MonkeyMoped

I was very happy with 4 Paws. They are based in Crystal Palace but collect and drop off. Really great with the dogs. https://m.facebook.com/4pawsforwalks/photos/?ref=page_internal&mt_nav=0

We used Prestige Build and Management for a loft and kitchen side-return extension. We chose them because they had a good local reputation; the quality of the work on their other projects; and because we liked the way that the quote was broken down to the last plug socket, which meant we could budget and limit spurious price increases. In the end, we did end up spending more that we originally agreed, but this was mostly due to us opting to upgrade windows etc; some was down to unexpected extra work on structural things once the build revealed the state of existing foundations and walls. Anything different or extra was always discussed and agreed with us before any work took place. We had a few issues which meant the project took longer than it had been due to, but Prestige dealt with this fairly and professionally. The guys were always friendly, considerate and hardworking, which makes a big difference when they're in your space for a long time. For such a big project, I wanted to be confident that we were engaging professional and competent tradesmen and I have been very happy with the quality of the work and the finish. I also wanted the reassurance that should anything go wrong (as things do) that they were going to deal with it promptly and properly. We recently had an issue with the roof and within a very short time of me letting Jay know, one of the guys came round and the whole thing was fixed less than a week later. This is exactly the sort of service you want when it comes to your home! I think Prestige quotes will likely come in more expensive than others, but (1) the quote is likely to be more comprehensive upfront that others' ballpark numbers and (2) having seen what friends have gone through with cowboys and comparing it to our experience, I think you do get what you pay for.

It's so hard when you're happy with your existing nursery, but I made the move to Heber for my youngest. I could not fault Heber nursery. My child was so happy there and the staff are wonderful. As previous posts say - far less turnover (none at all since I knew Heber), well trained, calm and caring staff. The activities they get up to are fantastic - have a look at 'Heber Early Years' @Heber_FS on Twitter to get a flavour for what they do. My experience is that resources (and belongings) are respected. I'd consider a closer commute twice a day is a big advantage, too :-)

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We love Mr Fruitcake! We saw him at a couple of parties and had him recently for our 4 year old's party. He keeps the kids' attention and has a great knack of getting them to behave! The kids all find him hilarious.

Another thumbs up for Lynlea from me! The thought of having an interior design always felt over the top and unaffordable. With Pinterest and Houzz, I thought I had all the inspiration I needed. But Lynlea has completely changed my opinion of what an interior designer can do for you, regardless of the size of the project or your budget. Coming to the end of a loft and kitchen extension, I thought I was getting to the exciting bit, where I got to finish the house as I wanted. But after months of making mundane decisions with builders, my enthusiasm was flagging and the endless possibilities for what I could do was rather daunting. I came across Interior Imprints by chance and immediately got Lynlea round for an initial consultation. I had a list of things I wanted some advice on, and Lynlea was able to understand my style preferences and make a number of suggestions for all of them. Importantly, she did something I really needed, which was to give me the confidence to give some of my bolder ideas a go. She also made suggestions, which at first look, seemed unusual and not to my taste. But seeing the whole package in a mood board, it all came together and you realise the value an interior designer can add. I really wish interior design is something I'd have factored in at the start of the project, as there are a number of things I would have done differently. I found Lynlea to be extremely friendly and professional. She had lots of great tips for finishes and a long list of quality suppliers and trades people. I'd highly recommend working with her.

I've been looking at this too, as we are about to get our kitchen done. Would be really interested in seeing the result. Also, if you could recommend any kitchen builders to get quotes on, that would be much appreciated. Thanks!

Gumboots Community Nursery in Crystal Palace Road turns 30 this year and we are having a party! We would love to get in touch with anyone who has been involved with the nursery over the years, particularly those who helped start it back in 1985. If you or someone you know has a link to Gumboots, or have any stories or photos of the nursery over the years, we would love to hear from you. Please send me a personal message via the forum. Many thanks, Kate

Gumboots Community Nursery in Crystal Palace Road turns 30 this year and we are having a party! We would love to get in touch with anyone who has been involved with the nursery over the years, particularly those who helped start it back in 1985. If you or someone you know has a link to Gumboots, or have any stories or photos of the nursery over the years, we would love to hear from you. Please send me a personal message via the forum. Many thanks, Kate

Animoto is not too bad. Only 60 seconds per film for free, but you can buy packages that lets you make longer ones. It's an app that lets you do everything on your phone. Think you might be able to do stuff on the website too. Plus you can share with friends.

By the number of builders' vans around here, EVERYONE seems to be getting building work done, so I'm hoping you'll. e able to give some helpful kitchen advice :-) I've seen the brilliant thread about kitchen ideas, but I'm wondering about costs. Other than 'how long is a piece of string?' ;-) how much does is cost to get a kitchen done? I know that the quality, size, finish etc are all down to personal choice, but I'd like to get an idea of how much these sorts of things cost: - ripping old kitchen out and taking it away - turning a window into French doors or a nice sliding door - installing new units and appliances - underfloor heating - installing spotlights What other sort of costs should I consider? Obviously there's: - new appliances - units - flooring - lights What else? Roughly, what are people paying for the whole lot? I have ?20k in my head, but some money/house websites say it costs quite bit less. We're not looking for top spec, just a decent job that would last a good 15 years without dating or perishing. Thanks a lot.

Hi I'm having my hair cut tomorrow (Milo and Davis in Herne Hill have Parent and Child Mondays where you can take you babies/children along) but would love to join you another week. My baby was born in June. Hope you and babies are all doing well. Kate

Great - see you there.