Isle Of Dogs Archives

September 24, 2026September 24, 2026

The Space launches fundraising drive to generate £30,000 this year

The theatre, arts centre and community hub on the Isle Of Dogs is marking its 30th birthday with the unveiling of its Space 30 crowdfunder.

Artistic director Matthew Jameson could be losing quite a lot of hair, depending on the levels of donation - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — Artistic director Matthew Jameson could be losing quite a lot of hair, depending on the levels of donation – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

“We officially turn 30 this September,” said Matthew Jameson, artistic director of The Space arts centre on the Isle Of Dogs.

“It’s extraordinary to be the guardian and representative of an organisation like this at a point in its life when it feels like it’s grown up.

“We can still see the vision that its founder, Robert Richardson had for this place in the 1990s – a multiform arts centre, a community centre and hub on the Isle Of Dogs for all its people regardless of religious or political persuasion.

“It was to be something to expose them to all forms of art – that’s the only instruction we’ve been given and what we try to achieve.”

While in-person tickets for Space 30: An Evening Of Celebration on Friday, September 25, 2026 rapidly sold out (thanks in no small part to the promise of patron Sir Ian Mckellen performing some Shakespeare), the event will act as both a birthday party and the start of a wider fundraising campaign.

Those keen to witness the goings-on can still tune in for the live stream with tickets starting at £12 and profits going towards the campaign.

“We’ve got a smorgasbord of acts who have all played their part in The Space’s story,” said Matthew.

“Andrew Campling, a composer, conductor and pianist who was a dear friend of our founder will be playing some of his own compositions.

“We’ll also have Kayla McQuarrie, the host of our new open mic comedy nights and Stephen Smith who has smashed the Edinburgh Fringe with his show One Man Poe and found his feet at The Space.

“Then Sir Ian will perform some Shakespeare and talk to us about the journey of turning this building from a disused church into what it is today having helped lay the ground for that project in the early 1990s.

“Depending on the levels of donations we get on the night I might be shaving my beard, my hair or even waxing my whole body.

“Then, as part of Space 30, we’ll be unveiling all sorts of ways to donate to The Space – people can sponsor seats for £200 or sign up to support a creative for £630, which allows us to bring in an artist, subsidise their practice and give them a safe place to develop and hone their craft.

“It’s a project we’re very keen to do but one we just don’t have the resources for at the moment.

“We also want to remind people that a £60 donation lets us open for an evening to host a community-minded group or organisation.

“This is the start of a new chapter in the life of The Space – we’re under new management, split jointly between myself and Sarah Read and there are exciting times ahead.

“The people we’re working with are getting excited by the multi-form vision, something that can be somewhere for everyone on the Island, that puts on fun, engaging, entertaining shows and events with pathos and meaning.

“We want to provide people with somewhere that’s affordable, that they can come and see their first show or discover new artists.”

The Space is located on Westferry Road on the Isle Of Dogs - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — The Space is located on Westferry Road on the Isle Of Dogs – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

welcoming audiences through the doors

One of the key messages The Space is keen to amplify is its accessibility. While being nestled on the Isle Of Dogs, the arts centre is less than 10 minutes’ walk from Mudchute DLR and served by multiple bus routes connecting it to Canary Wharf in 12 minutes. Walking between the estate and the venue takes less than 20 minutes.

“A lot of what we do is about getting people across the threshold,” said Matthew. “We have a beautiful building here but there’s a mystery about it – is it a church, a synagogue, a power station?

“Once people visit, it can be enough for them to fall in love with the place.

“We’d welcome even more people coming from Canary Wharf and we’re incredibly grateful to CWG for the collaborations we’ve done with them over many years.

“I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone and all the organisations that have contributed to The Space and who have helped us make it the place it is today.

“If people haven’t visited for a while or have just wondered what this strange building is on Westferry Road, then I want to say that we’re here, we’re open and we have a broad programme for everyone.

“As artistic director, one of the things I’ve most enjoyed about the role has been getting out into the community and meeting people with the aim of working more closely – with Theatreship, for example.

“We always punch above our weight in terms of the performers who come here – such as our stand-up comedy nights, for example.

“This is your invitation to come into The Space, see a show and discover what it is we’re doing on the Isle Of Dogs.”

key details: The Space’s Space 30 campaign

Full details of the live stream on Friday, September 25, 2026, are available via this link.

The venue has also launched a Space 30 crowdfunder to help its achieve its aims and to support its mission in the future. Find out more here.

Read Wharf Life’s e-edition here

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

September 13, 2026September 13, 2026

New homes unveiled at 25 Cuba development on the Isle Of Dogs

Scheme by Ballymore and Penta Real Estate includes facilities such as workspaces, content studios and a fitness suite with a Yoga terrace

An artist's impression of 25 Cuba - image supplied by Ballymore — An artist’s impression of 25 Cuba – image supplied by Ballymore

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

“We spend a great deal of time understanding how people actually want to live, how they work, how they rest and how they connect,” said Brian De’Ath, managing director of sales and marketing at Ballymore.

“Every decision at 25 Cuba comes from that understanding, informed by the insights we have gained from listening to our residents through internal surveys and observing how they use our neighbourhoods.

“People are doing so much more than their primary job, they are building businesses, creating content, freelancing, investing and learning.

“They are ambitious and our research shows that their homes need to keep up with them, and become a place where they can feel productive, focused and creative.

“At 25 Cuba, we are creating a space that genuinely supports the full breadth of how these people want to spend their time.”

The development includes a new public square - image supplied by Ballymore — The development includes a new public square – image supplied by Ballymore

marking the launch

Ballymore and Penta Real Estate, the developers behind the 52-storey scheme on the Isle Of Dogs’ Cuba Street, have marked its launch by commissioning a survey into what prospective London buyers are looking for in a home.

Based on the views of 1,000 respondents aged 25-68 and conducted by More In Common, the research found 80% were engaged in entrepreneurial activity outside their main job including investing (47%), freelancing (37%), content creation (27%) and running a small business (23%).

The survey found 92% believed London rewarded ambition, while 23% were already earning £10,000 or more each year from their side hustle.

Echoing Brian’s views, the research also showed buyers were keen for their future home to play a part in that with 48% ranking a property that supported their ambitions or goals as a top-two priority and 65% of respondents using their homes for side projects on most days.

How the development's Yoga terrace will look - image supplied by Ballymore — How the development’s Yoga terrace will look – image supplied by Ballymore

baking-in the facilities

“London is one of those special places where you genuinely feel like anything could be possible,” said Brian.

“We didn’t want to build somewhere that people just come home to at the end of the day.

“We wanted somewhere that actively helps people get to where they are trying to go and gives them the space, literally and figuratively, to do their best work.

“As we prepare for the opening of 25 Cuba we will also be using what we’ve learnt from our most recent research to consider the ways in which the space will be managed, from the type of events hosted to the music played, to best suit those living here.”

Scheduled for completion in 2029, the 434-apartment development offers studios, one, two and three-bedroom properties that feature open-plan design and private balconies.

Communal facilities include a 24-hour concierge service, a reception gallery, a garden bar and a fitness suite on the 32nd floor complete with weights, cardio machines, a dance studio and a Yoga terrace.

There will also be a reading room, workspaces, meeting pods, a library, meeting rooms and content creation studios for residents to use as well as a one-acre park.

More In Common’s survey found more than a third of prospective buyers were paying for access to workspaces, with even higher percentages for those running businesses and making content.

Prices at the tower range from from £395,000 to £2,750,000 - image supplied by Ballymore — Prices at the tower range from from £395,000 to £2,750,000 – image supplied by Ballymore

an increasingly attractive Canary Wharf

The research also said respondents felt most creative in parks and outdoor spaces making the newly landscaped Cuba Street Gardens an attractive proposition on the doorstep at 25 Cuba.

Residents will, of course, also benefit from the likes of Mudchute Park And Farm and Sir John McDougall Gardens, which are also within walking distance.

The survey also found the wider Canary Wharf area had become more attractive over the last decade as a place to live with 62% saying their opinion of the neighbourhood had improved.

A little over three quarters said they would or may consider a move to E14.

Brian said: “Something has shifted in how people see Canary Wharf. Once a place where you came to work and left at the end of the day, it is now a neighbourhood where people want to live, socialise and spend their weekends.

“What has been particularly notable is the commitment from commercial companies like PwC, Visa, and JP Morgan Chase, which is certainly not something we envisaged happening when we first started planning 25 Cuba.”

Facilities include content production studios - image supplied by Ballymore — Facilities include content production studios – image supplied by Ballymore

key details: 25 Cuba

Prices for private sale apartments at 25 Cuba range from £395,000 to £2,750,000.

A show apartment is available to view in the sales gallery by appointment on weekdays and Saturdays at The Cube facility in Millwall Inner Dock on the Isle Of Dogs, just off Marsh Wall.

Find out more about the development here

The building's main reception area - image supplied by Ballymore — The building’s main reception area – image supplied by Ballymore

Read Wharf Life’s e-edition here

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

September 12, 2026September 12, 2026

West India Docks Impounding Station set for October open days

Canal And River Trust facility houses 97-year-old pumps that keep water levels topped up across the Isle Of Dogs and is offering tours

Canal And River Trust mechanical and electrical technician Brandon Hamilton at the West India Docks Impounding Station - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — Canal And River Trust mechanical and electrical technician Brandon Hamilton at the West India Docks Impounding Station – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

“It’s the lid we use to seal off the bottom of the pump and prevent the Thames coming in at high tide,” said Brandon Hamilton, indicating a massive steel plate leaning against one of the walls inside the West India Docks Impounding Station.

“We use it because Brandon doesn’t like to go swimming when he’s not wearing his trunks.”

While admitting to a preference for taking his dips in Mexican cenotes, we’re not here to talk about Brandon’s aquatic adventures.

That’s because he’s one of a small team of people that plays a vital, mostly hidden role in the life of this part of east London.

Walking past the docks on the Isle Of Dogs and in Canary Wharf, it’s easy to forget that the waterways don’t simply take care of themselves – that these human-made lakes are anything other than a bucolic feature of Island life.

The facility houses three Worthington pumps, which started work in 1929 and are still going - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — The facility houses three Worthington pumps, which started work in 1929 and are still going – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

But all that water is constantly trying to escape.

It evaporates, it flows to freedom into the Thames when lock gates open and it seeps away over time.

As a mechanical and electrical technician at the Canal And River Trust, among many other tasks and challenges, Brandon and his colleagues work tirelessly to maintain the systems that prevent the water level dropping too far.

It’s an operation centred on just three machines housed in a low brick building on the western edge of the Isle Of Dogs between Westferry Road and Marsh Wall.

The premise is simple. Three Worthington pumps can draw water from the Thames at high tide and top up the docks to the required level.

The quantities are staggering. They are capable of filling an Olympic-size swimming pool in about nine minutes.

They’re also 97 years old. This is rugged infrastructure that was built to last, designed to serve the needs of thriving docks.

Today it supports everything floating in the waterways from Skuna’s hot tubs and St Peter’s Barge at West India Quay to the GoBoats in Canary Wharf, the houseboats in Blackwall Basin, the Docklands Scout Project in South Dock and the Docklands Sailing And Watersports Centre further down the Island.

The West India Docks Impounding Station is located between Westferry Road and Marsh Wall on the Isle Of Dogs - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — The West India Docks Impounding Station is located between Westferry Road and Marsh Wall on the Isle Of Dogs – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

the harmony of the pumps

“This,” said Brandon, indicating the interior of the West India Docks Impounding Station, “is what I call the heart of Docklands.

“When the pumps are running they make this humming sound – it’s harmonious, like a symphony.

“This place has a hold on me, it’s very close to my heart – I’ve spent a long time working on these machines.”

Having joined the trust after college, Brandon has spent eight years working for the charity, which looks after the Isle Of Dogs waterways and countless others nationwide.

He said: “Now, the impounding station is pretty much fully automated. But when I started in 2018 we were still operating the pumps manually.

One of the electrical motors that drive the pumps - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — One of the electrical motors that drive the pumps – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

“Because they need to be operated at high tide for around two hours, before automation, that would mean coming down to the station at all hours of the day and night – usually three times a week to maintain the water level.

“Several of us were trained to operate them and to do that job, but now it’s automated we don’t need to come down at 3am while everybody else is in bed.

“Now they can be operated remotely and we can even see updates and get alerts on our phones if there are any issues.

“That’s the beauty of mixing the old and new technology.

“Of course, we still need to do the maintenance and it’s wonderful to be able to work with these historical artefacts and to help keep them running – the pumps and the hydraulic gates that open and close to let water into the docks. I love it.”

One of the hydraulic gates that control the flow of water into the dock - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — One of the hydraulic gates that control the flow of water into the dock – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

opening to the public

Driven by electric motors, the pumps have survived a lot over the years including the blitz, floods and even damage to the station’s roof from Storm Eunice that meant it needed replacing.

At some point, the pumps themselves will also need to be renewed, with the trust investigating its options.

In the meantime, the inter-war systems will continue to pump water just as they have for most of the past 100 years.

Not normally open to the public, the impounding station is set to throw wide its doors on October 9 and 10, 2026, for a series of guided tours led by staff from the Canal And River Trust.

Visitors can expect to learn about the history of the facility, get close to its singular pumps and discover exactly how the whole set-up works.

Brandon, who works across all of the charity’s mechanical and electrical infrastructure on the Island, including its numerous bridges, said: “I love that I get to do these things – each day is different and I get to collaborate with an organisation that really values the water and the things that me and my colleagues do.

“I would tell any young person that looking after waterways and canals is a pretty good direction to go in.

“Being by the water is peaceful and calming, it’s just nice.

“Through my role I get the opportunity to support STEM students and to let young people know what my job is like.

“That’s definitely a blessing. It’s a career I really enjoy.

“It brings me real pride to work for a charity that’s so passionate about what it does.

“But it’s also the team, getting to work alongside each other to make sure everything’s working and repairing things when we need to.

“The trust is doing its utmost to bring people to our canals and rivers – individuals, our neighbours, communities and businesses – and there are real benefits to doing that.

“It takes a lot to maintain our waterways and there wouldn’t be so much beauty for people to discover if we didn’t do the work we do.

“We love it when people come and visit us to see the kinds of things we’re actually doing behind the scenes.”

The impounding station inlet, which takes water from the Thames - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — The impounding station inlet, which takes water from the Thames – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

key details: West India Docks Impounding Station

Guided tours of the West India Docks Impounding Station are set to take place on October 9 and 10, 2026, with 45-minute time slots from 10am to 3pm.

Tickets cost £16.76 for adults and £9.21 for children.

You can book tickets via this link

Read Wharf Life’s e-edition here

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

August 13, 2026August 13, 2026

Elevate programme supports UOSiL grads to help boost careers

The University Of Sunderland In London, based on the Isle Of Dogs near Canary Wharf has developed the initiative to help people get the jobs they want

Hermione Penny, placement and internship programme manager at the University Of Sunderland In London - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — Hermione Penny, placement and internship programme manager at the University Of Sunderland In London – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

Hermione Penny is relishing her latest role.

Born in Archway and growing up in Watford, she’s always had a love for busy, urban environments and now really enjoys living and working in London, indulging her passion for playing football locally, having grown up watching the Hornets at Vicarage Road with her dad.

But she’s not only a team player on the pitch, it’s a trait she’s carried into her career, most recently as the University Of Sunderland In London’s placement and internship programme manager.

“After graduating, I had that period of trying to work out who I was, what I cared about and what I was interested in,” she said.

“Initially I worked in clothing retail, but I realised that helping people was where I wanted to be.

“I stayed in the sector and found a role at the Fashion Retail Academy, having realised that I’m 100% a people person.

“The opportunity was in education and I was working to find placements for students across our courses.

“I couldn’t do a job where I’m not communicating with other individuals every day – it was during lockdown that I found a group of women to kick a ball around with because it was all we were allowed to do with social distancing.”

supporting those seeking careers

Next came a spell at Blueprint For All in Deptford, formerly the Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust, a charity with an ambition to create a fairer and more inclusive society.

“My role there was to develop programmes and I worked across lots of different projects, which reinforced my love of supporting people,” said Hermione.

“Following on from the Black Lives Matter movement we saw a lot of partnerships come through the door and we had a lot of success getting funding, so it was a really exciting busy time.

“I spent some time in fundraising, but I realised what I needed to do was programme management, so I moved to Future Of London, a not-for-profit organisation that helps people who want to start a career in the built environment, planning, regeneration and community engagement.

“Working in the world of diversity and inclusion we’d find people internships, support them and see them shine.”

delivering Elevate

All of these facets of her story are important because Hermione’s own career is one where broad experience over many years has equipped her for the role she’s now undertaking at the university from its base at Harbour Exchange on the Isle Of Dogs.

The programme she’s running – Elevate – is specifically designed to provide those who have finished courses with skills and opportunities to help boost their careers.

“This is something new for our campus,” said Hermione.

“We know some of our graduates struggle to gain graduate-level employment, especially those who don’t necessarily have the background of a traditional university student.

“In some cases, graduates may still be working in the same part-time roles they were doing while studying and we want to support them to secure graduate-level work.

“Our employability and enterprise hub already offers ongoing support for up to three years after students graduate.

“But we’ve developed Elevate specifically for graduates who are not in further education or jobs at the level they should be.

“It’s designed to provide them with some practical work experience via paid internships, as well as training and support to develop their abilities.

“It lasts three months and we’re working with businesses across the area to deliver these opportunities to thrive, learn new skills and gain a better understanding of working environments they might not be used to so they have leverage to make job applications and secure graduate-level employment.”

The University Of Sunderland in London is based at Harbour Exchange on the Isle Of Dogs - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — The University Of Sunderland in London is based at Harbour Exchange on the Isle Of Dogs – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

paid internships to boost job prospects

The first five students are about to complete the pilot programme at the university and Hermione said flexibility had allowed participants to access opportunities they might have otherwise struggled to find.

“It’s about helping people get to where they want to be,” she said.

“The internship is flexible, which means those with caring responsibilities or who are unable to work full-time can still take part.

“Often, the reason people aren’t in graduate-level jobs is that there are so many barriers in the way – it’s all so competitive.

“Perhaps a person’s digital skills aren’t very broad in a professional setting, so we help with that and things like writing CVs, job applications and research skills, as well as AI competency.

“Elevate gives people the practical skills to have the right experience in a working environment and to feel confident while they’re there.

“Most employers expect people to arrive prepared to operate at a high level, which may not be realistic for all graduates.

“We offer one-to-one advice and guidance while they’re in the programme and regularly check in with them so they get that wrap-around support.”

why the University Of Sunderland in London is seeking partners

The university is looking to expand the number and variety of businesses it works with through its Elevate programme.

“The internships need to be at a graduate level, but we’re open to a range of different employers,” said Hermione.

“The university offers courses in business, finance, healthcare, technology, hospitality and tourism.

“As part of the programme, we cover the salaries of the interns on the scheme so there’s minimal risk to employers.

“It’s about offering experience, time and resource to support people when they come into work and we make every effort to minimise the challenges.

“We work with businesses to understand their expectations – what’s included in the job description – and we weave that into the application.

“Before we send interns out to an employer, they attend a boot camp with us to ensure they have all the skills they need.

“It’s about giving people a safe space to figure things out – it’s OK not to get things right first time.

“We’re keen to connect with employers who need extra pairs of hands over a three-month period to help people go on and be successful in their careers.”

key details: Elevate at the University Of Sunderland In London

You can find out more about studying at the University Of Sunderland In London on its website or via its open day on Saturday, September 12, 2026.

Employers interested in participating in the Elevate programme can email Hermione with enquiries via hermione.penny@sunderland.ac.uk

Read Wharf Life’s e-edition here

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

July 29, 2026July 29, 2026

Kitchen Jam on how to play the riff to David Bowie’s Rebel Rebel

Music school offering guitar and bass lessons in Canary Wharf and Stratford on the classic track’s east London links and how to handle the hook

Sit down with that six-string and get strumming - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — Sit down with that six-string and get strumming – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

In the first of a series of regular collaborations with Canary Wharf’s guitar school, Kitchen Jam, we take a look at the history of a track with a local link and deliver some tips on how to play it

Kitchen Jam founder Darryl Powis has created a video tutorial to help Wharfers get their fingers around the riff that drives Rebel Rebel. Simply follow this link to get playing
To play the whole track you’ll need the chords below:

All the chords you'll need to play Rebel Rebel by David Bowie - image by Wharf Life — All the chords you’ll need to play Rebel Rebel by David Bowie – image by Wharf Life

looking back on the history of the track and its link to Docklands

BY ZAINAB HASSAN

Picture this – it’s early 1990, and David Bowie has just announced the Sound+Vision tour, a series of gigs where he’d play his biggest hits live for the very last time.

Rather than choose the setlist himself, he handed the decision to his global fanbase through telephone voting.

Dial 1-900-2-BOWIE-90 on your landline, and you were taking your chances at getting your favourite track onto the bill.

As calls flooded in from every corner of the globe, Bowie built the setlist from a mix of UK votes, American votes, and requests from everywhere else in between.

It was a truly global selection, curated to reflect what the world wanted to hear.

echoing on the island

For three nights that March, the tour landed in the capital at the London Arena, an indoor venue on the Isle Of Dogs that held up to 15,000 fans.

Demolished in 2006, the landscape is markedly different to when Bowie’s genre-shifting hits were last played, but the echoes of his riffs still resound in the hands of guitarists to this day.

glam rock swagger

The Sound+Vision tour setlist was shaped with deep cuts standing shoulder to shoulder with Bowie’s biggest hits.

One such song, Rebel Rebel, came early in the setlist. Salvaged from a scrapped Ziggy Stardust musical, it was the lead single for 1974 album Diamond Dogs and was the last of Bowie’s singles to swagger with true glam rock bravado.

Deceptively simple, yet roaring with a Rolling Stones-esque ferocity, the main riff loops around three chords – D, A and E – and an unrelenting descending melody that’s as instantly singable as it is impossible to shake.

the end of two eras

As a swan song to glam rock, Rebel Rebel was the end of an era for Bowie.

The Sound+Vision tour was the end of another, as he retired the hits from his live sets for good.

Two farewells, made decades apart, overlapped for three nights at the London Arena.

But all these memories remain in music. Just listen to that rebellious opening riff – it all comes flooding back.

For those who’d like to know more, east London is also now home to the David Bowie Centre in Stratford.

Based at the V&A East Storehouse, the collection includes more than 90,000 items from the artist’s archive and is free to visit.

key details: Kitchen Jam

Kitchen Jam offers guitar lessons rooted in musical connection and community from its studios in Canary Wharf and Stratford.

Follow this link to find out how to book a free trial session

Read Wharf Life’s e-edition here

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

July 29, 2026July 29, 2026

The Space hosts Tech Academy to offer taster of arts careers

Two-day intensive session for those not in employment, education or training offers crash course in sound, lighting and stage management

Tech Academy is a two-day crash course in technical theatre skills at The Space - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — Tech Academy is a two-day crash course in technical theatre skills at The Space – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

“The aim of Tech Academy is to give people a crash course in the technical aspects of theatre production – hopefully to act as a springboard that will get them into long-term careers,” said Matthew Jameson, artistic director at The Space on the Isle Of Dogs.

The Westferry Road theatre and arts centre is running a two-day session for up to 15 people who are living in Tower Hamlets and are not currently in education, employment or training.

It’s intended as a gateway to working in the sector.

The pilot scheme, which is supported by the East End Community Foundation, aims to give participants a solid grounding in the key technical elements needed for a fringe theatre show – lighting, sound and stage management.

“Across two intensive days we’ll deliver an introduction to all things technical,” said Matthew.

“The staff here, including our executive director Sarah Reed, have a wealth of experience in the industry to pass on – we want to provide an environment where people can learn safely and fail safely so they get a real understanding of what it’s like to work in this environment.

“We cover vocabulary and terminology because it can be terrifying for people to feel out of their depth if they don’t know the right words to use.

“There’s a lot of jargon and we’re here to demystify and clarify what’s happening.

“We’ll also be showing people all the equipment, how to set it up, treat it with respect and use it in a safe and responsible manner.

“The course covers things like manual handling, working with ladders, hanging, focussing and programming lights.

“The idea is to cover everything to see a show through from setting it up, pressing the buttons to make it go and then clearing up at the end.

“It’s every single step you need to be aware of to work behind the scenes on shows at venues like ours or in bigger theatres.”

Artistic director at The Space, Matthew Jameson - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — Artistic director at The Space, Matthew Jameson – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

opening doors to opportunity

While the course doesn’t lead to a formal qualification, The Space hopes it will result in opportunities both within its own programming and at other venues.

“We’d like this pilot scheme will develop into a longer-term programme at The Space in the future,” said Matthew.

“The uptake has been fantastic so far and there’s clearly potential to take it further, which is what we’d like to do in the future.

“There is an identifiable need here and we want to help people explore careers in this sector.

“We really hope these Tech Academy sessions are the springboard for participants to find a discipline they love and identify with.

“While the course covers a range of skills, for longer term opportunities people tend to gravitate to a particular area.

“They might prefer working with lighting to sound, for example.

“We hope these sessions will help participants discover those pathways.

“That might be more on the stage management side – learning how to mark up the props table and how to run a show safely and efficiently back stage.

“It can also be very important for theatre-makers, directors, writers and actors to understand how it all works – what’s possible and what roles everyone is playing when they’re doing the fluffier side of creating performances.

“In the end, all the departments have to work together to make something far greater than any of them are capable of individually.

“This is something I’ll always love about live theatre – that the planning and talents of a group of people can come together to create something extraordinary.

“That’s when performance is at its peak – a well-oiled slick machine, where actors are not bumping into the furniture, everything is exactly where it should be, the sound and lighting are perfectly in sync and the audience are responding to it.

“It’s just wonderful to see.”

Participants get a grounding in a range of skills including how to work safely at height - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — Participants get a grounding in a range of skills including how to work safely at height – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

a grounding before specilisation

While the Tech Academy sessions are intended to deliver a good grounding, they’ve also been designed to test participants.

“We set up what we call obstacle courses up as part of what we’re doing and an element of one of those is where Sarah and I perform a short, two-page scene,” said Matthew.

“We’re going to be asking the participants to operate a series of sound and lighting effects based on the scene as though we were doing a real performance.

“But actors can be fallible. What happens if one of us makes a mistake?

“Maybe some things will go wrong. That’s just show business.

“One of the lessons we aim to pass on is that live theatre is unpredictable and anything can happen.

“We have to be prepared as theatre-makers to find a way through, to keep that audience there and engaged.

“It’s really important to recognise the power that technicians have and their responsibility.

“Theatre relies on the power of the imagination – the incredible acts of trickery by the people audiences don’t see so that sounds, music and light can help transport them and set their pulses racing.

“That making all of those happen at the right time for what’s happening on stage is also a performance and takes real skill.

“I hope that the people who participate in Tech Academy will feel that technical theatre is demystified and is a real and plausible career that they can consider.

“People should know that it’s not highly specialised, that you can learn the buttons to press and see the routes through to get gigs.

“Hopefully, this time next year, they’ll be preparing to go up to the Edinburgh Festival, and a couple of years down the line, they may be touring internationally.”

The sessions cover sound, lighting, stage management and more - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — The sessions cover sound, lighting, stage management and more – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

key details: Tech Academy at The Space

The Space on the Isle Of Dogs is currently recruiting participants for its next two-day session – set to take place in August or September, 2026.

Applicants should be Tower Hamlets residents who are not in education, employment or training.

The course is free to attend and includes lunch and snacks.

The application form can be found here on its website.

Tech Academy takes place at The Space on the Isle Of Dogs' Westferry Road — Tech Academy takes place at The Space on the Isle Of Dogs’ Westferry Road – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

Read Wharf Life’s e-edition here

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

July 19, 2026July 19, 2026

Frontispiece deals in maps and antique prints at West India Quay

Based at Cannon Workshops, Reg Beer’s business offers and archive of more than 1million items as well as a bespoke framing service

Frontispiece managing director, Reg Beer - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — Frontispiece managing director, Reg Beer – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

Reg Beer is sitting in his workshop, premises that house an extraordinary collection of maps and antique prints from Docklands, Britain and all over the world.

It’s an archive that now extends to more than a million individual documents and images.

Frontispiece is the business he established in 1989 to trade in such items, later adding a framing service as a natural extension to its operation.

It – like Reg – continues to have a storied existence and deserves to be a natural point of exploration for anyone moving to this part of London and seeking something of the place they’ve relocated to.

It’s also a fantastic resource for interior designers seeking to bring an authentic connection to history in their creations.

Reg began buying prints and documents as a teenager, initially from dealers and then at auctions in lots of multiple items.

“I was interested in the history of east London when my dad was a lad in the 1890s,” he said.

“People didn’t really have things on the wall when I was growing up apart from stuff like ‘Jesus Saves’ or ‘Welcome Home’ – no artwork.

“But I’d put up these prints.

“A chap I used to buy from suggested I go to an auction and buy 500 prints in a single lot, keep the ones I wanted and then sell the rest on.”

Detail from Victoria Dock Canning Town and East India Docks Poplar antique map, 1902, £48 - image supplied by Frontispiece — Detail from Victoria Dock Canning Town and East India Docks Poplar antique map, 1902, £48 – image supplied by Frontispiece

from collector to dealer

However, it was some time before Reg would turn that enthusiasm into a business.

He worked as a “camera operator” for the press, snapping musicians and football games as well as garden parties at Buckingham Palace.

After about eight years of pressing the shutter, he “became fed up with that” and pursued another passion – the railway.

“I was a train-spotter as a kid,” he said.

“You’d be standing on the bridge and get swamped with smoke and steam. I became a fireman on diesel engines.

“You see things from the footplate you can’t see from the train. I loved it.”

After a spell travelling, he returned to the East End to work as a labourer at Truman’s Brewery, before deciding – on the advice of his brother – to apply to university.

This was despite having no qualifications, having left school at 15.

After successfully negotiating the entrance exam, he trained as a teacher, returning to east London to work in the classroom – a career that took him through to the launch of Frontispiece.

In his time, Reg has been a male model, photographed the likes of the Rolling Stones, the Yardbirds and Duke Ellington and has been a magistrate since 1986.

He’s a Freeman of the City Of London, a former master of the Worshipful Company Of Poulters and has held the positions of deputy mayor of Tower Hamlets and trustee at Whitechapel Art Gallery. He also plays a mean blues on the mouthorgan.

Having originally opened at Tobacco Dock in Wapping when it became a shopping centre, Frontispiece relocated to Canary Wharf to become the first retail business to open on the estate in the early 1990s, trading successfully in the malls for many years.

Today both his antique maps and prints business and framing services continue to operate from rooms at Cannon Workshops close to West India Quay.

Reg in the process of making a frame for a picture - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — Reg in the process of making a frame for a picture – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

an extensive inventory at Frontispiece

Like his life, Reg’s business contains multitudes.

His files and shelves are filled with images, documents, clippings and maps that tell stories.

“I have a particular focus on Docklands,” he said.

“For example, I have more than 500 images of the Great Eastern – Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s ship, which was built on the Isle Of Dogs as well as pictures of the engineer himself.

“Those are some of the most popular items we have.

“People also like to have maps of the places they’re living in and images of how these places used to be.”

Frontispiece has digitised more than 6,000 items, which are now available through its website.

Those browsing there will find everything from pages from The Illustrated London News in the 19th century to prints of flower fairies, sketches of ladies’ fashions, maps and images of maritime history.

There’s also a strong focus on military history, with Reg passionate about The Royal Regiment Of Fusiliers – based at the Tower Of London – which his father served with during the First World War.

Detail from Pheasants And Peacocks antique print, published 1862 in Oliver Goldsmith’s A History Of The Earth And Animated Nature, £45 - image supplied by Frontispie — Detail from Pheasants And Peacocks antique print, published 1862 in Oliver Goldsmith’s *A History Of The Earth And Animated Nature,* £45 – image supplied by Frontispiece

fit for the wall

“We started offering frames while we were still at Tobacco Dock,” said Reg.

\“I’d met a chap at a trade fair who would come down from Bedfordshire with the sizes we needed.

“But he didn’t want to keep doing that, so he taught me and people started coming to us for that service.”

Whether for his maps and prints or a client’s own pieces, Reg offers a bespoke service in wood and metal.

One notable client is Sir Michael Caine’s wife, who had the actor’s medals framed for him from his time in the Fusiliers as a gift on his 90th birthday.

Frontispiece also created a golden frame for King Charles, who’d donated a copy of his favourite photograph of himself as a boy with his late mother to a charity auction, raising £35,000 for Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital.

“We’re more than happy to discuss any job and if we can help, we will,” said Reg.

“Most people these days want frames that are quite simple, although some want designs that are more grand.

“The cost depends on how big the item to be framed is and the materials we’re using – what moulding we choose.

“We have all sorts of woods and metals in stock to suit what people want, starting at 48p per inch.”

As for the prints and maps, prices vary depending on size and rarity, but many are listed around £35 or £45.

Detail from Great Eastern steamship’s screw engine room antique print, 1859, from The Illustrated London News, £40 - image supplied by Frontispiece — Detail from Great Eastern steamship’s screw engine room antique print, 1859, from *The Illustrated London News*, £40 – image supplied by Frontispiece

key details: Frontispiece

Frontispiece is located at Cannon Workshops on West India Quay and is open from 8am-6.30pm on weekdays and from 10am-5pm on Saturdays.

Customers can browse antique maps and prints on the business’ website and also place orders.

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Screenshot-2026-07-10-at-22.39.22WEB.png
Detail from Leviathan (Great Eastern) during building at Millwall antique print, 1857, £40 - image supplied by Frontispiece

Read Wharf Life’s e-edition here

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

Detail from The City from St Paul’s to the Tower of London antique map, 1890, £40 - image supplied by Frontispiece — Detail from The City from St Paul’s to the Tower of London antique map, 1890, £40 – image supplied by Frontispiece

July 4, 2026July 4, 2026

Parkview Outdoor Play launches Canary Wharf pick-up service

Isle Of Dogs based childcare offers minibus connection to the estate for summer holiday club that prioritises open air activities and adventures

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is DSC_0993WEB.png
CEO at The Dockland Settlements, Lorraine Cavanagh and centre coordinator at Calder’s Wharf, Tommy Tracey – both part of the Parkview Outdoor Play team - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — CEO at The Dockland Settlements, Lorraine Cavanagh and centre coordinator at Calder’s Wharf, Tommy Tracey – both part of the Parkview Outdoor Play team – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

Parkview Outdoor Play has a long history of supporting parents through childcare on the Isle Of Dogs.

Running after-school clubs for pupils at local primaries and holiday play schemes, the organisation is well known for looking after kids aged 4-11 from its base at The Dockland Settlements at Calder’s Wharf.

Now it’s trying something new, extending its outdoor sessions to parents working in Canary Wharf to lend a hand over the summer holidays.

“One of our parents said how nice it would be if they could bring their children into work with them – where we would be waiting to pick them up, take them out for the day and then drop them off back in Canary Wharf,” said Lorraine Cavanagh, CEO at The Dockland Settlements, a charity that’s been supporting communities in Tower Hamlets, Newham and Southwark for more than 130 years.

“We thought that sounded like a great idea – something that would stop parents at work worrying if they were stuck on trains, anxious about being there to collect their children on time.

“We’ve got a fleet of five minibuses, so we’ve decided to offer a morning pick-up and evening drop-off service.

“What we say about Parkview is that it’s where memories are made.

“Our focus is always on playing outdoors – we aim to take the children out every single day for experiences they wouldn’t normally have.

“Our programme allows them to test themselves within a safe, supervised environment so they can understand what it’s like to take risks and develop resilience.”

The scheme offers trips to a wide range of locations with a focus on adventure - image supplied by Parkview Outdoor Play — The scheme offers trips to a wide range of locations with a focus on adventure – image supplied by Parkview Outdoor Play

a day spent at Parkview Outdoor Play

Days begin with breakfast and free play with a range of activities on offer at the Calder’s Wharf centre.

Then, around 10.30am the kids are placed in groups and board minibuses with parent-provided packed lunches and head off on that day’s adventure, returning at 4.30pm – some for parents to pick up and others to stay at the centre for an evening meal and then pick-up or drop-off at 6pm.

“We have two age groups – four-sevens and eight-11s,” said Tommy Tracey, centre coordinator at Calder’s Wharf, who’s worked at The Dockland Settlements with Parkview since he was 17.

“It’s all about understanding what the individual child is capable of and finding what will be challenging for them, without pushing them too far.

“A lot of the time for the younger ones that’s simply letting them run around in a supervised environment so they can burn off their energy and just have fun.

“For the older children we’ll organise activities with a bit more structure so they’re learning skills to take away and use again while also enjoying themselves.”

Youngsters on a trip to the beach with Parkview - image supplied by Parkview Outdoor Play — Youngsters on a trip to the beach with Parkview – image supplied by Parkview Outdoor Play

making memories on trips

The day rate for Parkview Outdoor Play for supervision is £35 for a 4.30pm finish and £40 for up until 6pm.

The daily trips mostly cost extra and vary in price depending on the destination, although some excursions are provided at no extra fee.

Parkview is also able to negotiate reduced rates at many attractions, as it’s a frequent customer and a group client.

“We don’t allow mobile phones, tablets or other similar devices,” said Lorraine.

“It’s all about them making relationships.

“Those are things that can last a lifetime.

“For example, we take them to the Forest School at Mudchute Park And Farm where they learn to make their own fires and to toast marshmallows.

“When I’m talking to adults about what we do, those are the experiences they remember from their own childhoods – those smells and tastes.”

An outing to play Laser Tag - image supplied by Parkview Outdoor Play — An outing to play Laser Tag – image supplied by Parkview Outdoor Play

a focus on fun and adventure

Parkview prides itself on putting on a wide range of activities with a strong focus on exercise and adventure in a variety of locations.

“One of our most popular locations is Nuclear Races in Brentwood,” said Tommy.

“It’s like an assault course, not too physical, but there’s plenty of mud and you know everyone will be going home tired and chilled out.

“The kids especially love it when the staff get involved – you see them egging us on and it’s lots of fun for everyone.

“One of the best things for me is when I see a child hesitate and then go on to try something that they discover they love. It’s amazing.”

Other activities include watching films at the cinema, exploring Diggerland, bowling, roller skating and even crabbing and the beach at Canvey Island.

“There are summer clubs that take the children out once a week, but with us they’re out every day doing things like canoeing, laser tag and visiting parks,” said Lorraine.

“One of our favourites for the younger ones is a trip to Monkey Bizness, which is a soft play centre, but it’s really high and they love that extra adventure.

“They’re usually all asleep on the bus on the way back.”

The activities are intended to help youngsters build relationships and get away from screens - image supplied by Parkview Outdoor Play — The activities are intended to help youngsters build relationships and get away from screens – image supplied by Parkview Outdoor Play

key details: Parkview Outdoor Play

Parkview Outdoor Play is based out of The Dockland Settlements at Calder’s Wharf on the Isle Of Dogs right next to Island Gardens.

The new service will pick children up from Bank Street in Canary Wharf and drop them off again at the end of the day.

For full details or to request a brochure, email Tommy via tommy.tracey@docklandsettlements.org.uk

Find out more at The Dockland Settlements here

Read Wharf Life’s e-edition here

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

June 17, 2026June 17, 2026

University Of Sunderland In London hosts Isle Of Dogs open day

The institution will welcome prospective students to its Harbour Exchange campus in east London close to Canary Wharf on July 11, 2026

Recruitment and conversion manager at the University Of Sunderland In London, Harpal Larr - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — Recruitment and conversion manager at the University Of Sunderland In London, Harpal Larr – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

Harpal Larr is a champion of education.

In his role as student recruitment and conversion manager at the University Of Sunderland In London, he’s responsible for showcasing what the institution has to offer to prospective students.

But beyond increasing the numbers enrolling at its Isle Of Dogs campus, there’s a wider mission.

“While a lot of other universities focus on selling their courses, our goal is quite different,” he said.

“We’re very conscious of the role that we play in the community.

“If we’re able to go into schools and colleges, explain the benefits of studying at university and then see people decide to continue their education, then we’ve achieved something big, whether that’s with us or somewhere else.”

Having opened its new £10million campus in 2025, the University Of Sunderland In London is, however, also preparing to showcase its facilities next month.

Based at Harbour Exchange, it offers a wide range of courses in business, management, finance, nursing, health, tourism and hospitality as well as opportunities for postgraduate research.

To help students understand more about what’s on offer, the university will host an open day on July 11, 2026, from 1pm-4.30pm.

The university's LSEG Fintech Lab - image supplied by UOSiL — The university’s LSEG Fintech Lab – image supplied by UOSiL

welcoming visitors to the open day

“It will be run by our recruitment and admissions team with the support of student ambassadors,” said Harpal.

“Students coming in on the day will get a presentation about life at university, an insight into what we offer here – not just the courses, but also the support.

“There will be a video from our graduates, to give an idea of what students can go on to do too.

“Then there will be a chance for visitors to speak to our staff, get assistance with making applications and even help applying on the day, if they would like to.

“There will also be tours of the campus, to see all the different facilities to help prospective students make an informed decision.

“For us, a big part of that is the student ambassadors.

“They can give visitors real personal insight into what they can look forward to if they study with us.

“This will be our second open day since we opened this campus.

“Having these facilities gives us a lot more to showcase and to offer so that prospective students and their families can really see what’s on offer.”

The university campus is located at Harbour Exchange close to Canary Wharf - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — The university campus is located at Harbour Exchange close to Canary Wharf – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

catering for diversity

The university is well versed in dealing with the needs of a diverse student body that includes people coming from overseas to study in the UK as well as mature individuals seeking further education for a range of reasons including improved employment prospects.

“I studied marketing at Middlesex University and then found a natural route to working there in marketing,” said Harpal.

“My role gave me experience across that department and I really liked student engagement, so became a manager there working on that before moving into recruitment.

“I joined the University Of Sunderland In London in 2021 in a similar role as we look to increase the number of people from the UK enrolling here.

“To achieve that, one of the things we do in our department is to go into schools and colleges in the community, as well as recruitment fairs, so we can talk to prospective students directly.

“It’s also to raise awareness of who we are and what we do – that we are located on the Isle Of Dogs right next to Canary Wharf.

“That we have that proximity to the financial district and the companies that are based there is to our advantage and it’s something we can really shout about.

“Our teams work really hard to engage with the businesses here to secure both expertise and work experience opportunities for our students that will help them in their careers.

“Just walking over to us from the station really opens their eyes to what we have here and the environment they will be studying in.

“The building we have now is also fantastic with facilities such as our mock hospital ward and our fintech lab.

“One of the things we are looking for are more local education partners within a 10-mile radius that we can work with to help students find the right path.”

The simulation ward at the University Of Sunderland In London - image supplied by UOSiL — The simulation ward at the University Of Sunderland In London – image supplied by UOSiL

a strong student culture

Harpal said that, beyond the courses on offer, the culture of the university was also a key selling point.

“A lot of work goes into making students feel welcome here, whether they are international students or from the UK,” he said.

“What I enjoy here is the fact that the student body mixes very well, we have a lot of events and activities.

“We have a great student union space that hosts lots of activities and acts as a meeting space for those studying here.

“What I find most rewarding, however, is seeing students progress into jobs in the fields they’re gaining qualifications in.

“I know from my personal experience how beneficial a university degree can be.

“It feels really good when you see people you’ve engaged with choose to come to your university and then to embark on a career that is aligned with the course they’ve been on.

“The teams here do a lot of work to ensure that our courses are giving graduates the skills they need in the workplace.

“We are constantly evolving our offering and there’s a big emphasis on giving students practical experience that will be of use to them in their careers.

“I’d love anyone who’s interested to come along to our open day and see what we offer.”

Secretary of state for education, Bridget Philipson MP, opens the new campus in the presence of University Of Sunderland chancellor Leanne Cahill, vice-chancellor Sir David Bell, Alan, deputy directors of the University Of Sunderland In London, Lynsey Bendon and Geoff Paul and head of marketing, recruitment and admissions, Jelena Miljanic – image by UOSiL — In 2025, secretary of state for education, Bridget Philipson MP, opened the £10million campus in the presence of University Of Sunderland chancellor Leanne Cahill, vice-chancellor Sir David Bell, Alan, deputy directors of the University Of Sunderland In London, Lynsey Bendon and Geoff Paul and head of marketing, recruitment and admissions, Jelena Miljanic – image by UOSiL

key details: University Of Sunderland In London open day

The next open day at the University Of Sunderland In London is set to take place at the Harbour Exchange campus on July 11, 2026, and will run from 1pm-4.30pm.

Open days are also planned for September 12 and November 26.

The university also offers personal consultations that allow prospective students to explore the institution’s facilities and courses.

Those wishing to attend either an open day or a consultation can register online here

Read Wharf Life’s e-edition here

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

June 4, 2026June 4, 2026

Glenn Tilbrook on why it’s vital to support grassroots music venues

Squeeze co-founder is set to play Theatreship on the Isle Of Dogs for Music Venue Trust’s Everywhere At Once festival, plus donate tour cash

Glenn Tilbrook is participating in the Music Venue Trust's Everywhere At Once festival - image supplied by MVT — Glenn Tilbrook is participating in the Music Venue Trust’s Everywhere At Once festival – image supplied by MVT

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

“Back in the day, access to venues and pubs was key for me in learning how to do what I do,” said Glenn Tilbrook, co-founder of Squeeze, who is set to play a gig in support of Theatreship on the Isle Of Dogs later this month.

“I wasn’t taught by anybody. I started out playing with Jools Holland in pubs in east and south-east London as well.

“We did that for a couple of years and it taught us a lot about communicating with people – there’s no real substitute for that experience.

“That’s where we got our training – how we got ourselves together to move on and climb the ladder.

“It’s why you need these spaces to do that work in – they’re so important, not just for musicians, but for people to come and access performances – for it not to be all about money.”

Glenn is set to perform on board Theatreship - image by Theatreship — Glenn is set to perform on board Theatreship – image by Theatreship

playing the festival

Glenn is set to perform alongside his son Leon at the venue as part of the Music Venue Trust’s Everywhere At Once festival, which will see more than 1,200 gigs take place from June 26-28, 2026, nationwide.

Thousands of artists are set to participate with the likes of Fatboy Slim, Becky Hill, Tinie Tempah, The Divine Comedy, Rizzle Kicks and many more all performing.

Glenn, who has fond memories of performing early in his career at The Waterman’s Arms – just down the Isle Of Dogs from Theatreship – is scheduled to perform on the Sunday evening.

“I’ll be playing with Leon, who has joined Squeeze,” said Glenn.

“He’s 23 now and a great musician.

“We’ll be playing a selection of his songs and mine – we’ve just finished a short tour, so we’re well-versed in performing together and we’re sounding great.

“I first went to Theatreship about two months ago and I was so impressed by what they’ve done with the space – the atmosphere is great and it has a lovely bar at the back.

“I think it’s important for people to recognise what venues like this bring to an area.

“They’re quirky, but they work so well.

“Theatreship is clearly a place people will come and be surprised by what you can do on a ship.

“Squeeze have played on boats – we did a cruise gig last year, which was interesting.

“We were only on board for one day between Florida and The Bahamas, where we got off.

“It was a small stage, but it seemed like there were thousands of people in the audience.”

Glenn and squeeze will also be performing at The O2 Arena later this year - image supplied by MVT — Glenn and squeeze will also be performing at The O2 Arena later this year – image supplied by MVT

how Glenn Tilbrook co-founded Squeeze

Born in Woolwich, Glenn grew up in Docklands, forming Squeeze after meeting Chris Difford via an advert posted in a shop window. Jools Holland also joined.

The band first found fame in the 1970s with albums such as Cool For Cats and Argybargy, with Glenn and Chris continuing their partnership to this day.

“Squeeze is having a bit of a moment in the sunshine and we’re relishing that,” said Glenn.

“We’ve got an album called Trixies out at the moment, which is a set of songs that Chris and I wrote when I was 16 and he was 19 in 1974.

“At the same time we did an album of new songs that will be coming out next year. I’m keen to prove that our chops are still intact and we’re still growing.

“The old songs really sound like they were written in 1974, and the influences in the songs were in the three years leading up to 1974.

“When you’re 16, you don’t have a lot of history, so we were listening to contemporary music at the time and that’s what we were absorbing.

“Now I’ve had a lifetime of going to see lots of different acts and I’m thrilled by it even now.

“I love the journey – it’s never-ending, it’s fantastic.

“This year we’re on tour in America and we have a lot of huge shows including one at The O2 Arena in Greenwich.

“Who would have thought that at this stage in our career more people would be coming to see us than ever?

“It feels really great and we’re a really tight, professional band – we sound fantastic.

“The reaction we get from audiences now is unlike anything we ever had, even from the beginning of our career.

“We were really exciting when we started out and we’re really exciting now, at the other end of my life.

“It’s wonderful to play locally. I have my studio just yards from the Thames in Charlton.

“I’ve always been around Greenwich, it’s where I grew up and I love it.

“I remember that there was a tradition among the people who worked in the dock and on the ships to sound the ship’s horn at midnight on New Year’s Eve, and it was a really thrilling noise.

“I also love what’s happened to Canary Wharf, which I can remember before anything was built, and I’m amazed at it – it’s a brilliant place.

“It was a big vision to develop that, and it’s ongoing – a really exciting place to be.

“What’s important is that it isn’t just on a monetary level.

“What places like Theatreship do is so good for people’s souls. I don’t think it’s too much to say that.

“It’s a place that brings people together, it’s so enriching.”

Inigo Lapwood, project director of Theatreship and Artship – image Matt Grayson — *Inigo Lapwood, project director of Theatreship and Artship –* image Matt Grayson

how Glenn Tilbrook is supporting Theatreship

Inigo Lapwood, Theatreship director said: “We’re so thrilled to be working with MVT for their Everywhere At Once festival.

“At the moment we’re sadly all too accustomed to hearing about grassroots music venues when they’re under threat of closing.

“We’ve lost almost a third of them nationwide over the last three years alone.

“The trust has worked tirelessly to try to stem that tide.

“At Theatreship we’ve been hugely grateful for that work – they’ve been instrumental in our own ongoing battles to stay afloat.

“Everywhere At Once is a great counterpoint to this narrative of loss – a nationwide celebration of the spaces that remain.

“We really appreciate this timely reminder that we’re not alone, that the UK is filled with passionate grassroots music venues showcasing incredible work, and that brilliant, inventive artists like Glenn can be found in them.

“Since opening Theatreship, we’ve been consistently amazed by the sheer depth of musical talent in London.

“From the upper decks of the ship you can see The O2 where Glenn will be playing later this year, but we’re absolutely certain that he won’t be the only artist currently performing on the grassroots music circuit who’ll be headlining stadium gigs in short order.”

key details: Glenn Tilbrook and Squeeze

Glenn And Leon Tilbrook are set to play Theatreship on June 28 at 7pm. Tickets cost £33, although the gig has now sold out.

Find out more about the venue here

The Everywhere At Once festival runs from June 26-28 with more than 1,200 gigs at 500-plus venues.

Find out more here

Squeeze (with support from Billy Bragg) are set to play The O2 Arena on November 26 at 6.30pm.

Tickets start at £47. Squeeze is donating £1 to support the trust from every ticket sold.

Find out more here

Read Wharf Life’s e-edition here

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here