Richard Lipski
Oct 29, 2026
Trivia Questionâť“Which world-famous tennis tournament brings strawberries, cream, and championship matches to the London Borough of Merton each summer? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
A burst water main near South Wimbledon station has closed part of Kingston Road to westbound traffic, with repairs expected to continue until at least Friday and motorists warned of significant delays. It is Wimbledon’s second major water incident in a week, though Merton Council says the leak is unrelated to a burst near Island Barn Reservoir that disrupted supplies to as many as 15,000 properties across Surrey and South London. Wimbledon MP Paul Kohler says the incidents show water infrastructure is “at breaking point” and has called for Thames Water to be put into special administration. Thames Water apologised and says it is working to repair the leak quickly. |
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Families at 28 Merton schools faced possible disruption after support staff strike action was planned for Friday 9 October over the gap between inner and outer London pay.
It is not confirmed whether the action went ahead or how individual schools operated.
Merton Council said schools would tell parents and carers directly whether they would open fully, open partly or close, so families should check messages from their child’s school.
The council said it was working with affected schools to limit disruption, with particular attention to safeguarding, vulnerable pupils and children with additional needs.
According to the council, the GMB requested a one-off payment for affected staff, but the council rejected it, arguing it would not resolve the underlying pay gap.
Merton says it supports fair pay and is pressing for a lasting solution through national negotiations on school support staff pay and London weighting. Read More... |
The Ivy Café Wimbledon brings a touch of relaxed elegance to the heart of Wimbledon Village. This beloved local spot is perfect for any occasion, offering a welcoming atmosphere for everything from a casual breakfast to a special family dinner. The all-day menu features a wonderful selection of modern British classics, including their famous Shepherd’s Pie and other favourites like the crispy duck salad.
Known for its beautiful interior and friendly service, it has truly become a cherished part of our community fabric. Be sure to save room for their stunning chocolate bombe dessert for a memorable treat. This spotlight is presented by The Ivy Café Wimbledon.
Why not treat yourself to a visit? You can explore the full menu and book your table directly on their website. |
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Run South London will bring a new 13.1-mile half marathon to Merton on Sunday 14 March 2027, with a route passing the All England Club.
The race will start and finish in Morden Park, taking runners towards Wimbledon Park and Wimbledon Common and through Morden and Raynes Park.
Organised by the Great Run Company and Merton Council, the event aims to celebrate the borough’s neighbourhoods as well as its Wimbledon sporting heritage.
Organisers hope it will inspire more people to get active and bring extra trade to local cafés, shops and hotels.
Residents should look out for travel and access information as race day approaches, particularly if they plan to move around the route that Sunday.
Organisers hope the race will become a regular fixture that local communities embrace year after year. Read More... |
Q&A Questions |
Q: Where is Merton in London? A: Merton is a borough in southwest London. Q: Which areas are in Merton? A: The borough includes Wimbledon, Mitcham and Morden. Q: Is the Wimbledon tennis tournament held in Merton? A: Yes. The Wimbledon Championships take place at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in the borough. |
đź’ˇ Answer to Trivia Question: The Wimbledon Championships. |