#ChiswickLocalsSpring2020

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Chiswick Nursing Centre: Home From Home

Steve Winter Chiswick Nursing Centre offers compassionate care and excellent facilities in a friendly environment Chatting to Steve Winter, Director of Chiswick Nursing Centre, I hadn’t expected the conversation to turn to Bollywood Wheelchair dancing. ‘Along with the likes of music, art and film nights, it’s been a popular addition to our activity programme,’ he smiles. The Centre, which is tucked away next to Ravenscourt Park, specialises in long-term residential and short-term respite care, 24-hour dementia and palliative nursing and post-operative rehab and convalescence. The building has five nursing floors (they are called suites), all with a comfortable communal lounge, dining room and space in which to socialise or sit quietly. Elderly people no longer able to live independently are in the majority. ‘We aim to create a safe, stimulating home with a real family atmosphere,’ says Steve. ‘Our hotel-quality rooms are en-suite, linen and towels are provided and permanent residents are welcome to bring their own furniture and possessions; we have a lovely garden with hens, a hairdressing salon, sensory room, physio gym and we organise trips to coffee shops, the park and the pub.’

The first step for any prospective new arrival (or their family) is to look around. ‘If they are happy, we then assess the level of nursing input required,’ explains Steve. ‘Everyone has a personal care plan: as well as clinical needs, that covers the time they like to get up, if they prefer a cooked or continental breakfast (chefs prepare a choice of fresh meals on site every day), a bath or shower and which group or individual activities they might enjoy.’ All the nurses are qualified to UK standards and the Centre has its own experienced in-house physio and occupational health team, who assist with rehabilitation from strokes and knee and hip replacements, and excellent links with external therapists and consultants. ‘We treat people as individuals,’ says Steve. ‘If you enjoy a glass of wine at lunch, why not have one? Those little touches make such a difference. As far as possible, our residents live in the way that they always have.’

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Chiswick Estate Agent: Whitman & Co - Chiswick’s Number One Property Team

With 413 years combined residence locally and 235 years property industry experience, no one knows and serves Chiswick better… According to James Matthews, co-founder of Whitman & Co estate agency, there’s no secret to the company’s consistent success in the local market: ‘Our aim has always been to build a close-knit team that focuses solely on Chiswick and, most importantly, knows the area street-by-street. It’s a simple philosophy, but it has stood us in good stead.’ Taken together, Whitman & Co’s 13-person staff has clocked up 413 years of living in the area – it helps that six of them are West London born and bred – and over 235 years experience in the property industry. ‘It was only recently that we sat down to do the maths,’ smiles Sales Director, Chris Chalmers. ‘I must admit, we were surprised by the totals.’

Chris Chalmers No one better epitomises the ‘keep it local’ philosophy than Chris himself, who joined the company in 2002. ‘My great-grandparents bought our family home in Prebend Gardens in 1926; my grandmother moved in when she was eight years-old, my mother was born there and so was I.’

James Matthews James and co-founder Russell Savage met at long-gone estate agency Tyser Greenwood and bought Whitman & Co in 1995 (the company was founded in the 1920s by Colonel Whitman, who was also a coal merchant). Today, together with Chris and Jeremy Day, the newest team member and a Grove Park resident for 29 years, they lead sales, letting and commercial departments from the same office on Turnham Green Terrace.

Russell Savage The Whitman & Co approach clearly still delivers impressive results. According to the latest verified Rightmove statistics, the company is the Chiswick market leader for sales – a position that it has held for over three years – and, since last August, it has also been number one in lettings. ‘With valuations, we are always realistic,’ says Russell. ‘Over the years, I’ve seen countless examples of properties being valued astronomically to secure an instruction. If that’s the case, we pass. We quote figures that we’re convinced we can achieve and that pays dividends in the long run. Also, we’re transparent; we don’t put clients under pressure, we flag up issues and we try to solve them without fuss. If you’re straightforward, people will come back to you.’ Since he started off in the lettings department, Chris has seen the same clients return time and again. ‘What’s fascinating is that you catch up with them at different stages of the property-buying cycle – from rentals to buying a first home and then moving into a family house. Over the last 18 years, I’ve been a part of their lives. That also epitomises what we’re about; customers know that they’ll see a familiar face and receive a friendly service.’ As a successful business, Whitman & Co has always believed in investing in the community, increasing its involvement year on year. ‘We’re always delighted to help if we can,’ says Chris. ‘Currently, we sponsor Chiswick Cricket Club and Chiswick Rugby Club juniors, support the Bedford Park Festival, school fetes and street parties, choirs and charities and, last year, we were delighted to assist Abundance London with the hugely successful Turnham Green piazza project.’

Denise White ‘The Whitman’s way is all about building relationships – that’s why people often pop into the office for a chat and advice about the market. No matter how busy we are, we keep it personal. Longevity is at the core of our business.’

Jeremy Day

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How to Build a PC: Chiswick Computers - Passing On The Knowledge

Brenan, César and Steve 'I really enjoyed building my computer and the engineers were very friendly.’ – César Ortiz In 1976 Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak hand-built the Apple-1 in the Jobs family garage, and computing history was made. While King Street may not exactly be California and the result might not be as revolutionary, if you know a young tech wizard then Steve Bonnici and Brenan Santos from Chiswick Computers offer personal tuition in building computers. The student can take their machine home and, of course, you never know where those skills might lead. ‘A few years ago some parents mentioned that their kids wanted to build their own PCs from scratch,’ explains Steve. ‘We were delighted to help, and we’ve been doing it ever since. We clear a bench in the workshop, explain the process and we’re around to supervise and answer questions. The build takes two hours and we tailor it to the child’s needs, so it’s often a desktop gaming PC.

‘Afterwards, we loadWindows, update the software, test the computer and then it’s ready to takeaway. The kids really enjoy spending time with us. They learn so much more when they do it themselves, problem-solving as they go, and we’ve had some lovely feedback from parents.’ Steve has been running Chiswick Computers (the company has Which? Trusted Trader status) since 2003, establishing an excellent reputation for expertise and customer service. His technicians are the local experts when it comes to diagnosing and repairing faults with Windows-based PCs and Apple iMac,MacBook, iPad and iPhones. Steve handles the company’s IT support, looking after businesses, home-based one-person bands and families ‘I build a relationship with each customer,’ he says. ‘If I understand what they do and how they do it, then I can design our support to their requirements.’ Chiswick Computers also offers remote monitoring to corporate clients, remote preventative maintenance for domestic users and over-the-counter advice at the shop.‘If we can fix a problem on the spot, we will,’ says Steve.‘We have a no-fix, no-fee guarantee and we explain everything in plain English!’ Read the full article

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London Tiles: Intceram - Inspirational Tile Solutions

Marble Nouveau (glazed porcelain) by Roca With ranges from the world’s leading manufacturers and it’s own Hugo Ceramicas brand, Intceram delivers the ultimate tile style Since opening a dedicated showroom on the High Road in 2017, Intceram has built an excellent local reputation for its eclectic, high quality product range. Co-owner Peter Hughes has forged close links with factories worldwide to ensure the company offers stylish tiles in effects, sizes and materials (polished, stone, cement, concrete, marble, wood, porcelain) to suit all tastes. Should there be a gap in the portfolio, Peter has an extra string to his bow in the shape of Intceram’s own popular Hugo Ceramicas brand. ‘We design the tiles ourselves – it’s a really enjoyable process – using our detailed knowledge of the market,’ he explains.

Peter Hughes ‘Fashions come and go but, looking ahead, I think the current demand for large-format porcelain floor tiles will continue to grow. We have 1.2 x 1.2 and 2.4 x 1.2 metre sizes and they have been flying out of the door.’ Last year Peter agreed to represent Roca, the prestigious Barcelonabased manufacturer. ‘They approached us, which was very flattering. We supply the collection in exquisite colours and all sizes. Also, our customers are always welcome to visit Roca’s Chelsea gallery, which was designed by Dame Zaha Hadid, to view the tiles in a display environment.’ Whatever the nature and scope of the tiling project – whether it is interior or exterior, decorative or practical – Peter and his Showroom Manager, Manuela Profetto, will advise on products and costs and provide a friendly, informed service that helps customers come to the best decision.

Manuela Profetto

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Maths Tutor: Mathnasium of Chiswick - Solving The Maths Problem

Kristina, Celeste and Capucine Mathnasium provides children with individually tailored teaching that you can count on Emmanuelle Tsoulies was curious when she noticed that Mathnasium had opened on the High Road. It struck a chord with the Grove Park resident because SAT tests were looming for Celeste and Capucine, her 10 year-old non-identical twins. ‘According to their teachers, one of the girls was doing OK in class but lacked confidence in exams and the other was getting behind,’ recalls Emanuelle. ‘We popped in and talked to the Mathnasium team and they explained how their method worked and how it could provide extra support. We thought, why not try it for a month or so and see how it goes?’ The answer was, very well. ‘The teaching was individual and reassuring and the girls enjoyed it – in particular, they were super-excited by the reward system! They both scored an impressive 107 in their SATs and they still go three times a week. Mathnasium has now become part of our family routine. I’d happily recommended it to other parents.’

Kristina Peno Devised by Larry Martinek, an experienced US teacher, Mathnasium has been transforming how children aged 5-16 learn maths for over a decade (there are nearly 1000 centres worldwide). ‘All new students take a customised assessment and that enables us to determine their level of knowledge and devise a personal learning plan,’ explains Kristina Peno, the Manager of the Chiswick centre. ‘Children learn at their own pace, the lessons are oneto- one and they are flexible for the parents – you don’t have to pre-book. We can help with homework and we specialise in preparation for 11+, scholarship and GCSE exams. ‘Of course, all our tutors are maths experts but, most importantly, they are patient, make the learning process fun and create a friendly, positive environment. Also, they are always on hand to check progress and ensure that information is understood and retained.’ Should a little extra encouragement be needed Mathnasium has a reward for achievement policy, with incentives ranging from slime and toys to an iPhone. ‘Of course, getting a phone takes hard work and outstanding results,’ smiles Kristina.’

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Hearing Test - Hearing Aid: Hearing Well - Sound Advice

Paul and Deepak ‘Old-fashioned customer service with no salesmanship. Deepak is a knowledgeable guy with integrity and pride in his work.’ – George Curtis, a patient Hearing aid audiologist Deepak Jagota moved his business in December – and he didn’t travel far. But, while Hearing Well may have only gone five doors down the High Road, there is no comparison in terms of quality and size between the premises. ‘My regulars have come in for appointments and been taken aback – in a positive way! I’ve been able to brand the clinic, I now have a comfortable reception area (Deepak’s charming father, Paul, is in charge of meeting and greeting), four times more space in the testing room and a second room in which I can expand my practice. I’ve been very fortunate.’ Deepak offers a comprehensive range of audiology services, from conducting hearing tests and prescribing hearing aids to micro-suction earwax removal and tinnitus advice. Personal care is at the heart of his approach. ‘I allocate as much time as is necessary to each patient. It’s not a conveyor belt. If someone is a little nervous and needs longer to chat, that’s a pleasure. ‘Equally important, I provide a thorough aftercare package, including a six-monthly “F1 pitstop” to check everything is working well.’ Deepak consistently invests in state-of-the-art testing equipment and, as an independent audiologist, he can choose the most suitable solutions from all the leading manufacturers. ‘If a particular device doesn't prove quite suitable, I can easily recommend an excellent alternative. That flexibility also applies to the cost and cosmetic appearance of the hearing aid.’ In recent years, Deepak has volunteered regularly on audiology charity missions. In 2019, he returned to Armenia, where thousands of people have been treated successfully, for a third visit. ’It's always a wonderful experience. I love what I do. Life is too short to put up with a problem that reduces the joy of connecting with others.’

Hearing Well 40 Chiswick High Road Chiwick W4 1TE 02089946966 deepak@hearingwell.co.uk https://www.hearingwell.co.uk/

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Chiswick Dry Cleaners: Top Hat Chiswick: The Perfect Fit

Anna Kozowska How many times have you put on a favourite item of clothing and found that it doesn’t fit as snugly as it once did? If that sounds familiar, you don’t have to consign the piece to recycling or return it to the wardrobe. Mike Moran, owner of the award-winning Top Hat dry cleaners, offers a professional alteration and repair service. ‘I’ve invested in the latest sewing machines and hemmers and Anna, our experienced in-shop tailoress, has the expertise to deal with most issues. Whether it’s taking up, taking in, letting out, re-lining, patching or stitching, she is happy to advise and will recommend the best options.’ Mike and his team follow the same approach with dry and wet cleaning. ‘We combine our depth of knowledge with new technology to deliver the best finish; for example, we use a microscope linked to a phone or computer to check if a stain is deeply ingrained or on top of the fibres. And, when we’re not sure about a material, we cut off a few fibres and burn them; we can tell what it is by the colour of the flame. Between us, we have 150 years’ industry experience – and that pays dividends.’

Anna Kozowska

Billy Read the full article

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House and Home: Craig & Rose Chiswick Showroom - Coats Of Many Colours

Josu Badiola Authentic period paints, contemporary colours and a bespoke home consultancy service… you’ll be spoilt for choice at Craig & Rose ‘When it comes to painting the downstairs loo, I’ve noticed that customers love to go a little crazy,’ smiles Josu Badiola, the charming Manager of Craig & Rose’s High Road showroom. ‘The house might otherwise be refined, with tasteful neutral shades, but in the loo imaginations run riot with bold colours and striking effects. That’s fun for us too.’ Originally from the Basque Country and a long-time W4 resident, Josu is an experienced interior designer and showroom manager. ‘We opened in Chiswick in April 2018. This was Craig & Rose’s first retail store and we’ve had a lovely welcome.’ The company was founded bin 1829 by James Craig and Hugh Rose and became renowned for manufacturing superior paints. Today, it combines that heritage with the latest industry technology to offer a dazzling variety of options for the modern home. ‘Our premium vintage collection is the 1829,’ explains Josu. ‘It has 110 period colours, all sourced from the archives, which mix smoothly and give superb coverage. Complementing the 1829 are the Tintable and Artisan Effects ranges: the former is a new concept featuring 485 strong, contemporary colours; the latter is an exciting collection of decorative paints and finishes, such as metallic and spray effects, glitter glazes and marbling. We also have a book – we call it the Atlas – with 5000 colours which we can mix in store and customers are welcome to bring in a colour sample and we’ll scan it to achieve the best match.’

Josu and his friendly team are always happy to sit down over a coffee, answer questions and give advice. ‘We do emphasise the importance of sanding down walls, sealing them with an undercoat and checking the colours in situ,’ he says. ‘In addition, we provide a bespoke home consultancy service. Our in-house expert is Sara Faulkner and she visits clients at home and works with them to devise colour schemes that suit the lighting, furniture and accessories. ‘We’re proud of the quality of our products; it’s very difficult to leave Craig & Rose without the exact colour you want.’

Josu Badiola

Josu Badiola

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Cookery Classes: Cook Folk - Cooking With Confidence

Louisa Chapman-Andrews Unleash your culinary creativity and nourish your loved ones Louisa Chapman-Andrews founded Cook Folk in 2018 with the aim of teaching her students how to cook without relying on recipes. ‘I encourage everyone to use ingredients imaginatively – and there’s no such thing as making a mistake!’

Louisa, who ran a catering business, worked for grocer Melrose and Morgan and co-wrote Good Food For Your Table: A Grocer’s Guide, specialises in one-to-one classes for students in their own homes. ‘These lessons often start with a Kitchen Edit,’ she explains. ‘I can advise about making the best use of space, streamlining cupboards and equipment and preparing fridge and freezer staples. I then follow a bespoke teaching plan tailored to specific dietary and taste preferences. During the sessions there’s no need to take notes: I provide a follow-up on the tips and techniques, so the student is free to cook and, afterwards, enjoy eating the results. ‘I also host group cookery workshops (for up to five people) in my own kitchen. Each one showcases fresh seasonal ingredients in recipes that can be adapted for any occasion. It’s lovely to help people – whatever their previous culinary experience – to discover the joy of preparing delicious, healthy meals for family and friends.’

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Chiswick Estate Agent: Horton and Garton - The Lowdown On Lettings

Ashley Clements (right) ‘First-class service all the way. If you're looking for an honest, professional lettings agent, then I can highly recommend Horton and Garton.’ – R.Patel, landlord Ashley Clements is Horton and Garton’s Lettings Branch Manager for Chiswick and Hammersmith. Working closely with co-Directors, John Horton and Paul Cooney, last year Ashley and his team once again expanded the company’s market share: in W4 and W6 combined they agreed 106 lets, 10% more than the nearest competitor. ‘At Horton and Garton our philosophy is always to focus on the basics. As lettings specialists, we represent the landlord, so it’s essential to make a good first impression; that means turning up on time for appointments, being polite and friendly and knowing exactly what you are talking about. It sounds very simple, but those basics go a long way and make the whole process much easier.

Ashley Clements ‘Equally important is what happens after a rental agreement has been signed and the tenant has moved in. Our high level of service remains the same, we’re pro-active and we're always there as an immediate point of contact for both the landlord and tenant. That commitment is one reason we take our fees on a monthly basis, not upfront for the entire period of the tenancy. It’s a statement from us to say that we want to build an ongoing relationship – we’re not going to disappear once the tenant is in place. ‘For landlords, there are three key concerns with any tenancy; the rental value, the calibre of the tenant and ensuring no void periods. All these elements are linked to setting an accurate, realistic rate for all parties. We always research what similar properties are achieving in the same road, within the same development and within a radius of a quarter of mile. However, there’s no substitute for local knowledge and our lettings team has many years’ experience in West London – I myself have worked in the area since 2006. ‘We also offer a comprehensive property management service. As the buffer between landlord and tenant, speed of response is vital. Tenants must feel confident that they will be looked after if, for example, there’s a maintenance problem that needs fixing. Most disputes arise when issues aren't being addressed. Every six months we carry out a full property inspection, take photographs and produce a written report and, if we see a repair that needs doing, we make the landlord aware. ‘In lettings, an increasingly important part of our role is to take care of tenancy regulations, such as gas safety and smoke alarm checks, energy performance certificates and local authority licensing. The legislation is moving fast – the next major change will be mandatory electrical safety reports – and we keep our landlords up-to-date about any action that needs to be taken. ‘Thanks to word-of-mouth recommendations, we have a growing number of new landlords in W4 and we’re fortunate to be working with some excellent properties. In terms of the market, there is now a shortage of rental stock and, since last summer, values have returned to their 2015 peak. ‘So, whether you are buying, selling, letting or renting, pop in and talk to us at our Chiswick office in Gable House on Turnham Green Terrace or at our new Hammersmith office on the corner of Studland Street and King Street. We will offer the best advice on the market in your road and neighbourhood as well as guidance on how to achieve best price.’ – Ashley Clements, MARLA MNAEA, Lettings Branch Manager

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London Music Classes: Ana Ortiz Music - The Sound Of Music

Ana Ortiz ‘Ana is patient, extremely talented and fun. A wonderful inspirational teacher.’ – Amrita Agrawal (Guitar) In 2005 Ana Ortiz took a month off from her flourishing career as a singer-songwriter and music teacher in Buenos Aires to visit a cousin in London. ‘One night, we went for dinner at Ciro’s in Knightsbridge, I was persuaded to get up and play and, afterwards, offered regular gigs. I stayed another three months, life took over and I’m still here in Grove Park!’ The birth of her son prompted Ana to change focus. ‘I couldn’t travel to play concerts and record sessions any longer, so I put an advert offering music classes in my local Post Office and at Chiswick library, received a few enquiries and everything has grown from there.’ Since then, Ana has personally recruited a group of talented music tutors who travel around West London to visit students in their own homes to teach classes – Ana herself covers electric and classical guitar, piano, keyboards and voice. ‘If you want to play the balalaika, I’ll find someone to come and teach you,’ she smiles.

‘Most importantly, my colleagues share my energy and passion for unlocking talent: our philosophy is to give people the tools and confidence to find their own voice through music. We judge our success by their progress.’ Ana and her team teach every age and ability – no previous experience is needed – and all musical styles from classical and opera to rock and pop. ‘We make sure the lessons are exciting and fun and I like to record them – it’s so important to listen back to the sound. Of course, we also tailor our approach to help those taking auditions or grade exams in boards such as Abrsm, Trinity and Rockschool.’ Every year Ana gathers her students together to stage a concert. ‘We are building a family of musicians and it’s lovely for them to play together. Music means the world to me and I want everyone to feel that same joy.’

Instruments include: Piano & KeyboardsGuitar BassDrums and PercussionUkelele RecorderFlute Voice (Singing/Vocal Coaching)Clarinet SaxophoneViolin, Viola and CelloDouble Bass HarpMusic Theory

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Landscape Architecture: Stefano Marinaz - A Passion For Plants

Stefano Marinaz Stefano Marinaz creates beautiful, practical gardens that make people happy Stefano Marinaz found his vocation early on. ‘The seeds for my future were planted 75 years ago in Trieste in Italy, when my grandfather opened a nursery. My love for plants dates from when I was a kid – I used to “help” in the garden and glasshouses.’ Today, Stefano’s enthusiasm is undimmed. ‘I’m lucky to do something I love; designing and building gardens is my passion.’ He studied Landscape Architecture, including a stint at the Royal Botanic Gardens (his company is now a Kew Patron), and founded his business in 2012. Since then, he has completed projects of all shapes and sizes, ranging from London gardens to the recreation of historic landscapes and, locally, he has helped Abundance London with its Devonshire Road planting initiative.

Stefano and his team oversee the design and construction of a garden from beginning to end. ‘The starting point is the site visit,’ he explains. ‘It gives us the chance to discuss the client’s vision – for example, do they want a play area or a serene space in which to relax? – and preferred plants and colour palette.’ Armed with this information, a design is created according to budget, including features such as furniture, lighting, sculpture and fencing. ‘The choice of plants is at the heart of the process and, of course, we expect the design to evolve – it’s a collaboration’ says Stefano. ‘When the plans are approved, we arrange any hard or soft landscaping with our regular contractors and we do the planting, ensuring that the shrubs, plants and trees have the best start.’

That attention to detail doesn’t end there; Stefano’s expert in-house maintenance crew will care for the garden on an on-going basis and he has now also started supplying beautiful indoor plants and cut flowers in vases. ‘Since we design gardens that extend from the house, we thought why not bring the garden’s colour and scents back inside.’ Whether you want a tranquil green haven or a functional modern space for outdoor entertaining, Stefano will take your dream from drawing board to reality.

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Metropolitan Safe Deposits: Peace Of Mind

Christopher Barrow Metropolitan Safe Deposits ensures your most valuable possessions are safe and secure ‘We know who, what, when and where at all times,’ smiles Christopher Barrow, Chief Executive of Metropolitan Safe Deposits. ‘Those are the critical questions in our business. From multi-layered alarm and surveillance systems to tried and tested physical security, we offer clients an affordable, convenient world-class facility.’ Metropolitan Safe Deposits opened its Chiswick office in July following a 10-month build that required 225 tons of reinforced concrete to create space for two basement vaults made by the industry’s leading manufacturer, Robur Safe. At full capacity, the Swedish company will also supply 8000 safe deposit boxes in 12 different sizes: the smallest, which is perfect for storing small keepsakes, rings or watches, costs £95 p.a (including £10,000 insurance). The sophisticated security network begins with 24/7 CCTV of the perimeter and interior, with the exception of the private viewing cubicles in the vaults. ‘The CCTV is also monitored by our Knightsbridge and St John’s Wood offices,’ explains Christopher. ‘The building itself is equipped with seismic and stress detectors and the “secure area” beyond reception is protected by bullet-resistant airlock doors with magnetic and electronic locks. ‘Client access is controlled by computerverified ID and biometric fingerprint procedures and each safe deposit box (up to three people are registered to each) is opened with two unique keys – no other keys exist for that lock. If a box is re-locked, the ID process must be repeated, so ensuring a proper audit trail. Furthermore, we have our own unique security features: every box is individually alarmed and we are alerted if more than a given number are open at one time.’ Metropolitan Safe Deposits' insurers recently commissioned a rigorous review of security and staff training, making no recommendations for improvement. ‘To the best of our knowledge, this type of vault has never been breached,’ says Christopher. ‘If a system is cut off a back-up is always in place. At a time when banks are exiting the safe custody market, it is vital that independent vaults are able to provide a secure, high quality service to customers.’

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London Music Classes: Ana Ortiz Music - The Sound Of Music

Ana Ortiz ‘Ana is patient, extremely talented and fun. A wonderful inspirational teacher.’ – Amrita Agrawal (Guitar) In 2005 Ana Ortiz took a month off from her flourishing career as a singer-songwriter and music teacher in Buenos Aires to visit a cousin in London. ‘One night, we went for dinner at Ciro’s in Knightsbridge, I was persuaded to get up and play and, afterwards, offered regular gigs. I stayed another three months, life took over and I’m still here in Grove Park!’ The birth of her son prompted Ana to change focus. ‘I couldn’t travel to play concerts and record sessions any longer, so I put an advert offering music classes in my local Post Office and at Chiswick library, received a few enquiries and everything has grown from there.’ Since then, Ana has personally recruited a group of talented music tutors who travel around West London to visit students in their own homes to teach classes – Ana herself covers electric and classical guitar, piano, keyboards and voice. ‘If you want to play the balalaika, I’ll find someone to come and teach you,’ she smiles.

‘Most importantly, my colleagues share my energy and passion for unlocking talent: our philosophy is to give people the tools and confidence to find their own voice through music. We judge our success by their progress.’ Ana and her team teach every age and ability – no previous experience is needed – and all musical styles from classical and opera to rock and pop. ‘We make sure the lessons are exciting and fun and I like to record them – it’s so important to listen back to the sound. Of course, we also tailor our approach to help those taking auditions or grade exams in boards such as Abrsm, Trinity and Rockschool.’ Every year Ana gathers her students together to stage a concert. ‘We are building a family of musicians and it’s lovely for them to play together. Music means the world to me and I want everyone to feel that same joy.’

Instruments include: Piano & KeyboardsGuitar BassDrums and PercussionUkelele RecorderFlute Voice (Singing/Vocal Coaching)Clarinet SaxophoneViolin, Viola and CelloDouble Bass HarpMusic Theory

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