had increased its intended 2 man  delegation  to  9 employees.However,  ICG Councillors Phil Andrews and Paul Fisher  attended and  Cllr Andrews represented residents' concerns.  He was only able to ask one question. The question asked was:   "Thames Water has not been a good neighbour.  It has not committed a penny from its own resources to ease the suffering of the surrounding community, in spite of the fact that it has both the technology and the financial resources to do so.  As the elected representatives of your victims, could you please explain to me why you would expect us to look sympathetically upon your application to expand your operation still further?"This question then enabled the Chair to allow Cllr Andrews to correct the outright falsehood offered by Thames Water's delegate when he announced that TW's shareholders had contributed the £40 million towards odour improvements collected from customers following OFWAT's decision.It is a well known fact that Thames Water has not contributed a penny towards the current odour improvement project for which Ofwat is allowing Thames Water to collect a maximum £40million from Rate Payers. It is well documented that the £40 million is not expected to reduce odour by significantly more than 50% and still Thames Water has not offered shareholder funding to complete the job properly. However, Thames Water's blatant misleading reply allowed Cllr Andrews to present a detailed explanation of events to the Committee (and hopefully enlighten the Thames Water delegation).  If residents do not want to see Isleworth, Twickenham  and surrounding areas turned into Europe's biggest cesspool at the expense of the local communities whilst increasing the profits of Thames Water shareholders, we urge you to offer your elected Councillors every possible support on this issue which could effect the community for decades to come.Regards MRAGwww.mogden.org.uk For News and Views on local community issues visit http://www.twickenham-online.co.uk/

Steve Taylor ● 6585d10 Comments ● 6573d

Alfa Laval Planning Permission

Planning Permission is being sought to build a 14 storey building, 3 levels of car parking, 200 bedroom hotel and 200 apartments fronting the Great West Road and Ealing Road and 368 one, two and studio apartments and three and four bedroom townhouses etc.If you think this is a trifle over the top, please write an objection, either via email to sue.bendle@hounslow.gov.uk (Case Officer) or via post to Borough Planning OfficeLB of HounslowThe Civic Centre,Lampton RoadHounslow TW3 4DNIf, like me, you haven't time to visit the documents either at the Civic Centre or Brentford Library, then a set of comments can be found here: www.brentfordcommunity.org.uk/alfalavalmay.doc (Word doc file).Please feel free to use it as you wish. Comments need to be in by roughly 15 May although should be considered afterwards if the decision has not been made.

Kath Richardson ● 6596d16 Comments ● 6574d

Darfurs Children-who cares?

I  have just watched the news, and the pictures I saw of babies dying in their thousands through dehydration and malnutrition. It is heartbreaking to see them, with apparently hardly any response from Europe or the UN apparently!Cant we at least provide them with tents, because the rainy season is only two weeks away, and aid will be unable to reach them. This is a major humanitarian crisis. I was a supporter of the Iraq invasion, and truly believed it was to get rid of Saddam and his cronies.........I was wrong. We must now, along with the rest of the world save these people especially babies.......but I fear it may be too late.  The warlords need to be disarmed now as well.

Andrew John Michael Atkinson ● 6581d10 Comments ● 6574d

Come on Mr Lawes - get down to the Music Museum !

As resident photographer and foundation member of the Brentford style council I am very surprised you have not yet offered your electronic etchings of the new music museum now the hoardings have been taken down.It is a sight to behold - how anybody who hasn't gone blind yet could admire the tranquil mix of terracotta, grey and blue (let alone the yet-to-be-switched on pink and purple vertical stripes) is beyond me.So now the set is complete - the lovely blue and grey of the Travelodge, the terracotta, grey and white of Capital West, and now all colours combined on one building.Thank goodness sanity kept their hands off St George's Church.Heavens above !

Stephen Browne ● 6932d26 Comments ● 6575d

Borough Council Meeting tonight....

A trip to the Civic Centre website > Council Meetings etc etcwill reveal that tonight is another evening of local happenings.In addition to discussions about Gunnersbury Park, there is an interesting motion up for debate about accepting our local MP's flippant but serious comment that they will not co-operating with the local Council.It will all be on the Webcast this evening..or you may wish to go along and watch from the Public Gallery.Cllr Phil Andrews presentation should be worth hearing.  Agreed?Copy and pastehttp://213.210.33.3/Published/C00000254/M00003718/$$$Agenda.doc.pdf

Jim Lawes ● 6611d62 Comments ● 6575d

This recycling lark...

We are all aware of the latest proposed bully-boy tactics to get us to recycle more on pain of being fined and having our fingernails removed if we dare to resist nanny...but who will be checking up on nanny?How will I know,for instance ,that the staff of Hounslow Council(or any other govn. office) are,themselves bothering to put their scrap paper and cardboard/plastic and whatever else to be recycled?Are they turning unused lights off,regulating heaters and air con. units,using council vehicles in an efficient way?I have worked in local gov. offices for many years and have rarely seen recycling done at all in any of them.Anyone else have similar experience?

Keith Iddon ● 6580d11 Comments ● 6576d

Press article about F&H M.P.

I am amazed no-one has picked this up - in today's 'Mirror' - "Two M.Ps who are spearheading a campaign to ban the word "McJob" were given World Cup tickets by McDonalds. Alan Keen & Clive Betts accepted the football freebies - worth up to £1000 - last year". This is in connection with a Commons motion tabled by the pair which "regrets the use of derogatory pahrases... such as Mcjob"."Mr. Keen said 'Mcjob is meant to be insulting'. He insisted he did not sign the motion because he was given free tickets".

Vanessa Smith ● 6577d4 Comments ● 6577d

A bit of good news from local nhs...

I have had the misfortune to have a very sore joint on thumb right hand for a couple of months now.Though it would go away,as you do,but it hasn't so went to see Dr. Baxter(excellent GP)at Albany Practise(excellent when you can get an appt).Dr. Baxter said he'd sent referral to ot section West Mid.2 days later(today) letter/info pack from them arrives with request to phone between 1-4. Did so and have appt. tomorrow 11.30.Can't say fairer than that,imho.

Keith Iddon ● 6581d5 Comments ● 6577d

British Waterways for sale?

Anyone else see/hear about this yesterday?http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/industry_sectors/utilities/article1832318.ece

mike jefferies ● 6580d6 Comments ● 6577d

Baby swans (emergency?)

Hi, earlier this evening I was down taking pics of the 4 baby swans. They were in the waterfall area between The Island and Brentford Lock. I hope you know where this is.Later we saw from our flat that the babies were not able to get up to the water (mooring area). They just kept sliding down.They still haven't managed to do it.There was one lady there which managed to help up 2 of the babies, but they went down again, probably wanted back to the others, even though both parents were up.Later, 2 boys came and built a sort of bridge of some wooden planks. The bridge is still there, but I guess the babies are too exhausted to even try. The heron has been around several times. Do you think it can take any of the babies?I think the only solution is to stop the water. It sometimes flow underground instead of through the waterfall. Anyone knows who control this?I'm just very concerned for those cute babies.Thanks.

Jorgen Molna ● 6590d24 Comments ● 6577d

Commerce Road Inquiry

The Inquiry into the ISIS proposal for Commerce Road resumed yesterday at the Jury Inn near Heathrow.Having heard the Council's evidence last year, we are now listening to the ISIS experts, following which the community groups will be able to present their objections.The Inspector is open to any individual opinions being expressed for those who wish to come along and ask to be heard. It will run for the next few weeks between Tues and Fridays, from 10am each day.There is a final week in February which has been set aside for the independent witnesses and summing up.Any development here will have a profound effect on the Brentford waterside and on any subsequent scheme for Sth of the High Street. If you have any cogent argument one way or another, this is your opportunity to have it count.A reminder of what's projected, with the 15 story towers unseen from this perspective:

Nigel Moore ● 6708d59 Comments ● 6578d

How do you clean your keyboard?

...all those nooks and crannies!  Is there a simple way of cleaning the key board?  I just tipped it up and shook it and lots of dust came out from between the keys, but there are still more bits wedged underneath and lots of grubby marks on the keys.  Any tips?

Sarah Felstead ● 7263d39 Comments ● 6579d

Just the day for a trip up the Brentford Canal..and see new views!

Never before have I and many others have had the chance to jump on a Canalboat at Brentford..and explore the hidden views and the very important part of our local heritage. And what a day to do it!You've read a lot about the history of the Grand Union Canal on this Forum..and quite right too!  Since the Brentford section was built in the 1790's I understand..(before the whole route was opened in 1805)..many of our ancestors and others will have lived ,worked and played in these environs.Cargo laden boats will have loaded and unloaded at Brentford..and  boats repaired and painted , goods stored, boat children educated, and all the related industries thriving. Some buildings, remnants and docks survive! The locks and overhanging wharfs too!Pictures will follow..hopefully!..starting at the next message...and... feel free to join in.

Jim Lawes ● 6839d70 Comments ● 6579d

Mohican Records bringing music to the mases

Well you may wonder way I have been so quiet, but yes I am still alive

Dave Hughes ● 6580d24 Comments ● 6579d

Hounslow Animal Welfare Charity Day 26 May

Hounslow Animal Welfare are running a charity day tomorrow 26th May 1100am til 3.00pmThe Little HouseBedfont Community CentreHatton RoadBedfontTW14 9QZmap at www.littlehouseproductions.co.ukCome and support this worth while charity, they need your support to keep doing the work taht they do.A limited number of car boot places are availble for a £5.00 pitchCall us on 0208 751 6401

Dave Hughes ● 6580d2 Comments ● 6580d

Smallberry Primary School Summer Fete

My Son's School will be holding there Summer fete on Friday 6th July from 315-5pm.Everyone welcomeStalls:TowelsHook a DuckRefreshmentsIce Cream StandCake StallFace paintingKnittingJewelleryHook a BottleTombolaRock StallBalloon GameLucky DipLollyPop StandTeddy tombolaRaffleDrinks Raffle+ MoreWe need donations of:Teddy BearsDVD or VideosCakesTins or Packet Food For the tombolaBottles of Wine or SpiritsPlease Come Along as all money raised will go to the School for equipmentSmall Berry Primary School Opposite West Middlesex HospitalI will see you there....as i ave now officially joined the Friends of Smallberry green School Committee and i will be running the Teddy Tombola.Contact me with Donations.

Simon Anderson ● 6580d0 Comments ● 6580d

ENFIELD ROAD, BRENTFORD

Sunday 17th June,  11am to 2pm, Road Sale - Enfield Road BrentfordAll welcome, lots of bargains.

Jo Smith ● 6580d0 Comments ● 6580d

Tree Surgery

Hi All,If anyone of you are thinking about having a tree pruned I would highly recommend WILDWOOD TREE SERVICES.  I had a huge tree at the end of my garden pruned by them this morning.  They did an absolute fantastic job!  The two guys who came to my house were extremly polite and friendly.  Watching them working was amazing!  They cleaned up throughhly after themselves and chopped up all the big branches for me with no hestitation for fire logs. They were at my house from 8.30am until 10.00am and the cost as quoted was £120.00p - even with them cutting off more branches from the original quote.I phoned about 5 other tree surgeon companie who didn't even return my call!WILDWOOD are also local, based in Grosvenor Road, Brentford.Fran

Fran Naughton ● 6580d0 Comments ● 6580d

Turf wanted....

We're making a green roof on our outhouse and would like some turf, if anyone has any that they are wanting to get rid of. If you are replacing your old, dandelion, daisy and moss-filled lawn with new grass, that is exactly what we want - we're hoping to eventually have lots of wild flowers, etc., on the roof, which is about 6m by 2m.Please contact me by clicking on my name above the date/time.Thanks.

David Fox ● 6581d2 Comments ● 6580d

Thank-you

At last after over two months of the entire frontage of our house being dug up in order to remove a tree causing problems, the men arrived this morning to start re-instating the pavement. I went out to get my morning paper as usual when I am not at work and about 15 minutes later came a knock on the door. One of the workmen had picked up my purse that had fallen out of my handbag, I hadn't even realised I'd dropped it and I can't thank him enough for reurning it as we all know the aggravation losing something this important causes. It's quite made my day - again a very big thank-you to the man concerned.  

Vanessa Smith ● 6581d5 Comments ● 6581d

Our New Deputy Mayoress

Convention describes the partners of the Mayor and Deputy Mayor as "Mayoress" and "Deputy Mayoress". So, on account of his wife Caroline's appointment to the Deputy Mayor position, step forward Councillor Phil Andrews, Deputy Mayoress, London Borough of Hounslow.

John Connelly ● 6582d7 Comments ● 6582d

Warwick Road Ealing W5, street sale

Saturday 30th June from 10am to 2pm come to the Great Warwick RoadStreet Sale - Bargains galore -

Corinne Cater ● 6582d0 Comments ● 6582d

council exchange

Can anyone help me????????I have got a 1 bedroom flat in roseford court, shepherds bush and am in desperate need of a swap to a bigger property as i have 3 children. it is newly decorated throughout and a very spacious flat. it is on the second floor and very local to all amenities like shopping centre, cinema, restaurants, bars, etc it also has the new shopping centre being built right next to it (the biggest centre in europe!) i would be willing to give a reward so if you're interested or if you know anyone please please contact me! even if you know someone that may be giving up their property to move abroad,etc it is totally legal to mutual exchange.kelly

Kelly OBrien ● 6584d2 Comments ● 6582d

Welcome Back - Jim

  Did have a great week-end and do lot's of 'partying'   Looking forward to catching up with you soon and your weekend away. No doubt your still fast asleep.

Joan Perry ● 6584d8 Comments ● 6582d

Murray Bridge, and Tailem Bend South Ausralia

I would like to share with you two townships. Murray Bridge and Tailem Bend. We pass through Murray Bridge which is 80kms east of Adelaide to Tailem Bend 100kms east of Adelaide. We do this trip quite regular as I have family at Tailem Bend. I hope you enjoy the photos.  I hope the photos work or I'll have to surrender my awards!!!

Joan Perry ● 6599d47 Comments ● 6582d

Hounslow Sport & recreation at the bottom of the scrap heap

Not content with losing us CPA scores faster than Posh Spice spends in a Dolce & Gabanna shop our ICG/Tory authority has ensured we are again on the bottom of the scrap heap when it coms to sport & recreation facilities planning. Last night's report on London Tonight showed Hounslow to be 32nd out of the 33 London Boroughs in respect of providing new and imporved facilties in line with the legacy target for london towards 2012. It is bad enough we came fifth from bottom in terms of participation in sport, it is bad enough that our CPA is falling under ICG/Tory control, but its a disgrace that they are doing NOTHING to tackle the poor performance of this borough.I don't wonder why when Phil Andrews spends all his time on this forum obsessing about Labour, attacking anyone who dares criticise him and generally doing nothing very much at all as an elected member.

Conal Stewart ● 6594d13 Comments ● 6582d

Mayor & Deputy Elected

Can I take this opportunity, in congratulating Councillor Morgan-Watts who has been elected as Mayor, and councillor Caroline Andrews as his deputy. It is refreshing to see that this prestigious post is being shared by members of all parties, unlike under the previous administration who jealously ensured that he/she came from within their party!

Andrew Michael John Atkinson ● 6583d1 Comments ● 6583d

French conversation classes and social events diary

I am proposing to start 2 hours French conversation classes : 1st hour with grammar, vocabulary, phrases and 2nd hour to practice during conversations. Once a month the participants will be shown and encouraged to attend all the existing French events (to be pre-paid) in London with their native speaking qualified teacher.The classes will be taking place in Ealing W5 on Mondays and Fridays from 11am to 1pm or 1pm to 3pm with a max 6 participants.If you would like to join, please let me know!Merci!

Corinne Cater ● 6583d0 Comments ● 6583d

A view of Australia

For all our Australian Brentfordians, here’s a wonderful endorsement of your country from J M Coetzee, the great South African novelist. On 6th March 2006, Coetzee became an Australian citizen in which he said that, "I was attracted by the free and generous spirit of the people, by the beauty of the land itself and – when I first saw Adelaide – by the grace of the city that I now have the honour of calling my home."He is a tremendous author. Here is his Coetzee’s Nobel Prize speech; he chose to read from his book, ‘Foe’, on Daniel Defoe’s Robinson Crusoe. He is a very reclusive and austere man, but all the better for that, I think he is mesmeric and embodies what is tremendous in good writing.This website www.listeningtowords.com is excellent for audio and video clips of some great lectures/speeches.

Duncan Walker ● 6583d2 Comments ● 6583d

a man of many parts

Thought I might  draw  the forum members attention to  a recently published book, which I was sent last week , book is titled Harry Holland a man of many parts, Harry or as many  long time Brentford  residents  know him as Aitch, details  his early life in Brentford and  mentions many  names and incidents which occurred in the town, which  make very interesting reading  to those  who lived in the area .Harry  was a well known Boxing promoter and managed numerous  well known Boxers, he also  appears  on TV on a regular basis, in such programs` as the Eastenders and the Bill, I can highly reccomend the book , feel sure  you would  all find it of great interest, I undrstand it is available from leading booksellers

Michael D Giddings ● 6584d3 Comments ● 6583d

Thank you Cllr Felicity Barwood..outgoing Mayor

At this evening's Borough Council meeting at the Civic Centre (7.30pm)the first item on the Agenda is the election of a new Mayor and Deputy Mayor for the coming year.It will be the moment that Councillor Felicity Barwood will be handing over her Chain of Office..after a memorable year in which she has served the residents of the London Borough of Hounslow with dignity and much vigour.I know that many people have been impressed by her performance, her interest in social services affairs, the carers and those giving an input to help those in need.  Others will be better informed of all the events she has attended and all the visits made.  Personally, as a Chiswickian, I have felt very proud of her and she has certainly enhanced Civic Pride in many quarters.She deserves much applause.

Jim Lawes ● 6583d2 Comments ● 6583d

Rosenior - oops!

Shortest record of tenure for a league manager - 10 minutes at Torquay!

Colin Murphy ● 6584d2 Comments ● 6583d

Roofing Work

HiDoes anyone know of a reliable roofer - and one who isn't going to "rob me blind"?Many thanks

Karen Stephenson ● 6591d7 Comments ● 6585d

Thames Water change Mogden Consultation Dates

Dear councillors and officers at LB Hounslow and Richmond Upon Thames. Following on from my email sent within the last few days - I need to inform you of changes Thames Water have made to the dates of the public consultations. The public events originally planned for the 24th May (Isleworth Library) and the 1st June (Whitton Library) are now cancelled. We have decided to extended the consultation period. The new dates are as follows - Whitton Library: Tuesday 29th May  -     10:00am - 6:00pm Wednesday 30th May      -     10:00am - 8:00pm Thursday 31st May -     10:00am - 6:00pm Friday 1st June         -     10:00am - 6:00pm Saturday 2nd June -     10:00am - 1:00pm Isleworth Library: Monday 4th June   -     10:00am - 8:00pm Tuesday 5th June  -     10:00am - 5:00pm Thursday 7th June -     10:00am - 8:00pm Saturday 9th June -     10:00am - 1:00pm Thames Water staff will be in attendance at all times in both venues. Attached is a new version of the letter, which will be sent out to approximately 13,000 residents in the area. The briefing material I sent you in my last email will be included in the residents letters. The letter I originally forwarded to you was not delivered to the local resident. (See attached file: Hounslow - Richmond TTQI consultation.pdf) I apologies in advance for any confusion, however we feel this new approach will provide residents and yourselves with a greater opportunity to view the planning proposals and meet the Thames Water team. We hope you will be able to attend and look forward to meeting you. If you have any questions relating to this or indeed any other Thames Water matters, please give me a call. Kind regards, Alan O'Neile Local & Regional Government Liaison External Affairs Tel: 07747 643 632 (internal: 43632)

Paul Fisher ● 6589d1 Comments ● 6586d

Warning - do not leave anything that could attract interest in your car

A young black male on a bike was seen shining a torch into cars along Linkfield Road on Thurs night @ approx. 11.30pm.

Lynn Clark ● 6586d1 Comments ● 6586d

Is it time we had a democracy with an  elected head of state?

As a fed up subject of a monarchy headed by an old bint of German descent partnered by her Greek stud, I long for the opportunity to achieve the status of people who live in countries where everyone is equal and they are all citizens, and where things like an established church and discrimination against people who follow the "wrong" religion do not exist.Who else believes it is about time we lived in a proper democracy?

John Connelly ● 6590d51 Comments ● 6586d

Magpie & Crown

Just been told that the Magpie has had a wash and brush, up outside. Has the inside been spruced up as well and is Steve still in charge.

Neil Chippendale ● 6594d10 Comments ● 6586d

Tesco Latest Promotion

Tesco is doing a new promotion which has left shoppers confused (well certainly what i witnessed today in Tesco Mogden Lane)It states in there publicity in the papers and on the Boards inside and outside the Shop spend £10 and you receive a voucher to get you into any theme park in the UK Free.Whilst i was at the till a gentleman put his shopping through which came to £83.62 but he was only given 1 Voucher so the gentleman stated "Ive spent £80 so why am i not getting 8 vouchers" to the checkout woman's reply was "Sorry sir its 1 voucher per customer" the gentleman asked to see the Manager and the manage came and explained it was only 1 voucher per customer.The Gentleman stated i spent over £80 for the reason to get 8 Vouchers to take the whole family to Legoland in the summer and if i knew this i wouldn't of spent that kind of money.I stated to the manager that the ads should read "Spend £10 or more and receive a voucher"The manager then told the Checkout woman to void the gentleman's shopping and told her to put it threw bit by bit in sums of £10 so he could get the 8 vouchers.i thought it was a waste of time when he had put all his shopping threw why not give him the 8 vouchers..1 checkout lady said that the gentleman wasn't the first to complain.Anyone else experienced this problem?

Simon Anderson ● 6591d13 Comments ● 6587d

BBC Filming in Brook Lane North Today

BBC Crew of about 20 are in Brook Lane North filming a commercial for The Dogs trust Charity today.Fran

Fran Naughton ● 6590d2 Comments ● 6587d

Hooray! Front page news:Community Group to stand aside at next General Election.

One had often thought that if only the Lib/Dems and the Community Group didn't contest the next General Election..then that would greatly improve the prospect of Mrs Keen MP not being re-elected.Mary MacLeod, representing the Conservatives, will need all the support she can get, to oust someone who doesn't seem too popular.I think it's great news that the Community Group have decided not to contest her...and the action is to be appauded..in my view.Now dear Andrew Dakers (Lib Dem)...you're a great chap..doing lots for our Borough..you are highly acclaimed by the current Administration at the Civic Centre.....but could you also get your team to stand aside..on just this one next General Election occasion?  ;0)

Jim Lawes ● 6596d37 Comments ● 6588d

What's it like..opening a shop in Brentford High Street?

Wandering around the High Street at 2pm this last Saturday afternoon, one couldn't help but notice how quiet it was..with so few shoppers..and with traders seemingly waiting for the next customer.Perhaps all the needed business turnover is achieved during the week!Do you shop in Brentford High Street for anything?People talk of opening up the South of the High Street, with lanes and alleys and yards..filled perhaps with craft shops, and gentile cultural outlets..wines bars perhaps and small companies producing bespoke goodies, but somehow I don't think it's realistic...although I do like the idea.Let's hope that the continuing foreign investment in London Town does produce ripples of prosperity that reach Brentford.There are some newish delightful shops in Brentford. Let's hope they prosper and stay!The art shop and the bike shop come to mind. Then there's the new greengrocer..and then La Rossetta and Grounds etc etc.Who is doing well down the High Street..or is it still tough!

Jim Lawes ● 6591d20 Comments ● 6589d

Dr Ali Dizaei: The Borough Police Commander's book

The extracts from the Borough Commander's book 'NOT ONE OF US', published in The Times newspaper recently, made for..can I say..gripping reading.  Some years ago..before he joined Hounslow Police.he had been called in for an interview with top brass..what could it be about! The extracts in The Times were very well written...and readers' interest is retained. There can be no doubt that 'our' most senior Police Officer feels much aggrieved at the treatment he was subjected to.  He obviously feels that his side of the story must be told.There is even a Google video in cyberspace of Chief Supt Dr Ali Dizaei promoting the book..and explaining 'what it's like to be pursued by the British Establishment. Yes, I have ordered a copy and I guess I won't be able to put the new book down!)Copy and paste:http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=611173147698414388&q=ali+dizaei

Jim Lawes ● 6655d9 Comments ● 6590d

To JIM LAWES - URGENT

Please email me -  perrdise@bigpond.com WE HAVE SUCCESS !!!!!!!!!I have good news.  But for privacy reasons I need you to email me asap!!Your friend.Joan

Joan Perry ● 6591d2 Comments ● 6590d

"Leaving Do" Venue

Hi,  I'm helping to organise a leaving do for a colleague and I'm trying to find a suitable venue in the Brentford area. We need a pub with a function room and plenty of parking. Any ideas gratefully recieved.

John Coxall ● 6591d2 Comments ● 6591d

Lets pray for a safe return

Everyone has read or seen the story for the past week regarding little Madeleine McCann.I think everyone agrees we all pray she is found and returned to her family safe and Soon.Why not pledge your wishes to little Maddie's family by logging onto notw.co.ukalso the News of the World has put up a reward with help from Clebs and others of £1.5m if you want to pledge support you can by the following:Make P.O or Cheques payable to: The Madeleine Fund.send them to The Madeleine FundHSBC Bank plc, Cathedral Sq, Peterborough, Cambs PE1 1XLWrite on Back of Cheques or P.O : Sort code 40-36-15 Acct No 52135590Or you can pay into any HSBC bank using the same Sort code and Account Number above.Also receive regular alerts on the whereabouts of paedophiles by registering at www.crimestoppers.uk.org

Simon Anderson ● 6592d0 Comments ● 6592d

HEALING IN CHISWICK

A reminder that the monthly healing centre at the London Buddhist Vihara, The Avenue, Chiswick, will be open tomorrow, Monday, 14th May between 11am and 1pm.  Healing helps any condition, from stress right through to physical illness and no matter what is said on the television programme, it is not just a placebo!!!  There is no charge made for the healing (all the healers are working on a voluntary basis), although a donation would be welcome.You don't no need to make an appointment or book but if you want any further information before coming please give me a ring on 0788 189 6449.

Pat Smith ● 6592d0 Comments ● 6592d

Why do we allow the promotion of the fastest  growing contributor to climate change?

That is exactly what advertising flights does.And advertising is essential to the raison détre of airlines ie growth.'Michael O'leary of Ryanair confirmed this by saying that massive marketing would be vital to launch a long haul service.The recent Open Skies agreement will cause a massive increase in carbon emissions -even without a single extra flight- as slots are traded from short to long haul use. I've started a petition proposing that advertising of flights be banned (as we do with tobacco and casinos)and need 100 signatures to get a reasoned government response as to how it is that we continue to allow this. It may seem draconian now but one day we'll look back and wonder how it was ever allowed!http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/airlines/ James

James Page ● 6593d2 Comments ● 6592d

Mogden Residents' Liaison Meeting - proposed site expansion

Just in case the original posting is deleted...Residents who attended the Thames Water Mogden Liaison meeting this week claim it to be a sham with an agenda geared towards Thames Water's own marketing strategy  that left little time for residents to get explanations as to what is going so horribly wrong at the site with the ongoing stench and communications problems.One resident  was astounded by some of the things heard from Thames Water.  For example the proposed massive expansion of the site to increase daily sewage capacity and to conform to EC directives, in order to prevent fines,  is being rushed, with its public display being on show, on week days only, in Isleworth Public Library on 21th, 22nd & 24th May, less than two weeks away.  There was nothing planned for anywhere in Richmond Borough for residents who experience the current ongoing problems from the site. Thames Water maintained  that the site is in Hounslow borough and did not appear to recognise that the odour as well as mosquitoes do not have any respect for  Borough boundaries.Despite all the odour problems recorded by Richmond borough residents in April, the Mogden Communications team had no idea what residents were talking about although odour and mosquito complaints are supposedly being investigated and logged.On the issue of who is receiving, or will receive,  newsletters regarding the current Odour Improvement Programme and mosquito campaign the Mogden Communications Team was vague and didn't appear to know how or to whom the newsletter will be distributed. It would appear there is no communications process in place to effectively deal with matters on which the public should be kept informed.In the meantime MRAG Chairman,  Dr Trevor Whittall, has made it clear that, before any proposals for expansion of Mogden are considered,  residents  want the Odour Improvement Plan finished and evaluated first.  MRAG is not opposed in principle to expansion of capacity to deal with flooding,  as it should reduce the use of storm tanks, but we want a delay on construction until 2009 - not only to ensure the Odour Improvement Programme has worked, but to ensure residents around the plant do not experience undue disruption. Also,  we want assurances the catchment area will not be enlarged and that the remaining storm tanks will be enclosed.Thames Water is currently refusing to divulge how often the Storm Tanks are being used. Until Thames Water changes its stance on transparency and sets itself reasonable targets on odour elimination, expansion of the site is not an option and will be opposed vehemently by residents.Thames Water needs to address its current stance in dealing with issues which affect the communities of Hounslow and Richmond.  Over the last few years residents have seen many staff changes at Thames Water with key personnel resigning, being replaced or transferred. Residents have had to deal with no fewer than four  Managing Directors, four Mogden Operations Managers, five Mogden Catchment Managers, two Environmental directors and an astounding eight communications consultants as communications with the current regime are worse than ever before.Mogden Residents Action Group (MRAG)www.mogden.org.ukFor News and Views on local community issues visit http://www.twickenham-online.co.uk/

Phil Andrews ● 6592d0 Comments ● 6592d

Massive expansion plans for Mogden - have your say!

I've reposted the following for MRAG because I fear their contribution will be deleted as it is not posted under the name of a specified individual, which I believe is contrary to the rules.  Anyway, here it is:Dear Residents,You may possibly be aware that Thames Water intends to submit a planning application shortly to increase works at their Mogden Plant, and they are to give a brief presentation explaining why they intend to do so, if permission is granted, at the next meeting of the Isleworth and Brentford Area Committee on the 17th May to be held  in the Brentford Free Church, Boston Manor Road, Brentford on Thursday, 17 May 2007 at 7:30 pmAs Chair of this committee, I have decided to limit them to speak for just five or 10 minutes maximum so members of the public can then have enough time to ask them the questions they feel matter and, as most residents are now excluded from residents liaison meetings with Thames Water, I hope as many as possible will take this opportunity to do so.Unfortunately, as an MRAG committee member as well as being involved in the legal action against Thames, I have to declare a declaration of interest during this part of the evening and the Vice Chair Jon Hardy will preside over this part of the agenda.Since becoming Chair of this Area Committee, I have always tried to encourage as much participation from the public as possible at our meetings and I sincerely hope that many of you will be able to attend?The meeting starts at 7.30pm on Thursday 17th May and I would expect the Thames Water Presentation to begin at approximately 8.30pm but please feel free to come earlier if you wish as we have many other items on the agenda.Kind RegardsCllr Paul Fisher (Isleworth Ward)Chair Isleworth and Brentford Area Committee MRAG notes:Thames Water is seeking planning permission to increase Mogden capacity from 690 megalitres per day to 1074 megalitres per day.  In 1999 Thames Water completed major expansion of Mogden to increase capacity from 450 ml/d to 810 ml/d to cater for the additional sewage following its closure of Kew STW. However we believe this expansion failed inasmuch as  following completion the Environmental Agency only consented to 690 ml/d. Following the expansion, Thames Water became incapable of controlling odour from the site which resulted in an abatement notice being served which resulted in lengthy legal proceedings whereby Thames Water attempted to defend its right to permit odour to escape its premises as part of its normal operation.In its defence Thames Water asserted that  "although the area is in part residential, it is dominated by the works"In its defence Thames Water argued that there was no requirement for sewage works to have a formal Odour Management Plan.The judge ruled that there existed and continues to exist an odour which amounts in law to a nuisance.The current odour improvement programme will only reduce odour by approximately 50% (as recorded by MP Dr Vince Cable)Only 2 of 8 storm tanks are being covered  although the tanks are almost in constant use.Thames Water will not invest from its own profits to complete the job properly. Thames Water has no plans to cover the remaining 6 Storm Tanks which will remain open.Thames Water will submit that Odour Control for the expansion of the site will remain the same as that currently employed.There is no plan to investigate the use of the latest technology available for odour control.Thames Water has refused to set targets for odour reduction.Thames Water has refused to invite  the MRAG Committee to its Residents Liaison meetingsThames Water has refused to change the date of the next liaison meeting and opted for the date they were aware the Council's Lead Member for Environment and Planning is away.Residents submit that the results of the current  odour improvement program should be evaluated on completion at the end of 2008 before any expansion of the site can be considered?

Phil Andrews ● 6597d1 Comments ● 6592d

Police officer attack

Anybody watching the "Crimewatch" programme cannot fail to be shocked and disgusted, at the cowardly attack on an off duty police officer in South Ealing. These four scumbags are so brave when in a crowd, these were teenagers who have no respect for the law, and I very much doubt if they have any for themselves either.I am fed up to the back teeth with politicians and others making excuses for their violence. What is needed if we are to prevent this is tougher action, never mind Gameboys,Laptops,Televisions etc This officer intervened when they refused to pay their fare on a bus, and the driver asked for his help when they attempted to attack him, he ended up with very serious injuries for his trouble.I sincerely hope that they are soon caught and locked up fo a very long time (some hope!) My thoughts are with this brave officer and his family, and wish him a speedy recovery. What do other users of this forum think?

Andrew Michael John Atkinson ● 6600d8 Comments ● 6593d

Human Rights Act

We have had the Human Rights Act in this country since 1998. For years we (the plebs!) have seen the rediculous decisions that have been made when judgements are made. The case of the prisoner who claimed the matress he was given hurt his back and wanted £10000 compensation, others on this Forum will no doubt have other absurd examples to put forward.This morning, it has been announced that in a speech to ministers of the six largest EU nations in Venice, John Reid the Home secretary said that the present situation was "unacceptable" and needs to be rewritten! Why has he suddenly found this out now I ask, was it because he did not wish to upset Tone? Perhaps it's because he was the one who signed us up for it? Further more he will not be the Home Secretary when Gordo take over the reins. Do others believe it should be scrapped altogether, as in it's present form, as I believe it serves only to protect the guilty, and nothing for the innocent.

Andrew Michael John Atkinson ● 6593d1 Comments ● 6593d

Brentfordian, George Percy, one of original settlers in Virginia

On Channel4 TV at 9pm tonight is “Jamestown: America’s Birthplace”.This year is the 400th year anniversary of the first English settlers in Virginia, USA.  Brentfordian, George Percy, from Syon House, settled in Virginia and was Governor of Virginia 1609-1610.http://www.virtualjamestown.org/pic24a.htmlThe 9th Earl’s youngest brother George Percy, was one of the original settlers who sailed to Viginia and founded Jamestown in 1607.  George played a significant role during the early years of the settlement, acting as governor for a short period, when much hardship was experienced.  He returned to England in 1612.  There is a wealth of information on: http://www.virtualjamestown.org/page2.htmlAlso at Syon House:May 2007 - Bank Holiday Monday 7th"Jamestown 400" - Sponsored by the Virginia Tourism Corporation - Special Event & Exhibition on George Percy. Demonstrations & re-enactments of early 17th century life together with talks about the settlement of Jamestown, to commemorate the 400th anniversary. The exhibition will continue until October 28th.

Duncan Walker ● 6604d13 Comments ● 6593d

Missing Madeliene McCann in Portugal

Dear Brentford Community...I thought that us as a community we could all think (or pray) for Madeliene McCann and her poor parents, family and friends at 7.00pm tonight together, even for a minute. My thoughts will be with them all at 7.00pm tonight, and I will also light a candle at 7.00pm.Fran

Fran Naughton ● 6595d2 Comments ● 6593d

Political Correctness

There is quite a bit of debate about PC on another thread, but I think it is a very important subject in its own right.When people get the 'racist' label thrown at them, in many cases it seems it is because they are speaking out against the extreme & damaging political correctness that many feel is destroying this country.I notice that someone asked for a definition of PC; if you Google "Political Correctness" there are many sites that offer a definition.Some interesting "PC" websites (you will have to copy & paste the address I'm afraid!) - Campaign Against Political Correctness website:http://www.capc.co.uk/Politically Incorrect website:http://www.politicallyincorrect.me.uk/

Lynn Clark ● 6605d60 Comments ● 6594d

Feltham

My name is Joan and I am researching Feltham. I've tried looking on the web, but to no avail. Could you suggest a site for me to look at. I used to live in the High Street, Spring Corner end. I am from Australia. Jim, Nigel and many others have helped me recently with Brentford and Twickenham. Now I am broadening my search to Feltham where I spent my years from age 9 (1960) to age 15 (1966). I would appreciate any links, especially with photos from back then.Thanking you in anticipation.Joan Perry (nee Martin)

Joan Perry ● 6614d47 Comments ● 6594d

The relaunched HM (Hounslow Matters) Magazine.

No doubt a proportion of Hounslow residents will still sling the new Magazine into the dustbin...or discard it.   How sad..as we all have to live together in harmonious understanding!!Hopefully, those with a bit more undewrstanding savvy will find the NOW MONTHLY newsletter from the Civic Centre a good informative read..and reference document.  And what a great image on the cover..to spread the message?  It does seem that the new Administration are having a good spring clean and polish. Good decisions and judgements are being made..IMO. Don't you agree?

Jim Lawes ● 6601d7 Comments ● 6594d

Can't see photos

Am I the only person who gets 'Bandwidth (FreeImgHosting.com) Exceeded' in the place of about nine out of ten photos on this site, as of today only?  If it is just me, I'd be really grateful for suggestions as to how to deal with the problem?

Susan Lawrence ● 6613d29 Comments ● 6594d

Watch out if you're out late.

There were two lads(one black one white)both about 17-20 on bikes on Syon estate in the early hrs of Thurs morning who would have mugged me if I had not had my wits about me.They went past me on their bikes and I saw one of the duck down behind a wall where I would have been passing.T'other one probably waiting around the corner.I reported this to polce next day.Please be aware and careful.

Keith Iddon ● 6601d12 Comments ● 6595d

Council's new advertising ploy

"NO" - ?

Vanessa Smith ● 6602d21 Comments ● 6595d

Old Harry's Rocks

I've been 'surfing' the net so to speak and came across photos of 'Old Harry's Rocks'.  In two of the photos there was a resemblance to the Twelve Apostles which I took photos of. Where are these rocks? I've never heard of them before.Another photo I came across was a Wind Farm. Many residents along Adelaide's coastlines don't like them. What do you think of them. We saw some on our trip and we didn't find them noisy.Joan

Joan Perry ● 6597d12 Comments ● 6595d

Brentford Quiz!    Questions 1- 10

Brentford QuizQ1: Where is the address THE MALL in Brentford?  So I believe!Q2: Brentford Football Club: What is the highest ever position the 1st team reached during a season when it played in Division One ..in the 1930’s.Q3: What is the name of the bridge in Mogden Lane.Q4: Who was MM who once managed Brentford FC.Q5: Where in Brentford  is the old Chapel/Church where Goddards now store some of their property.Q6: Where is the old Kew Bridge Fountain (and trough) now located?Q7: The Butts, TW8 might have been used for which sporting activity.Q8: Name the Chairperson of the Isleworth and Brentford Area Committee (Planning)Q9: BA and DD are in ER ?Q10: Where does Jason Bowyer (Artist) hid out?

Jim Lawes ● 6767d66 Comments ● 6596d

Web Cams (Hugh)

Hugh try this Web Cam out. This is at Port Melbourne. http://www.portofmelbourne.com/shipping/webcams/ptlon_cam.aspcopy and pasteJoan

Joan Perry ● 6596d1 Comments ● 6596d

Brentford Exhibition 'History on The High Street'

An exhibition entitled History in the High Street will be held in 22 shop windows along Brentford High Street  1-19 May. Walk along from Grounds canalside cafe at the west end of the south side of the High Street as far as Goddards, then cross the road and walk down from the electrical shop on the corner of Catherine Wheel Road and along to Dew Drop Inn to see the exhibition panels in sequence.The subject of this exhibition is Victorian business man, councillor and collector, Thomas Layton who left his massive collection to the people of Brentford. It shows Layton the civic dignitary and antiquarian, describing the extent of the collection and a good deal of the history of Brentford.Download the Map and Press Release at the Thomas Layton website.http://www.thomaslayton.org.uk/whats_on.htm

Stephen Browne ● 6605d4 Comments ● 6597d

It's quite colourful in that Holiday Inn Hotel at Brentford Bridge.

The Holiday Inn has certainly been in the news during the past couple of weeks.Visits there by the local MP, together with an assortment of VIP's both local and national..has put the venue more firmly on the Borough map.Wandering around the Canal Bridge area today, I decided to pay my first visit and see what was inside...just a few snaps.A big wedding was about to take place!Have you been there?

Jim Lawes ● 6600d3 Comments ● 6597d

A letter from Kabul from the Chaplain

A letter home from the front.I ache too but more from playing the Canadians at ball hockey in the gymover the weekend - I am getting too old!! At the moment I am stuck in Kabul- non-RAF friendly snow.  Apart from that I am fine on the whole though Ihave lowered my expectations of personal achievement here so thefrustrations of the senior chaplain role and herding cats [chaplains] weighsless heavily.  I count as my main achievement so far as getting another 3chaplains for the army brigade that follows - we have been veryunderstaffed. Things are going reasonably well for us out here - our deaths have been 7which is lower than perhaps we expected - we have the repatriation of MaineHollands body this week - he was killed in a mine strike.  IN spite of thesetragedies, the Royal Marines continue to enjoy the job too which isheartening and having spent some time with those returning from Iraqrecently I think that has to do with a sense of purpose.  At least herethere continues to a sense of cooperation, international consensus anddirection.  The job is very hard but achievable, though the Taliban "springoffensive" whatever that may be will be a key time to work through withoutbeing deflected from the reconstruction effort. The main effort in the helmand where we are is to set the conditions forrebuilding the Kajaki dam and hydro electric system which will power a largepart of the country and provide indirectly alternative forms of employmentthan poppy growing.  We have an American man embedded with us ( a very niceand gently spoken person - not very American) he is known as the poppykiller and is to coordinate the eradication programme.  We agree it is awaste of time at this stage since the eradication will probably affect thosewho support the government worst and the Taliban least.  The alternatives topoppy are not great though saffron is being touted  as a possible solution asit is low bulk high value and does not need brilliant transport links.Ultimately i always think controlling supply is a waste of time - its thedemand that needs dealing with. My successor has been out for a recce,  which is something wish i had had.At least i have been able to arrange such things for the army and show themhospitality that was denied me.  One needs to have a view of the country anda chance to catch up with the state of play at all the different locationsbefore embarking on this sort of job. I continue to have a steady flow of people coming forward for baptisms andconfirmations - though getting the bishop out here has proved frustrating somy plan is for a post tour expenses paid trip for everybody to Windsorcastle where the bishop to the forces is Dean and he can do a job lot thereand entertain us for the day.  I think that will be a special occasion foreverybody. The International side of life can be amusing here.  In Kandahar we havequite a mixture - US, Canadian, Dutch, Romanian, a few Jordanians.   TheDutch general in charge of RC south has a hard time.  The Canadian stancehas become understandably defensive and aggressive given the level of theircasualties compared to others.  Some of them seem intent on outflanking theAmericans in the trigger stakes.  Given some time things will settle and Ihave made some good friends with them - particularly with some of the frenchCanadians interestingly.  The international chaplains meeting exposes somewonderful contrasts in US/Canadian humour and world understanding.  TheAmericans want to "sanitise" the church ie remove all religious symbols incase somebody is offended - the Canadian psychiatrist suggested they comeand see him about religious phobia issues.  The need for permanent religioussymbolism was defended most vehemently by the Dutch Humanist "its a churchfor God's sake what do people expect" and he irritates the Americans now bygoing round replacing crosses where he thinks they should be. I continue my cycle of movements between Kabul Kandahar and the Helmand butsadly the air miles card doesnt work here!!  I hope you are well Vic andlook forward to seeing you when its over. I had better end now and go and do the padre's rounds with a free day ididnt expect to have - could go collect the entertainers for the CSE showmmm well see. D

Helen Fogarth ● 6597d1 Comments ● 6597d

Forum Picture Posting Awards

Many of us have been really impressed by the rapid picture posting achievements of our new friend Joan Perry..currently located in Adelaide.You may recall a spate of such awards about two years ago..mainly on the Ealing and Chiswick Forums...following tuition classes and tests!!The time has arrived for another presentation ceremony!

Jim Lawes ● 6600d18 Comments ● 6599d

Friday funny about banks

I suspect this is one of those urban myths but it made me laugh!A 98 year old woman wrote this to her bank. The bank manager thought it amusing enough to have it published in The Times. Dear Sir, I am writing to thank you for bouncing my cheque with which I endeavoured to pay my plumber last month. By my calculations, three 'nanoseconds' must have elapsed between his presenting the cheque and the arrival in my account of the funds needed to honour it. I refer, of course, to the automatic monthly deposit of my Pension, an arrangement which, I admit, has been in place for only eight years. You are to be commended for seizing that brief window of opportunity, and also for debiting my account £30 by way of penalty for the inconvenience caused to your bank. My thankfulness springs from the manner in which this incident has caused me to rethink my errant financial ways. I noticed that whereas I personally attend to your telephone calls and letters, when I try to contact you, I am confronted by the impersonal, overcharging, pre-recorded, faceless entity which your bank has become. From now on, I, like you, choose only to deal with a flesh-and-blood person. My mortgage and loan payments will therefore and hereafter no longer be automatic, but will arrive at your bank by cheque, addressed personally and confidentially to an employee at your bank whom you must nominate. Be aware that it is an offence under the Postal Act for any other person to open such an envelope. Please find attached an Application Contact Status which I require your chosen employee to complete. I am sorry it runs to eight pages, but in order that I know as much about him or her as your bank knows about me, there is no alternative. Please note that all copies of his or her medical history must be countersigned by a Solicitor, and the mandatory details of his/her financial situation (income, debts, assets and liabilities) must be accompanied by documented proof. In due course, I will issue your employee with a PIN number which he/she must quote in dealings with me. I regret that it cannot be shorter than 28 digits but, again, I have modelled it on the number of button presses required of me to access my account balance on your phone bank service. As they say, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. Let me level the playing field even further. When you call me, press buttons as follows: 1-- To make an appointment to see me. 2-- To query a missing payment. 3-- To transfer the call to my living room in case I am there. 4-- To transfer the call to my bedroom in case I am sleeping. 5-- To transfer the call to my toilet in case I am attending to nature. 6-- To transfer the call to my mobile phone if I am not at home. 7-- To leave a message on my computer (a password to access my computer is required. A password will be communicated to you at a later date to the Authorised Contact.) 8-- To return to the main menu and to listen to options 1 through 8 9-- To make a general complaint or inquiry, the contact will then be put on hold, pending the attention of my automated answering service. While this may, on occasion, involve a lengthy wait, uplifting music will play for the duration of the call. Regrettably, but again following your example, I must also levy an establishment fee to cover the setting up of this new arrangement. May I wish you a happy, if ever so slightly less prosperous, New Year. Your Humble Client (Remember: This was written by a 98 year old woman; DOESN'T SHE MAKE YOU PROUD!!?)

Paul Fisher ● 6601d4 Comments ● 6600d

SS Titanic disaster 95th Anniversary:  locals involved?

Reading THE TIMES newspaper on Saturday, one was reminder of the sinking of the Titanic in 1912 and the recent publication of the names of passengers online...for the first time.Two Isleworth locals were certainly involved as we discussed on the Syon Lodge thread.   Firstly the son of the Pears family who lived in Spring Grove House..and afterwards at Mevagissey House in St John's Road and his young wife.Their names were:PEARS, Mr Thomas Clinton   aged 29   A 1st Class passenger  No 113776        fare £66 12s   Boarded at Southampton     "Of Independent Means"   PEARS, Mrs Edith           aged 22   A 1st Class  passenger.Were there any other locals on that voyage?

Jim Lawes ● 6620d6 Comments ● 6600d

Alan and Ann Kean trying to make mgs of us all again?

Today the Keans invited selected guests to a film showing of Al Gores An Inconvient Truth at the Holiday Inn in Brentford.Now I do not recall the Keans ever being too concerned with any green issues whatsover etc in the past so perhaps we should applaud this new found campaign issue which with the right publicity!! can only help their desparate cause?I am still puzzled though how the Keans voted on the House of Commons Bill against increasing night flights from Heathrow,surely after Mrs Kean attended the HACAN demonstration pledging her support to anyone who would listen she would vote as she promised?What do you think she did? You got in one,she yet again shafted us all.This is why some of us today turned up to her private publicity seeking screening today to ask why and both Mr and Mrs Keen aka the expenses couple crept in early to avoid yet again answering any questions.

Paul Fisher ● 6606d63 Comments ● 6600d

car boot  - chiswick or hounslow

as anyone sold at either of these car boot sales. any tips and what time did you get in the queue. thanks.

M Dowling ● 6602d1 Comments ● 6601d

Re:Something else to worry about

BBC London news tonight talking about the American Embassy moving from Grosvenor Square, one of the choices is Isleworth I guess they need to be nearer the airport.

Helen Fogarth ● 6604d7 Comments ● 6601d

US embassy to up sticks ...to Isleworth?

I quote from C4 SnowMail: "The Americans are selling their embassy in Grosvenor Square, a building which hails from the school of aggressive grotesque architecture. It's a forbidding and unpleasant fortress and absolutely no joy to visit. The US are giving up the attempt to go on maintaining a presence in the centre of the capital of their best friend, and moving off either to Isleworth, near Heathrow, or Greenwich, in the opposite direction. They won't make any money because the fortifications of whatever they build will be so massive. Stephanie West is on the case, asking: is there a hint here concerning US foreign policy?"What are peoples thoughts on this?  Anyone know the site that's they might be considering!?Andrew

Andrew Dakers ● 6602d7 Comments ● 6601d

India's exploding car industry and market

Has anybody been watching the daily reports from India on the Channel4 news this week at 7.00pm? It’s breathtaking how their economy and industry is developing. Last night I was struck by an item on their car industry and its exploding growth. There was a clear example of how the developing countries of China and India will significantly add to the environmental damage caused by carbon emissions as they are currently exempt (as developing countries) from the same emissions controls as the developed countries.For example they had the chairman of Tata Motors talking about his planned new $2,000 car to be launched in 2008. It is aimed at those people who couldn’t afford cars and most likely owned bikes, a big market. It is a bit like what the Trabant was in Eastern Europe, which was just to get more people on the roads.It is a petrol driven car, so this is going to seriously increase the pollution on the Indian roads. There is also the concern for the traffic jams on the inadequate road infrastructure. I suppose when the traffic builds it will force the government to build a better transport infrastructure and maybe call for Ken Livingstone for his experience on Congestion Charging?

Duncan Walker ● 6603d8 Comments ● 6602d

Next Year's mayor/deputy mayor

As the Tories/ICG/Liberals, who constitute a majority on Hounslow Council, are nominating Andrew Morgan-Watts(senior)for Mayor and Caroline Andrews (Mrs) for Deputy Mayor, readers of this forum can consider that they are among the first to know who will be replacing this year's incumbents at the Council AGM on 22nd May.

John Connelly ● 6604d33 Comments ● 6602d

Cautionary tale

A neighbour of ours was burgled this week by 4 men masquerading as C.I.D. Officers investigating a reported burglary! We only found out this morning that they told her that we had reported seeing a break-in! Which was why she let them in. Two kept her occupied while the others "investigated" and robbed her. Apparently they have been seen by a few people in the local area are young men with Irish accents, please be aware and always ask for I.D. or check with the local Police before letting anyone in.

Vanessa Smith ● 6602d2 Comments ● 6602d

ANZAC DAY

Today in Australia 25th April, is ANZAC DAY. To any any 'Aussie Diggers' living away from home we say Thank You.  The word ANZAC embodies our spirit and our national identity. It means something to each and every Australian. Embedded in our national psyche of those bloody battles at Gallipoli over 90 years ago.The inscription on the Ataturk memorial. It reads, in part:"You, the mothers who sent your sons from far away countries, wipe away your tears. Your sons are now lying in our bosom and are in Peace. After having lost their lives on this land, they have become our sons as well."They shall not grow old, as we that are left grow old; Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them.God Bless you all.Joan, Dean and Family from Australia.Rest in Peace.

Joan Perry ● 6610d15 Comments ● 6602d

History in the 1500's

BACK IN THE 1500'SThe next time you are washing your hands and complain because the water temperature isn't just how you like it, think about how things used to be. Here are some facts about the 1500's:Most people got married in June because they took their yearly bath in May, and still smelled pretty good by June. However, they were starting to smell, so brides carried a bouquet of flowers to hide the body odor. Hence the custom today of carrying a bouquet when getting married.Baths consisted of a big tub filled with hot water. The man of the house had the privilege of the nice clean water, then all the other sons and men, then the women and finally the children. Last of all the babies. By then the water was so dirty you could actually lose someone in it. Hence the saying, Don't throw the baby out with the Bath water..Houses had thatched roofs-thick straw-piled high, with no wood underneath. It was the only place for animals to get warm, so all the cats and other small animals (mice, bugs) lived in the roof. When it rained it became slippery and sometimes the animals would slip and fall off the roof. Hence the saying It's raining cats and dogs.There was nothing to stop things from falling into the house.. This posed a real problem in the bedroom where bugs and other droppings could mess up your nice clean bed. Hence, a bed with big posts and a sheet hung over the top afforded some protection. That's how canopy beds came into existence.The floor was dirt. Only the wealthy had something other than dirt. Hence the saying, Dirt poor. The wealthy had slate floors that would get slippery in the winter when wet, so they spread thresh (straw) on floor to help keep their footing. As the winter wore on, they added more thresh until, when you opened the door, it would all start slipping outside. A piece of wood was placed in the entrance way. Hence the saying a thresh hold.In those old days, they cooked in the kitchen with a big kettle that always hung over the fire. Every day they lit the fire and added things to the pot. They ate mostly vegetables and did not get much meat. They would eat the stew for dinner, leaving leftovers in the pot to get cold overnight and then start over the next day. Sometimes stew had food in it that had been there for quite a while.  Hence the rhyme, Peas porridge hot, peas porridge cold, peas porridge in the pot nine days old..Sometimes they could obtain pork, which made them feel quite special. When visitors came over, they would hang up their bacon to show off. It was a sign of wealth that a man could bring home the bacon.  They would cut off a little to share with guests and would all sit around and chew the fat..Those with money had plates made of pewter. Food with high acid content caused some of the lead to leach onto the food, causing lead poisoning death. This happened most often with tomatoes, so for the next 400 years or so, tomatoes were considered poisonous.Bread was divided according to status. Workers got the burnt bottom of the loaf, the family got the middle, and guests got the top, or the upper crust.Lead cups were used to drink ale or whiskey. The combination would sometimes knock the imbibers out for a couple of days. Someone walking along the road would take them for dead and prepare them for burial. They were laid out on the kitchen table for a couple of days and the family would gather around and eat and drink and wait and see if they would wake up. Hence the custom of holding a wake.    England is old and small and the local folks started running out of  places to bury people. So they would dig up coffins and would take the bones to a bone-house, and reuse the grave. When reopening these coffins, 1 out of 25 coffins were found to have scratch marks on the inside and they realized they had been burying people alive. So they  would tie a string on the wrist of the corpse, thread it through the coffin and up through the ground and tie it to a bell. Someone would have to sit out in the graveyard all night (the graveyard shift.) to listen for the bell; thus, someone could be saved by the bell or was considered a dead ringer.And that's the truth...Now, whoever said History was boring ! ! !Joan Perry.Copied from PLM website.

Joan Perry ● 6604d2 Comments ● 6603d

Price's Bakery - Brentford?

I am trying to find out if a Price's Bakery was located in Brentford. It would be c.1900.All my books are in store.Anyone able to help?

Neil Chippendale ● 6605d1 Comments ● 6605d

Update Shivon

Dear allI just thought I would give you all a update on Shivon!!She is back having Chemo again after having 6wks off she has lost her hair again.She is still on her food drip!!She is at West Midd now having a blood transfussion but she is doing great...I have sent off my 2 choices to do my sponsor jump my first choice will be 29th sept or my 2nd chance will be 6th October.But anyway Shivon is well and i will keep u all informed!!Thanks to you all you hae sent her Get well cards and gifts..Simon anderson

Simon Anderson ● 7195d25 Comments ● 6605d

Uncover the real Brentford.

I am a bit of an information leaflet freak and tend to pick up and rummage whenever I see a pile.  There are some smashing ones issued under the Mayors remit, which are free.I have been looking at ones which advertise our local area and I am often disappointed with what they say or offer.  The latest leaflet I have found is a ‘Days out’ in London, from the British Waterways stand at the Global Challenge meeting yesterday.  I thought the information about what is available for a day out in the Brentford area is again very limited and costly if you take their advice to spend most of the day at Syon House.The pages in this particular leaflet do not include any walks along the river or canal or any heritage walks/trails – are there any left?  How about local canal boat/boat hire or bike hire?What would you like to appear and promote in information leaflets about our area, should somebody pop over to the centre of Brentford and want to make a day of it wandering around the locality?

Sarah Felstead ● 6605d1 Comments ● 6605d

Well - it made me laugh!

Reports that the Beckhams have bought a £10m pad in L.A. - "just 6 bedrooms as Victoria was anxious to create a modest, cosy family environment. They could easily have looked at some of the vulgar, sprawling 25 bedroom estates but neither wanted anything too ostentatious". God forbid they should ever be accused of that!

Vanessa Smith ● 6607d2 Comments ● 6607d

Vyborg

Sarah, Jim, Gerry...I'm polishing up the wardrobe;  the troika has been ordered to wait for us;  how about it?  The snow looks lovely and firm in Vyborg!

Ann S. Allridge ● 6696d77 Comments ● 6608d

TW8 Information

If you look under the Information Section on the main page, several new pages have gone up. We have the new look calendar, a separate list of regular weekly events, a list of Brentford websites and a Brentford directory.I realise that they need a lot more detail added to them, but would be grateful for any feedback and/or missing details either posted here or emailed to listings@brentfordtw8.com(And I'm working on Jim's lovely list of websites)

Kath Richardson ● 6710d2 Comments ● 6608d

Anagrams something lighthearted

This has got to be one of the most cleverE-mails I've received in awhile.Someone out there either has too muchspare time or is deadly at Scrabble.(Wait till you see the last one)! Anyone know any others?DORMITORY: When you rearrange the letters:DIRTY ROOM PRESBYTERIAN: When you rearrange the letters:BEST IN PRAYER ASTRONOMER: When you rearrange the letters:MOON STARER DESPERATION: When you rearrange the letters:A ROPE ENDS IT! THE EYES:  When you rearrange the letters: THEY SEE GEORGE BUSH: When you rearrange the letters:HE BUGS GORE THE MORSE CODE :When you rearrange the letters:HERE COME DOTS SLOT MACHINES: When you rearrange the letters:CASH LOST IN ME ANIMOSITY: When you rearrange the letters:IS NO AMITY ELECTION RESULTS: When you rearrange the letters:LIES - LET'S RECOUNT SNOOZE ALARMS: When you rearrange the letters:ALAS! NO MORE Z 'S A DECIMAL POINT: When you rearrange the letters:IM A DOT IN PLACE THE EARTHQUAKES: When you rearrange the letters:THAT QUEER SHAKE ELEVEN PLUS TWO: When you rearrange the letters:TWELVE PLUS ONE AND FOR THE GRAND FINALE: MOTHER-IN-LAW:When you rearrange the letters: WOMAN HITLER Yep! Someone with waaaaaaaaaaaytoo much time on their hands! (Probably a son-in-law).

Andrew Michael John Atkinson ● 6610d6 Comments ● 6609d

Hear from/about your MP

I don't remember seeing this posted here so thought I wouldhttp://www.theyworkforyou.com/mp/ann_keen/brentford_and_isleworth shows you how Ann Keen has voted recently and other useful/interesting/sad nuggets of information.You can also ask them to email you whenever she speaks in parliament on http://www.theyworkforyou.com/alert/?only=1&pid=10330You can also sign up to get email from your MP http://www.hearfromyourmp.com/"If you enter your details, we'll add you to a queue of other people in your constituency. When enough have signed up, your MP will get sent an email. It'll say "25 of your constituents would like to hear what you're up to. Hit reply to let them know". If they don't reply, nothing will happen, until your MP gets a further email which says there are now 50, then 75, 100, 150 — until it is nonsensical not to reply and start talking."I do wonder how many constituents would need to sign up before she would respond. If all of us here signed up that would at least hit the 25...

Kath Richardson ● 6610d3 Comments ● 6610d

The Wagon And Horses

Has anyone been in there recently? We popped in last Saturday evening on our way home and though I have witnessed bad service on occasions over the years in various pubs,this had to be in the top five at least.The barmaid could not speak a single word of English so the transaction started with sign language which eventually started the process of a pint and a half of lager being poured.So far so good I thought but then disaster as the barrel ran out half way through her pouring the pint.She then began topping it up with bitter and the more I tried to stop her the more she just smiled.Her colleague then came over and after a while grasped that I did not want what was sitting on the bar.The two then started insisting that I should pay anyway but by this time I had given up and we left laughing at what we had witnessed.

Paul Fisher ● 6610d2 Comments ● 6610d

Boot sale Challenge

I just saw Our Very own Fran on Car Boot on BBC1 raising money for a memorial bench for her Son James.Well done Fran you all look very loving family...

Simon Anderson ● 6610d0 Comments ● 6610d

brentford woman sexually assaulting a young boy

After reading this story i felt absolutely sick as a mother of 3 boys myself i cannot justify what this woman has done.Was she not thinking of her own family let alone her so called friends,obviously not i feel she got a Very leniant sentence.

Tracy Betterton ● 6612d7 Comments ● 6611d

Syon Lodge Development

A pleasing development....The elegant Georgian mansion, Syon Lodge on London Road, near Busch Corner, owned by the Crowther family is being reconverted to a family house.http://planning.hounslow.gov.uk/planningv2/Planning_CaseNo.aspx?strCASENO=P/2006/0960"Internal alterations to change the existing building to change from commercial use to a single family house, incorporating external alterations and the reinstatement of 3 chimneys."In 2002 the contents of the house were auctioned at Sotheby’s and the preamble for the sale items has an interesting description of the history of this wonderful house.“THE NAME Crowther of Syon Lodge is synonymous with selling fine garden statuary and architectural antiques for both the interior and exterior. Founded by Thomas Crowther in 1876, the company went on to be managed by his second son, Bert, and then by his 21-year-old great-grandson, Derek, who after 45 years in the business has decided to retire.”http://www.shareholder.com/bid/news/20020904-89331.cfmI tried to find out some more of the history of the house and found:1.  Syon Lodge has been a private school at one time.2.  A Sir William Blaxland Benham, K.B.E., F.R.S., (1860–1950) , a zoologist  “was brought up in a happy and healthy environment in a large house with extensive grounds of about three acres at Syon Lodge, Isleworth, adjacent to the Duke of Northumberland's house”http://rsnz.natlib.govt.nz/volume/rsnz_80/rsnz_80_01_002280.html3. George Manville Fenn (1831-1909); English novelist, boys' writer lived there in 1898. I found this reference to a letter sent from Syon Lodge http://www.holmesautographs.com/cgi-bin/dha455.cgi/7261.html?id=LmabFtwGMr. Fenn was a writer of fiction for over fifty years.  He died at his well-known residence, Syon Lodge, Isleworth (a fine old-fashioned house) on August 27, 1909, leaving a splendid library of over 25,000 well-chosen volumes, and an estate which was sworn for probate at £11,778.  Unlike many of the old Fleet Street Bohemian writers of fiction who passed away in obscurity and oblivion penniless and nameless, Mr. Fenn left his family a respectable fortune and revered name.  Apart from his literary achievements, Mr. Fenn was an expert gardener, as those who know Syon Lodge, a well-known landmark, can testify. (http://www.geocities.com/justingilb/texts/PEEPS.htm )I’m pleased it will revert to a single family house again.

Duncan Walker ● 6674d52 Comments ● 6611d

Pesky Spam

I am presently receiving spam from an online chemist – offering me products which I would have to ask the Doctor about.  I thought I could just put in the message blocker but they are using different e-mail addresses and variations of the contact web site address so my blocking list became extremely long without any affect.  Pesky people, grrr grrr.  Is there anything I can do?

Sarah Felstead ● 6612d5 Comments ● 6611d

Flora Marathon Run for Charities

May I through forum take this opportunity to thank all of those caring people who today, put themselves through this tough gruelling event for the benefit of others. Many charities would be unable to carry out the essential research without the cash that is raised from this event.I have reason to thank, particularly those who chose to run for the various cancer charities, having lost my Mother, Father, young sister, and a beloved nepher aged just 30 with this dreadful disease. The runners who chose the Heart foundation also have my gratitude, the money that they raise has saved thousands of lives through the research, that was and is funded through their efforts, and I have benefited from this personally.In thanking all of these "super heroes", I/we must not forget the people who generously sponsor them. Thanks seems so inadequate.

Andrew Michael John Atkinson ● 6613d2 Comments ● 6612d

Kitchen needing installing

Afternoon all on TW8..Is there anyone who can help me out?I was due to have my new kitchen installed this week, but was let down badly and now am looking for a miracle!!I know that there are area's of this site that provide tradesmen/women details, but I was hoping if anyone here knows and can recommend a reliable kitchen fitter who could be currently available and not over priced?? See.. A miracle is what I need! :)Let me know pls....CheersRich

Richard de Matos ● 6612d1 Comments ● 6612d

Twickenham/Coley/Brentford re-visited - Joan

Rather than making the Coley post longer, I decided to start with a new post. I would like to share with you some photos from my past to compare the differences. When June finds them I'll post them. She's not 'just down the road' so the pigeon carrier has to fly faster to get them here!Jim took a photo of a white house on a corner. This photo is that same house.This photo is taken outside in the back garden of 32 Fourth Cross Rd, Twickenham. Note the houses in the background. They would be on 5th Cross Rd. This last photo is at Coley's. Hope you can read it.Thank you for allowing me to display the photos on your forum.With much gratitude.June, Johnny and Joan.

Joan Perry ● 6612d6 Comments ● 6612d

Most Hated Family in the USA

Did anyone see this programme last night?I was sick to my stomach when i watched this family.They say they are doing the Lords work..more like the Devils work!I was shocked at the way they used there young Children to hold up banners that they did not understand and 1 7yr old boy was hit in the head by a plastic cup filled with water by a passing car.I wondered where are the Social Services when they are needed as those kids should off been removed from this families care.I wonder how long it will be before 1 of them are killed for doing this or 1 off there kids...LOUIS THEROUX - THE MOST HATED FAMILY IN AMERICASunday 01/04/07, BBC2There's perhaps been a feeling of late that Louis Theroux has just been treading the same old water for some time with his documentaries on the weirdness of the world. Where once Theroux would astonish the viewer with all manner of odd encounters, the most recent film on gambling in Las Vegas (which appeared following a long break from our screens) was fairly weak, insipid and unexciting stuff. Now, however, Theroux more than makes up for any failures with a more promising subject worthy of his examination.America breeds its fair share of loonies, but the Phelps family are something else. As odious as the white supremacists Theroux encountered in South Africa, and as out of touch with reality as the gun-totin' hillbillies from the wilds of the USA, here the documentary-makers finds himself as a guest of the Westboro Baptist Church and their appalling attitudes towards the world. These are people who picket the funerals of dead servicemen, upsetting mourning relatives. They parade the streets with home-made placards bearing messages such as "God Hates Fags", and "Thank God for 9/11". They don't like Jews because they "worship the rectum", and are intolerant of both the rest of society and any other religion, even going to the extent of being happy when a local rival church catches fire.Their banners condemn celebrities, from Liz Taylor to Princess Diana, to poor old Desmond Tutu - probably one of the most decent men on the planet. A store that sells vacuum cleaners from Sweden becomes a target simply because Sweden has done something to incur their wrath. Louis himself is seen as a sinner for having a child out of wedlock. Everybody is heading to hell, apart from the members of the church. Theirs is a twisted, perverted version of religion that is thankfully relatively contained within a small area of Kansas. The 70-odd members of the church are disliked by the rest of the local community and group themselves together in a large enclave of houses, where, presumably they feel some kind of safety in numbers.The church is officially led by the elderly Pastor Phelps. We don't meet him at first, with the documentary team preferring to let him retain an air of mystery so we will be more interested when he finally makes an appearance. Phelps' brainwashed daughter Shirley is the driving force and what a thoroughly unpleasant woman she is. She is the mother of 11 children, all of whom she's raising to hold the same views as herself. The family are like the worst characters you would ever meet in an episode of South Park, and it is frightening to think this kind of person exists. If you thought David Koresh's Branch Davidians at Waco were a peculiar bunch, they had nothing on this lot.One of the most upsetting aspects of the church is the way they bring up their children. Like all religious groups, the Phelps' need to pass on their beliefs to the next generation and it is saddening to see tiny kids spouting ideology which has been pumped into them. Theroux talks to a seven-year-old girl who clearly (and thankfully) does not know what she is saying. The church takes the children out with them on their pickets, and the poor kids become targets of the general public.The church is quite happy to put their own offspring into the firing line - in one case, quite literally, as a young lad is hit on the head by a cup full of drink hurled by a vexed motorist. Surprisingly though, the children attend a normal school and the young adults have normal jobs in the community. Not that they behave in any normal manner - they don't have friends from outside the church, merely acquaintances. Megan, a young woman, reveals that when she was in school none of the other children wanted anything to do with her, and it's easy to see that the latest generation of the congregation will probably suffer the same fate. The young can't have a normal life at all, with one scene showing a 21-year old has to telephone her mother to see if it is okay to go for a coffee with Theroux and the crew at a café.Not only content with filling the heads of their own children with rubbish, they are also attempting to spread their views across America as well as the world. It's revealed that the church spends around $200,000 a year on flights, just so they can picket funerals on the other side of the country. Added to this, they have a number of websites on which they broadcast sermons. These are run by Steve, an ex-documentary maker who fell in with the church after coming to make a film on them. He was somehow transformed from a normal liberal person, to a hateful member of the Phelps clan. Thankfully the same fate does not befall Theroux.Finally we do get to meet Pastor Phelps - an unpleasant old bigot. He refuses to answer Theroux's questions: "You're just too dumb - sorry". Phelps Snr can offer no logical or sensible argument to support the views he and his flock possess, and we learn little from him.As is the norm with a Louis Theroux documentary, we don't see any real change in the attitudes of the people we meet or much in the way of explanation. Try as he might, "scoffer and mocker" Theroux has no impact on them. They are never going to change their views. There is no clue given as to where this lot sprang from. No mention is made of how they were formed. A bit more historical context might have helped us to understand a little about the church and where their abhorrent views originate.The Westboro Baptist Church will be content forever to preach their messages of hate and be hated by everybody in turn. They simply don't care. For their own sakes, hopefully some more of the group will see fit to escape like the four of Pastor Phelps' daughters who left to join the civilized world. The Most Hated Family in America is fairly typical Theroux stuff, but is the most interesting documentary he has crafted in some time. Hopefully it will pave the way for a few more.

Simon Anderson ● 6630d20 Comments ● 6614d

Paragon Site wins Building Award

The Thames Valley university buildings known as the Paragon has unbelievably won a prestigous award from Building Magazine.  The prize was for Major Housing Project of the Year. Any comments ?

Pat Kingham ● 6616d2 Comments ● 6615d

Hooray for common sense...

Well,thanks to any of the local constabulary and/or councillors who may have been involved in the recent restriction of hrs. for Foodlink,the 24 hr shop come crim-magnet on Brentford High St.It will now be open from 7am-12 midnight.No longer,hopefully,will there me 'hoodies' hanging about with nowt better to do at 3am.

Keith Iddon ● 6615d2 Comments ● 6615d

Women's cricket -  interested in playing?

Dukesmead WCC are the only womens cricket club in LB Hounslow. We are a very well established club, celebrating are 80th year playing in Chiswick this summer. New players are always welcome, whatever your age or experience (although we don't currently have a colts side so all players must be of an age to play with a hard ball). Outdoor summer training is 6.30-8pm on Thursday nights, starting 26th April. We play in women's cricket Southern League Division One. League games are 45 overs, and played on Sundays throughout the summer, 1.45pm start. First league match is Sunday 6th May. We also enter the national cup each year. These games are 40 overs, 2pm start. Friendly games are played on Saturdays, the first of which is on Saturday 28th April. If you are genuinely interested in playing, please contact me by e-mail for more details

Lorraine Poole ● 6616d0 Comments ● 6616d

ST GEORGES DAY PARADE WHITTON?

Could someone please tell me what time the St Georges Day Parade in Whitton High St starts this weekend? I have never been before and would also like to know if anyone has been what its like and what it includes?

Mark Welland ● 6618d11 Comments ● 6616d

How daft is this?

I have just heard that Walton Firs camp site near Cobham in Surrey is in danger of being sold for development unless £800,000 can be raised.  The Scout association has decided to sell the freehold and the plan is for it to be bought and run by Walton Firs Foundation (charity number 1113830).  Our local scout group has been using the site regularly for some 60 years.Walton firs is a unique site of importance to many young people and youth groups needing the space and facilities for the stimulating activities our youngsters are crying out for.  Like building on school playing fields – how daft is this?Walton Firs Foundation c/o Linda Brown  5 Goffs Road, Ashford Common, TW15 1PG

Sarah Felstead ● 6623d12 Comments ● 6616d

New Jive class/Club starting tonight

Jean Leclerc Born in France in 1955 And teaching dance  in and around London since 1994 with Liability insurance & CRB checksis please to announce that now you canlearn how to jive (couple dance style call "East coast swing" from America).It is good exercise, it's fun and you can come on your own.The class start at 7pm with a 5 minutes warm up with learning a stroll (Line dance style), followed by a beginners Jive class where you will learn the basic of how to look good on the dance floor, in no time, in a relax atmosphere. At 8.15pm Intermediate class until 9.15pm Dance until 11pm Cost: £5 per class, £8 for the evening £5 after 9pm for the dancingThere is a £40 card that you can use also at our Mondays class at Waterloo.(11 stars discount card: 1 start off = 1 class2 starts off = for the all evening  If you need some more details please phone Jean Leclerc 07944775556otherwise see at THE CHISWICK TENNIS CLUB, Burlington Lane, London W4 3EU  Corner of Staveley Road and Burlington Road2 minutes walk from Chiswick train Station Bus:E3 from Turnham Green stationEasy access by M4 and A4

Jean Leclerc ● 6616d0 Comments ● 6616d

Phil Andrews needs a job

It seems that being a Councillor doesn't keep Phil Andrews busy enough, he seems to have all day every day to spend on this forum whinging, complaining, and insulting people. I'd be delighted if he spent as much time on his council business as he does on this website behaving like an elected Jade Goody. When an elected member of our council, who sits on the executive with tories, devotes so much time to a forum obsessing about Labour and insulting ordinary community members who happen to disagree with him you do wonder what councillors are for these days.  A cyberspace war on Labour? You wouldn't see the same behaviour of Matt Harmer or Andrew Dakers, would you?  It makes me wonder if the quality of Councillors hasn't reached an all time low.  I suggest Mr Andrews keeps a closer eye on his Tory partners and less time on this website. Perhaps then I'd have less need to observe mounting reasons to disapprove of Cllr Andrews taking up a place on our Council and less need to worry that my Council Tax payments are used on his "services."It is bad enough that we have an MP who can't be bothered to to spend any real length of time in the Borough. It's even worse when we have the head of the Independent "Conservative" Group (ICG)in charge of local services ranting on a forum and seemingly wasting time not doing what he was elected to do for this community... not including losing it CPA ratings.

Conal Stewart ● 6619d13 Comments ● 6617d

Labour stealth taxes

Interesting website which shows exactly how we are all being mugged for our cash.http://myweb.tiscali.co.uk/garbagegate/item2/stealth.htm

Paul Fisher ● 6619d16 Comments ● 6617d

Unable to log off

Hmm, we have two forum users who have used the same computer and only one available identity! To avoid having to impersonate my mother, who last posted from my computer, I've tried to log off and log back in again as myself, but clicking on 'Log Off' does exactly nothing. Anyone else have this problem?

Nancy Newland ● 6617d0 Comments ● 6617d

Camogie Open Day this Saturday 14 April

The Tara Camogie Club Open Day is on this Saturday at Greenford so a chance for ladies to take up a new sport or pick up the hurl again in the promised sunshine!  Current Club members range in age from 12 years to 40+ and as we have junior and senior teams cater for all standards.The Open Day commences at 11am until 3pm and there will be an opportunity to puck a few balls around and meet and speak to Tara members.  The Club will have ample equipment such as hurls, helmets and sliotars on the day but please wear comfortable clothing and trainers/boots.   Pre-booking is not essential but would be appreciated.  If this is not possible – just turn up.  Contact:  Sheila – 0777 1957 341 or 020 8561 3544.  Further details can be found at  www.camogie.co.uk 

Sheila Fernandes ● 6623d4 Comments ● 6618d

St Georges Day Charity Fancy Dress Party 21st April 07

hi all i have the tickets for the st georges day charity fancy dress party 21st april 07 9-1am at cafe society (pc world) brentford tickets are £5 from fantasy land party shop 61 ealing road 8 569 8765 07930 594 610  open tues-sat 12-5pmwww.fantasylandpartyshop.piczo.comTickets are selling wellwe are raising money for the premature baby unit and starlight childrens ward west middlesex hospital isleworth.prizes for the best costumeshope you can make itall the best Debbie x

Debbie Dewar ● 6639d12 Comments ● 6618d

Help!

How did you interpret the last episode of "Life on Mars"?  - Brilliant and thoroughly enjoyable series but what were we supposed to deduce from that ending?

Vanessa Smith ● 6624d11 Comments ● 6618d

Anyone Know...

The website address that you go onto to download discount tickets to theme parks such as Lego land Please?Many Thanks!!

Simon Anderson ● 6620d2 Comments ● 6620d

HEALING IN CHISWICK

A reminder that the monthly healing centre at the London Buddhist Vihara, The Avenue, Chiswick, will be open tomorrow, Monday, 17th April between 11am and 1pm.  The third monday of this month due to the Easter Monday falling on the second!Healing helps any condition, from stress right through to physical illness and no matter what is said on the television programme, it is not just a placebo!!!  There is no charge made for the healing (all the healers are working on a voluntary basis), although a donation would be welcome.There is no need to make an appointment or book but if you want any further information before coming please give me a ring on 0788 189 6449.

Pat Smith ● 6620d0 Comments ● 6620d

What happened at the Jet filling station tonight??

Lots of police, 3 ambulances + the road half blocked but when I passed it didn't look like a huge accident had happened. OK, so I didn't linger and gawp. I'd still be interested to know what happened though.

Anneberth Lux ● 6622d1 Comments ● 6620d

Penalty Charges

I just watched a great story on WATCDOG tonight about Penalty charges companies are charging us every month if we don't pay Direct Debit.Thousands of people around the Country are saying it is wrong and a rip off and Mp'S are Backing them.Watchdog has asked EVERYONE to lobby the company/s that you are with who are charging you a Penalty Charge and together we can beat them.WATCHDOG has placed a Template letter for you to print out and send to the company you are protesting against you can find it by going to: www.bbc.co.uk/watchdog and click on the link under "Penalty Charges"those companies that are charging us a penalty charge are:BTVirgin MediaTalk Talk3o2T-MobileVodafoneOrangeBritish GasPowergenN PowerEDFTogether we can Beat them

Simon Anderson ● 6652d36 Comments ● 6623d

LOCAL DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK - Consultation details update 

This may well be of interest to folk.  A key opportunity to influence planning decisions in the years to come....Following the introduction of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004, Hounslow Council has made progress in the delivery of its Local Development Framework (LDF). The LDF will comprise of a series of Local Development Documents (LDDs) which will replace the existing Unitary Development Plan, and provide the basis for spatial planning in the Borough.The timetable for the production of the LDF and further detail about the documents the Council is producing is set out in the Local Development Scheme. The Statement of Community Involvement, the first Local Development Document, was adopted by the Council in September 2006, following two stages of consultation. The Brentford Area Action Plan and Employment Development Plan have both been through two stages of consultation and are expected to be submitted to the Secretary of State in June 2007, with Examinations at the end of 2007 or beginning of 2008.The Council is now starting work on its Core Strategy, with the first stage of consultation (Issues and Options) to take place in May 2007. If you would like to be kept informed of the emerging Core Strategy, and other Local Development Documents, please complete the interactive form at:http://www.hounslow.gov.uk/index/environment_and_planning/planning/planning_policy/involvement_in_core_strategy.htm If you have any further queries please contact the Strategic Planning Policy Team on the details below. Many Thanks LDF Team Email:  ldf@hounslow.gov.uk Web:    www.hounslow.gov.uk Tel:    020 8583 5202 Fax:    020 8583 5233 Strategic Planning Policy London Borough of Hounslow Civic Centre, Lampton Road Hounslow, TW3 4DN

Andrew Dakers ● 6624d2 Comments ● 6623d

Why are the Tories/ICG losing us CPA ratings less than a year on?

There can only be one reason for this and that reason is cuts.But please discuss

Conal Stewart ● 6660d44 Comments ● 6624d

Would you believe it?

West Ham beat Arsenal today - and there was me saying that even if they only played Thierry Henry they'd lose. Oh ye of little faith, Up the Hammers!!

Vanessa Smith ● 6628d0 Comments ● 6628d

Where will it end...?

Any thoughts on the domestic violence surcharge of £15 on speeding fines?

Keith Iddon ● 6633d21 Comments ● 6628d

Happy...

Easter Everyone..Hope you all have an Eggstatic weekend.

Simon Anderson ● 6629d0 Comments ● 6629d

Jogging

Would anyone like to go jogging up the Grand Union canal on Sunday mornings and/or one night during the week? I am currently quite unfit, but aiming to run 5km without stopping.  If you interested, email me on jane.rockel@btinternet.com.

Jane Rockel ● 6629d1 Comments ● 6629d

CPZ in St John's Road

I thought this merited a new thread This is what I've heard:* that there is a petition aginst a Controlled Parking Zone in St John's Road which is being circulated amongst local residents. I think there is a copy posted in the bakers as well, which people can sign* that so far we don't know how many local people petitioned Houndslow to introduce a CPZ (I don't know any) I didn't attend the public meeting last night Monday so I don't know what the upshot if it was (have I missed the minutes somewhere?)But this is the letter I have sent to Hounslow traffic and parking via email:Hello I would like to register my strong objection to a CPZ in St John's Road. I personally have not experienced major problems in parking outside or near my house. I also believe a CPZ would discourage passing trade for shops in the area. In summary, I feel a CPZ is both unnecessary and will hurt local businesses.. Secondly, I understand from last night's public meeting in Isleworth that the council's representatives claimed that Hounslow had received requests from local residents for a CPZ . Would you please release the figure for the total number of requests that you received, so I may make a judgement on how much local pressure there is to impose a CPZ? Many thanksJulian Joyce62 St Johns RoadIsleworthTW7 6NW

Julian Joyce ● 6631d4 Comments ● 6629d

Easter Egg Fund

As most of you know up till a few weeks ago i was Chairman of a resident group called IVYTAG which is based on Ivybridge Estate in Isleworth.Last week i met with a couple residents about raising some money to purchase Easter eggs for families who live on the estate who are on low income.A Mr Ayoby started the Fund off and donated the £20 he got from the Chronicle for his letter he wrote last week.A few other members donated and in total we raised £40, so i went to Asda today and purchased 40 eggs and distributed them to some families on Ivybridge Estate.Whilst i was doing this another resident on the Estate asked me "what's with all the Eggs?" I informed him what i was doing and he donated another £30 so tomorrow i will be purchasing and distributing another 30 eggs on Ivybridge.I would like to thank all those IVYTAG members who gave money for this great cause.I would like to inform everyone that in a few weeks time I will be raffling a Brand New BMX Bike donated by a local businessman off and all proceeds will go to those families in need on Ivybridge.If you want to purchase a ticket please email me tickets will be £1 each.

Simon Anderson ● 6631d3 Comments ● 6630d

Good News

Isn't it great that our Sailors and Marines are on their way home now? Their familes have every right to be pleased and relieved.

Vanessa Smith ● 6631d1 Comments ● 6631d

Can anyone recommend a DJ for an 80's night?

Our cricket club are celebrating 80 years this summer, and want to hold an 80's party. Can anyone recommend a local DJ who is reasonably priced and plays 80's music?

Lorraine Poole ● 6633d2 Comments ● 6631d

HEALING IN CHISWICK

As Easter falls on the second Monday of this month the healing centre at the London Buddhist Vihara will take place on Monday 16th April from 11am-1pm.

Pat Smith ● 6631d0 Comments ● 6631d

The Ramblers

http://www.ramblers.org.uk/Local Groupshttp://www.ramblers.co.uk/groups/search.php?area=Ealing&zoomLevel=4&showMap=1http://www.ramblers.co.uk/groups/search.php?area=Richmond%7CSURREY&zoomLevel=4&showMap=1&

Sarah Felstead ● 6632d0 Comments ● 6632d

Brentford,Chiswick & Isleworth Times to be folded up. Dreadful news

After having been our local newspaper for over 134 years, the  Brentford, Chiswick and Isleworth edition is to be folded up.  What dreadful news!We knew that the circulation figures and advertising revenues were under pressure from Community Websites like ours….but no-one expected such happenings. I don’t suppose that freebie newspaper in circulation help either.More news to follow. My mate is trying to find out more.

Jim Lawes ● 6634d15 Comments ● 6632d

Prescription charge

Gordon Brown sings the praises of his most recent budget.......The one where he gave money out with one hand, and then took it back with the other. Now would you believe it, prescription charges are to rise a further 20p, taking each item up to £6.80. Punish the sick it would seem to me!  Are these people really "Socialists"?Now thanks to devolution in Wales, they have scrapped the charge all together........How I wonder? Perhaps Mr C knows? I only hope somebody comes on to tell me I have cot it wrong.

Andrew Michael John Atkinson ● 6634d7 Comments ● 6633d

Heathrow Third Runway

I hope this is the Sunday Times April Fool story, but fear that it isn't.Fast track for third runwayhttp://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/industry_sectors/transport/article1595825.ece"At Heathrow, executives have done extensive work on how a three-runway airport would operate to cause the least pollution. The new strip would be used for both take-offs and landings, the central runway would be used for arrivals and the southerly one for departures."

Tim Henderson ● 6634d3 Comments ● 6633d

Huge Fire In Layton Road

The Fire brigrade (around 30) and police (around 15) have been trying to put out the fire in the Food Processing Factory since 10ish this morning.  Apparently they will be there until tonight.  BBC,ITV and reporters in big attendance. Watch the news tonight.

Fran Naughton ● 6637d5 Comments ● 6635d

South High St Project - next  Workshop

Third public workshop to assemble ideas for re-development is on Sunday next (11th March).This will be examining the historical background to Brentford's growth over the centuries, what we should seek to retain in the way of buildings, street pattern and uses - with why and how questions to be dealt with.Those who've been interested in the High Tide postings will be glad to know that the author of the booklet on the 1841 Flood will be giving a talk, and we'll have Hounslow's charts to show areas now at risk.Kicks off at 10am for a walk around the sites, with talks and workshops following from 1230pm in the Brentford Docks Residents' Room, - just beside the footbridge. I'll hope to see all those who've contributed ideas on this Forum, from dinosaurs to modernists.

Nigel Moore ● 6657d12 Comments ● 6635d

Is New Labour sinking?

http://www.netdisaster.com/go.php?mode=flood&url=http://www.annkeenmp.org.uk/

Phil Andrews ● 6636d4 Comments ● 6635d

Mega Mosque is it true?

Dear All, Please take a second to cast your vote in the Evening Standard on-line poll to determine public opinion about whether a Mega mosque should be built (at a cost to the taxpayer of £100 million) for the Olympic Games. The vote so far is 58% in favour . It seems that the Muslim community is casting its vote in droves; and, as usual, the Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jews and Christians are burying their head in the sand - perhaps for fear of appearing racist or politically incorrect? How can the Government allow this, when there will be a mixture of faiths at these Games? Surely, if it is necessary in the first place to spend public money on building a dedicated place of worship at the Olympic Games Site, then, instead of a Mega Mosque, there should be an Inter-faith Centre, where believers of any religion can go and pray? Here's the link: http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/poll/poll-18791-details/ques-18669-id/%C2%A3100m+mosque:+Vote+now/poll.do

Helen Fogarth ● 6637d10 Comments ● 6636d

Controlled Parking Zone in Linkfield Road

The council are consulting residents in the Linkfield Road area about introducing a CPZ.  This is for part of Linkfield Road & some surrounding roads.I'm afraid I don't have all the details to hand as I no longer live in Linkfield Road & haven't seen the documentation, but my mother asked if I could post something on this forum for her, so I'm doing this from memory...The council want to charge £60 (or £65?) per annum.  Anyway, that's for the first year - a friend's CPZ charge in a neighbouring borough got substantially increased for the 2nd & subsequent years!  Once it's in they seem to do what they want!She attended a meeting about it yesterday evening. My mother is against it.  She believes that CPZs are just a revenue generating scheme for councils.  As a pensioner, she will be getting an increase of £3 something per week in her pension & the council want to take £1 something of it so she can park in the road outside her house! (& with no guarantee of a space either.  In fact, the council want to introduce some yellow lines to the road, so existing parking spaces will be reduced).There aren't any parking problems during the day on week days anyway.  There is more of a problem in the evenings & at weekends, which is when the CPZ wouldn't be in force anyway!Another reason a CPZ is being put forward is to ease congestion in Linkfield Road due to it's narrowness, as when two or more vehicles meet it is very difficult for them to pass each other.  The current works in St John's Road & the crazy diversion scheme put in place have only made this situation worse. Again, presumably, these yellow lines would not be in force in the evenings/weekends, so do not present a solution.  For many years now we believe Linkfield Road should be made one way.  Now that Amhurst Gardens has been made one way (due to the St John's Road works diversion) & from what we understand, is to remain one way, it adds weight to the argument that Linkfield Road should be a one way street in the opposite direction to Amhurst. I couldn't find anything on Linkfield Road CPZ when I Googled, but I did find some contact details for Hounslow regarding CPZs which might be helpful if anyone wishes to contact the council about this or any other proposed CPZ:Traffic SectionCivic CentreLampton RoadHounslowTW3 4DNTel: 020 8583 2000E-mail: traffic@hounslow.gov.uk

Lynn Clark ● 6642d27 Comments ● 6636d

How do you find the local green-box recycling services?

Had to ring Hounslow last week as the recycling people just didn't turn up. Claire Howard (020 8583 5063) was very helpful. Is is just Layton Road, or have others had problems?

Nancy Newland ● 6646d7 Comments ● 6637d

Rogues Gallery

I am so fed up with people deliberately parking their cars and vans in our drive, even directly under the signs saying it’s private, with bays marked out for our client’s use.It quite simply means that those with a legitimate right to park there are often forced out elsewhere.It’s the one’s who you’ve spoken to nicely and politely, appealing to their neighbourliness etc rather than getting legalistic and stroppy, who get up my nose. (Those that completely and brazenly ignore you of course, - sometimes a quiet word to ordinary people is all it takes, they can pretend they misunderstood the situation but now they know better for example). But those others who are happy to carry on sticking two fingers up in your face!!Yesterday I came back to find a long time offender parked at the end. There’s always someone different driving it every time I see it, but notes have been placed on the car, friends have pointed out the signs and read them out – (they claim to be unable to read English!), I have spoken nicely to one driver in the presence of police, they grunt agreement, then back they are, soon as one’s back is turned.This time I saw a woman enter and drive it off. I strolled up to the gate and took a photo to log the event, and I will be doing so consistently in future, for whatever good it does.What it did do this time, was provoke an unexpected visit to the front gate by a big glossy black well groomed gentlemen demanding to know why I’d photographed ‘his woman’ and promising that he’d get back from me that photo, just wait and see! Well I’m not sure even now what his problem was, or what he expected from me. Giving him a copy of the photo is easy, and I told him I’d send it to the police and he could get a copy from them as well. But if he wanted the ‘original’ then how does that preserve ‘his woman’s’ soul if that was the cause of their upset? Copies are now all over the place, is she splintered amongst the digital universe irretrievably? Gone are the days when you could destroy a negative and any prints. Maybe it was jealousy, thinking of others having an image to perve over? (Excuse me while I puke quietly off to the side). Scarcely enough seen of her for that, but still …Then again, maybe it was more prosaic, she’s not licensed to drive? That seems quite likely, and he doesn’t want the evidence that she does?I’m posting it here so he can assuage his tortured soul with the realisation that she can’t be recognised anyway. Not having left a name and address, how else could I oblige him?

Nigel Moore ● 6639d2 Comments ● 6637d

Transport for London

Anybody interested in a post with TFL as an advisor? You will be required to work for 90 days per annum at £730k or £8,100 a day? If you are interested please ask The mayor Cuddly Ken Livingston, how soon this post will become available, apply soon as possible as there will possibly be many applicants.

Andrew Michael John Atkinson ● 6638d2 Comments ● 6637d

Junk

Does anyone know who i can email about rubbish being Dumped?Next to my Kitchen window there is a Car Pk and a guy who lives opposite me has dumped loads of Household stuff over his car and next to it, its been like it 4 weeks.Is it Environmental Health or Street Cleaning or the Council I contact??

Simon Anderson ● 6637d6 Comments ● 6637d

head of the river race

dont forget chaps - race starts at 3 45pm this year - and this year among others, the GB squad the Italian Squad and the Cambridge blue boat will all be battling for head.sunday will see 200 eights full of old gits pushing themselves too hard in the vesta vets head. race starts at 11.30, from hammersmith bridge to chsiwick bridge.

Jamie Halliday ● 6638d0 Comments ● 6638d

Head of the river race

dont forget chaps - race starts at 3 45pm this year - and this year among others, the GB squad the Italian Squad and the Cambridge blue boat will all be battling for head.sunday will 200 eights full of old gits pushing themselves too hard in the vesta vets head. race starts at 11.30, from hammersmith bridge to chsiwick bridge.the pic on the main site was the fours head btw. ;)

Jamie Halliday ● 6638d0 Comments ● 6638d

The simlple ideas are still the best...

Anyone read about the research being done into whether replacing all the stainless steel fittings in hospitals with copper will combat and kill the spread of mrsa?Apparently copper has unique bacteria killing properties and has been used in medicines and potions for centuries.Let's hope the results are positive and provide the answer.

Keith Iddon ● 6641d4 Comments ● 6638d

are the massonettes ok to live in opposite the bricklayers pub brentford

just wondered what it was like living in the massonettes with the gardens opposite the shops near the football ground brentford, theres a few pubs there like bricklayers, does any body know the massonettes they all end in the name like trimmer walk. etc etc. id like to live in one if there ok. any help on these flats appreciated thanks pauline.

Pauline Moore ● 6640d1 Comments ● 6638d

Crime is Not Acceptable

I just found out that someone stole two of my bicycles from the "secure" underground parking garage at The Island. In speaking with several people around Brentford, this kind of thing happens all the time.Crime should not be tolerated as an inevitable part of life! We should demand that the police beef up their presence in Brentford. I honestly can't recall ever seeing an officer walking the street with the exception of the parking patrol. And then to have the police station closed on Saturday and Sunday? C'mon! Criminals don't take the weekends off.Another way to fend off crime is to create a vibrant community; a community where people go into the streets after dark because there is something to do; a community where people look out for each other.A side effect of a vibrant community is jobs! The criminals who stole my bikes might not steal if they can make decent wages at an honest job. Of course, another side effect is that criminals leave vibrant communities to prey on the weak people of down-trodden areas.As much as I want to help Brentford become a thriving community though, I may not be able to stick around to see it happen:1. I don't feel safe, and I'm not willing to wait for safety to happen.2. Major development on the High Street won't happen until someone can figure out how to cost-effectively raise the south side of the street by 3 meters so that it will be out of the 1000-year flood plane. Am I throwing in the towel? Perhaps. Or maybe I'm just extremely frustrated. Why do other people think they have a right to my things? Brian

Brian Bishop ● 6663d30 Comments ● 6639d

Yes..put the clocks forward  tonight!

So, that means I lose an hour's sleep tonight!

Jim Lawes ● 6641d1 Comments ● 6640d

Tony Benn

The best Prime Minister we never had?

Gareth Evans ● 6644d13 Comments ● 6640d

jewellery online gallery

Hello,I am not 100% sure that I can send a commercial post here but it is also for pepole who enjoy jewellery and art.I live in Brentford and would like to take an opportunity to inform, that with my wife we have launched a jewellery online gallery. This is a place where artists who make their own personal jewellery can meet with those who are able to fully appreciate art and enjoy being surrounded by unique items. If anybody fancy this kind of jewellery, please have a look at www.art-nest.co.uk and maybe you'll find something interesting.I hope that you will not treat my post as a spam :)Regards,Tom

Tom Dabrowski ● 6642d0 Comments ● 6642d

Fathers and babies/toddlers gathering Saturday mornings

If there are any blokes out there who like me are on Daddy duty on Saturday mornings, we have a hugely informal gathering of dads and babies/toddlers at Grounds coffee shop from about 0930 hours onwards on most Saturday mornings. If any dads would like to join in, you are most welcome. We're far more likely to be chatting about football and motorbikes than nappies and breastfeeding, so come along and have a chat. Coffee and food are very good and the whole place is welcoming and child-friendly, with high chairs and excellent nappy changing facilities. If you've had a particularly bad night with the little one, they even have Grolsch on tap...Grounds is on the Plaza of the new Brentford Dock development, just to the North of the High Street as you walk from the shops towards Isleworth. Bring some bread and you and yours can feed the ducks as well.See you thereJerry Hillman

Jeremy Hillman ● 6642d0 Comments ● 6642d

Health tourists

A British Hounslow Grandfather of five children and 11 grandchildren, is denied life saving drug to treat lung cancer (mesothelioma), caused by breathing asbestos. How on earth do these people from PCT's sleep at night? Meanwhile............ 'Health tourists' leave tens of millions in NHS bills unpaid More than a third of the money spent by the NHS on treating "health tourists" last year has not been repaid.Tens of millions of pounds are outstanding because patients from outside the European Union, who are ineligible for free treatment, have not settled bills. The problem persists, despite an attempt to crack down on it by the Department of Health in 2004. A survey of 106 hospitals, ranging from large trusts in cities to smaller district general hospitals, revealed that treatment valued at £27 million was given to ineligible patients last year. Of that, more than £10 million has not been repaid. Dialysis for kidney patients is in crisis, but we allow beds to be taken by people who do not have this treatment in their own country. If the NHS is to survive, somebody has got to get to grips with this abuse.......pronto! What other country gives free health care to non residents? Who was it who said "The NHS is safe in our hands!?

Andrew Michael John Atkinson ● 6643d0 Comments ● 6643d

hotel project at Beechams Building?

does anyone know if there is a hotel planned where Barratts are building at the Beechams Building Site?

Wayne Jeffery ● 6643d0 Comments ● 6643d

Mogden on its knees?

The Mogden Residents Action Group (MRAG) has asked me to post its latest update on your forum. Apologies that its being posted a bit late as it has already been emnailed to hundreds of residents last week:    Dear Residents (copied blind to protect email privacy) As we enjoyed  a few days of warmer, dry weather, complaints against Thames Water's Mogden site are set to achieve record levels for March as Mogden's management fail to explain and thus abate the problem.  In reply to a serious complaint from Community Councillor Paul Fisher, Thames Water said there were no operational issues at Mogden, however there has been frequent use of the Storm Water Storage Tanks due to the treatment processes receiving very high flows recently. This was confirmed by Hounslow Council who advised that  there has been  recent prolonged use of the storm water storage tanks. Thames Water went on to say that it is  unable to respond to Cllr Fisher's  complaint received via MRAG in light of the current legal action being taken by residents.  The company referred us to its website where we had been assured that all recent events would be posted on its site log.  It was however noted that no site log has been posted since 4 March  and the company has not been in a position to investigate complaints thoroughly  to establish the source of odour because there has been a  problem with  the unit that converts the sensor signals so there have been  no wind speed or wind direction readings since 26 November 2006. The company has claimed since November 2006 that  the unit is being replaced but still no date can be provided on when the replacement or repair can be expected. In light of the company's inability to control odour from its site,  Hounslow's Lead Member for the Environment and Planning, Councillor Barbara Reid,  is demanding immediate answers why prolonged use of the storm tanks has been necessary over the last few  of days during dry weather, how many storm tanks have been in use,  and if the current improvement program will obviate the necessity for such prolonged use of the storm tanks.  She is also seeking  confirmation on when the tanks were last cleaned and explanations on what is causing such a huge increase in odour during the current dry weather. Conservative Parliamentary Candidate, Mary Macloud,  has now asked MRAG for an emergency meeting so she can be briefed on residents' concerns and updated on the history of Mogden and the current issues affecting residents. Besides the unprecedented and unexplained HIGH LEVELS OF ODOUR there have also this week been complaints on INCREASED MOSQUITO ACTIVITY as well as NOISE POLLUTION being caused by plant machinery at Mogden during the night.  We have asked Hounslow Council to investigate. Thank you to all who have logged complaints via MRAG. We will let you know if Thames Water or the Council offer any intelligent response. In the meantime please do dot hesitate to log your complaints via MRAG27@aol.com if conditions in your area do not improve. Mogden Residents Action Group  (MRAG)  www.mogden.org.uk

Steve Taylor ● 6646d0 Comments ● 6646d

Well played Ireland

Anyone else win money on them?

Keith Iddon ● 6648d2 Comments ● 6647d

Worth a punt...

Zimbabwe to qualify from the group stage of the Cricket World Cup,starting next week.They are in a group with WI,Pakistan and Ireland and may never have a better chance.They are ranked 10th and WI 8th.Can't see them going any further though.

Keith Iddon ● 6660d8 Comments ● 6649d

Early Friday joke

I know it's early but hey!A man and his wife are awakened at 3 o'clock in the morning by a loud pounding on the door.The man gets up and goes to the door where a drunken stranger, standing in the pouring rain, is asking for a push.Not a chance," says the husband, "it is 3 o'clock in the morning!He slams the door and returns to bed.Who was that?" asked his wife.Just some drunk guy asking for a push," he answers.Did you help him?" she asks.No, I did not, it is 3 o'clock in the morning and it is pouring out there!"Well, you have a short memory," says his wife.Can't you remember, about three months ago when we broke down, and those two guys helped us?I think you should help him, and you should be ashamed of yourself!"The man does as he is told, gets dressed, and goes out into the pounding rain.He calls out into the dark, "Hello, are you still there?""Yes" comes back the answer."Do you still need a push?" calls out the husband."Yes, please!" comes the reply from the dark."Where are you?" asks the husband."Over here on the swing!" replies the drunk.

Edward Fitzgerald ● 6651d1 Comments ● 6651d

Hounslow Homes, the mysterious vanishing replacement windows and a bit of a rant.

I have done a search on this site and have found all the Hounslow Homes material a bit impenetrable, so apologies if I am duplicating something here. I did gather that I'm not the only one who is unsatisfied with their services.Long story short: there is a gale blowing through my (ex-council) flat due to rotten window frames for which (as windows are an external feature) HH has reponsibility. They said they'd replace them and have run out of money. The proposal of window replacement as part of that year's major works was made so long ago that I'll now have to do a bit of research to see if I've already paid for it (gulp).All the other flats on the estate (except for our small block) have had their windows replaced as part of the promised major works scheme. When the contractors left and showed no signs of returning, I began the protracted process of trying to get someone from HH to respond to my questions about the mysterious vanishing replacement windows. First I was told that replacement windows had never been planned for my block (despite loads of correspondence from them to that effect, plus their engineer having measured my windows last year for said replacements). I eventually I got the following response:"The windows at your block were initially programmed to be replaced this financial year. Unfortunately, due to financial cut backs, all unprogressed works have been frozen. There is no money to do them now, and sadly I cannot say when they will be done. Maybe 2007/8 financial year."The really infuriating thing is that the proposal for this year's major works includes decoration! They will now ask me for more money to pay to paint the hall, when, apparently "all unprogressed works have been frozen." And don't you think if you were replacing your windows you might consider having your walls painted AFTER the windows were in? So, if anyone feels they can contribute to my understanding of this situation, please feel free to help me answer the following questions. What are my chances (in reasonable, practicable terms) of compelling HH to replace the windows (as I believe they are contractually obliged to do)? I fear that the present (and deteriorating) state of the windows will compromise my ability to sell or rent the flat in future. If HH are responsible for maintaining the exterior of the building but are refusing to do so, what can I do? Can I refuse to pay for the decoration? And what if (I dread to look into the invoices) I've already paid for the windows? Am I entitled to get my money back?My elderly friend and neighbour (who is a council tenant) has the same rotten windows and doesn't even have access to the hall which will be "decorated" so she doesn't benefit at all. Aren't they at least obliged - as her landlord - to do something for her and her freezing flat?I know this might sound like I'm overreacting, but they have already tried to pretend that no such works were planned, as if I imagined it all. Their afterthought of "maybe 2007/8" doesn't reassure me one bit.And by the way, why don't they have voicemail facilities on their Home Ownership phone extensions? The phone rang and rang whenever I phoned. I rang other extensions and eventually spoke to someone and left messages for the appropriate person, whom I later found out had left the department, so my messages were going to, er, no one.Well, if nothing else I've got that off my chest. Cheers.

Nancy Newland ● 6665d2 Comments ● 6651d

swap my new 2 bed appartment  flat brentford for a 3 bed flat

i have a new 2 bed flat brentford tw8,opposite the watermans park river thames lovley building,lovley flat. im seeking a 3 bed flat or a 2 bed house in this area or hammersmith shepherds bush etc. if you know anybody who wants to move in the new build flats email me thank you. pauline.im housing association with right to buy.

Pauline Moore ● 6653d2 Comments ● 6652d

any doctors in brentford catchment area tw8

is there anymore doctors in the brentford area apart from the brentford medical practice albany practice?? i was with albany practice but didnt like there routine of taking a week to see you when ill, i need another doctors on NHS, is there any on the high road please help thank you.ive rang a few doctors but there out the area they said.

Pauline Moore ● 6653d3 Comments ● 6652d

Donkey story

A young man named Gordon bought a donkey from an old farmer for £100.00. The farmer agreed to deliver the donkey the next day, but when the farmer drove up he said, "Sorry son, but I have some bad news... the donkey is on my truck, but unfortunately he's dead." Gordon replied, "Well then, just give me my money back." The farmer said, "I can't do that, because I've spent it already." Gordon said, "OK then, well just unload the donkey anyway." The farmer asked, "What are you going to do with him?" Gordon answered, "I'm going to raffle him off." To which the farmer exclaimed, "Surely you can't raffle off a dead donkey!" But Gordon, with a wicked smile on his face said, "Of course I can, you watch me. I just won't bother to tell anybody that he's dead." A month later the farmer met up with Gordon and asked, "What happened with that dead donkey?" Gordon said, "I raffled him off, sold 500 tickets at two pounds a piece, and made a huge, fat profit!!" Totally amazed, the farmer asked, "Didn't anyone complain that you had stolen their money because you lied about the donkey being dead?" To which Gordon replied, "The only guy who found out about the donkey being dead was the raffle winner when he came to claim his prize. So I gave him his £2 raffle ticket money back plus an extra £200, which as you know is double the going rate for a donkey, so he thought I was a great guy!!" Gordon grew up and eventually became the Chancellor of the Exchequer, and no matter how many times he lied, or how much money he stole from the British voters, as long as he gave them back some of the stolen money, most of them, unfortunately, still thought he was a great guy. The moral of this story is , if you think Gordon is about to play fair and do something for the everyday people of the country for once in his miserable, lying life, think again my friend, because you'll be better off flogging a dead donkey!

Colin Murphy ● 6653d17 Comments ● 6652d

Recommendation.........

For those fed- up with the never ending round of "reality T.V." and who are most definitely not politically correct can I sing the praises of "Boston Legal" on Living T.V. Thursdays at 10.00.p.m. It is hilarious and quite thought provoking as well. I qoute from the Radio Times preview of next week's episode "Yet more hilarious scenes, mild transvestism and potential incest from the show that makes almost everything on television look drab and uninspired". Already on series 3 - it is a gem with genius casting, give it a whirl.

Vanessa Smith ● 6653d0 Comments ● 6653d

Borders of Isleworth

Has anyone got a copy of a Map of Isleworth showing the Boundaries or Borders and the area or streets in that Boundaries section that comes under Isleworth they can email me with Please?Thanks

Simon Anderson ● 6654d7 Comments ● 6654d

Kew bridge development

Walked over Kew Bridge on Sunday and looked down on exposed foundations on the building site. These are obviously not the foundations of the office block so what was there before?Apologies if this has been mentioned before I have had a look at the archive and the threads about this site are very long!

Linda F Wright ● 6667d8 Comments ● 6654d

FREE HEALING IN CHISWICK

The monthly healing centre at the London Buddhist Vihara, The Avenue, Chiswick, will be open tomorrow, Monday, 12th March between 11am and 1pm.  Second Monday of the month.Healing helps any condition, from stress right through to physical illness.  No charge is made for the healing (all the healers are working on a voluntary basis), although a donation would be welcome.There is no need to make an appointment or book.  If you want any further information before coming please give me a ring on 0788 189 6449.

Pat Smith ● 6655d0 Comments ● 6655d

Graffiti to be blitzed in Isleworth and Syon 10th March 2007

Residents are being asked to join police and council staff at a blitz on graffiti and litter.An ambitious plan of action has been put together to combat graffiti focussing on affected walls, community buildings, parks, park buildings, benches and telephone boxes.Residents are asked to pull on some old clothes and join in. Clean-ups start from Isleworth railway station at 10.30am, and Isleworth public hall at 11am. All equipment will be provided. Cllr Phil Andrews, Hounslow Council’s lead member for housing and community safety, said: “These weekend clean-ups are a great opportunity for people to make a real, visible difference to their local area and have some fun too. If you can spare some time, please get involved.”The cleaning blitz has been organised by the Isleworth Society, St John’s Residents Association and Hounslow’s Community Safety Partnership, a collaboration of agencies including Hounslow Council and Hounslow Police. A recent, similar event proved successful when two neglected areas of Brentford were spruced up. People who live on the Syon Estate joined in the second of two clean-up days on February 18, which focused on the community centre at Hawthorn Hatch.More than 150 bags of litter and flytipped rubbish were taken away during the blitz on February 18, attended by about 20 residents, and staff from Hounslow Council and Hounslow Police.The first clean-up day on February 17 centred on a piece of wasteland located between Brentford High Street and Brent Way. The land had become overrun with flytipped rubbish and overgrown vegetation, which was cut back.Three skips of rubbish were removed.Local councillors, including Cllr Jon Hardy (Community Group,Syon), Cllr Paul Fisher (Community Group, Isleworth) and Cllr Shirley Fisher (Community Group, Syon) joined in.

Paul Fisher ● 6661d3 Comments ● 6656d

Jim Lawes

Where are you Jim missing your photos but Sarah is doing some great ones, Sarah hope you get somewhere with the evidence you have.

Helen Fogarth ● 6660d2 Comments ● 6656d

The time is now to turn Brentford around

While reading the Brentford newsletter today, I saw that home prices in Brentford have not risen for the past three years. Meanwhile, housing prices around other parts of Greater London are rising by an average of 10%. This means that everyone who lives in Brentford is losing money - in some cases hundreds of thousands of pounds.To stop the bleeding, it is imperative to revitalize Brentford...NOW. From what I understand, the council and the organizers have been asking Brentford citizens for their rejuventation ideas for at least 3 years, if not more. It's time to stop asking and start doing.Let's mobilize the citizens of Brentford to clean up the rubbish, to upgrade the signage on the High Street, to paint over the grafitti, to put in brighter street lights, to "power wash" the dirty buildings. If some of these upgrades are out of our sphere of influence, we must hound the powers-that-be.We must stop losing the money that a run-down area causes!Brian

Brian Bishop ● 6678d33 Comments ● 6656d

1-7 London Road - more flats

Jim Lawes mentioned the demolition of some houses next to Brentford Bridge, well I had a look in the planning applications on the Hounslow Council website and it seems we will have 15 more flats and 2 restaurants.Planning Reference: 00707/1-7/P1(16)Luigi Roselli Somorjay & Talliss Architects, 336 Old York Road London SW18 1SSfor demolition of existing buildings and erection of a part five storey/part six storey building comprising 2 restaurant units at ground floor level with 15 flats over incorporating parking and landscaping details1-7 London Road Isleworth London TW8 8JB Click here for a location map

Duncan Walker ● 6674d2 Comments ● 6656d

Monday: Brentford & Chiswick history society meeting

""The Changing face of Brentford.Brentford and Chiswick Local History SocietyAn illustrated talk by Peter and Carolyn Hammond to mark the publication of their new book of photographs, which will be on sale at our bookstall.All the Society's talks take place on the third Monday of the month at the Chiswick Memorial Club, Afton House, Bourne Place, Chiswick W4, starting at 7.30pm. Remember that Afton House does not open until 7pm; please do not expect to be let in before that time.If you wish to become a member, come along to one of the meetings or send a cheque for £9.00 made payable to Brentford & Chiswick Local History Society to Membership Secretary, 12 Brook Road South, Brentford TW8 0NN. Also enclose your name, address and phone number.ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooFrom The ChiswickW4.com newsletteroooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Jim Lawes ● 6676d3 Comments ● 6656d

Alright for some

The headline figure is "zero increase in council tax". So far so good. However, the costs in terms of service cuts include: 50% increase in day care charges to the elderlyA new £2 daily charge to disabled people attending day centresIncreases in school meals and meals on wheels chargesA 33% increase in parking permit charges in Isleworth and HounslowScrapping of the Community Teachers who provide support to families at Ivybridge, Green Dragon and elsewhereScrapping of support services to private tenantsAnd much more!This is not so good, and follows the many years of cuts to frontline services caused by both Conservative and Labour governments reducing funding to local councils.So, will everyone share the pain? Not quite! Hidden away in the budget is £400,000 set aside to fund pay increases to Chief Officers (some already on £100,000+ per annum) and to enable the Leader and other leading members to give themselves a massive increase in allowances. So, residents will be receiving fewer, more expensive services than last year. In return the Fat Cats will be paid more for delivering less. Hurray for the gravy train!

John Connelly ● 6661d18 Comments ● 6657d

Todays Chronicle

Great article on Pg20 today I don't know who the Old Man in the Photo is Though..lolI see hounslow Homes state the boards are there for Resident Info but they refuse to allow Cllr Andrews to put up a leaflet informing Residents about his surgeries which he does for the Residents.Also they refuse another Resident Group from advertising in them!!

Simon Anderson ● 6658d7 Comments ● 6657d

red nose day illegal

be careful out there.http://www.bloggerheads.com/red_nose_day/

Jamie Halliday ● 6657d0 Comments ● 6657d

Royal Mail - New FREE online redelivery service

The Royal Mail new online redelivery service is now up and running...I've tried it...it works...& it's FREE!!!The Royal Mail blurb is "Next time you want an item of mail to be redelivered, just book online and we will deliver it on the day you choose. We can deliver either to your own address, or to a different address in the same postcode area, free of charge. Alternatively, for 50p, you can collect your item from a Post Office® of your choice."For more information, or to book a redelivery, go to http://www.royalmail.com/redeliveryHope you find this info. useful.

Lynn Clark ● 6658d0 Comments ● 6658d

Stop Bullying Poor Labour!

As if the poor Labour Party round here hasn't had enough problems - we now seem to be witnessing a Big-Brother-style feeding frenzy as they are relentlessly sinking down the drain.Word has reached me that there has been a severe cull of staff at their Chiswick High Road bunker. The poor gentleman who devised and tried to write their much criticised website has been given the chop. They are rudderless and heading for the iceberg!Abandon ship I say.Their previous Campaign Manager - the one with the implausible surname -  bailed out before the local elections last year, soas Oscar Wide may have said, "To lose one Agent may be regarded as a misfortune; to lose both looks like carelessness."As for the appallingly unkind references to Ann Keen's lovely photograph - well perhaps I'm a bit dim, but I always thought that it was a picture of Marilyn Monroe, and it always cheered me up.

Leo Newman ● 6695d93 Comments ● 6659d

Council Tax

Can someone please tell me that I have got this perception wrong (hopefully) regarding the proposed increase in Council Tax.Precept for the GLA £303.88 pa or £5.84 per week on a band D dwelling!No increase in local Council TaxIf I have got it right and this recommendation is accepted, how on earth are the low paid, and the elderly not in receipt of benefits  expected to find this amount.Cllr Connolly has intimated that crematorium charges may well increase, so even the journey to the knackers yard is not sacrosanct. Please someone, tell me I am wrong?

Andrew Michael John Atkinson ● 6660d6 Comments ● 6659d

HounslowTw3

Is anyone else having problems with getting onto HounslowTW3 website as for the past 2days I've not been able to get on and get a message "Cant find the Server"Has it been shut Down?

Simon Anderson ● 6659d10 Comments ● 6659d

Scabby old fivers...

I know it's an anoraks at 10 paces question,but why is every fiver I've clutched in my mitts for the past couple of years been grubby and knackered?If 'they' are trying to get rid of them,'they're' taking a bloody long time doing it.I haven't seen a new one for yonks.

Keith Iddon ● 6661d4 Comments ● 6660d

Indentity theft

Visitors on this site may find the following information below useful. Identity theft is with us and incidents are on the increase! I have received 2 bogus e-mails purporting to be from the HALIFAX BANK and requesting that I "send them my account details" Banks will NEVER ask for this information, so beware what information you give out! Also beware of what criminals commonly refer to as the "Lebanese Loop" this is something that thieves hook on to a cash machine,and is not easily detectable, and enables them to "grab" your pin number HOW IDENTITY THIEVES GET YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION• Stealing wallets and purses containing your identification and credit and bankcards. • Stealing mail to get new credit cards, bank or credit card statements, new cheques, tax information, and pre-approved credit offers. • Completing a “change of address” form to divert your mail to another location. • Rummaging through your trash or the trash of a business looking for individual’s personal data in a practice known as “dumpster diving.” • Obtaining your credit report by posing as a landlord, employer, or someone else who may have a legitimate need for, and legal right to, the information. • Stealing personal information from your home or from businesses or institutions where you are a customer, patient, employee, etc. • Obtaining personal information that you share with others over the Internet. • Scamming you, either by Mail or e-mail, by posing as legitimate companies or government agencies you do business with. This usually happens after someone gets your information from businesses by stealing files out of offices where you are a customer, employee, patient or student. Sometimes an employee of these businesses is bribed or files are hacked into via the Internet. • Copying data from credit and debit cards as the card is being used for a legitimate transaction using a device called a skimmer. • Setting up look-alike web sites for legitimate businesses that you transact with and tricking you into sending personal information by sending e-mails warning that your accounts have been compromised or are about to expire and instructing you to click on a link. • Standing behind you as you enter your PIN number or credit card number in a practice known as shoulder surfing.

Andrew Michael John Atkinson ● 6662d0 Comments ● 6662d

Lunar Eclipe last night,

here is a picture last nights Lunar eclipse

Dave Vokes ● 6662d0 Comments ● 6662d

Blog on Running for the Marathon

I've opened up a blog on my running.  If anyone is interested it is in blog.co.uk and I can give the address if interested.I have sore knees today.

Conal Stewart ● 6662d0 Comments ● 6662d

Family Tree

Hi, wonder if anyone can help. I'm searching for any infomation on my grandfather 'Leonard Robert Chick' (or his family)lived at 54 Distillery road in the 1920's. Also have been trying to E.mail Peter Rutt, of the Brentford site, E.mails keep bouncing back. If anyone knows how to contact him please let me know.

MJ Baker ● 6667d4 Comments ● 6662d

BRENTFORD HIGH STREET: March workshop series starts tonight

Dear allFirst of all thank you for the hugely positive response to the community planning project launch event at Watermans Arts Centre on 18th January.  It was great to see such a large turnout and the free flow of so many ideas.  Since the launch the Steering Group has spent February preparing for a series of workshops that will run through March.  These workshops will pick up on the ideas already put forward and get down into a greater level of detail.  The first workshop - looking at the local economy – is tonight (Thur 1st March) at St Pauls Centre, St Pauls Road from 6.30-9.30pm.The second issue of High Street News is now going out across Brentford.  You can download an electronic copy from here:http://www.openplans.org/projects/brentfordhighstreet/community-planning/highstreetnews-feb-2007.pdfIf you missed the launch event the following resources will bring you up to speed…Project overview -http://www.openplans.org/projects/brentfordhighstreet/community-planning/brentford-high-street-launch-18-january-2007.pdf Videos of launch - http://www.youtube.com/profile_videos?user=brentfordhighstreetSummary of ideas/ initial feedback - http://www.openplans.org/projects/brentfordhighstreet/community-planning/community-comments-at-launch-18-january-2007.pdf A survey from the Historical Context sub-group will be available on the project website (www.brentfordhighstreet.co.uk) in the next 24 hours.  Please download this and give the group your views on what existing buildings on the South Side of Brentford High Street you most value and would like to see renovated.Please forward this email to friends and neighbours.  The more people involved the better the final outcome!Workshop datesLocal Economy – ‘Plugging the leaks’Thursday, 1 March 2007 - 6.30pm-9.30pmSt Paul's Centre (Hall), St Paul’s Road, Brentford, Environmental sustainability - 10am-2pmArts, leisure and culture - 2.30pm-5.00pmMarketing and Image - 2.30pm- 4.30pmSunday, 4 March 2007 - 10am-5pmWaterman’s Arts Centre (Gallery), High Street, BrentfordHistorical contextSunday, 11 March 2007 - 10am-5pmBrentford Dock Residents’ Room, Justin Close, BrentfordTour of area (meet at Residents’ Room) - 10am-12noonWorkshop (back at Residents’ Room) - 12noon-5pmUrban Design and liveabilitySaturday, 24 March 2007 - 10am-5pmBrentford Free Church (Foyer), Boston Manor Road, BrentfordAn Older peoples’ workshop is being hosted by Age Concern Hounslow on the morning of Wednesday 21st March.  This will consider the redevelopment of the High Street from an older person’s perspective.  If you would like to attend please email SeemaBhogal@ageconcernhounslow.org.uk An invitation only Young peoples’ conference is being hosted by Holiday Inn on Monday 26th March - led by Luke Kirton (West Play) and Garth Buckle (Hounslow Education Business Partnership).  This will consider the full range of issues around the future of the High Street with young people from local schools.For the all day workshops please remember to bring lunch with you.  Before attending a workshop you may like to take a look at some of the tools and resources on the thematic sub-groups web page:  http://www.openplans.org/projects/brentfordhighstreet/resources-and-tools The High Street Steering Group will reconvene at the end of March to start consolidating the ideas coming out of all the workshops.  If you have any queries about the process or suggestions please do not hesitate to get in touch with me directly.Kind regardsAndrew DakersChair, High Street Steering Groupwww.brentfordhighstreet.co.uk

Andrew Dakers ● 6665d4 Comments ● 6664d

Garage

Terribly sorry as I'm sure this has been asked a dozen times already but can anyone suggest a decent garage in/around Brentford to get some work done on a Peugeot.  I know the Peugeot garage is nearby but was looking for something a little cheaper.  :)I need some brake pads / discs replaced, and a few other bits and pieces.Thanks!-Matt

Matt Thompson ● 6665d3 Comments ● 6665d

Teenage Aerobics Classes

Does anyone know of any Aerobics classes aimed at teenagers.  My 11 year old daughter would like to join a gym but can't until she is 16 (which I totally understand) but is keen to work of a little 'puppy fat' in a fun environment and doesn't enjoy swimming.

Alison Hawkes ● 6687d5 Comments ● 6666d

For Cancerbackup

I'm running in the 2007 Marathon for Cancerbackup.  This charity provides information, advice and support to people diagnosed with cancer.  It also helps the friends and family of cancer pateients who often are the key people in the battle or survival.  If you would like to sponsor me please visit www.justgiving.com/conal4backupPlease take a look and thanks.

Conal Stewart ● 6690d17 Comments ● 6667d

Free Single Divan Bed

I have a single divan bed (with one drawer) in good condition to anyone able to collect from Hounslow

Farah Khan ● 6669d0 Comments ● 6669d

Some excellent news

A crack house on a Brentford street has been closed down following complaints from residents that it was creating an epidemic of anti social behaviour.The flat in Auriol House, in Avenue Road, has been used for several months by drug dealers to sell heroin and crack cocaine.The address, which is well known among local drug users, was regularly visited by addicts who would inject themselves or smoke inside the flat and other communal areas. In addition, the crack house would regularly attract people day and night, who would intimidate residents with their behaviour.Now Hounslow Community Safety Partnership, a collaboration of organisations committed to making Hounslow safer, including Hounslow Council and Hounslow Police, have acted to bring an end to this criminal activity.On 29th January 2007, officers from Brentford Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) served a closure notice on the address, which was supported on February 16 at Feltham Magistrates’ Court when an official closure order was made. On February 19, that order was enforced and the flat was closed off. It means the flat will be boarded up for three months in an effort to rid the area of this scourge.The order was made possible by residents who have kept police informed of anti-social behaviour in the area. This intelligence has been crucial in obtaining the order.Sgt Nathan Fane, of Brentford Safer Neighbourhoods Team, said: “Residents in Avenue Road and adjoining streets have been telling us it has been intolerable to live there while these criminal activities have been going on. We’re very pleased to have secured this closure and hopefully it will lead to a quieter, safer area.” Tackling crime and disorder by reducing crime and the fear of crime throughout Hounslow borough in an effort to create a safer living environment for all local people, is a key objective of the Hounslow Plan, Hounslow Council’s four-year vision of development and improvement.Cllr Phil Andrews, Hounslow Council’s lead member for housing and community safety, said: “A crack house on an estate is a serious threat to the community. It reduces morale, creates a sense of fear, poses a risk to health and causes anti social behaviour. With our partners at Hounslow Police, we have been able to act and hopefully this will lead to peace of mind and reassurance for those people who have had their lives interrupted by this criminal activity.”The address has now been completely sealed behind a steel door. The order will remain in place for three months.  The flat’s bona fide resident has been found alternative accommodation.

Paul Fisher ● 6674d17 Comments ● 6671d

how to upload pics

???

Jamie Halliday ● 6671d1 Comments ● 6671d

Promote What We Already Have!

A friend visited Brentford yesterday and had two great suggestions to bring more revenue into Brentford and to liven up the town:1. Brentford has quite a few pubs - even 4 in Griffin Park, I believe. Could it be the #1 pub town in London? (Even if it's not, we could claim it is.) Could Brentford promote this fact? Have "Pub Days"? Oktoberfest celebrations? Street festivals that celebrate the brilliance of beer? Maybe we could use safe "Pub Crawls" to attract visitors? Tell Americans that Brentford has numerous, off-the-beaten path pubs and they'll flock to Brentford. More money in Brentford would benefit us all.I realize that we residents appreciate the fact that the pubs are a quiet, relaxed place for us to unwind. We don't want to upset that delicate balance. But maybe, together, we could come up with a compromise...2. Is there any way to attract visitors to the canal? Can it be like Venice somehow? Maybe we could combine the two ideas and have a pub on the canal where visitors could glide up in a gondola and have a drink.Anyway, I just like to throw ideas out there to see what takes hold. Tell me what you think.

Brian Bishop ● 6673d20 Comments ● 6671d

Pizza Suggestion

I'm having a childrens b'day party at Syon house and I wondered if anyone can suggest a decent pizza delivery firm in the area? Actually I say "Syon House" what I mean is the reptile house in the grounds. If I could afford to hire the house I wouldn't be having pizza.

David Eales ● 6674d5 Comments ● 6672d

Drugs and violence

Yet again, links are being made between skunk and death.

Colin Murphy ● 6678d5 Comments ● 6673d

Can anyone recommend a cat feeder?

I'm looking for someone to feed my cats for a couple of days - can anyone recommend someone they have used?

Virginia Fassnidge ● 6678d6 Comments ● 6673d

any mens barber shops on the high road near mcdonalds areas

im new round here and am looking for a cheap mens hair barbers. ive seen one called jeffreys but hes to exspensive he charges nearly £20 for a  hair cut. is there any cheaper ones. plz let me know if there is thank you.

Pauline Moore ● 6674d6 Comments ● 6673d

Community Investment Advisory Panel

I can't find any information concerning the remit of this panel - is this the same as CIP for leisure services?

Sarah Felstead ● 6674d1 Comments ● 6673d

Re:Brentford clean up

Can anyone with freetime on their hands please help out with the clean up of the Syon Estate on Sunday 17th Febuary, others involved are the Brentford Police with Sgt Bev Green and her team, Hounslow Community Saftey Partnership and local councilors and any members of the public who would like to help.Tasking for the day will be clearing out abandoned cars removing graffiti and removal of rubbish.Meet up at Hawthorn Hatch on the Syon Estate at 10am. Two pize draws will be taking place after, one for adults and one for children plus other activities.All offers greatly recieved.

Edward Fitzgerald ● 6678d12 Comments ● 6675d

The IVYTAG Site

Joined: 26 Jul 2006Posts: 36Location: ISLEWORTH PostPosted: Thu Feb 01, 2007 1:19 pm    Post subject: Ivybridge Tenants Action Group Site Reply with quote Edit/Delete this post Delete this postPlease Note that We have now Cancelled our Website www.ivytag.org.ukThis is because we will be Dissolving IVYTAG very soon to make way for a NEW Residents Association on Ivybridge.The Forum is Still active untill futher notice and can be found at:http://ivytag.forumsplace.com/Many ThanksSimon AndersonChair of IVYTAG

Simon Anderson ● 6693d15 Comments ● 6676d

Another water leak in the High Street, digger,traffic chaos and more

It's surprising what you discover in the High Street on a Sunday morning......traffic jams and delays, litter, squatters taking over "historic building" premises, victorian terrace at Brentford Bridge being demolished and graffiti in the wrong places.Filthy unpolished doors at the Magistrates Court...and so it goes on!  Ugh!

Jim Lawes ● 6676d6 Comments ● 6676d

Pilates Classes

New pilates timetable begins week of 26th February.Compare our prices to other classes and you will find we are the most affordable. Small groups of four - £37.50 for five weeks.www.w4pilates.co.uk 0208 994 8328

Kerry Rixon ● 6676d0 Comments ● 6676d

IsleworthTW7 website

Entertainment guaranteed on this website if you follow the antics of George, Simon, the Fox and Phil! Biggest problem is making sense of the posts that are referred to that appear to be deleted. What's it all about?

John Connelly ● 6685d74 Comments ● 6677d

How do you do it?

Tips on recycling needed please!How do you organise your 'piles' - any snippets or suggestions which work for you!

Sarah Felstead ● 6684d17 Comments ● 6677d

Free travel for under 18's on public transport

I know that having what seems like half a school clambering onto a bus at once is disruptive but the free travel has made a huge difference to young people and poor families.There is a move to scrap this scheme and if you would like to support it please sign the online petition at http://www.tuc.org.uk/economy/tuc-12823-f0.cfmThank you!

Kath Richardson ● 6681d12 Comments ● 6678d

Snooker table offered to youth club (or similar)

Does anyone know of a youth club or similar organisation that might be glad of a snooker table? I'd thought I'd try approaching such organisations first before putting it on Freecycle.

Virginia Fassnidge ● 6678d0 Comments ● 6678d

lazy Hounslow

Have any of you had a chance to look at Hounslow Borough's performance on Sport Englands's Active Places survey.Its grim reading. This borough is crammed full of lazy people and people who just don't participate or volunteer.  The national average for 3X30 active partcipation in sport is 21%.  We fall well short of that and whilst we aren't as bad as Brent or Newham we are shockingly bad compared to all our neighbours.Sport england is working on cross-tabulating the Active people survey with Active Places Power.  That might shed some light on whether its just plain rubbish leisure facilities on the part of the Council or if its us.

Conal Stewart ● 6687d20 Comments ● 6678d

Brentford Area Action Plan - New Workhop

I posted this under the High St topic, but some may not have gone there. Besides, this is a further opportunity to promote your views for the Action Plan for ALL of Brentford. It's a new public workshop being organised by CAG, a body employed by the Council for the purpose.If interested in participating, email Susan Parham -sp@cagconsult.co.uk

Nigel Moore ● 6682d2 Comments ● 6679d

Driving and mobile phones

It has been well publicised in the media, that with effect from the end of February, (not sure of the exact date) there will be a mandatory £60 fine and three endorsement points on your driving licence for the offence of driving while using a mobile phone. I don't know what others think, but if the call is absolutely necessary, there are hands free options avalable.Children and others have been killed because someone was using their mobile phone at the time!It could be one of your loved ones.There has also been a very successful pilot initiative in Heston East ward, where the  police have used their powers under the Road Traffic Act, to stop drivers and check all their documents...driving licence, Insurance MOT etc., if you are found to be in default your car can be impounded. Well over a thousand cars have been impounded for one or other of these offences. Recently a car was stopped and the officers suspicions were aroused during the stop, and on further investigations a Cannabis farm was discovered at a local dwelling, not to mention known drug dealers and other unsavoury characters.This as you will see, is not only about traffic offences but leads to intelligence and the discovery of other offences. This scheme is, I understand going met wide, and I congratulate the police for this long overdue crackdown.

Andrew Michael John Atkinson ● 6699d29 Comments ● 6680d

Regressive stealth taxation

I've just seen the item on the Council's so called budget bonanza. It seems to me a bit rich that for years the Conservatives have been banging on about stealth taxes when they themselves are using this same ploy. Putting up parking charges and school meal prices might help keep the headline rate of Council Tax down but they are effectively taxes that hit the lower income groups hardest. The Council Tax is flawed but at least it is progressive to a certain extent given that it is based on home values. The rise in parking charges is higher in the less well off parts of the borough and although 10p on school meals might not sound much that mounts up for a family with three or four kids to a significant amount.

Justin Harris ● 6683d20 Comments ● 6680d

Saxophone Tutor

Does anyone know of a local saxophone tutor? I'd like to make more music and less noise!

Stephen Ash ● 6681d1 Comments ● 6681d

Crackdown on Untidy Residents

I see on the front page an article on this noting the Council intends to get stricter ."Rubbish should be in black sacks at the edge of the property - but not on the public highway - on the morning of collection or, if impractical, as late as possible the night before."With the Hounslow website clarifying :"All refuse for collection should be left at the edge of your property from 6.30am on your collection day. The only exception to this is if you are registered on our Elderly and Disabled listing."Am I alone in thinking it unreasonable to have to set my alarm clock at 6.25 to put my black bag in position for 6.30 on a winter morning ?Do refuse teams get shift working premiums for an early start ? Do they need to ?

Tim Henderson ● 6699d10 Comments ● 6681d

2 for 1 entry offers - Spring 2007

The leaflets are out again - found ours at Richmond station.  The web site address is:www.2for1entry.co.uk.

Sarah Felstead ● 6681d1 Comments ● 6681d

Half Term Activities

Half Term Fun DayAT Clayponds Community Centre, Clayponds Gardens, Brentford, W5 4REON Friday 23rd February 10am-3pmA fun day out for all!Community Sports Trust will be offering football coaching between 12-2pm, Talkaoke (http://www.talkaoke.com/), Zig Zag - interactive dance system, sports wall and lots more fun and games (FREE)******************************************************Ground BreakersSoul In Brentford are offering a half-term holiday club AT Brentford Free Church, Boston Manor RoadON Tuesday 20th - Friday 23rd February 10-12noon Cost is £1.50 per day per child or £5 for the weekcontact 020 8569 8333 for further detailsThese and other activities are on the TW8 calendar at http://www.brentfordtw8.com/default.asp?section=info&page=calendar.htm If you have an event you wish to include please email listings@brentfordtw8.com

Kath Richardson ● 6681d1 Comments ● 6681d

Isleworth site!

Can anyone give me a link to the Isleworth site as I cant seem to find it! Thanks.

Theresa Jean Gallagher ● 6685d18 Comments ● 6681d

Brewery Tours

Don't forget to take advantage of the 2 for 1 entry offer for Fuller's brewery tour. Contact tours@fullers.co.uk for more information.

Michelle Beaumont ● 6682d0 Comments ● 6682d

Muggings warning from Brentford Police

From the Richmond and Twickenham TimesBy Faye DuxberryCommentFollowing a series of muggings, police have warned people to be more wary of strangers and keep valuables out of sight.Brentford Police are appealing for witnesses after an 11-year-old girl was attacked by teenagers trying to steal her mobile phone.The young girl from Brentford had been travelling on the 237 bus from Hounslow bus garage at around 11.20am on Thursday, January 11.Advertisement     continued...She was sitting at the front of the top deck of the bus when she noticed the suspects sitting towards the back and talking in a foreign language. The girl was followed as she got off the bus in London Road, just after the junction with Twickenham Road, and was approached from behind by one of the group.One of the suspects spoke to the victim in a foreign language and then tried to grab her mobile phone, but the victim refused and told her to go away.The suspect was described as a black or Asian girl with light-coloured skin, aged around 14, 4ft 10 in tall with curly dark brown hair. She was wearing light-coloured trousers.The female suspect then grabbed the victim by her left arm and one of the boys in the group kicked the back of her leg and pinched her. The second suspect was described as a black or Asian male of about 14 years old, 4ft 11in tall and wearing a black hooded top.The attackers were unable to steal the phone because it was attached by a cord around her neck. They were last seen heading into Maple Grove at the top of the Trees estate.Anyone with information is asked to contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Mike Hardacre ● 6699d6 Comments ● 6682d

Green Dragon Lane/Tower Blocks

We were viewing a flat on Green Dragon Lane the other day and noticed the tower blocks sat a bit ominously just down the road.  Can anyone help me with the question:  how rough (or not) is the area/estate around these blocks?  Is it all still council or has a lot of it been sold off privately.  Any info/links would be of interest before we commit to spending a big chunk of money.  Thanks

Tony Whyte ● 7077d22 Comments ● 6682d

HEALING IN CHISWICK

A reminder that the healing centre will be open at the London Buddhist Vihara, The Avenue, Chiswick, tomorrow, Monday, 12th February between 11am and 1pm.We have between 6-8 healers available so there is usually no waiting, or if there is, it is no more than 5 minutes.  The healing itself takes anything from 10-20 minutes.Healing helps any condition, through from stress to physical illness.  We make no charge for the healing (all the healers are working on a voluntary basis) but a donation would be welcome.If you need any more information please do call me on 0788 189 6449.

Pat Smith ● 6683d0 Comments ● 6683d

High St latest

Though many people who populate this site attended this October meeting of stakeholders, i'm not sure whether this link has been postedhttp://www.openplans.org/projects/brentfordhighstreet/community-planning/brentford-high-street-first-stakeholder-meeting-5-oct-2006.pps

Click here to enter name ● 6784d73 Comments ● 6683d

New activity for under 5's

Music and Movement Club for under 5'sWednesday mornings at Mission Hall, Brentford 10-11am, £2.50 per session.For further information call Linda on 07984167548 or linny51@hotmail.com

Kath Richardson ● 6685d0 Comments ● 6685d

Houhslow Cat hitches ride to Leicester

Found this on W4 so decided to post it on TW8 as it is closer to the scene.A Hounslow cat became an unexpected stowaway on Thursday when it hitched a ride all the way to Leicester.The ginger and white puss jumped into the back of a workman’s van as he carried out some work near the Great West Road, in the area between Jersey Road and Ash Grove.The stowaway was only discovered by the van driver after he had returned home to Leicester.It was then handed in to the local RSPCA branch, but had no name tag around its neck.A RSPCA spokeswoman based in Leicester said: “He is perfectly happy and healthy.”If you believe the stray is your cat, please call the RSPCA’s Leicester branch on 01162 336 677.------------------------------------------------------------------------

Marlene Plimley ● 6699d17 Comments ● 6685d

Instrumentalists Ensemble course

A two-day ensemble course for Junior and Senior Instrumentalistsand a singing workshop is also available for Year 4 to Year 8 pupils; Songs from Disney and well-known musicals, as well as other great songsTo be held at St Mark's Catholic School, 106 Bath Road, Hounslow TW3 3EJFor further details please contact the Music Office 020 8583 2967 or info@hounslowmusic.org

Kath Richardson ● 6685d0 Comments ● 6685d

Relatively cheap local(ish) petrol.

Esso garage Boston Rd Hanwell 85.9 for unleaded.

Keith Iddon ● 6709d1 Comments ● 6687d

Does anyone know?

When will the works to the bridge in St. Johns Road be finished, I thought it was orginally a 6 month timescale but noticed that the end date has now been obscured from the notices.It really will be the day when things run to schedule, I appreciate that you can run into unforseen problems, but nothing has been forthcoming re this  extended closure.

Vanessa Smith ● 6687d3 Comments ● 6687d

looking for estate agents in this area who take on dss for 1 bed flats

does anybody know of any lettings or estate agents in the hounslow brenford boroughs. im looking for a 1 bed flat private who will accept dss as im on benefits. id like a flat anywere in:  brenford richmond chiswick hammersmith shepherds bush any areas west thancks.

Pauline Moore ● 6687d0 Comments ● 6687d

Brentford Clean-Up Planned.

People who live on the Syon Estate are being invited to join the second of two clean-up days on February 18 (10am – 4pm), which focuses on the community centre at Hawthorn Hatch.Graffiti will be removed from the building and a children’s playground. In addition, litter, flytipped rubbish and abandoned cars will be taken away.A barbecue, pool, table tennis and other activities will be provided after, including a special “talky-oke” session. This involves young people talking about their experiences of anti-social behaviour.  Cllr Phil Andrews, Hounslow Council’s lead member for housing and community safety, will be joining in. He said: “We know from previous clean ups that they have a really positive impact on the community involved. It’s a huge morale-boost to see a rundown area cleaned up and transformed. These weekend clean-ups are a great opportunity for people to make a real, visible difference to their local area and have some fun too. If you can spare some time, please get involved.”The first clean-up day takes place on February 17 and centres on a piece of wasteland located between Brentford High Street and Brent Way. The land has become overrun with flytipped rubbish, abandoned cars and unwanted tyres. Some of the materials that have been dumped are potentially dangerous, and people are asked not come along to the clean-up there unless they have had previous experience and have appropriate clothing.The cleaning blitz has been organised by Hounslow’s Community Safety Partnership, a collaboration of agencies including Hounslow Council and Hounslow Police. It is the fifth Community Action event in the London borough of Hounslow this year, following successful similar initiatives in Hanworth, Chiswick, Hounslow and Feltham.Staff from Hounslow Council’s Community Environment Team, Community Safety Team and police officers will join forces with members of the community to clean up this area.Untaxed and abandoned vehicles will be removed from both sites. If members of the public are aware of an untaxed or abandoned vehicle, on either site, please make the relevant authority aware beforehand. For cars parked on a Hounslow Homes estate, call 0800 0856575. If the car is parked on a public highway, please call 020 8583 5555.For any member of the public that would like to get involved, please call Insp Lindsey Hannigan, of Brentford Police, on 020 8247 5989.

Paul Fisher ● 6689d3 Comments ● 6688d

Council Tax budget questions?  Brentford Area Committee: 1st Feb

You may have seen in this week's HM Magazine an invitation to us all to attend the next meeting of the Isleworth and Brentford Area Committee on Thursday 1st February at 7.30pm at the Brentford Free Church.Apparently it will be an opportunity to hear about forthcoming Council Tax budget matters from members of the Council's Executive..and for questions to be asked.  It's also a chance to see and hear our 12 local Councillors and 2 co-opted members in action.The HM magazine notice is reproduced in the next message.  Have you been able to watch some of the Borough Council meetings on the Civic Centre webcast?  They're very informative I reckon.This meeting will hopefully be a another chance to find out what's going on at the Civic Centre. How will the populace respond I wonder. Will they turn up on the evening in droves?

Jim Lawes ● 6702d16 Comments ● 6688d

Lunchtime Concerts at St Paul's February - June

Every Third Wednesday of the Month starting at 1:15 pm St. Paul’s Centre, St. Paul’s Road, Brentford TW8 0PN February 21st “Saxisfaction”,  Saxophone Quartet (Carmel Cooney) March 21st    Cathy Lamb  - Organ April 18th    “Trio Anime”, violin, clarinet and piano May 16th      Yoshiko Endo, piano & Tomoko Sasaki June 20th     Paul Ayres - Organ The suggested donation for concerts is £2.50To join our mailing list (e-mail version available),please contact  Rosemary Green 020 8568 7442or rosemary.green@parishofbrentford.org.uk The Parish of Brentfordwww.parish of brentford.org.ukThese dates are also on the BrentfordTW8 calendar http://www.brentfordtw8.com/info/calendar.htm

Kath Richardson ● 6690d1 Comments ● 6688d

Richmond decides tonight

Richmond Council are deciding tonight whether or not to go ahead with penalising residents who drive so-called "gas guzzlers", under the guise of a green tax. Naturally enough those residents with front gardens big enough are already saying they will apply for vehicular crossovers and turn their garden into off-street parking. Which rather defeats the object of being green, that will mean a loss of hedges, and lawns and also affect rain soaking away  - so how "green" is this really?  I wonder if Richmond Council have been so picky with council vehicles? Are they all environmentally friendly, are they converting to green fuels, or renewing their fleet? Or is this just a case of don't do as I do - do as I say - and the lure of easy money?

Vanessa Smith ● 6696d6 Comments ● 6689d

Isleworth Community Safety Forum

All These Meetings Take place at 730pm at The Isleworth Public Hall in South Street Old Isleworth.the Panel Consist off:David Freeman -ChairmanGrahame Perkins - Vice ChairAndy Sibley - SecretarySimon anderson (me) - A Member of the board.The meetings are atrended by The Isleworth SNT and Local councillors.The ICSF is a successful Voluntary forum, run by ordinary local People. The Forum acts, in part, as a conduit betwn Isleworth area residents and traders and the Local police Safer Neighbourhood team.Police Reps are always in attendence to deliever a local crime report and other related news and to collate information of your concern.Decissions made at the forum lead to solutions being found to combat crime and ASB, and to make everyone who lives in the area or work win the area feel more secure.We also look at road calming and parking, noise, pub licensing issues, car crime, robbery and Graffiti.Representations are made from the ICSF to appropriate body for action - with some considerable successs thus far!All Welcome to attend!Monday 26th MarchTuesday 29th MayMonday 23rd JulyMonday 24th SeptemberMonday 26th November.Hope to see you ALL there.

Simon Anderson ● 6689d0 Comments ● 6689d

What a Great Site

Ive just been onto the New Houslow Website its Great.There are some great stories and Great Photos.And a Forum..Check it out and Registerwww.hounslowtw3.net

Simon Anderson ● 6689d0 Comments ● 6689d

Moomba Restaurant Putney

I am looking for a venue for a lunch with my cousin and a group of his friends who are over from Ireland on a rugby tour. The Moomba in Putney has been suggested - is anybody familiar with the place?

Andy Jones ● 6694d2 Comments ● 6693d

Flora London Marathon 2007 for Cancerbackup

HelloI just wanted to post a flyer for my efforts to raise cash for the the Charity Cancerbackup.  I've got myself a gold bond place for the 22nd of April to raise a target of £1,500 (minimum). I've posted a page for fund raising purposes on [url]www.justgiving.com/conal4backup[/url] where you can donate online. If you would like to sponsor me, but would prefer not make a transaction online please, let me know. I would be very grateful for any size of contribution, as will Cancerbackup.  This supporting organisation does tend to suffer in the face of formidable attention on Cancer Research and MacMillan.  Both are worthy causes of course, but backup is about providing support and information for the here and now patients and their families. People who just need to find the tools from within to get themselves through the dreadful experience of fighting and recovering from cancer.  Treatment is one thing, support is quite another. So if you can help me repay my gratitude to this organisation I would be most appreciative. ThanksConal Stewart on behalf of Cancerbackup UKRegistered Charity 1019719

Conal Stewart ● 6707d4 Comments ● 6693d

Is Labour Done For Round Here?

When the Conservatives announced that they had chosen their candidate to stand at the next general election - Mary McLeod - I had looked forward to the contest starting in earnest, particularly from Ann Keen's side.What a disappointment! Nothing. Not a whisper.Has Alan Sheerins left the country? Have they shut down their castle on Chiswick High Road and moved away?And, of course,Jim Lawes and I are still waiting for the re-launch of their all singing/all dancing website which was so embarrassingly binned last Summer. Mary McLeod MP does have a certain ring to it and a certain panache -but I hope Ann Keen won't completely submit without putting up a fight!

Leo Newman ● 6710d13 Comments ● 6695d

suit alterations

can anyone recopmmend a local service? got a new suit in the sales and i need the trousers shortening.ta

Jamie Halliday ● 6696d4 Comments ● 6695d

Chelsea in town

On Monday 5th February Chelsea are using Griffin Park to play the Chinese Olympic team as part of their training camp. Tickets are £5 for adults and £1 for children. It will be a very young Chelsea side but they are still worth watching. So come along and see the Blues in action. Tickets available from Brentford or on the night.

Margaret Wittich ● 6696d0 Comments ● 6696d

News:    Green Dragon Lane shooting incident

Listening to LBC this morning, Steve Allen referred to this dreadful news:DOUBLE SHOOTING LEAVES MAN DEAD""A man has died and another has been left fighting for his life following a shooting in a west London flat.Police were called to Fraser House on Green Dragon Lane in Brentford shortly after 2120 GMT on Thursday.A resident told the BBC a gunman had got into a first floor flat and fired three shots.A Metropolitan Police spokesman confirmed one man had died, while the other was taken to hospital with "life threatening injuries".One of the victims was shot in the head and the other was hit in the shoulder.A pet dog suffered a bullet wound to the leg, while a woman who was in the flat at the time escaped unhurt.Officers have cordoned off the area around the scene of the shooting and a murder inquiry has begun."" wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwfrom the BBC London website.wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww

Jim Lawes ● 6699d9 Comments ● 6696d

Contaminated cannabis alert

I am posting this information because the 'responsible' authorities and mainstream media are ignoring it. Recently herbal Cannabis contaminated with various additives such as fine grain sands, Iron fillings, baking soda, ground glass, fiber glass. Sugar solutions and soap solutions. These are being added to increase weight, or make the weed look like it has THC crystals on it and the soap solution is to stop it from drying properly and  thus losing weight. These are just the easily identifiable contaminants, Rumors that some people have died, due to some contaminates being toxic; abound on the cannabis forums and amongst the cannabis using community.If you do smoke check what you are buying and refuse to do business with the people selling this crap.If you have children who you know or suspect are smoking or who's friends are smoking Cannabis please show them this message or pass on this information as it the young without the knowledge or experience who are the most likely to end up with this crap who are most at risk.Some of the smaller independent music radio stations have started to broadcast massages about this subject but as I said the main players in media and information seem to be ignoring it to the detriment of the young and vulnerable.As many of you may know I advocate legalizing cannabis and so hate having to post negative info on this subject but needs must, so to speak.If you know anyone adding these contaminates or continuing to sell this crap long after realizing what’s in it or on it, I advise offering them up for a nicking because they don’t care if they are damaging your health or the health of anyone else that ends up with it in their lungs.From Phil Walsh proprietor Applewoods Hydroponica Limited AKA growers of conviction

Philip Walsh ● 6698d0 Comments ● 6698d

Quiz afternoon 2.00 pm Friday 26 Jan Isleworth Public Hall

FRIDAY 26 JANUARY 20072.00 pm for 2.15 pm startat Isleworth Public Hall, South Street, Isleworth, TW7 7BGQuiz afternoonPromoted by and raising funds for The Friends of Isleworth Public Hall£3.50 per person, includes tea and cake.Phone Christine Diwell on 020-8744 0663 for more info or to book.Teams of 4-6 or come in ones/twos/threes and join forceswith other brainy looking people.

Tom Beaton ● 6703d6 Comments ● 6698d

Pub nostalgia

What was/is the name of the pub on the Haverfield estate? Vague memories of teen drinking there on matchdays.

Colin Murphy ● 6700d11 Comments ● 6699d

Alfa Lavel Proposed Regeneration

Just wondering........Did anyone go to the Presentations at Alfa Lavel last week?  If so, any feedback/thoughts?Cheers,Fran

Fran Naughton ● 6699d0 Comments ● 6699d

unfair

isnt it unfair that i advertised a good workman last week on this site and was told by somebody that i shouldnt do that i have just been on this and i have checked out the chiswick web site and there seems to be loads of people doing adverting for different thing.i also thought that in this day and age people should know of trustworthy workman in these times. i also noticed that chiswick police have posted a warning for bogus callers today.so i think if you can help other in this area it is a good thing.

dolly haywood ● 6700d10 Comments ● 6699d

38 Kew Bridge Road TW8 0EB

I write due to our concerns in connection to the works outside this building (opposite Thames Water and the Railway Museum)With no notice to the residents of the 56 flats here we suddenly find ourselves with all our pavement being ripped apart, access to our car park seriously disrupted and work starting each day around 7.15am including loud diggers.I ask the following questions?where is the notice in advance of works?where is the consultation we expect from the the Council re: ripping up trees and narrowing the footpath?Are you aware that to widen the  road as we think is your objective,  will simply increase the speed on this road?why on earth are you not seeking out the opinion of the people who use this road?Have you considered that the bus lane is a joke ?Are you aware of the dangerous situation outside this building when people coming from the west wish to turn right in and all the oncoming traffic is pulling into our path? (due to your road works or is it pavement works)??We here at Regatta Point need answers with regard to these UNEXPECTED WORKS.We are also concerned that you intend then to re-surface the road (I found this ut by speaking to an Inspector) - will this be the end of it, or can we expect the road to be ripped up again within 3 months which has been the case for years now.I am the Chairman of Regatta Point (Freehold) Ltd.We have already contacted Env Health about the time the works are starting each day and they understand our concerns with regard to the noise and the fact we have not been informed as to what is going on.So lets have some answers and information.Margaret Shaw

Margaret Elizabeth Shaw ● 6704d7 Comments ● 6700d

Police presence in Brentford

Going into Brentford station this morning and was greeted by the massed ranks of the local constabulary, who were pushing some kind of voluntary breathaliser test (to gauge whether punters are still under the influence of alcohol from the previous night's excesses). Didn't have time to find out the full information, but did wonder why the police chose to focus on people commuting into London by train...all rather bizarre! More importantly though I have to say that this was the largest concentration of police in Brentford that I have seen in the 6 yrs I have been living here; there must have been a good 5-6 officers milling about. In fact I can attest that during my time here this may have been the first time I have actually seen police "on the ground", walking around, showing their presence. Seems like an extraordinary use of police resources. It's a shame indeed that officers don't feel the need to make regular street patrols which I am sure would at the very least cut down on much of the low level crime that Brentford suffers from  -- vandalism, grafitti, antisocial behaviour -- but prefer instead to waste their time with such pointless exercises as seen this morning.

Click here to enter name ● 6744d47 Comments ● 6700d

Good news for beleaguered Bees fans!

http://www.beesunited.org.uk/content/view/234/

James de Vivenot ● 6703d1 Comments ● 6702d

Local Business Networking Tool

www.companexus.comCompanexus is a FREE online networking system designed by business people to help you find the resources you need.**Find LOCAL SUPPLIERS able to meet your needs on your doorstep. **Link to LOCAL BUYERS looking for the products and services you sell. **Connect with LOCAL SUPPORT AGENCIES to help you move your business forward. Companexus is part funded by Government Office for London (GOL) as part of the Economic Regeneration Development Fund (ERDF). Companexus allows businesses to recommed eachother through feedback ratings and the power of networking ensuring local businesses get the best service at competitive prices through 'not what you know but who you know'Register today, its free.  Any feedback welcome.

Sarah Tomlin ● 6702d0 Comments ● 6702d

Albany Arms

Could anyone tell me what happened in Albany Road NYE Im guessing there was some sort of fight in the Albany Arms? I came home to glass all over my drive way?

Julie Moore ● 6722d3 Comments ● 6703d

Sweet shop in Ealing rd??

Can anyone remember the name of the little sweet shop that used to be opposite Ealing rd school?We used to pile in there after school to buy black jacks and bazooka joes,etc!It really was very small,but a real old traditional sweet shop,i can vaguely remember an old lady always serving me.The shop shut down some time after the school closed,just cant remember the name,been racking my brain for days,anyone remember it??

Bill Drinkwater ● 6703d3 Comments ● 6703d

Big Bother

Am i the only one who is disgusted with the current events happening in Big Brother celebrity 2007?I am talking about the Way Bollywood actress Shilpa Shelly is being treated but not just the culprits but from The show Bosses.Shilpa has been Bullied from the Day "Jade Goody" entred with her Loud mouth Mother and her dull boyfriend Jack.She has been bullied every day by Not just them But by miss World Con Danielle and 3 Club Reject Jo its disgusting to watch anyone being Bullied or taunted because they are not British.I feel Big Brother should of intervened a while ago and warned these Bullies to STOP or evict them but they dont do that because they want good ratings.Its absoutly disgusting for this company to allow such a thing after Thousands have complained, Police are investigated this but BB do Nothing to Stop it.This woman shouldnt have to go threw this..i mean these individuals are no better them selfs and ive read Jade has now been sacked from a Bully Charity Committee she was involved with.I hate bullies as i was bullied at School and i am sickened by these eventsShame on Big Brother

Simon Anderson ● 6707d33 Comments ● 6703d

Quiz on the Common Market

Who was it who said in 1982:-1. "Above all, the European Economic Community takes away Britains freedom to follow the sort of economic policies we need!"And in 1983:-2."We'll negotiate a withdrawal from the EEC which has drained our natural resources and destroyed  jobs"And in 1997:-3."On the day we remember the legend that St.George slayed a dragon to protect England, some would argue that there is another dragon to be slayed in Europe."Finally in 2005:-4. "I am a passionate pro-European. I always have been."I have purposely called it the Common Market, because we were conned into believing that that's what it was going to be"!....... 

Andrew Michael John Atkinson ● 6717d26 Comments ● 6703d

valentines day,14th feb  red nose day 16th mar,st patricks day 17th mar, mothers day 18th mar

FANTASY LANDPARTY SHOP61 EALING RD  BRENTFORD0208 569 876516th January 2007Hi wishing you a happy new year and just letting you know that we are open from 12-5pm Tuesday –Saturday  0208 569 8765/ 07930 594 610We stock a range of party goods inc fancy dress  costumes, balloons for all occasions, Flower orders for weddings birthday valentines and funerals etcColoured hair spray, face paints, fancy dress accessories ,jokes and lots more.We have such events COMING UP VALENTINES DAY             14TH FEBNATIONAL BRITISH PUB WEEK   17TH-24TH FEBST DAVIDS DAY               1ST MARCHWORLD BOOK DAY               1ST MARCHRED NOSE DAY                   16TH MARCHST PATRICKS DAY          17TH MARCHMOTHERS DAY                 18TH MARCHAPRIL FOOLS DAY             1ST APRILINTERNATIONAL KIDS BOOK DAY 2ND APRILGOOD FRIDAY EASTER           6TH APRILEASTER SUNDAY               8TH APRILQUEENS BIRTHDAY             21ST APRILFLORA LONDON MARATHON       22ND APRILST GEORGES DAY                     23RD APRILIf you need any of these items for events you might be organizing please feel free to pop in to the shop and have a look around and a chat.We also help raise money for premature babies and sick children at West Middlesex hospital.All the bestDebbie (Fantasy Land) www.fantasylandpartyshop.piczo.com

Debbie Dewar ● 6709d3 Comments ● 6703d

Twin Kittens

My daughter lives in the Ferry Lane area of Brentford.  One of her two kittens (nine months old) went missing last night.  He is called Luca, He is grey and white with a bushy tail.  His brother Alfie is concerned for his safety.  Any news would be gratefully received

Paul Cooke ● 6707d8 Comments ● 6703d

Market trial ends

With no little regret, I'm writing to say that the trial of the Farmers market in Brentford will be coming to an end for the time being. There are two major reasons. As anyone who has visited will know, it has been difficult to attract stallholders. Most recently, Flour Power City decided that it was not financially viable for them to continue to attend. When they first attended they did very well but report a fairly consistent week-on-week decline. They tell me that they took around £200 in each of their final weeks; not enough to make their attendance viable. I have been trying to find ways to enable Ringden to return selling their popular apple juice (including offering to sell it myself). However the logistics have proved impossible, largely because of the other markets in the immediate locality - West Ealing, two in Chiswick, Richmond, Hammersmith, Barnes etc . Some local residents have offered to make and sell produce - samosas, cakes etc. Sadly, it's not possible to do this until kitchens have been inspected for safety/hygeine certificates. Costs are also a consideration. Chief amongst these is Public Liability Insurance, which I will need to extend. It's sad that the market will end. However we have established the use of the space - I will be leaving the key to the removable bollard with Grand Union - and I hope that I will be able to assist other events to take place there.

Matt Harmer ● 6704d2 Comments ● 6703d

38 Kew Bridge Road TW8 0EB

I write due to our concerns in connection to the works outside this building (opposite Thames Water and the Railway Museum)With no notice to the residents of the 56 flats here we suddenly find ourselves with all our pavement being ripped apart, access to our car park seriously disrupted and work starting each day around 7.15am including loud diggers.I ask the following questions?where is the notice in advance of works?where is the consultation we expect from the the Council re: ripping up trees and narrowing the footpath?Are you aware that to widen the  road as we think is your objective,  will simply increase the speed on this road?why on earth are you not seeking out the opinion of the people who use this road?Have you considered that the bus lane is a joke ?Are you aware of the dangerous situation outside this building when people coming from the west wish to turn right in and all the oncoming traffic is pulling into our path? (due to your road works or is it pavement works)??We here at Regatta Point need answers with regard to these UNEXPECTED WORKS.We are also concerned that you intend then to re-surface the road (I found this ut by speaking to an Inspector) - will this be the end of it, or can we expect the road to be ripped up again within 3 months which has been the case for years now.I am the Chairman of Regatta Point (Freehold) Ltd.We have already contacted Env Health about the time the works are starting each day and they understand our concerns with regard to the noise and the fact we have not been informed as to what is going on.So lets have some answers and information.Margaret Shaw

Margaret Elizabeth Shaw ● 6704d0 Comments ● 6704d

recommended for bad weather

excellant workman recommended very efficient, did great job for me when fence blew down today during this windy weather, reasonable price, available for any job. call 07986767252 junior

dolly haywood ● 6707d12 Comments ● 6704d

What would a gal carry inside a £750.00 handbag?

Did you bag a bargain in the sales?I was walking past the handbags inside a posh store in Guildford when underneath the 50% off sign I spotted a lovely blue hangbag - £7.56 said the lable.  Crumbs!  I thought - then I realised it was £756.00 ...... I am sooo glad that I didn't buy it a week earlier!;-)

Sarah Felstead ● 6706d4 Comments ● 6704d

Tara Camogie London

Tara Camogie Club will start training first week in February for the new season.  We have both a junior and a senior team so all standards welcome from beginners to seasoned players!! Busy times up ahead:  Club AGM at Hammersmith Irish Centre on Saturday 10 February, from 2pm.Fundraising Race Night at The Leamington Pub, Horn Lane Acton on Friday 2 March.  First Race 8.30pm.We expect League matches to commence early March and we will travel to Birmingham for Camogie Tournament Saturday 10 March.London County camogie team will travel to Tyrone in the National League on Sunday 4 February and we wish all the girls best of luck and especially the Tara girls.www.camogie.co.uk  or tel: 020 8561 3544.  Thanks

Sheila Fernandes ● 6706d0 Comments ● 6706d

Tara Camogie London

Tara Camogie Club will start training first week in February for the new season.  We have both a junior and a senior team so all standards welcome from beginners to seasoned players!! Busy times up ahead:  Club AGM at Hammersmith Irish Centre on Saturday 10 February, from 2pm.Fundraising Race Night at The Leamington Pub, Horn Lane Acton on Friday 2 March.  First Race 8.30pm.We expect League matches to commence early March and we will travel to Birmingham for Camogie Tournament Saturday 10 March.London County camogie team will travel to Tyrone in the National League on Sunday 4 February and we wish all the girls best of luck and especially the Tara girls.www.camogie.co.uk  or tel: 020 8561 3544.  Thanks

Sheila Fernandes ● 6706d0 Comments ● 6706d

A  World Health Service?

Our NHS has become a free for all for every Tom Dick and Harry who turn up in this country. Meanwhile the people who actually contribute to its cost, are involved in a post code lottery for treatmeny, with some women requiring treatment for breast cancer being refused treatment! Recently West Middlesex Hospital had to close its doors because of the pressure, and patients sent to Ealing. Hounslow population is growing faster than ever, and West Mid has only 4 intensive care beds to serve Hounslow, Ashford has no A&E and patients are being sent to St Peters in Chertsey. People without transport are left to their own devices to try and get treatment. When will a politician have the guts to put British interests first? When we have a surplus capacity here, then by all means treat everyone regardless of whether they have contributed or not. The present system is unsustainable. Nowhere else in the world can you get free health care........unless you know different! QUOTE FROM THE TIMES NEWSPAPER January 7th 2007The information, released under the Freedom of Information Act, shows that one hospital is spending up to £1m a year on dialysis for nearly 40 non-British residents; another has placed two asylum seekers on its waiting list for transplants and a third has recovered only 2% of its costs from overseas patients.In the last financial year St George’s hospital in south London spent about £100,000 on dialysis for overseas patients but has recovered only £2,100. Timothy Statham, chief executive of The National Kidney Federation, said: “Capacity is at breaking point,” he said. “We have very ill British] patients needing to dialyse through the night because there is not sufficient capacity. Some patients may come from abroad because dialysis was not available in their country. We seem to be offering a world health service.”

Andrew Michael John Atkinson ● 6707d2 Comments ● 6706d

Barrett New Development

Can anyone tell me who I contact with regard to having my windows being cleaned as part of an agreement with Barrett for dirt, dust and debris as a result of work during their development on the old Wallis House site in North Brentford?Thanks

Emma Rowlatt ● 6709d5 Comments ● 6706d

Win Valentine's Dinner At Annie's

We love Valentine’s Day at Annie’s – any excuse for candlelight, sensual food and champagne and we’re ready to party!  This year I wanted to make it an extra special day at both of my restaurants, so we’re running a competition to find the most luscious, loved-up romantic dish that you adore.  We’ll add one of those juicy delights to our menu during February and if we pick your suggestion, you’ll win a champagne dinner for two on Valentine’s Day.Entries are normally made via competition cards at the restaurants, but I’m making it even easier for Forum members to join in the fun.  Just email chiswick@anniesrestaurant.co.uk or barnes@anniesrestaurant.co.uk, whichever is more convenient for you.  Put Valentine’s Day Competition in the subject area of your email and make sure you include the following details:NameEmail AddressPostcodeBirthday (just the day and month) Suggestion for most romantic dishGood luck and I hope to see you soon!Lorraine

Lorraine Angliss ● 6707d0 Comments ● 6707d

burns night 25th jan,australia day 26th jan,chinese new year,st georges day 23rd april

hi allWe stock a range of party goods inc fancy dress  costumes, balloons for all occasions, Flower orders for weddings birthday valentines and funerals etcColoured hair spray, face paints, fancy dress accessories ,jokes and lots more.We have such events COMING UP burns night                25th janaustralia day              26th janchinese new year VALENTINES DAY             14TH FEBNATIONAL BRITISH PUB WEEK   17TH-24TH FEBST DAVIDS DAY               1ST MARCHWORLD BOOK DAY               1ST MARCHRED NOSE DAY                   16TH MARCHST PATRICKS DAY          17TH MARCHMOTHERS DAY                 18TH MARCHAPRIL FOOLS DAY             1ST APRILINTERNATIONAL KIDS BOOK DAY 2ND APRILGOOD FRIDAY EASTER           6TH APRILEASTER SUNDAY               8TH APRILQUEENS BIRTHDAY             21ST APRILFLORA LONDON MARATHON       22ND APRILST GEORGES DAY              23RD APRILindepence day               4th julyIf you need any of these items for events you might be organizing please feel free to pop in to the shop and have a look around and a chat.We also help raise money for premature babies and sick children at West Middlesex hospital.All the bestDebbie (Fantasy Land) www.fantasylandpartyshop.piczo.com

Debbie Dewar ● 6707d0 Comments ● 6707d

brentford roads

hello allmyself and my fiance have just moved to bootiful brentford from leafy chiswick, and lovely as it is, i was wondering who is responsible for the local road surfaces?i cycle down the high street and kew bridge road on my road bike to get to chiswick everyday and frankly, im starting to get worried for any children i might think of having...taj

Jamie Halliday ● 6708d6 Comments ● 6707d

Accident in Brentford

Does anyone know what was going on in London Road Brentford last night? The dopey Police let the traffic go all the way to the canal bridge and then made everyone turn around. By that time the Half Acre was jammed and then the A4 ditto, had they used what passes for brains they should and could have turned the traffic right down by Ealing Road or the Half Acre. I heard on the radio while sitting in the traffic that there had been an accident involving a bus,I hope no-one was injured, more than that I know not, does anyone else?

Vanessa Smith ● 6712d22 Comments ● 6708d

CAPOEIRA

Fancy trying something new?Capoeira is a martial art involving self-defence and attack through tactical movements and is suitable for all levels and ages. It's a discipline exercising the body and mind as well as improving physical fitness, balance, flexibility and strength, using kicks, movement, dance and musicality. Roge'rio "Piaba" De Andrade has been practicing the art form since 1992 under the Capoeira world champion Jair "Sabia". Classes are held in Chiswick at the Arts Educational School on Bath Road on:Mondays: 7.00-8.30pmThursdays: 7.30-9.00pmFor more information call Rogerio De Andrade 07863 554 784 or email: rogeriopiaba@hotmail.comBeginners welcome!

Michelle Fernandes ● 6708d0 Comments ● 6708d

Is Jim Lawes tucking in to his hamper goodies?

Well done Jim on winning 2nd prize in the Mayor`s charity raffle.Mayor's Charity Christmas Raffle Thank you to everyone who took part in the Mayor's Charity Christmas Raffle.We raised a grand total of £2,241, which will be given to the Mayor’s charities for this year:St Mary's Convent and Nursing Home, and Hounslow Crossroads Ltd.A full list of winners follows:A pair of return tickets with BA  M HennessyThe Christmas Carol Hamper from Harrods Jim LawesSharp Video Recorder or DVD Terry Welsh1 Years Supply of Cobra Beer Sinead ConlonPhillips 15" flat TV Brian TurnbullRoadster Hands free car kit Adrian CookRugby League game in Griffin Park:2 vouchers (1 adult + 1 child each voucher)   Karen Jefferys3 months free PREMIER PLUS ticket to any of the Leisure Centres Tammy Dinner for 2 – JURY’S INN Lalita ScottDinner for 4 – Aurora International Hotel Cllr John ToddDinner for 2 at Hounslow Brasserie Brenda PooleyNando's Voucher for a Full Platter for 4 people Sam CurlingDinner for 2 – Holiday Inn – Island restaurant, Brentford Lock Gill HutsonDinner for 2 – Memories of India C DakersMeal for 2 – Grounds Coffee Bar, Brentford. Helen FargoharTESCO - £20 gift voucher Cllr A DakersVeuve Clicquot Champagne + Box of Truffles ShobhnaMoet & Chandon Champagne Mrs B BainsRene Florancy Champagne Alison LeakeGrand Marnier Liqueur Mrs G BucklandPernod x 2 Harrison MillsFriscati Wine Valerie WhitakerSilver Business Card Case Frankie BelloliKOUROS (Yves St Laurent) Nick PrattCar blanket and thermos flask Cllr DhaliwalThe Lismore Statement Crystal Vase Joyce Jackson£20 M&S Voucher Cllr Peter Hill£20 M&S Voucher Brenda PooleyCut & Blow Dry at Cocoon Hair Trini Cubos£30 Super check from ADECCO Cllr Peter Thompson£100 voucher to be redeemed on www.buyagift.co.uk Amma SkakaFruit Basket Cherna ChromeCava + Bottle of Port W PickettBowl of Candles + photoframe Beena Bhanu3 bottles wine Sue Basten1 Red wine + 1 white wine Cllr Sangha

Paul Fisher ● 6740d21 Comments ● 6708d

Dog Walking

I moved back to England temporarily last year and had to leave my dog in Canada. I realise that I really miss going for walks with a dog so I am wondering if anyone needs me to do this for them occasionally, obviously with a friendly dog (!) I would be very happy to. If anyone has any information about a voluntary organisation that handles this type of thing then I would appreciate that too.Thanks in advance to anyone offering any advice or help.

Tara Vinnell ● 6708d0 Comments ● 6708d

For the Safer Neighbourhood Team?

Would somebody please take a look at the pedestrian traffic lights on the A4 between Ealing Road and Boston Manor – I think they are just past Windmill Road, as you travel towards Gillette corner.I have witnessed 2 accidents along there in recent years – the last one being a shunt around 4 months ago.Firstly the left hand light (kerb side) is skew-whiff.  All the lights may not be operating – or the dislodged slant of the post may mean that the ‘shutters’ on these lights are now blocking the light itself?(Does anyone know why some lights have these shutters on them, anyway?)Were these pedestrian lights positioned before all the redirection of the traffic along the A4?  The lights appear to be in a strange position for drivers to notice them and take heed of them after making the turn onto the Great West road, from both directions.  At a point where a driver is accelerating, there is no clear visibility of the lights (especially if one is not working!) until they are fully around the corner having been watching for oncoming traffic.  They are then instructed to do an emergency stop.The second shunt was of a car crossing over the A4 from the Ealing side of the road, going under the M4 flyover and turning right onto the A4, where he accelerated into the back of a car which did an abrupt stop at the lights – probably after spotting the right hand light as being red as the left hand one (kerb side) was not working or not visible at the time.

Sarah Felstead ● 6710d5 Comments ● 6709d

Alfa Laval regeneration plans

Public ExhibitionPlans to redevelop the former Alfa Laval site along the Great West Road, in Brentford, will be put on display at a public exhibition on:Thursday 18th January, 2-8pmSaturday 20th January, 10-2pmThe display will be held in the basement car park off the Alfa Laval building, entrance off Brook Lane North (opposite York Road).For further information please contact Wyn Evans or Anna Jones on 020 7025 2300For this and further events please visit the TW8 calendar.If you have an event to list please email listings@brentfordtw8.com

Kath Richardson ● 6711d0 Comments ● 6711d

Ho, ho, ho

Have heard that Hounslow's Tory/ICG regime are planning on bringing in Consultants for a two year period to advise on a re-structure of the Council - (yes, another one, get a week, get another re-structure)estimated costs in the region of £1 - 2M. God alone knows what they pay the Chief Executive and other very senior officers for, and given the fact there are a number of councillors who have been around for many years, if they don't know what they want by now then they ought to be very ashamed of themselves. As there have already been rumbles of job cuts and £10m budget savings isn't this a case of carts and horses?

Vanessa Smith ● 6741d54 Comments ● 6712d

Burdett Row, Brentford

In 1885 my Grandmother was born in Burdett Row.Does anybody know where in Brentford this was.

Derek Warnes ● 6722d7 Comments ● 6712d

Pub Quiz?

Hello all and Happy New Year,I'm new to the forum, just wondered if anyone knows of a regular Pub Quiz in Brentford?Cheers,Jennifer

Jennifer Johnston ● 6713d4 Comments ● 6712d

Political party newsletter received ...

...from the ICG. Any activity within the other groups?   ...   ...   ...  :-)

Sarah Felstead ● 6725d11 Comments ● 6713d

Fuller's Brewery Tours

Have any of you ever been on a brewery tour? I work at the brewery and I must say it is a really fun way to spend a couple of hours. If any of you are interested in finding out more why not visit the website or email the tours manager at tours@fullers.co.uk

Michelle Beaumont ● 6717d4 Comments ● 6714d

Hounslow central planning

It would appear that the new planning committee for Hounslow Central, are now looking at applications based on their merits, and not the nod and a wink behind closed doors. This was my perception in the past, which led to a whitewashed report being produced later after an independent investigation, which has been well documented and mulled over.I still have reservations though, that proposed enforcement actions will be delayed, with endless costly appeals being presented for further consideration, Yes, I know that officers don't always get it right,  but once the appeal has been heard by councillors, that should be the end of it!I dont know what others think, but I believe that the four year rule should also be reviewed / revised. It means that if you build a monstrosity or flout planning laws and can prove that it has been there for four years,there is nothing anyone can do, and that cannot be right. or can it?......................

Andrew Michael John Atkinson ● 6714d0 Comments ● 6714d

Tree across the railway line near Wood Lane

Following last night's heavy winds, I noticed as I drove across the level crossing at Wood Lane today that a tree has fallen across the line.  Please take note if you are planning to travel to or from Isleworth station or beyond.

Phil Andrews ● 6714d0 Comments ● 6714d

New Road Incident

Does anyone know why New Road was cordoned off this morning around 7.50 due to an incident?  Was on the morning news.

Emma Rowlatt ● 6714d0 Comments ● 6714d

ARSENAL FANS ?

Has anyone got a view on Arsenal Football Club banning the flag of St George from The Emirates Stadium? I think its an absolute disgrace.A spokesman for the club said they have banned all national flags from all countries.WHAT A LOAD OF RUBBISH !!! Thats a cop out excuse...has nothing to do with the crusades then? Bearing in mind the name of the stadium and their sponsors I would suggest theyre scared of upsetting certain people.BLOODY PC GONE MAD THEY SHOULD BE HAD UP FOR TREASON.

Mark Welland ● 6732d14 Comments ● 6715d

A question for the local Labour Cllrs?

I wonder if our local Labour Councillors can confirm if a percentage of their Borough of Hounslow Cllr allowances are in fact paid to the Labour Party to prop up its funds,either directly through subscriptions or through the Association of Labour Councillors?As a Council Taxpayer,I would strongly object to a percentage of my taxes subsidising a political party I do not support.

Paul Fisher ● 6744d21 Comments ● 6715d

Cross borough benefit cheat jailed for four months – Front page story

“… Rampal Sharma, 53, falsely claimed housing benefit totalling £21, 391 between 2000 and 2003 to pay the mortgage on his home …  ”“ … In addition, he told Sharma to pay back everything he stole … ”“ … The message is clear; if you are committing benefit fraud, stop and come clean. If you carry out this type of crime, you risk prison, and that does not mean an end to it. You will still have to pay back everything you stole when you come out of prison … ““  … because the benefit claim was fraudulent from the outset, taxpayers money was used to maintain a property, and the property had been sold at a profit … ”“  … A compensation order was made for the fraudulent payment of £21,391.37 to be paid within 18 months, and prosecution costs of £1,514 were awarded to the London Borough of Hounslow … ”The message may well be clear - who kept the profit?

Sarah Felstead ● 6733d1 Comments ● 6715d

What will they actually spend it on...?

The new taxes on air fares and all the green taxes that we do,or will be ,paying in the future,that is.How does giving the government more money actually minimise the pollution of the environment?I may be being naive,nay thick,but what do they actually do with the dosh?Does it go on research into cleaner fuels,more efficient engines,better filtration of fumes etc?Anyone actually know?

Keith Iddon ● 6725d24 Comments ● 6715d

Old gardening tools

If anybody has any old gardening tools that are no longer required and are still usable I have a good home for them on a project that will be of a benefit for the people of Brentford & Isleworth areas this is known as PAYBACK there is information on the web. They will be used for cleaning up overgrown parks and green spaces. I will collect from anywhere in the borough. Please e-mail me and to make arrangements.

Edward Fitzgerald ● 6717d4 Comments ● 6716d

Service men and womens accomodation.

What a crazy country we live in. Our service men and women join the army to ostensibly fight for their country, and their reward for this service is to keep them in barracks that you would not keep pigs in (nothing has changed since my National Service days in the 50's)Yet we spend millions on better accommodation for asylum seekers,televisions for murderers, rapists and child molesters, and as Abu Hamza will testify bags, of cash for telling us how how he hates us. We put him in clink and all his demands are met by the gutless PC liberal brigade, who demonstrate and tell us all what a disgrace we are. When can we see a a similar demo for oor brave service people

Andrew Michael John Atkinson ● 6721d26 Comments ● 6716d

Stray dog

A black dog has been wandering up and down Swyncombe Avenue/Boston Manor Road since early this morning (Sunday).I've contacted Battersea Dog's home but they will only pick up dogs from a police station but I don't want to approach the dog to take it to the station myself.The RSPCA say that, by law, it's now the local authority's responsibility to catch stray dogs. I called Hounslow but they don't have anyone at the weekend from the animal welfare section to deal with it.The police have been very helpful and have said that they'll try to get someone around to catch the dog.It's a large black dog and looks like a sheep dog and has a white belly and little bits of white on it's paws. Does anyone know if someone has lost a dog in the area?

Jane Hanna ● 6718d5 Comments ● 6716d

HEALING IN CHISWICK

Another reminder.  The healing centre will be open at the London Buddhist Vihara, The Avenue, Chiswick, on this coming Monday, 8th January between 11am and 1pm.Healing helps any condition, through from stress 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.You do not need to make an appointment or book but if you want any further information before coming please give me a ring on 0788 189 6449.

Pat Smith ● 6718d0 Comments ● 6718d

Why?

Why has Prince Nazeem the boxer had his going taken away when that double dyed, total scumbag Jeffrey Archer hasn't?

Vanessa Smith ● 6723d19 Comments ● 6719d

Happy New Year Everyone...

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e10/Red29/fireworks-orange.gif

Simon Anderson ● 6725d3 Comments ● 6725d

The Curse of EBAY

Please be careful of EBAY at Christmas.2 weeks ago i placed a bid (4 Shivon) for a Box Set of DVDS she wanted and last Sunday i was told i had won the Bid (£17.50) so i emailed the seller and he emailed me to tell me his name and Address to send payment.Monday i went to the P.O and bought a P.Order and sent it recorded Delivery to his Add in Luton.i came home emailed him and he replied saying Thanks.On Tuesday afternoon i sent him a email to see if payment had arrived but he didn't email me back.Wednesday Morning i sent anther email to him but no reply, that evening EBAY sent me an email to say they have removed this seller and the item and told me NOT to send payment.I was so angry as it took the 3days after the bidding was closed to remove the seller and item and contact me.They have told me i had to try to contact the seller and i have to wait 60days to place a dispute in.So i contacted the seller 3 times with no reply so i decided to send him a email saying how disgusted i was and how could he rip off a 11yr old child with Leukemia and i was going to write to the newspapers in Luton.He then emailed me saying he is a genuine seller and he doesn't no why EBAY has done this and he doesn't rip off anyone and the item will be with me ASAP.But it was weird as his name had changed now!!I emailed him back to say thanks and ask when will the item get to me- No ReplyAgain i emailed and asked-No ReplyOn Saturday i emailed him again saying i am fed up with this and going to the local papers in Luton - he emailed back to say he has sent the item and would chase it up.I replied and asked when was it sent-No Reply.So please be carefully if buying off EBAY and if you come across the following seller don't deal with him:Mr Wahied Ali of Luton he sells under dmock22 and he is calling himself aswell as Wahied Ali the name off David Mocksley

Simon Anderson ● 6738d3 Comments ● 6726d

n ew runner

is there anyone out there who would like an occassionalrun\walk\jog or who would offer encouragement to someone trying to run. thnaks. i work  so needs to be fllexible

Mo March ● 6727d0 Comments ● 6727d

n ew runner

is there anyone out there who would like an occassionalrun\walk\jog or who would offer encouragement to someone trying to run. thnaks. i work  so needs to be fllexible

Mo March ● 6727d0 Comments ● 6727d

London Welsh and Magners League in Brentford?

This story came up earlier this year but it has appeared again... it has been mooted that the London Welsh rugby team will leave the English league structure and join the Magners League - the professional league for rugby teams in Ireland, Scotland and Wales.  Brentford has been suggested as a ground.As an Irish rugby fan, I think this would be fantastic.  The Magners League has the current European champions in Munster and I'm sure there would be lots of other Irish, Scottish and Welsh exiles in London that would only be too happy to see their teams in action here.http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/rugby_union/english/6199419.stmLondon Welsh keen on Celtic move  London Welsh beleive their future could lie in the Magners League London Welsh have revealed an ambition to leave the English league to join the Celtic League as a fifth Welsh region. The National League One side have written to the Welsh Rugby Union asking for a meeting to discuss the viability of making such a radical move. The club told BBC Sport they would fund themselves for the first seasons and play their home games at Brentford FC. "I think we would bring a great deal to the Magners League," said London Welsh operations manager Peter Thomas. "Geographically, it would mean the league would have a team playing in each of the capital cities, which would be great. "In terms of bringing in potential sponsors, I think having a club based in London would help with that. "And if you look at what we could pull in in terms of crowds, we would end up with very healthy gates." A potential agreement between the English Premiership clubs and the Rugby Football Union has prompted London Welsh to consider their position in the English club system. We'd have to be in a position where we'd be self-funding until we've proved our worth London Welsh operations manager Peter Thomas The deal would ring-fence England's top division by ending promotion from and relegation to League One in return for the England national side having greater access to the Premiership stars. London Welsh, who are members of the RFU and WRU, believe that such a deal would hinder the club's development and jeopardise its future. "We've got to be aware of the current change in the RFU and what they might bring in which enforces a natural change to our set-up," said London Welsh director of rugby Martin Jones. "If we could remain with the WRU that would be a major boost for Welsh rugby and London Welsh as a club." The WRU got rid of its fifth professional region, Celtic Warriors, in 2004, claiming they could only afford to sustain four sides. The existing four Welsh regions would be unlikely to support any expansion if it means their income from the WRU being split five ways. But London Welsh insist they would not expect any funds from the WRU for the first few seasons until they could prove that overall commercial income had risen. "We'd have to be in a position where we'd be self-funding until we've proved our worth," added Thomas. The other issue of concern to London Welsh is whether they should continue to play at their spiritual home at Old Deer Park in west London. The stadium is on Crown land and developing the site is unlikely to be given the go-ahead. Those restrictions have prompted the Exiles to start talks with near neighbours Brentford Football Club over a possible ground-share. "They've got a very nice facility," added Thomas. "A 12,500 capacity stadium, 7,000 of which are seated so it's an ideal venue for us."

Michael Robinson ● 6735d1 Comments ● 6727d

R.I.P To A Legend

The Legendary James Brown has just died.I met him a few times and he was such a nice bloke always took time to meet and greet the fans and sign Autographs and pose for photos.I just want to say R.I.P Legend....sleep well!!You will be sadly missed

Simon Anderson ● 6731d1 Comments ● 6729d

UNWANTED STUFF AFTER XMAS??

HAVE YOU ITEMS YOU NO LONGER NEED AND WANT TO EITHER SELL OR GIVE THEM AWAY?ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A ITEM FREE OR TO BUY?TRY SOME OF THE FOLLOWING SITES:FREEHOTADS.COMGUMTREE.COMCRAIGLIST.ORGFREECYCLELOADS MORE ON THESE SITES.

Simon Anderson ● 6732d3 Comments ● 6731d

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM FANTASY LAND

WISHING ALL  MY CUSTOMERS A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR THANKS FOR ALL THE SUPPORT I WILL KEEP YOU UP DATED WHEN THE NEXT COSTUME BALL WILL BE ENJOY THE HOLIDAYS.THANKS JIM LAWES FOR THE WONDERFULL MINCE PIES THEY WERE YUMMY.FANTASY LAND WILL RE OPEN ON THE 27TH DEC 12-5PM FOR ALL YOUR NEW YEARS EVE GOODIES WE HAVE LOTS OF FACE PAINTS, HAIR SPRAY,PARTY POPPERS FUNNY HATS AND LOTS MORE POP IN FOR LOOK AROUND. ALL THE BESTDEBBIE XXXXXXX

Debbie Dewar ● 6732d0 Comments ● 6732d

CHRISTMAS

As the season of goodwill is with us once again, I wonder what fellow posters are giving/hoping to get/doing over the Christmas period?

Kevin Farnan ● 6750d8 Comments ● 6732d

foster homes needd for cats

The Hounslow Animal Welfare Society is in desperate need of foster homes for cats. Even if you think your home is not big enough for the cat to roam, OR you are not around enough, or you don't have access to a garden, a cat will always have so much better quality of life with you than having to live in a pen until s/he gets re-homed.Any veterinary expenses incurred while fostering will be met by HAWS. Likewise, all equipment will be provided.Also, if you are considering adopting a cat for life, please contact HAWS. Like most animal charities, HAWS are reluctant to give animals for adoption at Christmas time, but they are certainly willing to have a chat with you and have no problem to wave the 'Christmas policy' for people who are serious about adopting a cat and are going to have a quiet Christmas at home.The cats are here in Chiswick, you don't have to drive far away to get yours. HAWS will even bring the cat to you if you cannot collect him/her.If you think you can help, please go to:http://www.haws-animals.org.ukThanks very much.

Silvia Diaz ● 6740d2 Comments ● 6737d

Is There............?

A free Electoral website address people can use (i don't mean the Private one that Mp'S use) but a Free one that anyone can use...?

Simon Anderson ● 6741d6 Comments ● 6738d

Any 1 help??

My freezer died over night and most of my food is now in the Bin and Ive had to put my other bits in my neighbors freezer.So does anyone have or no anyone who is trying to get rid of a Fridge Freezer urgently...?

Simon Anderson ● 6739d2 Comments ● 6739d

Is there a farmers market tomorrow?

If yes, what time is it happening?TIA

Angela Peel ● 6741d3 Comments ● 6740d

power failure Richmond

I hear there is a power failure in Richmond does anyone know anything about it??

Elaine Nealis ● 6741d0 Comments ● 6741d

Thamesbank Credit Union

I met up with Cllr Matt Harmer last night and as promised he provided me with loads of leaflets regarding the Thamesbank Credit Union.Thamesbank Credit Union is a co-operative, owned and run by its members. It can provide ethical locally-run financial services to the whole community. As a not-for-profit organisation it offers competitive rates for loans and a safe place for savings.Although Credit Unions are ideal for everyone they are especially suitable for people excluded from the conventional banking system.Matt and his colleagues have been great in promoting this idea in the Brentford area during the last few years and it would be great if this could be extended to the Isleworth area as well.This is a great step to eliminating the loan sharks who prey on our local estates usually targeting the most vulnerable charging extortionate interest rates.If you would like more information then you can read about Thamesbank here at http://www.brentfordtw8.com/info/thamesbank.htm or if you are in the Isleworth area and would like me to drop a leaflet round to you then please e-mail me at paul.fisher@hounslow.gov.uk

Paul Fisher ● 6741d1 Comments ● 6741d

The Convent Way Xmas Lights: Mayor's Visit on Tuesday

GOOD NEWS: THE MAYOR OF HOUNSLOW, Cllr Felicity Barwood, will be visiting Convent Way to see the lights and more..at 5.45pm on TUESDAY 12th DECEMBER 2006.   Come along to No 21 and No 29..I'll be there with others.oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooFor the past 15 years, it seems, thousands of passers by (and other making specials trips) make the journey to Convent Way to see the "WOW" Christmas decorations at No 21 and No29.They are really worth seeing...and the nearer to Christmas the more atmospheric it will all seem. Children will love the displays, the Father Christmas Grottos and more.We have so far raised £300 and this has been shared between the two families to help with their higher electricity bills. We are hoping a raise another £100-200.  Any surplus..over and above the fuel bills ..will go to the Charities that each house is collecting for.Mr and Mrs Brace at No 21 Convent Way have a collection box for the local Alzheimers Charity..which organises outings and tea-parties for Clients and Carers. Your Cheques/cash  can be sent /delivered direct to Mrs Brace at No 21. (Cheques payable to Mrs Brace or Alzheimers Society.At No 29 Mr and Mrs Groves are collecting for a Heston Charity that is hiring a giant Ambulance (Jumblulance) which takes wheelchair bound and stretcher bound clients and carers to Lourdes in France. They are even saving to buy their own vehicle!    Same again..cash or cheques to No 29...cheques payable to Accross Charity.GOOD NEWS: THE MAYOR OF HOUNSLOW, Cllr Felicity Barwood, will be visiting Convent Way to see the lights and more..at 5.45pm on TUESDAY 12th DECEMBER 2006.   Come along..I'll be there with others. oooooooooooooooooooooto be continued.

Jim Lawes ● 6745d7 Comments ● 6741d

Writing Desk for Sale

Hi Folks,I have an old reproduction (Tully’s of Chelsea I think) writing desk, which I am looking to sell. Measurements are approx 122x60x77cm with a red leather top.The desk does need a bit of work and I originally purchased it with restoration in mind. But have since run out of space to keep it. There is slight damage just above the locks where it looks like someone has broken into it in a past life and it needs a deco strip in one place, but I understand they are quite easy to get hold of. Also there are no keys but again, im told these are quite easy to come by.I am looking for around the £200 mark for it, and you are welcome to come view it if you are interested. Be quick thought as I will be putting it on e-bay if no one is interested!:)BTW - The desk is in Brentford, by the football ground!Cheers Richp.s Pictures are avail for e-mailing...just say the word!

Richard de Matos ● 6742d0 Comments ● 6742d

Should there be a re-think?

Given the awful and distressing murders in the Ipswich area isn't it well past time that prostitution was de-criminalised to give the women protection and let them work from licensed premises? Forcing them on to the streets is appalling - this "profession" isn't going away so surely in the 21st century we should be able to take a practical and sensible attitude to sorting it out once and for all, we cannot go on like this. While we're about it shouldn't the same be applied to drugs? -  At the very least you make a huge change in taking organised crime out of the equation, clearly present ways of dealing with these issues just isn't working - the lesson is when there was prohibition in the U.S.? It didn't work then and it won't work now, it's just open season for criminals and never mind the victims. How much longer will successive Governments run scared of facing up to what is really going on?

Vanessa Smith ● 6744d5 Comments ● 6742d

One small step?

Having popped into Tesco this morning to buy some croissants along with the Sunday papers, I was amazed to see that they have abandoned the big plastic container that they normally come in for a bag! Is this the big retailers finally beginning to get the message re  excessive packaging? Well done Tesco, there's a hell of a way to go yet but could this be the start?

Vanessa Smith ● 6746d6 Comments ● 6742d

Anyone got Alias Series 5 DVD Set

I am looking for a copy of Alias Series 5 on Box Set if anyone is selling a copy cheap??

Simon Anderson ● 6743d0 Comments ● 6743d

Ealing Road School

Hi there,would anyone have any old photos of the school,or know any sites or contacts where i could find any photos of my old school,thanks!

Bill Drinkwater ● 6750d6 Comments ● 6744d

Local Conservatives have chosen their next Candidate

John Barnes,Chairman of the Brentford and Isleworth Conservative Association has asked me to place a note on the Forum to say that his members have today selected Ms Mary McLeod to be their Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for the next General Election.That's a scoop for the Forum!Our local constituency is enormous..covering Chiswick, Gunnersbury, Brentford, Syon, Osterley, Spring Grove and Isleworth, South Hounslow..and all of Hounslow High Street..and all the way down Hanworth Road and Wellington Road South to the Powdermill Mill Lane area!I'm sure that there will be an official announcement soon...but it's good that TW8.com can be quick on the mark with the news!!

Jim Lawes ● 6746d14 Comments ● 6744d

Merry Xmas

I want to wish every poster on Tw8 a VERY Merry Xmas and a VERY happy New Year.                      From Simon Anderson and my beautiful Children

Simon Anderson ● 6746d13 Comments ● 6745d

York Road Christmas Tree Lights

The Residents of York Road met last night, Sunday 10th December under the 2 trees, cul-de-sac end of York Road for the lighting of the trees at 7.00pm.  Before the lighting of the 2 trees we all enjoyed Hot Mulled Wine, Hot Chocolate, minced pies, biscuits and jellie babbies for the children with Carol Singing CD Music.The lighting of the trees coincided with the Annual Worldwide Candle Ceremony, held every 2nd Sunday in December at 7.00pm in each zone of the World for all Children who have died 'So Their Light May Always Shine' 3 Mothers in York Road tragidly lost one of their Children within the last 2 years so this was a very emotional, extra special Christmas Lights Lighting Ceremony occasion, and the turn out was beautiful.Fran x 

Fran Naughton ● 6745d1 Comments ● 6745d

Christmas houses decorated

hi all I was passing down lionel road in brentford and some of the houses look fantastic and have really gone to town on there christmas decorations outside  its magical my daughter said it made me remember when i was little.Has anyone seen any other decorated houses in  brentford Jim i was wondering if you could take some photos of these houses and put the pictures on they are fab. cheersDebbie

Debbie Dewar ● 7117d68 Comments ● 6745d

Will there be another Brentford Festival?

Come along to the Pavilion in Boston Manor Park on Monday 27th November at 7.00 p.m. to discuss its future and to see photographs of the last one.  Everyone wants it but who is going to run it?

Linda Massey ● 6762d8 Comments ● 6745d

Great West Road Christmas turn off!

Well, drove down the GW road tonight (between Gillette Corner and Boston Manor Road) and very disappointed in the lack of Christmas trees! Only Glaxo have put up a few. Gosh when our children were small we used to always have to drive home that way so that they could see the lights.Shame on all the businesses along there!

Linda F Wright ● 6747d8 Comments ● 6746d

Great service in Prezzo and Ground

I had my doubts about the location of the new waterside dining places being capable of sustaining a business like both of these places. As much as I prefer more rustic old fashioned settings, both of these places are to be commended on their good customer service, which is the one thing that will mean they are succesful.  Prezzo is of course a chain, but I'm impressed with the levels of service I've had there both times I have visited.  The food was excellent and the waitress was utterly charming.  The mood of the palce is right and it just lovely to have somewhere to go like this that doesn't mean a hop on the bus to tired old Chiswick where everywhere looks the same these days.  What is it with the green, cream and beige look?  Most of the dining venues in Chiswick High Road are covered in it.I'm now a regular at ground and the best thing about the place is the nice friendly relaxed nature of the staff. The fact that I can work the odd afternoon there by being connected remotely to work on my laptop makes it all the more a valuable asset. I'm glad of these places, we have a good range of places now in Brentford and it now means I am quite happy to spend my entire weekend in my own area spending my money locally.  I just think praise should be given to people where its due and something as simple as good customer service can make have a great effect well beyond the front doors of the café or shop. Its all adding to a good impression of Brentford.

Conal Stewart ● 6785d3 Comments ● 6746d

CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR AT BRENTFORD FC

CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR AT BRENTFORD FC Wednesday 13th December from 5pm Fun, Music, Stalls, Buzz Bee Mince Pies, Mulled Wine, Salvation Army, Christmas Punch, Hot Roasted Chestnuts, Meet the Manager and the Players!, Father Christmas and his Grotto, Carol Singers from local schools, Special Christmas Bees Superstore Reductions, Donate a Tin of Dog/Cat Food for Hounlslow Animal Welfare Society's Xmas Appeal for Homeless Animals, We will be once again organising our annual collection of christmas presents for a number of the local hospitals - your own presents wrapped in aid of the Shooting Star Hospice. + SPECIAL SUPPORTERS CHALLENGE MATCHESKick off 7.30pm HAWS will have a stall. The manager of the club also gave me the following info - sounds like it will be good fun! - Tickets are not required...just turn up (in numbers) on the night.The Evening consists, from 5pm to 7pm, of everything Christmas,including Father Christmas, The Salvation Army, Carolers from GreenDragon School, Stalls, Mulled Wine, Mince Pies, the Brentford Playerswill be in attendance etc etc.At 7.30 the first of two matches with supporters who have paid for theprivilege of playing on the hallowed turf.All free entertainment.Best regards

Silvia Diaz ● 6747d0 Comments ● 6747d

Table Top Sale 4 Great Cause

Last week a fire broke out in a ground floor flat on Ivybridge Estate destroying the flat and causing serious damage to 2 more flats above.The families were moved out to Temporary Accommodation.On Saturday 9th December 2006Between 12 and 3pmAll the groups from the Estate are coming together to do a Table Top Sale to raise cash for those families.NITA, Bridgelink Center, Kirkstone Lodge and IVYTAG will all have tables selling stuff and there will also be a raffle.It will take place at the Bridgelink Community Center, Summerwood Rd Isleworth (Ivybridge Estate)Please come along and show your support for a great cause.If you need anymore info please contact the Bridgelink Center.

Simon Anderson ● 6763d3 Comments ● 6747d

Tories and Farepak

Well it seems that Hounslow Tories have stuck 2 fingers up to the people who have been abused by Farepak by not allowing a resolution to ask all Cllrs to contribute 1 days expence to the the Fund to help all these people out in Hounslow during Christmas, Since one of our streets is the most effected street in the country at least Hounslow Labour Cllrs are putting their hands in the their pockets, unlike Cllr Thompson and Co who are filling their pockets with Hounslow tax payers money and by the look of things they want to increase the amount for leader from his one day a week £25.000 pounds a year to £61.000 and this bunch can not even spare a a quid for Farepak customers, mind you I think the Directors where Tory party funders so that my be the reason to stiff the people of Hounslow.

Dave Hughes ● 6757d36 Comments ● 6747d

Brentford Calendar: December

Have you any dates to add to the forthcoming lists?

Jim Lawes ● 6747d1 Comments ● 6747d

Hot Mail !!

It was a quiet Saturday evening in Isleworth..last weekend....to be continued!

Jim Lawes ● 6749d8 Comments ● 6747d

Kittens need a home

Two lovely kittens about sixteen weeks old need a good home. They are litter trained, friendly and good with children. My wife and I reluctantly have to let them go as unbeknown to us our six year-old son has a cat allergy.One is a classic black and white cat, the other all black.It would be nice if they could go together, as they are friendsIf you are interested call me (Adrian) on my mobile 0779 0649249

Adrian Orchard ● 6748d0 Comments ● 6748d

What should be done about Farepak?

I think the stocks or public flogging would be most appropriate for the directors of this outfit - as for HSBOS they are just a total disgrace - but only too typical of banks today. If I had an account with them I'd be telling them to shove it where the sun don't shine by now.

Vanessa Smith ● 6759d30 Comments ● 6748d

So Hounslow could already be twinned with Vyborg!!

Did you see that article in the Hounslow Chronicle this week on page 18 about the "Borough's  exotic links" "We've got twin towns in surprising places"Well we know about the Paris connection... Issy-les-Moulineaux..and the twinning with Lahore in Pakistan.  Less well know is the link with Ramallah in Palistine...but the big surprise was the fact that Hounslow is twinned (in a redundant way) with the St Petersburg area"Leningradsky District".Well done Daniel Lyons who wrote the article..someone ought to talk to him..as he was reporting on the regular Civic Centre meeting of the Borough's Twinning Committee!   And who do we know who sits on that esteemed Committee?..our friend Cllr Paul Fisher. Wow.Are they thinking of chopping the connection?  Doesn't  he and they realise that some 1000 messages have been posted on this Forum and Ealing's about our cyberspace trips to these Baltic places?  Karelia, Vyborg, and St Petersburg all within the Leningradsky Military District..and all twinned in the distant past with Hounslow.Paul: How about a trip? and who is the expert on your Committee?

Jim Lawes ● 6748d4 Comments ● 6748d

FEEL GOOD FOR CHRISTMAS

Another reminder:  The monthly healing centre at the London Buddhist Vihara, The Avenue, Chiswick, will be open on, Monday, 11th December between 11am and 1pm.  Second Monday of the month.Healing helps any condition, from stress right through to physical illness and no matter what is said on the television programme, it is not just a placebo!!!  There is no charge made for the healing (all the healers are working on a voluntary basis), although a donation would be welcome.You don't need to make an appointment or book but if you want any further information before coming please give me a ring on 0788 189 6449.

Pat Smith ● 6748d0 Comments ● 6748d

Fireworks

Does anybody know where the fireworks were at 9pm tonight?

Margaret Wittich ● 6749d1 Comments ● 6749d

Virgin on the ridiculous...

Did you know that Virgin wanted to sponsor the England cricket team in Australia but binned the idea when they realised that they could hardly wear the company name on the shirt when they get shafted so often...?

Keith Iddon ● 6749d0 Comments ● 6749d

Jim Lawes

Where is Jim, hope he is OK not a peep for several days now?

Anthony OBrien ● 6757d12 Comments ● 6749d

The Brentonian (Brentford then and now)

There's an interesting A4 flyer (back and front) published monthly by Peter Bailey and free to public.  Each edition deals with a Brentford historical subject ... currently "The Butts".  Previous editions have dealt with Brentford monuments/inscriptions, Boston Manor House ...  It acknowledges sources from which information derived, provides advertising and accepts readers article contributions.  One place available is Brentford library.

Michael Fletcher ● 6815d7 Comments ● 6750d

Advertising Hoardings - Council get active

The errecting of unauthorised advertising hoardings has received a bit of attention of late.Attention focussed on advertising hoardings in general during the appeal for the Chiswick Roundabaout sitehttp://www.brentfordcc.org.uk/chiswickroundabout.htmlthen the Council got busy on the rest of the M4 corridor right down to Chiswick Roundabaout and surrounding areas.A huge advertising panel at the north side of Kew Bridge was also unauthorised. The Council served a Section 11 (get rid of it or else) and last Friday saw the removal of the large advert and structure that held it up.I've lived in Brentford for 4 years and never seen the corner as it is now - there was actually a building behind the hoarding. There is enough pavement for an outfdoor cafe!Furthermore two more unauthorised hoardings have gone from the Chiswick side of Chiswick Roundabout.Well done the Council!

Stephen Browne ● 6788d2 Comments ● 6750d

Isleworth and Brentford Area Committee (Monitoring)

A very busy agenda this week which of course everyone is welcome to attend at The Brentford Free Church on Boston Manor Rd at 7.30pm Thursday.Policing Update by Insp HanniganDiscussion on Brentford High Street etcParks and Open Space ReportS106 Update Report for Boston Manor ParkCommunity Plan 2007-2010Children and Young Peoples PlanOlder Peoples Mental Health StrategyOpen Forum

Paul Fisher ● 6765d16 Comments ● 6751d

Farmers Market 7th October

Good luck to Matt Harmer and all the other organisers for the Farmers Market being relaunched this Saturday.I know a lot of hard work has gone on behind the scenes for this and it certainly deserves another chance.

Paul Fisher ● 6815d48 Comments ● 6751d

FOR SARAH

Simon Anderson ● 6753d3 Comments ● 6751d

save our waterways

If you have ever enjoyed a walk beside a river or canal or been fishing or boating, please sign this on-line petition. Your participation in this petition will help to protect funding for over 2000 miles of a linear park that covers our country.      copy & paste - http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/SaveOurWaterways/"Up to 1,000 boats and thousands of people are expected to take part in twenty six blockades of the canal network this weekend to protest at the axing of 180 jobs at British Waterways." "Our inland waterways are a unique national asset that provide an important contribution to the quality of life for millions of our citizens. According to British Waterways, there were 300 million individual visits to the canals in 2005 and we are deeply concerned that the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has seen fit to reduce British Waterways’ grant by some £60 million over the next 5 years and that of the Environment Agency by over £20 million in this financial year. We believe that these cuts will have a devastating effect upon the well-being of inland waterways and put at risk many urban regeneration projects."

Linda F Wright ● 6761d1 Comments ● 6751d

Keep everything crossed...

For our boys down under in cricket's lion's den...the early news is not good...Giles for Panesar when Ash(great servant that he is)may only be worth 25 runs in both innings and Monty could get 5 wkts in the game.... Jones for Read,again might get a couple more runs(might not)but more likely to drop Ponting on eight and watch him go on to make a century.Hopefully the series will have one draw so England will only have to win 2 games(!) to retain the urn.It's been a long time,however, since last we did that in Australia.COME ON ENGLAND!!!!

Keith Iddon ● 6764d16 Comments ● 6751d

November calendar and updates: List of local websites.

CALENDAR:>  Don’t forget that the front page of this TW8 website also has an in depth Calendar List.>  I have gleaned the date of events from local newspapers,local websites,HM Magazine and from Forum messages.  You are welcome to add to the calendar. The lists have been compiled for convenience.>  Best to double check times..just in case!..I wouldn’t want you to turn up at the interval somewhere…..just because of me!!  ;0). (I once travelled to Birmingham Symphony Hall for a concert one evening..only to find that it took place at lunchtime...and that the musicians were already back in Sweden!)WEBSITES:>  The list of local websites shown on this thread is becoming huge. Can you add to it?   I hope it’s useful. If any are inaccessible..let us know.ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooANY FEEDBACK  recent events?oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Jim Lawes ● 6785d7 Comments ● 6751d

Bedfont Lakes

I had the pleasure of going to Bedfont Lakes on Saturday morning which truely is one of the Boroughs treasures.It was the first time I had visited it and well done to everyone involved for producing such a wonderful green space in the Borough of Hounslow.http://www.hounslow.info/bedfontlakes

Paul Fisher ● 6752d0 Comments ● 6752d

Outhouse to be demolished

Can anyone recommend a reputable local person/company to demolish an outhouse (constructed of breeze blocks) and take care of the removal of the rubble (i.e. including skip permit/hire) for a reasonable price?

James de Vivenot ● 6753d0 Comments ● 6753d

Activities with Babies & Children??

Hi all,I am working with the local NCT (National Childcare Trust) and we are looking at updating our database on activities to do with babies and children in the Chiswick/Hammersmith & surrounding areas. This information would then be printed in the newsletter which is published every TWO months.We are trying to separate this into:'Drop In' Activities, One Off Activities or 'Pre-book/block of events'Do you attend activities in the local area? (We can contact the organisers for permission to include their activity but do need to know about it first!)Do you run activities in the local area?Do you have a particular activity coming up in 2007?? (This might be months in advance but the publication goes to print every two months so the earlier we know the better!)If so.......We would love to hear about it. Could you email us with the details?Name of activity, Description, Dates/Days, Time, Location, Contact etc.chisnews@hotmail.com   or    email me directly via this website!Thanks in advance!!Kerry

Kerry Rixon ● 6753d0 Comments ● 6753d

new Labour no website

The now legendary Labour Party website for brentford and isleworth www.bandi.labour.co.uk has still not materialised after its ill fated initial appearance and swift removal earlier in the year.Labour spokesman Alan Sheerins promised me on 19/09/2006 that the website would be up and running "very soon" Alan - please explain the delay.I want to know what the Labour party is up to round here - surely there is nothing that Ms Keen and her supporters are trying to hide?

Leo Newman ● 6787d13 Comments ● 6754d

Downsloping 'spruce' John Lewis Christmas Tree for sale

Used once - I bought too big for my space.Dark green, 5 ft tall 'Downswept Devonport Tree' in the original box from John Lewis with instructions.  Branches slope out then downwards, rather elegantly IMHO.  No lights or decorations. Cost around £70 originally.  Yours for £25.  Please email me if you are interested.

Susan Lawrence ● 6754d0 Comments ● 6754d

my old school

Has anybody got any photo's or information on St Johns RC school that was in Clifden Road and Brook Road I left in 1953.

Jim OReardon ● 6757d5 Comments ● 6755d

65 Bus Route: A Radio Commentary

Switching on the BBC Radio London at 13:30 I found presenter Sean Rowley was discussing notable "London" features of the 65 route from Ealing to Kingston.  He was inviting phone-in contributions from the public.  They'd just reached Brentford and I was disappointed to hear it being covered by a passing reference to Brentford Football Club and to the new Red Lion (which we all know has been replaced by McDonalds) "a music pub but with no notable artists playing there". And that was it.Luckily I got in on the Richmond Park bit (Kew of course had a 10 minute coverage) and at the end managed to correct some of the Brentford presentation.  But as I was running on "Richmond time" I had to confine it to the new Red Lion's heritage of memories of Bo Diddley and Bobby Charles (prompt .. he wrote "See you later alligator).  Pity I didn't tune in 10 minutes earlier as Sean shared a lot of my experiences and thoughts and we could have covered a lot more about Brentford.By the way did anybody know there is a special bench in RP where there are headphones for Ian Dury?  Amazing isn't it?.

Michael Fletcher ● 6756d0 Comments ● 6756d

Comedy at the Watermans

Has anybody been? What's it like? I haven't heard of any of the acts listed but does that mean there is loads of emerging talent on show or is it just a group of second rate stand-ups who aren't good enough to appear at the bigger clubs?Also did't there used to be comedy at Brentford Dock - is that still going?

Justin Harris ● 6840d11 Comments ● 6757d

Wedding DJ

Can anyone recommend a good (not too expensive) DJ.thanksSue

Susan Baker ● 6760d2 Comments ● 6758d

Large room available

massive attic room available in gorgeous Victorian Flat on Mafeking road. Minutes from transport, river and local amenities, must be seen. Fully furnished and inc bills rent is £550 per month. Sharing with professional outgoing female. Would suit professional male or female! tel Sandra on 07961 483557.

Elaine Nealis ● 6759d0 Comments ● 6759d

NEW SHOPS IN BRENTFORD

Has anyone tried the new greengrocer in the High Street yet?  Run by a very personable chap called Rahim. Excellent value and the choice is amazing.  I don't know how he does it for the price, and I do hope he can maintain this quality. This is certainly a very welcome addition to the High Street. Another little gem is The Bijou Box which has recently opened just round the corner from the Art Shop. I've bought several Christmas presents in there already.

Deborah Hall ● 6761d7 Comments ● 6760d

A great stat!

Did you hear the great stat. that George Osbourne came out with on Working Lunch t'other day when asked about debt probs.among the great British public.He said there was research that suggested that '50% of the public don't know what 50% means...'God help us!

Keith Iddon ● 6765d1 Comments ● 6765d

Six Bells Revisited

Thanks Anthony, Colin and Neil for prompting me to go to the Six Bells.  I was there last night from before 9:00pm to midnight and it was my best night out for a long time.   From the moment I ordered at the bar I was caught in conversation and it lasted all night.  As we were from all different parts of UK including Brentford and Chiswick the subjects were rich and varied from Sinatra to Dr John, from Haworth to Shere, from chihuahawa to alsatians and from old Brentford to its future .... Of interest to many on the forum were recollections of the first Beatles and Cilla Black shows, shows at the Chiswick Empire, the Queens Hall cinema in HalfAcre, the old High Street shop fronts and wooden paving, the trams, the boat companies such as Clements Tough, the building of the existing Brentford Dock estate.On a celebrity note the Six Bells just pips the Waterside Cafe (nee Marina Club) with 3 celebrities to the Watersides's 2 of Peter Osgood and Marlon Brando.  The Six Bells has Lonnie Donnegan who rehearsed his band tirelessly, Ant&Dec who drop in now and again and Eric Bristow (there's a top calss darts team there).Joyce is the landlady and has been for years.  At weekends there's rock bands for first set often switching to acoustics for second set.  A good date is December 16th when the Riverside Pirates have a booking - they're from the boats that were around Brentford Lock and play banjo, guitar and drums with songs such as Streets of London.This is a place to visit in Brentford for a highly enjoyable evening if you kep up with the conversation.

Michael Fletcher ● 6771d9 Comments ● 6766d

Is anybody there

Hello out there in syber space is there anybody out there as there have been no postings since yesterday AM by Jim Lawes? Are you all on the Chiswick site or what.

Anthony OBrien ● 6767d1 Comments ● 6766d

Thanks for moving to Brentford

Today a small but dedicated team of Holland Gardens residents (including yours truly) cleaned up the excessive weeds that had been allowed to grow in the front of St Georges Church opposite Waterman's Park. This also included painting over graffiti on one of the boroughs listed buildings, the Sarah Trimmer Hall.Now I wouldn't normally bang my own drum on something like this but it was much to our surprise whilst we were going about the cleanup, the previous tenant of some 40 years walked down the street from his new premises (paid for in part by Section 106 contributions from our development) and duly informed us we were wasting our time and the church should be demolished.How diverse is the society we live in that has a group of new Brentford residents with no ownership, no remuneration and not seeking gratification spending their own time making a local landscape building look presentable, being berated by an ex-tenant who paid a pittance to use the building for for nigh on half a century.Welcome to Brentford. Sod the local history, demolish the lot!

Stephen Browne ● 6775d21 Comments ● 6766d

24 hour Supermarkets?    A new one opens in Hounslow soon!

Tesco's seem to have about three of these all night 24 hour Supermarkets within driving distance: (1)Earls Court Road/A4 junction, (2)the one off Parkway,Hayes near the Western International Market (3) the one in Feltham on Faggs Road near the North Feltham Trading Estate.Are there others?It seems that in 2 weeks time a more local one will be opening in the centre of Hounslow Town..so that you can do your shopping in the middle of the night.  Would you use these facilities?  Are you an Asda fan?The development is coming on..... as I found out on Friday last!

Jim Lawes ● 6788d6 Comments ● 6766d

Brentford's Eden House School problem..and the Council's webcast

Last night, I was looking at the Civic Centre's very helpful and informative webcam archive..and noticed that if I clicked on the underlined word "EXECUTIVE"...I'd be able to watch the Borough's key committee at work...on Tuesday 7th Novemeber just past.I was interested in all the various matters covered and the noted the input of many of the key players. At the 37 minutes 8 seconds point Councillor Gerald McGregor introduced the subject of the Eden School,Brentford which I had read about briefly in the BC&I Times last week. Cllr McGregor's explanation of the problem was very clear and the quality of his speech delivery was impressive.  The School,whilst performing well, had some seeming financial problems behind the scenes.You can see Cllr MaGregor's performance by "copy and pasting" the following URLhttp://www.hounslow.ukcouncil.net/site/#pp5855Yep, I thought..the Council Tenant's illegal sub-letting of Council Space to the School..who themselves are seemingly not paying their taxes or bills...doesn't seem right...and I go along with the Cllr.----------------------------------------------------Then this evening I thought I'd check Google about the Eden School and I was directed to the Brentford Chiswick & Isleworth Times website report: and the accompanying video.http://www.richmondandtwickenhamtimes.co.uk/rttbulletin/display.var.1015697.0.homeless_school_forced_to_study_in_library.php----------------------------------------------------The video.http://www.richmondandtwickenhamtimes.co.uk/videonews/index.var.1215.0.0.php----------------------------------------------------So: the children look jolly..and the Headmistress live and active..but what a problem has fallen on Councillors and the Council Department. Any thoughts on how it has/should be handled and how will it be resolved?

Jim Lawes ● 6771d2 Comments ● 6766d

Remembrance Day

Just a reminder to everyone about the Remembrance March and Service tomorrow morning at the Isleworth War Memorial.We had a fantastic turnout last year and it would be great if even more attended tomorrow for such a special day.The Legion is just off South St and we will be setting off about 10.45am and returning at approx 11.40am.

Paul Fisher ● 6775d11 Comments ● 6769d

Is Fat Boys Thai restaurant any good?

I've just moved to the area and would like to know if 'in general' the Thai restaurant is any good. I did an internet search and came up with old reviews of the franchise in Ealing which were not good at all so thought I'd check with the locals to see what they think and know. Thanks.

Tara Vinnell ● 6775d11 Comments ● 6769d

Is there a competition going on?

In the next road to me the Council(direct services) have been re-surfacing the footpath, this has been going on for months - the odd thing is that there are no workmen there when I leave for work around 7.05.a.m. and none there when I arrive home around 3.45.p.m. This of course may well account for the fact this is taking longer than it probably did to build the Great Wall of China, I understand the "work" should have been completed by the end of September, so I can only conclude this is some sort of 'I can spin a job outlonger than you'competition, what it isn't is acceptable, or a full days work.

Vanessa Smith ● 6773d15 Comments ● 6770d

What a complete sod

The heartless git that stole the poppy box at Homebase.Hope they string him up by the nadjers when they find him...or better still kit him out with inferior gear and send him to Iraq for a taste of the action.

Keith Iddon ● 6772d7 Comments ● 6770d

Osterley Safer Neighbourhood meeting

On Tuesday evening at the Isleworth & Syon school Ridgeway Rd Isleworth starting at 7:30pm there will be a public meeting, so come along and support your local SNT and discuss any problems you are having or just have a chat and meet the people who care about your area.

Edward Fitzgerald ● 6773d5 Comments ● 6770d

Clean up success by Brentford SNT

The Brentford Safer Neighbourhood team have had a success in getting the bridge at Brook lane off Leyton road cleaned up, the next step is to get better lighting and CCTV supplied by Network Rail.[URL=http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n117/patfitz15/DSCF0023.jpg][IMG]http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n117/patfitz15/th_DSCF0023.jpg[/IMG][/URL][URL=http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n117/patfitz15/DSCF0021.jpg][IMG]http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n117/patfitz15/th_DSCF0021.jpg[/IMG][/URL][URL=http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n117/patfitz15/DSCF0019.jpg][IMG]http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n117/patfitz15/th_DSCF0019.jpg[/IMG][/URL][URL=http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n117/patfitz15/DSCF0018-1.jpg][IMG]http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n117/patfitz15/th_DSCF0018-1.jpg[/IMG][/URL][URL=http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n117/patfitz15/DSCF0017.jpg][IMG]http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n117/patfitz15/th_DSCF0017.jpg[/IMG][/URL]

Edward Fitzgerald ● 6814d8 Comments ● 6771d

Ken...who he?

On the home page for Acton it says that prospective Tory candidate for Ealing/Acton is asking questions about the expenses for 'deity'Ken Livingstone's trip to South America and that he was snubbed by Pres. Chavez of Venezuala but gives no details as to how he was snubbed.Any one know?

Keith Iddon ● 6776d7 Comments ● 6772d

Kew Bridge Traffic Lights out

The lights at the north side of Kew Bridge were out for most of Wednesday and for a while police cadets were busy managing traffic flow.However when I went through it twice earlier this evening (7:00 pm and usually very slow if not stop-start) it was full on, no traffic anywhere - none on the bridge, none on Chiswich High Road, none queueing anywhere!!If this is how it would work without the traffic lights I saw lets turn them off now!

Stephen Browne ● 6777d12 Comments ● 6773d

Who will Be running Hounslow Homes now??

I have an Uncle who lives in Nottingham who just sent me this...is it the same Guy??If it is this is Great News!!Nottingham City Homes appoints new Chief Executive Nottingham City Homes has announced the appointment of Chris Langstaff as its new Chief Executive.Chris is Chief Executive of Hounslow Homes, a 3-star (with excellent prospects) ALMO (Arms Length Management Organisation) in London. It was formed in 2002 as one of the first eight (Round 1) ALMOs and was tasked with managing the Council’s 16,500 homes and delivering almost £100 million of refurbishment and improvement works to bring its housing stock up to the Government’s Decent Homes standard by 2006.The ALMO is responsible for the majority of functions previously undertaken by Hounslow Council’s Housing Department. This includes home improvement works, leaseholder services, resident participation, home ownership, rents, customer services, training, partnering and procurement and service development.Commenting on the appointment, Nottingham City Homes Chair, Paul Rowe, said:“I am delighted that Chris Langstaff has agreed to join the Company at an important time in our development. This is excellent news for tenants, as Chris has an impressive track record and knows just what is required for us to be one of the top performing ALMOs in the Country.  We have made real progress in turning round the failures identified by the Audit Commission and Chris will build on the excellent work started by our Acting Chief Executive, David Hucker when he joins us in the New Year”

Simon Anderson ● 6773d0 Comments ● 6773d

Runway Alternation Returns!

I checked with BAA yesterday about the progress of the taxiway works which have meant no runway alternation, and significantly increased noise over Brentford and Isleworth.  The news is good:from BAA:"I have just spoken to BAA and they say they expect the works will be completed on the 9th of November and alternation to resume on the 10th of November."

Paul Garnham ● 6779d2 Comments ● 6773d

Autumn Bazaar – Saturday 11th November 1.45pm – Isleworth & Syon School

Autumn bazaar time is upon us again!This is the major fund raiser for the local Osterley area Scout group.  It is being held at Isleworth & Syon School, Ridgeway Road on Saturday 11th November from 1.45.  Plenty of free parking spaces and just off the Great West Road – second turning on left hand side past Gillette Corner, when coming from Brentford.Organised youth activities for the Scout age range are few and far between and everything relies on good will and volunteers giving their time and energy.  This bazaar is run completely by volunteers and the Scouts themselves and is a well established part of the Community calendar.  You are bound to meet your neighbours and old friends.Please donate if you can or come along and bag a bargain!

Sarah Felstead ● 6798d13 Comments ● 6774d

Local Councillors and liaison with Mrs Keen  MP (Lab)

There's some correspondence of mild concern in the Hounslow Chronicle this week from the Chairman of the Chiswick Area Committee. It's a letter to the Editor.Councillor Paul Lynch complains that Mrs Keen MP has "studiously ignored any approaches from his Area Committee (Chiswick)"  He adds "Resolutions supported by councillors and residents of all parties have never had any response from her,neither have any letters from the chairman."Ok, there are nine Conservative Councillors in Chiswick..a full house ..and if that's what the overwhelming number of the Chiswick electorate wanted..so be it.  But as Mrs Keen is Chiswick's MP ..as well as Brentford and Isleworth's..should she not be a bit more co-operative with W4 folk?The splat has arisen because of a seeming dispute over who organised and got sorted a new road crossing outside a Health Centre. Was it Mrs Keen or was it the Chiswick Area Committee? Maybe the newspaper reported the matter incorrectly.  The matter is posted here because we still have Labour Councillors in this area..and Labour Party spokespeople..and they may be able to throw light on Mrs Keen's performance in liaising with Councillors..in addition to clarifying the splat. Letter to be produced in next message.

Jim Lawes ● 6776d5 Comments ● 6774d

Flooding the market?

Interesting article on home page about slow sales of flats in Brentford.People seem to want houses.In Liverpool,in the 3 months to March,only 17 flats were sold(according to The Times)Let's hope 'Bulldozer'Prescott can stop destroying some of those perfectly good houses(need a few grand spent on them)so unwanted flats can be built.But when have this govn. ever listened to the people before it was too late?

Keith Iddon ● 6776d2 Comments ● 6774d

(Relatively)cheap petrol

Unleaded 83.9 at Tesco Perivale

Keith Iddon ● 6776d2 Comments ● 6775d

Goodbye and farewell Gillettes!!!

Isn't it a blow that the Gillette Company is moving all it's production facilities from Isleworth to Poland where wages costs could be 20% of those paid locally!You will have heard that that magnificent building is changing hands...and Gillettes move out next Friday 11th November 2006.It was built on the top of Sion (Syon)Hill back in the mid 1930'sand it has become a top landmark for us all.A friend and I popped along there this afternoon..thinking that they were perhaps closing today..but,good news.. there's s still a week to go...and perhaps a fortnight before be some demolition starts!!

Jim Lawes ● 6783d17 Comments ● 6775d

Religious or political extremism.

Are schools a place for these?

Keith Iddon ● 6800d33 Comments ● 6776d

The "newly opened Copacabana Club at Ferry Quays" ??

Thursday's Hounslow Chronicle..page 12..contains an article about a forthcoming fund-raising event on 27th October at the ""newly opened Copacabana Club at Ferry Quays.""Well that's a surprise ..has anyone been there yet? I've not heard about it before. Oliver will be excited..and so might I be!It's a Debbie Dewar Halloween do as well..(Debbie is an expert at this)..and the Chronicle states that she has been raising funds for the West Middx Hospital Baby Unit (Starlight Ward)for 14 years. No doubt Debbie will tell us about it and we'll support the event..won't we?. But the new venue..is news!  Any information?

Jim Lawes ● 6817d25 Comments ● 6776d

A Little Bit Of Feedback Required......

IF you were going to buy an original black and white photograph for your home or a gift would you want it to be of local landmark/theme or would you also be interested in other topics?I’m just trying to gauge what local interest might be before I take off and take a load of photographs that are no interest to anyone!!!I’m also very interested in any suggestions that might make a nice b&w.Many thanks for your thoughtsRebeccahttp://www.rebecca-sichelcoates.com

Rebecca Coates ● 6788d7 Comments ● 6777d

RNLI rescue at Dock

I witnessed the rescue of a man from the weir stream near Thames Lock on Sunday, http://www.brentfordtw8.com/default.asp?section=info&link=http://nnet-server.com/server/common/conrnli04.htmFull marks to all the emergency services for a job well done.However, the article doesn't mention that the 'accident' followed on from an illegal 'rave' help in the old Gregory's buildings that started Saturday night and went on until at least 5am Sunday. Apart from the noise, litter and illegally parked vehicles on Dock Road, the attendees were, without a doubt, some of the dirtiest, scruffiest, most drunken items I have ever seen - 'crusties' I think the term is.The Police were unable to stop the event due to 'a lack of resources'and Hounslow council disinterested. I hope the owners of the site improve security to ensure that it doesn't get hijacked in this way again.

Alan Cudmore ● 6778d0 Comments ● 6778d

Surprised that no-one has mentioned.........

There has not been one comment re the death sentence passed on Saddam Hussein.This Forum is normally full of topical debate - so what do us locals think?

Vanessa Smith ● 6780d15 Comments ● 6778d

Watch  the Borough Council meeting tonight ? 7.30pm

It's going to be on the webcam as usual.from 7.30pm. You can watch the Mayoral procession..then hear the debates.Visit the Civic Centre website first perhaps.. for the appropriate link.Anyone going along?

Jim Lawes ● 6786d12 Comments ● 6778d

Charlotte Robinson Update

Just wanted to let you all know that Charlotte is being moved literally as I type from the Intensive Care ward at Great Ormond Street over to the Renal Unit!  We are all breathing a BIG sigh of relief!There is a still a long way to go - but we are all optomistic that we will have her home for Christmas :)))www.charlotterobinson.orgwww.charlotte-robinson.blogspot.com

Account closed ● 6784d5 Comments ● 6780d

FANCY DRESS AVILBLE FOR ALL OCCASSIONS

FANTASY LAND FANCY DRESS SHOP 61 EALING ROAD BRENTFORD 0208 569 8765 IS OPEN FROM 12-5PM MON-SAT WE ALSO STOCK THE FOLLOWING ITEMSWIGS, MASKS, HAIR SPRAY, FALSE TEETH, HATS, FACE PAINTS, FANCY DRESS COSTUMES AND ACCESSORIES FOR ALL OCCASSIONS, INC BATMAN AND ROBIN SUPER HEROS AND LOTS MORE CARDS,CONFETTI,JOKES,NOVELTIES, POCKET MONEY ITEMS, BALLOONS,WE ARE QUALIFIED FLORIST AND BALLOON ARTIST WE TAKE ORDERS ONLY FOR THE FLOWERS  AND WE CAN DECORATE A LOCAL VENUE FOR YOU POP IN OR CALL FOR PRICES.ALL THE BEST

Debbie Dewar ● 6780d0 Comments ● 6780d

Butterfly Girl

Hello,Has anyone else been into Butterfly Girl, the vintage clothes shop on Brentford High Street?Isn't it great? It's so rare to meet people who are really interested in what they do and sell - there are a couple of Diana Dors' frocks on the rails at the moment and lots of really beautiful pieces. There are also lots of lovely accessories - necklaces and what-have-you, including bright red tights (still packaged) with Mini the Minx on the side (at least I *think* it was her, I couldn't see the whole of the picture). Oh, to be four again!I think between Butterfly Girl and the Dew Drop Inn, I'm really pleased with having made the move to beautiful Brentford.

Rashmi Chavda ● 6784d2 Comments ● 6782d

Kew Bridge site meeting - all welcome

There's a meeting on Thursday night, the 2nd Nov, at 7pm at the Watermans Arts Centre where the architects of the Kew Bridge site will show their latest designs on this important site. Previous meetings have been very useful in showing the input from consultation, and it's now time to see some ideas on how the building will look. All are welcome - see you there.

Matt Harmer ● 6786d2 Comments ● 6783d

Full marks to the Pelican

Maybe Ken could put a couple of dozen in the water at Trafalgar Sq. and save us all a small fortune.

Keith Iddon ● 6788d4 Comments ● 6783d

Hounslow Homes - From Today's Richmond and Twickenham Times website

Extracts from article below:"Council Homes Manager enjoys 'outstanding' Year"Hounslow Homes celebrated a year of unparalleled success at its annual general meeting this week.Managing Director Chris Langstaff said the 2005/06 financial year was one of fantastic achievement.............Councillor Phil Andrews, Hounslow Council's lead member for housing and community safety, said:............."We welcome the annual report, which suggests consistent, sustained high performance in service and delivery"................Full story www.richmondandtwickenhamtimes.co.uk/newsAnyone still believe Hounslow Homes is under threat?

John Connelly ● 6805d23 Comments ● 6783d

Bonfire night, November 5th

Against all odds, we look like being here at Ridgeways for another explosive evening.As before, posters welcome to come along for our BBQ.Just be warned what the bonfires reveal:

Nigel Moore ● 6797d6 Comments ● 6784d

Activity around the Forums.

These are the figures to do with the number of messages posted on the Forums today ..so far289 (W4) ..105 (Ealing).. 92 (Acton).. 17 (Brentford)    9 (Putney)Aren't Ealing and Acton doing well?Those figures are tonight's activity during the past 20 hours since 7am. We think 7am is the zeroing hour!Are current posters a turn off and a bore?  Or do TW8 viewers just like to read what's happening and no more?  The number of visitors to the website during the daytime and evenings is quite high really.So these figures are just for information..in case you're not around to see them.

Jim Lawes ● 6784d1 Comments ● 6784d

Oliver on the High Street

If it is desired to continue this debate I thought it best to separate it from the meeting up topic.I didn’t see your comment as rude Oliver, so no apologies needed and a conversation over a beer is always helpful. To continue from the relevant postings:Oliver Damianni:Apologies for rudeness but I would like to come along myself, not least so I can meet up with Nigel who I hold largely responsible for the hold-up of the redevelopment of the high street. I have read his arguments on a number of occasions on this site and must profess that i fail to properly understand his line of reasoning. Maybe a conversation over a beer would help?! Meantime I can't help but wonder whether Nigel feels some responsbility when visiting the High Street and seeing the abject state of the place the lack of investment and the failing businesses. This is all a direct consequence of what seems to me unneccessary delays in a much needed redevelopment. Nigel seems to be Brentford's (annoyingly successful so far) King Kanute, trying to turn back the tide...clearly this can't last for ever, and I would appreciate getting Nigel's take on the situation.Neil Chippendale:Oliver,Please feel free to come along. The main problem with the lack of progress on the Brentford South Side isn't Nigel it's the fact that you have two competing companies who have each purchased large chunks of land and who never seem to talk to each other.Alan Sheerins:The redevelopment has been delayed because until very recently the land was in the hands of more than one developer. I very much admire Nigel and his fight to retain traditional industry and prevent the over-development of Brentford. He is not to blame him for the slow pace of this re-development.Oliver Damianni:incorrect.nigel's endless attempts to whip up petitions and objections would occur (and will remain a feature no doubt) whether there are one or several developers involved. ...........................................Quite frankly, I’d be highly gratified to think I was responsible for holding up the proposal for the High St that was around for a good number of years. It was a deplorable and destructive scheme that could only have made matters worse. However as Neil and Alan have noted, I can’t take that credit.Brentford’s High St is a complicated issue that has been seen as a problem for centuries, and the sad state we see it in today is a direct result of the well-meaning efforts of the post-war predecessors of this Council. As the architect Terry Farrell has commented ruefully, had the High St been left alone in the first place, Brentford Town Centre would now be a more successful, profitable, attractive and sought after destination than any of our neighbours.Perhaps I should clarify that I am not against redevelopment? The drab 1950’s block buildings both north and south could do with demolishing and sympathetic re-building, though how much that would encourage new and healthier businesses and shops I’m not qualified to say. Looking at how slow they have been to take up the new opportunities around the ideally located recent canalside developments, that appears uncertain.As things stand at the moment, as has been the case for years, no businesses are able to invest properly in any of the south High St shops, because their leases are restrictive in temporal terms, owing to the perceived Council need to be able to clear them out when there is something to take their place.Much the same reasoning has contributed to the steady eradication of the businesses behind the High St. They were bought out so that land parcels could be put together for redevelopment, and the smaller premises, if let at all, let on short term leases that make any long term contribution or investment impossible. The dereliction is deliberate, exactly as is the case with Commerce Road.The reason why Neil’s and Alan’s comments on disparate land ownership is pertinent lies with the Council’s desire to see the regeneration take place as a whole, not piecemeal. Because of that they had made it a legal requirement that ownership of the whole be under the one umbrella. For so long as that could never be achieved, planning consent was withheld. You are of course perfectly correct that I would have made my noises regardless of whether there were one or many developers, but that has not affected the situation.In this context it might be helpful to realise that for years there have NOT in fact been any developers concerned. “Brentford Town Centre Ltd” was a loose consortium of foreign investors looking to acquire a sufficient block of holdings, gain planning consent for a scheme, then auction it off piecemeal to “real” developers. The Council didn’t play that game, the consortium couldn’t deliver what the Council demanded, ergo collapse of that little band of speculators and resultant sales of parcels to yet more overseas investors.I believe that the necessary regeneration will stand more chance of gradual success if the Council approve an overall vision, and allow rebuilding incrementally within existing title blocks. It was in great part the wholesale obliterating nature of the “original” scheme that made such development impossible.So far as my own contribution is concerned, Alan has accurately identified that it is an attempt to have any redevelopment be a successful one that contributes positively to existing and traditional industry, retaining and restoring as much as possible of Brentford’s largely lost character, recognising that much of that owes more than a nod to the waterside with its traditional links to the High St, and that for sustainable growth of a living waterfront, supporting businesses must be encouraged to continue and to grow.

Nigel Moore ● 6828d46 Comments ● 6785d

Meeting Room for Hire

We have a 6-8 seat meeting room for hire in the 'Market Building' 195 High Street. Projector also available. If anyone is interested please call or email: chris.williams@isb-global.com, or 0208 232 8884.

Chris Williams ● 6785d0 Comments ● 6785d

Brentford and Arcadian Thames ((BCI Times)

I've just read an excellent article entitled "A Gem of industrial heritage" which is a "community" topic under the heading "Arcadian Diary".   It is written by James Debney, Coordinator of the Thames Landscape Strategy Holly Lodge Richmond Park Richmond TW10 5HS.  Although I'm a  mere 1 of the 10,000 (20,000 ...) residents and workers living in Brentford I strongly agree with every view expressed in the article .  We live in a remarkable area both in Brentford and as part of the larger Arcadian Thames and extending this as part of the general parklands of Gunnersbury, Osterley, Syon, Boston Manor, Richmond and Kew Garden Parks as well as the key GWR, Heathrow, Hounslow, Ealing West London business community,  We must safeguard our area's character and future development.The case for Brentford's riverside strategy being linked to the Thames Strategy has been made by other people in the past.  But I haven't seen the case so cogently put - except for the excellent book the Arcadian Thamews (£11 or £12 at Waterstones, Richmond).

Michael Fletcher ● 6787d3 Comments ● 6785d

Brentford: What's on this month October: a calendar attempt!!

NEW NOTIFICATION: Add your new event here..at the topoooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooTHEN perhaps do a COPY..and PASTE a reply of this second part..(including your own event information in date order) We can correct things as we go along.where necessary.Let's have a go!ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooMon   2nd  Grab those left over plants/ bulbs from Boston Manor Park!!Mon   2nd  Trad Jazz Club  Griffin Park Stripes Bar £5 good wall photos! 8.30/11pmTues  3rd  Jazz at the Brewery TapWed   4th  Meet up with Neil (Brentfordian on hols from OZ) Magpie 8pmThurs 5th  Jazz at the Brewery Tap  8.30pm – 11pmThurs 5th  The Isleworth Society members meeting..so join! 7.30pm Public Hall.Sat   7th FARMERS MARKET relaunched  10am till 2pm (Scotch egg bonanza!!)Sat   7th  Brentford Football v Bristol City (H) 3pmThurs 12th Isleworth and Brentford Area Committee (Planning) 7.30pm Free Church Hall Boston Manor Road.Fri   13th Police meeting  Green School, Busch Corner at 7pm Syon Ward PoliceSat   14th  Farmers MarketThurs 19th   7.30-9.30pm Battle of Brentford talk (St Paul’s Church Hall)Thurs 19th  Osterley Residents meeting..guest speaker Chris Calvi-Freeman (Head of Transport at the Civic Centre..and helpful forum regular) St Mary’s church hall TW7Sat   21st  Farmers marketSat   21st  Brentford Football v Gillingham (H) 3pmFri   27th Debbie's Fund Raising Party at the Copacabana Club, Ferry Quays. £5 tickets from Debbie or £10 on the door. We really ought to go!!   New Venue, new Brentford, and a very good cause,Sat   28th Farmers marketSun   29th  SYON PARK (house?)"Stuart Syon at the time of the 10th Earl of Northumberland" - Demonstrations, re-enactments and children's activities plus guided Garden tours to see the autumn colours.Tues  31st  Full Borough Council meeting. Go along or watch the webcast ..live!!Also: see Waterman’s Art Centre programme.Also: Copocabana Club!Also: Thomas Layton exhibition at Gunnersbury Park MuseumAlso: Kew Steam MuseumAlso: Visit the local Houses, Osterley,Syon,Boston Manor, Chiswick,              Hogarth, Kew Palace.Also: visit the local Libraries..especially the local archives sections!Also: Jazz Tues ,Thursdays and perhaps Sundays too at the BT.oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooSuggestion; Copy and paste the above list when you make your own additions..and this will kept the months events in order ..for easy reference. Let’s experiment!

Jim Lawes ● 6816d26 Comments ● 6786d

dew drop inn

Just a note to let all in the area know that the dew drop inn cafe 125 high street will be serving christmas roast dinners from early december. We would like to invite all locals to come down and enjoy some tasty festive fare. Please feel free to bring along a bottle of wine etc.A £1 corkage will be charged per person. Also any questions regarding the "dew drop" are welcome at kev_rock100@yahoo.comHope to see you soonKind regardsKevin

Kevin Wilsher ● 6793d4 Comments ● 6786d

Ann Keen's pink ribbon

Ann and I have been exchanging a 'sort of correspondence' over one thing and another.  I was therefore amazed to see that she has had a photo op re Breast Cancer.  It just so happens that our correspondence has been partly over disabled cancer sufferers......Is anything actually being done to help them - I don't think so!  So much for the photo op.

Lois Westby ● 6787d1 Comments ● 6786d

Livingstone's new powers -?

The TW8 newslines have noted Hounslow's objection to the new powers the Mayor wants over planning issues. The immediacy of the effects of such can be gauged by the fact that the last two major developments the Council turned down have had their schemes supported by the Mayor, even to voluntary support at Public Inquiries in opposition to the Council.If you have a view, the following message I received this evening may assist you making it heard -12 days to stop the Mayor's power grab Most Londoners are still not aware that the Government's consultation on new planning powers for the Mayor of London ends on the 2nd of November. It is very important that Londoners understand how these proposed changes would affect them and respond to this consultation.In July the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government Ruth Kelly announced that she was giving a raft of new powers to the Mayor over planning, housing and waste management. A Bill to legislate for the changes is expected to be introduced into Parliament in November 2006.Under the proposals the Mayor will become a one-man planning authority able to approve any planning application considered "strategic" regardless of the wishes of local councillors and local communities. He will be able to overrule any council's decision and effectively deprive local communities of their ability to influence what gets built in their neighbourhood.The definition of "strategic" could also be widened, enabling the Mayor to take over planning decisions simply because a local council will not decide a scheme the way the Mayor wants it decided. The Mayor will also be able to force boroughs to change their local development plans to conform with his planning priorities and override local consultations on planning policies.Most people believe that the Mayor already has sufficient powers in being able to direct refusal of a planning application. The 33 London councils have tried and tested consultation processes to involve local residents and businesses in the decision-making process. Local councillors take their quasi-judicial powers seriously and within planning law. Also the Secretary of State has the power to call-in any application of more than local importance. The process of calling-in involves public inquiry which gives local residents a chance to be heard by an inspector. Under the new legislation anyone objecting to the planning application taken over by the Mayor will be denied their right to a fair hearing. Government decision to strip powers away from locally elected London councils and hand them to Mayor Livingstone is an attack on local democracy. These proposals would give the Mayor an unprecedented power and control over day-to-day lives of Londoners. The London Assembly had been given few extra scrutiny powers. Big decisions affecting a local community should be taken within that community, by people accountable to the community. That is the principle of local democracy. There are no checks and balances in giving such powers to a sole individual. Mr Livingstone's track record gives little confidence that he will listen to local residents when it comes to the local dimension of planning matters or that he will be able to separate his strategic interests from being a one-man planning authority. The Mayor has a record of promoting certain types of development, such as tall buildings. This could jeopardise his ability to make objective decisions on specific proposals and could also lead to developers creating designs that they think will please the Mayor. Many Londoners believe that these new powers have given the green light to a high rise London and would mean an explosion in tower blocks and skyscrapers across the capital that local councils would never have permitted. The City of London warned that "UK planning laws and procedures are complicated enough already. To add new layers of complication in central London, with no discernible benefit to London's economy and prosperity, is a real worry." Setting up a new planning bureaucracy at City Hall would also mean Londoners can expect a rise in their council tax bills.The Government has already consulted on these new powers for the Mayor in July. A summary of the responses reveals that  the planning proposals attracted the greatest interest among respondents to the consultation. Most supported no change, or only minimal change, to the current arrangements.Also the survey of a thousand Londoners commissioned by the Association of London Government on behalf of London's 33 local authorities reveals that the majority of the capital's residents disagree with Government plans to give the Mayor of London powers over strategic planning applications in London. These opinions were completely ignored by the Government.Londoners should write to DCLG (Department for Communities and Local Government) raising their objections to policy proposals that will further reduce the power of local communities to shape their own futures.The current consultation asks Londoners for comments on the Government's proposals in three specific areas:1.      Do you agree with the Government's proposals on thresholds for referral of planning applications to the Mayor?2.      Do you consider the policy test provides a clear basis for the Mayor to decide whether he should take over a planning application?3.      Do you agree with the new procedures for handling planning applications in London? You can read this consultation paper online at the DCLG website:www.communities.gov.uk/consultationshttp://www.communities.gov.uk/index.asp?id=1501733 Let's use the 14 days that are left to send a clear message to the Government: No more power to Ken!Please send your response to the Government: The existing thresholds for referral of planning applications to the Mayor are sufficient. The existing policy test for the Mayor to refuse a planning application is sufficient, I strongly object to the Mayor being able to take over decision on a planning application from local authorities. I strongly object to the new procedures for handling planning applications in London. Big decisions affecting a local community should be taken within that community, by people accountable to the community. I do not believe the decisions made by the Mayor on so called 'strategic' applications would be objective. The new procedures would mean local residents would be denied their right to a fair hearing. They would also add a new, costly layer of beaurocracy which would only benefit a small number of big developers to the disadvantage of ordinary Londoners. The Mayor of London should not be given the power to take over strategic planning applications from local authorities.Your feedback should be sent to: gla.review@communities.gsi.gov.ukOr write to:Rt Hon Ruth Kelly MPSecretary of State at the Department for Communities and Local GovernmentEland HouseBressenden PlaceLondon SW1E 5DU

Nigel Moore ● 6794d18 Comments ● 6787d

The Overhanging Cycling Mass

"Your width calculations don’t take account of the fact that the cyclists’ “mass” can partly overhang the footway, as any physical object on the footway such as a lamp column should always be at least 450mm back from the kerbline"Hi ChrisI've started a new topic on this as I don't want to clutter up the bus thread with cycling minutiae which most people aren't interested in.I told you a 1.2m lane was not adequate for cycling. I said that my handlebar width was 45cm and panniers and body probably increase the width by 10cm.  You replied as above that a cyclist "should" overhang the kerb.   Very tricky.  Well  my pedals extend to 5cm of handlebar - roating pedals can catch on kerb.  And the low point of my pedal revolution is 9cm from ground.  I measured the kerb as 10cm-15cm in height.And what about pedestrians having to step off kerb for random reasons? And motorists having to veer to the left for random reasons?And a cyclists wheel must deviate anyway to achieve progress.Why isn't Hounslow adhering to the cycle lane recommendations of Tfansport for London Street Management  www.tfl.gov.uk/cycles/company/standards.shtmlAnd what's this secret Hounslow planning bible that the top quotation is taken from.Well register me as one cyclist who doesn't find your 1.2m cycling lanes adequate.

Michael Fletcher ● 6804d13 Comments ● 6787d

Brand new online services from your local paper

Your local newspaper has just got more interactive.As part of the redevelopment of our website, the Brentford, Chiswick & Isleworth Times now boasts a new online 'Have Your Say' area.Now anyone can join our message boards, send in their pictures from across Hounslow, track down old friends or send in stories for us to follow up and include in the BCI Times or Hounslow Guardian.The new services can be found at the address below:http://www.richmondandtwickenhamtimes.co.uk/views/They can also be accessed by going www.rttimes.co.uk and clicking 'Have Your Say' on the left of the screenYou can find a proper link in the first reply below.Check out the Brentford, Chiswick & Isleworth Times website throughout the week for breaking stories and extra pictures.We look forwards to hearing what you all think of the new services.BCI Times Editorial Team

Stephen Abbott ● 6787d1 Comments ● 6787d

10K for Rainforest Foundation

Hi, just a bit of a begging post here so sorry.I'm running my next 10k in Regents Park this Sunday for the rainforest foundation. This is a charity that seeks to buy up areas of rainforest to prevent them from being felled. It also effectively pays the indigenous people of the congo to be guardians and take care of the areas they live in so farmers won't clear areas etc.I can be sponsored at www.justgiving.com/conalstewart if you care about this charity at all.If you do sponsor, then thanks.I aim to do it in about 40 mins by the way.  I did the Nike 10K in 43:10 so hopefully can do better

Conal Stewart ● 6794d6 Comments ● 6787d

a foster home for a cat

I am sorry to be a pain about this and ask the forum again, but desperate times call for desperate meassures.Thanks to the chiswick forum, Hounslow Animal Welfare has recently found 2 new foster homes in Chiswick but they desperately need another one ASAP. If anyone who reads this thread is willing to help fostering a pair of kittens [they are in a pen now for lack of foster homes]it will be wonderful.Please contact ROZ on 0208 994 4213

Silvia Diaz ● 6827d5 Comments ● 6788d

That YOU TUBE website.  Isn't it amazing?

Peter Wright, Hugh and other "forumswide" members have occasionallyposted links to the YOU TUBE website via their messages...especailly on the Ealing Forum.Often the links have been to videos of amusing sketches.This weeks news of Googles purchase of the You Tube empire has been noted by us all no doubt. But my trip last night around the YOU TUBE website was breathtaking when I entered in to the SEARCH BOX things like "Chopin piano"..or "Rachmaninov 3!" or even the names of local place names.It kept me up most of the night..and I didn't get to the TW8 Farmers market!Yes, try the Search Facility. Also useful is the 5 star rating system..perhaps best examined by right clicking the "button" towards the bottom of the page on the right hand side. All the videos for that subject are listed and adjudged. The URL in the address bar can be copied..given the "tiny url webpage" treatment..and then this shorter URL can either be used on this thread (!) or on the Wandsworth Forum Training Ground!I'm sure there are videos showing scenes that will be X certificate....so be careful!ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooWatch this 10 year old girl’s progress playing Mozart for starters!From 2 mins 30 seconds onwards she really gets going!http://tinyurl.com/yd8somooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooThere's no end to what is seemingly available on YOU TUBE.

Jim Lawes ● 6803d8 Comments ● 6789d

Spring flows on Brentford High Street ?

Is it all the rain that has caused the road to start seeping ? (It seemed to me to be almost at its highest point, which could be unusual for a spring.)Anyone know how long it has been flowing ?Anyone like to guess how long it might continue ?

Tim Henderson ● 6789d0 Comments ● 6789d

A fine collection of Brentford waterside pictures found in cyberspace

http://www.ch.ic.ac.uk/rzepa/Brentford/Page1.htmlCopy and pasteThis collection was hidden away..and was found by chance..when looking for Brentford related websites.! Does the owner of this collection ever visit TW8.com ?  

Jim Lawes ● 6802d20 Comments ● 6790d

HALLOWEEN FANCY DRESS BALL IS TONIGHT 27TH OCT FRIDAY STILL HAVE A FEW TICKETS LEFT

WE STILL HAVE A FEW TICKETS LEFT AND COSTUMES AT FANTASY LAND IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO JOIN US FOR A FUN EVENING AT THE COPACABANA COCKTAIL BAR UNIT FERRY LANE BRENTFORDMY SHOP IS OPEN FROM 12-6PM TODAY SO POP IN AND HAVE A LOOKTICKETS ARE ONLY £5 ALL THE BEST DEBBIE

Debbie Dewar ● 6790d0 Comments ● 6790d

Parking and the council

Now that Richmond have come down on the motorist again when will Hounslow follow? Should we open up all the old stables again and get all the brasses off the pub walls, there are plenty of horses in the borough, will the Lord Mayors give up their limo's. Lets all dig up our gardens and lay down concrete so to avoid parking charges, I wouldn't mind if they spent the money on making the roads better filling in the potholes etc etc but they won't will they! I bet all the lentil eating cylists are jumping for joy. Go on prove me wrong.

Helen Fogarth ● 6792d12 Comments ● 6790d

Halloween Fancy Dress Costume Ball 27th October Fri

FANTASY LAND IS HOLDING A HALLOWEEN COSTUME BALL AT THE COPACABANA CLUBUNIT 1 FERRY QUAYS FERRY LANE BRENTFORD TICKETS £5 AVAILBLE FROM FANTASY LAND FANCY DRESS SHOP 61 EALING ROAD BRENTFORD 8 569 8765 OPEN FROM MON- FRI 12-5PMOR £10 AT THE DOORDRESS CODE SCAREY WITCHES MONSTERS FRANKENSTIEN ETC PRIZES FOR THE BEST COSTUMES WE HAVE LOTS OF FANCY DRESS COSTUMES AT FANTASY LAND  SO POP IN FOR A LOOK AROUND.9.30 - LATE HOPE TO SEE YOU ALL THERE IN COSTUME ALL THE BEST DEBBIE XXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Debbie Dewar ● 6811d14 Comments ● 6790d

Canal walk

Does anyone know why those horrible old sheds are still on the canal between Boston Manor Park and the new Brentford Lock development.  I really wanted to walk along there this week but those dark oppressive buildings really put me off.

Pat Kingham ● 6993d94 Comments ● 6795d

Help immobilise phone crime with Osterley SNT

Help Immobilise Phone Crime with Osterley Safer Neighbourhood Team and win a prize! Help your local Police team to combat mobile phone crime by coming along toIsleworth and Syon School,Ridgeway Road,Isleworthon Saturday 4th November 2006, between 10am and 4pm. We are promoting the use of an free online service called IMMOBILISE.COM We will register the IMEI (unique serial number) of your phone on the website and your mobile phone will become traceable if it is ever lost or stolen. You don’t even need to be an Internet user. To find out your phone's IMEI number just press *#06# on the keypad. At the end of the event there will be a prize draw with a first prize of a Sony Ericsson K610i 3G mobile phone supplied by O2 Airwave. There will also be second and third prizes… so come on down! For more information contact Osterley and Spring Grove Safer Neighbourhood Team on 020 8721 2809.

Osterley Safer Neighbourhood Team ● 6798d2 Comments ● 6795d

Traffic on the High Street

Can anyone help?  There seems to be a lot of traffic in the morning (7:30am to 9:30am)stretching from Kew Bridge to the High Street.  The main cause seems to be the traffic going over kew bridge, stopping traffic flowing to the left towards Chiswick.  Is it the timing of the lights or simply that enough cars cannot get through as traffic is backed up.  Furthermore, is the purpose of the bus lane  to reduce the travel time, if it gets held up by cars on the single lane stretch does it not defeat the purpose.  Can anything be done to ease the traffic and allow cars going towards Chiswick get by without backing up traffic.  Surely this would help the buses move along too.Seems an awful way to start the day every week.

Bhavna Patel ● 6808d10 Comments ● 6796d

Part 2 Osterley Safer Neighbourhood newsletter

Sorry for the delay in getting this part out

Edward Fitzgerald ● 6799d7 Comments ● 6797d

Full marks so far Steve..

Terry for captain and goodbye Beckham...the boy's done good up to now imho...

Keith Iddon ● 6867d12 Comments ● 6798d

Vanessa Smith on MOGDEN

For some strange reason ousted Cllr Vanessa Smith is trying to convince herself that  odour and mosquito conditions from Mogden have improved vastly due to all her hard work  when she was a councillor many years ago. I  have accused her of achieving nothing during her time in office in improving conditions for residents living within 2 miles of Mogden.  I have accused her of not attending  a single Thames Water Mogden Residents' meeting and I have challenged her to produce evidence of a single letter written to Thames Water, Ofwat, Defra or our  MP complaining about the situation. - She can't,  but she has posted elsewhere on this forum the following:    "I don't really care what you think - because as you say you are a newcomer so therefore cannot possibly know what went on all those years ago""I have lived here now nearly thirty years and whilst not perfect Mogden is not the problem that it was, we used to have a revolting pall of smells hanging around sometimes for days some years ago, that invaded your home. I can certainly vouch for the fact that the mozzies were a hell of a lot worse than they are now.""As I live well within sniffing distance of Mogden I can say that it has improved vastly over what it was when we first started our dialogue with Thames Water, certainly here the mozzie problem is a lot less."As a committee member of MRAG  I am privy to the thousands of complaints which have been received and forwarded to Thames Water and LBH over the years and can categorically state that the problem has escalated.  Many of the complainants have lived in the area for as long if not longer than Ms Smith and they have confirmed that 2006 odour has reached unprecedented levels and the intensity of the odour has never been worse. Mosquitoe complaints seem to have reduced slightly in 2005 after MRAG insisted on Thames Water doubling the summer spraying regime and MRAG insisted on Thames Water contributing financially to the gully cleaning programme but regrettably 2006 has seen the mosquito problem once again out of control.   Hereunder is just one of the hundreds of complaints received over the last 2 months. The complainant has given us his full blessing to post it on this forum."Dear Steve, Please feel free to forward as many of my recent (and regular) reports of anti-social problems associated with the Mogden works as you wish. Ms Smith is also welcome to come and see for herself that my complaints about mosquitoes are not fabricated or exaggerated. You need only look around the street lighting at night to see the extent of their numbers. We have been moved to install a plug-in mosquito killing vaporiser in our bedroom to try and keep on top of the problem (so intended for more tropical climates that it requires an adaptor to fit UK sockets) but on top of that we still remove (swat) at least half a dozen from the house nightly, however, we are still suffering bites during the night. The stench this summer has been hugely and frequently noticeable, on one occasion within the last couple of weeks it actually was so bad during the small hours of the morning that it woke both me and my wife. Closing the windows when it is still well over 20deg outside and even hotter indoors is not the most preferable thing to be forced to do.   You can advise her from a resident living close to Mogden that if she thinks the problem has got better she is grossly mistaken. To suggest we, the local residents to Mogden are 'going off half cocked' frankly verges on insulting and I take exception this view point when I consider the number of miserable days and nights myself and my family have endured in recent months due to Mogden and its continuing problems. I would like to think that I am a normal, level headed  and rational person. I would not spend my time recording my concerns with you unless I felt it absolutely necessary in order to remind Thames water and people like Ms Smith that the problem has not gone away in the slightest and that we still need to get something done about this. Regards, Jonathan Oatway ""Hillary Drive, Isleworth. 27/07/06 9pm. Mogden absolutely reeking again after the rain. It was stomach turning. We had to close all the windows but the smell lingered right throughout the house. I was moved to apologise to a guest we had visiting at the time. All very embarrassing considering the raw sewage nature of the odour. What must he have thought about where we live? It's a joke living here, why should we live in fear of the stench. Our hearts and mood sink every time we have a heavy downpour or rainy day. This summer has definitely seen a marked increase in the strength and frequency of the odour over the same period last year yet Thames water seem to think they are making improvements??!! STILL removing several mosquitoes from our house on a nightly basis. Very depressing. Jonathan Oatway "

Steve Taylor ● 6880d6 Comments ● 6799d

Meeting Up

I'm over in Brentford from 24th Sept to 8th Oct.Some posters have suggested metting up during that period. I know I'm busy Sept 26th, 27th and 28th but free so far other nights.Any ideas?

Neil Chippendale ● 6834d49 Comments ● 6800d

any computer game players wanna earn £80 this/next week??

In the West End for Friday 20th, Monday 23rd, Tuesday 24th, Thursday 26th and Friday 27th (latest start 4pm) I need to find 18 people (either sex, aged 16 or over), interested in football who play computer games on PC/Mac, XBox or PSP.  Most of the respondents have to be experienced with football management games such as Football Manager or Championship Manager but NOT Championship Manager 2006 by Eidos.  Sessions take 2.5 hours and will be a mixture of game playing and chatting about the game.If interested then please call John on 07949 008253 asap. First come first served.I am afraid that I cannot use anyone who has done games based research before. cheersJohn

John McCooke ● 6800d0 Comments ● 6800d

Local Photographer

Hello,I'm a local photographer who develops and prints all their own film and prints not a digital camera in sight!! I wondered if anyone could suggest any restaurants or bars that might be interested in hanging some of my work or if anyone knew an interior designer who might be interested in using some of my pictures? Check out my work to see if its suitable http:www.rebecca-sichelcoates.com Many thanks for your time.Rebecca

Rebecca Coates ● 6816d1 Comments ● 6800d

Recycling (revisited).....it can be satisfying!  Agreed?

A peep at the Civic Centre's webcam of a recent Executive Meeting shows Cllr Barbara Reid (Con) outlining the Borough's need to improve on recycling. We should start helping her!Apparently we need to raise our recycling level from some 18% to 40% pretty quickly...otherwise there are penalties in the pipeline!!So those dustmen out there..are collecting up too many black sacks overfilled with things that could be crushed down and re-used. Most of us know that.... but it does take a while to get locked into the recycling frame of mind..and whilst we may all put our old newspapers into those blue skips ..there's much more we could do..if we put our minds to it. Agreed?Recycling has been discussed on this Forum before..and worthy they were too.. but I cannot trace the threads via FORUM SEARCH.I've been able to reduce my refuse by two thirds during the past few weeks!Helpful pictures to follow...and I've discovered the local TESCO recycling site!

Jim Lawes ● 6819d17 Comments ● 6801d

STOP PRESS:  Giant tanks roll into Isleworth!!

Two giant tanks..abnormal loads..were seen rolling down the Great West Road at 11pm Monday evening..last night...under Police escort thankfully...and making a charge down Syon Lane!!A classic view of them doing a right turn in front of the Gillette Building was missed by me..as I was in Hammersmith for the evening...teaching one of my picture posting students!!If you get a move on this morning (;0) you will see the huge tanks near the London Apprentice from dawn..awaiting for the crane to be erected..and the big lift operation onto two barges at about 9am.It's like Concorde all over again!More info to follow!!

Jim Lawes ● 6814d44 Comments ● 6802d

A taste of tennis in Boston Manor Park

The Friends of Boston Manor continue to make a difference in Boston Manor Park and have gained some funding to organise free tennis lessons to young persons (9 - 11 year olds , male or female) who would not normally have the opportunity to receive professional training.  The project will run during the half term holidays (last week of October) on a first come first serve basis.  If you know of someone who you think will benefit from this fully supervised project and would like to recommend them then please express your interest via the website www.fobm.org.uk

Linda Massey ● 6828d5 Comments ● 6802d

New York - crash of light plane

Scary half an hour while we waited to learn the details...sad for pilot and other person killed, but thank heavens it was not a repeat of 9/11.

Ann S. Allridge ● 6806d7 Comments ● 6803d

Osterly Safer Neighbourhood Team Newsletter

Page 2 to follow as scanner has gone haywire.000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

Edward Fitzgerald ● 6805d3 Comments ● 6804d

Police hunt for patient missing from West Mid hospital

Police are concerned for the whereabouts of a 53-year-old Asian man who went missing from West Middlesex Hospital on Thursday night (October 12).Mohinder Sra had been receiving treatment at the hospital after suffering a head injury during a fall several months ago. He was last seen by hospital staff on the Osterley 1 ward at approximately 9pm. As a result of his head injury, Mr Srad experiences difficulty in communicating with people and can appear disoriented. He is also a diabetic and has a heart condition for which he needs to take daily medication. He is described by police as approximately 5ft 5ins and of slim build. When last seen, he was wearing a grey-knitted t-shirt, black pin stripe trousers, a fleece and black pointed shoes. Mr Sra wears glasses and has short-cropped slightly greying hair and stubble on his chin. It was not thought that he had any money or belongings with him when he disappeared. Anyone who has seen Mr Sra or has any information regarding his whereabouts is asked to call the Missing Person Unit at Hounslow on 020 8247 6224.- To see a picture of Mr Sra, go to the message below and follow link

Stephen Abbott ● 6804d2 Comments ● 6804d

Missing patient found

Mohinder Sra who went missing from the West Middlesex Hospital on October 12 was found by British Transport Police officers this afternoon at Embankment Tube station.He is safe and will be returned to hospital.

Stephen Abbott ● 6804d0 Comments ● 6804d

Personal World Travel Map

Fun site I was directed to this morning that allows you to create a world map with all the places you’ve visited. Give it a try:http://douweosinga.com/projects/visitedcountriesCan’t be wholly accurate, I tried it myself and because I’ve dipped into a couple of places in the States, it shows Alaska as well!
Certainly brings home how much of the world still to see.

Nigel Moore ● 6807d21 Comments ● 6804d

London Road Bus Priority Scheme - Syon Lane to Brent Lea

London Road Bus Priority Scheme - Syon Lane to Brent LeaThe London Borough of Hounslow proposes to implement a bus priority and cycling improvement scheme on London Road, between Syon Lane and Brent Lea.The scheme involves installing a city-bound bus lane, mainly within the available carriageway width by adjusting the lane markings and pedestrian refuges, with minor carriageway widening between Rowan Road and Brent Lea.  This will reduce delays to passengers on route 235, 237 and 267 buses.   Improvements for cyclists and pedestrians also feature in the scheme.The scheme will be fully funded by Transport for London.Letters and plans were posted to approximately 900 households and businesses in the local area on 2 and 3 October.All the consultation material can be found on the LB Hounslow website, www.hounslow.gov.uk, under Consultations  (Quick Link button at top right of the LB Hounslow homepage.)Here is the full linkhttp://www.hounslow.gov.uk/index/council_and_democracy/consultations/bus_scheme_consultation.htmThis consultation closes Tuesday 24 October 2006.Chris Calvi-FreemanHead of TransportLondon Borough of Hounslow

Chris Calvi-Freeman ● 6810d28 Comments ● 6804d

Zagreb in Croatia

Well the next England away game is on the 11th October and as I am flying there and back in a day!! I would appreciate any tips and ideas of what to see and do in the 9 hours or so I have free in the City before kick off?

Paul Fisher ● 6819d8 Comments ● 6804d

Beware:  gangs of Southern Electricity salesmen on the prowl

If you go to the Chiswick W4 Forum..and type in SOUTHERN ELECTRICITY in "Forum Search".. you will find messages posted last year about persistent and misleading salesmen cold calling at people's front doors.So be warned, these salesmen have decended on TW7... TODAY..appearing to be on their own  but in fact working in a sizable team..using misleading words..and misleading claims..and even asking to see one's fuel bills ....gas and electricity and "you pay by direct debit don't you?".  I was surprised at the chap's tenacity. As an old vunerable man living on my own ..I could have been duped! More information later...this is just an advance warning!! Have you been visited yet..by these cold callers?

Jim Lawes ● 6805d1 Comments ● 6805d

Sparrows

Much in the news about LACK or disappearance of these cheeky little birds.  I am happy to say they are thriving and have increased this summer - at least in my garden.  Also golden finches having a lovely time eating the echinops (spelling!?)  Cleodendron berries have been found by pigeons - to my disgust, hopefully they will leave some for the black birds.  Actually the tiny branches are too small to really take the weight of the pigeons, but so far no damage done.

Lois Westby ● 6813d8 Comments ● 6805d

So, that's where some of my neighbours and friends come from...

When one of my children went on a trip around the world some years ago, he spent a good deal of time in Pakistan and India.One knew something about each country but not lots....so I bought the LONELY PLANET guide for India..and followed his progress around the different areas. I was amazed at the expanse and diversity of the Country..and it was very educational. The different religions and customs.  I even read that there were two Pizza Express restaurants in New Delhi!I thought..the locals in Hounslow and Heston and Isleworth should all be given a copy of this LONELY PLANET guide to help them more easily understand their "incoming neighbours". I mean, the book only costs £10 or something.Today, I have received a postcard from Mumbai (old Bombay) and on seeing the picture ..thought that looks like the South of France!So this posting may contibute to our understanding of that massive country far away... I had no idea views like this were there! (see next message).

Jim Lawes ● 6812d9 Comments ● 6806d

P.C. or not P.C.

I just wonder how many of us feel that the Metropolitan Police Service is becoming a mealy-mouthed, pathetic, bunch of apologists for trying to do the job we pay them for? This latest hoo-ha over the Muslim P.C. in the diplomatic protection squad just makes me furious and frankly I don't believe a word that has come from on high making pathetic excuses for this individual. As one Police Officer put it - he volunteered for the D.P. Squad and therefore must have been aware of what would be expected of him, the Met. are supposed to police "without fear or favour", yeh right. I always had the highest regard for our Police, that is going down the pan at a rate of knots. What with don't refer to young hooligans as yobs in case the little darlings get offended, you do begin to wonder what the point of a Police Service is, no wonder youngsters don't respect them.

Vanessa Smith ● 6812d47 Comments ● 6806d

Shameless advert

For 'The Chelsea Ballet' a really great amateur ballet company in which my wife is taking part.They rehearse localy, they are all amateurs, some have had formal training, but have had to give up dancing due to health or work but all dance to a very high standard. And only £10 per ticket.

Bob Crossley ● 6807d0 Comments ● 6807d

Local Car Boot Sales

Hi All,Can anyone recommend a Car Boot Sale worth while going to local to Brentford that might be happening this Sunday?  If so, can you also let me know what time the set-up is/ finish time.Thanks a lot,Fran Naughton

Fran Naughton ● 6808d4 Comments ● 6808d

DELICIOUS SRI LANKAN MEAL

Another chance to join us at the London Buddhist Vihara to enjoy a delicious Sri Lankan meal.  All home cooked food.SATURDAY 14th OCTOBER FROM 5.00PM - 9PMatLONDON BUDDHIST VIHARATHE AVENUE, CHISWICKLONDON W4 1UDTICKETS £5.00

Pat Smith ● 6808d0 Comments ● 6808d

FEELING GROTTY?

Then pop into the healing centre at the London Buddhist Vihara, The Avenue, Chiswick.  We will be open between 11am and 1pm TODAYHealing helps any condition, through from stress 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.You do not need to make an appointment or book but if you want any further information before coming please give me a ring on 0788 189 6449.

Pat Smith ● 6808d0 Comments ● 6808d

Been to Kew's Steam Model Show this weekend?

On the BRENTFORD AND ISLEWORTH CALENDAR thread, James informed us of the Steam Model Show 2006 being held at Brentford's famous Kew Bridge Steam Museum.This industrial complex was built between the years 1836 and 1900 "to supply people with water".  It's all there waiting to be visited this weekend ..Sunday  11am till 5pm..and there is a small entrance fee..but lots to see. Parking is free.Pictures on the next message.  Lots to read,watch and admire..and the cafe is good too.  I stocked up with unusual greeting cards from various stalls and a couple of Chiswick History Books..and fed well of course! I'll probably go again tomorrow too!Most interesting was conversation with all kinds of people on the stalls..and even in the cafe. They all want to talk  and are waiting for someone to break the ice..and exchange notes..generally about industrial history and modelling matters!

Jim Lawes ● 6809d1 Comments ● 6809d

An Inconvenient Truth - what's your verdict?

Hi all, come and share your thoughts about the new feature film documentary An Inconvenient Truth tomorrow night (8 Oct).The film explores misconceptions about climate change by following former US vice president Al Gore on his personal crusade to tackle the problem. It was a hit at the Sundance Film Festival.Friends of the Earth (Ealing and Hounslow local groups) will lead a discussion about the film and brainstorm climate change solutions after the 6.15pm screening at Watermans arts centre.The discussion will take place in the bar at Watermans (40 Brentford High Street, TW8 0DS). We'll also invite people to make a green pledge, however big or small, to show their commitment to being part of the solution.Tickets to the film cost ₤6.50 or ₤5 (concession). The discussion is free.If you miss tomorrow night's screening, you can catch it at various times until 15 October. Call 020 8232 1010 or visit www.watermans.org.uk.For more information about the FOE event contact: Virginia Fassnidge on 07810 292 361 or visit www.ealingfoe.org.uk. Hope to see you there!Sandra

Sandra Jeffreys ● 6810d0 Comments ● 6810d

Skydive for Local Girl? (Charlotte Robinson Trust)

We are looking for a further 5 people to skydive for the Charlotte Robinson trust on Saturday 28th October 2006 in Bicester, Oxfordshire.www.charlotterobinson.orgwww.charlotte-robinson.blogspot.comThe jump costs £200 and a £65 deposit will be needed by Fri 29th payable by direct debit to Helen on 0113 250 5600 referring to 'Rachels Jump Group' when you call.All additional monies raised will be donated to Charlotte's Trust Fund.We are making great headway towwards our £100k target, having secured almost 10% of that in the past 7 weeks :))))))))))Come on you daredevils :)))))))))))

Account closed ● 6825d6 Comments ● 6811d

New Handy Helpers website

Hi, we have a new blog website about Handy Helpers for Charlotte Robinson Trust.Please feel free to have a look at it, we will try to update it! The address is: http://handy-helpers.blogspot.comBelow is the article from Stephen Abbott from the Brentford, Chiswick and Islewoth Times!Handy helpers do their bit for Charlotte fundBy Stephen AbbottTwo Chiswick brothers have set out to raise thousands of pounds to help buy prosthetic legs for a 14-year-old girl infected with a toxic blood disease.Charlotte Robinson, of The Avenue, Chiswick, has been in intensive care since May 29 after developing meningococcal septicaemia following a trip to Alton Towers.When she first reached hospital, Charlotte, a pupil at Brentford High School for Girls, had to be put on a life support machine for two weeks after suffering multiple organ failure.To prevent the infection spreading, both of Charlotte's legs then had to be amputated.She also lost several fingers on her right hand. Recently, she has had several operations and is still in a critical condition.Now Steven and James Smith, both scriptwriters, are looking to help do their bit towards raising the £100,000 Charlotte's family and friends need to pay for her future operations and care.They are advertising themselves out as "handy helpers" wishing to do small jobs for a small fee.In an online advert, they said: "We are happy to do baby sitting, gardening, cleaning, house-sitting or other domestic duties."The brothers said they are also happy to look after pets and have already raised £513 for the fund.All the money they raise will go to The Charlotte Robinson Trust.To contact the brothers, call 07980 693 106 or 07813 754207.They can also be reached by email at handyhelpers8410@yahoo.co.uk Further donations can be given to help Charlotte by visiting the Charlotte Robinson website: http://charlotte-robinson.blogspot.comThanksHandy Helpers 24/7

Account suspended ● 6819d1 Comments ● 6811d

Do you need help with your domestic duties? Then do it while raising money for charlotte!...

Hi,Please help us raise money for The Charlotte Robinson Trust by calling us out to do any domestic work.We are happy to baby-sit, gardening, cleaning, house-sit, wait in for deliveries, gas, water, electric men and painters, deliver parcels to local addresses, dog-sit, cat-sit, videoing events, designing anything and any other domestic duties.Please have a look at Sophie Robinson's (Charlotte's sister) blog, the link is below.Thanks in advance,Steve & JamesCharlotte's blog

Account suspended ● 6833d4 Comments ● 6811d

South West Trains remove seats to ease overcrowding

Referring to the story on the front page, this seems like bad news for people who commute from Isleworth, Brentford, Kew Bridge and Chiswick into Waterloo.Is there a Hounslow public transport action group similar to the Ealing Passenger Transport User Group ( http://www.eptug.org.uk )who would be able to lobby SWT on this issue?If such a group doesn't currently exist, should we form one?

James de Vivenot ● 6812d1 Comments ● 6812d

Another New Website

Has anyone else come across the (unintentionally) hilarious new website that has just been created by the New Labour Party in Brentford & Isleworth?It is at: www.bandi.labour.co.ukEvery page simply oozes desperation - and it has clearly been hastily set up to try and save poor Ann Keen from the electoral hammering that the rest of her party suffered in the May Council elections.What is most striking is the absolutely appalling grammar and spelling - ironic as it comes from the mob who gave us Education, Education, Education - and the reports of their recent meetings and activities read like a Ricky Gervais comedy, except I think that they're trying to be taken seriously!An interesting web site really isn't that hard to set up these days, but our comrades in Brentford & Isleworth have sadly failed yet again.And who came up with the catchy name BANDI?

Leo Newman ● 6829d41 Comments ● 6812d

NEW Pilates - Casual Class Pass

W4 Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic are now offering a 'Casual Pass Class'.This pass is purchased in advance for £50. It is valid for two months from the date of purchase and allows you flexibility to attend Pilates classes at days and times that suit.We cannot guarantee your place more than 48 hours in advance but will do our best to fit you into the classes you want.Currently we run classes on:Tuesday 2.00-3.00pm (*NEW CLASS), 5.30 - 6.30pm, 7.00 - 8.00pm & 8.00 - 9.00pmWednesday 7.00-8.00pm, 8.00-9.00pmThursday 6.30 - 7.30pm (Ante /Postnatal), 7.30 - 8.30pm (Ante /Postnatal) Saturday 9.00-10.00am** We begin new classes as the demand arises so contact us and let us know you are interested and your preferences for class days/times **A new weekday Morning class will begin next week - contact us for more details:pilates@w4physio.co.uk / 0208 994 8328Class Prices:Introductory Deal - £37.50 Five Week BlockRegular Price - £45.00 Five Week BlockCasual Class Pass - £50.00 valid for 2 months241 Acton Lane, Chiswick W4 5DD

Kerry Rixon ● 6812d0 Comments ● 6812d

5pm Friday..43 people visiting the website ..a record?

Something must be up...probably that fire on the South Ealing Road..but I don't ever recall seeing even half that number of visitors to the TW8 website.Could be something in the Personal ads section!

Jim Lawes ● 6818d3 Comments ● 6812d

What next?

Absolutely appalled to read of the attempted robbery in Redlees Park, and well done to the young victim who lamped both of his attackers. Aren't they brave though? - two of them on to one schoolboy - what utter, snivelling cowards they are.

Vanessa Smith ● 6813d7 Comments ● 6813d

Clean up success by Brentford SNT

The Brentford Safer Neighbourhood team have had a success in getting the bridge at Brook lane off Leyton road cleaned up, the next step is to get better lighting and CCTV supplied by Network Rail.

Edward Fitzgerald ● 6814d9 Comments ● 6813d

Last night's Area Meeting,Police, then Jazz at the Brewery Tap!

It was like a family gathering at the likeable Brentford Free Church Hall last night..with so many familiar faces..all working hard for the local community. It was the Isleworth and Brentford Area Meeting (monitoring)Chairman Paul Fisher has certainly opened up the meeting for audience participation..with opportunities for asking questions all night...just put up your hand..no questions in writing 14 days before the event!As you may know there are 4 wards under this Committee Umbrella, Isleworth, Osterley and Spring Grove, Syon and Brentford..3 Councillors for each..and together with two Civic Centre administrators, the Brentford Police chief, her 4 Ward Sergeants, three officers from the Council to give reports..and 15 of us in the audience..there was a enough to make it all worthwhile.Each of the Police Officers introduced themselves..several with 19 years experience..and their communications skills were excellent. It was most re-assuring to hear of their plans to explore each ward in detail, to chat to residents, traders and to attend to key problems.Each Safer Neighbourhood team had identified their own three priorities and some success stories were told.One ward aimed to get rid of drug dealers and related crimes  like theft from motor vehicles.  Motor vehicle theft,pinching number plates,and general burglary was prevailent in my ward...and graffiti,nicked bicycles,and more was another ward's concern.I came away thinking that our local Police are making a big effort to  get down to the local detail of crime and that they were very accessible at places like this meeting...even if contact by phone or e-mail was a little more problematical. I have respect for them.Trees, S106 money, giant advertisements on the GWR were also discussed..and I'll report later..not that I took many notes.It was tea only ..no biscuits!There are 4 political parties represented on the Committee  but you wouldn't have realised..they were all so friendly!

Jim Lawes ● 6818d16 Comments ● 6814d

Thank You

No contention or argument, just a thank you to all who contribute to the forum, as an ex-Chiswickian, now living in Somerset, it is possible for me to keep up with local events, attitudes and ideas, so THANK YOU ALL

Peter Poulton ● 6818d11 Comments ● 6814d

Locksmith

Can anyone recommend a reliable and honest locksmith to add additional locks to my front foor?Thanks

Verification required ● 6820d4 Comments ● 6815d

St Pauls rec

It was great to see some real effort by some, on tidying up a small park that really could be a 10 carat jewel of Brentfords crown.I saw some people really putting in serious effort and skill in abundance and even a few carrying on during the week.How they must feel in that just a week later, fresh graffiti has been daubed and litter casually strewn by Schoolgirls and others who ought to know better.?A quarter of the park is set aside for dogs to roam freely, that does not seem to be enough for some owners, who continue to let their dogs roam the rest of the park, worse still are the parents and teenagers who whilst allowing their young charges to play in the childrens playground, also let their dogs off leash to roam and defacate there. The casual litter strewn by a few goes unchallenged. If locals are prepared to roll up their sleeves and give up their time to make the place a little bit better for everyone else, then it is time for the authorities to reciprocate.The park needs to be monitored, and muscles flexed, It is time that the anti-social few started getting fined, named and shamed.Dog faeces are seriously harmful and 99% of owners make the effort to deal with that. Sadly it only takes a 1% deposit to blind a child.It is time the graffitists were outed, having removed this stuff from the mural twice now, I would like to see them clean it up instead.And the litter droppers? Just why are a handful of Brentford girls school students always hanging around during school hours? If they are that bored them maybe they can hang around with a few litter pickers and a binbag.Maybe the school would like to pay their litter fines?Come on organisers, don't let the great efforts of so many get eroded away,chase up CiP or LBH and get them to get tough with those who cannot  seem to treat the place with civility.Dr. M J B Brandt.

Michael Brandt ● 7002d26 Comments ● 6815d

Kitchen/bathroom fitter recommendations

My daughter who owns a flat in Brentford has bought a new kitchen (which is already delivered) and bathroom (which will be arriving shortly) and is looking for someone to fit either or both.  I know there are recommendations on Geronimo but I don't think she has had much luck with them and the only quote she did manage to get was very high.  Has anyone had a kitchen and or bathroom fitted recently and if so, would you recommend whoever did the work?  Any information would be useful.  Thanks

Bernadette Paul ● 6821d6 Comments ● 6815d

Re: Moving house.....

Hi All, We are moving house and have a few items that are surplus to requirements - BedroomStag Mahoganny Bedroom Furniture:Dressing Table with 3 mirrorsChest of 5 drawers (in need of repair to one of the runners)Small bedside tableKitchenIndesit Dishwasher (1yr Old) Fridge Freezer (small - freezer above fridge)Donations welcome but not essential. Please be able to collect and manage to take items down 2 flights of stairs.All of the items are in good working order. Have tried Hounslow Furniture project to no avail.Please e-mail me privately for more info.Live just of Ealing Road - Brentford.Thanks Ben

Ben Ahmed ● 6816d0 Comments ● 6816d

So, what's on in Brentford this week?

...once the great County Town of Middlesex.If this messages disappears off page one in a few days without any responses..we can assume that something is wrong!Any reports or pictures of the Great Walk along the Canal?Bowling at Boston Manor Park?Cricket in lots of places?Farmers Market coming up?Jazz at the Brewery Tap several evenings a week?Hundreds playing football in Gunnersbury Park?

Jim Lawes ● 6822d22 Comments ● 6817d

Chiswick Roundabaout - appeal decision is in

The appeal by the developers to build a 5 story building with another 7 stories of advertising hoardings (or billboards) on top at Chiswick Roundabout took place August 1-3.The appeal decision is in folks - will it go ahead or not? Read the decision via the link in the right panel on the page here...http://www.brentfordcc.org.uk/chiswickroundabout.html

Stephen Browne ● 6824d12 Comments ● 6817d

Hydroponica is moving to larger but cheaper premises

This doesn’t require a response it is for information purposes only. However feel free if you wish, it is a discussion forum as well as a means to pass local information after all! Applewoods Hydroponica Limited is moving from 121a High Street, Brentford to 121d High Street, Brentford, this is at the rear of the building and access will now only be possible from Brent way/County parade which is in-between Catherine Wheel Road and The Ham, both off the High Street, Brentford.

Philip Walsh ● 6820d8 Comments ● 6817d

Spin

So, Tony is a ‘regular guy’ and ‘Gordon loves Tony’.The ‘regular guy’ story should go down well with ‘the chain gang’ on ‘billionaire’s row’.Frankly, I don’t give a ‘Tinkers cuss’.  Do they really think that anyone believes the ‘twaddle being peddled’?Are politicians too far removed from everyday life in Britain to understand the affects of non delivery of policies, wishy-washy policies (often derived from spontaneous ideas on a foreign beach?) or spin, on ordinary folk?In order to ‘get the job done’ shouldn’t they have some understanding of ‘what the job is?’

Sarah Felstead ● 6821d12 Comments ● 6817d

Cleaner Wanted

Could anyone help me find a cleaner? I am looking for someone to come one day a week. Someone who is reliable and honest.

Bronwyn Snelling ● 6818d1 Comments ● 6818d

Fountain Centre

Popped across the border from Ealing to Brentford today to go swimming in the Fountain Centre.But no wave machine, no slide and only the leisure pool was open! What is going on?

David Eales ● 6843d14 Comments ● 6818d

The N9 night bus

So there's a regular night bus from the centre of London to Heathrow..calling at Brentford and Isleworth?  That seems a good and useful developement from TfL.Every 10 minutes too!!  Is it reliable?Does anyone on the Forum use the N9 bus and is the journey eventful?Hadn't realised..usually always going out at night by car!

Jim Lawes ● 6819d4 Comments ● 6819d

Have I missed something?

Does anyone know why there is a headline on the front of this Forum saying that the Police asked for calm after someone was charged with rape and other offences? I didn't even know anything about it, did anyone else? Why would the Police think there would be any trouble? Or is it they now expect some nutcase to go on the rampage over anything at all in the current climate?

Vanessa Smith ● 6820d2 Comments ● 6819d

Garage needed... or secure parking plot

Any ideas or can you help?

Jim Lawes ● 6820d2 Comments ● 6819d

Drinking and being a car passenger can be dangerous

Drinking and driving is obviously a no no - but being a passenger can also be dangerous. My good friend Steve Fulham had a nasty shock when after a few shandies he got out of a car before it came to a halt. The result was that his trainer was trapped under the rear wheel. Luckily Steve managed to get his foot out in time and was only left shaken. Please take note from this and remember to keep your wits about you when under the influence of alcohol. It could have been a lot more serious than a trainer with tread marks on it.

Sarah Porter ● 6821d6 Comments ● 6820d

The Vanishing New Labour Web Site

www.bandi.labour.co.ukIt has been over a week since the Labour Party pulled their website in Brentford & Isleworth after receiving damning comments about its poor quality - but still there is no sign of the new and improved version.Please could one of their members tell us when it will be back?Many of us have been rather suspicious of the comings and goings in their massive HQ on Chiswick High Road – so it was refreshing to be given a brief glimpse behind the closed doors, only to have it cruelly snatched away! Possibly all of their staff are up in Manchester at the moment, but on their return I hope they can get it up and running again.I hope that this website may help them to make the necessary improvements.www.learntospell.org.uk

Leo Newman ● 6821d2 Comments ● 6820d

Fri 29 Sep - World's Biggest Coffee Morning

Dear BrentfordTW8 FriendsI wanted to let you know that Annie's is joining in the Macmillan Cancer Support World's Biggest Coffee Morning this Friday, so we'll be holding events at both my restaurants in Chiswick and Barnes from 10am to 12 noon.  It's a great excuse to get friends and family together for a coffee and support a charity at the same time.  We'll be tempting you with complimentary chocolate brownies and donating 50p for every coffee sold.Please come and join us - it's a charity that's very personal to me and I would love to have your help in raising money for their wonderful work.Make your coffee count!LoveLorraine

Lorraine Angliss ● 6821d0 Comments ● 6821d

childrens entertainer

am looking for a entertainer for my sons 5th birthday - around 30 kids. have you used a really good one that you would recommend. thanks

M Dowling ● 6826d3 Comments ● 6821d

Market research for smokers 18-30 in West End.  Pays £120 cash

Hi there, I am looking for smokers who work in media, marketing, fashion, sales, hospitality or the arts for a lifestyle market reserach project in the west end on Thursday 12th October from 630-1030pm.  It will pay £120 in cash.  You must not have done a market research project in the last 12 months.If interested please call John on 07949 008253 or email jcmccooke@aol.com asap.  First come first served, 14 places.

John McCooke ● 6822d0 Comments ● 6822d

Brentford and Isleworth  front gardens (2006)

You will recall that we have previously toured the streets of dear Brentford and admired the efforts of many residents and others to make their front gardens a delight to the eye. And we've published pictures before too.  Several Forum posters have learnt the technique to post pictures..so can they certainly join in if they are able to.We've done this several years running now. (type FRONT GARDENS into FORUM SEARCH)...and it's an opportunity to cheer up the Forum a bit..and try to recapture some interest in TW8.com!!Please recommend any addresses we should have a look at...we have some to revisit...and let's hope that water restrictions haven't had too much of an adverse effect.

Jim Lawes ● 6902d12 Comments ● 6823d

Alas poor conker trees....

Jim said "but there are signs that Autumn is arriving. The Osterley Park trees are changing colour already."But is it just the conker trees ? Which I thought were just being badly affected by drought.But the Independent says : Under threat: Britain's horse chestnut treesBlight 'as bad as Dutch elm disease' is ravaging Britain's horse chestnut trees http://news.independent.co.uk/environment/article1221302.eceTim

Tim Henderson ● 6851d7 Comments ● 6824d

Monsieur Ibrahim at Watermans

Saw this play last night and it is utterly delightful.  Just 75 mins long, beautifully written and acted.  Deserves all the plaudits - funny and poignant. Last night tonight. Discount by mentioning this site.

Deborah Hall ● 6824d0 Comments ● 6824d

Well done all the brentford sch girls who done the walk yesterday

well done to all the brentford school girls who done the charity walk yesterday at gunesbury park in the rain lots of them came into Fantasy land after soaking wet for a cup of tea its a shame it rained but its great that you all took partits not to late to still sponser the girls they are collecting the money nowall the best Debbie

Debbie Dewar ● 6824d0 Comments ● 6824d

Grounds Cafe & Wine Bar and The Grand Walk

Just to let you all know that with regards to "The Grand Walk" that is starting off from the piazza where Grounds is situated this Sunday Morning, we will be open from 7:30am if any of you are indeed joining the walk or coming down to get a glimpse of Ms Gabby Logan who will be starting the walk from here.RegardsBob Chadda

Bob Chadda ● 6828d7 Comments ● 6825d

Overpriced food in TW8

Does anybody else thing that it's great being in a developing area ... that is until people get delusions of grandeur.  Look at these new "eateries":Grounds was good when they opened but then they recently hiked their prices, so it's just not worth it.  Prezzo is fairly good food and the manager is great (other staff a bit surly) but it's all desperately overpriced as is the Weir for food that is only average.With the exception of O'Brien's (excellent sunday lunch - great value) seems like all these places "wannabe" in Chiswick!  Brentford will never get it's own personality, until someone caters a bit more for us "ordinary people" (i.e. the ones who live here)...

Carey Gunn ● 6839d42 Comments ● 6825d

County Arms Pub

Anyone know whats going on at the County Arms pub??

Simon Anderson ● 6826d2 Comments ● 6825d

Them & Us

Started this on another forum with a great feed back what do you think in Brentford?Why does a muslim protest about others saying things about their religion and not get charged but if I say something then it is Islamaphobic and the thought police are down on me like a ton of bricks. Is this goverment too weak to do anything about it, I have just watched the news on TV and Mr  Choudry made a vailed threat to the  non-muslims is anyone going to charge him with incitement????? I dont think so.

Helen Fogarth ● 6829d23 Comments ● 6826d

Is it possible to donate or recycle hangers?

Having a huge clearout and would prefer to do something with all these hangers other than just throwing them away! Do charity shops take them? Anyone have any ideas? Some are quite sturdy, others are flimsy plastic or wire.

Holly Hodges ● 6826d0 Comments ● 6826d

Is it possible to donate or recycle hangers?

Having a huge clearout and would prefer to do something with all these hangers other than just throwing them away! Do charity shops take them? Anyone have any ideas? Some are quite sturdy, others are flimsy plastic or wire.

Holly Hodges ● 6826d0 Comments ● 6826d

Renewal of Carers' permits.

I am copying this posting from one on the Chiswick website dated mid Aug.  I am no further forward with my renewal althought I have written to Ann Keen and the correspondence and telaphone calls to HBC and her make quite a saga.   'I have just received a reminder from HBC that my Carers' parking permit has to be renewed at the end of the month.  Thank you!Although it says that they are issued for the applicant 'in order to maintain an independent lifestyle and remain resident at their home address' they (HBC) have raised the price from £15. to £25....almost 50%! (60% actually!)  Cars, I note, have NOT been raised from £60.  (Something I no longer possess) Does this make logical sense of their reason for issuing such permits in the first place?To me, it is just another way of  playing the bully boy and hitting those least able to fight back.  Shame on you HBC! Give us a reason WHY, please for such an increase!  My income has not risen by that amount and I am already having to cope with increased Council taxes imposed!  Give us a break, for heavens sake, and get off our backs!'I have been told that they have an 'increase in Admin. charges' therefore the increase.  For further info read my postings on CHRW4

Lois Westby ● 6826d0 Comments ● 6826d

Air Ambulance lands on Treaty cenre car park

Seems to have been an accident in the old Littlewoods building which is being converted into a TK Maxx, ambulances, Police, and air medics. on scene, Montague Road closed off.

Vanessa Smith ● 6826d1 Comments ● 6826d

Fan Palm needs a good home

You will have seen the admirable initiative by Steve and James Smith to raise funds for the Charlotte Robinson Trust.  (See thread "Do you need help with your domestic duties? Then do it while raising money for charlotte!...")  Here's another opportunity to contribute, and at the same time gain a new feature in your garden!A good home is needed for a 5-year-old European Fan Palm (Chamaerops humilis), now 80 cm (32") in height. (See photo below.)  These palms can withstand temperatures down to -12ºC.  This one has been outside in Chiswick for 5 years.  Currently it's in a plastic (and rather wonky) Versailles pot.  Total height of pot and palm is 135 cm (53").  Could be transplanted to a similar pot, or planted in the ground in a sunny spot where its final height could be 2 m (6 ft) or more.It's going to get too big for our small garden, so we're offering it  to a good home in return for a donation to the Charlotte Robinson Trust.  Transport can be provided (Jim Lawes has very kindly offered his van).In the event of more than one offer, the biggest donation will win!   Either bid here or e-mail me by clicking on my name above.

Richard Jennings ● 6827d3 Comments ● 6826d

Mayor's Thames Festival - 16th & 17th September

A reminder that this year’s Mayor’s Thames Festival is this weekend, and I will be manning the Stakeholders Stand in the Blue Ribbon tent in front of City Hall.I copy below details of one of the events: As part of the Mayor's Thames Festival (http://www.thamesfestival.org) on Saturday 16th August we are putting on a special, very British, Reclaim the Beach party, complete with sandcastles, bunting and coconut shy (well more like british fairground but we will have deckchairs). Time: 12- 6pm Place: Beach in front of the Royal Festival Hall (under the pier) This is fun for all the family with: -A Sandcastle Competition: for kids, competitive dads, architects and anyone else who wants to play. Make sure you don't miss the 'Designer Judging' at 5pm - Live Music : 1pm Alice McLaughlin (Animated and impassioned Alice delivers her Ricky Lee Jones meets Laura Nyro songs with an acoustic folktronica sound. ) 2pm Elysian Quartet (The Elysian Quartet's enthusiasm for all kinds of music has resulted in a repertoire of exciting and diverse works, embracing classical, contemporary and electronica) 3pm Signal Malinga (Founded by Risa Risa bringing together a group of hugely talented Congolese musicians. Signal Malinga is a fresh and contemporary sound with traditional rhythms and the golden voice of Africa) 4pm Spektum (Beach favourites Spektrum have been ripping up the London and European live circuit for the last six years with post-punk funk sound) - Also featuring: Live cabaret and medieval theatre from the Suffolk Howlers + More traditional seaside fun See you there!

Nigel Moore ● 6834d17 Comments ● 6827d

Help needed

I was wondering if anyone knows of any venues for hire in the Brentford area, I need one for April next year for a party, I cant seem to find any on the net anywhere, well apart from gunnersbury house, unfortunately my budget doesnt stretch that far.Thanks again

Sarah Baker ● 6827d3 Comments ● 6827d

Hounslow Homes Open Forum this evening - a reminder

Just to remind readers of this forum who are leaseholders or tenants of Hounslow Homes that they will have the opportunity to give us their views on the service at an Open Forum at Hounslow Civic Centre tonight (Wednesday, 20th September) from 7.00 pm.The Forum was added by myself to the schedule of events which form part of the mid-term Hounslow Homes Management Review, which I am chairing.  My purpose in so doing is to try to get beyond the "approved" stakeholder groups (which have also been participating in the process of course) and to obtain important feedback from service users themselves. If you have any observations - good, bad or indifferent - about the service provided by Hounslow Homes, please come along to tonight's meeting and have your say.

Phil Andrews ● 6827d0 Comments ● 6827d

Any gardeners/allotment holders?

Hello,I'm replacing the carpets in my flat, but don't really want to just throw the old ones away. Sadly they can't be recycled and no-one from the freecycle site is interested so I was wondering if any gardeners or allotment holders might want them?According to the Recycle Now website, old carpets can be used in the following ways:Use in your garden as mulch, or between rows of plants to prevent weeds Cut up carpets for use as foot mats in cars or to line the boot. Cut into small circles and place under the feet of heavy furniture. This should help to protect your new carpet! Take old mats or rugs on camping or caravan holidays to use as a doormat Old pieces of carpet can be used to cover your compost bin over the winter Anyone interested or know of anyone else who might want them?

Rashmi Chavda ● 6828d2 Comments ● 6827d

Looking to find an old mate

Anyone know the whereabouts of Jim Buckley? When we were pals, he was living in Church Walk.

Colin Murphy ● 6831d6 Comments ● 6827d

IDENTITY THEFT

Copy of thread on W4 site.''Several people have stated that they have seen  people going through their rubbish and taking bank statements and other discarded personal documents. The crime prevention unit at Ealing have forwarded me a website that is worth looking at.www.met.police.uk/fraudalert/Tim Scrimshaw Pc259XBsouthfield Ward''Be careful how you get rid of your bank statements etc.Try using a shredder & putting the cuttings in your compost bin rather than in the bin bags.

Kevin Farnan ● 6827d2 Comments ● 6827d

Heathrow: no runway alternation for up to 10 weeks

Although it was front-page news in the BCIT on Friday, I haven't seen anything on this site about the work that BAA are starting next weekend that will produce more aircraft noise over parts of Brentford and Isleworth for up to 10 weeks (though areas such as Mogden will get less noise).Starting on 11 September, BAA will be redeveloping the taxiways that departing planes use to reach the start of the northern runway.  This means that the runway will be available only for landings until the work is complete, a period of up to 10 weeks.  Consequently, runway alternation will be suspended.What this means is that from 11 September to (worst case) 13 November, whenever the airport is on westerly operations (which depends on the wind but on average is about 70% of the time), the northern runway (27R) will be used all day and every day for landings, and the southern runway for take-offs.  However, the existing alternation pattern for night flights is not affected.Thus, during westerly operations, residents under the northern runway approach will have planes passing overhead all day, whereas those under the southern runway approach will have a quieter time.  (There's a map of the two runway approaches at http://rj2.fotopic.net/p26769965.html )While I can understand that BAA may not have much option in this particular case, I think that those inconvenienced should make clear to BAA, and perhaps also their MP, that the lack of runway alternation would not be acceptable on a permanent basis, which still appears to be the government's intention.More details and contacts:Letter from BAA, which I guess went only to residents who live close to the airport (PDF file):http://www.heathrowairport.com/assets/B2CPortal/Static%20Files/Eastern_Apron_DocSep06.pdfNormal runway alternation pattern (not edited to reflect the above temporary changes) (PDF file):http://www.heathrowairport.com/assets/B2CPortal/Static%20Files/alternation_2006.pdfContact points for complaints etc.   noise_complaints@baa.comor Freephone 0800 344 844 (08:30-16:30 Mon-Fri)or by post to:   Operations Communications Team   First Floor   Heathrow Point West   234 Bath Road   BAA Heathrow Airport   Middlesex   UB3 5AP

Richard Jennings ● 6844d5 Comments ● 6827d

A good cuppa

To coincide with Open House, the Friends of Boston Manor have decided to open the pavilion for teas on Saturday and Sunday 10.00 - 4.00 pm providing it can get volunteers to help on a rota basis.  If you are able to help out, could you please contact me linda.massey@virgin.net with your preferred dates and times.  The funds raised will be added to the Brentford Festival money and put "in the pot" for the cafe in the park fund.

Linda Massey ● 6835d6 Comments ● 6827d

Loft conversion plans?

Hi,Can anyone recommend someone to draw up plans for a loft conversion in Brentford?Help much appreciated.Thanks,Ian.

Ian Silver ● 6829d1 Comments ● 6827d

Changes to Brentford, Chiswick & Isleworth Times website

We are in the process of updating our website to provide more up-to-date news and pictures for Hounslow.Soon the site will be also allow residents from across Hounslow to upload their own pictures of the borough, post comments, send letters and search for long-lost acquaintances.What do you think of the changes? Please cut and paste the link below and tell us what you think.www.richmondandtwickenhamtimes.co.uk/news/newsbct/

Stephen Abbott ● 6832d10 Comments ● 6829d

Printer problem - help please!

Scanner, etc., working 100% OK but when pages are printed the text has scratchy lines across almost every line.I have applied the Maintenance/Cleaning/Deep Cleaning techniques all to no avail;  I have uninstalled the programme, then reinstalled it, but the text - although not so badly marked - is still very poor.What is wrong?   Can anyone please advise?

Ann S. Allridge ● 6834d19 Comments ● 6829d

New Brentford eyesore would not get go ahead in Chiswick

So Brentford is to get a new 25 storey eyesore that would not get planning permission in the town next door. What a pointlessly ugly building it will be. Still it’s a nice and close to the airport should make a fine target for terrorist plane hijackers.How long are the local Fire Brigades ladders, long enough, I doubt it. Still I doubt if that’s a concern at Hounslow’s Planning department none of them will be living in it.

Philip Walsh ● 6840d19 Comments ● 6830d

Protect your council home from being sold off

Tories and ICG are now looking to sell off your Council Home to private landlords, protect your home come and have your say..An Open Forum will take place at Hounslow Civic Centre on Wednesday, 20th September at 7.00pm

Dave Hughes ● 6855d75 Comments ● 6831d

New place names for Paragon and Brentford Quarter

Following up on Matt Harmer's recent appeal for ideas for place names at Paragon and Brentford Quarter sites here are some thoughts I have recently passed on to the planning department.  Like Matt I can not say that I was particularly excited by, or indeed support, any of the ideas floated earlier this month.I believe that links to the history - recent and long gone - of a place gives substance to new developments and may contribute to creating a community rooted in the place.  Information boards or plaques should be erected explaining the significance of the names to newcomers on both of these sites. North Brentford QuarterPrimary suggestion: The Golden Mile (Quarter). Streets/lanes/mews and buildings within it might all be named after the famous businesses which used to line The Golden Mile, as the Brentford section of the Great West Road was known. Most of these are listed in: The History of the Great West Road, 1995, by James Marshall (published Hounslow). E.g. Simmonds, BOAC, Macleans, Trico, Firestone, Gillette etc etc Fairly recently the tower has been renamed Wallis House, after its architect (previous names included GSK House and Beecham House).  Perhaps it would be appropriate for Wallis House’s name to be retained? ParagonThe following are names of prominent past residents of Brentford. Overall, in view of the proximity to the nursing school of TVU I think a name linked with health or education would be most appropriate.  The “Boston Brewery” link may be appreciated by the students living on or close to the site though …although maybe nursing students take better care of their health than most!• Mary Trimmer, local exponent of the Sunday and Ragged School movement C18th. Dilapidated, one of her schools stands next to St Georges Church. Booklet about her by Mrs Yarde is published by Hounslow. Lived the last few years of her life in a house in Windmill Road, probably a little to the South of the Paragon site. • John Horne Tooke C18th, philosopher, philologist, minister at St Lawrence's church, friend of John Wilkes. Lived for some years in a cottage in Windmill Lane, probably a little to the South of the Paragon site. • John Wilkes, famous C18th parliamentarian and upholder of democracy whose hustings during the notorious Middlesex elections were held in the Butts (and depicted by Chiswick artist Hogarth). Sub-sections could be named after his broadsheet The North Briton and after the slogan “Wilkes and Liberty!” • Dame Mary Spencer, resident of Boston Manor and doer of good works for the poor, established local charities etc • JMW Turner, artist who spent part of his childhood staying with his uncle the butcher on the site of what is now The Weir restaurant/bar (formerly The White Horse), just off the Butts. • Percy Bysshe Shelley, poet, educated for a few years at Brentford. • Sir John Rennie, engineer, educated for a few years at Brentford. • Thomas Layton, antiquarian and collector who bequeathed his collection (now largely dispersed) to the people of Brentford • Fred Turner, first librarian at Brentford responsible for a photographic record of the town in the early 1900s Like Matt I look forward to hearing your thoughts on place names. Best wishesAndrew

Andrew Dakers ● 6839d13 Comments ● 6833d

The Islands in the Thames

I'm sure I read somewhere that Jim Lawes had investigated the little islands on the Thames and gave an account of their history but I seem to have a different slant on all this.For starters there were images printed of bike parts taken on private lands.  I recall this was Bill Palmers island, not Brentford Ait, and as far as I am aware he did not sell this little area on to anyone.  Could you have been trepassing on private property when you took pictures and such-like?  I know Bill Palmer did own bits of other land on the mainland, as did Goddards and Hounslow council, that was bought up by propery developers, together with the old defunct Manifold wines site, upon which the Ferry Quays estate now stands.  But not the island.  And the old boat-works.  I know someone is still using those boat-yards to do boat work and have been doing so for the past decade with Bill Palmer's blessing.  Though without any documentation it could be argued that the current user had been there long enough to claim squatter rights.As to the Brentford/Lots Aits, these two islands were created in the late 1800s when the river was dredged to make it deeper and shored up to stop it falling back into the river.  If you look close, what you call Lots Ait is two seperate islands with lots of trees and shrubs growing on them.  There never was any pub on there as you previously claimed.  So you won't find any structure when you investigate. There may have been a drinking den but I think the drinking den mentioned in days of yore was on an island a bit further down - on the opposite side of Kew Bridge - on one of the islands in the Thames in Chiswick - off Strand on the Green.This is my take on the history of the area. 

Verification required ● 6839d8 Comments ● 6833d

spinning class

do any of you know of a pay as you go spinning class in the area?

Elaine Nealis ● 6843d8 Comments ● 6833d

Alfa Laval and Westgate House

Good to see that the Council has finally decided to serve an enforcement notice against the firms using these 2 buildings illegally as advertising sites.  Possibly just a coincidence but could it have something to do with the fact that my written complaints to the Planning Department, which have gone unanswered since February, have now ended up on the Local Government Ombudsman's desk?  I was told this week that the case is being investigated for maladministration.  Maybe I ought to start writing in now about the New England advertising site?

Marie Power ● 6838d11 Comments ● 6834d

The Weir

Went there recently and thought I'd share a few thoughts. It isn't the first time I've visited since it was gastro-pubbed but there still seems to be a hard core of regulars from its previous incarnation who don't seem all that happy with the changes but keep on coming regardless. Walking through the bar into the back garden is a bit like running a gauntlet. I thought I was being hypersensitive but other people in my group noticed it. Nothing overtly hostile just a look that indicated some people weren't overjoyed to see you.The food is really just pub grub despite its pretensions (and prices). It isn't bad it is just you get the feeling that the cook hadn't quite mastered the recipe although had made a decent fist of it. The reason to go there is obviously the location. The garden is absolutely terrific when the sun is shining and they have made a good job of laying it out. Service was also pretty good given that they were busy.

Dan Evans ● 6849d8 Comments ● 6835d

Cheery letter from British Gas

Just received our gas bill, along with the message that they have reviewed our monthly gas payment - they suggest that it goes up from £49.50 a month to £82.00.:-(

Sarah Felstead ● 6840d8 Comments ● 6835d

Charity fundraiser for Brentford School for Girls student

Charlotte Robinson is a 14 year old attendee at Brentford School for Girls who contracted Meningococcal Disease, Meningitis and Septicaemia on the 29th May 2006.Charlotte has spent the last 12 weeks in intensive care at three different hospitals.She has had both legs amputated from below the knee and all fingers on her right hand amputated.  We are organising a number of events locally to try to raise money for Charlotte, both to enhance her life when she does comes out of hospital (currently 12 weeks+ estimated) and to allow her to purchase, 'designer' prosthetic limbs in the future.Please log on to both Charlotte's website (due to be up later this evening, currently only a holding page up there) www.charlotterobinson-org or her blog (http://charlotte-robinson.blogspot.com/) to review fundraising events we are organising or to make a donation.All support greatly appreciated.ThanksRachel

Account closed ● 6857d23 Comments ● 6836d

Place to eat

Can anybody tell me a good pub for Sunday lunch there are 7 adults and 8 children from the ages of 2 - 15, the Fountain in Twickenham said they can't cater for more than 10 people funny that as it did last year and there was 19 of us then? Anywhere between Brentford Twickenham or Feltham will do please.

Edward Fitzgerald ● 6838d2 Comments ● 6836d

The Kew Bridge area, Brentford TW8 revisited!

It's as well that Sir John Betjeman (RIP) has missed seeing the current state of the Kew bridge area..on the Brentford side..otherwise he'd have a fit!"Come friendly bombs and fall on the Brentford side of Kew Bridge" would become a justified variation of the Slough poem. It really is shocking.When King Edward the 7th came through Chiswick in the early 1900's to open the splendid Bridge,named after him, admiring the Station,the Fountain and troughs, The Express Pub, and perhaps the Star and Garter Hotel..with Kew Gardens just over the way...he would have had no inkling that 100 years on... local Brentfordians would have allowed the vicinity to become an eyesore.The area would have been bussling before..but I doubt if there were so many signs of neglect.Many will remember the Fairground on the other side of the Bridge, the posh rowing boats, the 65 bus stop..the gateway to days out, the Scout  and Cub Troops under the Arches, The Boathouse dancehall, the Plough and the Waggon and Horses, the trolleybuses gliding by. Those were days gone by. Do we just remember the good sights..or is the area really becoming a dump?

Jim Lawes ● 6856d21 Comments ● 6837d

Brentford Festival a big thanks

A big thanks to linda, I think you did a wonderfull job, I also want to say thanks to all the other helpers and there where many of you, Matt Harmer, Andy Dakers are only the names I know but during the day many many of you helped little House Productions, Thank You. All the bands and Robin enjoyed the day, I think we where all happy to see the sunshine.

Dave Hughes ● 6843d8 Comments ● 6838d

HEALING IN CHISWICK

This is just a reminder that the healing centre will be open at the London Buddhist Vihara, The Avenue, Chiswick, on this coming Monday, 11th September between 11am and 1pm.Healing helps any condition, through from stress 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.You do not need to make an appointment or book but if you want any further information before coming please give me a ring on 0788 189 6449.

Pat Smith ● 6838d0 Comments ● 6838d

Ear plugs for a good nights sleep?

Went clay-pigeon shooting at Yiewsley near Northolt yesterday..with an organised group..and was duly kitted out with some earplugs to block out the noise from some 100 rounds of fire.!No..not real pigeons..just clay discs that are fired out like a discus. Bang, bang bang..and I missed many...and came last out of a group of 9.So, late last night I wore the earplugs when I went to bed...and my..what an improved quality of sleep!.. Or was it the curry and two beers I'd enjoyed?That 8am road noise..and the aircraft flying over from 4.55am..were subdued..and I arose this morning quite renewed...having had an undisturbed sleep...for a change.Do you wear earplugs?  I'll do a second test tonight.

Jim Lawes ● 6842d5 Comments ● 6838d

Would a Lib Dem Tory Admistration been intresting

Looking at a news story about the new look Lib Dems web-site. They are doing well with trying to get people intrested in Politics which is not a bad thing, but it did get me thinking what would a Tory/Lib Dem admistration been like for Hounslow.Maybe for me this has come about after looking at The ICG in depth and thinking my god "what a bunch of cowboys" anything has to be better than this sorry mess in charge of important areas of the Council Agenda.

Dave Hughes ● 6853d1 Comments ● 6839d

COME AS YOU DARE COSTUME BALL FANTASTIC SUCCESS

HI ALL THE COSTUME BALL WAS A ROARING SUCCESS WONDERFUL COSTUMES GREAT ATMOSPHERE GREAT DANCING AND FUN HAD BY ALL WINNERS OF THE FANCY DRESS COMPETITION WEREMOST DARING =  ROCKY HORROR FRANK N FURTERMost origanal = Daffyd the only gay in the village +  BLACK/WHITE PIMPMOST FUNNIEST =FAT PAT THE STRIPPER + PURPLE PIMPBEST COSTUME = ALI GBEST COSTUME = TINKERBELL GREEN FAIRYBEST GROUP  = SAMANTHA,DANIELLE,ANTONIA (A.K.A) THE BRENTFORD HOOKER POSSIEA BIG THANK YOU TO EVEYONE WHO TOOK PART AND HELPED RAISED MONEY FOR PREMATURE BABYS AND SICK CHILDRENLOTS OF LOVE DEBBIE XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Debbie Dewar ● 6844d8 Comments ● 6839d

A special thanks to the landlord of the gardeners suite nite club

A big thank you to the landlord Aemon of the triple crown/gardeners suite nite club 266 twickenham road isleworth  for letting us use it for the evening to raise money for the premature baby unit and starlight childrens ward for the COME AS YOU DARE COSTUME BALL we all had a wonderful time and many laughs and sore feet and heads.and to DJ ACKEE  and DJ Paul Christie for djing that evening.If any of you would like to see the photos they are on display at FANTASY LAND FANCY DRESS SHOP 61 EALING ROAD BRENTFORD OPENING TIMES ARE 12-5PM MON-SATWatch this space for the next party sat HALLOWEEN 28th OCT 06 Venue and times to be announced.all the best and thanks again AemonDebbie xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Debbie Dewar ● 6841d4 Comments ● 6839d

Hounslow Homes Review - first residents' meeting a success

A small but highly productive meeting at Chiswick Town Hall was the first of a series of opportunities for tenants and leaseholders to give their views of the service being offered by Hounslow Homes, the Arms' Length Management Organisation wholly owned by the London Borough of Hounslow.Attendees from Pinkham Mansions discussed a whole range of issues including repairs, estate management and user participation, and their comments will be fed into the review process which is currently taking place.It was agreed by everybody present that the decision of the new administration to open the process up to residents themselves rather than simply seeking out the views of the "approved" organisations was a welcome one, and a number of those present said they would attend the larger Open Forum which I have called, and which I will be chairing at Hounslow Civic Centre next Wednesday evening.Any leaseholders or tenants of Hounslow Homes who have comments to make on the service provided by the organisation - good or bad - are urged to come along on Wednesday and have their say.  The meeting will begin at 7.00pm.

Phil Andrews ● 6839d1 Comments ● 6839d

STRIKE ACTION AFFECTS SOUTH WEST TRAINS  -  TUESDAY 29 AUGUST

For those of you who don't read the front page of this website...Due to industrial action, all train services on most of the South West Trains network, including services on the Hounslow Loop and through Feltham station are likely to be CANCELLED on Tuesday 29th August.Services are also likely to be affected by strike action on Friday 8 and Monday 11 September.For further information, visit the Southwest Trains website  http://www.southwesttrains.co.uk/SWTrains

Chris Calvi-Freeman ● 6850d4 Comments ● 6839d

O'BRIENS

The new O'BRIENS bar on brentford high street is a refreshing change to the area,the beer is great ,the food is great with massive servings,all freshly cooked,have eaten there 6 times now,very reasonably priced as well,try it out.

Brian Lennon ● 6846d8 Comments ● 6840d

Nokia 66xx owner and music fan?  Earn easy £50, market research

Fancy earning £50 for one hour's market research this Friday or next Monday/Tuesday in the west end. You MUST own a Nokia 66xx series phone and download music and listen to it regularly either on your phone or on an ipod or similar. I am looking for 10 people and have found 4. First come first served. If interested please call asap on 07949 008253 or email with your number. cheers John jcmccooke@aol.com

John McCooke ● 6841d1 Comments ● 6841d

Brentord Fesitival

Does anyone have information about a Green Festival in Brentford? It's in my diary from the 1 to the 3 of September but I don't have any other details, was I on some thing at the time?

David Eales ● 6876d15 Comments ● 6841d

What a great time on the Isle of Wight

What a great weekend we had in the Isle of Wight where the annual scooter rally was being held by coincidence in Ryde.5000 Lambretta`s and Vespa`s riding along the seafront or parked up proudly by their owners.The fashion was amazing as well with the men and women wearing authentic 60`s clothing and looking every bit the part.All the pubs were playing the likes of The Who,Small Faces,Supremes etc all day and most were open till 3am advertising Northern Soul bands playing live.

Paul Fisher ● 6849d15 Comments ● 6842d

LEGO LAND

What a FANTASTIC place..I took my Josh and shivon yesterday to the theme park in Windsor it was great fun for all.Legoland gave us a FREE pass to get in incd my sister and her little one as Legolands Registered Charity is G.O.S.H where Shivon receives her treatment for Leukaemia.The rain didn't put us off enjoying the Day and we went on EVERY ride.Even us Adults enjoyed it.I Fully recommend it to anyone who hast been.

Simon Anderson ● 6844d1 Comments ● 6842d

England v. Andorra...?

5-0?

Keith Iddon ● 6845d8 Comments ● 6843d

Tenants have your say

It has taken a stage 1 complaint to the council in order to get an open debate for the residents of Hounslow and I have been assured that residents will be able to have a say in the process and this will be placed as an advert in HM magazine, HAFTRA and many other community forums tenants and residents groups will also be invited to make comment, it would seem that Cllr Andrews was trying to have a one sided debate when only his ICG where given an email responce address yet no other groups had been given that choice.If you or anyone else who is either a tenant or a leaseholder whose home is managed by Hounslow Homes they are welcome to attend the meeting. Further details are available from Barbara Perry (barbara.perry@hounslow.gov.uk), Yvonne Birch (yvonne.birch@hounslow.gov.uk) or Chetna Hirani (chetna.hirani@hounslow.gov.uk), or you can simply turn up on the night.

Dave Hughes ● 6853d37 Comments ● 6844d

The Vee Nex and The Targets live at the Brentford Festival

BRENTFORD FESTIVAL 3 SeptTHE BRENTFORD FESTIVAL BOSTON MANOR PARKFROM 12 NOONSEPT 3THE VEE NEX AND THE TARGETSMohican Records and Little House Productions are running stage 2 at this festival tomorrow, so come and enjoy the fun, its going to be a fantastic day with so much to do and see.Link: http://www.mohicanrecords.co.ukwww.littlehouseproductions.co.ukLittle House productions a not for profit company helping community events with PA systems, also for bands we can help you with rehersal space and studio recording, our aim is to build a music community in Hounslow.

Dave Hughes ● 6845d5 Comments ● 6845d

Brentford Festival Stewards  required

We are still short of some stewards to help out on Sunday.  Easy tasks and could be fun ...... and we will buy you a beer!  Can you spend some hours with us?  Please call Linda on 07831 106973 or email linda.massey@virgin.net  

Linda Massey ● 6850d6 Comments ● 6845d

England  vs Turkey U17 International at Griffin Park tonight

Is anyone going to see England Under 17s play Turkey at Griffin Park tonight?Tickets are £3 for Adults in advance (£5 at the gate) and £1 for children - which is a bargain!This is a good opportunity to see future England stars in action, right here in Brentford!

James de Vivenot ● 6848d4 Comments ● 6845d

Get paid for your opinions - people who have heart disease

We are looking for people who have had a heart attack or who have been hospitalized with unstable angina within the last 5 years.  We are paying £350 for you to help us with your ideas, suggestions etc.  This will be taking place on Wednesday 16th August from 1pm to 5pm and again on Friday 25th August from 9.30am to 3.30pm.  You will need to attend BOTH these days!If you are interested, please give me a call on 0208 996 0498 with REF. PATIENT RESEARCHBeverleyWHERE: CENTRAL LONDONWe are not selling anything and your answers are protected by the Data Protection Act and our company is governed by the Market Research Society (MRS).

Julie Anne ● 6868d2 Comments ● 6848d

The Dew Drop Inn

Hello everyone,I don't know how many of you know, but the Dew Drop Inn at the bottom end of Brentford High Street has recently started a BYO night on Fridays; the food is simple but good (and hefty portions), the Dew Drop owners are lovely and friendly and I think it plugs a niche in the market. It's cheaper than going to a 'proper' restaurant and more of an event than getting a take-away. I love it as it's only round the corner and it's a proper treat without feeling guilty about expense the next day.They're only running it as a trial at the moment, but it IS a brilliant idea; if you haven't been already, get down there - and tell your friends. I've been twice now, and had to be rolled home afterwards on both occasions...

Rashmi Chavda ● 6890d12 Comments ● 6848d

Commerce Road

Anyone know what was happening this morning ? The Police had taped it all off and even the bus drivers were standing outside the Holiday Inn.

Martin Kelly ● 6874d2 Comments ● 6848d

Suggestions? Support/guidance for career change/getting back to work after a long absence...

I'm looking for some suggestions to pass along regarding resources for people who would like to return to work after a long absence. Ideally, this would involve career counselling and related guidance (for example, information on retraining or further education, dealing with gaps in a CV, etc). There may be some mental health connection (for when the absence is due to mental health problems/work-related stress) but this isn't strictly necessary. Cost is a consideration, but at this 'brainstorming' stage, all suggestions are welcome.The only projects I'm aware of are meant for people who may never have worked before and require a great deal of support around very basic work skills. There seems to be little available for more high-functioning individuals with qualifications, job skills and a career history, but still in need of a gentle and supported return to the world of work. I used to work in a related field but am no longer up-to-date on current availability and am finding it difficult to advise. Any ideas? Feel free to email directly if that suits. Cheers!

Holly Hodges ● 6849d1 Comments ● 6848d

Leave Simon Alone

I havent posted on this forum Before but I do read it regular but I am discusted with all the attacks on Mr. Simon Anderson that I read. OK so Mr. Anderson shouldnt ave posted as Jason Stanley but he has admitted that and it was a LONG time ago so why does certain people keep going on about it.It is a very SHAME to see Jim Lawes going on and on about Simon when he Complains about too much being NAFF on the Forum, he is a hippocrite 4 going on about Simon, he should stick 2 posting his good pictures.I avent met this man Mr. Anderson but ive herd so much about him that he does GOOD work 4 charity and 4 the People on his estate threw Ivytag which he is the Chair off. Also he as a 10yr old daughter that is very sick so y not get of his case and let him get on with looking after her?So Mr. Lawes how about it, give it a rest now we've herd enuff off yr criticsm now.

Account suspended ● 6879d84 Comments ● 6848d

A good read for the weekend

Found a very funny book, Rat Scabies and the Holy Grail which starts in the Griffen Pub in Brentford nice little boozer. The book is a bit like the Da Vinci gets the punk rock treatment, the cast Jesus christ, Mary Magdalene, Da Vinci Debussy, Coucteau, opra singer, numerous popes, variuos kings the occasional nazi commando, the romens, the visigoths a bunch of medieval heretics called the Cathars, and many more...I am going to enjoy this one and as old fan of the Damned I will enjoy the lunacy.any other good reads out their? I picked up this one from the library.

Dave Hughes ● 6852d25 Comments ● 6848d

Come as you dare FANCY DRESS COSTUME BALL 1ST SEPT

Hi all I have set the date for the next fancy dress costume ball raising money for the premature baby unit and starlight childrens ward west middlesex hospitalPrizes for the best costumes and most originalDate 1st Sept 06 FridayVenue : GARDENERS SUITE NIGHT CLUBNEXT TO TRIPLE CROWN PUB (old jolly gardener pub)266 TWICKENHAM ROADISLEWORTHBuses 267,481,h20Time:8pm-LateTICKETS £5 AND £10 AT THE DOORTickets will be availble from next week at Fantasy Land Fancy dress shop61 Ealing Road Brentford 0208 569 8765all the best Debbie

Debbie Dewar ● 6889d20 Comments ● 6848d

London Welsh and Magners League for Brentford?

For non-rugby fans, the Magners League (previously Celtic League) is the professional rugby competition for teams in Ireland, Scotland and Wales.The English equivalent is the Guinness Premiership which is somewhat over-hyped by Sky.  The Magners League boasts the current European Champions in Munster and most of the Magners Leagues teams would be capable of beating any of the Guinness Premiership clubs.There is certainly a shortage of professional rugby union in a city the size of London.  Last season there were no professional rugby union teams within the M25 and this season there is only one - Harlequins.From the perspective of an Irish exile in London, it would be brilliant to have Ulster, Munster and the other Irish provinces playing just down the road and I feel with the large Celtic exile population in London, they would get pretty big crowds - certainly bigger than Brentford :)I'm not sure how likely this is, however, Exiles have regional plan Aug 22 2006 Staff Reporter, Western Mail LONDON WELSH have put forward a radical plan to bring Magners League rugby to a whole new audience - the capital of England. And they say it is no pipe-dream but a serious proposal that has already been put to Welsh Rugby Union bosses. In the same way that London Irish have drawn on a wealth of support from the Emerald Isle by playing in England, so the vast numbers of Welsh people living in London could become fans of a regional team there. "We've already spoken to the Welsh Rugby Union and we believe there are people within the union who support the idea," revealed London Welsh president and chairman Kelvyn Bryon. "We've produced the likes of Colin Charvis and Tom Shanklin through our mini and youth systems into senior rugby, but we've been left in limbo by Welsh rugby." London Welsh are trying to punch their weight in English National League One, just a step away from the Guinness Premiership. And the Exiles plan to move away from their Old Deer Park home in Richmond to nearby Brentford FC's Griffin Park home should promotion or the major transformation to regional rugby arise. On the idea of having a Welsh region in London, Bryon said, "I don't think it is far-fetched at all. People say there's not enough players in Wales to support four regions, but I don't think that holds much water. "Brentford would be very interested in helping us if we did something like this - and the support would be there as the Welsh are the largest ethnic community in Berkshire. At present, Welshman Martin Jones is coaching the Exiles and he is assisted by Mark Langley, formerly of Penarth, ex-Maesteg Mark Walbyoff and former Newport centre Dai Fussell. And in the squad are the likes of ex-Neath centre James Storey and Owain Williams, nephew of JPR, who was at Leicester before going off to New Zealand. Jones said, "We have 55% of our squad of 40 who are Welsh-qualified and the average age is between 22 and 23." Peter Thomas, a consultant working with London Welsh on their future, said, "We would like to develop with the Welsh regions, take some of their development players on and get them exposed to a different type of rugby. "I think we need relationships first with the regions and make them aware of who we are and what we are doing again." http://icwales.icnetwork.co.uk/0500rugbyunion/0200news/tm_objectid=17600582%26method=full%26siteid=50082%26headline=exiles%2dhave%2dregional%2dplan-name_page.html

Michael Robinson ● 6856d5 Comments ● 6849d

Bulgaria and Macedonia

I know we have some well travelled readers on this forum so I wonder if anyone has any tips about what to do and see in Sofia and also Macedonia.I am travelling next Tuesday to Sofia on my way to watch England play Macedonia in Skopje and would appreciate any advice on either City?I have most of Tuesday and the Thursday in Sofia and the Wednesday in Skopje so would love to make the most of it while there.

Paul Fisher ● 6849d1 Comments ● 6849d

The impact of ex Cllr David Hughes(Lab) on this Forum.

These Forums (fora) become addictive in some ways...and the hope is that they are doing us some good..give us enjoyment and interest and encourage us to be better informed. On many occasions in the past this Forum has been terrifically uplifting. Don't you occasionally click onto the site and wonder what fun and interest is in store today?Agreed people have diverse interests and styles of operating.  Whilst many enjoy factual, pictorial and easy to read messages and threads..others prefer something more contentious, to get the fighting spirit going, and hopefully to activate unagitated brain cells.The arrival of Dave on this Forum causes me concern because I'm sure his prolific postings are causing regulars to switch off, debaters are  giving up, and we're being subjected to patter which is incompatible with intelligent reading.  Agreed he makes some good points sometimes ..but try to ask a question etc etc and off we go into cyberspace tosh.I'm saddened to see regular posters give up. If you put "Dave Hughes" or David Hughes" into the FORUM SEARCH box  (do Chiswick as well) you will  find a history of messages suggesting that Dave is talking twaddle.I would ask him to calm down a bit..as he is spoiling the Forum. Even though I will now consign him to my Room 101, its the sight of the Front Page TOPICS with all his scroggling messages that is a turn off.What kind of Bank Holiday weekend can the Forum look forward to?No wonder some Forum members are activing Topics lower down the pages with the n/m touch.

Jim Lawes ● 6852d22 Comments ● 6849d

Costumes for the charity ball on 1st sept place by tues

hi all if you have bought tickets and require a costume orders have to be in lastest tuesday mid day as we wont get them in time otherwisemany thanks for buying tickets and supporting The premature baby unit and starlight childrens ward West mid hosp.cant wait to see you all dressed up.all the bestDebbie xx

Debbie Dewar ● 6853d2 Comments ● 6849d

The Lord Nelson Pub

I have eaten a bar snack, and a meal in the restaurant part of the pub, both of which were excellent and very good value for money. The restaurant meal was as good a gastropub meal as I have eaten anywhere, and had a real touch of originality about it. The garden is fab.

Pattie Friend ● 7541d23 Comments ● 6850d

Heritage Walks - 2006

Brentford - Chiswick - Isleworth

Sarah Felstead ● 6850d3 Comments ● 6850d

Can anyone help?

Would like to contact Albert George who lives on the Syon Estate in Brentford , mutual friends lost touch with him some time back and I sent them an article he featured in in the BC&I Times a few weeks ago. If you do know Mr. George please ask him to contact me and tell him Maureen & George Lorimer would like to catch up with him.

Vanessa Smith ● 6850d0 Comments ● 6850d

Open House 2006 - 16th & 17th September

http://www.openhouse.org.uk/

Sarah Felstead ● 6850d0 Comments ● 6850d

Don't  yawn!!  Some questions for you!!

We ought to be out in the fresh air...but not without leaving the Brentford Forum in fine form!So a few questions from me ..or from other Forum visitors.....to divert the the mind away from you know what...and let's see what happens.

Jim Lawes ● 6852d21 Comments ● 6851d

Bozzetto revisited!   

http://www.infonegocio.com/xeron/bruno/yesno.html

Jim Lawes ● 6851d4 Comments ● 6851d

Permits:  is rise justified?

I have just received a reminder from HBC that my Carers' parking permit has to be renewed at the end of the month.  Thank you!Although it says that they are issued for the applicant 'in order to maintain an independent lifestyle and remain resident at their home address' they (HBC) have raised the price from £15. to £25....almost 50%!  Cars, I note, have NOT been raised from £60.  Lucky old them!(Something I no longer possess) Does this make logical sense of their reason for issuing such permits in the first place?To me, it is just another way of  playing the bully boy and hitting those least able to fight back.  Shame on you HBC! Give us a reason WHY, please for such an increase!  My income has not risen by that amount and I am already having to cope with increased Council taxes imposed!  Give us a break, for heavens sake, and get off our backs!

Lois Westby ● 6861d30 Comments ● 6851d

Tonight , whoever ,I will be.... ME

I am now heartily sick of being villified by members who post on this forum, accusing me of being names which they do not recognise,and decide that it must be Chris Boucher.I have no reason to post under any other name but my own, nor would I.I recall that before the elections in May I was expected to appear at the count with a "brown paper bag" on my head, given that I was suspected of being a mysterious poster, those people who were present at the count will recognise that I did not. I was also promised an aplogy from Councillor Andrews if that person was not me. I am still waiting. I would also happily accept apologies from anyone who has, in error, decided that I am/have posted on this site in any name other than my own.This is my first post on this or any other site.I am proud of who I am and do not need to hide behind a pseudonym to make a point!

Christopher Boucher ● 6857d30 Comments ● 6851d

Re-use any bag in Tesco and collect loyalty points

Tesco has introduced a new scheme to reward Clubcard customers who take their shopping home in a re-used bag:"... we'll give you an extra Clubcard Point every time you take your shopping home in a re-used bag. It can be an old carrier bag - from Tesco or anywhere else - a string bag, a rucksack, even a suitcase. It really doesn't matter. As long as you're helping the environment by not using new carrier bags, we'll give you Clubcard Points in return. As a result, we hope to cut Tesco carrier bag usage by 25% over the next two years." (Excludes self-scan checkouts and Tesco.com deliveries unfortunately) 

Catherine Woodman ● 6861d14 Comments ● 6852d

Thames Water and bills

At the beginning of the year I requested a water meter.  It was put in THIS week after some six months of waiting.  I was sent a bill in April for £104 for the first six months of 2006 from April.  I questioned this as I explained I had applied for a water meter.  I was told that I HAD TO PAY this but would be given any refund due once the meter was installed.(How were they going to guess/figure the amount of water I had or hadn't used, I wondered.Today I received a reminder that my second £104 was due on the lst October and I rang again to querry this.'Oh it takes 21 days to transfer your account from regular payments to meter reading accounts - so you owe us another £104'.  I have refused to pay this........In any case October is more than 21 days from now.Another scandal?  Seems to me like one.

Lois Westby ● 6855d3 Comments ● 6852d

Local  lntelligence for Intelligent Locals: Brentford, Chiswick & Ealing

'Supergrass/IRA Killer' Any chance that the editors will soon remove that photograph from the front page, p-l-e-a-s-e!? When 'trawling' around the forums, it is the first item one sees and I, for one, am sick to death of him.

Ann S. Allridge ● 6852d2 Comments ● 6852d

Who is this Julie Anne?......

who keeps asking for Researchers.......isn't this advertising......the numbers of times she does it?

Lois Westby ● 6861d10 Comments ● 6852d

Ann's Latest Question

as reported to me by "TheyWorkForYou.com" wasAnn Keen (PPS (Rt Hon Gordon Brown, Chancellor of the Exchequer), HM Treasury, Brentford & Isleworth, Labour) Hansard sourceTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what support her Department is making available for library facilities for older people.- it seems a bit more use than the PMQ speech- although I voted on "TheyWorkForYou" that the reply didn't answer the question (as they said that libraries are the local authority responsibility)

Tim Henderson ● 6905d77 Comments ● 6853d

Break up of BAA?

British Airways have joined with Ryanair calling for the break-up of BAA's monopoly especially in London. I think this will gather momentum so could the West London boroughs take control of Heathrow Airport much like Manchester City Council owns Manchester Airport? If so, then it could put brakes on any further expansion.

Paul Davis ● 6853d5 Comments ● 6853d

Marbrough primary School

Can anyone tell me What this school is like please?My 5yr Old Son Might go there But I want to know What the Education is like there etc etc?

Simon Anderson ● 6859d21 Comments ● 6853d

Local mini rugby

Does anyone have any suggestions for a local rugby club with a good minis section that would be taking on youngsters this September?

Mike Hardacre ● 6867d5 Comments ● 6854d

Who are our councillors

I thought I knew but now I'm not so sure.  The link for local government on this site seems to show the results of the local elections for 2002 (unless of course I'm doing something wrong)Any chance this could be updated?

Bernadette Paul ● 6854d2 Comments ● 6854d

Lots Ait Island, Brentford, TW8.  "A pictorial mystery tour!!"

The fascination of Brentford ..for some of us..is the pattern of streets and alleyways south of the High Street..and how they all link up.Whether it's linking buildings in THE HAM, with the walkway along the Canal, the Brentford Dock Estate..and how to get to Dock Road, how to get from Johnson's Island to Ridgeways/Workhouse Boatyard, from Ferry Lane to Goat Wharf without getting ones feet wet...and so on.Trying to understand the lay-out of the various Islands is another puzzle. I gather that there used to be a pub called the THREE SWANS on Brentford Ait!..that's the long island nearest Kew Bridge that seems to be in two or three sections. (See Gillian Clegg's Pub Book)But LOTS AIT is todays puzzle. You can see it from different angles..sometimes at low tide ..then at high tide. From Watermans, from Goat Wharf, from Ferry Quays. You can see boats and dilapidated buildings..lots of mud..and lots of trees....what's it all about?First of all..if you're interested only!..don't want to bore you..have  a look from Google Earth. Copy and Paste this url..and then use the grid to move around..and zoom in..okhttp://www.google.com/maphp?hl=en&client=firefox-a&q=&ie=UTF8&ll=51.484623,-0.29886&spn=0.00312,0.007317&t=k&om=1

Jim Lawes ● 6861d53 Comments ● 6854d

Boston Manor Festival

Will there be a dog show this year ?

Pat Kingham ● 6856d1 Comments ● 6855d

Brilliant!

Juat to let you know that the Stones did not disappoint - they were fabulous and the staging just breathtaking, even enjoyed Feeder the support, Twickers rocked!

Vanessa Smith ● 6857d10 Comments ● 6856d

Housing wanted!

I am a Dutch student looking for an appartment in London as I will be doing my internship at the BBC. My placement will be from half september until around christmas time, so I am looking for a place for three months. Preferably in the area of Brentford but around Brentford is also ok. The size of the appartment does not really matter, a studio or 2 room appartment is big enough. I am bringing my boyfriend for most of the time so it should suit two people. Do you have or know someone who has a double room, studio or small appartment available for that period? In that case please contact me! Other tips in finding housing in and around Brentford are also very welcome!Kind regards,Anna van Lingen

Anna van Lingen ● 6864d1 Comments ● 6856d

Digital photography.

Can you recommend a digital Camera?  Which features do you like the best?Where have you found the best processing of prints – online, a Kodak booth or a processing shop?  Is it possible to have prints reproduced where the colour is as true as the original photograph?

Sarah Felstead ● 6857d4 Comments ● 6856d

Rubbish

I am getting fed up with all the bickering that goes on on these forums it is boring to 95% of the people on here, if you discussed other topics I am sure you would get more members on the site and it is always the same people going on and on and they are all full of p*** and wind

Edward Fitzgerald ● 6861d17 Comments ● 6858d

Whose the daddy now!!!

Deep in the bowels of Fortress Civic or 1st Floor anyway, in the Chiswick Tory Junta Bunka Cllr Thomson has sent out invasion plans, it appears he is with out an office how could this of happened, it seems the H.I.A not to be confused with the CIA, have captured the leaders office in a gorilla offensive , The self styled revolutionary  Cllr Che Connoly  has already been seen to fly his flag from this new territory. The Labour Group are moving to a new defensive position which will see  possibly the Lib Dems small territory fly a neutral flag of yellow next door.Leader of the Chiswick Tory Junta has sent out pleading missives of understanding to the Labour Group who have declined involvement in ousting the rebels from the prized bit of land that is now being held by Cllr Che Connoly.Will Cllr Thompson  be preparing  his prized storm troopers led by Cllr Oulds to take the new ground or will he have to admit Cllr Connoly is the new daddy now.

Dave Hughes ● 6867d19 Comments ● 6859d

ICG website updated at long last

We've finally got around to it - please feel free to take a look at www.communitygroup.org.uk.

Phil Andrews ● 6862d38 Comments ● 6859d

Great Brentford Picnic

Hi all,Come along to St Paul's Recreation Ground for the second Great Brentford Picnic this Friday from 12noon to 4pm.It's a free event but remember to bring your own picnic. There will be football coaching from the Brentfordfc Community Trust plus rugby, youth activities, refresshments, games, face painting, a childrens area and much much more.This event is bought to you buy Soul in Brentford, West Play, Hounslow Council, Hounslow Homes, the Safe Project and Dominion Housing Group.Do come along folks last year was very good.CheersLuke

Luke Kirton ● 6862d2 Comments ● 6859d

W'appen last night...

Driving home from work 10.15pm last night and whole of area between Ealing Rd and Half Acre roped off and bobbies and fire bobbies everywhere.Anyone know anything?

Keith Iddon ● 6860d2 Comments ● 6859d

Brentford Football Club

What do people think the prospects are for the coming season. Promotion, mid table safety or relegation.

Neil Chippendale ● 6880d15 Comments ● 6860d

Phil Andrews

As member of the Council is not the job of a Cllr to provide good governance and community leadership not just for the community but also for the employees of the council and its organisations that carry out some of the duties of the Council. It is also a duty to treat ordinary members of the public with respect.It may help in order to provide such leadership that you may need to set an example to show what is and what is not acceptable behaviour for a Political Group as defined by the Council and the standards board for England.Would it not be prudent and wise to remove posts and disassociate your self from comments posted by executive members of your political group such as belowQuote | ReplyRE: Open letter to Lesley Roberts - Director of Housing, Hounslow Homes--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Phil Andrews wrote:--------------------------------------------------------------------------------No response from our Lesley on this, nor indeed any acknowledgement from the Chief Exec.  Guess we'll have to deal with this after the election. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------Surely putting her on the same hit list as Herr Langstaff wouldn't go amiss???___________________________________________________________________I am sure with the background you have come from this is last thing you and your Political party would want to portray to the Public at large as it was these tactics that was used in 1930s that lead to many trade unionists being placed in concentration camps.

Dave Hughes ● 6864d13 Comments ● 6861d

Boston Manor Park

I recently noticed an application posted on the park gates for a drinks licence, does anyone know if this is just for the Festival in September or is there something else planned ?

Pat Kingham ● 6877d32 Comments ● 6861d

Brentfords New  Fancy Dress and Balloon Shop

hi all my fancy dress shop FANTASY LAND will be open from this week and the hours will be 12-5pm tuesday-sat unless special occassion for sunday opening inc mother day etcaddress is 61 ealing road brentford next to the old stamp shop you cant miss it bright green and pink Telephone number is 0208 569 8765 nice and easy to remember Baby tyzja is feeling a lot better and now home from great ormond street hospital we will have to go back for lots of tests and thanks for all the messages we recieved they mean a lot. im still raising money for the premature baby unit and the starlight childrens ward west middlesex hosp as many of you know they have cared for all my children there i will have a money box in the shop that people can put there pennys in it all helps. For the future i will try and do another fund raising fancy dress party/Ball for my charity but when my baby tyzja is a lot better. please come and support my new business for all your party bits, world cup, birthdays.hen nights etc if any of you are passing that way next saturday please pop in and say helloall the best Debbie xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Debbie Dewar ● 6942d49 Comments ● 6861d

recycle bins

are you being forced to have these open boxes full of rubish in your front garden. come out in the morning to find it strewn on the road outside your home. join the campaign to get the local authorities to build sheds in our gardens to house these eye sores. THE COUNCIL WORK FOR US, not the other way round

John Shafe ● 6864d13 Comments ● 6862d

Beware the Dial-a-Phone ripoff!

My wife recently switched to Dial-a-Phone as her mobile phone provider, enticed by reasonable discounts and my (misguided) recommendation. Early in July she sent off her receipt in order to receive her first staged rebate. She waited, and waited, and waited.....but no rebate arrived. She wrote a letter of complaint to the company (no telephone contact is provided!) only to be advised that they had not received her letter and that it was now too late to apply!Having personally posted the letter, I have visions of staff at their redemption centre opening letters and shredding the contents. If you're thinking of changing your phone stay away from this dodgy operation and choose an operator who provides you with a telephone contact. If you're stuck with this company send future rebate claims by registered post as they don't appear to accept responsibility for recorded delivery mail either.

John Connelly ● 6864d3 Comments ● 6862d

Brentford Redevelopment

I have been reviewing some of the old posts regarding Brentford redevelopment but am struggling to understand what the timetable, if any, is from here. Would be very grateful if anyone has any updates.

Edward Cuthbert ● 6885d7 Comments ● 6863d

The cost of Hospital Parking is like rubbing salt into the wounds!

I am totally disgusted by the cost of hospital parking and think it should be free! For the sick and bereaved it is like rubbing salt into their wounds! In cases of emergencies remember to take your belongings and a bag full of cash for the parking! When you get there instead of concentrating on the injured you are worrying about the parking and whether you have enough money on you to pay it! In 1 day the parking at west mid has cost Debbie and I £20, we are feeding the parking meters instead of our children! What about the elderly, poor families and those on benefits! Even the staff are forced to pay these fees. If you park down the other roads not only is it impossible to find a space, annoys residents but your car is likely to be vandalised. Isn’t it shameful enough that the people of Britain have to endure the horrendous waiting times of our national health system but to add further insult to injury, pay a fortune to park our cars when we are sick!!!!!How can we abolish hospital parking fees?

Ina Chureetur ● 7132d282 Comments ● 6864d

Temptation!

Can I tempt anyone to a bargain last minute holiday at my Villa in Cyprus? I have a few weeks available from August 27th to September 17th. Have a look at holidaylettings.co.uk/7050 and if you are interested, make me an offer. Contact me at sbiddulph@hotmail.co.uk,thanks Sue

Susan Biddulph ● 6869d5 Comments ● 6864d

David Hughes.

I've been reading this forum for some time and tend to read but not write on political matters asI now live in OZ.Regards the current debate on what was on or not on the ICG website David Hughes keeps banging on about a "hit lists" etc.Well David, isn't it time to put up or shut up, and please dont fall back on the excuse "I passed the info onto the unions". You posted the allegations its up to you to prove them or stop banging on about them.

Neil Chippendale ● 6865d8 Comments ● 6864d

The New Conservative led Council for the whole of Hounslow!

We must wish the new administration well and hope that they can work well together and achieve much..for all of us.The sight of the new team of 60 Councillors at the Civic Centre..on Borough Council meeting nights..is an impreesive sight..especially when the new Mayor Cllr Felicity Barwood enters the Chamber in the Mayoral procession.A recording of meetings can be seen on the Civic Centre Website (webcast) at any time..and makes interesting viewing if you are interested in such matters.Chairmanship of such meetings is so important. Thank goodness there has been a major change..and the meetings are conducted more professionally than they recently have been.So: have a go at the webcasts..and se them in action!

Jim Lawes ● 6901d103 Comments ● 6865d

Mela whinging

Can't believe that once again some nimbys have decided to have a whine about the Mela. They should go along this year and check out what is a fantastic event for all the family. We are really lucky to have it in this part of London. Obviously if you have tens of thousands of people coming there will be a bit of litter, a bit of disruption and some anti-social behaviour but from what I see this is so minimal that it is completely outweighed by such a fantastic event. I wonder sometimes about the motivations of the people who are against it.

Justin Harris ● 6887d37 Comments ● 6865d

Nanny Available

Hello my name is Tuba, I am 24yrs old and from Turkey.Ive lived in London for 2 years and have worked as a nanny, but my current employer no longer needs nanny.I very clean and quiet and hard working, I can do housework and ironing and I am good with children.I can start Straight away and Ive references.Please call me on 07 85 6 17 97 45Thank You

Tuba Ackman ● 6865d0 Comments ● 6865d

Friends of the Parks

This has been a great idea and may I be as bold as to suggest that people should get involved in these in my local park the group has worked wonders in bringing the community together to work on projects for the local park and for the kids of the local area.These meetings can be fun as well, at a recent meeting of the friends of the parks across Hounslow we had the delightfull Cllr Lee telling people to beware of Park Deviants, this has been met with a lot of humour at our park and hence we are looking to do a range of T-shirts, one with a picture of Cllr Lee and the words Beware Park Deviants underneath which should put the fear into any deviant or for the discerning Park Deviant how about Iam a Park Deviant. Joking a side this a great way for people to become invoved in the running of in essence your Park.

Dave Hughes ● 6876d31 Comments ● 6865d

Third runway passes pollution test

I see the Times Online published this while I was on hols.http://travel.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,10295-2285706,00.htmlreferring to the Air Quality Technical Report published on 19 Julyhttp://www.dft.gov.uk/stellent/groups/dft_aviation/documents/divisionhomepage/612123.hcspHowever, I don't see that the Times conclusion follows from the report.The Q&A for the report had the comment :Q. What does this all mean for the prospects for a third runway (and/or mixed mode) at Heathrow?A. It is too early to say. Application of the Panel's recommendations should enable us to conduct a more robust assessment of Heathrow's future air quality, but it is not until the methodology has been put in place and the air quality modelling carried out, that we will know whether a third runway and/or mixed mode is more or less likely.Anyone know if there has been more comment on this in the last fortnight ?

Tim Henderson ● 6872d5 Comments ● 6865d

FOOTE & BROMWICH FAMILY HISTORY

I am an amateur family historian - does anyone have any information/connections with the following people please:PRISCILLA BAMFORD BROMWICH MARRIED WILLIAM FOOTE BRENTFORD 1920Best Wishes Angela Boon

ANGELA BOON ● 6867d6 Comments ● 6865d

RESEARCH - Get paid for your time!

We are a local market research company conducting a DICUSSION GROUP on DEODORANTS. For this we are looking for YOUNG MEN at the age of 13/14, 17/18 and 21/22 (only full time working people in this age bracket. Purpose is only to find out your views and opinions on the topic of deodorants and bodyspray, etc.. FOR YOUR TIME YOU GET AN INCENTIVE OF 50 POUNDS!WHERE: CENTRAL LONDONWHEN:  15th or 16th AugustWe are not selling anything and your answers are protected by the Data Protection Act and our company is governed by the Market Research Society (MRS).Please contact 0208 996 0498 ref: DEODORANTS STUDY

Julie Anne ● 6867d2 Comments ● 6867d

MOBILE PHONE RESEARCH - Get paid for your time!

We are a local market research company conducting a DICUSSION GROUP on MOBILE PHONES. For this we are looking for people at the age of 15/16 as well as 25-54 year olds with children under 18. Purpose is only to find out your views and opinions on the topic of mobile phones. FOR YOUR TIME YOU GET AN INCENTIVE OF 50 POUNDS!WHERE: CHISWICKWHEN:  15th, 16th or 24th August (in the evenings)We are not selling anything and your answers are protected by the Data Protection Act and our company is governed by the Market Research Society (MRS).Please contact 0208 996 0498 ref: MOBILE PHONE STUDY

Julie Anne ● 6867d0 Comments ● 6867d

Student needs a job please

HiI shall be moving into the area soon to start my Music Technology degree course at TVU, Ealing. I'll be living at the Paragon building.I am male, 23 years old and have worked for 5 years in various pubs, bars and clubs in Leeds City, three years in my current job.I am looking for p/t bar work in the area to keep myself afloat and fed during my course.  If not bar work, other serious suggestions considered.Can you help?Please email details to kevinjberry@hotmail.co.uk Thank youKev

Kevin Berry ● 6868d0 Comments ● 6868d

San Marco - Brentford

I'm looking to dine locally and I'd like to give San Marco's another try as I have heard that it has changed management.  I'd be grateful if anyone can give me any feedback on what they thought of their experience if they have dined their recently.  Thanks in advance.

Emma Rowlatt ● 6878d5 Comments ● 6868d

Thameswater

I have just found out today that you do not get what you pay for with Thameswater.The house next to mine has a large number of lodgers staying there,and when l go to use my hot water l find that because they are using the shower and or the washing machine  or dish washer the water pressure is greatly reduced.I phoned Thameswater to ask if they had turned the water pressure down? They replied that my neighbours and l have a shared water main and if l wanted a better pressure to my house l would have to pay them to run a seperate main supply to my house.       I said that as l pay the same water rates as my neighbour l should expect the same water pressure. They replied that because it was a shared watermain they legally only had to supply one bar per sq inch of minimum pressure to the main,and him being the first house inline gets to draw his water first.       That is to say my neighbour gets all the water he wants while l can only get what remains due to reduced pressure, meaning very limited supply of water, ( ie, saturday and sunday no hot water until 10pm)even though l am paying the same money.       In other words Thameswater are being paid for a service they are not supplying.       Your thoughts please?            

William Read ● 6870d2 Comments ● 6870d

HAIRDRESSERS STUDY - Research GET PAID FOR YOUR TIME

We are a local market research company conducting DICUSSION GROUP with Managers/Key purchase influencers of electrical equipments within hair salons in order to understand purchase behavioutr and attitudes towards brands and products.WHERE: CHISWICKWHEN:  14th AugustWe are not selling anything and your answers are protected by the Data Protection Act and our company is governed by the Market Research Society (MRS).Please contact 0208 996 0498 ref: HAIRDRESSERS STUDY

Julie Anne ● 6870d0 Comments ● 6870d

Am I missing something? ... Molton Brown

I have watched a very convincing lady suggesting on QVC that I am lacking somehow or failing somehow if I do not have a range of these very expensive products on my bathroom shelf. Last Christmas I went into the House of Fraser in Guildford and asked the girl to explain about the products and to show me the most popular.   She in turn did a very good sales talk but at the end of each stage she passed a bottle to me to smell – and each time, I could not smell anything I would wish to buy! Having seen the QVC lady again and back in Guildford today, I saw a whole Molton Brown shop so went in to try again.**&$@”#~!  I was still - completely unmoved - especially at the £ they charge – which is the only remarkable thing about each product!Sorry - but am I missing something - like when diluted they will fill the bathroom with fragrance and I will wilt in the heavenly odours?

Sarah Felstead ● 6879d11 Comments ● 6871d

50 POUNDS FOR YOUR OPINIONS NO CATCH!!!!

ADVERT – DO YOU USE PAPER TOWELS IN YOUR HOUSEHOLD?  - GET PAID FOR YOUR TIME We are a local market research company conducting 2hr Discussion Groups with Females that use Paper Towels in the house , aged 21yrs to 60yrs, with children under 18yrs in the household. To participate in  A DISCUSSION GROUP ABOUT HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS, including Kitchen towels.WHERE: SOUTH WIMBLEDON WHEN:  29TH AND 30TH AUGUSTWe are not selling anything and your answers are protected by the Data Protection Act and our company is governed by the Market Research Society (MRS).Please contact 0208 996 0498 and ask for Bushra ref: Paper Towels Study

Julie Anne ● 6874d6 Comments ● 6873d

New England

Anyone know what's going on with the New England" (or Duke of York as it used to be). Loads of scaffolding out front, but no sign of building work. Is it just another giant advertising hoarding or is something being built/demolished?

John Coxall ● 6873d1 Comments ● 6873d

MALE DEODORANT USERS - Research GET PAID FOR YOUR TIME

We are conducting an exciting market research study on DEODORANT AND BODY SPRAY at the moment.The focus groups will take place in Central London on Tuesday the 15th and Wednesday the 16th of August at different times during these days.We are looking to speak with young men at the age of 13 to 14, 17 to 18 as well as 21 to 22 years who use Anti-Perspirant, Bodyspray or Deodorant Bodyspray regularly.The interview will be held in Central London and as a thank you for talking with us, we would like to offer you an incentive of £50 for your time.If you feel that you might be able to take part in this study or if you have any questions, please give us a call on 0208 996 0498 and mention the “Deodorant Project”.FEEL FREE TO PASS THIS MESSAGE ON TO ANYONE WHO MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN TAKING PART IN THE RESEARCH!We look forward to hearing from you! Kind regards,

Julie Anne ● 6874d10 Comments ● 6874d

Topic: 6.30pm tonight: Serious flooding and traffic jams in Isleworth

Flooded roads in IsleworthWell I've never seen Twickenham Road between the hospital and Linkfield Road flooded like it is tonight...cars and buses and cylists are wading through...it must be nearly a foot deep!The southbound traffic goes back passed Busch Corner..solid back to Gillette Corner..and then amazingly solid back northwards passed Tescos and to Wyke Green Golf Club.It seems that the dip in the Great West Road outside PC World MAY be flooded too..as the traffic London Bound is solid too.Big surprise is the heavy flooding on the Richmond Road, in Old Isleworth..again a one foot deep lake with waves!! that is causing problems too.River crane burst its banks?

Jim Lawes ● 6882d22 Comments ● 6875d

RUNNERS & FITNESS ENTUSIASTS - GET PAID FOR YOUR TIME

We are a local market research company conducting short interviews with RUNNERS & FITNESS ENTHUSIASTS out there in surrounding areas, FEMALE = 2 @ 14-19yrsMALE =   1 @ 17-19yrsTo participate in a one-on-one interview about sports and athletic footwear.WHERE: CENTRAL LONDONWHEN:  9th & 10th AugustWe are not selling anything and your answers are protected by the Data Protection Act and our company is governed by the Market Research Society (MRS).Please contact 0208 996 0498 ref: ATHLETIC FOOTWEAR STUDY

Julie Anne ● 6876d1 Comments ● 6875d

Music in Hounslow

I know I will get some annoying posts on this subject, but it seems that creativity in Hounslow is being crushed, the Mela is an example, I feel we should be jumping for joy that we can put on events like this, however I do understand the concern of residents and we should not be putting them on every other week. Another problem is that to hire somewhere like the Feltham Assembly halls for bands is costly i.e. it costs £1.000 even before you can work a ticket price for a venue that can hold only 200 people, so I would like to be able to hire the new hall at the civic, however that again will be closed to the music community of Hounslow.On a more positive note there is a new venture by Hatton cross that hopes to give musicians a chance to meet and rehearse and provide a small studio as a community project. Hopefully this will be starting in a couple of weeks, the aim is to all club together and help each other out and find venues in Hounslow where we can put on a showcase. Email dave@littlehouseproductions.co.uk if you want to get involved.

Dave Hughes ● 6877d10 Comments ● 6876d

Spelling

Anyone out thereCan anyone out there fix it so that this site has an F7 type of function so people can check their spelling on the forum, most of it is abysmal? My six year old grandson can do better!

Edward Fitzgerald ● 6879d15 Comments ● 6877d

Somerfield to be turned into Waitrose??

I read on someone's blog (they being a brentford resident) that a leaflet had dropped through their door suggesting that the somerfield branch was to cease trading and be turned into a waitrose. anyone heard the same (sounds too good to be true!).

Edward Cuthbert ● 6878d11 Comments ● 6877d

Boston Manor Road flower shop closed down?

One remembers the joyful colours of flowers for sale at that newish Flower Shop opposite..or nearly opposite... the Boston Cafe..and adjoining a Goddards Depot.Has it closed down?  Or taking a  holiday break?  Looked stark and emptywhen I drove by the other day.Apparently only three-quarters of new businesses survive more that three  years.  High rates and high landlord rents don't help..do they!!

Jim Lawes ● 6883d6 Comments ● 6877d

Why won't this site's operators respond to emails 2

Re-posted as previous discussion seemed to lose the point."I have contacted this site on the email link they provide repeatedly over recent weeks regarding two issues. One was a defective link on the home page - still unresolved; the second regarding their offer to place a 20 word mention for local businesses in the ads section.At least 10 emails sent and not a single reply or even acknowledgement received.Inefficient and discourteous to say the least."A reply to my previous posting from Jim Lawes suggests they are easy to contact - sadly however, not the case!

Ian Silver ● 6948d34 Comments ● 6877d

Beat me, Whip Me

Ok I have a cunning plan!!!The TW7 forum is more capable of dealing with it's topics than TW8.So I have created an area where the feuding factions can vent their own spleens in the relative comfort of a secluded area without pushing the bloody agro to the top of this list on TW8.The area is called  “Beat me, Whip Me”. Anything goes gloves off do what you want with out fear of moderation. More importantly everything you post there will stay there and stop people from having to bother going through this list to find the good stuff.Have fun, now all of you who want to flame each other go there and play dirty. http://www.isleworthtw7.com/Once your in “Beat me, Whip me” you will see a forum called “Scratch my eyes out”Jeez……

James Kirkby ● 6878d4 Comments ● 6878d

Brentford Festival Leaflet delivery

Help me please - can you/friends/family deliver Brentford Festival leaflets to your street the third week of August.  We want all of Brentford to know where they should be on September 3rd.  Contact me direct on linda.massey@virgin.net giving your street and house number and they will be dropped in to you when they are ready.  Thank you in advance.

Linda Massey ● 6878d2 Comments ● 6878d

Isleworth TW7 dot COM

I been there - what can I say?It is soooooooo slow it must be powered by coal - lol.Not particularly interesting and doesn't appear to allow any new postings.Shame - but I suppose it was only set up for the nerds.

Ian Silver ● 6926d71 Comments ● 6878d

Advertising down the A4/M4

Anyone effected by the advertising hoardings/billboards down the A4/M4 corridor please let me know directly or reply to this message.Responses will be involved in a planning appeal against yet more advertising starting Tuesday - apologies for the late post...Many thanksStephenstephenbrowne@compuserve.com

Stephen Browne ● 6879d3 Comments ● 6878d

Butterfly House any news?

Is there any news on what is going to happen to the butterfly house, I only visit TW8 occasionally and may have missed any update. The last I heard the Gunnersbury move had been spiked by Prescott's red tape.

Linda F Wright ● 6890d8 Comments ● 6878d

Summer Hols

Just trying to cheer the site up after the more recent mundane postings (again).............As it's that time of year, anyone going anywhere nice on their summer holidays?

Kevin Farnan ● 6880d14 Comments ● 6878d

The Coach and Horses, London Road

I popped in last Monday to hear the resident jazz band, augmented by a recorded saxophonist. What a gem! These guys are very talented and cheered up a drab Monday no end. Jazz every Monday night - well worth a visit.

Colin Murphy ● 6948d12 Comments ● 6879d

New Website Launched for Isleworth Residents

A fantastic new Forum has been set up today for Isleworth Residents.www.isleworthtw7.comWork is still to be done in some areas but its up and running so please feel free to log on and start discussing issues for Isleworth as a whole.P.S.Now there is no reason for Brentford users of the TW8 Forum to bitch about Isleworthians taking up space on their precious forum.

Simon Anderson ● 6928d93 Comments ● 6880d

Westmiddlesex hospital

Has anybody had any experiences of the way elderly people have been treated upon discharge from westmiddlesex hospital?

William Read ● 6885d8 Comments ● 6880d

Time to get tough?

With reports today that cruelty towards animals has hit record levels isn't it about time the R.S.P.C.A. were given more and stronger powers to deal with the abusers? I have been watching the programmes about the various Animal Cops in the U.S. and also the programmes on trainee R.S.P.C.A. Inspectors here, and sadly I have drawn the conclusion that our lot are pretty feeble. They certainly don't mess around in the States  - they don't wait until an animal dies they just get warrants and take the animals to safety, more often that not prosecution of owners follows swiftly with severe penalties. Surely it is the mark of a civilised society that we do all we can to eradicate this, I have three dearly loved moggies and I'd kill anyone who tried to harm them. What with the way our elderly are being treated  - Panorama last Sunday - what sort of a society are we becoming? We should all be in the business of protecting the most vulnerable, human or animal. I hope the legislation that is going through Parliament beefing up animal protection goes far enough, but why is it I doubt it will?

Vanessa Smith ● 6883d4 Comments ● 6880d

What A great Guy!!

Dear sirI want to talk about a guy who I think is wonderfull...I ave lived in Isleworth 20+years and seen alot off good people come and go but this guy is well one in a million.His Name "Simon Anderson"Let me tell you about this guy, He moved up here from Plymouth in 1997 and in 1998 he got involved in the local residents group on Ivybridge where I have many friends.He has done so much for the estate including helping get a new park built next to the community centre on the Estate,a doggy park,a new fence by the school,new signs on the estate and he helped get a new crossing for the school on Ivybridge not to mention the hundreds off other jobs he has helped residents with.In 2003 he managed to get a office opened on the Estate for residents to talk about there problems which he sat in every day up till he left the residents group last year and was asked to join another group called "Ivybridge Tenants Action Group" where he is now chair off.He has many battles with Hounslow Homes to work with Ivytag but they refuse to which i feel is wrong.This year he has campaigned hard to get a dog free zone in a park on Ivybridge appearing on BBC1 news and in Local papers which he is still fighting to happen, he also is trying to get Hounslow Homes to place new equipment in the park on Ivybridge for the local youth.e is also a main supporter of the legal action against Thames and attds regular meetings at Thames and Police forum meetings and has become well loved with local residents and Ward Cllrs for his hard campaigning.In November his 10yr old daughter was diagnosed with leukemia and in February he shaved his hair off for his daughter and with help from readers on Brentford and Chiswick forums and everyone who read his article in the local papers he raised over a thousand pound for his daughter to give to Great Ormand St Hospital.After that he started to raise more money by signing up to Jump out off a plane with again the support off the readers off both forums above,local residents and Ward Cllrs he has raised over £1500 for GOSH and will shortly be doing his jump and already has started his next project to raise more money for GOSH, he has even in the last few months threw his group Ivytag got people to donate TV's,play-stations,games,books and toys to Starlight Children's Ward at west Middlesex.with all thats going on in his personal life he still takes time to think and help others.A few months ago he spent a day in Kensington Gardens as a volunteer at Gosh fundraiser "Peter pan picnic"I read a few months ago about a ex resident on Ivybridge who was awarded a MBE for her services to the community but a lot off locals I know have never heard off her but Simon Anderson they have.I think it is time they award this guy with a MBE as he has done far more in his community then anyone I know...He is a credit to the community and all i can say is on behalf off myself and the residents I Know "Thank you"Jason StanleyIsleworth resident

jason stanley ● 7184d30 Comments ● 6880d

Farmers Market leaflets

Hallo. Along with excellent local florist Aljen I've just had 10,000 A5 leaflets printed. If anyone is able to put a few in their workplace, pub or anywhere else where folk gather, could you let me know? Thanks in advance - all help much appreciated...

Matt Harmer ● 7189d17 Comments ● 6881d

Linkfield Road

My mum lives in Linkfield Road & yesterday the work started on the bridge in St John's Road & there has been chaos!She says that cars are literally stuck at a standstill in Linkfield Road with nobody being able to back up & there is constant hooting, arguements & roadrage.  Yesterday the police were involved (although we're not sure if they were stuck themselves hence got involved, rather than being called to the scene).What we cannot understand is why the section of Linkfield Road between Twickenham Road & Grainger Road has been made one way but the the rest of Linkfield Road is two way.  It would seem logical to make the whole of Linkfield Road one way from Twickenham Road to London Road.Also she says there aren't enough signs around warning drivers of the diversions/road closures in advance of reaching the relevant areas (& so giving the option of taking alternative routes).I said I'd put this on the forum for her as I know many councillors participate.  Perhaps making the whole of Linkfield Road one way could be considered ASAP?Thanks.

Lynn Clark ● 6933d29 Comments ● 6881d

UK Hemp and Hydro Expo @ Ricoh Arena Coventy is CANCLED

Unfortunately, due to a very late decision by the Directors of the Ricoh Arena, Coventry, this years UK Hemp and Hydro Expo has been Cancelled.This would have been the 4th event of its kind in the UK and was scheduled to take place on the 28th, 29th and 30th of July 05.It would appear that despite being a full list of Companies taking part and being in possession of this list for almost a year that the directors have waited until a few weeks to announce that they were unhappy with some of the distributors taking part and some of the products being sold. This is despite confirmation from Coventry City Police that the products sold are legal and that the Police had no objections to the event taking place.It would appear that the Directors who happily sell alcohol the football thugs and fans alike whilst running one of the largest gambling Casinos in the UK have a ‘moral’ objection to the event, which is odd as I had a moral objection to doing business with them and didn’t take I stand at this years event, and it didn’t take me anywhere near as long to discover my morals. It seems fairly obvious that this decision has been taken rather maliciously as it will obviously cause a degree of hardship to all taking part the cost of publicising this event can not be recovered and the last two weeks of  July are the traditional holiday period for the German and Dutch exhibitors who had made special arrangement with their staff to attend what is becoming one of the most important of these shows in Europe. This though is of no apparent importance to the Guardians of public morals (as long as we don’t talk about alcohol or the evils of gambling) that are the Directors of The Ricoh Arena Coventry.If you wer planning to go and feel like complaining please send your e.mails to events@ricoharena and mark for the attension of the directors please do not blame or have a go at the arena's staff, they did not make this decision.

Philip Walsh ● 6892d4 Comments ● 6881d

Record breaking threads/ topics around the Forums

Many of you will have noticed the lengthy threads that have appeared on some local Forums recently.Some people like seeing information listed..and statistics galore..so here is a current list of the all time longest (known)threads.Have we missed any?(Agreed quality of messages isn't taken into account)511+ (W4)   Cllr Adrian Lee's "ABC Cafe" /local history thread (HALTED!!)306  (W3)   Angela's "Filthy Acton"  (ACTIVE)300  (W4)   David Giles's "Ann Keen MP and the possible War against Iraq"281  (TW8)  Ina's West Middx Hosp parking charges. (ACTIVE)

Jim Lawes ● 6885d8 Comments ● 6882d

Robin Grove clean up by Safer Neighbourhood Team

Once again the Brentford Safer Neighbourhood Team with the PAYBACK SCHEME and CIP have managed to clear up a corner of the park at the bottom of Robin Grove, which was a concern to local residents and people having lunch in the park from the nearby offices. The area concerned was used by undesirables to hide out. I have taken some photos and hope Jim Lawes will post them on the forum for me as I haven't got the hang of it yet. Once again it is a start only small but as we get PAYBACK off the ground more things will get done. And thanks again to the support of the Brentford PCSO's that also gave their time on the day here and at Brook Road.

Edward Fitzgerald ● 6888d8 Comments ● 6882d

Wake up to some nice views of Brentford and Isleworth:

A painting of Brentford Bridge..over the Canal by Bill Willison, Ealing Art Club..Its a bit different now!

Jim Lawes ● 7307d122 Comments ● 6882d

'Buy one get one free' Comedy at Watermans

This Sunday 30th July is our last Comedy & Curry show of the season.So we are running a special offer for readers of the Brentford TW8 website. Buy one full price ticket (£10) and get a second ticket free if booked in advance from the Box Office 020 8232 1010. Just mention the TW8 offer2 hours of stand up comedy from Mark Maier, Barry dodds and Joy Carter with MC dominic Frisby. Check website for details www,watermans.org.uk(I am sorry to break the rules of the forum (no advertising) but our listing on the website are not appearing at the moment)

Leigh Stops ● 6884d4 Comments ● 6883d

Changes to postal charges

Have seen the adverts about the fact that as from August postal charges will take into account the weight and shape of post. Should we be surprised that something else is going to make life yet more complicated? Well, given the head of the Post Office is one Adam Crozier late of the F.A. and the person responsible for hiring Sven perhaps we ought to be grateful it isn't even worse. Who knows what Sven would do with our mail?

Vanessa Smith ● 6898d15 Comments ● 6883d

Handy Helpers

Hi, We are two local chiswick lads who are happy to house-sit, wait in foe deliveries, gas, water and electric men, painters, deliver parcels to local addresses, cat-sit and other domestic duties.Charge reasonable rates.click on my name above to email me.Steve & James

Account suspended ● 6885d3 Comments ● 6884d

Forum Slanging Match

Oh dear, its appears that the site has reverted into what has become a political slanging match once again between various people.This is exactly the sort of thing that myself & others (rightly or wrongly) were getting cheesed off with before.I know that we are all entitled to our views on this site but it gets a little tedious when the same old c**p is being posted by the same people accusing each other of various misdemeanours.How about having some sort of time/posting limit on each subject rather than dragging the bo**ocks out of it so that the site remains interesting & constructive like chiswickw4.com?

Kevin Farnan ● 6899d15 Comments ● 6885d

Freecycle

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/hounslow-freecycle/I think this has been mentioned on the forum before - we had a small cottage style sofa and matching chair - Parker Knoll - as good as new.  As it didn't have the up to date fire labels we couldn't send it to the charity shop.  An advert yesterday had three replies by tonight and the first one has taken it!

Sarah Felstead ● 6892d8 Comments ● 6885d

As yet unanswered  e.mail to Anne Keen

I don't know how long it should take to get an answer to an e.mail to one's MP bit this was sent on the 16.06.06, whilst I have received an acknowledgement I am still waiting for an answer.Dear Mrs Keen,I write to you as my M.P in the hope you can point me in the right direction and tell me where I can obtain the report of the No.10 Strategic policy unit on drug prohibition from July 2003, as I have just come across some information from the pressure group Transform, claiming that the Government tried to cover up a report by the No.10 Strategic policy unit.This report apparently stated that Drug prohibition does not work, never has worked, never will work and is in fact counter productive. Is this true and if so can you tell me how the 2005 Drugs bill is going to be any better.Could you also confirm that the Bill  bans 'Magic mushrooms' except for the only one that if not correctly prepared can kill namely Fly Agaric, would you please explain the logic behind all of this as it is at present, beyond me. Lastly can you tell me how much Cannabis in my possession it takes to make it ok to presume I am guilty of being a dealer, now that the presumption of innocence has been removed from British drug law?I await your reply with some anxiety having been a victim of the drugs war that does not work, all my life, as have at least three generations of my family. Yours truly,Phil Walsh P.s I have used Cannabis most of my Life and will only consider giving it up when the right to do so, in the full knowledge that the decision to do so is based on my own free will and not fascist dictates.

Philip Walsh ● 6896d16 Comments ● 6885d

ICSF meeting

Please can I remind everyone that the next Isleworth Crime and Safety Forum meeting is this Monday 24th July at 7pm at the Public Hall Church St Old Isleworth.Come along and discuss local Crime and safety issues in the presence of Local Councillors and our SNT.ALL WELCOME (Refreshments provided)

Simon Anderson ● 6890d29 Comments ● 6887d

Half Price Tickets

Does anyone have or know where can get my hands on some Half Price vouchers to purchase Tickets for Lego Land and Thorpe Park for august as Shivon and my By wants to go and with the year they both have had they deserve it, the trouble is the entry price is sooo much.Any suggestions PLEASE???

Simon Anderson ● 6890d10 Comments ● 6888d

Kew Bridge Planning Consultation

Regarding the consultation for this site held last Friday and Saturday:Personally I found the Planning Brief as laid down by St George of 8 stories PLUS penthouse somewhat strange given the recent rejection of the planning application and subsequent appeal. I do realise it was not rejected on height alone.I also found the main speaker from John Thompson & Partners to be slightly dismissive of some ideas even though they asked the audience to start from a blank sheet of paper. Examples not taken seriously included:- access to/from the site from the neighbouring Thameside Centre (I used to work in the centre - it's not the busiest roadway in the world)- use of funds for sculptures etc could be used in part to return the Water Fountain to the site.How were other experiences?BTW I noted one more recent development in Brentford - Holland Gardens - noted as "Gives me the creeps". If the author vists this forum could they please explain.

Stephen Browne ● 6899d6 Comments ● 6888d

COME AS YOU DARE FANCY DRESS COSTUME BALL 1ST SEPT

Hi all I have set the date for the next fancy dress costume ball raising money for the premature baby unit west middlesex hospitalPrizes for the best costumes and most originalDate 1st Sept 06 FridayVenue : GARDENERS SUITE NIGHT CLUBNEXT TO TRIPLE CROWN PUB (old jolly gardener pub)266 TWICKENHAM ROADISLEWORTHBuses 267,481,h20Time:8pm-LateTICKETS £5 AND £10 AT THE DOORTickets will be availble from next week at Fantasy Land Fancy dress shop61 Ealing Road Brentford 0208 569 8765all the best Debbie

Debbie Dewar ● 6889d0 Comments ● 6889d

Filming at West Middlesex hospital

Today there was a Big Film unit at West Middx hospital they were filming "Trial and Retribution"

Simon Anderson ● 6889d2 Comments ● 6889d

Can anyone recommend a local seamstress?

Hi all. I have a couple of vintage dresses that need some very small alterations. I believe the existing darts can be used without having to take the garment apart. I'd do it myself, but it would take me forever! An experienced seamstress should be able to knock it off in no time. I'm obviously prepared to pay.Any suggestions/recommendations?

Holly Hodges ● 6889d1 Comments ● 6889d

Something nice happened to you recently?

... :-)

Sarah Felstead ● 6898d11 Comments ● 6889d

Osterley Safer Neighbourhood Team... drop-in surgery

We are holding our drop-in surgery at...OSTERLEY LIBRARY, ST.MARY'S CRESCENT, between 2pm and 4pm on Tuesday 6th June 2006.We will be available to talk about any and all issues of concern to those who live within the Osterley and Spring Grove Ward.Please feel free to come along and say hello.If you cannot make it this Tuesday we will be at the library every 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month.

Chris Lavender ● 6937d10 Comments ● 6889d

Receiving e-mails via the Forum.

You will be aware that you can send an e-mail to a Forum Poster..if you click onto their name. A blank Message Form will appear.I just have a suspicion that this doesn't always work..as people have said to me that they have sent..or are going to send me an e-mail.My in-tray has been empty for ages..from Forum posters. Any observations?

Jim Lawes ● 6893d17 Comments ● 6890d

Teenage Cancer Trust Charity Ball Ideas?

Dear All,Through some of my postings over the last couple of days, you might know that my 17 year old son died last August after a 7 month battle with a very, very rare form of cancer, Ewings Sarcoma.  Ewings Sarcoma only effects teenagers and is so rare that on average only 30 cases are diagnosed in the U.K. a year.  James had Ewings on his spinal cord, which left him also totally paralyzed from the chest down.  James was on The Teenage Cancer Trust Unit in The Middlesex Hospital, Mortimer Street from last February - until he passed away on 25th August.I would really like to organize a Christmas Charity Ball to raise funds for The Teenage Cancer Trust.  I have never organized anything like this before so I would be very grateful for any suggestions, ideas, sponsorships etc.James has his own web site    www.jamesnaughton.co.ukwhere you will also see the link to The Teenage Cancer Trust website.Fran

Fran Naughton ● 7133d24 Comments ● 6890d

The Borough of Hounslow Mobile Library Service ending this month?(1 vehicle)

The sole vehicle that we have been talking about on another thread..was introduced 13 years ago ..for specific use in the Feltham, Bedfont and Hanworth area. It was financed at that time by a S106 agreement..."the money having to be spent at the time..like a hot potato" I gather. The vehicle is thus 13 years old but it has only done some 45,000 miles. Many people who use the Library have died, many ports of call (nursing homes) are mainly busy with patients whose illnesses are incompatible with reading books..even pictures perhaps. But there's still plenty of scope of reaching residents who would welcome and benefit this key service.ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooIn recent times the Moblie Library's activities were curtailed a little so that it could act as a replacement service whilst the Beavers Library was being rebuilt. I gather that recently some 100 children at Beavers School used the Library in an hour or so...BUT NO MORE.THE MOBILE LIBRARY IS TO CEASE FRIDAY WEEK. end of July.The thing is that the vehicle is still roadworthy..and it is not necessary to PURCHASE a new vehicle. Apparently leasing is the way to go forward..and to extend the Library's routes to other parts of the Borough...Melody Court etc.So: Some facts are needed  especially about the alternative ways of raising the finance.Here is a summary of previous contributions on this subject.ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooI wrote“”The question of the Borough's Library services was raised at the first new Borough Council meeting the other day..which I saw recently on the Civic Centre's webcam recording of the meeting.Cllr Adrian Lee raised the subject of the Mobile Library..and the vehicle attached to it..and the need to find funds to save it. He was aware of wastage elsewhere in the Council's expenditure””ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooPaul Allen wrote:””I hope they don’t do away with the mobile library, it’s a lifeline for a member of my family who is virtually house bound.It’s really a great service and the people who run it are very helpful and knowledgeable about the books you prefer to read.””OoooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooPaul Fisher wrote“”I will have a look at the webcast for confirmation Alan but I thought the immediate problem was the age and condition of the trailor currently being used and the cost of the replacement,I think 60k was mentioned.I do not recall Cllr Lee stating this service would be cancelled and I agree with you that this service particularly benefits many of our more vulnerable residents””OoooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooAlan Sherrins wrotePaulYour colleague Cllr. Lee did say that the mobile service was to be cancelled, and that the books would be available locally (he did not explain what this meant) . And that they would try to find the money to reintroduce the mobile service at a later date. So it is the case the the mobile library will be cancelled, do you agree that this is the case?It is a service that particularily benefits many of our more vulnerable residents, it would be a pity if it was cancelled for good and i hope that the new ICG/Tory adminsitartion will be true to their word about this service.OoooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooAlan sherrins further wrote:“”I find it surprising that £60K cannot be found in the budget of hundreds of millions. Where are all those efficiency savings that you said you would make? I realise that you are not an executive member yourself and will not have the information to hand. However I am a little suspicious……”OoooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooCouncillor Adrian Lee then responded to Alan””The mobile library service WILL be restored to the west end of the Borough at the first possible opportunity.  It was a cut that I inherited from the previous Labour administration that arose because the exiting vehicle needs replacing and they felt that they did not have the money to do so.  The Labour administration regarded it as a "cut" and had no plans to restore the service.  I disagreed with their view and made the pledge that we would bring the service back just as soon as we can find £60,000 (the cost of a new custom-built vehicle) from S.106 funds to do so.  This is a top priority as our administration are determined to make no cuts to the Borough's library services.  In the meantime, sadly, the service has been "suspended" with all of the book stock usually carried in the van being stationed variously at the different community centres where the vehicle used to stop.  All of these books will remain available to the reading public in the interim.””ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Jim Lawes ● 6890d1 Comments ● 6890d

Brook Road who cleans the bridge

On Tuesday the 18/07/2006 the BRENTFORD SAFER NEIGHBOURHOOD TEAM along with the PAYBACK scheme team started work on clearing up the area around     the footbridge on the Layton Road side, you can now see right under the tree so hopefully this will stop people hiding under there to drink etc. also they started to clean up the piece of ground next to the houses. Oweing to the very high temperatures on the day we had to leave some work to be done on another day to be arranged.Our thanks go to the neighbouring factory for the use of their facilitys.The rail company will need to do the clean up on the sides of the tracks to help improve the area.

Edward Fitzgerald ● 6890d2 Comments ● 6890d

Boston Manor Park

What are the opening hours of the park? I've looked on the Friends of Boston Manor website, but can't find the times. Is it open in the evenings?Thanks.

Catherine Woodman ● 6899d16 Comments ● 6890d

Budding Artists and Craft workers versus a cup of cha

Clearly everyone was too modest because nobody came forward to offer their services for the art project so please allow me to put in a new request.  I have just come away from the Brentford Festival meeting and we are home tuning our needs.  We desparetly need people to volunteer to work in the pavillion serving teas and cakes and/or washing up, litter pickers and stewards.  THE BRENTFORD FESITVAL IS A COMMUNITY EVENT FOR THE COMMUNITY AND IT IS HOPED, WITH THE COMMUNITY HELPING..............HELP PLEASE AND VOLUNTEER - JUST AN HOUR OF YOUR TIME WOULD MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE.

Linda Massey ● 6892d1 Comments ● 6891d

Alluminae dance show Watermans 27th/28th july

looking for a loud and livley show in the watermans theatre brentfordAlluminae is a great show put on by children of all ages its on 26th / 27th and 28th july  7pmtickets are £5 adult  £3 childrenif you love music and dancing, Breaking and popping this show is for you these kids have a real talent come along and see for yourselfsall the best Debbie

Debbie Dewar ● 6909d2 Comments ● 6892d

Charity gig on Friday 4th August

Friday 4th August 2006 at the Princess Royal, Braemar Road, BrentfordTHE HEAL + BIG TRUCK (Co-headliner) All proceeds towards the charities White Lodge & Spelthorne Crossroads Tickets £4Reserve tickets via (07952) 378271Under 18’s must be accompanied by an adultDoors 8pm; Music from 8.30pmwww.myspace.com/theheal www.myspace.com/bigtruckmusic  http://savecentres.blogspot.com www.whitelodgecentre.co.uk www.myspace.com/stripesmusic

Jason Ritchie ● 6892d0 Comments ● 6892d

Brentford's Twin town?

Following up on a thread on the Ealing forum, I discovered that according to Wikipedia, Brentford is twinned with Branford, Connecticut.However, I can not confirm whether this information is true or not. Is anyone else aware of this twinning? If Brentford is indeed twinned with Branford, CT what sort of cultural exchanges go on?Thanks.James

James de Vivenot ● 6897d15 Comments ● 6892d

Thames Water -Legal Action

The Mogden Residents Action Group (MRAG) has asked me to post this legal update on this forum as it may affect some in TW8 or their friends and families in TW7 Dear ResidentsThousands of you will  have experienced massive increases in raw sewage odour and mosquitoes in June and we thank all those who have taken the time to register their complaints through MRAG. Your complaints have been forwarded to senior Thames Water management, LBH and LBRuT Environmental Services, Ofwat and Defra. OdourWe believe there have been major malfunctions or odour management failures on site and we have asked Thames Water senior management to investigate but they have failed to respond. We have however received notice from a Thames Water communications consultant advising that Thames Water  will not respond to your complaints forwarded via  MRAG and we therefore have no confirmation that your complaint has been investigated as is required by the Defra Code of Practice. Until such time that Thames Water investigate and respond to your complaints we can only assume that the odour which amounts in law to a nuisance is being caused by plant malfunction, bad housekeeping or negligence. We have also ascertained that Thames Water do not employ an on-site senior manager capable of dealing with odour complaint investigation and response outside of normal working hours during the week or on weekends. With no site manager on site at night or on Bank holidays or weekends it is therefore not surprising that Thames Water appears to be oblivious to the environmental damage it is causing by permitting the billions of molecules of raw sewage escape its premises only to end up in your mouth. What is clear to  you is that Thames Water management is not addressing the problem and nothing has been done in June to abate or reduce odour escaping its premises.  Mosquitoes   Thames Water make no differential between odour and mosquito complaints and in 'response'  to Mosquito complaints the communications consultant has advised that Thames Water will not respond to your complaints forwarded via  MRAG. We therefore have no information from Thames Water on why the mosquito activity has increased so much as to cause much distress and misery to residents from St Margarets across to Whitton. The mosquitoes appear to be out of control in all areas surrounding the site. Three years ago MRAG managed to persuade Thames Water to assist in the financing of summer gully cleaning around the site in order to minimise mosquito migration off-site.  Since last year Thames Water banned MRAG committee members  from attending the so called 'residents'  liaison meetings because, we believe,  we asked to many embarrassing questions  the company was unwilling, incapable or not able to answer. Since being barred from the meetings we have discovered that Thames Water did not contribute a penny towards the gully cleaning last year.  To date, this year the company has also not contributed a penny but after pressure from MRAG, the Council has last week advised that Thames have finally agreed to only contribute £16,000 towards the exercise.  This from a company whose profits soared to £364 million, whose  five UK directors are in line for cash and share "performance" awards of £1.7 million and whose German based RWE 5 man board  directors  said to be one of the best paid boards in Europe with a total remuneration of £24 million!    Legal ActionIn light of the recent massive increase in both odour and mosquito complaints MRAG have been asked if it is too late to join the Group Action Claim for compensation and an injunction.  We can advise that It may not be too late for you to join in the legal action but following the cut off date anyone wishing to join the Mogden Group Litigation will need to make an application to the Court for permission. If you wish to join please contact Hugh James Solicitors and ask to speak to one of the Mogden Team 01685 371122.Please remember to log your complaints via MRAG by email  complaints@mogden.org.uk  or mrag27@aol.comRegardsMRAGFor latest information on Mogden Residents Action Group go to OnLine Communities Ltd Website www.mogden.org.uk For News and Views on local community issues visit http://www.twickenham-online.co.uk/

Steve Taylor ● 6896d3 Comments ● 6894d

Thames Water

"Reports that Thames water has once again failed to meet its leak target - whilst still making bumper profits - will further increase customer's frustration with London's water supplier, London Euro-MP, Syed Kamall, said today. Mr Kamall took up the unsatisfactory level of water leakage with Thames earlier this year, and was given an assurance that they would do all they could to drive down leak repair times."I have written to Thames Water asking what level of reduction I can expect in my water bill due to the hosepipe ban, and what further reduction I can expect if, as expected, the drought order is approved. Why should we, as those who pay for the service, be expected to reward the shareholders of this inefficient enterprise with record profits. What kind of madness is that? As yet, of course, I have not recieved a reply.I would like to see mass consumer action in refusing to pay water bills if the drought order is approved. Why should we pay for a service we are not getting?It should not be beyond the intelligence of politicians (even powercrazy control freaks like Bliar) to realise that there are some public services which should not and cannot be expected to provide a good, efficient service and a profit for shareholders who regard these utilities as nothing more than a cash cow. De-Nationalisation has been completely disastrous in almost every case. The prospect of more Public-Private Partnership in essential services fills me with foreboding.

John Coxall ● 6908d11 Comments ● 6895d

Budding Artists and Craft workers

I am looking for people  who can assist in the artwork for a project about to start in Boston Manor Park.  The plan is to create a mural of different art forms (mosaic, graffiti (have people for that thank you) and general art to depict life in the park and around.  Please contact me if you or someone you know can offer help which is very much needed.  We want it finished in time for the Brentford Festival on September 3rd.  linda.massey@virgin.net

Linda Massey ● 6898d3 Comments ● 6895d

Friday evening joke - NB. Slightly coarse

A cruise in the Pacific goes all wrong, the ship sinks, and therewere only 3 survivors; Damian, Darren and Deirdre.They manage to swim to a small island and they lived there for a couple of years doing what's natural for men and women to do.....After several years of casual sex all the time, Deirdre felt absolutely horrible about what she had been doing. She felt having sex withboth Damian and Darren was so bad that she killed herself.It was all very tragic but Damian and Darren managed to get through it and, after a while nature once more took its inevitable course...........Well, a couple more years went by and Damian and Darren began tofeel absolutely horrible about what they were doing.So they buried Deirdre.

Ian Silver ● 6895d0 Comments ● 6895d

Anyone know details of missing grey parrot?

Hi i was told of a flyer up for a missing African grey parrot, 'Kiki', in Costcutters. Does anyone know the details of this flyer as it had gone when i went to the shop earlier -or indeed the missing parrots owner?Please email me if you knowclarelwillis@msn.com

Clare Willis ● 6898d2 Comments ● 6895d

Thanks Sven...

for taking only 4 strikers,2 of whom were unfit and one completely untried and very unlikely to get a game(the stupidity of this will sink in soon...)for'treating'the England fans to complete rubbish football at the World Cup and for the last 5 years when you have earned god knows how many million quid for making England tread water and possibly even regress to the Taylor years. Thankyou and GOODBYE AND GOOD RIDDANCE.

Keith Iddon ● 6908d25 Comments ● 6896d

Designer Handbag LOVERS!!!

Love your desinger lable handbags?Would you like to take part in a research of which you are paid for your valuable, views and opinions?Please call 0208 9960498 ref: handbags

Julie Anne ● 6905d1 Comments ● 6896d

Smartphone users GET PAID FOR YOUR TIME

Owners of the following brans please get in touch asap. Business users of all funstions to organise work loads, will be rewarded an impressive incentive of 120.00pounds please call asap 02089960498NOKIA 6800NOKIA 9110iNOKIA 9210NOKIA 9210iNOKIA 9300NOKIA 9500NOKIA 9300iNOKIA 6820NOKIA E61or Sony EricsonP800P900P910P910iP990M600

Julie Anne ● 6897d1 Comments ● 6896d

And the next question from Ann :

Ann Keen (PPS (Rt Hon Gordon Brown, Chancellor of the Exchequer), HM Treasury, Brentford & Isleworth, Labour) Hansard sourceTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport how many people over 75 years in Brentford and Isleworth constituency receive free television licences. Shaun Woodward (Parliamentary Under-Secretary, Department for Culture, Media & Sport) Hansard sourceTV Licensing, which administer (as agents for the BBC) free television licences for people aged 75 or over are not able to provide geographical breakdowns of the number of free licences issued. However, according to the Department for Work and Pensions records the number of households with at least one person aged 75 or over claiming the winter fuel payment in 2004-05 in the Brentford and Isleworth constituency was 4,865.

Tim Henderson ● 6902d4 Comments ● 6896d

Ann's Questions : Social Funerals and Waiting Lists

The pace is hotting up on theyworkforyou.com :1. Ann Keen PPS (Rt Hon Gordon Brown, Chancellor of the Exchequer), HM Treasury, Brentford & Isleworth, Labour) Hansard sourceTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what plans he has to change the funding available to the social fund funeral scheme. James Plaskitt (Parliamentary Under-Secretary, Department for Work and Pensions) Hansard sourceThe regulated social fund of which the funeral payment scheme is a part is not cash limited or subject to budgetary constraints.Funeral payments from the social fund cover the cost of certain necessary charges in full; these include fees levied by burial authorities and crematoria. An additional sum of up to £700 is allowed for other funeral expenses, which give the person arranging the funeral the freedom to select items or services they consider appropriate. Although there are no plans to make changes to the funeral payment scheme at this time the level of help is kept under review.2. Ann Keen (PPS (Rt Hon Gordon Brown, Chancellor of the Exchequer), HM Treasury, Brentford & Isleworth, Labour) Hansard sourceTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment she has made of the change in patient waiting times in the constituency of Brentford and Isleworth since 1997.(My cut and paste skills aren't up to displaying the carefully tabulated data that seems to tell a good story.  Can anyone do better withhttp://www.theyworkforyou.com/wrans/?id=2006-05-22c.71095.h&s=speaker%3A10330#g71095.q0?)

Tim Henderson ● 6899d3 Comments ● 6896d

Orchard Rd Street Party

What a lovely evening we spent at the Orchard Rd Street Party in Brentford yesterday and thanks very much to the residents for our invitations.Great live band and bbq,lots of drink and great company made it a smashing Saturday night.

Paul Fisher ● 6900d5 Comments ● 6898d

Today's Chronicle: local Labour Party stoops to lower levels!!

Is Councillor Phil Andrews fit for office?That's the gist of today's news story...and follows on from a thread about Mrs Ann Keen on the Chiswick Forum.His continuing Election victories in Isleworth Ward..have seen him reach high office. He has the support of his constituents...over many many years. The local Conservative Party..would never agree to work with Phil if they felt he was not fit for office.Mark Bowen (Con) (Deputy Leader of the Borough Council) is reported as saying that he was aware of Cllr Phil Andrews past..AND SUPPORTED HIM 100%.  I do too. And you don't have to belong to the ICG to think that.

Jim Lawes ● 6910d66 Comments ● 6899d

MOBILE/PDA-users: get paid for your time!

Mobile device study:Are you using mobile devices and are using the different functions on a regular basis? This will have homework task that should be fun to do and the interview is only approx. 1 hour in Chiswick. The dates are flexible so e-mail us for a specific date and time!juliette.monthy@ems.eu.com or call 0208 9960498Many thanks we look forward to hearing from you.

Julie Anne ● 6899d0 Comments ● 6899d

Labour's witchhunt against Cllr. Andrews

Am I alone in finding the local labour party’s “witch-hunt” against Cllr. Andrews somewhat strange. For a party (allegedly) based on a concern for humanity and its freedoms, and which has campaigned for the embracing of “diversity,” it seems a bit strange that they are so determined to hold someone’s past so determinedly against them. Apparently diversity is fine by the labour party as long as it only extends to ethnicity and culture, not to ideas!!! The real problem seems to be that the Labour Party is disgusted by the irresponsible attitude of the electorate in rejecting them and electing someone else. Well – Get over it!!!  The labour party’s current position puts me in mind of Berthold Brecht’s comment on the Communist government of East Germany:“It was said that the people has lost the confidence of the government and could win it back only by redoubled efforts. Would it not be simpler if the government dissolved the people and elected another?”Let me make it clear at the outset. I do not know and have never met Cllr. Andrews. I have never voted, nor campaigned for the ICG. My involvement with the NF has only been antagonistic (due to my involvement with the Anti-Nazi league during my own murky past). My current politics are very much OLD labour – I still regard myself as a socialist and feel totally betrayed by the power and control-freakery of Bliar’s New Toryism.However, when reading Cllr Andrew’s statement about his political past in this week’s Brentford & Chiswick Times, I was struck by how similar our backgrounds were. Both young, naïve and idealistic, both keen to get involved and “do” something about the moribund political scene, and both seduced by the two faces of the “dark side” (to borrow a Star Wars analogy). Whereas Cllr Andrews was drawn to the NF, I got involved in a Marxist-Leninist group which proclaimed the necessity of proletarian revolution. Both nonsensical causes, but both very attractive to young people with lively minds and the need to make a political mark. While my political choice at the time was fairly extreme, it was not unknown at that time for many of the current labour party to have been members/supporters of the Communist Party. Many more were supporters of the various Trotsykite groups which proliferated at that time. Many, if not all these people are still within the Labour Party. John Reed is, I believe, a case in point (forgive me if I have got that wrong Mr. Reed).The bottom line is simple – PEOPLE CHANGE! If political parties didn’t believe that, then why do they bother? What would be the point of trying to convince people that your ideas are better/more appropriate than someone else’s?Let go of the obsession with Cllr Andrews’ past and concentrate on the present. That is what the electors of Isleworth and Brentford have done, and that is what the Labour Party must do if it is to regain the confidence of the people. Attacking someone’s past, rather than their present actions smacks of desperation and political poverty.

John Coxall ● 6901d1 Comments ● 6901d

In search of Local Cook

Flexible, occassional hours, local cook needed.Must know of a variety of dishes.Working in newly refurbished office with lively friendly team.Call: BEVERLEY on 0845 868 9709

Julie Anne ● 6902d0 Comments ● 6902d

Jamie Oliver - where are you?

I have just had the misfortune of spending a few nights at our local hospice attached to Ealing Hospital.  Whereas I could not fault the doctors, nurses and other staff, the food wasn't fit to eat.......as the nurses said themselves they wouldn't give it to pigs.  Ill people need to be tempted by the look as well as the taste of food, and nothing that I saw came up to those simple standards.  Have you eaten - or wanted to eat in full health - two tinned plum tomatoes and cold soggy chips?  What about rhubard crumble made from tinned rhubard sitting on a lump of flour and water - Crumble? you must be joking.....I could go on, but nothing fresh, everything tinned whether it be fruit (tinned peaches) or veg. (baked beans,carrots peas!).  Even tinned mandarin oranges!  I thought I was back in the nursery or in wartime England!Jamie Oliver really needs to have a look at hospital catering and to make it edible.  Eating is an essential part of the recovering process, and as I saw it most plates went sraight into the dustbin bag. I have sampled both Charing X and Hammersmith hospitals at various times and found them pretty awful, but no way compared to the awfulness of Ealing.

Lois Westby ● 6908d3 Comments ● 6903d

HEALING IN CHISWICK ON MONDAY

FREE HEALINGSECOND MONDAY OF EACH MONTH BETWEEN 11AM-1PMAT THE LONDON BUDDHIST VIHARA, THE AVENUE, CHISWICK W4 1UDHealing is given for any illness, stress or injuryYou don’t have to be sick to come for healing - it will make you feel goodThere are no side effectsIt is complementary to any other therapyIt is completely naturalYou don’t need to believe in the healing - it will help youDonations are welcomeAll healers are members of the Kent International Healing Association which, as with all recognised healing organisations, is a member of the British Alliance of Healing Associations.  We are not associated with any religion, -ism or -ology.  The word “spiritual” in the title refers to that quality of spirituality implicit in the healing process.  Members of the Association are bound by a strict Code of Conduct.

Pat Smith ● 6903d0 Comments ● 6903d

Is this the first?

Advert for Christmas bookings on the railings of the Rugby Stadium - I've only just recovered from the last lot!

Vanessa Smith ● 6912d3 Comments ● 6905d

Going to a fooball match for the first time...

Okay - I have never been to a football match.  If I were to buy some tickets ... what do I need to know about where to sit - and any other tips you could pass on to me?  Best to start with Brentford.Thanks.

Sarah Felstead ● 6909d5 Comments ● 6905d

MOBILE/PDA users GET PAID FOR YOUR TIME

Mobile device study:Are you using mobile devices and are using the different functions on a regular basis? This will have homework task that should be fun to do and the interview is only approx. 1 hour in Chiswick. The dates are flexible so e-mail us for a specific date and time!juliette.monthy@ems.eu.com or call 0208 9960498Many thanks we look forward to hearing from you.

Julie Anne ● 6905d0 Comments ● 6905d

IT PROFESSIONALS research get paid for your time.

We are conducting two different and interesting studies with IT professional regarding the decision and purchasing process in a company. We are looking for men and women between 25-60 years old that are working for a company as a decision maker regarding IT equipment and who work for a company with 3-500 employees (computer users). We would offer you great money for your help and time so please e-mail us back with your contact details!  The money depends on which project you qualify for but the minimum amount is 75 pounds!We have 2 different projects going on:Printer Study: *IT decision makers in their company / decision makers regarding the company’s printers and MFD (colour and/or B&W)*Dates: 12 & 13 July in central London (by Bond Street tube station)*1.5 hr discussion groups, start times at 6:30pm and 8:30pmIT enthusiasts: *Must be actively searching for a computer, peripheral, etc and plan to buy within the next six months for their company*Between 25-60 years old*Be very comfortable using the internet*Dates: 6 & 7 July in central London (by Bond Street tube station)*1 hr one-on-one interviews, interview times throughout the day/early evening If you would like to participate or if you know of anyone that might want to participate, please e-mail us back with your contact number and someone from EMS will call you to go through a few qualifying questions before inviting you.EMAIL:- juliette.monthy@ems.eu.complease call:- 0208 9960498We look forward to hear from you!Kind regards,

Julie Anne ● 6905d0 Comments ● 6905d

Hounslow Campaigning on Heathrow Issues

Sarah Felsted and Dan Evans state in another thread that no-one is representing them on issues around aircraft noise and Heathrow.  ~Well, I ope the following puts the record straight . . Dear Sarah and DanYou say no-one represents you over the planes issue.  Unless you are among the minority in the borough who support expansion of Heathrow, both within the existing two runways, and Runway 3, then I would suggest that the Council is representing you, I have been leading Hounslow Council's Campaign against expansion at Heathrow for three years now - against: Runway 3, more night flights, the loss of Runway Alternation, and in favour of proper noise insulation schemes.  Are you not aware of this (we get enough coverage in hm, the local papers etc) or are you saying we're not doing enough?  For details see our website - www.hounslow.gov.uk.  For starters, we are lobbying MPs and (tomorrow) the House of Lords, on the Civil Aviation Bill.  Clause 2.2 of this allows the extra 2 flights per night and we are promoting the amendment to get it deleted.  Sleep disturbance studies show that once you wake, it is difficult to return to full sleep again, even if the subsequent plane is quiet ie it doesn't matter how quiet or noisy the plane is.  As a result of our campaigning work we got a recognition of the needs of residents acknowledged in the 2003 Aviation White Paper,  - a first for the Department of Transport I think.  We also got the Community Buildings Noise insulation scheme - £5m pa for at least 5 years, to double glaze our schools and community buildings - not nearly enough but a start.  I'm also hoping that we will influence the DfT's work on air quality - which will be the crux issue as to whether Runway 3 can go ahead.Our next big fight will be on runway alternation - look out for the DfT public consultation next year which could propose the end of this vestige of peace we get either before or after 3pm.However, a Council campaign is more effective when actively supported by the community.  We are also working with HACAN Clearskies - who now have a Hounslow branch - if you aren't already a member do join.  And I spoke (as did Ann Keen) at the Night Flights Rally held last Monday in Westminster.Hoping that's a start in response to your remark!Cllr Ruth Cadbury

Ruth Cadbury ● 7150d71 Comments ● 6905d

It is getting closer to the Brentford Festival 

The planning committee are working hard in organising this years Brentford Festival to take place in Boston Manor Park on 3rd September from 12.00 to 5.30 pm. It promises to be bigger and better than last year with new events already on board. If you wish to take a stand, car boot pitch or generally be involved in the day - please let me know your email address so that I can send out the forms to you.  Thanks.  linda.massey@virgin.net

Linda Massey ● 6907d4 Comments ● 6906d

Next Charity Idea

I have come up with my next Challenge to raise More money for Children who are ill.I have decided to Abseil down a Tower Block on Ivybridge Estate IF i can get Hounslow Homes permission.since Ive not done this B 4 i need to hear from anyone who has done this and who have the equipment who could help me with this Challenge.Email me at simonanderson2@blueyonder.co.uk if u can helpCheers

Simon Anderson ● 6908d11 Comments ● 6906d

healing centre

Just a note to remind you that the monthly healing centre will be open again at the London Buddhist Vihara, The Avenue, Chiswick from 11am to 1pm this coming Monday, 11th July.All the healers are working on a voluntary basis therefore no charge is made for the healing sessions, although a donation is most welcome.Look forward to seeing you on Monday.

Pat Smith ● 7269d1 Comments ● 6907d

Knighthood for Sven

What a pillock - aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaarrrrgjjjjjggggghhhhhhhh

Ian Silver ● 6907d6 Comments ● 6907d

What do you reckon tomorrow?

Portugal 1 England 3....I live in hope!

Keith Iddon ● 6909d15 Comments ● 6908d

Comedy at Watermans

Anyone been to Watermans recently? Thinking of going to one of the Edinburgh comedy previews this weekend to take a break from the football. Would you recommend it? Do I need to book? What's the restaurant like?

Leigh Stops ● 6912d2 Comments ● 6909d

Tonight's game...what do you reckon?

England 1   Sweden 0   is my punt

Keith Iddon ● 6919d15 Comments ● 6909d

Hounslow Homes-'varied by notice' (illegally changed)-housing agreements

Has Hounslow Homes 'varied by notice' (illegally changed) your housing contract It is illegal to change the details of the Housing agreement between a landlord and a succour tenant with out the consent of the tenant this is the point of the term 'agreement'.Despite this many of you will have been sent a letter back in 2000 informing you that your housing agreement has been varied by virtue of the notice the council has sent you. Varied means changed and is a peace of double talk trying to disguise that fact. Do not allow Hounslow Homes to bully or encourage you to sign any new agreement if you are happy with the agreement you already have its changes are not there to benefit you. The only people that stand to benefit from these changes are Hounslow homes, be warned people who use gobble-gook or double speak to hide the truth are crooks in my experience and I can't see how it differs in this instance. 

Philip Walsh ● 6920d29 Comments ● 6909d

The filthy Brook Road Railway bridge: whose job to sweep up and clean?

How depressing it must be to live in those parts of Brentford that have all those derelict office buildings around..on the Great West Road, near the junction with Ealing Road..and Brook Road North.Add to that the apparently illegal giant advertisements overpowering the area...and that local cafe comes as a relief.  It's good news to hear that the next Area Committee Meeting (Planning) is to concentrate on that advertising..and see what can be done about it.But it's the local litterlouts who are making things even worse for everybody. That alleyway to the footbridge...and the bridge itself...is a disgrace.  It would soon be cleaned up if the Queen was coming to visit!  Like they are trying to do in Acton..on the Forum..why isn't someone wanting to try to get to grips with the litter and rubbish problem there. Is it the Railway Authorities' job, the local road sweeper's..or the local Highways Dept?Photos follow on the next message.

Jim Lawes ● 6923d24 Comments ● 6910d

A hazard to passing traffic located in Church Street,Old Isleworth

Many many motorists over the years will have cursed.Their vehicle tyre has been damaged or ripped by a nasty piece of protruding metal ..lurking out of view ..waiting to harm their passage. Indeed, maybe they are unaware of the damage that has been done.It's in Church Street..a popular thoroughfare to the London Apprentice, Syon Park, West Middlesex Hospital..or en route to Busch Corner.One side of the base ....of the keep left sign.... is fine. The left hand side of the base is lethal to tyres. Best look at the pictures.It's been like that for years..it's time the poor workmanship was corrected.See next message. (remember pictures cannot usually be posted on the first message of a new topic)

Jim Lawes ● 6930d12 Comments ● 6911d

LAPN - the ALMO

Hello hello,I've just bought an ex-council flat in Brentford and recently received a letter from the Council about entering a long term agreement with LAPN - an ALMO. Having spent the past couple of months decorating and furnitureless, I'm afraid it slipped my notice somewhat. I don't know very much about it - can anyone else tell me anything? I'm afraid that most of what I have read about ALMOs is not positive. Has this decision been made already or is there somewhere where we can voice our concerns (other than the meeting on the 3rd July). Will they be taken into consideration? I'm actually pretty happy with how the council runs the block I live in and I'm not keen on the idea of the management going private. Is anyone else in the same boat? Does anyone else have any views on this?

Rashmi Chavda ● 6913d11 Comments ● 6911d

How much does it cost to replace a paving slab?  ... 2

Sarah Felstead ● 6925d5 Comments ● 6911d

Record breaking event for Osterley SNT

We would like to thank everyone who came along to Osterley Park on Sunday 18th June 2006 for "Free Chips in the Park".In association with The Kennel Club and The National Trust we implanted identity micro chips into 100 dogs (and a few cats).The previous record for this type of event was 25 in one day and makes our event the most successful since National Microchipping Month began some four years ago.With some Veterinary Practices charging as much as £20 to implant a pet with a micro chip, this represents a combined saving of £2000 for those who took advantage of this free service.Thank you to all that took part and showed interest in what was going on... we are hoping to be back next June with a another event.Chris Lavender PC291TXOsterley & Spring GroveSafer Neighbourhood Team

Chris Lavender ● 6918d2 Comments ● 6911d

Does anybody remember "Chicken George"?

Over on the Chiswick W4 Forum there has been some discussion about old local characters from the recent past.  One that many of us remember from the 1970's and 1980's is an old tramp who was knicknamed "Chicken George".Chicken George was a middle-aged black guy who used to ride around on a bike with an old supermarket trolley rigged up behind as a sort of trailer.  For years he was an eccentric part of the community, then, one day in the mid 1980's, Chicken George seemed to vanish.  Some believe that the Brentford and Chiswick Times reported his murder, others say that he was killed in a road accident at the Chiswick Flyover.  I have a distant memory that his bike and trolley were left discarded for some time after in the Power Road area, but I could be wrong. Can anyone on the Brentford Forum help solve this little local mystery.  Do you remember Chicken George?  Did he go to Brentford frequently?

Cllr. Adrian Lee ● 6914d12 Comments ● 6911d

The changing face of Osterley and Heston.(Planning Meetings)

As a resident of these parts for over 35 years,(after 30 years in W4 and elsewhere) one has felt tongue tied to make comment about some of the inappropriate, and in my view, very ugly developements that have been taking place in Osterley and surrounds.We have watched beautiful long established houses with delightful old English front gardens being totally demolished..and replaced by bulbous palaces surrounded by high railings...gold arrow topped metalwork..and the air of vulgar superiority.   No longer are the style of houses and gardens ones that your eyes sink into with warmth, pleasure and appreciation.  Now, its in yer face...I've stacks of lolly...keep out..and totally inconsistent with what you'd expect of a Conservation Area.It's a blessing that the Councillors on the Isleworth and Brentford Area Committee (Planning) have put a break on some of the planning applications...but I believe they need support...and perhaps need to hear from more of us.The new Councillors need to be well informed about what is going on. Property developements need to be compatible with the style of the area.Next weeks Planning Meeting will feature such developements. New Councillors..please quickly learn the ropes....and the delicate nature of TASTE!

Jim Lawes ● 6936d23 Comments ● 6912d

Garden Fencing

Hi all, I need to put up a new fence. I dont like the "panels" I prefer the lapped type fence. Does anyone know where I can buy this type of fence / wood / posts?Thanks

Paul Wilson ● 6913d1 Comments ● 6912d

A TASTE OF PARADISE Restaurant/winebar

Hi all had a lovely meal at a taste of paradise restaurant/wine barits 133 Uxbridge road Ealing London W13 9AU  8579 6739they serve ghanian and caribbean food it was really nice and the owners are from Brentford. You can watch the football there on their wide screen tvthe atosmopher was really lively.Debbie

Debbie Dewar ● 6913d0 Comments ● 6913d

Green box recycling

...have just collected our box.They picked up the bits of paper which flew out - then after breaking a glass bottle got out a dustpan and brush and swept it up ...! very neat job.  Much of an improvement on the litter strewn roads they used to leave behind :-)

Sarah Felstead ● 6913d0 Comments ● 6913d

Anyone coming cycling on Saturday?

From the LB Hounslow website:  The “Hounslow Family Cycle Ride” will be taking place on Saturday 24 June, and will set off from the Brent Lea Recreation Ground in Syon Park at 12:30.It is a two-hour ride and begins at 12:30 and the route will take in Syon and Osterley Parks, as well as a mile long section of Brentford Canal.Young people under 16 who want to take part must be accompanied by, or have written permission from, a parent or carer. The event will be suitable for children who have completed cycle training, and is good preparation for those who want to leave the car behind and cycle to secondary school. It should be enjoyable for cyclists of all ages.Entry to the event is free and refreshments will be available on the day. Dr Bike will be on hand to offer advice on maintenance and to make small repairs to ensure bikes are safe.

Chris Calvi-Freeman ● 6916d6 Comments ● 6913d

Tomorrow's game

Weel, I hope we improve and play like we can play.I'm going for a 2-1 win,but hope for a bigger margin.

Keith Iddon ● 6915d6 Comments ● 6914d

Lord Mayor of Hounslow 1971

Jim, have you any reference books that give you the name of Hounslow’s Lord Mayor In June 1971?I’m trying to piece a newspaper article together from that date but the Mayors name is missing.

Paul Allen ● 6923d13 Comments ● 6914d

NEW ERECTION!

Anyone know what the newly erected tall post opposite 228,Twickenham Rd outside Redlees Park is?It looks like some sort of phone/radio mast & must have been put up over the last few days as I'm sure it wasn't there last Friday.

Kevin Farnan ● 6920d17 Comments ● 6915d

Mogden Legal Action - Latest

Dear Editor The Mogden Residents Action Group (MRAG) have asked me to post this on your forum.  It went out to the press a little while ago so apologies for the delay but I only have time for this sort of thing over weekends. However there may be readers of the TW8 forum who are interested in TW7 issues and who are eligible to join the Group Action for compensation. Dear Residents Complaints against Thames Water's Mogden operation for the first half of June have increased  by more than 700% on complaints for the same period last year. If Thames Water continue to operate the site in the same manner it is expected that 2005 complaints for June  will be exceeded considerably as odour management and mosquito control deteriorate. Residents'  complaints have been forwarded to Thames Water and Hounslow Council / Richmond Council  for investigation and response.Thames Water have advised that it will no longer respond to complaints received via MRAG. Hounslow Council have advised that there were no operational problems at the sewage works and it is not possible to provide an understanding and explanation for each odour complaint specific to the location particularly given the size of the site!!! In light of the recent massive increase in both odour and mosquito complaints we find these remarks quite astounding and they raise many  serious questions  but in the meantime MRAG have been asked if it is too late to join the Group Action Claim for compensation and an injunction.  We can advise that It may not be too late for you to join in the legal action but following the cut off date anyone wishing to join the Mogden Group Litigation will need to make an application to the Court for permission. If you wish to join please contact Hugh James Solicitors and ask to speak to one of the Mogden Team 01685 371122.Please remember to log your complaints via MRAG by email  complaints@mogden.org.uk  or mrag27@aol.comRegardsMRAGFor latest information on Mogden Residents Action Group go to OnLine Communities Ltd Website www.mogden.org.uk For News and Views on local community issues visit http://www.twickenham-online.co.uk/

Steve Taylor ● 6915d0 Comments ● 6915d

Hyde Park Calling Tickets 1/2 July

I have 2 weekend tickets for Hyde Park Calling. Saturday's highlight is Roger Waters/Nick Mason performing the whole of Dark Side of the Moon, and is preceded by bands including Texas, Starsailor and Lightning Seeds.Sunday's highlight is The Who, preceded by bands including Rasorlight, Zutons, Ocean Colour Scene, Primal Scream.See www.hydeparkcalling.co.uk for full details.The weekend tickets are £80 each, or I will split nearer the time for £42.50 per ticket per day (this is the cost price, and doesn't include the booking fee I paid)Please email me via the forum if you're interested (oh, and if England beat Ecuador, and play the next match on Jul 1st, I'm sure there'll be a screen showing it!)

Ann Haddleton ● 6916d0 Comments ● 6916d

Opera at Isleworth Public Hall: Wed 21 June to Sat 24 June 2006

Opera at Isleworth Public Hall: Wed 21 June to Sat 24 June 2006Isleworth Baroque presents...        ...a double bill of two short operas - Dido & Aeneas by Henry Purcell; Bastien & Bastienne by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.Isleworth Public Hall, South Street from Wed 21 June to Sat 24 June starting at 7.30 pm.Prices:Wed 21 June   £8.00 (concessions £5)Thu 22 June   £10.00 (concessions £7)Fri 23 June   £10.00 (concessions £7)Sat 24 June   £12.00 (concessions £10)Concessions are the usual ones - full time education, 60+ and people qualifying for means tested benefits.   We assume people know whether they qualify and do not ask for proof.EITHER Send a cheque for the amount (payable to Isleworth Baroque), to:Tom Beaton, Isleworth Baroque, 42 Church Street, Isleworth, TW7 6BG (write the number of tickets, date of performance, your name, address and phone number on a slip of paper or on the back of the cheque).OR call in at Deli-cacies, the little cafe/deli immediately next door to the hall.   They are selling tickets over the counter.OR in the final few days, reserve seats by phoning me on 020-8568 3756 so your tickets are ready to be paid for at the door.OR buy your tickets at the door on the night.   But we do sometimes sell out in advance, and those of you who know the hall will remember there can be a bottleneck at the desk and the more organised we are in advance the better.Venue.Isleworth Public Hall is in South Street, off Twickenham Road.   The H37 Richmond to Hounslow bus stops immediately outside and the 267 Hammersmith to Fulwell via Brentford and Twickenham stops round the corner in Twickenham Road (ask for Isleworth War Memorial).The bar opens at 6.00 pm as well as in the interval and after the show.Also on Saturday 24 June from 6.00 to 6.45 pm in the hall is a pre-performance talk, Bastien & Bastienne Revisited given by Laurence Slater.   This costs £3.00 (no discounts).Dido and Aeneas by Henry Purcell was written in about 1688.    It is based on a classic Greek story.   Dido is Queen of Carthage.   When Aeneas and his crew are shipwrecked in Carthage, he and the queen fall in love. However, Aeneas is called away by the Gods to found Rome.   Dido cannot live without him and kills herself (singing a beautiful lament as she dies).   The story also features lighter moments with malevolent witches and drunken sailors   This opera lasts about an hour.Then, after the interval, the much shorter...Bastien & Bastienne written by Mozart in 1768 when he was twelve is a light-hearted love story.   Bastienne, a shepherdess, fears that her dear friend Bastien's head has been turned by the local Lady of the Manor.   There follow a series of  misunderstandings, some engineered by the good magician Colas, whose wiles in the end fix everything for the traditional happy ending.   Although called an opera the tuneful songs are interspersed with spoken dialogue.So you see it's all good clean family entertainment.   And don't be put off by the word 'opera'.   The music isn't at all heavy!Isleworth Baroque is a group of enthusiastic amateur instrumentalists and singers led by professional musicians and enhanced for this production by some professional and semi-professional principal singers.Have you got any questions?   Post one here and I'll try to answer it, or call me on 020-8568 3756 or visit our website at www.isleworthbaroque.co.ukTom Beatonfor the Isleworth Baroque committee.

Tom Beaton ● 6925d4 Comments ● 6917d

Sheperd in Syon Park

I was cycling through Syon Park early last Sunday morning and had just passed the garden centre when I saw a man walking in the middle of the road,he had about eight collie dogs surrounding him.He was very weathered looking and dressed as a sheperd, crook and all.I did say good morning but there wasn't much of a response.Can someone please tell me they know or have seen this man and it wasn't some ghostly figure.

Anne Wiltshire ● 6919d6 Comments ● 6918d

O2 XDA Executive Phone avaliable

Hi my boyfriend got this phone on an upgrade, but he is happy with the phone he has alrady got, it has not been used and comes in its box as new. If you would like to see a picture follow this link:http://www.carphonewarehouse.com/commerce/servlet/gben-pd-ProductDisplay?S=40&PN=NETWORKS.DPALL&filter_partModel=O2XDAEXECHe would like to sell it for anything between £300-£350, it can also be delivered to you if you are local.It works on all UK Tariffs (Vodafone, T-mobile, Orange,O2)

Claire Hyams ● 6919d0 Comments ● 6919d

Local Charity Bike Ride next weekend

http://www.cycle25.org/route.htmltells me that the Chloe Catling Cycle Challenge ("Ride 25 gentle summer miles around London in aid of Cystic Fibrosis Research" ) takes place on Saturday June 24th with a start and finish at Isleworth and Syon school.The route goes via Syon Park to Dukes Meadows, off to Richmond and the towpath to Kingston and back through Twickenham. Unfortunately the diversions because of the St. John's Road bridge probably weren't known at the route planning stage so the route on the website seems to break the current arrangements.

Tim Henderson ● 6923d2 Comments ● 6919d

Brentford couple do london to briton bike for the premature baby unit

As a heat wave hits briton on sunday fathers day local couple Davey Graham and partner Laura Masters of Clayponds Gardens, Brentfordwill be doing the London to Briton Bike ride for THE PREMATURE BABY UNIT WEST MIDDLESEX HOSPITAL.Tommorrow 18th June 06Sponcers have started flooding in and its still not to late to sponcer them. you can do so by popping your sponcers in to Fantasy Land 61 ealing Road Brentford from 12-5pm Mon-Sat or email fantasyland@hotmail.co.ukWe wish them all the best of luck for tommorrow i will keep you updated on how they got on.

Debbie Dewar ● 6922d4 Comments ● 6919d

Say Cheese - you're on Camera

The Council magazine has an ad this week notifying residents that fines will be issued for minor parking offences caught on CCTV in the borough from 28th June. Any tips where these cameras actually are would be much appreciated.

Justin Harris ● 6920d2 Comments ● 6920d

Another Thames Water blunder or just plain arrogance?

The Mogden Residents Action Group (MRAG) has asked me to post the following in your Brentford forum just so that you can be prepared if you or your children are planning on visiting your neighbours in Isleworth or Twickenham TW7 during the holidays. (although you may be OK if you take a gas-mask)"Just as our schools start the Easter holiday and some of us take a break,  Thames Water has announced that it will start  draining down one of the Primary Settlement Tanks at Mogden Sewage Treatment Works on 3 April and you may expect an increased level of odour because of this work.  Incredible timing isn't it?   When one considers how previous Easter holidays have been ruined over the years by the unlawful odour from Mogden one wonders if this is yet another blunder by Mogden's management or simply another example of total lack of consideration for residents.In its latest newsletter Thames Water have finally admitted that it has only carried out 4 odour surveys at Mogden. This despite the fact that residents have been complaining for a decade. It is quite astounding that the first survey was only in 2002 some 15 months after the Abatement Notice was served in 2001. Also astounding that Thames Water has stated that odour at the site has reduced every year since 2002.  Not true we're afraid.  Results of the surveys actually showed that some of the processes showed increased odour year on year as the site deteriorated. Join the legal action against Thames Water now by contacting Hugh James Solicitors on freephone 0845 402 3257. Hugh James are taking cases on a 'no win no fee' basis and this high profile case is also being backed by the Legal Services Commission (formerly the Legal Aid Board).  Visit Hugh James website for more information www.hughjames.com or contact Mogden Residents Action Group by email at  complaints@mogden.org.ukThank you for your supportMogden Residents Action Group (MRAG) "

Steve Taylor ● 6998d32 Comments ● 6921d

girls bike required

anyone got a girls bike in good condition they dont need anymore for my 11 year old niece

Steve Fulham ● 6921d0 Comments ● 6921d

More Budweiser drinkers needed.  Earn £30 for chat.

Apologies to those of you who don't drink Budweiser and are getting bored of me!I need 20 or so more people to do market research this Thursday 1st June.4 groups of male beer drinkers who like football and drink beer including Budweiser at least occasionally.18-20 year olds at 6.1521-24 year olds at 7.1525-27 year olds at 8.1528-34 year olds at 9.15.In Hammersmith.  Anyone who has done beer research before is not eligible I am afraid.Please email me if interested asap.  First come first served.cheersJohn07949 008253jcmccooke@aol.com

John McCooke ● 6942d13 Comments ● 6921d

Isambard Kingdom Brunel – 200th Anniversary

As its Isambard Kingdom Brunel, 200th Anniversary should a plaque be placed somewhere in Brentford celebrating the fact that he built the Brentford Dock railway line in the 1850's. Close to the entrance to the Dock would be good.

Neil Chippendale ● 7016d9 Comments ● 6923d

Recommended "Greasy Spoons" in TW7 and TW8?

Matt's references to the cafe in Brook Road North seems to have triggered my nostrils into wondering where the best cafes are these days.For the past 33 years I've been driving around the area during the daytime..not quite so much these days though...and often wonder where the best cuppas are..and perhaps the fried breakfast too!The Boston Cafe has been there for yonks and its easy parking proved fine for that tea and sandwich interlude..but they don't do fry-ups.One favourite was Frank's Imperial Cafe in the way into Whitton..on the Hounslow Road. Back in the 70's the sound of Frank calling out the orders and cooking..together with the Pacman Amusements machine...kept many of use amused. Its a bit more upmarket these days..and good too.Then there's that small cafe tucked under the Bridge at Isleworth Station. Only been there once.Parking near cafes is a problem these days..and this can affect trade.Maria's near Hounslow Heath..tucked away in Carrington Square is worth a visit..the chips are good!Any recommendations?

Jim Lawes ● 7052d20 Comments ● 6923d

http://www.2for1entry.com/

Scroll down for 8 pages of 2 for 1 entry offers including London Zoo, Kew Gardens, City Cruises, Tower of London, Art Galleries and many more.... :)

Sarah Felstead ● 6923d0 Comments ● 6923d

Free Chips in the Park!

Losing your pet can be a devastating experience, which is why Osterley and Spring Grove Safer Neighbourhood Team is pleased to be supporting the fourth annual National Microchipping Month in June.  The Metropolitan Police, the Kennel Club and the National Trust will be holding “Free Chips in the Park” on Sunday 18th June 2006 at Osterley Park (in front of Osterley House) to encourage owners to get their pets microchipped as the preferred method of permanent identification. “Free Chips in the Park” will be held from 11am to 3pm and this is a great opportunity for local pet owners to discover more about the importance of microchipping. With thousands of pets going missing every year, implanting a microchip vastly increases a pet’s chances of getting home safely. It is an inexpensive form of identification that cannot be lost, altered or intentionally removed once implanted.  The process is quick and painless and will give peace of mind to the owner as they can ensure they are reunited with their pets sooner rather than later.  For vets, dog wardens, rescue centres, dog wardens, police and local councils it is a simple, practical and quick procedure that can help an individual owner and their pet. For further information, please contact:PC Chris LavenderOsterley & Spring Grove Safer Neighbourhood Team020 8721 2809

Chris Lavender ● 6923d1 Comments ● 6923d

Anyone local going to the World Cup?

My Wife and I fly out to Munich on Thursday to watch the opening game Germany v Costa Rica on Friday evening,and the following morning fly up to Frankfurt to watch the England v Paraguay match and back to Munich that evening.Fly home on the Sunday and the I am back to Germany on either the 15th for the Trinidad+Tobago game or the 20th for the Sweden game depending on what tickets we get allocated.

Paul Fisher ● 6936d30 Comments ● 6923d

England v. Trinidad and Tobago....what score do you reckon?

I say 2-0 to England, though more would be a nice confidence booster for the boys.

Keith Iddon ● 6924d7 Comments ● 6924d

Legal Action against Thames Water

The fact that so many people of Richmond and Hounslow (BCI Times 9 June) have joined the legal action for an injunction and compensation will have sent a clear message to Thames Water that the years of neglect and mismanagement of Mogden is just not acceptable. This action which is wholeheartedly supported by MPs Vince Cable and Ann Keen and fully endorsed by the ICG, whose members co-founded the Residents Action Group, is the culmination of years of evidence of just how badly managed the Mogden site is and how little interest has been shown by Thames Water managers in taking adequate remedial action. It is true that following legal action Thames have indicated that some steps to alleviate the problem will be taken and work, we are told, will commence in July. However, as the Times article reports, Thames tried every trick in the book to appeal the fact that its 'premises' are in fact premises under EPA 1990 and to defend its right to process sewage in the middle of a densely populated area without concern for the people whose lives have been blighted almost daily for decades. When considering Trevor Whittall's letter in BCI Times 9 June edition, it will be of grave concern to residents to know that even though Thames Water had told Lord Whitty that it would take £72 million to partly cover some of the site, and even though Ofwat eventually only approved £43 million, which Thames admitted to Vince Cable would only reduce odour by about 50%, indications are that Thames are hoping to do the job (possible 50% odour reduction) for possibly £35 million (and pocket the balance?) MP's, Ofwat, Defra, Local Authorities, Ward Councillors and residents must ensure that this is not allowed to happen and in the meantime residents should be aware, from past experience, that when work starts at Mogden next month, odour will no doubt escalate and the end result in 2008 will not be a significant improvement unless pressure on Thames Water is maintained to complete the job properly as was done at its flagship site and HQ near Reading.

Steve Taylor ● 6928d2 Comments ● 6924d

Modernise the Forum?

I find this forum very interesting but the technology seems a little dated. Every other Message board and Forum allows you to scroll down and read every post. It takes a long time to click back and forward finding the new posts. Has this been raised before? Is it worth contacting the moderators?

Justin Anderson ● 6943d11 Comments ● 6925d

Turbocharged bicycle

A new invention to speed up your bike or moped using readily available parts. See next post............

Ian Silver ● 6925d1 Comments ● 6925d

Any Ideas?

Hi Everyone..How are you all? I am OK.Shivon is Still in Hospital (4wks now) but doing GREAT and put on LOTS of Weight which is Good and hopefully be Transfered to G.O.S.H soon.She says to say hello to everyone especially to Jean.Anyway Ive got an Idea in my head to raise some cash for Starlight Children's Ward to purchase them the DVDs they need as you remember I told you a few weeks ago that the Mayor bought 10 new DVD/TV Combos for the Children's ward but they are VERY short of DVD's..So i thought of an Abseil down a VERY tall Building to raise some money for them.And i am asking you great people on here to help me pull this off by helping me with the following.AbseilSuggestions of a TALL building to do it fromSomeone who has the Equipment (professional) who will give there Time etc free of charge.and most importantly if I can kick start this Some sponsorships.Anyway I will leave it in your Hands to see if you can come up with Ideas etc for me.Many Thanks Guys and I hope your all enjoying your day.Simon

Simon Anderson ● 6925d0 Comments ● 6925d

We don't need a starbucks/nero/coffee republic etc..

I was in the Weir the other night and there was a whinging lady in a suit saying how crap Brentford is because it still hasn't got a proper coffee culture atmposphere as with most regenerated areas of London. This was reason for her not to buy a flat in the area and look to Ealing instead!I simply had to butt in say to her that we have at least two very decent local home grown coffee shops, one at the lock and one on the high street and both had great customer service and coffee that was probably far superior to the burnt tasting muck Starbucks serves up.  I also said that Brentford people could manage well enough without one of these coffee chains rogering local business enterprise.It got me thinking with the on-going redevelopment of out high street is there anything we can do to keep the creeping of these national chains away from us and stop the high street from becoming "High Street Anywhere."  The people of Primrose Hill managed to stop Nandos and Starbucks from opening places.  I know we are alot different, but I'm thinking ahead here.  Should we not be quite vigilant at this point in time that the on-going changes to the High Street won't turn it into Chiswick Part 2, crammed full of the same old names that make it that little bit less interesting.  The Evening Standards' Save our High Street Campaign has highlighted the problems faced by high street areas regenerating. So what do you all think?

Conal Stewart ● 6945d16 Comments ● 6925d

How much does it cost to replace a paving slab?

I have spoken to the council 4 times about a van parked on the pavement.  There are 5 newly smashed paving slabs under the wheels and area it is parked on.  The first conversation I had they wanted to send somebody out the check which needed replacing (this is the 'paving slab replacement' scheme the council runs, otherwise known as 'bottomless pit' or 'lets take the money from somewhere else to fund this service, Inc').  After I said that I though that they ought to charge the builder, I was put through to another number.  The man said he couldn't go around straight away !!!(he was a bit more blunt about it that that) there are plenty of green men buzzing around booking poeple stopping at the local shopping parade who aren't damaging community property.  He said it would be 1 or 2 hours.  The next day the van was parked in the same place so I left a message on the answerphone for parking enforcement.  The next day I rang again (wasn't so happy in the message I left this time) and guess what?!  The van is parked in the same place today!  Either the builder is taking a fortune in parking tickets or no-one has responded...you guess.  The whole road is clear of cars so why park on the pavement?  Oh yes, because they can get away with it ..and the paving slab replacement scheme picks up the tab.....

Sarah Felstead ● 7553d240 Comments ● 6926d

We love Brentford really..it's just difficult sometimes!!

Aren't we lucky to live in an area where there is an on-going puzzle in our minds to try to work out how best to improve the place!Now that we are supposedly moving into a new era..with a new members on the Local Area Committee..perhaps there's a chance to give some parts of dear Brentford and Isleworth a jolly good tidy up. I'm sure that would be noticeable and beneficial to us all.Nigel spearheads our enthusiasm to clean up the river embankment..can we also not sort out some of the landside horrors.  Some people should be empowered to tour the streets, clearing deposited rubbish and eyesores..and have the authority to have a word with the people responsible.  A matronly figure comes to mind!!After Matt and Alan and friends have spent time clearing up their local park at St Paul's..they should have the authority to roar at people who are seen to mess up the place again.  I believe that a very clear message should be sent out to all residents..and youngers to keep the place tidy..and let then know that big Brentford is watching and avoid the good work of many being spoiled by the damage by the few. It's time for action..I suggest.I've seen ugly sights in both Brentford and Northfields today..and I've been rattled! I spoke to several people today about throwing their litter from stationery cars..and they got the message. The litter mess outside the Bricklayers Arms added to the experience.Perhaps I should have go out of my car and gathered it all up.Employees of the local authority..or their outsourced partners...should be making sure that the place is spotless!! And that includes Sarah's pavements too. Too many people are getting away with too much. Rant over. Where shall we start the tidying up?  Civic Pride is the rallying call remember. We'll do our bit..but its those scalleywags we need to tackle.Are those teams of people on probation or  doing Community Service penalties available to help? Not the one's who turn up for Service and often help the aged etc....the absentees I mean.

Jim Lawes ● 6943d20 Comments ● 6926d

Re: St. Paul's Recreation Ground - This Saturday

All, Due to the recent success of the last clear up day in St. Paul's Rec, we are calling for as many volunteers as possible to come along this Saturday and help mulch the new bed along the childrens play area.Should you be able to spend as little as 30 mins helping out in this local park, please come along at 10am and meet near the drinking fountain. If you have any questions or queries about the mini event, please contact me directly. Kind regards Ben Community and Funding Officer CIP Parks and Open Spaces 020 8894 2677ben.ahmed@cip.org.uk

Ben Ahmed ● 6939d11 Comments ● 6926d

Trains strikes and World Cup

Was chatting to a member of the station staff on the way back from work yesterday. I commented that the industrial action last week didn't seem to have had much affect and asked should I expect the same this week. He said don't worry about today (he was right) but Thursday would be a problem. The turnout is apparently going to be much higher because of the England Trinidad game. He then told me to watch out for disruption on the following Tuesday when the signal workers are going on strike. By a truly stunning coincidence this is the day of the England vs. Sweden match.If you are hoping to bunk of work early to watch either of these games it is probably a good idea to have an alternative route or stay near your work.

Dan Evans ● 6926d2 Comments ● 6926d

40's Dancing, any female partners out there?

Hi everyone. I have a problem [only one you cry?] I am sort of stuck in the 1940's, the music, the clothes even the cars. I learnt to jive at Maddys Jive school [Great fun if you are looking for something different and you dont need a partner either!] Well that was some time ago, and now I'd like to do Balboa and Lindy Hop and even the foxtrot. I also go to a variety of 40's events, train rides, re enactments etc. [ I hope this doesn't sound sad ]Unfortunately my dance partner has a new boyfriend who doesn't dance and doesn't want her to either. Strange but true. So I'm looking for someone who is or would be interested in getting involved. I'm looking for someone with lots of energy and less that 5.7" You need to be pretty agile too! If you dont dance yet then I can help with that.PS you must like dressing up and you mustn't mind your mates thinking to are mad /crazy /sad.e mail me at paul.wilson36@virgin.net

Paul Wilson ● 6927d0 Comments ● 6927d

another one for Jim - old Brentford Market

Apparently Brentford Market was on the site of the now Fountain Leisure Centre near Kew Bridge, but there was a pub on the site that kept market trader hours similar to those in Smithfield etc. Does anyone remember the name of the pub ??

Kevin Ridsdale ● 6932d17 Comments ● 6928d

New Website Launched for Isleworth Residents

A fantastic new Forum has been set up today for Isleworth Residents.www.isleworthtw7.comWork is still to be done in some areas but its up and running so please feel free to log on and start discussing issues for Isleworth as a whole.

Simon Anderson ● 6928d0 Comments ● 6928d

Today's result ....what do you reckon?

I reckon(though I hope desperately that we win)that it will be a 1-1 draw.

Keith Iddon ● 6929d6 Comments ● 6928d

Bus  incident

Drove past the church on the high st and a police car and ambulance attending to someone lying face down outside tyre shop.Bus was empty(271 I think).No doubt we'll hear more soon.

Keith Iddon ● 6932d1 Comments ● 6929d

Is Rooney fit now?

Apparently his foot is ok but there is still concern in the England camp................

Ian Silver ● 6930d2 Comments ● 6929d

The New Council

The recent Borough AGM brought to an end a long period of Labour Party control. The Council is now being run by a coalition of 23 Tories and 6 Independent (Isleworth) Community Group (ICG) Councillors, with support from 2 of the three Independent Alliance councillors. (Labour now has 24 Councillors and the Lib Dems 4).  The new executive which will run the council is made up of 7 Tories and 2 ICG members. The leader will be Chiswick Tory Peter Thompson; his deputy is Feltham Tory Mark Bowen. ICG man Phil Andrews has joined the Tories on the Executive, he is widely tipped to get the Housing portfolio, the alternative being suggested is Mark Bowen.  Despite votes against by the Tories, the new Lib Dem leader Andrew Dakers was elected to the West London Waste Authority with the support of the Labour members and abstentions from the ICG. The ICG blocked the appointment of our own Labour Councillor Matt Harmer to the board of Brentford Dock with a last minute nomination of one of their new Syon Councillors. Brentford Labour Councillor Ruth Cadbury will continue to be involved on various committees concerned with Heathrow and aviation issues.. The deal with the Tories to give (former Lib Dem, now Independent Alliance) Cllrs Hills and Nakamura position on the Feltham area committee will no doubt keep them locked in for a while. We are certainly in for interesting times. Will the Tories be able to control the ICG and deliver on their manifesto commitments? Are the ICG taking a big political risk by getting into bed with a Party know for cutting services? Will we see the ICG supporting the privatisation of Council services? Will the ICG agree to cut services in Isleworth and Brentford to fund reductions in parking charges in Chiswick? How long will the Coalition last? I wish them luck, it is important that the good work done by Labour is not destroyed just to settle old scores or because of Tory low tax dogma. We will see..

Alan Sheerins ● 6945d78 Comments ● 6930d

Cllr Paul Fisher elected Chair of Brentford Area Committee

With some 31 people in the audience tonight, Cllr Paul Fisher (Community Isleworth), was elected Chairman of the Isleworth and Brentford Area Committee (in his absence!!)Cllr Jonathan Hardy(Community Syon) was elected Vice Chairman. What a start to the meeting!!So Paul will Chair Monitoring meetings and Jonathan will Chair planning meetings. Jonathan  did an impressive job tonight and his style of verbal delivery provided everyone with a competant umbrella under which to participate. The setting is very comfortable...the Free Church Hall in Boston Manor Road..and the team/committee looked live and well..and it all was a treat.  In a line..Ruth and Matt (Lab)....Sheila, Barbara and John (Con)...Genevieve,Caroline and Phil (Community)...Andrew (Lib Dem)..and finally Jonathan in the Chair.   (Paul and Shirley sent apologies)Personally I was most impressed by all the input by this group...and several were outstanding. If only you had seen how hard they work!But most of all, the Civic Centre's Head of Development Control, Cathy Gallagher was amazing. She was on the go all evening...aided by an assistant on the AV..She introduce each subject,and responded to all of the Councillors' questions and observations...in a very competant and knowledgeable way. It wasn't boring at all..An education in fact.Kath took the minutes at 100mph and there were other administrators there too.  News about the Lucozade advert, planned security shutters at the old Isleworth Odeon, the ugly unaccepted plans for the Alfa-Laval site (there used to be a cricket pitch on that land once!)..the plans for Isleworth Kings Arms Pub were all discussed.That developement in Thornbury Road..the ugly shop front..got the chop..but most of all it was the Alfa Laval site proposals that were the major concern. Those plans were rejected. Poor Bernadette would have been alarmed..but there is hope that the Brook Road North/South pedestrian bridge over the railway will be sorted out one day...a new straight one ..no bends..or hidden corners!!The Committee..and the Council are much concerned by the illegal flourescent adverts on the Great West Road..and this will be a main task at the next meeting. Andrew mentioned the Las Vagas comparisions..with all the coloured lights.  Barbara said that this main thoroughfare..both into and out of London..and through our area..should be developed into something we are proud of..and not less.I think this group will go places!

Jim Lawes ● 6930d1 Comments ● 6930d

Argentinian Defense tactics

A picture from the last world cup....see next post

Ian Silver ● 6931d2 Comments ● 6930d

Chiswick dominated executive bad for Brentford?

Some will argue that the shift in power to the east is just what the borough needs.  I myself am worried about Chiswick councillors marginalising Brentford here in the middle where there clearly there is no tory audience of any sort to keep happy. I'm not best pleased that the Lib Dems abstained and I'd like to ask Andrew Dakers what he felt this would achieve for us? What was the Lib Dem groups' reason for doing so?The very first thing this Tory-ICG partnership will do is rummage the parking policy cupboard. I wonder what Phil Andrews thoughts are on this prospect.There are very good reasons why Chiswick should have higher parking charges than the rest of us and I bet they'll throw this out and look after themselves. I don't see why any of us here in Brentford should pay the same charges as Chiswick residents. Chiswick is an area which is undoubtedly afflicted with much more serious parking pressures than the rest of us and clearly takes more resources and therefore more finance to manage. Stands to reason that they pay more for their own troubles.Just what will happen next?

Conal Stewart ● 6945d55 Comments ● 6931d

Recycling

Anyone any ideas why the LBH recycling cannot take broken glass or drinking glasses ?  I have asked the question of ECT recylcing and will share their reply when received.

Pat Kingham ● 6933d8 Comments ● 6932d

Red Lion Pub Isleworth

I've just been reading the CAMRA newspaper "Whats Brewing". Inside was an insert listing pubs for sale. It included The Red Lion, one of the great real ale pubs in the area.I hope who ever gets it doesn't change the pub.

Neil Chippendale ● 6933d3 Comments ● 6932d

Recycle your Cartridges and Help west Middx Hospital

Do you have any old Inkjet Cartridges or Laser toner cartridges?Then why not give them to West Middx Hospital and Help Raise Money for the Hospital.Every Cartridge they receive they get £1 for which goes to the Hospital.For More Info contact:0800 435576 quoting "NHS West Middx bags"Email: info@inkagain.co.ukwww.inkagain.co.uk and click on Trust Schemes under Collection programmeThanks

Simon Anderson ● 6933d2 Comments ● 6932d

Matt Hamer featured in the BC&I Times today

Congratulations to Cllr Matt for being the subject of a well deserved half page article in todays issue of the Brentford, Chiswick and Isleworth Times.Have you seen it?It was written by Estelle Marais.45p from your local newsagent..or free at the Library!ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooAlso, my old Chiswick school friend..and footballing colleague from years gone by..Peter Busby...has achieved the distinction during the past two weeks of having TWO letters published in THE TIMES national newspaper.  Peter lives in Isleworth.They were both amusing observations on firstly Elections...and secondly about John Prescott.

Jim Lawes ● 6937d7 Comments ● 6933d

Anyone need any plastic flower pots?

Clearing up and have quite a few various size plastic pots - free to anyone who can use them.

Ian Silver ● 6933d0 Comments ● 6933d

Anyone need a pull-out keyboard shelf?

Hi,I have a wooden keyboard shelf which fits below the top of the desk.It slides in out of sight when not in use. Very useful as it frees up desk space. Is anybody interested in making an offer for it please? I can email some pics of it if you require.Regards,Ian.

Ian Silver ● 6933d0 Comments ● 6933d

Anne Keen's web site

Just saw her picture in the "Biography" section.Re-touched or what? Howls of laughter. Up close she looks like a bag of spanners.

Ian Silver ● 6935d7 Comments ● 6933d

Springtime (a fractal)

Ian Silver ● 6934d15 Comments ● 6933d

Bad Parenting

See next post for disturbing evidence...........

Ian Silver ● 6934d4 Comments ● 6933d

Deprived of crime ?

Looking at the BBC reporthttp://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/london/5036308.stm on "Air pollution in parts of London exceeds EU targets by up to 50% and is endangering health, a study suggests."I couldn't believe that Hounslow wasn't listed and looked for the source of the data.Eventually the trail lead back to a site :http://www.neighbourhood.statistics.gov.uk/dissemination/where I was sidetracked to see what neighbourhood I belonged to and what statistics it might have.Apparently lots !Included in the bog of information were measures of deprivation and I was surprised to find that my bit of Syon ward (Lower Layer Super Output Area Hounslow 014D)found itself ranked no 357 out of 32482 on the list of most deprived areas for crime.Syon ward seemed to be made of six LSOA's and all the others were much more middle range (014E 11768, 014C 4622, 006E 4156, 003E 3777, 006D 13486 - all out of the total number of 32482 LSOA's in the country). Unfortunately I was unable to find easily whether this was a good thing or a bad one. Am I in an area with the top 1% worst crime or least crime ?Or does the computer make the figures up by itself ?Still the ward maps were excellent !Tim

Tim Henderson ● 6934d0 Comments ● 6934d

Bore Holes in Brentford - Any Info??

Hi,Does anyone have any knowledge of any bore holes that have been or are being drilled in Brentford or the surrounding areas, either for a water supply or for a heat pump?Apparently there is one in the High Street somewhere but I don't know exactly where. Any info appreciated.

Ian Silver ● 6935d5 Comments ● 6934d

Cheating Husbands

[url=http://upload.enetation.co.uk][img]http://upload.enetation.co.uk/uploads/147a8c8f79.jpg[/img][/url]

Ian Silver ● 6935d4 Comments ● 6935d

Fantasy Land  fancy dress shop opening day today

hi all just a reminder that my shop opening day is today saturday 3rd june  12-5pm if any of you are passing please pop in to say hello Dont forget world cup goodies are on sale thanks Debbie xxxxxxxx

Debbie Dewar ● 6936d4 Comments ● 6936d

Our MP Mrs Keen's website..some improvements at last.

In response to some of the criticism I have made about Mrs Keen's website..spelling mistakes, errors, and goobledegook..I'm pleased to see that some corrections have been made..and that there seems to be an endeavour to tell us more about her programme.Matt and Hugh said that they would follow up on the matters I had listed in various threads on the Chiswick Forum...and maybe that worked. It was long overdue.There are still some howlers lurking there.... have a look!www.annkeenmp.org.uk

Jim Lawes ● 7122d46 Comments ● 6936d

2nd June...Its somebody's birthday!!

Happy Birthday Cllr Paul Fisher..and don't get too pickled...you've got 4 years hard work to do!!

Jim Lawes ● 6937d6 Comments ● 6936d

MRAG keeps up pressure on Thames Water

Sir,Your readers will be aware that the deadline for registration for the group legal action against Thames Water is today Friday, 2nd June. We have been advised that there is a directions hearing about the case at the end of June and a possible hearing of major legal issues in October this year.We will not, however, be sitting back whilst the case goes through the court process. We may not be able to change our water and sewage operator. However, Thames Water is owned by the RWE group which owns other utilities such as npower. I have, therefore, taken the step myself of switching my electricity and gas supplier from npower. I have saved myself money in the process and transferred to a company with more environmentally sound sources of electricity production and sent an open letter to Thames Water and npower executives telling them of the reasons for my decision. If anyone wants to know how they can do the same, please write to us at Mrag27@aol.com or at 345 St Margarets Road, TW1 1PW for details.People have suggested to us that after the OFWAT decision to allow Thames Water to spend additional funds, raised by increases in water rates, that the battle is over. However, the money allocated by OFWAT may not be enough and does not address issues of management. Furthermore, past experience and recent evidence suggests it will not spend all the allocation of £43 million set aside for work at Mogden, but will stick some in its back pocket.On the back of last year's huge rise in water rates, Thames Water is expected to announce huge increases in its profits this month. In spite of this, it has the worst record for loss of water via leakage in the country and refuses to commit itself to solving the problem at Mogden. It is this which led us to conclude that the legal action was necessary and that the battle to ensure that enough money is spent at Mogden to cure the problem is not over.Trevor WhittallChair, Mogden Residents Action Group

Steve Taylor ● 6937d0 Comments ● 6937d

Red sky at night........

....shepherd's delight!It should be fine tomorrow... if tonight's sunset was anything to go by.And the big road closure in Brentford has finished too..and so the Great West Road should be much clearer...in TW8.See picture next message.

Jim Lawes ● 6938d1 Comments ● 6938d

6pm news  The London Road is now open for through traffic

That was a big surprise at 6pm to find that the road works had gone!!..just the pavement works remaining.   All the lads had buzzed off..forgetting to move the ROAD CLOSE signs at the Busch Corner location  So I moved them.I then checked at the Brentford Half Acre end. Good the barriers had been removed. But..outside Brentford Police Station... the NO RIGHT TURN sign addressed to traffic coming down Boston Manor Road was still there causing perhaps confusing. Certainly it was now inappropriate.Traffic approaching Busch Corner from West Middlesex Hospital area may alsonot be sure about the change.   Some buses did..and some didn't.Another job out the way. Sent in the bill lads and we'll sort out payment.  £250,000 !! ??? You must be joking.   Seriously how much would that Water Leak exercise cost the Water Board..or TfL?

Jim Lawes ● 6938d2 Comments ● 6938d

is the high street still closed in places?

we are going to the fete today - have you drove through brentford this morning and is it still closed off - if yes then whereabouts exactly is the closure? anyone thanks

M Dowling ● 6943d17 Comments ● 6938d

Dig out your old bikes for Cameroon - collection June 12th-17th only

For one week only, Re-Cycle, the charity that sends bicycles to Africa, will be collecting bikes in London to donate to a project in Cameroon.If you have an unwanted bike, bike parts or tools then please take them along to:100 Vauxhall Walk,London SE11(near Vauxhall tube station and opposite Walkers books)The premises will be open from: Monday 12th June to Friday 16th June 11am - 3pm and Saturday 17th June 10am - 6pm Dig out your old bikes and take them along.Help will also be needed to prepare bikes for shipping (removing pedals and turning handlebars) and loading so if you could spare a couple of hours and can use a spanner Re-cycle would be really pleased to see you.For more information please phone 020 7793 1110Re~Cycle  ~  The Bicycle Charity   Reg No  1063570Unit A, Global ParkMoorside, EastgatesColchester CO1 2TWTel    0845 458 0852or      01206 863111E-mail: info@re-cycle.orgwww.re-cycle.org

Catherine Woodman ● 6939d3 Comments ● 6938d

Brentford Sorting Office

My son today went to the Brentford Sorting Office to collect a "parcel" that the postman deemed too large to fit through the letterbox even though it was no larger then a standard letter! and also a registered letter which needed signing for but now appears lost since the postman took it back!!They told my son they will have a look for it later and "if" they find it,they will try to re-deliver it. Unbeleivable or has anything similar happened to you?

Paul Fisher ● 6940d3 Comments ● 6939d

Breaking News - Martin Allen resigns as Bees Manager

http://home.skysports.com/list.asp?hlid=391110&CPID=11&clid=94&lid=5&title=Allen+resigns+from+Bees

James de Vivenot ● 6940d4 Comments ● 6940d

British Waterways Brentford Lock Waterside Fesitval

I hope everyone will come and enjoy the event.  Some very interesting things planned.

Conal Stewart ● 6959d71 Comments ● 6940d

Anyone need a slide out computer keyboard holder

Hi,I have a wooden keyboard shelf which fits below the top of the desk.It slides in out of sight when not in use. Very useful as it frees up desk space. Is anybody interested in making an offer for it please? I can email some pics of it if you require.Regards,Ian.

Ian Silver ● 6941d1 Comments ● 6941d

..GOOD CLEANER.....

I AM RELIABLE,RESPONSIBLE POLISH WOMAN.I AM LOOKING FOR SOME CLEANING JOBS.I AM WORKING FOR 4 ENGLISH FAMILY NOW(CLEANING AND IRONINNG).I AM ACCURATE,HARD WORKING AND I AM HONEST.I HAVE VERY GOOD REFERENCE.IF YOU NEED GOOD REGULAR CLEANER SEND ME E-MAIL,PLEASE.MY ADDRESS E-MAIL jolamikolaj@yahoo.co.uk   THANK YOU.

Jola Mikolaj ● 6941d0 Comments ● 6941d

Brentford Farmers Market

It appears to be dying a slow and lingering death. Can anything be done?

Ian Silver ● 7251d40 Comments ● 6943d

What is happening Brentford High Street this morning?

Have just tried to go through and it is all cordoned off by police and traffic is of course horrendous! I have 3 hungry cats as I couldn't get to the pet store!!!!

Linda F Wright ● 6945d33 Comments ● 6943d

Chip and Pet

June 2006 is National Microchipping Month.Are you a dog owner?Is your furry friend microchipped?If the answer to the second question is "no", then why not get them chipped for FREE at our next crime prevention event?The Osterley and Spring Grove Safer Neighbourhood Team are holding an event in Osterley Park (in front of the house) on Sunday 18th June 2006, in partnership with The Kennel Club.Between 11am and 3pm, bring your dog along to Osterley House and we will implant a micro chip a free. If your dog is recovered after being lost or stolen, the chip immediately identifies the owner and you will be reunited with your pet.Contact your Safer Neighbourhood Team for more information on 020 8721 2809 or be emailing us at Osterley.SNT@met.police.ukChris Lavender PC291TXOsterley & Spring GroveSafer Neighbourhood Team020 8721 2809Osterley.SNT@met.police.uk

Chris Lavender ● 6944d1 Comments ● 6944d

Crime Statistics

Sometime ago I tried to get our Local Labour Councillors and the Police to do somthing about the appalling level of crime in Brentford. I even organised a meeting at the Lord Nelson Pub at which our Councillor and the Police asked local people to join what they called a Crime Cabinet. Since then no one has heard from either our Councillors or the Police crime comtinues at levels even worse than before and it is worthy of note that one set of published statistics on this web site showed that crime in Brentford was worse than any other London Borough. The residents of Enfield Walk have given up on the promissed kissing gates to stop motor bikes using it as cut through and theives as a getaway route. None of this should come as shock when the borough Police Commander Ali Dizael stands byand watches a young man who went to the aid of woman being attackedcharged while the thug is allowed to walk off and while one member of the Council Committee for Isleworth and Brentford was worried that the gates proposed for Enfield Walk would stop vehicle access it was clear that she did not even know where Enfield Walk was or that vehicles apart from motor cycles cannot access it anyway. I think any fair minded person would agree that both our local labour Councillors and The Police have demonstrated a level of contempt for the residents of Brentford which is quite unparallelledin my exprince. So please bear this in mind when they come knocking on your door asking for your vote

Robert Ayres ● 7004d12 Comments ● 6944d

What a refreshing change

I have been away a couple of days with my work and returned to a new TW8 Forum.Some very interesting and informative threads with postings that are well reasoned,intelligent and just as importent debated in an extremely civil manner by everyone.Lets hope that we can all put a lot behind us and move on?

Paul Fisher ● 6944d5 Comments ● 6944d

Crime Prevention on a Plate

I would like to thank everyone who came along to Tesco in Syon Lane on Sunday 21st May 2006 and took part in our "Crime Prevention on a Plate" day.The event was a great success and we managed to secure the number plates of 185 cars, despite the rain!Chris Lavender PC291TXOsterley & Spring GroveSafer Neighbourhood Team020 8721 2809Osterley.SNT@met.police.uk

Chris Lavender ● 6944d1 Comments ● 6944d

Disabled Parking

Why is it always the disabled who suffer at the expense of mismanagement.  People cannot help being disabled, but to penalise them to pay for a badly run parking scheme is just not on

Diane Woodham ● 6945d3 Comments ● 6944d

Kew Bridge development

I'm not a regular on this site so apologies if I've missed a recent thread when searching the archives but...does anyone know what the latest word is with respect to the Kew Bridge development?  Is it definitely going ahead?  Are there any known timescales? I've just moved to Strand on the Green and so it's just a few hundred yards away.  Thanks

Tony Whyte ● 7030d38 Comments ● 6944d

Watch your Bike?

Whilst visiting my Sick daughter today at West Middx Hospital someone Stole my Mountain bike.It happened between 330-10pm from a Bike Shed Between the Main Hospital and Lakeside Mental Health unit.Of all the bikes there they took mine.I am VERY upset over this has i really on a bike to go to the hospital and back to see Shivon who is Very ill and going threw a VERY bad personal issue at present.also whats happening in my private life Regarding My Children this happens its sick.Its a Silver 18sp mountain bike with Back and Front Suspension and front and Back Mudguards if anyone see it please contact me or if anyone is getting rid of a Mans mountain Bike please get in contact please.Thanks

Simon Anderson ● 6947d10 Comments ● 6944d

Baby Tyzja is of the life support machine

hi all many thanks for all your kind messages for my baby girl she has been very ill with a bad astmah attack which left her in such a bad way we were transfered from west mid to great ormond street where she was on a life support machine in the intensive care unit with a part collasped lung and 9 tubes in her tiny body it was horrific to say the least. she is recovering still and has been aloud home this eveing but we have to go back in a few weeks for many tests.this has been the worst week of my life.thank you to ina for always standing by me shes one in a millionDebbie

Debbie Dewar ● 6947d11 Comments ● 6944d

Residents Associations

I am trying to get in contact with management committees of both the Brent Lea R.A. & R.O.S.E. Does anyone know how I can contact them? I have been down to the community halls, but there are no contact details. Has anyone got a name & address I can write to?

Andrew Gilroy ● 6946d6 Comments ● 6945d

LB Hounslow residents named as 'conned' voters by ERS report

Last Updated: Thursday, 25 May 2006, 10:16 GMT 11:16 UK  BBC 'Wrong parties' won local polls  Voters did not always get the council they chose Many people did not get what they voted for in this year's local elections, electoral reform campaigners say. There were six councils in London where the party with the most votes did not take the largest number of seats. In Barking, the BNP gained 12 councillors to the Conservatives' one, even though the Tories won more votes. The Electoral Reform Society said: "It is no wonder so many people failed to turn out when the voting system so distorts their political voice." The six London councils where the party with the largest share of the vote did not win were Haringey, Kingston, Islington, Camden, Brent and Hounslow. The ERS, which campaigns for proportional representation, said the "wrong party" also gained the most seats in areas outside London, such as Birmingham and Bolton. ELECTION SCOREBOARD Councillors Councils   PARTY +/- TOT +/- TOT   CON 316 1830 11 68  LAB -319 1439 -17 30  LD 2 909 1 13  OTH -2 240 0 0  NOC - - 6 66  After 176 of 176 councilsNOC = No controlFull results  And there were many councils where there is not a single Conservative councillor despite the party securing a significant share of the vote. Labour suffered the same problem in Sutton, the ERS said, and the Lib Dems in Westminster, while "The Green Party continues to suffer a similar fate in many areas". "Under the current voting system, a single party can achieve dominance on a council despite securing a minority of the votes cast. "This is bad because it means there is no effective opposition and little proper scrutiny of the decisions being made," the ERS said. 'Desperate need' In the London Borough of Newham Labour won 90% of the seats with less than 42% of the vote. Britain's political system is in danger of "meltdown" if major changes are not made, the independent report says Political system faces 'meltdown'  In many areas the result was a foregone conclusion, the ERS added. Nationally, the Conservatives took the largest share of the vote and elected 1830 councillors. The Lib Dems came second in share of the vote, returning 909 councillors. Labour, which came third in share of the vote, elected 1439 councillors. ERS chief executive Ken Ritchie said: "These local elections once again show the desperate need for a change in the way we elect our councillors." Scotland is moving to a system of proportional representation in the 2007 local elections but a similar move has been ruled out for England. A cross party group of more than 60 MPs is campaigning for a referendum on changing the electoral system, at both a national and local level. They have backed Labour MP David Chaytor's Electoral Choice Bill, launched last November, but it stands little chance of becoming law without government support. Accountability Of the three main parties, only the Liberal Democrats actively campaign for electoral reform. Labour's 2005 manifesto says the party is committed to reviewing the new electoral systems which were introduced for the Scottish, Welsh, and European parliamentary elections and the London assembly. But it adds that a referendum will be necessary before there is any change in Westminster elections. Ferdinand Mount, vice-chairman of the recent Power Commission which examined why many people do not bother to vote, has joined a Tory policy review group on democracy, chaired by the former cabinet minister Ken Clarke, which will draw up reform proposals next year. At the Power Report's launch earlier this year, Mr Mount described himself as a convert to proportional representation, "not so much because it is fairer than first-past-the-post but because it is the only way to galvanise the parties to canvass every ward in every seat". But Mr Clarke has indicated he is against proportional representation, on the grounds that it would lead to larger council wards and less accountability._____________________________________________________________________So I take it that the Lib Dems should have won Brent, Haringey and Camden.  The Tories Kingston and Hounslow and Labour Islington?

Conal Stewart ● 6945d3 Comments ● 6945d

BBC World cup advert

Whoever put this advert together must be too young to remember the football stadium fire where the cameras kept rolling with that poor policeman walking across the pitch with his hair in flames.  We tuned in as the fire was being beamed out live.Which stadium was this at?

Sarah Felstead ● 6947d7 Comments ● 6945d

P.A System

Does anybody have, or know about a small P.A system? I'm looking to start an open mike night for singer songwriters in Brentford.Thanks in advance.

Justin Anderson ● 6948d2 Comments ● 6945d

Baroque Rock comes to The Six Bells

URL=http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d1/liquidanderson/THEYFLYER.jpg][IMG]http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d1/liquidanderson/th_THEYFLYER.jpg[/IMG][/URL]

Justin Anderson ● 6952d12 Comments ● 6945d

Borough Meeting tonight

The first Hounslow Borough meeting since the Local Elections takes place this evening at 7.30pm and should be very interesting.If you cannot make it to the Civic Centre then there is the excellent Webcast provided to watch it all at http://www.hounslow.gov.uk/index/hounslow_webcast.htm

Paul Fisher ● 6947d32 Comments ● 6946d

The state of Politics in general

I found this on the ChiswickW4.com site thought the people and politicians of Brentford might be interested. I have included some of my own thoughts on the subject at the bottom. I don’t expect them to be popular.I have just been finding out about the proposed act of parliament that jeopardises our parliamentary rights in a very basic way.  The Legislative and Regulatory Reform Bill going through Parliament now, would give government the right to make new laws and alter existing ones without going through parliament. Yes, that’s right.  See the Times article below, which sums up the situation well.If ever there was a time to write to your MP...Here’s the link to contact your MP (it figures out who that is for you), which takes literally a couple of minutes.   http://www.hoojum.com/LARRBPass it on if you feel so moved.The Times February  21, 2006“The boring title of the Legislative and Regulatory Reform Bill hides an astonishing proposal. It gives ministers power to alter any law passed by Parliament. The only limitations are that new crimes cannot be created if the penalty is greater than two years in prison and that it cannot increase taxation. But any other law can be changed, no matter how important. All ministers will have to do is propose an order, wait a few weeks and, voilà, the law is changed. For ministers the advantages are obvious: no more tedious debates in which they have to answer awkward questions. Instead of a full day’s debate on the principle of the proposal, detailed line-by-line examination in committee, a second chance at specific amendment in the Commons and a final debate and vote, ministers will have to face at most a short debate in a committee and a one-and-a-half hour debate on the floor. Frequently the Government will face less than that. No amendments will be allowed. The legislative process will be reduced to a game of take-it-or-leave-it. The Bill replaces an existing law that allows ministers to relieve regulatory burdens. Business was enthusiastic about that principle and the Government seems to have convinced the business lobby that the latest Bill is just a new, improved version. What makes the new law different, however, is not only that it allows the Government to create extra regulation, including new crimes, but also that it allows ministers to change the structure of government itself. There might be business people so attached to the notion of efficiency and so ignorant or scornful of the principles of democracy that they find such a proposition attractive. Ordinary citizens should find it alarming.” IM not sure what the point in writing is, if your MP cared about your civil liberties you would not need to write they would be stating the case already. We the British people would still be able to marCh on parliament as apposed to just cheering when other nations do it The last legal protester against the illegal war on Iraq would not of been moved out of Parliament Square.  Lambeth Council would not of stopped the march for the re legalisation of Cannabis by simply refusing to let them have the forms needed to apply for the right to march. One would not have to submit the text of your speech before being allowed to speak at censured (formerly known as speakers) corner.Nobody in Parliament would be stating that the EU Human Rights Act was 'bad' for Britain and the UN human Rights act, written by the British would have been ratified into British law and you and I would have rights under it. Democracy is dead in Britain and the British are to stupid to notice, I would suggest starting a revolution but that would simply result in detention without trail under the Terrorism (Suss) laws. Still you have to laugh, its all part of growing up and being British, Subjects of the Crown as apposed to Citizens of a free Country

Philip Walsh ● 6951d6 Comments ● 6947d

Dodge City, TW8....

Saw the police roping off the entrance to Syon Lane station tonight 9.30 and an ambulance present.It seems to be getting like Dodge City around here if you count up all the violent incidents that have happened in the last year or so...maybe it's time to use some of the extra council tax gathered locally from all the new flats to pay for the police stn. to open 24/7 to reduce response times and to have a greater police presence when needed.Has anyone else received the questionairre sent out by the local police regarding issues on local crime etc. I have spoken to a couple of people and none of them received it.There seems to be a mounting level of criminality around here,:the recent assault on the 3 men opp.Commerce rd,the lady who was assaulted on the canal tow path and the muggings there,the robberies in the subway at Gillette corner,the taxi driver assaulted on York Parade,and there are quite a few more if you follow what is happening in the parish.Depressing, isn't it.....?

Keith Iddon ● 6971d48 Comments ● 6947d

what people think of the redevelopment plan

Hi!I've been living in Brentford for more than a year and I'm surprise of all the nice hidden places Brentford has. I especially like walking by the Gran Union Canal. However I wonder wheter this is going to change due to the redevelopment that is going on.I am actually a student in photography and the project I'm working on is about Brentford and what the people in the area think about that.I'll be mainly working on the project this and next week, so if you have any opinion let me know. If I get enough support I could further this project to the local council.

Kezia Michielin ● 7010d39 Comments ● 6948d

Porn addicts in Brentford

According to Google people living in Brentford are 7th in a list of towns/cities, worldwide, that have the most number of hits onto porn sites. Top city is Birmingham.http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/west_midlands/4768647.stm

Neil Chippendale ● 6956d14 Comments ● 6948d

Burglary Lock Up Well

My Nighbour and his wife in enfield walk awoke at 5am Sunday to find a burglar in there cottage armed with knife who threatend to stab them unless they stood aside and let him go. Very sensibly they did so and were very shaken but unhurt. The burglar had gained access through a very small fanlight window downstairs at the front of the cottage. Of most concern was that this burglar came armed with a knife and was ready to use it.

Robert Ayres ● 6948d3 Comments ● 6948d

St. John's Road Bridge Closure

The implications of this on traffic are only just becoming clear to me after seeing the maps in HM. (I did wonder what was happening to the Zebra Crossing on London Road that is now no longer in use - preliminary works I guess).However the timescale for the diversion differs :The Brentford & Isleworth C'tee Agenda notes athttp://213.210.33.3/Published/C00000215/M00003090/AI00024134/$StJohnsRoadBridgeReportreceived160306.docA.ps.pdfsay "mid May for six months"but looking at TfL Journey Planner yesterday indicated that it was from "0900 Tuesday 30th May until Wednesday 28 February 2007 ".Do TfL know something more or are they just covering themselves for a few more contingencies ?Well more traffic chaos encourages me to use the bike, I suppose.Tim

Tim Henderson ● 6949d3 Comments ● 6948d

The Forum contributions of "" William E Hughes""

I cannot recall Mr William E Hughes making any contributions to this Forum other than ....IMHO....continuous unpleasant remarks about the Independent Community Group...and perhaps me too.Is it possible for him to introduce a New Topic..or submit messages to existing threads that would enhance our understanding and appreciation of Brentford?If, as has been suggested, his real name is something else..he would appear to be breaking the rules of engagement here..and ,in my opinion, he should be named and banned.So, Mr Hughes..be friendly ..let's hear more about you.

Jim Lawes ● 6956d27 Comments ● 6948d

Pilates in Brentford

Can anyone recommend a good pilates class in the area? I prefer mat work to equipment based classes. Has to be in the evening.

Nicola Brown ● 6949d1 Comments ● 6948d

Why won't this site's operators respond to emails

I have contacted this site on the email link they provide repeatedly over recent weeks regarding two issues. One was a defective link on the home page - still unresolved; the second regarding their offer to place a 20 word mention for local businesses in the ads section.At least 10 emails sent and not a single reply or even acknowledgement received.Inefficient and discourteous to say the least.

Ian Silver ● 6950d20 Comments ● 6948d

Last chance to claim against Thames Water

MRAG has asked me to post its Press Release on this ForumMRAG urges residents to think carefully and act before deadline closes Over the last few months, MRAG has continued to report residents' complaints to Hounslow and Richmond upon Thames Councils. Reports of foul smells and mosquitos continue unabated, but it has become clear to us that the councils have limited powers to act in the short term as they wait for a four year programme of compliance to be carried out by Thames Water after the victory by residents and Hounslow Council in the courts two years ago. MRAG chair Trevor Whittall made it clear that "Residents want to feel that they have an effective avenue of complaint whilst this work is done. The only way for residents to force more urgent action by Thames Water is for them to join the private nuisance action which was started by local residents in 2004. There is, however, very little time left if you want to join this action." Local residents Steve Taylor of Isleworth and Barry Edwards, of Kilmorey Gardens who were witnesses in the previous court case agreed "Thames Water have to commit their own resources to this problem, not just those of (water) ratepayers. The court case can achieve this."Hugh James, solicitors for residents who want to pursue a claim for nuisance against Thames Water will be holding an open day on Wednesday the 24th of May 2006 for people to register claims before the 'cut off date' on the 2nd of June. The open day will take place at the North Try Line conference room at Twickenham Stadium from 1pm onwards.Their Solcitors will be available to answer questions and register claims. A short meeting to provide an update on the case will be held at 7pm with an opportunity to ask questions afterwards.Trevor WhittallChair, MRAGemail:  mrag27@aol.comSt Margarets RoadTwickenham

Steve Taylor ● 6949d0 Comments ● 6949d

IF YOU NEED GOOD CLEANER......

I AM RELIABLE,RESPONSIBLE POLISH WOMAN.I AM LOOKING FOR SOME CLEANING JOBS.I AM WORKING FOR 4 ENGLISH FAMILY NOW(CLEANING AND IRONING).I AM VERY ACCURATE,HARD WORKING AND I AM HONEST.I HAVE VERY GOOD REFERENCE.IF YOU NEED GOOD REGULAR CLEANER SEND ME E-MAIL   jolamikolaj@yahoo.co.uk   THANK YOU.

Jola Mikolaj ● 6949d0 Comments ● 6949d

Children DVDS

Hi a couple months ago The Lord Mayor purchased 10 new TV/DVD combis for Starlight Children ward but they are VERY short of Children DVDS.So if anyone has any spare Children DVDS they don't want that the Children's ward can have please either contact me or send them to.The PlayroomStarlight Children's wardWest Middx HospitalCheers

Simon Anderson ● 6950d2 Comments ● 6950d

crime and safety meeting mon 23/01/06

at the town hall south street Isleworth 7.30 pm all are welcomeISLEWORTH CRIME AND SAFETY FORUM MEETINGMonday May 22rd  7.30 pm at the Isleworth Public HallOn the agenda : Ivybridge road safety/signage Our New community Police officers Dangerous driving on the Twickenham road West Middx Hospital: increased crime ratesCars using Worple road and lower square as a cut throughCrime, assaults and anti-social behaviour/robberyOld Isleworth traffic calming finally underwayChris Mclean's office developmentsLatest on safer neighbourhood Police teams.Reports on other residents’ meetings attended by PC McLeanPc Chris Mclean will be in attendance as usual.

Graeme Perkins ● 6951d1 Comments ● 6950d

Borough Road College,Chiswick Grammar,Jim Biddle and athletics....

On hearing of the death of someone you have know in earlier years..it is amazing how ones mind becomes filled with memories. The image of that person gets lodged and lingers all day in that magical and amazing mind of ours.Today is such a day. There is news in the Brentford & Chiswick and Isleworth Times this morning of the passing of my old PE teacher at Chiswick Grammar School in the 1950's...a couple of months ago at the age of 83 years.  James (Jim) Biddle was so fit,capable,strict and seemingly indestructable..that illness and death was the last thing one could imagine for him. He was the great leader and inspiration of athletes at Borough Road College in later years..and many Olympians are indebted to him. He later served on national and international committees.Several websites have Obituaries. Old Meadonians of the 50's and Borough Road College ex students will be surprised to have heard the news and will be saddened.Any local sportsmen remember Jim Biddle?Do a Google search on JIM BIDDLE and several websites will mention his passing ..and details of his life.

Jim Lawes ● 6951d0 Comments ● 6951d

A380 to fly over Isleworth tomorrow (18 May)

Airbus's new giant airliner, the A380, is paying its first visit to Heathrow tomorrow, Thursday 18 May, and is due to land at 13:20 BST.It will be using the southern runway (27L), which means that it will be flying directly over Isleworth and Hounslow.  At the time, all other planes flying into Heathrow will be using the northern runway, so a direct comparison of the A380's noise with that of other aircraft will not be possible.  Nevertheless, I'd be interested in the reaction of any Isleworth residents to its noise, which is supposed to be rather quieter than a Boeing 747-400 jumbo.

Richard Jennings ● 6953d18 Comments ● 6951d

What are his rights over Hounslw homes tenancy

My brother who was originally housed by Hounslow Council as a vulnerable person has found himself coming under increasing pressure from the powers that be at Hounslow Homes to sign their housing contract.  The new contract seems to give him much less security of tenancy than he has with his existing agreement that he has with Hounslow council. As I understand the law, it is not legal to change his housing contract without his agreement, which he will not give and I do not blame him.  Surely it must be illegal for Hounslow Homes to badger a vulnerable person over this issue when he has consistently refused to give it for several years now.  If there is any one out there that can advice please reply on the forum or email me direct As I believe he has  recently been given some more forms to fill out, I'm not sure what they are as yet as I haven't yet seen them. He has also been told to attend an appointment to discuss his tenancy. It all seems very dodgy to me, but there again having spoken to many of their tenants everything about Hounslow Homes and the handing over of council stock seems very dodgy to me!

Philip Walsh ● 6952d3 Comments ● 6952d

An expensive lesson in how NOT to rewire

The Boroughwatch team appear to have excelled themselves with this week's installment of Hounslow Homes contractor capers:The Mess in the Westhttp://www.boroughwatch.blogspot.com

Lawrence OConnor ● 6954d1 Comments ● 6952d

Great West Road closed? Westbound...Hounslow.

To help those currently planning to travel down the Great West Road..be warned..I am told by a colleague.Following an accident on the GWR this afternnon..between Sutton Lane and Vicarage Road westbound..the road has been closed for some time.Detours via Hounslow,Lampton and Heston are troublesome.M4 should be Ok.

Jim Lawes ● 6954d6 Comments ● 6952d

IF YOU NEED GOOD CLEANER......

I AM RELIABLE,RESPONSIBLE POLISH WOMAN.I AM LOOKING FOR SOME CLEANING JOBS.I AM WORKING FOR 4 ENGLISH FAMILY NOW(CLEANING AND IRONING).I AM VERY ACCURATE,HARD WORKING AND I AM HONEST.I HAVE VERY GOOD REFERENCE.IF YOIU NEED GOOD REGULAR CLEANER SEND ME E-MAIL jolamikolaj@yahoo.co.uk    THANK YOU.

Jola Mikolaj ● 6953d0 Comments ● 6953d

Fulcrum Challenge - 2006

Hello, I am Alex Felstead and I have just won a place on the Fulcrum challenge, Heathrow 2006.I have to raise £1950 via fund raising in order to complete the Challenge. Every year students who take part in the Challenge rely on generous sponsorship or financial support by friends, family, the public and businesses.Can you help me?  I need donations and I also need contacts within companies which might be prepared to make a donation – and any suggestions as to how I could raise this money would be gratefully received!Please read on …

Alex Felstead ● 6954d3 Comments ● 6953d

Malcolm Richards on the local election

I thought this article from Malcolm Richards was refreshingly a refreshing change from all the talk of corruption, vote-rigging and political bias. It is nice to know that someone who has covered the local political scene for decades believes we have usually managed to elect decent committed people.Malcolm Richards was editor of the Richmond and Twickenham times for over thirty years.*******The Malcolm Richards Column: A cross in the right box can move mountainsBy Malcolm RichardsLocal elections are not only a judgement on how local communities are faring but an indication of the popularity of Parliament.Although there has been little evidence in this area that the BNP threat - Labour's current concern - will have any material input, next week's result will offer evidence on Mr Blair's standing and there will be clues on whether David Cameron's greener caring policies have caught the public imagination or if the execution of Charles Kennedy has done permanent harm.When the Conservatives took over in Richmond upon Thames four years ago they broke a Lib Dem 18-year run.Prior to that the Conservatives had held sway in the old boroughs for as long as anyone could remember and were represented in Parliament by high profile MPs like Jeremy Hanley, Sir Anthony Royle and Toby Jessel.It is on the cards that Labour's lack of representation in Richmond upon Thames is set to continue in May but this will have minimal impact on the tussle between the Conservative and Lib Dem giants. What will be more telling is if Mr Cameron's tactics capture voters' hearts as this must be one of the most environmentally conscious corners of the metropolis.It is significant that Marc Cranfield-Adams, who is standing for the Lib Dems in North Richmond Ward, is a Conservative defector and that his former colleague and ex Mayor, Douglas Orchard, has gone in the opposite direction by standing in South Twickenham as an independent with Ukip sympathies.Hounslow has been dominated by the Labour Party with substantial majorities since the 70s.Signs of nationalistic racism which emerged in Isleworth through Phil Andrews and his cronies faded away when they created the successful Isleworth Community Association and appeared to abandon their xenophobic tendencies and concentrate on genuine home grown grievances.It is unlikely that the two National Front candidates standing in Feltham will cause a significant upset, but the breakaway group which has the backing of John Connelly, a former Labour leader fielding 16 candidates under the banner of Hounslow Independent Alliance could upset an apple cart or two.Thirty years ago Hounslow was returning Conservative MPs to Parliament and had control of the boroughs. Some of their MPs, like Barney Hayhoe, held high office. Dudley Smith was a senior executive and journalist with the then influential Sunday Express.The character of the western end has changed radically in the last two decades and the Asian vote is now a decisive factor. The result will be an indication if support is faltering from what has been a consistently loyal sector.There is a lot of cynicism about local democracy and the increasing apathy is defended with jibes about politicians being self seeking and corrupt. But as the viewpoint column in this newspaper reminded readers recently - many lives were sacrificed to ensure that adults have the right to vote.It is unfair to suggest that everyone who seeks public office is doing so to feather their own nest or boost inflated egos. The vast majority genuinely want to ensure we live in a just, fair and efficient society.Certainly the reputations of Tony Arbour and Serge Lourie in in this respect are impeccable.Similarly Hounslow leaders, Conservative Peter Thompson, Labour Colin Ellar and Lib Dem Ray Fincher have shown consistent beneficence.It is the wild cards and fringe parties who emphasise the true value of a democracy and viewpoint has highlighted the valuable contribution the late Richard Meacock made to the local political scene - providing a master class on how the public can keep politicians on their toes.His passion over the resurrection of Richmond ice rink was inspirational. The Lib Dems' failure to prevent its closure or to get a replacement rink constructed was their blackest hour.Local elections should be about local issues and the rink was - and is - for it served both Hounslow and Richmond upon Thames boroughs and provided a much needed outlet for youthful energies which can otherwise turn to violence and vandalism.The defectors and single issue fanatics make local politics colourful and interesting.They remind us that low taxation, cleaner roads and better schools are not the only things that matter to local communities and that a cross in the right box can move mountains or sometimes defrost crucial decisions that have been evasively put on ice.

Mike Hardacre ● 6971d11 Comments ● 6953d

A day in the life of a councillor

This topic was sugested by sarah and as such deserves meritthe idea is that ALL our councilors can inform and educate us as to how they are involved as cuncillors and local politics whether they be newbies or old hands

Graeme Perkins ● 6960d22 Comments ● 6954d

Brentford FC Family Funday THIS SUNDAY

Sorry for shouting but it's short notice.This Sunday, 21st May between 12 - 5 pm at Griffin ParkBrentford FC Community Sport Trust is host to the Family Funday, with lots of football, bouncy castles, stall, fun for all and licensed bar.Free entry to allA flyer can be downloaded at http://www.brentfordfitc.org.uk/Downloads/fundayflyer.pdf Please stick it up in your front windows and email it on to all.Thank you and look forward to seeing you there!