Cm17 2014 12 yudu (dec jan) by Lorraine Perry

THE

CONNECTION December 2014 ISSUE 112 DELIVERED

FREE EVERY MONTH

■■ Locals that launch: Old Town Stores

INSIDE

THIS ISSUE

■■ Herts & Essex Samaritans ■■ a Christmas question for our ministers . . . AND MUCH MORE!

AT THE HEART OF OUR COMMUNITY

Fun Educational Cookery & Cake Decorating Lessons for all ages and abilities Tel: 07906 158895 www.cookiescookingschool.co.uk cookies-cooking-school

HOME FROM HOME HOLIDAY’S FOR DOGS

Soft Touches Aesthetics Claire Newman Msc, BSC(Hons), RMN, independent prescriber Wrinkle relaxing injections prices start from £170 Dermal fillers & lips £250

hotel for hounds

• Family environment • 150 x 50 fully enclosed garden • Situated in beautiful countryside • 10 Minute drive from Hatfield Forest • 15 Minute drive from Stansted Airport • No more than 5 dogs at any one time • Fully insured and licensed • Luxury accommodation

Contact Jayne: 07747 577348

www.soft-touches.uk enquiries@soft-touches.uk

Your local solar energy specialist

checkin@hotelforhounds.com @hotelforhounds

All jobs done and done right! All aspects of floor & wall tiling, painting & decorating and fully

Design and Installation of Solar PV and Solar Thermal Systems

Tel: 01279 912 626 info@vikingsolar.co.uk www.vikingsolar.co.uk Certificate Number NAP 16782 Solar PV

qualified plasterer. Recommendations available. Call Harry 07858 360451

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345

THE

WELCOME HELLO AND WELCOME TO THis special Christmas & New Year EDITION OF our little magazine... This special Christmas & New Year edition is being delivered to 17 thousand homes across Harlow. What, why, who? I hear you say. Let me explain. For the past 9 years I have been producing an award winning community magazine for the CM17 postcode area of our town, which is delivered to 8.5 thousand homes. For this edition only, the magazine will be delivered to a whopping 17 thousand homes across Harlow - hence calling this edition The CM Connection rather than The CM17 Connection - subtle, isn’t it! So if you’re receiving this little mag for the first time, I bid you a warm welcome and hope that you enjoy it! The aim of the magazine is to provide affordable advertising to local businesses as well as a regular forum for community events and news. For us, it’s all about community and keeping it local - when and wherever possible! In this edition, along with all our regular features and articles, J&HRecruitment begin a series based around the recruitment industry - giving us some top tips and insider knowledge! We have posed a wickedly difficult question to some of our local ministers, who kindly share their thought provoking responses on page 32. As ever our free community pages are chock-a-block with local activities and events for you to attend and our what’s on section provides a handy diary to make sure that you don’t miss out on what’s happening locally too.

CONNECTION dec 2014/jan 2015 ISSUE 112

CONTENTS ■ FEATURES & ARTICLES 9 Local Business People in Person 12 Herts & Essex Samaritans 15 Recruitment Matters 16 Cats Protection League 18 Locals That Launch 22 Harlow Chorus 32 We Asked Our Local Ministers... 38 Christmas Truce 1914 44 Christmas Traditions

■ FUN & LEISURE 26 Short Story

We have our regular update from Harlow Chorus and our local PCSO’s and of course from “Jethro” although I am really sorry to say that it will be the last of our allotment features - it has been a pleasure working with your “Jethro” thank you so much for your informative and light hearted contributions - you will be missed!

30 Just for the Kids

The next edition will be February 2015 so it leaves me to wish one and all a very happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year!

48 Humour

Until next year, Lorraine

CONTACTING US

40 Look What’s Cooking 42 The Allotments

51 Puzzles & Brain Teasers

■ IT’S YOUR COMMUNITY

editor

Lorraine Perry

36 Policing our Community

call

01279 410345

53 Henry Moore School

lorraine@cm17.net

danielle@cm17.net

54 Local Community

web

www.cm17.net Join us on Facebook

PLEASE Copy deadline for all adverts and submissions in the NOTE February 2015 edition is 15th January

35 What’s On at Victoria Hall

58 What’s On 62 Index 63 Useful Numbers CM Connection Magazines cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions, products or services that appear in this publication.

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345

PLEASE MENTION THE CM17 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

THIS VOUCHER ENTITLES THE BEARER TO A PART EXCHANGE OF UP TO £175 PER WINDOW OR £225 DOOR REPLACED BY

BENNBROOK WINDOWS

£175 PLEASE QUOTE reference “CM17” when speaking to the consultant. Offer only applies to new quotations

(8 WINDOWS AND 2 DOORS COULD SAVE YOU UP TO £1850 OFF OUR LIST PRICES) BENNBROOK WINDOWS UNIT 1, ESGORS FARM HIGH ROAD, THORNWOOD CM16 6LY

01992 574555

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Letter from Robert Halfon MP Working Hard For Harlow

Dear readers, I would like to take this opportunity to wish all CM17 readers a very Happy Christmas, reflect on the year that has passed, and look forward to the coming year ahead. There has been some great news on jobs - unemployment is now down by 46% since 2010. This achievement can largely be attributed to Harlow’s incredible businesses, which have been going from strength to strength, increasing employment opportunities throughout the town. In turn, this business growth encouraged bigger employers to move into Harlow, such as Poundland, Aldi and Brakes Brothers. That said none of this would have been possible without institutions such as Harlow College, which has boosted skills in Harlow. Apprenticeships have risen by 106% since 2010 and has been the number one college in England for the last three years in a row! Our schools are seeing better exam results than ever before and I was delighted to see the new Sir Charles Kao University Technical College (UTC) open its doors in September. The Harlow UTC offers free, firstclass vocational education in science, computing and medicine, as well as traditional academic subjects for students aged 14-19. This was something I campaigned for tirelessly in Parliament, and it was a very special moment to see the Prime Minister visit the site. There has also been significant improvements in Harlow’s local health services. Since 2010, Princess Alexandra Hospital has received a £1 million upgrade to it’s eye clinic, a brand new kidney dialysis unit, a new children’s Accident & Emergency centre, an upgrade to its maternity unit and a brand new Short Stay Assessment centre. Hopefully many readers will have also heard about my campaign to scrap excessive hospital car parking charges. Not only were some hospitals charging extortionate amounts for short stays, but there are also huge variations across the country. Princess Alexandra charges a relatively acceptable £3 for two hours, but average fees range from £3.50 per day in the East Midlands, up to £26.00 per day in South East London. Plus, hospital parking charges have been abolished in Scotland and Wales. This simply wasn’t right and

everyone should have fair and equal access to NHS treatment, regardless of where they live. My campaign in Parliament attracted the support of over 100 MPs and, in response to this, the Government set out new guidelines, saying that charges should be fair and that frequent visitors, the disabled and NHS staff should receive heavily discounted on-site parking. I am very grateful to all of the Harlow residents who signed my petition and got involved in the campaign, and I will do all that I can over the coming months to hold hospitals to account. Despite all of this however, Harlow has had its share of problems in 2014. Sadly the Churchgate Hotel has closed and M&S recently announced that they will be leaving Harlow after they were refused planning permission by the Council to relocate. My thoughts go out to all the staff and their families who have been affected, and I will do whatever I can to help. Unfortunately, many residents have also been affected by the continuous illegal encampments that have been set up around Harlow. We must have a zero tolerance approach to those who break the law by trespassing on private and public land and engaging in anti-social behaviour. I am hopeful that all of the authorities can work together to resolve this problem early in the coming year. For many residents, it has also been a tough year to make ends meets and I would like to reassure everyone that I am doing everything possible to represent you in Parliament. Fuel duty will be frozen until the end of this Parliament - meaning that petrol is now 20p a litre cheaper than it would have been under Labour’s plans all infant school children are receiving free school meals, and rail fares will be capped at inflation in 2014. The government has also increased the National Minimum Wage above inflation, and cut taxes for 26 million lower earners by increasing the personal allowance. Very best wishes, Robert Halfon

WORKING HARD FOR YOU ALL YEAR ROUND

halfon4harlow@roberthalfon.com www.facebook.com/roberthalfon www.twitter.com/halfon4harlowMP www.roberthalfonblog.com www.roberthalfon.com

PLEASE MENTION THE CM17 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345

Special feature

local business people in person Name and Business: Alan Giddings from Giddings Lane Will Consultancy. Where do you live? I live in Harlow (born and bred) and 20 years in Church Langley. What’s your favourite local shop? I am tempted to say Tesco’s at Church Langley because it is so convenient but must admit to liking Lidl and Aldi for their prices What’s your favourite local venue? Harlow Playhouse – they put on some very good shows and every time I go there I say we should do it more often. What do you like best about Harlow? The people that live here. What do you like doing when you’re not working? I enjoy getting out in the fresh air and walking. I am currently walking sections of the South West Coastal path which is fantastic. I also play tennis every week and have the occasional game of golf.

We set up our business because... I wanted to do something for myself and having worked in the financial services industry for many years I had a very good insight into the area of Wills and Estate Planning. I have now been in business for just over 10 years. What’s the best thing that’s happened to you recently? It sounds a bit cheesy, but seeing my children growing up in to wonderful young adults Favourite one liner or saying? “My daughter said: ‘Did you know butterflies only live for one day?’ I said: ‘That’s a myth. ‘She said: ‘No, it’s definitely a butterfly.”

PLEASE MENTION THE CM17 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

SHAFT DIRECT FOR A HEALTHIER WORKPLACE

shaftdirect.com 01371 874506

r Childrens’ desk sets available in pink, blue or green. Chair and desk both height adjustable. r Suitable for ages 3-13 years. £110 + vat r

ial Spec asr stm Chri er Ofefd Stock t

Limi

52 High St, Dunmow, CM6 1AW r shaftdirectuk r SHAFT Direct r

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345

PLEASE MENTION THE CM17 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

IT’s your community

It’s Good to Talk! The herts & Essex branch of the Samaritans

Do you ever feel down, depressed or like you’re struggling to cope? Talking about whatever it is that’s troubling you can really help. The Herts & Essex branch of Samaritans has been based in Ware for over 45 years and has 120 volunteers who answer almost 40,000 calls each year. Noel Griffin, Branch Director explains: “Samaritans work is done quietly but has huge value. Sometimes it’s difficult to talk to someone you know: it feels embarrassing, personal, or you don’t want to take up their time. Sometimes there just isn’t anyone to talk to. “Samaritans give people the chance to talk in confidence about anything that is troubling them. People call about job and money worries, family and relationship issues, feeling alone, worthless, sad, angry or suicidal, or being abused. There is no typical problem or caller.

Tel:

01920 464099 (local) 08457 909090 (national)

email:

jo@samaritans.org

WWW: samaritans.org

Samaritans are there to listen at any time of the day or night, and as well as phone calls they respond to emails, texts and visitors who drop in to talk face-to-face. They also work with local schools and other organisations to encourage emotional wellbeing. You can find out more about Samaritans, including how to contact the branch in Ware, or how to become a volunteer, at www. samaritans.org. If you are interested in volunteering you can also call the local number below. If you need to speak to someone call 01920 464099 (local), 08457 909090 (national), or email jo@samaritans.org.

WARE OFFICE

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345

❤❤Hampers for all occasions, even as a thank you ❤❤Gifts for all baby showers ❤❤Sister company of Angel Surprise Ltd, specialising in designer nappy cakes

❤❤Passionate about the personal gift ❤❤We deliver to the whole of the UK, Ireland, Guernsey and Jersey

❤❤Creating the ultimate celebratory box of delights Unique Online Hamper Gift Company Telephone: 01279 311439 Email: info@hampersurprise.co.uk Website: www.hampersurprise.co.uk Facebook: Angel Surprise | Twitter: @angelsurpriseuk PLEASE MENTION THE CM17 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345

ADVERTISING FEATURE

recruitment column What impact can you make in 10 seconds?

Research shows this is how long the average employer takes to make the decision if you are right for the job. So here at J&HRecruitment we have compiled our Top 10 Tips to help make your CV stand out in a crowded candidate market.

üüWrite a comprehensive profile - this is the first impression and the most important part of any CV. Our advice is to include a brief overview of your career, your relevant qualifications and a line on what you are looking for. Your profile should be no more than 5 lines long.

üüWrite it in the third person - CV’s are a professional document and should be composed in a way to reflect this. It shouldn’t be “I did this/I did that”, it doesn’t demonstrate your business acumen.

üüDo not include a photograph - everyone has an opinion on this but we advise not to include a photograph. Employers are trained to focus on skill set not appearance, we’re often told by employers they remove them straight away.

üüInclude your contact details - this may sound obvious but make sure you include your mobile number and home number, ensure both are correct (and make sure you have a voicemail set up). It’s also important to have a sensible email address.

üüKeep it relevant - we all like to show off what we have achieved and your CV is the perfect platform for that but it’s imperative to keep your CV significant to the role you’re applying for.

üüLayout - unnecessary use of complex words or hard to read fonts give a bad impression.

People who use simple clear language are rated as more intelligent. Also, bullet point your duties for each role.

üüOne size does not fill all - tailor your CV to the role you are applying for but try not to just produce a list of adjectives, reinforce your skills with examples.

üüHonesty is the best policy - everyone wants to get their CV noticed but if you exaggerate the truth you will get found out! Be proud of what you have achieved in your career, there is a job for everyone and there will be an employer that feels your experience is right for them.

üüCheck, check and check again - believe us, the amount of CV’s we see with mistakes is staggering so please proof read it and get someone else to double check it for you.

üüFill in the gaps - make sure your employment history is fully complete, if you took a year out to go travelling ensure you include it rather than leave a gap as employers worry if there are unaccountable dates.

J&HRecruitment is a vibrant and exciting recruitment consultancy, perfectly matching clients’ employment requirements with exceptional candidates. With over 20 years’ combined experience, Directors Debra Harris and Claire Jose, bring an abundance of knowledge, skill sets and professional know-how from the bustling City of London transferred to Bishop’s Stortford and surrounding areas to support local businesses.

For more information contact: 01279 293 123 Email: hello@jandhrecruitment.co.uk Facebook: JandHrecruitment Twitter: JH_Recruitment www.jandhrecruitment.co.uk 15 PLEASE MENTION THE CM17 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

IT’s your community

LOCAL CHARITIES Lynne Introduces: Cats Protection

Although the branch is officially called the Harlow, Epping Forest & District Branch (with some very loyal volunteers living in the area) it covers a wider area including places further up the M11 corridor. This local branch was founded in 1993 and rehomes around 150 cats and kittens per year. Although part of a national organisation the branch is totally self-funded.

will help with the cost of neutering for cat owners on limited means. Every year or so they run a neutering promotion and work with some of the local vets to provide free or subsidised neutering. In their 2013 campaign they neutered over 300 cats.

All their cats live with fosterers in cattery-style cabins in their gardens; they don’t have central premises. This allows their fosterers to give personal attention to each cat and to get to know its personality. Cats come into their care for a variety of reasons: some are strays, some are abandoned in horrendous circumstances - we have rescued from several locations kittens that have been dumped in boxes. Sometimes people can no longer look after their cats due to age, illness, family break-up etc.

• Becoming a branch member for a modest annual sub

Whilst in their care all cats if old enough are spayed or castrated before being rehomed. They

• Or why not provide a cat or kitten with a forever home.

LOCATION: Web: FacebooK: TEL:

The group are always in need of support, which can be given in a number of ways including:

• Sponsor a cat cabin for just £4 per month • Attend one of their events – details via their newsletter, Facebook page and website • Become a volunteer – they are always in need of people to undertake home visits, foster, become a speaker at local community groups, assist with fund raising, help with publicity and donate items to sell

PO Box 7360, EPPING CM16 7XZ Cats.org.uk/harlow CatsProtectionharlow 01279 503108

Lynne Garner Lynne Garner is a local author who has written over 20 books and over 200 magazine features. Her books include non-fiction (often craft related) and four picture books. She also teaches creative writing and craft related subjects. When not teaching or writing Lynne visits local schools and organisations. If you'd like to book a visit contact her via her website www.lynnegarner.com - Social media: Facebook page (lynnegarnerauthor), Twitter @lynnegarner

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345

Janette 01279 636912 Harlow

PLEASE MENTION THE CM17 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

special feature

LOCALs that launch in october 2014 Gary & Lisa Stevens took over the ownership of the News Rack in Old Harlow., which they Subsequently Relaunched as the Old Town Stores. A family concern, we met with them to find out why this is so much more than a retail store... Where are you from originally? We are both born and bred in Harlow. I went to the comprehensive Netteswell & my wife, Lisa, to Brays Grove. What’s your experience in business? My background is mainly construction where I started at the bottom, working my way up to running a 2 million pound business by the year 2000. I sold this in 2006 and moved to The Canary Islands for 7 years. What made you decide to set up your own business? I have always wanted to work in a team with my own family and have the chance to control our destiny. I also wanted to do something which enabled us to work closely with the local community and buying the store has given us the perfect opportunity to do this. My father died three years ago from cancer and left us a small inheritance, of which we decided as a family not to waste but create employment for all the family and for many years to come. What has been the most valuable lesson you’ve learned? “What you give out in life you get back.”

What hurdles have you faced? All of the usual ones when starting up a new business but I think the most surprising one is convincing people that we genuinely want to help and be an integral part of community life. It goes back to our motto of what you give in life you get back... Unfortunately when you mention giving back to the community, many think that there is a hidden agenda. We are confident that over time our actions will prove our intentions. What has been the most challenging aspect of owning your own business? Balance. The balance of cash flow and also work and family life. What has been the most rewarding aspect? Seeing smiles on faces: staff, customers & family. Are you and Lisa the only employees? No, we share the work to create employment for the whole family; brother Dan, son Louis, Sisterin-law Martina, weekend girls Marion (Gary’s mum), Sue, Mandy & Sadie, plus wonderful Michelle who has been there for years. They’re a great team to work with and we grateful to them for their hard work.

old town stores 42 High Street Old Harlow CM17 0DW Opening: Mon-Fri 6am-9pm, Sat 6am-9pm Sun 7am-6pm Phone: 01279 451197

Gary & Lisa Steven’s son Louis outside the store

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345

special feature

old town Stores Do you work full or part time? Yes, to both! As well as Old Town Stores we also run a number of smaller business & projects. Do you hope to expand your business? It would be nice too, although it’s not that important to us - we’d rather keep things small and be happy than be large and become stressed. What do you like most about being selfemployed? Job satisfaction. You get back what you put in - put in the effort and you enjoy the rewards, whether that be monetary or putting a smile on someone’s face or brightening someone’s day. What are your store opening times? We’re open Mon-Fri 6am-9pm, Sat 6am-8pm and Sun 7am-6pm. Someone from the family is pretty much here all of the time, we welcome everyone, so pop in and see us! How are you getting involved in the local community? We want to be a local business for the local community and are looking at ways to make life a little easier for everyone - a bit like how it used to be when we were growing up - when the local shop really was the hub of the community. We’ve introduced an interest-free Christmas club where you can save for items in the shop (toys for example) to help a little bit with the financial strain of Christmas. We‘re also looking at offering a free delivery service, so that in winter our customers can pick up the phone when the weather is bad and we’ll deliver their loaf of bread or pint of milk and even stay for a cuppa if they haven’t seen anyone for a couple of days. We have also just started stocking Hampers from another local company “Angel Surprise”. These can be viewed and ordered from the store and we’ll be holding a Christmas raffle to win one! Why not pop in, say hello, have a browse and maybe buy a ticket - you never know it could be you that wins! PLEASE MENTION THE CM17 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345

PLEASE MENTION THE CM17 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

IT’s your community

Harlow Chorus The Glory of Christmas - Passmores Academy Sat 20th December 7pm Words by Mick Rumens

Well, where on earth did 2014 go? With Christmas only a couple of weeks or so ahead of us we are preparing an exiting celebration of Christmas for all the family. The Glory of Christmas, will be a family friendly concert of seasonal music and traditional carols for choir and audience. Included in the programme will be carols composed by Passmores Academy pupils and a performance of the Rutter Gloria.

very well supported and the demand for tickets

The young pupils, forming the choir of Henry

staff, contributors and readers, a very Happy New

Moore Primary School, who entertained us magnificently, when they joined us for The Armed Man concert in November 2013, will again join us. The members of Harlow Chorus Academy will add to the choral effect, and the Redbridge Brass will give us their stirring support. Our musical director can be relied upon to raise the very best

may well be very high again, so don’t delay, this concert will surely start your celebrations on a high note. A very Happy, Healthy, Peaceful Christmas holiday to everyone! And with the New Year soon upon us, I would like to take this opportunity to wish CM17 Connection Year 2015 on behalf of Harlow Chorus. For those still making New Year Resolutions, may I request that you consider support for Harlow Chorus, at the top of your list? Plus we are always very happy to welcome new members to both the Chorus, and our Academy, for which you will find joining details on our website.

performance from Chorus and audience alike. Our previous concert in this exceptional venue was

Tickets: Christmas at Passmores £15 full, £11 concessions, £2 under 16’s Online: www.harlowchorus. ticketsource.co.uk Tel

01277 362440

tickets@harlowchorus.org.uk

WEB www.harlowchorus.org.uk

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345

N.L.A

PRIVATE HOME CARE

01279 493285 07871 390181 NLACARE@OUTLOOK.COM

Christmas 2014 at St Mary Magdalene Harlow Common We warmly invite you to join with us at our services over the Christmas period

SUN 21ST DEC

11am Family Mass with Nativity Play 6.30pm Traditional service of Nine Lessons and Carols

WED 24TH DEC Christmas Eve

4pm Family Christmas service with Christingle 11.30pm Midnight Mass

THU 25TH DEC Christmas Day

8am Holy Communion 11am Festival Mass Do come and join us for the Christmas Services; you will be assured of a warm welcome For further details please contact Fr James Rodley on 01279 451065, or at jwerodley@yahoo.co.uk

N.L.A Private Home Care is here to assist you with both long-term or respite solutions, providing excellent, professional and friendly trained staff or live-in-care We offer a range of packages from 15, 30, 45 & 60 minute calls, through to 24 hour care. Please call us for a confidential chat or a free non obligated assessment. Areas covered are: Harlow, Epping, Bishopâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Stortford and surrounding areas.

01279 49 32 85 07871 39 01 81

NLACARE@OUTLOOK.COM WWW.NLACARE.CO.UK

PLEASE MENTION THE CM17 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345

PLEASE MENTION THE CM17 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

Fun & leisure

short story the last present

“I’ll lock up while you get the first round in”, Trevor told Barry, scratching his beard. “Aren’t we changing out of our work clothes?” Barry said. “Not tonight”. This was his Christmas Eve ritual, the pub regulars expected it. Once Santa and his elf arrived at the bar everyone knew Christmas had finally arrived. Trevor had been the Santa at the precinct grotto for years. The kids he’d once bounced on his knee now brought their own kids to tell Santa what a good little boy or girl they’d been. “Busy year”, Trevor said, “there’s only one present left, we were cutting that a bit fine”. “What’ll happen to it?” Barry asked. He was new to the elf game, slightly scatterbrained, but good with crowd management Trevor thought. “It’ll go in storage until next year”. The grotto was no more than a shed decorated with tinsel, but for the last ten days over-excited kids had been queuing out the door. “Off you trot now, mine’s a pint”, Trevor said switching off the lights. Left to himself, Trevor locked the door and dropped the key in his coat pocket. A job well done he thought. As he turned to go he felt something pulling on coat. “Excuse me Santa is the grotto still open?” a young lad said. He was just a scrap of a thing, Trevor nearly tripped over him. “Sorry lad, we’ve shut up shop”. The boy’s bottom lip began to wobble. “But I wanted to see Santa”. The boy whimpered. Just what I need, thought Trevor, a blubberer on Christmas Eve. “Well, you’re seeing me now aren’t you?”. Trevor said and ruffled the boy’s hair. “And get a present”, the boy added. “Well you should’ve come earlier”, Trevor said gruffly. It was more than his job’s worth to let the lad into the grotto without his elf present; health and safety and all that. “I did, but your elf said I had to pay and I didn’t have any money”, the boy said rubbing his eyes.

Trevor softened. Poor kid. “Listen lad, don’t cry”. He crouched down, “tell me, have you been a good boy this year?” The boy nodded uncertainly. Trevor chuckled. He put his hand in his pocket and pulled out all his loose change. “Here, find yourself something nice with this”. The boy held out his hand and grinned, “Thanks Santa”. Trevor stood up slowly, his old knees ached. “Happy Christmas”. He waved, and headed towards the pub. There was a cheer from the regulars as he walked in. Barry was standing at the crowded bar looking sheepish. “Where’s my pint?” Trevor said. “I left my wallet at the grotto”, Barry said. “There’s no pockets in these tights”. “We’d better nip back for it”, Trevor sighed, “I’ve got the key here”. He dug his hand into his pocket, and knew straight away what he’d done. The pocket was empty. “I’ve dropped a real clanger”. He groaned and bundled Barry out of the pub. The boss would have his guts for garters for this. “Oh no!” Barry gasped as they reached the grotto. Trevor was afraid to look. “You’ve left the key in the door”. Barry panted. “Did I?” Trevor could breathe again, “Must have been distracted by that kid.” He scanned inside the shed as Barry retrieved his wallet from behind the inflatable Rudolph. “No harm done”. He smiled, putting the key safely back in his pocket. He was ready for that pint. It was lucky, he thought, that his elf hadn’t noticed the pile of small change where the last present used to be.

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345

PG Autos Of Church Langley

VW / Audi Specialist • All Service Repairs • MOT Test • Electrical & Mechanical Fault Diagnosis • Used Car Sales • All Makes Undertaken • Free Collection & Delivery in Harlow For main dealer standards without the rates contact: Prad (Master Technician) Tel: 07594

366466

Email: pgautos@hotmail.co.uk Web: www.pg-autos.co.uk VAT Reg. No: 926 8386 81

PLEASE MENTION THE CM17 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

QUALITY CONSTRUCTION Where perfection is standard

Painting, D Sam Decorating & Design

For all your home improvements

■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■

Extensions Loft rooms Garage conversions Int/ext decorating Patios Driveways

All building work undertaken Tel: 01279 303735 Mobile: 07850 570866 www.qual-construction.co.uk

Quality & Professional Service All Aspects of Decorating Undertaken Interior & Exterior No Job too Small Reliable & Tidy Free Estimates

07598 921922

We accept all major credit/debit cards

repatriation specialists

Arrangements can be made in the comfort of your own home 28

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345

Expert training in Classical Ballet All Levels 2 yrs to Adult

St John’s ARC Old Harlow

Principal ~ Theresa Crumb Former Royal Ballet School

Tel: 01279 871614 ~ Mob: 07979 310551 ballet.first@virgin.net www.balletfirst.com

SALSA DANCE CLASSES

ris tm no as w gift av ail vou ab ch le er s

Every Wednesday at 8.30pm Paringdon Sports Club Paringdon Road Harlow CM19 4QT

j j

r Ch

Every Sunday at 7.30pm at New Mexico Restaurant Sawbridgeworth CM21 9JG £8 per class

Call Raymondo: 07961 390 398 or visit: www.harlowsalsa.com

KT Castings create unique hand and foot casts, beautifully capturing each tiny wrinkle and crease. Prices start at just £60 with all casts mounted in a custom made solid wood frame.

infinite possibilities

hypnotherapy services weight loss stop smoking confidence child birthing

£5 off any casting. Quote ‘CM17 magazine’ when booking and many more…

01279 323562

FREE

initial www. ip-hypnotherapy.co.uk consultation!

www.KTCASTINGS.com Email: katy@ktcastings.com Call: 01279 419 852 / 07786 141 741 Mulberry Green, Old Harlow CM17 0EY

PLEASE MENTION THE CM17 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

we asked some of our local ministers…

If you were one of the three wise men, what gift

Ann Kosla

Dave Welch

Robert Findlay

Church Langley Church

St Mary’s Church, OLd harlow

Harlow town cha

I am sure I would not qualify as one of the wise men and not just because I am a women with limited intelligence but because I am far too busy to gaze at stars and take a long trip on a camel. At Church Langley we are planning Christmas activities that help bring the community together this December. Please feel welcome to any of our services and help us celebrate Jesus’ birthday. If I were one of the wise men, my gift to Jesus would be a tablet complete with 4G. It certainly wouldn’t take him long to learn how to use it if my grandson is anything to go by. He could use it to receive global information and his message of Good News would go viral. I can imagine his Facebook page, what a profile: King, Son of God, Prince of Peace, Saviour of the World. He would probably have more twitter followers than Steven Fry. He could even have an online healing ministry and a brilliant Q and A forum.

What a question! This is the first time I have been asked to think of myself as a wise man and some might say that would be stretching the creative thinking a bit too far! By the time the Magi arrived Jesus was living in a house not a stable so more comfortable surroundings for me. As I try to imagine myself going into his presence I can’t help but feel a sense of who is before me, God in flesh, the Christ child. What can I bring to the one who is King of kings and Lord of lords? As I look upon this child, Jesus, I recognise that he has given up everything to come and show the love of God through his words and actions yet will be rejected and crucified for the sins of the whole world including my own. Yet I know that because death couldn’t hold him he rose again (the resurrection) I can be set free from the consequences of my sin and know that death has been defeated.

I know I have no great thing to offer, But most of all I think he would post all I have is me, and so I will bring a simple message something like; who I am and promise to follow him “please stop all your rushing around and share him with others that they for last minute Christmas presents too may come to know the joy of and for one moment consider this; I knowing Jesus. have come into this world to give you hope and peace not just at Christmas but forever.” I believe many people would like to receive a gift like that. TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345 32

Walking through the de wondered what gift I wo child in the stable within cooking pot for the fami provided by the inn kee would offer my heart.

James Rodle

St Mary Magdelen

Well, I wonder how man Christmas presents wou infant Jesus? A nice pa him warm? (no central h Perhaps a children’s Bib – his mother Mary could night, just as so many o our own children. A fun was a human child, just and I bet Joseph made wooden toys to play wit a wise man, I wouldn’t b like gold, frankincense a those Eastern travellers for nothing - the visitors imperfectly, that this wa human history. Their gift Jesus was to be for the I won’t try and compete instead bring the Christ obedience and my love Jesus will bring attentio his heavenly Father and

t would you have given the baby Jesus and why?

Tony Mayes

aplain

Harlow Baptist Church

epartment store I ould give the Christ n my budget. A ily to put on the fire eper. And to the infant I

Christmas is a time to give and receive presents as we celebrate all that God has done through Jesus Christ. The gifts of the three wise men all indicate something of the nature of Jesus, a King, a high priest who would die for all of humanity. Big gifts for one so small on that first Christmas.

ne church

So which would I give if I were one of them?

ny “traditional” uld be suitable for the air of socks to keep heating in Bethlehem!) ble or prayer book? d read them to him at of us have done for toy? Why not – Jesus t like the rest of us, e him some terrific th. In fact, if I had been bring strange things and myrrh at all. But s weren’t called “wise” s understood, however as a child to change ts symbolised what world. So perhaps e with them, and t-child my attention, my e – just as the grown-up on and obedience to d his love for all of us.

I would like to think I would have brought the gold, in part because knowing that this was the King to rule over all kingdoms and nations, over heaven and earth, a king with a difference, is awesome and humbling. The baby in that crib, a king who is able to offer so much to us all. One that I could happily serve and lay everything at his feet. But there is another gift that I think Jesus would have wanted me to give even more and we are reminded of it in the Carol “In the Bleak mid-winter”. “Yet what can I give him, give my heart.” Committing my life to him. As we give gifts to each other this Christmas, maybe he is waiting for that gift from some of us.

Alison Taylor Potter Street Baptist church

This question I found difficult, the gifts are so ingrained in our thinking and in our nativity plays and as we hear so often Gold, Frankenstein and Myrrh, each gift had such significance regarding who Jesus was and how he would fulfil his purpose as saviour of the world. There is the old joke, if it had been the three wise women they would have asked for directions, helped deliver baby Jesus, cleaned the stable, made a casserole, and bought practical gifts. But if God has led you to a place and you have travelled many miles to get there and you believe this is a very significant birth what do you bring? I think the gifts bought say everything that needs to be said - there is that last verse though of the Carol ‘in the bleak midwinter’ If I were a shepherd, I would bring a lamb; if I were a Wise Man, I would do my part; yet what I can I give him: give my heart. Join us for our Christmas services on 21st December 11am & 4pm and again on Christmas Day 10am.

Have a happy and blessed Christmas.

PLEASE MENTION THE CM17 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345

PLEASE MENTION THE CM17 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

IT’s your community

POLICING OUR Harlow North PCSO Chrisie Goodman

Already the rush has started with Christmas shopping and dates on the calendar for Christmas concerts, carols and festivities of all kinds. Unfortunately at this time of the year when our minds are set on organising so many events and forthcoming arrangements we sometimes forget the most basic of security measures in our homes and vehicles. Whether we live alone or with a partner, friends or family, keeping safe is something we all need to think about but sometimes take for granted. Inside your home Try and look at your home through the eyes of a burglar. What can you see that would encourage or discourage someone from breaking in? Remember half of all burglaries happen on the spur of the moment through unlocked doors or windows. Safety lights that are triggered by movement can be useful burglar deterrents. Try not to leave your keys in a place where they can be seen from outside your home. Avoid attaching your name and address to keys. If they were lost or stolen, they could make a burglar’s job very easy. Christmas trees are very nice all lit up and in front of the window but please, please keep your presents out of sight Surgeries Sat 13-Dec 10.30-12noon at Old Harlow Library and Mon 22-Dec 10:00-12noon at Old Harlow Baptist Church Hall. Tel

101 ext 300285

chrisie.goodman@essex.pnn.police.uk

of the window and put the tree lights on a timer switch as it’s a bit of a giveaway that you are out for the evening if the lights are left on all night. Imagine coming home on Christmas Eve and finding all the presents that you spent all those hours trooping around the shops for are now sitting around the bottom of a burglars Christmas tree!! All shopping should be safely stored in the boot of your car out of sight and not on the front/back seats which is an open invitation for someone to break in to your vehicle. Callers at the door Intercom systems, spy holes, door chains and outside lighting can all help to safely identify callers. If you have them, make sure you use them. If a caller claims to be representing a company or organisation, ask for ID. If you are uncertain about the ID, phone the organisation to check the caller is genuine. Use the telephone number given in the phone book or on your utility bill rather than the one on the identity card. Sometimes a bogus caller will try and distract you whilst an accomplice robs you, often by entering through the back door. Try and make sure other entrances into your home are locked when you answer the front door. IF IN DOUBT KEEP THEM OUT! I wish you all a safe and Happy Christmas and New Year.

harlow east PCSO Rebecca Durrant & PC Michele Hurst

I’ve heard I don’t need to display a tax disk anymore - is this true? As of 1st October 2014, the paper tax disc will no longer need to be displayed on a vehicle

windscreen. If you have a tax disc with any months left to run after this date, then it can be removed from the vehicle windscreen and destroyed. Customers with a Northern Ireland

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345

IT’s your community

LOCAL COMMUNITY address will still need to display their MoT disc. You can apply online to tax or SORN your vehicle using your 16 digit reference number from your vehicle tax renewal reminder (V11) or 11 digit reference number from your log book (V5C) What this means to you To drive or keep a vehicle on the road you will still need to get vehicle tax and DVLA will still send you a renewal reminder when your vehicle tax is due to expire. This applies to all types of vehicles including those that are exempt from payment of vehicle tax. There are exemptions to road tax for disabled drivers and for those cars, which were constructed before 1st January 1973. The DVLA website will have more information on this. Buying a vehicle From 1 October, when you buy a vehicle, the vehicle tax will no longer be transferred with the vehicle. You will need to get new vehicle tax before you can use the vehicle. You can tax the vehicle using the New Keeper Supplement (V5C/2) part of the vehicle registration certificate (V5C) online or by using our automated phone service - 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Alternatively, you may wish to visit a Post Office® branch. Enforcement Just because you don’t have to display a tax disc doesn’t mean you can get away with not paying it, if anything you’re more likely to be caught now than before. The DVLA has a digital record of payments and a paper tax disc is no longer necessary as proof. Automatic number plate recognition cameras will spot you if you haven’t paid your tax.

What is a caution and how long does it last? A caution is a formal warning that is given to a person who has admitted the offence. If the person refuses the caution then they will normally be prosecuted through the normal channels for the offence. Although it is not technically classed as a conviction (as only the Courts can convict someone) it can be taken into consideration by the Courts if the person is convicted of a further offence. Cautions are covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and become spent immediately (apart from conditional cautions which will become spent after 3 months). Unless applying for particular types of work (see below), a person who has spent cautions does not have to disclose them to prospective employers, and employers cannot refuse to employ someone on the basis of spent convictions. However, when applying for particular types of employment, for example, working with children or vulnerable adults, certain professions such as law, health care, and pharmacy, senior management posts within certain sectors and employment where matters of national security are involved, the application form will state that it is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. In these situations, you may need to disclose your caution, and it may be disclosed on your DBS criminal records check.

Surgeries Wed 17-Dec 20:00-21:00 at Potter Street Baptist Church Tel

07710 016031

Email harlownpt@essex.pnn.police.uk

PHONE

101 (non-emergency)

Web

www.essex.police.uk

PLEASE MENTION THE CM17 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

special feature

remembering at the christmas truce By Alison Runham

Christmas Eve 1914. The Western Front. Weeks of persistent rain have given way to a freeze, mud is turning to ice and Pope Benedict’s call for a Christmas ceasefire has fallen on deaf ears; fighting has continued throughout December. But today, in many places fighting has been sporadic and half-hearted. Staff Sergeant Clement Barker is huddled in his trench with his fellow Grenadier Guards. They’ve received a little Christmas cheer recently: letters and gifts from home, including cards from George V, sweets from Princess Mary, and plum puddings. Across No Man’s Land, the German troops whose celebrations traditionally focus on Christmas Eve rather than Christmas Day, are putting candles on tiny trees they’ve received from home. The sound of their carol singing drifts over the English trenches as they break into Stille Nacht, Heilige Nacht (Silent Night). “The trenches were a blaze of Christmas trees,” one soldier recalled, “and our sentries were regaled for hours with traditional Christmas songs.” This is happening at other places too, and some English troops respond. “They finished their carol and we thought that we ought to retaliate in some way, so we sang The First Noël... they all began clapping; and then they struck up another favourite of theirs, O Tannenbaum,” wrote another young soldier. Back in Sergeant Barker’s trench, the soldiers receive a surprise visit from a German soldier. “He said that if (we) did not fire, they wouldn’t in the morning.” When morning comes, after some cautious showing of heads trust is established. English solders venture into No Man’s Land to retrieve and bury their dead, and when no shots are fired, they begin laughing and talking. Soon the Germans join them, shaking hands and exchanging gifts, and then “a football is kicked out of our

German soldiers of the 134th Saxon Regiment and British soldiers of the Royal Warwickshire Regiment meet in no man’s land, December 26

trenches, and Germans and English play football”, Barker wrote. Henry Williamson, who later wrote Tarka the Otter, is also at the Western Front on Christmas Eve, patrolling just 50 feet from enemy lines. In an interview for the BBC’s series The Great War, he too recalled football matches, but these were played behind German lines and he made no mention of British and German troops playing together. However, despite the myths surrounding Truce football matches between the two sides, some are well-documented in letters home. Two soldiers of the 6th Cheshires described a huge, free-for-all match that took place in Wulverghem in Belgium, where No Man’s Land was less damaged by shell fire. Williamson also described how the truce started for him and his fellow soldiers: “we crept out, trying to avoid our boots ringing on the frozen ground, and expecting any moment to fall flat with the machine guns opening up. And nothing happened.” There, too, the Germans sang Silent Night before inviting the English troops closer. Williamson’s unit suspected a trap at first and were cautious, but were soon exchanging gifts. These are heart-warming moments for Barker and Williamson, but similar scenes are occurring at many points along the Front. Cigarettes, rations and uniform buttons are exchanged, some English ex-barbers give German troops a haircut and one English trench receives a German chocolate cake,

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345

christmas together with a ceasefire request and an invitation to an impromptu concert. “Just think,” wrote one

soldier to his family, “while you were eating turkey I was talking and shaking hands with the very men I had been trying to kill a few hours before!” The truce at Williamson’s position held for four days. No Man’s Land was “grey and khaki... they were smoking and talking, shaking hands, exchanging names and addresses for after the war, to write to one another.” But then orders arrived for fraternisation to stop. The Germans, too, were told senior officers would be arriving, and sent a message across to the English: they would have to fire their machine guns, but would fire high to try and avoid hitting anyone. Barker and his men enjoyed peace for a little longer as well. “Night came and still no shots. Boxing day the same, and has remained so up to now,” he wrote a few days later. Gradually, open fraternisation lessened and

fighting resumed. Captain J C Dunn, Medical Officer in the Royal Welch Fusiliers, wrote a poignant account of how hostilities resumed at his position. “I fired three shots in the air and put up a flag with “Merry Christmas” on it, and I climbed on the parapet...[the Germans] put up a sheet with “Thank you” on it, and the German Captain appeared on the parapet. We both bowed and saluted... he fired two shots in the air, and the War was on again.” Truces had happened before. During the Crimean War and the Peninsula War, troops from both sides sometimes socialised and shared rations around the same fire, and during the Boer War there were football games too. So why do we find the 1914 Christmas Truce especially memorable and moving? Perhaps because in the midst of a war that cost over 10 million lives, it was, as Sir Arthur Conan Doyle said, “one human episode amid all the atrocities.”

PLEASE MENTION THE CM17 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

RECIPE OF THE MONTH

LOOK WHAT’S COOKING Interesting ideas to use over the Christmas period

Shared By Christine Beetlestone

SMASHED ROASTED POTATOES Potatoes about 6oz each, scrubbed but not peeled salt & pepper virgin olive oil or butter Foil. Preheat oven to 350f/175c/4gas

1. Make a loose foil parcel of the potatoes, place on a baking sheet and bake in the oven 45 – 60 minutes until tender. Let cool slightly. Unwrap potatoes and arrange on the same baking sheet. Set another baking sheet over potatoes and press gently to smash them without breaking them apart. Season with salt and black pepper, drizzle with oil or butter (or both), carefully turn to coat 2. Put oven heat up to 500f/250c/8gas and roast potatoes for 15 minutes. Drizzle with a little more oil, turn to coat and continue roasting until crispy and golden brown, 25-30 minutes. Don’t have excess oil in the pan. Note: I have had these when they have been forgotten in the oven and have been dark brown and very crispy and they’re just as good. Also chopped up and used for breakfast next day! You can use small new potatoes too but with a reduced cooking time. They are not like jacket potatoes!

ROAST BRUSSEL SPROUTS WITH BACON brussel sprouts bacon chestnuts also go well in this, available in supermarkets, ‘Merchant Gourmet’ cooked and ready to include in stir fries etc.

1. Trim and cut sprouts in half. 2. Cut up a couple of rashers of bacon into small pieces, toss them (with chestnuts if using) in a roasting tin with oil – only enough to coat the sprouts not to fry them, season with salt and pepper. 3. Bake in a hot oven for 30-45 minutes stirring them around a couple of times Why not pop my recipe book in a few stockings this Christmas. £5 plus £1.50 postage. I am donating £1.50 per book to the Macmillan Unit in Williams Day Cancer Unit PAH Harlow.

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345

PLEASE MENTION THE CM17 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

Allotment Advice

Digging the Allotment VALETE (which is Latin for Farewell) Once again the time has come to look at everything we’ve grown so that we can plan our growing for 2015. Some things which grew well in 2013 have performed feebly in 2014. Some items which we swore we would not grow this year have done really well and then there’s the vegetables that never let us down and haven’t disappointed us again this year. Once again we have enjoyed bumper crops of Runner Beans, French Beans, Courgettes, Leeks, Chard, Celery and Celeriac. Our Spinach was delicious but went to seed in no time at all and large numbers of our Beetroot and Carrot seeds failed to germinate. Our Cucumbers produced well but weren’t a patch on last year’s. I have mentioned our Potatoes a couple of months ago but one thing I will say is that they did not attract the blight which affected so many on our plots. We said we wouldn’t be growing Tomatoes as they were so badly affected by blight last year. I have to report that the threat worked and we have had some wonderful red Moneymakers as well as some delicious orange Cherry Tomatoes. We were not fair to our Onions last year, planting them on newly manured ground. This year we have had a really good crop of both red and white ones and a pretty good crop of Garlic. PLANT OF THE MONTH – BRUSSELS SPROUTS Brussels Sprouts are an elegant miniature cabbage growing on a thick stalk. We are told that the Romans ate them but there is some argument about this and the vegetable remains found near Naples, and nowhere else, may be nothing more than a small cabbage. We know with certainty that they grew in Belgium in 1213 because the market regulations in Brussels refers to them. We know also that they featured in two wedding feasts in Lille in the 1450s. Then for over four hundred years they just disappear until the early part of the nineteenth century. After his service as Minister to France, Thomas Jefferson carried Brussels Sprout plants, along with any other plants he could lay his hands on,

and planted them in his garden at Monticello, Virginia, in 1812. Naturally today America has larger Sprouts than Europe with buds of 5 or 6cm against our feeble 2.5 to 4cm! Even their stalks are bigger and often reach 150cm as opposed to ours which usually grow to about 90cm. For all that, American gastronuts say that the European Sprout is superior in both taste and texture. Brussels are rich in Vitamins C and K and contain glucosinate sinigrin, an organic compound of sulphur, which is responsible for their smell. Sprouts are bad for heart patients on anticoagulants as Vitamin K is a blood-clotting agent. So why do four out of five children hate them? In a recent undertaking 20,000 children liked them “a bit”, raw with grapefruit. This improved to “quite nice” when they were served roasted or pickled Sprouts and the experts determined that what really put children off Brussels was when they were served boiled and over-cooked. A new variety of Sprout is being sold in supermarkets where the smell has been bred out of them. What will they do next? Getting back to next year… We are concerned that our Apple trees are not doing too well and so I will be treating them to even more love, affection and fish, blood and bone. I intend to keep a weather eye open for leaf-curl and rust and treat the trees every few weeks. We have ordered some more late-summer Raspberry canes and a new batch of autumn fruiting ones. The summer ones will grow in the fruit cage, while the autumn variety, Joan J, will live outside as the birds do not seem interested in them. We propose to sow hardy Spinach in a few days’ time and we will have to see what Spinach Atlanta does for us. We have decided to give

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345

Allotment advice

Our Carrots

With Jethro

Potatoes a rest in 2015 and allow the slugs free rein to go and attack our neighbours’ crops! We will still be growing Carrots but are going to stick to the later varieties which have a better chance of avoiding the dreaded carrot fly. Sadly this edition will be Jethro’s last. It has become increasingly difficult to find topics from our plots to interest you and to take photographs of the stunning or unusual. I thank you all for following my ramblings over the last forty-three editions and hope that there have been a few topics you found interesting. My wife and I wish you all A VERY HAPPY CHRISTMAS and a WONDERFUL NEW YEAR.

Brussels

JOBS FOR DECEMBER ■■ Dig where the soil allows so that the frost can do its work ■■ Prune the soft fruit in the fruit cage. (Full pruning advice can be found in Issue 76 of The CM17 Connection) ■■ Protect young plants with polythene or fleece tunnels and vulnerable bushes with cosy wrappings of straw and cardboard ■■ Remove leaves and muck from shed and greenhouse gutters.

So Many Greens!

■■ Clean all pots, seed trays and containers with Jeyes Fluid and water and store ready for spring sowings ■■ Start trawling through the seed catalogues using our list of “must haves” and the list of ones we are going to avoid For more information about North Weald Basset Parish Council Allotments contact: Adriana Jones by ‘phone on 01992 523825 or by email on adrianamjones@aol. co.uk For information on Harlow allotments contact the Allotment Officer, Suzanne Prunty, through Contact Harlow 446655 or by email: contact@harlow.gov.uk or for your nearest self-managed site contact the Harlow Allotment Association on Harlow 442809.

PLEASE MENTION THE CM17 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

special feature

Christmas traditions does the ghost of christmas past have a future? By Kate McLelland

Times are changing and it seems that many of the festive traditions that British people have enjoyed for hundreds - if not thousands – of years may not be around for much longer. Here are some Christmas customs that have either died out or evolved to suit our 21st century tastes: The holly and the ivy The practice of bringing fresh evergreen branches into our homes dates back to pre-Christian times and the belief that evergreen trees represented eternal life, rebirth and the coming spring. Christians later focused on the plants’ natural qualities, believing that the holly’s prickly leaves represented Christ’s crown of thorns and the red berries his spilt blood. The greenery may be gone from many houses, but it is not forgotten: modern decorations hark back to the shiny leaves and berries that once caught the firelight in our ancestors’ homes. Carols on your doorstep Now it’s kids who bawl two lines of “Away in a Manger” before rattling their collection tin, but bands of carollers used to roam the streets at Christmas. In the pre-Christian era carols were simply boisterous folk songs sung at the midwinter festival. They became popular in medieval times but the Puritans imposed a total ban on carol singing in the 1640s. Forbidden to perform in church, strolling musicians and singers would knock on doors hoping for food, drink or money. The Christmas Feast In past times people mainly ate beef and goose at Christmas. Turkey was introduced in the 19th century when well off, middle class families realised this large bird was the perfect size to feed a family gathering. By the beginning of the 20th century turkey had become the festive meat of choice, but the dwindling size of 21st century family gatherings

may lead us back to eating smaller cuts of meat once more. Christmas pudding Although the traditional Christmas pudding is still popular, there may come a time when chocolate bombes, profiteroles and trifles shoulder out the humble pud. This rich, spicy and fruity pudding originated in the 14th century as a pre-Christmas fasting meal made out of porridge, meat and raisins, with the consistency of soup. Ingredients such as flour and eggs were added over the years until the recipe evolved into the dessert we know today. Small silver “charms” were once added to the mixture: a silver coin to bring wealth to the recipient, a silver thimble for thrift, a wishbone for luck and an anchor to symbolise “safe harbour”. Packing the presents Once upon a time all that children could expect when Father Christmas called was a stocking filled with nuts, fruit, sweets and handmade trinkets but our desire for bigger and better gifts eventually led us to use pillowcases rather than stockings. We now spend an average of around £30 on each present, forcing us to buy large, purpose-made sacks for gifts or put them under the tree. While historical records show that over the past 100 years our festive traditions have changed more rapidly than ever before, it’s important to realise that this is just an acceleration of an evolutionary process begun in ancient times. Historians may mourn the loss of our old traditions but it’s clear that, even though some of the customs and rituals have changed, our love of Christmas itself remains just as strong as ever.

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345

All electrical work undertaken. Lights, sockets, showers, fuseboards, extractors, outside lighting, cookers etc. No job too small! Call James on:

07799 626411

e: info@hadhamelectrical.co.uk w: www.hadhamelectrical.co.uk

Jobsworth

LT LANDSCAPES

DESIGN - CONSTRUCT - MAINTAIN Office 01279 410453 Mob 07775 610735 www.lt-landscapes.co.uk Fencing Gates Patios Decking Driveways Brickwork Play Areas Cabins & Sheds Water Features Tree Care & Garden Maintenance

Bryson Gas Services Central heating, repairs & installations Landlord certificates Cooker/hob installations Gas fire installations General plumbing work No call out charge (free estimates)

Over 20 years Experience

Tel: 01279 321396 Mob: 07738 362970

Based on Church Langley

Bathrooms, Kitchens, Plumbing, Electrics, Tiling, Flooring, Decorating, Carpentry + any small jobs that need doing. Fully insured. 01279 466443 07713 947868

Welcome to Evissa... At Evissa we pride ourselves on delivering top quality hair extensions, and it doesn’t always have to be for length; perhaps you want fuller hair or to extend a bob? And when you have a set of our extensions you get your colour FREE!

Get your winter locks in time for Christmas!

01279 724665

4 Hoestock road, Sawbridgeworth CM21 0DY (turning next to Mark David’s kitchens) Parking outside salon www.facebook.com/evissasalon

PLEASE MENTION THE CM17 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345

REYLAND JOHNSON ESTATE AGENTS (SALES & LETTINGS) ARE HARLOWâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ANSWER TO ALL OF YOUR PROPERTY NEEDS...

We would like to wish one and all a very merry Christmas and a happy y & prosperous y 2015! y

Ben Johnson MNAEA

y m: 07540 071725 y e: ben.johnson@rjestateagents.co.uk y

y James Reyland

m: 07736073987 e: james.reyland@rjestateagents.co.uk

y y

We look forward to moving you soon!

t: 01279 216216 e: info@rjestateagents.co.uk w: rjestateagents.co.uk PLEASE MENTION THE CM17 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

special feature

Humour Christmas shopping It was that time of year again, when the late autumnal chill turns to a sharper, wintery shiver. “Tom?” “Mmmm?” “What are you doing this Thursday? “I’m busy.” “Doing what.” “Er, I have to creosote the dog.” “Don’t be silly and stop hiding behind the paper. On Thursday we need to go … late night Christmas shopping.” “Listen, I hate Christmas, and I hate Christmas shopping. I’m like the condemned man shopping for rope. I’m a grown adult, I can make my own choices in life, so please find someone else, and that my dear, is my final, final word.” The Trafford Centre car park was heaving as we bumped the Mondeo up onto the pavement and joined the happy throngs. As soon as we entered, Sarah headed straight for the Christmas decorations. “Now Tom, do you think we need another Santa to stand in the corner of the front room?” I turned around and stared at the rosy cheeks and glassy eyes of the little fat man with the white beard. I felt like punching him. But instead I just pulled at his realistic whiskers. “Er, do you mind?” “I’m most terribly sorry,” I immediately apologised as the chubby old chap backed away from me, his furious wife in tow. “Tom, what have I told you about not wearing your new glasses? Look, this is going to be a long night so let’s just get on with it.” “I’ll tell you what - let’s split up. You give me a list and we can finish in half the time.” Sarah’s eyes narrowed as she ripped her brown envelope in half. “Ok ... but don’t just go to Waterstones and browse for hours.” “As if.”

The film section at Waterstones was bigger than I remembered, with huge glossy tomes full of scenes from my favourite films. One Spielberg book was as weighty as it was marvellous. But at forty quid I couldn’t justify the price. I looked over the book to see the whiskered old man whom I mistook for Santa meekly shuffling along behind his wife. He looked over at me, our differences forgotten as I held up my list. A moment of male bonding amongst the manic dash for presents. Then, as I replaced the Spielberg book, he gave me a strange, conspiratorial wink. The next destination was the perfume counter in Debenhams. A scary looking woman with cartoon eyebrows blocked my path. “Paco Rabanne?” “No, Tom Hughes, but pleased to meet you.” I offered my hand. The sales lady tried to look annoyed, but her plastered face couldn’t quite manage it. “No sir, it’s a perfume ... pour l’homme.” The sensual pout took me aback - who was this raging fire of pure epicurean femininity? Fingering the exotic bottle of scent, I rummaged for my list - Uncle Barry, aftershave. Perfect! “How much, madame? “£44.50 sir.” I was in Boots when Sarah rang. “Did you buy Barry’s aftershave?” “No.” “Why?” “Because I haven’t time to remortgage the house. Have you seen the price of Paco Rabanne?” “The Hugo Boss is on offer.”

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345

“No chance.” “Why not?” “Because he dressed the Nazis.” “Tom, I don’t think we have time to discuss the ethics of Christmas - just go and buy something, anything.” I trudged back to my Gallic friend and handed over thirty quid for a tiny silver bottle of what to me smelt of catnip. I met Sarah at a generic coffee emporium. Weighed down with bags, she flopped onto the bench as I brought her a restorative skinny latte. “You’ve been busy.” “Well, I just want to finish and go home. Where are your presents?” “Here.” I held up my little aftershave bag. “Is that it?” “Well, I was distracted, the old man with the beard...”

Now reduced to a mute pack mule, I followed Sarah dutifully around the stores, sulkily accepting bundle after bundle of sparkly loveliness. And, before I knew it, it was Christmas morning and time to open our presents. Sarah had told me what to buy her and when she opened her box gave me a polite look of mock surprise. Then I opened my present - it was the Spielberg book. “How did you know I wanted this?” “I just had a feeling.” The doorbell rang. It was Uncle Barry looking for his bottle of catnip. Everyone ran out to greet him. From the hall I heard a rousing “Merry Christmas!” Now alone, I glanced over at the corner of the room, where sat a chubby, red faced Santa. So Sarah had bought one after all? And do you know something? If I didn’t know better, and if I wasn’t on my third Bucks Fizz, I could have sworn he winked at me...

Sarah, half standing, slurped her coffee.

Follow Tom and Sarah’s wedding at Groomsdaybook.com

“Right, make yourself useful. Carry these, time’s marching on, let’s go.”

Design and installation of BATHROOMS and DECKING ▪▪ Bathrooms ▪▪ Shower rooms ▪▪ Tiling

▪▪ Platforms ▪▪ Balustrades ▪▪ Lighting

www.djh-design.co.uk david@djh-design.co.uk Albert Gardens, Church Langley

Call DAVID on: 01279 629140 07963 749505

PLEASE MENTION THE CM17 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

Hub + Spoke

Bike Recycling

Workshops

Maintenance & Repairs

Cycling Skills

Led Rides

Bikes & Accessories

10% discount in December with this advert

Call us on 01279 431333 or visit www.hubandspokeharlow.co.uk 7, The Corner House, Bush Fair, Harlow, Essex CM18 6NZ

A P& R D O MESTICS

Repairs & Service

M.R CARPENTRY SERVICES • All Carpentry Work •

All makes & models

Ovens, washing machines, dishwashers, tumble driers, etc.

Including:

Kitchens ~ Bedrooms Flooring ~ Windows Doors ~ Decking Fencing All Property Maintenance Undertaken

No call out charge Fixed labour charge

Tel: Paul 07973 282 240 50

25 Years Experience Call Mark 07894 389148 / 01279 320897

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345

COFFEE BREAK FUN

PUZZLES AND BRAIN TEASERS SUDOKU COMPETITION

How to Play Sudoku Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 through 9, with no repetition!

Win

£2s5 h! Ca

Send your completed puzzle with your name and address to the CM Connection office: 10 Fenton Grange, Church Langley, CM17 9PG. First correct entry drawn on 20th December wins!

It’s fun, it’s challenging, it’s addictive so have a go and enter. Good luck! For last month’s answers please contact CM Connection office

Last month’s

Congratulations go to Ricardo Rojo from Hadley Grange, who won November’s £25 cash prize Sudoku competition. Thanks to everyone else who entered!

Sudoku prize

winner

Christmas

WORDSEARCH

Find these words in the grid and the remaining letters will spell out a related phrase

Angels Bells Cards Carols Crib Decorations Frankincense Gifts Gold Holly Kings Lights Manger Mistletoe Myrrh Pudding

Rudolph Santa Sleigh Snow Stable Star Toys Tradition

Tree Turkey Wreath

PLEASE MENTION THE CM17 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345

IT’s your community

The Henry Moore Primary School Happy Christmas from Henry Moore Here is a selection of this year’s Christmas cards created by children in every year group for parents to send to families. We will share our Christmas performances with you in the next edition. We wish all CM17 readers a very Happy Christmas and New Year!

WWW: henrymoore.essex.sch.uk

PLEASE MENTION THE CM17 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

IT’S YOUR COMMUNITY

LOCAL NOTICES, EVENTS, AMENITIES Friends of Jenner House

CHRISTMAS FAYRE Wednesday 10th December 2014 9.30am to 12 noon Tombola Cake Stall Raffle Books Coffee & Mince pies Bric a brac stall

at Jenner House

COMMUNITY COFFEE STOP... at Church Langley Community Centre, open every Thursday from 9.00 – 11.30am. All ages very welcome!

S C R A B B L E P L A Y R S Need something to tickle your brain cells? Join our friendly Scrabble group and give us some competition. All welcome

Mondays at 1:30pm

Potter Street Community Centre

For more info call Elsie on 01279 422820

6th November - 23rd December Tuesday - Friday 10 - 5 Sundays 2 - 4

Paintings Drawings Prints Sculptures Glass Te x t i l e s W o o d J e w e l l e r y C e r a m i c C a r d s Maintaining the gallery’s high standard, the emphasis is on works of art which are affordable. Represented are artists who have studios at the Mill along with regular exhibitors and some who are new to The Gallery. 54

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345

IT’S YOUR COMMUNITY

AND ATTRACTIONS PLACES OF WORSHIP Church Langley Church Sunday service 10am in Main Hall. Sunday School; prayer ministry. Thurs Communion (2nd & 4th Thurs in Chapel, 9.30am). Mini-church 10am Thurs. Weekday house groups. Tel: Ann Kosla 629950. Email: ourvicar@churchlangleychurch.org Web: churchlangleychurch.org

Church of the Assumption Church House, Mulberry Green. 6pm Sat mass, 10am Sunday Mass. Fr Michael Butler. Tel: 429388. Email: harlowold@dioceseofbrentwood.org

Harlow Baptist Sunday Service 10.45am Tel: Rev. Tony Mayes 442642 www.harlowbaptist.org

QUIZ NIGHT Saturday 13th December at 7:30pm At Passmores Academy, CM18 6JH £4 per person, max of 6 per team. Bring a bottle, a bite to eat, your brain and your friends to be challenged by our fun, festive evening event with fabulous prizes. All proceeds will go towards our ongoing work in Harlow including our Children’s Christmas party. RSVP via our Facebook Event, by text to 07596 486 338 or email FreeCakesForKidsHarlow@yahoo.co.uk Please note this is going to be an adult only event. We are going to do a family friendly occasion in the future. Thank you.

Potter Street Baptist Church Worship on Sunday is open to all with varied service types to suit the wide range of people who attend PSBC. Morning Service 11am. Rev Alison Taylor. Tel: 491029 www.psbc.co.uk

St. Mary Magdalene, Harlow Common Fr James Rodley. Tel: 451065 Email: jwerodley@yahoo.co.uk www.mmharlow.co.uk

St Mary’s, Old Harlow Sunday Services 8am, 10.30am and 6.30pm. Please contact the Parish Office for all enquires Tel: 432135 Mon to Thu 9.30am to noon. Email: admin@stmaryschgate.org.uk, www.stmaryschgate.org.uk

PLEASE MENTION THE CM17 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

IT’S YOUR COMMUNITY

LOCAL NOTICES, EVENTS, AMENITIES

St Mary’s Church Churchgate Street 14th December at 3pm Join us in a service commemorating the Christmas Truce of 1914. Fighting ceased temporarily and troops from both sides sang Christmas Carols including ‘Silent Night’ together. They exchanged gifts and played football in ‘no man’s land’.

Harlow Latton Ladies

Come join us! Harlow Latton Ladies is a friendly group of senior ladies who meet weekly on Tuesdays. We go on visits to interesting places and meet for tea and talks. We usually alternate between meeting at the hall or going out on trips and do chair exercises once a month. www.harlowlattonladies.org Harlow-Latton-Ladies

Barbara 869806 or Carol 410324

Tuesdays at the New Life Christian Fellowship Hall on Tumbler Road, Purford Green CM18 6HP

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345

IT’S YOUR COMMUNITY

AND ATTRACTIONS NEW EDITION SINGERS PRESENT

JOYFUL, JOYFUL! A concert of seasonal songs and carols Music Director: Susan Hickman Accompanist: Lis Scott

Harlowbury Chapel Christmas opening

This is where Christmas begins! Please join us at Harlowbury Chapel, Old Harlow on Sunday 14th December from 2.30pm. Mary Evans on flute and carols for all at 3pm with the Demerc Choir. Mulled wine, mince pies, refreshments and raffle. Proceeds in aid of the Ebola Disaster Emergency.

llTue 9th Dec at Potter Street Baptist Hall llFri 12th Dec at St John’s ARC, Old Harlow llSat 13th Dec at St James Church, Staple Tye llAll at 7.30pm Tickets prices £7-£10, according to venue, available from the churches or from our Box Office at 01279 434028. Seasonal Refreshments available.

HARLOW SUNDAY WALKERS GROUP

Friendly local community walking group meeting every Sunday morning For further information please contact: harlowsundaywalkersgroup@ groups.facebook.com or you can find us on Facebook - Harlow SundayWalkersGroup All welcome to join us on these fun walks, dogs also welcome PLEASE MENTION THE CM17 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

WHAT’S ON Time: 10am-12noon, contact: 07599 249962.

■■ Until fri 19th december Harlow Open 14

The Gibberd Gallery, Civic Centre Enjoy artworks in various medias and styles by local artists. Contact: 446404, visit: www. gibberdgallery.co.uk

■■ Until 23rd December Present Arts

The Gallery at Parndon Mill Paintings, drawings, prints, sculpture, glass, textiles, wood, jewellery, ceramics and cards. Maintaining the gallery’s high standard, the emphasis is on works of art which are affordable. Represented are artists who have studios at the Mill along with regular exhibitors and some who are new to The Gallery. Time: Tue-Fri 10am-5pm & Sun 2-4pm, contact: 426042, email: info@parndonmill.co.uk, www. parndonmill.co.uk

■■ Wed 3rd December Green Team Volunteers

Parndon Wood Hornbeam Coppicing. Time: 10am-3pm, contact: 446997 or darren.fazackerley@harlow.gov.uk

■■ wed 3rd december Christmas Social

Harlow Museum Marlene Brooks and David Devine will present a compilation of entertaining and informative items from the film archive. In addition to the usual seasonal refreshments and festive cheer there will be a raffle with assorted prizes. Jam, handicraft items and second-hand books will also be on sale. Help with donations and preparation for the event will be very welcome. Time: 7.30pm, cost: FREE to members – non-members £3, contact: 454959 or email: friendsofhmuseum@gmail.com

■■ Sat 6th december Small Business Saturday

The Gateway Centre, Perry Road A chance to get advice, support, network, lunch and then exhibit.

58 ART HISTORY

COMMUNITY TO

■■ Sat 6th, wed 10th and sun 14th december Light up a life services St Clare Hospice Time to pause and remember someone special... and support your local hospice. Contact: 773750 or www. stclarehospice.org.uk

■■ Sun 7th December Harlow Brass Band in Concert St John’s ARC Programme details to be announced. Tickets available on the door. Time: 7.30pm, admission: £5 (children under 16 FREE), www. harlowbrassband.co.uk

■■ Sun 7th december Harlow Conservation Volunteers

Marshgate Spring Coppicing Willow. Time: 10am, contact: Marilyn Hart 865239 or 07799 731507, email: hcvadmin@harlowwildlife.org.uk, www.harlowwildlife.org.uk

■■ tue 9th December New Edition Singers Present: Joyful, Joyful!

Potter Street Baptist Hall Christmas Concert by New Edition Singers. A programme of old and new Christmas music and laughter Accompanist Lis Scott. Director Susan Hickman. Tickets include a mince pie and mulled wine. Time: 7.30pm, tickets: £9 in advance or £10 on the door, contact: 434028.

■■ Tue 9th december Linked4Growth Harlow

The Gibberd Gallery, The Civic Centre Monthly community and business networking event. Completely informal, drop-in session designed to nurture, support and get the community talking... from here good things happen! Time: from 9.30pm, entrance: £3 to

cover cost of tea/coffee & biscuits, for more information and to book: link4growth.biz/l4g/

■■ Wed 10th December Friends of Jenner House Christmas Fayre Jenner House, Old Harlow Tombola, cake stall, raffle, books, refreshments and much more. Time: 9.30am-12noon.

■ thu 11th december Harlow Decorative and Fine Arts Society Lecture

St John’s ARC Mulled Wine and Mince Pies, Fizz and Crackle: John Singer Sargent and his Critics by Mary Alexander, BA Hons, MA. Time: 8pm, coffee from 7.15pm, contact: 432377, visit: www.harlowdfas.org.uk

■■ Fri 12th december

Music at Marigolds: The Fugitives Harlow Cricket Club Time: 7.30pm, tickets: £7, contact: 414174 or 421763, www. musicatmarigolds.co.uk

■■ Fri 12th December New Edition Singers Present: Joyful, Joyful!

St John’s ARC Christmas Concert by New Edition Singers. A programme of old and new Christmas music and laughter Accompanist Lis Scott. Director Susan Hickman. Tickets include a mince pie and mulled wine. Time: 7.30pm, tickets: £9 in advance or £10 on the door, contact: 434028.

■■ Sat 13th & Sun 14th December Santa is coming to Parndon Wood

Parndon Wood Nature Reserve, Harlow Come see Santa in his grotto along with a special long-eared friend and take part in the Christmas fun in and around the reserve. Lots of Christmas activities on offer, as well as a face painter so you can look your most festive when visiting Santa.

EXHIBITIONS ENTERTAINMENT ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345

FAIRS & FETES

FOOD & DRINK

UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

IN december 2014 Tickets: £3 per child, contact: 430005 or email josey.travell@ecco. org.uk

■■ Sat 13th December New Edition Singers Present: Joyful, Joyful!

St Jame’s Church, Staple Tye Christmas Concert by New Edition Singers. A programme of old and new Christmas music and laughter Accompanist Lis Scott. Director Susan Hickman. Tickets include a mince pie and mulled wine. Time: 7.30pm, tickets: £9 in advance or £10 on the door, contact: 434028.

■■ Sat 13th December Free Cakes for Kids Harlow Quiz Night

Passmores Academy Bring a bottle, a bite to eat, your brain and your friends to be challenged by our fun, festive evening event with fabulous prizes. All proceeds will go towards our ongoing work in Harlow including our Children’s Christmas party. Time: 7.30pm, contact: 07596 486338 or email: FreeCakesForKidsHarlow@yahoo. co.uk

■■ Sun 14th December Service to Commemorate the 1914 Christmas Truce

St Mary’s Church, Churchgate Street Join us in a service commemorating the Christmas Truce of 1914. Fighting ceased temporarily and troops from both sides sang Christmas Carols including ‘Silent Night’ together. They exchanged gifts and played football in ‘no man’s land’. Time: 3pm.

■■ Sun 14th December Old Harlow Crafts and Farmers’ Market St John’s ARC

Time: 10am-2pm, contact: 442447, www.stjohnsarc.org.uk

■■ Sun 14th December Harlowbury Chapel Christmas Opening HEALTH & FITNESSPLEASE LEARNING MENTION

Harlowbury Chapel, Old Harlow Mary Evans on flute and carols for all at 3pm with the Demerc Choir. Mulled wine, mince pies, refreshments and raffle. Proceeds in aid of the Ebola Disaster Emergency. Time: 2.30pm.

■■ Wed 17th December Green Team Volunteers Parndon Wood

Christmas task. Time: 10am-3pm, contact: 446997 or darren.fazackerley@harlow.gov.uk

■■ Thu 18th to Sat 27th december Sleeping Beauty

Victoria Hall Theatre, Old Harlow A magical adventure for all the family. Two matinee shows Sat 20th & 27th. Time: 7.30pm, (matinees 3pm) tickets: £11 (concs £9), booking: www.victoriahalltheatre.ticketsource. co.uk or call: 0844 8700 887.

■■ fri 19th december Rock School Present: Rockin out at Christmas

St John’s ARC A great night of music by some very talented young people. A mix of bands and songs showcasing up and coming young talent something for all the family! Time: 7.30-11.30pm, tickets: £3, www.wegottickets.com/ event/293145.

■■ Sat 20th december Matching Charity Farmers’ Market

Matching Village Hall, CM17 0QS For the benefit of Matching Village Hall registered charity No 301366. Third Sat of every month. Up to 20 food and drink stalls, plus a few quality craft stalls. Enjoy good quality fresh produce from farmers and other producers from within a 40 mile radius. Refreshments available, why not give it a try? Location Matching Village Hall, Matching Tye, CM17 0QS. Time: 10am to midday, FREE entry.

■■ Sat 20th december The Glory of Christmas

Passmores Academy A family friendly concert of seasonal music and traditional carols for choir and audience including carols composed by Passmores Academy pupils and a performance by the Rutter Gloria. Time: 7pm, tickets: £15, concs £11, under 15’s £2, contact: 01277 362440 or email: tickets@ harlowchorus.org.uk, www. harlowchorus.org.uk

■■ Sun 21st December Charity Dodgeball Tournament

Mark Hall Sports Centre Baughns Against Encephalitis in partnership with Mark Hall Partnership raising money and awareness to fight against Encephalitis. Time: 2pm, £5 per person (teams of 6), contact: 620650.

■■ Sun 21st december Sawbridgeworth Farmers’ Market

Bell Street Car Park Time: 9am-1pm, contact: 724537 or email: mail info@sawbridgeworth-tc. gov.uk

■■ Sun 21st or 28th December Harlow Conservation Volunteers

Netteswell Plantation Trail clearance. Time: TBC, contact: Marilyn Hart 865239 or 07799 731507, email: hcvadmin@harlowwildlife.org.uk, www.harlowwildlife.org.uk

■■ Fri 26th december Music at Marigolds: TBC Harlow Cricket Club

Time: 7.30pm, tickets: £8, contact: 414174 or 421763, www. musicatmarigolds.co.uk

Lots more Coming Next Month...

MUSIC LOCAL HISTORY THEATRE TO ADVERTS WILDLIFE & NATURE 59 THELIVE CM17 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING

Flash Ironing & Laundry Service Laundry service available eg 10 shirts washed, dried & ironed ÂŁ15

For a professional and friendly service 99 All bagged & hung or flat packed 99 No corner cutting, quality guaranteed 99 Collect and delivered to your door for free 99 Very competitive rates 99 All work carried out in a nonsmoking environment

Try us, you will be amazed at our prices! Tel: 01279 866823

01279 724239 www.yourperfecttravel.co.uk Holidays and travel provided by Not Just Travel Ltd, a trading division of Hays Travel Ltd. Agents for ATOL holders. Members of ABTA - K9413

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345

PLEASE MENTION THE CM17 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

INFORMATION AT A GLANCE

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

Accountants & Bookkeeping

Conservative Party

Giess Wallis Crisp 60 Phillips & Co. Chartered Accountants ■ 14 TaxAssist Accountants 13

Robert Halfon MP

Aerials & Satellites

Dance Schools

Digitize ■ 10 Bathrooms/Kitchens & Design

Nursery & Pre-Schools

Smiles Montessori Pre-School 8 St Nicholas Pre-School 20

Painting & Decorating

Cookery Schools

Cookies Cooking School Ballet First Harlow Salsa

31 31

D Sam Painter & Decorator MGT Painting & Decorating

28 2

Pet Services

Hotel For Hounds

DJH Designs 49 MCP Property Services ■ 5

Dentists

Much Hadham Dental Care Ltd ■ 29

Plumbing & Heating

Beauty/Cosmetic Therapy

Domestic Services

Bryson Gas Services 45 MCP Property Services ■ 5 RCJ Plumbing & Heating 39

Shwe Tan ■ 11 Soft Touches 2 The Aesthetic Practice 14

AP & R Domestics Clear Ovens Flash Ironing & Alterations

Bicycles & Accessories

Electrical Services

Ansmann UK Limited ■ 27 Hub+Spoke Harlow ■ 50

AP & R Domestics Hadham Electrical

Building Services

Estate Agents

FreemanPaul 34 GRABCO 21 JMG Property Services ■ 45 LT Landscapes 45 M.R Carpentry Services 50 Quality First Construction 28

50 13 60 50 45

Reyland Johnson Estate Agents 47 Funeral Directors & Services

Masterson Funeral Directors

Garden Services

Shaft Direct ■ 10

DJH Design 49 GRABCO 21 JMG Property Services ■ 45 LT Landscapes 45

Car Retail & Servicing

Gifts

Business Services/Equipment

PG Auto’s

Carpentry Services

M.R Carpentry Services

Children’s Activities

Ballet First 31 Cookies Cooking School 2 Ruggerbugs 31 churches

Church Langley Church Harlow Baptist Church St Mary’s, Old Harlow St Mary Magdalene Church

24 25 25 23

Complimentary Therapy

Ania Gornicka - Visiting Massage & Complimentary Therapist 2 Infinite Possibilities ■ 31 Computer & IT Services

Apple Service Centre Cloud Info Tec Ltd Easykey Limited

21 50 46

Poultry Farmers & Suppliers

SJ Fredericks & Sons Temple Farm Restaurants & Takeaways

Zenz ■ 64 Schools & Learning

Cookies Cooking School Saint Nicholas School Shops, Retail & online

Black And Diamonds 50 Hamper Surprise 13 Old Town Stores 18-19 Present Provider ■ 27 Viking Solar

Evissa Hair & Extension Salon ■ 45 Handyman

Jobsworth 38 Harry Hamilton 2 Health, Fitness & Wellbeing

Hub+Spoke Harlow ■ 50 LighterLife 17

Victoria Hall Theatre

Travel Services

Will Writers

Giddings Lane Will Consultancy ■ 9 Windows & Conservatories

A&A Windows Direct Ltd 3 Bennbrook Windows ■ 6

Home Health Care

Home Interiors/Furnishings

Stort Blinds Ltd ■ 10 Locksmiths

■

Theatre

Your Perfect Travel

Hairdressers

Locks By Us

2 20

Solar Energy Specialists

Black And Diamonds 50 Hamper Surprise 13 KT Castings ■ 31 Present Provider ■ 27

NLA Private Homecare

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345

Special offer advertised

INFORMATION AT A GLANCE

USEFUL NUMBERS ALL IN ONE PLACE

Community Centres

Hospitals

Church Langley Community Centre Church Langley, Harlow CM17 9TH 01279 629611

NHS 111 PAH (Hospital)

EMERGENCY NUMBERS 111 01279 444455

Pharmacies

St John’s Arts & Recreation Centre For opening hours and programme of events call: 01279 442447

Church Langley Florence Nightingale Health Centre, Minton Lane, Church Langley, Harlow CM17 9TG 01279 629065

Victoria Hall Theatre For opening hours and full programme of events call: 01279 420062

Old Harlow 43-45 High Street, Harlow CM17 0DN

01279 423911

Councillors

Potter Street 12 Prentice Place, Harlow CM17 9BG

01279 422909

429443 445897 865673

Harlow Common (Potter Street) Councillor Margaret Hulcoop 452252 Councillor Emma Toal 07885 881255 Councillor Mark Wilkinson 07866 433991 Old Harlow Councillor Joel Charles Councillor Muriel Jolles Councillor Sue Livings

07752 096765 432242 422339

Local MP Robert Halfon MP

01279 311451

Doctors Church Langley Florence Nightingale Health Centre, Minton Lane, Church Langley, Harlow CM17 9TG 01279 638520

0800 783 8838 Gas Emergency

Potter Street Community Centre 96, Potter Street, Harlow CM17 9AQ 01279 422746

Church Langley Councillor Simon Carter Councillor Tony Hall Councillor Andrew Johnson

Electricity Emergency

0800 111 999

Police Essex Police Non-Emergency Harlow Police Station Crimestoppers

101

01279 641212 0800 555 111

Other Numbers Schools

Alzheimer’s Society

Church Langley Community Primary School 01279 629427

CALM Centre (counselling) 01279 411330

Churchgate Church of England Primary School 01279 866059 Fawbert and Barnard Primary School

01279 429427

Harlowbury Primary School

01279 423444

Mark Hall Comprehensive School

01279 866280

Potter Street Academy Primary School

01279 866504

St Nicholas School

01279 429910

The Henry Moore Primary School

Old Harlow The Health Centre, Garden Terrace Road, Old Harlow CM17 0AX 01279 418136

Utilities

Potter Street Osler House, Potter Street, Harlow CM17 9BG 01279 698658

Three Valleys Water

BT Faultline

01279 427465

01279 418331

Citizens Advice Bureau

0845 120 3717

Contact Harlow

01279 446655

Gems Widow & Widower Club

07713 544168

Harlow Food Bank

01279 724515

MS Society

01279 420059

Petsearch-UK

01279 320511

Rainbow Services

01279 308150

Safer Places

0845 0177668

Samaritans

0845 790 9090

Streets2Homes

01279 430011

St Clare Hospice Advice Line 01279 773773 Train Enquiries

0845 748 4950

0800 800 151 0845 782 3333

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, the Editor cannot accept any liability to any party for any loss or damage caused by errors or omissions. All adverts are published in good faith. CM Connection Magazines are an independent organisation. This magazine and content, including all in-house artwork, advert design and editorial, remains the copyright of the Publisher and under no circumstances may be copied or reproduced in any format without the prior consent of the Publisher. © 2014 The CM17 Connection / Connection Magazines / Lorraine Perry. All rights reserved.

PLEASE MENTION THE CM17 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

v p

zenz restaurant oriental restaurant x

Live Entertainment Every Fortnight

Home Delivery Service K K

Takeaways: 15% discount off all collections 10% discount off all deliveries K

01279 439943

Former Natwest Bank Station Road, Old Harlow Essex CM17 0AP

www.zenz-oriental.co.uk 64

TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345