OUT OF HOURS GP SERVICE
Richmond Park & North Kingston’s MP is calling for the Primary Care trust in the area to improve its services
Susan Kramer’s remarks come after the results of a survey about Richmond and Twickenham’s GPs were released this week.
It shows the area has the worst out of hours service in the country.
21% of the areas patients rated the service as poor.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:34 pm
Saturday Sport
Chelsea are in Premier League action and the F1 season gets underway.
With a look at today’s sport David Harris reports.
The dream team on paper is reigning world champion Jenson Button and rokkie season winner Lewis Hamilton.
They are both in Woking McLaren colours this year with 5 time hero Michael Schumacher back in business for Mercedes.
African Player of the year Didier Drogba will be looking to equal his club record of 20 league goals in a season when
Chelsea take on West Ham at Stamford Bridge at 3pm. The game is always a ferocious encounter with Joe Cole, Frank Lampard and Scott Parker all waving hi to former team-mates.
Neil Warnock’s QPR travel to his old club Sheffield United. And Crystal Palace are away at Barnsley.
In the 6 Nations England Take on Scotland at Murrayfield at 5pm.
Defeat to Ireland means no less than victory for Martin Johnson’s men will be enough to keep their championship hopes alive.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 6:00 am
Friday, 12 March 2010
Tom Brake welcomes new runaway help project to Sutton
A service for young runaways was launched in Sutton yesterday afternoon.
Carshalton and Wallington’s MP Tom Brake was at the event by charity Jigsaw 4U.
They already run a successful service in Merton, but after funding from the lottery and Safer Sutton Partnership, they’ve expanded into Sutton.
Tom said "I welcome the fact the project is being launched and it will enable close working between Sutton and Merton which is an important issue. What this project recognises is there is now great need to make these resources available and focused on vulnerable people as they will have the most problems. It's going to be a great success. It's already been successful in Merton where I understand, on average, 75 people are helped each year and up to 10 have already been helped in Sutton."
Weeken Sport Preview
The F1 season kicks off this weekend with the opening race in Bahrain.
With a look ahead at the rest of the sport David Harris reports.
Woking based McLaren’s Lewis Hamilton finished 2nd in the 2nd practice run of the day with team mate Jenson Button in 4th
Early pace has been set by the Mercedes of Nico Rosberg with team mate and 5 time world champion Michael Schumacher in 3rd.
In the Premier League Chelsea host West Ham. Didier Drogba has netted 19 times in the league already this season, a goal tomorrow would equal his own record.
Palace are away to Barnsley and Neil Warnock’s QPR travel to his old club Sheffield United.
In the 6 Nations England Travel to bottom side Scotland. A win is essential if they’re to be crowned champions.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:20 pm
Brentford 9 Illegals
A Company in Brentford is facing a £90,000 fine after it was found they were employing workers illegally.
UK Border Agency visited Euroworld Direct Marketing to carry out checks on staff to make sure they had the right to work.
Nine people including seven men and two women were arrested on suspicion of a variety of offences.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:00 pm
Hounslow Benefit Cheat
A man from Hounslow who defrauding the council out of more than £5,000 has been convicted of benefit fraud.
66-year-old Edwin Read of Heath Court was sentenced at Brentford magistrates after pleading guilty the charge.
Authorities found that he had failed to notify the council of large sums of money he had in savings.
He was ordered to pay a £1,000 fine and £500 in costs. The false claims of over £5,000 had been repaid prior to the hearing.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 2:51 pm
Sheen Academy
Plans to transform Shene School into an Academy co-sponsored by parents has been rejected outright by Richmond council.
Conservative PPC Zac Goldsmith believes the success of the school is dependent on a 6th form being created and greater parental involvement.
The Libdem cabinet has rejected both proposals claiming that they would delay the scheduled Academy opening in September.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 2:01 pm
Sutton Flood Protection
A new £200,000 grant for flood protection has been awarded to Sutton.
The money will be used to make properties at high risk more resilient to the risk of adverse weather.
Air bricks covers, storm porches, door guards, and floodgates are some of the products, which will be fitted.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 1:26 pm
St Peters Hospital
Plans to improve St Peters Hospital in Chertsey have been approved by Runnymede council.
The ‘Masterplan’ includes a specialist renal centre and 700 additional car-parking spaces.
A number of green travel schemes to reduce traffic coming onto the site are also being considered.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 1:25 pm
Twickenham Athletes
Athletes from St Mary’s University in Twickenham are competing at the world indoor championships in Doha this weekend.
Undergraduate Andrew Osagie is running in the 800m in his first senior event for team GB.
Rose-Anne Gilligan is competing for Ireland with former Sims student Gemma Turtle running in the 3000m.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 1:22 pm
IT workers jailed for stealing from casinos
The House always wins.
That's the rule two IT specialists weren't betting on when they stole thousands of pounds of cash from a number of London casinos.
31 year old Nimesh Bhagat from Balham and Andrew Ashley from South East London have today been handed a 12 month suspended prison sentence after being found guilty of theft.
Croydon Crown court heard how the pair were employed as computer analysts for a company that provides IT solutions to a UK casino group.
They used their insider knowledge to place fraudulent bets via the casino's remote betting terminals [pictured]. The customer doesn't even have to be near a roulette table, making it easier for the pair to trick the system with their insider knowledge.
The pair will have to pay back £16, 000 each as well.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:40 pm
Heathrow-based British Airways cabin crew confirm strike dates
The Unite union's announced the dates of the British Airways cabin crew strike.
They'll walk out for three days from next Saturday - the 20th of March - and again for four days from the 27th of March.
They're taking action in a row over cost-cutting measures.
Unite's Len McCluskey says it had to come to this: posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:34 pm
Surrey Police responds to HMIC review
Surrey Police has been rated one of the best forces in the country, according to a new report.
Inspectors praised Surrey for tackling organised crime but said work is needed to protect victims of anti-social behaviour.
It’s one of six forces to share the number-1 spot in the league table, ranking it above the Met.
Deputy Chief Constable at Surrey Police Craig Denholme spoke to Radio Jackie about the HMIC report. posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 10:23 am
Surrey Comet reveals details of drug raids in South West London
More details have emerged about Britain's biggest ever cannabis smuggling network.
12 members of the gang were convicted last week a year and a half after their arrests in dawn raids across south-west London.
The Surrey Comet is reporting this morning that a police raid which uncovered counting machines at a house in Sutton was a key moment for cracking the £70m drugs ring.
Chief reporter David Lindsell has more. posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 10:15 am
New Malden's Royal visit
The red carpet’s being rolled out for a royal visit in New Malden this morning.
Princess Anne is opening the new Kingston Carers’ Network Centre on Blagdon Road.
The Princess Royal will arrive at 11’o’clock to meet some of unpaid carers who use the centre’s advice and support service.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 10:12 am
Jenson Button faster than Lewis Hamilton in Bahrain
Jenson Button has edged out teammate Lewis Hamilton in the first practice session ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix.
Button was fifth fastest for the Woking McLaren team with Hamilton in sixth.
Michael Schumacher was tenth quickest.
Adrian Sutil topped the timesheets.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 10:11 am
Fulham beaten in Europa League
Fulham face an uphill task to make it to the last eight of the Europa League after last nights 3-1 loss to Juventus in Turin.
The return leg will be played at Craven Cottage next Thursday.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:14 am
Cobham stockbroker jailed
A Cobham stockbroker was yesterday jailed for twenty one months for insider dealing.
Malcolm Calvert used a contact to get confidential information on a number of proposed take-overs and mergers.
Southwark Crown Court heard the former partner at the Queen’s stockbrokers directed a friend to buy shares in three firms.
They both made more than one hundred thousand pounds profit.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:08 am
Thursday, 11 March 2010
Crufts 2010
It’s that time of year again, dogs up and down the country travel to Birmingham in the hope of being crowned ‘Best in Show’.
The annual Crufts competition is on this week.
We spoke to hopeful Karen Simpkin from Wimbledon, who is taking 4 entrants up for the prestigious event.
Green light for St Helier hospital redevelopment
The redevelopment of St Helier hospital has edged a step closer.
Sutton Council has approved outline planning permission to upgrade the existing site.
The £220 million project includes demolishing the hospital’s five storey Ferguson House and replacing it with a new state of the art building containing nearly 350 beds.
The plans still need the go ahead from London’s Mayor. Click here to see the plans.
Quins take a break
Harlequins are enjoying some time off from training this week.
The players and coaches hope it’ll give them a good chance to re-energise and re-focus.
The squad will start back again on Monday, when Conor O’Shea begins his new role as Director of Rugby.
Quins captain Will Skinner, and Lock James Percival spoke to our sports correspondent Amy-Lou Holden about last weekend’s game, getting some sun - and their upcoming match against Bath.
Twickenham skier gets ready for Vancouver
Twickenham's Tim Farr will make his Paralympic debut in Vancouver this weekend.
Tim will be competing in the alpine ski events, using a sit-ski.
The South Londoner is one of 12 GB athletes competing in what will be the the 10th Paralympic games.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 3:35 pm
Nadal plays Hammersmith
Rafael Nadal has confirmed his place at this year's Queen's Club tennis Championship in Hammersmith.
The 2008 champion was unable to defend his title last year, due to the knee injury which also forced him out of Wimbledon.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 3:26 pm
Sam Bird talks to Jackie ahead of Bahrain
Practice starts tomorrow for the first Grand Prix of the season in Bahrain.
7 times World Champion Michael Schumacher is back on the grid,
Former double World Champion Fernando Alonso has moved to Ferrari and Woking’s McLaren has an all British driver line up with Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton.
Up and coming racing driver Sam Bird from Claygate competes in the GP2 event which supports the Grand Prix week-end:
He popped into the Jackie studios and caught up with presenter Steve Mowbray:
(You can hear Sam's podcast produced by Steve Mowbray at - www.Sambird.com)
McLaren confident over rear wing
Woking’s F1 team McLaren are confident the rear wing on their new car will be pass an inspection by the sport's governing body.
Red Bull have sought clarification on a slot on the rear wing which reduces drag and increases straight-line speed.
The FIA will scrutinise the wing ahead of practice for the Bahrain Grand Prix.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 1:00 pm
Keen's told to pay money back
Keen to shake off the expenses scandal – the Commons watchdog has told a political power couple in West London to pay some of the money back.
The Commons Standards Committee says Ann and Alan Keen must pay back 1 thousand 500 pounds.
The pair who represent “Feltham & Heston” and “Brentford & Isleworth”, claimed the cash was for a second home.
But the Committee ruled it was actually their main residence.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:59 pm
Nigel Mansell backs Lewis Hamilton
Nigel Mansell believes Lewis Hamilton will have the edge over Jenson Button at McLaren this season.
The pair team up at the Woking based F1 team after Button moved from Brawn after winning the World Championship last season.
Mansell says he’d give Lewis the edge only because he's been there for a couple of years.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:58 pm
Hampton Court line up announced
An all star international line-up has been announced for this summer's Hampton Court Palace Festival.
They include Simply Red, Michael Bolton, Katherine Jenkins, Michael Ball and Jools Holland with Alison Moyet.
General ticket sales for the events in June go on sale on 22nd March.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:56 pm
New stamps feature Battersea
From strays to first-class pets.
A new set of Royal Mail stamps is out today featuring photos of dogs and cats from Battersea Dogs Home.
To celebrate the home's 150th birthday the collection's been produced showing some of the Battersea residents which are now living happily ever after.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:55 pm
Fulham face Italian giants Juventus
Fulham take on Juventus tonight in the first leg of the last 16 of the Europa League.
The squad are in Turin, and hoping for a repeat performance of the games which saw them knock out defending champions Shakhtar Donetsk.
Before this, Fulham’s only European accomplishment had been a third round finish in the 2002-3 UEFA Cup.
Roy Hodgson knows it’s a big week for the club, and says they’re making history as they go along.
Free health MOT's in Kingston
More free health MOT's will be available in Kingston this Friday.
Following a successful drive last year, NHS Kingston is teaming up with the Blood Pressure Association.
The team will be screening residents aged between 40 and 74 for a number of problems including diabetes and heart disease.
They’ll be at a number of one stop shops across the borough starting today at Sainsburys on the Richmond road from 11am.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 10:27 am
BA talks break down
Talks between Heathrow-based British Airways and the Unite union have broken down, making strike action by cabin crew almost inevitable.
The two sides have been unable to reach agreement over the airline's cost-cutting measures.
There’s speculation says strike dates could be announced this morning, as the union has called a meeting for ten o'clock.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 10:25 am
Plans for a mosque rejected
Surrey Heath Council have rejected an application to build a mosque on the site of a former Victorian school.
The planning committee originally approved the application but last night the full council overturned that decision, on a technicality.
Officers at the nearby Royal Military Academy, in Sandhurst, had expressed concerns over security if plans went ahead.
The local Bengali Association currently uses the old school building as an Islamic Centre.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 10:23 am
Police make new appeals after fatal accident in Croydon
Police are appealing for information after a fatal collision in Croydon last month.
On the morning of Sunday 28th a 407 bus was in collision with a VW Caddy van on Park Lane.
The van driver, 38 year old Russell Bishop, sustained head and chest injuries but was later discharged from hospital.
Last Wednesday he was re-admitted to the Mayday Hospital after feeling unwell –
before passing away on Friday as a result of multiple organ failure.
An inquest is due at Croydon Coroner’s Court today.
Police would like to hear from anyone who may have seen the accident, in particular anyone who may have been on the bus.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 10:14 am
Parking charges look more likely in Richmond and Bushey Parks
An attempt to pass a fatal motion in the House of Lords to block car parking charges for Richmond and Bushy Parks has failed.
The Liberal Democrat motion was defeated by 48 votes to 71 last night, after Conservative peers withdrew their backing.
The Tories have only pledged to scrap the charges if they form the next Government and can find alternative funding.
Richmond Park MP Susan Kramer has vowed to continue to fight the plans.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 10:05 am
Surrey Police gets a good rating
Surrey Police has been rated one of the best forces in the country, according to a new report.
Inspectors praised Surrey for tackling organised crime but said work is needed to protect victims of anti-social behaviour.
It’s one of six forces to share the number-1 spot in the league table, ranking it above the Metropolitan police.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 10:02 am
New red squirrel enclosure opens in Surrey
A walk-through enclosure for red squirrels has opened in Surrey.
It’s thought to be the first of its kind in England.
The enclosure is home to 17 squirrels at the British Wildlife Centre near Lingfield.
It’s hoped it will eventually house 30 red squirrels.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 10:01 am
Wednesday, 10 March 2010
Human remains found in Fulham Update
Human remains have been found in the garden of a terminal cancer sufferer's home in Fulham.
The body, which could have been there for up to 20 years, was discovered wrapped in carpet at 38a Alderville Road, a ground floor terraced flat, after a tip-off.
58 year old flat owner Roy Heath is currently being treated in hospital. It's believed he lived in the flat with his wife and young child.
Forensic scientists are trying to identify the body.
Neighbours say they were told police are looking at crimes over 15 years old and officers are trying to trace all occupants of the house within that time.
A 52 year old was arrested on tuesday night.
The MET police told us they are not linking it with the death of estate agent Suzy Lamplugh who disappeared a few roads away while showing a house to a Mr Kipper in 1986.
Anyone with information is asked to call the incident room on 0207 321 9251
Tolworth grinds to a halt
A three car pile up outside the Jackie Studios on Tolworth Broadway this afternoon caused huge traffic delays.
A woman was taken to hospital with spinal injuries following the accident just after half past three.
Two fire engines were called out, blocking the Broadway in both directions at one time. Fire fighters cut the woman from her Honda.
Two others suffered injuries after their airbags inflated on impact.
Meanwhile, another accident caused chaos on the Bedfont Road, Luckily no one was injured.
Photo by Darren Graham Photography.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 8:56 pm
No Smoking Day 2010
On no smoking day, residents are being asked to give up their cigarettes.
Last year 1.2 million people took up the Great No Smoking Day Challenge, and stubbed out their cigarettes on No Smoking Day.
In fact, every year over a million people make an attempt to quit and the Kingston & Richmond Stop Smoking Service is keen to help smokers quit by providing free support and access to nicotine replacement therapy, such as patches, gum etc.
In Kingston town centre, smokers are being approached and asked if they want help to quit and then given support to either go into group sessions, their local pharmacist or GP practice.
One resident, Dominic who had smoked for twenty years was able to give up in six weeks with the help of group sessions at a local GP practice.
He says;“Since giving up smoking, life has become so much more enjoyable, I feel healthier, have more energy and I’ve even entered the marathon!”
To find out more about giving up smoking, contact freephone 0800 085 2903 or visit our website on www.smokefreekingstonandrichmond.nhs.uk where there are also details of the online quitting programme.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 8:46 pm
More flooding protection for home in Kensington and Chelsea
Basements in Kensington and Chelsea are to be protected against flooding by a 25 million pound scheme.
Thames Water is proposing a super sewer, similar to the one proposed for Hammersmith, be installed.
The Victorian pipes currently in place become overwhelmed during stormy weather and are prone to bursting.
The scheme is in the research stages and wouldn’t be ready until 2014.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 1:38 pm
Leader of Surrey County Council praises efforts to smooth over pothole problem
Surrey County Council says its repaired 15-thousand road defects since harsh weather caused the worst widespread pothole damage in decades.
Meanwhile a survey puts the average motorist’s repair bill for their car at 7-hundred-and-fifty pounds.
It’s thought it could cost 8-billion pounds to bring Britain’s roads up to scratch.
Leader of Surrey County Council Andrew Povey insists they’ve been working flat out to smooth things over. posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 1:37 pm
Warning over soaring boat licence fees
Twickenham’s MP claims people are being forced to give up their house boats because of soaring licence fees.
Vince Cable, who is also the Lib Dems Treasury Spokesman, says the less well off are being forced out.
He claims some constituents have seen a 60 percent increase in their license fees this year, following a 200 percent rise only five years ago.
200 people live in houseboats in Twickenham and pay a weekly charge for them.
The port authority says the fees are needed to maintain the river.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 1:36 pm
Tooting's Smallwood school is praised by inspectors
Smallwood primary school in Tooting has experienced rapid progress in raising standards of behaviour and learning.
That’s according to education inspectors.
Officials from watchdog Ofsted judged that it had improved in leaps and bounds under its interim head teacher.
The Ofsted team concluded that the school’s providing a satisfactory and improving standard of education for its pupils.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 1:35 pm
Oligarch wins libel case
Oligarch Boris Berezovsky has won a libel case over allegations he was behind the murder of former Russian agent Alexander Litvinenko.
He’s been awarded £150,000 at the High Court over a claim made by the Russian state-owned TV channel RTR Planeta.
Litvinenko was poisoned with polonium in London in 2006.
Mr Berezovsky, who lives in Cobham said he had tried to protect his reputation and was satisfied with the judgement.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 1:33 pm
People encouraged to Hackbridge meeting
Residents are being encouraged to attend a meeting next week in Hackbridge.
The council wants their views on plans to turn the borough into one of the UK’s greenest suburbs.
Representatives from Thames Water will be on hand to answer questions as well.
Its all taking place at Hackbridge Primary School next Thursday between 7 and 9pm.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 11:47 am
BA talks continue to try and avert a strike
Talks between British Airways and cabin crew are expected to resume at Kempton Park later as efforts continue to avert a strike.
Negotiations were due to end yesterday but BA asked for an extension.
Members of the Unite union are angry about plans to change contracts, cut jobs and freeze pay.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 10:00 am
QPR continue winning run
In the Championship QPR have continued their winning run under new manager Neil Warnock, with a 2-0 victory at home to Plymouth.
Crystal Palace stay just one place above the relegation zone after losing 1-0 to Bristol City.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 9:58 am
Surrey sign new fast bowler
Surrey have signed Pakistani fast bowler Rao Iftikhar Anjum as their overseas player for the start of the season.
The 29-year-old will cover for leg spinner Piyush Chawla, who’ll be playing in the Indian Premier League.
Ifthikar has played one Test and 62 one-day internationals for Pakistan.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 9:57 am
Chelsea star buys mansion in Esher
Chelsea striker Daniel Sturridge has bought a £4million mansion in Esher.
The six-bedroom property puts him in close proximity to a number of other Blues stars including fellow Esher resident Joe Cole.
20-year-old Sturridge signed for Chelsea from Manchester City on a £55,000 a week contract in the summer.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 9:54 am
Two thousand potholes reported in Surrey
Surrey’s the pothole capital of the Britain.
The worst winter in 30-years is being blamed for an unprecedented number of holes in our roads.
Nearly 2-thousand have been reported in Surrey.
The situation's so bad the Local Government Association has now asked for an extra 100 million pounds to help cope.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 9:50 am
Police dig up patio in Fulham after body tip-off
View Larger Map
Police are digging up a patio at a house in Fulham - after a tip-off a body could be buried underneath.
The person who lives at the address Alderville Road is currently being treated for cancer in hospital, according to the Sun.
One neighbour says they believe the excavation relates to "something that happened a long time ago".
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 9:46 am
New kidney dialysis centre opens in Purley
A new kidney dialysis centre has opened in Purley.
Based in Brighton Road it will allow some patients to get regular treatment closer to their homes rather than travelling to St. Helier.
Each dialysis station has its own electronic chair, TV and freeview box.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 6:00 am
Fire dangers of smoking
Today is National No Smoking Day and the London Fire Brigade are urging us to take extra care with cigarettes.
The health dangers of smoking are well publicised, but they are also the cause of many housefires across London.
Households with a smoker are almost one and a half times more likely to suffer a fire than non-smoking households.
We spoke to John Simpson from the Fire Safety Team who told us the fire starting dangers of smoking
Exports suffer biggest fall in three years
"Deeply alarming" are the words from Lib Dem Treasury Spokesman and Twickenham’s MP Vince Cable.
It’s after official figures have revealed UK exports have suffered their biggest fall for more than three years.
Imports are down 1.6 percent and the pound also fell against the dollar this morning.
Mr Cable says British manufacturers have been abandoned.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:35 pm
Bush theatre under the spotlight
The spotlight could be about to be permanently turned off at the Bush Theatre.
The Shepherd’s Bush icon is hoping to be re-homed to escape constant power cuts.
The theatre has approached Hammersmith and Fulham Council to come up with a suitable venue.
Founded in 1972, it launched writers such as Stephen Poliakoff.
Last year it had to stage a whole season in half darkness because the lights didn’t work.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:34 pm
Danns doubt for the Eagles
Midfielder Neil Danns remains an injury doubt for Crystal Palace ahead of tonight’s game with Bristol City.
He’s been struggling with a back problem which has forced him to miss the last two games.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:33 pm
Hounslow's housing problem
Only five per-cent of Hounslow’s under 40’s can afford to get on the property ladder.
A Government Housing Advisory Body has found house prices mean families across London aren’t able to buy a property.
The figures are made worse by the ongoing housing crisis and lack of affordable homes.
In more affluent areas like Kingston and Richmond the statistics are marginally better with 20 percent of families able to purchase a home for their family.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:32 pm
Kew Gardens goes minature
Kew Gardens has gone Alice in Wonderland crazy.
A photographer’s used the site as the setting for an impressive optical illusion.
Richard Harris placed a two pence piece against the trunk of a tiny Bonzai tree at the gardens.
He then took a series of pictures close up which makes the coin appear giant.
It’s all to celebrate Lewis Carroll’s novel where character Alice shrinks after falling down a rabbit hole inside a tree trunk.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:30 pm
Cameron goes for Greening in London
Putney’s MP will lead the Tories in London during the elections.
Conservative Justine Greening is to spearhead David Cameron’s London campaign in the hope of winning more female votes.
The Tories gained several councils in the 2004 elections as well as the London Mayoralty.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:29 pm
Man in court over Surrey robberies
A man from Brighton has appeared in court charged with a series of robberies at bookmakers in Surrey.
38 year old Peter Lovey is accused of raids in Leatherhead, Bookham and Horley last month.
He’s been remanded in custody and will re-appear in court at a later date.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:28 pm
Woking rejects elected Mayor idea
Woking’s rejected the idea of having a directly elected mayor and will continue to have a leader of the Council.
It will also continue to have elections by thirds.
It’s where a third of Councillors stand for election each year – with a break in the fourth year of the cycle.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:27 pm
Lorry damaged after object thrown from M25 bridge
A lorry’s been damaged after an object was thrown from a bridge on the M25 in Surrey.
Police say the missile cracked the windscreen near to junction 8 Reigate.
The driver was shaken but not injured.
Police say two people were seen on the bridge before the object was thrown and are appealing for witnesses.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:25 pm
Judi Dench still wowing audiences in Kingston
Acclaimed actress Judi Dench's role as Titania in Peter Hall's production of Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream is still pulling in the crowds at the Rose of Kingston.
The play, which runs until the 20th, is the theatre's first home grown production of the year.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 1:48 pm
Surrey's Chief Constable concerned over release
Surrey’s Chief Constable says his officers are concerned about plans to release a man who murdered a policeman.
Egon Von Bulow was jailed for murdering PC John Schofield in Caterham in 1974.
The parole board has this week cleared him for release.
However Chief Constable Mark Rowley says the move has surprised his officers.
Von Bulow, who is in his 60’s, was handed a life sentence.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 1:43 pm
Clapham teenager cleared of murder
A teenager from Clapham been found not guilty of murder by an Old Bailey Jury.
18 year old Darcy Menezes denied killing Oluwaseyi Ogunyemi by setting his two dogs upon him.
The 16 year old died after being attacked and then stabbed in Larkhall Park last April. His friend survived.
It was announced today that tough new measures are to be introduced to try and stop the number of dog related attacks.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 1:42 pm
Councils call for CAA to be scrapped
Councils concerned about the environmental impact if expansion at Heathrow goes ahead are calling on the Government to set up a new regulator for the aviation industry.
The authorities all members of the 2M group say the Civil Aviation Authority should be abolished to make way for the new watchdog.
Hounslow, Richmond, Wandsworth and Hillingdon were all responding to a consultation on the future of the CAA.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 1:00 pm
Button confident ahead of Bahrain
Jenson Button says he feels comfortable about his preparations for the new season which starts in Bahrain on Sunday.
The World Champion has switched to the Woking based McLaren team from Brawn.
He says he’s spent more time with his engineers this winter than he has in any other season and starts in the best possible shape.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:59 pm
AFC Wimbledon have injury worries
AFC Wimbledon striker Jon Main is a doubt for tonight’s game with Crawley after missing Saturday's 1-1 draw with Altrincham with a shin injury.
Striker Danny Kedwell is also doubtful after picking up a knock and defender Jay Conroy is suspended.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:58 pm
Swimmers get silver
Britain's top synchronised swimming duo have finished on an international podium together for the first time.
They took silver at the German Open in Bonn.
Jenna Randall and Olivia Allison from Surrey were only just off winners France.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:57 pm
Damning report about East Surrey hospital
A damning report from the health watchdog has raised concerns about hygiene at East Surrey Hospital in Redhill.
Inspectors found soiled mattresses and commodes, along with dust and debris during a surprise visit.
The Care Quality Commission has demanded a clean up.
Surrey and Sussex Healthcare – the trust in charge of the hospital has apologised.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 11:20 am
Pensioner jailed for drug smuggling at prison
A pensioner’s been jailed for 2 years after admitting taking class A drugs into Highdown prison in Sutton.
68 year old Robert White from Orpington pleaded guilty to smuggling 14 grammes of heroin in.
He was seen by an officer passing a package to an inmate.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 11:17 am
Police try to trace man
A mentally ill man - convicted of manslaughter - has absconded from a medical facility.
Police are advising the public not to approach Fida Mohammed Utmanzi, who's originally from Afghanistan.
He was last seen in North London yesterday – but he’s is known to have links to Fulham and Putney.
The 20-year old has cigarette burns on his arms.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 10:03 am
Tomorrow is National No Smoking Day
Tomorrow is national No Smoking Day - and to mark the occasion, the NHS is taking to the streets.
Their stop smoking bus will be in Merton today, and Sutton tomorrow.
People will be able to visit for information, help and advice on quitting.
Figures show people are four times more likely to give up when they follow the NHS programme.
Stop Smoking manager, Sue Tree, explains what the service has to offer:
Stroke survivor campaigns for NHS funded physiotherapy
Nick Anderson, from Ashtead, suffered a stroke at just 43. He and his wife Sarah are campaigning for better access to NHS funded physiotherapy for stroke sufferers.
After leaving the New Epsom and Ewell Cottage Hospital, he received treatment and occupational therapy.
Nick and Sarah, who is now his full time carer, are going to the House of Commons today to highlight the campaign.
Sarah told us how much the physiotherapy has helped Nick.
Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Clive Charig to lead its surgery directorate.
Mr Charig, a surgeon who specialises in treating patients with urology problems, has more than 25 years experience and started with the Trust 1991. Urology includes treating patients with kidney, bladder and prostate problems.
As Clinical Director for Surgery, Mr Charig will oversee the running of nine specialties, including: trauma and orthopaedics; ear, nose and throat (ENT); ophthalmology (eye); urology; and, plastic surgery.
Surgery is one of the Trust’s largest clinical directorates employing more than 300 staff and with a budget of £20.5 million.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 6:20 pm
Nine Wandsworth drivers prosecuted for using blue badge parking permits
Nine more car drivers in Wandsworth have been prosecuted for dishonestly using blue badge parking permits.
The motorists who are all fit and able-bodied, were brought before South Western magistrates by the council's parking fraud team.
The Council says drivers who use stolen, forged or borrowed blue badges take away parking spaces from disabled motorists who genuinely need them.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:53 pm
John Lund - wife carrying champion
John Lund is now the British wife carrying champion.
The American won Dorking’s Annual Wife Carrying Contest on yesterday.
He took home the barrel of ale after carrying his wife around a 250 metre course.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:52 pm
New primary school in Surbiton
Residents in Surbiton can have their say about the proposal to build a new primary school in the area.
The council has agreed, in principle, to a new school on part of the Surbiton Hospital site in Ewell Road.
A new health facility has also been suggested.
A consultation will run for 8 weeks, and Kingston Council wants to hear the views of local residents and businesses.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:51 pm
More free health MOTs are coming our way.
Following a successful drive last year, NHS Kingston is teaming up with the Blood Pressure Association.
The team will be screening residents aged between 40 and 74 for a number of problems including diabetes and heart disease.
They’ll be at a number of one stop shops across the borough starting on Friday 12th at Sainsburys on the Richmond road from 11am.
On Saturday 13th the team will be at Sainsbury's again between 11am and 6pm. On Saturday March 27th they'll be in the Market Place near Costa Coffee.
Tests are free and only take 20 minutes.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 2:46 pm
Olympic star turns up the heat on parking charges
British Olympics star Jo Pavey has joined the protest against Richmond and Bushy car parking charges.
The distance runner says her use of the park has led her to back the protests. She uses it to train on a daily basis.
Under new guidelines due to come in at the end of the month, drivers would be charged to use the park’s car parks.
A motion against the plans is due to be presented at the House of Lords this Wednesday evening.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 1:56 pm
Girl's tribute to dying mum
A girl from Chiswick has created a music video dedicated to the memory of her mother.
16 year old Sarah Phillips’ mum Debbie Phillips passed away on 11th February after fighting a four year battle with cervical cancer.
In the short film, Sarah can be heard singing Paulo Nutini’s Autumn while pictures of her mum flash across the screen in a montage.
The Debbie Phillips Cervical Cancer Research Fund has since been set up in her memory and will raise money for the UCL Cancer Institute Research Trust.
Driver seriously injured after crash in Chetsey
A driver’s been seriously injured after a crash in Chertsey.
The accident happened in Highcroft Road on Saturday afternoon.
Police are appealing for witnesses.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:13 pm
Kitten lost by Sunbury vets
A couple from Feltham has appealed for help in finding their sick kitten, which was lost by vets after surgery.
Eamonn Fenlon and his wife took 10-month-old Millie in to Animals Are Us in Sunbury on Friday.
She was transferred to a pet hospital in Hayes for an operation.
But as she was returned by staff to the vets on Kempton Park Road, its claimed she escaped from her cage.
Millie is black with white marks on her paws and nose.
She’s also had her right leg shaved and has several fresh stitches in her chest.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:12 pm
Tooting benefits scam couple deny fraud
A couple who campaigned for Roma gypsies have been charged with helping hundreds of Romanians illegally claim millions in benefits.
Lavinia Olmazu and Alin Enachi operated in Tooting to allegedly mastermind a scam worth 2-and-half-million pounds.
The pair arranged job interviews for around than 350 Romanians at the Job Centre in Tooting.
It’s claimed more than half of these applicants went on to claim benefits, with the help of Olmazu and Enachi.
They deny two counts of fraud.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:11 pm
Claims that Meredith Kercher murderer is still on the run
The first man to be convicted of murdering Coulsdon student Meredith Kercher claims her killer is still on the run.
Rudy Guede was given 30-years for the death, which was later reduced to 16.
He says Meredith’s flatmate – American Amanda Knox and Raffaelle Sollecito, did NOT kill her.
The pair, who have always protested their innocence were jailed in December.
It’s thought Sollecito’s legal team is now interviewing Guede over the admission, as part of their appeal, launched last week.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:08 pm
Surrey homes fitted with water saving devices
Water saving devices are being fitted into homes in Surrey to help people reduce their consumption.
More than 1,000 homes in Redhill could benefit from the Tap into Savings scheme.
Water saving devices include timers, shower adaptors and toilet cistern conversion kits.
And neighbourhood groups are being set up to meet regularly and share ideas about saving water and energy.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:05 pm
Richmond lecturer runs for charity
Richmond upon Thames College lecturer Jason Arday is to undertake a mammoth task for charity.
Jason plans to run thirty marathons in thirty five days.
He’ll be raising money for Shelter and Shooting Star and hopes to complete each marathon in less than six hours.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 5:47 am
Sutton launches food bank
Sutton now has its own food bank.
The bank was officially launched on Saturday by Sutton’s Deputy Mayor Councillor John Leach at the Salvation Army.
The food bank is run by local churches and is stocked with three days of food for the needy.
Local MP’s Tom Brake and Paul Burstow both attended the launch and had high praises for the project.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 3:26 am
Sunday, 7 March 2010
Blues not so blue
John Terry was on the scoresheet to help Chelsea reach the FA Cup semi-finals with a 2-0 victory against Stoke at Stamford Bridge.
After scoring the Blues captain showed his emotion by pointing to his armband
The holders face a return trip to Wembley in the last four against Aston Villa.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 9:44 pm
Question time in Surrey?
Surrey county council's leader Dr Andrew Povey, is to engage in a question time style meeting with residents.
He will take questions from the floor at Dorking Halls on the 25th March.
Up for discussion are the state of the county's roads, the environment and the recession.
A number of meetings based on the BBC programme are taking place. Richmond Park MP Susan Kramer recently took part in one focussing on health in Richmond. Lib Dem Treasury Spokesman Dr Vince Cable will do the same next week.
Places for the Surrey event can be booked via the council's website.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 9:37 pm
Body found in River Wey
The body of an elderly man has been pulled from the River Wey at Guildford.
The body was pulled from the Bellfields area and is believed to be that of a pensioner reported missing earlier that day.
Formal identification is not due to take place until some time next week but the death is not being treated as suspicious.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 9:34 pm
Officers at Sutton are under investigation
The newspaper "The People" is reporting that four prison officers from Downview Prison in Sutton are under investigation.
The paper quotes a prison visitor who claims some officers may have been demanding sex in return for special treatment.
Nearly 360 women are held at the prison.The prison opened in 1989 as a category C Male Prison. In September 2001 Downview re-roled to a closed prison for adult women and in December 2004 a 16 bed juvenile unit (The Josephine Butler Unit) opened for young female offenders (both remand and convicted) aged from 15-18 in partnership with the Youth Justice Board.
A police investigation is underway.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:53 pm
Wife racing in Dorking
Dorking's third annual wife carrying race takes place today.
Competitors carry a 'wife' around the course.
Prizes are tempting, with the winners getting a barrel of beer. But last place gets a pot noodle and a tin of dog food.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:45 pm
Corporate manslaughter charge for Tooting hospital
A corporate manslaughter charge could be brought against one of the countries leading teaching hospitals in tooting after a 22year old died from dehydration.
Kane Gorny was so thirsty he rang police to beg for their help but when they arrived at St.Georges Hospital they were told everything was under control.
The next day his mother found him delirious and he died within hours.
It claimed staff failed to give him vital drugs to control his fluid levels.
The coroner has referred the case to police for invitation. The hospital has today apologised.posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 2:46 am
Drugs gang due to be sentenced
A gang who smuggled more than 62 million pounds of skunk cannabis into the UK, got so rich they forgot about sixty thousand pounds being stored in a garage in Kingston.
In fact they left it there so long it went mouldy.
The drugs were imported from Holland by a group headed by so called “directors” from Surbiton and another from Fulham.
Police say they made so much money they didn’t know what to do with it.
One
of many reasons why we are so useful to South West London...
our very own news team bringing you stories that are relevant to you
and your area.
If you have a press release
or would like to send in news then pop off an e-mail to [email protected]
Lucy Mayer
Lucy is the News and Travel Editor. Find out more about her on the Presenters page.
Luke Williams
Luke spends his free time playing synthesisers and watching old sitcoms. Journalism helps remind him of the 21st century.
Chloe Norman
Chloe presents both news and travel - find out more about her on the Presenters page.
Sandra Aggrey
Sandra wants to travel the world in 60 days.
Alex Loveridge
Alex loves watching tennis at Surbiton and Wimbledon and also plays a bit too. He swims at Richmond, but not in the Thames.
Mike Oban
Mike enjoys playing and watching sports and is a budding football coach.
Jacqui Kerr
Jacqui enjoys all sports and has had a go at most! She loves talking, current affairs, music, and walking her polar bear sized dog.
David Walker
David´s philosophy is you only live once so go out and grab every opportunity no matter how small.
Paul Francis
Paul grew up in Fetcham and now lives in Teddington with his wife, two cats and a dog. He supports Fulham and plays in a band.
Sharmeen Ziauddin
Sharmeen lives in Worcester Park and loves lie-ins, kittens, books, politics, make-up and anything with sugar in it, but hates Monday mornings with a vengeance.
John Beesley
John lives in Hounslow. He enjoys beer and singing with barbershop quartets and choruses, though not necessarily in that order.
Emily Dexter
Emily is creative and has wide-ranging interests.
Amelia Beltrao
Amelia thinks living in New Malden definitely has its benefits: she gets the shops and beautiful riverside from Kingston, can walk her dogs on the common and visit the tennis in Wimbledon, as well as having a great range of Asian culture and cuisines on her high street.
Abby Chitty
Abby is from Southfields and her favourite band of all time is The Killers.
Nick Ellerby
Back in the UK after six years in Brazil, Nick is missing the sun. He's a big fan of cricket, stand-up comedy and all things radio.
Katie Waple
Katie presents both news and travel - find out more about her on the Presenters page.