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CONTENTS
10 Street Pastor
Caring Listening Helping
12 A View from the Church
With the Christmas and New Year break going all too fast, we are now back in the swing of things here at Around Town Magazines!
Rev. Paul Carr
13 John Baron Political Update
22 James Blower The Savings Guru
26 What’s On
When and Where...
30 Its OK Campaign its ok not to be ok
34 Billericay Rotary Club
Next in the calendar we have Valentine’s Day on 14th February. Take a look at the Original Fizz advert in this magazine, it would make a great Valentine’s present for someone special! Also check out the huge What’s On listing, with loads of events and classes that are on in your local area! We are very grateful to each one of our advertisers and ask that you support them whenever you can. When contacting an advertiser please let them know that you found them in Around Town Billericay. Don’t forget that if you would like to supply us with editorial, please get in touch!
New members welcome
From everyone at Around Town Magazines
34 Nature Notes
of the Mill Meadows Society
37 Useful Numbers
Copyright 2019. Around Town Billericay 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.
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whole window including the frames and all the hardware, however Cloudy2Clear have come up with a simple and cost saving solution‌ Just replace the glass!! If you see condensation in your windows just visit our website or give us a call on 0800 61 21 118. We will send out our highly experienced engineers for a free no obligation quote. A Cloudy2Clear quote takes on average no longer than 20 minutes. Once the quote is completed, we will sit down with you and explain the problem and tell you how we can fix it. With
years of experience Cloudy2Clear have a wealth of knowledge and are recognised as a Which Trusted Trader, plus our work is backed by an industry leading 25 year guarantee. Cloudy2Clear also replace faulty locks handles and hinges on all windows and doors. Your friendly local Cloudy2Clear specialist is Chris Miller and he services the Billericay, Ingatestone, Ramsden & Stock areas. So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Chris a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118.
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STREET PASTOR Caring listening helping
Street Pastors continue to patrol the High Street in Billericay and has had a great time at Christmas and New Year. We have walked the area on every Friday nd Saturday over that period and have tried to help, care and listen to anyone that we have come across or has found us in need of help. It is very important to us that we continue to offer this volunteer service with the support from our community. We do not judge anyone and will always try to help people without taking them on as our own clients as we like to signpost people onto other agencies for longer term help. We not only come across people that have too much to drink but also people just going through rotten issues in life. If however you need a bottle of water, a lolly pop, some flip flops or First Aid we are very happy to help. We are finding that one of the most important things we can do is offer a listening ear as we have time for our community and are not in any other hurry to get anywhere. We have found it very rewarding just to be there to value and cherish people. We believe that if we show Care to people then sometimes
issues that are building in peoples lives might subside. We also find that low level intervention in stressful circumstances can prevent violence breaking out, people getting injured and ambulances not having to be called. We will continue to do this as long as we believe it is a help. On New Years Eve we received a visit at our safe hub at St Marys Church by the new Chief Constable of Essex Police BJ Harrington. He was very affrming as to what we do, not just in Billericay but across Essex and wanted to express his thanks and wish us a happy New Year. He took a selfie and shared it on Twitter. You can follow us to @BillericaySP or on Facebook.
We are about to start training again so if you are a church attending Christian, over 18, ready for a challenge then why not get in touch. Billericay@Streetpastors.org.uk 01277514876
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Celebratin� 30 Year�
hn Lennon seem to be everywhere this time of year: “So this is Christmas ne?” I’d like to change this slightly: “So this is Christmas and what will rate that Jesus was born to be our Saviour? It is, after all, what makes ating and, just like those amazing events in the summer, it can be life but only if you make the time to enjoy the celebration.
Billericay’ extend an invitation to worship s season. Why not put a date in your o miss out on the greatest Christmas
All Things Work Together ricay & Little Team Ministry) ForBurstead Good
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of the “We local know Churchthat Services over who the Christmas for those love Godperiod. all things
work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose “(Romans 8:28). Whenever I read those familiar words from the 2nd December - ‘Annual Toy Service’ at 10.30am Apostle Paul, I ask myself: “Do I really know this? Does- it‘Carol reallyService affect by theCandlelight’ way I live?”atThe new year December 7.00pm gives each of us an opportunity to test the depth 19th December - ‘Lunchtime Carol Service’ 12.30pm of our faith, especially when we at have concerns atand Saintanxiety Mary Magdalen Church about the future.
Emmanuel Church
ay 23rd December - ‘Family Nativity’ at 10.30am It’s important to see that Paul says: “All things work ristmastogether Eve - ‘Christingle Service’ 4.00pm for good.” Not at “All things are good.” Becoming a Christian does not mean that we ‘Communion by Candlelight’ at 11.15pm from awful things happening to Theare first immune Communion of Christmas. us. Many of you know that much more than stmas IDay Communion’ at 10.00am do.- ‘Family We suffer the same illnesses, financial challenges, bereavements, work stresses, relational heartaches, accidents, and challenges as anyone else in this damaged world we live in. We suffer just like anyone else. In some places in the world, Christians suffer in unimaginable ways because of their faith in Jesus. Paul is not saying nothing bad will come our way in the Christian life; rather, he is saying that God can take whatever comes our way and make it serve our good. He is not responsible for evil, but even evil and suffering cannot escape his purposes for our lives. In a world full of painful waiting, this verse is an amazing resource to take into this new year. “All things” means everything that happens to us, including the very worst things that might happen. Even those things are not outside the scope of God’s loving purpose for our lives. In the Old Testament, Joseph could look back on the unspeakable evil his brothers did to him and say: “You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good” (Genesis 50:20). Worry tells us they meant it for evil – that it happened while God was distracted. Faith reassures us that God means it for good. This “all things work together for good” is seen in the death of Jesus (Acts 4:27–28). For some, it was the very worst thing that could ever happen. Yet through it, God was able to bring
www.billericaychurches.org
about eternal good when he raised him from the dead. No matter how diffcult the last year has been for you (It was a painful year for me, in so many different ways) God could not have been more good to you than he has been with: 364 sunrises, 525,600 minutes, 7.3 million breaths and 42 million heartbeats. This next year will be one moment after another of God working things out for your ultimate good. Of course, this is hard for us to believe, which is why the Apostle Paul writes in the verse that follows: “God knew what he was doing from the very beginning. He decided from the outset to shape the lives of those who love him along the same lines as the life of his Son” (Romans 8:29 – The Message). This is the good to which all things in your life are working – that you become more like Jesus. We often struggle with seeing the goodness of God because we struggle to understand what ultimate goodness looks like. Our view of what is good falls so far short of God’s. Bible verses like Romans 8:28-29 remind us that God knows far more about what is best for us than we do. God is not working in all things so that this life will be one of financial riches, good health, or popularity. It is so we become more like Jesus in our thoughts, words and actions. And if God is working all things so that we become more like Jesus, it must mean there is not a single thing we need to worry about. If we truly trust in God, we need not worry about what 2019 will bring. There is not one moment we need to fear. We can be sure that in every second of it, God will be working to make us more like Jesus. Why don’t you put God first at the beginning of this new year and see what happens? You could start by attending one of the many good churches in town who can help you on your journey of faith in 2019. What could be a better New Year’s resolution than that? May God’s richest blessing be upon you and your family this coming year.
revpacman.wordpress.com paul@billericaychurches.org @revPACman
detect a concerning momentum building behind the campaign for a second referendum. For many reasons, this would be a fool’s errand. In 2016 the electorate made it abundantly clear that it wanted to leave the European Union, even in the face of increasingly dire warnings from virtually every official outlet in the country. In our area, nearly 70% of voters supported Brexit.
John Baron Conservative Parliamentary MP For Basildon and Billericay
As the Article 50 deadline gets ever closer, so the political temperature at Westminster rises. As we approach the vote on the Withdrawal Agreement later this month, some
Amongst ‘leave’ voters across the country, the sense of betrayal and anger precipitated by an unnecessary second referendum foisted upon them by a political élite who wanted them to make the ‘right’ decision would be enormous, and would be the very embodiment of the type of behaviour by the EU which
compelled so many of them, quite rightly, to opt for Brexit. It is also impossible to believe such an exercise would unite the country, as every indication shows it would have precisely the opposite effect. Only the extremes would benefit, and a whole cohort of the electorate could give up on voting altogether, convinced that their opinions count for nothing when the élites in charge refuse to accept them. In a strong sense, there is a pride to be had in the way that Brexit is being thrashed out on the floors of Parliament – this is business as usual in our democracy. A quick glance across the Channel, where a rise in the cost of fuel sparked violence on the streets of Paris, puts things into a favourable perspective.
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THURROCK FOSTER CARING Foster carers are a special group of people in our community who are doing an incredibly vital job caring for some of the most vulnerable children. To become a foster carer, all people need is to have a spare bedroom, time in their life to care for a child and the passion for wanting to #MakeADifference to a child that has often had a neglectful, abusive or diffcult start to their childhood. Jack, aged 20, has been a looked after child in Thurrock since the age of 7 “Coming into care was a traumatic experience for me, I felt abandoned and didn’t understand what was going on. I was placed with my current foster carer when I was 17 and I have been with a number of foster carers growing up, who have all always promoted a positive future for me. These families have opened my eyes to the real world, they have given me security, stability, guidance and boundaries. For that, I am forever thankful. I didn’t really pay attention in school and college but things really fell into place
for me last year, I am now on an Access course to be able to go to university and become a Social Worker. I couldn’t have made this step without the help from the family I am now a part of. I decided to pursue further studies to become a social worker because I would like to provide support to those who need it in a way I never had. I feel I am in the right mind-set and this is my time to Make A Difference I am currently waiting to become a member of Thurrock Council Fostering Panel, where I will be able to provide a unique insight into this role with my background. I can’t wait to go to university but I will always come back to my current foster carer’s home, because that’s my home too.” Thurrock Fostering Team are always looking for more people who can care for those most in need, it’s an incredibly rewarding thing to do and full training, high levels of support and a generous financial package are provided by Thurrock Council.
For more information and to see upcoming drop-in information sessions and open evenings visit:
thurrock.gov.uk/fostering HAVE YOU GOT A LOCAL BUSINESS? DO YOU WANT TO TELL US ABOUT YOUR STORY? Contact Around Town Magazines enquire about an advertorial today!
Make a Difference Become a Thurrock foster carer – a child needs you
Thurrock Fostering are looking for more people to become carers We are looking for new or experienced foster carers to join us at Thurrock Fostering. If you have been thinking about fostering for a while or are an existing carer looking for new challenges and experiences, come along to one of our events to find out more. You do not have to live in Thurrock to be a foster carer for us.
thurrock.gov.uk/fostering Freephone 0800 652 1256 facebook.com/thurrockfostering
Join us for a chat and find out more about fostering Saturday 12 January – Open Morning 10.30am to 12.30pm, Corringham Library, St Johns Way, Corringham SS17 7LJ Thursday 24 January, Wednesday 13 February and Tuesday 12 March – Drop-in Information Session 10am to 10pm, Intu Lakeside, outside M&S Level 2 Wednesday 6 February – Open Evening 6pm to 8pm, Benfleet Conservative Club, Cunnington House, 69 High Street, Benfleet SS7 1NA Saturday 23 March – Open Morning 9.30am to 12.30pm, La Salette Cottage Hall, 1 Rainham Road, Rainham RM13 8SP
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Savings Roundup The start of 2019 will undoubtedly see many commit to New Year Resolutions. A recent survey from Inc.com found the following Resolutions to be the most popular: 1. Diet or eat healthier (71%) 2. Exercise more (65%) 3. Lose weight (54%) 4. Save more and spend less (32%) 5. Learn a new skill or hobby (26%) The only surprise to me was that changing job wasn’t in the top five (it was 7th) but diet, exercise and saving money are perennials on many a resolution list. Given this, I’ve pulled together my six savings tips to help you in 2019. 1) Pay off debts first If you have credit cards, store cards, loans, overdrafts or other expensive forms of borrowing then focus on repaying these first. Banking is fundamentally simple – banks make money by lending the savings from savers to borrowers at a higher rate than they pay to savers. Therefore, in the vast majority of cases, lending will cost more than savings. Paying debt off will be more financially rewarding. The only exception to this principle is a mortgage – otherwise, focus on paying off debts first. Pay off the most expensive debt first. I often see people focusing on clearing the smallest debt first but paying off the most expensive will save you more in interest costs in the long term. 2) Saving is a habit – start the habit! Like much in life, savings is a habit, so start forming that habit. One of
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the best ways to start the saving habit is to set up a regular savings account. Not only that, it is one of the most financially rewarding as interest rates on regular savings are much higher than those on easy access accounts and even five year fixed rate bonds. If you bank with First Direct, HSBC, or M&S, you will get 5% for paying in between £25 - £300 per month. Customers of Nationwide get 5% on sums from £1 - £250 per month Essex based Saffron Building Society pays 3.50% on amounts from £10 £200 per month and accounts can be opened and run in their branches across the county or via post. For those who prefer to bank online, or who want to save smaller sums, Virgin Money pas 3% on amounts from £1 - £250 per month.
switching (and wins almost all banking customer service awards) and gives a free £250 overdraft. Switchers to HSBC’s Advance account get £150 and those moving to M&S get £100 gift card plus another £80 gift card after 1 Year. Halifax pays £50 straight away, £85 after 6 months and £2 per month – so £159 in total by the end of the first year. With the government introduced Current Account Switching Guarantee, your new bank takes care of closing your old account, moving your balance and switching all your payments so you don’t have to worry about transferring all your bills. You even pick your own switch date! Over 4 million have switched so far.
Another great habit is to put a penny away on 1st January and then increase this by a penny every day e.g. 2p on 2nd January, 3p on 3rd January etc. Do this every day by the end of the year and your final contribution of £3.65 will give you a balance of £667.95 for the year (plus any interest that you earn)
4) Check the interest rate on your savings Around 75% of the UK population keep their savings with their current account provider. This is often not the most rewarding place to hold your savings with many of the high street banks paying interest rates of 0.1% to 0.5% on their savings accounts.
3) Maximise your current account It can be a challenge to save at times. However, almost all of us have money in our current account at some stage of the month. Nationwide pays its customers 5% on the first £2,500 held in a current account with them and Tesco Bank pays 3% on sums up to £3,000. This is a great chance to earn money by doing nothing!
The best paying easy access accounts (those which don’t require any notice to get your money out) pay 1.50%. Marcus (part of Goldman Sachs), Virgin Money and West Brom Building Society all pay this rate. Sainsburys Bank pay 1.45% and Essex based banks Ford Money (1.42%) and Shawbrook (1.40%) have been stalwarts of our best buy tables.
Banks will pay you to switch to them. First Direct pays £125 for
In fact, there are a dozen banks paying 1.40% or more on easy
access savings with minimum opening balances from £1, there’s plenty of choice. If your savings aren’t paying you a competitive rate – switch! 5) Buy Premium Bonds instead of Lottery tickets Premium Bonds have an annual prize fund of 1.40% - very competitive compared to the best easy access accounts. They are government backed so 100% safe and you can invest from £100. There’s a prize draw every month with 2 £1m prizes, 5 x £100,000 prizes and a range of prizes down to £25. The great thing about Premium Bonds is, unlike the National Lottery, you get your money back. If you like the chance to win big but want to keep your money, take a look at Premium Bonds. Over £91m of prizes were paid out in December 2018. 6) Make sure your money is protected The government offers a protection scheme which guarantees savers deposits if your financial services provider fails. The Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) protects deposits up to £85,000 per person, per bank, building society or credit union and up to £170,000 for joint accounts. 96% of UK savings and current accounts are FSCS protected – for free. If you are unsure whether your savings are covered, there is a handy tool on their website www.fscs.org.uk which will tell you. 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 Founder Savings Guru Ltd
www.thesavings.guru
Terms
Interest Rate
Provider
hello@thesavings.guru
Instant Savings
1.50%
Marcus, Virgin Money and West Brom
@SavingsGuruUK
Notice
1.87%
Gatehouse Bank
1 Year
2.10%
Gatehouse Bank
18 Month
2.25%
Bank of London & Middle East
2 Year
2.35%
Investec Bank
3 Year
2.42%
Al Rayan Bank
4 Year
2.50%
Vanquis Bank and Union Bank of India
2.70%
Atom, Bank of London & Middle East and Vanquis Bank
5 Year
This article is reproduced on our website www.thesavings. guru, with links to all the accounts and providers mentioned. Good luck with your New Year Resolutions and have a great month.
23
Painter - Decorator Domestic - Commercial Interior - Exterior
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24
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Low maintenance Upvc products
MICK INWOOD PLASTERER
COVING& SPECIALIST 45 Years Experience No job too small
Insurance Work Undertaken Installers of Guttering, Fascias, Soffits, Cladding, Windows & Doors
Upvc cleaning service also available Guttering, Fascia boards, Soffits & Cladding Window & Conservatory frames Conservatory roofs
Project2_Layout 1 01/12/2015 12:14 Page 1
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Aladdin -The Panto Time 1.30 and 5.30 pm This coming February join on a magical adventure as we visit the faraway lands of lamps and genies.
Tel: 07850 607075 or email: belvederejazz@gmail.com
This new production has been especially commissioned and promises fun and hilarity along the way. Suitable for all children.
Billericay Horticultural Society On Monday 23rd January 2019 at 8 p.m. at Mary Magdalan Church.High Street. Billericay. A talk; “Life in the Undergrowth” by Roger Hance
Tickets are available from the Fold Adults £10 children £5 01277659286 The Fold , Billericay Arts Association, 72 Laindon Road, Billericay CM12 9 LD Belvedere Jazz & Music Club 6th February - 8pm -10:30pm The Mick Foster Quartet 13th February - 8pm -10:30pm International Singing Star: Peter Grant Admission £15 14th February - 8pm -10:30pm The Jive Aces 20th February - 8pm -10:30pm Getz: A Musical Portrait – Chris Ingham Qrt 27th February - 8pm -10:30pm Kevin Grenfell’s Jazz Giants Admission £12.50 Meals Available www.belvederejazz.co.uk
26
The Chichester Hotel Old London Road Rawreth, SS11 8UE
Visitors always welcome £2 Refreshments available Billericay Operatic Society Billericay Operatic Society will be performing Betty Blue Eyes at the Brentwood Theatre between the 19th and 23rd of March 2018. For tickets and more information contact Bev on 01277 650672 or visit our website https://www. ticketsource.co.uk/billops
Chelmsford Jazz Club Cramphorn Theatre Chelmsford Doors open: 11.45am Gig starts: 12.15pm Advance booking: 01245 606505 £12 / £16 Sunday 13th January Geoff Simkins with John Pearce Dave Green and Steve Brown Sunday 10th February Alan Barnes with Robin Aspland, Andrew Cleyndert and Sebastiaan de Krom Sunday 3rd March Zoe Francis (vocals) with Jim Mullen (guitar) and John Pearce (piano) bass tbc Sunday 12th May “Sweet Chorus” featuring John Etheridge, David Kelbie, Chris Garrick and Peter Townsend Gone Too Soon Bereavement Support for Parents who have lost a Son or Daughter, all ages.
Billericay Operatic Society kick off their 90th birthday celebrations with their Betty Beetle Drive on Saturday 2nd February at Ramsden Bellhouse Village Hall.
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
Doors open at 7:00pm for a 7:30pm start. For tickets call Bev Peeling on 01277 650672.
There is ample free parking. For further details please contact Lyn on 07387 805406 or email lyn-currie@hotmail.co.uk
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Meeting dates – 18th February 18th March 15th April 20th May 17th June
26th March - An Evening with Ella & Louis with Hilary Cameron, keys & vocals and Paul Higgs, trumpet.
Hartbeeps Hartbeeps Classes for babies and toddlers featuring: Music, Puppets, Laughter and Fun! Classes at Beaulieu Community Centre on Wednesday and Thursday’s during term time. ESSEX MUMS VOTED US BEST TODDLER CLASS! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED BEST BABY CLASS! Come and find out why! Book now: www.bookeo. com/hartbeepschelmsford Find us on Facebook (Hartbeeps Chelmsford, Billericay, Burnham & SWF) Contact Charlene for more information 07791138077 charlene@hartbeeps.com Jazz at OB’s Last Tuesday each Month appearing with resident rhythm trio from 8 til 10:30pm 29th January - The Allure of Miss Lee with Catherine Lima, vocals, and Paul Higgs, tpt. 26th February - Great Guitars Revisited with Dominic Ashworth, Andy Watson and Simon Hurley.
www.jazzatobs.co.uk Admission £10.00 Old Brentwood’s Club, Ashwells Road Brentwood. CM15 9SE. Tel. 01277 624016 Jazz at the Fold Saturday19th January 7.30 pm An Evening in New Orleans with Redbeans ‘ n ‘ Rice 6 piece New Orleans Style Jazz Band Music ranges from jazz standards, blues, popular songs spiritual to marches and rags Tickets £12.00 Café layout -bring your own drinks. The Fold, 72 Laindon Road Billericay, Essex. CM129 LD 01277 659286 Norsey Wood Society Norsey Wood Society will be holding our next free open meeting preceded by a short AGM on Monday 21 January 2018 in The Fold, 72 Laindon Road, Billericay (car park behind Reid’s) starting at 7.45pm. Matthew McGettigan, Ranger, Thurrock Thameside Nature Park, Essex Wildlife Trust will present an illustrated talk on his reserve, ‘Thurrock
Thameside Nature Park’. Everyone welcome. E-mail our new address norseywoodsociety1977@ gmail.com or telephone Ken on 01277-651125 if more detail required. Visit norseywoodsociety.uk to find out more about the wood and the Society. Sing and Sign Sing and Sign is the original baby signing programme still going strong in its’ 20th year. It is simple in its’ approach, drawing on the value of music to establish the building blocks of speech and language development whilst nurturing a quite incredible connection between parent and baby. With tunes and words that are easy to learn, you will soon be singing our songs in your sleep! What’s more you will be having so much fun with your little one, building on those natural gestures that they already have, to teach them a language that you can both understand. If you would like more information please email me at martinebrockman@ singandsign.co.uk or you can find us online at www.sasessex.co.uk. We are on Facebook too at www.facebook.com/ singsignessex.
If you would like to promote your club or event for Jan/Feb 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
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(ESSEX)Limited (ESSEX)Limited
ALL BUILDING TRADES CATERED FOR & SMALL WORKS UNDERTAKEN
A Company Who Cares with Local Staff MONDAY – SATURDAY (ESSEX)Limited 7AM TO 8PM
Estimates for all insurance works Internal walls/external walls removed Concrete paths,driveways, block paving All Plastering ceilings and walls New bathrooms /toilets and showers trays Patios & Concrete repair work undertaken All Decorating & wallpapering Roof repairs / ridge tiles, re-bedded renewed Drain works, repairs, renewal, manhole covers Rendering and Monocouche render Felting /flat roofs strip and re-felt R.S.J and lintels installed Fencing works and concrete, timber posts UPVC Fascias and soffits Floor sanding/ hardwood /Karndean flooring UPVC double glazing windows and doors Wall and floor tiling bathroom and kitchens Garage conversions & Alterations Guttering repairs & renewals Velux windows supplied & fitted Electrical fault finding Tiling floor & wall / Establish 25years All Electrical works re-wires Strip & Re-felting tiled roofs testing & inspections Scaffolding supplied & fitted • New Consumer units fitted /new sockets • Brickwork /Chimney stacks /pointing & removal Kitchen supplied /fitted /alterations to kitchens • • • • • • • • • • • •
Electrical and plumbing works 6year warranty u.p.v.c works doors & windows 10yearwarrant Home pro free Insurance backed guarantee (subject to contract) Fully insured /employers /public liability and contract insurance Free Estimates & Advice References of current clients given on Estimate
Please phone or Email:- Balanceandco@aol.com Web site :- balanceandcoessexltd.co.uk Email:- Balanceandco@aol.com Head office 53 Rhoda Road North Benfleet Essex SS7 3EH Head office tel no 01268794552/ 01268750138 01277 800143 Web site :- balanceandcoessexltd.co.uk Email:- Balanceandco@aol.com
If you would like to discuss any items please phone or e-mail:- All works double glazing works and UPVC carry a 10 year warranty All minor works up to £ 10,000.00 Have a 12month warranty Major building up to £100,000.00 carry a 60 months warranty Electrical works & plumbingHead 6 yearoffice warranty Other Road information wanted :-Essex Napit Certification Company(Nap/28738, Electrical NICEIC number ID/ 53 Rhoda Northif Benfleet SS7 3EH Head office tel no 01268794552/ 01268750138 D114220 ID 28236 Fair Trades 267797 register under fair and trades number Insurance as public If you would Fensa like toNumber discuss any items/please phoneNumber or e-mail:All Trust worksmark double glazing works UPVC carry a 10 yearcover warranty liability for min 5 million with contract works per job 100,000(Balance and Company ESSEX Ltd reg Number 10227772) All minor works up to £ 10,000.00 Have a 12month warranty Major building up to £100,000.00 carry a 60 months warranty Electrical works
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& plumbing 6 year warranty Other information if wanted :- Napit Certification Company(Nap/28738, Electrical NICEIC number ID/ D114220 Fensa Number ID 28236 / Fair Trades Number 267797 Trust mark register under fair trades number Insurance cover as public liability for min 5 million with contract works per job 100,000(Balance and Company ESSEX Ltd reg Number 10227772)
Web site :- balanceandcoessexltd.co.uk Email:- Balanceandco@aol.com Head office 53 Rhoda Road North Benfleet Essex SS7 3EH Head office tel no 01268794552/ 01268750138
If you would like to discuss any items please phone or e-mail:- All works double glazing works and UPVC carry a 10 year warranty All minor works up to £ 10,000.00 Have a 12month warranty Major building up to £100,000.00 carry a 60 months warranty Electrical works
ITS OK CAMPAIGN The Story of Dawn Wood - It’s OK Campaign Founder
D
o you know what the hardest thing about this journey is, that you can’t explain to people why you feel the way you do. It’s hard to tell someone, anyone that you can’t cope, that you need help, that you feel alone, even as far as to say that you don’t want to be here anymore. Even when you have the most amazing people around you. That’s the hardest, because to everyone else, you have everything, but inside you feel you have nothing. When you don’t understand what is going on in your own head, how are you possibly meant to make someone else understand? I started suffering with my mental health when my mum and dad broke up. Now this was years ago, I was 21 and people would think you would be old enough to understand it. But I wasn’t. I struggled for years and years. Counselling, doctors appointments and a ton of medications later I started feeling relatively back to “normal” years go by and I think life is going great!! Then 2017 arrived. I had to watch my brother and his girlfriend go through their toughest time losing their baby boy, then have to explain to their 5 year old son why his baby brother wasn’t coming home. My cousin then attempted suicide... Weeks later my relationship broke down after 10 long years together. I lost my boyfriend and best friend in one day. My ride or die... A break up is bad enough but having already been through a tough few weeks I just couldn’t cope anymore. I shut out all my friends and family. My closest most loyal friends became strangers. I was signed off from work with severe depression and anxiety. Anxious that everyone was talking about me and my break up. Not wanting to be out where someone could see me and ask how I was or how my “boyfriend” was then having to explain everything. It was just too much. I spent all my time with one friend and her absolutely amazing family, every single day for almost 6 months. Barely leaving my house unless it was to go there or to the doctors. I lost 3 stone in weight, my hair fell out, skin was terrible and my IBD was the worst it had ever been. I felt so alone, so betrayed and scared. Now being 29 years old (at the time) and having already been in a relationship for 10 years I thought my life was
30
planned out. Living with my boyfriend, kids and a lovely house with a dog! Instead I was 29, newly single, depressed with almost every single friend of mine pregnant (all absolutely gorgeous babies may I add) this in itself was a struggle and looking back now probably some of the hardest conversations I’ve probably ever had to have with my friends. Regardless of how I was feeling inside, I was so happy by the news they shared one by one. Even if my face didn’t look like it. Anyway I could go on and on but I won’t - countless doctors appointments, tons of counseling, meds and the odd tantrum I started feeling back to myself beginning of this year. It’s taken me over a year to finally feel like me again and although I hate the thought of taking tablets to help me the truth is if I had a issue with my liver or kidney I wouldn’t refuse medication because I know I need it - therefore I just need to remember that my brain needs this medication. I’m lucky that I am now strong enough to openly talk about my past experiences, hoping that I can help someone at some point in the future. I’ve started university this year to study psychology, I have a great job that’s allowed me to go on all types of mental health training, I’m running a work stream with an amazing colleague of mine (that’s helped me through the last 12-14 months) to promote physical and mental wellbeing within the corporate workplace. I have amazing friends and their gorgeous babies, the best work colleagues a girl could ask for and so much to look forward to over the next 18 months. Weddings, more babies and uni. So with that in mind, please reach out to someone, anyone of you ever feel down, depressed or anxious. To everyone else, be careful what you say to people. What you see their lives to be may not be the full picture. People only let you see what they want you to. The rest is their secret. Be mindful of how to talk to someone, you just don’t know what they might be going through. Tough times don’t last, tough people do. #mentalhealthawareness #1in4
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The Flooring Store that Comes to Your Door
A.Clarke Carpets & Flooring
Supply and Fit: Carpets
Vinyl
Laminate
1000’s of samples to choose from to suit all budgets brought to you at your home or office. Highly experienced fitters, guaranteed to beat any written quotation on like for like products by at least 10%. Large selection of quality remnants available at our warehouse.
07718 063942 • www.aclarkecarpets.com Unit 7, Red Lion Business Centre, Latchingdon, CM3 6JH • clarky319@hotmail.com
Stressed..? Get shiatsu!! Shiatsu is a holistic bodywork therapy which is influenced by Japanese, Chinese and Western knowledge. Similar to acupuncture principles however the practitioner using his/her hands rather than needles. By applying gentle pressure to points and other techniques (e.g. pressing with palms, dynamic rotations, stretches) the shiatsu practitioner stimulates the body’s natural healing ability. Shiatsu can help with problems with muscles and joints, problems with body structure such as back pain or posture, relaxation and relief of tension and stress, low energy and fatigue, problems with digestion, breathing or blood pressure, menstrual pain, emotional tension and is also very good support in pregnancy, pre- and post- birth. Contact qualified shiatsu practitioner Marie Randall (based in Billericay, Essex) for stress– relieving shiatsu session at:
info@marierandallshiatsu.co.uk
tel: 07963890321
www.marierandallshiatsu.co.uk Marie Randall Shiatsu Treatments Marie Randall is a graduate member of the Shiatsu Society and is covered by the professional indemnity insurance set by the society.
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Ian’s curtains & blinds
Curtains | Tracks & Poles | Roman Blinds | Roller Blinds Vertical Blinds | Venetian Blinds | Wooden Blinds Pattern books also available.
FREE QUOTE - Call today on 01268 976779 | Mobile: 07743562384 ian.dipple@yahoo.com | www.ianscurtainsandblinds.co.uk
BILLERICAY ROTARY CLUB
Plans are already forward in advance of staging our fourth Spectactular Soapbox Derby on Bank Holiday Monday, May 6 2019. The derby committee have taken on board suggestions and advice following the 2018 event and entries are beginning to come in but there is still time to enter a racing kart.It’s easy to do by going to: www. billericaysoapboxderby.co.uk We will be aiming to again hit our target of adding more cash for our chosen charities to the £90,000 raised since the inception of the derby event in 2016.
We have continued to support our many chosen charities, Shelter Box, Mary’s Meals, Hope & Homes for Children and our RotaKids at Quilters and Buttsbury Junior schools who have supported us at all our events, with donations to help fund their ongoing school activities and president Les Sheppard has been very active in overseeing much of this. We had two gazebos at the Mayflower Club of Billericay’s Christmas Market and our Rotakids were a tremendous help in selling our Grand Raffle tickets and raising a record sum. Socially we enjoyed a Christmas partners lunch at Reids Restaurant where we meet for a two-course lunch every Monday in the month(except Bank Holidays), 12,45 – 1.00pm with renowned speakers. New members welcome. For information: Website: www.billericayrotary.org; www.twitter.com/BillercyRotary/ www.facebook.com/BillericayRotary. Or contact: Membership Secretary, Peter Strong: Tel:01277 654501 email: peter_j_strong@hotmail.com
Nature Notes Written by Neil Sumner
Neilsumner123@aol.com twitter.com/neilsumner123
January is traditionally a time to make resolutions so why not make two for wildlife? The first could be selfindulgent: you resolve to see a species of wildlife you have not seen before, locally if possible. Perhaps a Water Vole, a Slow Worm, any species of butterfly, or to watch for bat at dusk? Or perhaps a Treecreeper scurrying up gnarled bark in ancient woodland. The second resolution is to make a difference. This could be big or small, depending on how much time you are willing and able to give. You don’t have to be an expert but might want to get a little bit of advice. If you have a garden, how about putting in a pond, a bug hotel or just some bee-friendly plants? Perhaps put up a feeder and enjoy some armchair bird-watching? Maybe join a local work party or local committee, or become a Tree Warden. Or write to your MP about local issues affecting wildlife. Or resolve to share your wildlife sightings on the Essex Records database (http://www.essexwtrecords. org.uk/online), so that they contribute to the overall picture of how our wildlife is doing. We are having a mild spell as I write. Robins and Song
Thrushes are singing, Starlings whistling, House Sparrows are lining the nest box and a Buff-tailed Bumblebee has appeared in the garden. But the weather may cool many times between now and spring and then survival will be the main goal for wildlife. Late winters are most diffcult as natural food crops have been depleted. or us, it’s easier to see birds and some mammals in a snowy or frosty landscape when they are looking for food but mild days, especially in the afternoon, can be quiet. Then patience is needed – or you can simply enjoy looking at the trees or open skies. I believe that most humans have an evolved tendency to enjoy nature to some degree and that this should be nurtured by education. We should all be taught and reminded how we are dependant on the natural world for our health and economy. And for our well-being. My view from the ‘offce’ i s m ainly o f brick and tiles but there is a cherry tree being visited by Goldfinches and that little bit of nature uplifts the spirits. When I worked full time I listened for birds on the railway platform or diverted my commute through a London park. This is my last Nature Notes column. I’d like to thank AroundTown for allowing me to write this. And I’d like to thank all of you who have taken the time to read it. I’d be pleased to be contacted – especially if you want advice on either of your resolutions, perhaps where you can see your new wildlife species. Happy New Year and please take time to enjoy and help your local wildlife.
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33
#WEAREPRINT PROJECT OF THE MONTH Weddings are an exciting time, so when Laura wanted us to create invitations for her wedding in Malta, we knew we have to pull out all the stops. As you can see, the package that we came up with for her stands out, and is completely in theme with a wedding abroad.
If you need wedding stationery, or invitations for any event, make sure you get in contact with us, and you too will be as happy as Laura!
65844o.u4k 01277 squarelitho.c
www.black relitho.co.uk sales@blacksqua y, Essex CM12 0DX
dford Way, Billerica Graphic House, Ra
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01268 542233 01268 542233 01268 542233 www.iphone-repairs-basildon.co.uk www.iphone-repairs-basildon.co.uk 01268 - 542233 www.iphone-repairs-basildon.co.uk www.iphone-repairs-basildon.co.uk Screens - Batteries - Cameras - Speakers - Accessories
Wash Road West, Basildon SS15 4BT Next to DGT Wheels & Tyres, at the bottom of Noak Hill Road
www.iphone-repairs-basildon.co.uk
An original Valentine’s Gift for the One You Love The finest Sparkling White Wines from the South of France, delivered free to your door in the Billericay area
Ancestrale £16 A BOTTLE
Blanquette £18
DOUX (sweet) 6% 100% Mauzac Grape. Its sweetness comes solely from the grapes with no added sugar. “Drink on its own or ideal as an aperitif with Aperol or cranberry juice. Excellent as a dessert wine.”
BRUT (dry) 12% 90% Mauzac with 10% Chardonnay grapes “Very drinkable without the after taste of champagne.”
A BOTTLE
Crémant £20 A BOTTLE
BRUT (dry) 12% 60% Chardonnay, 30% Chenin, 5% Mauzac and 5% Pinot Noir Grapes. “More complex flavours from four grape varieties.”
For more information or to place your order please visit our Facebook page, /TheOriginalFizz or call us 01277 658444
Order before 11th February for delivery on the 12th February in the Billericay area FREE DELIVERY OF SINGLE BOTTLES OR CASES
TO ADVERTISE 7
AROUND TOWN Offer Boiler Service & = Gas Certificate for £70
Get In Touch:
01277 600 132 07599 864 808
info@eastplumbing.co.uk
USEFUL NUMBERS POLICE Billericay Police Station
01277 631212
HOSPITALS Brentwood Hospital Basildon Hospital Broomfield Hospital Essex Nuffield Hospital Mayflower House Queen’s Romford Southend Hospital Spire Hartswood Hospital
01277 695000 01268 524900 01245 443673 08453 143350 01277 621130 08451 304204 01702 435555 01277 232525
HELPLINES Alcoholics Anonymous Childline DIAL Disability Helpline Drugline Essex Home Start
01245 256147 0800 11 11 01268 294400/1 01708 749151
(Helping families under stress) 01277 263325
In Focus
(family disabilities support)
Narcotics Anonymous NHS non-emergency Parentline Samaritans S. Essex Rape and Incest Crisis Centre Victim Support Essex Women’s Refuge
CONTACT
01277 658444 sales@aroundtownmagazines.co.uk
BIRTH, DEATH MARRIAGES REGISTRATION
TAXIS Advanced Taxicall Billericay 01277 800001 Mayflower Cars 01277 624000 Swift Cars 01277 757473
CHEMISTS Boots the Chemist, Billericay Filmcroft Ltd, Billericay Lloyds Pharmacy, Billericay Moss Pharmacy, Billericay Shadforth M.W Billericay Shadforths Pharmacy, Billericay Shadforths Pharmacy Ingatestone
UTILITIES Anglian Water Electricity – Power Supply Problems Gas – Urgent Calls / Gas Escapes Minicom – Transco Thames Water (Supply or Wastewater Services) Three Valleys Water Water – Essex & Suffolk Water
0845 6037632 01277 233565 01277 221155
BLOOD TEST Booking Line
01277 655233 01277 624862 01277 622828 01277 653035 01277 622927 01277 652241 01277 352125 01702 746511
ROAD & TRAVEL UPDATES Essex Travel www.bbc.co.uk/travelnews/essex
01245 353575 01277 655352 111 0808 800 2222 116 123
COUNCILS Basildon Billericay Town Council Chelmsford Ingatestone Stock Parish Council
01268 533333 01277 625732 01245 606606 01277 353315 07757 114952
01375 380609 0845 4565995 01268 541140
TRANSPORT Bus Service Rail Service
0870 6082608 08457 484950
VETS Best Friends Veterinary Surgery House & Jackson Ingatestone Veterinary Centre Summerdale Veterinary Centre Vet Savers LIBRARIES Basildon Billericay Ingatestone Wickford
0345 145 145 0800 783 8838 0800 111999 0800 371787 0845 9200 800 0345 823 333 01245 491234
01277 651009 01277 655524 01277 353612 01277 631889 01277 652100 0845 603 7628 01277 624624 01277 354284 01268 561963
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37
VISIT OUR SHOWROOM & TRY OUT OUR NEW 4D EXPERIENCE SEE HOW YOUR NEW BATHROOM COULD LOOK THROUGH VIRTUAL REALITY
tr lS
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info@acebathrooms.co.uk www.acebathrooms.co.uk 3 Alma Link, Billericay, Essex CM12 9GF
V 70
Essex's Leading Blind, Awning & Interior Shutter Specialists for over 100 Years
01277 809047
01702 467581
• Factory Showroom with Free Parking • Large Luxaflex Inspiration Display • Weinor Patio Awning Showroom • Made-to-Measure Curtains & Accessories
• All types of Interior Window Blinds • Custom-Made Window Shutters • Conservatory Blinds • Home & Commercial
As a local company we offer a wide choice of Blinds, Shutters, Curtains & Patio Awnings, with competitive prices all year, plus FREE no obligation quotations.
www.worthblinds.com
sales@worthblinds.com
Unit 13 Parkside Centre, Potters Way, Temple Farm Industrial Est, Southend SS2 5SJ
An independent day school for girls and boys age 2 - 16 years
Pre-Reception and Reception Open Day Tuesday 5th February 2019 | Tours at 9.30am and 10.30am
96% of pupils achieved 5 or more A* to C / 9 to 4 grade GCSEs in 2018
St. John’s School has a unique magical atmosphere where learning, creativity and success is enjoyed by everyone. We offer small class sizes, where every pupil is nurtured and inspired to develop both academically and as an individual. 15 hours Early Years Entitlement discount available* and childcare vouchers accepted against fees.
Come and explore the exciting opportunities available to your child. Please contact our Registrar to join us for our next Open Day or to book a personal tour with our Headmistress. Telephone - 01277 623070 E-mail - registrar@stjohnsschool.net | www.stjohnsschool.net *For 3 and 4 year old eligible children.