LISTER ON PUTNEY

Edward Lister is the Leader of Wandsworth Council and a member for Putney's Thamesfield ward.

How many people ever thought they would see the day when a Putney resident could be robbed at gun point outside her own front door?

Imagine the effect such a dreadful incident has on the victim's life. Nothing will ever be the same again. The trip to the shops, even the walk to or from the car - all will be undertaken with a trepidation that was previously absent.

It is the same feeling of invasion that burglary victims experience. It never goes away.

Regular readers of this column will know that the council has been making the most almighty fuss with the Home Office about the shortage of police on our streets in London.

I know this latest incident was more planned than opportunist and that it doesn't fit the normal pattern of street crime or mugging.

But the fact that armed criminals can apparently roam the capital at will - even bringing their guns to quiet residential streets - is a frightening reminder of just what an impossible task the police face with their present resources.

As part of their job of keeping in touch with the concerns of local people councillors have always held regular 'surgeries' where constituents can come for help and advice

In future surgeries will be held on Saturday mornings in town centre locations. For Putney and Roehampton the two libraries will be used.

The new system starts this Saturday. Simply turn up between 10am and 11am and you will be met by a local councillor who will be keen to listen to your concerns.

We have switched to the new time because research shows people prefer this to coming out in the evening. And by siting surgeries in town centres across the borough we hope to make them as accessible as possible.

For people who cannot make the new Saturday morning time there will be the opportunity for a personal appointment - or to make contact by telephone or email. Councillors will also make home visits to those who are housebound.

Finally don't forget this year's Wandsworth Show which takes place on Putney Lower Common over the weekend on June 23 and 24. It's always a great day out for the whole family - let's just hope the sun shines!

Edward Lister
Leader of the Council

You can contact Edward Lister at the Town Hall on 0208 871 6041 or by email at elister@wandsworth.gov.uk

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The state of the NHS in Putney and the fight against night flights ....Cllr Lister's Diary

Pedestrian saftey - especially around schools and Neighbourhood watch .... Cllr Lister's diary

CAR TAX DODGERS DRYBURGH RD DEVELOPMENT ROBIN HOOD GATE AND NIGHT FLIGHTS..............Cllr Lister's diary

Church cheer, wharf worries and Richmond Park relief - Cllr Lister's diary.

Cllr Lister speaks against the Dryburgh Rd plans, the threat of clsing Pen Ponds to traffic and litter.

The Postal Service, Richmond Park and Council Tax changes are all on Cllr Lister agenda.

Cllr Lister comments on the current planning furore, pigeon mess, cctv and policing.

Cllr Lister writes on Pensioners Freedom Passes, good news re Hotham School, development progress at Ashlone Wharf and aircraft noise from Heathrow Airport.

Recent visit to the Leisure Centre was less than enjoyable - see forum.

Cllr Lister writes on the new school for the area, housing development and Heathrow.

Cllr Lister writes on developments at the Putney School of Art & Design, The Leisure Centre and the excellent league results for local schools.

Tony Colman MP for Putney speaks about current local issues