Around Town Magazine Upminster February Edition 2019

T E R I N S U P M T I O N E D I 4 7

Imagine being pain-free, flexible & energized.

We can help you get there!

Chiropractic consultation + X

Rays* =

ÂŁ36 *if clinically required

Brentwood Clinic

01277 205746

www.spincalcareclinics.co.uk

Blinds Curtains Shutters

Made to measure window dressings

Monday - Friday 9:30 to 5pm Saturday 9:30 to 4pm 171 Station Lane, Hornchurch RM12 6LL

Tel: 0170 8 437118

w ww.daisyblind s. c o . uk

Y IL M SS FA NE ED SI ST BU U TR UN R

QUALITY FURNISHINGS

FAMILY BUSINESS WITH OVER 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE Producing bespoke corner units, sofas, sofa beds, we also supply sofa bed replacement mattresses and offer a re-upholstery service in our local workshop.

Wide range of upholstery fabric For enquiries please call us on 0208 501 1333 or email ron.lester@btconnect.com Unit G1 Gallmans End Lambourne End Romford RM4 1NA

Come join us for lessons at Nupers Hatch Other locations available!

1st lesson FREE when you book a course

¥ Unique way of teaching ¥ We get results by focusing on technique ¥ Small class sizes ¥ All ages & abilities ¥ We have the Swimstylers!

essex@angelasswimschool.co.uk 21/02/19

07496 167429

1

CONTENTS 06

Julia Lopez

10

James Blower

14 16 18

Political Update

The Savings Guru

Its OK Campaign Its ok to not be ok

CLLR Clarence Barrett Tax Refund Scams

With ‘Dry January’ a distant memory. I hope the good work in abstaining has not been undone during February!

The weather seems to be really mixed now although it remains cold at night and the mornings are particularly cold and icy. So please keep a watch on any older or vulnerable neighbours you may have who may struggle in these conditions. A friendly chat with a neighbour can make all the difference to someone who may not be able to get out.

We are always most grateful to all our advertisers and would encourage you to use them whenever possible. If you can mention Around Town that helps the advertisers gauge the response from advertising with us.

Finally, we must thank all our contributors who write for this magazine. They are providing some very interesting editorial about your community. If you have something you would like to be included in this magazine then please get in touch with us.

Until next month, wrap up warm!

HBBS

Adult Counselling Services

22 What’s On

When and Where...

From everyone at Around Town Magazines Copyright 2019. Around Town Upminster is an independent magazine and does not endorse the products or services that appear in the magazine. Opinions expressed in Around Town do not necessarily represent those of the editors of Around Town Magazines. Around Town Magazines are published by Black Square Print Media Ltd produced by Black Square Litho Ltd.

Advertise in Around Town Magazines to put your name infront of homes and businesses in Upminster and the surrounding area

Around Town Magazines Graphic House, Radford Way, Billericay CM12 0DX

01277 658444 www.aroundtownmagazines.co.uk sales@aroundtownmagazine.co.uk

an additional £250 million in high needs funding, of which Havering will get over £600,000. More recently, I spoke in a parliamentary debate on special needs funding to keep the pressure up on Ministers and to highlight the fast-growing number of children in our borough.

Julia Lopez

I know Cranham and Upminster residents are concerned by the proposed closure of the local branch of Santander, and I am meeting a representative from the bank in parliament soon to raise those concerns directly. In policing news, I am meeting the Borough Commander and neighbouring MP, Jon Cruddas, to discuss how to improve efforts against street crime. I am also campaigning for a tightening up of taxi regulations to improve passenger safety, and supporting government moves to strengthen laws on criminal trespass and help police and councils deal with unauthorised encampments.

Since my election I have made it a priority to visit each of the 42 schools in our constituency to get to know the school community and its needs. I have nearly completed this task and most recently visited Branfil School in Upminster. The pressure on special educational needs services has been one of the most consistent themes in my conversations with parents and teachers. I have raised these concerns with the Education Secretary and was pleased by his announcement before Christmas of

In my last column, I highlighted my campaign for a new health centre on the former St George’s Hospital site on Suttons Lane, Hornchurch – a facility I believe is vital in delivering expanded GP services, an integrated local health and social care system, improved mental health services and a less-pressured Queen’s Hospital. I have now secured a private meeting with Health Secretary, Matt Hancock, to see if he will assist our funding bid for this centre. In the meantime, I have met the executive team at Queen’s and our regional NHS team to talk about how we strengthen our case.

Member of Parliament For Hornchurch and Upminster

6

I also had the chance to talk to the Queen’s team about how to ensure we have enough GPs, nurses and consultants to serve our growing population.

These discussions form part of a wider skills agenda that my team and I are pursuing to ensure residents can access a broader range of employment opportunities. In Havering, 53 per cent of adults do not have A Level-equivalent qualifications – a higher percentage than any other London borough – and I believe we can do more to match the needs of employers to the talents of people in our community.

Last month I brought big East London employers together to see how we might turn the Beam Reach site in the south of the borough into a centre for training so local people can work on big projects like the Lower Thames Crossing or Havering’s estate regeneration programme. I have also brought Google’s Digital Garage Bus to the constituency to give parents free digital skills and CV-building courses while their children are in school.

As ever, if you have a problem you think my team and I can help you with, please drop us a line!

Or if you would like to come and have a look around parliament, we can book you in for a complimentary tour.

Julia.Lopez.MP@parliament.uk 0207 219 2631 www.julialopez.co.uk Twitter: @julialopezmp House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA

PLEASE MENTION AROUND TOWN MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

nO Dragon’s D n en

Changing the length of the pole and angle of the blade (head) is quick and easy whilst a

TRIMMER

The Ultimate Home DrAasgSoene’sn DOn en UNBEATABLE Extends r Security FRENCH DO Doors to a PRICE!! Product for French MASSIVE

ap allows for greater control and n using the trimmer which weighs

h an extra-long 10m cable for and features a double safety event accidental operation.

£69 h Hedges

manufacturer’s antee.

JUST

.99

+ £4.99 p&p

SECURITY

8ft 2”

As SeeMost entry burgla n Oforced nthe weakest through poi Dragon’s property, usually the Pati D Adjust the angle to suit the job e n Patlock - a patented des

The Ultimate Home RRP: £179.99 sing a Extends Ladder Security Product for French Doors FRENCH DOUBLE DOOR to a MASSIVEGuarantee 2 Year As Seen O SECURITY LOCK 8ft 2” -REACH Dragon’s D n en TRIMMER SAVING £110

Adjust the angle to suit the job

allows for greater control and sing the trimmer which weighs

- is a home security prod intruders and protects yo the growing trend of loc

Most forced entry burglaries are committed through the weakest point at the rear of the property, usually the Patio or French Doors. the length to suit the job Patlock - a patented design, developed inAdjust the UK - is a home security product that deters would-be intruders and protects your French doors from the growing trend of lock snapping.

FRENCH DOUBLE DOOR SECURITY LOCK

n extra-long 10m cable for d features a double safety nt accidental operation.

nufacturer’s ee.

Patlock is easily fitted and released in seconds, with no keys or code numbers required, providing instant peace-of-mind for home owners.

It works by holding the internal door handles secure, meaning the external handles cannot be Adjust the length to suitburglaries the job operated.

This ensures that the mechanism Most forced entry are committed through thedoor weakest point Most forced entry burglariesremains arethe committed in the locked position, even if the locks at the rear of the property, usually Patio or French Doors. Patlock are snapped or removed.

It also serves as a the design, weakestdeveloped point at the rear the -through a patented in the UKof- is a home security product visual deterrent as it shows the doors are securely property, theintruders Patio orlocked French that detersusually would-be and protects your French doors from fromDoors. the inside.

Patlock is easily fitted an with no keys or code num providing instant peaceowners.

It works by holding the i secure, meaning the exte operated. This ensures th remains in the locked po are snapped or removed visual deterrent as it sho locked from the inside.

SPECIAL OFFER!!

JUST

£45.99

Recommended

by Po + £4.99 p&p Crime Prevention org throughout the coun comes with a pair of resist spindles which RRP: £59.99 be removed from the enhancing the secur it provides.

SAVING £14

FRENCH DOUBLE DOOR SPECIAL SECURITY LOCK FRENCH DOUBLE DOOROFFER!!

the growing trend of lock snapping.

Patlock - a patented design, developed inby the UK Forces and Recommended Police

- is a home security product Crime that deters would-be Prevention organisations Patlock is easily fitted and released in doors seconds, with no or code throughout the from country, thekeys Patlock also intruders and protects your French Extends numbers required, providing instant peace-of-mind for home tamper owners. comes with a pair of optional-use the growing trend of lock snapping. to a resist spindles which once fitted cannot Most entry burglaries are committed Patlock is fitted and released in seconds, It worksforced byeasily holding the internal handles meaning the bedoor removed fromsecure, the exterior, MASSIVE external cannotnumbers be operated.

This through the or weakest point atenhancing the rear ofensures the with no handles keys code required, the securitythat the door mechanism remains in the locked position, even if the locks are 8ft instant 2” property, usually the Patio orit provides.

French Doors. providing peace-of-mind for home snapped or removed.

Itdesign, also serves as a visual deterrent as it shows + £4.99 Patlock a patented developed in the UKare committed owners. forced entry burglaries p&p anglethe doors are securely lockedMost from the inside.8-position The ultimate h through weakest point at the rear of the - is a home security product thatthe deters would-be Watch the It works by holding the internal door handles adjustable head property, usually the Patio or French Doors. video online intruders and protects your French doors from Adjust the angle to suit the job for French doo Recommended bythe Police Forces and Crime Prevention secure, meaning external handles cannot bedeveloped in the UK Patlock - a patented design, the growing trend of lockthe snapping. organisations country, the Patlock alsodeters comes with a a home product that would-be operated. Thisthroughout ensures that- isthe doorsecurity mechanism pair of optional-use tamper spindles which fitted cannot intruders andinif protects youronce French doors from be Patlock is easily fitted andresist released seconds, remains in thethe locked position, even the locks removed from exterior, enhancing the security it provides.

RRP: Next Working-Day Delivery FREE UK £59.99 Mainland Delivery the growing trend of lock snapping. with no keys or code numbers required, serves as a angle-are snapped or removed. It also The ultimate home security product Patlock is easily fitted and released in seconds, Watch providing instant for home Watch the Available just £6.99* On Orders Over+ £4.99 £80** as peace-of-mind itthe showswith the doors areMoney-Back securely head visual deterrent 30-Day Guarantee video online no keys or code numbers required, video online for French doors and conservatories owners. p&p locked from the inside. providing instant peace-of-mind for home + £4.99 It works by holding the internal owners.door handles p&p Recommended

by Police Forces and UKthe Mainland Delivery secure,FREE meaning external handles cannot be door handles 30-Day Money-Back It works by holding the internal Crime Prevention organisations secure, meaning the external handles cannot be operated. ThisOrders ensures that the door mechanism Over £80** Guarantee Adjust the lengthOn to suitthe the jobcountry, throughout theeven Patlock operated.

This ifensures that the door mechanism remains in the locked position, the also locks RRP: £59.99 remains in the locked position, even if the locks Calls charged at local rate.

Call costs from mobiles may vary.

Next working-day delivery comes with aorpair of optional-use tamper RRP: £59.99 are snapped removed.

It also serves as a are snapped or removed. It also serves as ais available for UK mainland Our (£6.99) deliveries. Free delivery on orders oversay £80 is available customers visualspindles deterrent as it shows the doors are securely resist which once fitted cannot for UKsecurely mainland orders. Delivery to non-UK mainland and ROI is available for a surcharge. visual deterrent as it shows the doors are Customers have 30 days from receipt of goods to return them to us for a full refund. Vendes Excellent locked from the inside. locked from the inside. be removed from the exterior, Group Ltd., Unit 5A, Groundwell Industrial Estate, Stephenson Road, Swindon SN25 5AX

k

SECURITY LOCK

Order today

visit: www.vendes.co.uk call: 0203 286 5471 enhancing the security Recommended

by Police Forces and

£45 SAVING £14 OFFER!!

SPECIAL OFFER!! .99 £45 £45

JUST SPECIAL

JUST

JUST

.99

.99

SAVING £14 SAVING £14

Recommended by mobiles Policemay Forces and must be placed by 2pm Mon-Fri for next working-day delivery. Next working TERMS & CONDITIONS: Calls charged at local rate. Call costs from vary. *Orders

UNATTACHED? PROFESSIONAL SINGLES LOOKING FOR LOVE AGE ALL PS U GRO ME CO L E W

DIRTY OVEN? Our services include All types of cookers professionally cleaned Tried and tested “own brand” products Fully trained and insured We guarantee our results Established Since 1993 ®

Exclusive Dating Agency & Singles Events

CALL ROD 01708 289406

Call for a friendly chat & FREE information pack

FREE CALL 0800 591274 / 07771 884429 Acrosstheroom.co.uk Are You A Past Member?

Reactivate your Life Time Membership Call today

www.cookerburra.co.uk

SOUTH EAST HEATING

Become part of a student’s success story and join our Tutor Doctor team!

DOMESTIC AND COMMERICAL HEATING

Are you a professional with specific subject knowledge and a passion to pass this on to others?

Are you a Teaching Assistant with a particular subject specialism?

Are you a Undergraduate/Graduate passionate about helping others?

Are you a qualified teacher, maybe retired/working part-time with a few hours to spare?

Then we would love to hear from you!

We are looking for tutors for all ages, all subjects, but particularly English, Maths and Science.

E-mail us your CV and request an application form from: kdennehy@tutordoctor.co.uk

8

. PLUMBING

Family Run Experienced Service Established in 1988.

• Boiler repairs & replacements • Gas installation • Central heating installation & maintenance • Gas servicing • Landlord safety certificates • Bathroom installation • Chemical cleaning • Solar panel installation • Domestic & commercial plumbing and heating • General plumbing work • Gas appliances • Gas leaks/safety checks

Mobile:

07956 481819 07539 444413 01708 221500

Office: southeastheating@btconnect.com

PLEASE MENTION AROUND TOWN MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

10%

Est.1975 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Roof Repair Specialists, All Leaks Cured New Tiled Roofs & Velux Windows High Performance Felt Flat Roofs EPDM Firestone Rubber Flat Roofs uPVC Guttering, Fascias & Roofline Storm Damage & Insurance Work Chimney Stacks Repaired & Removed Leadwork, Pointing & Rendering Replacement Roof Valleys & Bays Roof Overhauls & Maintenance Asbestos Removal & Garage Roofs Pigeon / solar panel guards Commercials & Industrial Experts The Best Quality Materials Used 24 Hour Emergency Repairs, 7 Days

DISCOUNT WITH THIS ADVERT

CELEBRATING OVER 43 YEARS OF TRADING WITH ORIGINAL COMPANY NAME & TELEPHONE NUMBER

A UNIQUE FAMILY RUN BUSINESS BUILT ON REPUTATION FULLY INSURED - ALL WORK GUARANTEED - FREE ESTIMATES NO DEPOSITS TAKEN - NO SUB CONTRACTORS USED

OVER 20,000 HAPPY CUSTOMERS CAN NOT BE WRONG! WE OFFER VERY COMPETITIVE PRICES & WILL BEAT ANY GENUINE WRITTEN ESTIMATE

• Long Lasting Alternative To Felt • Made To Measure With No Joins • No Flames, Lasts Up To 50 Years

01708 551714 07743 406418

www.sr-roofers.co.uk

rosseldridge84@hotmail.co.uk 41a Sunningdale Road, Rainham, Essex, RM13 7BD

Savings Roundup Last month was a very busy month in the savings market and for the Savings Guru! We saw new best buys in instant savings, notice and all fixed rate bond categories apart from four and five years.

As a company, we recorded a ‘savings special’ podcast with This Is Money, the Daily Mail’s financial website, which has already been downloaded and listened to by over 10,000 people.

We were thrilled to be shortlisted as a finalist at the British Bank Awards for ‘Consultancy of the Year’. The Awards are the ‘Oscars’ of our industry and we are on a shortlist of five - which includes global giants Deloitte and Cap Gemini. Voting runs until the 10th February (details and links on our website) and the winners are announced on 7th March – we will keep you posted on how we fare!

Family Building Society knock Marcus off top spot Epsom based Family Building Society knocked global giant Marcus by Goldman Scahs off the top spot for instant savings.

Marcus have lead the best buys since their launch last September, bar a 48 hour period when they were briefly toppled

by Nottingham Building Society.

10

Family’s ‘Premium Saver 3’ account pays 1.51% and can be opened by internet, phone, post or at their branch in Epsom.

The downsides of the account is the £15,000 minimum balance, which is much higher than most rivals, and the lack of monthly interest options, which will disappoint income seekers.

However, for those that meet the minimum balance requirements, the rate and range of options to open and manage the account will have huge appeal.

Family’s last issue of their premium saver didn’t last long so we’d recommend moving quickly if this one does appeal as we can’t see if lasting beyond the middle of the month.

Fixed Rate Bonds on the rise Last month saw a number of price increases on fixed rate bonds with Gatehouse Bank launching a 2.15% 1 Year Fixed Rate Bond to top the market.

They were then joined by Bank of London & Middle East, who also lowered their minimum balance to £1,000, in line with most rivals.

Al Rayan Bank increased their rates and now lead the way on 18 Months, 2 and 3 Year Fixed Rate Bonds paying 2.32%, 2.42% and 2.52% respectively.

Al Rayan typically hold their rates for a good period of time so we expect these rates to be around for some time and we could see rivals close the gap behind them.

Cash incentives to switch bank – £150+ offered!

The New Year has seen the return of some great financial incentives to switch bank. With many people short of cash following Christmas, banks are offering some great rewards for those looking for some ‘free’ money.

RBS is offering £150 to new and existing customers who switch to their Select, Reward or Reward Silver/Platinum/Black accounts by 8th March and pay in £1,500 and log in online or via their app by 12th April. The Reward accounts come with monthly fees, starting from £2 per month, but pay 2% cashback on seven different household bills so the average household should make something in the region of £80 - £85 on top of this (before the fees are taken in to account).

NatWest’ Select Account offers the same £150 incentive for switchers who move by 15th February and pay in £1,500 by 22nd March and HSBC’s Advance Account also pays £150 to switchers.

M&S Bank gives £180 in vouchers over the first year, Halifax’s Reward Accounts pays £135 (in two instalments) and £2 monthly reward to switchers who pay in £750 per month and set up two direct debits.

Finally, First Direct pays £100 who have, until recently, topped the customer service charts for years. That’s all changed though as they’ve been usurped by branchless app based bank Monzo. If cash incentives don’t do it for you but great service, helpful features, alerts and a hot coral debit card do, Monzo is definitely worth a look! You may not have heard of them but over 1 million people have an account with them, despite only launching in 2015.

What are the best rates currently?

The savings market does move quickly, so we always recommend that you check our website for the latest rates.

At time of print, our best personal savings rates are:

James Blower

Terms

Interest Rate

Provider

Instant Savings

1.51%

Family Building Society

Notice

1.90%

Charter Savings Bank

1 Year

2.15%

Gatehouse Bank and Bank of London & Middle East

www.thesavings.guru

18 Months

2.32%

Al Rayan Bank

hello@thesavings.guru

2 Year

2.42%

Al Rayan Bank

3 Year

2.52%

Al Rayan Bank

4 Year

2.50%

Vanquis Bank, Union Bank of India and Bank of London & Middle East

5 Year

2.70%

Bank of London & Middle East

Founder Savings Guru Ltd

@SavingsGuruUK

As always, this article is reproduced on our website www.thesavings.guru, with links to all the accounts and providers mentioned.

Have a great February and see you again in March.

11

C olla rds Upholstery U phols ter y LLondon ondon LLimited imited Collards Collards Upholstery has been established for over 60 years. Hand crafted bespoke English furniture has been delivered to all corners of the UK and the world. The skills and high quality of tradesmanship has allowed the company to flourish and diversify into many fields.

NUMBER PLATE FOR SALE!

SP11 RSS Our aim always is to give complete customer satisfaction

CUL

Please call for a free estimate and advice

Office: 02085 001 121 01708 744 587 Mobile: 07999 343 389

Asheton Farm Business Centre Tysea Hill Stapleford Abbotts Romford, Essex RM4 1JU

CONTACT 01277 658444 adamyoung5@hotmail.co.uk ALL SENSIBLE OFFERS CONSIDERED

www.collardsupholstery.co.uk Info@collardsupholstery.co.uk

12

PLEASE MENTION AROUND TOWN MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

ITS OK CAMPAIGN Its ok not to be ok Firstly we are excited to announce Dr Sara Kayat as our Campaign Ambassador.

Dr Sara is best known for being in the tv show GP’s Behind Closed Doors and also numerous appearances on ITV’s This Morning.

Sara also gives some words of advice on Mental Health

W

hilst evolutionarily the purpose of stress was related to triggering the fight or flight response when confronted with a survival situation, in modern day life, there is little benefit in feeding stress. We have long been aware of the role that stress plays in exacerbating anxiety and depression, but more recently research has also focussed on its effects on physical health. Studies have uncovered a link between stress and cardiovascular disease and have suggested that it may be as important a risk factor as smoking and high blood pressure.

Other lifestyle measures that may help include reducing your alcohol intake, ensuring you are getting enough sleep and having a well-balanced diet. More research is going into how diet may affect mental health, and the concept of a “brain-gut axis” is becoming more widely accepted.

...IDENTIFY YOUR TRIGGERS.

Certainly, if these measures aren’t helping your stress, it is important to speak to your doctor, as you may benefit from talking therapies and other psychological input.

Stress can be multifactorial but a good first step in managing it, is to identify your triggers.

Unsurprisingly given that we work the longest hours in Europe, work is one of the biggest contributors to stress in the UK. As such, maintaining a good work-life balance is paramount, and keeping an open dialogue with colleagues and managers about mental health is important in maintaining wellbeing in the workplace, as well as making sure you carve out time to do things you enjoy, and see people that make you happy. We know that cardiovascular exercise is also important in tackling anxiety, stress and low mood, by increasing you’re your dopamine and serotonin levels, but other forms of exercise like yoga is also beneficial in promoting relaxation techniques like meditation, breathing and mindfulness, all of which have been shown to help manage stress.

14

PLEASE MENTION AROUND TOWN MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

INTERESTED IN TRIATHLON OR MULTI-SPORT DISCIPLI

AVERINGTRI.CO.UK Has Your Double

INTERESTED IN TRIATHLON OR MULTI-SPOR

INTERESTED IN TRIATHLON OR MULTI-SPORT DISCIPLINES? INTERESTED TRIATHLON OR DISCIPLINES? INTERESTED ININ TRIATHLON ORMULTI-SPORT MULTI-SPORT DISCIPLINES? INTERESTED IN TRIATHLON OR MULTI-SPORT DISCIPLINES?

Glazing Steamed Up?

K.A K.A.S. K.A.S. K.A.S. K.A.

HAVERINGTR HAVERINGTRI.CO.UK HAVERINGTRI.CO.UK HAVERINGTRI.CO.UK Cloudy2Clear Are A ...

HAVERINGTRI.CO.UK HAVERINGTRI.CO.UK

HAVERINGTRI.CO Which? HAVERINGTRI.CO.UK Trusted Trader KASUK.CO.UK KASUK.CO.UK

K.A.S. K.A.S. K.A.S.

ADULTSLEARN LEARN TO SWIM AND IMPROVER ADULTS TO SWIM AND IMPROVER LESSONS LESSONS

ADULTS LEARNTO TOSWIM SWIMAND AND IMPROVER IMPROVER LESSONS ADULTS LEARN LESSONS ADULTS LEARN TO SWIM AND

KASUK.CO.UK

KASUK.CO.UK EARN TO SWIM AND IMPROVER LESSONS ADULTS LEARN TO SWIM AND IMPROVER LESSONS KASUK.CO CONTACT HAMILTON 07957 567915 ADULTS LEARN TO SWIM AND IMPROVER LES ADULTS KAY LEARN TO SWIM AND IMPRO 25 YEAR GUARANTEE CONTACT KAY HAMILTON 07957 567915 KASUK.CO.UK KASUK.CO.UK KASUK.CO.UK CONTACT KAY HAMILTON All Glazing Backed By Our

CONTACT KAY HAMILTON 07957 567915 CONTACT KAY HAMILTON 07957 567915

KASUK.CO.UK 0800 61 21118 Priority Freephone

www.cloudy2clear.com CONTACT KAY HAMILTON 07957 567915 CONTACT KAY HAMILTON CONTACT KAY HAMILTON 07957 0795 567

Broken Or Damaged Windows?

ACT KAY HAMILTON 07957 567915 Faulty Locks, Handles, Hinges?

Nokes & Co, Squire House, 81-87 High Street, Billericay, Essex CM12 9AS 01277 633971

07949 266321

mark@nokesandco.co.uk

www.nokesandco.co.uk

PLEASE MENTION AROUND TOWN MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

15

CLLR The CLARENCE BARRETT

Upminster & Cranham Residents’ Association

ways of defrauding victims of their money, and quite often their identity. A fraud that has seen a rapid increase over the last few years are ‘romance’ scams, where victims are led to believe they are in a genuine and caring relationship only to discover they have been deceived and the only object of desire is their bank account.

Support our Town Centre The survival of our High Streets and town centres has never been more pronounced than it is today. Against the challenges of business rates, rents, on-line shopping and out-of-town shopping centres, the need to help our local economies survive, adapt and flourish is crucial. An additional factor is that, from April 2020, local councils will rely on business rates as their main source of income. If our shops and businesses close, then there is no business rate income. That is why our town centres need effective and sensible strategies that embraces input from the police, local council, residents, the Federation of Small Businesses and the Havering Chamber of Commerce.

A particular focus is the availability and affordability of car parking provision in our town. A few years ago a free 30-minute period was introduced which has proven to be very successful and valued by shoppers and retailers alike. With that, it is vital that we maintain what works, adapt to changing consumer trends and make our town centre a place of destination and choice.

Watch out for Romance Scams Scammers are always looking for new

Figures from Action Fraud reveal that there were 4,555 reports of ‘Romance Fraud’ last year, and is probably significantly understated. This was a 27% increase on 2017 with an average loss of £11,145 per victim. The average age is 50 and 63% of victims are women. Potential victims are targeted via online dating websites, apps and through social media where enough information is gleaned by the scammers to adopt a fake profile and appeal to the persons interests.

While on-line dating is a great way to meet many people, users should be wary that not everyone may be as they seem.

Action Fraud advise users to think twice about posting too much information about themselves, to be wary of sudden declarations of affection and never send money to someone online you have never met.

HAVE YOU GOT A LOCAL BUSINESS? DO YOU WANT TO TELL US ABOUT YOUR STORY? Contact Around Town Magazines enquire about editorial today!

#WEAREPRINT PROJECT OF THE MONTH We always thought Christmas was party season! How wrong were we! January has seen us print a record number of invitations.

Invitations for Weddings.

Invitations for 18th parties.

Invitations for 80th parties.

Invitations for corporate events.

Invitations for sporting events.

Lets keep party season going all year.

Contact us for your invitation printing!

65844o.u4k 01277 squarelitho.c

www.black relitho.co.uk sales@blacksqua y, Essex CM12 0DX

dford Way, Billerica Graphic House, Ra

RURAL RAMBLE R AE

L RAM

XPLORE

Registered charity number 1052861

1, 4

or

1 0 m il

BLE

RU

Walk 1, 4 or 10 miles or simply explore the gardens and enjoy a cream tea!

es

Saturday 13th april The Gardens of Easton Lodge Little Easton, Dunmow, Essex CM6 2BD

10 mile walk & garden visit

4 mile walk & garden visit

1 mile walk & garden visit

Adults - £15.00 Children 5 and over - £8.00 Family Ticket - £38.00

Adults - £10.00 Children 5 and over - £5.00 Family Ticket - £25.00

Adults - £8.00 Children 5 and over - £5.00 Family Ticket - £21.00

(2 adults & 2 children 5 and over)

(2 adults & 2 children 5 and over)

(2 adults & 2 children 5 and over)

All walks include a complimentary cream tea

To register visit www.helenrollason.org.uk or call 01245 380719

ACS Dance Centre Ballroom dancing weekly class to learn something new, have fun and get fit! Beginners welcome Fridays 7.30-8.30pm at ACS Dance Club, 66 Albert Road, RM1 2PP. Experienced dancers Tuesdays 8.30pm or Mondays 8.30pm- please Call Diana 01708 783576 for details Basildon & District Rambling Club The group meets every Saturday at 2.00pm. The Saturday walks are 4-5 miles with a rest halfway, we have some longer walks on other days.

New members are welcome and membership is only £6 per year which includes all walks. See our website www. basildonanddistrict ramblingclub.btck.co.uk for full details Clockhouse Bowling Club The Club welcomes new members, either existing bowlers or beginners. Our green is situated in Clockhouse Gardens, St Marys Lane, Upminster, close to Waitrose, in delightful surroundings.

2019 Club Open days will be held on Wednesday 1st May 3.00 - 7.00pm and Saturday 4th May 10.00am - 4.00pm.

Bowls and equipment will be available, the only requirement is flat soled shoes. So why not join us. Details on: www. clockhousebowlingclub.co.uk. email: clockhousebowlingclub@ gmail.com.

22

Cranham Art Society If you would like to join a friendly Art Club why not give us a try. We meet every Tuesday in Cranham Community Centre in Marlborough Gardens every Tuesday between 10am & noon.

Whatever your standard you will be made welcome.

Ring Gordon Setter on 01708 225612 for more information.

Cranham Community Library Come along to our new style Library at Cranham Community Centre in Marlborough Gardens.

We have a great range of jigsaws and fiction books to borrow. We are open Tuesday to Friday 10.00 to 12.00 and Monday 1.30 to 3.30.

Volunteers wanted ring Janet 01708 222665 for information.

Cranham Over 60s Club Covers Upminster and Cranham.

Every Thursday 1’00pm ‘till 3.00pm. Cranham Social Centre.

Good company, tea and biscuits, entertainment, dancing free raffle, bingo. Car parking at the rear.

Access for the disabled.

All welcomed. £4.00 each.

Just turn up, or ring 0208 5935 625.

Essex Wildlife Trust The Nature Reserve and Historic Gardens at Warley Place, Great Warley will be open every weekend from Saturday 23rd February to Sunday 7th April.

Volunteers will be on hand to provide guidance on the above

days from 10.30 am to 4.30 pm, weather permitting. Please come and enjoy the wonderful show of snowdrops, daffodils and bluebells as well as the historic gardens created by Ellen Willmott.

Guided walks are available on Saturday mornings at 10.30 am.

Large groups should please book in advance, suggested donation £4.00 per person. The post code for Warley Place is CM13 3HU and is located on Warley Road adjacent to the Thatchers Arms public house. For further information please contact Mick Hedges on 01277 231367 or Fiona Agassiz on 01277 230436.

Friends of Parklands The aim of our “Friends” Group is to maintain Parklands Open Space as a pleasant place to walk and relax, surrounded by a natural environment.

We arrange Working Parties to keep Parklands tidy and to help control any excessive overgrowth. The Working Parties meet for a couple of hours, at 10 a.m., on the second Wednesday of every month.

If you would like to join us please visit our website, www.friendsofparklands.org.uk, for further information, or email our Working Party Organiser, Andy Brett, at: upminsterbrett@gmail.com Friends Of Upminster Mini Golf Course We are a recently formed group with the aims of promoting

PLEASE MENTION AROUND TOWN MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

the Mini Golf Course in Hall Lane, Upminster and working in partnership with Havering Council to improve amenities and to encourage people of all ages to participate at the course. Find us on Facebook.

Why not come and give it a go. Equipment is supplied and the course suits all abilities from novices to experienced golfers looking to improve their short game.

More information on the Councils website: www.havering.gov.uk/Pages/ ServiceChild/Hall-Lanegolf-course.

Friends of Upminster Windmill Volunteers are sought to help us develop and maintain an attractive garden area around the new visitor centre at Upminster Windmill.

Our small friendly group meets on Tuesdays. If you would like to help email info@upminsterwindmill.org or enquire at the site on a Tuesday.

‘Gone Too Soon’ 18th March Bereavement Support for Parents who have lost a Son or Daughter, all ages.

Monthly meetings are held on the third Monday of each month, at Reids, 66-68 Laindon Road, Billericay CM12 9LD from 7.00 p.m,. – 9.00 p.m.

There is ample free parking.

For further details please contact Lyn on 07387 805406 or email lyncurrie@hotmail.co.uk

Greenfingers Gardening Club We are a friendly group and meet at the Cranham Community Centre, Marlborough Gardens, Cranham. 7.30pm First Monday of the month, but if this falls on a Bank Holiday we meet on the following Monday. No meetings in August.

Horticultural speakers, raffle and free refreshments.

Come & join us you will be very welcome. Info from Sheila Woodrow 01708 228752 Havering Museum The Museum tells the remarkable story of Havering from pre-history to the present day and celebrates the achievements of local people while exploring how the areas that make up the Borough were formed and developed.

Currently exhibiting; Titanic Honour and Glory. It tells the story of the Titanic disaster through artefacts and includes stories from local people, who have a connection to the ship.

We also have various family events, talks and events on throughout the year.

See website for details www.haveringmuseum.org.uk or phone 01708 766571 Registered charity no109376 Learn, Laugh and Live!

Havering U3A meets at 2:30pm second Wednesday of the month at St. Michael’s Church Hall, Main Road, Gidea Park.

March 13th Myths and Legends in Art by Colin Lomas

April 10th The Red Cross by Philippa Radford Hancock Interest groups run throughout the month. Doors open 2:15pm.

For more information come along or see our website. www.u3asites.org.uk/havering Pilates for a Healthier Spine Experienced Sports & Remedial Massage Therapists Charlene & Neil Carpenter teach traditional Pilates in private sessions and also to small groups in Upminster & Cranham.

For further information or to book a course or trial class please visit www.upminstersportsmassage. co.uk or call Charlene on 07411 826721, or email upminstersportsmassage@gmail. com Upminster and District Probus Club Retired with free time during the week - Upminster and District Probus Club. Luncheon club, with talks and outings, for retired men, covering art, crime, gardening, history, music, sport and transport etc.

Meet on the last Wednesday of the month at the Cranleigh Restaurant, Hornchurch.

Outings planned 2019: Royal Opera House Backstage Tour, D-Day in Portsmouth, Orwell Cruise and Royal Landscape Heritage Tour Secretary: Barry on 01708 703783 secretary@upminsterprobus.com www.upminsterprobus.com and www.facebook.com

If you would like to promote your club or event for Feb/Mar then please email a maximum of 70 words to:

admin@aroundtownmagazines.co.uk Please ensure that all contact details are included.

PLEASE MENTION AROUND TOWN MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

23

FREE

ENTRY x

Make your dream wedding a reality at de rougemont manor hotel & suites

WEDDING OPEN DAY - SUNDAY 3RD MARCH 11AM - 3PM We make it our mission to ensure your wedding day is a day you can treasure forever.

Beautiful Ceremony Room

Recommended Suppliers Present

Choice of 3 Stunning Function Rooms

Exclusive Event Only Offeres

3 Luxurious Honeymoon Suites

Wedding Coordination & Planning

Free goody bag, bubbly and canapes on arrival!

01277 554 096

www.derougemontmanor.com De Rougemont Manor, Great Warley Street, Brentwood, CM13 3JP