Readers come to the aid of Enfield's independent local paper

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Four weeks ago Palmers Green Community reported that Social Spider, publisher of the Enfield Dispatch, was being badly hit by the coronavirus lockdown because of loss of advertising revenue, but was not eligible for support from any of the government's schemes to help businesses stay afloat - or, more precisely, was eligible, but only if it placed its news team on furlough and stopped publishing.

Today, the situation with government support is unchanged - independent local newspapers and local news websites have been excluded from government money spent on advertising coronavirus information in the national press. However, Enfield Dispatch editor James Cracknell has been able to report in his monthly newsletter (see below) that the situation with his paper is looking more hopeful. There has been a pickup in advertising and more people are supporting the Dispatch by joining the membership scheme or donating. If you haven't done so, and you're keen to retain this source of local news, now's the time!

May newsletter from Enfield Dispatch

enfield dispatch may 2020Hello and welcome to your monthly update from Enfield Dispatch. Issue 20 of the newspaper is now being distributed across the borough, so go and pick up your copy. You can also get it delivered to your door by becoming a member.

We've been delighted with the response from Dispatch readers to our appeals for support, with many new members signing up, lots of donations being made, several volunteers coming forward to help us distribute the paper, and an increase in advertising that gives us hope we can continue funding the paper throughout the pandemic and beyond. As outlined previously, we continue to lobby the government to support independent community publications and, although such help is not yet forthcoming, there is hope our efforts might payoff soon.

If you want to support us you can write a message on social media using the hashtag #SaveIndependentNews, while you can make a donation here.

The deadline for the next edition is Tuesday 19th May. If you'd like to suggest an article idea please email .

In this month's Dispatch

  • The top story is our interview with the boss of North Middlesex Hospital, who warns against a ‘second wave’ of coronavirus
  • On Page 4 the head gardener at Myddleton House Gardens offers his tips for spring.
  • On Page 6 Enfield Council continues to make progress at Meridian Water.
  • On Page 8 there are fresh demands for a review of Chase Farm’s bus links.
  • On Page 10 residents are urged to continue seeking care for non-coronavirus health problems.
  • On Page 11 discover the historic tramways that once served the borough.
  • On Page 12 find out how to enjoy Chickenshed’s virtual theatre programme.
  • And on Page 14 a wildlife charity appeals for funds as it fights to survive.
We hope you enjoy reading this month's Enfield Dispatch. If you have any feedback or suggestions, do get in touch!

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