Author: Blake Foster

26 households in Sapphire Court were told they needed to leave after an inspection by structural engineers on August 20. Sapphire Court is part of the Stratford Halo development, which includes a skyscraper block of flats famous for reportedly housing well-known Youtubers, including KSI. After the defects were found, people were moved into temporary accommodation by the building’s owner, Notting Hill Genesis (NHG). NHG says it is in touch with residents and trying to find them long-term housing. Meanwhile, it adds that residents in the wider Stratford Halo development are unaffected, including the other 104 households in Sapphire Court. A spokesperson…

A planning application relating to 36 Upminster Road South was submitted to Havering Council last month, seeking permission for the change of use of the site.  The retail space, though now vacant, is understood to have most recently been occupied by Village Blooms.  Billie Hanmore was one of the florists who worked at Village Blooms, and has revealed to this paper that the business moved premises last year.  Billie said: “It is a shame because for such a long time it was the flower shop, so it is a shame but it sort of is what it is I suppose”.  She…

The council was one of the first in the country to halt the procedure until the risks to patients were properly controlled, following complaints from people who experienced complications. The new scheme aims to set national standards in the aesthetics industry and improve public safety. Cllr Paul Keska, Epping Forest District Council’s cabinet member for regulatory, technical and community safety services, said: “I am proud that our council’s environmental health team was at the forefront of clamping down on these risky procedures in our district. “It is good to see that the government is taking concerns even further by introducing…

The restaurateur, who runs Asian dining spots in Notting Hill, Chelsea and Marylebone, spent his early years in Highgate attending the village primary school in North Hill. He now lives in Maida Vale with partner Adam Wilkie and they are “really excited” to be opening Huo in Belsize Lane in early September. “I was born in the Whittington and grew up in Highgate until I was 13 and have fond memories of riding my bike up and down,” he says. HUO is located in Belsize Lane in what was originally a Victorian pub but has been both a pan Asian and…

Police were called around 4.30am today (August 23) to Hertsmere Road. Officers arrived with the London Ambulance Service and a woman in her 20s was taken to hospital. She is now being supported by specialist officers. There have been no arrests but an investigation is underway. Officers are appealing for anyone with information to get in touch. A Met Police spokesperson said: “We are investigating an alleged rape which took place on Hertsmere Road, Canary Wharf. “Officers were called at 04:25hrs on Saturday, 23 August and attended alongside the London Ambulance Service.  “A woman in her 20s was taken to…

Alexis is believed to have travelled to London from Northampton at 10.30pm on August 15. Police are urgently seeking information on her whereabouts. Alexis, who also goes by Lexi, is thought to have visited Leicester Square and Marble Arch, as well as Heathrow and the surrounding area.(Image: Met Police) Her last known location was Tottenham Court Road on August 23. Alexis is said to 5ft of slim build, with long, dark hair. Detective Inspector Rory Wilkinson, from the Met’s missing persons unit, said: “We, and Alexis’ family, are becoming increasingly concerned for her welfare. “Take a close look at the…

Police were called shortly after 7am on Thursday, August 21, to reports of a girl being attacked in Fishponds Park. A Met Police spokesperson said the teenager and her family are receiving support from specialist officers. Vladas Rupeika, 35, of Epsom, was charged with rape on Friday, August 22. He appeared at Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court the following day and has been remanded in custody. Nerijus Venckus, 36, of Surbiton, was charged with rape and assault by penetration on the same day. He also appeared at Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, August 23, and was remanded. Peter Hoppe, 41, of Tolworth, was…

Nestled in the rolling hills of the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty — within an hour’s train ride or drive from London – Aldbury offers a charming mix of countryside views, history and its fair share of filming spots to scope out. Aldbury offers a charming mix of countryside views, history and its fair share of filming spots to scope out. (Image: Draco2008/Flickr) The village has been featured in a number of popular films and TV shows like Bridget Jones: Edge of Reason, Inspector Morse and Killing Eve, to name a few. Spots like the duck pond as well…

Whether you’re planning a relaxed long weekend stroll, a family picnic, or simply want to stretch your legs after a busy week, there are plenty of scenic spots across the borough to enjoy. From ancient woodlands to riverside trails, here are five of the best places in Croydon for a late summer escape this bank holiday. Farthing Downs – Ditches Lane Farthing Downs in Coulsdon is the largest stretch of semi-natural downland in Greater London. With wide grasslands, ancient woodlands, and chalky slopes, it’s a haven for rare wildflowers, herbs, and wildlife. You can even spot the Saxon Burial Mounds,…

Mr Gregory, from Charlton, had been out celebrating the festive season with friends at The Earl of Chatham pub on December 23 when Nguyen lashed out at him with a glass in the toilet, slashing the arteries in his neck.  The horror attack appeared to stem from a trivial incident at the bar a short time earlier where the pair exchanged words.  The killer told his offender manager he would have walked away from the situation if he was sober – “it’s the drinking,” he said.  Nguyen, now aged 50, was first released from prison on licence in October 2022…