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Residents’ Association Programme
The Brentford Dock Residents’ Association Programme for July to December 2009 is available on the Forthcoming Events page.
The Englishman who Beat Galileo – at Syon House
Click to enlarge image
Four hundred years ago, an English scientist and mathematician named Thomas Harriot lived at Syon House as a guest of the 9th Earl of Northumberland, popularly known as The Wizard Earl. Harriot obtained one of the newly invented telescopes being sold in the Netherlands and turned it on the Moon, marvelling at its rugged, cratered surface. The drawing he made that night, 1609 July 26, is the oldest known depiction of a celestial object as seen through a telescope, beating the Italian scientist Galileo by four months. Harriot went on to compile a remarkably accurate map of the Moon and observed sunspots.
Click to enlarge image
To celebrate the 400th anniversary of Harriot’s achievement, an astronomically themed day for space enthusiasts young and old is being held at Syon Park. Attractions include a planetarium in the Great Conservatory, observing the Sun through special telescopes (weather permitting), building and launching water-propelled rockets, hands-on science activities, and space talks by speakers including local author Ian Ridpath.
A memorial plaque to Harriot will be unveiled close to the site where he made his observations. For further information go to www.telescope400.org.uk/event.htm.
Normal admission charges to Syon Park and Syon House apply (the private gate from Brentford Dock into the park will be closed for this one day).
There will also be an evening lecture on Harriot and his work by Oxford historian Allan Chapman, with reception to follow (advance booking required): www.telescope400.org.uk/lecture.htm
Flat Wanted to Rent
A young couple want to rent on Brentford Dock. See their advertisement in the Flats & Houses Wanted to Rent section of the Property Page.
Henry VIII Waves to Brentford Dock
Sometime after 1.00 pm on Saturday 20th June, King Henry VIII and his Queen were rowed past Brentford Dock aboard the Royal Shallop Jubilant. They were accompanied by a flotilla of traditional shallops and Watermen’s cutters.
Click image to enlarge in a separate window
Henry was on his way to Hampton Court Palace for a weekend of music, dancing and entertainment in the Palace gardens to mark the 500th anniversary of his coronation (24 June 1509).
These are some of his entourage:
and she also came along
Fund Raising
Chris Cockel of 93 Otho Court is running in the Midnight Sun Marathon in Tromso, Norway on Saturday 20th June to raise money for the Stroke Association because his mother suffered a devastating stroke and is now confined to a nursing home. He would be most grateful for even the smallest sponsorship plegdge so that he might reach a target of raising £1000. His sponsorship page, where you can make on-line donations is: http://www.justgiving.com/chriscockel.
Book Launch
At 6.30 p.m on Friday 5th June, as part of the 150th Anniversary of Brentford Dock, the book Brentford Dock and the Railway by resident Diana Willment, will be launched in the Residents’ Clubroom, 1 Augustus Close. Wine and nibbles will be served. No purchase is necessary.
"Brentford Dock, Past and Present"
To mark the 150th anniversary of the old Southall-Brentford Railway Branch Line (and surrounding area) the Great Western Railway Preservation Group are presenting a photographic exhibition in the Musical Museum, 399 Brentford High Street, TW8 0DU from Wednesday 3rd June, to Saturday 18th July (11 a.m. to 5.30 p.m.- last entry 4.30 p.m. Tuesdays to Sundays only). Entry £7 (concessions £5.50).
Additional local information about the Grand Union Canal from Southall to Brentford is to be provided by Brigitte Flock. Other local historical groups have been invited to join in the event.
River Pageant
On Saturday 20th June, Historic Royal Palaces will mark the 500th anniversary of King Henry VIII’s coronation (24 June 1509) with a magnificent Tudor river pageant rowing from the Tower of London up the River Thames, to the King’s favourite surviving royal residence, Hampton Court Palace.
At 10am at the Tower of London, King Henry VIII and his Queen will board the Royal Shallop ‘Jubilant’, with a splendidly attired entourage of Tudor courtiers and musicians accompanied by a flotilla of traditional shallops and Watermen’s cutters. The King will proceed along the River Thames, passing Brentford Dock during the early afternoon, arriving at Hampton Court about 3 p.m.
More boats will joining the procession at Richmond for the final leg of the journey.
There will be music, dancing and entertainment in the Palace gardens. Festivities will continue on Sunday, 21 June, with the flotilla leaving the Palace during the late afternoon, rowing back downriver to bring the historic week-end's celebrations to a close.
Stag Beetle Rescued
On Tuesday 19th May head gardener, Thomas, rescued a rare stag beetle that had been found lying upside down on a staircase in Nero Court. He put the beetle on an oak leaf and placed it on a pile of rotting leaves near the Syon Park gate.
Bee Swarm
Last week a swarm of bees settled on the yellow sculpture at the shop end of the marina and were successfully recovered by some local beekeepers.
Morris Men
Martin Stone took these photos of Morris Dancers dancing outside The Brewery Tap on Saturday afternoon (16th May). The group are from Wimbledon and they perform here every year. Click any image to enlarge it in a separate window.
Pontoon Party
From noon on Sunday 17th May, Brentford Cruising Club will be holding its annual barbeque and Pontoon Party in the Marina. This is a good opportunity to meet the club, if you are interested in boats.
Reduce Your Water Charge
Resident Brigitte F advises that if you live alone in a two or more bedroom property, and pay your water charge on the Assessed Household Water Charge scheme, you can contact Thames Water and get your charge reduced with effect from 1 April 2009.
Quiz Night
The next Residents' Association Quiz Night is at 8pm sharp on Thursday 21st May in the Residents' Clubroom, 1 Augustus Close. If you want a supper, order it with Pat Eliott by Friday 15th May, but pay on the day and bring your own drinks. All welcome.
Brentford Dock Residents' Association Annual General Meeting
The Annual General Meeting of Brentford Dock Residents' Association will be held at 8.00 pm on Wednesday 29th April in the Residents' Clubroom, 1 Augustus Close.
Brentford Dock Ltd Annual General Meeting
The 29th Annual General Meeting of Brentford Dock Ltd will be held at 8.00 pm on Wednesday 22nd April in the Residents' Clubroom, 1 Augustus Close.
Somerfield to Become a Morrisons Store
The Somerfield store in Brentford High Street will close on Wednesday 22nd April. It will be refurbished and re-open in the summer as a bigger Morrisons store.
Brentford Library Closures
Brentford Library is only open four days a week (two until 5.30pm and two until 8.30pm). It closed at 5.30pm rather than 8.30pm on Thursday 19th and Thursday 26th March and was closed all day on Monday 23rd March, allegedly due to Brentford library staff being diverted to fill shortages at another library in Hounslow Borough. You can comment on this on a form produced by Brentford Community Council, downloadable here.
Missing Lion
On Wednesday 16th March, the 260-year-old stone lion that used to sit on the roof of Syon House was
taken away for emergency repairs to his crumbling paws and tail. Syon Park says the lion, which is the Percy family emblem, is due back in about three month's time, all being well.
Click any image to enlarge it in a separate window.
How many Brentford Dock residents can you spot in the group photograph?
Meet Your Local Police
From 10am to noon on Saturday 14th March, the Syon Safer Neighbourhood Team of the Metropolitan Police will be in the Residents’ Clubroom, 1 Augustus Close.
If you take them your mobile phones' IMEI numbers and/or your pedal cycle serial numbers, they will register your details free with Immobilise.com. There are pictures and details of the Syon Safer Neighbourhood Team in the text below. 020 8721 2532
Another Airmail Message
"Dear Mr Blue Tit,
I am delighted to hear you are moving in to Brentford Dock. You will no doubt add colour and chirpiness to our already happy environment.
May I suggest that you apply for a mortgage to the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds. Their rates are peanuts.
Your unfeathered friend,
Ian"
An Airmail Message
The following message arrived from a prospective resident:
"On a recent fly-over my attention was drawn to the new residences on the Dock. I have left a deposit on a blue-tit box and am currently negotiating with R.B.O, an offshoot of RBS who, if the rumour is correct, can be relied upon to lend on any property. I intend to pay the mortgage by giving the Bank exclusive television rights on the activities in my new home. The only cloud on the horizon is a rather ferocious cat whose owner has assured me of safe passage for my family and me.
With thanks,
Mr Blue Tit"
Affordable Accommodation on Brentford Dock
These new homes appeared around Brentford Dock this week. Have you seen them? Who will live in them?
Pictures by nature reporter, Ian Ridpath. Click any picture to enlarge it in a separate window.
New Advertisements
The four year old 5-door Auto Vauxhall Vectra Hatchback, 2.2 Direct Design for sale on the Items For Sale section of the Your Advertisements page has been snapped up.
There is a four-bedroom riverside maisonette to let in the Flats & Houses To Let (For Rent) section of the Property Page.
Strange Creatures on Brentford Dock
These strange creatures appeared on Monday 2nd February 2009. Pictures by Ian Ridpath and Mary Spice. Click any picture to enlarge it in a separate window.
Deep Snow
Picture by John Barker. Click picture to enlarge it in a separate window.
Funeral of Jim Croal
Jim Croal, a long term resident of Brentford Dock, died in The Royal Star and Garter Home, Richmond, at midnight on Sunday 18th January.
CROALL James Langdon, aged 80, died peacefully on 19th January at The Royal Star & Garter home, Richmond on Thames, after a long illness, bravely borne. Formerly of Brentford Dock and had a long career at British Airways. A loving brother to Margaret and uncle to Kate, and special friend of Anna, Angela and Jenny.
The funeral will be held at Mortlake Crematorium, Kew Meadow Path, Richmond, TW9 4EN at 4 pm on Monday 9th February and afterwards at the Richmond Gate Hotel, Richmond Hill, Richmond-upon-Thames, TW10 6RP. All friends welcome. Family flowers only please. Donations if desired to the Parkinson's Disease Society, via T. H. Sanders & Son, 28-30 Kew Road, Richmond, TW9 2NA
The Richmond Gate Hotel is at the junction of Richmond Hill and Queens Street, opposite The Royal Star and Garter Home.
Joan Faubert
Joan Faubert, an inhabitant of Otho Court since 1979, died on Tuesday 14th January.
Holiday Opening Times
Management Office
| Christmas Eve | 8.30am—12.30pm |
| Christmas Day | Closed |
| Boxing Day | Closed |
| Monday 29th December | 8.30 am—5.00 pm |
| Tuesday 30th December | 8.30 am—5.00 pm |
| New Years Eve | 8.30 am—12.30 pm |
| New Years Day | Closed |
| Friday 2nd January | 8.30 am—5.00 pm |
Shop
| Christmas Eve | 7.00 am - 2.00 pm |
| Christmas Day | Closed |
| Boxing Day | Closed |
| Saturday 27th to Friday 2nd January |
8.00 am-2.00 pm |
Syon Safer Neighbourhood Team
The members of Syon Ward Safer Neighbourhood team are Sergeant Pete Murphy, PC Mark Hughes, PC Andy Brooks, PCSO Craig Boosey, PCSO Daniel Haydon and PCSO Ebeid Elkyeam.
Office: 020 8247 5989
Mobile: 020 8721 2532
Syon.SNT@met police.uk Go back to where you were
Cycle Death
On Wednesday 26th November, Michael Fletcher of Augustus Close was involved in a traffic incident whilst on his bicycle on the A4 and subsequently died. More information here: http://chiswickw4.com/default.asp?section=info&spage=common/conaccident77.htm
Christmas Lights
Ian Ridpath took this picture of the Christmas Lights reflected in the marina. Click the picture to show more detail in an enlarged separate window.
Free Items
There are more free items on the Free Items section of the Your Advertisements page
Quiz Night
At 8.00 PM on Thursday, 20 November, Brentford Dock Residents Association are holding a Quiz Night in the Residents’ Clubroom, 1 Augustus Close. All welcome. Quiz entry £1 per person, or £5 to include a fish or chicken supper. Book supper with Pat Elliott but pay on the day and bring your own drinks.
Christmas Lights
During the weekend of 15-16th November, Christmas lights were put up around the marina and the estate. Ian Ridpath photographed these in the area between Otho and Nero Courts. The lights have now been switched off. When they will be officially turned on again is not known. Click any picture to show more detail in an enlarged separate window.
New Metropolitan Police Telephone Number
On the 14th October 2008 the Metropolitan Police Service launched a new telephone number for use in all non-emergency situations.The new number is 030 0123 1212. It is charged at the same rate as a 01 or 02 number. People should still dial 999 in an emergency.
Funeral - Bob Friend
At 2.30pm on Friday 17th October there will be a Funeral Service of Thanksgiving at St Peter's Church, Black Lion Lane, Hammersmith, W6 9BE. Family flowers only. Donations in lieu to Macmillan Cancer Support c/o Barnes & Hicks Ltd, Funeral Directors, 123 Askew Rd, London W12 9AU, Tel: 0208 743 9444.
Bob Friend
On the afternoon of Wednesday 8th October, Sky News announced the death of Brentford Dock resident Bob Friend. He was recently hospitalised. He will be sadly missed.
Property For Sale
There is a 2-bedroom flat with garage for sale in the Flats & Houses For Sale section of the Property Page.
Storage Cupboard Wanted
A resident urgently wants to rent a Storage Cupboard. See the Storage Cupboards section of the Property Page.
Free Sofabed
Get it on the Free Items section of the Your Advertisements page.
Over £3,000 to Macmillan Cancer Support
This year Brentford Dock Residents Association will be contributing over £3,000 to Macmillan Cancer Support (Macmillan Nurses). The Association raised about £1,550 at the recent Coffee Morning and £1,500 at the Bring and Buy Sale. Thanks are due not only to the residents who worked so hard, but to everyone who came along to support the two events. The following pictures are from the Coffee Morning. Click either picture to enlarge in a separate window.
Charity Book Sale
From 11:00 AM until 5:00 PM on Saturday the 27th of September, there will be a Charity Book Sale in memory of the late Margaret Legum, in the Brentford Dock Residents' Clubhouse, 1 Augustus Close.
A variety of new and used books will be for sale with proceeds going to the Rainbow Fund for South Africa. "Come along and have a look at the wide variety of exciting books we'll be selling; there will definitely be something for everybody!"
House For Sale
There are only four houses in Brentford Dock. One of them is for sale in the Flats & Houses For Sale section of the Property Page.
Great River Race 2008
On Saturday 13th September Brentford Dock residents partied as they watched over 300 boats pass Brentford Dock. There were 289 boats competing in the 22-mile Great River Race from Richmond to Greenwich and they were accompanied by safety boats and other boats carrying spectators. There were Chinese dragon boats, Hawaiian war canoes, Viking longboats, gondolas, Irish curraghs, shallops, gigs, skiffs, wherries and whalers all rowed or paddled by entrants from the UK and overseas. There were classes for Ladies, Mixed Crews, Veterans over 40, Veterans over 60, Juniors under 18, Juniors under 16 and Juniors under 14.
Click any of the following pictures to enlarge in a separate window:
The Sea Scouts were there:
The Sisterhood was there:
The ladies of Myrto were there and the "Row Girls" in a Sculled Atlantic Race Boat were too:
The Gravesend Reporter was there:
Weybridge Sailing Club's gondola Lola was there:
Legal & General's Baby Dragon Boat and Blue Watch, Richmond Fire Brigade were there:
So were other dragon boats, some with beating drums:
The Smurfs were there:
There were hats and bonnets:
The Dutch and Welch were there:
There was Young's brewery Shallop
Bringing up the rear was our PLA Harbourmaster based at Richmond Lock:
Property For Sale
There is a 3-bedroom Flat for sale in the Flats & Houses For Sale section of the Property Page.
There is a Garage for sale in the Parking Spaces & Garages For Sale section on the Property Page.
New Parking Proposals
Jane cody writes:
Though there has been talk about a proposal to solve the parking problem on Brentford Dock for a while, it was only yesterday, 30th August 2008, that a detailed proposal was circulated. That proposal offers a discussion meeting in just 3 working days time and, apparently, a fait accompli implementation date of 1st October. That does tend to give the impression that a fairly radical change of leaseholders and tenants rights are being rushed through!
Whilst I agree that the problem needs addressing, my own opinion is that the current proposal takes us from one extreme to another too quickly, is ill conceived and therefore likely to cause substantial and perhaps irresolvable administrative problems to the Dock. I have emailed the management office with some initial thoughts but, in view of the very short time between proposal, discussion opportunity and implementation, have asked Neil to consider a website posting so that residents have a chance to comment on and consider the full implications of the proposal. My main comments are as below - not all have a personal significance as I have tried to imagine just a number of exceptions/examples which could result in hours of time spent attempting to achieve fair resolution.
1. Intrusive and/or Ill Conceived
I have never, on the many occasions in the past that I have applied for parking permits, had to prove ownership of my car or declare whether it is owned outright, belongs to a finance company or is a company car. Were I to be persuaded to give this information to the Security Office, I would want to know exactly why this information was necessary for the purposes of the scheme, who this information was available to, and precisely how it was covered under the Data Protection Act. Similarly, whilst one partner in a couple might be able to prove that their name is on the lease or tenants agreement, the other might not. If they each own their own cars do they then have to justify the nature of their relationship to the security office to get a permit for the car that is owned by the partner who is not a signatory to the lease or tenancy agreement?
2. Visitor Parking Permits
The proposal offers 12 Visitor permits for a year valid for up to 48 hours. This gives rise to a number of questions:
a) if a colleague from work offers you a lift and you invite them in for a coffee, presumably that’s one pass gone as there’s no provision for a short stay?
b) If you invite “2 cars” to dinner (say four people) 6 times a year, that’s all your passes gone
It’s not a generous or flexible allowance and although the Chairman suggests additional permits can be obtained there is a caveat that “certain conditions and restrictions apply”. In view of the intrusive nature of the proposed application process, I’d very much like to know the detail of these restrictions and conditions “up front” as I find it difficult to imagine what they might constructively and fairly be.
3. Disabled Parking
Surely now is the time to allocate a couple of strategically placed bays, by the lifts for example, for disabled parking?
4. Workforce Parking
In the interests of openness, it would be useful if the Chairman could tell us how many permits are allocated (permanent and temporary) to the employers and contractors of BDL in this proposal and how the proposal will work for them.
5. Income From Fines
Will this money just be absorbed into the BDL pot or can it be allocated to a separate fund for longer term solutions to the parking problem?
6. Possible Exception - Regular Use of Hire Cars rather than owned car kept “on site”
This must be reasonably common in a place like Brentford for a variety of reasons. I certainly wouldn’t want to have to check in and out of the security office and “prove my entitlement to hire” every time I used a hire car.
I’m sure that other residents have a number of other special circumstances and I see the Security Office drowning in a sea of paperwork and hours of tricky sensitive personal discussions with residents whilst they examine their private lives to see if they can fit them into the proposal as conceived. It’s unnecessary, unpleasant and counter productive so I offer the following alternative proposal which is simple and will be an improvement on the current parking position as well as saving huge amounts of valuable staff and resident time.
Alternative Proposal
1. Issue two permanent permits per residence that are property specific rather than car specific. These can have a code number which will identify the property to the management office but nobody else.
2. Issue two “short term” visitors permit per residence - maximum stay 4 hours to be designed similar to disabled badge where you have to show the time of arrival.
3. Issue an initial 12 visitors permits up to 72 hours (more likely period of weekend stay). Issue more on request by resident and simple declaration that the resident uses them for the purposes intended
4. “Keep out” of resident’s own spaces ie no changes to existing system
The fact that they have been posted through the property’s letter box should be sufficient proof of residence to BDL - ie they must have been received by a resident. However if would be a sensible security measure to ask residents to sign a form and return it to the management office acknowledging receipt and agreeing to “SIMPLE AND FAIR” terms and conditions before “activation.”
Advantages:
- Achieves primary aims and purposes
- Less major erosion of genuine leaseholder and tenants right
- No big brother/ data protection issues
- No need for intrusive/personal discussions between residents and management offices on delicate relationship and financial matters
- Reduces considerably administrative time and quandaries
- More Likely to gain initial acceptance and can be finessed as time goes on
- Doesn’t imply to BDL residents that their management company doesn’t trust them!
Disadvantages
?
Bank Holiday Boules
On the afternoon of Monday 25th August, Otho Court residents (and others) played boules on the lawn in front of Otho Court.
Boules is very popular especially in France where it may often be seen played in any open space in villages and towns.
Great Brentford Picnic
Between noon and 4pm on Wednesday 6th August the Great Brentford Picnic is taking place at St. Paul's Recreation Ground, Lateward Road. Brentford Community Network are inviting all Brentford residents to this year's Great Brentford Picnic celebrating National Play Day. Bring your own picnic and enjoy the activities put on for you all FREE of charge. Bring your bikes along for a health check by Dr Bike.
Missing Tabby Cat
Dexter, a much loved large, brown and black fluffy tabby cat has been missing from Augustus Close since 16th August. His owners ask if you could look in your garage or shed to see if he has been trapped there. He has the owner's phone number on a bronze tag on his black collar and he is microchipped. If you spot Dexter please call 020 8847 0393 or 07860 200021.
David Shavreen
David Shavreen died on Monday 2nd June. His funeral will be at 12:30 pm on Friday 6th June in the East Chapel of Golders Green Crematorium, Hoop Lane, off Finchley Road, London, NW11. Nearest tube is Golders Green (Northern Line). Further information from Dock resident, Robert Tasker, on 07952 217 930.
Directions:
From Gunnersbury Station, take the Overground towards Stratford. Alight at Finchley Road & Frognal Station. At bus stop FD, take the 82 bus towards North Finchley/Tally Ho Corner. Alight at Hoop Lane. Walk to Golders Green Crematorium.
Alternatively from Golders Green tube station (Northern Line) take H2 bus to Golders Green Crematorium.
More travel details from Transport for London Journey Planner.
Artist Paints in Dock Road
Our Arts Correspondent, Ian Ridpath, reports: "Street artist Peter Brown (known as Pete the Street) was at work in Dock Road this week on a commission for a Dock resident. Pete, well- known for his depictions of Bath, London and the Thames, paints outdoors in all weathers and happily interacts with passers-by while at work. See more of his art on http://www.peterbrownneac.com/index.htm"
Click image to enlarge in a separate window.
RNLI Demonstration and Pontoon Barbeque Party
At 11.00 am on Sunday 11th May, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution from Chiswick Pier will be visiting Brentford Cruising Club (in Brentford Dock Marina) to give a demonstration and/or talk on boat safety. They will check any lifejackets that anyone brings along.
From noon there will be a Barbeque Party on the hard standing in the marina. If you are interested in boats, come along and introduce yourself to someone wearing the Brentford Cruising Club logo. Bring something to drink
(and to drink out of), something to barbeque, and maybe something to sit on. You can buy food and drink in the Brentford Dock Convenience Store until 2 pm.
BDRA Quiz Night
At 8pm on Thursday 8th May, Brentford Dock Residents Association are holding a quiz in the Residents’ Clubroom, 1 Augustus Close. £1 per person for the quiz only or £5 to include a Fish or Chicken supper. Book your supper with Pat Elliott (020 8568 1556) beforehand, but pay on the night. Bring your own drinks.
Nero and Numa Courts Block Meeting
At 8pm on Tuesday 29th April, there will be a Block Meeting for Nero and Numa Courts in the Residents Club Room, 1 Augustus Close.
Present will be directors: Nicky Plant (for Nero Court), Phil Stephenson (for Numa Court) and Elizabeth Campbell Bevan (for Numa Court) and also a member of Management Office staff. The agenda will be:
- Introduction of Directors & Management Office staff in attendance
- Dock Road sale update
- Parking policy update
- Speeding problems on the Dock
- Painting of Accessible areas on the Dock
- Re-branding of Brentford Dock
- Pembertons/Cledor update
- Escalation of problems on the dock
- Public access to the Dock; Dogs not on leads
- Pigeon problems
- Minor repairs
- Block cleaning
Syon Park Temporary Gateway
Click picture to enlarge in separate window
Visitors to Syon Park last week were able to stroll through this temporary gateway outside the Great Conservatory. It's part of a set for a remake of the 1941 Lon Chaney classic horror film The Wolfman.
The inside of the conservatory was turned into a ballroom with orchestra stage. Shooting was done throughout the night under large banks of lights suspended from a crane. Although the wall looks convincing the 'stonework' is in fact made of fibreglass.
For more on the movie, see
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Wolf_Man_(2009_film)
From our showbiz correspondent: Ian Ridpath
Brentford Dock Residents Mend Vandalised Picnic Table
Vandals wrecked and set fire to the table in the picnic area by Osterley Lock on the Grand Union Canal (by Boston Manor station). Instead of shrugging his shoulders and moving on, Brentford Dock resident Michael Cunnington offered to rebuild it. Local volunteers were delighted and agreed to pay for the materials. Michael then contacted the Commodore of Brentford Cruising Club (the boat club based in Brentford Dock) to seek the assistance of the Club, in particular with transporting the new bench up the canal by boat.
The bench was pre-fabricated in Brentford Dock Marina by residents Peter Dignam and Michael Cunnington and also by Clive Evans, the Commodore of Brentford Cruising Club. The bench was transported to the site, some last-minute adjustments made, and then bolted in place. The restored picnic table is now ready for use again.
Block Meeting: Leo, Maurice, Otho and Servius Courts
At 8pm on Wednesday 23rd April, there will be a Block Meeting for Leo, Maurice, Otho and Servius Courts in the Residents Club Room, 1 Augustus Close.
Present will be directors: Ian Addison (Otho Court), Mike Edwards (Otho Court), Caroline Andrews (Leo Servius and Maurice Courts) and Shirley Fisher (Leo Servius and Maurice Courts). John Antrobus from Pembertons (our managing agent) will also be present.
The agenda includes:
- Parking – Major re-think and consequent early draft proposals and an update on Hounslow's new scheme for Augustus Close
- Possible Dock Road sale – progressing well, latest update
- The Dock and its image – "Re-branding" about to take place including the possibility of a name change
- Roles & Responsibilities – Landlords and Tenants
- Pembertons & Claydor – Update on service provision
All shareholders and residents of the above blocks are welcome. Shareholders requiring answers to complex questions, such as those relating to past expenditure, should provide sufficient information in advance to enable adequate answers on the night.
Mapping Brentford
Ilze Black of the Watermans Arts Centre writes:
Dear Brentford Dock Community,
Please come and share your personal stories and experiences of the local area! Your views are important in helping to creatively document and re-imagine Brentford!
We would like to invite people who live or work in and around Brentford, to join a series of participatory mapping workshops, where artist Christian Nold will be using innovative methods to analyse the ecological, social, cultural and economic health of the town. The results from the workshop will be shown in Watermans gallery and then distributed as printed maps to local libraries, council offices and developers.
Christian Nold is an artist, designer and educator working to develop new participatory models for communal representation. In 2001 he wrote the well received book ‘Mobile Vulgus’, which set the tone for his research into participatory mapping. Since graduating from the Royal College of Art in 2004, Christian has led a number of large scale participatory projects. In particular his ‘Bio Mapping’ project has received large amounts of international recognition and been staged in 16 different countries.
The first public workshop will be held at Watermans on April 5, 2008, from 1 - 5pm FREE! Come along and bring your local newspaper, favorite story, images and anything you want to put on the Brentford map! Everyone - young, old and in-between is welcome to take part!
Other dates:
Saturday, April 12, 1-5pm
Wednesday, April 23, 6-9pm
Saturday, May 10, 1-5pm
Wednesday May 14, 6-9pm
Please e-mail me at ilze@watermans.org.uk or call 020 8232 1010 to let me know which workshops you would like to attend. For more information visit: www.watermans.org.uk/exhibitions/brentford_biopsy_with_christian_nold/
University Boat Race
On Saturday 29th March, Chiswick Pier Trust at Chiswick Pier, Corney Way Reach, W4, home of the local lifeboats, invites residents to join them for a fun afternoon to celebrate the Boat Race with a band, BBQ, Fuller's bar and television. Arrive any time after 12:30. The Boat Race starts 17:15.
Parking Space for Sale
A parking space for sale in the Syon Park Car Park, near Otho Court and the maisonettes, has just been advertised on the Property page.
Linda Churcher Memorial Pictures
There are pictures of Linda Churcher's recent Memorial under the heading of Linda Churcher Memorial below.
An Exotic Visitor
An exotic, but not rare, visitor to Numa Court. Click picture to enlarge it in a separate window.
Mapping Brentford
Leigh Stops, Marketing Director, Watermans Art Centre writes:
Mapping Brentford - would you like to take part in creatively documenting and re-imagining Brentford?
Share your personal stories of the local area and create some novel maps. During April and May, artist Christian Nold will be out and about to locate your stories and record your emotions. Together you will be working at Watermans and around Brentford using different creative methodologies and technologies to create a new type of map of Brentford. These maps may even help the planners to develop the High Street in a more interesting way.
Everyone - young, old and in-between is welcome to take part. The first public workshop will take place on Saturday 5th April from 1pm - 5pm FREE! Bring your local newspaper, favourite story, images and anything you want to put on the Brentford map!
To register your interest in participating in this or one of the other workshops please call the Box Office 020 8232 1010 or e-mail:ilze@watermans.org.uk. You can find more details on our website: www.watermans.org.uk/exhibitions
Brentford Dock in Bloom
Mel Bryan sent these pictures of Spring coming to Brentford Dock. Click on any picture to enlarge it in a separate window.
A Spooky Invitation!
Lizzie Jackson writes:
Researchers from the University of Westminster are conducting a study on television programmes such as Most Haunted, Derren Brown’s Trick of the Mind, or related television, films or websites. During April 2008 we would like to interview you (for one and a half hours, with others) to talk about these programmes.
We are interested in discussing what you think of ghost investigations, mediums, magic and illusions in the media. In today’s society, why do we still have a fascination in traditional ghost stories?
This is a non-commercial project, led by Annette Hill who is writing a book about ghosts in contemporary society and culture. Please be assured your confidentiality would be respected and no names would be used in the project. Your input will be invaluable to our research.
The group interviews will take place over a series of evenings from Monday 7th April to Thursday 24th April, with the first session from 6pm-7.30pm and the second session from 8pm-9.30pm in the University’s Regent Street building at 309, Regent Street, London, W1B 2UW. You would only be required to attend one of the sessions.
We can provide light snacks and £20 to say thank you for your time and contribution.
If you are interested in taking part, please email Lizzie Jackson at pghostmedia@hotmail.co.uk indicating your interest and giving your contact details including the best telephone number to call you on, and a good time of day to call. We will telephone you to ask a few initial questions and organise a time for you to attend the group interviews. We would love to know what you have to say on this subject.
Thanks, Annette Hill and Lizzie Jackson
Linda Churcher Memorial
At 4 p.m. on Saturday 8 March, twenty or so residents toasted the memory of Linda Churcher as two memorial benches were unveiled on the pathway at the rear of Galba Court.
Linda was a resident of Brentford Dock and was Secretary to the Chief Executive of Brentford Dock Ltd. for many years. She was also Treasurer of Brentford Dock Tenants' Association.
Click on picture to enlarge it in a separate window.
New Director
Leslie Ann Ferber, of Julius Court, has been elected as director of Julius and Marcus Courts.
John Maynard's Funeral
A funeral service for John Maynard, late of Numa Court, will take place at Mortlake crematorium at 2pm on Tuesday 19th February. NO FLOWERS PLEASE BY REQUEST. In lieu of flowers, donations should be made payable to the Entertainment Artistes Benevolent Fund (E.A.B.F) and sent to The Treasurer, Brinsworth House, 72 Staines Road, Twickenham, TW2 5AL. For further details, ring resident P.Bell on 0774 0933285.
Sir Harry Cowell
Sir Harry Cowell writes:
Hi there,
I was one of the early people to buy a flat in Brentford Dock....Number 13 Numa in 1981.
I would love to hear from anyone from that era...
The 80s in Brentford Dock were amazing and I met many wonderful people at the fun nights at the Marina Club.
I moved out to Strand on the Green and then later to Surrey.
Harry Cowell, sirharry AT pncmusic DOT com
Ayyub Malik
Anne Ku of Ealing writes:
"I found out this morning by email from a friend in London about Ayyub Malik's death. I am very shocked and sad. I wrote this in hopes to find others also in shock and grief. I miss him already:http://www.bonjournal.com/entries/j080103.htm
Feel free to publish on your bulletin. It's hard to grieve alone.
With sadness, Anne"
Sign the Save the Watermans Art Centre Petition
Leigh Stops of the Watermans Arts Centre writes:
"Watermans has been threatened by the Arts Council with the loss of its grant. This would come into effect almost immediately so we would have to make immediate cut-backs in our programme.
The people of West London will lose nearly £500,000 that would be spent on Participative Arts, New Media Arts and Asian Arts.
We have been advised that the Arts Council is on very shaky ground with this decision and a large show of popular support will help our appeal.
If you would like to see Watermans get its grant reinstated please support us by lending your name to our campaign."
You can add your name to the petition by clicking here. Several residents have also done so. You can also see their comments there.
Bah Humbug
Steve Bullman of Romulus Court writes, "No Christmas lights on the dock this year? Would anyone like a (bah) humbug?"
[Editor's note: At the joint Otho Court block meeting of 7th November, the majority of those present voted for a continuous stream of lights right around the estate.]
Police Message
on Saturday 15/12/07 Isleworth Ward police will be holding local public meetings. This is a chance for the public to ask police any questions or give us information.
The meetings will be as follows:-
Tescos, Mogden Lane, Isleworth 0930 - 1130
Halfords, Ivybridge retail park 1200 - 1400
At Halfords, you will also have the chance to register bikes with immobilise.com.
At Least Six at Funeral
Apparently there were at least six people from Brentford Dock at Ayyub Malik's funeral as the following reveals:
Dear Editor,
I think it is a little unfair of Katherine Baxter to describe the four residents of Julius Court plus we two (from Marcus Court) as ‘all-most no-one’.
The mosque & cemetery were somewhat difficult to find and the weather was pretty shocking but Ayyub’s family and work colleagues made us most welcome and the tributes to Ayyub at Wolfson college were terrific.
He was a lovely guy and will be sorely missed.......
Bernie & Cathy Spratt, Marcus Court
Ayyub Malik's Funeral
Resident Katherine Baxter says:
Ayyub's funeral in Oxford was a wonderful farewell, and there is going to be a Celebration of Ayyub's life and work in the Spring at the home of Nigel Woolner close friend and associate of Ayyub's in Bedford Park Chiswick. I will let you know more details nearer the time.
I want to make one comment though; it was with great sadness that the attendance of Ayyub's funeral from people and especially Board members was negligible, with all the work and energy Ayyub put into the working of Brentford Dock and also the Board. I was shocked almost no-one came, I hope they will make amends and come to his memorial.
Ayyub Malik - Flowers
The following has been received from Ayyub's family:
It was Ayyub’s wish that instead of flowers a donation should be made to:
Edhi International Foundation (UK)
316 Edgware Road, London, W2 1DY
020 7723 2050
http://www.edhifoundation.com/contact.asp
They accept cheques by post or credit cards by phone.
Zia Sardar,
ziauddin.sardar AT btopenworld.com"
Ayyub Malik's Funeral
The following has been received from Ayyub's family:
"Dear friends,
It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing away of Ayyub Malik. He will be missed by all who knew him.
The funeral will take place on Friday 30 November. According to his will, Ayyub is to be buried in Oxford. His body will be brought to Oxford Central Mosque (Manzil Way, off Cowley Road, East Oxford, Phone: 01865-245547) at 10.am where he will be bathed and prepared for burial. Funeral prayers will be said at 1.30pm, immediately after Jumma prayers. The funeral precession will then leave for North Hinksey Lane Cemetery, off Botley Road, which is a couple of miles from the Mosque. The actual burial is planned for 2:30pm. http://www.oxford.anglican.org/directions.php
There will be a reception between 4.00 to 6.30pm at the Private Dining Room, Wolfson College (Linton Road, Oxford OX2 6UD; Porters Lodge Phone: 01865-27274105) in north Oxford — two miles from the cemetery.
Parking
There should be ample parking around the cemetery. There is free parking around the College, but please mind the traffic through the town centre.
Muslim prayers
Muslim funeral is a recitation while standing in rows behind the religious cleric. Irrespective of your beliefs, you are welcome inside the Mosque though we all take off our shoes. One can stand aside and does not have to join the row for the prayer, which itself is quite short.
If you cannot join us for the prayers, please join us at the cemetery or at the reception. If you would like to say something at the Wolfson reception please do let us know.
Iftikar Malik
i.malik AT bathspa.ac.uk
Zia Sardar
ziauddin.sardar AT btopenworld.com"
Ayyub Malik Dead
At 7:10 pm on Monday 26th November, Ayyub Malik, director of Julius and Marcus Courts, died in West Middlesex Hospital, where he had been an in-patient for a few weeks. He will be buried in Oxford this week. Further details will be published when known.
Diamond Jubilee Party
From 3pm to 5pm on Saturday 24th November, Brentford Dock Residents' Association are holding a party with refreshments in the Residents’ Clubroom, 1 Augustus Close, to celebrate the Diamond Wedding of the Queen and Prince Philip. Due to limited space and to assist catering, admission will only by ticket available free from Tom Flavin, 29 Augustus Close. Please supply addressed envelope, quoting number of tickets required.
What the High Street Will Look Like
On Thursday 29th November 2007, upstairs in the Methodist Church Hall, Clifden Road, Brentford TW8 9DG, Ballymore (the owners of most of the land south of the High Street between Heidelberg and St Lawrence's Church) will present their draft proposals for development of the area to the South of the High Street Steering Group in an open meeting. Further information may be at: Future Vision.
Simon Moore writes:
Dear Sirs/Madam,
I am a resident of Brentford;
I live in the Butts. I understand
that the proposed development
for the high street is about
to kick into high gear. I
am in the process of organizing
the first in a series of
protests against the development
and demanding for the preservation
of the boat yards to take
place early next year. I
am wondering whether your
organization would be interested
in participating in this
event in anyway?
I would be glad to hear from
you at your earliest convenience.
Best regards
Simon Moore
Tel: 0208 560 1319
Christmas Lights Come to High Street
At 6pm on Friday 30th November at the Watermans Arts Centre there will be a lighting up ceremony to switch on Christmas Lights in Brentford High Street for the first time. There will be mince pies and mulled wine, a Christmas tree and a choir from Our Lady and St Johns Primary School. The lights will stretch from Brentford Lock to Half Acre. There will also be a display in Albany Parade and the Market Place. Further details: www.brentfordhighstreet.co.uk.
Sponsor a Light Bulb
For £10 you can have your name in lights by sponsoring a bulb in the Christmas lights display. Contact Julia on 020 8847 4737.
Christmas Drinks
From 6.30pm on Thursday 20th December, Brentford High Street Steering Group are inviting local residents and business people to share in a mince pie and a Christmas drink at The Weir, 24 Market Place, Brentford TW8 8EQ, www.theweirbar.co.uk. Tickets are on sale at £6 with all profits going back into the Christmas Lights fund. For tickets please email sarah@brentfordhighstreet.com or drop into Grand Union Community Development, 151 High Street.
Quiz
At 8pm on Thursday 7th November, there will be a quiz in the Residents’ Clubroom, 1 Augustus Close. Bring your own drink.
Block Meeting
On Wednesday 7th November, there was a block meeting of both halves of Otho Court. About 30 residents attended, many of whom were new to Brentford Dock. Directors Ian Addison and Mike Edwards provided mulled wine and nibbles at their own expense. The following information was divulged:
New Management Company
The new management company, Pembertons, will take over in December. The contract can be seen in the BD Management Office. Pembertons have a subsidiary company called Cledor. Pembertons will do the administrative work in their head office and Cledor will do the day to day running of Brentford Dock.
Staff will be increased. There will be full 24-hour security. Another security guard will be recruited to fill the 9 to 5 slot. The rooms below the BD Management Office will be converted to a Security Office. The estate agent window display will be discontinued. There will be a head gardener. The greenhouse will be reopened and used.
John Antrobus who took over from Sue Green will transfer from Pinnacle to Pembertons and continue his job here. He is currently renting 2 Augustus Close. Other members of Pinnacle staff, including Peter, will transfer to Pembertons.
Pembertons will manage the marina.
Heating and Hot Water
A professional report on how the estate could best be heated examined all methods, including having individual boilers in each flat, and concluded that the only option was to continue with the existing system. This necessitates considerable replacement of the heating pipes throughout the estate and there will be much digging. There is money to cover the expected cost of this. No effective method of individually metering hot water has been found.
The gas infrastructure would not support individual boilers. The communal boiler is 10 years old. It should last another five years at least.
The heating report can be seen in the BD Management Office.
Dock Road
A developer has asked to buy Dock Road from Brentford Dock. The developer has paid for a structural survey of the two Dock Road bridges. This was only allowed on the condition that a full report must be sent to Brentford Dock Ltd (BDL). No decision has been made. Brentford Dock Ltd is getting an independent valuation of Dock Road. If it were decided to sell, the developer would have to buy the complete road including the two bridges. In any case BDL would insist on preserving our right of way over the road.
Augustus Close
Augustus Close and the first part of Justin Close are London Borough of Hounslow roads. They were adopted many years ago. LBoH will paint double yellow lines along the south side of the entire length of Augustus Close from the High Road to the marina, and also along Justin Close as far as the footbridge.
Syon Park have asked for a road entrance to Syon Park from Augustus Close. BDL are requesting more information (e.g., what for?) before considering this.
to be continued
Additional Cabling for Sky Plus / Sky Multiroom
SCCI have told an Otho Court resident that it will cost £180 to connect the existing external (but unconnected) TV cable to his flat, and a further £340 to install a switch box and second cable so that the resident could subscribe to Sky Plus (and receive two different Sky programmes simultaneously).
The new switch box
would enable
another flat
to receive
Sky Plus
as well. If any resident near the Justin Close end of Otho Court wants a second connection, they could share the £340 cost. If so, contact 
.
For background see Integrated Radio TV System installed in Brentford Dock in 2001.
Clocks Go Back This Weekend
British Summer Time (BST) ceases at 2.00 AM on Sunday 28th October. That is 2.00 AM (BST) on Sunday morning becomes 1.00 AM Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). So put your clocks back one hour on Saturday night and have an extra hour in bed.
High Tides
Higher than usual tides in Brentford are predicted at the following times:
Morning |
Afternoon |
Height metres |
|
Fri
26 Oct |
3:15
BST |
4.25
BST |
7.2 |
Sat
27
Oct |
4.00
BST |
4.10
BST |
7.3 |
Sun
28 Oct |
3.45
GMT |
4.00
GMT |
7.4 |
Mon
29 Oct |
4.25
GMT |
4.45
GMT |
7.3 |
Times are approximate as high tides are affected by the amount of rainwater flowing in the Thames and Brent and by meteorological conditions in the North Sea. Brentford Dock is not in danger of flooding.
Halloween Costume Ball
From 8.00 pm until late on Saturday 27th October, Fantasy Land costume and party shop is holding a Halloween costume ball in the Princess Royal pub, South Ealing Road. Tickets are £5 from Fantasy Land, 61 South Ealing Road (020 8569 8765/07930 594 610). There will be a raffle to raise money for the premature baby unit and Starlight children's ward in West Middlesex hospital. There will be prizes for the best costumes.
Parking Bicycles
Michele Sanchez of Otho Court has a problem parking bicycles on Brentford Dock. See her concerns here on the Notice Board.
Brentford Regeneration
At 8pm on Thursday 27th September, in the Residents' Club Room, 1 Augustus Close, Councillor Andrew Dakers will talk about the proposed Brentford Regeneration.
"World's Biggest Coffee Morning"
From 10.30 am to noon on Friday 28th September, part of the world's biggest coffee morning will take place in the Residents' Club Room, 1 Augustus Close. Organised by Brentford Dock residents, this event is part of the Macmillan "World's Biggest Coffee Morning" - an annual event to raise funds for Macmillan Nurses who care for cancer patients, both in their homes and in hospices. A donation of £1 is suggested.
Donations of prizes for the raffle may be left at the Brentford Dock Management Office, 2 Justin Close. Raffle tickets may also be purchased in advance at the Management Office.
In 2005 we raised £1282; in 2006 we raised £1470; how much will we raise in 2007?
£1200 Raised for Macmillan Nurses
Brentford Dock residents raised £1200 for Macmillan Nurses at the Bring and Buy Sale
held on Saturday 22nd September in the Residents' Club Room, 1 Augustus Close.
Allglass Rubbish
On Tuesday 21st August, Allglass were replacing windows in a first floor Otho Court flat. They dropped the top of a window onto the balcony of the flat below. Had it hit anyone it would have caused severe injury. They also dropped glass onto the balcony. They made no attempt to apologise or to remove the debris. (The occupant of the flat was continually at home recovering from an operation.) Three weeks later, despite several requests from Estate Supervisor, Roy Branch, Allglass have still not removed the debris.
Allglass removed the debris on Wednesday 12th September after this article was emailed to them.
Brentford Cruising Club Night Cruise
Brentford Cruising Club's London by Night Cruise, scheduled for Wednesday 12th September, has had to be cancelled.
Brentford Cruising Club is a motor boat club based in Brentford Dock marina. It welcomes new members who are genuinely interested in boating on the tidal Thames and beyond. Previous experience in or ownership of boats is not necessary. For details contact 
.
On Saturday 15th September four or five boats from Brentford Cruising Club are setting out for a Sunday lunchtime barbecue at a riverside residence in Sunbury.
Farewell Barbecue
On Friday 7th September, Sue Green, who has acted as General Manager of Brentford Dock Ltd for the last five years, held a farewell barbecue for Pinnacle staff on the riverside. Sue, who was made an associate director of Pinnacle last year, will be leaving Brentford Dock on Thursday 13th September.
She may return briefly in December when Pinnacle hand the management of Brentford Dock over to Pembertons.
The Great River Race
The first three pictures were taken by Ian Ridpath of Otho Court and the fourth by Catherine Spratt of Marcus Court. Click any photograph to enlarge it in a separate window.
Click here to see many more pictures on the Brentford Cruising Club's website.
Your Views on the Watermans Arts Centre
Leigh Stops, Marketing Director of the Watermans Arts Centre, wants to hear what residents think of the centre, and how he can increase its usage by local communities. He asks anyone who is interested, to give him their views over a drink, downstairs at the Watermans Arts Centre between 6.30 and 7.30pm on Wednesday 12th September. If you would like to contribute, ring the Box Office, 020 8232 1010, any day between midday and 9pm and leave your name.
If you can't make it that evening, you could come to the Open Day on Saturday 29th September and see some of what is going on at the Centre.
Launch Party Change of Venue
From 7pm on Friday 7th September, a party will take place at Grounds Café and Wine Bar, Unit 1, Brentford Lock, High Street Brentford, TW8 8JZ to celebrate the launch of the Wedge Card and a brand new website for Brentford.
The Brentford High Street Steering Group invite you the 'Brentford Celebrates Party', a chance to feast on all that is good and growing in TW8. The party will be a chance for you to meet other businesses and local community groups in Brentford, people that have made the area great and have the vision to push Brentford further.
There will be food and drink. Admission is by invite only. Please RSVP to brentfordhighstreet@hotmail.co.uk, as we want to ensure everyone is catered for. www.wedgecard.co.uk
The Great River Race
For at least an hour from 1.00 pm on Saturday 8th September, approximately 275 traditional rowed and paddled craft will pass Brentford Dock taking part in The Great River Race - a 22-mile marathon from Richmond to the Cutty Sark at Greenwich. Brentford Dock residents can expect to see Chinese dragon boats, Hawaiian war canoes, Viking longboats, Irish curraghs, shallops, gigs, skiffs, wherries and whalers rowed or paddled by entrants from the UK and overseas. Winners receive the Challenge Trophy of The Company of Watermen & Lightermen of The River Thames.
Click to enlarge image in a separate window.
Brentford Dock residents traditionally take picnics to the waterside to watch this event.
Click to enlarge image in a separate window.
The Great River Swim
On Saturday 8th September, the Great River Swim, sponsored by Pissarro’s restaurant, will start at 12:40 at Chiswick Pier. Swimmers will swim the 1000 metre course from Chiswick Pier to the upstream end of Chiswick Eyot (marked with a green pole) and back to Chiswick Pier, finishing around High Water (1.00 pm). All profits donated to charity. To enter, call Steve Newell on 020 8994 3111.
Workshop: Food Cravings - Friend Or Foe?
Chocolate, bread, steak, eggs, chips, candy bars, ice cream. Do you understand why you crave what you crave? Join Dock resident and Health Counsellor, Jenny Calcoen-Birnberg, for this interactive workshop in the Brentford Dock Residents' Clubroom on Saturday 29th September from 10:00am to 11:30am. Free - limited spaces. Call 020 8090 3006 or email jcalcoenbirnberg@yahoo.co.uk to book your space. www.celebrating-health.com
Brentford Festival
Brentford Festival will be held in Boston Manor Park between 12 noon and 5.30 p.m on Sunday, 2nd September. There is a timetable of events here: http://www.fobm.org.uk/Events.htm.
RingMaster Message
The Metropolitan Police (ibouser@crime-prevention.co.uk) warn, "There have been two very recent incidents in the Isleworth area , where a male has posed as a bogus police officer . If you are unsure of the person at your door, don't open and dial 999."
Advertisements
A refurbished three bedroom flat is newly available to rent on the Property page: a combined TV & video recorder and a camcorder are just been advertised on the Your Advertisements page.
Events
Saturday 25th August, 2.00 pm
A guided walk around Gunnersbury Triangle Local Nature Reserve to discover the amazing world of edible and poisonous plants. The Reserve is opposite Chiswick Park Underground station, on the Ealing Broadway branch of the District Line. Further information from the Park Warden, Honorata Bor, on 020 8747 3881.
Saturday 1st -Sunday 2nd September
Ealing Literary Festival on Acton Green, opposite Turnham Green tube station.
Saturday 8th September, 12.40 pm
The sixth annual Pissarro Great River Swim will take place from Chiswick Pier to Chiswick Eyot and back. A rare opportunity to swim 1km in the tidal Thames with safety cover provided by the Chiswick Sea Cadets and the Chiswick Pier Canoe Club. Further information from greatriverswim@blueyonder.co.uk (or phone 020 8994 8958).
New Residential Management Company For Brentford Dock
The contract to manage Brentford Dock from xxxx onwards has been awarded to Pembertons Residential.
Newspaper Delivery
Newstalk, 16 Albany Parade, Brentford High Street, (020 8758 2320) will deliver newspapers to Brentford Dock for £1.00 per week. Deliveries will be between 6 and 7am during the week and 7 and 8am at weekends.
Suitcase not a Bomb
About 3 pm on Wednesday afternoon (9th August) police were called to an abandoned suitcase at the top of the ramp from the car park between Otho and Nero Courts. It was empty.
This Site Works
On Tuesday 17th July, Jeremy Beswick wrote, "I advertised my flat [for sale] on this site and within 3 weeks had two offers at the asking price. What a great way to save estate agents' commission!"
Free Items
There are some free items on the Your Advertisements page.
Brentford Residents' Club Card
Shah K has sent this picture of the new Brentford Residents' Club card including an invitation to the party on Saturday 21st July.
This is not from the Brentford Dock Residents' Association.
Discounts for holders of the Residents' Club card can be seen here: http://www.copa.wizwoz.com.
(Beware: The website is very wide.) See also the article entitledNew Brentford Residents' Club and Launch Party below.
Shah K is manager of the Copacabana Cocktail and Wine Bar and can be contacted at
and on 07861 353 922.
Modem? Found
A piece of electronics labelled "Uniden Laser 4 band" has been handed in to the Management Office.
Interviews
Gillian Bernadt will be carrying out interviews (see below) on Fridays and early weekday evenings from now until about the 6th August.
Opinions on Effects of Brentford Regeneration Wanted
Gillian Bernadt is just finishing a part-time Master's degree whilst working in the planning department of the London Borough of Hounslow. She wants to interview local residents and community groups about how the regeneration of Brentford has affected them. Interviews should take no longer than 45 minutes and will be informal in style.
If you can help, telephone her at the Borough Planning Department on 020 8583 5214.
You can see the full details of her request here on the Notice Board.
New Director
Ian Addison has been elected as director for flats 1-14 and 39-94 of Otho Court.
Waterside Café-Bar Closed
The Waterside Café-Bar is closed until further notice.
New Brentford Residents' Club and Launch Party
The following email, received today, is displayed for your information. This is not from the Brentford Dock Residents' Association. The writer, Shah K, can be contacted at and on 07861 353 922.
|
Dear Resident, Copacabana Cocktail and Wine Bar 20% off bill |
Shah K, has subsequently written:
"This is open to residents of Brentford and not limited to Ferry Quays.
It is designed to promote community relations and give an incentive for residents to use local services.
If the scheme is successful, then we plan to extend the participating businesses throughout Brentford rather than just Ferry Quays."
Brentford Dock Residents' Association
Brentford Dock Residents' Association's calendar of events for June to December is now on the Forthcoming Events page.
Installation and Sculpture
From Saturday 2nd June until Thursday 21st June there is an art exhibition entitled "Liable to Flooding" opposite the Brewery Tap pub in Catherine Wheel Road, It can be viewed at these times:
Tue to Sat 1300 — 1730
Sun 1400 — 1630
Fri — 2100
Further details on http://www.liabletoflooding.net/
History of Surrounding Area
Also on http://www.liabletoflooding.net/ is a history of Ridgeway's wharf and the surrounding area (Brentford Dock) by Debra Truth. It can also be seen here:
http://debra.truth.posiweb.net/liabletoflooding/assets/history.pdf. It is a PDF document containing 21 pages and is 4Mb long. It may take some time to download.
Tree Felled
A tree in Augustus Close, opposite Otho Court and near to Leo Court, was severely damaged in the storm of the night of Sunday/Monday 27th/28th May. At 8.00 am on Monday, a tree surgeon started sawing the tree and felled it at 10.00 am. During some of that time traffic in Augustus Close was restricted. Pictures by Ian Ridpath. Click the cropped pictures to enlarge them in separate windows.
Chelsea Flower Show Tickets
Sam Langton, in the Brentford Dock Management Office, has two tickets for sale for the last day of the Chelsea Flower Show on Saturday 26th May. The tickets have a face value of £40 each and were a donation to the Acton Ealing Whistlers FC, a local youth football team.
Anyone wishing to make an offer for these tickets can contact Sam on sam.langton@brentford-dock.co.uk. All the money will go to support the youth club.
Two Candidates for Otho Court Directorship
Stephan Cook and Ian Addison, both relatively new to Brentford Dock, have volunteered to be the director for flats 1-14 and 39-94 of Otho Court. Shareholders of Otho Court must now vote for one of them and post their choice to Shaw Secretaries by Tuesday 29th May.
Steam Launch Spray Visits Marina
At around high tide (2:30 pm) on Tuesday 15th May, the steam launch Flying Spray will enter Brentford Dock Marina and stay overnight. Flying Spray is one of the few remaining steam boats on the Thames.
Quiz
At 8pm on Tuesday 15th May, Brentford Dock Residents' Association is holding a quiz in the Residents' Clubroom, 1 Augustus Close.
History in the High Street Exhibition
From 1st to 19th May, an exhibition entitled History in the High Street is being held in 21 shop windows along Brentford High Street. The exhibition panels run in sequence East from Grounds canalside café to Goddards, then back on the other side of the road from Akash Electronics to the Dew Drop Inn café.
The subject of this exhibition is Victorian business man, councillor and collector,
Thomas Layton who left his massive collection to the people of Brentford. It
shows Layton the civic dignitary and antiquarian, describing the extent of the
collection and a good deal of the history of Brentford.
A map of the shops exhibiting can be obtained on the Thomas Layton website here.
Pinnacle’s Annual Residents’ Conference
The Social Housing and Public Sector news site, 24dash.com states:
"More than 70 tenants and residents from across the UK found out how to turn their ideas for community improvement projects into reality at Pinnacle’s annual residents’ conference recently.
The conference, which was held at Kew Gardens, was attended by residents from Canning Town, Hackney, North East London Contract, Walsall, Manchester, Lewisham, Hounslow, Lambeth, Brentford Dock, Westminster, East Thames (Newham) and Greenwich Millennium Village.
Pinnacle’s Chief Executive John Swinney opened the event.
He said: “This is the fifth successful conference that we’ve hosted for the residents within our housing contracts. The aim of these conferences is to support residents to identify funding routes, find solutions to obstacles, and project manage local community improvements. We started organising these conferences so that residents from all over the country could come together to discuss ways to improve their estates and communities – and then put some of their ideas into action.”
Sheila Adamson, a UK expert in tenant involvement with over 30 years’ experience in resident engagement, was the keynote speaker for the event. Opening her discussion with, “places where people want to live only happen when good people are driving the change”, she led an interactive session on what makes a community group successful.
Workshops and case studies followed, with residents then being invited to find solutions to project scenarios, such as turning a plot of land into a playground or engaging a sporting group to run training with local young people.
Residents were then able to present their ideas to a panel of experts and the group with the best plan and idea received a prize.
Gerry Davies, one of the attendees from the Holfield Estate in West London, said: “This is the first year I’ve come to the conference – the location Pinnacle picked is excellent. The way I look at things, any advice and input is good. These events can give us good ideas about things that we might not have thought about, and advice from people who know what they’re doing, so we can take it back to the estate.
The day ended with a train trip around Kew Gardens.
John Swinney, Pinnacle’s Chief Executive, added: “Judging from the record attendance rates and the positive feedback we’ve received, we’re certain that attendees left the conference with the information and encouragement they needed to make a real and lasting difference in their communities.”"
Advertisements
Two lock-up storage cupboards are offered for sale here on the Property Advertisements page.
Osterley Through the Ages
From 11am to 4.30pm on Sunday 6th and Bank Holiday Monday 7th May, costumed performers will re-enact Osterley history from Tudor times to World War II in Osterley Park, Jersey Road, Isleworth.
Displays include redcoats and WWII soldiers (including the Home Guard and Germans), equestrian skills by a mounted Home Guard soldier; music and song (including Regency era and 1940s concert party), period fashion demonstrations, Regency country wedding, everyday life through the ages, cooking, and crafts.
Children's entertainments include puppet shows and a chance to train as Home Guard soldiers, learn how to defeat invading Germans, and "help out" with bomb disposal.
There will be a variety of unusual and interesting items on sale. For further details see Eventplan's website or telephone 01494 755566 (info line) or 020 8232 5050.
Advertisements
A resident is advertising a luxury hand-made bed for sale at a fraction of its original price. Further details on the Your Advertisements page. A parking space was taken seven days after appearing on the Property page.
Election of Director
Hayden Owen, director for flats 1-14 and 39-94 of Otho Court, has resigned for personal reasons. Shareholders in this block have been asked to stand for election as director. Candidates need to nominate themselves on a form (which needs to be seconded by another shareholder within the constituency) and sent to Shaws Secretaries Limited to be received no later than 2.00 pm on Thursday 10th May.
Water Pipe Renewal
In early May, Thames Water begin replacing 15.9 km (nearly 10 miles) of old water pipes in this area and will continue to do so for another three years. To find out how this work will affect you, visit the Thames Water mobile information unit in the car park of Brentford Football Club, Braemar Road from 4 pm to 7 pm on Wednesday 25th April.
St George's Day Fancy Dress Party
Debbie Dewar is holding a St George's Day Fancy Dress Party on Saturday 21st April from 8.30 pm until 1.00 am at Cafe Society (PC World), 5 West Cross Way, Great West Road, Brentford, in order to raise money for the Premature Baby Unit and Starlight children's ward at West Middlesex Hospital.
Tickets cost £5 and can be obtained from her fancy dress shop, Fantasy World, in between McDonalds and Brentford football ground or by calling 020 8569 8765.
Devizes to Westminster International Canoe Marathon
Early on Easter Sunday morning, canoeists in the longest non-stop canoe marathon in the world will pass Brentford Dock on their way to Westminster Bridge. They will have paddled through the night to complete the 125 mile course from Devizes in the shortest possible time.
The record, unbeaten since 1979, stands at 15 hours and 34 minutes but the bulk of paddlers will take around 24 hours. Completing the Devizes to Westminster race is an awesome physical and mental challenge - and has been for over 50 years - so if you see them give them a cheer.
Other canoeists, including children, that do the race over four days, will pass Brentford Dock early on Easter Monday morning. Give them a cheer too.
Further details from http://www.dwrace.org.uk.
Spring In Syon Park
This is part of a photograph of Spring In Syon Park taken by Ian Ridpath on Thursday 5th April. Click it to see the full image enlarged in a separate window.
Residents of Brentford Dock can get a pass card to use the gate between Syon Park and Brentford Dock. The pass is renewable annually. Further details from Brentford Dock Management Office.
Welcome to British Summer Time
British Summer Time commenced at 0100 hours on Sunday 25th March. Clocks advanced one hour; that is 1.00 AM became 2.00 AM. You may need to adjust your clocks and timers.
Spring Fair
From 11am to 3pm on Saturday 24th March there will be a Spring Fair in the St. Paul's Centre, St. Paul's Road, Brentford. There will be an all-day breakfast, a raffle and crafts, toys and book stalls. Entry 20p; under 5s free.
Flat Share
A professional couple, currently living on Brentford Dock, want to rent a double room anywhere on Brentford Dock. For further details see the Flat Sharing section of the Property Advertisements page.
Launch Party
On Saturday 24th March, Brentford Cruising Club are holding their Launch Party in the
Waterside Café-Bar. Traditionally this is when boats are put back in the water after the winter.
St. Patrick’s Day At Waterside Cafe-Bar
Watch the finale of the RBS 6 Nations
on a 10ft screen
1.30 pm Italy v Ireland
3.30 pm France v Scotland
5.30 pm Wales v England
Guinness £2 a pint, collect 4 tokens for a Guinness Hat!
Traditional Irish Stew £4.95 all day.
And in the Evening
Lots of live Irish music and Irish spirit!
The best acoustic singer-songwriters in London including:
J’nay –
2004 winner MOBO unsigned award
Nexus –
Acoustic contemporary jazz band
Get all your party requirements and floral tributes at resident Debbie Dewar's Fantasy Land Party Shop at 61 Ealing Road, Brentford, TW8 0LG.
Linda Churcher's Funeral
Linda Churcher's cremation will take place at Mortlake Crematorium at 4 p.m. on Wednesday 21st March 2007. The cortege will leave Maurice Court at 3.30 p.m. Family Flowers only by request. Donations made to Brentford Dock Council Tenants' Association will be used to purchase a suitable item in memory of Linda for the grounds of Brentford Dock. Cheques payable to B.D.C.T.A. can be left at the Dock Shop or at 36 Augustus Close (David Procter) or at 5 Galba Court (T Marchant).
Tenants’ Association Meeting
On Monday evening, 12th March, there will be a Tenants’ Association meeting in the Residents' Clubroom, 1 Augustus Close. It is believed they will be discussing the double-glazing by Allglass.
Heathrow Expansion
There is now an e-petition on the 10 Downing Street web site to stop the expansion of Heathrow. This particular method of expressing opinion is devised, hosted and encouraged by central government at the highest level.
Free Television
A resident is selling a 21.5 inch television. See the Items For Sale section of the Your Advertisements page.
Who Led to the Roman Names of Brentford Dock?
At 6.30 pm on Friday 9th March in the Residents' Clubroom, 1 Augustus Close, Brentford Dock Residents' Association is hosting the launch of the book "Sir Montagu Sharpe, Forgotten Man of Middlesex" written by Brentford Dock resident, Diana Willment. Both Brentford and Brentford Dock figure in the book and selected extracts will be displayed around the room.
The book (ISBN 0-9540590-4-2) is available at the pre-publication price of £5.00 - but no purchase is necessary. Come and join historians from Acton, Ealing and Chiswick. Free wine and nibbles.
Linda Churcher, RIP
David Proctor reports, with great sadness, that Linda Churcher passed peacefully away at King's College Hospital, Dulwich on Thursday 8th March. Linda was a resident of Maurice Court and was for 16 years secretary to David Procter at Brentford Dock Ltd and David A Procter & Associates. Details of the funeral arrangements will be given on this site as soon as they are confirmed.
Parking on Brentford Dock
Jeff Birnberg of Numa Court has some suggestions regarding parking on Brentford Dock and asks for your ideas. Click here to see his suggestions on the Notice Board.
Advertisements
One-bedroom flats are wanted to buy and a two- or three-bedroom flat is wanted to rent on the Property Advertisements page.
A resident is selling her exercise equipment (stationary bike, walking machine, etc.) For details see Items For Sale on the Your Advertisements page.
Lloyds, the underwriters, have viewed the Your Advertisements page and asked that a syndicate number be removed.
Ladies' Fund Raising Night
At 7.00 pm on Saturday 3rd March there will be a Ladies' Fund Raising Night in the (now wi-fi enabled) Waterside Café-Bar. Strictly ladies only! Admission £5 on the door of which £2.00 donated to Cancer Research.
| Free glass of Kir Royale Male dancer Fund raising prize raffle New cocktail menu |
For further information call 020 8560 8585 or 07963 077 046 or 07969 503 684.
Brentford Dock Residents' Association AGM
At 8 pm on Thursday 1st March, Brentford Dock Residents' Association will hold its AGM and Social in the Residents' Clubroom, 1 Augustus Close.
Holiday Lets
A resident will let his seaside flat in Spain to Brentford Dock residents at a 12.5% discount. Click here for details on the Property Page.
Metered Hot Water and Heating
At a block meeting on Monday 19th February it was unanimously agreed that, if it were possible, flats should be charged only for the hot water and heating they actually used. This would require an amendment to our leases.
Broadband by Radio
Now are currently demonstrating their broadband by radio system on Brentford Dock. The demonstrator brings an aerial unit and a laptop computer to your flat. The aerial unit receives and transmits radio signals from and to an aerial on top of Brentford police station. The aerial unit must be plugged into a 240v main. The laptop computer connects to the aerial unit via an Ethernet or USB2 cable. A telephone line is not necessary. Costs are £10 per month for 256Kb speed, £14 per month for 512Kb and £18 per month for 1Mb. Now offer a free one month trial. Technical support is free.
Internet Cafe
Broadband wi-fi is being installed in the Waterside Café-Bar. It will be available to customers.
Service Charges Reduced
At a block meeting on Monday 19th February it was announced that the service charge for 2007/2008 will be reduced by the amount that it was increased last year; that is, leaseholders will pay the same amount in 2007/2008 as they did in the 2005/2006 year.
Joint Block Meeting
At 7.30 pm on Monday 19th February, there will be a block meeting of Galba, Otho and Romulus Courts in the Residents' Clubroom, 1 Augustus Close. The agenda will include Brentford Dock's budget, the service charges and the hot water system.
Brentford Urban Design and Community Engagement Workshop
On Tuesday 27th February there will be a day-long workshop at St Paul's Centre, St Paul's Road, Brentford, TW8 ONP, to promote your views for the Action Plan for ALL of Brentford. It is organised by CAG, a body employed by the Council for the purpose.
If interested in participating, email Susan Parham sp@cagconsult.co.uk.
Postscript: A message from Susan Parham
Day After Wedding Reception at Waterside Café-Bar
Anna & Simon of Galba Court say: "Both my husband and myself would like to extend our thanks to Melanie and Keri at the Waterside Café-Bar for a wonderful day last Sunday. It was the day after our Wedding Reception and we asked Melanie if we could hold a family day at the Cafe. They put on a lovely spread and arranged music for us. Our family had traveled from Ireland and they could not speak highly enough of the place and the management and staff. Our thanks to Robert and Andrea also as they are such lovely people they made our day so special.
We live on the dock and it is so lovely to have somewhere so close to home for occasions like this. Not only did our family love it, they also got to see where home is for us. We cannot stress how grateful we are to all at the Waterside Café-Bar and think that we have made some good friends in Mel, Keri and the gang."
Pay Less For Water
As flats (not houses) in Brentford Dock cannot have water meters fitted, any flat leaseholder can apply to Thames Water to be charged at the "Average Household Charge" fixed at £245 per year.
Any flat paying more than this (typically three-bedroom flats are paying £350) would save by being on this tariff. Thames Water have told the Editor that it does not depend on the number of people living in the flat.
To apply, phone Thames Water on 0845 9200888 or 01793 366011 (Minicom users call 0845 7200 899), or e-mail customerservices@thameswater.co.uk. They will post an application form to you.
Allglass Allright
Alex Askew of Otho Court says "Allglass have done an excellent job double-glazing my property. Notwithstanding delays due to circumstances beyond their control, I have found their product and performance to be of very good value and their communication and customer concern to be exemplary."
Salsa at the Holiday Inn every Wednesday
From 7.00 to 9.00 pm on Wednesday 7th February 2007, individuals and couples can have a go at salsa dancing at the Holiday Inn, Brentford Lock. Thereafter Salsa Nation will be holding salsa classes there every Wednesday evening. After the classes the floor will be open to dancers of all levels to enjoy a couple of hours social dancing. For more information about the classes contact Pam: 07092 272 572 or Robert 07092 123 567.
Forthcoming Events
Brentford Dock Residents' Association events for the first half of 2007 are listed on the Forthcoming Events page.
Shooting
At 9.20 on Thursday 25th January, three shots were fired in a first floor flat in Fraser House, Green Dragon Lane, Brentford. Police found one man shot dead, another seriously wounded and a woman unhurt. Police cordoned off the area of the shooting and a murder enquiry has begun.
The Bill
The episodes of The Bill that were filmed around Brentford Dock will probably be broadcast on ITV1 on Wednesday 24th and Thursday 25th January.
Planning Meeting
From 6pm to 7.30pm on Thursday 18th January the Community Planning Project for Brentford High Street will be holding a launch event at the Watermans Arts Centre, 40 Brentford High Street, TW8 0DS to determine the local community’s desire for the future of Brentford High Street in the first half of 2007. Local residents are welcome.
French Fair
From 10am to 4pm on Sunday 14th January, Citroën are holding a French Fair at their garage in Capital Interchange Way, Brentford, TW8 0EX (just behind the Fountains Leisure Centre). Adults can:
- test drive the new C4 Picasso
- taste delicious cheeses and wines
- discover French beauty secrets
- buy from the stalls.
Children can:
- bounce on a bouncy castle
- learn art and crafts at a workshop sponsored by www.petitartisan.com
- learn how to cook French crepes.
Electricity Failure
Just before 8.00 pm on Tuesday 9th January the electricity supply to Brentford failed. Over 2000 homes were affected. The supply was restored after about 20 minutes. Electric clocks and timers of video recorders may have been affected.
Free Television
A resident is giving away a 17 inch television. See the Free Items section of the Your Advertisements page.
Property Advertisements
Advertisements for Brentford Dock flats, maisonettes, houses, garages, parking spaces and storage cupboards to buy, sell, let and rent regularly appear on the Property page.
"The let was entirely down to the ad
on the web site! Thanks again." Resident 8th Jan 2007.
Helicopter was Looking for Man in River
The helicopter that hovered over Syon Park and Brentford Dock on New Year’s Eve afternoon was looking for a man who had jumped into the Thames following a mid-day drinking session. The man jumped into the river by the London Apprentice and Town Wharf pubs in Isleworth.
The helicopter searched again on New Year’s Day morning. On Wednesday 3rd January, police divers found a body nearby. More information in Brentford, Chiswick & Isleworth Times.
Santa Wont Stay Up
The Dock Road boatyard inflated a giant Santa but it sprung a leak and deflated. Click picture to see enlargement.
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