CRM Residents Association

Rubbish Collection Days to Change

2010-09-09T06:01:00.004Z

Rubbish and recycling collection days are about to change in Havering to make the service more efficient.

The changes come into operation on Monday 4 October and will affect the vast majority of residents. Collections will remain weekly.

Every home will receive a letter (even if their collection day remains the same) in mid to late September confirming their collection day. Collection rounds in Havering have not changed for more than 15 years. The rescheduling will make collections considerably more efficient and will reflect the changes in the borough.

The borough is being divided into five areas, each with its own collection day. By focusing on a particular area each day, there will be a reduction in vehicle travelling distances meaning trucks will be on the streets for less time. This more efficient working means savings on time, fuel and it will be easier to respond to any issues that may arise.

The new changes will mean that all residents will have to ensure their black refuse and orange recycling bags are left out by 7am on collection day (even if their collection day has not changed). This is because the times of collection will be changing as a result of the rescheduling. Sacks should be placed on your property next to the street. They should not be left on the pavement, grass verges or around trees or lamp posts as this can contribute to litter and cause obstructions.

All residents, schools and managing agents of blocks of flats will receive a letter notifying them of their collection day, however those with access to the internet are able to check their collection day by entering their postcode and house number on the Council website: www.havering.gov.uk

"All residents need to do is to look out for the letter which will tell them what their collection day will be."

There will be no change in collection days for trade waste container customers and the garden waste wheelie bin collections will not be changed either.

You can check your collection day by clicking on this link to our postcode checker page.

For more general information about our waste and recycling services click on this link.

Armed Forces Parade in Romford

2010-06-17T07:00:00.000Z

Saturday 26 June will mark the second annual Armed Forces Day. In Havering the day will be celebrated with an Armed Forces Parade followed by a Uniformed Youth Festival.

The parade will take place through Romford Town Centre, beginning at 11am on South Street, going through the Market before ending at Tollgate House. The parade will be led by the Romford Drum and Trumpet Corp.

This is an excellent opportunity for the people of Havering to show their support for our Armed Forces - past, present and future.

If you are a veteran or represent a veterans' organisation and would like to be involved in the parade, please contact Mike Thomas on 01708 432427 or by e-mail at events@havering.gov.uk
Not sure if you're a veteran? A veteran is somebody who has served at any point in their life in any branch of the Armed Forces for any length of time. You do not have to have seen combat to be classed as a veteran. Veterans also include Bevin Boys and Lumberjills.

A collection for the Help for Heroes appeal will take place in the Market during the day.
Please note that there will be limited access to pay and display parking at the Town Hall during the day. If you wish to park at the Town Hall, you should enter from the Park End Road entrance.

As part of Havering's Armed Forces Day celebrations, the UProject will be running a Uniformed Youth Festival to celebrate cadets and other uniformed youth groups in the Borough.

The event will take place on Saturday 26 June at Romford Town Hall, 1.30pm to 4pm.
Uniformed youth organisations from Havering will have information stalls where potential recruits can find out about all the different training and activities each group offers.

This is also an excellent opportunity to find out information about becoming an adult volunteer with one of the groups.

Havering In Bloom

2010-06-12T07:00:00.000Z

Gardeners across the borough are being urged to enter this year's Havering In Bloom competition. As one of the greenest boroughs in London, the Havering in Bloom competition is always hotly contested and last year there were well over 100 entries.

This year there are 12 categories in the competition giving a wide range of opportunities for individuals and businesses with different gardening strengths to show off their green-fingered talents.

The most popular category is Best Front Garden – but there are also specialist categories including Best Hanging Basket, Best Container Garden and Best Community Garden. The pub and restaurant which produce the best displays will be honoured and there is an award for the Best Business Premises, which could cover anything from a shop, office building to industrial premises.A school grounds award will be given not just for areas that are attractive and well-maintained, but also on the educational use of the grounds for the pupils.

The awards are not just restricted to beautiful displays of flowers – but also to vegetables with prizes going to Best Allotment Site and Best Plot. In addition, there is a bio-diversity award which will be awarded to an area which supports the wildlife population and creates habitats which attract new species through the use of plantings, nesting sites, refuges and natural food sources.A new category, Best Capital Growth Area, will be awarded to residents who are creating new food growing spaces in their neighbourhoods.

Nomination forms will soon be available at local libraries and Council buildings. All entries must be received by 30 June. The winners will be announced in October. The aim of Havering In Bloom is to transform the appearance of the borough, instil pride in local people and to make it more attractive to visitors.

Bob Wenman, Head of Streetcare, said:"We know how much people love their gardens in Havering and take great pride in the homes and surroundings. Last year we had more entries than ever before but this year could be even bigger. Its amazing how uplifting a few flowers or hanging baskets can be – it can really transform a garden or office building."

Please click here for more information on the Havering in Bloom 2010 or to download the info leaflet and entry form.

2010-04-22T08:26:00.000Z

The national day of England's patron saint falls on Friday 23 April and in Havering events to celebrate will be held on St George's Day itself and Saturday 24 April. Entertainment across the two days will include stilt walkers, jugglers, magic acts and balloon modelling. English folk band Skinners Rats will also be performing from 12pm to 2pm on St George's Day.

On Saturday 24 April the Salvation Army Brass band will entertain market goers from 11am to 12pm, then the Royal Liberty Morris Dancers will take over from 12pm to 2pm. Children will also be able to have their faces painted with patriotic English flags or other designs.

Entertainment on both days will take place from 11.30am to 3.30pm. Market stalls will also be decorated with traditional bunting. Cynthia Griffin, Group Director of Culture and Community, said: "St George's Day is a great time to celebrate our cultural heritage and we want this year to be the best yet. "Romford's historical market place is a great area to get into the St George's Day spirit and we hope that lots of people will be joining us over these two action packed days."

Hampden Lodge Update

2010-02-28T08:35:00.000Z

Another planning application has been submitted by Havering Councils developer for flats and now houses on the former care home site. The new application is for the demolition of the existing building and the construction of 30 dwellings, 13 of which are 3 and 4 bedroom houses, and 17 are one, two and three bedroom flats. However there is only provision being made for 36 parking spaces for the whole site.

We have been contacted by lots of residents about the new scheme, with mixed views, most are happy that the scheme has a reduced number of units, however it still does not deal with the extra traffic coming from the site onto Clockhouse Lane and the impact this will have on the surrounding streets and the closeness to Clockhouse Primary School.

The lack of parking provision is also way below what is needed, only 36 spaces for 30 properties, however if you add the total number of bedroom up, you get almost three times that amount, we know some will be for young families, but over time, these young people will learn to drive.

Cllr Mann, Kevin Tonks and Denis Steven all can not understand why the Conservative Administration are hell bent on flogging of this site at any cost and still refuse to look at options for a desperately needed health centre or other community use.

The Councils Cabinet agreed a secret report last year, reducing the amount of money that the developer ad to pay. Cllr Mann has a copy, as all Councillors are allowed to see it, however he has been warned that he can not disclose the contents as it will be a breach of the members code of conduct. However the local Romford Recorder have printed suggestions that over the last 2 years, the price being paid could have been reduced by as much as £1/2 to £1 million pounds.

If this is true, the loss of £1 million in cash that could be spent in Collier Row is a grave indication of the type of people that are currently running Havering Council. Both of your Tory Councillors for Havering Park ward suggested last year that they had “Saved” Hampden Lodge, yet they are both part of the Administration agreeing to sell it off, Cllr Starns is actually a Cabinet member, who voted to sell it off, yet they both protest that they are on your side !

We would ask all residents that have a view to write to the Head of Regulatory Service, at Mercury House, Mercury Gardens, Romford, RM1 3BD with their comments, it would be a great helpful you could copy in Cllr Mann by e-mail at andrew.mann@havering.gov.uk or by post, address on the right of this page.

We are grateful for the developers for agreeing to host an informal meeting at Clockhouse School, for residents to view the plans recently. However we are not sure how much this was politically motivated, as Cllr Mann was only invited less than 24 hours before the event ! Luckily for us, we were able to get three of our members along on the night and Graham and Karen Price and Joe Webster were able to spend some time, talking to local residents about the revised plans which were on display.

Whatever the outcome, it is likely to come before the Planning meeting just the week before the Local Elections on May the 6th how very convenient. We still feel that on balance this scheme is not as good as it could be, we except they have now proposed houses, which the majority of residents said would be acceptable, however there is still a great amount of flats to houses and the traffic situation is still not going to be resolved properly.

Tories Baked Bean Budget

2010-02-26T06:45:00.001Z

It seems the Conservative budget this year will go down in history as the “Baked Bean Budget”, following the generous rebate that they have given you of just 13p a week. Not even enough to purchase a cheap tin of beans.

Local residents have inundated us with comments, the most popular being “this is just election year gimmick” and “how much will it cost you next year when it goes up again”.

Your Conservative Councillors have made a big issue about how they have reduced your Council tax by 1/2% this year. Whilst we agree you pay too much, their saving equates to £7 a year, or 60p a month, or 13p a week. That’s right, they waste Millions and save you just 13p a week.

In a recent news flyer the Tories say “We Understand how hard you work to earn the pound in your pocket. That’s why your Conservative Council has worked hard to cut your Council Tax Bill”. However, they have had above inflation increases for the last three years and then increased just the Tory Special Responsibility Allowances by over £ 7,000 !

We looked at what you can actually purchase for your 13p a week saving, and our best option was a tin of Tesco Value Beans. Perhaps if the Tories had not wasted so much money over the last eight years of being in control, with Council Tax increasing a whopping 46%, there would be more available now to make proper reductions for the residents of Collier Row.

Council Tax has gone up 46% in 8 years under Tory Control, from £1,037 to £1,511. A 1/2% reduction is nothing compared to this increase.
It is also suggested that the Conservatives deliver better value for money? Well not according to the latest MORI poll which placed Havering Council at the very bottom of all 33 London councils, when residents were asked if the council provided Value for Money. Let us knot forget that Havering still has the third highest Council Tax in the whole of London !

Residents will not be fooled by a Council Tax reduction, just a few weeks before people go and vote for a new Council, I wonder when a Tory Candidate knocks on your door if he or she will assure you that their will not be an increase ext year to pay for it.

Andy

Cllr Andrew Mann

StreetCare Matters, but not in Collier Row !

2010-02-22T08:39:00.001Z

Kevin Tonks and Denis Stevens have been out and about in the ward recently, meeting residents and discussing their biggest complaints at present, StreetCare and the lack of it.

In particular, the large amount of pot holes that have opened up on our roads like small craters on the moon, well to be honest, some are not that small.

Kevin Tonks said “The down side of any cold spell is the snow and water turns into ice. This then runs through any cracks or pot holes and gets under the road surface. When this freezes again, it expands and blows the road surface out, hence an instant pot hole”.

“These are always made worse by roads that are not well maintained. You are able to tell if a road is looked after by the amount of pot holes in it, the more holes the more neglect”.

Denis Stevens said “Three of the worst roads are Burland Road, Highfield and Hillrise Roads. These are not by any means the only roads, just three that we have found that have more holes in than a bag of Hoola Hoops, there is dozens of them”.

Cllr Mann, Kevin and Denis have all reported dozens of pot holes in the last two months as they continue to appear. We all call on this Conservative Administration to stop spending all their Capital money in Harold Hill and their new priority areas and to start spending more in Havering Park Ward. Of a recent Capital spend of £4 million, over half was spent in just two wards in Harold Hill, with the rest being shared amongst the other 16 wards in Havering !

Freedom Pass Delays

2010-02-19T05:46:00.000Z

Freedom Pass users may have encountered difficulties in obtaining their new pass. According to the scheme administrators, London Councils and the Post Office, the delay in issuing the passes is due to the sheer volume of renewals which is affecting production and distribution, in some cases up to a month.

Residents are able to use their current pass until March 31st. The link below will take you to the London Councils website where there is tracking system for residents to use. The message on their website states; "We're working hard to produce the new passes.

If you do not receive your pass within 10 working days, please be assured that it is on its way. You can use your current pass until 31 March".

http://www.londoncouncils.gov.uk/freedompass/default.htm

Alternatively, there are two Havering e-mail addresses that have been set up to answer resident queries. If residents send in their full name, address and the application tracking number detailed on their Post Office receipt, council staff will track the application and provide an update to residents.

The e-mail addresses are;
mailto:Freedom-Passes@havering.gov.ukor freedom-pass@havering.gov.uk

Massive Countil Tax Debt

2010-02-03T05:45:00.000Z

According to the 2008/09 Council accounts, residential Council Tax debt has increased by £2.6m since 2006 and now stands at a breathtaking £13.8m, despite an average of £2.8m being written off in each of the last three years.

Information emerging from a Council question by Leader of the Residents' Association, Cllr Clarence Barrett, revealed that there were 10,413 recovery actions for council tax arrears in 2008/09. Of those actions, there were:

81 Attachment to earnings orders
244 State benefit reductions
7,174 referrals to bailiffs
30 bankruptcies obtained
264 summons to court

The balance were either withdrawn or paid up.

In 2006/07 there were 9,461 recovery actions and in 2007/08 10,500.

Cllr Barrett said: "It is important that Council Tax debt is pursued in a firm, fair and efficient manner, and that residents who pay should not be expected to subsidise those who do not.
"However, despite an average of £2.8m being written off in each of the last three years, it is very worrying that residential council tax debt has now increased by £2.6m to £13.8m under the watch of this Tory council".

notes:

Residential council tax debt (as per LBH statement of accounts)

2005/06 £11.205m
2006/07 £11.526m
2007/08 £12.523m
2008/09 £13.842m

Holocaust Memorial Day

2010-01-23T08:47:00.000Z

Havering will commemorate Holocaust Memorial Day with a service of remembrance and reflection to be held at the Holocaust Memorial in Coronation Gardens, Romford on Sunday 24 January at 2pm.

Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD) is the international day of remembrance for the victims of the Holocaust and of other genocides including those in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia and during the ongoing atrocities in Darfur.

Holocaust Memorial Day on 27 January marks the 65th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau. On this day, the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust is challenging everyone across the UK to become part of a Legacy of Hope. HMD 2010 offers an opportunity to listen to the voices from the Holocaust and Nazi persecution, and to make the lessons of hope for a safer, inclusive society where the differences between us are respected a reality today and in the future.

Havering's Holocaust Memorial Day Service will also provide the opportunity for reflection on war, peace, tolerance and eliminating discrimination from our community. It will be led by Reverend Lee Sunderland, Rabbi of Romford and District Synagogue, and Reverend Stephen Waine, vicar of St Edward's Church, Market Place, Romford. The Service will feature poignant reading entitled Auschwitz Remembered and a musical reflection.

2010 Freedom Pass re-issue

2010-01-13T07:32:00.000Z

The 2010 Freedom Pass re-issue is now taking place, and will end on 6th February 2010. Your existing Freedom pass will expire on 31st March 2010 and you must renew it.

Under new arrangements, you can only apply for your FreedomPass from any one of the 24 local Post Offices in Havering. The implementation of the new style photo ID card means your FreedomPass cards will no longer be available at the time of application. Your application will take up to 10 days to process.

The re-issue period will start from 4th January 2010 unlike previous issues when it commenced from February. The early start is necessary to ensure that all pass holders have applied for their pass and received it through the post, prior to their existing pass ceasing to operate on 1st April 2010.

For a list of Post Office branches in Havering click on the link on the right of this page.
Please see timetable below to work out when you should apply:

Look at the letter your surname that begin with, and then go along during one of the dates to apply.

A / B / C / D / E
04 - 16 Jan

F / G / H / I / J
18 – 23 Jan

K / L / M / N / O
25 – 30 Jan

P - Z

01 – 06 Feb

If you miss your week, please apply 08 – 13 Feb. For more info click here, or on the picture above.

Refuse Collection back to Normal

2010-01-11T06:23:00.000Z

Refuse collections are now operating to the normal schedule, ie collections due on Monday will be made today.

However, as many residents may not be aware of this, Havering refuse collectors are also trying to catch up on collecting refuse that was left out last Friday and Saturday.

In order that the collection crews can collect the volume of refuse that will be presented, for one week only both black sacks and recycling sacks will be collected by the same vehicle. After one week, the separate waste and recycling collections will run as normal.

The Green Waste Collection Service will also be suspended until the week beginning Monday 18 January.

If you have excess green waste that cannot be contained in the wheelie bin, please present this is an open container or untied sack alongside your green bin and this will be collected.

SUSPENSION OF REFUSE COLLECTIONS

2010-01-07T14:10:00.000Z

Due to the severe weather conditions Havering Council has stopped all refuse collections for the rest of the week - Thursday 7th January to Saturday 9th January.

Full copy of the details below:

We are very sorry for any inconvenience this may cause but the icy conditions mean that it is impractical to send these large lorries into residential streets.

We plan to start collections again on Monday 11th January, and this will follow the normal collection schedule and not the revised Christmas collection schedule that was due to run until Saturday 16th January.

In order that the collection crews can collect the volume of refuse that will be presented, for one week only both black sacks and recycling sacks will be collected by the same vehicle. After one week, the separate waste and recycling collections will run as normal.

The Green Waste Collection Service will also be suspended until the week beginning Monday 18th January. If you have excess green waste that can not be contained in the wheelie bin, please present this is an open container or untied sack alongside your green bin and this will be collected.

Please accept our apologies for the disruption and if you have any further questions then please do call us on 01708 434343.

Weather Update - Thursday 7th January 2010

2010-01-07T08:00:00.000Z

Weather Update - Thursday 7th January 2010

Havering continues to be covered in snow this morning. At the time of updating this post, at 08.30, it is again snowing in Collier Row.

With overnight temperatures as low as minus 5 in Collier Row, the snow has now become compacted and icy. The average daytime temperature is expected to be no higher that one degree today. The daytime temperature for the next four to five days is also expected to be around one degree.

This will therefore not melt the snow and any fresh fall will settle on top, compounding the 6 or 7 inches that have fallen in the last 24 hours.

Almost all school sin North Romford are closed today, Thursday the 7th and a number will be closed tomorrow. Listen out to Time FM on 107.5fm for updates or go to Havering Council website for more information, or click on the Weather button at the top of the page.

Severe Weather warning in Havering

2010-01-06T04:00:00.001Z

Havering has been covered in a blanket of snow this morning, for more information about school closures and travel information, click on the link above to take you to Havering Councils website.

For school closure information, listen into Time FM on 107.5 FM.

Time for Change in 2010

2010-01-01T01:00:00.000Z

Havering Council Rubbish Collections

2009-12-27T07:00:00.002Z

Refuse collection dates over the Christmas and New Year period will be subject to change. This pages gives full details together with information on the wheeled bin garden waste service and opening times of Gerpins Lane reuse and recycling centre.

Your new Collection day will be as follows:

Thursday 24th December - Collections as normal
Christmas Day - Tuesday 29th December
Monday 28th December -Wednesday 30th December
Tuesday 29th December -Thursday 31st December
Wednesday 30th December - Saturday 2nd January
Thursday 31st December - Monday 4th January
Friday 1st January - Tuesday 5th January
Monday 4th January - Wednesday 6th January
Tuesday 5th January - Thursday 7th January
Wednesday 6th January - Friday 8th January
Thursday 7th January - Saturday 9th January
Friday 8th January - Monday 11th January
Monday 11th January - Tuesday 12th January
Tuesday 12th January - Wednesday 13th January
Wednesday 13th January - Thursday 14th January
Thursday 14th January - Friday 15th January
Friday 15th January - Saturday 16th January

Normal collections resume Monday 18 January 2010.

Please note: The above dates also apply to clinical, cardboard and trade waste collections.
Bulky items collections (household furniture and large items) will cease on Christmas Eve and will resume on the 18 January 2010.

Wheeled Bin Garden Waste Service:
Customers of the Wheeled Bin Garden Waste Collection service should note that collections of this service cease between 22 December and 4 January. Collections resume Tuesday 5 January on the normal scheduled day (please see garden waste calendars for these dates).

All orange recycling sacks and sacks of domestic waste should be placed on the boundary of properties nearest the road by 7am on collection day.

Additional orange sacks can be collected free of charge from Havering Town Hall in Main Road Romford, local libraries or from the Public Advice and Service Centre in The Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford.

Gerpins Lane RRC Opening:
For opening times of Gerpins Lane Reuse & Recycling Centre, Upminster over the festive period please click here.

For more information on reducing and recycling waste and saving money over Christmas see Christmas Recycling Information article.

Further Information:
For further information on the refuse collection and other services including the disposal of bulky household items, call StreetCare on 01708 432563, e-mail: waste-team@havering.gov.uk

Havering Weather Warnings

2009-12-22T06:30:00.001Z

Severe weather may continue to affect some services today, Tuesday 22 December. Regular information and updates are available on Havering Councils Website. They have links to other useful websites, such as travel, weather and StreetCare information.

Severe Winter Weather Conditions Questions and Answers from Havering Council

Gritting
The Council has a limited supply of grit and salt available for severe winter weather such as what we are experiencing now. This is not enough to treat every footway and road in the entire borough therefore gritting is prioritised as follows.

Roads
In the instance of severe winter weather the first areas to be gritted will be main roads and bus routes. This is to ensure essential services can still operate within the main road network. Priority 1 roads have been treated continuously over the last 5 days. Priority 2 areas include schools however this is not the case during school holidays.

A full list of priority one routes are shown in the winter service plan which can be found on the council website at http://www.havering.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=1024

Footpaths
In the instance of severe winter weather footpaths in high footfall areas such as stations, schools, high streets will be treated as priority 2 after the major road network.

Service Requests
For all icy and snow related service requests please direct these through the StreetCare call centre on 01708 432563. They will deal with these requests in order of priority.

Salt Bins
Salt bins located in the roads are for use by Street Cleansing Operatives and are NOT for the personal use of residents.

What’s happening with Domestic Waste Collections ?
Domestic waste collections are continuing on the normal collection routes however there are a large number of side roads in the borough which the vehicles are unable to access due to icy roads and footways. These collections will be put on a priority list so that once the road becomes accessible again the service vehicles will resume the collection.

Christmas Waste collection schedule
Every year due to the bank holiday season the domestic waste collection schedules change for a short period of time. Please refer to the Havering website for full details of the changes to the schedules affecting your street. If severe weather conditions continue over the Christmas period then these seasonal waste collection dates will likely change again, however residents will be made aware of any changes on the Council’s website. http://www.havering.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=4580

Advice
The Council’s advice to residents is to avoid travelling either by foot or by car, the roads and footways are very icy and due to limited supplies of grit and salt the Council is unable to treat every footway and road in the borough. Severe weather conditions are being experienced across the country causing grit stock replenishment to take longer than expected to arrive.

Click here for more info, or on the info panel at the top.

Warning on Selling GOLD

2009-12-20T16:47:00.000Z

Havering Council is urging people who want to sell their gold to shop around after an undercover investigation discovered huge differences in quotes for customers.

Council officers posing as customers visited eight gold buyers in Romford on the same day and quotes they were offered differed by as much as £160. The officers asked for a quote for four rings, a pair of earrings, a pendant and bracelet. The quotes offered varied from £200 to £360. The average quote was £296.

Some of the gold buyers had signs claiming they were offering ‘the best price in town today’. Others failed to ask for identification from the seller - which helps deter thieves from selling on stolen goods.

Council weight and measures experts have since visited 20 gold buyers across the borough, including one hairdressers which buys gold, to test their scales and ensure that they are calibrated correctly and are suitable for business.

Officers handed out 15 notices to buyers who were not using the correct scales for trade use. Now they must ensure they have the right scales.

In the current harsh economic climate, residents who have hit tough times may be tempted to sell gold jewellery. Quotes that vary from £200 to £360 for the same amount of gold is a cause for concern. The Council is now urging people to shop around to make sure they get a fair price.

2009-12-16T10:13:00.000Z

Christmas Carols on the Village Green

2009-12-14T07:00:00.002Z

Cllr Andy Mann and Denis Stevens both attended the Christmas Carols concert on the Havering-Atte-Bower Village Green on Sunday evening. The event was once again organised by HABCOS, the "Havering-Atte-Bower Conservation Society" in conjunction with St Johns Church.

Over 120 local people braved the chilly evening to attend the outdoor service, held around a 20ft Christmas Tree, festooned in lights. Carols were song and prayers said, the service was once again led by the Revd David Marshall, of St Johns Church.

Cllr Mann said "Both myself and Denis had a great time at the concert, it was particularly pleasing to see this event established as an annual, being the 2nd year running and we very much look forward to attending next years concert".

For more information about HABCOS, go to their website at http://www.habcos.co.uk/

Bower Park School Christmas Carol Concert

2009-12-12T10:19:00.001Z

Cllr Mann attended the annual Bower Park School, Christmas Carol Concert this week, held at St Johns Church, Havering-Atte-Bower. The Concert is long established in the School calendar and attracted approx 100 parents, friends and Governors, who all stayed for mince pies and tea and coffee.

All of the songs were sung by pupils, with music also played by the students, with a few of the more vocal music teachers joining in. Some of the pupils were singing and playing as part of their B-Tech courses and will count towards their exams.

The Service was overseen by Revd David Marshall, the Vicar of St Johns Church.

Romford Christmas Market

2009-12-11T08:00:00.001Z

From today, Friday the 11th December, Romford market will be open every day until Christmas Eve, the market is open from 9am until 4.30pm

This Christmas, you can find something special at Romford Market. Such as the freshest Orkney salmon, the most succulent free range turkey or the perfect roasting chestnuts. Gift ideas include the latest men's and ladies' fashions, homeware, music, art and jewellery.

Romford Market has been attracting shoppers for over 750 years - why not discover its secrets for yourself

Winter Photo Competition

2009-12-10T09:07:00.003Z

The Havering Residents' Association has launched a photographic competition with the theme of ‘Havering in Winter'.

First prize is two tickets to "The Pyjama Game" to be performed at the Queens Theatre on 14 th and 15 th February 2010. The tickets have been kindly donated by the producers, the Havering Music Makers. There will also be prizes for 2nd and 3rd places.

Cllr Clarence Barrett, competition organiser and editor of the Havering Residents' Association website, said: “We are fortunate to live in a borough with so much natural and constructed beauty. This competition seeks to capture images which show the splendour of the winter season against the backdrop of a typical winter in Havering”.

“Images will be posted on an on-line gallery at http://www.haveringra.org.uk/where anyone can view and the winners being announced on 1 st February 2010”.

Images can be sent to mailto:haveringwinter@yahoo.co.ukor call 07863 116029 for other arrangements. Please include full contact details.

Havering park Councillor Andy Mann, has posted some of his winter shots from the last few years below.

SNT Police meeting in Collier Row

2009-12-03T10:25:00.002Z

The local SNT Police teams for Havering Park and Mawneys Wards, held their latest public meeting at the North Romford Community Centre in Clockhouse Lane on Wednesday, 2nd December.

Members of Collier Row and Mawneys Residents Association were out in force for this important opportunity to raise matters of concern with local Police representatives. Cllr Andy Mann and Denis Stevens from Havering Park, together with Graham and Karen Price, and Joe Webster from Mawneys.

Graham and Karen raised issues reported to them of concerns in connection with burglaries in Lodge Lane, and also anti-social activities in the Mawneys area. Joe requested clarification concerning whether it is the Police or the Council who hold responsibility for dealing with parking incidents resulting in a blocked driveway ?

The answer given is that the Police only have authority to force drivers to move their vehicles if they are blocking another vehicle which is on the driveway. However, in practice they would not regard this as an emergency!

Graham and Karen Price enjoyed a long session with the Mawneys Safer Neighbourhood Team, as a result of which officers will be making follow-up visits in Lodge Lane and also the Mawneys area.

Cllr Mann was able to answer questions in relation to Havering Council matters, such as the CCTV car and parking enforcement around schools and to update the meeting on the work to try and clean up the road way behind the shops in Collier Row Road.

Graham Price said "It was interesting to observe that, once again, none of the Conservative Councillors from North Romford, nor their representatives, were present at this important meeting".

12 Safety tips for Christmas

2009-12-01T15:56:00.002Z

Havering Council will be handing out free security devices to protect resident’s homes and personal property in the run-up to Christmas. Council officers will hand out the devices as part of its 12 Safer Days of Christmas campaign to make residents safer while shopping, out at night, and their homes more secure over the festive season.

Around 6,000 property marking kits, 6,000 purse chains and 3,000 timer switches bought by the Council will be given out at events across the borough in the 12 days between Monday 7 and Saturday 19 December.

There are 12 key messages that the Council and police want to get out at this time of year. These include ensuring that PVC doors are locked properly, setting timer switches so that lamps come on in living rooms before it gets dark when you are out, protecting yourself against pickpockets, and making sure you do not become a victim of crime after a night of revelry.

Other messages include not leaving presents on view, disposing packaging of expensive goods carefully, not loading your car with presents and then leaving it to continue shopping. Police officers from the Mawneys & Havering Park Wards, local Safer Neighbourhoods teams will also be on hand at each location.

Wednesday 16th December - Clockhouse School Christmas Fete – 3 – 5pm

Saturday 19th December - Collier Row Library – 11 – 2pm

Cllr Mann said "Having been a victim of crime myself recently, it can be very upsetting at any time but it can be particularly distressing at Christmas. That’s why the Council and the police will again be handing out thousands of free security devices over 12 Safer Days of Christmas”.

Collier Row Library closed for update

2009-12-01T10:36:00.001Z

Collier Row Library closed yesterday for a week to have some maintenance work on the building completed and whilst closed, staff have taken the opportunity to move a few things around.

This work will include:

New partitioning to the front lobby of the library.
Removal of the in and out doors to make one entrance.
Reduction of the main counter size.
Re -location of the PN machines.
Moving the small study area
Re wiring of the electrics
Introduction of RFID
Cleaning of the carpet

Increase of shelving and more books at the branch

Following a meeting Cllr Mann recently had with Simon Parkinson, the Head of Culture, which includes the Libraries, it was agreed that the Library should actually have a sign on the outside telling everyone what the building is.

Also agreed, was the location and style of a new Library notice board with opening times and contact details. Both the signs are on order and may not be installed this week.

Cllr Mann said "I am pleased that after many years Collier Row Library will finally get a sign over its doors advising everyone that the Library is there, the improvement works should also help residents use the Library better".

The works are being funding by Fire Risk Assessment, H&S Budget. The remaining costs are coming from Library and Culture, revenue and capital budgets.

Havering Chief Executive ignores Councillor concerns

2009-12-01T07:42:00.000Z

Cllr Mann has hit out at Havering Council Chief Executive, Cheryl Coppell for failing to reply to an e-mail concerning a financing issue around funding for the Freedom Pass. The e-mail was marked urgent and was sent on the 2nd November, and as of the 1st December, she had failed to reply or even acknowledge it.

However, Cllr Mann sent it with an auto acknowledge and he can see that the e-mail was opened on the 5th November. The e-mail was sent, following Cllr White, the leader, failing to answer a simple question in Full Council concerning a leaflet that the Tories had circulated suggesting that the Government had cut £1.8 million form Havering's Freedom Pass budget.

This was later found to be untrue, however Cllr White refused to answer and instead went into a rant at the Full Council meeting. Cllr Mann then sent the request to the Chief Executive, for her to answer and is still waiting.

Cllr Mann said "It is totally unacceptable that the Chief Executive of Havering Council should fail to answer such a serious question, in over 4 weeks, without so much as an acknowledgement, let alone a proper answer. I am concerned that she is setting a bad example to Council officers that dealing with members enquires should be dealt with in a speedy and professional manner.

Also more worrying is that by failing to answer me,she is becoming involved politically, by protecting the leader from having to tell me the truth in relation to my question".

The Corps needs your vote

2009-11-22T12:00:00.003Z

The Romford Drum and Trumpet Corps could be the winners of £50,000 from the Big Lottery Fund with your help!

Following applications from over 800 bodies in the London Region for the Peoples Millions, the Corps are in a final head-to-head with a Hackney music club to win the cash which would be used to establish a permanent home.

The band has been going for 52 years and has played in front of world wide audiences, at the FA Cup Final and performed to Heads of State

Voting begins at 9am on Monday and lasts until midnight. The number to call will be advertised on Monday at http://www.peoplesmillions.org.uk/.

THE CORPS NEED YOUR VOTE !

Over £1,000 raised for St Francis Hospice

2009-11-21T07:30:00.001Z

Collier Row & Mawneys Residents Association members, Cllr Andy Mann and Kevin Tonks, took part in a charity sponsored abseil back in September and two months later the amount raised has been announced.

Andy and Kevin dropped down the 120 foot YMCA building, at Roneo Corner, in aid of St Francis Hospice, who are based in Havering-Atte-Bower. The hospice offers specialist care to patients who have cancer or other life-limiting illnesses. It costs over £6.5 million every year to run the service, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and can care for more than 1,600 patients and their families each year.

Including Gift Aid contributions, Cllr Andy Mann & Kevin Tonks, raised over £1,017 in much needed funds for St Francis Hospice, which they recently handed over to staff nurse Ann Macleod at the Hospice.

Cllr Mann said “We both enjoyed ourselves taking part in the abseil, its great to be able to raise money and enjoy what you are doing at the same time. It’s a long way down from the top of the building with some fantastic views across Romford, but we were both glad to be back on firmer ground, with over £1000 for St Francis Hospice”.

Update on 177 - 179 Mawney Road

2009-11-20T11:39:00.000Z

Update on Planning Application no. P0986.09 in respect of 177-179, Mawney Road

Over fifty Mawneys Ward residents were in attendance at the Town Hall this week, for the Regulatory Services Committee. They were supported by Graham Price, of the Mawneys Action Team.

The application, to provide a residential care home for twelve residents with learning and or physical disabilities who would require constant supervision, had attracted fierce opposition from Mawneys residents. Over 200 had signed a petition, and there had in addition been 163 letters of objection sent in.

Last week, Graham Price had downloaded the committee report and delivered a hard copy to a local resident who had called a meeting of objectors the weekend before the Regulatory Services meeting to discuss it. Immediately prior to the meeting in The Town Hall, Graham Price spoke at length to Mr Andy Green, a local resident who would be making a two-minute speech as the lead objector on behalf of all the other residents who had objected.

Whilst the officers’ recommendation was to refuse the application, when the item was reached, a brief debate ensued as to whether there was a perceived need for the residential care home. Cllr Misir (Tory, Mawneys Ward) received rapturous applause when he suddenly moved the recommendation for refusal, but he rather spoilt the effect of this, when he appeared to second a supplementary motion from Cllr Tebbutt to defer a decision on the application until a later date, so that a stronger case for refusal could be established. Undoubtedly, many of the local residents present were thoroughly mystified and disappointed, and possibly angered, by this confused development.

Graham Price said after the meeting “In the event, I think that the decision made for deferral was a correct one. I had expressed my view to some of the residents, which was that the report seemed to be unbalanced. Several pages were taken up explaining how the proposal met every criteria and all the policies laid down. And then right at the end there was the recommendation for refusal, on grounds that seemed to be very thin and lightweight. The fear that I had was that a straight refusal on the night, for the reasons stated, could quite probably have led to the refusal being overturned on appeal.”

Further Bus Strikes

2009-11-18T17:00:00.001Z

Further Industrial action is expected to take place from 0300 Friday 20 November until 0300 Sunday 22 November, with all of the listed routes subject to possible withdrawal or reduction of service.

Core Routes: 5 8 15 (including Routemaster Heritage service) 25 26 30 48 55 56 62 69 86 97 101 103 104 106 115 145 147 158 169 175 205 230 238 241 247 257 262 276 277 287 294 296 300 325 330 366 369 376 387 396 473 496 D3.

School Routes: 608 647 674 678 687.

Night Routes: N8 N15 N26 N55 N86 N550, which will operate throughout Thursday night/Friday morning, but will be affected on Friday night/Saturday morning and Saturday night/Sunday morning.

For further information and updates please go to:http://www.tfl.gov.uk/

The Village Stocks & Whipping Post

2009-11-14T17:20:00.001Z

The Stocks and Whipping Post on Havering Village Green have recently been temporally removed to carry out repair and conservation works.

The proposed works to be carried out have been agreed with English Heritage. The works will involve repairing the Whipping Post and the end post for the stocks, refurbishing the ironwork and installing small timber props to the end posts (that previously existed and were shown on the old photographs).

It is hoped the work will not take to long and will be back as soon as possible.

Bus Strikes - Monday 9th November

2009-11-09T01:00:00.000Z

Industrial action affecting local bus services run the the East London Bus Group is expected to take place from 3am on Monday 9 until 3am on Tuesday 10 November.

All routes below are subject to possible withdrawal or reduction of service:

Routes 5 8 15 (including Routemaster Heritage service) 25 26 30 48 55 56 62 69 86 97 101 103 104 106 115 145 147 158 169 175 205 230 238 241 247 257 262 276 277 287 294 296 300 325 330 366 369 376 387 396 473 496 D3.

School Routes: 608 647 674 678 687 (although it is hoped that these routes will operate).

Night Routes: N8 N15 N26 N55 N86 N550. These will operate throughout Sunday night/Monday morning, but may be affected by the action throughout Monday night/Tuesday morning.

For more information and updates please go to the Transport for London website

Havering Remembers

2009-11-08T12:30:00.001Z

Cllr Andy Mann, Kevin Tonks, Denis Stevens and Joe Webster attended the Havering Remembrance Service this morning at the Coronation Gardens in Main Road, Romford.

Service to remember and reflect on the sacrifices made by those who lost their lives or suffered during the two World Wars and in conflicts since were held throughout Havering on Remembrance Sunday.

The Service started at 10.55am and was conducted by Reverend Stephen Waine, Vicar of St Edward's Church. Musical accompaniment was provided by the Romford Salvation Army Band.

Along with ourselves, the service was attended by The Mayor of Havering; The Deputy Lieutenant of Havering, Air Commodore Brian Batt; The Member of Parliament for Romford, Andrew Rosindell; Chief Inspector John Harlow, on behalf of the Havering Borough Commander of Police; Councillors and representatives of local uniformed and civilian organisations.

After the Service there was a parade and march-past by veterans and uniformed organisations with music from the Royal British Legion Band. The salute was taken by The Mayor and the Deputy Lieutenant.

On Armistice Day, Wednesday the 11th November, the Mayor will attend the Armistice Day Service organised by the Royal Naval Association and the Royal British Legion. This will be held at the western end of Romford Market Place between the Lloyds TSB and Co-op banks starting at 10.45am.

Fireworks Night on its way

2009-11-03T07:38:00.000Z

Havering Council, Havering Police and the London Fire Brigade have launched a crackdown to prevent the sale of fireworks to under-18s. They will be making visits to remind retailers that it's illegal to sell fireworks without the necessary licence from Trading Standards.Havering Trading Standards takes a zero-tolerance approach to any breach of the stringent conditions governing the storage and sale of fireworks, which will result in legal proceedings and the confiscation of such products.

Though current legislation allows some businesses with special authorisation to sell fireworks all year round, most fireworks can only be sold between October 15 and November 9. It is illegal to set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am, though on special occasions like Bonfire Night they may be set off up until midnight, unless special permission for them to continue until 1am has been granted.

It is also an offence for anyone under 18 to possess fireworks in a public place. Using fireworks in an anti-social way is irresponsible, dangerous and unacceptable, so Havering Police Safer Neighbourhood Teams will be operating additional patrols throughout the borough at this time.Remember; fireworks are mini-explosives dressed up in colourful packaging – they are NOT toys. Most injuries caused by fireworks happen to children under 16, with many of them ending up with burn scars for life.

So please take care this bonfire night. Go to http://www.london-fire.gov.uk/Fireworks.asp for helpful safety advice from the London Fire Brigade.If you wish to report illegal sales of fireworks, you can call a special hotline 01708 433428 in confidence.

Romford Christmas Lights Switch On

2009-11-01T05:35:00.001Z

Bob the Builder will be at the Romford Christmas Lights Switch-on, in Romford Market Place on the 12th November and will be doing the honours by turning on the lights.

There will be a packed schedule of fun, which starts at 4.30pm and runs until 6.30pm, with something for everyone. Entry is free. Among the entertainment will be the Kryptic Fusion Dance Crew, Lydia White and the winners of the recent Havering battle of the bands, Kid Neon.

The event is organised by Havering Council and Romford's four shopping centres - The Brewery, The Liberty Shopping Centre, The Mall and Romford Shopping Hall together with Romford Market.

Children's favourite Bob the Builder and his friends Spud and Wendy will light up Romford Town Centre as the Christmas illuminations are switched on at 6.30pm.

Among the other highlights in the Market Place will be a special visit from Santa and his reindeer and Panto favourites from the Queen's Theatre as well as a spectacular fireworks display.

Police advice on Halloween

2009-10-29T21:18:00.000Z

With Halloween upon us, the Police have issued advice to tricksters, treaters and householders.
For fun and safety, trick or treating is always better in groups of friends. Don't split up into smaller groups.

Younger children should only go 'Trick or treating' when supervised by an adult. Stay with them.
Think road safety! You should wear bright and reflective costumes to ensure you are visible to road users. Take a torch or glow stick with you.

Plan a safe route that is well lit and stick to it. Unsupervised children should have a time set for their return. Don't take short cuts through gardens, alleyways or parks.

Only go to houses where you or your friends know the residents or homes that display a ‘Trick or Treating Welcome Here' Halloween pumpkin. Never call at homes after 9pm.

Never go into a stranger's house even if you are invited – stay on the doorstep.
Don't demand money and be grateful for ANY treats. Ask your parents or guardian to check your treats before you eat them.

Don't vandalise anything or throw things like eggs, flour or paint at people, houses or animals, it could be classed as criminal damage or assault and a night of fun could end up with you being in trouble with the police.

Report any suspicious or criminal activity to the Police.
Remember large groups of young people can be very intimidating. Think about how your behaviour affects others. If you wouldn't want it done to your Parents or grandparents, don't do it to anyone else.

Extra advice to parents and guardians:

Please be aware where your children are at all times and be sure you know what they are doing.
Respect people's right not to accept ‘Trick or Treating. This activity is not part of traditional British culture and can be offensive to some people.

Make sure your children understand that they should not call at addresses after 9pm.
Please encourage your children to engage in a positive activity on this night. Halloween is not an excuse for loutish behaviour and the normal threshold test of what isn't acceptable still applies. Please don't allow your children to take eggs and flour out of the house.

Unsupervised trick or treaters have an increased risk of coming to harm or getting in trouble with police for excessive behaviour. For a fun and safe Halloween it is better that all trick or treaters are supervised.

Police time spent dealing with incidents caused by unsupervised children on Halloween impacts massively on our ability to fight crime and provide a service to those in real need. Don't let your children's behaviour be the reason we are unable to respond to an emergency call.

Please encourage your children to engage in a positive activity on this night. Halloween is not an excuse for loutish behaviour and the normal threshold test of what isn't acceptable still applies. Please don't allow your children to take eggs and flour out of the house.

Half Term Haloween Fun

2009-10-25T23:27:00.000Z

Havering Council has arranged fun activities for the borough's children and young people this half-term, which runs from Monday October 26 to Friday October 30.

A sport camp will be taking place on Brittons School astroturf pitch from Wednesday to Friday with sports including football, cricket, rounders, tennis, athletics and handball. Sport camps are free and for children aged eight to 14.

On Wednesday 28 October at Collier Row Library at 2.15pm children can make their own creepy Halloween bat. There will also be a fancy dress competition with a prize for the best dressed. Tickets cost £1 and it is for children aged five and under.

A similar event will take place at Collier Row Library on Friday 30 October, also at 2.15pm where spookily dressed children can make their own Halloween themed characters. Tickets cost £2 and the event is aimed at children aged five and over.

Children should bring a packed lunch, water and waterproof jacket to sport camps. Book by calling 01708 434 743. To book for the events at Collier Row Library call 01708 434 936.

Clocks Go Back Tomorrow

2009-10-23T09:27:00.001Z

This weekend marks the end of British Summer Time, with the clocks going back on Sunday 25 October 2009. If you don't remember this on Sunday morning, you may start to wonder why everyone else is late.

The change will bring brighter mornings, but darker nights. Avoid confusion - and missed appointments - by getting ready in advance. If you reset your household clocks and time-based equipment on Saturday night, you won't spend Sunday trying to figure out what is going on, and when.

British Summer Time (BST) starts on the last Sunday in March and ends on the last Sunday in October, at 01.00 am Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

Since 2002, the clocks have changed on standard dates throughout the EU, making things easier for travellers. Britain and Ireland constantly remain an hour behind most of Central Europe. This is because we are on Greenwich Mean Time instead of Central European Time.

Secondary School Admissions

2009-10-19T05:13:00.001Z

Parents are reminded that the deadline for receipt of secondary school admission applications is Friday 23 October. We recommend that applications are made online to avoid delays. If you prefer to complete the paper form, please make sure we receive your application before the deadline. Late applications could reduce the chances of getting a place at your preferred school.

Parents wishing to apply online for a Secondary School place for September 2010 may do so via the E-admissions Website until the 23 October 2009.

Parents wishing to apply for a Primary School place for September 2010 may do so online between the 1 October 2009 and 11 December 2009.

Any problems that parents are facing with the site can be dealt with via mailto:support@eadmissions.org.ukor by calling 0208 255 5555

Some schools in Havering require parents to complete supplementary forms. You can find these via the See Also section on this page.

If you require more information on this area please contact the Admissions Team on 01708 434600

North Romford Area Committee

2009-10-17T05:25:00.001Z

The next meeting of the North Romford Area Committee will be held this week, on Thursday 22nd October, starting at 7.30pm. StreetCare officers will be present from 7pm, along with Cllr Mann and other members of the Residents Association.

The meeting is being held at Clockhouse Primary School, in Clockhouse Lane, Collier Row.

Items on the agenda include a report about proposed yellow lines in the new Havring's estate (the former Gobions school site) and in Litten Close, off Lodge Lane.

Their is also the opportunity to raise question in a public forum for 30 minutes. For more information and to see the agenda, click on the link below.

http://www.havering.gov.uk/CHttpHandler.ashx?id=19542&p=0

Say No to Dartford Crossing sell - Off

2009-10-15T06:20:00.001Z

SIGN THE PETITION TO SHOW YOUR SUPPORT

Gordon Brown has recently announced a car boot sale of British owned assets, to ballance the books after bringing the Country to its knees.

The proposed sell-off of the Dartford Crossing will mean that the toll will not only remain but is likely to increase significantly as private operators seek to maximise profits.

The Crossing should not be sold off and, furthermore, the toll should be scrapped at the earliest possible opportunity in order to prevent the unacceptable levels of delay, pollution and cost to business.

SIGN THE PETITION TO THE PRIME MINISTER TO SHOW YOUR SUPPORT

http://www.gopetition.com/online/31379.html

2nd Annual Horseman Sunday Service

2009-10-12T10:55:00.001Z

Cllr Andy Mann attended the 2nd Havering-Atte-Bower Conservation Societies “Horseman’s Sunday Service” held on the village green last Sunday.

The event started with a parade of horses from across the various stables based in the Village, approx 50 where on display whilst an open air service was conducted by the Revd David Marshall of St Johns Church, with songs being sung and prayers said for the horses and for the residents of the village.

After the horses had all been presented with a rosette by the M.P for Romford and myself. A BBQ was kindly laid on by the Church and HABCOS, which some 100 plus people took advantage of in the glorious Autumn sun that came out especially for the day.

The whole event was fantastic and really brought out the best of the village, my thanks to Nicky Gates and Heather Sherry (who are the Chairman and Secretary) and their team of helpers for putting the event together, I very much look forward to the 3rd annual service, next year.

Cllr Andy Mann

Freedom Pass Mischief from the Tories

2009-09-30T09:51:00.001Z

Cllr Andy Mann has hit out at the Collier Row Conservatives after producing a leaflet that is full of inaccuracies and lies in relation to the Freedom Pass, by implying that the Government have withheld this year’s payment of £1.8 Million from Havering Council. The leaflet was written by Silly Billy Taylor, who has a habit of printing mis-leading leaflets for the Conservative Party.

Cllr Mann is particularly unhappy about a quote from Cllr Binion and Leader of the Council Cllr Michael White who say “The Collier Row & Mawneys Residents Association have failed to defend the free travel and that he (Cllr Mann) regularly votes with the Labour party in the Town Hall”

Cllr Mann said “I am amazed that the Leader of the Council can get himself involved in another leaflet produced by Silly Billy Taylor (he of the Bower Park School to close leaflet, which was full of lies), I expect this sort of thing from Cllr Binion, as she does not know any better, having been mentored by former Councillor, Alby Tebbutt. However for Cllr White to associate himself with such deliberately misleading statements scarring the elderly of our Borough is an abuse of Power”

The Facts

· The Government have not withheld any money this year !

· The Government have actually started a consultation with London Councils on the possibility of withdrawing the last year of a three year grant in 2010 / 2011. The total grant across London is £55 million, with Havering’s part being possibly £1.8 million.

· Havering Council actually received a saving last year from the Freedom Pass budget of some £2.65 million, which it used to prop up some of its overspending Council Departments.

London Councils first raised this issue, after they attended a meeting with Whitehall Officials and came away with some concerns from it and are now seeking reassurances that the money will not be cut. (Cllr Merrick Cockell, Chairman of London Councils speaking in London Bulletin Sept/Oct 2009)

Cllr Mann said “If the Conservatives managed to run the finances of the Borough better they would not be in this mess, we have £12.5 million tied up in Iceland and they took £2.65 million out of the Freedom pass budget last year and spread around overspending budgets in the Council”.

Cllr Mann goes on “Everyone knows you can not trust Gordon Brown when it comes to finance, if the Conservatives had been a but more prudent last year and not spent their savings of £2.65 million form the Freedom Pass budget, we would not be in this position now”.

The Collier Row and Mawneys Residents Association have an on-line petition at their web site www.collier-row.co.uk that residents can sign if they wish to show their support for not cutting funding from the grant.

As Chairman of the Collier Row & Mawneys Residents Association, Cllr Mann has written to Cllr Michael White and Mr Billy Taylor warning them that any further lies printed in a Conservative Newsletter will result in Court Action. It is not the first time this has happened, Cllr Mann issued proceedings in the County Court against Cllr Michael White two years ago.

Cllr Mann said “I will do whatever is needed to protect my good name and that of the Collier Row & Mawneys Residents Association, if that mean we have to take the Leader of the Council back to Court again, then so be it. The residents of Collier Row deserve far better than what they are getting from the Five Conservative Councillors at present, and if we need to put all of them in a witness box to prove they are lying then so be it”

Joe Webster beats the Chatsworth Challenge

2009-09-26T10:03:00.002Z

Mawneys Action member, Joe Webster, walked 25 miles across the hills of the Peak District to raise money for the charity, Breaks 4 Kids. Joe said “Not only was it a long walk but also involved ascents totalling 3500 feet. Fortunately the weather was just right for walking and I managed to complete the course in ten hours and sixteen minutes.”

By his efforts Joe has raised over £600 for the charity which sponsors young people who otherwise could not afford residential courses in climbing, caving, canoeing and other outward bound type courses run by the Youth Hostels Association.

Joe quoted a statement by the Department of Education and Skills in 2006, “Staying away for a few or more days is a powerful way of developing key life skills, building confidence, self esteem, communication and team working.” He added, “I do not necessarily agree with everything that emanates from the department but over this I totally concur. If it helps to get a few youngsters off the streets into something useful it is worth every penny spent".

Joe is pictured on the summit of Helvellyn in the Lake District earlier in the year whilst training for the Chatsworth Challenge.

Young Artists on Display

2009-09-23T07:36:00.000Z

From the 25th September until the 1st October 2009, Havering will host a free exhibition of young contemporary artists and writers. Open everyday from 11am until 5pm the exhibition will be held in the former shop 'Heart of Dixie UK' (opposite the Salvation Army building) in Romford.

Free workshops and talks will be available to attend for both individuals and groups. Everyone is welcome, please come along and support youth arts in the area.

Romfest 09

2009-09-22T06:24:00.000Z

On Sunday 27 September Havering Council will present 'Romfest'; a free, day-long festival of music, dance, sport and the arts. The day will get off to a flying start at 10am with a 5 kilometre Fun Run in Raphael Park. You can walk, run, jog or be pushed around in a buggy – it doesn't matter.

From midday until seven in the evening, Romford market place will be the venue for a non-stop programme of free, live entertainment featuring a host of superb local talent.

The programme also includes some great headline acts - Chico, Blazin' Squad and “Lemar” – with some of our most popular local presenters from Time 107.5 and Link 92.2 comparing the lavish stage show.

Don't worry if you can't make it to the front of the stage – we've laid on an overhead big screen so you don't miss out on any of the action!

And there will be lots of other things going on to keep visitors of all ages entertained. Why not try your hand at the arts and crafts workshops on offer; pick up some handy personal safety advice from the borough's experts; check out the active sports zone or pop along to the fashion show in The Liberty Shopping Centre?

There'll be street entertainers, amusements and, at 5pm, the Romfest Best Rock Band competition taking place at Brannigans in South Street concluding with a special performance by London Blackmarket. Doors open at 5pm at Brannigans and entry is FREE before 8.30pm.

Romfest will offer something for everyone. And the great thing is the admission is FREE. So mark the date – Sunday 27 September – on your calendar, tell your friends and join us for a great day out.

Latest Newsletter Delivered

2009-09-15T05:50:00.001Z

Issue 16 of the Collier Row and Mawneys Residents Association newsletter is now being delivered across Mawneys and Havering Park Wards. Over 10,500 copies are issued free by volunteers across Chase Cross, Collier Row, Mawneys and Havering-Atte-Bower.

Items in this issue include, the alcohol license approved by the Conservative controlled committee for Newsboy, Websters Walkabout, St Francis 25th Anniversary Celebrations, Travellers invade Bedfords Park again and Bower Park exam result success. See the full details by clicking below.

Click here or on the the newsletter to go to our archive and read the newsletters on-line.

Friends of Havering Country Park Quiz Night

2009-09-07T06:50:00.000Z

The whole Collier Row & Mawneys Residents Association team attended the Quiz Night of the Friends of Havering Country Park last Saturday, to help raise funds for the group to spend in the park.

Over 80 people attended the night, helping to raise over £600 that the group can use to good use in the park. Our team kept up with the top teams for a good part of the night, but we lost out on the music round and ended up a close 5th out of the 13 or so teams who took part.

The friends group has been running for over almost 3 years now and has grown in that time, with new members and has consistently pushed the Council in setting out its plans for the parks investments.

Cllr Mann said “We were all very pleased to be able to support the friends group for the second year running out their quiz night, it was a great night and we all very much look forward to coming back next year, maybe we can improve on our score”

For more information about the group, take a look at their web site at,
http://sites.google.com/site/fohcpg

Charity Abseil down YMCA building

2009-09-07T05:51:00.001Z

Havering Park Ward members, Cllr Andy Mann and Kevin Tonks, both took part in a sponsored abseil at the weekend. Andy and Kevin dropped in at the YMCA building during Saturday (the 5th Sept), to take part in the sponsored abseil event. Upminster and Cranham Residents Association Councillors, Clarence Barrett and Linda Van Den Hende also took part on Sunday.

They dropped down the 120 foot building in aid of St Francis Hospice, who are based in Havering-Atte-Bower. The hospice offers specialist care to patients who have cancer or other life-limiting illnesses. It costs over £6.5 million every year to run the service, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and can care for more than 1,600 patients and their families each year.

Its still not to late to sponsor Cllr Andy Mann & Kevin Tonks, who aim to raise over £700 for St Francis.

If you would like to sponsor Andy & Kevin please go to the just giving web site at http://www.justgiving.com/AndyandKevsbigabseil/ Or you can send a cheque made payable to St Francis Hospice to Andy Mann, at 380 Havering Road, Romford, Essex, RM1 4DE.

YMCA Charity Abseail Event

2009-09-04T08:56:00.002Z

Its not to late to sponsor Cllr Andy Mann & Kevin Tonks, who will be literally dropping in at the YMCA building this Saturday (the 5th Sept), to take part in the sponsored abseil event. They will be dropping down the 120 foot building in aid of St Francis Hospice at 3.30pm tomorrow afternoon.

Andy and Kevin aim to raise £500 for St Francis, who are based in Havering-Atte-Bower, the hospice offers specialist care to patients who have cancer or other life-limiting illnesses.

It costs over £6.5 million every year to run the service, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and can care for more than 1,600 patients and their families each year.

If you would like to sponsor Andy & Kevin please go to the just giving web site at http://www.justgiving.com/AndyandKevsbigabseil/ or send a cheque made payable to St Francis Hospice to Andy Mann, at 380 Havering Road, Romford, Essex, RM1 4DE.

Bower Park School - Best Ever Exam Results

2009-08-27T10:00:00.002Z

Bower Park School are celebrating after their 2009 GCSE Exam result jumped a massive 14% on the previous years. The amount of pupils receiving five A* to C grade GCSE’s including English and Maths increased from 35% to 40%.

The overall figure of A* to C grades without English and Maths, increased from 44% to a whopping 63%, a 50% increase on last year. This is the fifth year in succession that the results at Bower Park have increased since Head Teacher, Mary Morrison joined the school.

This continues the trend of year on year improvement and is once again Bower Park Schools highest results.

Head Teacher, Mary Morrison said, “I am extremely proud of the achievement of our pupils over the last 12 months in gaining such a good set of results, all of the pupils have been a credit to the school, I must also say a big thank you to all of the school staff who have contributed towards this excellent progress”.

Local Councillor and School Governor, Andrew Mann said “This is another brilliant result for Bower Park students and staff, all of which deserve praise for what they have achieved over the last 12 months. Bower Park is a fantastic school within our community and these latest results are proof that it is continuing to move forward and is changing all the time”.

177 / 179 Mawney Road

2009-08-22T15:31:00.001Z

Mawneys team member Graham Price, has received adverse comments from a number of concerned residents in relation to a planning application for 177/179, Mawney Road.

This is for a change of use from a purely residential home, to a residential institution, to provide a residential care home for twelve residents, with ancillary facilities, amenity space and parking provision.

Graham has spoken to a number of residents in Mawney Road, and has also taken up a complaint received from a resident about the lack of notification. We are aware that there have been over 100 letters of objection sent in, which is a huge number for a planning issue, and we will be monitoring the progress of the application very closely.

Free entry into the Havering Show - August Bank Holiday

2009-08-15T20:03:00.000Z

The Havering Show, supported by The City Pavilion, is back for its 29th year. So make a diary date for the August Bank Holiday weekend - Sunday 30 and Monday 31 August in Harrow Lodge Park, Hornchurch. It promises to be a great fun day out for the whole family. And this year admission is free (NB there is a £1 charge for parking).

The Show will feature two great live music acts from pop's golden era - Eric Faulkner's Bay City Rollers ('By Bye Baby', 'Give a Little Love') and sixties chart-toppers The Manfreds ('Do Wah Diddy Diddy', 'Pretty Flamingo'),as well as the Never Forget tribute to Take That. Visit the Music Stage for the full line-up. There will also be an array of fun activities for all from the jousting Knights of Middle England to canine act, Delta Dogs.

Last year's popular acts, Stallions of Substance and the Havering Majorettes will be returning to the main stage.

Planet Havering will once again be providing environmental activities and workshops as well as a solar powered stage. Freecycle, a 'bring and take' opportunity, will match people who have things they no longer need with people who need them. This reduces the amount of things thrown away, minimises waste and helps you to save money.

There will be many other Activities and Workshops at the show including assault courses, bouncy castles, a traditional fun fair and craft and flower displays.

Don't forget to bring your Haveringcard to the show as many stalls will be offering discounts or special offers to residents. You can also find out more and pick up a FREE Haveringcard in the Havering Council marquee (Your Community area). Proof of address not more than three months old, such as a utility bill will be required.

For more information about the show, go to Havering Councils web site by clicking here.

Newsboy granted alcohol Licence

2009-08-12T21:16:00.000Z

Denis Stevens was on hand at the town Hall this week, speaking on behalf of Cllr Mann who is on holiday against a licensing application for an off license in Chase Cross Road. Sadly, Councillors decided to grant the license, despite objections from the Police, albeit with some restrictions.

However, local residents have vowed to boycott a newsagent after councillors gave the green light for them to sell alcohol. At the end of the licensing meeting on Monday August 10, residents said that they would take action after the committee agreed the application for Newsboy in Chase Cross Road, Romford.

Resident Julie Green said: "I feel very disappointed because the committee has not fully grasped the weight of people's anger. "I think he will definitely see a decline in his sales because people will boycott the shop."

Councillors agreed for the off licence to sell alcohol but they also put on conditions restricting the sale of alcohol in the shop from 10am to 9pm for seven days a week, two people have to be on duty at all time and staff training to be provided.Other conditions included restricting two young people to the shop at one time, bottle and can marking, a refusal register to be kept and CCTV cameras to be installed.

Earlier the councillors heard a presentation from resident George Higgins who was against the application because he believed that it would add to the problems already in the area. He said: "If alcohol was introduced in the shop public safety and crime is going to take a bad turn and I can only see bad news coming in the future."

The residents were also concerned that more people were not able to respond against the application because it was advertised in a paper that was not delivered to all residents and advertised behind the counter in the shop.

Denis Steven, speaking on behalf of Cllr Andy Mann, (Havering Park, Resident's Association) said: "I am disappointed that the formal legal adverts about this application were placed in the Yellow Advertiser, a paper which is not delivered to the new Havering's estate and, living in Havering Road myself, a paper that is only delivered every other week or so."

Bat Walk in Havering Country Park

2009-08-07T07:42:00.000Z

The Friends of Havering Country Park in association with Essex Bat Group or organising another Bat Walk in Havering Country Park on Saturday 15th August, at 7.45pm, following the success of the walk held last summer (pictured above). It is known that there are at least three species of Bat in the park, so you should be in for a good night.

You must also be over 11 years old to take part, a small charge of £2.50 is payable per person and you should book in advance.

To reserve a place, please leave your contact details on the friend’s mobile phone, 07531 250463 or email them at: fohcpg@googlemail.com

All places will be reserved on a first come first served basis. In the event of bad weather a talk on the subject will take place under cover.

If you would like to take part, click here for more information.

Friends of Bedfords Park

2009-08-05T10:35:00.000Z

The next work day of the Friends of Bedfords Park, takes place this Sunday, the 9th August. If you would like to come along and help, just turn up at 10.00 outside the visitors centre.

The previous work day in July involved the pruning of some Giant Knot Weed by the walled garden so that it can be treated with herbicide by the council when it starts to regrow.

In the afternoon they cleared some of the paths around a couple of the ponds to the south of the park near Lower Bedfords Road. These paths were initially cleared by us about three of years ago. Although they are used by some dog walkers there is not enough 'traffic' to keep them completely clear.

One of the ponds was completely covered in duckweed whilst the other was clear of it. They also collected various items of 'litter' while we were walking around.

For further information contact Lois or Bill Amos on 01708 704619.

2009-08-04T20:06:00.002Z

The Collier Row and Mawneys Residents Association has learnt that a group of Travellers have invaded Befords Country Park in Havering Atte Bower.

They arrived at 2pm on Friday and despite the efforts of the police and parks department 6 caravans, 2 vans and a 4x4 managed to get onto the grass.

Planning enforcement issued Section 77 papers giving the travellers until Monday afternoon to leave the site. When Residence association action members visited the park on Tuesday evening they were still there. The council will now seek a court order to remove them from the site.

The Parks department has secured the area and arranged for 24hour security to stop any others entering the park.

This is the second time that travellers have been able to gain access to the park.

Haverings Sports Summer Programme

2009-08-03T21:13:00.001Z

Havering Councils, Sports Development Team have lined up a great range of activities for young people aged 8-19 years to enjoy during the summer holidays.

You can try lots of different sports including archery, cricket, tag rugby, basketball, handball, netball, football, tennis, athletics and many more. There's something happening at locations all over Havering, so there's bound to be one close to where you live.

They have also arranged family fun days at Harrow Lodge Park, Upminster Park and Dagnam Park. And in August the Active Sports Zone comes to Rise Park for a week of sporting activities.

You can download a PDF version of the Havering Sports Summer Activities programme from the link below:

Click here for the Havering Sports Summer Activities Programme

To make a booking, just call the Sports Development Team on 01708 434743.

New Recycling Schemes comes to Collier Row

2009-08-01T12:51:00.002Z

A recycling collection trial that resulted in big increase in the usual amount of orange sacks and cardboard being collected, will become a permanent service and expand to cover more of the borough on Monday 3 August. The trial began in November and enabled 25,000 residents to recycle more materials in parts of Elm Park, Upminster, Cranham, Hornchurch and Rainham.

The improved service involves collecting orange sacks (including cardboard) and refuse sacks in different vehicles on the same day each week. This will now be rolled out to most of Collier Row, who missed out on being part of the scheme last year. Residents will receive a letter informing them if their property is covered by the new service. The remainder of the borough will be included in November.

A further three dedicated recycling vehicles will be introduced at the beginning of August and more vehicles being introduced in November.

Orange recycling sacks and flattened cardboard will be collected in one vehicle and the rubbish sacks in another on the same day each week. Yellow pages directories can now go in the orange recycling sacks.

More than 1,600 tonnes of orange sacks and cardboard were collected in the first 19 weeks of the trial. This equates to 90 tonnes per week compared to an average of 20 tonnes in the same area before the trial was launched.

The collection process has contributed to increasing the percentage of household waste recycled and composed to more than 27 per cent in 2008/9. It is expected that once the trial is rolled out, the recycling and composting rate could rise to 36 per cent.

For more information see the Council website: http://www.havering.gov.uk/recyclingOr call 01708 432563.

FREE - Summer Playfest in the Park

2009-07-30T07:07:00.006Z

Havering will be hosting its annual Playfest again this summer. A free play festival which will take place over five days throughout the borough’s parks, to celebrate national Playday.The first Playfest was held last year, thanks to a £99,000 grant from the Big Lottery Fund to host the event over three years.

Following last year’s successful event, an extra day has been added to make sure as many children as possible get the chance to take part.Activities at this year’s event include sports like quick cricket and short tennis as well as a dance workshop, interactive music, bouncy castles and face painting.

Playfest will be at:

Central Park, Harold Hill on Monday 3 August

Raphael Park, Romford on Tuesday 4 August

Harrow Lodge Park, Hornchurch on Wednesday 5 August

Rainham Recreation Ground on Thursday 6 August

Upminster Park on Friday 7 August.

Now the summer holidays have begun, it’s time for children to get out and about in the borough, make new friends, try new things and get active, this free event is a great, stress-free summer day out for children.

For more information go to http://www.havering.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=16248

Homes in Havering lose out on £100 Million Grant

2009-07-27T11:06:00.002Z

Havering Council has demanded the reversal of a shock Government announcement that will see the withdrawal of millions of pounds earmarked for council housing improvements in the borough.

The funding, to bring the borough's council homes up to the 'Decent Homes' standard, was dependent on Homes in Havering achieving two stars in its September inspection. £9 million would have been available this year, with a further £21 million next year. The remainder of £82 million would then be spent over future years to ensure that all council homes have modern windows, kitchens and bathrooms.

This funding had been promised to the Council if it gained its 2 stars, however the money will now not be available until at the earliest 2011 or 2012 and only if Homes in Havering gain 2 stars in September.

Cllr Mann said “It is deplorable and typical of this Government. They have not only moved the goalposts, but taken the pitch and turned it upside down”.

However, we should remember why we are in this position in the first place. Access to additional funding of £112 million depended on Homes in Havering getting a two star assessment. The last assessment by the Audit Commission awarded just a single star, highlighting such weaknesses as poor handling of complaints, low satisfaction in dealing with anti-social behaviour, lack of customer focus, poor level of first time repairs, no clear programme of decorating and an inconsistent quality of cleaning to communal areas.

This bleak picture was further impaired by the discovery of a £2m black hole in the accounts last year and a very generous payment to a chief executive who simply failed to deliver. Although this decision by the Government has let our tenants and leaseholders down, they were already let down by Homes in Havering.

Cllr Mann went on “I am not saying that improvements have not been made, but it is far from clear that HiH will receive 2 stars at the next assessment and time will tell. What is clear is that our tenants and leaseholders deserve is a service which provides prompt attention, clear planning and value for money and this is what we must strive to achieve”.

The £30m additional funding in 2009/10 and 2010 would have been used for:

1,515 families benefiting from new, energy-efficient boilers, thus tackling the fuel poverty they are experiencing at this time of economic uncertainty
1,118 new bathrooms and 1,682 new kitchens, including water-conservancy features
153 families benefiting from extensive works to poor quality homes of non-traditional construction types
Window replacements to 349 homes and door replacements to 241 properties, in support of the Government's energy efficiency and climate change agendas
115 extra properties receiving improvements to their electrics
13 properties having renewed roofs

St Francis Hospice Celebrates 25 Years

2009-07-24T20:46:00.002Z

Cllr Andy Mann and Denis Stevens joined, staff, patients, and volunteers to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Saint Francis Hospice, which provides world class local care to people affected by cancer and other life limiting illness.

They were joined by various Mayors from Havering, Redbridge, Barking & Dagenham and Brentwood at the outdoor anniversary service at the Havering-atte-Bower based charity on Thursday 23rd July. A specially commissioned book celebrating the history of the hospice was also launched. Two members of staff, Dave Bayfield and Caroline Bastian, were also awarded 20 years long service awards.

The outdoor service, led by hospice chaplaincy team leader Revd Stephen Henwood, featured hymns and hospice trustee and co-founder Joan Matthews recalled how Saint Francis Hospice became a reality and what the opening day was like - “I saw the first patient arrive, it was exciting and the end of many years’ hard work” .

Cllr Mann said, “It is always good to visit St Francis Hospice and see the good work that goes on, the outdoor service was excellent and the summer rain kept away long enough for the 70 plus people to enjoy the afternoon”.

Hospice chairman John McKernan, said: “Saint Francis Hospice has had some fantastic developments such as the creation of a telephone support service and day hospice. We are constantly evolving to meet the changing needs of our patients. All this has only been possible thanks to our dedicated staff, volunteers and supporters and we hope your support continues as we look to the future and helping more people who need our care.”

When the hospice opened on July 23rd 1984 it initially had 10 beds but the forward thinking by trustees enabled a further 12 when needed. Since then it has constantly developed. In its first year the hospice cared for 208 patients and now more than 3,600 people are supported, free of charge, each year.

Today the charity has many services to support all a patient’s needs. These include the inpatient unit, day hospice, a specialist nursing team providing 24/7 care to patients at home with consultant support and an internationally recognised training facility.

If you would like to learn more about Saint Francis Hospice or get involved with fundraising or order the anniversary book please call 01708 753319 or email fundraising@sfh.org.uk

Gallows Corner flyover now open

2009-07-23T20:11:00.001Z

Gallows Corner Flyover has been re-opened, ahead of schedule, and to a big sigh of relief for motorists using the A12/A127.

Following a period of routine repair works in April 2008, the flyover was further closed to traffic on 28 th May for major works to repair the parapets and support structures.

The Gallows Corner two-lane flyover was erected as a temporary structure in 1970, for an intended 12 to 15 year period. Since then, the flyover has been maintained by a succession of owners since its construction comprising Havering Borough Council, the Department for Transport, the Highways Agency and, since 2000, Transport for London (TfL).

Gallows Corner flyover now open

2009-07-22T20:11:00.000Z

Gallows Corner Flyover has been re-opened, ahead of schedule, and to a big sigh of relief for motorists using the A12/A127.

Following a period of routine repair works in April 2008, the flyover was further closed to traffic on 28 th May for major works to repair the parapets and support structures.

The Gallows Corner two-lane flyover was erected as a temporary structure in 1970, for an intended 12 to 15 year period. Since then, the flyover has been maintained by a succession of owners since its construction comprising Havering Borough Council, the Department for Transport, the Highways Agency and, since 2000, Transport for London (TfL).

Pinewood Head Teacher Retires

2009-07-21T20:59:00.000Z

Cllr Andy Mann was pleased to be able to attend the leaving picnic of Mrs Hazel Boutel, the Head Teacher of Pinewood Primary School. Hazel has decided to take the opportunity to retire and spend more time with her family.

As a former pupil and now a school Governor Cllr Mann said “It was great to be at Pinewood School again, although the occasion was a sad one, as Hazel was leaving, it was also a happy one as the children and staff had put a lot of effort into making it a day to remember”.

The 200 plus children joined Mrs Boutel on the school fields, with games and food for all. Mrs Boutel’s time was celebrated by the release of nine balloons, one for each year that she was head teacher. The children then performed a song they had written for her.

Cllr Mann said “I would like to say a big thank you to Hazel for all she has done at Pinewood, she has truly moved the school on and helped put it back on the map again, I would like to wish her all the luck in the future”.

M25 Road Widening to start

2009-07-18T09:44:00.001Z

Work starts on Monday 20th July to widen the M25 between junctions 27 and 30.

The first phase of work will be from junction 27 (M11) to junction 28 (A12). Later works will affect junction 29 (A127) and junction 30 (A13), the works are being carried out by the Highways Agency and will take over 12 months to complete.

A contraflow with three narrow lanes in each direction and temporary 50mph average speed enforcement will be in place to keep everyone safe. Overnight, when traffic flow is reduced, there will be lane and/or slip road closures as necessary.

Some advance works have already been carried out including:

surveys and site clearance
construction of motorway crossovers
construction of our compound and emergency access routes
fencing and relocation of newts and reptiles

The Highways Agency Community Relations Team will be available throughout the construction process to answer any queries you may have about the project. They can be contacted at: communityrelations27-30.m25@sbbjv.co.uk

For further information please call the Highways Agency Information Line, 08457 50 40 30 or email: m25widening@highways.gsi.gov.uk

New Dentist officialy opened

2009-07-17T09:59:00.000Z

Collier Row Councillor, Andy Mann attending the opening of the new NHS Dentist in Collier Row Road today, the project funded partly by Havering NHS and Dr Patel was officially opened by the Mayor of Havering.

Over 70 people from the NHS, Havering Council, local partners and family and friends of Dr Patel attended the event and were able to see the excellent facilities for themselves.

The clinic will be specialising in treating nervous and anxious patients and children and the elderly. The surgery opened in the Councils old Housing office, that it sold off some three years ago and has laid empty ever since.

Dr Patel, the lead clinical principal dentist said “We have been working with the NHS to develop a modern family friendly practise and are delighted to offer all aspects of NHS dental care. It is especially important that children’s teeth and gums are looked after in their early years to ensure dental health is maintained for life”.

Cllr Andy Mann said “I was very pleased to be invited to the opening, I have known Dr Patel for over 25 years and was more than happy to support the planning application for this new dentist in Collier Row; a NHS dentist is very much needed in the area and will be a wonderful asset for the community and I very much wish Dr Patel the best of luck as he get the practice up and running”.

For more information, contact the practice on Romford 728 715

Chase Cross Road Closed

2009-07-14T09:28:00.005Z

Chase Cross Road, in Collier Row will be closed Eastbound, on the 16th, the 17th and the 20th July for major resurfacing works between the hours of 09.30 and 4.00pm.

Local diversions will take you down Gobions Avenue and Havering Road and are best advice is to avoid the area unless you need to travel that way.

The road is being resurfaced as part of the Councils Capital funded programme and follows numerous complaints from you Residents Association and local residents about the state of the carriageway, particularly outside the shops.

"Newsboy" Alcohol license application

2009-07-13T07:22:00.002Z

The new owners of Newsboy, at 263 Chase Cross Road, Collier Row has applied for a license to sell alcohol. We have been inundated with local residents objecting to the plans

The application is for alcohol to be sold off the premises on Monday to Thursday, from 06.00 to 21.00 and on Friday to Sunday, from 06.00 to 21.30.

If you would like to object, you must do this as soon as possible, as the closing date is this week, the 15th July. You can do so by writing or by e-mail, the details of which are below.

Under the under the Licensing Act 2003, you can only object on four grounds, which are. One, the prevention of crime and disorder. Two, public safety. Three, the prevention of public nuisance and four, the protection of children from harm. These are the only grounds by law that are allowed to be submitted, it would help your objection if you could try and comment around these four headings only.

You must also live or work in the area immediately around the application address, such as Chase Cross Road, The new Havering’s development, Lower Bedfords Road or the top of Havering Road to be accepted as a valid objector. You will need to include you address on your letter as well, or it will not be accepted.

Please e-mail or write to the licensing officer at Havering Council with your objection, his address is paul.campbell@havering.gov.uk or by post to LB Havering, Mercury House, Mercury Gardens, Romford, Essex, RM1 3SL. Please copy your reply to Cllr Andrew Mann via the Town Hall or on e-mail to andrew.mann@havering.gov.uk

Although the closing date is this week, objections are often still accepted. They will be marked out of date, however, they can still be counted, so please write or e-mail if you wish to object.

We have more details on our web site, such as links to Havering Councils website with more information about the Licensing Act 2003 and how to object, address below.

for more information, click here to go to Havering Council website.

Bower Park Awards Assembly

2009-07-12T09:13:00.000Z

Cllr Andy Mann was at Bower Park School last week, for the 5th annual Awards Assembly. As a School Governor, Cllr Mann said “It is always a pleasure to be at Bower Park School on awards day, watching the children collect awards for all the hard work, achievement and effort, they have put in, during the year”.

Cllr Mann was also called on to introduce this year’s guest speaker, the legendary charity fundraiser, Lloyd Scott MBE. Lloyd spoke at length about his achievements over the years, from fighting back from Leukaemia, to raising over £5 million for charities in the last 10 years.

Heat Teacher, Mary Morrison spoke about the effort put in by all in the school, from pupils, staff and teachers, who have all contributed to making Bower park School the place it is today.

The event also marked the announcement of the new student leadership team, with the head boy, head girl and a new position this year of school president being announced.

Pictured from L to R: is Cllr Mann, Lloyd Scott and Recorder Editor, Mark Sweetingham, also a School Governor

New July / August Newsletter being delivered

2009-07-10T10:18:00.004Z

Issue 15, the July / August edition of our Collier Row & Mawneys Residents Association is now being delivered, across Collier Row, Mawneys, Chase Cross & Havering-atte-Bower.

Over 11,000 houses and shops should have received a copy, with information such as the latest update on Hampden Lodge; the head teacher of Pinewood Primary is retiring and vibrations in Mawney Road.

There are also stories about Mounted Police in the Park, Fly tipping in Mawneys Ward, Park News and updates on Collier Row Town Centre.

Click on the newsletter to read, or click on the link on the right hand side, to take you to our newsletter archive.

Bower Park School "Rocks"

2009-07-08T20:33:00.000Z

School Governor, Cllr Andy Mann attended Bower Park School’s production of “We Will Rock You” this week and what a fantastic show it was, so good he watched it twice, well almost.

Cllr Mann said “I have waited many years for the school to put on We will rock you and It was worth the wait, the children were fantastic, I watched the opening night and raced back after a Council meeting to see the second half of the last night”

Bower Park School has put on some fantastic shows over the years, however this show has been one of the most complicated and involved, if you are a Queen fan, it was something not to be missed.

The pupils and staff that helped backstage and who took part in the show itself were just brilliant, the standard of singing and acting by the pupils was second to none, in particular the two pupils playing the lead roles, Connor Catchpole and Holly Simms were excellent.

Graffiti painted out by Offenders

2009-07-06T21:19:00.000Z

Young offenders had to paint over a wall covered in graffiti in Hainault Road, Collier Row in a project organised by Havering Council recently.

The group of half a dozen offenders from Havering had to do the work on Saturday as part of their Community Reparation. The location was chosen after complaints from local people about graffiti vandalism.

The Council supervised the work along with Police officers from the Mawneys Safer Neighbourhoods Team. The Council also supplied the paint and brushes.

Mawneys Ward Action Member, Graham Price (pictured above inspecting recent graffiti in the ward) said "It is good news that young offenders are working to clean up the local streets after committing offences, they learn a lesson and the community benefit from the work".

Follow us on Facebook

2009-07-04T16:14:00.000Z

You can now follow the Collier Row & Mawneys Residents Association on the social website, Facebook.

Already over 50 people have signed up to the web site and if you are a member of Facebook, just log into the site and search for us and click to join.

You can then receive regular updates of what is going on in Collier Row and the surrounding area. By signing up, you can get e-mail sent direct to your inbox with all of the latest news.

New Vicar arrives at Good Shepherd

2009-07-01T09:24:00.002Z

Cllr Mann recently attended the Good Shepherd Church, in Collier Row Lane, for the licensing service of the new vicar, Revd David Hague, pictured 2nd from left next to the Bishop of Barking, the Deputy Mayor of Havering, pictured 2nd from right and myself on the far right.

A wonderful evening was had by all who attended; some 200 plus people crammed into the church to celebrate David’s arrival to the parish, with both the formal licensing stuff and song and prayer, accompanied by the excellent in house band.

Cllr Mann said “I am sure David will be very much at home in Collier Row, he and his family are committed to working worth the community, to bring the life and work of the Good Shepherd Church to as many people as possible, I am sure he will build on the good work that the church has been doing for many years”.

Dropping in for St Francis Hospice

2009-06-30T16:05:00.001Z

Cllr Andy Mann & Kevin Tonks, will be literally dropping in at the YMCA building in September, when they take part in a sponsored abseil, they will be dropping down the 120 foot building in aid of St Francis Hospice.

Based in Havering-Atte-Bower, Andy and Kevin aim to raise £500 for the hospice, which offers specialist care to patients who have cancer or other life-limiting illnesses.

It costs over £6.5 million every year to run the service, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and can care for more than 1,600 patients and their families each year.

If you would like to sponsor Andy & Kevin please go to the just giving web site at http://www.justgiving.com/AndyandKevsbigabseil/

Bower Park will Rock You !!

2009-06-29T09:29:00.006Z

Bower Park School is proud to present "School will rock you", next week, Monday to Wednesday, the 6th, 7th and 8th July as their end of term school production.

Based on the hugely popular west end show "We will rock you" written by Ben Elton and a tribute to Queen and Freddy Mercury, the school has been working hard over the last few months putting together the school version.

If you would like to go and support the children, you can purchase tickets at £5 each, just call the school switchboard on 01708 730 244, ask for ext 234 or Eileen Parish and she will deal with your ticket requests.

Cllr Mann said, "as a Governor and a huge Queen fan, I will be at the school next week, I hope to see many of you there".

Armed Forces Day Parade

2009-06-27T01:14:00.001Z

Havering will join the nation today, Saturday 27 June in honouring Britain's armed forces past, present and future on Armed Forces Day.

A parade will take place through Romford Town Centre, beginning at 10:45am on South Street, going through the Market before ending at Tollgate House. The parade will be led by the 12-piece band of the Invicta Rifles.

Veterans, army and police cadets, as well as members of the St John's Ambulance are also due to join in on the day. Collections for the Help for Heroes Appeal will also take place during the parade.

All residents who would like to support the parade through the Town Centre are welcome to come along.

Hampden Lodge Refused – for now !

2009-06-26T06:44:00.001Z

The Collier Row & Mawneys Residents Association are pleased that the Planning Committee refused permission for the former care home to become 43 flats. Over the last two years, the application has gone from 58 flats, down to 48 and then rather controversially mid way through the recent consultation, reduced down to 43.

Cllr Mann who was joined by Joe Webster and Denis Stevens at the planning meeting said, “I am pleased that the Committee agreed with all those who objected by refusing the scheme, I struggled to find a single positive point, the flats were too high, out of character, a danger to the highway in Clockhouse Lane, loss of light and there is also a lack of education places in North Romford.

However, the Conservative controlled Council need to take some responsibility for this whole debacle, they are the ones that sold the land, (subject to planning being granted) they are the ones that reduced the price by an alleged £1/2 million (as reported in the Recorder) to get shot of it and they are the one who have now made it a planning condition that 100% of the flats are offered as affordable housing to a Housing Association.

Over 1000 people signed the original petition that was presented to the Mayor last year, however it seems that your Tory Councillors are hell bent on doing anything for money, and could not give a damn about what local people want. Earlier this year, Tory Cllr, Geoff Starns said he was resigned to taking the big bucks for the land and at the Planning meeting, Cllr Tebbutt, said it was the Councils job to squeeze every pip of money out of a piece of land they sell, so plenty of hope there then !

Almost every resident we have spoken to would accept some sort of housing on the site and that is what we need “housing” not flats. Havering Council now need to go back to the drawing board, look at what money they want for the site and balance that against what is best for a family town like Collier Row and come up with suitable plans, perhaps houses, maybe a Health Centre.

The developer has spent a lot of money trying to get planning permission and will undoubtedly appeal to the Planning Inspectorate. Or will the Tory run Council shelve plans until May 2010 when the next Local Elections take place, hoping people will forget ?

Hampden Lodge Planning Meeting

2009-06-23T14:32:00.000Z

URGENT – PLEASE READ – Hampden Lodge

As you may or may not know Havering Councils Regulatory Services Committee will be deciding the outcome of the planning application to turn the former care home into 43 flats on Thursday of this week (the 25th).

Over the last 12 months the applicant, Bellway Homes and Havering Council have submitted plans for 58 flats, then 48 flats and now revised plans for 43 flats, the latest revision has included a planning condition that 100% of the flats are for social housing and will be handed to a Housing Association.

This will therefore stop local people actually being able to buy the flats and as you have to offer properties across East London as part of the choice based lettings scheme Havering are part of. There is no guarantee that Havering people will get a flat, if they are approved.

The level of support against this development has been fantastic, with hundreds writing to object and over 1000 people signing the original petition; please join us for the last push at the planning meeting this week at the Town Hall to show the level of objection.

Please meet at the Town Hall from 6.30pm for a demonstration this Thursday, the 25th June, then stay on for the planning meeting at 7.30pm. Your support on Thursday could make all the difference.

Cllr Andy Mann

Web Site Problems

2009-06-22T14:38:00.000Z

It seems that our Web Site continues to annoy people as once again it has been attacked by outsiders trying to upload a virus to it. However, as it is all backed up and saved and was protected by blogger.com we have been able to close down certain items for a week or so whilst tracking of the IP address took place.

It is now up to speed and over the next few days, we will upload stories that should have been on there a few weeks ago, sorry if they are a bit late.

We have now posted over 350 stories in just over 2 years and had 26,000 hits, which is great, if you want to receive regular updates from us, just drop us an e-mail, address on the right and we will add you to the list.

Pinewood Primary School sings at the Queens

2009-06-20T09:47:00.000Z

Cllr Andrew Mann was pleased to be able to watch the children from Pinewoods at the recent Queens Theatre Summer Music Festival, the 30 plus children from the School choir put on a fantastic show by singing a spoonful of sugar and the candyman.

As a Governor and former pupil at Pinewood, it is always a pleasure to see the children perform; they were all a credit to the school, a lot of the children performing were in year six, so will be leaving the school in a month, I wish them all good luck at their new schools.

And as the children leave the school, sadly, so does the Head Teacher, Mrs Hazel Boutel. After almost 10 years in charge of the school she has decided to retire from teaching and spend more time with her family, in particular her first grandchild.

Cllr Mann has seen first hand some of the work that Hazel has done in promoting Pinewood Primary. As a school tucked away at the furthest point in the ward, surrounded by Havering Country Park it has often being the forgotten school of North Romford. However, Hazel has led an excellent team of staff who have done their best for the children and putting Pinewood firmly on the map for all to see, I thank her for all her work and wish her all the best in retirement.

New sign for the Village green

2009-06-18T04:20:00.001Z

The Havering-Atte-Bower Conservation Society has been successful in biding for a £5,000 grant from Grassroots (part of the Cabinet Office) for a sign to be erected on the Village Green and for repair of the circular seat.

A planning application has recently been submitted for the sign and Cllr Mann said "I was pleased to be able to write to the planners supporting the scheme, which has now been approved, HABCOS have done some wonderful work in the village and should be congratulated for all they do"

HABCOS have now set thee sites on a bid for a larger £10,000 grant to help enhance the village.

More information on what HABCOS have been doing to support the village are available on their website at www.habcos.co.uk

Mounted Police come to Havering Park

2009-06-09T07:13:00.002Z

Cllr Andrew Mann and Havering Park Ward Action Member, Denis Steven joined the friends of Havering Country Park and the Ward SNT Police team as the Metropolitan Police Mounted Branch visited Havering Country Park and Bedfords Park on Sunday.

Four Police horses were on patrol in the parks, along with Sgt Grahame Harle and PCSO Pete Watts, who were looking out for anti social behaviour problems, including people using motorbikes illegally in the parks.

The horses have become an annual fixture in the parks over the summer months, having been to Havering for the last few years.

Cllr Mann said “The sheer presence of the horses is enough to scare anyone off who even thinks about riding a bike in the park, we are all extremely grateful for the Mounted Branch for coming over to the park, my thanks to the local SNT Police team for arranging the event.

Denis Stevens said “The Police in our ward have been fantastic in supporting the Friends of Havering Country Park group, by bring in the horses it send a clear message that illegal motorbikes will not be tolerated in our parks”

New Dentist opens in Collier Row

2009-06-08T11:29:00.000Z

Cllr Andy Mann was on hand today, as a new NHS dentist opened its doors for the first time, the Collier Row Dental Surgery is the first new dentist in Havering for many years. The first patients was Mrs Driscoll, from Collier Row (pictured in the chair with Dr Patel and Cllr Mann).

The clinic will be specialising in treating nervous and anxious patients and children and the elderly.The surgery opened in the Councils old Housing office, that it sold off some three years ago and has laid empty ever since.

Dr Patel, the lead clinical principal dentist said “We have been working with the NHS to develop a modern family friendly practise and are delighted to offer all aspects of NHS dental care. It is especially important that children’s teeth and gums are looked after in their early years to ensure dental health is maintained for life”.

Cllr Mann said “I was very pleased to be able to support the planning application for this new dentist in Collier Row; a NHS dentist is very much needed in the area and will be a wonderful asset for the community and I very much wish Dr Patel the best of luck as he get the dentist up and running”.

For more information, contact the practice on Romford 728 715.

Residents Association By Election Victory

2009-06-05T09:39:00.000Z

The Residents' Association scored a landslide victory yesterday, in securing the vacant St Andrew's ward seat in a by election, following the resignation of Tory David Charles, who was convicted of downloading child porn.

John Wood, of the Hornchurch Residents' Association, was returned with 1,413 votes, 522 ahead of the second placed Tory candidate.

With a high turn-out of 42.6%, the full result is as follows:

JOHN WOOD (RA) 1,413
PAIN (TORY) 891
JOYCE (BNP) 771
CARR (LABOUR) 455
WEBB (UKIP) 433
DURRANT 291
TAFF (LIB DEM) 159

John has lived in Hornchurch for over 30 years and has been a member of the Hornchurch Residents' Association for many years. He currently works for the London Probation Service and has served as a governor at St Mary's RC Primary school and as chair of Education appeals in other local authorities.

John is pictured above, with Cllr Barbara Matthews, who was his election agent for the campaign.

Armed Forces Parade in Romford

2009-06-04T03:28:00.000Z

On Saturday 27 June, Havering will join the nation in honouring Britain's armed forces past, present and future on Armed Forces Day. The event will consist of a parade through Romford Town Centre, beginning at South Street and taking in the Market before finishing at the Town Hall.

The parade will be led by a 12-piece band the Invicta Rifles. Army and police cadets, as well as members of the St John's Ambulance are also due to join in on the day and any veterans in Havering who would like to take part are welcome.

After the march there will be a chance for veterans to catch up with old friends, as well as meet new comrades during refreshments outside the Town Hall. Collections for the Help for Heroes Appeal will also take place.

Anyone wishing to take part should call 01708 432 427 for more details.

Residents who would like to support the veterans as they parade through the Town Centre are also welcome to come along. Prior to the event, a special Armed Forces Day flag will be raised at the Town Hall in a ceremony on Monday 22 June.

A local veteran will be raising the flag and it will fly for a week leading up to Armed Forces Day.

Langtons Summer Concert

2009-06-01T17:16:00.000Z

One of the most popular events in the borough's culture calendar, the Langtons Summer Concert, will take place on Sunday 7 June, and is free to all residents.

The annual event, which last year attracted around 3,000 people to Langtons Gardens, will celebrate 80 years since Havering Council acquired the gardens of Langtons House from Elizabeth Varco Parkes in 1929.

In celebration of this anniversary, guests are invited to put on their best 1920s style fancy dress, and there will be a prize for the best costume in two categories, adults and children, presented by the Mayor of Havering.

The concert is performed by the Westminster Philharmonic Orchestra who will bring the sound of the 1920s to life with the help of long standing musical director Jonathan Butcher. The concert starts at 3pm and visitors are invited to bring along a picnic.

StreetCare fined £10,000

2009-05-30T06:08:00.001Z

The London Borough of Havering has been fined £10,000 after an employee of its Street Care Department struck an 11,000 volt cable buried in the pavement with a hydraulic breaker.

The employee suffered flash burns and electric shock during the accident which occurred on Main Road, Romford in December 2007. The worker, who was untrained, was using the hydraulic breaker to dig holes for the installation of a new bench.

Havering pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and safety at Work Act 1974. It was fined £10,000 and ordered to pay costs of £9,810 at City of London Magistrates Court.

John Crookes, Health and Safety Executive inspector, said: "This incident could have been fatal. London Borough of Havering failed to provide a safe system of work as a result of which a temporary council worker was injured."

Click HERE for details of our original story, when the incident first happened.

Hampden Lodge You Tube Video

2009-05-27T21:07:00.000Z

Local resident and Hampden Lodge campaigner, Jeff Terrell has made a short video and posted it on You Tube, click on the link below to view it.

CLICK HERE TO LINK TO THE VIDEO

Lynwood Drive Planning Application

2009-05-26T07:27:00.001Z

Another planning application has been submitted by the Lynwood Drive Medical Centre to extend its size by converting the house a no.2 to form part of the surgery.

It also proposes a Change of use from residential to D1 for pharmacy, consulting rooms and administration, alterations to the driveway of 2 Lynwood Drive to form parking for patients and staff of adjoining medical centre located at 2A, 4 and 6 Lynwood Drive.

The pharmacy also seeks permission to be open Monday to Saturday, from 06.00 to 23.00 and on Sundays from 09.00 to 13.00, that is a total of 100 hours a week.

The Collier Row & Mawneys Residents Association is sympathetic to the needs of the community in improving the facilities available to patients and to improving the care they receive.

However, this site is just not capable of being extending any further; the surgery is already located within three converted houses in Lynwood Drive. The parking situation in the surrounding roads is already at breaking point and the six extra spaces that are proposed will not be enough, as they will be taken up by extra staff parking.

The location of the pharmacy on the junction of Lynwood Drive and Clockhouse Lane will be a traffic nightmare, it is also less than 100 metres from a school, and the traffic at start and finish times is already of concern.

There is also issues around why a Chemist needs to be open 100 hours a week !

Havering Park Ward Councillor, Andy Mann said “This application was refused last summer and as far as I can see, there is no difference to the new plans, I am deeply concerned about a dispensing chemist being available for over 100 hours a week, from 06.00 in the morning to 11pm at night, its not like the surgery is open for 17 hours a day”. “To that end, I will be writing to the Head of Planning at Havering Council and calling in tis application and to express my concerns and objections”.

Gallows Corner flyover CLOSED

2009-05-25T01:07:00.002Z

Gallows Corner flyover will be closed from tomorrow morning, for 3 months to enable repair works to be carried out. Additional works were found to be needed after the existing safety barriers were not up to the job. The work that was necessary to manufacture the support structures off-site has now been completed.

However, it will take at least three months, working 7 days a week, to install the new parapets. During the period of works the flyover will be fully closed with traffic diverted around Gallows Corner Roundabout.

There will be partial lane closures on the roundabout and its approach during off-peak periods and there will be inevitable delays to motorists.

It will also affect certain bus routes, including, the 174, 496 and 498.

Latest Newsletter being delivered

2009-05-22T19:55:00.000Z

Issue 14, the May / June edition of our Collier Row & Mawneys Residents Association is now being delivered, across Collier Row, Mawneys, Chase Cross & Havering-atte-Bower.

Over 11,000 houses and shops should have received a copy, with information such as the latest update on the Councils plans to sell of Hampden Lodge. There is also stories about Bower Park School, StreetCare, a new Vicar for the Ascension church and Park openings.

Click on the newsletter to read, or click on the link on the right hand side to take you to our newsletter archive.

Council Advertising Income not achieved

2009-05-21T07:34:00.002Z

Income from advertising on council assets (lampposts, roundabouts, etc) could underachieve by around £300,000 this year according to a report recently considered by the Corporate Resources Overview & Scrutiny Committee.

Last year, the Council agreed to increase income raised through advertising on council assets from £50,000 to £550,000, however the actual figures have left a large deficit in the planned budget.

Following a question to Council in December 2008, it was revealed that the 2008/09 budget was likely to underachieve by £200,000.

For 2009/10, the figures are looking even less favourable as one advertiser has already dropped out of the contract. Based on existing figures, income may only be £235,000, leaving a shortfall in excess of £300,000.

Leader of the Opposition, Cllr Clarence Barrett, said: “Last year we challenged the Cabinet decision to increase income through advertising on council assets on the grounds that we needed reassurance as to the quantity and quality of advertising and that the income projections were way too optimistic. However, our concerns were subsequently voted down by the Tory dominated Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

“Even given the economic conditions, the need to set income projections at a level which is achievable rather than through wishful thinking is crucial as it impacts on council budgets if the targets are not met”.

Half Term Fun at the Library

2009-05-20T17:21:00.002Z

Children in Havering can find out all about their favourite animals, be brave enough to hold a creepy crawly, or learn more about their carbon footprint and the environment this half-term.

Staff from Wellgate Community Farm will bring along animals including rabbits, chickens and ducks to teach children how to care for their pets during an animal fun day at Collier Row Library from 12pm on Saturday 23 May.

There will also be local guide dog trainers, therapy dogs, local vets, craft activities and face painting at the event. Tickets for the animal fun day cost £3 and are available from the library. Call 01708 760063, to book.

Havering Village Fete

2009-05-18T17:30:00.003Z

The Collier Row & Mawneys Residents Association was out in force yesterday, braving the weather to support 3rd Havering Scout Group in raising funs for a new minibus.

Denis Stevens once again came up trumpts with his stall of flowers and vegetable plants for sale, helping raise something, he was assisted by both Karen and Graham Price. Cllr Andy Mann also visited the fete, getting the chance to speak with many residents about their issues.

Although the afternoon was very windy, the rain kept away long enought not to spoil things. Amongst the highlights, were the Bouncy Castle, Morris Dancers (and their Cow) football, steam train, there was also a beer tent and indian food on offer.

Scouts May Fayre in the Village

2009-05-15T13:50:00.002Z

If you have nothing on this Saturday, then why not come along to Havering-atte-Bower for the 3rd Havering Scout Groups May Fayre, in aid of their minibus fund. The fun starts at 1pm and ends at 4pm.

Please see the flyer below for all the details, Havering park Action member Denis Stevens will be running a stall in aid of the Scouts selling plants, including vegetables, such as runner beans, tomatoes and french beans.

Havering in Bloom

2009-05-14T13:33:00.001Z

Residents in Havering are being urged to enter this year’s Havering In Bloom competition. As one of the greenest boroughs in London, the Havering in Bloom competition is always hotly contested.

There are 11 categories in the competition which means it is well and truly open to all residents, from gardeners with beautiful window boxes and container boxes to the best community garden and the most beautiful front garden.

The pub and restaurant which produce the best displays for the passing public will be honoured and there is an award for the best business premises, which could cover anything from an office building to a garage forecourt. The awards also include best school hanging basket and best school grounds.

The basket winner will be involved in creating and planting baskets next Spring which will be displayed in South street, Romford. The school grounds award will be given, not just for areas that are attractive and well-maintained, but also on the educational use of the grounds for the pupils.

The awards are not just restricted to beautiful displays of flowers and pretty plants – but also to vegetables with prizes going to best allotment site and allotment plot. On the environment front, there is the bio-diversity award which will be awarded to an area which supports the wildlife population and creates habitats which attract new species through the use of plantings, nesting sites, refuges and natural food sources.

Nomination forms can be picked up at local libraries and Council buildings. All entries must be received by 3 July. The awards will be presented to winners at a special presentation ceremony in October.

Cllr Mann said "This competition has been an excellent show case of our residents talents, many of whom take great pride in their gardens, I have been honoured to present awards in the past for this event whilst i was the cabinet member for StreetCare, i only wish the rules allowed me to take part myself".

To coincide with Havering In Bloom, the Council has packets of sunflower seeds to give away to children who want to enter a competition to grow the tallest sunflower in the borough. The Council has seen some fantastic results over recent years and this year is expected to produce the same level of enthusiasm by all who take part.

Sunflowers can be planted between May and early June. To get a packet of seeds contact maria.smart@havering.gov.uk