Essex Central Magazine Issue 10 august 14

CENTRAL

COVERING THE ESSEX TOWNS OF THE CENTRAL LINE AND BEYOND

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THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR LOCAL PEOPLE - ISSUE 10 AUGUST 2014

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO US Celebrating Our First Anniversary

SAVE A LIFE

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Learn Learn Emergency Emergency First First Aid Aid In In Your Your Home Home

Discover Discover The The Art Art Of Of Self Self Defence Defence

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ON THE COVER 14 Happy Birthday To Us! 18 Meet the Locals 23 Krav Maga 53 Competition Win a Family Photo Experience 63 In the Garage

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HOME & GARDEN 32 Update Your Home L 37 oAugust Gardening Guide u

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TRAVELton 40 Island Retreats

FOOD & DRINK 44 Recipe by Seasons Woodford

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Editor: Darren Perry Email: Darren@essexcentralmagazine.co.uk Tel: 01279 319 318 Advertising: advertising@essexcentral magazine.co.uk Features Editor: Victoria Grace Journalist: Devon-Elizabeth Tabersham Design: Sharon Butler-Felby @SketchDesign Contributors: Carrie Feagan, Sarah Mackie, Amanda Anastasiou, Victoria Robertson, Tony Amdur.

Publishers: 3 Blue Worldwide Ltd Facebook: EssexCentralMag Twitter: @EssexCentralMag 46,000 copies distributed to homes, businesses and station locations, along the Essex section of the Central Line and surrounding areas: South Woodford, Woodford, Buckhurst Hill, Chigwell, Loughton, Debden, Abridge, Theydon Bois, Epping, North Weald, Ongar, Wanstead, Redbridge, Ilford, Gants Hill, Newbury Park, Barkingside, Fairlop, Hainault, Grange Hill.

Although every care has been taken to ensure accuracy, 3 Blue Worldwide Ltd take no responsibility for any errors, or the advertisements within this magazine.

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FASHION & BEAUTY 25 Work It Women’s Fashion Th ey De 27 9 to 5 d B bMen’s de Fashion ois on n 29 Sparkle Diamonds 31 Top 5 Beauty Buys

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COMMUNITY 6 Your Comments 10 Local News S 49 What’sWo Onou th od Grace 51 Smiles with fo Charity Feature rd

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FUN & GAMES 52 Puzzle Corner rd 60 Entering Fatherhood Without a Map

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PARENTING 56 Mum’s Corner

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SPORT 66 Club Focus

t’s been a LONG twelve months since we launched our first issue and it’s been pretty tricky at times as well!

We started with one publication, coming out every two months, just one year on and we’re launching our 2nd publication, The Loop, and print a total of 46,000 magazines every month. This progression is down to the great feedback we have received from the public and the repeat success our advertisers have enjoyed. All made possible due to the hard work of our great team, go and see them for yourself on page 14.

I hope you enjoy this issue as much as the rest, see you next month!…

Darren Perry Editor/Owner

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YOUR COMMENTS We love hearing from you!

ach month we trawl through our mailbox and social media sites to see what you are thinking. Here are a few of our favourite messages that we have received recently. Keep your comments coming in for a chance to win £20 if we pick you as our ‘Star Comment’ and £10 for the ‘Reader’s Photo’.

READER’S PHOTO

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Congratulations to Emma Taylor from Epping (right) who was the winner of our Dukes Polo competition.

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Great feature on @ChigwellBiz in latest @EssexCentralMag Grab a copy/join us FRI @Woolstonmanor & find out what your biz has been missing! @marcomedia_s Thank you! I am an exile these days but enjoy keeping in touch with God’s Own County. More pics please! Johnny French Just got our copy delivered and as usual went straight to the back to read the latest instalment of Entering Fatherhood. Always a great read. Keep up the good work. Alan Dawes

For great magazine advertising in Essex contact @EssexCentralMag 10/10 for artwork, service and speed and most of all BRINGING BUSINESS! @EdaBB3DLipo And a happy sunny day to you too :o) @TinyToesShow Thanks very much good luck to you too!!! @DukesPolo

STAR Hi Darren, just picked up my copy of the latest mag and wanted to congratulate yourself and your team on winning the grant with Chigwell Business Group.

It is so great to see local businesses and people showing real

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community spirit and helping each other out in this way. As a small local business owner I would actually love to pop down to the group myself but unfortunately other commitments on a Friday permit me from doing so.

Well done again, it’s great to see independent businesses doing so well.

Have a great day, hope you enjoy the sunshine!

Stuart Saunders

CONTACT US Address: Essex Central Magazine, Brickfield Business Centre, High Road, Thornwood, Epping, Essex CM16 6TH @EssexCentralMag EssexCentralMag editor@essexcentral magazine.co.uk

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1 AUGUST - ISSUE PEOPLE L A C LO E FOR MAGAZIN

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TINES VALEN HOUSE he mark In T Local Land

Ilford Heart Of

Essex Central ‘The Loop’ covers towns on the loop of the central line and surrounding areas - Gants Hill, Redbridge, Hainault, Wanstead, Grange Hill, Fairlop, Barkingside, Chigwell, Newbury Park plus Ilford.

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23,000 copies distributed every month to residential homes, high street businesses and at tube stations.

To receive your digital copy every month email editor@essex centralmagazine.co.uk.

Discount advertising rates are available, please get in touch for more information.

01279 319 318 advertising@essexcentralmagazine.co.uk www.essexcentralmagazine.co.uk ESSEX CENTRAL

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SMASHING SUNDAY AT CHIGWELL SCHOOL

Celebrity cricket and netball teams visited Chigwell School to play school sides and raise money for Cancer Research UK. The celebrity cricket team was captained by former England cricketer and Strictly Come Dancing winner Mark Ramprakash and the netball team was captained by former England netball captain Amanda Newton.

Other players included Bradley Walsh, Carlos Remy and Rob Rollins.

The Chigwell sides were made up of current and former pupils who played well and relished the opportunity to play against such prestigious opposition.

In both sports, the visiting sides won in highly competitive games.

The day was very well supported and included an auction of memorabilia carried out by former England cricketer David ‘Syd’ Lawrence.

The occasion raised £1,100 for Cancer Research UK which takes the total raised for the charity this year by Gill Punt, wife of Chigwell School headmaster Michael Punt, and the school to £25,000. Mark Ramprakash’s excellent innings included a six that unfortunately smashed a clubhouse window.

LOCAL NEWS

A short roundup of what’s been going on CHARITY CHAMPION FALLS THROUGH THE SKY

Lloyd Moulder, Co-Founder of designer bathroom supplier BathWorks, based in Woodford Green, threw himself out of a plane all in the name of charity. As the Charity Champion headed for Headcorn Airfield in Kent on Sunday 29th June it was for the third time having been hit by bad weather previously.

A very small plane held 14 people some jumping solo, and a lady who would film his descent.

Lloyd said “It was chilly as we climbed up to 12,000 feet and all I could see was cloud.

I was tightly strapped to Chris my guide and realised this was it, from now on I was totally in his hands.”

They were in free-fall for 45 seconds at a speed of 120 mph and still in cloud. The cold made it hard to catch his breath and he couldn’t see the ground just swirling cloud. “Next thing I knew Chris pulled the parachute and for another 5 or 6 minutes we drifted down, silently watching the ground below get ever amprakash R k ar M d nearer. It was awesome. By this time Gill Punt an

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the adrenalin had kicked in - I felt joy and exhilarated. It was nothing like what I thought - it was much better! We landed well and immediately I wanted to do it again. I Lloyd still do!”

Moulder Lloyd is delighted during free-fall. to have pictures and a video to look back on.

“Considering I have never been great with heights before this, I now think how soon can I do it, or something like it, again?”

When Lloyd signed up last year to raise £10,000 for Haven House Children’s Hospice little did he know that his fundraising challenges would include a skydive and white water rafting. Celebrating 10 years in business with a charity challenge has been memorable and Lloyd’s commitment to the charity is outstanding.

Haven House works with children and young people with life-limiting and lifethreatening conditions who are unlikely to reach adulthood. Lloyd is edging closer to his £10,000 target but he still needs YOUR help!

See details of Lloyd’s fund raising challenges on www.bath-works.co.uk and add your support by clicking on www.justgiving.com/bathworks

NEW MEDITERRANEAN EXPERIENCE IS COMING TO WOODFORD

On the grand old bank site opposite The Castle pub in Woodford Green, a new restaurant will shortly be opening.

A few have come and gone in recent years but ‘Marina’ looks like it will be making the stunning building its long term home.

We spoke with the experienced restaurant owner Semih Kamalak about his plans, “We shall open in September, with a beautiful Meze Grill & Sea Food experience.

I want to bring some lovely regional dishes from the sunny Mediterranean and give our diners a warm and friendly service they will love to come back to.”

Semih is a great man, always smiling and very customer focused, we’re sure that Marina will be a great success and will be heading down as soon as the doors open!

352 High Rd, Woodford Green, IG8 0XQ. Tel: 020 8505 8999

COMMUNITY The old bank soon to be Marina Restaurant

HEREWARD PUPILS WIN NATIONAL SAFETY POSTER COMPETITION AWARDS Four Year 3 pupils at Hereward Primary School, Loughton, have won awards in the national ‘Stay Safe, Stay Away’ poster competition to promote safety issues related to construction sites.

Georgia and Aliza were regional winners and each received a £100 gift certificate while the school was awarded a £200 book voucher.

Additionally Brooke and Charlie were regional runners-up.

Spiritual Moral Social and Cultural (SMSC) Co-ordinator ​ Rachel Brooke said: “We are so proud of the achievement of these pupils. They were so engaged in the project and this is reflected in the quality of the posters which they created.”

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR GO-TO GUYS FOR A GETAWAY: ABBOTTS TRAVEL The firm, who provide our own travel features, have been nominated at the industry’s own Oscars.

Travel Trade Gazette (TTG) is the travel market Bible, and they have shortlisted the South Woodford firm as Luxury Travel Agency of the Year.

Abbotts have been a presence on George Lane since 1957 and it is now run by Julian Abbott on the same street - and with the same principles as his father and grandfather.

In recent years they’ve launched abbottstravel.com and found a new audience through social media, which now plays a big role.

Their plush new refurbishment, which opened late last year next door to Costa Coffee may also have played a part in persuading

the panel as it has been a big contributor in helping refocusing the high street for the modern shopper.

The awards take place in central London on 15th September this year.

Abbotts Travel are at 134 George Lane, South Woodford, E18 1BA. Tel: 0208 989 9445.

Twitter: @abbottstravel

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ES AZIN M A G I N TED PR

HAPPY BIESSEX RTHDAY CENTRAL We are celebrating our 1st birthday and would like to thank everyone who has been involved in the magazine since its launch. Here is our first year in numbers and your chance to meet the team. the owner I also help with all aspects (and rightly so) so don’t be surprised to see me distributing, writing, doing photo shoots or interviewing clients for features! It’s a team effort and as an independent company we have to juggle quite a few roles sometimes!”

VICTORIA GRACE

DARREN PERRY

Owner / Editor With a long history in sales and marketing Darren is ultimately responsible for driving the magazine forward with new business each month, as well as overseeing the rest of the company.

“When the magazine started it felt like I had two kids, both the magazine and my baby son arrived at once (a mildly stressful period!).

Obviously my son won the lion’s share of my time, but I’m pleased to say the magazine has also flourished. I oversee the advertising sales and assisting clients, but as

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Features Editor The other part of the ‘management duo’ (and future Mrs Perry) who also has to juggle different roles, Victoria mainly oversees the features, deciding what we should write about in each issue and liaising with our contributors but also tackles the accounts and many admin tasks.

“Only since we started the magazine have I realised just how busy two people can be, and throwing in the arrival of a new baby to that has been quite a challenge to say the least! Regardless, I love my role within the company and enjoy finding out about the great independent businesses, attractions, charities and events that we have in the local area and bringing them to the attention of our lovely readers.”

SHARON BUTLERFELBY

Art Director Sharon is the lady who makes the magazine looks gorgeous every month, beautifully designing all the features, front cover, and putting the whole publication together.

“I have extensive experience designing in many of the primary publishing houses in London, but Essex Central has been a great project to get my teeth into and I have enjoyed putting my creative stamp on this fab publication!

Our first year has been a fun and exciting adventure! I look forward to what the next year brings and the exciting launch of The Loop!”

TS EENT TWSE

AND TER TWIT BOOK FACEOWERS FOL

DENNIS HUTTON

Sales Director Dennis is a great person for our customers to deal with whilst he’s ‘out and about’ selling advertising space across our distribution area.

He has been driving ahead with the recent launch of The Loop but also looks after existing partners on Essex Central. A really friendly (and funny) member of the team, Dennis strikes up a great rapport with the clients and always gives them the best deals possible.

We are also very jealous of Dennis’ amazing tan while we have been stuck in the office!

RTSD E V ADRINTE P

DEVON ELIZABETHTABERSHAM

Journalist Our super journalist, Devon, has been a real asset to the team since she joined last year. She is responsible for speaking with our feature partners and writing up the articles, whether it’s our Club Focus, Meet the Locals, charity partner or other features… Devon creates brilliant, original and engaging pieces that go down brilliantly with our readership!

AL LOCITIES/ D E R CHAS HELP B CHANTELLE CLU MORRIS

LAUREN BROWN

Designer Our adverts designer Lauren is there on call when our clients need something created or edited with their advert. Lauren works at incredible speed and produces exceptional adverts. Sometimes Lauren is thrown just a small amount of information and material to work with, yet always manages to spin out great looking artwork for our many satisfied advertisers.

DISTRIBUTION TEAM

Station Distributor If you are one of the thousands of commuters we reach each month then no doubt you will have seen (or certainly heard!) our fantastic station distributor Chantelle. With a cheery personality she helps to smile away your morning stress whilst handing out a copy of the magazine. We wouldn’t be without Chantelle and she’s a brilliant member of the team, giving a friendly face to the public each month.

Thank you to our brilliant distributors, without them you wouldn’t get your magazines each month!

Take a bow: Dave, Jamie, Steve, Ian, Mike, Bobby, George, Morgan, Robyn, Michael, Clare, Faye, Tracy, Warren, Matt, Kelsey, Ben, Simon, Sharon, Kathy, Barry and everyone else who has helped out over the last 12 months!

SPECIAL MENTIONS

We are also lucky to have great contributors and partners including; Julian Abbott, Danny Sperling, Victoria Robertson, Carrie Feagan, Amanda Anastasiou, Michael Jelbart, Nick Doughty, Danny Cohen, Toby Webster, Sarah Mackie, Alex Collard, Gemma Clark, Chigwell Business Group, Simon Cobbin, Jez Godlonton, Bobbi Chana, Jo Emmanuel, Iain Moran, Julia Jacobie, Gemma Brooks, Virginia Muranga, Angie Phillips and many more who have helped since we began.

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MEET

THE LOCALS

We caught up with four local independent businesses who are standing out from the crowd.

hell

Dan Mitc

SHARPES BARBERS

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e chatted to Dan Mitchell, owner of the newly opened Sharpes Barbers in Loughton, and started by asking how the whole venture started, he said, “ I began working for Matt Jones (now my business partner) when I was 14 as a Saturday boy, making tea, coffee, sweeping up and general jobs for the shop. From then on I always wanted

to become a barber and eventually open up a barbers in my hometown of Loughton.”

Sharpes opened on Friday the 11th July after working on the shop since March of this year. The shop is located on Loughton High Street and so is accessible for people driving to the town as there are various car parks you can park including M&S and High Beech road as well as free parking down station road.

Dan is a local lad who wants to offer a traditional barbers with a modern twist. Sharpes really do stand out from the crowd, as they have an individual style with varnished wood and stylish black & white photos adorning the walls, plus they offer a free Peroni beer and complimentary hot drink with every service, a lovely touch! The shop is very high end with styles ranging from classic to contemporary but pricing is still kept very reasonable.

148 High Road, Loughton, Tel: 0208 6164041

EMERGENCY FIRST AID

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e’ve known Danny Hyde for years and he’s always been a great guy, but these days he’s a real life saver! With 10 years experience in the emergency services, Danny is very knowledgeable when it comes to dealing with life threatening situations, and now he is giving that knowledge, and more importantly, the skills, to the public, so they too can save a life.

Emergency First Aid is an AoFA Approved Training Centre that teaches all nationally recognised First Aid courses, but what Danny is most passionate about is his 1 hour Life Saving course for families and new parents teaching CPR and Choking for adults, children and babies for just £10 per person (min 4).

Dan recently visited our home to teach us the skills and was superb at answering any questions we threw at him. The demonstrations were engaging and informative, with regular recapping to make sure

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the keys points were remembered (Dr ABC!). As the parents of a young son we found this 1 hour session absolutely priceless, because who knows when you might have to save a life?

Tel: 07966101931, www.emergencyfirstaidltd.co.uk

COUNSELLING E18

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ougie Robertson’s path into counselling is a rich story of seeing the suffering of others in nearby communities and around the world, as well as his own experience of abandonment in early childhood. Around 20 years ago at the Dougie Robertson Buddhist Centre in Bethnal Green he began to change his life, Dougie explained, “It was here that I discovered the Buddha found enlightenment or freedom from unnecessary suffering caused by early conditioning of the mind.

What’s more he was simply a human being just like me - and this gave me hope.”

As his interest in Buddhism grew so did his understanding of the mind and its potential. “The more freedom from personal suffering I attained the more generous I became and I naturally wanted to give something back.” The giving to others in Buddhist teaching is called Dana. It was this

experience of learning to give to others and his development of gratitude that motivated Dougie to train professionally as a counsellor. After working in the NHS for several years he opened a private practice in 2007. “The Shrubberies in George Lane is a beautiful part of London to work in and attracts a lot of diverse people who either live/work locally or in the city. It has great transport links, shops, local amenities and is accessible also by neighbouring boroughs.”

What is different about the service Dougie offers, is that working privately means he’s not caught up in number crunching, quick fix solutions or the creation of clinical outcomes which tend to distract from clients therapeutic needs. He said, “My working approach has a heart and uses a wisdom of some 2500 years old. This profound wisdom understands that all human beings want to be happy, have a birth right to be happy and can attain happiness with the right conditions. My working approach teaches the development of self-awareness which is vital in the process of change.”

The Shrubberies, George Lane, South Woodford, E18 1BD. Tel: 07792 128681. www.counsellingine18.co.uk.

VERSO DENTAL

S

imon Murphy trained and worked in Harley Street and has over 20 years experience as a Dental Technician. He opened Verso Dental at Crofts Dental Practice in Epping in October 2013, Simon said, “I picked the Crofts Dental Practice because of the calibre and professional manner of the staff members, my discipline is best suited to working in the collaborative way we do there, and I am privileged to be working alongside an excellent team of clinicians and managerial staff. Dr Jazz Battu and I confer daily on our cases ensuring the patients get the best possible outcome, Victoria the nurse and Denise the manageress both work very hard at making sure the patients feel welcome and kept fully informed about appointment times and procedures.

There is a lovely family atmosphere about this practice which wouldn’t be possible without these two staff members.”

Simon prides himself in providing teeth which look natural and fit well thus maintaining their ‘prosthetic privacy’ meaning that most denture wearers don’t Simon M want people knowing that they wear one. “This urphy kind of treatment takes time, something I always of as have for my patients,” said Simon. an inferior solution to We asked why he got into dentistry as a profession missing teeth and these patients are not and he explained, “I love to work with my hands and always offered the kind of service they need. He said, I like to meet and help people, at the surgery I build “I have seen this as a niche market for patients who a special rapport with my patients and get a real cannot afford implants or those who simply can’t sense of achievement when I see the transformation have them for other medical reasons. It can be a real in their confidence and persona during the treatment. boost feeling that they can smile and eat without the I get a real kick out of knowing that I have changed fear of their dentures dropping.” someone’s life for the better.”

Simon’s field of expertise, removable dentures, can 2 St Johns Road, Epping Tel: 0207 998 7080 be challenging because they are sometimes thought

ESSEX CENTRAL

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Imi Lichenfeld was a Hungarianborn Slovakian-Israeli who founded the Krav Maga self-defence system in the 1930’s. During this time, antiSemitism riots were taking place and Lichenfeld wanted to defend himself and the Jewish community.

After finding other martial arts such as Judo and Jui Jitsu to be

impractical when it came to real life combat, he developed a system of convenient self defence techniques that could be used in life threatening situations. It has been modified and is now taught all around the world to civilians and Israeli Special Forces as it was created to suit everyone -

fitness aspect, as well as learning escape techniques that relate to real life situations.

Ricky Manetta, is one of the country’s top Krav Maga instructors, and the founder of MMA Krav Maga and has over 30 years of martial arts training on his CV. Krav Maga helps with discipline and confidence, you will learn about yourself and find what works best for you. You don’t need strength to excel in Krav Maga, but dedication to your learning which will, in turn, lead to your success.

Ricky’s mission statement: “My guarantee to you is that if you give me a minimum of 12 months, what you will achieve is confidence, strength and an inner peace that you will carry with you for the rest of your life.”

Ricky Manetta teaches at Synergy men, women and children in order to Fitness, Lake Forest House, protect oneself efficiently, and as such, Barkingside, Ilford, Essex on Tuesday it has become a particularly popular and Thursday at 7.15pm and self defence system for women.

Saturday at 11am and in Wapping Celebrities such as Jennifer on Monday and Wednesday.

Lopez, Angelina Jolie, Matt Damon For further information, and Leonardo Dicaprio are all fans email info@synergyfitness or of Krav Maga for the high intensity Tel: 07725544867

ESSEX CENTRAL

23

BRAND NEW

to Loughton High Street As featured in OK!, New, Reveal, The Metro, The Daily Express, The Sun and more..

After an amazing launch, Body Beautiful have moved to a larger, luxurious suite on the upper floor of their new partner salon, Satori Loughton. There will also be a range of antiageing and rejuvenating cosmetic treatments coming soon. 3D Lipo is making national headlines for its when quoting outstanding fat loss and body sculpting results and ‘Essex Central’ our clients have seen dramatic fat loss, size reduction and skin tightening in just 3-4 weeks. 3D lipo is available in Loughton from August. Book your free consultation now on 0203 308 2952 and transform your body this summer.

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Body CENTRAL Beautiful 3D Lipo, Upper Floor within Satori, 8 Forest Rd, Loughton, Essex IG10 1DX ESSEX

WORK IT

Tailoring Modern r e z Suit Bla opshop T 0 4 £ £65

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bone erring ote Bag H k c Bla r Block T Colou iver Island £40 R

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This little blouse is great; it’s completely different from most blouses, but is still work appropriate.

ss Sleevele red Blouse e id Embro ara Z 9 .9 7 1 £ A turn up trouser puts a subtle twist on the classic trouser; take it further by swapping black for a brighter colour.

t This dress is great for this time of year as the colour is on trend, cool and will ensure you’re looking smart for any work occasion - don’t be afraid of colour!

t

t This dress will absolutely keep you cool at work this August. T-shirt dresses are one of my favourites at the moment.

BEAUTY

By Carrie Feagan

As a woman I understand the struggle in the morning of finding the right outfit, it also means I understand the struggle when choosing what to wear for work or that meeting you’re dreading.

Here are a few ideas on how to dress for the office but keeping it cool, trendy and showing that you’re not a woman to be messed with when it comes to her wardrobe.

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If you’re tall a skinny suit is going to suit you just right and charcoal grey makes a change from the classic black, navy or lighter grey suits.

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By Carrie Feagan

Just because I’m a woman doesn’t mean I don’t understand the struggle that you guys face in the morning too and if you’re denying that you even have a struggle then you’re defiantly the one that should be struggling! But don’t panic because here are some ways you can mix up that work wardrobe of yours.

t

If you’re not a tea kind of person don’t worry there is a coffee one available too.

These are great if you’re on the go or leaving early in the morning having a hot drink to wake you up is the perfect thing.

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hirt Poplin S Printed 12.99 Zara £ £29.99 Aqua Blue L Sleeve Ox ong fo £25 Topm rd Shirt an

t Pastels are my favourite and a guy that can wear a pastel is even better!

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ster’ ‘The World is Your Oy Travel Card Holder £24 Not On The High Street

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SPARKLE

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FASHION BEAUTY

DIAMONDS Solving The Modern-Day Marriage Proposal Dilemma.

Charlotte Stanfield

Thinking of popping the question? Beginning to seem more complicated than you imagined?

You want to surprise your loved one when you ask them to marry you but you want to choose the ring together. You want a ring that is personal to your relationship and from an independent jeweller not a high street chain. You want to get advice on budget and styles and from a jeweller that will get to know you as a couple. You don’t want to spend hours walking up high streets, overwhelmed by choices and not knowing where to start. Sparkle Diamonds is the new and unique offering from Charlotte Stanfield, a qualified jewellery consultant with 11 years in the industry, based right here in Essex. She believes she has the perfect solution. We spoke to her:

Q A

How has Sparkle Diamonds solved the modern-day marriage proposal dilemmas?

We combine the personal consultancy of a boutique familyrun jewellers, with the convenience of an online service including a ring-design facility. We’re also happy to meet customers at a time and location to suit them, bringing samples to them. We can make a unique sample ring for the proposal, which can be altered later as the couple design it together - so the proposal itself can remain spontaneous yet the ring can be a joint decision.

Q A

And how did you come up with these solutions?

I’ve always worked in the Jewellery industry - I started when I was 15! And I’ve always loved working in the boutique jewellers’ environment because you really get to know your customers and get an understanding of what they want.

I felt that many people wanted that independent, unique service but combined with the convenience of shopping online - and it didn’t exist for them so I launched Sparkle Diamonds.

Because we’re online it also means we have significantly lower overheads, but higher end quality and attention to detail, so we are incredibly competitive too.

Q A

Tell us about the online ringdesign facility?

We use 3D software which allows customers to design their ring in the comfort of their own homes. They can play around with different stones and styles as much as they like. Our website is packed with advice and information

guides to inspire. Of course, we love meeting customers and getting to know them, but if they are busy we can advise them by email, phone or even Skype.

Our aim is that the romantic gesture of the traditional proposal is maintained.

But, we understand that many couples work increasingly long hours, so we’re providing that romantic element in a way which is also convenient - and highly competitive!

Q A

Does Sparkle Diamonds provide other jewellery?

Of course! You name it - we design and make it - from traditional diamond earring and necklace sets - often popular for bridesmaids and brides - to statement pieces for birthdays and special occasions or simply every day ‘bling’!

We believe everyone deserves to sparkle.

Q A

What advice would you give to anyone planning to ask the big question?

I think, like the ring, the proposal should be personal and unique to you. All couples have special places perhaps somewhere you went on a first date or where you had a great holiday?

The element of surprise is definitely very romantic - as is having a beautiful, unique ring that you’ve helped to design yourself.

Who could say no to that?

For more information visit www.sparklediamonds.co.uk or to discuss your plan for your surprise proposal call Charlotte on 01279 425067 or email her at info@sparklediamonds.co.uk

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MACADAMIA HEALING OIL TREATMENT

This is a product we use all the time in the salon. It’s an exclusive therapeutic hair care range that has been specifically created to replenish dry and damaged hair. Only available at top professional hair salons it has been proven to heal, nourish, revitalise and rejuvenate even the most problematic hair. A mixture of macadamia nut oil and the rare luxury of argan seed oil with nature’s most nourishing botanicals make it the ultimate in everyday indulgence! I noticed that it also reduces my drying time by 4050%!! No complaints from me!

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t L’OCCITANE SHEA BUTTER HAND CREAM

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I must say, my exfoliating regime could be better but when I do get round to it my fave product is Clinique’s Sparkle Skin Body Exfoliator. It’s a cool, refreshing gel-like scrub that leaves your skin with a healthy glow. You can apply it to wet skin, massage in a rotating motion with your hands and rinse thoroughly. £18.50 200ml, www.clinique.co.uk

By Amanda Anastasiou, Owner of Finesse Hair & Beauty in Chingford. www.finessesalon.co.uk 020 8529 2601

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UPDATE YOUR

HOME with Stylish Summery Splashes

“The key to making your living space fit for summer is to introduce on trend items”

M

any of us want to make a few changes to our homes to reflect and embrace the arrival of a new season. As the weather heats up, summer provides the perfect excuse to give your space a fresh, seasonal spruce.

Whether you’re planning a complete makeover or simply want to liven up your living room, there’s so many quick and easy ways to update your interior scheme that will leave it feeling supercharged, refreshed and ready for warmer months. From vibrant splashes of colour to subtle punches of pattern, the key to making your living space fit for summer is to introduce on trend items such as furniture and decorative homewares that exude an uplifting, light and airy vibe.

Follow our guide on how to achieve the perfect summer look for your home that’s full of stylish summery surprises:

PLAY WITH PRETTY PASTELS

There’s nothing quite like a burst of pretty pastel colours to make your living room feel super chic and summery. A sofa in a subdued hue is a great way to soften the feel of dark walls and wooden

32

ESSEX CENTRAL

furniture, allowing colour to creep into the home with a nonchalant feel.

Opt for designs in a pared-down colour palette in washes of pale and barely-there shades like salmon pink, duck egg blue, pistachio and sorbet lemon hues. Use a few pastel colours together through artwork and accessories that will help to harmonise your overall scheme.

KEEP IT COOL AND CRISP

You can keep your living room or dining space looking fresh and crisp by sticking to a predominantly white colour scheme.

A little goes a long way and this look is perfect for recreating the trend for a Scandi-style home.

Choose clean, minimalist shapes for furniture in light, natural timbers as well as washed finishes in white and soft grey shades. Multiyork’s Burghley furniture range effortlessly encapsulates the Scandinavian look with its light, solid wood structure and beautifully painted cool grey finish. For upholstered items like sofas and armchairs, select unadorned designs with softly rounded edges and covered in lightweight fabrics such as linen for a simple, laid-back vibe.

HOME GARDEN

GO GEOMETRIC

Geometrics remain a popular choice for bringing pattern into the home this summer, with sharp, angular designs such as zig zags and circular graphic prints leading the way as favourites.

They work brilliantly on fabric and can easily turn functional furniture like a sofa or a dining chair into a striking statement piece. To ensure furniture is centre of attention, play with scale and opt for large, oversized geometric prints in a vibrant colour palette like on Multiyork’s standout Manhattan Chair in Designers Guild Amlapura Moss. Layering contrasting geometric designs will provide a similar impact, but be sure to choose prints wisely as too many ‘busy’ and varied fabrics can make a room feel chaotic.

MAKE IT ELEGANTLY FRENCH

A French-style living room is ideal for summer months with its light, understated feel that evokes the casual elegance of homes typically found in the South of France. White, shabbychic furniture such as a console table or grand dining table is a wonderful choice, particularly when teamed with a

&

minimalist palette of chic, chalky hues.

For seating with sophisticated appeal, Multiyork’s beautifully bowed Verona Extra Large Sofa in Athena Charcoal fabric lends itself perfectly to this style.

Patterns like gingham and checks also sit in keeping, as will decorative furnishings like full length curtains in delicately striped prints.

FANCIFUL FLORALS OR PAINTERLY PATTERNS

Introduce flowery prints into your living room in the form of wallpaper or through fabric used to upholster a sofa, choosing a pattern that complements your overall scheme. From bold, statement styles to delicate floral compositions, blooms work well in both small and large doses so don’t be afraid to complement larger pieces with soft furnishings like cushions and throws.

Keep the rest of the room neutral, and you’re ready to invite your friends over for a cup of tea and slice of cake - very country English!

MULTIYORK, Loughton Store: 165A High Road, Loughton, Essex, IG10 4LF, www.multiyork.co.uk, 020 8502 4123, loughton@multiyork.co.uk

ESSEX CENTRAL

33

Restaura

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“Now is also a good time to preser ve your herbs”

HOME GARDEN

&

PEST CONTROL

Victoria Robertson

GARDENING WITH VICTORIA ROBERTSON

A seasonal guide to help you get the most out of your garden.

W

elcome to my gardening growers guide to August.

Hopefully there are still some great sunny days yet to come to help you make the most of your garden.

If you are going away on your annual holiday ask someone you know to water your pots, hanging baskets and containers. If you can’t manage to find help to keep them moist place them in a semi shady position inside a paddling pool filled with water until you return.

Other jobs this month include pruning lavenders by cutting them back by two thirds. New shoots will quickly appear at the base of the bush and these will have enough time to grow and harden up before winter comes.

Take cuttings from hebes which are easily

propagated from 3-4 inch cuttings taken from this current season’s growth.

Cuttings are taken just below a leaf joint. The bottom two pairs of leaves are removed and the cuttings dipped into a rooting hormone, although this not essential. These are then inserted into a soilbased John Innes Compost.

Keep your early flowering shrubs like rhododendron well watered during dry periods to ensure good flower bud development.

Cut back perennial stems and flowers that are starting to die back.

Now is also a good time to preserve your herbs!

Gather and dry herbs while they are at their peak. Always pick the healthiest looking shoots and wash well before you chop them. Herb leaves can be frozen whole but

first you will have to freeze them individually on a plastic tray to avoid them becoming stuck together.

Once they are frozen you can place them whilst still frozen into a bag together.

You can also chop up your herbs and place them into ice cube trays with enough water to cover them. When needed add them to your favourite recipes straight from the freezer.

Dahlias are looking stunning at this time of year. These are the flowers that I just love to grow. I have managed to grow over 30 different varieties some of which I will be entering into the annual Epping Horticultural Show on August 23rd.

Remember to continue feeding your dahlia’s with a high potash liquid fertiliser, such as tomato feed every two weeks until early September.

Set up earwig traps to help protect your Dahlia blooms.

Earwigs hide during the day and emerge at night to feed. They like to nibble soft, young leaves and petals, leaving large ragged holes. Older leaves may be stripped back to a skeleton of veins. Fill upturned flowerpots with straw or shredded paper, and place them on top of canes close to vulnerable plants with soft, new growth. Check the pots daily.

WILDLIFE WATCH

Damselflies and dragonflies are usually spotted near ponds this time of year. Damselflies have a lazier, zigzagging pattern of flight, whereas dragonflies take a faster and more direct flight path. August is their breeding season, and you may see them mating in mid-air, or laying their eggs around the pond.

ESSEX CENTRAL

37

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ISLAND

RETREATS

Visit the islands of Capri & Ischia for an unforgettable luxurious break

C

apri is a tiny jewel that has been a resort since the time of the Romans, where Augustus used it to unwind, and Tiberius made it the imperial capital. It remains a playground for pleasure seekers and lovers of luxury.

Ischia is the largest island off the Bay of Naples, a place that tempted Aphrodite and Apollo, and sheltered an exiled king. Its beauty is formidable, made up of mountains, isolated hills and majestic promontories dotted around thermal springs rich in calcium, sulphates and many other healing properties.

They can be reached via hydrofoil, ferry or private boat from Naples.

Abbotts Travel have recommended one property in each destination and negotiated an exclusive offer for anyone booking with them.

CAPRI TIBERIO PALACE

The glamour of this 5* hotel has been boosted by this season’s redesign, a mix of shapes and colours masterminded by Giampiero Panepinto.

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ESSEX CENTRAL

It’s a wobbly stiletto’s walk from the Piazzetta, the former market square which is now the island’s heart and a magnet for paparazzi.

You have a choice of fifty gorgeous rooms, crowned by the elegance of the Bellevue Suite. The antique fittings and modern design will seduce you, but we’ll admit that the Mojito Terrace, with its 360-degree views of Mount Solaro and the Mediterranean, helps.

There’s a splash pool, housing up to eight people, here too!

The Capri Suite pays tribute to former guests Liz Taylor and Richard Burton, and the era of 1950s film glitz. It contains a bedroom and large separate living room where you’ll be in the company, pictorially, of Sophia Loren and others.

Terrazza Tiberio serves lunch and dinner with a strong regional identity. The menu is created by Francesco De Simone and Stefano Cerrotta, and includes a number of dishes which are certified kosher.

Friuli, Sicily and Tuscany contribute to the wine list, which also includes

selections from wider afield.

The restaurant’s outdoor terrace overlooks the southern part of the island, and is stunning.

For relaxation, visit the Tiberio SPA, an oasis of wellbeing with swimming pool (honouring the ancient Roman baths of Tiberius), solarium and a treatment area for water therapies. Choose from six luxury treatment rooms, one spa room for couples, and areas dedicated to whirlpool and Shiatsu.

EXCLUSIVE OFFER Book at least two nights at the Capri Tiberio Palace with Abbotts Travel and receive: Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability, 30.00 Euro Dinner Credit and 30 Euro SPA credit. Book the Capri Suite or Bellevue Suite and receive a 3-course candlelit dinner for 2 persons (excluding drinks) served at the Terrazza Tiberio.

TRAVEL

CAPRI & ISCHIA

Tiberio Palace in Capri

Ischia Garden New Bar

Capri Suite

Ischia Garden

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ISCHIA GARDEN AND VILLAS RESORT

Harmonise with nature in this glorious getaway of 50 guestrooms in 9 villas - environmentally friendly facilities in harmony with the community.

As the name suggests, it’s an oasis of greenery with olive trees, carob trees, strawberry plants, pine and oak trees and a myriad of flowers leading from pathways to secluded woods.

Garden & Villas resort is situated just outside the town of Lacco Ameno, a short walk through the rocks and greenery of Mediterranean beauty to the haven of the half moon of golden sand at the bay of San Montano. Little wonder it attracts such rave reviews.

The resort’s restaurant, Il Corbezzolo, nestled by the pool, invites you to tour Ischia’s gastronomy with local and regional breads, cakes, lunches and candlelit dinners. Many ingredients

Ischia Classic will come from the resort’s own fully organic gardens.

The outdoor thermal pool (maintained at a temperature of 27 degrees) is surrounded by plants and flowers, while a panoramic solarium roof-terrace is ideal for sunbathing in total peace and quiet, and the resort adopts water and energy-saving policies in respect of the natural environment.

The same level of care can be seen in the guestrooms, which have complimentary soft drinks, safe, satellite TV, air conditioning and wi-fi. All bathrooms have a bath or shower, hairdryer and make-up mirror. The Junior Suite includes a mini Jacuzzi, while the Suite comes with sea views and a mini pool.

The Negombo Thermal Gardens are close by, housing a thermal water park with 12 pools and baths, each heated to a different temperature.

EXCLUSIVE OFFER Book four nights between 17th August and 18th October and receive: Best available rates, free room upgrade from Classic to Superior and from Superior to Premium, one free ticket per person for entry to Negombo Thermal Gardens, 15% restaurant discount and 15% Spa discount.

Abbotts Travel, 134 George Lane, South Woodford, E18 1BA (open Monday-Saturday). Tel: 0208 989 9445. Track more exclusive offers and receive your free monthly newsletter online at www.abbottstravel.com Twitter: @abbottstravel.

ESSEX CENTRAL

41

Opening hours:

Ample free parking Stock to go

Mon- Fri 9am-4pm Sat- 9am-5pm Sun- 10am-4pm

Go to our website and check out our

Virtual Tour

Nestled between Epping and Harlow this 8000sq ft showroom has a massive selection of furniture, mirrors, pictures, lighting and accessories to choose from.

We also make and finish bespoke furniture to your requirements.

Esgors Farm, High Road, Thornwood Common, near Epping, Essex, CM16 6LY info@somethingfurniture.co.uk l 01992 573111 l www.somethingfurniture.co.uk

42 

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25% discount on selected ranges until the end of September

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43

FOOD & DRINK SEASONS

Head Chef Billy Cronin

S

easons is a family run restaurant in Woodford Green serving the very best in British and European cuisine. They pride themselves on using local, seasonal and sustainable foods and providing service second to none.

Here is a recipe for a fantastic Mixed Fish Grill dish created by their award winning head chef Billy Cronin.

Method Flavoured butter 1. Wrap your garlic bulb in foil and roast in oven.

2. Fry the bacon off in a hot pan, and once crispy deglaze the pan with a shot of Pernod and a shot of white wine.

3. Now add your butter to the pan and tarragon stalks.

Leave to infuse for 6 hours.

4. Pass your butter through a sieve discarding bacon and stalks.

5. Add chopped wild garlic, crushed roasted garlic and fresh tarragon to your butter along with

MIXED FISH

GRILL

By Seasons Restaurant

some crispy diced bacon and leave to set in fridge.

Fish 1. Prepare your fish ready for cooking, or most fishmongers will do

BEST SERVED WITH...

As the growth of craft beers across London and the South East continues, Seasons Restaurant have looked at some of the options that pair well with different foods, and have found some real good beers like Brooklyn Lager, Blue Moon and Birrone, with very unique flavours. Their Favourite Brewery right now though is “The Meantime Brewing Company” based in Greenwich who currently supply them with three different craft beers. Seasons are the only restaurant in Essex to have London Meantime Lager on draught currently, and also stock 2 Meantime Bottled Beers,

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this for you, open your scallops and clean the shells and also prepare the prawns.

2. Cut your squid and leave to soak in milk, this tenderises the flesh of the squid and makes it softer to eat.

3. Make a mix of 100g cornflour, 100g plain flour, 2 tbsp smoked paprika and the zest of one lemon to dust your squid and white bait.

4. To begin cooking firstly

heat a large chargrill pan or alternatively use a BBQ!

Start by grilling your prawns until the shell begins to change colour, once both sides are coloured, spoon

which are available across local shops.

London Meantime Lager is a perfect beer for this fish dish as it’s very hoppy and malty compared to other standard lagers, both the hops and malts are from East Anglia and Kent, and the strength of the Hops in this lager compliments strong food flavours that make up the Fish Grill as well as oily fish such as tuna. The Lager has a slight bitter taste which balances well with the sweetness of the shellfish and saltiness of the samphire.

The London Pale Ale from Meantime is also another good choice and is best drunk alongside foods with a strong flavour and a bit of a bite like the Wild Garlic

INGREDIENTS

Serves 2

FISH 200g tuna steak- Seaso ns use sashimi grade tun a 4 large king prawns 2 diver caught scallop s 1 fillet of cod 100g white bait 1 squid tube 100g samphire 100g cornflour 100g plain flour

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2tbsp smoked paprika Maldon sea salt and cra cked black pepper 2 lemons

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Pernod White wine over some of the butter and roast in the oven at 180 for 7 minutes.

5. Cook your tuna next, cook for 3 minutes a side so it’s still rare.

6. Now chargrill your cod and once coloured place in the oven for 4 minutes.

7. Heat a small pan and add oil, season your scallops then add to the pan straight away, this prevents the scallops from curing. Once the scallops colour on one side turn

them and add some butter to the pan, with a squeeze of lemon juice, cook for a further minute in the pan and take off the heat.

8. Dust your squid and whitebait in the flour mix and fry at 180 until golden brown, season with Maldon sea salt.

9. Serve with wilted samphire, saffron aioli and chorizo mash!

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and Smoked Bacon Butter used in the Fish Grill. The Ale has a citrus aroma and a slight fruity flavour, with a bitter finish.

Seasons Restaurant 24 The Broadway, Woodford Green, Essex, IG8 0HQ www.seasons woodfordgreen.com 020 8504 2545

ESSEX CENTRAL

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I Heart Candy

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Theydon Bois

Authentic Turkish Restaurant House Specialities Wood Oven Charcoal Grill• Open Kitchen Call for Booking

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T On The Green Independent, family owned coffee shop, serving gourmet bean to cup espresso, loose leaf tea, home made cakes and tray bakes, all day breakfast, brunch and lunch in gorgeous, trendy surroundings.

Go for a Full English or our famous Eggs Benedict!

Come enjoy a munch with family or friends!

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Quiz nights

We look forward to seeing you soon.

13 Coopersale Common, Coopersale, Epping, Essex CM16 7QS

Tel: 01992 560211

E-mail: info@garnonbushes.co.uk

Special Menu nights

LIVE

Music nights

WHAT’S O N

ESSEX GET OUT AND ABOUT IN

Electronic Keyboard Club AGM and members night. No tickets, just turn up, entry £7 adults (under-16s £1). For more details, ring 020 8530 3717.

WHERE: The Churchill Room, Wanstead Library, Wanstead.

WHEN: Sunday 3rd August, 9am-2pm WHAT: Loughton Residents’ Association Farmers Market.

Produce stalls and local organisations. LRA councillors on hand to respond to residents’ questions and problems, plus second-hand-books stall.

WHERE: Centric Parade, High Road, Loughton WHEN: Tuesday 5th August, 7.30pm WHAT: Ongar Flower Club. With a demonstration by Susan Horne entitled Finding Inspiration.

Visitors welcome.

WHERE: Zinc Arts, High Street, Ongar.

WHEN: Tuesday 12 August, 2pm-4pm WHAT: Forest Families: Navigation. Find out how to find your way in the forest using a map, compass or journey stick!

While younger siblings are welcome the activities are aimed at children aged 5-11. Children aged 5-11, £6; under-5s, £2; adults and over-11s, £2. Booking required. To book or for more details ring 0208 502 8500 or email enquiries.ef@field-studiescouncil.org.

WHERE: Epping Forest Field Centre, High Beach. th

WHEN: Wednesday 13th August, 7.50pm-10.15pm, doors open 7.15pm WHAT: East London and Essex

WHEN: Tuesday 19th - Friday 22nd August, 10am-12.30pm WHAT: Mega Makers!’ - Holiday Club for children aged 4-11 years.

Booking forms available from the church office. Ring 020 8559 0222; email info@bhbc.org.uk.

WEBSITE: www.bhbc.org.uk WHERE: Buckhurst Hill Baptist Church

WHEN: Wednesday 20th August, noon-2pm WHAT: Teddy Bears Picnic - Join Countrycare and teddy bears for some fun outdoor activities. Take a picnic to enjoy while you join in with bug hunting, crafts, nature trails and more. Don’t forget your teddy bear! Aimed at three to six-yearolds, cost £3 per child, parents must accompany their children.

Booking essential on 01992 788203. For more information email contactcountrycare@ eppingforestdc.gov.uk WHERE: Linder’s Field Local Nature Reserve, Buckhurst Hill. The reserve entrance is on Roebuck Lane where it meets Russell Road

WHEN: Sunday 24th August, 11am WHAT: Family fun day in aid of Breast Cancer Campaign. With a barbecue, raffles, tombola, games, bouncy castle, Rodeo Bull, music, face painting, stalls and competitions. To volunteer on the day, host a stall, buy raffle tickets, or for more details, ring Dan on 020 8502 0444.

WHERE: The Plume of Feathers pub, Church Hill, Loughton

WHEN: Sunday 24th August WHAT: Copped Hall Open Day - Illustrating the impact of the Great War on Country Houses and Estates. Victoria Robertson will be growing a WW1 cannon which will be in the walled gardens WHERE: Copped Hall, Epping WHEN: Monday 25th August, gates open 11am for registration.

WHAT: Companion Dog Show.

There will be breed and novelty classes to suit everyone. Tea, coffee and home-made cakes will be served throughout the event.

Proceeds in aid of All Saints Church.

WHERE: All Saints Church, Epping Upland.

WHEN: Saturday 23rd August, 12.30pm WHAT: Epping Horticultural Society’s Annual Dig for Victory Show - £1.00 entry fee.

WHERE: St John’s Church, Epping

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COMMUNITY

SMILES WITH

GRACE I

Legacy of a loving local girl

n September 2012, Grace Boxall passed away shortly before her 16th birthday, leaving family and friends devastated, Grace had been battling with brain tumours since she was ten years old and spent a significant amount of time in Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH), the Royal London Hospital and Whipps Cross Paediatric Ward.

In 2011, she founded Smiles with Grace along with her parents; a charity which allowed her to help children who suffer as she had, and since her passing it has gone on to become her legacy.

In July 2011, Smiles with Grace hosted their first charity walk, from Buckhurst Hill to Great Ormond Street Hospital raising £15,000. The same walk was planned in 2012, however a week before, she had a bleed on the brain and therefore while the walk went ahead, Grace was in a coma at GOSH. By September 2013, Grace was ready to go back to school but within a

week another tumour was found and she tragically passed away.

Grace’s charity efforts earned her the Redbridge Young Citizen of the Year in 2012 and she was also put forward for the National award, along with many Bravery awards.

Smiles with Grace is a very wellknown charity in the local area and her alma mater Chigwell School is continuing on to raise money, this month saw her year group’s prom raising money for the charity as well as a charity football match.

Smiles with Grace has sixteen patrons, all of whom are her friends who continue to raise money to keep her legacy going. For all involved, this is a very emotive and personal charity due to the place that Grace holds in their hearts, which makes this charity all the more special. After Grace’s passing, there was an influx of donations not only from friends, but from anonymous sources, it is clear on their Justgiving page

Grace Boxall

how many lives Grace’s story has touched. One anonymous donor even commissioned a bench in her memory to Chigwell School.

Their largest project to date is in its final stages of planning and Smiles with Grace have raised £57,500 to fund the collaboration of GOSH neurosurgeon Dr Dominic Thompson and Professor Andy Copp of UCL who will develop a biomarker for monitoring clinical outcome in children with spinal lipoma. In the future, this will enhance neurosurgery for children and it is important for the Boxall family and all at Smiles with Grace to be able to contribute to the future of paediatric surgery on Grace’s behalf.

Smiles with Grace are hosting a 9 mile walk on September 21st from Chigwell to Woodford and back, all are welcome to participate.

For more information visit www.smileswithgrace.org

ESSEX CENTRAL

51

s

CORNER ?

?

?

?

?

PUZZLE ?

?

?

?

?

WORD SEARCH

Find these local areas: Buckhurst Ilford Hill Woodford Wanstead Gants Hill Which word is missing?

Theydon Bois Hainault

Difficulty: Hard

?

SUDOKU

Epping Ongar Loughton

?

?

?

?

?

CRISS-CROSS

Fit these brand names into the grid.

5 LETTERS 6 LETTERS 8 LETTERS Boots Bosch Dulux Tesco Heinz Kodak

?

Rotary Disney Oakley

Vauxhall

9 LETTERS Microsoft

7 LETTERS McDonald’s Versace Samsung

?

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE

?

Can you spot 6 differences between these two pictures?

52 52

ESSEX ESSEXCENTRAL CENTRAL

For puzzle solutions please visit www.essexcentralmagazine.co.uk

?

?

PUZZLES COMPETITION

WIN! Win a Family Photo Experience with Capture Photography

C

be selected at random on Friday 22nd August 2014.

Terms and Conditions: H By entering this competition you agree to provide a picture for publication if you are picked as a winner.

Website: www.capturephoto studio.com

PHOTO SHOOT COMPETITION NAME:

!

apture are offering Essex Central readers the chance to win a family photo experience worth over £750.00 at their Chigwell based studios.

The winner will receive a I hour Family Photo Shoot with a leading professional photographer, A Hand Mounted Nine Tile Wall Product with your favourite images together with a CD of the images from the day. This is a brilliant fun filled afternoon where the memory you create will be yours forever. Also the first 10 runners up picked at random will receive a prize of a free photo shoot.

To enter simply fill in the entry form and send to: Essex Central Magazine, Brickfield Business Centre, High Road, Thornwood, Epping, Essex CM16 6TH or email your details to: competitions@essexcentral magazine.co.uk.

Closing date: One first prize winner plus ten runners up will

&

ADDRESS: TEL: EMAIL: ESSEX CENTRAL

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PARENTING

MUM’ S CORNER Sarah Mackie bites back at social media article, plus boredom busters for the summer holidays

O

ne of my friends shared an article on Facebook recently from the Huffington Post, about modern day parenting, and why it is apparently in ‘crisis’. I saw the headline “5 Reasons Why Modern Day Parenting is in Crisis, According to a British Nanny”, and I sighed. What over-intellectualised garble (probably written by someone who doesn’t have children) am I going to read now? But read on I did.

And here’s where I bite back.

Here are the reasons why most of us are doing just fine, thank you, according to a British mummy.

Emma Jenner’s first line of attack was that we all have a ‘fear of our children’ and she refers to her ‘sippy cup test’ wherein she observes parents getting their toddler a drink and putting it in a blue cup. If the child says he wants the pink cup and mum or dad changes the cup over -

they have failed epically, because they should have kept the blue one and let said child scream and shout instead. While I agree that it would do no harm for Little Angel (LA) to have a wee paddy and drink from the blue cup, would it do us any harm to change it over?

Of course not. Her point was that it teaches LA that all he has to do is make a fuss to get what he wants, but do you really think he will be screaming for a different cup, or toy, when he’s 10?

Doubt it. What about teaching LA that his needs will always be met by his parents, and that we support his independence, for isn’t his demand for the pink cup just an expression of an opinion? Moreover, shouldn’t we be picking our battles more wisely? I’d come down like a tonne of bricks if my daughter was ever unkind or rude or a bully. But life’s way too short to fight about sippy cups.

Next up was that we ought to ‘raise the bar’ and raise our expectations of our children, because, for example, they are capable of behaving for an entire

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toddlers and juniors.

Fairlop Waters, Forest Road, Barkingside, IG6 3HN 020 8500 9669 KRAZY KIDZ CAFE A children’s soft play area, ideally suited to the under 8’s, with a small baby area, and a two story play frame for 2-8’s.

156-158 High Street, Chipping Ongar, CM5 9JJ 01277 365979

equipment will be available for entertainment. Check website for session times.

Loughton Leisure Centre, Traps Hill, Loughton, IG10 1SZ, 01992 564574 www.everyoneactive.com BARKING SPLASH PARK This is a wet play area which promises to provide lots of fun throughout those

long summer holidays!

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THEATRE PRODUCTIONS

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK Find out what happens when Jack sells Daisy, what he gets in exchange and what

“Sitting in an IKEA shopping trolley for prolonged periods is simply not interesting ”

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restaurant sitting. I also know some parents of this ilk, those who think they should be able to do the things they always did BC (Before Child), and expect LA to keep quiet and behave.

Let me ask you – who goes in to parenting thinking life is going to be all sophisticated dinners and lay-ins?!?

NO-ONE! If you did, what a rude awakening you are going to have, perhaps multiple, nocturnal rude awakenings.

Sitting in a restaurant, a car or an IKEA trolley for prolonged periods is simply not interesting or attractive to LA. Not because she’s being naughty but because she is a healthy toddler. Yes, they need to learn patience and self-discipline, of course they do, but in relative doses. A healthy child has oodles of energy, is inquisitive, imaginative, expressive and playful. Shouldn’t we be supporting and encouraging those things rather than suppressing them?

For the finale (I don’t have space to discuss all 5 points), is that these terrible parents ‘put their children’s needs before their own.’ Umm, yes. Yes we do.

Because that is our JOB. To protect, nurture and love, and for a short amount of time, this is what becomes most important. To sum up, if you don’t want to put someone else first, and if you miss your social life and freedom that much, my advice? Don’t have children.

starts growing in Jack’s garden!

Suitable for four-to eight-year-olds. Tuesday 12th August 2pm, £4 per person. Booking essential.

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Dahl classic full of largerthan-life characters, plenty to join in with, and just a twist of malicious fun!

Wednesday 13th August, 2pm. Early booking recommended.

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GEORGE’S MARVELLOUS MEDICINE Bring a chair or a rug and a picnic and enjoy a one of a kind performance out in the open of this Roald

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59

DAD’S DIARY

In Partnership with

ENTERING FATHERHOOD

WITHOUT A MAP

S

o, this month our growing little boy has developed a new passion, he loves to dance! As soon as he hears a song on the TV he immediately starts to bop, crouching down and bouncing back up with a decent rhythm.

He has not quite perfected his dancing skills yet though, in fact it looks like he’s trying to balance on an underground train whilst not holding on, but his little legs keep him stable. That’s his first ‘dance move’, the second however is a somewhat different affair. We’re not quite sure how he decides which of his two routines to use, but sometimes he does a full throttle stamping ‘hoedown’ style dance.

His left leg stays firmly planted to the floor, whilst his right foot continually pounds up and down as though he’s being attacked by a swarm of army ants. He loves it, but we’ve got through three carpets in the last week! It doesn’t matter where he is either, and it doesn’t even need to be a real song, just any kind of beat and he’s off. The other day he danced to: a dodgy car engine, an old man’s cough, and a small dog barking. Each time the smile grew wide as the right leg hoisted itself into the air for the first pounding, then boom boom boom, he was off with his country dancing style hoedown. We may get him a straw hat and dungarees soon, perhaps a belt to tuck his thumbs behind as well.

Recently the lady and I decided to go a bit crazy and purchase two new kittens. It seemed like a brilliant idea at the time, two little friends for our boy to play with.

Instead, for the last few weeks we have spent every waking hour

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trying to get the young lad to “stroke nicely” and “be gentle” rather than trying to pick them up by their eyelids. They seem to love him though, and do play with him constantly. He chases after them laughing whilst they easily out manoeuvre him, then come back for more. It’s at this point he tries another of his new found skills, throwing. He picks up his

“The other day he danced to: a dodg y car engine, an old man’s cough, and a small dog barking.”

Lego and launches it at the kittens, laughing hysterically. Luckily he usually misses and the little fluff balls just play with the Lego like a mouse, chasing it around the room. Unfortunately, as anyone who has had kittens will know, they not only move horizontally, but also vertically, jumping onto the highest furniture and scaling the curtains with ease! Diddy Man has seen these wondrous circus skills and tries to copy their every move. Up onto the sofa he climbs, and then he heaves himself onto the window ledge behind and stands up, clapping himself for his achievement. This is not a ‘skill’ we wish to encourage for obvious reasons so we quickly rescue our little adventurous mountaineer.

Late last week we decided to get his hair cut, he was starting to look like Boris Johnson in a wind tunnel again so we quickly realised things had gone too far and his blonde

locks needed to go. My cousin, who is a Barber, popped round to give him a home haircut in the garden. Approaching a 15 month old child with a pair of scissors, whilst they squirm and laugh is not an easy task. For the next two hours, the three of us struggled with the task in hand as we tried to pin him down, hold his face, distract him with toys and food and generally pray for calm, which never came. The tactic became a type of dive bombing ‘snip and go’ technique, managing to cut up to three hairs at a time on a good dive bomb, and so it went on. My cousin moved his arms with the lightning speed of a Ninja and in the end he looked superb.

The final part of this month’s update regards his new bath toys, a couple of squirting rubber turtles that can stick to the side of the bath. He squirts the water out of the rubber base, then splats them against the side, letting go they suction on with the force of a limpet. What happens next is a tug of war between the suction force of the turtles and the pulling power of the little lad. All at once the strenuous noises start, “Ooohhhh, Aaarrhhh Ooohhhh!!!” face going red, veins and arms bulging… turtle unfazed, and looking relaxed “Oooohhhh!” turtles head now being stretched, then “pop!” the turtle pings off, he hurtles backwards in fits of giggles as I reach out to catch him and the whole process starts again.

In all it’s been a great month full of new developments but we are thinking of buying the kittens some lead weighted boots to keep them (and our son) at ground level. ...TO BE CONTINUED

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DISTRIBUTE ESSEX

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MOTORING

IN THE

GARAGE

Tony Amdur of Motech Vehicle Services shares his advice on buying a second hand car.

THE HORSE HAS BOLTED!

It never ceases to amaze me why some people will buy a car and once they get home will then start to investigate its previous life, only to find out they have brought a “wrongun”.

Your home aside, it is usually your second most expensive asset and a tool to get from A to B. Even if it is the right model, right colour, right price, it is easy to fall into the trap, you put on the rose coloured glasses and to not do your homework. “All that glitters is not gold” goes the saying, just like if it’s too good to be true, it usually is.

There are various safeguards you can easily use to prevent a disaster.

Get a proper full inspection by a recognised motoring organisation, yes they sometimes witter on in their report about the insignificant fleck of ash in the ashtray, but usually they are thorough, the total condition, any historical drama’s damage, theft and even any outstanding finance are all crystal clear and give a true picture of what you are buying. If they miss anything of importance after you own it, they are responsible and could be held accountable.

If the car is old enough to require an MOT test, the last 4 years mileages will be on the new pass certificate, which has gone a long way to prevent altering the mileage back.

Newer cars are more of a problem as no MOT records will show unless your pride and joy has been a taxi/mini cab which have

their first MOT after a year and every 6 months subsequently.

If your new car has been owned by a fleet company like Hertz, Avis or driving school, they tend to have their own in house insurance cover, and if the vehicle has been damaged or written off, they are not obliged to divulge it, so trying to find its true history is hampered. Most of these cars are fine, except for the stigma of such a start in life on the log book doesn’t look good.

You can also take along a knowledgeable person with you and carry out a Hire Purchase Information (HPI) check yourself by texting 78888 from your mobile phone, which will tell you what you want to know for a few pounds.

If you must, leave as small a deposit as possible to hold the vehicle, ask for a copy of the V5 logbook and even contact the previous owner who may shed some interesting light on the motor’s past.

Don’t be led to think that it is the only one out there, there is always another one somewhere.

If you let your head rule your heart and follow a few common sense rules, buying your next car won’t be a problem.

Motech Vehicle Services, Unit 4, Hainault Works, Hainault Rd, Little Heath, Romford, RM6 5SS www.motechvehicleservices.co.uk Tel: 020 8599 6767

ESSEX CENTRAL

63

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CLUB FOCUS

WOODFORD RUGBY CLUB 2014

By Devon-Elizabeth Tabersham

has been a big year for Woodford Rugby Club; long time member David Phillips has been appointed Chairman of the club and they have just celebrated their 90th Anniversary hosted by Ben Shephard and attended by Jason Leonard OBE, a 2003 World Cup winner.

Woodford Rugby Club takes on players from Under 6s up to senior teams. In the youth teams there is at least one team for every year up to Colts/ U19s and there are four senior teams all of who play in leagues. For the Youth Teams, U13-U19, league matches take place on Sundays with half of the season in competitive play and the other half being friendlies.

U6-U12 groups play on Sundays in competition for a third of the season while the other two thirds are used to learn the game and rules. At all levels of play, an all-inclusive policy is adopted and girls participate at many age levels, players are welcomed at all ages and abilities.

Training takes place twice a week for Senior teams and once a week for Youth teams. While teams compete in leagues, they also play in the Essex Cup and last year the Colts/U19s returned victorious.

Home games at Woodford Rugby Club prove to be extremely vibrant, with seven age groups all including 15-20 players, plus opposition and

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parents make for a bustling environment and a very supporting atmosphere.

Woodford Rugby Club develops young players to be the best that they can be, some players have gone on to train with Saracens and U16s Freddie Hatton has captained England. Woodford RFC have produced many talented players, one well known alumni is Andy Saul, who plays professionally for Newcastle who came through Woodford RFC from the Under 6s. Another rising star is U16 player Freddie Newbury, who has been selected for England.

Woodford RFC share and teach the same values of The Rugby Community, the main facets being Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline and Sportsmanship, a lethal combination when displayed on pitch. The club will be further boosted by a major project to upgrade the drainage on the main pitch which will allow for activities to coincide with the 2015 World Cup. Woodford Rugby Club are always aiming high, and if any young player dreams of professional play for England, they have coaches and contacts which can make this a reality. The club brings together the local community in a unique way, in that each Mini and Youth teams can boast players from 10-12 different local schools, adding to the vibrancy and talent of the club.

Details on training, coaching and other activities can be found at www.pitchero.com/clubs/woodford/

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