Whilst the bridge is closed take time to discover new or old favourites

Putney Bridge is currently closed for essential repairs but Putney Town Centre is open for business and would welcome you to come and discover the beauty of Putney, the great range of retail shops, fine restaurants and pubs, relaxing cafes, excellent entertainment and of course the river bank.

Each day during the bridge closure works the Tiwn Centre Manager will identify a gem of Putney which she recommends you visit.

Week 1
Monday 14th July - Putney Bridge
Do you know why and how Putney Bridge came about?
One story suggests that "in 1720 Sir Robert Walpole (the following year considered the first Prime Minister) was returning from seeing George I at Kingston upon Thames and being in a hurry to get to the House of Commons rode together with his servant to Putney to take the ferry across to Fulham. The ferry boat was on the opposite side, however and the waterman, who was drinking in the Swan, ignored the calls of Sir Robert and his servant and they were obliged to take another route." Walpole vowed that a bridge would replace the ferry.[1]

The then Prince of Wales equally "was often inconvenienced by the ferry when returning from hunting in Richmond Park and asked Walpole to use his influence by supporting the bridge."[1]
The legal framework for construction of a bridge was approved by an Act of Parliament in 1726. Built by local master carpenter Thomas Phillips to a design by architect Sir Jacob Acworth, the first bridge was opened in November 1729, to become the only bridge between London Bridge and Kingston Bridge at the time. A toll bridge, it had tollbooths at either end of the timber-built structure.

Putney Bridge has today closed for vehicular traffic for essential repairs. It is open to pedestrians and cyclists if they dismount.

Reference: 1. Putney Bridge on London Historians


Tuesday 15th July – The Avenue Cookery School
Did you know that right in the heart of Putney there is a cookery school, The Avenue Cookery School offering one week and two week courses as well as day and evening classes for all ages from teenagers upwards. The courses are fun and informative – the relaxed atmosphere enables students to learn a huge amount and become confident cooks. Total beginners and accomplished cooks come on our courses and they all leave with new recipe ideas, up to date skills and a refreshed and refreshing approach to cooking.

The school is in Walkers Place less than 100 metres from both Putney High Street and Waitrose.
Next time you are near us come and visit us and see us in action. www.theavenuecookeryschool.com


Wednesday 16th July – EMILE’S RESTAURANT
96 -98 Felsham Road, Putney, London SW15 1DQ
Tel: 020 8789 3323
This well established neighbourhood restaurant delivers a great all-round package of consistently good modern British-Eclectic cuisine side by side with classic French dishes at probably the best value in London - 3 course menu £29.50 or 2 course menu £26.00.
A comprehensive wine list backed up by a separate ‘fine wine’ list also represents terrific value.
Located in a side road and approximately 5 minutes walk from Putney High Street this 100 cover restaurant is laid out over three rooms with simple decor and well-spaced tables.
Parties are catered for on a regular basis and the restaurant also features private dining facilities for up to 47 guests.

For menus, photos and further details please visit our website at www.emilesrestaurant.co.uk

Thursday 17th July - Soul Brother Records
Soul Brother Records are one of the leading Independent Record Shops in the UK.
You will find a massive selection of Quality Soul, Funk, Jazz, Reggae and Blues titles on CD and Vinyl both New Pre-owned and Collectables. We also have many Rock and Pop Pre-owned Vinyl records, and have access to most available titles. We offer a good and knowledgeable level of customer service and have listening facilities in store. Pop in and have a look around or check our website www.soulbrother.com.
1 Keswick Rd Putney SW15 2HL (1 min from East Putney tube) Open Mon-Sat 10am- 7pm Sun 11am- 5pm 020 8875 1018

Friday 18th July – Sporting Feet
Sporting Feet in Lacy road, Putney sells great quality footwear for all major sports including football, rugby, netball, hockey, running, racquet sports, gym & fitness, cricket and others.
This is a great family shop for adults and kids who offer great service and expert advice. The shop is also a useful hub of information on sport in the local area.
Sporting Feet are particularly well known for running shoes and offer free natural gait analysis and free digital foot scanning. Another key product category is sports insoles which can help with stability and injury prevention.
www.sporting-feet.com
3 Lacy Road, Putney, SW15 1NH 020 8780 0558



July 17, 2014