October 2009 Archives

The Roundwood Park firework display is taking place on Thursday 5th November from 8pm. gates open at 6.45pm. The event is free.

THE World renowned BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, in Neasden, has been presented the prestigious Queen's Award for Voluntary Service because of its successful Children's Forum.
The highly acclaimed honour sets the national benchmark for excellence in volunteering.
Her Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant for Greater London, Sir David Brewer and the Deputy Lieutenant, Mei Sim Lai visited earlier this month to present the award.
The Mayor of Brent, Councillor Jim O'Sullivan was also there to watch the ceremony.
After being warmly welcomed by young boys and girls of the BAPS Children's Forum, all
distinguished guests were escorted to a special exhibition showcasing the academic,
recreational, environmental, and social activities carried out by the Forum.
Another section highlighted its community work in aid of charities such as Children in
Need, The Anthony Nolan Trust, and Blue Peter's Shoe Biz Appeal.
The guests were then shown around the Mandir's sanctorum where they spent a few moments
admiring its intricate and world famous architecture.
Upon entering the Haveli Prayer Hall, the Lord-Lieutenant was greeted by rapturous
applause from more than 4,000 guests.
Swayamprakash Swami, also known as Doctor Swami, garlanded the Lord-Lieutenant and welcomed him in a traditional manner.
Thirteen-year-old Tilak Patel confidently spoke about the BAPS Children's Forum, highlighting its role in nurturing children during challenging times.
The Lord-Lieutenant presented the Queen's Award crystal and a certificate, personally signed by Her Majesty the Queen, to Doctor Swami, the trustees and the national coordinators of the BAPS Children's Forum.
The ceremony concluded with a traditional Indian dance.
The Queen's Award for Voluntary Service was created by Her Majesty to mark the occasion
of her Golden Jubilee in 2002. For further details of the Award, visit www.queensawardvoluntary.gov.uk