Residents have been left sleeping on their sofas after plans for much-needed affordable housing was delayed, a London council says. Delays to a 20-storey housing block in Fulham means vulnerable people have been denied a “chance of a better life”, according to councillors.
London Mayor urged to reform Pride over racism and bullying claims
Leading members of the LGBTQ+ community have called on Sadiq Khan to reform Pride in London ahead of its 50th anniversary next year over accusations of racism, bullying and exploitation. The annual event, which is overseen by a board of voluntary directors, is funded by the Mayor of London and has a contract with his office.
There are more statues of animals than ones dedicated to women in London, study finds
A “landmark” new study has found that there are more statues of animals in London than there are of named women. The research found that, out of around 1,500 monuments in the capital, only four per cent were dedicated to named women. Out of the almost 50 sculptures of women, just three were dedicated to women of colour.
Kensington flat on the market for £800-a-month doesn’t even have an oven
A flat in a wealthy London town is on the market for more than £800 a month – but it does not have an oven. Instead, the lucky tenant has the opportunity to microwave their food from the comfort of the bed.
Council to consider building new £100 million high-rise mega casino
A new £100m London mega casino could be built next to Leicester Square. Westminster City Council is considering building a high-rise casino block on one corner of the famed square.
St Christopher’s to take part in Day of the Dead celebrations
This November, St Christopher’s Hospice will host free two-day drop-in celebration focused around ‘Día de los Muertos’ – or the ‘Day of the Dead’, as it is known to English speakers – in its recently opened Centre for Awareness and Response at End of Life in the heart of Sydenham.
Councillor training courses held to attract aspiring politicians in Croydon
A new councillor training course has attracted aspiring politicians in Croydon. The Taking the Initiative Party (TTIP) hosted a councillor training course at The Business Xchange Hub, Croydon, to inspire people from non-political backgrounds to learn more about town halls.
Camberwell residents outraged at petrol price rises
Residents have told of their outrage over rising petrol prices amid a risk of more fuel problems over the months ahead – as prices head towards £1.50 a litre. South London petrol stations have experienced supply shortages since September amid a lack of truck drivers and panic buying.
Young people in Lewisham elect a new Young Mayor
Young people in Lewisham have elected a new Young Mayor – with the top five candidates who received the most votes being all female. Rosanna Campbell, 15, was elected Young Mayor of Lewisham following an election that attracted a strong turnout of 51 per cent of Lewisham’s young people.
Bexley police get extra powers to fine drinkers and nitrous oxide users on the spot
Bexley council have imposed a borough-wide Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) to tackle antisocial behaviour such as the use of nitrous oxide canisters and street drinking.
Dons boss Robinson: We looked inexperienced in the second half
Paul Kalambayi’s own goal and a strike from James McClean – both inside the first 10 minutes of the second half – gave the Latics all three points.
Stoke boss claims they deserved three penalties in defeat at Millwall
Michael O’Neill reckoned Stoke City should’ve been awarded a “clear” penalty in the first-half – and added that they had a case for two more spot-kick shouts.
Change of tactics and surprise use of Billy Mitchell pay off for Millwall manager Rowett – five takeaways from Millwall’s 2-1 win over Stoke
Rowett’s change of formation and playing Billy Mitchell in the engine room paid off for the Millwall manager
Four takeaways from Charlton’s 1-0 win at Sunderland: Johnnie Jackson passes his first test with flying colours
Johnnie Jackson’s stint as caretaker manager was off to the perfect start at the Addicks upset the odds and ended Sunderland’s 100 percent home record.
Joel Ward: Crystal Palace need to discover their nasty side
Despite having 14 shots at goal and over 75 per cent of the possession, Palace couldn’t find a way of securing their second win under Patrick Vieira.
Palace boss Vieira: We need to be more clinical
Patrick Vieira has called for his Crystal Palace side to be more clinical after they suffered their fourth straight draw in the Premier League.
Millwall boss Rowett happy with his side’s reaction but wants them to hit the front first
The Lions came from behind to beat Stoke on Saturday, but the Lions chief wants his side not to have to do it from behind.
Millwall boss Rowett: Bradshaw’s goals were reward for his commitment and energy
Gary Rowett heaped praise on Tom Bradshaw after the striker netted twice during Millwall’s win over Stoke at The Den on Saturday.
Four takeaways from Crystal Palace’s 1-1 draw with Newcastle United – Attacking subs couldn’t find a winner as Patrick Vieira’s side draw their fourth game in a row
Despite taking the lead through Christian Benteke, Crystal Palace were forced to settle for a point against Newcastle United
Charlton defender Sam Lavelle set to be assessed after picking up injury during win at Sunderland
Sam Lavelle is set to be assessed for a groin issue after being withdrawn during Charlton’s 1-0 win at Sunderland.
Johnnie Jackson praises George Dobson for “outstanding” display during Charlton’s win at former club Sunderland
Johnnie Jackson heaped praise on midfielder George Dobson after he impressed during the 1-0 win at former side Sunderland.
Caretaker boss Johnnie Jackson hails Charlton’s 1-0 win at Sunderland as one of the proudest days of his career
Caretaker boss Johnnie Jackson hailed his side’s 1-0 win at Sunderland as one of the proudest days of his career.
Blues in seventh heaven as Mount hits hat-trick as Chelsea thrash Norwich 7-0 at the Bridge
Mason Mount smashed his first goals of the season – a hat-trick as Chelsea blasted bottom of the league Norwich City into near oblivion, winning 7-0 at Stamford Bridge.
Patrick Vieira: New academy is a ‘must-have’ for Crystal Palace
Patrick Vieira has described Crystal Palace’s new academy training complex as a “must-have” in the Premier League.
Michael Olise needs to keep developing to nail down starting spot at Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace manager Patrick Vieira has praised Michael Olise’s impact – but added that the 19-year-old knows he needs to keep developing for a place in the starting 11.
Crystal Palace boss won’t be pinned down on return date for Eberechi Eze
Crystal Palace manager Patrick Vieira does not want to give a date for the possible return of midfielder Eberechi Eze.
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Hither Green resident celebrates the release of new children’s book The Secret Detectives
The Secret Detectives by Ella Risbridger is inspired by classic murder mysteries and is a prequel to the children’s classic The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett. Set on a ship, it features somebody being thrown overboard in the middle of the night. But the captain insists that nobody is missing.
Raw sewage pours through the street next to primary school
Raw sewage has been pouring through the streets next to a Purley primary school for at least two days. Parents first noticed the human waste flooding the street on Monday morning (October 18). “This is a health hazard, it is disgusting, especially next to a primary school.”
Westminster nursery closed after Ofsted found it was not following safeguarding procedures
A Central London nursery has been forced to close after it left disabled children staring at cartoons on iPads rather than teaching them. Rainbow nursery in Westminster was shut after Ofsted inspectors found children had been put at risk by being placed in the care of strangers.
Father and daughter are fined for running illegal school in Streatham – again
A father and daughter have been sentenced for running an illegal school for the second time. Headteacher Nadia Ali, 40, and director Arshad Ali, 75, admitted running Ambassadors Home School Limited in Mitcham Lane, Streatham – illegally despite being prosecuted for the same offence two years ago.
Spotlight On Music: rapper Uriel Darius speaks on rehabilitation through music
A rapper who grew up in and around South-east London has released his first five track EP, with the help of a charity that champions rehabilitation through music. Mr Darius bares his soul through powerful rhyme schemes, flows and melodies paired perfectly to made-to-measure custom beats.
The Breakup Monologues questions ghosting, bread-crumbing and conscious uncoupling
A Bromley-based comedian has published a book all about break-ups, inspired by her own experience. The book takes a close look at Ms Wilby’s own relationships, why friendship break-ups can feel like the worst endings of all, and conversations about commitment.
Wandsworth Arts Fringe are looking for artists for 2022
An arts festival in Wandsworth is looking for artists, venues, community groups and schools to get involved in their 2022 events. Wandsworth Arts Fringe is back from June 10 to 26, 2022, and is awarding grants of up to £2,000 per project. The festival prides itself on being a testing ground for bold, experimental work that is local and international.
Writer and broadcaster Michael Rosen to speak at St Christopher’s Hospice’s one day conference
A famous writer and broadcaster is set to speak at a conference exploring how to face death creatively. Michael Rosen, who has written more than 140 books for children and adults, will be the keynote speaker at St Christopher’s Hospice’s one day conference.
Salt Bae restaurant ‘obscene’ as diners pay £30k for meals next to poorest Londoners
A posh London restaurant has been dubbed “obscene” for charging £30,000 for meals while many people living nearby cannot afford to eat. The Knightsbridge steak restaurant is serving gold leaf-covered steak for hundreds of pounds as local families rely on food banks.
The Breakfast Club for any time of the day
It is said to be the most important meal of the day and it’s certainly my favourite. However, when the first The Breakfast Club opened in South London, I was somewhat sceptical that they would be open for long – limited to serving just breakfast all day long.
Taste the healthier side of snack time with Snackzilla
It’s the word often heard in houses across the country, uttered several times a day and the dread of every parent. “Snack!”
The Cat’s Back really is the cat’s whiskers
I’ve been to a Fat Cat before, but not any other pub named for our feline friends, although there are plenty of them (in the country there’s an Old Cat, Black Cat, Cheshire Cat, even a Rampant Cat).
In My View: Dr Rosena Allin-Khan, MP for Tooting
We all know the awful toll of statistics: 137,000 dead, 550,000 hospitalised, over two million estimated to be suffering from long Covid. But less is known about a serious side-effect of the crisis – its impact on people’s mental health. Inevitably, things have been made worse because of a decade of neglect from the Government.
In My View: Florence Eshalomi, MP for Vauxhall
Last week, Sarah Everard’s killer was given a full life sentence. During the trial, we heard the harrowing impact statements from Sarah’s family; outlining the horrific effect that losing a daughter and a sister has had on their lives.
In My View: Neil Coyle, MP for Bermondsey and Old Southwark
Ministers keep mouthing they want to ‘level up’ but only seem to deliver empty rhetoric. The Government cannot level up when people are parked up waiting to fill up, if they can find a petrol station with fuel.
In My Opinion: Ellie Reeves MP for Lewisham West & Penge
The scenes over recent weeks in Afghanistan have been deeply upsetting as the country has faced the tragic rollback of progress that so many have worked so hard for – not least of all the gains in education and rights for women.
James Haddrell speaks on adapting productions and creating a narrative
When writers, producers and venues look for inspiration for their next new production, it’s common to consider stage versions of existing stories. Adaptations give a framework for a writer, a narrative to recreate, and we’ve long had to accept that a recognisable title is often easier to sell to an audience than a piece of new writing.
New production of Hamlet now playing at the Young Vic
Thanks to the pandemic we’ve had to wait the best part of two years to finally see a black, female Hamlet, but I can report it was well worth the wait. Cush Jumbo is simply outstanding. Greg Hersov’s new production of Hamlet at the Young Vic is a “palpable hit”. You must go, writes Christopher Walker.
The Girl Who Was Very Good At Lying playing at Omnibus Theatre, Clapham
The Girl Who Was Very Good At Lying tells the story of Catriona, a Northern Irish girl from a small town who lives in a dream world and is very, very good at lying. When she meets an attractive American tourist, she decides to show him around her small town.
Theatre503’s Foxes demonstrates why it is so important for London to have top class “sandboxes”
Foxes is witty, gripping and well written. It’s incredible to think that this thought-provoking piece is the author’s debut.
Listings: What’s on this week
Entertainment Listings… What’s On Art, celebrity, music, entertainment, and all things leisure. Grayson Perry: A Show for Normal People; The Walk; 4 Brown Girls Who Write; National Poetry Library Open Day 2021; Creating the Sea: October Half Term at Queen’s House; Telling Tales.
The London Chamber Orchestra celebrate its 100th year with a concert at Cadogan Hall
The London Chamber Orchestra, pictured above, is celebrating its 100th year with a concert at Cadogan Hall. The concert, on October 26, will open the orchestra’s 2021-2022 season, conducted by music director Christopher Warren-Green.
Dulwich Gallery showcases photography and portraits from around the world by Adrian Whittle
More Travels With My Camera at the Jeannie Avent Gallery in East Dulwich is showing a series of street photography and portraits from around the world taken by Adrian Whittle. Mr Whittle’s pictures capture culture as well as history. More Travels With My Camera runs until November 2.
Breaking the Mould exhibition celebrates up and coming Congolese artists
An exhibition celebrating the work of 12 emerging artists from Democratic Republic of Congo has opened in Herne Hill. For Breaking the Mould: New Signatures from Democratic Republic of Congo, curator Christine Eyene has selected 15 artworks including painting, photography, mixed-media and installation pieces that reflect the new ideas emerging from the heart of Africa
Vaccinologist meets baby penguin named in her honour
What’s black and white and red all over? A blushing penguin chick meeting their namesake. Professor Dame Sarah Gilbert swapped her white coat for a pair of wellies to meet the five month old Gentoo penguin named in her honour – and break the ice.
Project launched to help young people improve police relations and get into boxing
A boxing project to help young people build better relationships with police, get into sport and improve mental wellbeing has launched in Deptford. Year 9 students from Deptford Green School on Edward Street are being given six weeks of boxing training from Met police officers.
Youth scheme wins prestigious homelessness award for teaching young people about money
A youth homelessness prevention scheme has won a prestigious award for teaching young people how to handle their money. The Money House, a Woolwich-based project run by the charity MyBnk, scooped first prize at the London Homelessness Awards 2021.
Tooting dad cycling 700km to raise £65,000 for care of tots at St George’s Hospital
A dad, whose seven-month-old son Leo sadly died this year, has raised a whopping £65000 for the neonatal unit at St George’s hospital. James Kennedy, from Tooting, and his team of Lions, will be setting off on an epic charity cycle ride on Monday (18 October), in memory of little Leo Kennedy.
Hitting right reggae notes
It’s now a bakery in a Tooting shopping street, surrounded by coffee outlets and gift shops. But building in Mitcham Road was once the recording studio of a litany of some of Britain’s biggest pop bands – and international reggae stars. Historian GEOFF SIMMONS tells the story of how it was created and some of the legends that surround it.
This week 10, 20, 30 years ago
10 years ago
A decade after unwittingly saving an acclaimed artist’s drawings and letters from a skip, a charity founder used his honeymoon to donate them to a Scottish museum.
Tribute to legendary Tooting recording studio with star guests remembering its vital role
Mixed Blessing West Indian Bakery will today host a celebration of the recording studio there, which once hosted legends of reggae.
This week 10, 20, 30 years ago
10 years ago
Comedian Arthur Smith was to join a sponsored walk celebrating World Mental Health Day. The Balham-based broadcaster was due to take part in CoolTan Arts’ BIG Largactyl Shuffle from the Maudsley Hospital in Denmark Hill to the Tate Modern at Bankside tomorrow.
Telltale signs your pet has arthritis
Last week marked National Arthritis Week, and while many of us are aware of the condition in humans, it can also affect our furry companions. If you suspect your pet has arthritis, visiting your vet should be the first port of call, there are also things you can do at home to help
Taking the bang out of Bonfire night
Firework season can be deeply worrying for many of our pets, but unfortunately, there are things we can do now to prepare them – helping to minimise the impact of this noisy affair. Due to their enhanced senses, animals can find the loud bangs, vibrations and flashes from fireworks distressing, often leading to stress-related behaviours.
How to get to the heart of a problem
The heart is one of the most vital organs in the body so making sure your pet’s heart stays strong is essential for a long, healthy life. Knowing how to keep your pet’s heart healthy, and what signs to look out for if there’s a problem is crucial for keeping your pets’ ticker as healthy as it can be.
Top tips for looking after your rabbits
Though rabbits are a popular choice for many aspiring pet owners, there is a lot to consider before bringing them into your life. For a start, one bunny is not enough, it’s essential they live with at least one other rabbit, so you need to be prepared for double the fun!
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Millwall
Stoke boss claims they deserved three penalties in defeat at Millwall
Michael O’Neill reckoned Stoke City should’ve been awarded a “clear” penalty in the first-half – and added that they had a case for two more spot-kick shouts.
Change of tactics and surprise use of Billy Mitchell pay off for Millwall manager Rowett – five takeaways from Millwall’s 2-1 win over Stoke
Rowett’s change of formation and playing Billy Mitchell in the engine room paid off for the Millwall manager
Millwall boss Rowett happy with his side’s reaction but wants them to hit the front first
The Lions came from behind to beat Stoke on Saturday, but the Lions chief wants his side not to have to do it from behind.
Millwall boss Rowett: Bradshaw’s goals were reward for his commitment and energy
Gary Rowett heaped praise on Tom Bradshaw after the striker netted twice during Millwall’s win over Stoke at The Den on Saturday.
Charlton Athletic
Four takeaways from Charlton’s 1-0 win at Sunderland: Johnnie Jackson passes his first test with flying colours
Johnnie Jackson’s stint as caretaker manager was off to the perfect start at the Addicks upset the odds and ended Sunderland’s 100 percent home record.
Charlton defender Sam Lavelle set to be assessed after picking up injury during win at Sunderland
Sam Lavelle is set to be assessed for a groin issue after being withdrawn during Charlton’s 1-0 win at Sunderland.
Johnnie Jackson praises George Dobson for “outstanding” display during Charlton’s win at former club Sunderland
Johnnie Jackson heaped praise on midfielder George Dobson after he impressed during the 1-0 win at former side Sunderland.
Caretaker boss Johnnie Jackson hails Charlton’s 1-0 win at Sunderland as one of the proudest days of his career
Caretaker boss Johnnie Jackson hailed his side’s 1-0 win at Sunderland as one of the proudest days of his career.
Crystal Palace
Joel Ward: Crystal Palace need to discover their nasty side
Despite having 14 shots at goal and over 75 per cent of the possession, Palace couldn’t find a way of securing their second win under Patrick Vieira.
Palace boss Vieira: We need to be more clinical
Patrick Vieira has called for his Crystal Palace side to be more clinical after they suffered their fourth straight draw in the Premier League.
Four takeaways from Crystal Palace’s 1-1 draw with Newcastle United – Attacking subs couldn’t find a winner as Patrick Vieira’s side draw their fourth game in a row
Despite taking the lead through Christian Benteke, Crystal Palace were forced to settle for a point against Newcastle United
Patrick Vieira: New academy is a ‘must-have’ for Crystal Palace
Patrick Vieira has described Crystal Palace’s new academy training complex as a “must-have” in the Premier League.
AFC Wimbledon
Dons boss Robinson: We looked inexperienced in the second half
Paul Kalambayi’s own goal and a strike from James McClean – both inside the first 10 minutes of the second half – gave the Latics all three points.
AFC Wimbledon head coach Mark Robinson not set to make early calls on transfer window reinforcements
AFC Wimbledon head coach Mark Robinson has said that he won’t be assessing the option of picking up a loan signing in January until the transfer window rolls around.
AFC Wimbledon endure few scares as they take maximum points away from Lincoln
AFC Wimbledon returned to action after a fortnight’s break with a resolute performance to grab all three points as Aaron Pressley’s penalty was enough to seal victory at Lincoln’s LNER Stadium.
Wales urged to call up AFC Wimbledon midfielder
AFC Wimbledon head coach Mark Robinson has called for Alex Woodyard to be rewarded for his consistent performances with a place in the Wales national set-up.
Dulwich Hamlet
Non-league round-up: Fisher out of London Senior Trophy as Tooting lose again
Fisher bowed out of the London FA Senior Trophy after a 2-0 home loss to Brentford B on Tuesday.
‘We will miss you desperately’ – Dulwich Hamlet celebrate the life of Duncan Chapman
Dulwich Hamlet held a minute’s applause before their National League South fixture against Billericay Town on Saturday to commemorate the passing of club legend Duncan Chapman.
Dulwich Hamlet pay their respects to Duncan Chapman but can’t produce result against bottom-of-the-table Billericay
Dulwich Hamlet suffered their first National League South defeat since August yesterday, a shock 2-1 reverse at the hands of rock bottom Billericay Town.
Dulwich Hamlet boss Rose staying grounded despite impressive start in National League South
Gavin Rose is refusing to get carried away by Dulwich Hamlet’s impressive start to the National League South season.
Chelsea
Blues in seventh heaven as Mount hits hat-trick as Chelsea thrash Norwich 7-0 at the Bridge
Mason Mount smashed his first goals of the season – a hat-trick as Chelsea blasted bottom of the league Norwich City into near oblivion, winning 7-0 at Stamford Bridge.
Double striker setback for Chelsea as duo will miss “some matches”
Chelsea head into tomorrow’s top-versus-bottom Premier League clash against Norwich without their two top strikers.
Christensen’s first goal for Chelsea after 137 games sees west Londoners run riot in 4-0 win at the Bridge against Swedish outfit Malmö
Andreas Christensen set Chelsea on their way to a very comfortable 4-0 victory over Malmö in the Champions League Group H match at Stamford Bridge tonight.
Mendy’s one man show thwarts Brentford as the Blues go back to the top of the league with 1-0 away win
If Brentford had a kitchen sink, they would have put a shirt on it and thrown it at Chelsea. But in all likelihood, Edouard Mendy would have caught it, re-plumbed it, turned the tap on and made a cup of tea.
Fulham
Fulham boss delighted at Tom Cairney’s instant impact
Tom Cairney took just 12 minutes to make a scoring impact for Fulham in midweek, ending a 10-month injury absence.
Fulham boss Silva delighted with response in 4-1 win over QPR
Marco Silva praised Fulham’s response as they bounced back from a chastening Championship defeat last time out to thrash rivals Queens Park Rangers to keep up their promotion hopes.
‘Not the end of the world’ – puzzling claim from Fulham boss after being hammered 4-1 by Coventry
Marco Silva apologised to the Fulham supporters after they were thrashed 4-1 at Coventry City. But the Whites head coach also added it was “not the end of the world” despite them slipping to fifth in the Championship standings.
Fulham boss happy with lethal counters as Mitrovic helps himself to hat-trick
Marco Silva was delighted with Fulham’s rapid counter-attacks in their 3-1 win against Swansea City at Craven Cottage on Wednesday evening.
QPR
Electric Chair delights QPR boss Warburton
QPR manager Mark Warburton hailed Ilias Chair after he broke Blackburn’s Rovers resilience in their 1-0 win at The Kiyan Prince Foundation Stadium on Tuesday evening.
QPR boss Warburton: There was a softness about us in Fulham defeat
Mark Warburton rued what he described as a “softness” about Queens Park Rangers’ first-half performance as they were thumped 4-1 by Fulham in a west London derby.
‘We have to be better in key moments’ – QPR boss not totally satisfied despite win over Preston
Mark Warburton says QPR need to stop conceding sloppy goals after they beat Preston 3-2 on Saturday.
QPR ‘delighted’ as new training ground plans get planning permission
The London Borough of Hounslow has approved planning permission for QPR’s new training ground in Heston.
Boxing
Lewisham’s Dan Azeez confident of claiming British title – and perhaps finally landing promotional package
Dan Azeez is confident he can make it a clean sweep of the domestic light-heavyweight titles when he challenges for the vacant British belt next month.
Otto Wallin: Dillian Whyte has never faced a southpaw as good as me
Otto Wallin has questioned the ingenuity of Dillian Whyte’s fighting style in the build up to their heavyweight bout at the O2 Arena later this month.
Plenty of exciting fights available to dethroned British champion Ted Cheeseman
Ted Cheeseman has been told there are plenty of big fights up for grabs despite losing his British super-welterweight title on Saturday night.
Eddie Hearn: Dillian Whyte is the biggest fight out there right now for Tyson Fury
Dillian Whyte is set to face WBC world champion Tyson Fury in the opening months of 2022 – and the Brixton heavyweight’s promoter has described it as a “huge” clash.
More Sport
Non-league round-up: Fisher out of London Senior Trophy as Tooting lose again
Fisher bowed out of the London FA Senior Trophy after a 2-0 home loss to Brentford B on Tuesday.
Ice hockey: Streatham lead is cut as Martelly impresses for Milton Keynes Lightning
Streatham had their lead at the top of NIHL 1 South cut to four points as their weekend off allowed Invicta Dynamos to close the gap to four points.
Rugby union: Club win local tussle with Tonbridge Juddians
Blackheath recorded their second victory of the season in National League 1 with a 23-21 win at Tonbridge Juddians on Saturday.
Hercules Wimbledon AC round-up: Men win A and B events in opening Surrey Cross Country League fixture
Hercules Wimbledon Athletic Club made a superb start to this winter’s Surrey Cross Country League programme when their men took both the A and B team contests in the opening match in Richmond Park on Saturday.
