Much to his surprise, earlier this summer Dave Halpin of Gasworks London found himself trending on Twitter. Following the BBC’s decision to make over 75s pay for their TV licence, Dave announced that he would be offering those senior citizens a free gas appliance check.

John Horton founded Horton and Garton in May 2008 with a clear vision in mind. ‘I wanted to create an independent business that provided the best service. That meant treating every client as an individual rather than a potential sales figure and building enduring relationships – and doing it with a smile.’

‘We’re delighted that all the children have returned for the new academic year. Our approach is to challenge and inspire students, give them personal attention and make learning enjoyable.’

For John Collins, one consequence of his business being such a long-standing part of the W6 community is that residents have grown up going to his garage. ‘It’s true. We have “youngsters” coming in who I remember in pushchairs,’ smiles John. ‘They’re following their parents’ example – it means we’re doing something right!’

‘Living up the road, I was a regular at The Rook’s Nest,’ says Oliver Joseph. ‘I was taken by the place so, when I got the chance to join the team, I didn’t hesitate.’ Sous-chef Oliver is the new face in the kitchen at the hostelry (and boutique hotel) and he has exciting plans to revamp the menu.

In recent years ceramic artist Zoe Lloyd has pursued parallel creative and educational careers. Since graduating from the Royal College of Art she has combined her love of making and exhibiting her own work with teaching (she also has a PGCE from the Institute of Education) at Wood Lane High School and the West London Free School and giving creative art classes to elderly people with dementia.

‘The carpet is beautiful. The quality is just amazing – I’d have it in my home without a moment’s hesitation.’ When Clay Miller sings the praises of a new brand, it’s worth taking note. Clay and his brother Joe have been running The Carpetstore for over 25 years and there’s precious little they don’t know about carpets and flooring.

Here’s an intriguing local trivia question: other than being famous actors, what connects Douglas Fairbanks Jnr, Sir Michael Redgrave and Errol Flynn? The answer is, they are all reputed to have played the traditional game of London Skittles at The Black Lion near Chiswick Mall.

Chiswick Computers is offering a new remote maintenance service that protects home users against hacking and viruses

‘I only realised at university that I could cook – previously it had just been part of family life. I discovered that I loved making people happy with my food.’ That feeling has never left Louisa Chapman-Andrews. While pursuing a career in PR she also ran a catering business and, later, after joining renowned British grocer Melrose and Morgan, co-wrote the seminal book Good Food For Your Table: A Grocer’s Guide.