LETTER FROM THE CHAIR After all that unexpected late winter weather, it's lovely to see the beautiful Spring blossom bursting forth in Teddington. Alas, so does the work load! We have had our AGM, generously hosted by Lesley Bossine (below) and the Landmark Arts Centre, and which is fully reported in the following pages. The Teddington 800 history banners were there too, but by now should be on display at the Twickenham Museum – which is, of course, our Museum too. If you haven't been, do go down to 25 The Embankment in Twickenham, where the old Ferry used to be. It's open on Tuesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. You can ring 020 8408 0070 for details and times. We have some great events coming up: on Monday May 21st, just prior to the anniversary of the Dunkirk Evacuation, John Tough will talk at The Lensbury about the family Boatyard and Mike Pemberton will sing his Little Ships tribute song – more inside; Teddington in Flower is on Sunday June 10th (details of participating gardens are enclosed, but what we need now are garden sitters); then we have the Village Fair and Pram Race on Sunday 24th June, and again there’s more inside. Do join us because there's something for all the family. As always, there’s lots to see and do with the Teddington Society! Richmond Council have suggested setting up a Community Hub in Teddington, which would amalgamate three charities, thus rationalising three Council-owned sites: 3 Waldegrave Road (next to the Library), North Lane car park, and Elleray Hall. We have given our full support to TOPWA (Teddington Old People's Welfare Association ) at Elleray Hall and we have joined the Hall’s Working Party. After the local election things will move forward, and we'll report back. We have given permission for the Richmond Talking Newspaper to have free use of any of our back issue Tidings articles which are not in copyright. A good cause, I think you'll agree. We welcome Liz Waters to our publications team. We're delighted to have her skills and she'll be working on Tidings from the next issue. Enormous thanks go to Peter Denton for his editorial expertise, and to Donald Bell, who's providing technical help and knowhow. Whatever your skills, please do come along and volunteer: help is always wanted, especially at the Village Fair which is a big undertaking benefiting the whole town.

SHEENA

The Teddington Society 1 Avenue Road, Teddington TW11 0BT Reg. Charity No. 802026 www.teddingtonsociety.org.uk @TeddingtonSoc President: Baroness Hilton of Eggardon Vice-Presidents Roger Avins, Paddy Ching , John Demont Chairman Sheena Harold t: 020 8977 2700 sam.harold@hotmail.com Vice-Chairman & Twitter account Peter Denton pd.tedsoc@fastmail.com Secretary and Minutes Nick Picton tedsocsecnic@gmail.com Treasurer Sally Howland t: 020 8977 9404 sally.howland@btinternet.com Press, Publicity and Promotions Sheena Harold Membership Secretary Jenny Michell t: 020 8977 0772 members@teddingtonsociety.org.uk

Planning Group Veronica Laughrin vronl@hotmail.co.uk Environment Group Geoff Howland t: 020 8977 9404 geoff.howland@btinternet.com History Group Dick Hughes t: 020 8977 0653 gillyhughes580@btinternet.com Riverside and Open Spaces Group Andy Weston andyandjaneweston@yahoo.com Roads and Transport Group Brian Holder t: 020 8977 1579 brianholder99@aol.com Trees and Gardens Group Sheena Harold Flood Working Group Brian Holder Members’ Outings Pamela McHutchon

CORPORATE MEMBERS 1 of 1 100 High Street AlphaVet Surgery Architecture:wk Art Historical London Beechgrove Press British Maritime Technology Broom Water Association Churcham House LLP Curves Dexters Estate Agents Elements Hair Salon Elleray Hall Social Club Elmfield House Dental Practice Fairwater House Residents Association Harmer Slater (Roger Sutton &Co) Home Instead Senior Care Kagan Moss & Co, Solicitors Kindle Stoves La Casa Del Habano Landmark Arts Centre Langdon Down Centre Milestone Residential National Physical Laboratory Park Lane Stables Park Road Surgery Parsonage & Co, Solicitors Patrick O’Donovan (Maritime & Commercial Arbitrator) Quantum Group Shambles Bar and Restaurant Sims (Opticians) Ltd Snellers Estate Agents Squires Garden Centre St Mary's University Stepping on Out Stevens Tyres Stone Rowe Brewer, Solicitors Stoney Deep Residents Association Tamesis Club Teddington Artists Teddington Bowling Club Teddington Carpet Centre Teddington Choral Society Teddington Cricket Club Teddington Funeral Care Teddington Rugby Club Teddington Theatre Club The Fallow Deer The Financial Planning Group The French Tarte The Friends of Udney Park Playing Fields The Lensbury Club The Park Hotel The Strawberry Hill Trust The Tree Agency Trevor Aston Photography Turing House School TW11 Magazine

MEMBERSHIP MATTERS

With this issue of Tidings you’ll find a formal letter outlining how we are complying with the new General Data Protection Regulation, which comes into force on 25 May. All organisations holding information about you, including the Teddington Society, have to comply. The Regulation gives you the right to know what information we hold about you, whether it is correct, and how it is used. We hold only basic information about our members but even so, we take our responsibilities seriously, particularly regarding:

letting you know what personal information we hold;

communicating our policies to you; informing you of your right to access

and (where necessary) correct data we hold about you and how quickly we will act;

our Privacy Notice detailing the lawful basis on which we process personal data; and

our policy on obtaining consent to process your personal data.

Please read the enclosed letter, which covers these main issues. If you have any queries, please contact Jenny Michell, the Membership Secretary. email and addresses Please let us know if you are not receiving occasional emails from the Teddington Society, as we do not have email addresses for all members. Also please inform us if you change your email address or move house. Gift Aid and donations A big thank you to all our members who have added a donation to their subscription and/or have given us a signed Gift Aid form. In 2017 the amount we gained from Gift Aid was £708 – a substantial amount which very much helps our finances. Subscriptions According to our records, a few members haven’t yet renewed their membership subscription for 2018, so they have been given

a letter instead of this edition of Tidings. Membership cards have been sent only to those who enclosed an SAE with their renewal. If you have a query about your payment, standing order or Gift Aid, please email members@teddingtonsociety.org.uk or ring 020 8977 0772. To renew or join you can

1. Pay online or download a standing order form at www.teddingtonsociety.org.uk

2. Send a cheque payable to The

Teddington Society to 5 Broom Park, Teddington TW11 9RN. Please also include an SAE if you wish to have a membership card.

Membership rates are unchanged: Family/couple £11; Individual £7; Senior (over 60) Individual £4; Couple £5; Corporate £25 PLEASE ADD £3.50 for those who do not live in the TW11 postcode or who live in a block of flats with no separate post-box, so that we can post your magazine. We extend a warm welcome to the following new members: Martin Cook Damian and Alison Eley Maria Evans Mrs C Halford Chris Histed and F Chadwick Chris Horne Gillian Hosler and John Bradshaw Amanda Lathia Bikita and Sean Mahdi James Millard Helen and Michael Whyte Penny and Peter Owens Lisa Stafford and Ian Patten Claire and Jon Wilmot

FROM TWELFTH NIGHT TO THE

MATCHGIRLS, THERE ARE PLAYS FOR ALL

TASTES AT TEDDINGTON’S THEATRE CLUB

Peter Denton goes behind the scenes

It was way back in 1927 that a group of local teachers got together to encourage their pupils to take an interest in the works of Shakespeare. This being not necessarily an easy task, they decided to perform a few scenes from Twelfth Night in order to stimulate the minds of their young charges – and from that small beginning, the Teddington Theatre Club (TTC) was born. Now, 91 years later, it’s as healthy as ever and continues to delight audiences from across the borough and further afield. Over the years, the Club has had a number of homes, but since 1998 it has been permanently based at the Hampton Hill Theatre, which it owns and manages.

“Richmond Council provided the land at a peppercorn rent” recalled Enid Segall, the Club’s press officer, ”but we had to fundraise for the cost of building the shell. Then, thanks to a generous National Lottery grant, as well as donations from many local businesses, individuals and Sir Noël Coward’s estate, we were able to kit the place out and finish the task.”

The Club has never looked back. Today, it’s one of the country’s leading non-professional theatre companies, presenting six main house productions and four studio shows every year. Hayley Mills, Prunella Scales and Timothy West are its Patrons, and Princess Alexandra – who laid the theatre’s foundation stone in 1995 – has visited on a number of occasions. TTC is a registered charity with club status and is run by volunteers. Membership comes in two guises – full (for anyone interested in being involved with any aspect of theatre) and audience, which entitles people to buy discounted tickets. An important part of TTC is Youth Action Theatre (YAT), a dynamic ensemble of 16 to 25 year olds whose productions have ranged from Animal Farm to Titanic: the Musical. Affiliated to TTC, it not only presents entertainment at the theatre but it also takes a production to the Edinburgh Festival every two years. Not least among YAT’s alumni is the actor Martin Freeman, who continues to take an interest in its work.

In addition to its own performances, TTC provides filming facilities and lets out the building to other organisations for both public and private events. Its main auditorium seats 197, and there’s also the Coward Suite – two smaller rooms for conferences, parties and studio performances. The Teddington Theatre Club (which is a Corporate Member of the Teddington Society) is now a well-established and important part of the borough’s cultural life. With an eclectic range of productions already staged this year, rehearsals are now under way for The Collector, a thriller, and The Matchgirls, a musical about Annie Besant and a band of doughty match factory workers in 1888. And, further ahead, there’s the ever-popular Christmas panto to look forward to – so whatever the TTC production, quality and variety are assured. As the old show business slogan has it, “book now to avoid disappointment”! www.teddingtontheatreclub.org.uk

OUR AGM – 19 April 2018 At the Landmark Arts Centre Sheena Harold (Chairman) welcomed everyone to the Annual General Meeting and introduced Lesley Bossine, manager of the Landmark Arts Centre, who gave us some insights into its history and future. The Centre relies on a small team of volunteers to operate and, despite lacking any core funding, benefits from Richmond Council’s decision to waive its business rates and by continuing donations from the Gosling Foundation, particularly in the funding of community arts events. The building was in use as St Alban’s church until 1977. It was commissioned by the Rev Francis Leith Boyd, who was appointed vicar of Teddington in 1884 at the age of 28. He seems to have been a charismatic character, persuading many Teddington ladies to subscribe to the building fund. Designed by local architect William Niven, it was to be a more imposing building even than it is as seen today, with a longer nave, stone vaulted ceilings throughout and a 200-ft bell tower. However, funds ran out before completion

Lesley asked if anyone had a photo of the Rev Francis Leith Boyd, so we are happy to oblige. This is a 1914 bromide print portrait of the man by Ethel Glazebrook, courtesy of the National Portrait Gallery, London

After 1977 St Alban’s lay derelict for some years until a local campaign led by Jean Brown was successful in securing its use as a local community and arts centre. Jean was President of the Landmark Arts Centre until her death in 2011 and very kindly left a generous legacy for its future upkeep. The building presents many challenges today both in terms of structural maintenance and in its acoustic properties. The aim is to make the building suitable for as wide a range of activities as possible and improvements have included the installation of carpeting in the nave and a new heating system. Despite the proximity of world-class venues in London, the Landmark has been able to attract headline acts such as Stacey Kent and Paul Jones, who enjoy the unique qualities of this 320-seat venue and the warm reception they receive from Teddington audiences. As the Landmark’s 20th anniversary approaches, the goal is to improve and evolve the facilities on offer. One stage in this will be the improvements being made to the grounds. Siân Morgan gave an overview of the project. The Landmark has been granted nearly £13,000 to provide a new pedestrian entrance, add more cycle bays and create a managed woodland area with space for outdoor arts activities. Brambles and undergrowth are being removed and replaced with native woodland plants by a group of gardening volunteers who meet

every month. The whole project will incorporate the mature trees on the site, although one of the ten trees subject to TPOs will have to be removed on the advice of tree surgeons. The funding for this was provided by Richmond Council’s Village Planning Fund, which itself is funded by the Community Infrastructure Levy. The second round of this is now under way and The Landmark have applied for £145,000 to replace the flashings on the roof and install new drainage – this should substantially reduce problems of damp in the building. Lesley closed her remarks by thanking the Teddington Society for its support and donations over the years.

Lesley Bossine (left) and Siân Morgan Minutes of the 45th Teddington Society AGM held on 19 April 2018 at The Landmark Arts Centre 1. Chairman’s Report Sheena Harold passed on Sir Vince Cable’s apologies for being unable to attend – an invitation he had originally accepted in his capacity as Visiting Professor at St Mary’s University – and stressed that the Teddington Society remains strictly non-political and non-sectarian and will continue to engage with everyone with an interest in the future of the town. She pointed out that the Officers and Group Leaders were all hard-working volunteers. Highlights of the year have been

The creation of a plaque commemorating the discovery of the only bronze age barrow ever found in London;

The Teddington 800 celebrations and the history banners on display at the meeting;

The talk on the history of Teddington Lock by Ken Howe at the Lensbury;

Teddington in Flower, which raised £1,900 for The Landmark and Strawberry Hill House;

The Village Fair and Pram Race, which continue to raise large sums for local causes;

Saving two mature monkey puzzle trees in Stanley Road by rapidly securing a TPO;

The defeat of the proposed cycle Quietway scheme for the High Street.

2. Apologies for absence Apologies had been received from the Rev Joe Moffatt, Angela Kilenyi and Suzy Webb.

3. Adoption of the minutes of the AGM held on 20 April 2017 Adoption of the minutes was proposed by Elizabeth Foster, seconded by Brian Holder and accepted. 4. Matters arising Geoff Howland reported that 96% of Richmond Borough’s former landfill waste now goes for incineration at the Severnside Energy Recovery Centre near Bristol. This produces 34 megawatts of electricity (enough to power the equivalent of 50,000 homes) as a by-product, as well as virtually eliminating the use of landfill. As a follow-up point, Sheena noted that the Teddington Society fully supports LBRuT’s commitment to reducing the use of plastics, with plastic straws and micro beads being banned at the Village Fair. 5. Treasurer’s Report Sally Howland thanked the independent examiner Peter Shaw and presented the accounts which show a substantial surplus for the year, to be distributed in 2018; we are always open to requests from local organisations for donations. The healthy cash position of £15,993 at the end of the year includes £2,454 designated as floats for the Village Fair. The increase in income is explained by the return of Teddington in Flower after a one-year absence; funds raised by the talk at the Lensbury; and by the flourishing successes of the Village Fair and Pram Race. Sally reiterated that all surpluses are distributed, so charitable donations are also higher. Sheena thanked Sally for her report and hard work during the year. 6. Group Leaders Reports

a. Planning – Keith Atkinson requested volunteers to join the planning group to review the increasing workload of planning applications, particularly for major projects.

b. Roads and Transport – Brian Holder observed that a welcome reduction in the planning group’s workload would be achieved if the Council reduced its output of unnecessary plans for changes.

c. Environment – Geoff Howland requested sightings of the Society’s gazebo, which still remains at large, to be reported to him.

d. Riverside – Andy Weston noted that other than the issues raised in his written report, the river flows peacefully in the main.

e. History – As written report. f. Trees and Gardens – Siân Morgan asked for

volunteers to “gate sit” and collect money for Teddington in Flower on Sunday 10 June.

7. Adoption of Accounts Adoption of the accounts was proposed by Keith Atkinson, seconded by Jenny Michell and accepted. 8. Vote of thanks to the Treasurer and Independent Examiner

9. Motions There were none. 10. Election of Officers John Demont, a Vice-President, took the chair. It was agreed by a show of hands to re-elect the current officers of the Society. Peter Denton had been co-opted onto the committee during the year and was proposed for the position of Vice-Chairman by Sheena Harold, seconded by Paddy Ching. This was agreed by a show of hands. Judy Asher and Donald Bell resigned during the year and warmest thanks were extended to both for all their work. 11. Appointment of Independent Examiner The appointment of Peter Shaw as Independent Examiner was proposed by Josette Nikiforou, seconded by Andy Weston and accepted. 12. Any other business

a. Nick Picton, Secretary, gave a short introduction to the new General Data Protection Regulation which becomes law in May – further details will be included in the Summer issue of Tidings.

b. Diana Gillespie gave details of a new departure for the Society: two opera nights being held at Normansfield Theatre. An evening of Bizet’s Carmen will be held on 15 September 2018 in aid of Dress For Success, and on 1 November 2018 an evening of popular arias will raise funds for the Princess Alice Hospice and the Down’s Syndrome Association.

c. Sheena noted that future issues affecting Teddington include the expansion of St Mary’s University, the planned extension to St Mary with St Alban church and the plans for a Community Hub to include Elleray Hall. Joan Barnett, a Trustee of Elleray Hall, outlined the ongoing negotiations with Richmond Council and the desire of Teddington Old People’s Welfare Association to have a dedicated community centre at Elleray Hall. Sheena affirmed the Teddington Society’s willingness to arrange a public meeting when appropriate.

d. Sheena thanked all the sponsors of the Village Fair:

The Lensbury Teddington Riverside – a new sponsor

this year NPL TW11 Magazine

Sheena again emphasised that the Society was run by hard-working volunteers at the expense of their own time and money. She then closed the meeting by thanking everyone who had attended, with special thanks to Lesley Bossine and Siân Morgan for making us so welcome at the Landmark.

REPORT OF THE TREASURER 2017

SUMMARY OF INCOME AND EXPENDITURE FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2017 (a detailed breakdown is available on the website and from the Secretary)

2017 2016

£ £ £ £ £ £

Bank balance brought forward

12,471

12,323 Income

Membership subscriptions, donations and Gift Aid 6,833

6,288 Sales of stock items 339

409

Teddington in Flower 1,929

0 Teddington Fair and Pram Race 7,874

5,594

Donations received 900

800 Other income 2,767

959

20,642

14,050

Expenditure Members’ magazine 2,822

3,447

Charitable disbursements 10,550

8,092 Other expenditure 3,748

2,363

17,120

13,902

Surplus for year

3,522

148

Balance carried forward

15,993

12,471

S A Howland - Hon. Treasurer

P J Shaw - Independent Examiner

DR WHO’S MASTER GETS A NEW LEASE OF LIFE As Tidings readers will know, the late actor Roger Delgado lived in Park Lane, Teddington. His familiar face is still recognisable for playing The Master in Doctor Who, but this most famous of his roles was also one of his last: he died in a car crash in 1973 aged only 55.

Now, to mark the centenary of the actor’s birth, a new biography has been published. Entitled Roger Delgado: I am usually referred to as The Master, it’s written by Marcus Harmes, who says, “There’s far more to Delgado than Dr Who. He not only worked on other TV dramas such as The Saint, The Avengers and Quatermass II, but he also appeared in numerous films alongside actors of the stature of John Gielgud, Edith Evans, Paul Scofield and John Mills.” The biography, priced £19.99, is under the Fantom Publishing imprint, which produces a range of audio titles, abridged classics and full cast dramas. The book also features previously unseen photographs from the collection of the actor’s widow, Kismet Delgado.

A SUMMER OF FUN FOR TEDDINGTON! Sheena Harold Three of Teddington’s most popular events are all set for the coming month of June. First up is Teddington in Flower on Sunday June 10th, followed by the annual Pram Race and the Village Fair, both on Sunday 24th June. All are in aid of local charities. Teddington In Flower needs gate sitters at most of the 10 participating gardens so please contact Siân Morgan on 07930 331107 or email sianmorgan155@btinternet.com if you can spare an hour or so before visiting the other gardens. Your help would be greatly appreciated.

On June 24th, prams of all descriptions will race through the streets from the Masons Arms at 1pm to Udney Hall Gardens, collecting money as they go. If you'd like to enter a colourfully dressed team, like the one above from last year, email Alan Benns at pram-race@outlook.com for more details of participation or sponsorship. There are prizes for best dressed, fastest and ‘most money raised’ teams, which will be presented at the Fair by the Mayor of Richmond at about 3pm.

At the Fair in Udney Hall Gardens you'll find live music, refreshments, stalls, activities for children, burgers, ice cream, a beer tent and even Teddo the Clown; they’ll all be there to make sure things go with a swing. Most important, there will be FREE entertainment with a

headline show, Juggling Jake's Circus Skills, Teddington Theatre Club, Teddington Dance Studio and walkabout performers, all made possible by our fabulous sponsors – The Lensbury, the NPL and, brand new this year, Teddington Riverside. Thank you all for your generosity.

POLICING MATTERS Following last year’s closure of the front desk at Teddington police station, some members of the Society have asked about the best way of contacting a police officer when necessary.

We asked Sergeant Rich Nelson (above), Ward Sergeant responsible for Teddington, Hampton Wick and Ham & Petersham, who offered this advice:

If you, or anyone, is being attacked, always call 999. Officers, usually the nearest response unit, will be sent to the most urgent response.

If someone's property is found in the street, the Police will accept it only in certain circumstances: if it is traceable (i.e. with a name or address), if it has cash, or if it’s likely to be of significant sentimental value. Otherwise, it is for the finder to dispose of or retain (make their own enquiries).

Every police ward has a weekly public meeting for people to attend. These are advertised on the Metropolitan Police website, and should be elsewhere too (local publications, notice boards, Facebook, Twitter etc).

New technology now means the officers should be on patrol more than before in the local area.

The local police can be contacted via the following websites, where the latest information will also be found:

Teddington: https://tinyurl.com/teddpolice Hampton Wick: https://tinyurl.com/hwpolice

BUSHY PARK’S WATERWAYS In the last edition of Tidings, Dick and Gilly Hughes described how Bushy Park’s water features were created. They now take up the story in 1709, when the first Lord Halifax bought the Keepership of Bushy Park and immediately made plans to rebuild Upper Lodge as his home. Lord Halifax diverted part of the Longford canal to service the water gardens he planned to have in front of his new house (below).

These comprised an upper pool (which acted as a reservoir for the whole system) overflowing into a lower pool which led, in turn, to a third pool directly in front of the house itself. This overflow fed a fourth pool, no longer existing, and thence into the Long Water which includes a fifth pool. The water flow then drained out of the Park through the Teddington Common pasture into the Thames. Some of this flow was subsequently diverted by the Rev Stephen Hales (1677-1761) to improve water levels in Teddington village pond and so facilitate the periodic flushing of the ditch on the north side of the High Street into the Thames. As part of his re-build, Halifax included the construction of the Brew House with a small pond to service it. During this period, Sir Christopher Wren was planning the re-building of Hampton Court and wished to design an impressive approach to his new palace. To this end he laid out a broad avenue through Bushy Park running north to Teddington – but at some point the Longford canal had to cross his avenue, so he planned a pond 400 ft (121m) in diameter to mark the intersection. This became Diana's fountain pond, to this day one of Bushy Park’s most striking features. Barton's Cottage was originally part of a farm complex which flourished for many years. It had its own duck pond which drained, according to the Roque map of the area, into the Longford below the Waterhouse pond. About 100 years ago the farm buildings were demolished and the farm house gentrified into a Grace and Favour residence. The pond remains outside the front gate, but the water outlet drains northwards.

Bushy Park’s remaining ponds have all appeared within the last 100 years. First, the boating pond was constructed after World War 1 to give employment in the immediate post-war period. After World War 2 Joseph Fisher, the then Park Superintendent, constructed Triss' pond (named after his daughter) and Fisher's pond. This leaves our last two ponds. First, the Hampton Hill pond (below) which is fed by a spring, but prone to dry out in hot, dry spells. Its origin is uncertain; some claim gravel extraction to be the cause and others a bomb crater in 1944.

Finally, we come to River Lodge pond, a small pond close to River Lodge itself. This was said to have been created since World War 2. It stands alone and is picturesque. We therefore have some 15 ponds in Bushy Park of differing sizes and attraction, and many with a tale to tell. Most are served to some degree by the Longford canal which then passes under Hampton Court Road (the A308) to serve the water features at the rear of Hampton Court palace itself. Was it all worth the effort? Well, we certainly think so – we can’t imagine Bushy Park without its waterworks!

BUSHY PARK ON THE GNAT MAP! A recently discovered species of gnat has been found in, and named after, Bushy Park. Specimens of Grzegorzekia bushyae, or the Bushy Gnat, were discovered in the Waterhouse Woodland Gardens. They have been identified as a new species in the UK, which is believed to be scarce across Europe.

Entomologist Peter Chandler said that this gnat was found only in woodland areas, and that studies were continuing into whether a specific fungus was helping to support it.

SAVED FOR NOW – BUT WE’RE WATCHING LIKE HAWKS

Saved! Thanks to swift action by the Teddington Society and Richmond Council, a fine pair of monkey puzzle trees in Stanley Road have been given Tree Preservation Orders and saved from the imminent threat of felling.

Back in February, we were alerted by a local resident to the immediate threat of these trees being felled, apparently for car parking spaces in Fulwell Court, a private block of flats. After a flurry of emails and phone calls between the Society and the Council, within six hours a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) was slapped on these lovely and unusual trees.

“Forty years ago”, one of our executive committee members remarked, “I walked my kids past these trees every morning on our way to school. Of course they must be saved.” The TPO declares that no person shall “cut down, top, lop, uproot, wilfully damage or wilfully destroy; or cause or permit the cutting down, topping, lopping, uprooting, wilful damage or wilful destruction of any tree specified” in the Order. So the trees are safe… for now. But, warns Craig Ruddick, Arboriculture Manager at Richmond Council, the Order is in place only until 6th August, or until the Order is confirmed by the Council, whichever is the sooner. The Teddington Society has written to the Council in support of making the TPO permanent. Society chairman Sheena Harold said, “We’re watching like hawks – and we have warned all local tree surgeons not to touch these well-established specimens of Araucaria araucana”. Local democracy in action – with skates on!

SINGING THE PRAISES OF THE LITTLE SHIPS Join us in the Beaumont Room of The Lensbury in Broom Road at 7.30pm on Monday 21st May, when John Tough, seventh generation of the Teddington family of boatbuilders, will give a talk entitled Tough's Boatyard and the Little Ships.

In addition, Mike Pemberton – Society member, local singer and songwriter – will perform a ballad he's written about the heroic Little Ships, accompanied by an archive film showing the epic WW2 evacuation in which Teddington played a vital part in rescuing allied troops trapped by the advancing German Army.

John’s grandfather, Douglas, was responsible for gathering together more than 100 small craft to take part in the evacuation of British, French and Belgian troops trapped on the beaches of Dunkirk in 1940. Later called 'The Miracle of Dunkirk', over 300,000 troops were ferried out by little ships to the larger Navy vessels and brought home to safety. John will describe the history of his unique family and their extraordinary contribution to life in Teddington. The evening is open to all. Tickets cost £5 and include a complimentary glass of wine. Apply to the Treasurer – e: sally.howland@btinternet.com or telephone 020 8977 9404. The evening wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of our Corporate Member The Lensbury, to whom we are very grateful.

THEATRE LIGHTING APPEAL

The Normansfield Theatre, based at the Langdon Down Centre in Kingston Road, has launched a fundraising appeal to raise £19,000 towards the cost of upgrading its stage and front of stage lighting. The Teddington Society is pleased to have contributed £500 to the appeal. The Grade II* listed theatre is one of the finest Victorian theatres in the country and is still fully operational.

“We’ve raised just over £4,000 so far, so the first phase of the lighting – purchasing the three front of stage fittings – is under way” said Lesley Alabaf, manager of the Langdon Down Centre. “We’re now hoping to raise an extra £1,350 so that we can install and programme them this summer.” The second phase of the lighting appeal will then begin – for the all-important footlights. “We’ve put in a bid to the Richmond Village Planning Fund for £15,000 and we’ll know the outcome very shortly” Lesley added. The whole project will make a big difference to the theatre: not only will the quality and efficiency of the lighting be better, but it will also be more environmentally friendly and cost effective. Anyone wishing to donate to the appeal should call 0333 1212 300 (Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm) for details.

OPERA FOR ALL! In a “first” for the Teddington Society, on 1st November we are presenting “An Evening of Opera Classics” at the Normansfield Theatre in support of the Princess Alice Hospice and Down’s Syndrome Association.

The French opera conductor Sonia Ben-Santamaria will be Musical Director and the performers will include the tenor Alexander Jeffries and other young opera singers, one of whom comes from Teddington.

Earlier, on 15th September, also at the Normansfield, there will be a performance of Bizet’s Carmen with the Glass Ceiling Opera and Orchestra on 15th September. The Musical Director will be again be Sonia Ben-Santamaria. All proceeds from the show will go to Dress for Success, a charity which provides a network of support, professional attire and the development tools to help women thrive at work and in life. The role of Carmen will be sung by the mezzo-soprano Josephine Thorpe. Full details will appear in the next edition of Tidings and on our website – teddingtonsociety.org.uk

HAPPY ANNIVRSARY, SHAMBLES!

Say “hello and congratulations” to Margherita Langella and her brother Massimo, the driving forces behind Shambles restaurant and wine bar – because this year they (and their customers) are celebrating the restaurant’s 35th anniversary. It was back in 1983 that their parents, Franco and Jackie, established Shambles in the unique 17th century Grade 2 former slaughterhouse that graces the High Street. Since then, the restaurant has specialised in a seasonally focused Italian-inspired menu, with some ingredients coming from the back garden. Today, Massimo is the head chef and Margherita the manager. They’ve been running the restaurant for the last decade, making sure that Shambles remains a true family affair. Not only that, but they’re also Corporate Members of the Society – so we, too, offer our congratulations!

EXTENDING TO GROW – TEDDINGTON

PARISH CHURCH

The Rev Joe Moffatt

We are building an extension on what could be called the ‘hidden side’ of the church. This is in order to make it fit for purpose as a sacred space accessible to all, regardless of disability or need, and as a community resource offering a hospitable welcome to all who enter. Imagine for a moment inviting someone into your home but not being able to offer them a drink, or let them use the toilet; imagine who wouldn't want to come, or who couldn't come – that’s the problem this project is solving. But it’s about far more than just toilets; it’s about opening up the heritage and the possibilities of the church for all of Teddington, and about making our contribution to its 800-year history. The building has been added to every century, and every generation has done its bit to make it fit for purpose for their own time. Now it’s our responsibility to do so.

We’ve worked with Heritage England, Richmond Council’s Conservation Department and our experienced architect, to develop a design which is simple and modern and which seeks to complement the beauty of the church rather than to replicate it. We've consulted councillors and community groups, and we’ve commissioned reports from experts on fabric, bats, badgers, trees, archaeology, flooding and graves. The result is a modest but distinctive structure, with a flexible 18m x 6m footprint, which will enable us to have essential facilities (toilets,

kitchen, meeting room) with as little impact on the churchyard as possible. Our special site, of course, offers challenges and requires the most sensitive of approaches. The chosen construction method therefore is deliberately lightweight, avoiding the need to dig a traditional foundation trench, and minimising disruption to graves and trees. To complete the work, we must raise £650,000 through donations, grants and events. We’re very fortunate to have £251,000 in the extension fund already, but we need everyone’s support to build for the future – we will not be able to achieve our aims without the contribution of our congregation, our parish and our community. I’d be grateful if you would consider helping us to 'Extend to Grow'. You would be making an immediate and significant contribution to the outreach of the church, plus leaving a lasting mark on its future. For more information: Go online to www.teddingtonparish.org or email future@stmarywithstalban.org

LANDMARK GARDEN MAKEOVER The woodland entrance to the Landmark Arts Centre is now being transformed, thanks to a grant of £12,870 from Richmond Council.

The funding is helping to create a new pedestrian access to the centre, the clearance of self-seeded saplings and undergrowth, and the introduction of new plant species. Not only that, but a new footpath is being constructed through the woodland area with space for outdoor arts

activities, seating and extra parking for cycles plus a new outdoor information panel about the building and its history. Lesley Bossine, the Landmark manager, hopes the work will be completed by the end of the year.

TODAY’S MODERN WOMAN – IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT THE JAM!

Caroline Turner

Did you know there’s a WI in Teddington? The Teddington branch of the Women’s Institute meet on the second Wednesday of each month at the Constitutional Club in Stanley Road at 8pm. Since starting in 2011 we have 80 members – but we are always on the lookout for more – and it’s not all about jam! We recently welcomed the Teddington Society to our meeting when Sheena Harold gave us a great insight into the important work of the Society and Paddy Ching a whistle-stop history of Teddington, which was fascinating.

Every month we invite a guest speaker to come along and members get the chance to hear about local businesses, initiatives, charities and (in true WI style) fantastic cooking, gardening demonstrations and workshops. We also hold our legendary cocktail nights – where members learn how to make, and of course sample, a number of new creations! We also look to support local charities through fundraising – raffles at our monthly meetings, the occasional cake sale and beauty nights. This year our charity is RUILS, the local organisation supporting disabled people. Coming up over the next few months we have talks from the Fire Brigade, Cyber Crime, and how to create Christmas table decorations. Membership is £41 a year, which also gives you access to courses at Denman, the WI centre for learning in Abingdon. It’s a great way to meet new people who live in Teddington too. Guests are always welcome so pop along to our next meeting on Wednesday 9th May at 8pm. For further information email teddingtonwi@gmail.com and follow us on twitter – @Teddington_WI

HISTORY GROUP Dick Hughes Street furniture Our survey of street furniture in Teddington is now complete and the format in which it will be used is under discussion. History of the introduction of services to Teddington We are planning to put together a team to investigate and write up histories of the essential services which we all enjoy in Teddington today – water, gas, electricity, transport and telephone. A report has already been completed on our sewer service. Some of these subjects have already been “booked”, but if anyone is interested in contributing to this project, then do please contact the writer. This kind of work is always dependent upon the generous contributions of time and effort by members of the group, and by the Society generally – for which many thanks. Visits We are arranging a series of walks during the summer in Bushy Park to see areas of historic interest but with limited public access. Our first venue was to the Waterhouse Woodland Gardens and the fairy-like building which houses the sluices which control the flow of water through the western part of the Park and has done so for many years. It was an invigorating and enjoyable walk, as our photo below shows. Talks We have introduced a programme of short talks at our meetings about Teddington, Bushy Park and the notable people who have lived there.

ROADS AND TRANSPORT GROUP

Brian Holder

Post-election Wish List The election of new and not so new Councillors will be an opportunity to install some of the long-standing improvements that almost everyone has accepted as necessary but not implemented, due to the inordinate amount of time wasted trying to impose a very costly, totally unwanted, and certainly not needed cycle route along the length of the High Street. 1. No further unnecessary changes for the High Street please There is still the threat of some undisclosed parking space changes in the High Street – but we believe these to be poorly thought out and unnecessary. An announcement should be made that no further changes are planned. 2. Essential cycle improvements for the High Street rail bridge The Society has been asking for these low-cost easy to install improvements for more than five years: now that the Cycle Quietway has been scrapped, they should be installed as quickly as possible to demonstrate a commitment to improved cycle facilities. 2. (i) Extension of the off-road cycle tracks down to Station Road and Church Road 2. (ii) Re-installation of the Tiger/Mini-Holland Pedestrian and Cycle Crossing at the top of Park Road which was in place for most of the Olympic two years. This will encourage Broad Street-bound cyclists to by-pass both roundabouts in total safety.

3. Provision of free One and Two Hour no return with two hour parking spaces In April last year, Councillor Buckwell and I reviewed the recently extended Zone T CPZ outside and opposite the Library, which has caused the loss of 25 or more essential shoppers’ and library users’ parking spaces for most of the day. He agreed to consider the installation of free One Hour turnover parking spaces all along the east (library side) to create valuable parking spaces for library users and shoppers. We also reviewed an empty section of Waldegrave Park by Cambridge Road which would benefit the whole area by creating at least 12 free Two Hour Turnover spaces, to allow temporary parking for nearby residents, their visitors and Teddington Bowls Club members. We know that Free Turnover parking makes by far the most efficient use of available parking spaces. The Society would very much welcome such an improvement.

4. Teddington Station southern footbridge This very busy bridge joins two halves of the Teddington community together, and is a key nodal point for numerous busy cycle routes across Teddington. The bridge, which is over 100 years old, is deteriorating almost daily and needs urgent replacement. The promised lifts at the station will be welcome, but an upgraded fully ramped southern footbridge would not only be used by more people, but would also require much less maintenance – so we will continue to seek the installation of a modern fully accessible footbridge.

EVENTS Saturday 19th May; Wednesday 23rd May Teddington Bowls Club are holding an Open Day between 10am and 12 noon and an Open Evening on Wednesday 23rd May between 6pm and 8pm. Beginners and juniors are very welcome. Please wear flat-soled shoes – no heels! For more information, contact Christine Caswell on 020 8943 1329 or e-mail Heltedd47@aol.co.uk Monday 21st May Little Ships talk and entertainment 7.30pm at The Lensbury Join us in the Beaumont Room at The Lensbury in Broom Road, where John Tough, seventh generation of the Teddington family of boatbuilders, will give a talk entitled Tough's Boatyard and the Little Ships. In addition, Mike Pemberton – Society member, local singer and songwriter – will perform a ballad he's written about the heroic Little Ships, accompanied by an archive film showing the epic WW2 evacuation in which Teddington played a vital part in rescuing allied troops trapped by the advancing German Army. The evening is open to all. Tickets cost £5 and include a complimentary glass of wine. Apply to the Treasurer – sally.howland@btinternet.com or telephone 020 8977 9404. The evening wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of our Corporate Member The Lensbury, to whom we are very grateful. Sunday 10th June Teddington in Flower

Gardens galore! This ever-popular annual event, again organised by Siân Morgan, is a great opportunity to visit some of Teddington’s finest and most interesting back gardens in aid of local charities. Plus refreshments and bell ringing at St Mary with St Alban church. For details, see the back page and the enclosed flyer.

Wednesday 20th June Nine Elms/Battersea Walk Anyone travelling by train to Waterloo will have noticed that Nine Elms is changing fast; it’s currently one of the largest regeneration areas in Europe. We will follow the river from Vauxhall to Chelsea Bridge, taking in the changing landscape and focusing on the new American Embassy and Battersea Power Station. Some of the most recognised architects in the world are involved in the 15-year project to redevelop the power station and the 42-acre site – Phase 1, opening up public access to the Thames, is already complete. Join us on a 3.5 km/2 mile walk led by Blue Badge Tour Guide Rosie Pollard. Time: meet at Teddington Station, platform 1, to catch the 09.35 to Vauxhall, OR meet 10.15am onwards at Pret A Manger on Vauxhall Bridge (21 St George Wharf) just across from the station where we will have a short coffee and toilet stop. The walk will start from Pret at 10.50am. Length: around 3.5km/2 miles. Finish: the walk will take two hours and finish at Circus West Village by Chelsea Bridge, which offers many cafes and restaurants. Buses to Sloane Square, or maybe continue with a visit to Chelsea Physic Garden. Cost: £12. Book: places are limited, so book by 6th June. Payment: to Pamela McHutchon, Flat 3, 86 High Street, Teddington TW11 8JD. m: 07802 822812; e: pmchutchon@btinternet.com Please include your contact details. Sunday 24th June Village Fair and Pram Race The annual Pram Race starts from the Masons Arms at 1pm and finishes at the Teddington Village Fair, which is open from midday to 5pm at Udney Hall Gardens. Free entry and entertainment, all in aid of local charities. Lots of stalls, food, drink and fun for all the family. Pram Race prizes will be presented by the Mayor at 3pm. Sunday July 8th River Blessing Following the success of last year’s river blessing ceremony held as part of the Teddington 800 celebrations, the Parish Church of St Mary with St Alban is now making this an annual event. A service of thanks to celebrate the importance of the river to the existence, work and leisure of Teddington led by the Rev Joe Moffatt, will start at 10am at St Mary with St Alban and will continue at Manor Road Recreation Ground. All are welcome to come along and enjoy this event.

All Proceeds to Local Charities

Organised by

The Teddington

Society

Teddington in Flower

Sunday 10th June 2018

2pm to 6pm

Entrance: £1 per garden for Teddington Society members (Non-members £2 per

garden) Children free with accompanying adult

Come and Visit 10 beautiful back gardens not normally open to the public

PLUS: Refreshments and Bell Ringing at

St Mary’s Parish Church

Details of Participating

Gardens available from local Libraries

and the

Teddington Society website teddingtonsociety.org.uk