21/09/26 - Balham

The Self-Styled Mayor of BalhamTime Out have two wonderful books of London Walks - all curated by writers/comedians/artists. This walk is a quick jaunt in Balham, created by the comedian Arthur Smith. The associated essay suggests that he lives at the visited Du Cane Court - as you may see him on the way to the shops. In his capacity as the self-styled Mayor of Balham, he promises a gold embossed certificate for those completing the walk. But we know he is a comedian, so it is unlikely to be true.I like Arthur - he suggests stopping for a pre-walk livener at the Bedford Pub. And who am I to argue with that. An impressive looking comedy/music and food venue that has been smartened up considerably since it was known as a den of iniquity for prostitutes plying their trade.Would probably be my local, if I lived hereLots of pop music memorabilia Residential streets - spotting the new builds, presumably replacing the holes left from the WWII bombing raids - and into Tooting Bec Common. One…