France. Beautiful scenery, lovely accommodation and that British rarity SUNSHINE are the package. The area is spectacular and as I can vouch, unforgettable.

You may notice that the newsletter is supported not only by local businesses but by others beyond Wimbledon Park Among them are Rashbrooks, who continue to show a commitment to our area, and haart (formerly the Woolwich). They both once occupied local premises and maintain important links with our community.

An "outsider" with a very special service, a first for us, I think, is Nigel Hardy (p18). What bliss to have your crumpled ironing collected, then returned crease-free! All you have to do is contact Nigel and open the door. Just think of all the fun things you could be doing instead of wrestling with sheets & shirts. Nigel's standards are impeccable, as endorsed by local resident, journalist & art critic, Brian Sewell. We carry a profile of Nigel on page 18, which makes interesting and inspirational reading. We wish him and his new venture every possible success.

A newcomer to our area on 31^st March was "The Purple Room" 397 Durnsford Road. This is a resale boutique specialising in women's designer clothes. The stock is extensive and sensibly priced. There are bargains galore, available Monday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. go there direct, or ring first on 020 8947 9797.

In his article on page 16, Tony Brown draws attention to the ludicrous planning objections faced by award winning restaurateurs, Sarkhels in opening Dalchini Arthur Road. It is particularly inexplicable of Merton when the DFEE is promoting ways of helping the disabled to make fuller use of shops and leisure areas. You will have seen the advertisements showing for example, large-print menus for the visually handicapped. With my own disability, I particularly welcomed the DFEE's initiative for fuller social inclusion. But it is pointless and a scandalous waste of money to have a national attempt which is then thwarted at local level. Dalchini serves delicious food, but, at the moment, if you're in a wheelchair or have any mobility problems, you won't have the chance to try it. Just a little lateral thinking, some flexibility, and a much-needed injection of common sense from Merton would make an attractive venue open to all.

Dalchini's have a promotional voucher on page 33 offering a generous discount in the Coffee shop or restaurant.

           Elizabeth Baker