Dear Readers

“We'll take a cup o' kindness yet...”

It's the season to celebrate - and to be charitable which is why, with Christmas so close, we met with local SVP members who are particularly busy reaching out to those most in need.

One of the biggest occasions in life is your wedding day, and we took a peek inside the doors of The Clarendon Hotel at Blackheath, revamped and now a perfect venue for a wedding. Another major life decision is choosing to be the proud owner of a pet. Just last month, PAAW House, a new local business was launched in Bermondsey. Friend to both pets and pet owners alike, we're delighted to welcome them as a new feature for the year ahead.

We also have a first contribution by international artist David Taborn who reviews the outstanding work of Nam June Paik on show at the Tate. Paik first coined the phrase “Electronic Superhighway” and his visual premonitions made decades ago (back in the 1970s) eerily echo the world today.

No doubt we'll all make plenty of resolutions come Hogmanay, with commitments to a fresh start, a healthy body and a positive mental attitude. One thing is certain, being close to animals can be very rewarding, so let's raise a glass and toast 'Companions' - whether on two legs or four!

Yours

Angela Webb