News
Rita Sinclair Wins the BBC Local Radio Make a Difference Award
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We are incredibly proud and lucky to have Rita Sinclair as part of our Havering Dance team.
A dedicated Havering dance teacher for over 40 years and a much-loved figure in the local community, Rita has recently received a prestigious BBC Local Radio Make a Difference Award — and we couldn’t think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.
The BBC Make a Difference Awards shine a light on unsung heroes across eight categories, celebrating volunteers, fundraisers, community groups and individuals whose work has made a lasting impact on the lives of others.
Rita was recognised for her incredible fundraising efforts in aid of St Francis Hospice, who cared for her late husband, Ken. Through her dedication and determination, Rita has helped raise an amazing £46,000 to date.
But Rita’s contribution goes far beyond fundraising. Since starting at London Borough of Havering in 1983, she has inspired generations of local residents through her passion for dance, helping people stay active, social and connected.
Her weekly classes and tea dance at New Windmill Hall in Upminster bring together dozens of couples aged between 50 and 96, creating a welcoming community where people can enjoy Latin dancing, exercise, friendship and, most importantly, have fun.
Rita’s enthusiasm, kindness and commitment to the people of Havering are truly inspirational. We are so proud to have her as part of our team and grateful for everything she continues to give to our dance community.
Congratulations, Rita — this recognition is so well deserved! ❤️
For anyone inspired by Rita and looking to enjoy music, movement and friendship, new dates are available for Havering’s adult dance programme, with classes catering for all abilities.
Bystander Actions
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Extreme Heat Warning
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Due to the Extreme Heat over the next few days our Walking for Heath walks will be cancelled on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.
All other walks will be on as normal.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Please stay hydrated and take care.
MAMA-Move study
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We are supporting the University of Leeds to share this research opportunity and would encourage eligible individuals to take part.
Being active looks different for every woman. For some, it’s getting out for fresh air. For others, it might be light movement at home or finding small ways to stay active within a busy routine.
Even gentle, regular movement can support both physical and emotional wellbeing across different stages of life.
Through the MAMA-Move study at the University of Leeds, we are exploring how Muslim women across the UK experience physical activity, and how faith, culture, and everyday life influence what feels realistic and accessible.
Our aim is to use these insights to inform more inclusive and culturally appropriate approaches to supporting physical activity for Muslim women.
We’d really value your perspectives. The survey takes about 10 minutes to complete and is completely anonymous👉 https://tinyurl.com/Mama-Move-Survey.
For more information about this University of Leeds research project, visit: https://tinyurl.com/MAMA-Move.
This is Planet Earth Exhibition
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The photos you submit do not have to be current work, projects you have previously created are welcome. To enter, please take a photo of your creation and email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.