Forum Topics

Tailback on Twickenham Road.

What is the cause of the long traffic tailback in Twickenham Road?JL

Jim Linwood ● 291d9 Comments ● 278d

Medical pedicure.

Any recommendations?

Sarah Felstead ● 282d3 Comments ● 280d

Local Author Mavis Cheek RIP.

A full page obituary in The Times newspaper on 4th July outlined the talents of this lady who's several "comic novels mocked the middle-class characters" in her life.She once lived in Chiswick from where she gathered much good material for her writings... then moved to Wiltshire and finally to Brentford at the Upper Butts.Any local knowledge or appreciation of her work ..and local residence?

Jim Lawes ● 304d9 Comments ● 281d

Prostrate MRI

Any recommendations for a private provider?

Sarah Felstead ● 285d3 Comments ● 284d

First Meeting of the Brentford & Syon Area Forum - Wednesday 19th July 2023

The first meeting of the new Brentford & Syon Area Forum will be held from 7.30 to 9.30 p.m. on Wednesday 19th July at Brentford Free Church, Boston Manor Road, TW8 8DW. The meeting proper will be preceded, from 6.30 p.m. to 7.30 p.m., by a "Marketplace" where stalls will be operated by several local organisations and council departments. The agenda can be read here:https://democraticservices.hounslow.gov.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=576&MId=13103Brentford Voice pressed for many months for the establishment of our own local Forum, to replace the former Isleworth & Brentford Forum. We believe that this is an opportunity to improve the representation of the needs and aspirations of the community in Brentford.  Our dear friends in Isleworth and Osterley, together with Hounslow South, now also have a separate Forum.We would encourage you to make every effort to attend this first edition of the Forum.

Jim Storrar ● 293d5 Comments ● 291d

"The Missus' by (pen name) EL JAMES

Following the success of her first book,which worldwide sold over 160 millioncopies! a second book has now been published by Penguin.The lady is probably well known in Brentford where she has lived for some time.Brentford fame continues!

Jim Lawes ● 292d4 Comments ● 292d

Boston Manor Park

Just passing the park this morning and I noticed that a gate column has once again been knocked down. It's the one on the left hand side this time. Let's hope it doesn't take another 3 years before it's repaired.

Pat Kingham ● 299d17 Comments ● 293d

Embarrassed Council blocks Fire Brigade carrying out Fire Risk Assesment

Having approached the good men at Isleworth and Heston Fire Brigade twice, on both occasions they’d agreed to carry out a Fire Risk Assesment  and a date was booked. However this has been blocked twice by the Council. Apparently permission is required ? Seriously ? No Fire Risk Assesment’s have been carried out following the fire last  month in one of the flats in the Victorian built property owned by Hounslow Council since the 1970’s. I’m asking since Grenfell tragedy, why would the Fire Brigade service require permission from the Council to carry out an inspection? Hounslow Council are putting lives at risk by failing in their duty and legal responsibility.

Philippa Auton ● 313d6 Comments ● 293d

Billions of pounds of taxpayers' money wasted on 'active travel' schemes, says watchdog

I’m sure we’re all interested in liar-Lambert’s musings on the future of car ownership – a bit of a self-fulfilling prophecy given that his deeply unpopular policies of closing roads and taking parking spaces will surely force some people to give up their cars. We’ve all seen in the last few of weeks how the combination of road works on Windmill Road and the A4 have caused gridlock in the whole of Brentford and this was made 100 times worse by the unnecessary LTN road closures. We’ve all experienced more congested, dangerous and polluted roads and longer journey times – all created deliberately by a council who have no interest in supporting the needs of the majority of its constituents. Interestingly there has been a report published by the National Audit Office that confirms what we all knew – that the LTN schemes were a massive waste of taxpayer money that have achieved precisely NOTHING. There’s a link to the article below but, in summary:“Billions of pounds of taxpayers’ cash has potentially been wasted on ‘active travel’ schemes such as controversial low-traffic neighbourhoods, according to a report.”“Despite an estimated £3.3billion being spent on delivering such measures between 2016 and 2021, cycling and walking rates fell over that period, the National Audit Office study found.”“It said many were imposed on residents without proper consultation and poorly planned ones have subsequently been scrapped.”Could we hope that LBH will see sense and roll back these horrible schemes? Could individual councillors be surcharged to recover some of the money that has been wasted? We live in hope.https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12167319/Ministers-wasted-billions-pounds-taxpayers-money-LTNs-says-watchdog.html

Graham Thorpe ● 326d24 Comments ● 294d

Another one bites the dust

I notice,with a mild sense of depression, that the Natwest in Isleworth is closing the day after tomorrow.Keep using cash folks...

Keith Iddon ● 298d0 Comments ● 298d

Thomas Layton Way ...

The old Brentford Market site isnow filled with a close web of skyscrapers as you will have easily seen.It is quite appropriate that one of the "roadways" is named after an illustriousfamed local...who is buried in the Old Brentford Cemetary.But to see the street sign sayingTHOMAS LAYTON WAY, HOUNSLOW, TW8is taking the micky.Shouldn't it be BRENTFORD TW8? Are the Council trying to  erase Brentford as a destination?

Jim Lawes ● 315d8 Comments ● 299d

Performance Cars chap..Mr John Goldsmith

I learned today that one of Brentford's "characters"...John? Goldsmith...who owned the Windmill Road North garage site etc etc..had passed away sometime during the last 12 months.Was there an obituary published in the local Press?  He had been linked to that MG dealership etcHe was seen on occasions on Jazz Nights at the Brewer Tap..and with the recent passing of Bill Arnold also...two familiar faces have seemingly departed. RIP.I believe that Mr Goldsmith once lived in Osterley..in the the biggest of the houses at that time..that had been previously been owned by the Smith's Crisps boss.

Jim Lawes ● 6674d15 Comments ● 299d

Oh! Brentford!...sometimes.

...I wonder about my beloved Football Club.New season kit announced and what has it got? A Betting sponsor emblazoned across the shirt.With all the focus on Brentford and it's betting addiction victim star player it just makes one wince. I know the club has benefitted from an owner whose core is a betting business, but then the Brentford Community Stadium is the GTEC Community Stadium. A choice of sponsor that broke away from the plethora of Betting sponsors and is also a British Company.So what were they thinking? It's going to send out globally the wrong message every time they play and poor old Mr. Toney when he returns, will have a shirt of which the irony won't be lost.It's a club that's made massive efforts at family attendances and I have no issues with betting or gambling but like other adult vices, do think a line should be drawn. Should an 8 year old be wearing a shirt with a betting or alcohol sponsor emblazoned on it?

Raymond Havelock ● 305d8 Comments ● 300d

Keys found

Keys found on bench near Three Bridges,have been left at the CRT office at Top Locks.

David Burke ● 302d0 Comments ● 302d

Over 1,800 Fines Issued in Brentford and Chiswick for 'Lime Crimes'

Great. We lose parking space and we pay to provide cycle bays for this private company while they boast about making more money in fines.Should this company not be reimbursing the cost of creating these cycle bays and compensating residents for the loss of parking spaces ?

Robert Ayres ● 312d5 Comments ● 311d

Customer services

If you send an e-mail to Hounslow's customer services you will get an automatic reply stating what will happen and it gives you various e-mail address for you to get in touch. One piece of advice states The offices will be closed from Dec23 until Tuesday 3rd of January it's now June 8th.After nearly 6 months someone would have noticed this?

David Squire ● 330d1 Comments ● 311d

Pandemic preparations.

Covid enquirey finds resources were switched to Brexit.

Nicholas Beard ● 311d0 Comments ● 311d

Traffic Lights at A4

Have the temporary lights that were causing so much congestion finally gone please? I don't want to drive down there specially to find out!

Susan Kelly ● 321d23 Comments ● 313d

Gridlock

Is now happening. Yesterday evening at about 6pm there were at least 20 cars queuing along Whitestile Road and back up Junction Road in an attempt to get out onto South Ealing Road. This meant that anyone who had turned left into Whitestile Road from South Ealing Road was unable to drive along Whitestile Road - it was blocked by the oncoming traffic.  Traffic was queuing up South Ealing Road as far as the eye could see and barely moving.Not the first time this has happened recently.I am guessing that this was traffic trying to bypass the roadworks and traffic lights on Windmill Road or people trying to bypass the queue down the A4 to the new traffic lights at the roundabout at the Ealing Road/A4 junction.The Windmill Road works seem to be never-ending and are causing huge tail-backs.  If you are driving north from Brentford and want to get across the A4 junction you have to sit through several green phases before there is enough room in Windmill Road to clear the junction safely and not get stuck in the yellow box. The same thing is happening to traffic turning left into Windmill from the A4.The new traffic lights at the Ealing Road/A4 roundabout are causing lengthy tailbacks along the A4.  They are also affecting traffic turning left onto the A4 from Windmill Road because even if the lights at the Windmill Road junction are green there is not enough room on the A4 to make the turn.  This then also holds up traffic coming down Windmill Road which wants to go straight ahead or turn right.As others have said, the old traffic lights at the South Ealing roundabout worked perfectly well. I've been driving round that roundabout for the last 20 years (don't take that literally!) and never encountered or witnessed any problems.  You just had to make sure you gave way to traffic already coming round the roundabout, even if lights were green in your favour.  At least the traffic kept moving.The other problem locally is the roadworks on Kew Bridge Road which are causing tailbacks to the County Court. There has been some suggestion that these are not due to the construction of the Cycleway but because of gasworks being carried out at the same time.So, 3 points/queries:1. When are the Windmill Road works going to end?2. Please can we return to the old traffic light system at the Ealing Road roundabout.3. When are the Kew Bridge Road temporary lights going to be removed so that we can have a normal traffic flow once again?The gridlock which is now a daily occurrence around here at the moment does nobody any good - whether you're a driver, cyclist or pedestrian.  I was walking down Whitestile Road yesterday evening and it was horrible.  So was South Ealing Road.

Alison Robins ● 317d8 Comments ● 315d

Leisure Centres on the Brink

Reading between the lines of the article on the borough's leisure centre bailout, the council seem to have decided to give them another year.They deserve some credit for this as many other local authorities have wielded the knife when it comes to swimming pools and gyms.What the numbers make plain though is that this level of losses can't be sustained. There is no prospect of an immediate sharp drop in energy costs or a sudden rush of people to take up memberships. One way to mitigate the problem might be to finally do something about the redevelopment of the Fountains. I haven't been to all the facilities in the borough but I presume this is the largest and most expensive to heat. Schemes to knock it down and build housing along with a new more energy efficient centre have come and gone. Doing this now would reduce the operating losses and give the prospect of a modern facility which didn't have a bit of an odd smell that more people would pay to go to.

Jeremy Parkinson ● 319d3 Comments ● 318d

Fact checking Lambert’s latest ramblings

Incredible how those in positions of power and influences can say something that’s patently not true. Lambert’s latest ‘amusing update’ contains his thoughts on car ownership and parking in London. He said this:‘By the way, before the tabloid picks this up and says ’Lambert trying to ban cars’ I’m not and none of this is nobody’s policy, just me musing.’Well, it is somebody’s policy, that of the London Cycling Campaign of which he and other Labour councillors are members. Lambert’s musings echo the speech given to the Labour conference last year by the LCC chief executive Ashok Sinha, who said:“We need to free people from the burden and tyranny of owning tons of metal that sits unused 90 percent of the time,”I’m not sure that most car owners see it as a tyranny and a burden, although they might view the policies of Lambert and his colleagues as exactly that.Anyone who looks into the strategies and aims of the LCC will recognise its direct influence on policies pursued by Hounslow, Ealing and other councils in London. Low traffic neighbourhoods, cycle lanes, reducing parking spaces, etc, are all part of the plan. Make owning a car as expensive and inconvenient as possible to simply force people off the road.They’d have you believe that car owners are singlehandedly responsible for all the problems in London, yet car ownership in the capital has actually declined in the last 20 years, despite a massive increase in population. London is unique in that in the UK.Congestion is caused by blocking roads, whether that’s due to roadworks, an accident or lame-brained traffic management policies that funnel all vehicles onto fewer roads. Yes, there are peaks where volumes are higher but most of the time most roads are pretty quiet.Inevitably Lambert will brand me a car lobbyist (which I’m not) and a Tory (which I certainly am not). I simply think that people should be able to make their own choices, not be dictated to by a self-interested minority.Lambert advocates car clubs, but doesn’t even consider that vehicle ownership is often a key to economic activity for many. Does he think those ubiquitous Ubers are anything other than privately owned vehicles? Like most utopians he thinks most of us are sitting at home deciding which leisure activity to pursue next. Simple minded, no?Ironically Lambert has a nice shiny new car and presumably a nice secure private parking space in Brentford. He doesn’t ‘need’ a car, so why does he have one? Surely he and others should practice what they preach?!

Simon Hayes ● 324d27 Comments ● 318d

Intel chip manufacturers

In 2021 Intel decided against manufacturing chips in the UK citing Brexit. Yesterday Germany announced a $33 billion deal to manufacture chips at two sites in Germany. Always we hear how important chips are, but no action!

Nicholas Beard ● 319d0 Comments ● 319d

Man who used to live under the M4 at Chiswick roundabout

Did anyone find out about the history of his circumstances?

Sarah Felstead ● 333d14 Comments ● 322d

canal bridge

Anyone know what was going on at the canal bridge today? there were lots of fire engines and police cars.

Marcus Gadd ● 326d1 Comments ● 326d

Ebike bays

No doubt the council has fully consulted the residents of the roads affected by these plans. We wouldn’t want to think that the changes are being imposed in an entirely undemocratic way. No doubt the deal with the Ebike company is a nice little earner for Hounslow.

Simon Hayes ● 357d43 Comments ● 326d

Windmill Road temporary traffic lights causing chaos

For the past few days there has been significant, lengthy congestion on and around Windmill Road due to some ‘works’ supposedly ‘in progress’ (though no obvious sign of anyone doing anything. The temporary lights in operation are bringing traffic to a standstill.The queues at peak times are stretching back almost to the junction of Swyncombe Avenue. Coupled with the temporary lights at South Ealing Road roundabout it's causing gridlock.It’s not going to be solved by implementing LTNs or any other harebrained scheme, but by the quick completion of the undoubtedly essential works. As windmill road falls under the control of Hounslow Highways perhaps the bike lobbyist from there can indicate when the road might reopen.

Simon Hayes ● 342d23 Comments ● 327d

Cleaning of the food waste bins?

My neighbour thinks he saw an article in Hounslow Matters saying that LBH has bought a machine that cleans the food waste bins before returning them to the doorstep…?  I can’t find it.  Does anyone know about this?I am so fed up with the food waste bin being returned on its side with the open lip downwards, contaminating the other recycling boxes that they lay it in.  It would be lovely if they just locked it and stood it upright…. :(

Sarah Felstead ● 365d19 Comments ● 330d

Car insurance

We have just received the renewal notice for car insurance only to find that the premium has doubled and then some.  Can anyone recommend a good company or is it just a case of switching every year? Thanks in advance.

Pat Kingham ● 339d6 Comments ● 336d

European Space Agengcy live stream Mars

Very interesting. 301 km away. Signal takes 16 mins to arrive. Worth a look.

Nicholas Beard ● 336d0 Comments ● 336d

House breaking last night?

A group of people (4 or 5) wearing hoodies, seem to have watched a neighbour going out for a walk last night and smashed the doors down to gain entry.  Around 10pm.Luckily the house was not empty and when the people inside put the lights on, in alarm at the noise, they scarpered.  Seems they may well have been equipped to make a night of it, so did you hear of any other similar break ins last night?They used a dark car which was parked a short distance away.Northumberland Estate area but with a car they probably covered some distance.

Sarah Felstead ● 349d2 Comments ● 338d

Boston Manor Park

The fiasco continues. The poster on the noticeboard says in excess of 11 million pounds spent on the park and house. So why are there still no toilets open, which has been the case for years and people are forced to go in the bushes.The cafe still remains closed while the council considers bids fromthose interested in operating it.Vanessa the manager says the toilets will open when the cafe opens, which begs the question will the bacon butty chef also be the toilet cleaner!As usual Hounslow Labour Council shows no forward planning. I would have thought Councillor lambert who claims he is a regular park user would have noticed this.

Robert Ayres ● 369d34 Comments ● 338d

Ad Blue

I did not realise that new diesel cars had a second tank for ad blue. I only found out because I saw a ad blue pump in a garage. Has anyone experience of a car with ad blue? How much does it cost etc?

Nicholas Beard ● 343d5 Comments ● 340d

Loud drilling noise

Hi everyone, we’ve been hearing this loud drilling noise that might be coming from a sort of drilling tower in the Bus garage area for some days now. It almost sounds like a siren and it goes on for the whole day. Does anyone know if this is part of the Brentford Project construction plan or whether it is something else? Working from home with the windows open is becoming a bit annoying with this constant background noise :D Just wondering what it is and how long should I expect it to go on still. Cheers!

Federica Lusardi ● 351d6 Comments ● 342d

1300 empty homes in Hounslow - how many are council owned?

We keep hearing about the housing crisis in London yet many council owned properties stand empty despite residents applying for them. Why is this allowed to continue?

Mandy Waters ● 343d1 Comments ● 343d

Can the UK become a science super power?

Dyson thinks not. Also at the same time the PM is trying to get maths taught until 18 years old. All this while it was announced last week a Taiwanese company is to build a battery giga factorie near Dunkirk in France, and Sweden is getting one. Does not look like we are likely to become a science super power any time soon.

Nicholas Beard ● 356d7 Comments ● 343d

Race Night at the Inverness Lodge in aid of London Air Ambulance

The inverness Lodge Social Club, 9 Boston Manor Road, Brentford TW8 8DW is holding a fun race night on Friday 2nd June at 8pm. Everyone is welcome. Fun bets start at 50p and there is a raffle with all proceeds going to the London Air Ambulance charity no: 801013.We look forward to seeing you.

Sarah Porter ● 344d0 Comments ● 344d

Is the end of Brentford's "BLUE ZONE" in the pipeline?

That interesting collection of some 40 businesses in the Blue Zone ...an area of sprawling old buildings south of the High Street... are likely to be on the move by the end of the year.The blue zone area is apparently owned by Ballymore... and they need it back from their tenants (the duke of london's empire) ... so they can build more FLATS FLATS FLATS for the local authority!It was always on the cards apparentlybut unknown to many of us. Aren't we poorly informed and kept up to date...by them them and them?I gather that many of the activities will be moved to the east zone ... which includes  the jazzy car park.

Jim Lawes ● 350d2 Comments ● 350d

"Saving Our Sky" in Brentford.

I've been reading reports that the Ealing MP Rupa Huq is celebrating  victory in a battle to build more tall skyscapers near their High Street.Plans for a 26 storey tower scheme have now been turned down.She was amongst over 2000 objectors to the Scheme and had used the words like "monster", "white elephant" and "sore thumb"But most of all ...she used the phrase"STEALING OUR SKY"..... most telling and effective.Looks like it's too late to say that in parts of Brentford. The High Street will be in shadow most of the day ...won't it?

Jim Lawes ● 354d7 Comments ● 350d

The decommissioned St Lawrence's Church still stands ...

Work is currently taking place on the old Church building with scaffolding all around.The plan, it seems, is for the building to be open to the public... with a café cumcoffee lounge and a meeting place.The Church Tower is some 600 years old,the interior timbered ceiling is being given tlc and wall plaques still survive.The Church is owned by Hounslow Council for whom the work is being undertaken..

Jim Lawes ● 402d14 Comments ● 353d

What's happened to democracy in Hounslow?

From Brentford Today & TV #Debate not HateNEXT BOROUGH MAYOR IS SET TO BE CLLR AFZAAL KIANI. FOR THE FIRST TIME THE MAYOR WILL BE APPOINTED BY THE LEADER, NOT ELECTED. Annual General Meeting of the Labour Group is next Monday 15 May. The agenda omits the usual "Election of Mayor", thereby setting a precedent and indicating what we reported here three months ago – that the decision will be taken by the Leader Cllr Shantanu Rajawat. Other Councillors are said to be "up in arms".

Vanessa Smith ● 360d3 Comments ● 359d

Union Jack flag displays in parts of West London.

I much enjoyed a trip on the 211 bus route today from Hammersmith Bus Station to Victoria.It's an interesting route anyway...but at the present time the display of Union Jacks on the street lampposts in Fulham and Pimlico were a sight to give me pride and delight.Returning home via Chiswick and Brentfordfelt like being in a different world in "Coronation speak"Such indifference was unknown back in 1953.What's happened?

Jim Lawes ● 367d6 Comments ● 363d

Murder in Brentwick Gardens

West London News Man stabbed to death after break-in

Robert Ayres ● 373d2 Comments ● 364d

Micheal Gove  to the rescue - Levelling Up Hounslow Council’s  Housing

After decades of fleecing their Housing Tenants  through charging Rent for poor quality  housing stock & rip off Service charges, Tenants are finally going to see their homes brought up to 21st century standard. Millions ££££ taken in rent & service charges for over 50years has been stuffed into the Pension pots instead of been ploughed back and renovating Hounslow Councils Housing Stock.

Philippa Auton ● 364d0 Comments ● 364d

Another Grenfell Miraculously Avoided in Isleworth

Ermergency Services rapid response to a fire at a  Council flat in a heritage property owned by Hounslow Council prevented Lives being lost in an inferno. The fire had broken out inside the Council flat Monday morning. Home to  a mute  vulnerable  man with Special needs, left without his usual wrap round  local authority provided Carers over the Bank Holiday Weekend. Residents of the Victorian  era property  & neighbours in Worple road were shocked to discover he’d been neglected. A Leaseholder living above the fire with his wife and baby,  were alerted by smoke and quickly ran down to the front of the property kicked the door in. He managed to assist the confused gentleman to safety before the Fire service and Ambulance arrived. The Victorian era property built in 1873;  a former Police Station,  has become a grave concern for its Residents  owing to the lack of essential property maintenance by the owner Hounslow Council.  The family living above the fire would had normally been away during the Bank Holiday. Two Police Officers  were trapped inside the flat for several  hours having prized open the original rotten sash window  to let out the smoke fumes were then unable to close it again and secure the flat,

Philippa Auton ● 367d0 Comments ● 367d

Pasta Evangelist's Dark Kitchen, open till 2am and all that.

They're requesting planning permission,& they promise not to have noisy scooters parked outside on double yellow lines and zig zags on Ealing Road ...opposite McDonaldsWell on Saturday their boss parked his Landrover halfway across the pavement .. on the yellow lines and zig zags.causing a headache for Bees fans walking home from the game. Dodgy dodgy dodgy.I have a photo I'll send to Guy Lambert.

Jim Lawes ● 410d14 Comments ● 368d

Oyster Cards

Where can I buy an Oyster Card in Isleworth or Brentford?JL.

Jim Linwood ● 369d3 Comments ● 368d

Gardner please.

I was wondering if any of you folks knew of a local gardener.I just want a slightly overgrown lawn mowed,25yds x 15, and a small front garden.Any suggestions appreciated.

Keith Iddon ● 369d2 Comments ● 369d

Cleaner

Can anyone recommend a good cleaner?Need someone for about 3 hours a week.

Mark Gormley ● 375d1 Comments ● 370d

Hounslow Matters

Who is responsible for the delivery of this magazine as I have only just seen whole stacks of these fully bound and dumped on the j/w Crowther Ave and Clayponds Ave all soaking wet so as we once again get hit with the maximum amount of local taxes and this council can't even deliver their wonderful information rag.

John William Selfe ● 399d27 Comments ● 371d

Decluttering > Books > Book Banks? > suggestions

Sadly I've reached the age(84) and with perhaps some medical conditions where I need to declutterI'm holding onto my history books for the moment but I have many others that will have to go.On Chiswick High Road at the Stamford Brook Bus Garage stop ... I discovered a BOOK BANK. I have started leaving books there...for others to take.There  also a book bank on THE ISLAND (Security Office) in Brentford.Any other places where I can donate.. and where others can take freely?

Jim Lawes ● 378d12 Comments ● 372d

LOST CAT - Please help!

We haven’t seen our cat Richard Parker since Thursday evening (13/04), grey bengal tabby mix with black spots, green/yellow eyes. He can be mean to strangers so be aware if you do spot him, he is chipped too. Please message me on cerysmaher@gmail.com if you see him. Thank you

Cerys Maher ● 383d4 Comments ● 379d

Unsolved West London Murders.

In March 2023, The commissioner of the Met Police Sir Mark Rowley admitted the force has 'racists, misogynists and homophobes' in its ranks – as Home Secretary Suella Braverman blasted 'serious failings of culture, leadership and standards' at Scotland Yard. On 6th April I sent a lengthy email to Mark Rowley pleading with him to review The Hammersmith Nudes' murders of the 1960's. I told him that I am in contact with adult children and other members of 6 of the murder victims.  I told him that many of the victims' family members are convinced that if the victims were police women, doctors, nurses or solicitors there would have been a review. On April 11 I recieved the following."Dear Mr Milkins,My apologies for the delayed response. I have forwarded this matter to the appropriate team for their review and direct reply to you.Kind regards,*****  ********      *********  | Inspector | Staff Officer to the Commissioner."Today I received a a phone call from New Scotland Yard followed by the following email.Dear Mr Milkins "It was good to speak to you on the phone just now, and as promised, I am emailing to confirm my details. I recognise the huge amount of dedication you have put into your investigations and I am sorry that these terrible murders remain unsolved, despite your efforts.There have been various reviews conducted regarding these cases over the years and I know you were in contact with DC Paul Rogers in 2007, and most recently, DC Adam Bailey in 2020. It remains the case as per DC Bailey’s letter that the links between Harold Jones and the victims are not substantive enough to enable a definitive finding that he was responsible for their deaths. I hope you understand that because Jones died in 1971 and there is no additional material further to what has been looked at in the above reviews, we won’t be reviewing the cases again at this time.Having said that, I know you are determined to continue with your work, and if there is something substantive and probative that you find that you would like to bring to our attention in the future, please do so.I wish you all the best."DC *****   ****** | CSC - Major InquiriesSpecial Casework TeamTHE MUST GO ON. AND IT WILL.

Neil Milkins ● 380d0 Comments ● 380d

Volunteer Gardeners wanted

Age Concern Chiswick has a lovely garden at their Friendship Club in Oxford Road North, W4 4DN but we are short of people to look after it. Can you help? Have you a spare hour or two on Mondays or Thursdays? If so, do get in touch: ageconcernchiswick@outlook.com or call 020 8742 7007.

Age Concern Chiswick ● 382d0 Comments ● 382d

The (once upon a time) proposed pedestrian bridge to the Kew

Wouldn't it be a tonic for Brentford folk if the once proposed pedestrian bridge across the River Thames to the Kew Towpath came to fruition.The bridge would take one to "Brentford Gate" which is an entrance to Kew Gardens.With the attractive £1 entrance fee for oldies like me ... it would enhance our remaining days!If cyclists were allowed to use the bridge (no riding allowed?) they would be halfway  to Richmond before they knew it! Brentford Lock West is getting a new bridge this month to ease their trips to Brentford Station...so perhaps now is the time for the "Ballymore Footbridge to get back on the Agenda. Yes a bridge named after a sponsor.Past offorts failed to progress due to lack of financial support.

Jim Lawes ● 387d12 Comments ● 384d

Brentford Canal Festival

A nice little piece telling us that there will be a Canal Festival this year. It was fun last year - I particularly loved the music in the Market Place and it was wonderful that the weather was great. But the article would have been nicer still if the dates of the festival had been included. "Who, what, when, where, how" seem to have disappeared from the journalist's canon.

Sue Rowe ● 393d3 Comments ● 392d

Foundations Shaking

Anyone else’s foundations are shaking heavily due to the industrial impact drilling at the old Brentford football stadium? Our entire building is moving when they use that machine. I do hope it doesn’t cause damage to our buildings?

Jai Williams ● 397d5 Comments ● 393d

SNP Money

How can money just disappear? I really don't understand - anybody got an explanation? Thanks.

Anne England ● 393d6 Comments ● 393d

Time for a change?

So, Sadiq Khan is claiming that the “silent majority” support his plans to charge us a huge daily amount to drive on our roads.  Does he think that we would believe that only people who are strongly against these measures will speak out, and those who are strongly in favour will just sit quietly by?  He is using the same dishonest tactics used by our local council – to ignore or discredit the results of their own consultations that are verifiably and resolutely against their plans, in favour of inventing conversations with mystery persons that appear to support them.  I think that we are all in favour of better air quality, but is this going to produce a significant and measurable improvement?  And is this the best use of our money at this time?  We are experiencing the highest inflation in a generation, we have fuel poverty, a social care crisis, a mental health epidemic, an influx of refugees from a war – I could go on.  So, what are our Labour administrations in Hounslow and City Hall prioritising – building cycle lanes and fining us for using our cars to get to work.  How can they justify a 5% council tax rise locally, and a whopping 10% increase for the GLA, when people can’t heat their homes or feed their families?  These people have become complacent and expect to be returned time after time, so make no effort to truly represent their constituents or take our views into account when they’re spending OUR money.  When you’re next in the supermarket wondering what you can afford to eat, think of the millions being spent on these pointless schemes.  I think it is time that these people – both in Hounslow and City Hall, who have shown no interest in truly representing us and are happy to raise taxes and fritter away our money on grandiose and pointless schemes, need to be voted out at the first opportunity – literally anyone else would be better than this lot.

Graham Thorpe ● 394d0 Comments ● 394d

Brexit

Its finally been admitted there will be border control posts at Belfast and three other locations. And goods crossing the Irish Sea will be subject to checks.

Nicholas Beard ● 1451d17 Comments ● 396d

The Gating of Brentford Dock

(See the article on the front page of TW8).These are important clarifications:1) if you wish to comment to LB Hounslow on the Article 4 Direction, you should include your name and postal address within your email.2) Brentford Voice would welcome your general opinion on the gating, irrespective of whether you are in favour of the gates or against them. Please email your thoughts to:   info@brentfordvoice.co.uk

Jim Storrar ● 434d36 Comments ● 398d

Reglazng glasses

Has anyone experience of reusing old glass frames by having new lenses put in them?  I have a couple of pairs I would like to reuse, but I am uncertain of who to go to, and whether it is a good idea?

Sarah Felstead ● 402d7 Comments ● 398d

Brentford to Hounslow Cycleway Consultation Report Published

The consultation report into the Brentford to Hounslow Cycleway proposal (not the one they have just started building but the one further west which is on the drawing board).https://haveyoursay.tfl.gov.uk/hounslow-brentford-walking-and-cycling-changesThere are some interesting comments in the report and bus island by-passes were clearly causing people a lot of concern.What TfL haven't done is give details of overall levels of support or opposition to the scheme presenting responses in a way in which it was impossible to work out even broadly what was the balance of opinion.You may argue that this is underhand and assume that it could only be because the level of opposition was overwhelming or say that this is meant to be a consultation not a referendum.What I can't recall is if there was ever a question asking for overall opinions on the scheme in the original survey. They have taken it down now so it is hard to find out. If they did then an FoI request may be necessary to find out.There is to be another consultation on more detailed plans later this year.

Jeremy Parkinson ● 399d0 Comments ● 399d

House in Grove Road, Isleworth, hits the news …

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-11864359/Reckless-homeowner-illegally-knocked-800-000-three-bed-house-fined-6-000.html

Sarah Felstead ● 415d16 Comments ● 402d

Detailed design for Watermans Park to Kew Bridge cycleway

At risk of attracting further ridicule and contempt at being unable to track down documents online, could someone point me in the right direction for a more detailed map of the new section of the Cycleway planned between Watermans Park and Kew Bridge?

Jeremy Parkinson ● 413d35 Comments ● 403d

The pedestrian north side of the Great West Road is a disgrace.

It was kind of King George V and Queen Mary to open a stage of the Great West Road back in 1925.It is a major throughfare through Brentfordof which we used to be most proud.Take a walk from the Chiswick Flyover...starting on the west side... and you'll been startled to see masses of trapped litter ..seemingly left alone for years.Use the still active subway (ref A4 Smiths Factory)... ignore the filth and litter (not cleaned for years)...litter all along and in front of Dell, chaotic cycle path ..disgraceful Gatehouse zone at Gunnersbury Park.. and then the flytipping scene at the Sunley Plot at the entrance to Lionel Road  North. Who is in Charge?

Jim Lawes ● 409d11 Comments ● 403d

Best cream teas?

Shall we share details of the best cream teas around?  If we are going to do this + maybe we should decide what makes a really lovely cream tea?

Sarah Felstead ● 423d10 Comments ● 405d

The Ukrainian National football team and fans ...

.... have been apparently hotellingwith their families in Brentford TW8prior to their match versus Brentford B and v England at Wembley this weekend.Another thumbs up for TW8!

Jim Lawes ● 405d0 Comments ● 405d

Coronation Street Parties?

I gather that the friendly Enfield Road,in North Brentford, are have a Street Party ...sometime that weekend.Good on them!

Jim Lawes ● 413d2 Comments ● 406d

Less than a weeks notice for almost complete gridlock

So now the M4 will be closed as far as the A4 to Hogarth Roundabout. With the only notice being on this site . - Less than a week.The TfL/ Highways Authority advice?  Use the A40 or the A4.Do they not know that these roads are also currently severely restricted for ongoing works with tailbacks on the A40 to the M25 and is causing delays and gridlock in Hayes, Southall and almost impossible to get across Ealing to Brentford or Acton ?Then there are works on South Ealing Road, in Boston Manor and Hanwell.Then there is Richmond Town Centre blocked right in the middle with a 30 min detour via Sheen heading North- which diverts the bus right back into the epicentre of congestion.Plus ongoing Tube works of which the notifications have also been reduced by 4 days.The messed up weekends, the impossibility of working on call, and the waste in fuel, added pollution, stuffed up incomes, stress and damage to local trade.How on earth is this Road Management? and why such late and scant information to residents over what is a wide area.Plenty of posters all over the place about Ulez and untrue claims of clean air ( now being taken up by the ASA) But nothing about actions that are making life an absolute hell for everyone on foot in a car or on a bus.Worse than third rate.

Raymond Havelock ● 409d2 Comments ● 408d

Footbridge over canal/river to Boston Manor Park

The bridge is still closed. Planning application applied Sept. 2022 for strengthening. With the major improvements to the Park great shame there is currently no access from the towpath. I assume the various bodies involved are still fighting over who pays. Does anyone have some positive news?.

Chris Dakers ● 456d12 Comments ● 408d

The never ending road works underneath the M4 in Brentford.

Someone on the REAL BRENTFORD facebook group is asking the very legitimate question.about all the maintenance  work that keeps going on underneath the M4 passing through Brentford.... and currently causing great delays.We heard about water leakage, the damage done by SALT etc.... but what is the real problem. Is it being disclosed?Lots of wires seem to have been inserted into the cement column s etc.What's it all about.Does the M4 need rebuilding in TW8?

Jim Lawes ● 431d15 Comments ● 409d

Venue for a baby shower

We are currently looking for a venue for a baby shower probably for about 30 people. It would just be for a Saturday/Sunday afternoon   (1pm - 4pm) preferably with on site parking and catering facilities.Any ideas. Thanks in advance.

Pat Kingham ● 423d9 Comments ● 411d

Do two buildings on the Ballymore development site need SAVING?

I've noticed two buildings that were destined to be SAVED ...are seemingly beinguncared for, are showing signs of disrepairand could well be deemed soon for sad demolition.One is the old Wilson and Kyle staff canteen and grinding  building that had the interesting staggered brickwork.The Jupp overhanging warehouse could do with some tlc before that too is given the bulldozer treatment.Anyone concerned?

Jim Lawes ● 440d7 Comments ● 414d

Boston Manor House

Is this open now, does anybody know? If so, what times? Can't seem to find out by googling!

Susan Kelly ● 444d25 Comments ● 417d

Anybody know a John Murphy?

We got a package for someone of that name, but the address is obviously wrong

Mark Gormley ● 420d0 Comments ● 420d

Greggs rubbish - and a TQ

Can anyone explain why Greggs are allowed to pile bags of rubbish all over the pavement outside their premises every day. Should they not be required to have proper commercial rubbish disposal?Also a thank you to Hounslow Council for installing two new wooden cube seats by the willow tree on the Market Square. This will stop those dangerous people  who drive over the pavement and under the tree in order to park illegally on the square and endanger all who use it.

Cherry Baker ● 433d7 Comments ● 420d

Should they delay building CS9 through Brentford?

Bicycle sales are at a 20 year low and there’s no real prospect of boosting them. Maybe all that multi million pound investment isn’t needed after all!https://road.cc/content/news/uk-bike-sales-fall-lowest-level-20-years-299457

Simon Hayes ● 431d11 Comments ● 427d

Happy St David's Day!

•It's 1st March.•So it's St David's Day.•Brentford's links with Wales?The M4 motorway of course ...and welsh friends and associates

Jim Lawes ● 430d4 Comments ● 429d

Garages in Carville Crescent

Just received letter from Chartwell Vision building contractor based in Kent. I do hope that there vision improves before they start work as the address given reads adjacent to 2 Carville Crescent, Feltham,TW13 7DD which is Fernside Avenue, Feltham. perhaps LBH can help out before residents in Fernside have a block of flats in their road.

John William Selfe ● 429d3 Comments ● 429d

Victorian Old Police Station in Isleworth open for tours.

You are welcome to look around this local listed building. Surprisingly  very little has  structurally been altered. The property’s freehold  is owned by Hounslow Council, had been converted into flats . The wooden sash windows albeit  now rotten contain the original panes of glass. ,The electric circuit boxes are over 60 years old have a distinctive retro look. The Loft has a beauty of its own, displaying superb carpentry. Missing roof tiles have invited  rain over the decades  to add  attractive hues to the wooden joists and beams. Also in the Attic is an Asbestos insulation quite rare in residential housing. The  cracked lathe and plaster  ceilings  when gently pressed become animated, giving a gentle ripple effect. The subsidence has created a deep crack that runs down from the ceiling to the floor.  Outside of the property plant life flourishes with young trees growing from drains and  attached to the outside wall a 30ft rusty gas pipeline continues to feed gas into the building. Bring a hard hat.

Philippa Auton ● 432d9 Comments ● 430d

Upholstery recommendations please

2 dining chairs need the covers on the seat pads replacing.  Do you know of anyone?  Thanks

Sarah Felstead ● 435d4 Comments ● 432d

Steve Allen

Has retired ….

Sarah Felstead ● 433d0 Comments ● 433d

Growing Tomatoes

Experience of tomato growing - hints and tips - would be appreciated.  Grow bags?  Seeds?  Thanks

Sarah Felstead ● 438d7 Comments ● 434d

Cycle Lanes and bus islands in narrow Brentford High Street.

Oh to think that the traffic headaches of Chiswick will be intensified in Brentford...in the next year or two. Are Brentford's Councillors on the case in good time to make suggestions and amendments.Chiswick, my birthplace, is such a disaster.Accidents waiting in the wings.

Jim Lawes ● 459d20 Comments ● 435d

Restricting Public Access to the Brentford Dock Estate

You will have read the article on the front page.You may be aware also...via BRENTFORD VOICE... that Hounslow Council  might be engaging expensive lawyers to fight this prohibition.I sat next to a lady on a bus yesterday and we engaged in interesting conversation. She lived in Brentford Dock and was fully supportive of restricting public access to their river and canalside location.They pay their maintenance chargesto keep the place tidy..amongst other things. But it's OUR local scalleywags  who let Brentford down again. Some of their disgusting habits ruin things for the rest of us.Urinating and depositing poo on your homeland is no fun to tolerate. Litter is bad enough.I've come to the conclusion that Brentford Dock are right and Hounslow Council and Brentford Voice should tonedown their opposition.No wonder the Pump House Crescent estate of apartments (behind Holland Gardens) is fenced in too ..to keep out Green Dragon Lane swalleywags (if they exist).Summarising... these badly behaved locals spoil life for all of us and we should accept that  and not force the issue.I loved looking at the River Thames from outside Justin Court at the Dock... but no more. Thank you scalleywags.

Jim Lawes ● 470d37 Comments ● 437d

Museum type skills wanted - archiving/cataloguing

We are a regulated local (not for profit)community group and we seek an enthusiastic, experienced archivist! Have you got the skills to catalogue a sporting collection of <1000 items but with more coming soon. This is consultancy but sleeves rolled up, there's work to do. After the cataloguing >> scanning!Can you help - join us - come on board - this is not voluntary.Local (very local) sporting interest helpful!Thank you!Don

Don Tanswell ● 439d2 Comments ● 439d

Kndness Wall

FYI there is a kindness wall at the junction of t'high street and Catherine Wheel Rd. where you can hang upo an unwanted coat,jumper,hoodie etc.for anyone who might need one.

Keith Iddon ● 448d12 Comments ● 440d

Enough supermarkets in Brentford?

When Morrisons move to the new location on the BRENTFORD PROJECT site...I gather that it will be smaller in size compared with the present one.Is just one supermarket enough...with the thousands of people moving into the town?Today's Metro Newspaper lists the popularity score of the TOP TEN SUPERMARKETS.M&S, Aldi and Waitrose score very well.followed by Iceland,Lidl,Sainsburys and Tesco who are considered middling. Morrisons trailed in 9th place followed by the Co-Op.Are local shoppers happy?

Jim Lawes ● 441d1 Comments ● 441d

Sewage dumping in the Thames should be banned..even treated stuff.

There have been some exceptional low tides on the Brentford Waterfront this week.One can see the levels in front of Lot's Ait reduced to puddles.I fancied my chances of reaching the riverbank by going down those steps at Smith Hill. Even the lower steps were caked in thick Thames mud and I had to retreat.My footwear was plastered.Returning home...I washed the solid Thames mud from the soles etc. The mud stank of sewage. One hears that the Thames does have a whiff sometimes. One would have thought modern technology  would have sorted the problem. Successive local MPs have knocked on Thames Water's door. The boss gets paid a fortune. LET'S HAVE SOME ACTION!

Jim Lawes ● 442d2 Comments ● 442d

Smith Hill, Brentford  and occupants of the old Max Factor building.

I have recently been fascinated by the area around Smith Hill (at the bottom of Ealing Road and leading to the river) and likewise Goat Wharf, The Thames Path and Lot's Ait.Really gritty Brentford stuff.The tide is sometimes so low, just puddles, that it's tempting to wade....or certainly to do some mudlarking.In the basement of the Max Factor building,a small enterprise called STUDIO KLOX seems similar to the MAN'S SHED that operates in Isleworth Cemetery.Studio Flox is involved with cushion making, UPHOLSTERY, Furniture varnishing, yoga, and various other crafts and interests.This evening they were hosting a talk about the old Gas Works! A hidden gem of an area!

Jim Lawes ● 443d3 Comments ● 442d

Silverback gorilla.

A quote from an anonymous thinker. "How many Silver-back gorillas would be required, and how long would it take to train 1 of the gorillas to sit at a piano and play Beethoven's 5th Symphony?"

Neil Milkins ● 445d2 Comments ● 445d

Question for Guy Lambert

If you can tear yourself away from whatever ale house or curry emporium you are frequenting this weekend perhaps you could answer a simple question:How many pedestrians were killed or injured on Swyncombe Avenue between 2010 and 2022?I bet you could find the answer fairly easily from your council colleagues. You used pedestrian safety in general as a reason for the closure being made permanent, but failed to provide any specifics relating to the road. Are you hiding behind dodgy data?

Simon Hayes ● 448d25 Comments ● 445d

Hounslow Road Blocks to Become Permanent

Here is a question I would like any of our Councillors to answer.Why did you hire a private company to carry out a consultation with ratepayers money and when they reported that there was huge opposition,ignore the result ?It is obvious that the Labour council never was going to listen to their residents views.I,like many residents, am disgusted at this level of comtempt for the people of this borough shown by this group of self-serving yes men who blindly toe the party line without a whimper, who by their action show they have no respect whatsoever for their constituents.

Robert Ayres ● 466d53 Comments ● 445d

Mayor of London in Ealing on Question Time

Should be very interesting as to what questions we will be allowed to ask.https://www.london.gov.uk/events/peoples-question-time-ealing

Debbie Paradin ● 445d1 Comments ● 445d

Guy Lambert Meets Cindrella

Yes, Guy was admiring his handiwork in Whitestile Road when who should happen along but Cinders."Oh Guy", she said. "You look sad". "Yes", he said. "I'm getting a lot of stick about my handiwork and it's the wicked wizard who lives down Enfield. He keeps on about this thing called democracy and refused to accept my excuses." "Oh", said Cinders. "I see you have been telling a few little white porkies. Well, a few more won't hurt. Tell them you met a lady who told you everyone loves them and Guy, don't be down if it all goes tits up. I have the perfect job for you, as the widow Twanky in my pantomime - if we can find a frock big enough to fit you. So go away and use your monotonous, boring, self-promoting blog to say 'Approval on the Ground for New Permanent Road Barriers'. Then there was a thunderous fart, a flash of smoke and Cinders disappeared.

Robert Ayres ● 445d0 Comments ● 445d

Syon Lane

Does anyone know if Syon Lane is open for through traffic yet? Thanks.

Pat Kingham ● 450d9 Comments ● 448d

Vagisha Kajla bank card

I found a bank card today with the name Vagisha Kajla.If anyone knows her please reply, and if she can identify the lost card I will arrange to get it back to her.

Paul Thompson ● 452d0 Comments ● 452d

Unused CD's and DVD's

Having a clear out, I find I have containers of unused CD's and DVD's plus plastic cases.  Anyone interested - FOC of course!Also, can anyone suggest what I can do with unwanted cables etc. I don't want to send them to landfill. Thanks.

Joan Adamson ● 454d14 Comments ● 452d

Rotten Boroughs Awards 2022

Hounslow has made the Private Eye 'Rotten Boroughs' Awards 2022 - category 'Brass-necked Councillor of the Year'. "One of the reasons Hounslow Labour councillor Puneet Grewal found herself de-selected last April may have been that she had claimed £17,976 in allowances over the year, but managed to attend just one meeting. Nice work while it lasted!"

Vanessa Smith ● 484d19 Comments ● 455d

Update on energy companies SSE and OVO.

ILLEGAL TRANSFER FROM ENERGY PROVIDER SSE TO OVO.A response given on Trustpilot on 26-1-23  by energy provider SSE regarding my illegal transfer from energy company SSE to energy company OVO which are part of the same company."Hi, Thank you for your recent email, I apologise for the delay in my response.We appreciate you contacting us. When I check your account, it has already been transferred to OVO Energy. As a result, your account has been closed and we no longer have access to it. I suggest you to get in touch with OVO Energy because they are the team that can assist you.Thank you for contacting SSE."John from OVO has informed me that I was tricked by SSE to sign up to OVO with a false promise of a £50 energy credit.And the response given on Trustpilot by OVO. Thanks for getting back to me, Neil.I've checked over your account and I can see you've managed to reach the team. I am sorry that the letter has caused such confusion, but the install would have had to have been with SSE.Thanks,Dave.Both SSE and OVO are continuing to argue that the other party are to blame for the illegal transfer. I have to wait about 7 weeks for SSE and OVO to sort the mess out before the Energy Ombudsman will intervene. Anyone wishing to change energy providers would be wise to check on Trustpilot the company they are thinking of using before deciding. SSE and OVO are having shocking reviews. See part of Which magazine review of OVO below.                                                              "Ovo Energy came near the bottom of the table in 13th place out of 16 energy companies rated by 10,197 members of the public in the annual Which? customer survey. This is a big drop from last year, when it came joint second. It had poor two-star ratings for almost all of the aspects of service we looked at, managing an average three stars for just one - the accuracy of its payments."One dissatisfied customer said: 'It’s impossible to contact them. Online options don’t make it easy to solve problems.'

Neil Milkins ● 457d0 Comments ● 457d

FREE talk "Temples of Industry"  11.30 am Thurs 2nd Feb

Do come to a talk by Jennal Amin of Gunnersbury Park Museum, exploring people's memories of working in three local factories (Firestone, Trico and AEC) and the impact that their closures had on people's lives.  She will also be most interested to hear your experiences of working in other factories or workplaces.  Do bring along any relevant photos you may have.At the Friendship Club, Oxford Road North, W4 4DN.  ageconcernchiswick@outlook.com.  020 8742 7007

Age Concern Chiswick ● 461d3 Comments ● 457d

Protect your Right to Strike

https://www.megaphone.org.uk/petitions/protect-the-right-to-strike?share=889b893f-245e-45f8-b136-4557303c37f3&source=email-share-button&utm_source=email

Vanessa Smith ● 457d0 Comments ● 457d

Cattery

Can anyone recommend a reasonably local one?

Mark Gormley ● 459d1 Comments ● 457d

Covid tests

Checking the dates on the Covid tests we ordered before they ended the free boxes, I realised that we will never use them all by the use by dates.  There are several months left on them, mostly December 23 but some October and one was July.Took them to the food bank yesterday so people using the food bank, and their volunteers can make use of them rather than spending the £2 a test.Maybe you could check if you are going to use all yours before the use by date?

Sarah Felstead ● 458d0 Comments ● 458d

Brent Lea Park ...in Brentford Ward West.

This quiet and peaceful Park,one of the Borough's many,lies between the Brent Lee Estate  and the Duke of Northumberland's London home.There's an outdoor Basketball Court and a tennis court within the acres of grass and old trees.A few people are complaining aboutnot wanting to use the close handy Park because of the excessive amount of dog poo being left behind by dog owners.The Council are now spending good money building a new pathway around the perimeter  of the grassy area....for that reason?!Brentford West Councillors to be alerted perhaps. Catch the culprits!

Jim Lawes ● 459d2 Comments ● 459d

Disgusting LITTERLOUTS  on the Haverfield Estate.

The threat of CCTV cameras is no deterrant for the litter scalleywags. Pictures are being posted on the REAL BRENTFORD facebook where the posting of photos and getting responses  is very easy.The Council Staff who collect the waste bins must be horrified at the sights they see before them. They don't want to spend time clearing up the mess... and one can't blame themRecycling seems out of the question and the treatment of such contaminated  materials is alarming. I'm a keen recycler...down to the last slither of paper.Walnut Tree Road sometimes wins 1st prize for distasteful scenes. I wonder what a busy Councillor could arrange.

Jim Lawes ● 459d0 Comments ● 459d

Eddie Menday MBE... prolific local historian... has died.

We learn from a Heston fb page that the 100 year old Eddie... who wrote articles in the Middlesex Chronicle over many years...and in other media too.. has died.Many will recognise his name and be aware of his many local Governorships. Mainly associated with Feltham and Hounslow... who will be extra saddened at his passing..

Jim Lawes ● 461d1 Comments ● 461d

Dishonest business practice.

It's seems like everyone is out to scam. 10 days ago I had a letter from SSE, part of the O.V.O. family offering a £50 energy credit if I had a Smart Meter installed. I booked the meter but had to change to S.S.E. O.V.O. I have just been informed by John from S.S.E. O.V.O. that the agent from S.S.E. had tricked me into signing up to S.S.E. O.V.O. and since signing up have been told that I don't qualify for a Smart Meter or £50 credit. John has promised to rectify the matter.I have been on the phone to SSE and OVO from 9.30 this morning until now ( 3.00 pm) today. I have been waiting up to 30 minutes to get connected and have been cut off 3 times by Ryan then Steff then another woman.

Neil Milkins ● 463d8 Comments ● 461d

A4/Windmill Rd junction

Anybody know why it's blocked off? I saw the notices about works on the elevated section, but didn't clock that you can't cross the main road by car any more

Mark Gormley ● 465d17 Comments ● 462d

Brentford's Medya!

So sad that the Brentford and Chiswick Times closed years ago...and others too no doubt.Now we have on-line competition.Brentford Hub and Brentford VoiceAll the Brentford Football Club sitesAll the Facebook sitesAnd HOUNSLOW MATTERS tries to get a look in.And of course  BRENTFORD TW8.COM.Who's not to be missed?

Jim Lawes ● 462d0 Comments ● 462d

It's Burn's Night soon ...

Where will our Scottish friends be celebrating locally?Is there a local public house with a Scottish flavour I know that Irish Pub's celebrate colourfully on the 17th March each year.Indeed I ventured into Soviet influencedESTONIA once and found an Irish Pub proudly operating in Tallinn the Capitalwith a clientele  including the British Ambassador! So, any locations recommended?

Jim Lawes ● 467d11 Comments ● 462d

Hounslow Expands Council Home Building Programme

I have some questions about this item.(1) The total money being used for the 1000 new homes is, according to the report, a grant of £168m and borrowing of £289m. That's a total of £457m. So it would appear that each home is to be built at a cost of £457,000. Isn't that rather expensive? What will be the mix of the homes in terms of the number of bedrooms? Will the homes be built on Council-owned land?(2) 2) Cllr Tom Bruce is quoted as saying that Hounslow has "a fantastic track record of delivering homes for local people". But when we turn to the Council's published assessment of its housing record the picture seems rather different. The Council's Housing Strategy 2019-2014 tells us that population growth in the borough is exceeding the provision of new homes and that this is producing a trend towards more overcrowding (page 36). The same document informs us that the demand for larger family homes is increasing. Another Council housing publication says that 50% of new homes need to be larger family homes (3+ bedrooms).The Local Plan says that new developments should have at least 30% of larger family homes (in the market and social/affordable sectors). And yet the Planning Committee approves large developments like that for the Tesco-Homebase sites that don't come near meeting even the Local Plan requirement. It is not clear to me how this can be described as a "fantastic" provision of homes for local people?(3) Are the thousand new homes promised additional to the 5000 new homes promised in the Housing Strategy 2019-2014 or are they a repackaging of part of that 5000? The report implies that they are extra to the 5000. I would just like to be clear that that is the case.

David Pavett ● 469d13 Comments ● 462d

Mini mozzies in Brentford!

It seems that both the Clayponds  Estate and the Haverfield Estate in Brentford's East... were built on previous sewage farms/ filter beds and moreWhy are baby mozzies still around..even though they only live 24 hours?Get the spray out agsin Jim!

Jim Lawes ● 463d0 Comments ● 463d

Charity night in aid of Parkinson’s at the Six Bells

Friday 16th Dec is a charity night at the Six Bells. We have local favourite singer Richard Blair singing all the old favourites of The Rat Pack - songs you’ll know and love to sing along to! We are raising awareness and funds in aid of Parkinson’s disease - raffle including a brand new ladies bike s d tickets for Brentford FC to be won! We would love to see you especially if you haven’t been before or lately, you might like the changes we’ve made. Christmas jumper night & disco on Sat 17th too with DJ The Maestro.

Karen Morris ● 505d2 Comments ● 464d

Road Safety for Older Adults workshop - FREE

Do come to our workshop - provided by Mairi McLeod for LB Hounslow - on road safety for older adults at 11.30 am on Thursday 26th January at the Friendship Club, Oxford Road North, W4 4DN.  We are just off Chiswick High Road opposite the Clayton Hotel.  Gunnersbury station.  Buses H91, 110, 237, 267 and 440.  Free and open to all.  More info: email us on ageconcernchiswick@outlook.com or call 020 8742 7007.

Age Concern Chiswick ● 473d9 Comments ● 464d

Thames Water

You are not going to need this information unless it is an emergency, but if it is an emergency, you really need to know it…Our old “key hole shaped” stop-cock in the street has done the house proud.  We have a key on a long pole to turn it off, should it need turning off.A couple of years ago it was changed into a new plastic box which apparently uses a different key, a black key, which is tucked inside the newer plastic box, out in the street ( didn’t know that ).  The old pole key is obsolete.Thames Water are now going around changing all the old key hole style stop-cocks for plastic boxes, which also come with a key inside them, a blue key.  The black and blue keys are different, but are inside the boxes in the street.The stop-cock with a black key needs to be turned until the water stops, the blue key only needs a small turn to close it.Just spoken to a neighbour who also didn’t know there was supposed to be a key inside their box, and there has never been one, so they use a wrench……

Sarah Felstead ● 508d13 Comments ● 464d

THE VERDICT premises have been.sold!

ie.. the ground floor trading space at the old Magistrates Court in Market Square.Sad news?What will become of the premises.Brentford seems busy with Coffee Shops already...and when the BRENTFORD PROJECT fully opens...the coffee shop trading activity could become swamped!

Jim Lawes ● 470d8 Comments ● 465d

THE C9 cycleway in Waterman's Park ...a white elephant.?

After all that expense...I've never seen anyone using it..have you?Cyclists would seem to be ignoring it and choosing to stay on the busyand narrowish main road.The construction of its continuationthrough Brentford High Street to Hounslow will cause much disruption.Is it worth it?

Jim Lawes ● 471d32 Comments ● 466d

Safe installation

Strange request, but here goes. Are you a handyman, or know of one, that can install a security safe? It’s nothing fancy, can be seen here https://www.simplysafes.co.uk/sun-em-015-fire-safe.htmlIt needs to be secured to the concrete floor of my flat, just one bolt, that’s all (supplied). Got quoted a ridiculous quote of £225+ VAT by one company. Wasn’t looking to spend anything like that as it isn’t really a big job, just one bolt into concrete floor. £225+VAT is more than the safe itself. Email: regal.drifts02@icloud.com

Bradley Taylor ● 471d2 Comments ● 467d

Online Consultations

Having a vested interest, I'm trying to fill in the Online forms in relation to the Brook Road South CPZ. Unfortunately, the system keeps on telling me "having answered No to question 6, what changes would you support?". Trouble is, I answered Yes to question 6 and it won't let me correct question 7. Anybody else wrestling with it? I may email Guy Lambert directly.

Mark Gormley ● 471d2 Comments ● 470d

Monster 5G mast in Boston Manor Playing Fields

So having been kicked out of Blondin Park, Three Mobile and EE are now hoping to put up a 60-foot high monster mast in Boston Manor Playing Fields instead.It’s interesting to see that the proposed mast relies very heavily on Huawei technology. One of the drawings submitted to Hounslow Council specifies the deployment of a Huawei BTS3900A cabinet.http://planning2.hounslow.gov.uk/NPSPublicDocs/00688507.pdfIn case you’re not familiar with it, the Huawei BTS3900A cabinet is the part of the system that deals with your calls, texts, emails and web searches. The technology in the Huawei BTS3900A also makes it possible to send all of this to Beijing so the Chinese government can see exactly what you’re up to. You can object here (link below) but only mention planning-related concerns, like height, overshadowing and loss of amenity. Spying by foreign powers does not count as a “material” concern.https://eforms.hounslow.gov.uk/ufs/ufsmain?formid=A086_PLANNING_COMMENTS&ALT_REF=00132%2FA%2FCOM1&CASE_NO=PA%2F2020%2F2091&ebz=1_1594408177409&ebd=0&ebz=1_1594408177409

David Marshall ● 1393d24 Comments ● 471d

Brentford High Line Meeting

Sad to have missed this but would be really interested to hear a report of proceedings from anyone who attended. There is clearly great potential for this site to become a real asset to the area.

Jeremy Parkinson ● 477d5 Comments ● 471d

Indian take away/delivery

I am looking for recommendations for an Indian take away/delivery in the Brentford/Northfields area.  We previously used India India in Northfields Avenue which closed last year.  We loved both the reasonable prices and the quality of their food. Look forward to receiving your suggestions. Thanks.

Pat Kingham ● 477d7 Comments ● 474d

Wales 20mph speed limit.

Wales are going to replace the 30mph with a 20mph in most places. Will England follow? On a recent visit to East Lothian I was surprised by how many towns now have a 20mph limit.

Nicholas Beard ● 490d11 Comments ● 476d

Where does Brentford start and begin near Kew Bridge.

In recent times the Brentford East Ward Bounderies have changed.Those imposing apartments  at Kew Bridge seemingly have TW8 postcodes but yet are part of the newish CHISWICK AND GUNNERSBURY WARD!Are those occupiers, many who would be newbies to the area, Brentford folkor Chiswickians?Has this been an Estate Agents and developers ploy to reclassify or upgrade their activities...or a political one to prop up the Conservative vote in Chiswick?

Jim Lawes ● 480d9 Comments ● 479d

Ballymore Site:  Fly-tipping

Please does anyone have any insight as to when this terrible, unsafe eysore is to be cleared?  The council don't appear to be showing any concern whatsoever. I'm sure it has been over a month since the original dumping occurred, and nobody seems to be showing any signs of clearing this rat-infested area?

Alison Smith ● 481d10 Comments ● 479d

Question for Cllr Lambert about Boston Manor cafe

From your blog: ‘This included Boston Manor Park where I took a pic of our swanky new cafe which is now a Park Hub (or will be when they finish it and find someone to run a café!)’Is there a plan for this? Is there contingency for the expensively rebuilt facility to remain empty for a certain period? One would hate to see potential custom go elsewhere.And what exactly is a ‘park hub’? I know Labour types love a rebrand but if it’s a cafe, call it that. If it’s something else you need to make that clear. Not everyone sits in on council cabinet meet.

Simon Hayes ● 497d21 Comments ● 482d

Circle. South Ealing Road

I hope nobody on the forum actually knows anybody who needs this but it's a drop-in centre for children with mental-health problems.https://www.hfehmind.org.uk/get-support/service-for-schools/support-for-children-young-people/circle/

Susan Kelly ● 483d0 Comments ● 483d

Physio recommendations

Has anyone been treated by a local physio whom they would recommend?  The issue to be treated is neck pain. Thanks.

Joan Adamson ● 483d5 Comments ● 483d

Eric Dicker

I know that Eric was known by a lot of people in Brentford and he sadly passed away in January 2021.  Eric used to fret about where I would have his Wake but because of Covid I was not able to have one.  I decide that a way for his friends to remember him was an Afternoon Tea on 28th January between 2.00 p.m and 5.00 p.m. at 6th Brentford Scout HQ where Eric spent a lot of his time. So I have an idea of the number to cater for please let me know by email janet.coles@btinternet.com if you are able to attend.

Janet Coles ● 483d0 Comments ● 483d

"Brentford Developments in the pipeline" (Front Page)

Whilst most of us are busy concentrating on family and the festive season...and quite rightly too...the list of flats flats flats flats proposed for building and developing in the Area beggers belief.Planners and developers are having a field day. Financiers and the Construction Trades too.Is there really control?The long list of new builds and their illustrations (RIGHT HAND COLUMN FRONT PAGE) suggests Brentford will become more like Milton Keynes every day.And don't expect to be able to walk around the new sites freely.The gated Communities and "Keep Out" signs will prevail.Enjoy the festive season... deal with these matters in the New Year!

Jim Lawes ● 494d30 Comments ● 483d

Former Princess Royal pub last night

Did anybody hear the noises coming from the ex pub yesterday until 11 pm?

Silvia Diaz ● 691d40 Comments ● 483d

Solicitor recommendations

I want to update my Will.  Unfortunately two firms of solicitors in Brentford whom I have used in the past have gone out of business. Can anyone recommend a local company whose charges are 'reasonable'?

Joan Adamson ● 483d0 Comments ● 483d

EU gas buying platform

The EU is considering forming a platform to buy gas for all member states with the aim of reducing the price by massive bulk buying. What effect will that have on countries not in the EU?

Nicholas Beard ● 493d2 Comments ● 484d

Good news from East London!

  0-2 ! ¯\_(ツ)_/¯Up the bees!

Jim Lawes ● 490d5 Comments ● 485d

Are we twinned?  The small BRENTFORD, South Dakota, USA

Did you know that there is a small settlement in the USA called BRENTFORD?There only about 70-100 folk living there but they keenly follow us(!)in football's PREMIER LEAGUE.They watch the Bees enthusiastically and  wear the red and white kit.If you read the REAL BRENTFORD Facebookpage (on  which I overly indulge) you will see the story,pictures and more.A Brentford TW8 fan does visit them with BFC goodies.

Jim Lawes ● 487d2 Comments ● 485d

Did we miss the Ballymore.Open Day?  The Council didn't !

I've found the following texts on an obscure  Ballymote website... and the reference to Hounslow Council's leader Steve Curran makes me wonder whether WE/US are blind as bats.. and haven't a clue how our Elected Officers are dealing with the future of Brentford.WHAT DO YOU MAKE OF IT?Just bear with me.. I've uplifted this lot on a dodgy mobile phone.You may be aware that our Town is being extensively promoted abroad to Developers and Financiers, spectulators.and more... read on!......................ENGLISH 简体中文 繁體中文BallymoreWE ARE BALLYMOREARTS AND CULTUREIt’s hotting up at The Brentford ProjectTemperatures soared to the hottest day of the year for the launch of The Brentford Project on Saturday June 1, the new arts and culture summer festival of music, yoga, fun and food celebrating a new chapter for one of west London’s best-kept secrets.Nearly 1,000 local residents, joined by neighbours from nearby Hounslow, Chiswick and Kew, basked in temperatures of 27.6 degrees on the banks of the River Brent with music from Donel, this year’s runner up in The Voice talent show and Michael Rice, the UK’s contender in this year’s Eurovision Song Contest.VIPs attending the event included the leader of Hounslow Council, Councillor Steve Curran, who proclaimed: “The Brentford Project is the rebirth of Brentford. We’ve been waiting a long time for this day, and I’m really excited about what this means for Brentford and for the future.“Without question, the Brentford Project will bring a vitality to the town, lots of people have been waiting a long time for it, and now it’s here I think they’ll be delighted. Brentford’s a special place. It’s a special place in South West London and it’s a special place in Hounslow.”He was joined by John Mulryan, group managing director of Ballymore, whose redevelopment of the yards and lanes between the high street to the waterfront will bring a lively mix of restaurants, bars and retail to complement a new residential quarter. John explained:“The Brentford Project is an initiative to try to engage with the community and bring people in, and make sure that as we develop the town centre, it’s done with the community”“It’s trying to get people to really help us to create this town centre. When you develop in a town like this, the key thing is that you develop in a way that encourages the spirit of the town to grow, by engaging in the community through culture, through arts, through creativity, through design.”It’s hotting up at The Brentford Project Chef Robin Gill serves up pizzas from the wood-fired oven at Rye by the WaterAt the launch, friends and families enjoyed delicious fresh pastries and sausage rolls from Brentford’s new bakery and restaurant, Rye by the Water, who turned out more than 1,000 specially-baked pizzas – with a little help from celebrity Irish chef Robin Gill who joined new head chef Ben Rand and Janine Edwards, head baker, in the bakery.Another big attraction was the classic car collection of the Duke of London with enthusiasts driving their own cars to showcase at the event.The following week on Thursday June 6, a Beer and Blues event will take place at Rye by the Water with a chance to sample some of west London’s finest craft beers served against a backdrop of blues by Brentford’s very own Robert Hokum.And on July 11 visitors can join a start-up masterclass with local entrepreneur Merlin McCormack, the man behind Duke of London who will share his knowledge, tips and tricks for building a successful business.Looking ahead to July 6, Zen in the City will feature yoga and mindfulness classes with RJ Mind Body while on Saturday August 31, the ‘makers of Brentford’ will be coming together for a showcase of the best arts and crafts the area has to offer, with creative workshops and an art exhibition curated by local artist groups.Finally in mid-August, the Changing Face of Brentford will peel back the layers of the area’s rich history revealing some fascinating insights with the Brentford & Chiswick Local History Society with a private dinner hosted in the beautiful surroundings of Rye by the Water.Visit www.thebrentfordproject.com/events for more information or to book your place.SHARERelated Articles“A community of creative people who want to help each other”VIDEOARTS AND CULTURE“A community of creative people who want to help each other”READ MOREBrentford Waterside gets the go aheadPROPERTYBrentford Waterside gets the go aheadCivic leaders have cut the ribbon on the commencement of work on one of the most ambitious and extensive regeneration projects along London’s waterside at Brentford.READ MOREARCHIVE STORIESNEWSOPINIONBALLYMORE PEOPLEPROPERTYUNDER THE SKINVIDEOARTS AND CULTUREWELLNESSABOUTOUR PROJECTSIN THE NEWSRESIDENTIALCOMMERCIALGET IN TOUCHCAREERSFACEBOOK TWITTER INSTAGRAM LINKEDINHELP HUBtwitter / BALLYMOREinstagram  / ASKBALLYMOREPRIVACY POLICYMODERN SLAVERYCOOKIESTERMS & CONDITIONSTAX STRATEGYBUILDING SAFETY PLEDGE © BALLYMORE 2022

Jim Lawes ● 492d12 Comments ● 490d

Running costs of Amenities

This must be a nightmare but indicative of how expensive and unaffordable the 'exclusive' facilities have become for the more well heeled of the Borough.But I wish the reporting would be clearer.  For example from the quote below:What do they mean by subsidiaries and how ?  Does that really mean robbing Peter to pay Paul? Or targeting other people with stealth charges or overt increases?It's very vague."According to the report, Lampton Group will recover costs from subsidiaries in full for the year and will therefore breakeven. Clive Palfreyman, executive director of finance and resources for Hounslow Council said, “While there is strong financial performance reported across the group the pressures emerging in relation to Lampton Leisure Ltd are significant and are likely to require the council to provide support in some form in the second half of the year."

Raymond Havelock ● 504d6 Comments ● 494d

So no buses today on Routes 111 and 267.

We'll survive hopefully.

Jim Lawes ● 496d0 Comments ● 496d

Sellotape zero plastic

At last!  Robert Dyas have this on offer at £1 a roll with free click and collect.

Sarah Felstead ● 499d0 Comments ● 499d

Virginia Fassnidge RIP.. Brentford at heart.

Thank you to the Editor for this front page news of Virginia's sad passing.She lived in the heart of Brentford and seemingly from there gave her heart to Brentford too.We witnessed her helping Linda Massey so ably at the Festivals...her lovely style so ably described by the Editorial.Virginia deserves a plaque or the planting of a tree in Boston Manor Park so that her help everywhere is never forgotten.

Jim Lawes ● 1108d12 Comments ● 503d

Incident in Brentford Lock?

I walked my dog down the towpath towards Brentford Lock around 4.30pm. We passed the Riverside Clinic and the other offices beside the clinic.  Where the towpath bends to the right, a policewoman was standing behind a ribbon barrier stopping people from going any further.  I asked her what had happened but she said she could not talk about it. Does anyone know what was going on?

Joan Adamson ● 577d8 Comments ● 505d

Internet fraud.

A SERIOUS QUESTION. In 2019 Money Man Martin Lewis won a £3 million pounds settlement from Facebook for using his face and profile to defraud vulnerable people out billions of pounds. Yet every day dozens of these fake ads are still accepted by Facebook to rob the unwary. In 2021 alone  £11 billion pounds have been defrauded from people. WHY ARE THE POLICE OR OTHER AUTHORITIES UNABLE TO STOP IT. Has Martin Lewis accepted £3 million pounds from Facebook on condition that he doesn't sue them again?                                                                                                                                   FAKE HEADING.                                                                          "Thousands Flock to ATMs After Martin's Exclusive Interview."

Neil Milkins ● 506d0 Comments ● 506d

The Brentford Project  (Ballymore) and the new street names!

Part of the new development is now open to the public... in particular that entrance near St Lawrence Church.You can make your own judgement about what you think of it all.I wandered round recently looking for Sam's Coffee Shop. It opened some 10 days ago and is called SAM'S LARDER. It's in a street called KINGHAM AVENUE which is littered with overhanging structures thatyou may or may  not find overpowering.Another 'street' is called BRADSHAW YARD which was half expected.A tall block of apartments is calledHOLLANDBURY perhaps linking Frank Holland 's old Piano Museum with the project.What would our Nigel Moore RIP think of the new RIDGEWAYS WHARF I wonder.Hopefully it will be some kind of water feature to break up the sights all round.Last but not least so far..I noticed a new street called BRENT WAY!So Brentford will now have two of those !

Jim Lawes ● 526d10 Comments ● 506d

Waterman's Park C9 cycle track lanterns switched on...

There is now elegant lighting on the new cycle track as it passes through Waterman's Park ...by the riverside.Looking over the roadside wall...the lighting gives a very agreeable visa ...being amongst trees and falling leaves.Brentford getting brighter?

Jim Lawes ● 546d47 Comments ● 510d

Vintage Art and Craft Fair at the Brook Today

Just been helping a person load a car in the cold. She's doing a Vintage craft show at the Brook Pub this morning from 10 am.Promised I would give it a mention as this is a real local thing with local people and worth a look.Starts 10 till about 2pm at the Brook Pub in Brook road south.Excellent Pub so a nice place to peruse

Raymond Havelock ● 511d1 Comments ● 511d

Have a stroll around Brentford Dock estate?... .NO NO! KEEP OUT!

As we get older...we are encouraged  to walk walk walk ... but we can't seemingly go where-ever we like!After my walk around the 'opened for business part" of the Brentford Project..I ran out of walkway..but didn't want to have to turn around and retrace my steps.I merely wanted to access Dock Road via a gate and a short walk along the pretty Canalside of Brentford Dock Estate.KEEP OUT - PRIVATE  - CCTV CAMERAS ACTIVE -etc etc.I did finally get to Dock Road..but I felt I was intruding. I said 'good morning" to each person I met. I can understand security issues.Have the scalleywags around town and their crimes led to shutters go up/down making life in Brentford more restricted

Jim Lawes ● 526d9 Comments ● 511d

Happy St Andrews Day.... 30th November!

Wear blue  or tartan today?Many Scots in Brentford town?Do you ever hear bagpipes locally?I have family studying in Glasgow ..and others living on the Outer HebridesDo you have Scottish connections?

Jim Lawes ● 521d3 Comments ● 518d

Strictly come dancing …is on tonight!

Only just found out that Strictly is on tonight at 8pm and the results show is on tomorrow at 5.40pm …..pass it on ….

Sarah Felstead ● 518d0 Comments ● 518d

The old Brentford Toffee Factory!

On an old 1935 map of Brentfordthere appears to be a toffee factory near Brentford Bridge.Our brentford historian Neil Chippingdale directed us to a CHELSEA TOFFEE FACTORY which had been first established in Chelsea ...before it moved to Brentford.Lots of local history discussions on local Facebook pages. Years ago it used to be here!Everton FC are called the TOFFEES and they  play in blue .... as do Chelsea FC.

Jim Lawes ● 521d1 Comments ● 520d

Mudlarking in the Thames

I was not aware of this pastime. Obviously I did not know you needed a permit either. Are there any participants here? Also if there are I would like to hear their experiences.

Nicholas Beard ● 523d6 Comments ● 522d

Monkeypox

Cases in the uk are rising. Should we be worried. Not much is said about it, only number of cases. Would a GP recognise it etc?

Nicholas Beard ● 716d41 Comments ● 522d

No eggs by christmas

Has anyone noticed the egg shortage? Lots of stories in the press.

Nicholas Beard ● 539d26 Comments ● 525d

Get well soon Guy Lambert ...

What a tough time Guy has been having.Having read his article on the front page it's seems his injuries could have been much worse.Get well soon Guy. Recovery is a wonderful experience.

Jim Lawes ● 527d5 Comments ● 525d

Tonight Thursday 24th Rock and Roll Bingo!

At the Six Bells. It’s a great fun evening of three games, shout out the answers, sing along if you know the tune, ask if you don’t! Cash prizes for a line or full house. Arrive for 7pm to get a table.

Karen Morris ● 527d0 Comments ● 527d

Reggae and Ska night Sat 27th at The 6 Bells

Resident DJ The Meastro will be playing all the favourites. Get your skank on!

Karen Morris ● 529d2 Comments ● 527d

1934 - Father Christmas in Brentford on the canal boats

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=10158633512881193&set=gm.1097189624324539&idorvanity=894233864620117

Paul Brownlee ● 527d0 Comments ● 527d

The saga of 235 bus terminus at Great West Quarter.

When the Great West Quarter was being planned some years ago.and permission for it's new development sought...the illustrations supporting the proposal featured a red London bus.The 235 has been a regular service up till recently. Access to the GWQ has recently ceased because the automated barrier that allows the bus entry has malfunctioned.The 235 bus currently terminates near Morrisons (the County Court)and that is not helpful to those Brentford folk who live on/ or off Ealing Road, on the GWQ, or the vast estate of Green Dragon Lane where several Sheltered Homes exist. Many now have a laden walk they don't wish for.It is said that spare parts are needy from Italy to repair the barrier. Worse still are rumours that the Great  West Quarter bosses no longer want the bus on it's property!!It's a surprise that this serious local issue has not featured on this  Forum before to alert Councillors and others.The story abounds on a local Facebook page.. so why not here?

Jim Lawes ● 587d22 Comments ● 528d

Chiswick

Having lived in Brentford for 30 years I was always bemused by the Chiswick elite-set with their smug air of superiority. Well, they're quite cheesed off now with their restricted LTN's, High Street road restrictions, cycle lanes and congestion - particularly with "island" bus stops. What idiot committee thought of those? There's a tragedy about to happen there.Well - they live in Hounslow Borough - so we should have sympathy for them. What happens there will happen here in Brentford for sure. Don't call me a newcomer - I've lived in Osterley, Isleworth and Feltham over the years - since 1980 - so I know all about this local authority. It was a shower then, and it's a shower now. But people obviously vote for them (not me - never!) I've been trying to leave for years, but it's Hotel California!I've been a victim several times of their road fines - suddenly finding that I cannot drive down a particular road due to unexpected changes - but I paid them because the hassle of appealing was