An heroic response to the pandemic by a nation of lions led by donkeys

So the year closes, as it opened, with everyone wearing masks and socially distancing. Everyone hoped we would be seeing the back of the Covid 19 pandemic by now but it seems to have revived with the Omicron variant. It would seem there is some way to go before it can be said the pandemic is behind us. Everyone has been through a lot, many losing loved ones. These are difficult times with people being asked to give up their liberties in exchange for the safety and security of all. What has been most galling is that some of those doing the asking have been exposed as so flagrantly breaking the rules themselves. The news that last year, as citizens obeyed government rules to socially distance, wear masks and not mix inside, occupants of Downing Street were operating in a totally parallel universe - partying the night away. One rule for us and one rule for them, had been the cry previously over the Dominic Cummings/Barnard Castle fiasco but the parties farago took the whole thing to a new level. Trust is vital if we are to come through this pandemic with the minimum of damage. And trust has taken a battering from this government. Citizens are being asked to abide by restrictions that they know those doing the asking have failed to do in the past. This is perfect storm territory. But the people must rise above the inadequacy of todays leaders and think of each other. It has been the community response that has seen us through in the past 18 months. The foodbanks, support for homeless and house bound. The heroic efforts of NHS, care staff, police, firefighters, soldiers, teachers, refuse collectors, local authority workers, postal and supermarket staff. These are just some of those who have helped everyone get through the crisis. We will all look to them again to see us through the latest stage of the pandemic. And we will get there. Everyone has a role to play, not least by getting vaccinated. It is just a shame that we have so much become a nation of lions led by donkeys (if that is not unfair to donkeys). Everyone deserves better in 2022. Happy New Year.

Let's have a less wasteful Christmas

Christmas is a time for celebration but also when a vast amount of waste is created. There is all the paper, food waste, packaging, and plastic. This year will be the first when the whole of Redbridge has been served by wheelie bins. The roll out of the wheelie bins has been a tremendous success, as well as making our streets cleaner by containing waste more securely it has increased recycling rates by around 5% - with around a third of our household waste now being recycled. This has been achieved by limiting household waste to what will fit in the wheelie bin and ensuring residents make full use of recycling facilities. Hopefully this will encourage people to create less waste in the first place. A group of councillors recently visited the East London Waste Authorities (ELWA) Renewi facilities in Newham and Ilford to see for ourselves what happens to the borough's waste. Household waste and recycling of Newham, Barking and Dagenham and Redbridge finishes up at these facilities. The waste end up in a giant warehouse type building. The waste then undergoes a treatment where it is shredded and dried out for 14 days, reducing its volume by about 30% with the moisture being pumped into woodchip containers on the roof of the building which biologically filter out odours and bioaerosols. Recyclable materials such as glass and metals that have not been separated by households for separate collection are removed for recycling from the dried waste, as well as organic material which goes on to be composted and used for land restoration. The remaining treated waste (about half of what entered the plant) then goes off to Energy from Waste facilities to create heat and power. The materials for recycling that comes from our boxes ends up at the site on the high road in Ilford. This is another impressive facility, with paper and cardboard dumped in one silo, cans, glass and plastics in another. A meticulous sorting process then takes place before the metals and plastics are crushed into bales and the glass bulked and then sold on for re-use The whole process us about re-using and utilising waste. So there is much positive going on to deal with the borough's waste, and ongoing efforts to reduce emissions and further widen what can be recycled - with the recent addition of plastic pots, tubs and trays to our weekly collections. The visit to the ELWA/Renewi facility was most instructive, and the scale of the operation and volume of waste also drove home the need for us all to be less wasteful. We all need to reflect more on the amount of waste being created and its impact on the planet. Less must always mean more on waste. So heres to a happy, cleaner, greener Christmas.

Wanstead Community showing true meaning of Christmas

It has been great this year to see the Christmas season return to something like normal, after the locked down version of 2020. In Wanstead, there was the lighting up of the Christmas tree on George Green. Milkman Steve did the honours, once again, as people flocked around the tree. Carols were sung and ice queens came amongst us. Then there was the Mayors Christmas event on Christchurch Green. The weather was a bit wet at times but that didn't stop people coming out. At one point people were queuing out of the green to visit Santas Grotto. The monthly market had a seasonal spin on the day, and there is an additional market coming in on 18th. The generosity of people in the area has once again been on display, with a number of charitable causes being supported. The past couple of years have been testing times, with the full repercussions only now beginning to really emerge. The lockdown of society was a severe step to take and has had many far reaching consequences, not least on people's mental health. Let us hope this does not happen again. At present, though there are the dangers of the new Omicron variant. Hopefully, the effectiveness of the vaccines will see the world emerging out of the pandemic period. This will only happen, though, when the whole world is immunised, so countries like the UK have to be generous in getting that vaccine out to poorer countries as well as vaccinating our own population. It is an important gift we can make to the world at Christmas and beyond. The biggest positive to come out of this period has been the way people have come together in community. Nowhere more so than in Wanstead, where people have been looking out for each other and well beyond our geographical borders - surely that has to be the true meaning of Christmas. A reminder to end that the last litter pick of the year will take place at 10am on Saturday 18th. Usual meeting place at Woodbine Place (by the buses) - mince pies will be provided, courtesy of Petty Son & Prestwich. Happy Christmas.

World must come together to confront universal problems

The world must come together to deal with the growing umber of threats to our survival. Last month, countries met as part of the COP26 process to address the joint threat of climate and biodiversity destruction. The protracted meeting was of limited success, with commitments to phase out fossil fuels and cut emissions but the proof will be in implementation. There were commitments made at the last COP meeting in Paris in 2015 but these just failed to happen. Foremost, amongst those commitments was agreement to transfer US$100 billion a year from developed (rich) countries to developing (poor) countries, so that they could make adjustments in their own economies to cut carbon emissions. This funding transfer failed to materialise. Similarly, with the Covid pandemic, the rich countries stand accused of stock piling vaccines, rather than getting them out to poorer nations. Yet, as former Prime Minister Gordon Brown has pointed out Covid will not be overcome until it is dealt with everywhere, which means universal vaccination. The emergence of the Omicron variant illustrates this point, a mutation in a part of the world (Southern Africa), with just 24% of the population vaccinated. Migration is another area where a more holistic approach is required. Refugees are being created by war and environmental devastation. They arrive in the rich countries that have played key roles in creating the wars and environmental meltdown. Unequal development across the world forces economic migrants to flee their lands looking for work and a better life. All of these problems have world wide implications and demand a collective, holistic response. It will only be when all nations recognise the benefit of coming together to operate for the common good of all that these issues will be resolved.

Need for more respect in public life

The murder of MP David Amess shook the country, no more so than in east London. David went to St Bonaventures school and was a Redbridge councillor in the early 1980s. He was the epitomy of a good MP, serving his constituents in a devoted way on a daily basis. His death came five years after the murder of Labour MP Jo Cox. There have been other attacks, such as on Newham MP Stephen Timms. There does seem to be a worrying tendency at the moment toward violence against public figures. Whilst the nature of these attacks are all different, it cannot be denied that there seems to be growing animosity toward those who actually are there to serve the community. The divisive nature of the Brexit debate helped create a toxic atmosphere for political dialogue. The anger, though.has increased with the growth in social media. People seem to think there are no consequences and they can say what they like on various platforms. Many of the platforms that accomodate this sort of thing, exercise little control and believe anything goes. Some just seem to have a great deal of anger that they want to direct at something or someone. Elected representatives make a ready target. The level of anger seems to be increasing, probably exaserpated by the strange lives we all now live in the shadow of Covid. People also seem much more ready to come up to elected reprentatives and assail them in the street - any time, anywhere. This is a basic lack of respect. Yes, if people get elected to public office they have to be accountable, which means being prepared to answer up in many different forums. But at the same time they are not punch bags - there to take abuse and angst from citizens There has to be more respect shown all round. A failure to see greater respect and integrity re-established in our politics will see fewer people actually coming forward to represent their communities. Or the wrong sort of people - those that are more self serving and less interested in community. So let's all start treating each other with a little more respect, with the realisation that we are all in it together and commited to the common good of all.

Need to address causes that create asylum seekers, not just apply sticking plasters

The tragedy of lives lost in the channel has resulted in the government once again focusing on deterrents. How can it be made more difficult for desperate people to get into the UK? An wholly immoral stance. The real question should be what is creating the situation that makes people take such desperate measures in the first place. The role of the UK as a seller of weapons into conflict zones is one cause, as is the failure to take adequate measures against climate change War and climate devastation both create desperate situations, so people have to flee, Nor has the decision of the UK government to cut international aid helped at this vital time. Failure to deal with the causes driving asylum seekers to these shores will do nothing to stem the flow. The measures being taken amount to nothing more than sticking plasters on an increasingly gaping wound. published - metro 26/11/2021

Bold plan to tackle biodiversity crisis in Redbridge

Wetlands, tree planting and more rewilding are amongst the recommendations of Redbridge Council's Nature and the Environment Task & Finish Group. The recommendations are among 14 coming out of the report, which seeks to extend biodiversity in the borough and is being considered by the council. The report builds on work already underway as part of the Council's response to the climate and biodiversity crises as set out in the Climate Change Action Plan and Green Urban Landscape Policy. These provide the rudiments toward building a cleaner, greener Redbridge. So far the report has been well received and I’m confident the council leadership understand the need for action and measurable results that the public can recognise and buy into. There are already plans to extend grow zones across the borough, letting areas go wild and encouraging biodiversity. We also need to look at how to encourage measures to help biodiversity on private land - the fruit tree giveaway is one such initiative. Any new development must put environment concerns front and centre with actions to mitigate against flooding risk whilst also boosting biodiversity. The report highlights the potential for Wetland developments which can help deal with flood threats as well as extend biodiversity. And as Walthamstow Wetlands and others across the country show they are a great visitor attraction. A review of the Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (sincs) with a view to extending their coverage is another integral element of the report. The whole approach has to be holistic, taking in every part of life. So when developers build new housing stock, there must be a net biodiversity gain (this is being mandated in the Environment Act that was recently adopted by Parliament). All parts of the environmental policy need to interact together from planting more trees and developing wetlands to facilitating more active travel and extending the electricity vehicle charging network. All of these things need to come together, if the dual threats of biodiversity and climate disaster are to be tackled. Important work is already underway and I hope this report will contribute to making our borough a greener place to live to the benefit of nature and people. Full report at: http://moderngov.redbridge.gov.uk/documents/s126569/8.1%20Nature%20and%20Environment%20Scrutiny%20Report%20final%20Oct2021.pdf

Two jobs MPs" debacle causes further damage to public trust

The recent sights of MPs seemingly filling their boots, whilst offering a part time service to the public did not make for very edifying viewing. The about turn of the government, over the Owen Paterson case, bemused many. First, Conservative MPs were whipped to support a motion clearing Paterson and abolishing the regulatory watchdog. Then, the next day, this was reversed with Paterson resigning and the abolition of the new body to examine the process. More revelations have followed of MPs with second jobs (or incomes). The justification for MPs to have second jobs is difficult to fathom. They are paid over £82,000 putting them among the top 5% of earners in the country. If an MP is doing his or her job properly, it is a 24/7 day a week position. There should be no time for a job or two on the side bringing in another £100,000. Amazingly, some have argued that the recent happenings justify another rise in MPs pay, so they don't "need" to do another job. Thankfully, most MPs are hard working, putting in huge amounts of time and effort to serve constituents. The late David Amess provides a good example. Unfortunately, this majority of good MPs are tarnished by the recent revelations. The political class has been struggling for some time to re-establish its credibility, after the cash for questions, cash for honours and expenses scandals of previous decades. The latest scandals threaten to take things to a new low. It is this lack of belief in politicians that has led to the crisis of trust in the relationship with the public. Why if people don't trust and respect those who govern, and believe they are just in it for all they can make out of it, will they believe what they are told. The latest expenses scandals will take a lot of time to recover from. In the longer term new processes need to be put in place to ensure that only people of integrity end up representing the people at all levels of government. One important sanction is to use the vote to put out those not working for the common good. At the moment, the political class is coming to resemble a load of pigs snuffling around in the trough. Things need to change.

World leaders prove incapacity to deal with threat to humanity at COP26

So two weeks of COP26, results in world leaders proving once again, they are incapable of coming together to confront a threat to all humanity. The result of COP26 is a ringing endorsement for continuation of the damaging consumer capitalist model that has played such a part in creating the crisis in the first place. Yes, there are some modifications, gestures, but will even these be realised when you look at the failure of past COPs to deliver real action. Instead, we will continue with more floods, droughts and heat waves. Lands disappearing, with the poorest suffering most. Then, one day when climate and biodiversity loss are truly recognised as at pandemic levels action will be taken. It will cost more, with the poorest suffering most but that is where we are after two weeks of blah,blah, blah. published - Independent - 14/11/2021

The 5 million refusing vaccination against Covid betrays a growing chasm of distrust and alienation in UK society

The Covid vaccination program has stalled over recent months, the result of which could be to send the country backward into some sort of lockdown. The problem at present appears to be twofold. There are a group of 5 million, who don't seem to want the jab, despite the evidence that it can stop them getting Covid and perhaps more importantly, ending up in hospital. The vast majority of those ending up in the hospitals have not been vaccinated. The other group are those due to have the booster jab. Many of this group (over 50s) were very keen to get the first two jabs, so it is difficult to understand the reluctance of some to take a third. What is for sure is that booster jabs need to be accelerated, alongside the flu immunisation program. Much immunity from flu has been lost over the past year, which could see hospital wards filling up with those who have that disease. So what is the problem with the 5 million, who refuse to be vaccinated? Not all are conspiracy theorists or anti-vaxxers. There is ofcourse much disinformation flying around on social media. The tendency of many in that genre to settle themselves in silos of the like- minded, helps disinformation take root. But there must be bigger problems for so many to be so distrustful of what they are being told by those in authority and particularly government. There seems to be a growing sense of disempowerment amongst some people in society. A sense of being forced to do things they don't want to do. A sense they lack a meaningful voice. An alienation. Part of this process is a disillusionment with public institutions to the point where they are often not believed at all. Indeed, once sufficiently alienated people adopt a default position of disbelief in anything they are told by someone "in authority." There was another example of this refusal to believe with the recent petrol shortage. Repeatedly people were told there is no shortage of petrol, yet most took no notice, continued to panic buy, until the prophecy became true and there was a shortage. Clearly, there is a growing chasm of trust between the governed and those who seek to govern. The handling of the Covid crisis by government has made an already bad situation worse. Thousands dead, a debacle over Personal Protective Equipment and test and trace. All done amid a background feeling of a few people getting very rich on the back of a mass tragedy. The vaccination program has been the one big success, though, as outlined, this threatens to be derailed. Moving forward, the vaccination program needs to get back on track. This will mean connecting with and seriously addressing the concerns of the 5 million, not just lecturing them like naughty school children. But beyond Covid and the public health crisis, the bond of trust between governed and governors needs to be rebuilt. Honesty and openness will be key to that process. Failure to do so will see the chasm of distrust widen, with even more people effectively cutting off from the mainstream of society. This will in turn lead to a more divided, disordered and ungovernable land.

The need for action out of COP26, not more blah blah blah

The power of one should never be under-estimated. There has been much criticism of world leaders for their failure to seriously address the climate crisis. The young Swedish activist Greta Thunberg summarised it well when she accused world leaders of just coming up with “blah blah blah.” Greta is someone who really does show how powerful one person can be in working for transformation of the world. When one becomes millions we get change. So, the hope for COP26 is that political leaders hear the deafening cry to address the crisis and act. The British government’s role as chair in the process is not inspiring. To lead there needs to be moral authority and whilst Britain has done much to reduce carbon emissions, we are a country that can readily be accused of too much blah blah blah. What of the recent budget which encouraged internal air flight by cutting passenger duty by half, whilst fuel duty was frozen. Then there are the plans for new coal mines. Not exactly moral leadership. There are things, though, that everyone can do to improve the situation. Expressing concerns to elected representatives and becoming politically active is important. But there needs to be a personal conversion of the way in which we all live. The recent BBC1 series, “Shop Well for the Planet” has made for fascinating watching. A team of experts help different families address the carbon excesses in their lives. Notable, has been the areas that cut carbon emissions most. Switching to an electric car and flying less make a huge difference to emissions. Not eating meat or eating a lot less also makes a significant difference. All the families have been shocked at the cut in emissions made as a result of their changes in way of life. They have also pledged to stick with many of the changes. There are choices to be made every day that impact on the planet. So, there is plenty we can all do that will help in the effort to avert climate crisis.A personal conversion would see everyone driving and flying less, eating less meat and running their homes off sustainable energy sources. It would also be great to be able to grow as much of your own food as possible. And when buying food, the local sustainably produced varieties are best. We can all make a difference. There is a mountain to climb. It was somewhat disheartening in the run up to COP26 to hear that the past year has seen record levels reached for emissions. There has been little progress made since the last conference on climate back in Paris in 2015. We are heading for warming of way above the 1.5 degrees proscribed. So, there needs to be action at all levels now. The politicians must act (not just talk) to change the parameters of life but everyone has a role to play. It is not too late but there must be action now – not more blah blah blah.

British government lacks moral authority to lead at COP26

If the British government is to make a success of chairing the upcoming COP26 meeting it must have moral authority. It's recent actions on the environment smack of talking the talk but failing to deliver. The latest Budget offers a great example, halving passenger tax for internal flights, freezing fuel duty and investing heavily in roads - hardly combatting climate change. Then there is the development of new coal mines in the North of England. On this record, why would any country take a word the UK says on the environment seriously? Published - Independent

Not all doom and gloom on climate and biodiversity - Earthshots provide hope

There is often much doom and gloom when it comes to the questions of climate change and biodiversity destruction. There are big expectations for the upcoming COP26 meeting in Glasgow, where it is hoped countries will put their money where their mouths are and set about making the changes needed to save the planet. There is though good news about things already happening to address the crisis. The recent Earthshot series on BBC 1 told of a number of excellent initiatives across the world to deal with the crisis. The Earthshot program focuses on the five areas of biodiversity, climate change, pollution, ocean destruction and waste. There are to be five awards of £1 million each made every year for the next 10 years. The TV series provided a narrative on the problem but then some real causes for hope. So, there was Singapore, where the use of biophilic design, which sees the like of green walls, trees etc incorporated in the development of urban landscapes to counter pollution. In Mexico, there was an artist painting murals on the side of buildings, with airlite paint that actually counters pollution. In Ghana, thanks to a grass roots campaign, there is an extensive and growing renewable energy project. The campaigners managed to persuade those in government against investing in coal powered energy, going instead for renewables. There was regenerative farming in Australia, where farmers are learning from the ancient practices of the native Aboriginal peoples. Simple but obvious ways of living – moving animals around, thereby encouraging growth of fields and feed. On biodiversity, rewilding can do so much to improve the situation by helping to absorb carbon dioxide, as well as increasing biodiversity. In the UK, there are some excellent peat lands that if handled properly absorb huge amounts of CO2. Managed wrongly, the same lands will emit CO2. The introduction of key species like longhorn cattle and beaver have a dramatic impact on the landscape. In the Earthshot series there was a feature on the positive impact of re-introducing wolves to Yellowstone National Park. This helped control the burgeoning levels of deer, which in turn led to more trees developing and less CO2. The sea otter is a key species in the oceans. It eats urchins, which hoover up CO2 absorbing kelp. The re-introduction of the sea otter has seen the rebirth of the kelp forests, increasing the level of CO2 being absorbed. At the end of each of the programs, the Duke of Cambridge introduced the three finalists for the Earthshot prize. All have been excellent, well meriting the £1 million prize money. If only five out of the 15 projects shortlisted can win the prizes, then maybe the British government can come up with the rest of the funds to support the unlucky losers? So there is much going on to be positive about on climate, biodiversity, pollution and waste reduction. A cause for optimism that given the will, the plan

Is COP26 meeting the one hope to stop run away climate and biodiversity crises?

The COP 26 meeting, beginning at the end of the month, has been billed as the last chance to save the planet. The Conference of the Parties (COP) 26 is made up of the signatories of the UN Framework on Climate Change, which was agreed in 1994. The most recent meeting was in Paris in 2015, which saw countries pledge to cut carbon dioxide emissions (CO2). The aim being to keep warming to 1.5 degrees or below compared to pre-industrial levels. Unfortunately, much of the talk of Paris has just proved to be no more than hot air. The promises of US$100 billion to be annually transferred to developimg countries in order that they can adjust and develop sustainably has failed to materialse. Meanwhile, the world is on track to heat up to 3 degrees over pre-industrial levels rather than the 1.5 degrees or less needed to avert disaster. The period since Paris has been marked by ever more extremes of weather - floods, droughts, extreme heat and fires. Ironically, one of the few things to put a check on climate change was the disaster known as Covid. It brought the world to a halt and with it much damaging CO2 emitting activity. Now, there needs to be a new normal created that sees the climate and biodiversity crises being dealt with in tandem. Part of the COP 26 process will be to examine the Nationally Determined Contributions for each country. These are the plans established post Paris to attain the targets set at that conference. There is a good deal of tightening needed if countries are to get anywhere near the targets required. The countries of the world with the biggest emission levels must come under particular scrutiny. China is the biggest emitter of CO2, accounting for some 26%.Next comes the US on 13%, followed by India (6%) and Russia (4%). So much is expected at COP26. It is possible to make the changes required but time is running out. The countries of the world need to come together for the common good of all, not using these negotiations to get trade, territorial or other advantages from the process. Only a real pulling together and commitment to strive for the betterment of the whole world can save us all.

West Ham end Manchester City's four year reign in Carabao Cup

West Ham 0-0 Manchester City (5-3 on penalties) West Ham' s progress in three competitions continueda at the London Stadium, as Carabao Cup cup holders Manchester City became the latest victims of David Moyes all conquering Hammers. It was the first time in five seasons that City had lost a game in the Carabao Cup. West Ham were indebted on the night to reserve goalkeeper Alphonse Areola, who at one point pulled off three successive saves, each one better than the one before. Both clubs put out weakened teams, though City still looked formidable, with Kevin De Bruyne, Raheem Stirling, Riyad Mahrez and Kyle Walker all in the starting line up. Before the end, Phil Foden, Jack Grealish and Gabriel Jesus had all joined the fray but to no avail, as the resilient Hammers held on. West Ham captain Mark Noble led from the front, seeing an early shot parried by City keeper Zack Steffen. But it was City who dominated possession for large parts of the game, without ever getting that decisive finish. West Ham gave the ball away too much in the first half as they struggled to clear their lines. One move saw Cole Palmer put Ilkay Gundogan in but he fired just wide. West Ham found more space in the second half, with Aaron Cresswell setting up Arthur Masuaku, whose cross shot was parried by Steffen but fell to Andriy Yarmolenko, who saw his shot blocked. De Bruyne then saw his shot pushed round the post by Areola before the keeper pulled off a brilliant point blank save from Raheem Sterling. The usually reliable Tomas Soucek twice found space in the area but fired wide. West Ham brought on Premiership regulars Said Benrahma, Pablo Fornals and Jarrod Bowen, offering more movement and attacking options. However, it was when the game moved to penalties that the sustitutions really paid off, with Bowen and Benrahma calmly striking home - the latter finishing the job with the last kick. Five out of five, Foden missing the crucual kick for City. West Ham assistant manager Stuart Peirce praised the resilience of the players. 'We are in a building process, there is real honesty in the dressing room', said Peirce, who highlighred the improvement of young right back Ben Johnson. 'He is developing , getting better and better.'

Michail Antonio continues winning run against Spurs

West Ham 1-0 Spurs West Ham talisman Michail Antonio secured all three points for his side in this tight fought derby against Spurs at the London Stadium. Antonio popped up in the 72nd minute to force the ball home from a well taken Aaron Cresswell corner. It was Antonio’s sixth goal in the Premier League and his seventh in what is proving a vintage season for the big striker. The home side had the better of the first half possession, with Pablo Fornals testing Spurs keeper Hugo Lloris early with a well struck volley from a Jarrod Bowen cross. Tomas Soucek then skied one from the centre of the penalty area when set up nicely by Antonio. Soucek then saw a thumping header from a Fornals cross go just wide of the post. It was Spurs, though, who had the best chance of the half, when England captain Harry Kane met a cross from Sergio Reguilon, but saw his point blank header at the back post tipped over by Lukasz Fabianski. The game continued to flow from end to end in the second half, with Spurs probably having the better of the possession. It was West Ham though who took the decisive lead when Antonio stepped up to convert the corner. .

Let's see Royals lead by example

It is excellent to see Prince William fronting the Earthshot scheme and speaking out on the environment. But it really is time the Royals walked the walk as well as talking the talk. They own huge swathes of land and property across the world. Crown lands dominate this country. So how about a bit more sustainable development of these holdings. Rewilding, sustainable energy production, responsible farming, as well as a much wider right to roam for the general public. Some of this is happening already but to paraphrase Prince William's grandmother, the Queen, not quickly enough. Published - Metro, 21/10/2021

No need to oppose all change

Wanstead is a place that has slowly evolved over the centuries. Go back 100 years, then the area was pretty rural - fields abounded - Wanstead really was a village. Then, the railway and motor car came, bringing their own infrastructure. Housing increased as well, with the various estates being built. I have lived in Wanstead for over 50 years during which time there has been slow change. The fundamentals like the high street, George and Christchurch Greens have remained pretty much unaltered - improved in some ways, with more focus on biodiversity and attempts to make the area more people focused. The biggest changes have been the building of the M11 Link road under George Green - something I and many others opposed. Previously there had been the building of the A406 and M11. Both have brought noise and particulate pollution to the area, as well as some economic benefits. It would be good to live to see those roads occupied by quieter electric vehicles. The thing is that change happens, if it didn't we would still be in caves. Some of the change is good, other less so. As we get older there is a tendency to oppose almost any change - it is a sort of stop the world I want to get off syndrome. A tendency to look back with nostalgia but forward in a negative way. It is an understandable insecurity. The oppositionism though is often quite irrational. Why for example do we get so concerned about ancient monuments that maybe in decline. No problem raising money to restore them - the only value really being historic, looking back. Yet, things like wind turbines and solar panels - technology needed to save the planet, upset some people aesthetically. But what is the difference between wind turbines and windmills - similar technology but widely different perceptions amongst the public. The wind turbine is the infrastructural development of the modern age - it says who we are in the way say a castle did for those living in the 15th and 16th centuries. Change is inevitable on the path of life. Not all of it amounts to progress and some should definitely be opposed. There is a case in much that we do today to consider a step back. But the changes need to be considered in the round for the betterment of life on earth, not opposed simply because some don' t want to see change.

Brilliant stage finale for Hilary Mantel's Thomas Cromwell trilogy with Mirror & the Light at the Gielgud theatre

The Mirror and the Light Gielgud Theatre This production of the Mirror and the Light represents a brilliant final part of the trilogy of plays tracking the rise and fall of Thomas Cromwell. This one has been a while in arriving, coming seven years, after the dramatisation of the first two books Wolf Hall and Bring up the Bodies. This time the star of those plays, Ben Miles plus director Jeremy Herrin have collaborated with writer, Hilary Mantel, to bring this production to the stage. Miles and Mantel have done a fine job, producing a screen play that reduces down the 883 page book to a tight stage narrative. The Mirror and the Light brings the Cromwell period to a close, whilst seeking to tie up some of the loose ends of the first two books. Notably, Miles and Mantell continue to include a lot of humour in the production, a clear difference to the TV depictions. Nathaniel Parkinson ,as King Henry, is excellent as the ebuncular monarch, at times, leading the court in merriment but who can change in an instant to a troubled, violent despot, dispatching people at will. The rising in the north, the Pilgrammage of Grace, is put down brutallly, after inital indications of concessions. At the time, Cromwell is noted by the King to be the most unpopular person in the realm -interesting, given the play was in production, when Dominic Cummings was fulfilling a similar modern day role. Ben Miles, as Cromwell, holds the whole thing together, with his powerful performance. A man troubled by the past, with the ghost of his father Walter (Liam Smith) making thuggish appearances. The ghost of Cardinal Wolsey (Tony Turner) makes for lighter contributions - " Dominus vobiscum - just passing through." Class is never far from the surface, with the nobles constantly resentful that Cromwell, the son of a blacksmith and Wolsey, the son of a butcher, should have risen to the highest office. This excellent production was illuminated by numerous outstanding performances, such as Melissa Allen as Mary Tudor and Nick Woodeson, as the diminuitive but constantly aggressive Duke of Norfolk. The booming Duke of Suffolk (Nicholas Boulton) is a constannt presence. There is quite a lot of doubling up on characters, with Matthew Pidgeon particularly outstanding as both the debonair Spanish ambassador Eustache Chapuys and the bitter and threatening Bishop in Winchester, Stephen Gardiner. One that doesn't work so well is having the same actress, Olivia Marcus, playing Queens Jane Seymour and Katherine Howard. The depiction if the two characters is similar, yet history suggests they were very different - almost opposites. Though, maybe a subtler point is being made! Overall, this is a splendid final part of the trilogy of plays. A great adaptation, brought to life by some extraordinary performances. High marks for Miles, Mantel, Herrin and all the cast. The question for Mantel is what now after Cromwell? * booking till 23 January

Failure to act on climate and biodiversity crisis justifies direct action

The activities of direct action environmentalists Extinction Rebellion have caused something of a stir recently. Efforts to block roads and obstruct the flow of traffic has raised temperatures. Recently, another group Insulate Britain took action to stop traffic flows on some major motorways. Their aim is to get more insulation of buildings to halt carbon emissions – not that revolutionary many may think. It is always amusing to hear or read mainstream media journalists tackling the environmental direct action activists. They earnestly question why they are disrupting daily activity in such a way. The question rather misses, or makes the point, namely that it is the normal way of living that has landed us in this crisis in the first place. Going back to “normal” is no answer. The protesters point is that conventional routes of seeking to get government at all levels to act to counter climate and biodiversity catastrophe does not work. They have not brought the action required, often resulting only in vacuous rhetoric and promises that never seem to be fulfilled. Note, the commitments made at the Paris Climate Agreement in 2015 to transfer US$100 billion a year to poorer countries in order that they could counter climate change – the funds have not materialised. Governments pass Climate Emergency legislation but the dictionary definition of emergency is missing. Things begin to happen but only slowly. Swedish activist Greta Thurnberg has repeatedly pointed out how the politicians are not taking this crisis seriously. The direct action is born of total frustration. Increasing numbers of people across the world recognise the emergency that climate and biodiversity destruction represents. What is more everyone has seen how world governments can act in an emergency, as evidenced by Covid. What is needed is for the climate and biodiversity crises to be given the same emergency status as Covid. Indeed, there is a strong argument that Covid was born partly out of the biodiversity crisis. The great irony of the journalists who question the actions of the direct action activists is that quite often the same news bulletin will include the another story on the latest devastation caused by climate destruction. The two items do not seem to be joined together. What government needs to do is recognise the urgency of the climate and biodiversity crisis and respond to the demands of the protesters. It is no response to simply seek to criminalise protest. That is not an answer, the protest will simply move elsewhere, taking up a different form. What the protesters want is action now, not at some distant point, when it is too late with world gone beyond the tipping point of climate and biodiversity destruction. The world will be watching when leaders gather for the COP26 meeting in November - more meaningless rhetoric simply won't do. Action is needed now.

UK needs to accept its role in creating the refugee crisis

There are a growing number of refugees across the world. Most recently there has been much publicity concerning the refugees coming out of Afghanistan. Also, those taking the dangerous route across the English Channel in search of refuge. The rhetoric of government seems to have centred on stopping people getting here, rather than addressing the causes driving the flow of refugees. Conflict and climate change have been two of the causes of creating refugees. The UK is one of the biggest arms sellers in the world. Weapons fuel conflict. British made weapons are found in conflict areas across the world. So, this country has a large responsibility for fuelling conflict, thereby creating refugees. Similarly, the UK and most of the other richest countries are most responsible for the climate crisis. The rich countries are the ones doing the most damage in terms of CO2 emissions and biodiversity destruction by the way in which they live. This behaviour helps create more refugees, fleeing the destruction caused. So what is the response of rich countries like the UK? Instead, of accepting responsibility for their role in creating these crises, they do the opposite. The UK has recently cut the overseas aid budget. The rich countries have failed to deliver on the pledges of funding for the poorer countries, made at the Paris Climate conference in 2015. These funds were to help the poorer countries cope with climate change. But the arms sales register continues to thrive. It is incredible that given the problems the world faces in areas like climate, that the warmongers are once again banging the drum in terms of a new Cold War with China. The only chance we have of survival is to work together across the world against threats like war, climate change and biodiversity destruction. There needs to be a more peaceful world, not one beholding to the military industrial complex. A more peaceful sustainable world will see less refugees because the main drivers forcing people to flee their lands will no longer be there. Time for the UK to face up to its responsibilities as a prime instigator of the growing refugee crisis.

Big question now for UK plc is whether migrant labour will want to return

So the day has dawned, when this ageing country realises it cannot run without migrant labour. The foreign HGV lorry drivers who suffered xenephobic villification over many years, whilst earning money and paying taxes in the UK, are to be asked back. No doubt there will be similar forays to get migrants back to service the agricultural, care, hospitality and many other sectors. The nonsensical anti-migrant rhetoric that fuelled the ill fated Brexit decision is now being exposed for the total folly it represented. Big question, now, for UK plc is whether migrant labour will want to return to save this sinking isle?

Autumnal Change

Autumn is a lovely time of year, with the September sun setting all around. A peaceful walk through Bush Wood, with its towering oaks, round onto the Flats bathed in sunlight. The bird watchers are out to see the migrant birds coming through the area. Winchats, Wheatears, Stonechats and Spotted Flycatchers are among the regulars. A number of buzzards have also been circling above. One rare visitor was a Wryneck that settled around the skylark enclosures. Still hoping to see the Wryneck. The now fairly long resident Black Necked grebe mixes with Little grebes on the Alexander Lake. Runners and the occasional cyclist go past, mothers and fathers pushing prams enjoying the sun. Peace abounds. Cutting across from the Flats to Wanstead Park, the long horned cows graze by the bottom of the Glade, near the Ornamental lake. The park's very own bit of rewilding. Popular visitors being given due space in the park. The park has been a place of solace, particularly during the pandemic, with visitors up 500%. There has been an opening up of the park to cycling, which seems to be going well. The blackberries are finishing, as are some of the fruits in the wild orchard of the Roding Valley Park. Some wild hops are still around. The harvest is rich in so many different ways. The Roding Valley has been another great place for relaxation during the pandemic, walking alongside the River Roding or cutting back onto some of the heathland areas. Sweet chestnuts are beginning to come and the horse chestnuts tumble from the row of trees along St Marys Avenue. A lovely time of year, as the nights close in and the season turns towards winter.

Is all political leadership doomed to end in failure or does one post war Prime Minister offer the blueprint for success?

Leadership is something that has come under the spotlight recently, particularly in relation to Afghanistan. US President Joe Biden has come in for some criticism for his leadership and the way the exit from that country was executed. I would applaud the President for his decisive action in getting out of a country that the Americans and British should never have been occupying in the first place. A bit more focus on the failed leadership of former US President George Bush and Prime Minister Tony Blair in invading and occupying the country in the first place would have been more in order. Leadership is a difficult thing to quantify - is it based on achievements or perception? Perceptions also change with time. The old adage that every political career ends in failure is probably true. There is the question with leadership as to how much the individual is a figurehead, a bit like the Queen, or really pulling the strings. Good Public Relations can go a long way on perception. The present Prime Minister Boris Johnson has been very effective at cultivating a certain ebuncular image. His close relations with those who own many UK media outlets, no doubt helps. Former Tory leader, Iain Duncan Smith, faired less well. He lacked a positive image, as well as becoming leader at a bad time for his party, with Labour in the ascendancy. Luck also plays a part in leadership. Margaret Thatcher was one of the luckiest leaders of modern times. Had she lost the Falklands war and/or the miners strike, Thatcher would probably not have survived. Had Labour Prime Minister Jim Callaghan gone for an election in autumn 1978, rather than Spring 1979, he would probably have won and Thatcher would never have been PM. US President John Kennedy famously took the blame and apologised for the failed attempt to invade Cuba at the Bay of Pigs in 1961 Kennedy got credit from the public for his honesty. What is important as a leader is to first and foremost recognise yourself as a first among equals. Someone who must take responsibility for all political decisions taken, not taking those that succeed but looking to blame others for those that don't. A bit more honesty and responsibility from politicians today would go a long way. It is failures in these areas and often blatant abuse of people's trust that has led politicuans generally to be held in contempt. Effective leaders must stay in touch with their own parties and the electorate. In the case of the Labour Party, the struggle for a leader is to try to keep all the strands of left, right and centre together. The most successful leaders of the Labour Party, such as Harold Wilson and Clement Attlee managed to do this effectively. Clement Attlee was a remarkable leader, the effective manager of the wartime Coalition Government, behind Winston Churchill. Then leader of the great reforming post war 1945 Labour Government. Attlee was an excellent manager of people and events. He had little personal charisma, not a man who wanted his picture in the paper but a great leader. The recognition of the effectiveness of Attlee's leadeship has only come with time. How such a leader would fair today in the era of 24 hour news, when the PM is expected not only to run the country but also know what us going on in Eastenders, who knows? But one thing is for sure, it'd be great to have a few Attlees around at the moment.

Air pollution hits Coronation Street

Air pollution has hit the cobbles in the latest plotline of the soap Coronation Street. The story focuses on single parent Maria, who starts opposing another resident's efforts to get a Controlled Parking Zone on the street. Maria's son, Liam, then collapses, struggling to breath. He is taken to hospital and diagnosed with ashthma. Maria is shocked, comes back a quick convert to controlled parking but wanting to go further. She cannot understand the refusal of her fellow street dwellers and car drivers to want to stop "killing our children" with pollution. In a fast moving plot, Maria then moves to direct action, taking a hammer to the local nicker factories van, when they refuse to withdraw it. The story has resonance, with so many people in denial about air pollution. Why do people with children think it is ok to drive everywhere, damaging their children and their own health. In Wanstead I sometimes think we live in a bubble of denial. If people want to see a real problem in this area, go and stand on the bridge over the Roding on the Eastern Avenue, just short of Redbridge Roundabout. The cars are gridlocked, hardly moving pumping out poison into the atmosphere. Then walk along the river, through Roding Valley Park - a beautiful place. But running parallel with the river is the A406 - the noise and air pollution is horrendous. There is some good news on the horizon, with the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) coming into effect next month. This will take some polluting vehicles away. But the ULEZ only covers inside the A406 - Wanstead and South Wiodford get in but not the rest of Redbridge. We desperately need to cut pollution across London and beyond - there need to be some dramatic moves made, including implementation of Low Traffic Neighbourhoods. But at an individual level people need to stop getting the car out at every opportunity. It is our own and the lungs of our children and children's children that we will be saving. Time to come out of denial and face reality. '

Persuade the unvaccinated to get jab or face more lockdowns

Talk of the government looking to re-impose restrictions at the end of October, such as social distancing, mask wearing and association is concerning. The rationale for such measures, and more lockdown style restrictions going forward, are due to rising hospitalisations and deaths caused by Covid. What such preparations betray is the unravelling of the strategy switch made on 19 July, when all restrictions were lifted. The change saw a move from restrictions on individual's liberties like social distancing, masks and lockdowns to a herd immunity approach. It was premised on everyone getting vaccinated. The fact that upward of 6 million people refuse to be vaccinated is driving us all back into lockdown - to once again protect the NHS. A way must be found to persuade the unvaccinated to get the jab - otherwise we are all heading back to where we were 12 months ago. published in Independent - 9/9/2021

Working together is better for the community

Living in a community means everyone has responsibilities. The thought came to mind, on the recent day of the floods. The unprecedented torrential rain saw some local roads turn into virtual rivers - the infrastructure was creaking. On my road we had a couple of blocked drains, which residents valiantly came out to clear. Whilst doing this, a crazy driver decided he would plunge down the road at speed, regardless of the dangers caused. This resulted in renewed calls for imposition of the 20 mph speed limit - something the council is pledged to deliver. The whole of Wanstead is due to become a 20mph zone. Blocked drains were another problem. On my road, I had reported one of the offending blocked drains weeks before - it had still not been cleared. It has now. However, then we come to individual responsibility. Drains often get blocked by leaves from people's trees and bushes. The council will clear the debris in the road, yes, but we need to look after our own vegetation, as well, within borders. Sometimes, drains block because irresponsible builders put waste down them - the council will enforce if the perpetrators are caught but why let them do it in the first place? There are regular complaints about bins in Wanstead being full - sometimes this is due to the dumping of household and building waste. It is a fine line between the resident and the council and statutory authorities. Everyone has a responsible role to play. I've been a keen supporter of litter picks and the planting of tree pits. Both are voluntary actions by residents to make the area a cleaner and greener place to live. This effort though does not take away from the council responsibility to clear rubbish and maintain street trees. But if we all do our part the sum of the parts will be greater. Some in the community leap to blame the council for just about everything - even things that are nothing to do with them. Equally, council can blame funding cuts etc for a failure to deliver - an often valid claim. But actually everyone is trying to do their best for the community. This can be achieved working together as sometimes critical partners. Councilors are elected and come from the community. Less is achieved when people simply seek to blame others rather than take on any responsibility themselves.

Victoria Park by Gemma Reeves

A delightfully written book, made up of a series of portraits of people living and working around Victoria Park in Hackney, east London. The park effectively provides the plot line on which the different characters lives are situated. The different individuals are nicely drawn but then inter-relate together. So the reader meets, Luca, who works in the Deli, on his way to band practice. Joe gives him a lift on his motorbike. Next, there is Elena having a steamy affair with Joe - only she is Luca's wife. The story for each character is set in a different month, with characters introduced earlier getting walk on cameo parts in other individuals stories. And it all goes on around the park. It is a clever piece of writing, light but always intriguing, Some secrets and lies, without ever becoming predictable or cliched. There is possibly a greater resonance for those who know the park but also an added attraction for those who don't. An excellent read. Published by Allen and Unwin Price - £8.99

Pedestrianisation of Wanstead High Street for the Festival will mark a return to the principles of Car Free Day

The welcome resumption of the Wanstead Festival will be a celebration of a cleaner, greener Wanstead. The Festival returns bigger and better than before, following the two year absence due to the pandemic. One importamt difference this time is the pedestrianisation of part of the high street. This will enable activities to extend beyond Christchurch Green, joining up across Wanstead. The move also marks an important return to the founding principles of the event. The Festival developed out of the Mayor of London's Car Free days of the early noughties. Then the high street was shut, with the activities focused in that area, The migration onto Christchurch Green was a relatively recent development. The great thing about the Car Free days was that they offered a vision of how things could be. The places along the Thames were transformed, once the traffic amd choking pollution were removed. A village atmosphere returned - for a day. Since those early days that vision has taken hold, accelerated by the threats of climate change and toxic air. The growing emphasis on active travel, with the promotion of cycling and walking, sees that vision advancing. There is a long way to go on active travel in Redbridge but a start has been made. The council is at present comsulting on new cycle lanes down Blakehall, Centre, Lakehouse and Aldersbrook Roads. These -if enacted - will link to major cycling routes in neighbouring boroughs. There are plans to improve cycling networks around the high street and Cambridge Park areas.of Wanstead, More bicycle hangars and.loops are slowly rolling out. There has also been some pedestrianisation of the high street on the monthly market days. The road closure for the Festival offers a snapshot of part of the high street without cars - a different look. So leave the car behind, come out on Sunday 12 September to help make this the best Wanstead Festival ever.

West Ham go top of Premier League with emphatic win over Leicester

West Ham 4-1 Leicester This comprehensive win for West Ham took them to the top of the Premier League, with the sky now looking the limit. A full London Stadium did not have to wait long, until the impressive Said Benrahma exchanged passes with Pablo Fornals, who then side footed home inside the right hand post. Tomas Soucek and Craig Dawson then went close with headers. Leicester would claim the sending off of Ayoz Perez in the 40th minute for stamping on Fornals was the turning point. Leicester though fought on valiantly with 10 men, Kasper Schmeichel making an acrobatic save from a point blank Michail Antonio header. The good work was then undone by Caglar Soyuncu, who turned blind passing the ball right into the path of Antonio, who squared for Benrahama to slot home. Youri Tielemans then pulled one back, as West Ham switched off in the penalty area. The relentless West Ham pressure, though, paid off, with a well taken brace from Antonio. First, Declan Rice and Aaron Cresswell exchanged passes, with the former crossing in for Antonio to turn control and fire home. The final goal came when Vladimir Coufal's cross found Antonio, who flicked the ball over his head before prodding home. West Ham manager David Moyes was full of praise for Antonio, though he didn't think the big striker always made the right choices in the first half. "Second half, he was different class," said Moyes, who thought the atmosphere on the night was like the old days at Upton Park. There was also praise for Benhrama, who Moyes acknowledged took time to settle, after his move from Brentford last season. "Said needed to take stock and settle into being a team player as much as an individual," said Moyes. The manager confirmed that he needs to get some reinforcements in before the transfer window closes. Leicester manager Brendan Rodgers was disappointed at the way his side conceded the first two goals, though pleased at how they kept fighting.

Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report demands grass roots led conversion to a more sustainable way of living

The warnings from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change of pending environmental disaster made for sobering reading. They should cause everyone to take stock, especially the parents and grandparents - what sort of a hellish future is being created for our children and grandchildren. The danger of floods and heatwaves is becoming ever more real, yet the world continues largely with business as usual. Since the Paris Climate Agreement in 2015, the rhetoric has grown ever louder but action has sadly lagged behind. Now, it seems we really are in the last chance saloon - action is needed now, not when it can be afforded or is politically convenient. The Covid pandemic has shown how immediate and drastic action can be taken to counter a crisis. In terms of climate, the Covid crisis saw a reduction in emissions for a short period, due to a drop in emitting activities like driving and flying. But also note how so many people saw the need to get back to these modes of travel as a key part of "getting back to normal." ( Normal ofcourse spawned both Covid and the Climate crisis.) The climate and biodiversity crises are different to Covid but demand a similarly urgent response. Polling has shown most people recognise the threat of the Climate Crisis, however, when it comes to drastically changing the way in which they live there is resistance. People want to live sustainably but also be able to drive and fly everywhere at will. There has to be change -- this is an emergency. Governments need to act at all levels to counter the threat of climate and biodiversity breakdown. The funding must be provided to back up the rhetoric But the real impetus must come from the grassroots. Pressure has to be applied to politicians to act but people must be ready for a whole sale conversion in the way that they live. This will mean driving and flying less, recycling and reusing more, creating less waste, growing food locally and reducing meat from the diet. There will be sacrifice but also gains - It will be a different world but one where we can all live more sustainably together.

Fans are back, anticipating another exciting season at West Ham

The new football season is upon us - it seems like it has never been away, with the excitement of the Euros, following the climax of last season. Football has done a great job during the pandemic, providing many people with a focus and distraction during dour daily life. The games have been on TV for those who want to access. What has been missing, though, has been the fans. Empty stadiums, hosting games with a training ground atmosphere - the shouts from players and those on the sidelines being clear to hear. The TV coverage has rather disguised this element of the games, often dubbing on crowd noise. Toward the end of last season, the fans started coming back, bringing passion and atmosphere with them. It will be great to see full stadium once again as the new season begins. The last season was a great one for West Ham, finishing sixth and only narrowly missing Champions League qualification. Manager David Moyes did a superb job with scant resources. He motivated the players to go above and beyond. Strangely, at time of writing there seems to have been little activity in the transfer market to strengthen the squad. In the background, there has been talk of takeover bids but nothing has yet materialised. It must be hoped that the owners of West Ham learn the lessons of the past and provide Moyes with transfer funds. In 1985/6 season, West Ham finished 3rd in the old First Division, failed to strengthen and ended up fighting relegation the following year. Harry Redknapp's side that included the likes of Joe Cole, Frank Lampard, Rio Ferdinand, Michael Carrick and Jermaine Defoe finished 5th in 1998/9. Then, not only did the club not strengthen but instead sold off their outstanding talents over the following years - good news for Manchester United and Chelsea it turned out. Most recently, there was the final season at the Boleyn ground (2015/16), which saw a Dimitri Payet inspired team finish 7th. New poor quality players came in, which saw the team struggle the following season - the first at the London Stadium. Moyes has pledged to bring on the young players, which is another thing that will please the fans. It will not go down well with the returning fans, if the owners let down the manager, when it comes to providing those transfer funds. The manager has more than earned the right to be given the resources to strengthen. With the fans coming back there is much anticipation around the London Stadium - an exciting new season beckons - let's hope its another great one.

Woodston - the biography of an English Farm

This is a fascinating book tracing the history of a farm, Woodston, situated on the Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Shropshire borders, from the neolithic times right through to present day. John Lewis-Stempel traces the changes in methods of farming and how people lived on the land. The changes from use of animal horns, then flint onto the bronze and iron ages. Each new material bringing technological change. There are the Romans, with their organusation of the land to feed more people. The Anglo- Saxons, much of, whose template still runs today. So most villages and paths/rights of way across the country date back to this era. There is the emphasis on sheep farming during Tudor and Stuart times to the enclosure of land in the 18th and 19th centuries - driving people away. Much of the most destructive activity in terms of biodiversity has occurred since World War II. The rush to grow more during the war, onto the movements to rip up hedgerows, and drench the earth with pesticides and herbicides. These have resulted in the loss of so many birds, mammals and plants. The author contrasts how much more conducive it is to biodiversity to say manually scythe an area rather than run a combine harvester over it - with all the subsequent destruction caused. This book has all the ringing authenticity of a naturalist farmer truly connected to the land. His lived experience, punctuated with a variety poetry, particularly from John Clare. He values farming but only done the right way. So he has stuck with his 1950s Ferguson tractor, rather than move to the modern equivalent. The modern vehicle being computer driven, cutting the direct link to tha land. Lewis-Stempel has some criticism for what he describes as tree planting mania. There is a seperate essay on this in the notes at the back, suffice to say he wants the need to produce more (70%) in order to feed the world to be taken into the tree planting equation. He also sees other ways to reduce carbon as being of equal merit. Also, some harsh words for #meatfree who he describes as "ludicrously anti-ecological". He illustrates this point quoting how managing a wood for four years, allowing cow and pigs to roam, massively increased biodiversity. A final essay, draws some interesting parallels between the handling of the Foot and Mouth crisis in 2001, with Covid today. Government turned to some of the same behavioural scientists at Imperial College then, as it has done with Covid. Then as now, the real answer was vaccination. Highly recommend Woodston, which offers a real insight into how things have developed down the centuries, where things have gone wrong and how a step back in a number of instances could help put things right for the future *Published by Transworld Publishers, part of Penguin Random House Group. £20

Redbridge Council sets out Climate Action Plan but everyone needs to do more

Redbridge Council has just launched its Climate Change Action Plan and Green Urban Landscape Policy. The world is faced by a dual crisis of climate and biodiversity breakdown. The two threats have to be addressed together, they are not mutually exclusive. In the case of carbon emissions in Redbridge, the research conducted shows buildings being the biggest emitters, accounting for 56%. Transport comes next with 36% and waste caused 8% of emissions. The Plan will see retrofitting of properties and commitments to new sustainable levels. On waste, recycling rates have improved with the roll out of wheelie bins. The variety of plastic that can be recycled is also expanding. On transport, council vehicle fleets are converting to electricity. Transport is a very challenging area. The recent London Boroughs Healthy Street scorecards saw Redbridge coming in 31st out of 33. The borough was found to have one of the lowest levels of walking and cycling. But high levels of pedestrian and cyclist casualties plus car ownership. The borough was found to have just 1% of protected cycle lanes, with 15% of the borough covered by 20mph speed limits. Efforts are being made to meet these challenges. The 20mph speed limits are being expanded, whilst, consultation on some more protected cycle lanes in the West of the borough are being rolled out. There are also efforts to expand Controlled Parking Zones (CPZ) ,Low Emission Neighbourhoods and School Streets. The Ultra Low Emission Zone will be extended to the West of the borough in October. So things are happening, though there is a long way to go. We are often reminded as councillors about the cycling network in neighbouring boroughs like Waltham Forest and Newham. Also, the CPZ and Low Emission Neighbourhoods in these boroughs. They offer a standard we have to aspire ro reach. However, to get the changes people must come along in support. There has been opposition in Redbridge to School Streets and Quieter Streets schemes. The council listened and acted. But as a result we have a more polluted, less sustainable borough than otherwise might be the case. There does often seem to be opposition to almost any change proposed, no matter how virtuous. The challenge ofcourse for those seeking to make the changes is to communicate and consult better. On biodiversity, the Growzone program, begun in Wanstead, has expanded out across the borough and will spread further with the new urban landscape policy. There is to be more tree planting and cultivation of tree pits. There is much to do and little time to do it. The report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change gave the world 12 years to keep global warming below 1.5 degrees - a quarter of that period has now passed. The Climate Change Action Plan highlights that only 2.4% of emissions in the borough are due to council activities, so the bigger challenge is to get others to also address their carbon footprints. The council has to be a facilitator of change. So for example, encouraging people to move to sustainable energy sources like solar, as well as electric cars. We also all need to take responsibility for our own actions and be less wasteful in everything we do. Really overcoming the threats of Climate Change and Biodiversity loss requires a personal as well as community conversion in the way in which we all live.

Why the slow in vaccinations?

Why are people not getting vaccinated at the moment? Some 89% of the population have received one jab, another 69% have had two. However, this leaves around 5 million adults over the age of 18 who have not been vaccinated at all. Nor does this take account of the 12 million or so children, who are not eligible for vaccination. Back in June, when the release of the final restrictions on day to day life were supposed to be removed, a one month delay was announced. This was in order that more vaccinations could be done to overcome the spread of the virus. It was a race between the vaccines and the Delta variant, we were told. Yet from that moment, vaccination levels dived. Fewer and fewer took the first vaccination and the catch up on second jabs similarly slowed. The slow take up of vaccination has been particularly bad in London, lagging a long way behind the rest of the country. We were assured there was no supply issues. Given the aforesaid, it must have surprised many that the remaining restrictions were released on 19 July 2021, with infections soaring upwards. There seemed to be a total reversal of previous policy, which urged lockdown, social distancing, face coverings, working at home etc. We seemed to move from containing the virus to the herd immunity approach – first adopted, the disgarded at the start of the pandemic. The mantra has always been that though the rates might be going up, hospitalisations and deaths remained relatively low. The vaccine was breaking the link between the virus and hospitalisation and death. This though does not explain why the vaccination rates has slowed so. More than 50% of those finishing up in hospital have not been vaccinated. A doctor writing anonymously in the Guardian newspaper, recalled:”Most of these people have the decency to look sheepish, or to describe themselves as ‘one of those idiots’. Not all mind: some remain defiant as they are wheeled off to intensive care, and their families deny that Covid itself exists even as their relative is placed on a ventilator.” It is very difficult to understand. Some people seem to think they are immune from this disease, despite all the evidence of the past 18 months. There are the conspiracy theorists, who believe it is all some grand plan to take over the world. These fanciful theories gain traction as they float around on social media. There are ofcourse those who medically are not able to have the vaccine but they are very few in terms of the overall population. The cold hard facts are that five million adults have not been vaccinated – if they catch the disease, a growing number will end up in the hospitals. Death levels will rise. Why? The attitude of those who refuse to be vaccinated is the opposite of the vast majority of the population, who could not wait to be jabbed, once the vaccines had been approved. The NHS and local authorities have done a superb job in delivering the vaccination program. It has broken the link between serious illness and death from Covid. So why when we are so near to getting on top of this thing are a sizeable minority of the population still refusing to be jabbed? It is in everyones interest to get vaccinated against this terrible disease, a jab for one is a jab for all. If you have not been vaccinated, please come forward and get your jab.

We need a new normal

The poet Benjamin Zephaniah recently made a very valid point when he said that we don't need to get back to normal, after the pandemic. Normal he argued got us into the present situation. The destructive way in which human beings live is destroying the planet on which life is based. The destruction of biodiversity is killing environments, bringing humans and animals ever closer together. The links between the spread of Covid - 19 and bats has been well documented. It would be incredibly foolhardy to believe that this pandemic is a one off and there won't be another one along for decades. Human beings need to change the way they live, there must be a move away from the destructive, throw away, consumer society. A society that pollutes the air that we breath, destroys the countryside and poisons the waterways. Government at all levels has a role to play. Climate and biodiversity emergences have been declared at all levels but the talking remains well ahead of the actions. We all also need to take individual responsibility. Too many people are happy just to blame others, whilst continuing themselves to live as before. In this area, we have an excellent vibrant community. The response to the pandemic has been fantastic, with people supporting foodbanks, the homesless etc. We are moving forward with efforts to combat the biodiversity and climate crisis. But there is always more that can be done. We all need to take responsibility for our individual actions and realise that all are part of an interconnected community. Somewhere, where we are all our brother and sister's keepers. If we all come together in solidarity then a new just and sustainable normal can be created. A better world for everyone.

Racists must be confronted at all levels

The success of the England football team has rightly been acclaimed throughout the land. The players and management have been a real credit to an open, outward looking country that is welcoming to all. Most of the team are descended from migrants to this country, from Marcus Rashford and Raheem Stirling to Declan Rice and Calvin Phillips. Without immigration, this team would not exist. The manager Gareth Southgate and his players have condemned racism, homophobia and sexism in all of its forms. They have been fine ambassadors for the country and all that is best about it. Rashford has been superb in taking on the the government on providing food for school children. Raheem Stirling has stood up against vile racism, as well as being an outstanding player in the tournament. Liverpool’s Jordan Henderson has stepped up to help out during the pandemic. The team has come to represent everything that is best about the country. The England team should help spread unity in the country, after the ravaging 18 months of the pandemic. Prior to that there has been the division sown by the prolonged Brexit process. Unfortunately, following defeat in the final of the European Championships, the racists have surfaced again, subjecting the black players to a lot of vile abuse. They were condemned from most quarters. This was the unacceptable face of Britain. Racism has always existed in the UK but had become publically unacceptable and made illegal by legislation like the Race Relations Act. However, these previous efforts to confront racists and racism merely drove it underground or into more covert forms. It was always still there. The referendum on EU membership, with its focus on migrants helped to take the lid off racism once again. The result, the vote in favour of Brexit was to effectively give licence to the racists to come back out from under their stones. That is not to say that all Brexiteers are racists far from it, but the divisive debate, with its anti-migrant over tones certainly brought racism back out into the open. Maybe it is a good thing because now racism is so blatant again, people across the country will need to confront it. This is happening, which is encouraging. The bravery of the footballers and other in the public eye is to be applauded for the role they have played. One last thought to ponder. This country was built on immigration, the England football team are all descended from migrants. Without migration, this ageing country will sink. We are already seeing skills shortages, courtesy of leaving the EU. Many of those people that worked in our care homes, staffed the NHS, picked the crops and served the coffees have now gone home. There could come a time when the UK has to go out to beg people to come here to work. Those people are unlikely to come to an island that is hostile to them and dominated by racism. A selfish economic argument but one that many of those who will increasing need the services of the sectors mentioned would do well to dwell upon.

Time government levelled with the public over Covid strategy

Is it not time that the government levelled with the public over Covid? On 21 June, the reason given for delaying the release of all restrictions was in order that more vaccinations could take place. It was a race between the vaccinations and the spread of the new Delta variant. Over the ensuing period vaccination levels have slumped, partly no doubt due to under 40s not being able to receive the Astra Zeneca version. But probably more contributory has been a reluctance by some to be vaccinated. Meanwhile, the Delta variant has spread – predicted to reach 50,000 new infections a day by 19 July 2021. But apparently this does not now matter as we have effectively moved from seeking to squeeze out the variants, by a combination of vaccinations, lockdowns, masks and distancing, to the herd immunity approach. Then there are the confusing statistics. In London, vaccination levels are amongst the lowest in the country at 43% double vaccinated, compared to 65% nationwide. Yet infection rates are 167.7 per 100,000. This compares to areas like Brighton (450 plus per 100,000) and Hastings (381 per 100,000). This is an exact reversal of the position of a couple of months ago, when infection levels were much lower in those southern areas compared to the capital. So what is going on – have more people had the virus in London, so have the anti-bodies? Are there different drivers of the virus? The government must have this data, so should share it in order that we can all better understand where we are heading and why. published in part - Independent - 11/7/2021

Where did people take their anger before social media?

Where did people take out all their anger and frustration before social media? The thought recently occurred on a bright sunny Saturday, when you would have thought there were better things to do than bang out negativity from the keyboard. The council and councillors, often, seem to be the target for the angry brigade. Whatever the council or councillors do is wrong with this group. One subject on that bright sunny day was the newly installed mobility hub (or parklet) on Wanstead High Street. A pleasant new green space in the high street, where people can sit down for free to enjoy the sun and ambiance. The facility has been well used, so far, by people of all ages. School kids having a chat, elderly folk wanting to sit down for a moment on their way home, cyclists wanting somewhere to lock up the bike or electric car users wanting to charge their vehicle. So, what's not to like? The facility is part of efforts to make Wanstead a cleaner, greener place ro live. People will have also noticed the flower displays, new trees and developing grow zones. The angry brigade though are not happy. Waste of money, typical council, who wants to sit in the road were the typical comments. Thankfully, many on the same thread were supportive and enthusiastic about the new green development. A major gripe of the angry brigade was the loss of a couple of parking spaces. Again the argument, what is more important the right to drive or breath clean air. That said, the loss of the spaces hardly warrants a mention given there are plenty of spaces for people to park. No, the issue seems to be the need of some people just to have a go at something or someone. It is a problem of modern society, that finds its outlet via aocial media. Maybe, it is a good thing, how in past times did all this angst come out? But it would be good for people to remember they are attacking other fellow human beings, who, for the most part, are trying to do their best for the community. Everyone has feelings, that should be respected. My own rule on social media is not to say anything that you would not be prepared to say in person to the individual concerned. Sadly, there are all too many people around who seem to need to direct their own fury out into the ether via the keyboard - maybe it is an affirming process? Next time, though, maybe think about it, put the phone or laptop away and just enjoy the sun.

Getting clean air means taking some tough choices

People want cleaner air and a better environment in which to bring up their children but some appear unwilling to make the sacrifices required to bring that situation about. The most obvious example of this contradiction is the attitude to car travel. In Wanstead, people cry out for cleaner air, more biodiversity and combatting climate change. Yet, many also seem to want virtually no limitation on their ability to drive everywhere. The car lobby is often loud. I remember years ago, when the Conservatives ran the council, they shut the gate on Overton Drive to stop through traffic. The move was perfectly logical and supposed to happen, following completion of the M11 Link Road - the traffic staying on the main arteries, rather than cutting through side roads. There was uproar, with petitions demanding the gate was opened. Angry area meetings took place. The council backed down. More recently, there was the introduction of Controlled Parking Zones (CPZ) across Wanstead, with limited stopping periods on the high street. Again, the drive everywhere lobby was out. This would be the end of life as we knew it, Wanstead would turn into a desert town. None of which ofcourse happened. A reduced scheme was introduced, more people could park to go to the shops, the high street prospered and residents now petition for CPZ schemes in their roads. The most recent opposition to car restrictions has come regarding the introduction of school streets schemes. These schemes stop people driving right up to the front door of schools for the period of drop off and pick up. A few hours a day. A small price to pay for the well being of our children's lungs and limbs. Some school street schemes have gone through, others not. Wanstead is a green and pleasant place, marred in part by road traffic. Beautiful walks such as along the River Roding are tainted by the roar of traffic and spread of pollution from the nearby A406. If we really do want to create a cleaner, greener area, there has to be change. We cannot go on driving everywhere, polluting and destroying people's health. There is a place for the car, for some this form of travel is an absolute necessity but not all. There is also the welcome development of electric cars. A number of active travel schemes have been introduced across London, with varying degrees of success. The car lobby has never been slow to mobilise to oppose any attempt to restrict their right of movement. Media too has been quick to amplify the loudest voices of opposition. Modal change though will mean more active travel, less. car and air travel, more walking, cycling and use of public transport alternatives. The other option is to continue poisoning ourselves and the planet to death.

Cut to overseas aid betrays inward looking Little Englander attitude

The government has rightly received much criticism for its mean-spirited cut to overseas aid. The cut of £4 billion reduced the amount going to poorer nations to 0.5% of Gross National Income (GNI) Previously, a commitment was made to pay 0.7% of GNI in aid – in line with the UN recommendations. The cut has been justified on the back of belt tightening due to the cost of the Covid pandemic. The £4 billion saved though is a drop in the ocean, against the £400 billion so far expended in dealing with Covid. At a time when the whole world is struggling to overcome the pandemic, it seems incredible to cut support to some of the poorest countries on earth. The idea that the cut needs to be made simply doesn’t stack up, especially when put against some of the wastefulness of this government. The billions expended on an inadequate track and trace system, the costly contracts for Personal Protective Equipment, not to mention the latest hit to the economy as a result of letting the Delta variant into the country in April. Unfortunately, the rationale for the cut to aid is more likely found in the Little Englander nationalist attitude that is so prevalent in the present government. The worse sort of dog whistle politics. Back in 2014/15, cutting aid together with leaving the EU and the negative attitude to migrants were the standpoints of UKIP. The previous Conservative Prime Minister David Cameron was so concerned about the threat of UKIP that he decided to assimilate many of their policies. An attitude taken to the next level by the present incumbent of Downing Street, Boris Johnson. This led down a path that began with the EU referendum and adopting anti-migrant policies leading onto cutting overseas aid. It is an ungenerous, small minded sort of nationalism, not seen in the UK for many a year. A drawing back into isolation from the world. President Donald Trump represented the same sort of divisive politics in the US. Fortunately, there has been an outcry against the cut to overseas aid, not least from Conservative backbench MPs. This has been supported by other parties and more widely in the country. What the Covid pandemic has shown is that we are one world, the sum of all our parts. An attack on one is an attack on all. Now is not the time to be backing away into some Little Englander silo - we must reach out and help others, as and when needed. It is not only the right moral thing to do but failure to do so might just one day see others not reaching out to help the UK at its most difficult times of need.

Planting communities

There has been much publicity recently about people growing their own food. A BBC Countryfile program featured planting communities, looking at the different ways food is being produced across the country. Some 4% of food in Britain comes from allotments and gardens. It cuts food miles, packaging, as well as contributing hugely to people’s mental health. Growing your own really is a win win all round. There is the produce itself, which tastes great but also the whole process of nurturing of the plants right up to the final harvest. For many having an allotment or being part of a community garden provides real value. There is the work in developing the plot, growing the crops and improving the soil. Many people put up their own sheds and green houses. They have water butts and raised beds. The whole thing becomes a circular process. Allotment holders and gardeners improve the biodiversity around them. Many allotments have ponds and wild areas. Then there are the people that you meet at the allotment. A whole community, with a shared interest in growing their own. Allotments and gardens have played a huge role in keeping people sane over the difficult months of the Covid-19 pandemic. Redbridge has a fantastic network of allotments running right across the borough – there is heavy demand, with most having waiting lists. I have had an allotment at Redbridge Lane West for the past 10 years. It has been a fantastic place to be – with good and bad years regarding the harvest. One year going back and forth with bags and bags of runner beans, another year the rust disease will hit and nothing grows. There has been some consternation recently amongst the 40 plot holders at the meadow site in Redbridge Lane West, caused by the plans of gas company Cadent to use the site in order to do work on the neighbouring gas works. Cadent have said they want to use the site for two years, meaning allotment holders would have to move off elsewhere. Not surprisingly, plot holders have been upset, facing the possibility of loss of their treasured plots – even, if later restored. Cadent, Redbridge Council and plot holders are in discussions at present, so hopefully, a resolution can be found that is agreeable to all involved. There are many other exciting possibilities developing across the borough, like Transition Ilford’s Forest Garden and the Growing Communities project at the Walled Garden in Ray Park. We need our growing spaces. Ideally, the spaces for growing our own vegetables will increase as part of local efforts to improve biodiversity, counter climate change and save the planet. Not forgetting, ofcourse, the contribution that such activities make to everyones mental and physical health.

Time to call out football racists

A friend was recently excited to get a ticket for the final game of West Ham’s season at the London Stadium. A rare event in these Covid times. He recalled how his young son said before the game started, how he hoped the crowd did not boo, when the players took the knee. Sadly, there was some booing. This trend has seemingly returned, as the fans have come back into stadiums. Some of the small attendances – 10,000 in the West Ham case – seem to believe they have to register their protest. Or put another way maybe they are just racists. The same thing has happened with the England games. TV pundit and former player Gary Lineker put it well when he said: “If you boo @England players for taking the knee, you’re part of the reason why players are taking the knee.” The response of this small minority of fans to this act of solidarity really is quite abhorrent. Fans come back into the stadiums, so does the racism – discuss? The taking of the knee was a football response to the Black Lives Matter movement that grew incredibly across the world following the terrible murder last year of George Floyd in America. Black footballers have for many years suffered terrible racist abuse, going back to the chanting and throwing of banana skins onto the field during the 1970s and 80s. The Black pioneers like West Ham’s Clyde Best, West Brom’s Cyril Regis, Brendan Batson and Laurie Cunningham had to deal with this abuse week in week out. Best had to be given police protection at one point due to a death threat. Things have improved over recent years but not as much as some like to think. The racist abuse, particularly online, against Black players like Marcus Rashford and Raheem Stirling has been horrendous. The dignified response of the Rashford and Stirling, among many others, should be applauded. Everyone needs to come together in society to drive out this vile racism. The taking of the knee is a dignified gesture of solidarity against racism. That racism needs to be called out, wherever it occurs. Fortunately, at football games, the majority of fans have reacted, by clapping to drown out the boos. The clubs have taken action to drive out racism. But there is a duty on all of us to call out racism wherever it is happening – in the football grounds, at work and on the streets. Virtue signalling simply will not do, it is not and never has been enough. This most recent example of racism at football matches is upsetting but also highlights how much needs to be done to build a truly inclusive society.

Cut the rubbish

The level of rubbish and plastic being created does not seem to be in anyway decreasing at the present time. Locally, as the lockdown restrictions eased more people came out into our open spaces to socialise. Unfortunately, too many brought rubbish with them that they then left deposited behind. Some of the things that people just dump are incredible. On one of our monthly litter picks there was a full set of china plates and cups left in the middle of George Green. The masks that have become essential wear over the period of the pandemic are liberally dumped on the ground, for others to pick up. What is it that makes people believe that they are so entitled that simply putting rubbish in the bin or taking it home is below them? No , dump it on the ground for someone else to pick up. At one point, Redbridge Council were taking more litter off Christchurch Green than Valentines Park. Note, the full time worker deployed simply to clear up after those who cannot deal with their own rubbish. Plastic is another particular problem. The planet is simply getting clogged up with plastic, being used and discarded on land and in the sea. There are efforts to cut single use plastic, as well as find alternatives but progress is slow. One initiative we can all take part in is Plastic Free July (https://plasticfreejuly.org/), which seeks to cut single use for that month. What is really needed to address the problems of litter and plastic (often one in the same) is to stop creating the stuff in the first place. Recycling is very good and should be encouraged but a step further is to not create the rubbish in the first place. The Cleaner Greener Wanstead initiative sought to address the joint problems of plastic waste and litter. An early initiative was to try to get shops in Wanstead High Street to not use single plastic. One Saturday, as part of a nationwide project, activists took the plastic back to a number of supermarkets, including the Co-op, Tesco and M&S. The stores listened attentively and promised to take the argument on board – some progress is being made at a national level but what about here? There is still a lot of single use plastic in Wanstead High Street- the thousands of plastic lids on take away coffee cups spring to mind. These have been difficult times with the pandemic darkening everyones lives over the past 14 months. Some of the initiatives begun pre-pandemic have stalled due to the crisis but now is time to redouble our efforts. We need to take real action to cut the amount of waste being created and when that is not possible, deal responsibly with the residue. There is only one planet and we all have a responsibility to look after it.

Coming together for the common good of all

The weather patterns recently have been odd for the time of year. The seasons seem to be slightly behind where things would normally be in May. This struck home when an organic grower recently posted two pictures of broad bean plants. One was this year in flower, the other, at the same time last year, with pods on. The pictures nicely illustrated how things are about three to four weeks behind where they usually are at this time of year. The effects of the delay can also be seen in the trees, now bursting forth with leaf, though slightly late. There have been long periods without rain, then a period of deluge. It has been very unseasonly cold at night. Resilient stalwarts have been refusing to put on the heating in May, which has meant piling on the jumpers at night. The climate is changing. The gardeners and wildlife observers will be well aware of the change, seeing it at first hand. I recently visited Rye Harbour nature reserve in Sussex. Again, the reserve was more reminiscent of April than May, with birds like the bitterns booming in the reeds, as part of their mating ritual. The long dry spell had held back some of the birds. All around us things in nature are changing due to fluctuations in climate. What all these things show is how inter-related and dependent we all are on each other. It is no good putting ones head in the sand and pretending nothing is happening. Unfortunately, this does seem to be the attitude of many humans to climate change and biodiversity loss. Whilst many people have recognised what is happening, believe the science and are acting to bring about change. Others seem in complete denial, rather than read the signs of the times, they prefer to carry on exactly as before - polluting the atmosphere, consuming to excess and dumping their waste everywhere. What will it take to wake some people up and make them realise we a have to change - have some respect for each other and the planet on which we all depend. Everything is inter-telated, we are literally all in it together. And as such we all need to come together for the common good of all.

Exciting happenings in Wanstead Park and on the Flats

Wanstead Park and Flats must have contributed much to the sanity of people over the period of the pandemic. Over the dark days of lockdowns, a walk in the park or across the Flats, as part of daily exercise offereed a welcome respite. Many people seem to have discovered the area for the first time over this period. Local people are particularly protective of their open space and rightly so. The recent fantastic display of bluebells, in Chalet Wood, drew people in from far and wide. Not that many years ago the bluebells were a fairly well kept secret but with the arrival of social media, the good news has been spread far and wide. People have come from all over to see the flowers, most stick to the paths and respect the area, a few seem to think the rules are for others. Another recent success has been the fencing off of a small area of the Flats to help protect the nesting skylarks. The population has been dwindling over recent years, so it is hoped this extra protection will help the birds prosper in future. And there is more to come with the Long Horn cattle returning to the park in August. Three Long Horns crazed in the park for a couple of months last summer, proving hugely popular with the public. Their return is eagerly awaited. Another development resulting from the pandemic has been the wild flower field planted on the Flats, near the City of London cemetery, where the temporary morgue stood, early last year. A fitting natural memorial to that grim period. The Corporation of London have plans for future developments. There is an ongoing consultation on cycling in the park. The three options being to stay as things are, ban cycling all together or allow cycling throughout the park. I'd favour the third option but would like to see some restoration of paths, so that cyclists and pedestrians can co-exist without tearing up the terrain, something that has happened due to the heavier footfall, over wet periods in recent months. There are other outstanding issues in need of attention such as the the lakes in the park and some of the entry points. It would also be good to see the rewilding efforts continue, with suggestions like more wild flower areas around the brick pit area (adjacent to Aldersbrook Road between Blakehall and Park Roads) acted upon. There is much happening and lots to be done but this is also a time to give thanks for our fantastic open spaces in Wanstead and to those who have maintained them and by extension us over these recent difficult times.