The Ram Club, which is based at the Old Cranleighans club, offered entertainment on a Friday night. Bosses say the loss of the founder members and the on-going pandemic has made the decision to close “inevitable.”
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 7:30 pm

Surrey Police has issued a statement following the cancellation of the vigil for Sarah Everard.
It says, while they “understand the importance of the cause… taking part in large gatherings in still unlawful”.They added “women should not have to live in fear or change their behaviour to keep themselves safe”
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 7:29 pm

There have been a cluster of criminal incidents in New Malden and Norbiton over the last week.
In New Malden, a vehicle had its back window smashed, a parcel was stolen from a doorstep and there was an attempted burglary.In Norbiton, there was an attempted burglary resulting in damage to a lock in the front door of a residential flat.
The suspects are unknown, however, residents are being reassured that dedicated officers are patrolling the areas regularly.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 5:18 pm

A code of conduct has been created for cyclists in Richmond Park by a cycling group
It’s been put together by 'Richmond Park Cyclists' who are also handing out leaflets to encourage “respectful behaviour.”
The news follows reports of track and circuit racing which are causing concern for some people.
'London Dynamos' is the only cycling club that has permission to run time trials in Richmond Park.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 3:45 pm

People from Richmond’s Black and minority ethnic community are being invited to join an online Q&A about vaccinations
Hosted by 'Multicultural Richmond' on 23rd of March, the event aims to debunk myths and misinformation about the coronavirus vaccine.National research suggests that people from BAME backgrounds are at a higher risk of serious illness from Covid-19.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 3:23 pm

Croydon Council is encouraging all its residents to fill out the once-in-a-decade survey.
The survey hopes to provide a snapshot of
every person and household in the country ahead of Census Day that takes place
on Sunday 21 March.
Participants will help inform the council of
the need for various services in the area.
It also hopes to shed light on the needs of
different groups and communities, and the inequalities some people are
experiencing.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 11:30 am

Chelsea look to stretch their unbeaten run to 12 games under new boss Thomas Tuchel this afternoon.
They're away to historic rivals Leeds in the Premier League -
as they look to cement a place in the top 4.
Tuchel says despite the dramatic upturn in form, he's not
getting carried away.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 10:30 am

A vigil planned for Sarah Everard in Clapham this evening has been cancelled after talks with police were unsuccessful.
It was due to be held at Clapham Common, near where the
33-year-old was last seen.
But organsisers haven't been able to arrange for it to go
ahead in a Covid-safe way.
Labour MP Harriet Harman is chair of the Human Rights
Committee.
Policeman Wayne Couzens, who's 48, is due in court today
charged with kidnap and murder.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 9:30 am

England look to get their stuttering rugby union Six Nations campaign back on track when they face France at Twickenham this evening.
The defence of their title is effectively over following
defeats to Scotland and Wales in their first three matches.
Head coach Eddie Jones says, for all the talk of his side's
problems in attack, there's only one thing he's worried about.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 8:24 am

A man from Richmond has been sentenced to 44 months in prison for arranging a child sex offence.
57-year-old Mark Crampton pleaded
guilty to arranging to meet who he thought was a child for sex but was an
undercover officer.
Crampton was also given an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention
Order when he was sentenced at Guildford Crown Court on Friday 5 March.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 7:30 am

An officer with the Metropolitan Police has been charged with the kidnap and murder of a woman who went missing in Clapham.
48-year-old Wayne Couzens is in court later.
He joined the force in 2018 - his job was to patrol
diplomatic premises like embassies.
Meanwhile, a vigil in honour of Sarah Everard in Clapham is
in doubt with police insisting it's not safe to gather during the coronavirus
pandemic.
Scotland's health secretary Jeane Freeman says ordinarily,
she'd have backed it.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 6:30 am

Friday, 12 March 2021
A Merton councillor has resigned, triggering a by-election.
Kelly Braund and her partner have chosen to relocate to
Scotland.
She’s being praised for her work with the borough’s
childrens services.
The election will take place on the 6th of May,
the same day as all other local elections.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 11:00 pm

Around 40 people have escaped a fire in Croydon this morning.
When fire crews arrived at around 5am, they could see flames
coming out of the first floor window of the block of flats on Fairfield Road.
A man and a woman were treated on scene by ambulance crews.
The cause is still under investigation.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 10:00 pm

Players competing at this year's Wimbledon Championships tennis will be made to stay in official hotels under Covid-19 rules.
Some of the biggest stars often book out private houses for
the tournament in SW19.
Last year's event was cancelled for the first time since the
Second World War due to the coronavirus pandemic.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 9:00 pm

MPs have warned of the financial impact caused by failures in the rollout of new border security technology.
The Public Accounts Committee says the Home Office Plan, to upgrade computer systems has been delayed by three years and cost the taxpayer £173m.
It thinks Border Force staff are having to use out-of-date technology to decide who's allowed into the UK.
Heathrow Airport says their “biggest single concern” in regards to moving high passenger numbers again is the ability of border force to cope.
It says that recent queue times have been “unacceptable”
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 8:00 pm

Human remains found in woodland in Kent are those of Sarah Everard.
The marketing executive went missing in Clapham nine days ago as she walked home from a friend's house.
A serving police officer is being questioned on suspicion of murder.
Meanwhile organisers of a vigil in Sarah's honour are at the High Court - after police banned it.
Boris Johnson says he understands the strength of feeling:
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 7:00 pm

Coronavirus numbers are going up in two Surrey boroughs, but the numbers are still very small
Elmbridge and Guildford have seen a slight rise in case rate, but it’s still only around 36 per 100,000 people.
The overall rate for the county is 33, nearly half of the nationwide figure.
Reigate and Banstead had the highest numbers and rate at the start of the year, but is now posting the lowest, with just 22 per 100,000 people.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 6:19 pm

The Met Police says it remains in discussions with the organisers of a proposed vigil for Sarah Everard in Clapham tomorrow
Lucy Mayer has this special report:
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 5:41 pm

Met Police statement in full regarding the murder of Sarah Everard
Assistant
Commissioner Nick Ephgrave has given the following update in connection with
the Sarah Everard investigation:
"I
want to start by saying that my thoughts and prayers – and those of the whole
Met - are with Sarah Everard’s family and all of her many friends at this
unimaginably painful time.
"As
you know, on Wednesday evening detectives investigating her disappearance very
sadly discovered a body in an area of woodland in Ashford, Kent.
“I
can now confirm this has been formally identified as Sarah. A post-mortem
examination is now taking place.
"Specialist
officers are in constant contact with her family and have updated them on this
terrible news.
“We
continue to support them as best we possibly can in these truly dreadful
circumstances.
"A
Metropolitan Police officer who was arrested on suspicion of Sarah’s murder
remains in custody.
"Our
investigation continues with hundreds of officers working around the clock to
find out exactly what has taken place.
"I
know that the public feel deeply hurt and angry and I speak on behalf of all my
colleagues when I say that we too are horrified.
"I
understand that women in London and the wider public, particularly those in the
area where Sarah went missing, will be worried and may well be feeling
frightened.
"Londoners
are likely to continue to see extra officers on the streets in the coming days.
"Please
know our officers are committed to keeping you and your loved ones safe. Our
dedication to serve the people of London is undiminished."
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 3:20 pm

It's been confirmed the body found in Kent woodland on Wednesday is that of Sarah Everard
The remains were discovered a week after the marketing executive disappeared as she walked home from a friend's house in south London.
A serving Metropolitan Police officer continues to be questioned on suspicion of the 33 year old's kidnap and murder.
Assistant Commissioner Nick Ephgrave gave this update a short time ago:
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 2:41 pm

Organisers of a vigil for Sarah Everard are challenging a police ruling that the gathering would be unlawful because of Covid-19 restrictions
It’s due take place in Clapham tomorrow, close to where she went missing last week.
The 33-year-old's disappearance has opened up debates on women's safety.
A police officer's still being questioned over Sarah's kidnap and murder.
Baroness Jenny Jones explains why she suggested there should be an evening curfew for men.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 1:02 pm

The Centrale shopping centre in Croydon has become a vaccination centre
A large area on the upper level, near Starbucks, will be used to deliver the jabs.
People with an appointment will receive an hour of free parking in the car park.
The Archdeacon of Croydon, Rosemarie Mallett, was the first to be vaccinated there, and says “I hope to show local people how easy it is”.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:02 pm

Wandsworth Council is the only council in London to freeze its general share of council tax bills for a second year
The average band D tax bill, at just below £800, is the second lowest in the country, and around half the London average.
Alternatively, Kingston is one council to agree an increase of 1.99% taking the average Band D tax bill to £1,945.
Wandsworth is also proposing a charitable trust to take donations from higher tax band payers to help those who are suffering hardship.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 11:06 am

Organisers of a vigil for Sarah Everard are launching a legal challenge after claiming the Metropolitan Police reversed its position on allowing it to go ahead
Reclaim These Streets wanted to meet on Saturday at the Clapham Common bandstand - not far from where the 33-year-old went missing.
A police officer's been arrested on suspicion of murder.
Her disappearance has prompted discussions about women's safety.
Luda Orlando from the group wants men to listen.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 9:33 am

Drugs, cash and a suspected gun have been seized during six dawn raids across South-West London
Police executed warrants in Wandsworth, Hammersmith and Fulham, Kensington and Chelsea, and Westminster yesterday at around 5am.
The crimes they were investigating include drug use and supply, as well as child exploitation and knife crime.
Four men and a woman have been arrested.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 8:32 am

A warning is going out to parents in Tolworth and Chessington
Police say a school-boy was approached by a male in a black Mercedes asking them to get in their car.
The incident on Monday afternoon happened by the bus stop in Hook Road.
Officers are asking parents to be alert and make sure their children also understand how to be safe.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 7:04 am

Thursday, 11 March 2021
Covid-19 cases in London have shown a significant decrease
One
borough, Lewisham, saw a seven-day rate below 20 confirmed new infections per
1000-thousand people.
More
than half of boroughs had a rate below 40.
Kensington
and Chelsea had a rate 26.3 however Hounslow’s rate was 72.6, evidence that the
battle to drive cases lower in some areas is slowing.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 9:58 pm

Police continue to search for the organiser of an illegal rave at a disused Bank Vault in Southall
The
person could be hit with a 10-thousand pound fine under emergency pandemic
legislation.
Some
forty-four revellers are facing 800-pound fines for breaking lockdown
regulations after police raided the party on Hortus Road on Sunday morning.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 9:57 pm

Kew Gardens have launched a 10-year manifesto which includes a plan to “completely change” their display information on plants such as sugar cane to reflect their links to empire and slavery
Regarding
the Kew collection director Richard Deverell said there’s a lot to be done in
broadening the narrative around the plants.
“How
they have been used around the world by indigenous communities and how they got
to Britain.”
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 9:01 pm

A number of affordable homes are now ready to take in residents in Ham
The
seven properties have replaced underused sites in Clifford Road, Maguire Drive
and Riverside Drive.
The
two-bedroom bungalows have wheelchair access and adjustable kitchen appliances
for disabled residents.
They
also have solar panels to enable lower running costs as well as gardens and
allocated parking.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 8:22 pm

Today is World Kidney Day
The day aims to highlight the issue of kidney disease with one in nine worldwide having it.
Sarah-Louise Harwood from Sutton was diagnosed with kidney failure when she was 18.
Now working for Kidney Research UK, she tells us the ways in which we can check our kidney health:
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 6:00 pm

A fire at a recycling centre in Mitcham in the early hours is believed to be accidental
Around 400 cubic metres of household waste inside a building in Hallowfield Way caught light, just before 4am.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 5:36 pm

A vigil highlighting women's safety on the streets will be held in Clapham on Saturday
Reclaim These Streets has been organised in reaction to the murder of 33 year old Sarah Everard.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 2:29 pm

The Prime Minister says he's "deeply saddened" after human remains were discovered in the search for Sarah Everard
They were found in woodland in Kent last night.
A serving police officer's being questioned on suspicion of kidnapping and murdering the 33-year-old, who went missing in south London last week.
Maya Tutton, from the anti-sexual harassment campaign group Our Streets Now, thinks this case highlights a range of issues we need to address:
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 1:02 pm

Rail services will be disrupted by engineering works, not long after England's stay-at-home order is expected to be lifted
Network Rail's got 600 projects taking place across the service over the Easter weekend.
It’s urging people to minimise travel.
It includes no trains at Guildford, and replacement buses between Barnes and Feltham.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:30 pm

Labour says it'll focus on the nurses' pay row in its campaign for May's local election
Leader Sir Keir Starmer's demanding "a proper pay rise" for NHS workers, after the government's controversial 1 percent increase.
The move has been widely criticised by staff and unions - who say they were promised double that.
Campaigners will carry out a sarcastic "slow handclap" tonight in protest against the government's proposed one percent pay rise for NHS staff in England.
It's a parody of the 'clap for carers' campaign which saw the nation come together to applaud health workers for their efforts to tackle Covid-19.
But Minister for Small Business and Sutton MP, Paul Scully, says it's about preserving the health service in the long-run.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:02 pm

Passenger numbers at Heathrow Airport were down 92% in February compared to a year ago
461,000 people travelled through the London hub - the lowest monthly figure since 1966.
It's mainly being put down to the ban on non-essential travel and the coronavirus quarantine rules.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 11:07 am

The Lib Dem leader is urging people not to turn down their Covid-19 vaccine when they are offered it
Sir Ed Davey, who is the MP for Kingston and Surbiton, says we should be proud to be vaccinated.
Mr Davey has already had his first dose as he is one of 10 million people who is classified as a carer nationwide.
He says people must look at the evidence over myth.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 9:41 am

Police are continuing to question a serving officer on suspicion of the murder of Sarah Everard following the discovery of human remains
They were found in an area of woodland in Ashford in Kent yesterday.
The 33-year-old marketing executive disappeared last Wednesday evening as she walked home from a friend's flat in Clapham.
Metropolitan Police Commissioner, Dame Cressida Dick, says patrols are being stepped up in the area.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 8:31 am

People across Surrey will be given a preview of the Police’s new Headquarters in Leatherhead later
A virtual consultation will showcase the masterplan for the new £20 million site in Cleeve Road, followed by a Q&A.
The force is moving out of Mount Browne in Guildford after over 70 years as part of plans to upgrade and modernise its properties.
The event will run from 6pm to 7:30pm; anyone interested in taking part should register on the Surrey Police website.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 7:15 am

Wednesday, 10 March 2021
Air Passenger Duty on domestic flights could be cut under plans to improve connectivity within UK
A consultation's being launched this spring on the duty on services between UK airports.
But critics of the proposal say reducing the tax 'flies in the face' of the government's climate commitments.
Transport secretary, Grant Shapps, insists there are more effective ways to get the aviation industry to zero carbon.
However, the government has been criticised for lowering that tax, while raising rail fares.
Richmond Park LIb Dem MP Sarah Olney says it means "Britain will be laughed at on the world stage".
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 9:12 pm

Former England, Surrey and Warwickshire cricketer Joey Benjamin has died aged 60
The fast bowler, who was born in St Kitts, reportedly had a heart attack.
Benjamin played one test and two one-day internationals for England during the 1990s.
He took 387 first-class wickets.
In his later life, he coached cricket at Reigate Grammar School.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 8:33 pm

Passport control staff at Heathrow are going to take industrial action because of a dispute over working patterns.
Members of the P-C-S Union will ban working overtime for a month as of the 24th of March.
It's claimed changes to rosters will end the ability of staff to swap and request shifts.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 6:30 pm

Students at Kingston University have taken part in an environmental “hackathon” event.
Participating teams were each given” a real-world challenge” focusing on one of six topics including food, transport and waste.
The aim was to try and find ways the university’s campuses could become more sustainable.
Solutions included creating more cycle paths, a buddy system to encourage more cycling and a weekend culinary event.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 6:00 pm

It’s national No Smoking Day, and we’re being encouraged to “quit for covid”.
In Wandsworth, there are around 30,000 smokers in the borough.
Councillor Clare Salier says “now more than ever it’s important to do all you can to protect your health, so please seek help for the sake of yourself and your family”.
People are being encouraged to seek out their local stop smoking services.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:45 pm

A police officer being held in connection with the disappearance of Sarah Everard has now been arrested on suspicion of murder.
The 33-year-old went missing in the Clapham area a week ago tonight.
Today, the search has mainly focused on woodland close to Ashford in Kent.
The Metropolitan Police officer, in his 40s, also faces a separate allegation of indecent exposure.
Crime correspondent Martin Brunt is nearby.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 3:51 pm

Met Police statement on missing Sarah Everard who disappeared from #Clapham a week ago.
A
man arrested in connection with the disappearance of Sarah Everard remains in
custody at a London police station.
The
man, who is aged in his 40s, was arrested on the evening of Tuesday, 9th of March on
suspicion of kidnap.
Today,
Wednesday, 10th of March, he has been further arrested on suspicion of murder and a
separate allegation of indecent exposure.
The
man is a serving Metropolitan Police officer in the Parliamentary and
Diplomatic Protection Command. His primary role was uniformed patrol duties of
diplomatic premises.
A
woman, who is aged in her 30s, was also arrested on the evening of 9th of March on
suspicion of assisting an offender. She remains in custody.
Officers
are searching locations in London and Kent including a property in Deal and an
area of woodland near Ashford.
Following
the arrest of the police officer, the Metropolitan Police has made a referral
to the Independent Office for Police Conduct.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 3:34 pm

Richmond Council says it is providing over 6,000 residents with 100% discretionary council tax reductions.
Student households are amongst those who will be eligible for the support.
Over 9,000 residents have received means tested relief to help them financially during the pandemic over the last year.
Up £150 reduction in council tax is also being offered to working households who don’t qualify for the 100% relief.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 3:00 pm

A woman has avoided jail after pleading guilty to benefit fraud in Spelthorne.
Lisa Hunt acknowledged making fraudulent declarations with the intent to obtain various benefits and social housing.
She was found guilty at Guildford Crown Court and sentenced to 16 months in jail, suspended for 12 months.
She was also ordered to attend 12 months’ rehabilitation and carry out 120 hours of unpaid work.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 2:07 pm

It's thought a Metropolitan Police officer arrested in connection with the disappearance of Sarah Everard was 'not on duty' when she went missing
The 33-year-old was last seen in Clapham a week ago.
The suspect was detained in Kent, along with a woman who's being held on suspicion of assisting an offender.
Reporter Martin Brunt says officers are carrying out a search near Ashford in Kent.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:31 pm

Totally eliminating COVID-19 from Surrey is proving a difficult task
Cases have been falling rapidly, but the decline is now slowing.
Just under 400 cases have been identified in the past seven days, a drop of around 30 since yesterday.
In mid-February, cases were falling by hundreds per day.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:01 pm

A mobile phone found underneath a BT Sport platform at Fulham FC’s ground is being investigated by police
There are fears of a gambling scam or an attempt to extort or capture something said by the broadcasters.
Two men were seen inside the ground after the club reviewed CCTV footage.
There have been no arrests and enquiries continue.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 11:02 am

A serving Metropolitan Police officer has been arrested following the disappearance of Sarah Everard as she walked home from Clapham
The force says he was detained at an address in Kent last night.
A woman was also arrested at the same location on suspicion of assisting an offender.
Ms Everard, who's 33, went missing last Wednesday evening as she walked home from Clapham Junction to Brixton.
These women in Clapham Common admit it's made them more wary.
Assistant Met Police Commissioner Nick Ephgrave says the pair are still in custody.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 9:31 am

Flower shows are going ahead in July, making them the first major outdoor events to return this summer
The Royal Horticultural Society will welcome crowds at Hampton Court and Tatton Park in Cheshire.
Restrictions on social-distancing are expected to be fully eased by mid-June, but organisers say they'll continue to plan with safety measures in mind.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 8:33 am

A mansion in Weybridge in one of the most exclusive areas of the country is up for sale for £11m
The Georgian-inspired mansion at St George’s Hill has three turrets, and is set in a 900 acre gated community with its own golf course and tennis club.
Features include a plasma TV that can be hidden behind a painting at the touch of a button, and a mezzanine gym.
Former residents in the area have included John Lennon, John Terry, Elton John, and Theo Paphitis.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 7:50 am

Tuesday, 9 March 2021
Battersea Arts Centre has been transformed into a “creative and inclusive” vaccination centre.
Visual, digital and interactive art has been installed to “inspire hope, curiosity and imagination” while people get their jabs.
CEO of the Arts Centre, Tarek Iskander, says they will continue to commission new creative projects from arts, young people and communities.
He says “it’s these shared collective experiences that make our lives worth fighting for.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 11:18 pm

Nearly £7m is to be invested in schools in Lambeth to reduce their carbon emissions.
It’s hoped it will reduce pollution by 1,000 tonnes a year and save up to £250,000 a year too.
The existing heating systems will be converted into clean energy sources, such as electric heat pumps and solar panels.
Councillor Claire Holland says climate change will make existing inequalities worse, and they want to deliver a “just transition” for the borough.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 11:17 pm

English Heritage says it will reopen some 50 sites back up to the public from March the 29th.
Those that enjoy large outdoor spaces, like Stonehenge, will be the first to throw open their doors.
Others will reopen on April the 12th and the rest on May the 17th, Government rules permitting.
English Heritage runs sites including Chiswick House and Gardens and Marble Hill House in Twickenham.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 10:40 pm

Police have seized car theft equipment from a home in Walton.
A man and woman have been arrested after the force found a key tool, a tracker device, and a large amount of cash.
They’re accused of conspiracy to steal motor vehicles, money laundering, and possession of criminal property.
They’ve been released under investigation.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 10:39 pm

Richmond’s residents throw away over 14,000 tonnes of food each year... but recycle less than a fifth of it.
That’s according to research carried out by the Council and West London Waste Authority.
Lucy Mayer has been taking a look at the findings.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 9:39 pm

A free course designed to help people recover from the effects of Covid-19 has launched in Kingston.
A free course designed to help people recover from the effects of Covid-19 has launched in Kingston.
The 6-week-long “Active Breathing Course” has been created by charity, Voices of Hope.
Breathing exercises and singing are widely accepted as a way to help restore lung function as well as regain muscle support.
Sarah Clay is the charity’s founder; she also spent time in hospital last winter with the virus.
For more details about the ABC course, go to voh.org.uk
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 9:36 pm

Surrey’s Police and Crime Commissioner has written to Home Secretary Priti Patel urging her to support a new “victims’ law.”
David Munro has put his weight behind the campaign created by national Victims Commissioner, Dame Vera Baird.
The law would give victims a set of core statutory rights with the impetus on bodies like the police to uphold them.
These include informing them of the state of their case, simpler rules for compensation and free legal representation at inquests.
David Munro said: ‘Victims of crime generally have a rotten time of it - although I have to say that in Surrey, I think they are treated better than most other parts of the country. The crime they’ve suffered is bad enough, but too often the justice system subsequently lets them down. That’s not criticism of individuals in Surrey - they work tirelessly to keep their show on the road - but the system simply isn’t fair to victims.
‘There are particular problems at the moment, with significant delays in the courts. Again, Surrey isn’t as bad as elsewhere, but far too many victims are having to wait months and in some cases well over a year to get their case settled. For example, a year ago my Victims and Witnesses Care Unit was supporting 438 trials: a year later, the number had risen to over 800. And the number of victims deciding they’ve had enough and don’t want to support prosecution has also risen sharply.
‘A Victims’ Law won’t change matters overnight but will be a significant step to giving victims the rights and respect they deserve.’
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 9:33 pm

A second person has been arrested following the murder of man in Croydon.
A 26-year-old is in custody, accused of stabbing 19-year-old Tai O’Donnell.
Meanwhile, 22-year-old Kamila Ahmad from Mitcham will appear at the Old Bailey tomorrow.
The 19-year-old was attacked last Wednesday and pronounced dead at the scene on Alpha Road.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 9:02 pm

Details of an incident where a car was driven at a police officer in Epsom have been revealed.
Police were responding to a call at around 3pm on the 26th of February and stopped a car in Chartwell Place.
When the officer went to speak to the driver and passenger, the Vauxhall Insignia accelerated and drove towards her.
Two men were arrested and released under investigation.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 8:47 pm

Measures to reduce cut-through traffic in Richmond and Bushy Parks will remain in place until next March.
18,000 people responded to a Royal Parks consultation on the proposal which could be made permanent in 12 months’ time.
Richmond Council has already voiced concerns that the move is leading to a build-up of pollution on surrounding roads.
This is something Richmond Park MP Sarah Olney agrees with.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 7:51 pm

An elderly woman has died after being hit by a car in Chertsey this morning. It happened at around 8.50 this morning on Chertsey Lane.
The black Audi A4 struck the pedestrian, who was in her 70s, and she was pronounced dead shortly afterwards. The driver was not injured.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, or Crimestoppers to remain anonymous.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 7:24 pm

Two men have been charged with the murder of a man in Roehampton
42 year old Ralph Gibson died from head and chest injuries after he was found in Huntingfield Road last April.
One man appeared in court on Saturday and the other will appear in court tomorrow.
Two other arrested have been released under investigation.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 5:15 pm

171 arrests, mainly for drug and weapon related offences, have been carried out in West Croydon over the last four weeks
Officers have also recovered 43 weapons, including zombie and Rambo-type knives.
A number of teams took part in the operation including roads and transport police and mounted officers.
The Met Police says “typically there are up to five robberies a week but there were none in West Croydon during the month.”
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:08 pm

Plans to make gay conversion therapy illegal in the UK have been debated by MPs
A study in 2017 found that 5% of LGBT people in the UK had been offered the therapy, and 2% had undergone it.
Equalities Minister Kemi Badenoch says they’re committed to ending the practice, but they’re currently trying to find a legal definition for it.
Carshalton and Wallington Tory MP Elliot Colburn, who’s openly gay, says it’s still being offered by some groups.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 1:01 pm

Measures to cut down on traffic through Richmond and Bushy Parks will remain in place for another year
At Bushy Park, 56% of people have supported the move.
However, at the rest of the Royal Parks, that number is between 70 and 80%.
At Bushy, a full-time closure of Chestnut Avenue between Teddington and Hampton Court Gates is in place.
A decision will be made next March on whether or not they’ll be made permanent.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:00 pm

Croydon is to receive a £120m bailout from the government, after it almost went bankrupt
When the council stopped all non-essential spending in November, they were predicted to overspend by £60m.
That’s now risen to nearly £97m.
The authority will receive £70m this year, and £50m next year, if they keep to the conditions, such as sticking to their improvement plan.
Croydon says the money will allow them to deliver a balanced budget, something they’re legally required to do.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 11:04 am

Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel says his team have an extra energy from their recent run of results following a 2-nil victory over Everton in the Premier League
It extends the top flight's fourth-placed club's unbeaten run to 11 games since the German took over.
Tuchel says they're building something special.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 9:34 am

Cat owners are being urged to make themselves aware of the dangers Lilies can pose to their pets
It’s after a 9-month-old kitten was poisoned and subsequently died in Croydon.
The RSPCA was contacted by his owner who had been given a bunch of flowers which he later came into contact with.
Ingesting any part of a Lily can cause complete kidney failure in cats within 36 to 72 hours.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 8:32 am

The leader of Hounslow Council is urging people to sign a petition against the closure of the Barclays in Brentford
Residents group Brentford Voice says it would be a “devastating blow” that would leave the town without a bank or post office.
They say the area has experienced “considerable increases in population”, and therefore the closure is “entirely inappropriate”.
Leader Steve Curran says the petition “means a lot” to him.
You can find the petition link
here.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 7:04 am

Fulham Boys School have moved into a permanent site, after ten years.
They’re welcoming children to the new site at the former
police station as they return after lockdown.
The school says “this architecture is serious, serious about
education and our boys' future”.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:00 am

Monday, 8 March 2021
The work done by police dogs is being commended by Surrey’s officers.
It’s
after one of their animals used his tracking skills to find a vulnerable man in
Cobham last week.
Concerns
for the man’s welfare were reported and he was eventually located in a wooded
area within Painshill Park.
PD
Gunny was enlisted to help with the search; the man was taken to hospital for
treatment by paramedics.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 10:00 pm

The National Hair & Beauty Federation estimates lockdown closures have cost the industry more than £124 million per week.
Chancellor
Rishi Sunak announced in his Budget that from next month, salons will be able
to apply for grants of up to £18,000.
Louise
Soons has co-owned her hair salon in East Sheen for the last 12 years.
She
feels the industry’s worth has been underestimated.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 9:00 pm

Feltham and Heston’s MP says the impact of the Coronavirus pandemic will be much worse if Heathrow flounders.
Labour’s
Seema Malhotra was “deeply disappointed” that there was no mention of the
aviation industry in the Chancellor’s Budget.
Heathrow airport alone
plunged to an annual £2bn loss last year.
Ms
Malhotra says this will directly affect the people of West London for years to
come.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 8:30 pm

Hounslow Council has given the Green light for a New Carbon Zero Housing Scheme.
With a 100% reduction in carbon
dioxide emissions, Orchard Road demonstrates
the Council responding to the climate
emergency challenge.
Councillor Katherine Dunne says, “we
embrace new technologies and construction methods to make our borough
greener.”
The scheme will give a modern and exciting blueprint for the
future of council house building.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 8:00 pm

Police have recovered a stolen moped in Addlestone.
Officers attended a report of a suspicious abandoned scooter in
the area.
Checks revealed that the moped had been stolen less than 24
hours previously.
It has been recovered for a potential forensic examination.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 7:00 pm

A new study suggests mandatory food reformulation could prevent 4.5 million people in the UK from becoming overweight or obese.
It’s
been done by The Wolfson Institute.
The
study has found that reducing 20% of fat content in manufactured foods over
five years could cut obesity by 6.8%.
Lily
Soutter is a Chelsea based nutritionist.
Lily Soutter Interview
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 5:52 pm

The hunt for a woman who vanished while walking through Clapham Common has entered its fifth day
33 year old Sarah Everard disappeared after leaving a friend’s house in Leathaite Road last Wednesday evening.
She had been due to make the 50 minute walk to her house in Brixton but never arrived.
Police are asking for homeowners along the South Circular to hand over any door-cam footage to see if the CCTV holds any clues.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:20 pm

Today is International Women’s Day, and the theme this year is “Choose to Challenge”
Volunteer lifeboat crew member at Teddington RNLI, Gianna Saccomani, used to live opposite a lifeboat station.
She says she used to watch the crews at work:
She adds that crew members come from all backgrounds, but all train together at the same time.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 3:32 pm

People visiting care homes can now hold hands with their loved ones from today - as part of the first phase of the government's easing of lockdown
Nominated visitors will be tested before and will have to wear protective equipment with hugs and kisses not allowed.
Maggie Middleton, manager of Parklands Manor Care Home in Chertsey, says any physical contact is vital.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:53 pm

A woman has been charged with the murder of a 19-year-old in Croydon
22-year-old Kamila Ahmad from Mitcham is believed to have known Tai O’Donnell.
Police were called last Wednesday to Alpha Road, where Tai was pronounced dead at the scene.
Detectives are still appealing for information, and are asking people to contact them on 101 or Crimestoppers to remain anonymous.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:04 pm

Green Woman traffic lights have been installed in Tooting and Clapham
They’ve been installed on the high streets, as part of 20 across the capital on International Women’s Day.
They depict a diverse range of women and “challenge the common image of a woman in a dress to signify gender”.
TfL says it’s actively encouraging women to apply for its apprenticeships and reviewing its recruitment process to allow for unbiased career progression.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 11:05 am

Fulham manager Scott Parker is confident his team can stay in the Premier League
A 1-nil win at champions Liverpool means they're level on points with fourth-from-bottom Brighton this morning.
The cottagers remain in the drop zone on goal difference.
But Parker says they must believe in themselves.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 9:42 am

Thousands of children are heading back to the classroom this morning
The re-opening of schools is the first step of the Government’s roadmap out of the COVID-19 restrictions.
But some, including teaching unions, are worried pupils’ return will create a spike in infections.
TV presenter, Ranj Singh, is a Doctor in Paediatric Emergency Medicine at St George's Hospital in Tooting.
He’s supporting today’s move.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 8:32 am

Mole Valley District Council has initiated redevelopment plans of the Swan Centre and Bull Hill as part of Transform Leatherhead
It has started a formal procurement process to seek a joint strategic venture partner.
The ambitious 50/50 partnership offers the rare opportunity to work alongside the Council to bring about substantial regeneration.
The plans are for two key freehold sites to deliver transformational change in the form of housing, commercial and community space.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 7:07 am

Sunday, 7 March 2021
A section 60 was put in place across Putney over the weekend
It was in place between 9pm on Friday and midday yesterday in East Putney, West Putney and Roehampton.
It followed calls about an assault and potential further violence in the Wandsworth area.
A section 60 is a power that allows police officers to stop and search a person for items used in connection with violence.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 5:30 pm

Two people have been arrested for major drug offences in Hounslow
Overnight, police were tasked with proactive anti robbery and burglary patrols in Chiswick and Brentford.
Officers carried out stop and searches and multiple vehicle stops.
This is when the suspects were arrested following a pursuit.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 4:25 pm

Three bikes have been stolen from a storage unit in Surbiton
A white GT Aggressor was one of the three bikes recently stolen from the unit at an address on King Charles Road.
It’s thought they were taken at some point between Saturday the 28th of February and the 3rd of March.
If you have any relevant information or if you think you've seen the bike you should call police on 101.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 3:00 pm

Surrey Police are urging people to instal crime prevention devices in their cars after two vehicles were stolen in Cobham
On Wednesday the 3rd of march two 'keyless' cars were stolen overnight from a premises just off Stoke Road.
One was a Mercedes and the other was a BMW.
Police said you should always manually check your vehicle has locked before walking away and invest in a steering wheel lock.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 2:00 pm

Richmond Council are reminding residents and visitors to the borough to stick to the COVID-19 safety rules this weekend.
As it’s the last day before children return to school, they want to remind everyone that the lockdown rules are still in place.
You are not to leave home unless for an essential reason and only to exercise with members of your own household, support bubble or one other person.
Cllr Gareth Roberts, said, “if we all suddenly throw away the rule book, we could see numbers begin to rocket just like over Christmas.”
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 1:06 pm

Fulham boss Scott Parker is wary of a backlash from champions Liverpool when they meet at Anfield in the Premier League this afternoon.
Their opponents have lost a club record five straight
matches at home.
Parker's men could really do with extending that run if
they're to avoid relegation - and he knows they'll need to strike a careful
balance.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 11:00 am

60% of children in Richmond have been offered a place at their first preference secondary school.
The news comes as it’s estimated one in three children across London missed out on
their top choice this week.
There
are currently 114 children in Richmond without an offer.
The
council’s admission team, which received over 2,000 applications, says it’s
monitoring the progress of all of those waiting.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 9:41 am

An estate agent has been fined by Spelthorne Borough Council for fly-posting.
The
council says it has responded to frequent breaches and takes a zero-policy
approach to this kind of activity.
The
authority had already written to estate agents about the illegal erection of unsolicited
for sale, to let and sold boards in certain areas.
The
company, which has not been named, was handed an £80 fine.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 8:00 am

Police investigating the disappearance of a woman in Clapham are encouraging some people to check CCTV and dashcam footage.
Sarah Everard went missing as she walked home from Clapham
Junction to her home in Brixton on Wednesday night.
Her family say with every day that goes by, they're getting
more worried.
Detective Chief Inspector Ian Kenward is from the
Metropolitan Police.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 7:00 am

A 31 year old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after an incident in Thornton Heath this morning.
Police were called to a property on Elliot road just before
7am after reports a man in his 20s had suffered
multiple stab wounds to his head and legs.
The victims condition is not yet known, police say they await
an update.
Anyone with information is urged to contact police.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 1:00 am

A man from Crystal Palace who attacked an officer during a residential burglary has been sentenced to nine years in prison.
32 year old Jay Baptiste was sentenced at Croydon Crown
Court on Tuesday for GBH, three years for the burglary of a residential address
and three years for the burglary of a non-residential address.
Police were called to an address in West Wickham last
September by a member of the public who could see men breaking into a house.
When they arrived Baptiste swung a shovel at the officer’s
head multiple times causing serious lacerations to his head and face.
All sentences to run concurrently.
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 12:00 am
