Tooting Newsie Weekly Newsletter
Wandsworth Artists' Open House continues, Poppy's Funerals hosts a free Open Afternoon, the closure of a much-loved Tooting business, food & drink deals, Tooting students appear on Bake Off, and more!
Wandsworth Artists’ Open House 2025 continues this weekend of 11-12 October – a FREE borough-wide celebration of art, creativity and community!
Over 200 local artists across almost 100 venues will again open their homes & studios in Tooting, Furzedown, Balham, Battersea, Wandsworth, Putney, Southfields, and Wimbledon & Delta studios.
Celebrating art and community and meet local artists, designers and makers; explore creative spaces, browse and buy original artworks, paintings, ceramics, photography, printmaking, sculpture, jewellery, textiles, gifts & more.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a curious newcomer, or simply seeking creative inspiration, Wandsworth Artists’ Open House welcomes all. It’s a chance not only to experience and collect high-quality art but also to support local artists and small creative businesses, learn about artistic techniques and engage with the borough’s vibrant creative economy.
For more info and a list of venues, artists, and trails maps, visit: www.artistsopenhouse.co.uk
Wandsworth Artists’ Open House 2025 is part of the London Borough of Culture Calendar, supported by Wandsworth Council.
Tooting-based funeral directors, Poppy’s, are hosting a free Open Afternoon at their offices and mortuary at Lambeth Cemetery, Blackshaw Road, on Wednesday 15 October, 2pm-3pm.
Since Poppy’s was founded by Tooting resident Poppy Mardall in 2012, the organisation has been committed to bringing funerals out from behind closed doors.
Through this Open Afternoon, visitors are invited to meet the team, learn more about Poppy’s approach to death care, see their beautiful mortuary space (a converted chapel) and ask the team their most pressing questions about death and funerals.
“Death affects each and every one of us – but too often, what happens around a funeral is shrouded in mystery,” says Poppy’s CEO, Clare Montagu. “This often means that when we find ourselves organising one, we have no idea where to start.
“Through our Open Afternoons, we invite the public in to find out how we offer outstanding care to the living and the dead – and to demystify death and funerals a little in the process.”
The Open Afternoon starts with an introductory talk from Clare, after which members of the Poppy’s team will answer visitors’ questions - from how a person is brought into Poppy’s care, to why you can be sure the ashes you receive back after someone is cremated belong to your person.
After the formal session has closed, attendees are invited to stay for tea, coffee and more conversation.
This event is open to the public and is free to attend, but registration is required. Book your place via Eventbrite.
The next Mega Skip Day takes place from 9am this Saturday 11th October, in seven locations around Wandsworth, including Tooting.
Mega Skip Days are an opportunity for people to dispose of bulky items for free. Large skips are placed in neighbourhoods around the borough for all local residents to use.
The skips are open to residents of the London Borough of Wandsworth only. Proof of address may be required on the day.
The skips will be in the following places:
• 141 Welham Road, SW17 7BU
• Burtop Estate, SW17 0LF
• 108 Felsham Road, SW15 1ED
• 194 Sheepcote Lane, SW11 5BP
• 4 Podmore Road, SW18 1AJ
• 7 Byrne Road, SW12 9HZ
• Putney Vale Estate, SW15 3EB
More info, including details of what you can bring and when the skips will be open, via Wandsworth Council.
The next Tooting History Group (THG) meeting features two talks on “Tooting Bec Asylum Remembered 1903-1995”. Karen Ellis-Rees and Philip Bradley will be talking about how the hospital came to be built in Tooting and some of the personal stories uncovered during THG’s research.
The meeting takes place next Tuesday 14th October at 7.30pm at the United Reformed Church, Rookstone Road, SW17 9NQ.
THG recently unveiled a Wandsworth Council Green Plaque to remember the people who lived and worked at Tooting Bec Asylum. They have also published a book by Karen Ellis-Rees and Annie Caulfield which you can buy at the meeting (card payments accepted). The book is also available to buy via their website.
Tooting-based property advisor Chuk, of Homes With Chuk, reflects on a busy September, including helping to find and sell new homes for local residents, celebrating local businesses, and waxing lyrical about South West London! See the full post via Instagram and Facebook!
Chuk Agudosi is a personal local property advisor. For more info, email him at hello@homeswithchuk.co.uk, call 07940 546 190, DM him at Homes with Chuk, or pop into Tooting Works at 89 Bickersteth Road and ask for him at reception!
If you’re looking to renovate or redecorate your home, local construction business SW12 Renovations are here to help! Owner Dritan & his team have been busy refurbishing & redecorating properties around Tooting – check out these examples of their work!
Dritan tells us: “We’re highly-experienced, reliable builders and decorators working on projects large and small – from loft extensions and new kitchens to bespoke carpentry and complete refreshes.
“We handle everything: painting, plumbing, electricals, carpentry, flooring & tiling. You choose your colours, layout and materials – we’ll help with ideas too. We pride ourselves on delivering on time and in budget.”
For a free quote: email info@sw12renovations.uk, call 07491 111 679, visit their website at sw12renovations.uk, or see their Instagram page.
Win a hamper! As the leaves turn and the days grow shorter, Howden Insurance Tooting is bringing a little seasonal warmth to the community with their Autumn Hamper Competition*!
Packed full of cosy essentials, including a selection of tea, biscuits, and an iconic Whittard teacup, this hamper is the perfect treat to brighten up your evenings! For a chance to win, simply pop into Howden Tooting and provide your insurance renewal details.
Marian Dowling, from the Howden Tooting team, says, “This is the time of year when we all want to feel warm and cosy, and there’s nothing better than a nice cup of tea and sweet treats after a long day at work!”
Whether you’re looking to review your insurance, need help with a claim, or just want to chat about your cover options, the friendly team at Howden Tooting is here to help.
Howden Insurance Tooting is located at 149/155 Mitcham Road, SW17 9PG. Pop in, call 0208 672 3375, or visit howdeninsurance.co.uk/tooting to find out more.
*The competition runs until 26th October 2025 – don’t miss your chance to win! Ts and Cs apply.
Libo and Gio Hair Salon at 115 Upper Tooting Road has permanently closed its doors, after 55 years in business.
Owner, Angela, tells us, “My parents, Libo and Giovanna (her ladies called her Joanne), opened in 1970, and we lived above the salon. My parents worked very hard and me and my two sisters, Mariannina and Teresa, worked there too (as well as many relatives!).
Mum and Dad had many loyal clients – both men and women – some whom still came to visit us up until closing last Saturday!
“In 2000, my parents retired and left the reins to us three sisters for the ladies, and Claudio, my brother-in-law, for the mens.
“We have managed the shop for the last 25 years and are very grateful to all our clients – thank you all from the bottom of our hearts for your custom and support over the years. We have grown up with you. We will miss you all and your stories.
“We are closing because we’ve come to the end of the lease, and escalating costs. But please email Mariannina at m.iozzi@sky.com, should you need a hairdresser! I, however, have been working here for 43 years, so I need a new challenge.”
All the best to Angela, Teresa, Mariannina, Claudio and the family for the future!
A mum who lost 13 litres of blood during her daughter’s birth has praised the “incredible” care teams at Tooting’s St George’s Hospital who saved her and her baby’s life.
Harriet Paget, 36, survived a rare, life-threatening pregnancy complication thanks to the quick action of St George’s staff. Harriet was so touched by the care they both received that she gave her daughter the middle name Ana as a special tribute to her consultant Ana Pinas.
She’s now urging the public to celebrate their health heroes in the NHS equivalent of the Oscars. Now in its second year, the gesh CARE Awards recognise clinical and essential support staff at St George’s, Epsom and St Helier Hospitals Group.
Full story via St George’s.
Thames Water is still working on the leak on Mitcham Road in Tooting, near the junction with Mellison Road, with delays likely. The work is due to be completed on Friday 10th October, according to information on One Network.
See https://one.network/?GB145950546 for more info and updates.
HALF PRICE burgers & cocktails in Tooting every Tuesday in October at Burger Nine and Blend Bar in Broadway Market Tooting! 🍔🍸
Burger Nine and Blend Bar are now serving up delicious burgers and fabulous cocktails – and they’re all half-price every Tuesday in October! Pop by for one of Burger Nine’s signature smash burgers, paired with a fantastic gin or tequila cocktail (or two!) at Blend Bar just round the corner.
Tuesday opening times: Burger Nine 12pm-10.30pm, The Blend Bar 6pm-11pm. Eat-in only. Ts and Cs apply.
Find Burger Nine and Blend Bar near the Longmead Rd entrance of Broadway Market. Halal burgers available. Offer valid every Tuesday during the month of October 2025. Ts and Cs apply. More info via Instagram: Burger Nine and Blend Bar.
Tooting Bangladeshi 🇧🇩 restaurant Dhoompan has launched amazing set menus and lunch offers as they approach their two year anniversary in Tooting Bec!
Their small plates/tapas style menu is great for sharing and there’s plenty to try, such as Aloo Tikka Chaat, Lamb Shank, Heirloom Tomato Salad, Begun Bora, Bengali Brisket Keema Naan and so much more – check out their menu in the images for full details!
And their lunch menu includes naan & chapati wraps, bhaat bowls, chicken wings, corn ribs and more (info in images) – with free chips and drink!
Dhoompan has become known for their punchy street food, fusion, and traditional home style dishes, with owners Abu and Akhlaaq’s passion reflected in Dhoompan’s hundreds of ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Google reviews!
All food is halal, and there are plenty of veggie options and vegan alternatives available.
The restaurant is a dry establishment, but offers a wide selection of non-alcoholic beers, cider and mocktails alongside a wide array of fresh juices, lassis and soft drinks, including drinks named after scenic places in Bangladesh, such as their St Martins Island (a berry twist on the mango lassi) and Cox’s Bazar coconut lassi – a perfect accompaniment to your meal!
Find them at 47 Trinity Road, near Tooting Bec station. Open Wednesday- Monday: Lunch served 12pm-3pm, Dinner 6pm-10pm (open until 11pm Friday and Saturday night).
See their linktree for more info and to book.
BATCA needs you! The Balham & Tooting Community Association are looking for volunteers (see below) – join them at their AGM on 21st October at Tooting Works to find out more!
BATCA is a local charity that is committed to creating a cohesive, thriving community where there is trust and friendship between people of all faiths, cultures, ages and backgrounds. A very small team runs BATCA, alongside multiple jobs, hobbies and family life. They’re very keen to get more of the community involved, and they need more help!
Volunteering is super flexible, and doesn’t require a regular commitment – just a willingness to get stuck in with BATCA main events (such as the Community Funday, Multifaith Peace Ceremony, and Community Awards) a few times a year.
At the AGM they’ll be selecting a secretary, treasurer, chair and vice-chair, and would also be grateful for support with event planning, comms, and social media.
There’s no obligation to volunteer if you attend, and no need to book a ticket. Simply come along and have a cuppa and share your views. Please do invite anyone who also may be interested.
If you do want to get involved, or just find out more in advance of the meeting, please email secretary@batca.org
The BATCA AGM takes place at 7pm on Tuesday 21 October at Tooting Works, 89 Bickersteth Road, SW17 9SH.
Congratulations to fantastic Furzedown Project Trustee and Treasurer, Praz, on completing the 2025 Vitality London 10k race in 1 hour, 11 minutes and 49 seconds!
Praz ran to fundraise for the Project, and hopes to reach (and exceed!) his target of £1000! If you’d like to donate , please visit his fundraising page.
The Furzedown Project is an activity centre and social hub for people aged 50 and over from Furzedown. Their mission is to increase people’s sense of wellbeing and reduce social isolation. More info via their website.
Congratulations to Khushi, Mariam, Rameen and Benien, four Tooting residents and medical students at Tooting’s City St George’s, University of London, who were on last week’s episode of The Great British Bake Off: An Extra Slice with a magnificent cake representing Tooting!
The local students tell us, “Our bake represents some Tooting landmarks such as Tooting Market, The Broadway, the G1 and many more which represent our journey throughout medical school!”
To view the full episode, visit the Channel 4 website.
Congratulations to Tooting’s St George’s Hospital Athletics Club members on completing their annual Northern Line run this week, which started at Tooting Broadway and ended up at Waterloo!
The club tells us, “this event of ours is typically a good chatty pace meet and greet for new university students who have just moved into Tooting, as well as a favourite to all other members of the club.
“The club is a student-run, super friendly athletics club who welcome anybody from beginner runners and social runners to amazing athletes. We compete in (and sometimes win!) LUCA and BUCS championships and have an amazing social side to the club as well. There is something for everyone to get involved in and enjoy.”
Find out more about the club via their Instagram.
Tooting Bal Sanskar Group celebrated the Hindu festival of Navaratri recently, with celebrations that included lessons on the festival and Hinduism, followed by art activities and prayer, and a vegetarian dinner served to all children, teachers and volunteers.
Navaratri is an annual Hindu festival observed in honour of the goddess Durga, and spans over nine nights (and ten days), first in the month of Chaitra (March/April of the Gregorian calendar), and again in the month of Ashvin (September–October). More info via Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navaratri
Tooting Bal Sanskar Group is a group of volunteers that deliver Hinduism and Gujarati classes to the local community. See Tooting Bal Sanskar Group on Facebook for more info.
Tooting’s The Urban Wine Company is growing from strength to strength! Owner Richard recently took to Tooting’s streets for people to try the locally made wine – and locals were amazed to find that the grapes were grown and harvested in Tooting!
Richard was also recently featured in The Financial Times, and he’ll be interviewed on BBC Radio 4’s Saturday Live at 9am this Saturday, 11th October!
Find out more (including how to order some of their famous pink fizz!) via their website.
Western Union has opened a branch at 11 Mitcham Road, offering worldwide money transfer (with 50% off transfer fees until this Sunday 12th October) – and you can even get your keys cut in branch too!
Open 9am-8pm, Monday to Sunday. Call them on 020 8682 2221 with any queries.
Congratulations and good luck to manager, Azam, and the team!
Upper Tooting Road, c. 1910. The parade of shops between Broadwater Road and Moffat Road is dominated by the large clock which marks the location of Hasting’s Furnishers at 234-40 Upper Tooting Road. Meanwhile, above Frederick Ogburn’s baker’s shop, a sign urges the residents of Tooting to ‘Eat Ogburn’s Bread’.
From ‘Balham and Tooting in Old Photographs’ by Patrick Loobey, ISBN 0-7509-0722-3
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