From the latest diary of local funeral director Barry Albin-Dyer:

You may have observed that the roundabouts at the Rotherhithe Tunnel and at Crittals Corner have been signed as ‘The Albin Roundabout’ as we have sponsored them, and I have to say that it has already helped some people to find us much easier already – Look out on the news for ‘traffic approaching the Albins Roundabout’!! – Who knows??

 

Rotherhithe-based charity Time & Talents wants to set up an educational centre which will offer at-risk young people and vulnerable adults horticulture and construction qualifications, coaching them in workplace skills, supporting their transition into apprenticeships or employment. All growing will take place in communal areas on local estates, increasing ownership and wellbeing.

The charity has applied for nearly £25,000 from the Engage Mutual Foundation whose community awards are determined by a public vote. So far Time & Talents has notched up 63 votes but needs many more to be in with a chance of gaining the cash.

You can vote online until the end of May to show your support for this local initiative.

2nd Day 672

Beanstalk is a charity that trains volunteers to help children aged 6-11 become confident and literate.

They have launched a drive to recruit new volunteers in Bermondsey and Rotherhithe.

To become an Inspiring Reading volunteer you must:

  • Be able to spare three hours per week, plus your travel time
  • Commit for at least a year
  • Have been resident in the UK for at least two years
  • Be fluent in English and a competent reader
  • Believe in the importance of literacy

For more information visit www.beanstalkcharity.org.uk or contact 020 3176 4380

 

Southwark Council is calling on local organisations, traders or performers to get in touch and be a part of 2014’s Bermondsey Carnival. Whether you are a charity, food and drink specialist, dancer or musician – Southwark wants to hear from you.

 Last year more than 6,000 people attended the free event to celebrate the summer in Southwark and all it has to offer. This year’s event will take place on Saturday 28 June at Southwark Park, and with live music, a funfair and entertainment for all the family – this year’s event is set to be another great day out.

A council spokesperson said: “The carnival is an amazing opportunity for local groups, traders and entertainers to show people what they do. It is a platform like no other, so we would really encourage everyone to get involved this year, even if it’s offering an extra pair of hands on the day, and help us make 2014 one to remember.”

Southwark events like Bermondsey Carnival can only happen with the help of local volunteers, so whether you have volunteered before in a similar event or not, the carnival is a great opportunity to get involved and have a fun and rewarding day out at the same time. Volunteer opportunities include assisting artists and performers, stewarding parades, setting up event areas and stage managing.

 So if you have a fun and exciting idea for this year, or want to put yourself forward as a volunteer – get in touch with the events team and take part in this year’s carnival. http://www.southwark.gov.uk/bermondseycarnival

Southwark Council has revealed more details of the proposed revamp of the athletics track at Southwark Park.

The proposals to be put forward will include reinstating the athletics track and creating a grassed central pitch to enable, for the first time, a full programme of athletics activities to be delivered for people of all abilities.

Activities will include:

  • Six lane Athletics Track with eight lane 100m straight
  • Long/Triple Jump
  • High jump
  • Pole Vault
  • Hammer/Discus cage
  • Shot put
  • Javelin

The proposal also includes plans to amend the boundary of the sports facility to provide additional land for users of the park.

Funding has also been confirmed for the refurbishment of the park’s pavilion. A public consultation and design development will take place over the next few months.

Councillor Veronica Ward, Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure, Sport and Volunteering said: “This is a really exciting step for Southwark, and especially for users of Southwark Park and local athletes as a part of our Olympic and Paralympic Legacy. We also hope that the refurbished pavilion will provide facilities to support the athletics development, as well as changing rooms, toilets and refreshment facilities for the benefit of park users.”

Last month the new London City Athletics Club held its launch event – a 10k run – in the park.