Forum Topics

Time called on Balraj finally?

As he previously turned up just in time to avoid forfeiture, it looks likely that he has made a miscalculation on his calendar and will finally be ousted. That is of course, unless Labour say that the breach of the Act was de minimis if he turns up to the January council meeting or they offer him special dispensation. If they cared about residents of the ward they would be doing everything they possibly could to get him out.

Kenneth Seally ● 316d82 Comments ● 174d

Help - floor tiler required.

Has anyone got any contacts/recommendations for someone who can lay a ceramic tile floor in our porch? Let down last week by a company, so would be grateful for any suggestions.

Vanessa Smith ● 183d1 Comments ● 176d

How much for a ticket at New Cinema

At last a new cinema.But the report does not mention the regular ticket prices.We go to the one in Kings Cross or Chelsea as wife gets a company perk ( a bit like Waterman's had with GSK employees.But a normal ticket ( which I have to get) is never less than £20. and the concessions are £18.50So it's not really going to be affordable to the average person in Brentford is it?The lovely place in Chiswick is super but super expensive too.Or is there a different local pricing that got omitted from the report?

Raymond Havelock ● 252d32 Comments ● 183d

Guy Lambert blog fact check

Some lazy assumptions this week, councillor.The Windmill Road junction does indeed see large puddles in heavy rain, although the genuine flood issues that plagued that part of the road some years back are long gone. However, to blame this on people’concreting over their gardens’ is a bit of a stretch.Perhaps you should ask the ever-reliable Thames Water to investigate the drains there. Given the appallingly shoddy construction of Performance Point on that corner the chances are that there’s a substantial amount of concrete and other debris blocking up the sewers. It’s happened before.You might also want to point the finger at your council’s own planning department. Just up the road is Reynard Mills, which has a vast expanse of tarmac and concrete approved by your planning committee. Contributing to those overworked drains, no?I look forward to the increased flow out of the Churchill House development when its concrete and tarmac are added into the mix.As for rowing in Brentford, well a lot more could be done to support Team Keane. One suggestion made to the brains behind the GSK redevelopment is to give the club space adjoining the canal so that more schoolchildren can enjoy the benefits of rowing and canoeing with them. While I don’t enjoy your continuation of the class war, I agree that as a form of exercise it should be more accessible for all. After all, Britain’s greatest tower didn’t have a private education. Perhaps you could pursue this.Other than that, it was a reasonable read this week.

Simon Hayes ● 229d7 Comments ● 198d

Three cheers for the Royal Mail 1st Class!

I posted a greeting card with a 1st Class stamp at 4.30 pm yesterday at the "gold" pillar box outside Isleworth Post Office on the London Road ... and wished it well and a safe journey.Blow me down ... it safely arrived at a remote house on the Outer Hebrides this morning!Just 16 hours later! That really is first class. Well done Royal Mail (Jubilee Mail Centre and the Stornoway Delivery Office)

Jim Lawes ● 201d1 Comments ● 200d

Parking Permits

Anyone know why my Hounslow CPZ permit- which cost nothing last year- has suddenly increased to £90 a year? It's the same car...

Mark Gormley ● 213d6 Comments ● 207d

ISLEWORTH THROUGH THE AGES illustrated talk

posting on behalf of - The Friends of Isleworth Public Hall Inviting all to enjoy a Social Afternoon on Wednesday 9th April 2025. Doors Open 1.45pm for a 2.15pm Illustrated Talk “Isleworth Through the Ages” by Christine Diwell3.15 p.m. RefreshmentsAt Isleworth Public Hall, South Street,  TW7 7BGEmail: members.foiph@gmail.com Tel. 020 8744 0663

Rob Kemp ● 210d1 Comments ● 209d

Foxes

As lovely as the foxes are to see, I have noticed they are now climbing and sleeping on the cars in our local area. Sadly my vehicle has been badly scratched. Has anyone else had this issue?

Jai Williams ● 235d15 Comments ● 214d

Well done to Theo

Really pleased to see Theo win the Syon and Brentford Lock BY - Election and let us all hope that it gives the local Labour Group a well deserved wake up callCongratulations also to Max Mosley who retained the seat for Labour in Brentford East by a pretty good margin and very interesting to see Reform come second beating the Conservatives in to third place

Paul Fisher ● 223d9 Comments ● 216d

London Irish to return?

There is a very interesting thread on the Chiswick forum at the moment about the possibility of London Irish coming back to Brentford. Both sides of the argument seem to have a good grasp of the details.I would love to see it happen. For many people who can walk to the ground it is difficult to get tickets to see Premier League games if you are not a season ticket holder so I think a much higher proportion of local residents were at the rugby fixtures. For me this made me really value its presence. I prefer football and went a few times a season to Griffin Park but you take what you can get.

Jeremy Parkinson ● 237d5 Comments ● 216d

Filming Parking BRS Zones Closed to Residents

So what looks like more than 1/2 of BRS parking zone has been closed off for filming. Brook Road, Lateward Road and Breamer Road plus part of Mafeking. Where are all the cars going to fit. I do hope Hounslow has arranged for BRS passes to be accepted in other zones?Also, residents should be due a partial refund. Charging locals and filming companies is double booking.

Jai Williams ● 225d10 Comments ● 218d

GSK Building plans set to be revealed

We are about to find out exactly what is planned for the massive GSK site.The developer has set up a www.hellobrentford.co.uk and is holding exhibitions next month.They do say that the plans are largely set. It looks like they might be willing to make minor changes but that is it. If you are hoping to see any further details on the project web site, get set for disappointment.

Kenneth Seally ● 321d23 Comments ● 219d

Tomorrow's Bye-Elections.

One wonders how high the "Turn Out" figures will be. Hopefully more than the usual 30%.Shame that there are so many Candidates up for election ...instead of having a "two horse" race.That David Kerr chap seems very positive, active and bright. He says that support for him was encouragingafter a well supported door-knocking exercise.Would he provide the "Shake Up"required?

Jim Lawes ● 225d15 Comments ● 223d

Brentford Voice ‘Local Conversation’

A meeting will be held at Brentford Free Church on the evening of Thursday 27 February 2025 in the form of our ‘Local Conversations’. Primarily it will be a review of Brentford Voice’s work in 2024 and its plans for 2025. All are welcome.The church will be open from 7 pm and tea/coffee and cake served. The meeting will start promptly ay 7.30 pm and finish around 9 pm. It's not essential, but if you are planning to come along then do please let us know by email to info@brentfordvoice.co.uk so we can plan for numbers and cake!

Jim Storrar ● 232d0 Comments ● 232d

LBH Wasting Money and Community charge rise

No wonder our community charge Bills are rising nearly 5%, when the CEO of LBH is going to earn in the region of £200k which is a lot more than the PM. Plus LBH spent over £30K on defending a Sudanese Channel crosser who the Home Office said was in his mid 20s yet LBH claimed he was 16 years old and therefore a child.

David Cook ● 238d0 Comments ● 238d

Is the anyone in Brentford looking for sell their house?

Hi everyone,I currently live in Brentford and am looking to buy a two- or three-bedroom house with a garden. I haven’t come across anything on the market that quite fits what I’m looking for, so I thought I’d reach out here.If you’re thinking of selling, or know anyone who is, I’d love to connect! Feel free to get in touch.Thanks!

Melanie Marks ● 248d1 Comments ● 244d

My pack of Polish beetroot soup ...CONTAINED A MOUSE!

I'm not joking.Please see my report on the Forum of Chiswickw4.comAdvice needed!

Jim Lawes ● 342d9 Comments ● 249d

Our M.P.

Report in today's 'i' paper that the only M.P. to challenge Rachel Reeves on her growth plans, specifically a third runway at Heathrow, at a meeting of the Parliamentary Labour Party last night, was Ruth Cadbury.

Vanessa Smith ● 260d14 Comments ● 250d

The Albany Parade debacle

Just catching up with this issue and well done to Cllr Lambert for highlighting it. Looking in from the outside this seems to me like a classic case of councillors and council officers with limited or no commercial experience misunderstanding what is needed by local businesses and not being familiar with rules and regulations outside local government. The changes in the centre of Brentford have been very welcome but if there isn't a core of long established, local independent businesses at the heart of it, what has been created will have no soul.

Jeremy Parkinson ● 286d21 Comments ● 252d

Brentford newsagent - daily deliveries of newspapers

Please, any suggestions of Brentford newsagents that deliver newspapers seven days week.

Chris Dakers ● 265d1 Comments ● 258d

M&S coming to Brentford?

I know these articles appear very often and there may not be much substance to them but Brentford appears to be ticking some boxes for M&S. The suggestion is that it would be a Simply Food outlet rather than a full line store so it could be just a shop at a petrol station.https://www.mirror.co.uk/money/ms-shares-wish-list-over-34247090

Kenneth Seally ● 314d15 Comments ● 262d

235 Bus

I am really surprised seeing the history of this bus that no one recently has commented on the appalling service at each end of the route. At the Sunbury end most stop at Sunbury Cross or Lower Feltham which for most of use has no effect but with time distances of up to 35 minutes to Great West Quarter and at times 4 buses at at Busch corner. Surely the operator is in breach of their contract. I've heard of  the road works at Green Lane now  finished and batteries needing charging. As an excuse. Used to be the bollards at GWQ but these have been down for ages.

David Squire ● 274d5 Comments ● 264d

Can I get some answers Ruth Cadbuey

You and your party have been in power for 6 months and so far you have achieved the following:Taken winter fuel payments off the pensioners when the price increased by 10% and knowing there will be further rises in AprilSeen food prices all but doubleVoted against an inquiry into the grooming, abuse and rape of children by organised gangs of PakistanisHidden the truth about the Southport killer who your Government knew was a terrorist  Crashed the economy by telling the world there was an imaginary black hole which you created by paying the unions anything they wanted.Then increasing employers national insurance which only a moron wouldthink would not lead to job losses, cuts in investment and training.Continue to allow illegal migration to reach unprecedented levels putting a burden on the taxpayer of 9.8 billion per year (oh! is that half of your black hole}  Creating one new quango every week since you came to power.So,Ruth,can you tell me if you are proud of yourself and your party's record so far.

Robert Ayres ● 279d15 Comments ● 272d

Dog Bombs

Is it just me or is going for a walk in Brentford now like trying to swerve mines.I have recently moved back to Brentford after having been away for a couple of years. I have started taking some what used to be nice walks along the canal, Syon park, etc. I just can’t believe the amount of little brown bombs waiting around every corner. Are dog owners just not bothering anymore? Now don’t jump down my throat, I know most owners are responsible and pick up after there dogs. I can’t be the only person to notice.

nicholas bagnall ● 275d1 Comments ● 275d

Great West Road History - book by James Marshall  Message:

See article on front page.Just to say I bought this book as a Christmas present for family member and he is loving it.  Wield worth getting hold of a copy.

Sarah Felstead ● 280d1 Comments ● 279d

Over 60 and a bit unsteady?

Hounslow are offering a 'Stay Steady and Active' event at the Fountain leisure centre on January 22nd 10-1.https://steadyandactive.co.uk/new-year-steady-and-active-event/

Susan Kelly ● 281d1 Comments ● 280d

Cllr. Lambert resignation.

Cllr. Guy Lambert has finally had enough, and it has been reported that he now resigned form the Labour Group. Whilst trying to help the business owners from Albany Parade finally get settled into the new premises further along the High St.in the new development, as they were expecting, Cllr. Lambert seems to have met with total intransigence from the powers that be at LBH. Even asking for the Leader and Deputy Leader to meet with him on Jan. 3 in an effort to resolve this appalling situation has met with a rebuff, apparently these two oh! so important individuals are citing 'family commitments' preventing them from putting in an appearance - really? People's livelihoods are on the line here, and whilst tomorrow may be short notice, shouldn't putting in a big effort to try and get this situation moving by the very people whose responsibility this is, be worth juggling a few things around to make it possible? What an indictment of the council Leadership  - simply appalling. With the big money goes big responsibilites.    

Vanessa Smith ● 286d5 Comments ● 281d

Happy New Year

Is there a problem with the forum on this site? The last posting is shown 24 December. I hope 2025 is a good year for everyone with good health and happiness.

Pat Kingham ● 288d4 Comments ● 285d

Cllr. Lambert suspended from Whip

I see from Guy's blog that having been summoned by Hounslow's version of Judge Jeffries court, he has been suspended from the Labour Whip for eight weeks. Don't you just love this display of democracy in action, who are any of them to sit in judgement? This council owes more to the Kremlin when it comes to openness and transparency, they don't even want us to be able to access their consultations without jumping through numerous hoops, and won't give us an answer as to why this is felt necessary. Obviously we all disagree form time to time, but a council that can't respect an honest view from one of its longer serving members needs to ask itself what they are all frightened of.

Vanessa Smith ● 320d35 Comments ● 295d

Is there a pong around Brentford?

The "Ealing Today" websiteis in the same family as BrentfordTW8.comOn their front newspage there is a Report about raw sewage being despatched directly from two small housing estates into the rivers Brent and Crane. These rivers flow downhill towards the River Thames ... and in the case of the River Brent through Brentford and alongside new homes.Not to spoil your evening meal ...I'll leave it there

Jim Lawes ● 335d16 Comments ● 299d

All change in Clifden Road, Brentford!

The Methodist Church in Clifden Road ,opposite the old Swimming Baths,was closed down some months ago and was "put on the Market"An interesting observation todayis that the building is to be relaunched as a Baptist Church.It will be the "London Baptist"It will have a South Korean flavour... and is an exciting addition for that Community.New Malden is a key location for the South Korean community too. It's where they have another Church ...which is well attended.

Jim Lawes ● 300d1 Comments ● 299d

Builders

Does anyone know of a reliable builder who is willing to do a small job?I'm having some new windows fitted but the window people have said that there is a small area of brickwork above a rear upstairs window which needs a bit of work before they do the fitting.I've contacted a couple of people but they don't seem to be interested.Help!

Alison Robins ● 308d0 Comments ● 308d

Service Charge - Ferry Quays

HI, I am interested in buying a flat in Ferry Quays, I am first time buyer so I am quite nervous about it. I love the energy of Brentford. I am just a bit worried that the service charge in Ferry Quays is quite high at the moment but most of the agents don't seem to know why or what is going to happen. I heard from someone that there was a kind of agreement with the management company to reduce it in the future but honestly, I haven't found much more. I would love if someone could give me a better idea of what is happening. thanks!

Andres Puentes ● 385d18 Comments ● 308d

TfL Progresses West London Orbital Line Feasibility

https://www.financial-news.co.uk/tfl-progresses-west-london-orbital-line-feasibility/"The West London Orbital (WLO) is poised to bridge a significant gap in London’s transport network.This 18km line will connect Hounslow to Hendon and West Hampstead across four boroughs.A feasibility design stage, led by TfL and Mott MacDonald, has been successfully concluded.Challenges include funding uncertainties and infrastructure complexities on existing tracks.New stations are planned, enhancing connectivity and addressing future public transport demands........ "

Tim Henderson ● 329d5 Comments ● 311d

Part time admin wanted

Work from home.Approx 3hrs / weekBasic excel and telephone skills needed.Long term position.£15/hr.Apply info@copthallhealth.co.uk

David Powers ● 312d0 Comments ● 312d

BE PREPARED FOR A DAY FILLED WITH FESTIVE FUN AT THE BRENTFORD CHRISTMAS MARKET

This year’s annual Brentford Christmas Market will be taking place on Sunday 15th December 2024, from 11am - 5pm, offering an exciting day of festive fun for all the family. The seasonal celebration will be hosted by The Brentford Project, Johns&Co, Brentford Voice and acclaimed events company, T&T Markets, and will take place in three locations around Brentford High Street – Market Place, Bradshaw Yard and Workhouse Dock.There will be over 40 stallholders for guests to explore – as well as Duke of London’s ever-popular classic and supercar car boot sale – selling everything from Christmas crafts and gifts to festive food and drink. Throughout the day, there will also a busy schedule of entertainment and live performances, including the opportunity to meet Santa and his reindeers - it will be the perfect day to help get you into the festive spirit. Stallholders include:• Plonkers, which will be serving up festive drinks• Victoria & Me, providing vegan wellness products such as candles, oils and bath salts • Maternal Serenity, which will be offering reflexology and maternity wellbeing• Afia by Design, providing African print textiles• Layers Bakery, selling bakery and pastry products • Flossy Bears, selling candy floss and other delicious sweet treatsA range of newly opened retailers in Brentford will also be inviting guests to explore what is on offer, including waterfront restaurant Sam’s Waterside, local independent bookshop Hewson Books and homewares shop Mother Rugger. Alongside the market stalls, there will be an impressive programme for the whole family to enjoy throughout the day, including an opportunity to meet Santa and his reindeers – thanks to Johns&Co - face painting and a showcase of car eye-candy from classic and supercar hub, Duke of London, who will be hosting its ever-popular classic and supercar car boot sale throughout the day, selling vintage clothing, automobilia, artwork and vinyls. There is also an opportunity to win tickets to the Brentford vs Nottingham Forest Premier League game on 21st December with Johns&Co Christmas competition – all you’ll need to do is guess how many baubles are in the Johns&Co car, positioned in Market Place. There will be various prizes on offer, make sure you don’t miss out. There will also be a series of live performances from local singers taking place on both Market Place and Bradshaw Yard, including local choirs St Faith’s Players and Mad About Gospel Choir, who will be entertaining the crowd with festival carols, plus performances from The Hey Las and Marky Dawson. Grab your friends and family and get ready for a day filled with festive fun – we look forward to seeing you there! Full event schedule: Sunday 15th December  Time Performance 11:00 – 11:30 Eel Pie Two (Market Place)11:30 – 12:00 Sing Star Children’s Choir (Workhouse Dock)12:15 – 13:00 Marky Dawson (Market Place)13.00 – 14:00 Mad About Gospel Choir (Workhouse Dock)14:00 – 14:30 Gospel Choir (Market Place)14:30 – 15:00 St Faiths Players Choir (Workhouse Dock)15:00 – 15:45 The Hey Las (Market Place)15:45 – 16:30 St Faiths Players Choir (Workhouse Dock)16:00 – 17:00 The Hornets (Market Place)

Megan Rees ● 317d0 Comments ● 317d

Do you have a spare room?

If you have a spare room in London, want to earn rental income and want to support newly granted refugees, this is your chance! By becoming a Resident Landlord, you’ll provide a safe, stable room and help newly granted refugees rebuild their lives. You can earn up to £7,500 tax-free per year, and the charity Housing Justice will support you every step of the way. Learn more about how you can join this life-changing project and make an impact today! https://housingjustice.org.uk/refugee-lodgings We have provided over 800 nights of safe accommodation since March 2024. To hear about some of the positive stories from the project, please see our blog: https://housingjustice.org.uk/blogs/2024/refugee-lodgings-aGet involved today and make a difference!

Joe Rinvolucri ● 317d4 Comments ● 317d

TfLs random dismissal of wise concerns

So we have councillors who have consistently denied any issues with ' Enhanced Bus Stops' originally known as Bus Islands.Same characters have denied the increases in bus journey times even though timetables were altered well before proposals and were made public so as to 'lessen the impact'.Now we have a report that shows a huge increase in journey times but in fact some journeys on local routes are up from 15 to 20 mins to 45 to 55 mins. TFL dismiss incident involving pedestrians, cyclist and other cyclists involved in collisions unless it involves a motor vehicle.  The mislead bt making the assumption that all 'collisions' involving a motor vehicle and a pedestrian or cycles are caused by the motor vehicle.They completely distort the situation and then use local politicians and officers to bolster their desires.They have consistently dismissed complaints and concerns by multiple charities and emergency services and local groups who have first hand knowledge and expertise.Staff at the front line of some emergency services are 'discouraged' by management to lodge reports and complaints caused by traffic schemes and initiatives and in some cases it 'may bear on your career prospects'.The recent consultation was completely full of loaded questions and a tone of we are going to do this whatever, anyway. People are not stupid, they see what is clearly flawed and wasteful expenditure when so much that could make local getting around remains completely neglected.Little wonder so very few participate. Which is a shame but we all know that even if 90% participated and challenged the plans diligently or positively ( which is not permitted anyway) nothing would change.This is why we end up with such idiotic, second rate and for many downright dangerous ' improvements'.Does anyone really care about this endless misleading and misrepresentation towards citizens?

Raymond Havelock ● 335d21 Comments ● 322d

Enfield Road CPZ

If like me you have been ripped off for £185 by LBH for a parking permit to park in your own street is it not time we had a vote on getting rid of this scheme. Here is what we get for our money:Enforcement two hours a dayLess spaces to park in due to lime bike bays Less spaces due to electric vehicle bays (empty most of time )When this scheme was introduced at the third time of asking it was passed by 1 vote had it not been canvased in the holiday season I doubt it would have been introduced

Robert Ayres ● 328d9 Comments ● 324d

Lord John Prescott  RIP

Some readers, only some, will be saddened by today's news of the death of John Prescott ... a notable Labour politician from years ago.Amusing tales surrounding him abound.It was a little cruel for blaming  him for having "two jags ...in fairness, two old jags in times past were needed to be sure one was working.He came to Brentford once I recall.He dined at "Pappadums" on Ferry Quays with Mrs Ann Keen the local MP.  On expenses no doubt!

Jim Lawes ● 328d5 Comments ● 327d

Change the Borough's name ?

If we became the Borough of West Middlesex ... would we feel better?

Jim Lawes ● 354d10 Comments ● 328d

Guy Lambert

Call me a sycophant if you will, but I have enjoyed Guy Lambert's regular and entertaining posts over the years. Indeed, I regard him as a decent chap -even though I disagree with his views - far too lefty politically biased! Yet, he was on the ball with an issue I had some years ago - and for that he stepped up to the plate. So he's the salt of the earth to me, and a councillor of distinction! I won't hear a bad word against him. A fine fellow indeed!

Paul Brownlee ● 404d43 Comments ● 329d

What’s the future for the Ealing Park Tavern

Does anyone have an update about the lovely EPT since this My London article in 2023? It’s such a shame to see it lie empty.  A great local eatery in its day.  https://www.mylondon.news/whats-on/whats-on-news/popular-ealing-pub-finally-reopen-26069591

Mary A OHanlon ● 388d31 Comments ● 330d

Encyclopedia Britannica  - HELP!

We have a complete set, around 1980, in excellent condition.  Does anyone want an instant library?  Any ideas of what we can do to make the best use of the set?

Sarah Felstead ● 339d4 Comments ● 330d

Hewsons Bookshop – Bees United Brentford FC – An author’s evening – 6.30pm Thursday 14th

Pop over to Hewsons at 6.30pm on Thursday.Bees United presents, Jonathan Burchill, author of A Pub on Each Corner, presents lots about the history of the Bees at Griffin Park.Stats, facts fun and chat with refreshments!

Don Tanswell ● 339d1 Comments ● 335d

TONIGHT -> -> Hewsons Bookshop – Bees United Brentford FC – An author’s evening – 6.30pm

Pop over to Hewsons at 6.30pm today!Support your local independent bookshopsBees United presents, Jonathan Burchill, author of A Pub on Each Corner.Jonathan shares lots about the history of the Bees at Griffin Park.Stats, facts, fun and chat with a glass and  refreshments!Bees United - Unique as the only Premier League, fans group with a seat on the board of its club.You can join us! https://www.beesunited.org.uk/

Don Tanswell ● 336d0 Comments ● 336d

No 'Meanwhile Use' for the Watermans

Can't help but think that the council has made a big mistake in not doing this. Allowing a vibrant, motivated group to take over the old venue for a while would have allowed a local arts organisation to develop which would have been capable of making a success of the new venue. Now the only option will be the Hounslow Arts Trust and we will eventually be back to square one.

Kenneth Seally ● 345d6 Comments ● 342d

Local Markets

While the recent Brentford market was excellent I've also recently been visiting other markets in the area. I was struck by yet another snarky comment by Cllr Lambert in his weekly update about the Chiswick Flower Market. He is not incorrect to say that the opponents of this event have clearly been proved wrong but perhaps now is the time to stop going on about it? It is easy to park at this event once you have worked out where all the store holders tend to park (to the north of the High Road by the common). It is also easy to get a space near Kew Market and this is the clear favourite of the two. The Chiswick market feels a bit disconnected with fewer shops around which makes the crowds smaller whereas the Kew market is integral to the area. What I'm finding is that you can do both in a day and get some good bargains late in the afternoon if you go to the Chiswick market second.

Kenneth Seally ● 342d0 Comments ● 342d

Chatting to new people on the buses & at bus srops

Being a bit of an old git these days,I find walking and "talking to strangers" such a delight.Sometimes I can speak with 5 or morenew people a day in Brentford and around.Several Ukrainians and Polish people come to mind. At Brent Lea yesterdayI spoke to a lady who had been at the Holiday Inn for a conference. She was on her way to Boston Manor Station and onwards to Kings Cross and Yorkshire.She had recently returned from a one year assignment on Tristan da Cunha in the South Atlantic and prior to that 4 years on the Falkland Islands."Where you in the Services"?" No I worked for the UK Goverment"Then my bus arrived. Not hers!On buses I chat to 90 years olds whorarely engage in conversations.(they say)Speaking to a Russian student at a W6 cafe was interesting too.So if you CAN get out and about (not in a car!) enjoy walking and talking.It's good for your mind ... and theirs perhaps.Any similar experiences?

Jim Lawes ● 536d27 Comments ● 344d

Police incident today.

Anyone know what happened today outside the cafe near Brent Lea? I saw the re had been cordoned off and police in attendance this morning.

Keith Iddon ● 345d1 Comments ● 345d

Fly Tipping

I think it’s fair to say fly tipping at both ends and very much at the bend in Mafeking Avenue has become a fly tipping hotspot. It should be time to put a camera in maybe?

Jai Williams ● 353d14 Comments ● 349d

Hounslow Community Foodbox

🌱✨ A Huge Thank You to Green School for Boys! ✨🌱This growing season, the incredible hard work of the pupils from Green School for Boys has been instrumental in our efforts at the Brickfield allotment. Thanks to their dedication, we've been able to harvest an abundance of fresh, organic produce for residents in need across our Borough. 🍅🥕🥒We also extend our deepest gratitude to Sally, Ryan, and everyone at Cultivate London for their unwavering support, running weekly Gardening Workshops at our Brickfield plot. This fantastic initiative has not only helped us educate the students about gardening and sustainability, but also raised awareness about food poverty in our community. We hope it has inspired them to grow their own gardens at home with their families. 🌾🌻🌿Thank you all for your tremendous support! 🌾💚#ThankYou #CommunitySupport #GreenSchoolForBoys #Gardening #Sustainability #FoodPoverty #CultivateLondon #BrickfieldAllotment #HarvestSeason

Guy Lambert ● 358d2 Comments ● 350d

Waterman’s

Well, no surprise that the developer of the Waterman’s and old police station sites has pulled out. That was predicted on this forum a year ago.Of course it doesn’t improve the likelihood of a new arts centre opening in the foreseeable future, since any potential new developer will want to formulate their own plans for both sites, and then have to go through the whole planning process again.As for meanwhile use for the rapidly deteriorating arts centre, it’s all gone very quiet. It’s six months since the centre closed and even the jocular councillor who bogs on these pages has given up pretending anything is going to happen.Perhaps if there was a promise of free tickets to every show those Labour types in Hounslow would pull their fingers out!

Simon Hayes ● 376d15 Comments ● 351d

Oven Cleaning

Could anyone recommend an oven cleaning service please.

Pat Kingham ● 374d5 Comments ● 358d

The Brentford Stadium development

I went up to have a look around the other day - the first time I've really explored the area since the towers went up. It really reminded me of Docklands in the early nineties - very impressive visually but no indication of being a community. That's not to say that the flats are not occupied. Most of the balconies I saw gave an indication of the flat being someone's home it just felt a bit soulless.It still is partly a building site but I think the same mistake is being made as previously with East London. Communities build up around communal places such as pubs, places of worship and shops which this development lacks.

Kenneth Seally ● 391d5 Comments ● 362d

Guru Tandoori Brentford

Hi, I was wondering does anyone know if the people who was ran guru tandoori, was able to setup a new restuartant anywhere else?

Joanne Sky ● 371d7 Comments ● 364d

Sheep’s wool packaging for keen composters!

If anyone is interested, I have a quantity of sheep’s wool insulation suitable for composting. Once composted, it’s incredibly nutritious, enriching and good for the soil. We paid an absolute fortune for organic wool and bracken compost from the Lake District and I’d love it if someone could use this wool to make something similar for their garden! (We simply don’t have the space to do this, or we’d be composting it ourselves!)I’d put it in the garden waste bin, but the recycling instructions on the Hounslow website are… unclear. It does suggest that we make cosy insoles for our shoes. ‘Insoles’ is not the spelling which sprung to mind after I’d read it. Anyhow, if anyone would like a load of lovely wool for lovely compost, let me know here and we’ll talk!

Tracie Dudley Craig ● 369d0 Comments ● 369d

The Eco World development: Griffin Park.

Looking at the "6 storey" plansillustrated on this TW8.com website front page ... one wonders whether the residents of New Road, Braemar Road, Brook Road and Ealing Road will be missing out on acres of sky.In many cases views of the delightful Victorian homes will be silloetted against a backdrop of the Griffin Park "high rise" buildingsWalking westwards along Netley Road, for example, the delightful view of the Ealing Road terraced dwellings with be spoiled by these bulbous  new buildings behind them.Planners ... give it a rest surely!

Jim Lawes ● 390d7 Comments ● 377d

Bet your glad you voted Labour

I can't believe dear old Ruth Cadbury, one day after stabbing the old age pensioners in the back, has the gall to post how delighted she is to be appointed chair of the transport committee. Her reward, no doubt, for being a good little lap dog and towing the party line while her boss and the rest of his sponging parasites fill their coffers with freebees and huge salaries and while all the time the Labour faithful in her constituency are shafted. Worse still, Labour commissioned a report into what the impact that cutting the winter fuel payment to the old and vulnerable would be, but Keir blocked it being published as maybe the true cost in lives would be exposed.PS and I thought Boris was bad!

Robert Ayres ● 392d27 Comments ● 385d

Book Launch in Hewson Books Brentford

If you like good books and good wine, come along to the Book Launch of All My Precious Madness by Mark Bowles at Hewson Books Brentford (part of the new Brentford Project) this Friday evening, 27th September - hosted by Spiracle Audiobooks and Galley Beggar Press!We'd love to meet more of the Brentford and Chiswick Community! If you want to support your new local bookshop or the independent books scene, do come along! We've got special guests, great wine and it should be a delightful evening.For more information and tickets: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/book-launch-all-my-precious-madness-tickets-1015410107967?aff=oddtdtcreator

Antonia Stassi ● 388d0 Comments ● 388d

The BRENTFORD FESTIVAL in Blondin Park 2024. (?)

This wonderful Community Festival which has been held for some 20 years ... and in it's early days in Boston Manor Park ...is normally held on the first Sunday in September.The formitable Linda Massey has been the great Organiser with her team of volunteers.However ...the date is getting closeand publicity for the Event seems lacking this year.Is it happening ...do you know?

Jim Lawes ● 421d10 Comments ● 388d

Why not just be honest and say the Fountains Centre is closing?

I can understand why the council might want to soften the blow and show that they have looked into other options but spending a million on a consultants report is out of order.We all know that the end result will be that the Fountains Leisure Centre will be shut. It is too run down and energy inefficient to be refurbed and the model in which community facilities are paid for by building flats has broken down - see The Watermans. A bit of honesty would be appreciated here and actually who would blame the council if they said we can't afford to keep running the centre and we can't afford to rebuild it therefore it is shutting?The million quid could have been used to soften the blow by making the reduction in council tax support for poor families £3million rather than £4million.

Kenneth Seally ● 412d11 Comments ● 391d

Beware of some of our local bus drivers!

One can understand that sometimes, , frail old folk might fall onto the pavement when getting off a busBUT landing on the pavement when you're getting ONTO a bus is a joke too far!It happened to me last Thursday at 7.50pm at the westbound bus-stop (SS) outside the Tanning Shop.Two able bodied people got on firstand I followed with my walking stick and shopping trolley. I had one foot on the bus and my right hand on the opened door handle. I was lifting my left leg to the platform, and my trolley ... when the driver chose to close the entrance door.I was thrown off the bus and handed on my back, side and right arm on the pavement. I was stunned for several minutes and in shock.A member of the public asked if they should call an ambulance. I said no ... which was wrong of me. A Philipino couple dressed my wounds to stop the bleeding and several helped me get on the bus again ... at the second attempt.The driver didn't really apologise.In my daze I didn't know if I was on a 237 or 267. Later that evening a gentleman told me that the same thing had happened to his elderly mother.I'm just recovering from the shock.If an ambulance had been called and a Report made...the driver would have been "quizzed" by his employer.My advice is, when getting on a bus ... make sure the drivers sees you before you jump on board ...especially if you're semi fragile!

Jim Lawes ● 396d7 Comments ● 394d

Filming again???

Are we not able to get a part refund for our annual parking permit when we have days taken up where we are prohibited from parking and fined if we do in our road? 6 whole days and a big percentage of Netley road again suspended parking due to filming.I wonder where all the residents are expected to park. It seems incredibly unfair after paying £90 for the year and then 3 Weeks of it so far we haven't been able to use it. I just wonder who are the best people or department to contact about it. Apologies for the moan.

Jane Ansell ● 406d13 Comments ● 397d

RIP Herbie Flowers

Bassist extraordinaire and occasional tuba virtuoso has risen to join the heavenly orchestra. Born in Isleworth and a session musician on so man tracks. Best remembered though as a founding member of Sky, CCS and Blue Mink. Also notable work with Marc Bolan and T Rex. Rest in Peace Mister Bassman.

N V Brooks ● 402d2 Comments ● 397d

Could the Hounslow Loop be given to TfL?

Reading about the planned nationalisation of South Western Railway it occurred to me that this might be a good opportunity to bring the suburban part of that network under the control of TfL making it part of London Overground.This could lead to a significant reduction in ticket prices and a more joined up service.I'm sure rail nerds out there will provide good reasons why this isn't that easy to do but there would be significant benefits for Chiswick and Brentford.

Jeremy Parkinson ● 442d5 Comments ● 398d

Charlton House - Albany Road

Ive just heard that the Charlton House - Albany Road development Is to be multiple 9 level block of flats. Please tell me this isn’t so?The original plans shown in a showroom a few years back was similar to Brentford High Street.

Jai Williams ● 400d4 Comments ● 399d

Free local festival on the 21st Sept

Hi all!For the second year in a row, I’m helping put together a free local festival/open day hosted at the Brentford & Isleworth Quaker Meeting House, as part of Open House Festival. We’re opening up from 10-6 on Saturday the 21st September, inviting visitors to explore the building and grounds, learn a little bit of local history, and enjoy a variety of free arts, crafts and musical activities.The full programme can be found at https://bandiquakers.org.uk/open-house/, or on Open House  Festival’s website at https://programme.openhouse.org.uk/listings/2688 - featuring craft workshops, chamber performances and more. Everything is free to attend, and all are welcome - any age, any background, any faith and none.(Some events we ask for registration in advance if possible, to help us judge numbers, but feel free to turn up on the day!)There’s also a whole load of other interesting venues opening up over the two weeks of Open House - see https://programme.openhouse.org.uk/neighbourhoods/brentford for some local options, I’m hoping to visit a few!

Justin Treadwell ● 405d0 Comments ● 405d

Regarding Dial a Ride if you’re interested

Please remember this service is for people who cannot use public transport and do not have their own vehicle, and that the drivers of the buses are not volunteers.My solutions for Dial-a-Ride would be to start they must be better funded, they need the app to be clearer when bookings are confirmed, they need to speed up the recruitment process, they need a bank of drivers that they can draw on when there are staff shortages, they need to prioritise certain types of bookings, particularly those going to medical facilities, if this needs other types of bookings to be rearranged, so be it, another possibility could be to return to one passenger journeys most of the time, I know this sounds strange but it will speed up the process and enable them to take more bookings, I don’t have a problem sharing the bus with other passengers if their Collection point or destination is the same as mine or is on the way to mine or vice versa but that isn’t always the case.The backup system for Dial-a-Ride Is Taxicard However, They either don’t turn up or turn up late most of the time. I’ve missed Doctors appointments and was left for more than one hour in the street two weeks ago, they didn’t turn up due to a lack of availability. this is not unusual and happens regularly to me, just think about it, how long would you wait for a cab? Would you wait more than an hour? Even if it was a very cheap service? I think not! I have concluded that the simplest solution would be to give the contract for Taxicard to Uber. A more complicated solution is to give people who are members of the Taxicard scheme digital taxi vouchers, like a preloaded debit card and make all taxi companies and taxi drivers take them. that way, if one company can’t fulfil your booking someone else can. And you might be able to hail a taxi in the street sometimes as well as use a cab service.I’ve had to delete most of what I’ve written because it was far too much. So this is just the basics. And it still seems too much!

Patricia Feeney ● 460d3 Comments ● 407d

The Silence of the Lambert

I note that the latest lazy musings from Brentford’s resident funnyman include a reference to an ancient Toey politician called Wenest Marples and his ‘ethics’.I wonder if Guy Lambert might like to comment on the new Government’s winter fuel allowance and child benefit cap policies? I’m sure he can’t be happy that the Red Tories in Westminster have proved to be every bit as heartless as the Blue ones preceding them. Surely he must have some words of comfort for those residents in his ward that will be badly affected by these policies.Of course, he will say there’s no money. But then he might have to mention the Labour group meeting this week that revealed a massive hole in the finances (despite the persistent claims of prudence and good money management he’s made in the past). Seems that council tax will go up, and will hit the less well off in the borough most, around 7,000 on Council Tax support.But then Lambert is a socialist so absolutely nothing to say.

Simon Hayes ● 418d16 Comments ● 407d

This last weekend's CREATIVE MILE event.

As the leaflet said it was mainly an "Art trail at various locations in Brentford" that weren't generally un available for free access at other times.St Lawrence Church and Gardens were open ... and whilst the real purpose was to view the artwork by adults and local children ... it was a great opportunity to view the Church's interior architecture. The remnants of the Graveyard wereintroduced to us as "the gardens"which was a little disrespectful in my view.I missed seeing Plockers wine bar,and a visit to our Museums.Did you manage to pop along?Any reports on the other key event THE BRENTFORD FESTIVAL IN BLONDIN PARK ?

Jim Lawes ● 409d1 Comments ● 409d

This last weekend's CREATIVE MILE event.

As the leaflet said it was mainly an "Art trail at various locations in Brentford" that weren't generally  available for free access at other times.St Lawrence Church and Gardens were open ... and whilst the real purpose was to view the artwork by adults and local children ... it was a great opportunity to view the Church's interior architecture. The remnants of the Graveyard wereintroduced to us as "the gardens"which was a little disrespectful in my view.I missed seeing Plockers wine bar,and a visit to our Museums.Did you manage to pop along?Any reports on the other key event THE BRENTFORD FESTIVAL IN BLONDIN PARK ?

Jim Lawes ● 409d0 Comments ● 409d

Farewell to BA Williams

This Friday, BA Williams, the pharmacy located in Albany Parade and one of Brentford’s longest-established businesses, closes its doors for good, vacating their premises ahead of the demolition and redevelopment of Charlton, Albany and Osier Houses. Owner Mr Savani and his team threw a grand farewell party this evening, where a huge number of past and present customers came to express their thanks and say goodbye. It was truly standing room only and the warmth and goodwill was heartfelt and genuine.The team at BA Williams has taken incredibly good care of both my husband and me. They were always there to provide advice and kindness. The comfort of being able to talk to someone who was familiar with you cannot be overstated. I know that, over the years, they have done the same for hundreds, if not thousands, of other customers. They provided an invaluable community hub, and have always gone above and beyond to help those frightened, anxious or in need. It is a great loss for Brentford and we are the poorer for that loss. Forgive me if I am mistaken here, but several people with whom I spoke expressed surprise that none of our elected representatives appeared to be in attendance. I certainly did not spot either of our councillors (although I admit I would probably not recognise Cllr Yates unless she was pointed out to me), nor our MP who is frequently spotted out and about in Brentford. I can’t help but feel this was shabby. The shop is open until close of play on Friday. If you haven’t - and you’d like to - there’s still the chance to wish everyone well as they all head into their next acts.I cannot express how sad we are to say goodbye. We will miss everyone there terribly. Good luck, godspeed - and thank you. 

Tracie Dudley Craig ● 413d3 Comments ● 411d

Dave Wetzel

Thank-you for highlighting the sad news of the passing of Dave Wetzel. As one of the people lucky enough to serve under him when he was Leader of Hounslow council, I valued Dave as a friend and colleague who was a dynamic leader and retained the respect of both councillors and officers. Dave understood the value of public service and had also been an elected member of the GLC and a wonderful advocate for public transport. But more than any of his many achievements he was just such a lovely, lovely man, kind and very genuine, he enjoyed a long and happy marriage to Heather, also a former councillor. Sincere condolences to her and his daughters and grandchildren, he really will be missed by all of us who knew him, and will be remembered with great affection and many smiles.

Vanessa Smith ● 435d5 Comments ● 419d

(S)ime bikes

As someone who finds the blasted E-bikes a right pain in the backside - being dumped as they are all over the place this article from today's 'i' showed what can be done when you have a council with some spine and that is willing to listen, so unlike our own dear Hounslow! It seems that there is no London-wide policy or agreement with the various hire companies, all boroughs making up their own rules, which are pretty much ignored a lot of the time anyway. I think they've been taken for mugs.Melbourne city council in Oz have banned electric scooters and have given the rental firms 30 days to remove them! 'After hundreds of accidents and complaints from the public about too many people riding them on footpaths'. This is after a two year trial basis - would that councils here listened, and just think how much more space they have in Oz compared to us!!

Vanessa Smith ● 426d8 Comments ● 419d

A "THUMBS UP" for the Musical Museum, Brentford

I hadn't been to the London Musical Museum in Brentford for some yearsfor various reasons ...but the other day I attended there for a personal recording session (to do with local history etc).I was so impressed with the new lay- out of the exhibition areas, the entrance foyer ... and features in the corridors ... that I thought I should give them a little promotion.Spotlights and attractive displays gave a positive vibe.It was all so uplifting  and one congratulates the interior designer who planned the changes.Previously called the Piano Museumwhich was based at St Georges Church under the baton of Frank Holland RIP, the London Musical Museum requires a brighter future.The Museum is open on 3 days only.FRIDAYS, SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS.The 1st floor café is open 10am - 4pm on those days and it is FREE to visit.INFORMATIVE TOURS OF THE MUSEUMtake place at:10.30am,12.30pm & 2.30pm. Costing £7.50 for locals.(See website for other folk)I'm trying to establish whether one can tour the Museum for free ... if one is without the Guide.The various displays of GIFTS on sale caught my eye ... eg vinyl LP records of organistscosting only £2.50.There are areas for private functions, tea dances, silent film shows and more.WE must use it or lose it!The Museum needs funds to survive.

Jim Lawes ● 421d0 Comments ● 421d

Fly tipping

Whoever fly tipped the bed and mattress on our street at 1030 pm last night probably didn’t twig that they are fully covered by CCTV…. So when we are able to confirm where they came from, are the street residents allowed to lift it and put it back on their driveway?

Sarah Felstead ● 478d33 Comments ● 427d

Adli may be coming to Brentford as well

If you misread this headline and thought it was about a supermarket, don't worry, that's exactly what I did when I saw this story.

Jeremy Parkinson ● 433d4 Comments ● 431d

Developments on Commerce Road, Brentford.

Whilst all eyes and ears may be concentrated on the Ballymore development ...south of the High Street ... and perhaps on the skyscrapers rising to the east of Brentford ... near the Football Stadium ... there is evidence that Commerce Road is in for further changes too.The old factories have gone and new builds are already occupied and being referred to as Brentford Lock West.A brand new Bus Garage is now open which was much needed.Some of the new builds look most boringarchitecturally and are most uninteresting to observe.Another large "old factory" area on the west side of Commerce Road is currently boarded up ... and it's fate seems obvious. In addition we hear that Sega (on the Great West Road, opposite Gunnersbury Park) are moving to Chiswick ... which enables the  site to be demolished and replaced by buildings of greater volume.So many industrial buildings on the Great West Road have been adapted for residential use that the number of incomers in the next few years is going to be staggering and the pressure on local services should be of concern.I think that these future happenings are not known by local folk and the implications not understood.Are you alarmed?

Jim Lawes ● 455d8 Comments ● 432d