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Food waste from Wanstead is now converted into renewable energy at this ReFood plant in Dagenham. Councillor Jo Blackman reports

Strong resident engagement and minimal service issues have marked a promising start for the first phase of the food waste collection service, which includes a number of roads in Wanstead.

I’m grateful to residents, as well as the various council teams involved, including RCS who collect the waste, the customer contact centre, business support team, IT and digital and communications. The results have been encouraging. In the first week alone, nine tonnes of food waste were collected, increasing to 10.5 tonnes in the second week, exceeding initial predictions and demonstrating positive uptake across the borough in phase one roads. Around two thirds of households in the phase one area have been presenting their containers for collection. The council received a low level of enquiries and any issues raised have been addressed quickly, ensuring residents feel supported.

The food waste is taken to the ReFood site in Dagenham, one of the UK’s most advanced recycling facilities. Here, the waste undergoes anaerobic digestion, a process that converts it into renewable energy and nutrient-rich biofertiliser. The biogas produced is injected directly into the National Grid, generating enough energy to power thousands of homes, while the biofertiliser is used to improve soil health and support food production.

The council will continue monitoring participation and collection tonnage. In January, a survey will be sent to all phase one households to gather feedback. The insights collected will help shape the full roll-out of the service, ensuring it meets the needs of the community and builds on the early success.

Around half of the waste generated by households in Redbridge is food waste. It is hoped that the separate collection will help reduce our waste volumes and increase recycling rates (as the food waste processing is classed as recycling). Experience elsewhere also shows that people reduce their food waste when they separate it out. This should be beneficial for household bills as well as the environment by reducing the impact of both the production of excess food and its processing.

Home-composting is still a great option to turn raw vegetables and fruit into garden compost, and the council continues to encourage residents to do this through reduced priced compost bins. Recognising this can be a challenge for properties without gardens, the council has supported a number of community groups to start communal composting in public spaces and parks, including a site on Wanstead Place next to Christ Church Green.

Our food waste collection service shows a promising start as we plan the further roll-out across the rest of Wanstead and wider borough. This should help us reduce our waste and increase recycling, helping build a more sustainable borough and reduce emissions.

Jo Blackman is Redbridge Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment as well as a councillor for Wanstead Village.

For more information on food waste recycling and collections in Redbridge, visit wnstd.com/foodwaste

Thousands of homes across Aldersbrook could become officially recognised as part of Wanstead following the efforts of a local resident who has lobbied Royal Mail to update its database.

“Over the past 18 months, I’ve been working to correct the locality shown for addresses in Aldersbrook that appear as part of Manor Park in Royal Mail’s system. The error has caused real problems, from banks pulling incorrect address data to inconsistencies in identity checks,” said the campaigner, who wishes to remain anonymous.

Boundary evidence has been submitted to Royal Mail using mapping data from Redbridge Council, the Office for National Statistics and Ordnance Survey.

“Royal Mail has accepted the proposal in principle. I now need to secure letters of support from the council, the local chamber of commerce and our MP before they begin a formal consultation.”

If approved, the changes are expected to affect over 2,000 homes across Aldersbrook that have an E12 postcode.

Redbridge Council is seeking the views of residents to help shape the future of the borough.

“We’re developing a new Borough Vision, which is a shared direction for how we want our borough to look and feel in the future. This vision will guide every major decision, investment and service improvement, acting as a ‘golden thread’ that connects long-term aspirations with everyday operations of the council. Please complete our survey and help create a thriving borough,” said a spokesperson.V

isit wnstd.com/bvision

In the 14th of a series of articles, Revd James Gilder of Wanstead Parish recalls the traditions baked into his grandmother’s Christmas cakes and explains why we should all become tradition-makers

Do you have any family Christmas traditions? Lots of families do, of course. Often, these things are a kind of unwritten expectation of family life; they get passed down generations and they make each family just that little bit unique.

My grandmother would always make and ice a Christmas cake, replete with marzipan, of course. It would then be decorated with a little lake of silver foil, besides which would be placed the same decorations, amassed over the last 70 years or so: a plastic fir tree, a little church scene and an oversized, slightly menacing-looking robin, which always seemed poised to devour a rather smaller-scale Father Christmas along with his sleigh and reindeer. All of this would be fenced in with delicately piped blobs of lurid green icing, finished with those edible silver baubles that sit unloved for most of the year, next to the vanilla essence and bicarbonate of soda in the ‘miscellaneous’ drawer in the kitchen, awaiting their time to shine come December. In more recent years, my uncle has taken over the tradition and, of course, this cake would not be the same were it not for the decorations that everyone in our family remarks upon every year.

Perhaps we’re quite a boring family to delight in such a mundane tradition, but I doubt we’re alone. These apparently little things keep us grounded with what has gone before. They provide a link to those whom we love and no longer see and give a strangely dual sense of timelessness and seasonal rhythm we humans seem to like. ‘Tradition’ gets knocked about and dismissed in the name of progress quite a bit in our world, but you know, there’s something to be said for it. There can be a real emptiness when we lose it, because to lose it is to lose a sense of the love of someone else.

Of course, not everyone is blessed with happy memories of family time at Christmas. It can often be a time of arguments and sadly, reports of domestic violence tend to peak at the end of December, too. For some, it is an intensely lonely time. Those are traditions we could all do without perpetuating, and if you think you will be on your own on Christmas Day, please do sign up for our free Christmas lunch in the parish halls instead.

Yet, for all of us, this time of year can be a good excuse to carry on the good traditions of the past – to give not just gifts of ever-more ‘stuff’, but to help spread the joy of the season to new generations. Those of us who enjoyed the traditions of Christmas past must now be the tradition-makers for those younger than us.

It would be remiss of me not to mention the Christ child at Christmas. Jesus is the one part of Christmas that we Christians believe to be more than just a tradition, but instead, the living source of hope, love and redemption. Whatever your beliefs or traditions, I wish you all a very happy Christmas.

To contact Reverend James Gilder, email office@parishofwanstead.org

In the second of a series of articles featuring images by the Woodford and Wanstead Photographic Society, Anuraj Theivendram reflects on the history of the group’s women members and presents the work of outgoing chair Sue Rosner

In December 2025, Sue Rosner will step down after five transformative years as chair of the Woodford and Wanstead Photographic Society (WWPS), leaving behind a legacy as bold and inclusive as her photography. Her leadership guided the club through the COVID pandemic and into a new era of hybrid creativity. It also reignited a powerful conversation about women’s place in photography.

That conversation began over a century ago. In 1923, Gertrude Powers became the first woman to join WWPS, breaking a 30-year tradition of male-only membership. She was soon followed by Norah Cross, who became the society’s first female president in 1928. Their courage paved the way for generations of women to step behind the lens and into leadership.

Sue, the fifth woman to chair the society, has honoured that legacy with passion and purpose. Her International Women’s Day talk, entitled Women in the Frame, traced the club’s evolution from exclusion to empowerment. She spotlighted female photographers in newsletters, celebrated their achievements and championed a culture where every member, regardless of gender or experience, feels seen, supported and inspired.

To women photographers today: WWPS is your space. Whether you’re just starting out or rediscovering your creative voice, the club offers a welcoming community, hands-on learning and opportunities to grow. As Sue once said: “Photography gives you a new way to see the world and WWPS gives you the confidence to share it.”

Sue’s own journey, from beginner to chair, embodies that spirit. Her images are rich in texture and story and reflect the same curiosity and courage she brought to her leadership. She didn’t just lead WWPS, she helped reshape it.

As we celebrate over 100 years of women in the society, Sue’s story becomes a call to action: join us, bring your vision and help shape the next century of photographic storytelling.

For more information on the Woodford and Wanstead Photographic Society, visit wnstd.com/wwps

Markets, music and magical moments will make Wanstead merry this festive season. It’s time to celebrate with the community. Kris Kringle reports

As frosty mornings paint the rooftops white and fairy lights brighten the early evenings, Wanstead readies itself for a season of festive delight. It’s a time to connect with neighbours, enjoy traditions and share in the celebrations. Here are some local festive events you can enjoy with family and friends.

Jack and the Beanstalk
5, 8 and 11 December; 5pm (tickets: £12.50)
Redbridge Drama Centre, South Woodford
A pop-up panto.

The Flamingo Christmas Fair
6 December, 11am to 4pm (free entry)
Wanstead Library, Spratt Hall Road
Gifts, decorations and festive finds.

Christmas Makers Market
6 December, 11am to 4pm (free entry)
Christ Church hall, Wanstead Place
Handmade products from local creatives.

The Duke Christmas Market
6 December, 12 noon to 6pm (free entry)
The Duke, 79 Nightingale Lane
Stalls, food, drink and festive fun.

Wanstead Christmas Markets
7 and 20 December; 10am to 4pm
High Street, Wanstead
Wanstead’s monthly market (first Sunday of the month) will be followed by an extra festive event on Saturday 20 December.

Winter Wonderland
7 December; 11am to 5pm (free entry)
Christchurch Green, Wanstead
A day of festive fun in support of the Mayor of Redbridge’s chosen charities.

Christmas Concert: Musical Theatre
9 December; 7.30pm (tickets: £7)
St Mary’s Church, Overton Drive
Join the Leytonstone Musical Theatre Choir for an evening of epic tunes and Christmas joy.

Cakes and Carols
13 December, 1.30pm to 4pm (free)
Wanstead United Reformed Church
A free event for over-65s with homemade cakes and performances by local musicians.

Santa’s Christmas Workshop
from 13 December; various times
(adults: £7; children: £15)
Redbridge Drama Centre, South Woodford
Meet Santa at his workshop, where preparations are underway for the big day. After a show by the elves, you’ll make a Christmas decoration you can take home.

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz
from 14 December; various times
(adults: £17.50; children: £15)
Redbridge Drama Centre, South Woodford
A Redbridge Creates production.

Community Carols on the High Street
17 December, 7pm
Wanstead War Memorial
Led by the Parish of Wanstead to raise funds for Centrepoint.

Santa’s Wanstead Drive-By
18 December, from 4.30pm
Santa will embark on a pre-Christmas tour of Wanstead, chauffeured through the streets by Elf Steve Hayden aboard his Parker Dairies milk float.

Dick Whittington
from 1 January; various times (£19)
Sir James Hawkey Hall, Woodford Green
A production by the award-winning Woodford Pantomime, which has brought joy, laughter and magic to the community since the 1960s.

Local school and church events
Festive fun, gift stalls, special events and services – too many to include here, so check the full listings to see what’s on.

For more information on these and other Christmas events in and around Wanstead, visit wnstd.com/christmas25

The hall belonging to St Gabriel’s Church in Aldersbrook has had a big renovation this year. It’s all part of a refurbishment project ahead of celebrations to mark the venue’s centenary in 2027, says Georgina Brewis

There has been significant work to improve the hall at St Gabriel’s Church this year. Removing the old stage has allowed for expanded and more accessible storage to be installed for the benefit of the very wide range of community groups that use the hall every day. Importantly, disabled access has been improved.

These building works represent the latest stage in an ongoing refurbishment project, which is on track for completion in 2027 to mark the centenary of the hall’s opening. The project started in 2023 with the installation of solar panels on the roof of the hall, and from the beginning, has been driven by a goal of making it more environmentally sustainable and more accessible for users.

The money has been raised by the church and the Friends of St Gabriel’s through a range of community events and crowdfunding via the Big Give. We were also successful in securing a total of £40,000 in small grants from the National Lottery Community Fund, the Benefact Trust, the Garfield Weston Foundation and the Bernard Sunley Foundation.

The Friends are delighted to announce that in future the hall will be known as St Gabriel’s Community Hall, reflecting its importance at the heart of Aldersbrook and Lakehouse for nearly 100 years. Father Martyn Hawkes said: “I’m very happy to report that the Parochial Church Council has approved the rebranding of the hall. I’d like to thank the indefatigable volunteers within the Friends of St Gabriel’s, especially Richard Pratley, Willa King and Rusty Livock. The story doesn’t end here, however, as future works to complete the internal upgrade in time for 2027 are likely to cost another £40,000.”

To support the next stage of fundraising, it has been decided to relaunch the Friends of St Gabriel’s scheme, inviting people to pledge at least £2 per month by direct debit. These supporters will receive a 10% discount on event tickets and merchandise. Fundraisers planned for next year include a beer and comedy night with celebrated local comedian Laura Smyth and friends on 17 January and a Ceilidh on 21 March.

We will again mark Local and Community History Month on 7 May, when Jane Skelding, Mark Gorman and Peter Williams will share new research on the Aldersbrook and Lakehouse estates in the 20th century.

As in previous years, the Friends of St Gabriel’s have teamed up with local designer Muriel & Me to sell limited edition Aldersbrook baubles, tea towels and coasters in aid of the refurbishment work. Look out for these online and at the St Gabriel’s Christmas Market on 5 and 6 December (see page 77), where you can also buy vintage wares and Christmas goodies, taste delicious food and drinks and even meet Father Christmas!

For more information on the Friends of St Gabriel’s, visit wnstd.com/fstgab

Wanstead resident Frank Charles BEM is collecting gifts for his annual appeal.

“This will be my 22nd year of delivering Christmas presents to children on Acorn Ward at Whipps Cross Hospital who are too sick to go home over the festive period. I thank the Wanstead community for all their support over the years and welcome donations of new toys and books suitable for ages up to 16 years,” said Frank.

Donations for the Frank Charles Give A Gift Appeal can be left at Wanstead Pharmacy (75–77 High Street) until 6pm on 12 December.

Redbridge Council has launched a consultation on plans for a 20mph road safety zone across Wanstead Village ward, covering the area between and including Hermon Hill, Hollybush Hill and Cambridge Park.

The proposals also include the installation of signage and road markings, as well as traffic calming measures.

“We are intending to install speed humps on Hollybush Hill, Spratt Hall Road, Nutter Lane, Rutland Road, Grove Park and Elmcroft Avenue. We also intend to install speed cushions on Chigwell Road, Hermon Hill and New Wanstead,” said a spokesperson.

It follows approval for a similar 20mph zone in Wanstead Park ward, covering all roads south of the A12 and north of Wanstead Flats.

If a pedestrian is hit by a vehicle travelling at 20mph, there is a 2.5% chance they will be fatally injured, compared to a 20% chance at 30mph.

The consultation is open until 18 December.

Visit engage.redbridge.gov.uk/wanstead-village-road-safety-zone 

In the first of a series of articles  presenting the work of Woodford and Wanstead Photographic Society members, Anuraj Theivendram delves into the group’s archives

Founded in 1893, the Woodford and Wanstead Photographic Society is one of the UK’s longest-running camera clubs, but there’s nothing old-fashioned about it!

Today’s members bring fresh perspectives, bold creativity and a shared passion for photography that spans genres, generations and skill levels. From street scenes to studio portraits, Woodford and Wanstead Photographic Society is where ideas spark, techniques evolve and great images come to life.

We welcome photographers of all ages (18 and over) and experience levels, from curious newcomers to confident hobbyists and lifelong enthusiasts. Whether you’re picking up a camera for the first time or refining your creative style, Woodford and Wanstead Photographic Society offers a welcoming space to learn, share and grow.

Looking to sharpen your skills, explore new genres or share your work in a supportive environment? We run workshops, provide mentoring and host lively discussions that inspire and connect. Monthly competitions, in both print and projected digital image formats, are a cornerstone of club life. They challenge members to refine their craft, experiment boldly and receive thoughtful critique from experienced judges. From wildlife to still life, each competition invites members to push their creativity and share their unique perspective.

Standout images regularly feature in regional exhibitions, where our group proudly represents our local community and showcases the vibrant photographic talent across Woodford and Wanstead.

This article marks the beginning of a new series celebrating the fantastic image-making of our members. Each feature will spotlight standout photographs and, we hope, spark your interest in joining us. If you’re passionate about photography, or simply curious, we invite you to reach out, visit, connect and be part of our evolving story.

For more information on the Woodford and Wanstead Photographic Society, visit wnstd.com/wwps

Applications are open for residents to adopt the tree pits on their streets and plant them with wildflowers in 2026.

“This year, more than 300 residents adopted tree pits across the borough, boosting biodiversity and helping our streets bloom… We are committed to improving habitats for pollinators to reverse their rapid decline and recover nature,” said a Redbridge Council spokesperson

The scheme runs alongside year-round applications to remove entire roads from chemical weed control spraying.

Visit wnstd.com/treepits

Donations are invited for this year’s Wanstead Community Christmas Gift Appeal.

“We know it’s a tough time for everyone and we really appreciate any help. We’ve put together an Amazon gift list for ideas, but unused secondhand items are also welcome,” said Suzi Robinson.

The gifts will be distributed to the homeless, victims of domestic abuse and other vulnerable people by local charities.

A drop-off event will take place on 29 November from 12 noon to 3pm at Wanstead Baptist Church, Wellington Road.

Visit wnstd.com/x25