THE
CM23 CONNECTION MAY 2015 ISSUE 19 DELIVERED
FREE EVERY MONTH
■ Hertfordshire home-start
INSIDE
THIS ISSUE
■ pub Walks: bluebells in quendon ■ getting to know local business people . . . AND MUCH MORE!
Bringing the community together
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Jobsworth
Bathrooms, Kitchens, Plumbing, Electrics, Tiling, Flooring, Decorating, Carpentry + any small jobs that need doing. Fully insured. 01279 466443 07713 947868
TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345
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WELCOME HELLO AND WELCOME TO THe may edition of THE CM23 CONNECTION I don’t know about you but I’ve come over all “spring cleany!” Perhaps it’s my sixth sense letting me know that spring has finally sprung... or more obviously that blossom is, well, “blossoming”. Either way, and here comes a shameless plug, the first place that I turned to for help was the CM Connection. Now, there is a lot that needs to be done. Not just on my house but also on me! Yep! It’s time to get myself prepped and preened for the summer too! It will be a great opportunity for me to catch up with advertisers old and new and also means I will be able to personally recommend even more of our lovely local businesses - win/win! And if that wasn’t enough, there are lots of fun things happening locally throughout the month too. I might see you at one of the many theatre productions, charity events, fetes or shows. You’ll notice me - I’ll be the one all glowy and smiley, you know, the “prepped & preened” one. So please, do feel free to join me in using our local businesses in the coming months, and like me, do think about turning to CM23 first. Until next month, Lorraine
THE
CM23 CONNECTION may 2015 ISSUE 19
CONTENTS ■ FEATURES & ARTICLES 6 Home-Start 9 In Person 13 Property Matters 20 Isabel Hospice 28 Writer Way
■ FUN & LEISURE 10 Pub Walks 12 Short Story 14 Just for the Kids
CONTACTING US
22 Puzzles & Brain Teasers
editor Lorraine Perry call 01279 410345 or 07808 000 113 email lorraine@cmconnection.uk email danielle@cmconnection.uk web www.cmconnection.uk Join us on Facebook The CM23 Connection
24 Look What’s Cooking
PLEASE Copy deadline for all adverts and submissions in NOTE the June edition is 10th May 2015
■ IT’S YOUR COMMUNITY 16 Local Community 26 What’s On 29 The Listings 30 Useful Numbers The CM23 Connection cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions, products or services that appear in this publication.
Contact: 07817 778870 Web: www.tubs12.info Email: TUBS@copyzone.co.uk
Reminder: TUBS27 will take place Saturday 9th May. Pickers, gloves, hi-vis jackets and plastic bags will be provided.
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TUBS Volunteers
TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345
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IT’s your community
LOCAL CHARITIES Introducing: Home-Start - support and friendship for families
If you have a small local charity, non-funded or not-for-profit organisation you feel deserves some exposure contact us and we’ll see what we can do.
Home-Start is a local charity that supports ordinary parents in East Herts and Broxbourne who are going through challenging times. We are one of 9 schemes in Hertfordshire and are affiliated to Home-Start UK who provide training and support.
with getting out and about.
Being a parent, whatever your situation, can be very difficult, especially when children are young. Many parents feel exhausted and overwhelmed by the stresses of family life, particularly if their family and friends aren’t available to help out. For some parents it’s a particular struggle because they are also coping with problems such as postnatal depression, anxiety and low mood, their or their child’s illness or disability, challenging behaviour, relationship issues, isolation, bereavement, money worries or unsuitable housing. That’s when parents need support most and that’s when Home-Start East Herts can help. Our friendly parent-to-parent support is a simple yet effective way of enabling families to get back on track. A carefully selected and trained volunteer, who has parenting experience themselves, regularly visits a family in their own home, offering flexible and responsive emotional and practical support which can include being someone to talk to, helping and playing with children, reassurance, encouragement and motivation, help to find out about and access other local amenities and services and practical help round the house or
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Our home-visiting volunteers are from different backgrounds and from various ages and stages of life but they are all trustworthy, friendly and understanding. All volunteers attend a preparation course before being matched with a family. They then take their own individual skills and experience to the families they visit. Volunteers often feel they gain as much as families, some getting experience which helps them find a job, others able to continue using their skills into retirement, all wanting to put something back into the community, usually because they either were helped or felt they needed help when their own children were young. You can find out more on our website www. homestarteastherts.org.uk, follow us on Facebook or Twitter or phone 01992 505584 to volunteer or ask for help.
Tel:
01992 505584
hours:
Mon-Fri: 9.15am–2.30pm, Sat & Sun: closed
web:
www.homestarteastherts.org.uk
TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345
N.L.A
PRIVATE HOME CARE 01279 493285 07871 390181 NLACARE@OUTLOOK.COM
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, Bishop’s Stortford and surrounding areas.
01279 49 32 85 07871 39 01 81
NLACARE@OUTLOOK.COM WWW.NLACARE.CO.UK PLEASE MENTION THE CM23 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS
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NE W St Tue class sda Ba e rn ys s Ch abas at ur Ce c Th h La ntre, n orl ey e
Word Ladder Change one letter at a time (but not the position of any letter) to make a new word - and move from the word at the top of the ladder to the word at the bottom, using the exact number of rungs provided.
N A P E
ŠPuzzlepress.co.uk
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N E C K
TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345
Special feature
local business people in person Name and Business: Richard Vine from Grabco, local grab hire service and stockist of topsoil & aggregate products for delivery or collection. Where do you live? I currently live with my wife and five children in Takeley. What’s your favourite local shop? My favourite shop in Bishop’s Stortford has to be H@ me and Eat café up near Homebase; their cakes are amazing! What’s your favourite local venue? As a family we love going to the Town Park, playing football and in the summer, using the outdoor paddling pool. What do you like best about Bishop’s Stortford? I love that Bishop’s Stortford offers such a range of bars, shops and restaurants, but still retains its quaint market town feel.
What do you like doing when you’re not working? I love spending time with my big family! I set up my business because… My parents have always run a successful furniture business and I always hoped that one day I could set up a business of my own, so I just took a “leap of faith! What’s the best thing that’s happened to you recently? At the moment I’m excited about the new Top Soil Screener we have bought for our Hunsdon recycling yard – it means we can now recycle up to 80% of the muck we take away. Favourite one liner or saying? “Never, never, never give up.” Winston Churchill.
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IT’s your community
Pub Walks Combining Walks in our local country side with our lovely village pubs makes for a perfect day...
Bluebells in quendon In early May, many local woods are carpeted with bluebells. Quendon Wood has some of the finest displays around and the Cricketers’ Arms at Rickling Green is an excellent base for a walk. Turn right past the school and right again along the track near thatched Tudor Cottage. Cross over the Cambridge Road, walk a few steps right and turn left along a path to the edge of a wood.
Keeping the trees on your right, follow the forest’s edge until, after about half a mile, you have just rounded the far corner; then take the path diagonally left across a field, heading for the 13th century church of St Simon and St Jude, with its little, white bell tower. At the far corner of the field, follow the track right into bushes and left to pass the church and reach the road again. Cross over and turn right, then left along a signposted path beside a hedge. Follow the path across fields until you see an avenue ahead. For a longer walk, you can go straight on here to Rickling church, looping back around the fields or following a flower-fringed lane all the way to Newport. Otherwise, turn before the avenue and follow the lane beside woods. Just before reaching a road, turn left into the trees and follow the path along the edge of the wood to reach the road near the Cricketers Arms. The village green is home to the Rickling Ramblers cricket club. LOCATION:
rickling green, Essex
Distance:
About 2 Miiles
Pub:
The cricketers’ arms
Phoebe Taplin 10
For more detail and longer walks in the area, Phoebe Taplin’s book of “Scenic Walks” along the local Harcamlow Way is available for £5 from Bishop’s Stortford Tourist Information Centre or from www.amazon.co.uk
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Eight Week Courses in Secular
Mindfulness Meditation
In the heart of Bishop’s Stortford since 2010. Stockists of: Dermalogica, Jessica & GELeration.
Shown to reduce stress, low mood and improve well-being.
All beauty treatments available for women and men. £5 OFF ALL BEAUTY TREATMENTS WHEN YOU SPEND OVER £15* OR MORE *This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer and is available for new clients only. Offer available till 30th May 2015. Please bring this voucher to redeem offer.
Starting Every Term The Rhodes Centre, Bishops Stortford. Contact: thismindfullife@yahoo.co.uk Or visit: www.thismindfullife.net
Please call 01279 656479 www.beautopiabeautysalon.co.uk or find us on Facebook Beautopia Bishops Stortford
07981 640 199 Live in the moment: Breathe and Be
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Fun & leisure
short story The stakeout By Jackie Brewster
Maurice poured another cup of strong coffee and stretched out his stiff legs. This was his first stakeout and while there had been no activity in the cul-de-sac for an hour he suspected things could change quickly. All the residents were now present and correct. The Caffertys, at number 2, had drawn their lounge curtains. The family at number 4 had finally managed to get their kids in bed. The Mordells at number 6 were in their kitchen washing up after dinner. Maurice took the last bite of the sandwich Q had delivered as he settled down in shadows of the porch here at number 8. By his side was a camera and a walkie-talkie. House number 10 was the main focus of his investigation. Jeff had moved in four weeks ago. Tall, receding, he kept himself to himself. His lawn was mowed and his flowerbeds weeded, but it was four weeks ago when the trouble began and Maurice didn’t believe in coincidences. Every driveway had a dustbin standing like a sentinel for the morning refuse collection. Every driveway, that is, except number 10. Kevin Mordell appeared at his front door pulling on his coat. The Mordells’ dog, Boris, part Chihuahua, part hot dog sausage, scurried outside. Maurice made a note in his book. Kevin Mordell, lazy dog walker, secret smoker, allowed the dog to run over everyone’s lawn while he enjoyed his one cigarette of the evening. The dog scampered up to Maurice and sniffed around at the empty sandwich wrapper. “Shoo Boris!” Maurice whispered urgently. The last thing he needed was to have his cover blown. Boris, a nervous dog, was quick to scurry away. Kevin whistled and disappeared with Boris back into the house. Maurice sighed with relief, checked the time, and noted it in his book. The fluorescent light in the garage at number 10 flickered on. Something was happening. Maurice studied Jeff as he pulled up his garage door and with a sound like thunder wheeled his dustbin to
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the end of his drive. This is it thought Maurice. He reached for his camera. In his hurry the lens cap dropped to the tarmac with a loud click. Jeff paused and peered into the darkness. Maurice held his breath. Out of the corner of his eye a shadowy figure hurried onto the pavement, lifted the lid of the Mordells’ dustbin and tried to cram a huge black bin liner inside. ‘Got you!’ Maurice thought. He pointed the camera and fired off the flash. Mrs Cafferty was caught in the blinding light. “Put your rubbish in your own bin”, Maurice barked. Mrs Cafferty rubbed her eyes. “Mine’s full”, she called guiltily, “what’s the harm?” “They won’t take it if the lid won’t close”, Maurice called back. Mrs Cafferty sighed, pulled out the bag and dragged it back up her drive. Maurice shook his head, it’s always the ones you least expect. He picked up his walkie-talkie. “Q do you copy..?” There was nothing but crackle on the other end. The front door behind him opened. “What now Maurice?” His wife, Queenie, stood there in her dressing gown. “I said not to bother me when I’m watching my programme”. “I’ve caught the culprit, red handed”. “I hope you’re proud”, Queenie grumbled, “now get inside, you’re letting all the cold air in”. She spotted Jeff who was still stood by his dustbin. “Welcome to the street!” she called. He nodded and backed slowly up his drive.
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ADVERTISING FEATURE
property column The truth about gazumping As a word, gazumping sounds like a pretty fun activity like zorbing or some other crazy new sport. The truth however is much less pleasant. Imagine for a second you’ve been trawling through property portals on line, spoken to every estate agent in Bishop’s Stortford and have registered on all their buyers lists. You’ve visited nearly every property within 10 miles of Bishop’s Stortford that is within your budget (and sometimes outside it just for fun); you’ve seen properties that are just right but too dear and properties on budget that leave something to be desired. Finally, you find the property of your dreams and it’s within budget! Success! You put in an offer with the estate agent which is accepted subject to contract. BUT just before it all goes through another bidder appears and puts in a higher offer on your dream home and boom…your dream house is snatched from you so the seller could get more cash for their property. Gutting! This is the truth about gazumping. The real question is what on earth can you do to avoid it? Gazumping happens most often when there is high competition between buyers for properties in a certain category or price-band. You may hear this being referred to as a ‘seller’s market’ because in this situation sellers (and estate agents) have all the power to accept or turn away multiple offers on their popular property. A recent survey claims that between 1-2% of property transactions fail due to gazumping and is particular prevalent in the Bishop’s Stortford area. Gazumping puts us as estate agents in a really sticky situation. Legally speaking, we have to pass on in writing every offer that is made to a seller whether they have accepted another offer and removed their property from the market or not. We also can’t stop a seller from accepting a higher offer because unlike the Scottish property market, offers aren’t legally binding. Don’t panic though! There are a few ways that you can reduce the likelihood of being gazumped, we can’t guarantee that our tricks will stop it happening altogether but by following our steps you’ll give yourself the best chance of getting your dream home.
1. Sell your property first If you’ve sold your home already and are living in rented accommodation, you will be in a much better position to exchange contracts FAST and avoid someone coming in at the last minute and outbidding you. A vendor is far less likely to accept another offer if they know you’re in a very strong position. 2. Build rapport with the vendor This might seem an odd suggestion, but if you’ve put in an offer on a property that you’re desperate to buy, building a positive relationship with the vendors could be the difference between them accepting a slightly higher offer or sticking with you. Ask your estate agent to arrange a second viewing to meet the vendors once you’ve put the offer in. 3. Be prepared This one is obvious - make sure that you have already spoken to an independent financial advisor to discuss all the possible mortgage options (if you need one), a property surveyor picked out and a solicitor who knows you want to move quickly. Get as much packing and moving preparation done as you can. 4. Act quickly This one links with the previous point. Once you have made your offer, ensure that you speak to your financial advisor to get your mortgage underway. Call your surveyor as soon as the offer has been accepted and get them in to the new property to survey ASAP and finally, ensure that you contact your solicitor and you are hot on their case to get things moving quickly. Being proactive when it comes to moving home is a sure fire way to fend off pesky gazumpers and get you the property you love! Selling your property first is an easy way to put yourself in the best possible position and avoid disappointment.
For more information contact Angela: 01279 719193 or 07725 263136 Email: angela@thepersonalpropertyshop.co.uk Facebook: Thepersonalpropertyshop Twitter: PPropertyShop
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The Music Tree Offering age-related themed classes for children aged 6 weeks to 6 years in music, movement, sensory fun and much more! Classes held in Bishop's Stortford town centre Contact Sue Philcox or Kim Lawrence to arrange your FREE trial class! Tel: 07801 432160 www.themusictree.co.uk
Fun Educational Cookery & Cake Decorating Lessons for all ages and abilities Tel: 07906 158895 www.cookiescookingschool.co.uk cookies-cooking-school
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IT’S YOUR COMMUNITY
LOCAL NOTICES, EVENTS, AMENITIES
New Members Welcome Silver Leys Scout Group (next to Bishops Stortford Rugby club)
Spaces now available – no waiting list! ◆ Cubs ( 8 - 10½ years), ◆ Scouts ( 10½ - 14 years) ◆ Explorer Scouts (14-18 years) Contact Anne Winship at:
amwinship@hotmail.co.uk
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IT’S YOUR COMMUNITY
AND ATTRACTIONS
Little Buddies Parent and Toddler Group Meet Thursdays 1.30-3pm at Thorn Grove Primary School Contact Lisa Camp:
01279 653002
Blood Donor Dates: Wednesday 13th May 1.30-4pm & 5-7.30pm at Rhodes Art Complex PLEASE MENTION THE CM23 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS
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IT’S YOUR COMMUNITY
LOCAL NOTICES, EVENTS, AMENITIES
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TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345
IT’S YOUR COMMUNITY
AND ATTRACTIONS
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special feature
isabel hospice weekly Lottery is celebrating its 20th birthday this year The importance of the income generated from our Lottery cannot be underestimated. It is regular and secure and enables our charity to plan for the future. Last year alone, our Lottery contributed £245,000 towards patient care.
our Hospice, you could win our weekly top prize of £1,000 or one of our other 27 cash prizes. You can sign up online by visiting www. isabelhospice.org.uk or call our Lottery Team on 01707 382594.
Help us celebrate our 20th birthday by signing up for 20 weeks for £20. Not only will your £1 per week mean a great deal to
Tel:
01707 382594
Email: enquiries@isabelhospice.org.uk Web:
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www.isabelhospice.org.uk
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#
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 “CM23” when speaking to the consultant. Offer only applies to new quotations
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(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
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COFFEE BREAK FUN
PUZZLES AND QUICK CROSSWORD 1
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Across 1. Small tunnel (6) 4. Rubbed out (6) 9. Stretchy (7) 10. Young females (5) 11. Type of music (5) 12. External (7) 13. Translated (11) 18. Window covering (7) 20. Nip (5) 22. Smell (5) 23. Passion (7) 24. Female relation (6) 25. Harsh (6) Down 1. Combines (6) 2. Highways (5) 3. Result (7) 5. Correct (5) 6. Outlive (7) 7. Bowls (6) 8. Escorted (11) 14. Becomes thinner (7) 15. Blow up (7) 16. Reverberates (6) 17. Alter (6) 19. Consent (5) 21. Innocent (5)
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TWO MINUTE TRIAL
HIDATO
You have two minutes to find all the words of three or
Starting at 1 and finishing at 49, track your way from one square to another, either horizontally, vertically or diagonally, placing consecutive numbers into the empty squares as you go. Some numbers are already given.
more letters that can be made from the letters above. Plurals are allowed, proper nouns are not. The 6 letter word will always be just a normal everyday word.
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E E I C R P
20 21
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2 1
You should be able to find the following number of words at each length:
38 39
3 letters: 9 4 letters: 8 5 letters: 4 6 letters: 1
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45
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49
30 29
ŠPuzzlepress.co.uk
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COFFEE BREAK FUN
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 CM23 office: 27 Church Manor, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 5AF. First correct entry drawn on 10th May 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 CM23 office
Last month’s
Sudoku prize
winner
Congratulations go to Mrs M Ward of Broadleaf Avenue, who won April’s £25 cash prize Sudoku competition. Thanks to everyone else who entered!
Music
WORDSEARCH
Find these words in the grid and the remaining letters will spell out a related phrase
Acapella Acid Rock Acoustic Big Band Bluegrass Cabaret Dance Disco Flamenco Folk Gothic
Hip Hop Indian Indie Jazz Latin Lounge Mexican New Wave
Polka Punk Rockabilly Samba Soul Tango Waltz World
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RECIPE OF THE MONTH
LOOK WHAT’S COOKING HERBY STUFFED BAKED TOMATOES
4 firm beefsteak tomatoes 3 tbsp Virgin olive oil 1 onion, peeled and finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed 75g fresh white breadcrumbs 2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley 1 tbsp fresh chopped mint
LARGE
AND JUICY BEEFSTEAK TOMATOES ARE
THE PERFECT SHAPE AND SIZE FOR STUFFING
2 tsp capers, drained and rinsed Salt and freshly ground black pepper
AND MAKE AN ECONOMICAL MIDWEEK SUPPER.
SERVE HOT OR COLD WITH A CRISP GREEN SALAD DRIZZLED WITH A TANGY BALSAMIC GLAZE.
1. Preheat the oven to 190C, 375F, Gas 5. 2. Use a sharp knife to slice the tops off the tomatoes and slice a thin sliver from the base of each tomato to prevent them wobbling in the dish. 3. Use a teaspoon to scoop out the seeds and flesh from each tomato. Finely chop and reserve the flesh but discard the seeds. Place the tomato shells in a shallow ovenproof dish. 4. Heat half the olive oil in a medium-sized frying pan. Add the chopped onion and fry over a medium-high heat for 5 minutes until beginning to soften. Add the garlic and fry for a further 4-5 minutes until tender and golden. Stir in the chopped tomato flesh, breadcrumbs, parsley, mint and capers and season well with salt and freshly ground black pepper. 5. Spoon the breadcrumb mixture into the tomato shells, pressing it down gently then top with the lids. Drizzle over the rest of the olive oil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the tomatoes are just tender. Serve hot or cold. TIP: Replace the breadcrumbs with cous cous if liked. Place 115g cous cous in a heatproof bowl and pour over boiling water to cover. Stir once then place a plate on top of the bowl and leave for 10 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed. Fluff up the grains with a fork then stir into the fried onion mixture as above. Add some toasted pine nuts, chopped dried apricots, fresh chopped coriander a little harissa paste for a more exotic flavour.
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A P& R D O MESTICS
Repairs & Service All makes & models
Ovens, washing machines, dishwashers, tumble driers, etc. No call out charge Fixed labour charge
Tel: Paul 07973 282 240
MARRIAGE IS THE CHIEF CAUSE OF DIVORCE - G MARX
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UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
WHAT’S ON ■■ until December 2015 Bishop’s Stortford and District Health Walks Southern Country Park Meet alternate Mondays in the car park off Thorley Lane East, Grid reference TL476193. The walks are generally 5-6 miles long and normally last between 2 and 2 1/2 hours. Time: 10am, www.hertslink.org/cms/ healthwalks ■■ Every Sat Hatfield Forest Park Run Hatfield Forest, CM22 6NE This 5km event takes place every Saturday at 9am. It is a free event but please register before your first event and bring a printed copy of your barcode with you. Run for your own enjoyment and join in whatever your pace. It is entirely run by volunteers and welcomes new help. Time: 9am, FREE, www.parkrun. org.uk ■■ Fri 1st May Family Fun Disco Sawbridgeworth Memorial Hall Bar open, family fun with drinks and snacks available. Time: 6-8pm, tickets can be reserved on Sawbridgeworth Memorial Hall Facebook page ■■ Mon 4th May May Day Brunch Gibberd Garden, CM17 0NA Brunch in the Garden served from 11.30-2pm. Hot and cold filled rolls, croissants, scotch pancakes as well as our usual fare. Time: 11.30-6pm, adults £4, concs. £3 and children £1, www. thegibberdgarden.co.uk ■■ Thu 7th May Museum History Walk - Pub Walk Rhodes Arts Complex A new walk for 2015. If you enjoyed our pub talk, or just love the history of our most famous businesses, why not join us for a walk through the history of Stortford’s pubs? We will visit the sites of those long-gone and also pop into some of the pubs
26ART HISTORY
that are still standing. This walk complements our pub talk, including stories of pubs not covered in that talk. There will be some walking but not strenuous. Suitable outdoor clothes/shoes will be essential. Time: 7.30pm, tickets £4, contact box office 710200, www. rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk ■■ Mon 4th May Bank Holiday Tea Dance Thorley Community Centre Ballroom - Latin - Sequence. Time: 2.15-4.45pm, £3 including tea and biscuits for full details contact Sheila or Rod, 01279 759153 ■■ Sat 9th may Saturday Night Ballroom Dancing Havers Hall Every second Saturday of the month, 50-50 Ballroom Latin Sequence Time: 8-10.45pm, £6 including tea and biscuits, bring your own drinks, contact Rod or Sheila 759153. ■■ Sun 10th may Bishop’s Stortford & District Footpaths Association - Walks Meet at Tesco car park (top left), Bishops Park. GR: TL47102180 The walks are generally 5-6 miles long and last between 2 and 2 ½ hours. The BSDFA now has public liability insurance. This applies to all members and anybody wishing to join. Non-members are welcome to join but do so at their own risk. Time: 10am, contact walk leader Dave: 07920 254825, www. walksaroundstortford.org.uk ■■ Sun 10th May Ha-Half Moon Live Comedy The Half Moon From Mock the Week, Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow, Never Mind the Buzzcocks and Have I Got News for You: Jo Caulfield. Full length solo show and support. Hosted by John Mann. Time: 7.30pm, tickets from www. wegottickets.com
■■ Mon 11th May Thorley U3A Open Day Barnabus Centre Open day for you to visit and find out more about this local club. Various groups for gardening, exercise, languages, lunch clubs and much more. Please come along on the day free of charge and free refreshments. Time: 1.45-4pm, FREE ■■ Tue 12th may Isabel Hospice Coffee Morning Markwell Pavillion Once a month coffee mornings that raise money for Isabel Hospice. Everyone welcome. Time: 10-12.30pm. ■■ Wed 13th May Live Midweek Music - Under Construction Rhodes Arts Complex This London based trio, led by Bishop’s Stortford born and former Harlow Young Musician of the Year, Alexander Veitch, plays an eclectic mix of original compositions, free improvisation and unique arrangements of the standard jazz repertoire. Time: 8.30pm, FREE entry, www. rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk ■■ Thu 14th May Aladdin from Ballet Theatre UK Rhodes Arts Complex Join Ballet Theatre UK on this dazzling re-telling of this exotic classic tale boldly brought to life through the entrancing magic of classical ballet. Follow the tale of the lonely orphan whose life is destined for greater things… Time: 7.30pm, tickets £16, £14 concs, £10 under 16’s, www. rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk ■■ Fri 15th May YMCA East Herts presents Livewire Rock Academy Charis Centre The wonderful members of the Livewire Rock Academy will be providing the music and talent for this fundraising event.
COMMUNITY EXHIBITIONS ENTERTAINMENT TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345
FAIRS & FETES
FOOD & DRINK
UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
IN may 2015 Time: doors open 6.30pm, tickets are available on the door: £7 adults and £2 under 14s, Pukka pie, peas and a drink available for £4. ■■ Sat 16th May Circus Themed May Fayre Thorn Grove Primary School Circus skills workshops, Stalls, Games, Trampolines, Pony rides, BBQ, Bar and more. Free entry. For more information please call Vicky or email pta@thorngrove.herts.sch. uk. All proceeds from the event go to the PTA. Time: 2-4pm. ■■ Sun 17th May Contexture Theatre’s Community Event: May Games Paddling Pool, Sworders Field A seasonal festival for the whole family on the streets of Bishop’s Stortford. 12 noon gather at the paddling pool and then at 12.30pm proceed to Monastery Gardens where from there will be a traditional English fayre from 1-6pm. Come and enjoy Mummers Plays, Traditional music and dancing, Morris dancing, Maypole dancing, farmers’ market stalls and the crowning of the May Queen and King. Don’t forget to dress up as the Green Man, May King or Queen, Dragon, Hobbyhorse or Beelzebub! Time: 12-6pm. ■■ Sun 17th May Open Day & Wind Band The Forgotten Gardens of Easton Lodge Dunmow Wind Band will be performing at the gardens for the first time and we look forward to welcoming them. Homemade refreshments will be on sale and there will be guided tours at 12.20 & 2.30pm. Time: 11.30-4pm, adults £3.50. children free of charge, www. eastonlodge.co.uk ■■ Thu 21st May Bishop’s Stortford History Society Apton Road Centre Lesley Parker; Lily Summerford’s
LEARNING
Autograph Book 1906-1916. We warmly welcome new members to our monthly talks held at the Apton Road Centre. Time: 7.30pm.
(there will be a prize for the longest real hair and fake hair!). Time: 2.30pm, tickets £10, adults go free, please call the box office on 01279 710200 to book tickets.
■■ Thu 21st to Sat 23rd May Sawbridgeworth Players present: “Bazaar and Rummage” Victoria Hall, Old Harlow Set in the seventies this is the sometimes funny, sometimes quite moving story of a group of agoraphobics who set up a bazaar and rummage sale. Written by Sue Townsend and directed by Sheila Goodwin. Time: 8pm, tickets: £11, £9 concs, available from Don’s Nisa store, Bell Street, Sawbridgeworth.
■■ Wed 27th May Woodland Folk Wednesday Hatfield Forest Are you a fairy, gnome or elf? Come in costume and meet our woodland folk, but watch out for the troll! Join us in our woodland pixie post office, leave a letter for the fairies, make a wand and a potion. Trail and activities take around an hour. Time: 11-2pm, cost £3 per child (aimed at under 5s), usual car parking charges apply, www. nationaltrust.org/hatfieldforest
■■ Fri 22nd & Sat 23rd May BSMTC presents Class Act Little Hadham Village Hall A bittersweet comedy musical following a group of classmates who meet years later at a school reunion. Will their hopes and dreams turn out the way they expected? Time: 7.30pm, tickets £15 each (tables of 8) including fish & chips supper, bring your own drink, available on 01279 814002 or tickets@bsmtc.org.uk
■■ Sun 31st May Bishop’s Stortford & District Footpaths Association.Meet at Hatfield Heath (car park next to the chip shop), GR: TL523150 postcode CM22 7EB The walks are generally 5-6 miles long and last between 2 and 2 ½ hours. All are welcome. Time: 10am, contact walk leader Paul: 501596 www. walksaroundstortford.org.uk
■■ Mon 25th May Bank Holiday Tea Dance Thorley Community Centre Ballroom - Latin - Sequence. Time: 2.15-4.45pm, £3 including tea and biscuits for full details contact Sheila or Rod, 01279 759153
■■ Sun 31st May Isabel Hospice: On Your Bike Bishop’s Stortford Rugby Club The annual bike ride to raise money for Isabel Hospice is back. Three distances are on offer so there is something for everyone on the day with 25K, 50K and 100K routes starting from the rugby club. On Your Bike is suitable for families, teams, individuals and seasoned cyclists. All donations are welcome to Isabel Hospice. Time: registration from 8.15am, Entry fee before 27th May £18 per adult and £5 per child. Entry on the day £25 per adult and £5 per child. www.isabelhospice.org.uk
■■ Tue 26th May Gardiner Jack and the Green Beanstalk Rhodes Arts Complex Bring your little one to enjoy an interactive screening of Disney’s Tangled. Not only can they enjoy the film but they’ll get to meet a real-life Rapunzel! Before the film Rapunzel will be holding a Fancy Dress competition and giving away prizes for the Best Dressed Disney character, both boys and girls, as well as the prize for the longest hair
Watch out for many more events in our next issue.
HEALTHMENTION & FITNESSTHELIVE MUSIC LOCAL HISTORY THEATRE TO ADVERTS WILDLIFE & NATURE 27 PLEASE CM23 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING
resurrected dinosaurs. However, they do know about human emotions and frailties – hope, fear, love, loss, rage, despair and everything else that defines us and drives our behaviour. You don’t have to quote chapter and verse from your own past, which is just as well because that usually involves other people. Instead, use your creativity and imagination.
Emotions
It’s almost inevitable that your first short story or debut novel will draw upon personal experience. Mark Twain, the creator of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn, advised: Write (about) what you know. What do you know better than your own life? You might be tempted to raid your diaries for inspiration, or you could try using an empty chair to interview yourself.
My own version of Mr Twain’s sage advice is as follows: Know what you’re writing about. Most science fiction authors, for example, have never been into space, or travelled in time, or
As long as the emotions are genuine your readers will gladly suspend their disbelief – Richard Adams managed it with rabbits and William Horwood did it with moles. Why not a society of chairs where the ruling throne is a megalomaniac and the only hopes of overthrowing her lie with a timid easy chair and a laid-back recliner? When you feel your own writing you can be sure you’re getting somewhere. I’ve yet to meet an author who doesn’t mourn the death of an important character for days afterwards. In fact, some of my best conversations have been with imaginary friends! By Derek Thompson www.alongthewritelines.blogspot.co.uk
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
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TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345
INFORMATION AT A GLANCE
the listings Arts & Crafts
Bishops Stortford Knit & Craft Club Meet Tue 2pm at South Street Pantry Contact Jodie: 07734 209999 Herts & Essex Boundary Flower Club Meet 1st Tue of every month at The Barnabus Centre Contact via: herts_essexboundaryflowerclub@yahoo. co.uk
Community
Stortford Kickstart (for CVs etc.) Meet Thu and Fri 10am to 12.30pm at BS Methodist Church Contact: 501745 or 656381 www.stortfordkickstart.org.uk TUBS (Tidy Up Bishops Stortford) Meet every other month Contact: 07817 778870 or visit: www.tubs12.info
Fine Art & Literature
Bishop’s Stortford Decorative and Fine Arts Society Meets 2nd Tue of the month at The Rhodes Contact via website: www.bishopsstortforddfas.org
Guides & Scouts
1st Bishops Park Rainbows Meet Tue at Bishops Park CC Contact: www.girlguiding.org 7th Bishop’s Stortford Guides Meet Thu at Havers CC Contact: www.girlguiding.org 1st Bishop’s Stortford and Hockerill Scout Group - Beavers, Cubs and Scouts Contact via website: www.1stbishopsstortford.org.uk 1st Hockerill Brownies Meet Fri Parsonage CC Contact: www.girlguiding.org 2nd Hockerill Brownies Meet Thu Parsonage CC Contact: www.girlguiding.org 1st Thorley Guides, Brownies & Rainbows St James Church Thorley Contact: www.girlguiding.org 1st West Bishop’s Stortford Rainbows Meet Tue at Havers CC Contact: suelatto@hotmail.com Silver Leys Scout Group For Beavers, Cubs and Scouts Contact: Anne Winship silverleysscouts@ outlook.com
STMM Brownies
Contact via website: www.voyageresu. co.uk
Health & Family Care
Alzheimer’s Support Group Meet 2nd Thu of every month Contact: 508448 or email: june. iliffemunns@alzheimers.org.uk Mad Hatters Toddler Group Meet Wed at St Michaels Mead CC Contact: madhattersgroup@btinternet.com P.A.C.T Parents of Autistic Children Together Meet 1st Wed of every month at All Saints School Contact via website: www.pactforautism. org.uk/index.php/services/parent-meeting St John Ambulance Meet Wed at Havers CC Contact via website: www.sja.org.uk/sja/ counties/hertfordshire/units/bishopsstortford.aspx Thorley Manor Mother & Toddler Group Meet Tue & Fri at Thorley CC Contact: thorleytoddlergroup@live.co.uk Windhill Children’s Centre Contact via website: www. windhillchildrenscentres.org.uk
Music & Performing Arts
Bishop’s Stortford Choral Society Contact via website: www.bscs.org.uk Bishop’s Stortford Musical Theatre Company Contact via website: www.bsmtc.org.uk Bishop’s Stortford Musical Theatre Company - Juniors Contact via website: www.bsmtc.org.uk/ juniors.html Bishop’s Stortford Town Band Meet Tue at Markwell Pavilion Contact Sue Swan: 506123 Bsus (Bishops Stortford Ukulele Society) Meets every Wednesday 7.45-10pm at the British Legion Contact via website www.bsus.co.uk
Social & Meeting Clubs
Bishop’s Stortford Age Concern Open Mon to Fri at The Apton Centre Contact: 504748 or visit: www.theaptoncentre.org.uk Bishop’s Stortford Railway Society Meet on Tue and Thu Contact: 503511 or visit: www.tinyurl.com/bsrailsoc
Meet Thu at St Michaels Mead CC Contact: Janet Gordon: jan@jkl2000.co.uk
Bishop’s Stortford WI Meet 1st Thu of every month at Charis Centre from 7.30-9.45pm Contact: bishopsstortfordwi@yahoo.co.uk
Voyager Explorer Scout Unit Explorer Scouts aged 14-18
Bishop’s Stortford VIP Club for Blind and Partially sighted people
Meet 1st Tues afternoon of each month in Havers CC Contact: 832837 Grove Cottage the home of Bishop’s Stortford Mencap Various clubs throughout the week Contact: 656085 or info@mencapgrovecottage.org The Phoenix Stroke Club Meet every other Thu 2-4pm at Bishops Park CC Contact: Kath 724285 The Rotary Club of Bishop’s Stortford Meet Mon 12.55pm at Bishop’s Stortford Golf Club Contact via website: www.rotary-ribi.org The Rotary Club of Stort Valley Bishop’s Stortford’s Evening Rotary Club. Meets every Tuesday at The Lemon Tree, 7 for 7.30pm. Contact: stortvalleyrotary.com Thorley Women’s Club Meet every Wed 8-10pm at The Christian Centre (opposite Sainsburys) Contact: Barbara Martin 303225 The University of the Third Age Contact via website: u3asites.org.uk for information on local groups and classes
Sport & Fitness
Bishop’s Stortford Badminton Club and Junior Badminton Club Contact 654464 or visit www. stortfordbadminton.net Bishop’s Stortford Bowling Club Contact: 755887 or visit: www. bishopsstortfordbowlingclub.org.uk Bishop’s Stortford Cricket Club Contact: 654463 or visit: www. bishopsstorfordcricketclub.com Bishops Stortford and District Angling Society Contact club secretary: David Tadgell 654154 Bishop’s Stortford Football Club Contact: 306456 or visit: www.bsfc.co.uk Bishop’s Stortford Golf Club Contact: 01279 654715 and website www. bsgc.co.uk Bishop’s Stortford Hockey Club Contact: 654463 or visit: www.bshc. hitssports.com Bishop’s Stortford Rugby Club Contact: 652092 or visit: www.pitchero. com/clubs/bishopsstordrfc Bishop’s Stortford Running Club Meet at Hockerill Sports & Social Club Contact Ian McClymont: secretary@bsrc. org.uk Sunday Smashers Badminton Club Meet at Bishop’s Stortford High School sports hall Contact 652980 or visit www. sundaysmashers.blogspot.co.uk
PLEASE MENTION THE CM23 CONNECTION WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS
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INFORMATION AT A GLANCE
USEFUL NUMBERS ALL IN ONE PLACE Community Centres Bishops Park Community Centre
01279 712146
Lancaster Way, CM23 4DA
South Street Surgery
St Mary’s Catholic School
Thorley Health Centre
St Michael’s Primary School 01279 810800
83 South Street, CM23 3AP 01279 465700 01279 657636
Thorley Park, CM23 2LY
Havers Community Centre
Waytemore Road, CM23 3GR 01279 712146
Hospitals
Markwell Pavillion
NHS Direct
Castle Gardens, CM23 2EL 01279 712146
Parsonage Community Centre
Parsonage Lane, CM23 5PY 07843 943492
PAH (Hospital)
01279 444455
Herts & Essex Community Hospital
01279 444455
St Michaels Mead Community Centre
Friedberg Avenue CM23 4HB 01279 329686
Pharmacies
Bishop’s Stortford West
(Central & Silver Leys Wards) Colin Woodward Email: colin.woodward@hertscc.gov.uk
(Meads & All Saints Wards) John Barfoot Email: John.barfoot@hertscc.gov.uk
Bishop’s Stortford Rural
(Includes Bishop’s Stortford Ward) Graham McAndrew - CMILT Email: graham.mcandrew@hertfordshire. gov.uk
Mayor Cllr Diane Hollebon
Mark Prisk MP
0207 219 6358
35 South Street CM23 3AG
01279 654021
Trinity Pharmacy 01279 654171
Medicx Pharmacy
Church Street Surgery
Church Street, CM23 2LY
0808 202 5469
Lloyds Pharmacy The Thorley Centre CM23 4EG
01279 507524
Bishop’s Stortford High School
Hockerill College
101
Bishops Stortford Police Station
101
Crimestoppers
Alzheimer’s Society
01279 508448
Bishop’s Stortford TIC
01279 715001
Bishop’s Stortford TC
01279 715000
Citizens Advice Bureau
0844 411 1444
01279 420059
Samaritans
0845 790 9090
01279 868686
01279 656876
01279 658451
Parsonage Surgery
Richard Whittington Primary School
01279 657778
St Joseph’s Primary School
01279 652576
St Clare Hospice Advice Line 01279 773773 Train Enquiries
TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345
0845 748 4950
EMERGENCY NUMBERS Electricity Emergency
0800 783 8838 Gas Emergency
0800 111 999
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. The CM23 Connection is an independent organisation. The 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. © 2015 The CM23 Connection / Connection Magazines / Lorraine Perry. All rights reserved.
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0845 555 111
MS Society
01279 757193
01279 827608
Hertfordshire Police Non-Emergency
01279 655936
Haymeads Health Centre
Herts & Essex Community Hospital, CM23 5JH
0845 782 3333
01279 836006
Manor Fields Primary School
Haymeads Lane, CM23 5JH 01279 657636
0800 800 151
Isobel Hospice Advice Line 01707 382575
All Saints Primary School
Hillmead Primary School 01279 657636
01279 652376
Other Numbers
Herts & Essex Hospital CM23 5JH
Herts & Essex High School 01279 654127
Doctors
Northgate Primary School
Police
Lloyds Pharmacy
Birchwood High School
Local MP
01279 696850
Three Valleys Water
Schools 01279 658870
Windhill Primary School
01279 652759
87 South Street CM23 3AL
Bishop’s Stortford East
Thorn Grove Primary School 01279 653002
BT Faultline
Williamson Pharmacy 1 Snowley Parade CM23 5EJ
County Councillors
01279 654496
Utilities
St Michaels Mead CM23 4FZ 01279 712146
Thorley Community Centre
Summercroft Primary School 01279 307477 Thorley Hill Primary School
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01279 654901
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01279 410345
Approved Scotchgard Contractor 01279-771030 | 07971-786123
Grant’s Plumbing & Heating
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
• Boiler Breakdowns & Repairs (Gas & Oil) • Boiler Installations and Upgrades • Servicing & Power Flushing • Bathrooms Designed & Fitted • All Domestic Plumbing (Leaks, Taps etc) • Tiling (all Wall & Floor Tiling) • Property Maintenance
Reliable. Professional and Ethical Tel: 01279 293294 Mob: 07956 950 707 www.grantsplumbingandheating.co.uk
IJ‛s DOMESTIC CLEANING
All electrical work undertaken. Lights, sockets, showers, fuseboards, extractors, outside lighting, cookers etc. No job too small! Call James on:
(Ian Burley Sole Trader, 6 years experience)
07799 626411
e: info@hadhamelectrical.co.uk w: www.hadhamelectrical.co.uk
Clean your home on a weekly, fortnightly or one-off basis. Fully insured. Large client base. Insured, references, reliable & trustwothy.
CALL IAN
07523 744084
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TO ADVERTISE CALL 01279 410345