paramount

You don't say whether you're a novice or experienced beekeeper, but you may find The London Beekeepers Association, which is based in Kennington, helpful. They run courses and have vast expertise and are generally all round nice people. Their website is full of useful information, and their meetings are friendly and welcoming.

this doesn't sound like honey bees. However, if you are concerned, you could try contacting Bromley Beekeepers "Bromley branch internet swarm coordinator(s) Peter Bashford Tel: 07738 180944" who would be able to advise you.

I have this morning had a phone call from the contracts manager for Gristwood & Toms in Croydon and was told that the invididual in question had been working for a trial period, there had been a number of other incidents, and a decision was taken to dispense with his services. I said that I was sorry that I had caused this man to lose his job, but was assured that this was just the last of a number of things they weren't happy with, and if you're not on your best behaviour when you're in a trial period, then when are you. I can only applaud the speedy and serious way that G&T have responded to this situation.

Have just called. Mr. Toms and Mr Gristwood not in the office at present, but will be back today. I spoke to a chap called Mark who was very pleasant and has said that he will call the contract manager in Croydon. I've left my mobile phone number as well, so they may call me back at some point. Thank you all for helpful posts. I'll let you know if and when I hear more.

I have emailed Andy Toms, while waiting for his response (and I included the link to this forum), I will contact the Safer Neighbourhood Team.

Thanks Tropica, that's very helpful, and reassuring. Hadn't occurred to me to email the company, but I'm off to that well known search engine to see what I can find.

Yesterday morning a large Gristwood & Toms lorry with trailer pulled into the bottom of Colyton Road I think from Forest Hill Road (just past the lights) and parked on double yellow lines, parallel to the park. As you can imagine this snarled up the traffic badly, it's a narrow road and the yellow lines are there for a reason. This morning they had done the same thing, and as I drove down towards the lights were coming back from the cafe with their breakfasts. I rolled down my window and asked why they were parking on double yellows because they had caused traffic congestion yesterday and again today. The driver told me to look at the front of his windscreen and I'd see he could park anywhere, I said he should get his breakfast somewhere where it didn't cause problems to other drivers. He got in his cab, I drove about 20 feet to wait at the red light. In my wing mirror I could then see him walking towards my car, so hurriedly closed my window. He came right up to my car, leant as close as he could and told me that he suggested that he mind my own business, it was nothing to do with me, and to keep my nose out. This was quite loud and while not actually menacing, I felt quite threatened. Despite feeling more than somewhat panicky, I again suggested he buy his breakfast elsewhere. I'm now at work and still feeling slightly shaky - that's my route to work every morning, and I'm sure he'll remember me and my car. So, my question is: Does Southwark give permits to its workforce to allow them to park anywhere, even if it's not for work? Can anything be done to prevent this anti-social man and his huge lorry causing problems at a busy junction? Can anybody offer any help please?

Every morning this happens on Cheltenham Road - not the abuse and car kicking, but the road crossing. Girls for the Harris Academy get off the 343 and 484 bus and simply cross the road, in a long stream, despite there being a zebra crossing about 20 yards away. Frequently there is a police presence at the school in the mornings, but they exhibit no interest in ensuring that the girls cross properly and with consideration for other road users. I understand from my local councillor that this has been raised with the school on many occasions, but clearly they are unable or unwilling to address the problem.

Oh dear. This isn't going to make me a popular poster, but I've lived in Southwark all my considerable life and can remember only too clearly the dire situation the borough was in for years when Labour was running it.

If you are in Rotorua, try the Polynesian Spa. Don't be put off by the name or the adverts, it's a magic place of hot pools, open to the sky, lots of locals, few tourists. We sat in wonderfully warm water pools, looking up at the Southern Cross. You'll need swimming costumes, but towels, hair dryers and such are available in the spotlessly clean changing rooms. Also, if you reach Dunedin, try the Taieri Gorge Railway. It doesn't run every day, so best to check and book in advance. Great little train, and fantastic views. Good fun. We were in NZ three years ago, and loved every minute of it. I'm sure you'll have a great time.