Wishing everyone on this forum a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Good health and happiness to all.

My wife's friend has caught red-handed a pickpocket who was trying to nick her purse from her bag in Zara (central London).
She felt that her bag had suddenly moved when it was not expected and she quickly pushed her opposite side hand into her bag without turning where she grabbed someone else's hand already holding her purse. It was a posh-looking, well groomed and expensively accessorised Far-East woman. Obviously she had not been very professional in her enterprise and had greatly miscalculated many things, including the strength of the purse owner. She was handed over to the shop security and this is where my extent of the story ends.
Be vigilant and grab unexpected hands strong... ;)

HELP!! I have a laptop that has been locked by mistake by my husband with a password he can't remember putting in (!) we need the laptop urgently and I was wondering if any kind soul would help us bypass the password to be able to access it ASAP.

I have enquired at a roadside mobile phone place but am too scared to leave it with anyone in case we lose the contents and have to pay £30 or more without guarantees.
Any and all suggestions would be welcome.

I'm looking for an 'under the counter' sized small fridge as our current one has just given out. That one itself was from a house clearance and has lasted us nearly 5 years - we're big on re-use, recycle, make do and mend etc :) - so we don't mind how scruffy it is, as long as it works! can collect almost anytime, ideally looking for close to Wandsworth SW18. Thanks in advance if you can help!

Hello everyone, I have received 2 trees as part of the Mayor's tree planting scheme and since we are moving I'd like someone with a garden or a space for them near their house to get in touch and see these saplings are planted.

I thought somewhere in Tooting would be lovely. Any ideas?
A quick reply would enable them to be planted asap. Thanks.

Does anyone have a rechargeable Argon bottle that they don't need anymore?

The gas works traffic light is stuck on red in both directions. Cars wait for ages then jump the light (often concurrently from both sides)... Dangerous situation and extraordinary delays. Tried reporting it to the Police via 101 but got nowhere, as this is not a serious matter in the grand scheme of things (apparently).

Hello everyone,

This might be of interest to anyone out there who’s keen to earn some extra income from their home while they’re away on holiday, but aren’t perhaps completely comfortable with listing their property on homestay sites similar to AirBnB?

It’s a company called Veeve, whose service is distinctly different and which may offer you some additional reassurance that generating income from your home can be perfectly safe and hassle-free.

We have long been fans of homestay sites, both as guests and hosts and have really appreciated the extra spending money it provides for our families’ trips. However, there is a bit of work needed to ensure the house is clean for the guests’ arrival and that they know how everything works. Veeve takes ALL these tedious chores away, taking great photos to showcase your home, providing hotel-quality linen and before/after cleaning, as well as personally checking your guests into your property and verifying their identities. A dedicated account manager will also be on hand to deal with any unforeseen issues that might arise, leaving you free to enjoy your own holiday in total peace!

As one would expect, this kind of management service does have a cost, so it might be that you’ll net fractionally less for the period than you might using other homestay platforms, but what price peace of mind and total convenience? Veeve have a comprehensive insurance policy, backed up by a photographic inventory, and it’s unique in that if a claim has to be made, they’ll do everything necessary to ensure you’re appropriately compensated.

Just to quickly address a couple of common misconceptions. Your home doesn’t need to be huge and swanky, just somewhere pleasant to stay while visiting London (and ideally zones 1-3) – everything from a 1 bed flat to a mansion or penthouse will be suitable for someone’s budget and needs. It’s worth mentioning too that families frequently use Veeve for their London stays, so your family home, with cots or bunk-beds and toys galore, could be just what they’re looking for! You also don’t need to make any huge changes for your guests either, just make a little room in a wardrobe for them to hang clothes. There’s no minimum number of ‘days free’ needed for your property either, you just use the calendar to indicate the periods where you’d be happy to have guests.
I have met the small team of people who’ll organise a visit your property to give you a valuation and they’re very friendly, capable and professional folk, who take great pride in having happy hosts, so I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them.

Ask for Kate or Hannah in the new homes team on 0207 993 5599 when you call (and mention Guy)

https://www.veeve.com/

Why am I telling you all this? Well, they’re quite a young company, so not yet particularly well known, and they cater to a significant number of people who’d love to benefit from this emerging sector, but who haven’t the time to manage a homestay themselves. I’ve offered to spread the word about their service because I think they are the best run company of its kind, having heard good reports from friends who’ve used them.

If you mention my name GUY, or quote ‘LNDAMB’ (London Ambassador) when contacting Veeve, we’ll both benefit. You’ll get a £100 John Lewis voucher on completion of your first booking and I’ll get a few ££ (as well as a warm glow from having helped one of my neighbours)

There’s still plenty of time to get your property listed and find some guests, should you be going away for a few days over Christmas, so if you’ve been toying with the idea of joining the thousands of people making money from their homes in this way, why not pick up the phone now?

My wife needs colouring pencils for an after-school club but so far all the pencils we've got are essentially broken. Beyond first factory tip the inner core is fragmented into 3-4 mm chunks that fall out all the way to the end of that pencil. Mechanical ones are not allowed. Does anyone have an advice on where to get reasonably priced but usable colouring pencils?

Fresh from the press...
I've got an SMS from my bank tonight that my account has been blocked due to suspicious activity and to unblock it I need to visit an IP (not even a website!) address. Interesting observation is that it did come from the correct phone number that my bank sends me notifications. SO, someone is definitely busy with spoofed phone numbers. There are few reports on here and other forums about this in recent weeks.

Weir Rd, London SW19 8UG.
Some bargains to be had and some stuff at finally almost down to Earth prices (so, don't rush).

I just got a call purportedly from HM Revenues announcing very loudly and sternly in a recorded message that there is a tax evasion charge against me and a warrant for my arrest.
For a second I couldn't understand then a woman came on the line, Asian by the sound of it, and asked me my details, I asked who was calling and she confirmed it was HM Revenues department, so I asked her the number and she said I would have to talk to her.
I said I would call her back and she said I can't do that.

I disconnected and called back, yes the same number, but got through to the real Revenues department. When I spoke of the call, the gentleman there informed me that the department NEVER contacts anyone on the phone, they write a letter and then inform you to wait for a call (number withheld) or ask you to call. That scammers have been able to use their number.

This begs the question: why doesn't the government do something about this?

So watch out. I was suspicious because I don't evade tax and everything is open to scrutiny and I don't have hedge funds or whatever tucked away so I knew straightaway that the call was fishy.

My house appears to be infested with tiny black insects and slightly larger white ones which turn red having bitten and drawn blood! They don't bother me but torment my partner who is trying to renovate the house. We've used many smoke bombs and sprays but they still come back. No doctor has been able to help with medication to ease the problem either. We don't know where to turn......

End of build material going for free (A donation to the charity Crisis at Christmas would be welcome)

Patio slab stones. New Indian sandstone 60 x 60 cm x 5

90 x 60 cm x1

Used mixed stone conglomerate 60 x 60 cm x9

30 x 60 cm x3

Used terra cotta conglomerate 30 x 30 cm x8

Used London yellow bricks 36

Bags of builders sand x3

To be collected from Southfields

I've noticed a distinct aniseed/fennel flavour hint in the latest bag of Royal Gala apples from Lidl. Washing them hard makes no difference. So, I'm wondering what could be the source of this flavour, which is not unpleasant but I wonder if this can be anything sinister.

I have a Mac BookPro which I need to sell for spares/parts. Would appreciate any help with regard to suitable outlets - I have looked at Ebay but notice that similar items aren't getting much interest. Help!
Thanks in advance.

A found a hidden issue in my MacBook Pro (Mid 2015 model). When opening it up to clean up loads of dust inside, I've noticed that inner batteries are puffed up and their protective skins are blown with some gas. Lots of gas and lot of pressure. System information still reports plenty of charging power and no other indications of ANY battery issues. If you think that this means batteries are OK then this is far from being the case. A bit of googling produced plenty of similar cases from around the world. Where people had consumer protection laws or extended service agreements, Apple does service and replace these batteries, however otherwise you are looking at cases starting from a very expensive fix of just the battery (glued with permanent glue to the case) to a fire hazard when those batteries do explode.
Without taking your computer apart there is a way to check if you might have this issue. Turn your laptop upside down and apply a ruler on its edge across the laptop's bottom panel. Try different directions (batteries are located in the area just below your palm rest). If you see that the ruler can roll like a seesaw then there is a bow out which can only be happening due to something pushing on the panel from the inside. That something is the battery. Play safe and take this to an Apple authorised dealer for an inspection as only they might be able to provide a free fix (if you consumer protection law is applicable for you). Otherwise you can go to any computer shop who deals with Apples unofficially and get a lower price (than direct from Apple) but still expensive battery replacement. Battery alone is about £100 plus the glue issue...
Apple are still tight lipped about the situation and there is no official recall.

Here is a link to someone's story when it did explode.
https://medium.com/@dourvaris/my-2015-macbook-pro-retina-exploded-119ea5ea9d1f

I am in need ASAP of an electrician who can help with a light fitting

We've got 2 desk spaces available in our bright, shared office at the Earlsfield Business Centre. For more details please email luke@eatlocal.co.uk

Does anyone have and is willing to lend me a USB A3 flatbed scanner?
Need to archive some large papered journals but this is a one-off task and I am hoping to avoid having to buy a new scanner.

Thanks!

Hi neighbours. I am looking for a cleaner for my terrace house in Southfields. Any recommendations please?

We've got 4 desk spaces available in our shared office at the Earlsfield Business Centre. Happy to rent desks as singles or together. Bright, fun office with 24 hour access and fast internet connection. Please contact luke@bluedaymedia.co.uk to request a viewing. Thanks. Luke

Does anyone know of a mattress showroom with a good selection of good mattresses especially different memory foam mattresses? We've had a Tempur which now needs replacing … 11 years old... but they are SO expensive now. There are others but I don't want to buy online. Would like to try them before buying. South London preferably but will travel further if necessary. Thanks

It is that time of the year for me when I look for fresh wood to prepare and season over the next year for my wood burner.
If anyone is planning to fall a tree or to aggressively prune one, then I’m looking for you (assuming that you have no need for that wood). I can also lend a hand in cutting a tree down but I may not be as proficient as a tree surgeon doing it for a living.

We’re looking for a builder to help us with a bathroom late October/November. Recommendations would be greatly appreciated! :)

Does anyone think it would be great for our community to have some cricket nets on Wandsworth Common? If Clapham Common and Battersea Park can, why not us lot in SW18/SW17? After all, we have loads of kids keen on cricket if the number of people I see playing in Wandsworths’ parks is anything to go by.
Some of you may have seen there’s a current consultation about how Wandsworth Common is managed in the coming years and it’s an opportunity to make the case for encouraging all age groups to improve their cricket skills with all-weather facilities.
If you live locally, like your cricket (or have kids who do), then please take 2 secs to either complete the quick thingy here - https://haveyoursay.citizenspace.com/wandsworthecs/wandsworth-common-2/ (scroll down to Give us your views)
Or just drop a quick email to Ella on drothero@enablelc.org with cricket nets in the subject line, asking Enable to consider, with input from Wandsworth Council, how provision of these facilities would deliver great benefits for cricketers of all ages who currently have nowhere to practise. I know there are loads of demands on our time, so here's something you can copy and paste!
Hello, we think cricket nets would be a great addition to the facilities on Wandsworth Common and a real benefit to thousands of locals (particularly kids) who are keen on the sport. Thanks
Please put the link to this post on your social media channels if you know lots of cricket fans or copy and email it to friends who might be interested.
Thanks in advance and enjoy your weekends :D
PS. you have until next Sunday to make your views heard!

Hi! I am looking for a nice spa to spend the day with my mum, somewhere in Earlsfield or Balham. Can anyone recommend somewhere nice?

Any recommendations please.

Never used. I have no extra parts but you can order online a holder for £12.

Looking to replace our wooden bay windows with either PVC or wood - so they’re double/triple glazed. Would welcome any recommendations and advice around how much this should cost (one bay window - x3 windows in total). Thanks!

So, some of you might remember a post a while back about dog fouling between the commons. Large numbers of us are utterly sick of it and feel more needs to be done to reduce it. Well, a lady posted some video from her home CCTV of a man allowing his dog to foul on Mallinson Road (incidentally, the same camera caught the same man repeating this a fortnight later). I put an image of the man on local forums to see if anyone recognised him and knew where he lived – someone did and got in touch anonymously. The evidence and this information were then passed onto the council enforcement team who subsequently decided to bring a prosecution.

Here’s the result and an explanation of the legal process from the council. The fine was £40.00 per offence, a contribution towards costs of £100.00 (which equates to about 20% of the actual costs), and a victim surcharge of £30.00.Some civil enforcement cases (all of ours) are now being heard through a Single Justice Procedure (SJP) at the court. This means that the cases are not listed for hearing at court, but looked at in a private sitting of the Justice (JP or DJ), who will determine if the guilty plea is accepted, or if the case warrants a full hearing, particularly If the defendant pleads not guilty. There is not a set date for SJP hearings, and they are not open to the public. Legal services have advised me though that the sentence is public knowledge and can be advised post-conviction.

Now I’m not entirely sure how I feel about this. I’m pleased that a repeat offender has been punished and hopeful that he might now mend his ways, which might mean as many as 365 piles of poo NOT on the streets btc from now on. However, I do find it a bit disappointing that the procedure is private because I think proven repeat offenders ought to be publicly shamed, as a deterrent to others not to offend. I’m also not terribly happy with the level of the fine. The max is £100 I understand but I’m not sure if that is in total or per offence, either way, I don’t think it’s commensurate for this repellent action – this man’s two fines amount to less than a parking ticket FGS! Even worse, a contribution of £100 to costs of approx. £500? So a net £400 cost to the taxpayer presumably, splendid (not)! While I’m glad the council can be seen to be enforcing this by-law, I don’t think the fine is enough and won’t serve to meaningfully deter others. Even if this chap has to pay £5/week from his pension for a year or two, I don’t think that’s an unreasonable price to pay for this minging behaviour.I think there are a number of difficulties the council faces with prosecutions, not least that you need very strong video evidence and to know where the culprit lives. However, one of the main issues is that the enforcement team only work til 9pm (and this may perhaps be only two of the team of four for the whole borough), and all the evidence, both anecdotally from residents and more robustly from research from Keep Britain tidy, suggests that most offending occurs under cover of darkness and when dog owners are taking them out for their evening poo before turning in (9-12pm). Does anyone think the answer might be changing the teams hours so they can work when most of the offending is happening? Just a thought…Also interested as to what people think generally about how best to change people’s behaviour and make our streets cleaner. Anyway, I would urge any of you who have CCTV or a motion activated doorbell video thing and find dog mess outside your house, please do check your footage and report it. If they possibly can, the council WILL take action. If an area near you is particularly bad, then please let them know and they can target it with enforcement personnel. Mark Callis
Animal Welfare Service Manager
Tel: 020 8871 7132
E Mail: mark.callis@richmondandwandsworth.gov.uk

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-45588088

My neighbour has lost her cat please look out for her thank you

My neighbour has lost her black and white cat - please look out for her thank you

No sooner new pavement bricks went in I see these markings and new asphalt patches... Money just go down a sink hole!

This seems to be a minor adjustment of the looks with a new upper toolbar. Are there any other "interesting" under the hood improvements?

I've got a recommendation for a private tutor specialising in maths for younger kids and up to and including those taking GCSEs. It may seem a little too early in the year to panic but those who know their Achilles heel may be interested already...
Elena Herman on 07739638418. She does both visits and visitors to her place.

Dear families, couples
I'm Andrea (33) Hungarian woman with over 6 years nanny/cleaner experience.
I'm looking for new clients in Earlsfield!
Please get in touch if you are interested.
Thanks
Andrea

If you are looking for a sports kit for your kids or anything else that SportsDirect.com sells then before you part with your money decide if you are prepared to lose those money.
A faulty polo shirt has arrived with a large security magnet hole right through all the folded layers resulting in 8 holes. SportsDirect won't pay for the return post!!!
Having read other posts on them I see that even those who have returned items are fighting to get their money back because SportsDirect fights every step of the way!

I've recently came across a solution to a real pain with blinds that all of them have allowed sun to shine into the small gap around the perimeter and (though not applicable with later mornings) in the summer it would cause me to wake up with first rays of light. A solution, for so called conservatory UPVC double glazing, fits a small frame around the glass, which doesn't interfere with anything and allows blocking of those early morning sun rays perfectly. Here is an example to check out:
https://www.blinds-2go.co.uk/perfect-fit-pleated/19507/duoshade-egg-shell.html

Dear families,
I'm Andrea (33) Hungarian woman with over 6 years of nanny/cleaner experience.
I'm looking for a nanny/cleaning job from September 2018 in Earlsfield!
Good references available.
Please get in touch if you are interested.
Thanks
Andrea

For a new gym in Balham: GM and Assistant GM needed. Please see links below for details.
Manager:
https://www.leisurejobs.com/job/2101199/club-manager-balham/
Assistant Manager:
https://www.leisurejobs.com/job/2101194/assistant-manager-balham/

Hello, does anyone know where I can buy double ended knitting needles and good quality wool around Wandsworth?

Hi everyone I need an electrician to wire in a new oven. If you have someone you can trust at a reasonable cost I would be grateful for your recommendations.

Janette B

All about Abundance Wimbledon
In 2017, Abundance picked a record 2,916 kilos of fruit in Wimbledon, Morden, Raynes Park and surrounding areas. This was only possible with the kind help of lots of people - donating their surplus fruit, giving their time to pick fruit, process and distribute fruit or helping to publicise the project. We are very grateful to everyone who helped.
Much of the gathered fruit was shared amongst the garden owners, the fruit pickers and others who turned it into jams, chutneys, put fruit in freezers, baked with it and pressed fruit to make fresh juice. Some of the produce was sold at our Fruit Day event to raise money for Abundance Wimbledon - all of which goes to charity.
Fruit Day is Saturday September 15th 11am - 2.30pm at St Marks Church garden behind Wimbledon library. This will be our 8th year of operation.
This year the harvest is not good due to the terrible weather we have had. We are looking for any excess produce which can be turned in to preserves of any kind. If you know anyone with allotments or gardens with a glut of any thin please let me know and I will be happy to arrange for it to be collected and made in to delicious produce for Fruit Day.
If you can help or are interested in joining Abundance please let me know. I am on 07847 887311
Thanks Sue

Hi Scooploopers, I am looking for recommendations for a good, reasonably priced carpet company that has staff who will advise and help with a largish project. Needs to be in the Southwest area, I am in Southfields. Any suggestions welcome.

I'm after some advice about a neighbours extension, will of course get professional advice too, but sometimes the answers can be found on this helpful group.
They have been given planning permission for a single story extension which runs along the back of our garden. There is no party wall agreement in place, so does this mean they can’t have the foundations of their extension on our property or take our fence down?
They are entitled to build at the boundary of our properties, but I can’t see how they can reasonably do that without taking the fence down, so are they allowed to remove it? Do they need any official permission from us? Or do they need to build a couple of inches their side of the existing fence?
The back fence is our responsibility according to the deeds or our current lease (I can’t quite remember), but I’m not sure this has any impact on where they can and can’t build.
Any pointers from people who’ve been in a similar position, either as the party developing, or as a neighbour to a development, would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

Hi I hope you can help,my cat has been missing since last Friday 20th July from Earlsfield Road have enclosed a picture that I took of her on Friday morning,she is microchipped and has been reported to the microchip database,if anyone has seen her please message me on here,Thank you for your help,I am really concerned about her this is the longest time she has been away.