Tag: People and personalities

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Blue Door theatre group aims to recreate dark, supernatural world of Macbeth for autumn performance at Bull Theatre, High Barnet

High Barnet’s acclaimed drama group is busy rehearsing for their autumn production — an imaginative presentation of The Tragedie of Macbeth, William Shakespeare’s play about the destructive consequences of unchecked ambition and political power.

Macbeth is a classic tale about a murderous medieval king which director Siobhan Dunne says seems so relevant to the events of today in a world troubled by despots, bullies and tyrants prepared to murder to get power.

Her innovative production aims to break new ground with original live music and projections designed to recreate the dark, supernatural world of the weird sisters – the three witches who appear to Macbeth and Banquo.

After several recent sell-out productions retelling the history of Barnet, the Blue Door Theatre Company are determined that their interpretation of Macbeth will be another milestone for one of the Bull Theatre’s most exciting and original community theatre groups.

There will be four performances from Thursday 16 October to Saturday 18 October – just the right timing for any local students for whom Macbeth is a set text for GCSE English.  (Tickets £15 via www.thebulltheatre.com)

For Siobhan Dunne this will be a first – the first time she has produced Macbeth with a full theatrical company.

Together with other members of her production team – above, from left to right, movement director Naomi Richards, Siobhan Dunne and composer Nick Godwin — they are planning a performance which will conjure up a supernatural atmosphere full of music, sound and eye-catching projections.

“Shakespeare’s intention in Macbeth was for us all to hold a mirror up to ourselves and what better time to delve into the corrupting effects of war and power-hungry despots,” said Siobhan.

“For anyone studying Macbeth, our production should be particularly exciting and rewarding as the key features of the story are perfectly underlined.”

The two lead characters — Macbeth (Francesco Giacon) and Lady Macbeth (Claire Fisher) — recognise the challenge they face in getting to grips with two of the most demanding theatrical roles.

Francesco agrees that it is no easy task trying to understand Macbeth’s character and then think how best to play the part.

“I am having to make a personal assessment of how to portray a complicated and perplexing role, someone who is ambitious, a murderer, paranoid and resigned to his fate, but then defiant when he realises the game is up.”

Claire Fisher, whose first play Mary Livingstone, I Presume? was performed at the Bull Theatre earlier this year, is relishing the chance to perform a celebrated Shakespearean role.

“I am trying to find the right balance between Lady Macbeth’s ambition for Macbeth and for herself, and she is not a very nice person.

“Together we have some intense scenes, and we have to pitch it right. We are a married couple in a very tempestuous relationship egging one another on to destruction.”

Claire said that after the challenge of writing the drama about the ghost like presence of Mary Livingstone, inside Livingstone Cottage on Hadley Green, she was so enjoying the opportunity to take part in Macbeth.

“Shakespeare’s words and poetry have such a wonderful rhythm. They are certainly easier to learn than anything I might have written.”  

In Shakespeare’s day there were not many props in his productions as most of the interpretation was through the acting but over the years scenery has had an increasingly significant role, which has presented a challenge for another Blue Door stalwart.  

High Barnet drama group to stage Macbeth at Bull Theatre and aim to recreate the dark, supernatural world of a Shakespearean tragedy.

Sculptor and artist Cos Gerolemou (above) who has worked behind the scenes on so many of the company’s productions, has been preparing some blood-thirsty props – including Banquo’s mask.

“Perhaps the grisliest of all is Banquo’s head in a sack. I think it is pretty realistic.

“What has been so fascinating for me is thinking whether Shakespeare would approve of what I’ve created.

“There weren’t many props in Shakespeare’s day but with the passage of time there is greater interpretation of his works and that’s where props and scenery play their part.”

Siobhan is sure the audience will be wowed by the amazing masks which Cos has made.

“One of the key aspects of Macbeth is that the characters don’t show their true selves.

“So, to have hooded or masked characters is a classic Shakespearean ploy for people who are not presenting themselves as they truly are.”

Another innovation for the production is the original musical score composed by Nick Godwin who plays guitar for the North London group The Silencerz.

“I hope what I am creating with the music and chorus is the right mood for a Shakespearean tragedy like Macbeth,” said Nick.

“All the texts are there for the songs in Macbeth but the music that was played at the time of those first performances has disappeared over the years.

“So, it is a real privilege for me coming at this afresh and trying to put music to the words.

“The musical score has a real part to play. For example, the three witches are played in so many different ways. They can be fairly childlike or frightening and intimidating. So, the composer has a choice.”

Nick has put together a team of musicians including violinist Helen Brown and bass player Ned Wilkins.

Siobhan says the Blue Door group is also so pleased to have support and advice from Naomi Richards who has become movement director for the production.

“For ten years, Naomi performed and toured with the percussion group Stomp, so she knows all about the importance of physical theatre.

“This will be of real help in advising the cast. We are all trying to recreate the dark surroundings and supernatural world of Macbeth. We are determined our audiences will get to see a unique production.”

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Pub of the year award regained by The Mitre as Barnet’s real ale enthusiasts voice concern over closures in neighbouring Enfield

After missing out on the award for several years, Barnet’s oldest hostelry Ye Olde Mitre Inne has been voted pub of the year for 2025 by the Enfield and Barnet branch of the Campaign for Real Ale.

At a presentation evening, CAMRA members said they were pleased to be back at The Mitre which has recently been refurbished by the brewers Greene King.

Peter Graham (above, right), chair of the Enfield and Barnet branch, handed over the award to Harrison Smith, team leader of the bar staff.

Since the Enfield and Barnet branch was established in 1975, The Mitre has won the pub of the year award more than any other local pub, its reputation for real ale having been well established by a previous landlord Gary Murphy.

Mr Murphy relinquished the lease in 2021 after spending 13 years building up The Mitre’s offer of real and craft ales.

He became a cheerleader for publicans across the country and campaigned against the plight of 15,000 tied landlords struggling against exorbitant rents and additional beer charges.

In presenting the award, Mr Graham said it was great to be back at The Mitre. They still missed Mr Murphy but were keen to congratulate the staff on winning the award.

In a poll of members, The Bohemia in North Finchley was placed second and third was The Elephant Inn, also in North Finchley.

Mr Graham – seen here with fellow CAMRA members – said that real ale pubs in the Barnet area seemed to be trading more successfully than those in the Enfield area.

“We have had some closures recently of pubs around Ponders End and Enfield Wash and this is of concern, so we are pleased that across in Barnet the pubs do not seem to be struggling as much.”

The only current closure is of The Lord Nelson in West End Lane, Barnet, but the tenancy is being advertised by Punch Pubs and CAMRA members hope it will be trading again before the end of the summer.

Harrison Smith said customers at The Mitre thought its recent refurbishment had been a success.

“Some people were worried when they heard that improvements and alterations were being made to such an historic old pub, but once they were back inside, they seem reassured.”

New beer pumps were installed and improvements made in the cellar. The original windows facing onto to the High Street were retained and the opportunity take to repair a stained-glass window at the front of the pub.

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Armed forces open day gave Barnet’s army reservists and cadets a chance to welcome residents to look around St Albans Road reserve centre

Displays and training demonstrations by reservists and cadets filled the parade ground at the Army Reserve Centre in St Albans Road, Barnet, in celebration of Armed Forces Day.

Members of 240 Transport Squadron of the 151 Royal Logistics Corps were on hand to welcome visitors to their first open day since a restoration of public events following the covid emergency shutdown.

Sergeant Major Mark Smith said the 50-strong Barnet reserve squadron – who all have full-time jobs – had been looking forward to the chance to show residents the range of their military equipment, training and activities.

Members of the Barnet squadron march on Remembrance Sunday from the St Albans Road reserve centre along the High Street to the war memorial at Barnet Parish Church and they said the open day was a valuable opportunity to reach out to the town.                                                                                                                  

In addition to being a base for the reservists, the centre is also home of Barnet Army Cadet Force.

Sergeant Anya Wallis (above, right), an instructor in resuscitation techniques took her fellow cadets through the procedures for CPR and the use of a defibrillator.

Anya, a former pupil at Queen Elizabeth’s Girls’ School, joined the Barnet force of 30 or so cadets seven years ago and trained as an instructor.

“We teach first aid at different levels and there are a range of qualifications which are available to the cadets.”

A group of new recruits described how valuable they were finding the sessions – above, from left to right, Marie Iacovou, Ben Newton, Sharaddha Kori and Nuen Wang.

The Barnet force, which is attached to the Middlesex and North-West London Cadet Force, offers places for youngsters up to the age of 18. They get a taste of life in the armed forces, and some go on to join the regular army.

Marie and Sharaddha said they liked the experience of being army cadets.

Their lead instructor Captain David Cawrey (above) – a teaching assistant in civilian life – said their aim was to open up opportunities for Barnet’s youngsters.

“Most of the new recruits join by word of mouth, perhaps after hearing about us from friends or fellow pupils at school.

“We are a community cadet force, and we offer the cadets a range of experiences, with lots of activities.

“If they are interested in signing up to the forces, we can point them in the right direction and hopefully the training they receive will enhance their job prospects in civilian life.”

A demonstration which attracted intense interest was a display of the armaments used by the squadron by Corporal Chris Hatt (above), who has been a reservist for over 20 years. 

All the weapons were safely secured – a machine gun, personal weapon, pistol and night sight for use during exercises.

Another eye-catching display was of the latest CBRN combat kit for the hazards of modern warfare providing protection against chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear attacks.

The display intrigued Barnet resident Roger Hedgecoe, a former parachute officer and major in the Royal Signals, who left the Army in 1992. “I am very impressed by the kit they are issued with today – far better than in my day.”

Above, from left to right, Sergeant Major Mark Smith, CBRN instructor, Sergeant Jason Smith and Roger Hedgecoe.

Armed Forces open day first chance for some years to look around St Albans Road Army Reserve Centre and see training for Barnet's reservists and cadets.

The reservist on duty at the St Albans Road entrance to the reserve centre is training to become a vehicle mechanic – a far cry from her civilian job as a data analyst.

“I joined the reserves eight months ago and completed the basic training. Now I am training to become a vehicle mechanic and building up my experience on military vehicles.

“The attraction of being a reservist is that it gives me a chance to add to my skills set plus the time outside, the adventure training and chance to make new friends. The camaraderie and friendships are important.”     

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New initiative from Barnet’s Incredible Edible campaign – a festival to celebrate the brilliance of the humble bean

A celebration of the joy of growing and eating beans organised by members of Barnet’s innovative Incredible Edible campaign group was a journey from start to finish – from seed to plate.

Despite the sustained drought of recent weeks, a patch of runner beans in a community garden beside St Mary’s Church in East Barnet was in great shape with the first beans almost ready to eat.

Wendy Alcock (above left), founder of a much admired local initiative to encourage home cultivation in gardens and on unused land, had organised what she described as a celebration of the brilliance of beans.

St Mary’s community halls in Church Hill Road presented a beanfest — starting with advice on sowing and growing beans followed by cooking demonstrations and a tasting competition for a range of dips.

“We wanted to hold the event when there is still time to plant beans and get a crop by the late summer.

“We also wanted to demonstrate the great versatility of what is a favourite vegetable for so many people.”

Betty Greenwood (above left) and Elaine Jackson were on hand to describe the many varieties to choose from. Their plant display included borlotti beans, dwarf French beans and white runner beans.

They agreed it had been a difficult year because of the lack of rain. Bean plants needed to be watered regularly, and their water butts were nearly exhausted.

“If we go on getting such dry summers perhaps, we shall have to switch to some of the French and Italian varieties which adapt better to sustained hot weather,” said Betty.

In another room, community nutritionist Filomena Komodromu (above right) had prepared three different dips from beans and pulses – from green peas, red lentils and white beans and visitors were asked to rate them.

“My role is to advise people how to eat healthily and, on a budget, and beans and pulses are a great source of protein, they have lots of fibre, iron and Vitamin B.

“The one tip I always give people is that when they use tinned beans, they should be thoroughly rinsed first before eating.”

Beside the church halls is the council owned Church Farm Open Space where Wendy Alcock has established a community garden, one of four developed across the borough with the help of Barnet Council.

“We got funding for this project last year and the aim is to develop more community gardens across Barnet after people have been on a free eight-week course to gain experience of growing plants and vegetables.”

Jennie Bradford (above, left) signed up last year for the East Barnet course, and has taken on the leadership this year.

Wendy said the aim of this initiative – “Ready, Steady, Grow!” – was to show people how to grow vegetables in their gardens or public spaces.

“We do now have four new community gardens across the borough, but I would like to see many more.”

The July course is fully signed up but there are vacancies for the course in September. Further information and a sign up available at www.yourhealthbarnet.org or email food@barnet.gov.uk

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Relaunch of Barnet’s folk dancing club to focus on widening interest and appeal of Balkan folk dance culture  

Barnet’s long-established international folk dance club is being relaunched to take advantage of the growing popularity of the traditional folk music and dancing of the Balkans with the hope of attracting a wider membership.

Their experience in recent years – despite having built up a repertoire of hundreds of folk dances from around the world – is that Balkan dancing continues to attract by far the greatest interest.

In future the club will be known as Dunav: Barnet Dances Balkan and a revamped programme kicks off with their annual summer party at 7.30pm on Friday 25 July at Church House, High Barnet.

Two long-standing members, Margaret Luck (above left) and Irene Nichols have been helping to organise and promote the event – an evening of live Balkan music and buffet to which all are welcome. (Entrance fee £10).

Barnet International Folk Dance Club was established in 1962, initially meeting in Hendon, before moving to High Barnet, and from the start the founder members were fascinated by the intriguing rhythms of Balkan dances.

With the gradual opening up of travel to Eastern Europe, and with the freedom of movement following g the enlargement of the EU, group members began visiting countries in the Balkans and became even greater admirers of their folk-dance culture.

Such was the club’s interest that their sessions at Church House regularly featured an appearance by leaders of a Bulgarian ensemble — artistic director and dance teacher Iliana Bozhanova and music director and accordion player Tudor Yankov (see above).

Brian Dowsett, who led the Barnet group for many years, helped to establish a flourishing Balkan dance scene in London which now features a monthly Balkanplus event at Cecil Sharp House in Camden, home of the International Folk Dancing Society.

Charlotte Clare, a member of the Barnet club, teaches simplified versions of Balkan dances with live music from the band Ygra.

Barnet's long established international folk dancing club is rebooting to celebrate popularity of Balkan culture of folk dancing and music

Another band that often visited Barnet was Dunav – see above – that specialised in the music of south-eastern Europe.

Irene Nichols said that for their regular dance evenings – on the second and fourth Fridays of the month – they take advantage of a mini-iPad which is loaded with a full range of music.

“Balkan dancing is by far the most popular and Charlotte teaches accessible versions on their dances.

“Our great admiration of Balkan dancing was reinforced by a trip we made to Bulgaria.

“We went around the villages which have still have an active folk dance culture – so we experienced at first hand dancing together in village squares with local residents and their brass bands.”

Margaret Luck, a founder member of the Barnet club, said they hoped that by focusing on Balkan dancing they could build up the membership of the group.

“We are hoping to attract new members, and for example, we would love to welcome residents of the Bulgarian and Romanian communities living here in Barnet and around North London.

“They know the music and understand the rhythms of the dances.”

Another event in the club’s rebooted programme is a visit in September by Ziko, a famous Serbian accordionist.

For more information about joining the club or attending the summer party email: irene.nichols@gmail.com

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Plain clothes police proving more effective in tackling Barnet’s shoplifting and drug users than uniform patrols in High Street

Since the start of the year police officers in the neighbourhood team for High Barnet and Barnet Vale have spent most of their time in plain clothes targeting persistent offenders including shoplifters and drug dealers and have made a total of 55 arrests.

Their team leader, Sergeant Glenn Parker, acknowledges that many residents would like to see more uniformed officers on duty in the town centre, but he insists their tactics are currently proving to be far more effective.

Through tackling shoplifting and arresting repeat offenders, there had been a decrease in house burglaries over the same period – down by 25 per cent in High Barnet and 52 per cent reduction in Barnet Vale.

Sergeant Parker – seen above, from left to right with police constables Sam Emmott, Richard Maggott, Sergeant Parker, and Mike Tearle – addressed the annual meeting of the Barnet Society (19.6.2025).

He said that the neighbourhood police team had a choice: go back to visible policing in the High Street, which could be ineffective, or adopt plain clothes tactics to tackle shoplifters and drug dealers to help restore trust in the Police.

“I would like to send officers out into the town centre in uniform, but my priority is to tackle the shoplifters, so either you have officers parading up and down the High Street or you take action that will really help to make people feel safe.

“I know residents want to see officers out on the beat, but we have to assess whether having officers walking up and down the street is effective. We want the public to have faith in what we are doing.”

Before the team started their targeted operation, there had been a tangible loss of trust among High Barnet shopkeepers and businesses.

On taking up his position in January, Sergeant Parker said he had been distressed to find that the manager at Waitrose in The Spires had felt it was no longer worth reporting shoplifting because of a lack of a police response.

“The shops had videos of shoplifters filling their bags and walking out. That was the challenge. We need the shops to engage with us.

“If the public see a policeman in uniform in the High Street, they might think that is fantastic, but the criminals can see us as well and I don’t want them to have that advantage.”

Since the start of the year the team had been building up intelligence passed on by retailers and arrests had followed.

One persistent offender, known to have been involved in 40 shop lifting offences in and around High Barnet and Barnet Vale, had been arrested and sentenced to 96 weeks in prison.

Sergeant Parker said the turn-around in arrests had been seen in wards across the northern parts of the borough – High Barnet, Barnet Vale, Underhill, East Barnet, Totteridge, Whetstone, Mill Hill and Edgwarebury.

During 2024 there were a total 34 arrests across the eight wards – a result which he considered was unacceptable; there were only 12 stop and searches of suspects.

In the five and a half months up to June 18 this year there had been 154 arrests across the same eight wards – five times the number of offenders arrested – with 55 arrests in High Barnet and Barnet Vale.

“If we had not deployed officers in plain clothes, it would have been half that.”

Sergeant Parker stressed the importance of stop and search, a tactic which had decreased massively in it use because of a lack of trust in the Police. He was determined to change that.

In the last three months 27 people had been stopped and searched in High Barnet and Barnet Vale resulting in 13 arrests for offences including knives and stolen items. There had been 20 drug searches and five arrests.

Further targeted operations, based on intelligence, were about to be launched including in one in an unnamed street where there was “a nuisance address” from which offenders had been causing problems. He promised they would be “smashed and removed”.

In opening the meeting, Mahender Khari, chair of the High Barnet community action panel which liaises with the police, praised Sergeant Parker and his officers, describing him as an “action man” who was building the strongest police team in the borough.

In replying to questions, Sergeant Parker told Dr Jenny Remfry, the society’s vice president, that currently the best way to report non-urgent suspected offences or get crime advice,  was to email the neighbourhood police team or to ring 101 which went through to the call centre in Hendon which would assess the information and could forward it to the neighbourhood teams.

A new messaging service for public use — known as Met Engage – was about to be introduced by the Metropolitan Police.

Training for neighbourhood officers began a month ago and it would create a centralised system for alerts to be emailed directly to the police and allow officers to respond.

Once residents signed up, email groups could be established, perhaps in a road or a group of streets, and this could facilitate police appeals for CCTV and other information.

In response to another question about the use of new technology, Sergeant Parker explained the value of the rapid increase in the installation of CCTV, door cameras and dash cams.

Although a potential intruder might be wearing a balaclava when caught on a door camera, offenders might well be captured on a neighbour’s camera further along the street, perhaps removing a balaclava – footage that could be of potential significance.

“Once it is up and running in the next couple of months, a system like Met Engage will make it easier for people to give us local intelligence.

“We will be able to reply, and it should make it easier for neighbourhood policing to integrate with the community.”

He told the society’s vice chairman Eamonn Rafferty, who was concerned about drug users congregating in the car park at Chipping Barnet Library, that this was precisely what they wanted to hear about.

“We need to the community to step up. The more information we get, the more action we can take.”  

Barnet Society member John Gardiner asked whether neighbourhood policing was still being disrupted by the extraction of officers from the suburbs for deployments elsewhere by the Metropolitan Police.

Sergeant Parker said that increasingly neighbourhood policing was being “ring fenced” and other officers were being deployed. In May, no officer in his team had been extracted for other duties and there had been only two occasions so far in June.

Frances Wilson, the society’s minute secretary, asked if there was any chance of the Metropolitan Police re-opening High Barnet police station to the public.

Sergeant Parker said there no plans to re-open station for operational police officers with a custody suite and desk open to the public, but it would continue as a base for the neighbourhood teams and other police services.

Robin Bishop (above left), who leads for the society on planning and the environment, warned that significant planning decisions were on their way.

Transport for London through its development subsidiary Places for London was due to submit an application by the end of June to build flats on land around High Barnet tube station and an application to build a new stadium for Barnet Football Club at Barnet Playing Fields was due to be considered by the strategic planning committee in July.

 

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Looking for inspiration through the windows of High Barnet’s historic buildings was challenge for Festival of Architecture art workshop  

An art workshop arranged as part of the London Festival of Architecture combined the idea of dreams and visions seen through notable window frames of historic buildings in and around High Barnet.

Just visible looking out from an appealing window in the High Street were some of the swifts which swirl around high above the town each summer – an expression of the freedom of nature which was the inspiration for a painting by Eric Moules (above).

Eric was one of the participants in the workshop held by the Loop the Loop Art Club at The Stable in Salisbury Road.

For the club’s founder, Heather Ellis (far right), this was the second mixed media art workshop she has organised as part of the Festival of Architecture.

This year the challenge was Windows of Dreams: linking ideas for dreams to the architecture and history of High Barnet.

To help those taking part, she had photographed the windows of historic buildings such as the Tudor Hall, the parish church, houses at Monken Hadley and for more modern designs the windows of The Spires shopping centre and geometric windows above Iceland supermarket.

Another source of inspiration were the voices of significant women with strong connections to High Barnet – Dame Cicely Saunders, founder of the hospice movement; novelist Fanny Trollope, who lived on Hadley Green; local school founder Elizabeth Allen; Julia Hyde, who established the Hyde Foundation Library in Church Passage; and Gwyneth Cowing, whose family owned the Barnet Press.

The life of Miss Cowing, who lived at Whalebones in Wood Street – where arched whalebones stand at the entrance — fascinated architectural student Aravin and inspired his contribution to the workshop.

Framed by a gothic window from a house opposite Monken Hadley parish, his illustration included a whale and the face of the High Street clock above the front door of what was the Barnet Press office and is now Costa Coffee.

Heather Ellis said the idea for the Windows of Dreams challenge had come from the early life of Dame Cicely Saunders who nursed a Polish Jewish refugee who bequeathed her £500 in 1945 to be “a window for her dreams”.

She used the money to help build the hospice movement and founded St Christopher’s Hospice in Sydenham where her work is commemorated with a “window of dreams”.

Art workshop celebrating London Festival of Architecture reflected inspirations seen from historic windows in High Barnet

Harvey Roe — above right with Carolyn — chose a window in The Spires to frame his dreamy picture of a scene in the countryside.

Illustrations produced during the workshop will be on display at The Stable in

Salisbury Road during June.

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Safe space with entertainment attractions for young people being supported by the Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice

A purpose-built space where young people can be themselves has been built in the grounds of Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice in Byng Road, Barnet.

“The Lounge” includes a wide variety of attractions – as well as a fridge stocked with drinks and snacks – and is a dedicated area away from the main building for youngsters aged 13 and above.

The aim is to encourage young people transitioning to adult palliative care to spend time at Noah’s Ark.

The hospice believes this is more likely if there is somewhere youngsters can spend time in a safe space set up for their age group and interests.

Anand and Savita Patel – see above – helped to fund the cost of building and equipping The Lounge in memory of their daughter Kinnari who was supported by Noah’s Ark before her death at the age of 12.

The Lounge is a fully-airconditioned 30-square metre space with a ceiling hoist, television and gaming equipment, an arcade machine, sound system, games, books and craft supplies.

An inaugural prom for young people was held in the new building to road test its facilities.

Special events are organised by the hospice’s family activities team to help young people prepare for the transition to adult palliative care.

This is considered an important rite of passage which can be facilitated in a safe and accessible way by offering coaching in life skills.

New building at Noah's Ark Children's Hospice provides safe space for youngsters to be themselves while transitioning to adult palliative care

The Patel family also commissioned a neon sign in The Lounge which illustrates one of the favourite sayings on their daughter Kinnari – “I don’t like it, I love it.”

Also contributing to the construction of The Lounge and its furnishings were the MariaMarina Foundation which was established in 2009 in memory of Maria Holder and her daughter Marina Brewster, mother and sister of the foundation’s president and chief executive Christopher Holder and the hospice’s 2023 Winter Ball Committee.   

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1st Barnet Boys’ Brigade and Girls’ Association awarded seven King’s Badges in exceptional year of achievement  

Seven Barnet winners of the King’s Badge – the highest award in the Boys’ Brigade and Girls’ Association – were honoured at a special service at Barnet United Reformed Church after an official presentation at Guildhall in the City of London.

The award of as many as seven King’s Badges is an unprecedented achievement for the 1st. Barnet Boys’ Brigade and Girls’ Association whose members have previously won a total of only four over the preceding 50 years.

They were congratulated on their success at a prize giving evening where awards and certificates were handed out by Dan Tomlinson, Labour MP for Chipping Barnet, and Martin Russell, representative Deputy Lord Lieutenant for Barnet.

Alan King, the brigade captain, said that in the 50 years that he had been with the brigade only four members had won what was the Queen’s Badge and is now the King’s Badge.

“We have usually secured one of the badges every ten years or so. Therefore, to get seven awarded in one year is very rare and very special for our brigade.”

Mr King said the success of the seven was down to the fact that they had worked together as a group and had taken part in every activity the brigade had to offer.

“Almost half of them joined as five-year-olds and they have been dedicated members for the last 12 to 15 years.”

Mr Tomlinson (above, left) added his congratulations to the King’s Badge holders and paid tribute to the work of Alan King and all the other volunteers.

“It is people like you Alan, and the people who run the brigade, who make our community stronger. As an MP there is nothing that I can do which can compare with the work you do day in and day out to make our community even stronger.”

Exceptional year of achievement for 1st Barnet Boys' Brigade and Girls' Association in being awarded seven King's Badges.

Among the other awards was the presentation by Martin Russell of the Deputy Lord Lieutenant’s certificate of appreciation to colour sergeant David Hay who had been a Boys’ Brigade member for over 12 years.

He congratulated David for an outstanding contribution to the brigade which included over 400 hours of voluntary service with the junior section.

Earlier in an address the minister, the Reverend Dominic Grant, said the presentation of awards was a testament to everything which united the world-wide fellowship of Boys’ Brigades and Girls’ Associations.

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Barnet Medieval Festival becoming a premier event in Wars of the Roses celebrations – and a fun day out for the whole family

Mock battles with weapons made from foam were one of the highlights for children attending the annual Barnet Medieval Festival at its new and enlarged site on farmland in Galley Lane.

A range of inter-active attractions for youngsters of all ages – including training for jousts on the battlefield, fencing, archery and axe throwing – reinforced the festival’s appeal as a popular family fun day out and an engaging community event.

After a record participation among military re-enactors and medieval traders — and the best-ever attendance — the festival organisers are already thinking ahead to 2026.

Barnet is well on the way towards establishing its festival as a premier event in the calendar of Wars of the Roses celebrations.

Crowds lined the event field for a packed programme including the much-anticipated re-enactments of the Battle of St Albans (1461) and – see above – the Battle of Barnet (1471).

Almost 500 re-enactors representing 40 different households and military companies – some from as far afield as Devon and Scotland – were brought together by the Wars of the Roses Federation.

Displays of medieval firepower were another of the highlights.

Master gunner Ben Godden, who was the compere for the display, and his wife Linda Godden, the festival event co-ordinator from the House of Bayard, were delighted to be back in Barnet after the cancellation of last year’s festival due to waterlogged ground.

“This has easily been the best ever festival,” said Linda.

“We can all see how popular it’s become. We had a very good crowd even when we had a little rain on Saturday but the turn out all day on Sunday was a record.

“We are all looking forward to next year already.”

For travelling players Myal Pyper – who kept the crowds entertained with medieval music – their second visit to Barnet had exceeded their expectations.

“We thought the atmosphere was wonderful the first time we came, but this year it’s been even more enjoyable.

“What is so special is that people come up and ask such interesting questions which makes it all worthwhile.

“It’s obviously a great community event as so many people seem to know each other and are busy chatting away and enjoying the day out.”

Another popular re-enactor away from the battlefield in the medieval campsite was Flossie, a 14th century warrener, who was looking after two ferrets to send down rabbit warrens.

Her two ferrets – Filthy and Grunt – had no shortage of admirers.

Flossie (in real life Felicity Pattenden from Norwich) said rabbit ferreters would have accompanied a medieval army and hunted as they went along to provide them with a supply of meat and fur.

Probably the youngest medieval re-enactor was 15-month-old Zina – from the 3rd company of Tudors — with her parents Eleri and Alex from Wolverhampton, who were enjoying a rest in their tent.

Zina was dressed in a linen shift over a double-sided linen kirtle; Eleri was wearing a linen shift with kirtle and a linen bonnet; and Alex was wearing split-leg hose, linen shift and skull cap.

“In Tudor times Alex would have been in the fighting force, and I would have been considered a camp follower, one of the women who looked after the men,” said Eleri.

Two re-enactors taking a well-deserved rest in a nobleman’s tent were Steve, a medieval archer, and Marion, who were from the Plymouth Medieval Society.

“It’s our first time in Barnet. It has been a really well organised festival with plenty of space for all the medieval tents. We do hope to be back next year.”

Inter-active events for youngsters including mock battles reinforced Barnet Medieval Festival's reputation for a family fun day out.

For farmers Daniel and Fiona Lewis – proprietors of Lewis of London Ice Cream at Fold Farm – hosting their first medieval festival had been a great experience and they too were looking ahead to think how it might be expanded and improved.

“This is a great event for the military re-enactors with lots of space for their displays, tents and activities,” said Daniel.

“We have loved seeing how much fun it is for the youngsters, training to be knights and then having a go in the battlefield. Wherever you looked there was something happening, even everyone having a go at medieval dancing.

“Perhaps in future we could get even more themed events and activities for the children. Another innovation might be more themed food. I really do think the festival has great potential for the future.”

For festival director Dr Susan Skedd there was a sense of mission accomplished.

“It really has been overwhelming to see so many people coming along to the festival and clearly having a wonderful time. It has made it so worthwhile for all the volunteers who put so much into making the festival such a success.”

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An all-comers dog show again a highlight at the annual Arkley village fayre

Arkley’s annual village fayre attracted even more entrants than last year for its all-comers dog show – and the class for golden oldies among local canines proved especially popular.

First prize went to Tracey with Teabag, her eleven-year-old Bichon Frise.

Another old timer, Raffi, took second place – Sue’s 15-year-old Chinese crested hairless.

Katie’s nine-year-old Pomeranian Nala was awarded the rosette for third place by judge Ruth Treweeks.

Rachel Burke (right) of dog groomers Beauty Barks of Borehamwood, who organised the dog show, said the turnout for their second year at Arkley had been great.

Show volunteer and organiser Mel (left) with her eight-year-old English bull terrier Arnie, was delighted with the support they had received from residents and traders

Dog show again the highlight of Arkley annual village fayre.

Vicar of St Peter’s Arkley, the Reverend Cindy Kent, spent much of the afternoon behind a microphone as a show compere.

She stressed the important contribution made by the annual village fayre.

“It is a lovely event on the field at the village hall and really does bring the community of Arkley together.”

Organisers said the fayre raised “a significant sum” which will be split among community projects such as the cost of maintaining the village hall and field; providing an accessible entrance to the garden of rest at St Peter’s Church; and cost of maintaining the defibrillator installed by the Hearts of Arkley in Rockways, a cul-de-sac just off the Barnet to Arkley main road.

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Ten fire engines and 70 firefighters tackled blaze that swept through historic house being renovated on Hadley Green

Fire engines and crews from around north London were called to a massive fire which engulfed one of the large Georgian houses beside Hadley Green.

Such was the ferocity of the blaze that for several hours water had to be pumped from Brewers’ Pond just across the green.

Hours after the fire was brought under control just before 5am on Bank Holiday Monday morning, a fire crew on turntable ladder was still damping down smouldering roof timbers.

Hollybush House, a Grade II listed mansion which it is thought went for an estimated £4.5 million when last sold in 2020, was in the process of being renovated and refurbished. A new roof had recently been completed and new windows installed.

Ten fire engines and 70 firefighters were called to the fire in Hadley Green Road, close to the junction with Sydney Chapman Way at around 1am.

Next door neighbour Richard Holmes, who lives in another historic property attached to Hollybush House, was woken by fire crews at 1.10am. 

“I was in bed, fast asleep and was amazed to find what was happening. It was what firefighters call a ten-pump shout, there were fire engines everywhere.

“They were lined up all along the road. The fire crew on the top of the turntable ladder were being supplied with additional water from Brewers’ Pond just across the green.

“The crews did a great job. They managed to stop the fire at the wall of my house which is attached to Hollybush House.

“At one point they feared they might have to take the slates off my roof, but they have now said it is ok. There is no sign of the fire having spread to my roof timbers. I have had the all-clear.”

Mr Holmes’ house, close to the Wilbraham’s alms houses, has a blue plaque commemorating the time when Fanny and Anthony Trollope resided at the property.

Nearby on the other side of Hollybush House is Livingstone Cottage where the Victorian explorer Dr David Livingstone and his wife Mary lived in 1857.

Hollybush House, built in the late 1700s, was in the process of being renovated by Seacon Ltd, specialists in refurbishment projects.

Work began at the house – which is surrounded by protective hoardings – 18 months ago. The property had nine bedrooms.

London Fire Brigade — which released this picture on Twitter of the scene at the height of the fire — said later In a statement, that the entire roof, as well as the first and ground floors, were alight and that subsequently the building suffered a partial collapse, but there were no reports of any injuries.

Helping to guide the crew on the turntable ladder was one of two drones being operated by London Fire Brigade.

Roads leading across the eastern side of Hadley Green and through Monken Hadley all had to be cordoned off.

The crew that operated the pump taking water from Brewers Pond – which was once part of Hadley Brewery — said that even after two to three hours the level of the pond was about the same.

“It seems the pond must be replenished naturally all the time by the ground water level or a spring,” said one of the crew.

Fire engines and firefighters from around North London tackled blaze which swept through historic house being renovated on Hadley Green.

 

Crews from New Barnet, Southgate, Finchley and other surrounding fire stations were called in to tackle the blaze.

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Community gardens developed over 70 years ago together with meadows and hedgerows are now a wildlife haven

Tucked away at a wildlife site in the Barnet green belt is an enchanting array of community gardens which were developed in the 1950s, and which played a part in the early development of organic gardening.

Brookdale Wildlife Garden Community was established in 1951 when a group of a wartime allotment holders from Islington secured the lease of a ten-acre field on farmland owned by the Byng family at Wrotham Park.

Together with her friends who were also keen gardeners, Hilda Brooke, had grown fruit and vegetables on Hampstead Heath on what were known as “Dig for Victory” allotments.

When Hampstead Heath was reinstated after World War Two, they had to find a new site.

They moved to Barnet with the help and support of the Soil Association which was founded in 1946 to campaign for sustainable food production because of concern about the impact of intensive farming and resulting soil erosion and depletion.

An entire ten-acre field – which had formed part of a wartime decoy airfield to the north of Barnet — was leased to the exiled group of gardeners by Lady Elizabeth Byng for a first annual rent of £20.

Today, rather than concentrating on cultivation of produce, the Brookdale plot holders cherish their cluster of community gardens which have become a haven for wildlife.

Their individual gardens, community meadows and an ancient hedgerow — which are a designated wildlife site and are protected by an area tree preservation order — were visited recently (see above) by members of the Barnet Environment Centre who maintain the nature reserve in Byng Road.

During a tour of the gardens, they admired several of the small clay-lined ponds which are ideal for aquatic plants, attract dragon flies and provide a home for among others for frogs and great crested newts.  

After so many years of care and attention each plot is distinctive and in the case of Michael Bruce – who has the distinction of being Brookdale’s longest tenant – his garden is a much-cherished refuge from the hustle and bustle of everyday life in Islington.

Michael has a much-loved summer house, well-tended borders and numerous features which he has developed during 33 years at Brookdale.

An archway at the end of his plot looks out onto a community meadow. Just visible in the far distance is an obelisk, which Michael made from wood and which he brings in each winter to avoid unnecessary wear and tear during bad weather.

Christine Klein, who is a member of the Barnet Society and has been a plot holder since 2017, enjoys her personal haven of tranquillity and encourages the growth of wildflowers and shrubs.

“Unfortunately, I find it too difficult to grow vegetables. We get rabbits, muntjac and foxes visiting the plots and it would be hard work keeping them at bay.”

Just a step away from one of the community meadows is a former World War Two control bunker, a relic of the days when the site was a one of the decoy airfields intended to attract enemy bombers destined for the RAF Fighter Station at Northolt.

John Nicholls, a former vice chair of the group’s organising committee, seen above with his daughter Becky Nicholls, Brookdale’s membership secretary, said the bunker would have been a centre of operations for the decoy airfield.

“Dummy planes and painted canvases would have been laid out on the grass. We know that at night there were lights laid out to make it look like a landing strip.

“One story which we have been told is that the Germans found out it was a dummy airfield and even dropped a wooden bomb on the field to let everyone know.”

An official history of the decoy airfields says that the fuselages of about half a dozen Hurricanes mounted on wheels and with engines removed were used at Barnet.

Airmen moved about the field periodically at night riding bicycles fitted with lights to imitate aircraft movements.

Wartime gardeners from Hampstead Heath set up a group of community gardens at Barnet in the early 1950s which are now a wildlife haven.

The challenge today for Becky Nicholls is to ensure the long-term future of their garden community after all the efforts over the years by her father and her mother Anna (above).

Whatever the pressures might be on the green belt, the group believe their wildlife credentials and charitable status should give them an assured future.

Brookdale was awarded “wildlife site” status within the Hertsmere local development plan in 1997 and the gardens are covered by an area tree protection order.    

Currently Brookdale has 60 full members and eight associates.    

“We are open to new members and in recent years more of the plots have been taken by people living in and around Barnet,” said Becky.

“This does ensure the gardens are used more regularly than is sometimes the case with those members who still live in Islington or further afield.

“We are happy to welcome volunteers, especially young people doing the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme, to help with the management of the habitat which takes a lot of effort.”

For further information contact Becky Nicholls at email bmnicholls101@gmail.com        

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MP joins in congratulations for contribution of Barnet Environment Centre towards introducing children to nature and wildlife

Barnet Environment Centre’s three wildlife ponds are one of the most popular attractions for school pupils and students who visit the seven-and-a-half-acre nature reserve and environment education centre off Byng Road.

Robyn Stern (above), a science and biology teacher, who takes children around the reserve, was praised for her inspirational work at an event celebrating the centre’s 50th anniversary.

Guest of honour Dan Tomlinson, MP for Chipping Barnet, congratulated Robyn on her contribution to the centre’s mission of introducing and explaining the importance of nature conservation and wildlife.

“I’m the lucky one,” said Robyn. “I get all the fun from seeing how excited children get when they see things for the first time.

“Pond dipping gets an amazing reaction as the children discover what lives just below the surface of the water.

“One child rushed over claiming he had just found a baby dragon. It was a baby newt which he had never seen before.

“He and the rest of his class were amazed to discover all the tiny larvae and beetles that were living in the pond.”

One disappointment this year is the absence of frog spawn – a worrying development said volunteer Tony Pearson who helps manage the ponds – and is working with volunteers on constructing a fourth.

“We do have lots of newts again this year, although sadly no frogs but there is still lots to see once the children dip into the ponds.

“There are water beetles, larvae of dragonfly, midges as well as caddisfly larvae and damselfly nymphs.” 

Bernard Johnson, a vice chair of the centre, welcomed guests including members of Barnet Council, to join in the 50th anniversary celebrations and to tour the nature reserve to see the work they did giving children an experience of nature.

Again, this academic year the centre expects to be visited by around 2,500 children from 30 plus local schools and colleges.

Students on BTEC, GCSE and A level courses are among the visitors as well as Scouts and Guides – and soon Brownies – who want to complete badge work.

One recent improvement was the installation of a rubberised footpath around the reserve which was wheel-chair friendly and increased the accessibility for children next door from the Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice.

Mr Johnson thanked the Hadley Trust and the Elstree Masonic Lodge for all their financial support; without their assistance the centre would not be the success it was.

In congratulating the centre on its work, Dan Tomlinson, MP – who cut the 50th anniversary cake – said it was an amazing achievement to think that 2,500 children a year were getting the chance to visit the reserve and study nature.

“A chance to be outdoors at a place like this is so important for today’s youngsters. It is why we should cherish a nature reserve like this.”

Mr Tomlinson called for a round of applause for the volunteers who assist Robin Stern during school visits, helping to clean up afterwards and keep the centre tidy for the next visit.

Praise for role of Barnet Environment Centre in introducing local school children to nature and wildlife at centre's 50th anniversary party

He also praised the management of the centre which is currently being shared by its three vice chairs (from left to right), Dick Elms, Dan Tomlinson MP, Bernard Johnson and Geoff Lee.    

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Amid East Barnet’s Edwardian houses is an amazing new self-build home – an ideal solution for downsizing to a smaller property

Being able to downsize to a smaller property – and a chance to stay in the same locality – is an aspiration shared by many of the established residents who have homes in and around High Barnet.

Kathryn Finlayson, a long-time resident of East Barnet, has pulled off this feat in style.

She has moved to a new, smaller, eco-friendly house which is next door to what had been a family home for 60 years, midway between Church Hill Road and Oakleigh Park Station.

She readily acknowledges her good fortune.

Kathryn did have a house to sell and space alongside large enough for a new architect-designed property complete with a bedroom, living area and the facilities she needs all on the ground floor, with two bedrooms above.

Her achievement, at the age of 83, has won national acclaim.

Her ambitious, high spec self-build won glowing praise from television presenter Kevin McCloud when he visited the house for his programme Grand Designs, which was followed by an expansive feature spread in House Beautiful.

Kathryn decided to see if she could downsize – and still live nearby – after the death of her husband Jon, who was a prominent East Barnet architect.

He designed St John’s United Reform Church at the corner of Somerset and Mowbray Roads, New Barnet, which was opened in 1968 and won a Civic Trust award.

“After Jon died in 2022, I decided with the family to see if we could build a new house on our plot next door.

“Our family house was too big for me, expensive to run, and needed a lot of improvement like a new boiler and electrics.

“Jon had built a music room on the plot, and I knew it was big enough for a house as developers searching Google earth were always wanting to buy it.”

Kathryn’s son introduced her to architect James Mak who came up with the idea of a living area and bedroom on one level with two bedrooms above for family members.

“His drawings and design for the house were lovely. It seemed like the dream solution as I would end up living in the same street in a new super-efficient, low-cost home.”

Built London Ltd started construction in September 2023 and Kathryn moved in in November last year.

“Here I am living in an ideal position close to so many friends, near the station, and just a short walk to East Barnet village and lots of bus routes, which will be so important if I have to give up my car.”

The construction costs of over £800,000 were met from the sale of the family home next door, a four-bedroom Edwardian house built in 1908.

Kathryn was rather pensive for a moment when asked whether the whole exercise had all been a little daunting for an 80-year-old.

“Yes, I would do it again. The new house is so well insulated, with triple-glazed windows, and the energy use is so much more efficient, and I am delighted with the result.

“Perhaps if I was starting out again, I would think carefully as to whether it should all have been to such high spec.

“But then I did want it all to be as eco-friendly as possible and to save what material we could from Jon’s music room.

“He put down a wonderful elm floor and that wood has been used again in fitting out the kitchen and in building a new bookcase so that gives me real pleasure.”

Down sizing to a smaller eco-friendly property has been achieved in style by long-standing East Barnet resident still in same street after 60 years.

“I suppose my experience is an example as to how it is possible to downsize if you are fortunate enough to already own a property which can be sold to finance a new build.”

“I never thought we would attract the attention of Grand Designs but appearing on television has really raised my profile.

“I am very amused by the number of people who now say, ‘I’ve seen you on tv’ and who like to stand and admire the house.”

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Re-opening of Prince of Wales public house will help “restore” the heart of East Barnet village after over a year’s closure

After fearing the worst when the Prince of Wales closed its doors in February last year, residents of East Barnet village now have access to a public house and dining area which has been extended and refurbished as a result of multi-million-pound investment.

Kitchen staff joined the rest of a newly recruited workforce of around 60 full-time and part-time employees who were ushered in by general manager Rory McMonagle on the first day of business.

He told them to enjoy the experience of helping to launch the latest pub and restaurant to be opened by the Heartwood Collection which is expanding its chain of licensed premises with dining areas.

Early last year it had seemed touch and go when there were fears as to whether the former owners, Stonegate Group, might sell pub and its site for residential or commercial development.

So concerned were local residents they might lose the last pub in the village that East Barnet councillor Phil Cohen (above) worked with East Barnet Residents Association to raise a petition with over 3,000 signatures calling for it to be saved.

Barnet Council stepped in by registering the Prince of Wales as an asset of community value – a move which gave local councillors and residents time to see if they could find a way of rescuing the pub.

“The community campaign was so important because we think it helped persuade Stonegate that the Prince of Wales should be handed on to another pub group rather than sold for redevelopment,” said Councillor Cohen.

“It demonstrates how community groups and their representatives can have a real influence.

“Luckily Stonegate sold it to Heartwood who specialise in rescuing pubs facing closure and then in redeveloping their dining areas.”

Mark Derry (second from right), chairman of Heartwood, said he made the decision to recommend the purchase of the Prince of Wales because it was at the heart of a real community, and he thought that with the right investment it had great potential.

“We are very much a food-led business, and we are partners with Brasserie Blanc so we are a food-led business with a great tradition of cooking every meal from scratch.”

Mr Derry was joined for the opening ceremony by Councillor Cohen, East Barnet Councillor Edith David and Chipping Barnet MP Dan Tomlinson.

Councillor Tony Vourou, Mayor of Barnet, cut the ribbon to open the pub – aided by the Mayoress, Mrs Caroline Vourou, and general manager Rory McMonagle.

The Prince of Wales has a restaurant with 90 covers plus another 70 to 80 covers in the bar and terrace outside.

Mr McMonagle said he could assure East Barnet village that everything had been done to ensure that local residents would feel at home.

“We have kept the traditional bar area with the same layout as before, so it will be familiar to regular customers.

“Our bar has reasonable prices, in line with the local licensed trade, and our bar menu is affordable.

“We know that the Prince of Wales has always been a great community pub – a place where there have over the years there have been countless family celebrations, birthday parties and wakes.  So, we are here to welcome everyone.

“We have around 40 full-time and part time staff in the front of house and 20 in the kitchen and at least 80 per cent of the staff live in the locality and probably know the area and the community.”

After the official opening there was a ceremonial pulling of the first pint – led by Dan Tomlinson under Mr McMonagle’s guidance.

Councillor Edith David said she was delighted the Prince of Wales had been saved.

“It’s a pub at the heart of the community. It’s where generation after generation have enjoyed a drink and some food whether after a wedding or some other family event, which explains why we were all so anxious to save the Prince of Wales.”

Prince of Wales re-opens after closure for over a year and East Barnet village regains its long lost public house after multi-million refurbishment.

There is now a new sign for the pub which is on a site – close to the junction of Church Hill Road and Cat Hill — where there have been licensed premises since 1876.

The first licensee was William Jackson who built houses in the adjoining Jackson Road.

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Pupils share Hindu and Muslim affirmations of faith at Queen Elizabeth’s Girls’ School commemoration day service at Barnet parish church

Barnet Parish church nave and chancel were filled with the orchestra and choir of Queen Elizabeth’s Girls’ School for the annual commemoration day service.

Under their musical director, Mrs Gabrielle Wong the congregation was treated to an ambitious and well-accomplished programme including performances by the full orchestra, string quartet, piano quintet, chamber trio and a piano solo.

Team vicar Father Samuel Rossiter thanked all the performers and singers who had led the service “so beautifully”.

In his welcome, he congratulated QE Girls’ for the school’s excellence in education, music and community relations, attributes which he said were all the more important in a world which devalued the relationships which held people together.

He had a personal message for the pupils.

“There are girls like you who do not have schoolteachers and education support, girls who are not allowed to go to school, and who don’t have safety and fairness.

“Even here in the United Kingdom and the USA the world does not always feel kind or just.

“When you go out into the world, realise you have privileges, that you will have the power to change things, and that you will have the voice to decide whether countries should have schools for girls.

“So, use your privilege to make the world fairer than my generation is manging to.”

Father Sam said QE Girls’ should be congratulated for its diverse community where there were many beliefs, beliefs which were shared with a shared affirmation of faith during the commemoration service.

Nidhi Singh, a year ten pupil, affirmed her belief as a Hindu in the teachings from the Ramayan, one of Hinduism’s greatest scriptures.

An affirmation of the Muslim faith was given by year-eight pupil Tawakol Abdessalem who explained to the congregation that charity was important and that one of the five pillars of their faith was to give to the poor, needy and other causes.

For the act of commemoration, headteacher Mrs Violet Walker, read from a text first delivered at the school’s commemoration day service in 1923 – a custom which has been followed in recent years.

Mrs Walker’s recognition of the importance of the annual service of commemoration is shared by leaders of the Queen Elizabeth’s Guild, which represents former pupils at the school.

Barnet parish church nave filled with orchestra and choir for annual commemoration day service for Queen Elizabeth's Girls' School

Judy Wilson (far left), who is keen to keep the title guild chairman, and guild secretary Gill Williams (far right), were welcomed by the Mayor Barnet, Councillor Tony Vourou and Mayoress, Mrs Caroline Vourou.

The two former pupils who now lead the guild said they started together on the same day in the autumn term of 1957.

“Back in those days the school had only 600 pupils and we could all be accommodated quite easily in the church,” said Judy.

“We used to parade up the High Street to the church with the Police stopping the traffic.

“We were so pleased when Violet (herself a pupil at QE Girls’) became headteacher and started bringing back the old traditions. They do mean so much today.”

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Tea and cakes at Barnet parish church after climbing the tower – just one of the celebrations for the 80th anniversary of VE Day

There could hardly have been a better way to celebrate the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day than to climb the tower at Barnet parish church, admire the view, and then round off the visit with a glass of Pimm’s or a piece of cake and a cup of tea.

There was a steady stream of parishioners and visitors walking up the spiral stone steps to enjoy a special VE Day celebration at St John the Baptist Church.

Sunny weather in the late afternoon and a light wind ensured almost perfect conditions to look out over London and Hertfordshire with magnificent views of landmarks such as The Shard, Canary Wharf and the Wembley stadium arch.

Keeping busy on the cake stall – see above – were Catherine Liu (left) and Kris Webb with the support of the team vicar, Father Sam Rossiter-Peters.

Whenever the tower is open to the public there is usually no shortage of people ready to climb to the top catching their breath halfway up in the bell ringing chamber.

Resting before the final climb were Bruno Roncarati – see above –who at the age of 90 was determined to take in the view. With him was his son Paolo.

Two guides at the top of the tower – Ian Peacock (left) and Jim Jenkins – were on hand to point out the sights.

Opening the tower to visitors was just one of the VE Day celebrations organised by local churches.

The anniversary was celebrated at the Monken Hadley Church of St Mary the Virgin with an evening concert of music and songs dating back to the 1945 with plenty of wartime numbers.

A ceremonial lighting of the beacon rounded off the evening.

Celebrations for 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day included visits to the top of the tower at Barnet parish church.

Brookside Methodist Church in East Barnet hosted an impressive display of wartime posters by members of the Barnet U3A painting group.

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Around 80 classic and vintage cars to parade though Barnet High Street ahead of annual show on the top floor of The Spires Car Park

A display of Jaguar cars will be the highlight at this year’s Barnet Classic Car Show on Sunday 18 May on the top deck of the car park at The Spires shopping centre. It will also be a special moment for club stalwart, Chris Nightingale.

In previous years, Chris has usually been busy assisting as a steward, but this year’s show will be a chance to exhibit his rare New Era Mini which is already looking spick and pan – see above — in preparation for the day.

A recent edition of the magazine Mini World devoted several pages to the history of the car — one of three versions of an early variant of the mini and the only one of its kind still in existence.

Preceding the show, which opens at 11am, will be the traditional parade of classic and vintage cars along Barnet High Street starting from 10.30am.

The final car in a parade of about 80 vehicles will be a 1930s open top Bentley which will have as passengers the Deputy Mayor of Barnet, councillor Danny Rich, and councillor David Longstaff.

Organiser Chris Frost is expecting about 150 cars to be on display on the top floor of the car park and the Deputy Mayor will open the show.

After giving pride of place last year to a display of Lotus Cars to highlight Barnet’s link to the Lotus founder Colin Chapman, the club is keen to display a range of Jaguar cars, a firm favourite with classic car enthusiasts.

One of the club’s Jaguar owners, Emile, is the proud owner of a Jaguar 420 which he purchased in 1994 as a rolling shell in which he installed an engine and manual gearbox.

He had the car repainted from Balmoral green to BRG green and has made other adjustments to update the car without compromising its integrity.

Display of Jaguar cars to be highlight of Barnet Classic Car Show after 80 cars parade along Barnet High Street.

Chris Nightingale’s entry, his New Era Mini — registration number POP 22 – was one of the early minis.

It was converted by his father Kenneth Nightingale at his garage in Birmingham which specialised in re-tuning cars.

When the mini was launched in 1959, Kenneth developed three prototypes of what he hoped would be a retuned and modified mini.

“My father specialised in tuning and body conversions and with the help of some panel beaters from the Austin factory at Longbridge, he streamlined the body work at the front of the mini and hoped to build up a successful range of mini variants.

“Unfortunately, my father was unable to attract sufficient investment so there were only the three prototypes and POP 22 is the last of the line – and can claim to be the only one of its kind in the world.”

Chris started the show in 2014 with the help of the club’s founder Owen Jones and says that such events are unmissable for classic car enthusiasts.

“For the enthusiast, the chance to look over a classic or vintage car is a moment of nostalgia, jogging the memory and taking us back to happy days.”

As in past years, the show will raise funds for the Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice.

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Garden decoration helps to highlight High Barnet events to commemorate 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day

Celebrations for VE Day marked with impressive garden decoration at High Barnet's historic alms houses

There is no mistaking an imaginative commemoration for the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day on the lawns of the historic Wood Street alms houses of Jesus Hospital Charity in High Barnet.

A large V incorporating the figure 80 has been laid out on one lawn with a massive poppy on an adjoining lawn.

The displays are the work of gardener Robert Fenton.

His floral decorations are widely admired not only by residents of the alms houses but also passers-by in Wood Street who have been treated over the years to a succession of impressive displays for major state occasions.

A royal cypher and crown were marked out on the lawn to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III in June 2023. 

Robert, who is helped by fellow gardener Brian Hewitt, works to scale drawings prepared by his partner Kate Walsh.

“The VE display of the V and the figure 80 is the official design and it has to be done to scale. My partner Kate makes sure they are dead right.”

Robert uses the charity’s 100-year-old hand-pushed cylinder lawn mower to cut the grass extra short so that the display stands out.

“It is hard work, cutting back the grass, and keeping it looking good, but every so often it is great to commemorate the big events, and we know how much these commemorative displays are appreciated by local people.”

In addition to King’s Coronation display, Robert marked out the Olympic rings for the 2012 games in London, did displays for the late Queen and one for Prince Harry and Meghan – an H and M with a heart in between.

Robert has been a gardener at the alms houses for over 20 years and takes care of lawns and gardens in Wood Street, Monken Hardley, Potters Lane, and Grasvenor Avenue.

Barnet Parish Church of St John the Baptist is commemorating VE Day with a tower opening from 5pm to 7pm on Thursday 8 May with a glass of Pimm’s, cakes and tea to follow.

A concert of music and songs dating back to 1945 with plenty of wartime numbers is being held that evening at the Monken Hadley Church of St Mary the Virgin followed by the ceremonial lighting of the beacon at 9.15pm.

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Climate change might be responsible for earliest ever sightings of swifts swooping and squealing over High Barnet

Record hot weather in late April coincided with the earliest reported sightings of swifts who are considered by far High Barnet’s most popular avian visitors each summer.

Veteran swift watcher Angela Morris saw four flying above Kings Road at 11.55am on Monday 28 April – her first April sighting in the forty years she has been recording their arrival in her diary.

“Usually, the swifts get here sometime in the first week of May. My latest ever sighting was May 14 and the earliest May 1, but it was a real surprise to have a late April sighting.”

Members of Barnet Swifts Group have also been reporting the swifts’ arrival.

Peter Lyons saw four circling above Manor Road late in the day on 28 April and other sightings were recorded over the following days – Robin Bishop saw several flying above Fitzjohn Avenue and Susan Skedd said she was awoken by their squealing above Leicester Road, New Barnet.

Even more encouraging for swift enthusiasts was the news that a pair have been seen visiting a nest box on a house in Granville Road which offers an array of nesting places including boxes and spaces under the eaves.

In view of the continuing interest in encouraging the provision of nesting boxes for swifts, David Martens, who founded the Barnet Swifts Group, says that north and east facing aspects are best to avoid the hot summer sun.

Playing recordings of swift calls, particularly early in the morning or an hour before sunset, can boost the chance of attracting swifts to a nesting box.

David, who is a now a member of the Welwyn Hatfield Swift Group, says swift news from around the locality can be seen by following the Facebook link to the Hertfordshire Swift Group.

Angela Morris said her interest in swifts dates to when her family moved to Kings Road in the 1950s and she started noting their arrival in her diary.

“I was so relieved to see them back again this year. I heard their screaming first and then saw them flying down Kings Road.

“Years ago, there were many more arriving each summer and they used to nest under the eaves of the Edwardian houses on the north side of Kings Road. Unfortunately, many of their nesting places have gone when people insulated their lofts and sealed off the eaves.

“Usually, I see them first at around 7.30pm in the evening, so to have a morning sighting on April 28 suggested to me they probably arrived the day before.

“The parent swifts tend to head off back to Africa at the end of July, but the new young birds take a time surveying the local scene, but they are off too by mid- August.”

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Wide array of attractions and refreshments promised for the return of Arkley village fayre and fun dog show

After the success of last year’s revived Arkley village fayre, the organisers are planning an even more ambitious event for Saturday 31 May at the village field in Brickfield Lane, Arkley.

An all-comers dog show will again be a highlight of what Hearts of Arkley are hoping will be another vivid demonstration of the friendly spirit and engagement within their community.

A host of events are being arranged including face painting, live music, children’s games plus a wide variety of refreshments.

The organisers are adding the final touches to the programme – seen above at the field village, from left to right, the Reverend Cindy Kent, vicar of St Peter’s Church, Arkley, Maureen Stevens, Karin Read, Iris Auburn and her dog Amber, Mel Garfield and Sue Rich.

Arkley Village fayre promises to be bigger and better than last year on Saturday May 31 starting at 12 noon

Last year’s fun dog show, which was run by Rachel Burke of dog groomers Beauty Barks of Borehamwood, has established itself as a firm favourite and once again locally owned rescue dogs might be among those competing for the rosettes.

Mel Garfield said they were determined this year’s fayre would be bigger and better than last May with an amazing array of attractions and hot food.

Raffle prizes will include items donated by Morrisons supermarket in Borehamwood which together with estate agents Statons is sponsoring the fayre.

For more information see www.arkleycommunityevents.co.uk or email info@arkleycommunityevents.co.uk

Proceeds from last year’s fayre are helping support several local initiatives including the construction of a safe, accessible entrance to the garden of rest of St Peter’s and the ongoing cost of maintaining the village defibrillator which is available for use 24/7 in Rockways, a cul-de-sac just off the Barnet to Arkley main road.

Karin Read, a trustee of the Arkley Association, said the fayre was the only summer event organised for the village and its revival last year had been widely appreciated by the local community.

Proceeds from the fayre also help to defray the cost of maintaining the village hall.    

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“Dame on the doorstep!” – Dame Theresa Villiers celebrates honours award out campaigning in Barnet Council by-election

Former Secretary of State Theresa Villiers, who was Conservative MP for Chipping Barnet until she lost her seat in last year’s general election, has been made a Dame Commander in Rishi Sunak’s resignation honours.

Four of her ex-colleagues were promoted to the House of Lords.

Ms Villiers is among a group of former Conservative ministers whose honours, including knighthoods, are in line either with their continuing status as MPs or are perhaps a reflection of the possibility that they might wish to seek re-election to the House of Commons.

The day after her Damehood was announced, she was celebrating her new status when out campaigning for the Conservative candidate in a by-election in Whetstone for a vacancy on Barnet Council.

“Dame on the doorstep” was the heading for a post on her Facebook page which contained numerous congratulations for “a well-deserved honour” and expressed the hope that she might one day return to Westminster as the Chipping Barnet MP.

Her website – www.theresavilliers.co.uk – gives details of the speeches she has made since losing her seat and outlines her wish, as a resident of Arkley, to continue taking an interest in community issues and events within the constituency.

A recent example of her engagement in local affairs was joining a LoveWhetstone litter pick in support of the Keep Britain Tidy Campaign.

In responding to the award – Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire – she made it clear it was an honour she believed she would never have received without the support and hard work on her constituency staff and volunteer helpers.

She was re-elected four times as the Chipping Barnet MP – in 2010, 2015, 2017 and 2019.

Her ministerial appointments included serving for four years as Secretary of State for Northern Ireland under David Cameron and then as Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs under Boris Johnson.

Former Chipping Barnet Conservative MP Theresa Villiers is made a Dame Commander by Rishi Sunak in resignation honours

Dan Tomlinson, who won the Chipping Barnet constituency for Labour in last July’s general election, added his congratulations.

The image above is by High Barnet caricaturist and cartoonist, Simon Ellinas (simonelli@me.com) who was in the audience – and who set to work — when Mr Tomlinson appeared at a question-and-answer session hosted by the Barnet Society.

In applauding Mr Sunak’s announcement that his predecessor was now Dame Theresa Villiers, Mr Tomlinson told the Barnet Post that he wanted to add his congratulations to the recognition she had received for her 19 years’ service as the Chipping Barnet MP.

“No matter our political differences, I’m genuinely heartened to see two decades of commitment to Chipping Barnet and public life recognised in this way.”

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Warm welcome on offer for new members at lawn bowls club at Victoria Recreation Ground in New Barnet

After being unable to play at home last year because crows had dug holes in their green, the East Barnet Valley Bowls Club is holding open days at weekends during the coming months in a bid to boost their membership.

Lawn bowls has been transformed in recent years as a family sport and the club’s green at the Victoria Recreation Ground is considered to be one of the hidden sporting gems of New Barnet.

New and experienced players are welcome. Coaching will be provided. The open days start the weekend of Saturday and Sunday 12-13 April (from 2-4pm) and continue into May and June.

After the club’s green was damaged repeatedly in the summer of 2023 by crows looking for larvae (leather jackets) of crane flies (daddy longlegs), the lawn had to be reseeded last year, and after considerable care and attention is now ready for play to resume.

Geoffrey Partridge (above, right), captain and treasurer, has been applying top dressing to help restore the grass to tip top condition after the disaster that befell the club in the summer of 2023.

“The green was inundated with crows which were digging holes in the grass with their beaks as they hunted for the crane fly grubs.

“For some reason, the crane flies like to lay their eggs in short grass and bowling greens are often a target.

“The damage was so bad we had to take the top off the lawn and then we reseeded it last year and hopefully the crows won’t come back.”

With the lawn restored ready for playing again, the club is anxious to build up its membership and hopefully by next year have enough members to enter teams in contests run by the Finchley and North London Bowling Association.

Club secretary Dave Mulford (above, far left) said East Barnet was a family-friendly club and offered an active sport for all ages.

In addition to the open days being held over coming weekends – see full list of dates below – the club can arrange other times by arrangement and is open for practice sessions throughout the season.

“We were only able to play away matches last year but now our lawn is back in use we are making a real effort to rebuild the membership – we have already delivered over 700 leaflets to surrounding houses.

“We have 13 playing members at present but we would like at least 20 so that we would have enough to field teams again in the local competitions.”

East Barnet’s clubhouse offers a warm welcome. Richard Aspden (above, left) who joined two years ago, is keen to encourage other parents with young children to become members.

“Hopefully we might have a family open day later in the summer. We are a very friendly group, and we do hope to do more on the social side.”

Colin Harris (above, right) who has been a member of the club for 56 years, can testify to the appeal of watching and playing lawn bowls.

“As a five-year-old my mother used to bring me along to watch bowls being played at the club. 

“I was fascinated watching the bowls – or woods as they were known then – rolling across the green grass.

“I joined the club myself when I was 17 – and here I am at 73 enjoying bowls just as did all those years ago.”

Colin, who was in the East Barnet team which won the local Prentice Cup in 2005, is seen with the club’s oldest member, Don Knight (left), who will be 90 in June.

Don was county president of the Hertfordshire Bowls Association in 1999 and in 2013 was awarded the Medal of Merit for services to bowls by Bowls England.

Another photograph on the wall includes former President Eric Partridge (father of current club captain Geoffrey Partridge) who was in the East Barnet team which won the Prentice Cup in the 1974.

The first home match to be played at East Barnet since 2023 will be in May against Metropolitan Bushey.

The East Barnet Valley club was founded members of East Barnet Urban Council in 1927 – a year after Barnet Council laid out its bowling green in the Old Courthouse Recreation Ground.

Unlike some clubs which are in prominent positions – such as Barnet Bowls Club just off Wood Street — East Barnet is tucked away in a corner of the Victoria Recreation Ground at the rear of the New Barnet Leisure Centre.

It is a six-rink green and was laid out in 1927 with Cumberland turf which was thought to be the best playing surface for flat green bowling.

The club hopes their programme of open days will help put them on the map:

Saturday Sunday 12-13 April, 2-4pm

Easter Monday 21 April 2-4pm

Saturday 26 April – 10am-12noon

Saturday 3 May – 10am-12noon

Tuesday 3 June – 5-8pm

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Inspiration award for years of support and assistance at Dollis Valley in sustaining foodbank and holiday lunch club for school children

A decade long association as a volunteer at the Rainbow Centre, the community hub for the Dollis Valley estate, has been rewarded with a Barnet Council “Inspiration All” award for Patricia Gay in recognition of her dedication and support.

Trish – as she is known to one and all – hopes her award will help publicise the campaign to end the continuing uncertainty over finding a permanent home for what is considered to be a vital resource for residents of the estate.

A weekly food bank and lunch club for children in the school holidays are just some of the many activities which could be threatened unless Barnet Council can find new premises.

Under existing redevelopment plans, the Rainbow Centre’s lease expires in May and the building is due to be demolished for the next phase of the housing regeneration scheme for the Dollis Valley estate.

“Unfortunately, we have been fobbed off time and again,” said Trish, who is a director of the Rainbow Centre’s users’ group.

“The council have assured us that they are actively searching for new premises for us but volunteers who give so much of their time to running a foodbank and children’s lunch club should not have to face uncertainty like this.”

She has arranged for Councillor Barry Rawlings, the Labour leader of the council to visit the centre, and she hopes the centre can finally get some clarity over what might happen.

“Ideally, we would like to stay where we are. We cannot understand why the building cannot be properly renovated or even rebuilt.”

Inspiration award from Barnet Council for dedicated volunteer at Rainbow Centre community hub for Dollis Valley estate

To the great disappointment of Trish – and Steve Verrall, director of the charity Barnet Community Projects – the council has withdrawn an earlier proposal to re-house the Rainbow Centre in a former cricket pavilion in Barnet Lane, Underhill.

This was first suggested four years ago.

There we high hopes as late as 2023 that the move would go ahead, but the council has informed the centre that this option would be too costly in view of the work needed to refurbish the pavilion, which has been vacant since construction of the Ark Pioneer Academy School on the site of the former Barnet Football Club stadium.

Trish said the volunteers at the centre – and other users such as a regular martial arts class – find the lack of any clear answer to the future extremely disconcerting.

“Let’s hope my Inspiration All award – which recognises the hard work of women and girls in supporting the community – will alert the rest of the council to our plight.”

Trish – who grew up on the Dollis Valley estate and who became a head girl at Ravenscroft School – started volunteering at the Rainbow Centre after she retired from her work as a secretary in the City of London.

“To begin with I helped at “Make Lunch” – our lunches in the school holidays for children who are on the free school meals register. In those days we were feeding anything from 50 to 60 children a day.”

Assisting with the weekly foodbank was another commitment. Donated food and other supplies are sorted and bagged up each Wednesday and then distributed each Thursday, helping up to 70 families a week.

Another project Trish helped with was a beauty course for young girls teaching them skills such as training to become nail technicians.

 Since becoming a director of the centre five years ago, Trish has helped resolve a range of troubling issues.

“There was a lot of anti-social behaviour around the centre. I contacted the Police and got that sorted. Fly tipping was another problem that had to be dealt with.”

Regular customers at the Sebright Arms in Sebright Road will be familiar with Trish’s regular fund-raising events.

Organising practical assistance is just as important. A Christmas Giving Tree at the Sebright encourages customers to buy and wrap up Christmas presents for the children of needy families on the estate.

Her latest pitch is to raise money for a computer for a Dollis Valley schoolboy who is about to take his A level exams in the hope of getting a place at Cambridge University to study engineering.

Trish was presented with her award by the Mayor of Barnet, Councillor Tony Vorou, at a ceremony in March.

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Barnet parish church hosts launch of historical novel by painter and art lecturer with a lifetime’s interest in paintings by Caravaggio

A lifetime’s fascination with the work of the prominent early Baroque painter Caravaggio has led to an unexpected twist in the career of High Barnet painter and art lecturer Keith West.

Because of his frustration at the failure of art historians to provide answers to unresolved questions about Caravaggio’s troubled life, West has written an historical novel – Caravaggio’s Boy – in which he explores the meteoric rise and fall from grace of the greatest Italian painter of his generation.

West is well known locally for his own religious paintings which over the years have been displayed at Barnet Parish Church, St Alban’s Cathedral, St Martin-in-the Fields, St Margaret’s Church, Westminster, and other settings and galleries.

His oil painting depicting the 1471 Battle of Barnet was unveiled at the Barnet Museum shop in 2019 during the 30th anniversary celebrations for The Spires shopping centre.

Holding the High Barnet launch of Caravaggio’s Boy at the parish church was an added honour because West’s painting Majestas Domini (Christ in Glory) is about to rehung in the parish church’s Ravenscroft side chapel which will also display his next painting, a newly commissioned Madonna and Child.

West (77), a long-time High Barnet resident, was formerly a lecturer and head of arts at the Camden Institute.

He came up with the idea of writing an historical novel about Caravaggio during the Covid lockdown, after his retirement from teaching.

“Since a teenager, I have always been fascinated with work of Michelangelo Merial de Caravaggio and his model Cecco de Caravaggio.

“I had acquired so much material during my research and preparation for lectures, that I realised I should have a go myself at answering some of the unresolved questions about his life.

“In the many books about Caravaggio, art historians offer their individual take on the who, when, where and what about Caravaggio, but they don’t answer the why, and they fail to explain why he became such a violent, touchy and provocative man.

“I realised I should not try to write another biography but attempt to fill in some of the gaps in Caravaggio’s life story and the background to the incidents that sent him into exile.

“By choosing the form of a novel I had the opportunity to speculate about the background to his paintings and the role of his favourite model, Francesco Boneri, who was known as Cecco.”

In recommending the book, the Very Reverend Jeffrey John, formerly Dean of St Alban’s Cathedral, said West had “imaginatively and convincingly” filled in some of the gaps in knowledge of Caravaggio’s life and that of Francesco, his model, student and lover.

“It is a rollicking story which vividly brings to life the violent contrasts of their time: the opulence and squalor, piety and corruption, sophistication and degradation of 16th and early 17th century Italy.

“Against this backdrop West’s expertise in art and art history gives fascinating insights into the genesis and genius of Caravaggio’s paintings.”

West’s painting Majestas Domini — which is waiting to be rehung in the Ravenscroft chapel at the parish church – is his reconfiguration of the famous Graham Sutherland tapestry, Christ in Glory, which is on display at Coventry Cathedral.

His commission for the painting came from the Rector of St Margaret’s Church, Westminster, where it was on show as part of the Festival of Christ the King in 2012. Later it was displayed at St Alban’s Cathedral and then gifted to Barnet parish church.

An earlier series of eight paintings by West, The Story of the Passion, was first shown at St Alban’s Cathedral in 2008, then St James’s Church, Picadilly and St Margaret’s, Westminster.

He is now working on a new small oil painting of Madonna and Child which has been commissioned for St John’s by the team vicar Father Sam Rossiter-Peters, and which will be hung in the Ravenscroft chapel together with his other painting, Majestas Domini (Christ in Glory).

“Father Sam wants the Madonna and Child to be culturally correct. I have just done the drawing. The baby’s arms are up which would be an anticipation of the crucifixion, and which would marry my Christ in Glory painting.”

West’s lifetime fascination with religious paintings began at the age of 16 on a school trip to the National Gallery when he first saw Caravaggio’s The Supper at Emmaus and realised it was different from every other painting in the gallery.

“When I became an art student, I went all over Italy to see every Caravaggio I could find, as well as to Dublin and New York. I think I have seen everyone.

“There are quite a few gaps in Caravaggio’s life story with all the tensions his immense talents and unique vision caused him throughout his career.

“From envious competitors who resented his popularity and cardinals who recognised his genius but objected to casting the poor as saints and a prostitute as the Virgin Mary.

“Art historians can’t speculate about these gaps and incidents, but a novelist can.”

Cecco, Caravaggio’s model, was the only companion of his Roman years to accompany the master into exile after the duel in which Caravaggio’s opponent, Ranuccio Tomassoni was killed.

It was after he was abandoned in Naples when Caravaggio left for Malta, that Cecco appears to have begun painting commissions.

West’s novel brings Cecco to life in an imagined career pulled together from scraps of information and a catalogue of paintings which indicated he was a talented painter.

Historical novel about famous Italian painter Caravaggio written by High Barnet artist and painter is launched at Barnet parish church

Caravaggio’s Boy, published by Vanguard Press, £14.99, available from Waterstones and Amazon

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Mayor of Barnet pays tribute to the “amazing achievement” of the founders of a welcoming home for overseas students  

A small village community of flats and bungalows established by two Holocaust survivors has provided a home over the decades for hundreds of students from all over the world – an achievement celebrated with a visit by the Mayor of Barnet, Councillor Tony Vourou.

Barnet Overseas Students Housing Association, which is based at Nansen Village in Woodside Park, will be celebrating its 55th anniversary next year, to the great delight and satisfaction of the surviving co-founder Charlotte Weinberg.

Charlotte, who is 94, and her late husband Kurt — who was rescued by the Kindertransport – began a life-time mission to welcome and help provide accommodation for foreign students staying in London, first by hosting students in their home and then by building the village in Woodside Avenue. 

Their dream was to create a community where overseas students arriving in London could live together while completing their university studies – a vision which Councillor Vourou said had become the couple’s lasting achievement.

Councillor Zahra Beg, chair of the Nansen Village trustees (above, left) joined the mayor and Charlotte, who is 94.

Councillor Beg is a ward councillor in Underhill and Barnet’s cabinet member for equalities and the voluntary and community sector.

She said that once Kurt and Charlotte began looking after students from around the world, they marvelled at the sense of togetherness generated by young people from different religions and cultures sharing their lives.

“We know there are generation after generation of students who tell us they won’t ever forget their time living here at Nansen village – a legacy from the dream of Kurt and Charlotte that is continually being taken forward.

“As trustees we have tried to ensure that the focus of the founders stays true and that a community from diverse backgrounds can come together and share that experience.”

Brian Trainor (above, far left), chief executive of the housing association, took the mayor on a guided tour of the village which was established on what was once the site of two Victorian houses and which is named after Fridtjof Nansen, the explorer, humanitarian and Nobel Peace Prize laureate.

With the help of a grant from the British Council, two blocks of flats and some bungalows in the gardens were constructed in the late 1960s and in 1971 the first tenants moved into the first 66 homes to be completed.

Currently there are 130 students in residence, 35 of whom have families with children. Since its opening, 380 children have been born to parents at the village.

The majority of students are currently from South America and the Middle and Far East.

The housing association is organised on a non-profit basis and rents are kept as low as possible to accommodate students on low incomes, with or without children (under the age of eight).

Laila Kasuri, who is in the second year of a PhD at Imperial College, expressed thanks on behalf of the students residing in the village and congratulated Charlotte and Kurt on what they had been achieved.

She and her husband — and their two children aged five and two – were originally from Pakistan and had moved to London from Canada so that she could complete her studies in water governance.

“I am so grateful as a young parent for all the support I get at Nansen Village. The community here is very special.

“Last year we had a visitor at our bungalow from California. He said he was two when he lived in the very same house.

“He was the child of a PhD student then living at Nansen and said his childhood in the village was the best five years of his life. 

“Apparently, he was always in the playground and the sandpit. My children are often out there too. All the children know one another socially and together we all have such a rich social life.”

Mayor of Barnet joins celebration of work of community village for overseas students at Woodside Park

After being congratulated by the mayor for all she had done to encourage students from different cultures and religions to live together, Charlotte said she did feel proud of what she and Kurt had achieved given all the troubles in the today’s world.

“I often wonder what so many of the students who have lived here are doing now.

“Our aim is to give them a sense of security, especially when facing life in a big city and we hope they have taken the name of Nansen Village around the world.

“People who survived the Holocaust don’t forget the support that we were given, and that ethos became our driving force.”

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Adventurous programme of lakeside concerts is planned for this summer in support of Monken Hadley Common 

Preparations are well underway for the most ambitious programme so far for the popular summer season of concerts beside Jack’s Lake at Monken Hadley Common.

Since the festival was launched in 2021, there has been ever growing support for the open-air musical evenings which are held in a woodland glade beside the lake.

Ilona Domnich (above right), the New Barnet opera singer whose idea it was to give people an opportunity to enjoy music and nature in a magical setting, has arranged dates for four concerts over weekends in June, July and August.

Her aim this summer is to feature more singers from musical theatre, to explore the versatility of the voice, and to include a greater variety of instruments for the chamber music.

Andrew Walker (above, left), chair of the Monken Hadley Common Trust which hosts the concerts, believes the expanded programme will appeal to a wider section of the community and increase attendance.

“We hope the concerts will bring along people who perhaps have never been to the common before.

“That will help us spread the word that the Hadley Common Trust which cares for the woods and lake is run entirely by volunteers.”

The concerts are free, but cash and card donations (£15 suggested minimum per adult) will be collected.

Proceeds will be shared between the trust for the upkeep of the common and for a bursary for a young musician at the World Heart Beat Music Academy in Nine Elms.

The four concerts will be on Saturday 14 June at 7pm; Sunday 6 July at 7pm; Sunday 20 July at 6.30pm; and Sunday 3 August at 6.30pm.

This summer’s theme is to explore different genres with concerts which explore the versatility of the voice in opera and musicals and bring in more musical instruments.

Ilona will be accompanied by Charles Mutter, leader of the BBC Concert Orchestra as well as other talented musicians. All being well they will include a harpist and an accordionist.

“We want the concerts to appeal to a wider audience and attract people who have never been before.”

Each summer Ilona finds the concerts are introducing people to classical music for the first time, including the anglers from the Hadley Angling and Preservation Society who share use of the lake.

“Often, after the concerts, anglers fishing around the lake come along and thank us. One told me that he usually listens to hard metal or rock but had loved the classical music and opera.”

For more details about the Jack’s Lake contacts: https://ilonadomnich.com/projects/hadley-woods-festival-music-on-jacks-lake/

Andrew said the importance of the concerts was that they introduce more people to the common and that gives the trust a chance to spread the word about how the upkeep of the common depends on volunteers.

“There is always a new challenge for us, trimming trees, maintaining footpaths, and looking after the dam to the lake and the weir – all sorts of different tasks.”

“The trust is a charitable institution, and it is the members who elect the trustees who are responsible for the common, so we are always looking for new members to come and join us.

“Holding concerts beside the lake is just one of the ways we can raise our profile and attract the attention of people who can give us financial support or join a working party.

“What better way to get to know Hadley Common than bring along a picnic and a bottle of wine or whatever and sit beside the lake and listen to amazing classical musicians.

“It is a chance to make a donation towards caring for the commons and supporting a bursary for a young musician.”

For details on how to join the Hadley Common Trust or to become a benefactor or concert sponsor go to the trust’s website www.mhctrust.org.uk or email treasurer@mhctrust.org.uk