By 2024-10-30T11:02:00+00:00 Gipsy Hill has racked up losses of nearly £7m since being founded in 2014 Gipsy Hill has been sold to the Sunrise Alliance Beverages Group to avoid falling into administration founded in 2014 by Sam McMeekin and Charlie Shaw Curious Brewing and Portobello Road Brewery in Sunrise’s roster Production will remain at Gipsy Hill’s existing site while fan favourites such as Hepcat Session IPA will continue to be produced Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed in a message to shareholders seen by The Grocer McMeekin revealed: “Without further funding we would almost certainly be looking at administration” apparent competition and pricing pressure in the supply chain,” had contributed to Gipsy Hill being unable to find an anchor partner for a failed £500k equity crowdfund last year “It became clear that Gipsy Hill needed a plan that would not just allow us to survive for another few years at a loss before needing to raise more equity but one that would position us to thrive in the face of the current industry-headwinds,” the brewer’s founder added Sunrise subsequently made “an offer to purchase and partner with Gipsy Hill as a going concern,” said McMeekin adding the offer had been accepted and the Suffolk-headquartered brewing collective had purchased 100% of the shares in the business The proposed deal valued Gipsy Hill at £5m and was based on a multiplier of 0.9x Gipsy Hill’s forecasted revenue for FY2027 Although Gipsy Hill failed hit its crowdfunding target on Republic Europe (formerly Seedrs) last year the brewer previously raised £865k from the crowd at a pre-money valuation of almost £21m in 2022 “We anticipate that all shareholders will receive deferred consideration for their shares which should pay-out from Gipsy Hill’s cashflow once the business has turned to profit Companies House filings showed Gipsy Hill has racked up losses of almost £7m since 2014 Joining Sunrise Alliance Beverages would provide “Gipsy Hill with stability and the resources to navigate the evolving market environment” “Gipsy Hill is a fantastic business with excellent beers strong brands and loyal consumers,” said Sunrise Alliance Beverages CEO Richard Mather “Our union will enable Gipsy Hill to benefit from our group’s collective resources and operational efficiencies while retaining its autonomy and character.” McMeekin added: “This strategic partnership allows us to keep doing what we do best: brewing exceptional beer for our loyal customers. Sunrise Alliance Beverages shares our vision for quality, customer service, community, innovation and sustainability and this partnership will empower us to continue to thrive and innovate.” Sunrise Alliance Beverages has evolved out of St Peter’s Brewery over the last year as the Suffolk-based supplier has looked to grow revenue streams and expand further into craft beer Last September, the business acquired the Wild Beer Co and Curious Brewing brands from private equity Firm Risk Capital Partners for an undisclosed sum It added Portobello to its roster earlier this month Sign in to comment on this article Site powered by Webvision Cloud Learn moreExplore related questionsDiscover more about the topics that matter most Browse our suggested questions or ask your own to find out more The UK independent brewery said the tie-up “provides Gipsy Hill with stability” the company behind UK beer maker St Peter’s Brewery “In a time of significant industry challenge this partnership provides Gipsy Hill with stability and the resources to navigate the evolving market environment,” London-based Gipsy Hill said in a statement today (30 October) The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed Gipsy Hill was set up by co-founders Sam McMeekin and Charlie Shaw in 2014 McMeekin and Shaw will remain with the business “This strategic partnership allows us to keep doing what we do best: brewing exceptional beer for our loyal customers,” McMeekin “Sunrise Alliance Beverages shares our vision for quality This partnership will empower us to continue to thrive and innovate.” Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis Just Drinks has approached McMeekin to confirm a report that Sunrise’s intervention has saved Gipsy Hill from possible administration Citing a letter sent to shareholders from McMeekin, The Grocer quoted McMeekin as saying “without further funding we would almost certainly be looking at administration” McMeekin said in the letter that challenging trading conditions had resulted in a failed crowdfunding campaign to raise £500,000 ($650,592) was previously trading as St Peter’s Brewery Group The St Peter’s Brewery beer brand is sold to UK retailers including Sainsbury’s, Tesco, and Morrisons but the business is “predominantly export-focused”, the brewer told Just Drinks earlier this month as it acquired London-based brewer Portobello Brewing The acquisition of Portobello followed the group’s purchase of Curious Brewery for an undisclosed sum in 2023. The deal also included the Wild Beer brand, which Curious itself bought out of administration earlier that same year added in the statement announcing the Gipsy Hill deal: “Gipsy Hill is a fantastic business with excellent beers “Our union will enable Gipsy Hill to benefit from our group’s collective resources and operational efficiencies while retaining its autonomy and character We look forward to working with Sam and his team to enhance these strengths as a group of independent UK brewers.” Gipsy Hill’s brewing operations will also remain unchanged retaining the values as “one of London’s largest independent breweries” which added: “Sunrise will invest into Gipsy Hill demonstrating a strong commitment to support its long-term success” Nominations are now open for the prestigious Just Drinks Excellence Awards - one of the industry's most recognised programmes celebrating innovation This is your chance to showcase your achievements Don't miss the opportunity to be honoured among the best - submit your nomination today Give your business an edge with our leading industry insights View all newsletters from across the GlobalData Media network. The Inspiration for Pub Success Since 1794 01-Nov-2024 Last updated on 01-Nov-2024 at 09:48 GMT Gipsy Hill is set to maintain its independence during day-to-day operations and throughout brewing, while remaining in the hands of co-founder and managing director, Sam McMeekin. Founded in 2014, Gipsy Hill claimed it is known for launching the world’s first completely carbon-negative beers, without offsets. Sunrise Alliance Beverages, which was previously known as St Peter’s Brewery Group, is also an independent brewing group with a focus on supporting the brewing of premium British beer. Both companies share a focus around sustainability and premium quality brewing. Production will remain at Gipsy Hill's existing facilities in south London, while upholding the brand's focus on quality, sustainability and also community. The core team will continue to serve Gipsy Hill’s acclaimed session IPA, Hepcat. Amid an environment of significant hostility throughout the hospitality industry, the partnership of both company's is set to strengthen the Gipsy Hill brand as an independent London brewer. Gipsy Hill's Sam McMeekin said: “This is an exciting time for us. This strategic partnership allows us to keep doing what we do best: brewing exceptional beer for our loyal customers.” He added: “Sunrise Alliance Beverages shares our vision for quality, customer service, community, innovation and sustainability, and this partnership will empower us to continue to thrive and innovate.” Sunrise Alliance Beverages CEO Richard Mather added: “We’re very excited to embark on this new partnership. Gipsy Hill is a fantastic business with excellent beers, strong brands and loyal consumers. “We look forward to working with Sam and his team to enhance these strengths as a group of independent UK brewers.” The partnership is set to bring new opportunities for both Gipsy Hill and Sunrise Alliance Beverages in union. Securing new opportunities to serve customers, increase sustainability initiatives and growth across the company as a whole.   MY PUB: The Ship Tavern, Holborn, London05-Nov-2024By Gary LloydDating back to 1549, the Ship Tavern in Holborn in London is among the oldest pubs in London. GBPA winner hopes for increased trade during Christmas01-Nov-2024By Felicity GilesGreat British Pub Award (GBPA) winner for the Best Pub for Sport – The Gardeners Arms, known locally as the Murderers – hopes for a boost in trade as sporting events increase throughout the remainder of the year. The investment Adnams made to get Ghost Ship 0.5% off the ground01-Nov-2024By Gary LloydWhen Adnams set out to make a 0.5% ABV version of its flagship Ghost Ship pale ale beer, it had to invest in new equipment to ensure it could stand up to the original. Quench your Thirst with Beers from the European UnionPaid for and content provided by European Union Young victim’s friends tried to stop attack but were assaulted too News | Crime Get our award-winning daily news email featuring exclusive stories I would like to be emailed about offers, event and updates from Evening Standard. Read our privacy notice A manhunt is under way after a 15-year-old schoolgirl was punched in the face and racially abused at a train station in south London Officers received reports a suspect barged into a group of young women just before 7.45pm on February 6 British Transport Police said when one girl challenged him outside Gipsy Hill station he used racist words and punched her in the face three times Her friends attempted to stop him but he then assaulted them too Detectives released mobile phone images of a man they wish to speak to following the incident in Lambeth One photo shows him carrying a Sainsbury’s carrier bag and a laptop case Helen Hayes, Labour MP for Dulwich and West Norwood and chairwoman of the education select committee said: “I’m appalled to hear about a horrific attack outside Gipsy Hill station this evening Newcastle United fans travel to London in hope of ending trophy drought Police hunt man after teenage girl sexually assaulted on Northern Line Parliamentary tours cancelled as man remains metres up Elizabeth Tower Emergency services called to man climbing up Houses of Parliament “My thoughts are with the girls who were subjected to terrible violence.” A force spokeswoman said: “Do you recognise this man “Detectives investigating an assault on a group of girls at Gipsy Hill station are today releasing these images in connection February 6 a man barged into a group of young girls “When one of them challenged him he racially abused her and punched her in face three times “When the other girls attempted to stop him he then assaulted them.” Anyone who recognises the man - or has any other information - is asked to contact BTP by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40 they can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 Prince Louis steals the show at VE Day parade as he keeps dad William looking sharp and mimics brother George Prince Louis steals show with sweet antics at VE parade VE Day 2025 fashion: best looks from the day VE Day 2025 fashion: Princess of Wales to Lady Victoria Starmer Ukraine 'launches stunning Kursk offensive' in major blow for Putin ahead of Victory Day celebrations Ukraine 'launches stunning Kursk offensive' in blow for Putin New visa crackdown as Home Office plans to restrict applications from nationalities most likely to overstay New visa crackdown as Home Office plans to restrict applications Man charged after London student nurse stabbed to death in Texas 'in row over cat' Man charged after London student nurse stabbed to death in Texas The condition of more than 450 flats on an estate in Gipsy Hill is to undergo a major inspection ahead of a decision on whether the way forward is huge refurbishment or demolition Lambeth council will announce a final decision sometime in Autumn 2025 following the completion of stock condition surveys The council previously announced plans to bulldoze Central Hill estate in 2017 when the council flagged it as a candidate for potential redevelopment Demolition was fiercely opposed by some residents who argued the council should instead revamp the estate and launched a 10-year campaign to save their homes from the wrecking balls campaigners won a major battle after the council shelved the proposed demolition and folded Homes for Lambeth – a housing development firm established to deliver the council’s post-war estate regeneration programme The decision to close the company followed the recommendations of a report into affordable housing in the borough which branded the firm’s attempts at building homes ‘very poor’ The review commissioned by Labour leader of the council Claire Holland and authored by late civil servant Lord Bob Kerslake recommended the council ‘prioritise’ dealing with repairs on the Central Hill estate over demolition subsequently said that the council would go back to the drawing board and review all possible options for the future of the estate—adding that residents would have a vote on the final decision In anticipation of the since-binned demolition proposals the council had begun buying back leaseholder properties on the estate The local authority set up an arms-length management firm under the Homes for Lambeth brand to let some of these flats out to private tenants on short contracts via a local estate agent tenants in these properties were told the council wanted the flats back to let out to homeless families in need of temporary accommodation The council came under fire from some of the tenants who claimed they were under the impression they would be able to stay in the properties for years to come Pictured top: In the eye of the beholder – the Central Hill Estate in Lambeth (Picture: LDRS/Robert Firth) Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" Leaking pipes in Crystal Palace have been identified by Thames Water as causing water supply and pressure issues currently affecting homes in parts of West Norwood Streatham and surrounding areas in Lambeth’s neighbouring boroughs An estimated 5,000 households are impacted. In a statement that was updated at 6.30am on Wednesday morning Thames Water said: We are sorry if you are experiencing a loss of water supply or loss of pressure in your area We have located the burst pipe in the area and have teams working hard to resolve the issue Our team have been working overnight to fix the pipe and will continue to work throughout today; and our engineers have been working to get your water supply back while we carry out the fix We are also continuing to work repairing a leak at our pumping station in Crystal Palace meaning you may see lower pressure than normal at times while repairs progress While we do the repairs we have redirected water through other pipes into the area to keep as many people as possible with water in your taps You may notice your water seems cloudy or has bubbles in it – this is due to air that has got trapped in the pipes while we have been working We want to reassure you that your water is still safe to drink Thank you for your patience while we fix the problem We’ll update this page when we have more news Lambeth Council is working to support impacted communities including liaising with schools who may face disruption Bottled water is being distributed door to door for high-risk residents and a wider distribution hub for all other residents impacted by supply issues is being set up today Follow www.thameswater.co.uk/network-latest for updates on this situation Find local events and sign up to join the fun at your local library Get email updates about things happening in Lambeth Explore our topics and pick the ones that matter to you updates and opportunities and stay updated on what's happening in Lambeth a favourite fixture in London’s craft beer community are excited to announce a new strategic partnership Gipsy Hill will become part of the Sunrise Group demonstrating a strong commitment to support its long-term success preserving its unique brand identity and sustainability ambitions while ensuring continued quality and growth Gipsy Hill will maintain its independence with day-to-day operations and brewing remaining in the hands of co-founder and Managing Director Production will stay at Gipsy Hill’s existing facilities upholding the brand’s focus on quality The core team will continue to bring fans their favourite brews without disruption including Gipsy Hill’s acclaimed Session IPA In a time of significant industry challenge this partnership provides Gipsy Hill with stability and the resources to navigate the evolving market environment The partnership reflects the growth of Gipsy Hill from its humble beginnings to one of London’s largest independent breweries and now positions it well for sustainable future growth “This is an exciting time for us at Gipsy Hill This strategic partnership allows us to keep doing what we do best: brewing exceptional beer for our loyal customers,” said Sam McMeekin “We’re very excited to embark on this new partnership Gipsy Hill is a fantastic business with excellent beers Our union will enable Gipsy Hill to benefit from our group’s collective resources and operational efficiencies while retaining its autonomy and character Gipsy Hill remains dedicated to its mission of brewing exceptional beers sustainably and contributing positively to the wider brewing landscape This partnership will secure a bright future for Gipsy Hill and bring new opportunities to serve customers double down on sustainability initiatives and grow For more information on Gipsy Hill Brewing Company visit https://gipsyhillbrew.com/ Sign up to get LondonDaily.News delivered to your inbox One of Britain's biggest craft breweries has been saved from administration after it was acquired by an independent brewing group South London-based Gipsy Hill Brewery has been purchased by Sunrise Alliance Beverages which was founded by Sam McMeekin and Charlie Shaw which Sunrise Alliance Beverages purchased in 2023 The purchase has saved Gipsy Hill Brewery from administration according to a document for shareholders seen by The Grocer It stated: “Without further funding we would almost certainly be looking at administration." will continue to produce beers such as session IPA Hepcat and pale ales Trail and Bandit in the capital Managing director Mr McMeekin and his team will also continue to oversee brewing and day-to-day operations chief executive of Sunrise Alliance Beverages said: “We’re very excited to embark on this new partnership "Gipsy Hill is a fantastic business with excellent beers while retaining its autonomy and character." Mr McMeekin added: “This is an exciting time for us at Gipsy Hill "This strategic partnership allows us to keep doing what we do best: brewing exceptional beer for our loyal customers.” Gipsy Hill Brewery's beers can be purchased through its online store and in its two London bars in Gipsy Hill and Crystal palace as well as in craft beer stores and Waitrose supermarkets It can also be regularly be found on draught in pubs around the country According to the Grocer the deal has valued Gipsy Hill Brewery at £5million Gipsy Hill is not the only brewery to have faced difficulties in the current climate Earlier this month the Fourpure brewing company placed itself in voluntary administration to "protect itself from market pressures" Its decision comes months after reportedly closing a production site and taproom in London The number of craft breweries in the UK fell from 1,828 at the start of 2023 to 1,815 at the start of the year That now stands at 1,748 according to the latest figures up to June from the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA) The SIBA UK Brewery Tracker takes into account all brewery openings and closures to give an accurate picture of the number of active brewing businesses Craft breweries have been hit hard by the cost of living crisis and the pandemic While many producers pivoted to home deliveries during covid lockdowns they were then hit by rising costs combined with people reigning ion their spending The prices of energy, rents and ingredients have all shot up They have also faced higher interest rates when borrowing money to grow the business SIBA chief executive Andy Slee said when the latest figures on closures were published in July: “Independent brewers are reporting good sales growth and strong consumer demand "For most breweries the challenge is financial pressures from rising costs and market access, as well as lingering Covid debt – something SIBA has strongly lobbied Government for help on.” The Campaign for Real Ale’s (CAMRA) warned about the pressures on the drinks business this week as it published its Good Beer Guide 2025 It said that many of the breweries that featured in last years guide have now closed and cited a "perfect storm" of the tax burden few viable routes to market and stubbornly high energy bills among the factors CAMRA Chairman Ash Corbett-Collins said: “This year’s edition of the Good Beer Guide shows a brewing trade that continues to face huge challenges but one that beer and pub lovers across the UK are still rallying behind "CAMRA will be lobbying this new Government to show their support for independent breweries to try and ensure that the Good Beer Guide 2026 is brimming with new establishments.” As well as CMBC's closure of Wychwood and Ringwood it said the loss of Elland Brewery just months after its 1872 porter was crowned CAMRA's Champion Beer of Britain 2023 and the award-winning Nottingham-base Navigation Brewery was "tragic" and a blow for the local community RETAILERS have been feeling the squeeze since the pandemic while shoppers are cutting back on spending due to the soaring cost of living crisis High energy costs and a move to shopping online after the pandemic are also taking a toll and many high street shops have struggled to keep going The high street has seen a whole raft of closures over the past year The number of jobs lost in British retail dropped last year but 120,000 people still lost their employment Figures from the Centre for Retail Research revealed that 10,494 shops closed for the last time during 2023 It was fewer shops than had been lost for several years and a reduction from 151,641 jobs lost in 2022 said the improvement is "less bad" than good Although there were some big-name losses from the high street many large companies had already gone bust before 2022 inflation and increases in interest rates have led many consumers to tighten their belts reducing retail spend," Prof Bamfield said "Retailers themselves have suffered increasing energy and occupancy costs staff shortages and falling demand that have made rebuilding profits after extensive store closures during the pandemic exceptionally difficult." which employed around 12,000 people when it collapsed 2023's biggest failures included Paperchase The Centre for Retail Research said most stores were closed because companies were trying to reorganise and cut costs rather than the business failing experts have warned there will likely be more failures this year as consumers keep their belts tight and borrowing costs soar for businesses The Body Shop and Ted Baker are the biggest names to have already collapsed into administration this year Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing money-sm@news.co.uk Plus, you can join our Sun Money Chats and Tips Facebook group to share your tips and stories Our journalists strive for accuracy but on occasion we make mistakes. For further details of our complaints policy and to make a complaint please click this link: thesun.co.uk/editorial-complaints/ New air quality displays have been placed in London neighbourhoods as part of the launch of the AWAIR project run by the Environmental Research Group, aims to raise public awareness of air quality in London through the piloting of co-designed solar-powered outdoor displays that communicate local air quality conditions The displays, developed in partnership with residents in three London Boroughs, present both current air quality levels and the pollution forecast for tomorrow. The devices utilise a high-resolution real-time air quality model which is continuously updated using London’s network of monitors run by Imperial The displays also feature a new colour scale created by researchers to indicate whether current air quality meets or exceeds WHO thresholds The displays are being piloted in Gipsy Hill Peckham and White City - locations with intersecting inequalities including health conditions related to pollution exposure and digital exclusion Co-design workshops facilitated by The Social Innovation Partnership (TSIP) were held in each of the neighbourhoods in February allowing residents to share their perceptions of local air quality contribute design ideas and help choose locations for rollout The project includes a pre and post-deployment survey allowing residents an opportunity to feedback on the displays and allowing researchers to understand what effect the devices have had on the public’s perception of air quality each neighbourhood The pilot is starting with up to 20 devices in each area with the ambition to scale beyond this if the concept proves successful the principal investigator from the Environmental Research Group said: “Air pollution affects all of us but because it is invisible it can be hard to know if some days are worse than others Inspired by something Rosamund Kissi-Debrah said in December 2020 I wanted to make something which could show current and forecast air quality levels to the public in the street so everyone has equal access to this information I’m incredibly proud of the team which helped make this idea a reality and to the residents in Gipsy Hill Peckham and White City who have supported this project with their energy and enthusiasm I hope these are the first of many.” The devices will remain in place until at least December 2024 when the study team will assess engagement and interaction with the devices through surveys and focus groups in the coming months cabinet member for Sustainable Lambeth and Clean Air said: “Lambeth Council is committed to improving air quality in our borough because the high levels of pollution we experience harm the health of many local people We have projects in place across the borough to address these issues and this air quality display panel will support that work by sharing information with our residents about the pollution risk they face in an accessible and useful way I’d encourage local people to share their views on this project during the trial.” Residents are encouraged to participate in determining the remaining device locations and to engage with the displays to better understand their local air quality. Residents are also invited to share feedback about the displays on the AWAIR website For more information about the AWAIR project, please visit awair-project.org website or contact erg-enquiries@imperial.ac.uk Article text (excluding photos or graphics) © Imperial College London Photos and graphics subject to third party copyright used with permission or © Imperial College London Passengers in the Crystal Palace area are being asked to plan ahead if travelling from Saturday 24 August to Sunday 1 September as Network Rail carry out a major track upgrade Crystal Palace station will be closed over the bank holiday weekend Southern trains to and from London Bridge via Sydenham and New Cross Gate will start and terminate at Crystal Palace On Saturday 31 August and Sunday 1 September Southern trains that normally run from Crystal Palace to London Bridge via Sydenham and Brockley will not run.  For nine days from Saturday 24 August to Sunday 1 September Gipsy Hill and Birkbeck stations will be closed and Southern trains between London Bridge and Beckenham station will not run Southern London Victoria to London Bridge trains will only run between London Victoria and Streatham Hill Passengers will be able to use their rail tickets on London Underground London Overground and London Buses in the area to help them complete their journeys.  The upgrade at the busy Crystal Palace junction which controls the movement of trains in and out of the station will help reduce train delays and improve passenger journeys the moveable rails that allow trains to transfer between lines and 1500m of track will be replaced with brand new equipment.   said: “We know there is never a good time to close the railway but the work will bring significant improvements “In addition to the replacement of the switches and crossings we will install 730 metres of new conductor rail and 4000m of new signalling and telecom cables “We're advising people to plan ahead and use London Bus London Underground or alternative National Rail services “The current upgrade is just one part of our continuing investment in improving passenger journeys we are also planning a significant upgrade in the signalling to modernise 1980s equipment which will result in fewer faults and fewer delays.” Network Operations and Performance Director for Govia Thameslink Railway which operates Southern trains said: “Network Rail’s major improvements to this busy part of the network will deliver long-term benefits for South London and we thank our customers for their patience and understanding during these upcoming nine days of inconvenience “Please plan ahead and consider your alternative travel arrangements with London Overground Customers can check train times at www.nationalrail.co.uk and plan alternative routes at www.tfl.gov.uk   The work will run from Saturday 24 August to Sunday 1 September inclusive.   for nine days from Saturday 24 August to Sunday 1 September there will be no Southern trains at West Norwood The work will also impact trains at stations from Streatham Hill to Norwood Junction / Sydenham There will also be a reduced Southern service through Peckham Rye Norwood Junction and West Croydon stations At Crystal Palace there will be no Southern or London Overground trains from Saturday 24 August to Monday 26 August Between Tuesday 27 and Friday 30 August Southern services will run to and from London Bridge via Sydenham and Brockley but there will be no Southern services to or from Streatham Hill and Victoria On Saturday 31 August and Sunday 1 September there will be no Southern services to or from Crystal Palace.   Paper rail tickets will be accepted on the following alternatives:   For further information about the impacts of this work on train services, please visit the Southern website.  In the same area, there will be further resignalling work taking place in Autumn 2024. Please see London Victoria and South London resignalling programme - Network Rail for further information as it is announced The works are part of our Sussex Railway Upgrade plan to modernise the railway network to improve passenger journeys across Sussex Between 2024 – 2029 Network Rail is investing £900m as part of the Sussex Railway Upgrades to modernise track For more information please visit - Sussex Railway Upgrade plan - Network Rail to grow and expand the nation's railway network to respond to the tremendous growth and demand the railway has experienced - a doubling of passenger journeys over the past 20 years In a major step toward flood prevention and climate adaptation Lambeth Council has approved a Sustainable Drainage System (SuDS) for Norwood Park in Gipsy Hill Ward with an estimated project cost of £1.4 million The scheme is part of the council’s Soak Up Lambeth programme which aims to improve drainage using natural processes to reduce the impact of surface water flooding using a series of SuDS schemes for estates The scheme in Norwood Park will improve rainwater management, reduce flood risk, and boost biodiversity in the area. It is funded by Lambeth’s Capital Investment Programme and supported by Thames Water Utilities and is scheduled for completion by March 2025. Under Lambeth’s Climate Action Plan theme of Adaptation the council has committed to sustainably managing 10 per cent of rainwater on impermeable surfaces by 2030 This addresses the increasing risk of surface water flooding due to increased rainfall and more frequent extreme weather events and we know how devastating it can be for residents and businesses We’re working hard to tackle the issue now to protect people from this risk “We have worked closely with Thames Water to bring their funding to the borough for schemes like this that will benefit our residents including new landscaping in the park that children and all other park users can enjoy.” The locations for these SuDS interventions have been chosen based on flood modelling assessments which highlighted key rainwater capture areas that will have the most impact on reducing flooding further downstream of the Victorian drainage and sewer system that Lambeth relies on SuDS are designed to mimic the water cycle slowing down the infiltration and flow of water using planting These ‘greener’ approaches to flood prevention also improve: Incorporating SuDS across the borough helps us build neighbourhoods that are fit for the future so that residents can lead healthier, happier lives in a clean, vibrant, climate-resilient Lambeth. You can read more about all the SuDS schemes planned on the Have Your Say Website The rail operator urged passengers in the Crystal Palace area to plan ahead during upgrade works from 24 August to 1 September It will be carrying out a “major track upgrade” five sets of switches and crossings and moveable rails No Southern Railway trains will run at West Norwood Birkbeck and Beckenham Junction stations during the works Southern Railway also confirmed that no trains will run to or from Crystal Palace from 24 to 26 August The work will also impact trains at stations from Streatham Hill to Norwood Junction and Sydenham with a reduced Southern service through Peckham Rye Passengers will be able to use their tickets on London Underground We would urge all patients and visitors to our hospitals to plan your journey in advance and to use alternative methods of transport It is also important to stress that car parking for patients and visitors is extremely limited at our hospitals Passengers were asked to check train times on the National Rail website, and plan alternative routes on the Transport for London website London-based singer-songwriter and producer Liza Lo has unveiled her latest track ‘Gipsy Hill.’ This follows the success of her recent singles ‘What I Used To Do,’ ‘Confiarme’ and ‘A Messenger,’ her debut for the independent analogue label Gearbox Records To commemorate the release of the new single featuring the track and ‘What I Used To Do’ exclusively via her merch table and record label.  Fresh from a sold-out European and UK tour with Harrison Storm and her own headline shows Liza has been gaining rapid recognition for her unique blend of indie-folk Her self-released ‘Flourish’ EP has garnered significant playlist support and critical acclaim showcasing her tender and contemplative approach to music ‘Gipsy Hill’ reflects Liza Lo’s five years living in South London, capturing the bittersweet feeling of leaving a place that feels like home. With its stripped-back acoustic guitar, delicate string arrangements, and Liza’s evocative vocals, the track evokes a poignant sense of melancholy, taking inspiration from artists like Alice Phoebe Lou, Julia Jacklin, and The Staves.  Throughout these 5 years I lost many of my close-knit relationships altered here from true best friendship to my parent’s marriage It’s a deeply sorrowful song that describes things from my childhood kitchen to my best friend’s porch and my insular communication after coping with all this change I hope this song finds some kind of connection with people it’s heartbreaking but I guess love is truly just everything in life and that’s why it hits home a song for the people that have had to get to learn to live life differently when suddenly losing their best friend to brain injury Liza Lo has also announced a run of November tour dates in support of Steph Strings The dates will follow her headline record store tour in October playing in-store sets across the country.  Katie Macbeth is a freelance music journalist and editor of Indie is not a Genre This page may contain affiliate links to providers from whom Indie Is Not A Genre receives a commission These links are marked with an asterisk (*) There will be no train services all week at various south London stations which started over the weekend and will continue until Friday 1 November They are part of a £400 million project to improve signalling systems and tracks in south London The following stations will have no Southern train services until Friday The following stations will have no Overground service until November 1: there will be no Overground trains from Crystal Palace from Saturday No Thameslink services will run at these stations until Friday Customers are advised to use local bus routes where needed as paper tickets will be accepted on London Buses some services between Crystal Palace and New Cross will operate on a re-timed schedule Overground services between Surrey Quays and Clapham Junction will be replaced by buses Overground trains between Sydenham and Crystal Palace are suspended from Saturday travellers to and from Crystal Palace should use local buses an amended Overground service will run between Highbury & Islington We'll never send you spam or share your email address Find out more in our Privacy Policy Please enter your username or email address to reset your password by | Friday, 21 June, 2024 | Beer and Cider News, Pubs and Bars News The first 100 people to head down to the Percival Arms for each of the next eight days that the venue is open can get a free pint and it’s all to celebrate Gipsy Hill’s 10th year of brewing The Percival Arms will open Wednesday to Sunday until 14th July Pop-up pub-goers can walk in for most Euros games as well as a packed events schedule of comedy and football training To earn a free pint, fans should sign up to the Gipsy Hill newsletter which also gives them a chance of winning one of three £500 vouchers to kit themselves out in Percival apparel “The idea of opening up a pub for the Euros started as a joke but after successfully running events together with Percival for the past year ‘why not?’,” said Gipsy Hill’s head of marketing we started to think about the question of ‘what makes the perfect pub?’ and began to make it a reality From supplying our beer to great public houses all over London and beyond we know a thing or two about pubs.“Together with Percival’s unique sense of style and humour we’re sure the Percival Arms will quickly become the go-to destination to enjoy the Euros We look forward to toasting a few more England wins with a pint of Hepcat at our new bar Designed by Elegant Themes | Powered by WordPress We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience We use cookies to help you navigate efficiently and perform certain functions You will find detailed information about all cookies under each consent category below The cookies that are categorized as "Necessary" are stored on your browser as they are essential for enabling the basic functionalities of the site We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze how you use this website and provide the content and advertisements that are relevant to you These cookies will only be stored in your browser with your prior consent You can choose to enable or disable some or all of these cookies but disabling some of them may affect your browsing experience Necessary cookies are required to enable the basic features of this site such as providing secure log-in or adjusting your consent preferences These cookies do not store any personally identifiable data Functional cookies help perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website These cookies help provide information on metrics such as the number of visitors Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with customized advertisements based on the pages you visited previously and to analyze the effectiveness of the ad campaigns Major track upgrade will affect train services across parts of south London Passengers in the Crystal Palace area are advised to plan ahead if travelling from Saturday 24 August to Sunday 1 September as Network Rail carry out a major track upgrade.  The work will help reduce train delays and improve passenger journeys.   from Saturday 24 August to Sunday 1 September there will be no Southern trains at West Norwood Birkbeck and Beckenham Junction stations.   No trains will run to or from Crystal Palace on Saturday 24  There will also be a reduced Southern service through Peckham Rye said: “Upgraded track and equipment at the busy Crystal Palace junction which controls the movement of trains across south London will help reduce train delays and improve passenger journeys “We're advising people to plan ahead and use London Buses Please check before you travel and thanks for bearing with us while this essential work is carried out Network Operations and Performance Director for Govia Thameslink Railway which operates Southern trains said: “This is major work that will deliver long-term improvements for our customers but create a significant impact in the short-term.  People are asked to check train times at www.nationalrail.co.uk and plan alternative routes at www.tfl.gov.uk   In the same area, there will be further re-signalling work taking place in Autumn 2024. Please see London Victoria and South London re-signalling programme - Network Rail for further information as it is announced Main picture credit: Crystal Palace Tunnel and Junction cc-by-sa/2.0 - © Robin Webster - geograph.org.uk/p/4332669 News | London Trains in south London will be heavily disrupted with little to no service for nine days Network Rail urged south London railway passengers to plan ahead during upgrade works from August 24 to September 1 in the Crystal Palace area Engineers will be carrying out a "major track upgrade" It means no Southern Railway trains will run at West Norwood No trains will run to or from Crystal Palace from August 24 to 26 Also affected are trains at stations from Streatham Hill to Norwood Junction and Sydenham Passengers will be able to use their tickets on London Underground King’s College Hospital warned its patients of possible disruption to public transport during the works writing: “We would urge all patients and visitors to our hospitals to plan your journey in advance and to use alternative methods of transport.” said the work would "help reduce train delays and improve passenger journeys" London Underground or alternative National Rail services," she said "Please check before you travel and thanks for bearing with us while this essential work is carried out." Leaders from across the drinks industry were at the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) in London’s Portland Place last night as businesses came together to recognise the work the industry has done to make a positive impact to sustainability in the On Trade drinks sector Organisations large and small enter the Drinks Sustainability Awards on an equal footing – and apart from being stakeholders in this industry the key thing they have in common is a desire to do the right thing when it comes to the sustainability of the environment in which they operate The UK drinks industry has risen to this challenge and last night guests heard of the innovative ways in which businesses of all sizes are leading the way in sustainable ways of operating.  The Drinks Sustainability Awards pits young against the established global giants of the drinks industry and this year saw winners ranging from The Gipsy Hill Brewing Company and Toast Brewing to Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company and Fuller Smith & Turner with a very strong showing from the youth brought to you by Footprint and C&C Group plc is the barometer for sustainability and responsible business practice for the drinks industry suppliers and stakeholders of all sizes operating in the hospitality and out of home arena The 2024 Winners and Highly Commended in their chosen categories are as follows:  The Sustainable Use of Raw Materials Award 2024Sponsored by Asahi UK Winner: The Gipsy Hill Brewing CompanyHighly Commended: Ellers Farm Distillery The Innovations in Packaging Award 2024Sponsored by Pernod Ricard Winner: Sustainable Wine Solutions Highly Commended: Konvoy The Waste Prevention & Management Award 2024Sponsored by Reconomy Winner: Apricity RestaurantHighly Commended: Bow Bar at the Hilton London Metropole The Sustainable Supplier Award 2024Sponsored by Adnams Winner: The Canned Wine CompanyHighly Commended: The Gipsy Hill Brewing Company The Social Impact Award 2024Sponsored by Britvic Winner: Toast BrewingHighly Commended: Nemi Teas The Stakeholder Engagement Award 2024Sponsored by Nestlé Professional Winner: Fever-Tree with All Bar OneHighly Commended: Kerry Europe The Economic Sustainability Award 2024Sponsored by Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Winner: Ellers Farm DistilleryHighly Commended: Soilable Straws The C&C Group On-Trade Operator of the Year Award 2024Sponsored by Matthew Clark Smith & TurnerHighly Commended: All Bar One – Mitchells & Butlers The C&C Group On-Trade Supplier of the Year Award 2024Sponsored by Bibendum Winner: Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing CompanyHighly Commended: Toast Brewing The Special Achievement Award 2024Presented by C&C Group plc Avallen Spirits Highly Commended: Francesco Betti Sacha Berko alerted Lambeth Council to the problem in her and autistic son’s home but over two years later is still waiting for it to be repaired A mother says she has been has been left with a huge hole in her living room ceiling by a south London council for more than two years The front room ceiling in Sacha Berko's home in Gipsy Hill collapsed in June 2022 due to a leak Ms Berko alerted her landlord Lambeth Council to the “crater” in her ceiling following the leak but over two years later she is still waiting for the hole to be repaired Despite local authority surveyors visiting nine times over this period Ms Berko said she was no closer to getting the problem fixed who has an autistic son who has previously tried to jump through the hole I'm just trying to get this out there to put pressure on them [the council] My mind is at the end of the day and it's not the end of the day. Ms Berko attributes the hole to severe damp in the three-bed house caused by a leaky boiler which has since been fixed Water from the boiler previously damaged another part of the living room ceiling Ms Berko is unable to have lighting in the front room and kitchen of the property due to water getting into the electrics She believes it has been clear to Lambeth that the property has been uninhabitable for years due to disrepair and water damage and doesn't understand why it is taking the council so long to rehouse her and complete the repairs Ms Berko and her son were briefly rehoused in a bedsit without a bathroom for one night by the council after presenting at their offices in Brixton But the accommodation was not appropriate and the council said they had to leave the next day Ms Berko explained: "They [the council] said it was a two bed apartment but what they meant is it had two beds It was completely unsuitable and we had to leave it the next day We need extended temporary accommodation so they can get in here properly and do the works." Lambeth Council apologised to Ms Berko for the inconvenience she had experienced as a result of the delays in completing the repairs and said it was struggling to find suitable temporary accommodation for her to move into so the works could take place A council spokesperson added: "We are aware of the repairs needed at this property but we haven't been able to complete them because of difficulties gaining access We will schedule work on the house once we can arrange access; we apologise for the inconvenience Ms Berko has experienced as a result of the delay "We do everything we can to find homes for everyone coming to us in housing need amid the impact of pressures including the years of austerity imposed on local government and the cost-of-living and housing crises pushing more people into homelessness the demand for our services has risen to unprecedented levels The very best musicals to book in London from Hamilton to Hello Dolly NHS care can be a ‘death sentence’ for some patients – Wes Streeting Jury retires in trial of police marksman over fatal shooting of Chris Kaba What small business owners can learn from athletes "The shortage of affordable housing means we are now providing temporary accommodation for over 4,600 homeless households every night- and more than 40,000 households are currently on our waiting list for social housing "Lambeth has more than 33,000 council homes and our priority is ensuring that all of these are safe and well-maintained for our residents Where any problems are brought to our attention we are committed to dealing with them quickly and effectively." Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon We help you navigate a myriad of possibilities Sign up for our newsletter for the best of the city By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news Sign up for our email to enjoy London without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush) By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions. London Thameslink and Overground services later this month And now more significant travel disruption is on the way for part of the capital’s rail network – this time planned for Halloween From Saturday October 26 to Friday November 1 work on upgrading signalling systems will impact routes right across south London October 26 to November 1 doesn’t just cover Halloween – it’s also half term week (for most schools) The closures are affecting lots of different stations Phew! You can check for up-to-date info on Southern here, Thameslink here and TfL here Get the latest and greatest from the Big Smoke – from news and reviews to events and trends. Just follow our Time Out London WhatsApp channel Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out London newsletter for the best of the city Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon! tiktokfacebooktwitteryoutubeAbout us Contact us A tenant facing eviction by a Labour council has launched a high court claim against the local authority accusing it of illegally renting homes in the private sector The resident was granted a shorthold tenancy on their flat by Homes for Lambeth (HfL)—an arm’s length management company wholly owned by Lambeth Council in 2019 In October last year the tenant and around 160 other families found out they were being kicked out of their homes after the council decided to bring properties leased out to HfL back under direct control of the council Lambeth said that the private tenants are being evicted to house homeless residents currently living in temporary accommodation The judicial review claim lodged by the tenant in December 2024 contends that as Lambeth Council is the HfL group’s sole shareholder not HfL Living—the landlord subsidiary of HfL—is their landlord As a consequence of this,  the tenant argues that the local authority has broken the law by renting homes in the private sector.  a solicitor from the Public Interest Law Centre (PILC)  representing the tenant said: “Lambeth’s decision to rent these properties on the private market is unlawful and has created a devastating impact on hundreds of residents across the borough who have been evicted or are facing eviction.  “This is yet another chapter in a troubling history of estate ‘regeneration’ schemes that have disregarded the rights of residents and communities It is time for Lambeth to take responsibility and do the right thing starting with an immediate halt to all evictions.”  the tenant argues that Lambeth Council has breached the 2011 Localism Act in using HfL to rent homes in the private rented sector and to purportedly grant assured shorthold tenancies.  The tenant also contends that the council has breached the 1985 Housing Act in treating them as an assured shorthold tenant and in refusing to recognise that they are a secure tenant Lambeth Council set-up the HfL group in 2017 to bring about its estate regeneration programme which was intended to function as the landlord arm of the company.  Lambeth’s decision to bring around 160 homes let out by HfL Living back under direct control of the council with vacant possession last year followed a critical independent review into affordable housing in the borough published in 2022 The report criticised HfL’s management of the planned rebuild of six estates in the borough and recommended the council close down the firm.  The council has insisted the private tenants are being moved out in order to house homeless residents But campaigners fighting the planned evictions believe the decision is in fact being driven by pressure to dissolve HfL.  Lambeth revealed that temporary accommodation for homeless families was costing the council £90 million per year—£29 million more than forecast and up a third in 12 months The number of homeless households supported by the council has surged by 50 per cent in the last two years to around 4,600 Lambeth has until February 5 to respond to the judicial review claim submitted by the tenant A judge will review the resident’s arguments and decide whether the case should proceed to a full hearing.  A Lambeth Council spokesperson said: “We are aware an application for a judicial review has been submitted We reject the claims made in the application and have highlighted why in writing to the applicant a private provider which is not the council through a letting agent at market rent and without any needs assessment which would be the case for any social housing “Further its worth clarifying that Central Hill is one of the three estates the council is now carrying out an options appraisal As such there are no current plans to regenerate the estate We have approaching 5,000 homeless households from Lambeth in often poor quality temporary housing Having now decided to take over HfL properties we intend to use these properties to house families in  most desperate need.” said: “Bringing these privately rented homes back into use as council accommodation will deliver much-needed homes as quickly as possible for our most vulnerable residents in Lambeth “Whilst the positive aspects of this decision are clear the council recognises the upheaval this will cause for the current private sector tenants These tenants have been informed of the council’s proposal and will be provided with assistance by the council to support them in moving to a new home Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news but gone are the days of the milkshake NEPA Remember the glory days? When we all had skinny jeans and immaculate beards and wore beanie hats When going for a pint meant nine percent porters pink rhubarb sours and whatever a ‘saison’ is It meant tasting each and every beer on tap to make sure they weren’t ‘too hoppy’ graphic labels and deeply silly names.  Rows of pastel-coloured IPAs have been swapped out for classic lagers and big boy beer brands all seemingly owned by one omniscient beverage uber-corporation Craft beer options are few and far between (often rotating on just one tap) and if they’re there you’re probably going to pick the cheaper option anyway funky pale ales and ‘proper’ craft beer ‘I’ll be honest with you, I think the boom was before lockdown,’ says David Lewis, manager at the Salisbury Hotel on Haringey’s Green Lanes a classic craft beer boozer with more than 30 beers on tap we were getting breweries every week that were opening up,’ he adds We were getting so many beers and so many requests And there’s only so many things you can do with a pint.’ around 150 brand-new indie breweries opened in the UK, with more than 20 of them in London They joined the success of the capital’s best known crafters – the likes of 40ft Orbit and Gipsy Hill – which had all been founded between 2013 and 2015 and were enjoying a serious boom. That same year Marston’s On-Trade Report noted a 15 percent increase in the value of craft beer all while sales of mainstream lager and cask ales were falling. In other words and traditional lager was most definitely out.  who co-founded Gipsy Hill Brewery in 2014 in south London craft beer’s boom meant a world of infinite possibility ‘I wouldn’t say there’s necessarily been a golden time,’ he says ‘But there was definitely a time where we could sell everything that we made I don’t mean that in the sense of bad beer or in trying to mug off craft beer consumers I just mean that it was a beautifully innovative and creative time.’ The Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA) UK Brewery Tracker shows there are fewer independent breweries than at the start of 2023. A number of well-loved London brewers from the industry’s boom years have quietly down-scaled or disappeared; Brick entered administration in 2023 and 2020-founded Exale ceased trading beer in January 2024 switching to a small batch menu in its own Walthamstow taproom.  mate,’ you’re saying to yourself tucking in to an ice-cold IPA and sneering at the Heineken on display ‘I literally only drink Neck Oil.’  And we don’t mean that in a gatekeepy Neck Oil certainly looks like craft – it might even taste like craft – but it doesn’t actually fit the bill of what craft beer really is The Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA) says that craft beer must fulfil two criteria: first production volume must be less than one percent of the total UK beer market To be exact: ‘A truly independent brewer is a sole trader a limited company or a public company but is not a subsidiary of a larger firm with attendant or other subsidiary brewing interests.’ Got it ‘But most people drinking it?’ Brown says ‘[Have] no idea it’s owned by Heineken.’ A similar tale goes for other crafty-looking breweries. Camden Town brewery was founded in 2010 and bought out in 2015 in a reported £85m deal by AB InBev; that’s the brand that owns Budwesier BrewDog states on its website that it ‘is a craft beer because it fulfils all the criteria’ and while it’s not owned by another corporation it is the seventh biggest beer brand in Europe churning out 367m cans of beer in 2023 So while punters chug pint after pint of Big Lager IPA independent craft breweries have been getting silently squeezed out ‘From a punter’s point of view they’re still saying they love craft beer,’ says Brown Big corporations buying out craft breweries isn’t the only thing small brewers have had to contend with a new trend started to sweep through London. Squaring up to the bearded beanie-wearing men in shorts was a new kind of counterculture: the normal bloke A post shared by Upsetting Pints (@upsettingpints) ‘Guinness is a mad one,’ says Lewis at the Salisbury It’s been our biggest seller for the last year.’  Another nail in the coffin for the craft beer phenomenon the biggest factor stopping pub-goers going for the craft on tap is the price ‘Normally the IPA and pale ales are expensive,’ he says ‘Whereas the lagers tend to be cheaper And people are going for cheap – we’ve even noticed a big uptake in cask beer ‘[Indie] brewers are facing spiralling costs,’ explains Brown ‘It just so happens that if you name something that brewers really need that’s at the top of the list of things that are going up in price You’re using a thousand litres of water a day The war in Ukraine means the cost of grain has gone through the roof.’ It’s all the more significant when you’re competing with the biggest dogs in the beer game who can afford to slash their prices in the name of undercutting the competition Gipsy Hill’s McMeekin knows it all too well: ‘We have received price increases on just about every single front,’ he confirms ‘we have not been able to pass all of those on to the consumer Brick’s founder warned: ‘I’m sorry to say that unless the market improves significantly or further support is made available many more pubs and breweries will fail.’ Meanwhile Exale brewery cited ‘unprecedented challenges and spiralling costs’ for the change to its business model.  indie breweries are still calling for better support As well as a fairer tax system and a 20 percent increase in ‘Draught Relief’ SIBA are calling for a ‘Guest Beer Guarantee’ where all pubs would be required to dedicate at least one beer line to a guest beer to help support local small independent breweries in addition to making it clear to consumers who brews the beer that’s served According to Lewis, the biggest challenge now is appealing to the younger generation who are more likely to head home at midnight after a couple of pints of low or no ‘They’re just not as into beer as the older generations,’ he says. ‘For the first time this year I’ve got a whole non-alcoholic fridge; IPAs Lucky Saint on tap; and they all sell pretty well And you’ll see – all the breweries have started doing alcohol free options now.’ According to Brown craft brewers are also starting to produce more and more of (yep So is craft beer dead? Or is it just being pummelled temporarily unconscious by market forces? ‘The unique, wacky, weird, wild craft beers of the 2016 to 2019 era probably aren’t as popular as they were,’ McMeekin admits. ‘But it depends how you’re defining craft beer.’ Sales of Gipsy Hill’s session IPA, for example, have almost doubled, and in London’s pubs the brand is looking at 15 to 20 percent annual growth year on year ‘Just not for your super niche jalapeno and pineapple sours.’ the appetite is still there for independent beer (even if it’s not milkshake flavoured) though not the £10-a-pint price tag. As Lewis says: ‘I like to support the local industry craft breweries just do really great beers It’s always worth it.’ Craft is here to stay as long as you (and the government) start coughing up for it It’s either that or you can live in the hands of Big Lager forever As for the beards and the fluorescent pudding-flavoured IPAs? Maybe some things are best left in the past A Lambeth Council spokesperson said: “Our biggest concern is the education of students at the Gipsy Hill Federation which includes five schools in Lambeth and one in Southwark “We support the decision of the Federation’s Governors to step down a decision that follows concerns being raised by the council about the running of the Gipsy Hill Federation regarding a significant financial gap in their accounts and its overall management of its schools over a number of years “The council wrote to the Federation’s Board of Governors in July of 2023 to set out the details of these concerns and outlining the action it wanted to see to address them A follow-up formal warning notice to the Governors explained that not enough was being done to address the concerns raised “Progress to address these concerns has not been sufficient and in the autumn of 2023 the council proposed further measures to address these issues and ensure future improvement we are supportive of the decision by Crawford School to leave the Federation and we will continue our work with all parties in the best interests of all the children at the schools.” The total deficit for the Federation was more than £1.8 million in April 2023 and the Federation forecast it to rise to £2.44 million by March 31 Two schools in the federation have been found to have poor performance when inspected by Ofsted – the Office for Standards in Education AN urgent manhunt has been launched after a 15-year-old schoolgirl was allegedly punched in the face and racially abused at a train station Cops have released the image of a man they wish to speak to following the incident in South London British Transport Police officers were called to Gipsy Hill station just before 7.45pm on Thursday It is alleged a man pushed into a group of young girls at the stop in Lambeth before making the remarks and hitting one in the face three times when she challenged him The rest of the group is also reported to have been assaulted as they intervened Investigators are appealing for help from the public to identify the man in two images, with one appearing to show him carrying a Sainsbury's shopping bag and a laptop case A BTP spokesperson said: "Detectives investigating an assault on a group of girls at Gipsy Hill station are today releasing these images in connection 6 February a man barged into a group of young girls "When one of them challenged him he racially abused her and punched her in face three times is asked to contact BTP by texting 61016 or by calling 0800 40 50 40 Repainting the fence opposite Gipsy Hill Station is just one change to the area in the heart of the community made by Friends of Gipsy Hill volunteers Storm Eunice hit the UK on Valentine’s Day with the strongest winds in 30 years One victim was the fence on Sainsbury Road opposite Gipsy Hill Station – which over the last two years has been subject to increasing amounts of  graffiti thanks to partnership work bringing together the Friends of Gipsy Hill the Sainsbury Road fence is fully restored At first it stood with its old graffiti showing – but now it’s been re-painted by local volunteers Lambeth provided the materials and training for Friends of Gipsy Hill volunteers to do Graffiti repairs Huge thanks to Lambeth’s Neighbourhood Housing Officer for organising it and Resident Participation Officer for plugging away to confirm that it belongs to Lambeth The Friends of Gipsy Hill group was set up initially 2018 to support the transformation of formerly derelict waste land into Gipsy Hill Community Station Garden there are 20 members in the “The Gipsy Hill Gardeners” dedicated group gardening  with over 2,300 members via Facebook who help with other projects – and getting involved now turning in a new “parklets” project Sainsbury Road is a core area for our volunteers with changes including Station Square made with help from Lambeth “Our Streets” funding our first mural with Network Rail; (what we think) is the best volunteer-made (and maintained by a volunteer drain team) French Drain in South London that stops our garden getting flooded; and working with Lambeth to repair a broken gully near the Berridge Road estate so the community no longer need to literally wade across to the station after heavy rain A campaign group has threatened Lambeth council with legal action over a new Low Traffic Neighbourhood (LTN). The West Dulwich Action Group (WDAG) issued the local authority a High Court challenge on September 23, over a new LTN in West Dulwich which came into force earlier this month The group has accused the council of “disregarding” public opinion after implementing the plan despite widespread disapproval Legal documents reveal that 67.5 per cent of consulted residents were “unhappy” or “very unhappy” with the proposal Despite this, the council has pushed forward with an 18-month trial of the scheme, which aims to reduce traffic and pollution in residential areas said: “We didn’t want to go down this route – we just wanted a sensible debate with the council “We had one meeting and nothing came of it – we are residents and we have concerns but they are not listening.” The Department for Transport’s guidance on LTNs states that LTNs should only be introduced “where there is strong evidence of local support” Therefore WDAG, made up of around 1000 residents and business owners, is seeking to overturn the LTN through legal action which argues that the council has gone against government direction The group raised £30,000 in just three weeks after setting up a fundraiser to support the court challenge against the council Ms Mohamed said: “That is people’s hard earned cash – it goes to show how much people care about this.” The LTN is one of three projects being proposed by the council in the West Dulwich area The other two proposals are a West Dulwich Controlled Parking Zone (CPZ) and a Brockwell Park to Gipsy Hill Healthy Route extension The local authority says all three measures are needed for the council to make Lambeth healthier and safer A Lambeth council spokesman said: “Lambeth has some of the country’s most polluted air lacks outdoor space for exercise and socialising for the many people who live in flats and dangerous roads resulting in too many people getting injured “The West Dulwich street improvements project supports these aims and was created in response to business and residents’ appeals.” WSAG claims that the LTN will increase traffic and pollution by pushing cars into boundary roads – such as the South Circular where more than 6,000 children attend schools and nurseries The group has also accused the council of “botching” the launch of the LTN by moving the start date from September 2 and then “failing” to install correct signage and infrastructure Ms Mohamed said: “There are a number of signs and a camera that hasn’t gone up yet – but the council are going to start fining people from today “It’s a lack of care for residents and our concerns.” WDAG’s appeal is now with the High Court and the group is waiting to hear whether a hearing will go ahead The council spokesman said: “The trial follows community discussions about the scheme’s design and was significantly changed based on feedback “We have thoroughly engaged with the community throughout and there are formal opportunities for feedback during the current trial and people are encouraged to have their say.” Pictured top: WDAG members hold up protest posters against the West Dulwich LTN (Picture: WDAG) 67.5% of respondents were unhappy with the plans And businesses were not properly consulted Councils like Lambeth need to be held to account Join our cause at gofundme searching for west Dulwich Making Lambeth’s streets healthier and safer for everyone clearly doesn’t include Rosendale Road Diverting traffic onto this street increasing congestion and higher levels of pollution from extremely slow moving traffic is a total contradiction Children walking or cycling to school along this road at peak times when traffic backs up for several hundred metres are increasingly vulnerable to respiritory problems Apparently we “lack outdoor space for exercise and socialising” Perhaps he should acquaint himself with West Dulwich Take a stroll round one of three spacious parks within easy reach Play some tennis in Belair Park or Brockwell Park or use the outdoor gym equipment in Dulwich Park The only thing that rings true of anything Lambeth say about the newly introduced LTN is Rezina Chowdhury’s dictatorial declaration that the council shouldn’t “get bogged down with lengthy consultations” That’s patently true given the contempt with which we residents have been treated over this completely botched project blighting many people’s lives – except Home › Comics › Indie comic creators and publishers aplenty lined up for London “Brew Zine 24” The Gipsy Hill Brewery in South London will be the venue for Brew Zine Comic & Zine a zine and comic fair happening on Sunday 7th July 2024 There is quite a strong focus on both zines and comics Creators and independent publishers due to take part include Another Subculture It follows the local South London Comic and Zine Fair and Gipsy Hill’s previous Gipsy Hill Comic Fair (2017) with some of the same organisers • Brew Zine Comic & Zine Fair 2024, Sunday 7th July 2024, Gipsy Hill Brewery, Unit 5, 160 Hamilton Rd, Norwood, London SE27 9SF | Further information here on Zine Wiki | Instagram John  is the founder of downthetubes, launched in 1998. He is a comics and magazine editor, writer, and Press Officer for the Lakes International Comic Art Festival. He also runs Crucible Comic Press He’s the writer of  comics such as Pilgrim: Secrets and Lies for B7 Comics; “Crucible”, a creator-owned project with 2000AD artist Smuzz; and “Death Duty” and “Skow Dogs”, with Dave Hailwood. • British and Irish Comic Conventions and SigningsLast Updated: 5th May 2025 • British and Irish Current Comic-Related ExhibitionsLast Updated: 5th May 2025 • 2000AD, Treasury of British Collections and Specials – 2025Last Updated: 20th February 2025 If you have subscribed to the site through our Wordpress "Pop Up" Please support us through a PayPal donation – thank you! we’re proud winners of awards from ComicScene SFX and Tripwire down the years and we’re keen to keep running for you Please note - some interviews and feature items from older versions of the web site are archived. We continue to add these as time permits. The Internet Archive "Wayback" has archived downthetubes since its inception Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive Norwood Forum is working with Public Health to pilot Lambeth’s health and wellbeing hubs initiative bringing together local organisations to improve health in the community Lambeth’s innovative Health and Wellbeing Hubs will offer an early intervention approach in communities where health and wellbeing outcomes have reduced significantly during COVID The hubs will connect and support voluntary Gipsy Hill was selected as a pilot for the hub programme because the area experiences high rates of deprivation; respiratory disease at all ages; hospital admissions long-term illness and early (under 75) death; with unemployment and income deprivation leading to poor mental health A wide range of issues – including isolation and no work or insecure or poorly paid work – directly impact on health and wellbeing Norwood Forum – run by local volunteers – has been awarded a £100,000 grant from Lambeth to set up and manage the Gipsy Hill Health and Wellbeing Small Grants Fund Forum Chair Kim Hart says: “We have already run projects bringing the community together Initiatives don’t always need to be badged up under “Health” to benefit people – getting people to meet or enjoy themselves are really good for wellbeing and mental health.” Kim said: “We received 26 applications from community organisations based in or working in Gipsy Hill and awarded 13 grants to a mix of well-established local service providers and start-ups The start-ups could lead to really effective services in the future – and we see developing new ways of supporting the community is a really important part of the role of the hub “The applications show the extraordinary variety of sources of health and wellbeing right on our doorstep  New projects include the development of a pocket park to help make access to nature easier A community organisation will lead park boxing lessons for young people – widely known to build confidence There’ll be creative activities events for older people especially people with physical mobility issues and further working with local forest schools providers to reach into the estates and get people learning in nature All the projects will be evaluated.” said: “We know that COVID has significantly impacted Lambeth residents’ health and wellbeing These innovative Health and Wellbeing Hubs will offer an early intervention approach which connects voluntary and faith organisations with local communities.” Organisations taking part in the Wellbeing hub pilot If you want to find out more about any of the projects please e-mail: info@norwoodforum.org Independent South London brewery Gipsy Hill has today revealed a new core range lineup and refreshed brand identity centred around the key message of “brewing a better life” which recently completed an ambitious expansion project to double its production capacity to 25,000hl per year has taken the opportunity to increase its number of permanently available beers to six while also undertaking a refresh of its core brand values and visual identity The refresh seeks to reflect the brewery’s commitment to inspiring people to make better choices and to encourage aspirational living both inside and out of the beer bubble while four previously limited releases are to become permanent fixtures in the Gipsy Hill core range line up down the road and we figured it was time to take a moment look back and reflect for a second on where we’ve come from then think about where we’re going,” said Gipsy Hill Co-Founder Sam McMeekin It was cobbled together by a few guys who needed something meaningful in our day to day That’s the blood that flows through our veins our passion for making the best beer we can and our desire for what we do to stand for something It means getting better at what we do everyday It means holding our suppliers to the same standards and treating our customers with respect.” all of which will be available in keg and 330ml can format features a mixture of old Gipsy Hill stalwarts and new and improved recipes for previous specials the brewery’s flagship ‘Beatnik’ Pale Ale has been reincarnated as ‘Bandit’ and is now certified as gluten free according to EU regulations (the finished beer contains less than 10mg/kg of gluten) In keeping with the brewery’s distinctive visual style each of the core-range cans features a member of the Gipsy Hill team Each beer is designed to evoke the particular personality traits and interests of the featured member of staff reflecting how they chose to enjoy their downtime outside of work you’ll see that our characters are much more prominently featured,” McMeekin added “Part of promoting who we are and what we’re doing is wrapped up in our team and celebrating them and their passions are engraved into the background of each design.” 2.8% ABV) – We took everything we love about IPAs and brought down the ABV 3.8% ABV) – We took our beloved Beatnik Made using batch selected hops and the best quality malts He likes home comforts and the great outdoors 4.6% ABV) – Our mainstay and our original juicy and bright tasting Session IPA is everything we think the style should be He likes expensive jackets and colouring in with a light bitterness and spicy/bready undertones Made with all premium malts and noble hops We took everything we’ve learnt about making IPAs and put it into this beer The new beers and branding will officially launch at a series of Tap Takeover events around the UK at venues including: The Gipsy Hill Taproom (London) Northern Monk Refectory (Leeds & Manchester) Two members of The Gipsy Hill team will be in attendance at each venue (full details TBC) to launch the new core range on October 11th Gipsy Hill Brewing Co was founded by Charlie Shaw it is one of London’s largest independently-owned breweries set to produce 13,000hl (2.28 million pints) of beer in 2019 In 2016 the brewery opened its first bar The Douglas Fir in Anerley which it continues to operate alongside it’s on-site Taproom in Gipsy Hill which opened after a successful crowdfunding campaign in 2018 was designed specifically with accessibility and inclusion in mind – a quarter of the bar is lowered allowing wheelchair users to be served at an appropriate height Gipsy Hill Brewing Co exports its products to eleven countries around the world the brewery employs 35 people and is renowned for its commitment to beer quality support for its community and exciting one-off special releases For further information and imagery to supplement this release or if you would like to interview one of the brewery’s founders please contact James Beeson on james@gipsyhillbrewing.com Email secretary@beerguild.co.uk Copyright © The British Guild of Beer Writers 2025 Developed by HGA Six-year saga ended with confidential agreement - leaving community in the dark More from this author A teacher who earned £367,000 a year has agreed a secret settlement with a council to end a legal row about his controversial dismissal – leaving the community “not knowing what really happened” after a six-year saga formerly England’s best-paid primary headteacher was dismissed from the council-maintained Gipsy Hill Federation in 2018 for “gross misconduct” Lambeth Council refused to reveal an investigation report into the case But Tunstall launched a high court case against Lambeth and the federation for damages of more than £200,000 over claims of negligence and breach of contract But the local authority launched a counterclaim attempting to recover damages of potentially £500,000 from Tunstall Documents submitted to the court alleged Tunstall received unauthorised additional salary payments of nearly £300,000 that plunged the federation into deficit It was alleged the former head “caused or permitted” the council to pay him the additional salary without the approval of the governing body Tunstall’s representatives previously said no allegations of fraud or dishonesty are made against him and that it is not alleged that he was aware he was receiving unauthorised payments A judge was due to hold a trial on the case later this year but a court order this month confirmed the case had been settled An authority spokesperson said the details of the settlement “which resolves” both Tunstall’s and the council’s claims The council did not answer questions on how much it had spent on legal fees this week The Liberal Democrat councillor Matthew Bryant said the settlement “leaves numerous questions unanswered particularly about the governance arrangements in the council at the time” “Ultimately Lambeth council taxpayers may never know how much this has cost them.” who helped found investigative think tank TaxWatch and has reported on Tunstall’s pay previously said: “Many people who were part of the community are now not allowed to understand what really happened in their own school.  Tunstall did not respond to a request for comment A close friend of Tunstall said “no amount of money will give him back his health career or reputation” after “six long years of him fighting for the truth and fairness”.  “It’s particularly appalling how silencing people through these settlement agreements is allowed which is why he isn’t able to say anything himself.” Richmond and Hillcroft Adult & Community College In today’s outcome-driven education landscape Finding new teaching talent for your school can be time consuming and costly the Inspiring Leadership Conference enters its eleventh year and to mark the occasion the conference not only.. Catch Up® is a not-for-profit charity working to address literacy and numeracy difficulties that contribute to underachievement Headteachers say they are expecting to employ fewer staff amid falling pupil numbers and financial pressures Poll for Sutton Trust charity finds rise in leaders laying off staff and cutting curriculum as funding storm hits.. Company said it had 'reviewed its refund policy' after Schools Week revealed parents' concerns Ofsted inspectors found pupils at the Devon school could access nearby train tracks and industrial units and website in this browser for the next time I comment Gagged but Taylor Swift (Reputation) said it well: It would be interesting to know how many settlement agreements are used by MATS with their teaching staff Is this what is driving the problem with staff recruitment and retention because there is a toxic culture of control and how can this be a justified use of public funds It is a concern that it’s an easy option for those in control to use public money to silence an individual when perhaps the employer themselves are also guilty of gross misconduct There are very few cases that are pursued to Tribunal because of the sheer stress that this puts on an individual but for those that do and the employers conduct is exposed I would ask ‘ should some of the individuals be in charge of our children’s education How many teachers lives have been destroyed and the reasons kept silent because a settlement agreement allows them to press eject and the public will never know how their employer has behaved Shouldn’t these agreements alert the Department of Education that the conduct of a MAT should be flagged particularly as they use public funds and therefore should be held accountable that’s fine – but do get your facts right first Interesting that this all came to light just as Tunstall/GHF tried to force through Academy status I think the last part of the article from an anonymous friend lets him off the hook This was a serious fraud investigation into the highest paid head in the country I’d welcome such scrutiny as nothing to hide I can’t comment on the circumstances of my case or settlement but prior to that I know the use of it was widespread I don’t think the issue is about federations or MATs Become a subscriber and stay up to date with the latest breaking news and industry discussion Website by Creative Sponge Challenges 'have proven to be insurmountable without the necessary support' from Lambeth Council The governing board at one of the country’s largest maintained school federations has resigned claiming a council “demanded” it dissolve in under two months amid a falling rolls finances row Parents and staff received a damning letter on Wednesday from governors at Gipsy Hill Federation who said the federation’s challenges have been “insurmountable without the necessary support” from the council.  The six-school GHF came into the spotlight in recent years after the dismissal of Sir Craig Tunstall formerly England’s best paid primary headteacher on £367,000 a year.  Council schools forum documents reveal four of its schools have a forecast deficit of £2.42 million of which £1.91 million lies with Kingswood Primary School.  GHF was issued a warning notice by the council over “concerns that governance and leadership do not have adequate financial control and that financial compliance is not adhered to” the documents from this month state.  de-delegation of budgets and an interim executive board.  governors said prior “financial and operational mismanagement” and deficits had been compounded by the decreased demand for school places across London.  told parents that the place planning strategy in Lambeth “forces schools to absorb the costs of excess places further straining budgets”.  a 20 per cent reduction in pupil numbers across thefederation in four years resulting in some classes that are below capacity andtherefore much more costly for schools to run.” Governors had developed a deficit restructure plan which was “affirmed” by a Department for Education adviser as well as plans to partner with other schools But governors “do not feel” the federation has received “the same support and collaboration” from Lambeth “The lack of good faith support and partnership has resulted in a diversion of governor time and school resource toward activities that have no bearing on improving the quality of education in our schools and are now frustrating our efforts to address these challenges effectively.  following months of work on a restructuring proposal Lambeth abruptly changed course and demanded governors dissolve the federation in under two months.” Camboruis said while governors are not opposed to considering the option as they have recently chosen to defederate Crawford school in Southwark Lambeth “answered none of our questions on how this could be accomplished in the time frame they set out without leaving the schools more vulnerable “Governors are not prepared to make such a significant decision in the absence of clear evidence that dissolving the federation on this timetable would be right for each individual school and a clear plan to accomplish it successfully.” Camboruis has invited the DfE to appoint a new governing body as soon as possible.  “Our decision to resign was driven solely by our commitment to the wellbeing of our schools We want to underscore our strong support for school leadership and dedicated and hardworking staff.  the challenges faced by the federation have proven to be insurmountable without the necessary support from Lambeth.”  Federations are a group of maintained schools that can join under one governing body. The largest is The Lighthouse Federation A Lambeth spokesperson said: “We support the decision of the federation’s governors to stepdown a decision that follows concerns being raised by the council about the running of the Gipsy Hill Federation regarding a significant financial gap in their accounts and its overall management of its schools over a number of years.” DfE has been approached for comment.  Financial management in Lambeth has been inadequate for a long period of time The only interest they had in the GHF schools was retaining ‘control’ and power to avert academy conversion Their tactics ultimately worked … but at the cost of quality and sustainability of these schools These were once exceptional schools and Lambeth has presided over their collective decline regardless of reduced pupil numbers If you had the best interests of the school at heart you would have never considered that lawsuit Did you ever consider the psychological impact you had on your former colleagues Sad that you weren’t able to put your name I don’t think it likely compares to my suicidal ideation severe depression and consequent full incapacity ill health retirement at the same time that I became a new parent I cared more about many of my former colleagues children and parents across GHF than you will ever appreciate or understand My story has the universal themes of subculture I knew that it would resonate with people who had been a teenager and explored life during the 1970s and 1980s working in pubs and cleaning but also having a wonderful time – some of the time The Peanut Factory is set between 1976 and 1983 in a period when I lived in squats in Crystal Palace and Gipsy Hill Named after a warehouse building in Bristow Road which when broken into had a sack of peanuts on the floor the Peanut Factory became an unofficial community centre for locals and squatters in the area in the early 1980s Because it was a warehouse the people squatting there lived in a tent I lived in Sainsbury Road around the corner for a year in the early 1980s where the surrounding roads were largely made up of squatters in each house on the street All the original residents moved out because it was substandard housing owned by the local authorities so people just broke in and changed the locks Legally it was a time when squatting was widespread and possible Landlords had to pay double rates for unoccupied properties so it was in their interests to come to a deal with squatters keep the house in as good an order as we could That meant we had the run of a huge crumbling Edwardian villa in Gatestone Road Nowhere I lived had any degree of the amenities we have now – no heating But in exchange I got to live with friends – an ever-changing cast of artists drug dealers- some of whom are still my friends today took away remnants of childhood innocence but also shaped me as the person I am today so she would understand what life was like then – a time of social unrest It was so different from their youth that I wanted to open a window on that pre-internet mobile phone world where I spent a lot of time in smelly phone boxes or just looking for people who I couldn’t contact When I lived in Crystal Palace it was a thriving village on top of the hill I worked in The Queen’s Arms in Westow Street in Crystal Palace which then became Black Sheep bar and is now Walker Briggs which was on the corner of the roundabout in Anerley Hill and now it’s just derelict a nightclub in Brixton Road and the Ritzy cinema and clubs in the West End like the WAG and Le Beat route The book has been described as “a beautifully grungy coming of age memoir – a must read for anyone who was there or wishes they had been” by author Nikki Sheehan The book can be bought at The Bookseller Crow in Crystal Palace or go to www.gutspublishing.com/the-peanut-factory Pictured: Deborah Price in the Gatestone Road squat – Picture: Deborah Price By 2020-02-17T11:41:00 The lineup comprises new recipes Outlooker and Noraebang as well as a rebrew of the previously available Wader Already have an account? Sign in here Already have an account? Sign in here Why not come along to the next Gipsy Hill Market a local market run by local residents where you can get affordable fresh produce and nice healthy food Do you live in Gipsy Hill why not come along to the next Gipsy Hill Market on the 27 August 2016 A local market run by local residents where you can get affordable fresh produce and nice healthy food There are also free health and wellbeing activities to participate in 4 Vale Street SE27 9PA (behind the recycling centre) We’re also looking for stallholders and volunteers.  For more information please contact gipsyhillmarket@yahoo.com The Gipsy Hill market is one of the projects initiated by the Lambeth Food Flagship Programme as part of the Gipsy Hill Project The aim of the Gipsy Hill project is to promote a residents’ led approach to tackling all food related issues It will help residents to be aware of and develop skills to address local food issues support the Gipsy Hill community in taking leadership on these issues and to use food to connect residents to local organisations and other borough services by | Tuesday, 5 September, 2023 | Beer and Cider News, Pubs and Bars News The limited edition cask ale will be available at Nicholson’s 80 sites across the UK as part of the annual celebration of Britain’s national drink Cask Ale Week is an opportunity for pubs and breweries to encourage customers to try real ale and promote it through a variety of events and partnerships. The celebration is supported by the major trade organisations, brewers, and pub groups, as well as the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) “This partnership with Gipsy Hill Brewing Co is a really exciting way to shine a light on the beauty of cask ale by turning one of their signature IPAs into a cask ale for a limited edition,” said Nicholson’s operations director “Serving the very best British ales is at the heart of our ethos and so we are thrilled to be hosting this at our pubs for Cask Ale Week This is a momentous occasion where we get to do what we do best and celebrate Britain’s national drink!” co-founder and managing director of Gipsy Hill Brewing Co added: “We’re excited to turn our mainstay Hepcat into a cask ale specially for Cask Ale Week and exclusively with Nicholson’s Pubs Our mission is to brew full-flavoured moreish beers and the cask ale version of Hepcat will be no exception “Joining Nicholson’s Pubs in this celebration of cask ale for Cask Ale Week is our way of supporting this much-loved but sometimes overlooked type of beer and share it nationwide.” Hepcat is full of vibrant stone fruit and mandarin flavours another firm favourite from Gipsy Hill’s catalogue of beers