CENTRAL
COVERING THE ESSEX TOWNS OF THE CENTRAL LINE AND BEYOND
FREE
THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR LOCAL PEOPLE - ISSUE 7 MAY 2014
MEDITERRANEAN RECIPES By Mezesphere In Loughton
ESSEX GOLF How To Get Into The Game
LOCAL NEWS Keeping You Up To Date
MUM’S CORNER Our New Parents Page
THE BOX Helping Young People In The Local Area
WIN!
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On
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ON THE COVER 10 Local News 14 Get in the Swing Golfing in Essex 40 Recipe & Wine Pairing 53 The Box Charity feature 55 Competition Win a Zoo Keeper experience day 58 Mum’s Corner
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FASHION & BEAUTY 24 Style Your Summer Holiday 29 On Trend T he De This season’s hottest yd hairstyles
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ois n en & GARDEN HOME 32 Feeling Hot Hot Hot! 37 May Gardening Guide
66 Bu
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COMMUNITY 6 Your Comments 51 What’s On So HEALTHW&oFITNESS u o th 19 Move YourdfBody or 21 Walk This Wayd
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FOOD & DRINK 43L Fab Baking School ug 45 oRestaurant Review ht Restaurant Gezi Park on TRAVEL 46 Perfect Porto
FUN & GAMES 54 Puzzle Corner Wo 60 Entering Fatherhood od fo Without a Map rd MOTORING 63 In the Garage
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 Web Design: Alex Collard www.aj-computing.co.uk Contributors: Matt Stables, Sarah Mackie, Gemma Clark, Michael Jelbart, Carrie Feagan, Amanda Anastasiou, Victoria Robertson, Toby Webster, Tony Amdur Publishers: 3 Blue Worldwide Ltd Printed by: The Magazine Printing Company Facebook: EssexCentralMag Twitter: @EssexCentralMag 23,000 copies distributed to homes, businesses and station locations, along the Essex section of the Central Line and surrounding areas: South Woodford, Wanstead, Snaresbrook, Woodford, Buckhurst Hill, Loughton, North Chingford, Chigwell, Theydon Bois, Epping, North Weald & Ongar. 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.
SPORT 66 Club Focus Allstar Kickboxing Academy
A
s summer approaches we wanted to bring you an outdoor feature on the lovely game of golf and enlisted the help of well-respected local PGA Professional Coach Matt Stables who shall give you some hints and tips on getting into the game. This month’s featured charity is The Box in Epping, a fantastic organisation who provide a social space for local kids and helps keep them on the right track. There’s the usual mix of regular articles, such as travel where we focus on Porto, plus our Club Focus that looks at the exciting world of kickboxing with Allstar Kickboxing Academy in Woodford. Finally we welcome Sarah Mackie to the team who will be writing a new regular column ‘Mum’s Corner’, be sure to send her your views and questions on the world of parenting!
Darren Perry Editor/Owner
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COMMUNITY
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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. This month’s ‘Reader’s Photo’ really gave us a giggle in the office, so please send us your cute pet snaps! 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’.
STAR I
just wanted to say how I really enjoy doing the quizzes but also reading Meet the Locals, I think it’s a really good way to find out about local trades and businesses because you have gone
READER’S PHOTO
to see them and I feel I know them now. In fact t Congratulations I’m going to call Dave from Epping Roofing as to the three winners (below) I need some work done. of our Diamond Keep up the great work with the magazine, it’s Whites teeth really good! whitening Maria Tyler competition.
al’ x Centr e s s E loves pping rtson, E ‘My dog e b o R Victoria Great night @HorseandWell last night. We raised £735 for @HemiHelp. Thanks for the support @EssexCentralMag @NINAandLESLEY Loving the latest issue. You always make our pages look great @AbbottsTravel Having a beer with the mag in South Woodford George pub @collett87
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Katherine Dave O’Connell, Hodgson, Woodford Green Chigwell
Have a super weekend!! @GreenOwl_Essex Great article from @MichaelJelbart in April’s issue @Aldborough_Est Hope you have a great #GoodFriday @golfessex Essex has some fantastic countryside :) @MightyOakMarket
Chloe Pearce, Loughton
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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COMMUNITY EPPING FOREST MP ELEANOR LAING OPENS “INSPIRATIONAL” MEMORIAL GARDEN A memorial garden next to St Michael and All Angels Church in Loughton has been officially opened by Epping Forest MP Eleanor Laing. More than ten years ago a group was formed to restore not only the garden but the whole of Roding Road alongside the brook but after years of trying the project died because the costs involved could not be raised. Ken Angold Stephens, who masterminded the project, said: “I was asked to take over about six years ago and soon realised the impossibility of this large scale project so I narrowed my focus to just the garden and started fundraising. “It has taken about three years work to raise sufficient funds as the garden was in such a bad state. The breakthrough came with a substantial grant of over £17,000 from the SITA Trust.” Then grants from a variety of sources including Epping Forest District Council, Essex County
Council, Loughton Town Council and The Grange Farm Trust took the total raised to about £26,000. The garden’s benches were all donated by people commemorating a member of their families. Fundraising was undertaken to pay for the stone and other installation work with local walking group The Ravers raising over £500 which with contributions from Loughton and
Buckhurst Hill Rotary Club and local accountants Haslers has enabled the commission to go ahead. Epping Forest MP Eleanor Laing said: “It’s a great privilege to be involved in the opening of this inspirational project. “I am full of admiration of the enormous number of people from the church and the community who have worked so hard to bring this about.”
MP Eleanor Laing cuts the ribbon
MOLLY, 13, RAISES £500 FOR THE DREAM FACTORY WITH SPONSORED SWIM A 13-year-old pupil at Epping St John’s School raised £500 for The Dream Factory after hearing a presentation about the charity in a school assembly. Molly Curtis was inspired to do something to support the charity after hearing about its work when founder Avril Mills visited the school. Molly set about seeking sponsors and arranged her own sponsored swim at Loughton Leisure Centre where she swam
PLATE SUCCESS FOR WEST HATCH HIGH SCHOOL NETBALL TEAM
West Hatch High School’s Year 9 netball team have been crowned U14 Essex Plate champions after a narrow 20-19 victory over Stewards School, Harlow, in the final held at Redbridge Sports Centre. West Hatch took an early lead and were five goals clear at half time but Stewards had a strong last quarter to challenge West Hatch until the last minute. Player of the match was captain Brooke Davey. The team was Brooke Davey (c), Ellie Wilkinson, Gemma Peckham, Nikita Roberts, Amy Jones, Olivia Wheatly, Romy Robinson, Lorena Pipenco, Lauren Green, and Caitlin Hulbert (Year 8).
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120 lengths non-stop in an hour. Molly, from North Weald, said: “I think The Dream Factory is a really inspiring charity and thought it would be really sweet to do something for it. I think it’s really good.” Avril attended school assembly to receive the cheque and thank Molly for her fundraising efforts. She said the money would pay for another ‘dream’ for a child or young adult with a life-limiting condition. www.yourdreamfactory.org
LOCAL NEWS
www.rwt-photography.co.uk
A short roundup of what’s been going on
Chigwell’s Under-13’s
CHIGWELL SCHOOL’S UNDER-13S RUNNERS-UP IN NATIONAL FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT Chigwell School’s Under-13s football team earned praise for reaching the INVESTEC Independent Schools FA national cup final at Burton Albion FC (Thursday, March 20), when they lost 3-0 to Whitgift School. This was the second national final in two years for a Chigwell team after the Under-16s won the ISFA small schools shield last year. Reaching the Under-13 final was an outstanding achievement as 71 teams from across the country entered the tournament with the vast majority having far more boys in a year group than the 44 boys that Chigwell had to choose from. The Chigwell squad stayed in Nottingham overnight and enjoyed a late breakfast before an impromptu stroll along the River Trent and a visit to Nottingham Forest’s City Ground. The final was always going to be tense
with Whitgift School, Croydon, fielding their maximum allowance of five academy boys. More than 120 Chigwell supporters made the trip to Burton, including practically all the Year 8s and numerous family and friends helping to create an excellent atmosphere to make the day special for all involved. The Under-13s team were also runners-up in the IAPS national sixes tournament last November and enjoyed a fantastic tour to Barcelona last October. Creag Lawrence, Head of Football at Chigwell, said: “This was a great occasion for all involved at Chigwell and it will certainly be a day that the players will remember for a long time. “The boys worked incredibly hard on a huge League 1 pitch to contain a very talented Whitgift side and I am delighted with the attitude and the manner in which the boys conducted themselves.”
GROUP SCOUT LEADER RECEIVES ONGAR TOWN COUNCIL’S CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARD
The Group Scout Leader with 3rd Ongar Scout Group has received the first Ongar Town Council Citizen of the Year award. Brian Baldry was nominated by the Ongar Mums Group for his work with the scouts over more than three decades and his support for the Ongar Mums helping set up for their various fundraising events. Claire Bodiam, of Ongar Mums - in her nomination letter to the town council - said: “Brian is a very modest man and deserves to receive the recognition for all the help and work he has given and continues to give to the community of Ongar. “Brian is an all round ‘good egg’ and in our opinion deserves to be Citizen of the Year 2014.” Mr Baldry, 59, of Acres Avenue, received the award from town council vice-chairman Brian Surtees at the council’s annual town meeting at Budworth Hall. He said: “I was gobsmacked when they told me. I get a great sense of fun and achievement out of doing what I do!”
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GET IN THE
SWING with so many great golf courses in Essex, getting into golf has never been easier By Matt Stables Matt Stables
HOW TO GET INTO GOLF There are a number of ways you can become involved in golf and start playing. A driving range is a great place to start to learn how to hit a ball and develop your swing. North Weald Golf Course has a great practice facility for all parts of your game. A Pitch and Putt / Par 3 Course is a short course where you can learn how to putt and play short shots. North Weald Par 3 is a good course to start on. You could also visit a public course, where anyone can play but check the difficulty first as you may not want to venture straight onto a full course as a beginner. Courses which would suit a new golfer include Epping Golf Course, Theydon Bois Golf Club and Hobbs Cross Golf Centre. For more experienced players North Weald Golf Club, Loughton Golf Club and Woolston Manor in Chigwell are good choices. If you are a beginner look for your local Get into Golf Centre which offers low cost beginner group lessons. Whether you are learning the game from scratch, coming back to the game, or simply want to improve; the best and quickest way to achieve your goals is to find a coach. This will save you a lot of time and endless frustration as golf is a difficult game to learn. In golf it is essential that you learn the correct fundamentals of the game from the beginning due to the mechanical complexities of the golf swing. This will mean that you can ingrain good habits rather than bad ones. It will be much harder to correct your bad habits after you have played for a while.
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Epping Golf Club
HERE ARE SOME GUIDELINES FOR YOU: Make sure the coach is PGA qualified - The PGA is the governing body of Professional Golfers in Great Britain, Ireland and around the world. A PGA qualified professional will have had a high level of training in all parts of the game. Have an introductory session - Most coaches will offer a discounted introductory lesson where you will meet with them and identify a plan of improvement. This will give you the opportunity to make sure their style of coaching suits you and you will both be
able to get to know each other to discuss how best to proceed. Learning as a beginner - As a beginner your aim will be to learn good fundamentals in all areas of the game. You will want to learn the basics of the set-up, how to make good contact, getting a good finish position, how to putt, etc. Improving as an experienced player - As an experienced player you will want to identify your strengths and weaknesses so that you can understand why your
North Wea ld Golf Club
WHY PLAY GOLF? GREAT EXERCISE A round of golf can burn up to 1800 calories. BRINGS PEOPLE CLOSER TOGETHER Allows you to meet new people, develop friendships and enjoy social aspect of golf.
“It is essential that you learn the correct fundamentals of the game” game has not been improving as you would have liked. You will then need to understand why these issues are not helping your game and what the process is to correct the problem. Work on one thing at a time - Don’t feel as if you have to get everything correct straight away. If you get better at doing one thing at a time this will add up over time and result in great progress. Once you have mastered one thing you can move onto the next. Be patient - Whether learning the game or making improvements remember golf can be a difficult game at times. Be
COMBATS STRESS Golf will help you turn off from problems in the office. HELPS YOU LIVE LONGER A study by the Karolinska Institute in Sweden found that people who play golf live 5 years longer. GOOD FOR BUSINESS Many business deals and relationships develop on the golf course.
patient when working to acquire a Matt new move or skill. It will take time Stables is for the changes to become a PGA Advanced ingrained and for a time you Professional based at North may not see the results Weald Golf Club. He coaches you would like. Remain all levels of player from beginner committed to the process to professional. As a golf coach, and you will be pleasantly Matt believes in good fundamentals, surprised. including an on plane swing, an understanding of each individual’s Ask Questions - If there strengths and weaknesses, plus an is something that you do effective short game. not understand or you are Golf tuition is available from Matt not seeing the result that you call 01992 522 118 mobile are looking for ask your coach 07808 003 619, or www. for a different view and give them mattstablesgolf.com your feedback.
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WORLD CUP
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H E A LT H FITNESS
MOVE YOUR
&
BODY By Michael Jelbart
Michael Jelbart
“Functional Roots reintroduces you to your own body”
I
n April’s edition of ECM I partook in a Q&A, which aimed to introduce readers to my new local business Functional Roots, the relatively new role of ‘Movement Specialist’, and how one can help maximise all manner of health, fitness and movement related goals. In this particular issue I would like to elaborate further on the uniqueness and effectiveness of Functional Roots and how it can help you. Firstly, I would like to discuss how it can benefit those looking to improve body shape; be it weight loss, muscle tone, or to build lean muscle tissue. Movement Specialist’s understand how bones move, joints sense and muscles react. Therefore, when combined with Personal Training it accelerates the fun and the effectiveness of training tenfold. Say goodbye to isolated movements, restricted weights machinery, and
monotonous training regimes, all whilst remaining injury free! I want to teach you how the body really moves, and how unlocking its true power will guarantee exceptional results. Where injury prevention and rehabilitation is concerned, when dealing with the complexities of human movement, the variables are endless. This is why many past and present rehab treatments, therapies and techniques merely mask an issue as opposed to targeting the root cause. It’s why sports people (recreational, amateur or elite) are still suffering reoccurring injury time after time. It’s why many of you who want to improve fitness and body shape can’t, simply due to ongoing pain, niggling injuries or the result of an operation. I believe I have a solution; and it’s called ‘CHANGE’; we need to start changing the way we view, treat and train our bodies. We
need to reconnect to it once more and treat the body as a ‘whole’ instead of independent parts. It’s about ‘specificity’, creating authentic exercises based on a given individual’s requirements and not just a ‘one size fits all approach’. This is where sport can greatly benefit from the Functional Roots process, as ANY movement pattern/s can be broken down, and used to enhance performance. Your body is the house you grew up in, so look after it! Movement truly is the key to unlocking your long term health and happiness. Wouldn’t you love to enjoy movement as you once did, effortless and pain free? Whilst looking and feeling your very best? If the answer is yes then maybe it’s time to take charge and make that crucial change. www.functionalroots.com Tel: 07956450001 E: Michael@functionalroots.com
ESSEX CENTRAL
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This popular venue is now home to modern Jive brought to you by MJ Dance. Come and enjoy our Thursday evening freestyles starting on
Thursday 12th June 8pm to 11pm Arrive before 8.45pm - only £7
This
This popular venue is brou brought to you by M Thur Thursday evening fre
After 8.45pm - £9
th We have a great air conditioned venue with the best in modern jive music. Lots of free parking Thursday 12Thu Ju around the venue and easy access by public transport. Arrive before 8. Arri This popular venue is now home to modern Jive After 8.45pm -Afte £9 brought to you by MJStation Dance. Come and enjoy our MJ Dance at Chingford Assembly Hall, Chingford Green, Road, This popular venue is now home to modern Jive Thursday evening freestyles starting on brought you by MJ Dance. andJive enjoy our Chingford, E4 7EN This populartovenue is now home toCome modern
We have a great air conditioned venue with the best in modern jive m th Thursday freestyles starting on our brought to you by MJ Dance. Come and enjoy have aand great air conditioned venue with the best Thursday 12easy June 8pm toevening 11pm th aroundWe the venue access byThursday public transport. Thursday evening freestyles 12 June starting 8pm toon11pm
Thursday 12th June 8pmpublic to-11pm around venue8.45pm and easy by transpor Arrive before 8.45pm only £7 Arrive the before - access only £7 Arrive - only £7 After before 8.45pm 8.45pm - £9
After 8.45pmHall, - £9 MJ Dance Chingford Chingford We have a Green great air con Afterat 8.45pm - £9 Assembly 07967744025 or 07939247326 We have a great air conditioned venue with the best in modern jive music. Lots of free parking around the venue and
We havethe aDance great air7EN conditioned venue thetransport. best in modern jive music. Lots of free parking around venue and easy by with public MJ ataccess Chingford Assembly Hall, Chi Chingford, E4 around the venue and easy access by public transport.
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We have a great air conditioned venue with the MJ best in atmodern music. of free parking Dance Chingfordjive Assembly Hall, Lots Chingford Green, Station Chingford, Road, E4 7EN Chingford, 7EN MJ Dance at Chingford E4 Assembly Hall, Chingford Green, Station Road, Chingford, E4 7EN around the venue and easy access by public transport. Chingford, E4 7EN
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H E A LT H FITNESS
A
&
WALK THIS WAY Walk your way to fitness
ccording to the Greek physician, Hippocrates, “Walking is man’s best medicine” and boy is he right! Walking is one of the simplest and easiest forms of exercise there is, but when people think of exercising they do not generally visualise themselves walking. Instead, they imagine themselves pounding the pavements or treadmill, taking part in a spin class or body combat class whilst significantly sweating and breathing heavily. Whilst these types of higher intensity exercise activities are excellent in their own way, the fact that walking does not fall into this category does not mean that it is without its own merit. Walking is ideal for people of all ages and fitness levels who want to be more active and there is a wealth of research to prove that walking really is the best form of exercise there is.
cholesterol while increasing levels of HDL (good) cholesterol and keeps blood pressure in check.
BENEFITS INCLUDE
Can help prevent dementia Being active has a protective effect on brain function and according to research regular exercise reduces dementia risk by up to 40 per cent.
Strengthens your heart Regular walking has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. It lowers levels of LDL (bad)
Lowers disease risk As well as heart disease, walking can slash your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, asthma and some cancers. A study in the British Medical Journal showed taking more steps every day can help ward off diabetes. Helps manage your weight Walking is one of the easiest ways to lose weight. Walking also increases muscle mass and tone and the more muscle you have, the faster your metabolism. Can help to prevent Osteoporosis Walking is a weight-bearing activity, therefore it stimulates and strengthens bones, increasing their density. It also helps maintain healthy joints.
Tones you up Walking briskly can help strengthen and shape your legs, tone your arms, shoulders and upper back (good for bingo wings) and whittle down your waist. Boosts your vitamin D levels Walking outside in the daylight will boost your body’s stores of vitamin D, a nutrient that’s hard to get from food, but one that we can synthesise from exposure to sunlight. Don’t forget to protect yourself with sunscreen, even on a cloudy day. Increases energy levels Walking stimulates the circulation of blood in the body and simultaneously boosts all metabolic activities. A brisk walk elevates the mood, perks up the energy levels making you feel more alert whilst reducing stress and anxiety. By Gemma Clark Lime Health, Fitness and Nutrition Tel: 07946 311874 limehealthfitnessandnutrition@ live.co.uk
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KENNETH MORE THEATRE, OAKFIELD ROAD, ILFORD, ESSEX, IG1 1BT BOX OFFICE 020 8553 4466 | ONLINE www.kmtheatre.co.uk Forest Musical Theatre Company
BARKING MAD PRESENTs
presents
The menaechmus brothers
The Jukebox Musical Thursday 1st - Saturday 3rd May Evenings at 7.30pm & 3pm (Sat only)
Thur 22nd - Sat 24th May Evenings at 7.30pm & 3pm (Sat only)
Ticket Prices: £15.00, Concessions £14.00, Under 16 years old £11.00 Club Members £13.00 (IF PAID FOR A WEEK IN ADVANCE) An amateur production by arrangement with Theatrical Rights Worldwide
The Hilarious “up pompeii” meets “carry on cleo” romp!
.
Ticket Prices: £10.00, Concessions £9.00, Club Members £8.00 (IF PAID FOR A WEEK IN ADVANCE)
MUS IC
&
LY R I C S
BY
CO L E
PORTER
Thursday 5th - Saturday 7th June Evenings at 7.30pm & 3pm
(Sat only)
Ticket Prices: £14.00, Concessions £12.00, Children £11.00 Club Members £11.00 (IF PAID FOR A WEEK IN ADVANCE) An amateur production presented by arrangement with Musicscope Ltd.
REDBRIDGE STAGE COMPANY PRESENTS
LIVING TOGETHER
Thursday 3rd - Saturday 5th July
IODS PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS
Evenings at 7.30pm & 3pm (Sat only)
by Alan Ayckbourn
T HE FAST -PACED MUSICAL FARCE!
You wouldn’t want to live with this dysfunctional family .....
Book and Lyrics by Peter Sham Music by Brad Carroll
Thursday 12th - Saturday 14th June Evenings at 7.30pm & 3pm (Sat only)
Thur 19th - Sat 21st June
Ticket Prices: £10.00, Concessions £9.00, Club Members £8.00 (IF PAID FOR A WEEK IN ADVANCE) An amateur production by arrangement with Samuel French Ltd.
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Based on the play by Ken Ludwig
Evenings at 7.30pm & 3pm
(Sat only)
Ticket Prices: £15.00, Concessions £14.00, Club Members £13.00 (IF PAID FOR A WEEK IN ADVANCE) An amateur production by kind permission of Josef Weinberger Ltd.
Music & Lyrics by FRANK LOESSER Book by JO SWERLING & ABE BURROWS Ticket Prices: £15.00, Concessions £14.00, Club Members £13.00
(IF PAID FOR A WEEK IN ADVANCE) An amateur production by arrangement with Josef Weinberger Ltd on behalf of Music Theatre International of New York
STAGE ONE KIDS
STAGE ONE THEATRE SCHOOL EST 1989 Celebrating its 25th Anniversary with it’s NEW CHILDREN’S THEATRICAL AGENCY
STAGE ONE KIDS
!
AGENCY AUDITIONS We are looking for NEW YOUNG TALENT FILM - TV - COMMERCIALS - THEATRE - MODELLING From babies to young adults up to the age of 20 years. Theatre School & Agency Scholarships available.
Auditions held in May, June & July 2014 Contact the office now to book your audition.
!
T: 01992 651222 / 07825 701175 E: lauren@stageonekids.co.uk E: stageone@btinternet.com
www.stageonetheatreschool.co.uk ESSEX CENTRAL
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FASHION BEAUTY
e ith Kne user w a o r T Denim 45.99 Zar £ Patch
Brogues aren’t going to go out of fashion anytime soon, so instead of the classic smart shoe why not try a brogue. They’ll add a sophisticated finish to any look and if you’re looking for that little bit extra try a suede brogueit’s always good to have a couple of different textures in an outfit. Dark Grey Suede Wingtip Brogues £45 River Island Navy Slim Boat Shoe £40 River Island
Brown Turn U p Chino Shorts £25 R iver Island
ST YLE YOUR SUMMER HOLIDAY
enim inny Stretch D Acid Wash Sk iver Island Shorts £30 R
Must have items to fill your suitcase By Carrie Feagan
Summer’s quickly approaching and that means one thing, most of us will be jetting of somewhere sunny and hot - so what do you pack? This month I’ll be giving you the guide to this summer’s hottest clothes, so don’t panic, your suitcase will be bursting at the seams with great summer style.
Light Acid Wash High Waisted Shorts £28 Rive r Island Blue Waisted Max i Dress £20 River Islan
d
rts m Sho Whether chilling on the ace He idge L k c elfr beach, around the pool or Bla Miss S out exploring a destination £35 we all need a cover up and a must have this season is the kimono; when worn right they can look edgy but classy at the same time. There are so many around Ponte Skort £25 at the moment you’re Miss Selfridge guaranteed to find one that’s right for you. Embroidered Floral Kimono £45 Topshop
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kater Crop S hop e r u t x ps Te £36 To Dress
Prints are big this season for both men and woman, so floral prints are going to put you right on trend. The thing with prints is you’re either going to be able to pull them off or not, and the only way to find out is by trying them! Fashion is all about stepping outside your comfort zone and experimenting - there’s no better way of doing this than by taking a risk and trying a bold print. Washed Rose High Roll T-Shirt £20 Top Man Grey Skinny Floral Shorts £32 Top man
White LA Photog raphic Print Vest £16 Ri ver Island
m
Buckle nd la Single Brown £25 River Is l e h c t a S
int enir Pr l Souv r Island ir G a Chelse p £15 Rive o Cami T
Pink Acid Wash Crop Cami £14 Miss Se lfridge
Light Green Laser Cut Balconette Bikini Top £17 and Bottoms £13 River Island
It’s the same thing with bold colours as it is with a print, although pink won’t suit everyone there’s plenty of colours out there that will. Take a risk and try something new and your guaranteed to be super stylish on the beach. Mid Length Swim Shorts £12 Asos.com
s M EN t WOM EN
These cat eye sunglasses are another key trend this summer and have already been spotted on the likes of Kourtney Kardashian and other celebrities this year. I love these ones as the gems add a little more glam. If these are too daring for you, you can always stay super classy with an aviator. Gem Embellished Cat Eye Sunglasses £12 Miss Selfridge
Madagascar Buck le Wedge £49 Miss Selfrid ge One of this summer’s biggest trends is jellies, however not everyone will be a fan of the jelly shoe but there are other alternatives like this jelly satchel from Topshop- it’s on trend and can be worn as a key point to an outfit. Jelly Satchel £34 Topshop
Navy Flower Trim Balconette Bikini Top £17 and Tie Side Bottoms £10 River Island
r Gladiato Florence 0 Topshop 3 £ Sandal
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Custom Tattoo Studio
07565 560 895 - 0208 262 0032
OMOPEN NDAY SATURDAY
11 - 7
We offer a wide range of styles
Black and Grey • Old Skool Traditional • Dot Work Japenese • Realism and more www.facebook.com-Sleeping-Buddha-Tattoo-Studio
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47 Chigwell Road, South Woodford E18 1NG
&
FASHION BEAUTY
IES
ACCESSOR
WAVES
ON
PONY
LONG & STRAIGHT
PLAITS
TREND
T
here are so many different hairstyle ideas for the new season, so I’ve teamed up with the hair stylists at Finesse Hair & Beauty in Chingford to put together your very own little black book of spring hairstyles.
Hottest Hairstyles To Try This Season
MERMAID WAVES Great news for busy ladies; spring’s biggest trend is laid-back, fussfree mermaid waves. The more randomly placed and tousled the better! Our hair expert Bobbie Anastasiou says: “This is a delicate face-framing wave that creates a casual chic look with style”. Tip: Don’t apply too much product or overuse the heated styler otherwise it will look too constructed. Finesse recommends: using L’Oreal Liss Control to eliminate frizz £13.49 LOW PONYTAIL Diminish bad hair days by perfecting the fashion ponytail for SS14. Super slick and low at the nape of the neck. Finesse recommends: teaming an extreme right parting with a high gloss hairspray for a chic look. LONG & STRAIGHT Achieve a fashion forward long
and straight look by blow-drying your hair rather than straightening. Go for a centre parting for that effortless model off-duty vibe. It’s very simple but also feminine, and the wispy finish adds softness to any face shape or complexion. Tip: hair condition is very visible in a simple style like this, invest in regular intensive treatment masks. Finesse recommends: L’Oreal Intense Repair Mask Treatment available at Finesse Hair & Beauty £10.00
THE BOB The most popular haircut of 2013, the bob, is set to make a huge comeback again in 2014. Spotted on all runways, this season’s bobs come in all shapes and sizes, from slick and smooth to choppy and textured. It’s important to book in for regular trims to keep your blunt cut bob looking sharp. Finesse recommends: using a mousse to create texture
BOB
ACCESSORIES Bored with your look? We have the perfect solution! It’s the season to get creative with your hair accessories, allowing you to change things up without spending a lot of money. From floral garlands to pretty headbands and scarves, make a bad hair day into a good one by adding something special. Sparkly crystal clips are an easy way to glam up a ponytail or bun. Sassy low-riding headbands like Mischa Barton’s are a great accessory. Finesse recommends: Sparkle Stone Headband by Topshop £12.50 PLAITS A real red carpet favourite right now. Whatever your face shape and style, there will be one to suit you. This is a hair trend that has remained popular for years. However, instead of the traditional fuss-free plaits that we are all used too, this season they have a new creative twist to them. Finesse recommends: a side pony, fish tail plait - guaranteed to catch attention.
By Nail Harmony Master Educator Amanda Anastasiou, owner of Finesse Hair & Beauty in Chingford. If you would like to have your hair or nails done by Amanda, please visit www.finessesalon.co.uk
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FEELING
HOT HOT HOT
Temperatures may be set to soar as summer approaches but now is a good time to upgrade your central heating in preparation for next winter
Where’s the best place to position a radiator? To get the maximum benefit out of your radiator, you should place it in the coldest part of the room. The chilliest areas tend to be the walls that face are external to the property or under a window. How can I make the most of my space in a hallway? The mirror radiator known as the Reflection radiator is ideal for a hallway as it doubles up as mirror and also gives the required output. The radiator is neatly obscured by a full length mirror so can ideally be used for any room in your home. This designer radiator with an impressive golden frame doubles up as a mirror, adding a practical and beautiful addition to any room.
Slimline design
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With bi-fold doors and a large open plan kitchen/ living space I need to minimise the amount of space used for radiators, but I need a high output for the area to heat it sufficiently. What are the best options? Trench and perimeter heating options allow you to maximise available wallspace in a room without losing valuable heat output. Trench heating is ideal for counteracting draughts from the glazed windows or doors. Another option would be Art designer radiators. These are a great way to add
impact and interest to your room. The Art is created by digitally printing images onto toughened acrylic which is fixed in front of a stainless steel radiator. If you have a specific theme or design in mind then you can create the perfect image or alternatively customers can provide their own imagery for a truly personalised and individual product. A third popular option is stainless steel designs in a vertical option providing the highest outputs from the slimmest radiator. These are commonly used in large kitchen/diner areas where bi-fold doors reduce your wall space availability. How can I utilise space in the bathroom? The bathroom is a crucial selling point for any home. We suggest the use of a heated towel rail not only as a heating solution, but it also acts as a space saving option. There is nothing like a warm, heated towel after a bath, especially during the colder months of the year. Towel rails can also have the option of electric or dual fuel, so warm towels can be an option all year round. The dual fuel option would run on central heating system in the winter and electric in the summer months. How can I make my home energy efficient? The attractive Strada is a contemporary looking radiator that not only looks great
Heated towel rail
HOME GARDEN
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Energy efficient Strada radiator
Art designer radiator
Use Trench heating to maximise space
but also has superior performance due to Jaga’s Low-H2O technology, cutting carbon emissions by 10%. Its elegantly slim, minimal & contemporary design offers a cool-touch front panel and is available in white, a cool sandblast metallic grey plus other colour finishes. It works efficiently even with low flow temperature heating systems. It also has Dynamic Boost Effect (DBE) technology for even greater power and efficiency. What are the advantages of using aluminium radiators? An advantage of aluminium radiators is that they require far less energy to heat up as aluminium is an excellent thermal conductor and has the ability to heat up very quickly. Because aluminium radiators are so quick at getting to reach the desired temperature, it makes them very suitable for areas of a house that are only used occasionally such as an attic or a conservatory. It is this optimum
heat output that also makes the radiator suitable for low-temperature systems, another factor that reduces energy usage. I have a period property, do cast iron radiators take a longer time to heat than a conventional radiator? Yes, but the radiators stay warmer for longer after they have been turned off. Cast iron radiators are becoming increasingly popular with heating engineers and architects as they tend to retain warmth in the fabric of the building so counteracting condensation and damp, and also adding appropriate style & design to any period home. The Radiator & Bathroom Gallery Ltd, 140 Hermon Hill, South Woodford, London, E18 1QH. New showroom opening May 16th, 621 Garratt Lane, Wandsworth, London. SW18 4SX www.theradiatorgallery.com 0208 530 7555, Fax: 0208 530 8844
Clever mirror de sign
“Trench and perimeter heating options allow you to maximise available wall space.”
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Ample free parking Stock to go
Some
F U R N I T U R E
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Esgors Farm, High Road, Thornwood C
e: info@somethingfurniture.co.uk 34 
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t:01992
ething
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I N T E R I O R S
Common, near Epping, Essex, CM16 6LY
2 573111
l
Opening hours: Mon- Fri 9am-4pm Sat- 9am-5pm Sun- 10am-4pm
Go to our website and check out our Virtual Tour
www.somethingfurniture.co.uk ESSEX CENTRAL 
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“May brings an explosion of coloured flowers”
HOME GARDEN
&
PEST CONTROL
Victoria Robertson
GARDENING WITH VICTORIA ROBERTSON
A seasonal guide to help you get the most out of your garden.
M
ay brings an explosion of coloured flowers that can now be seen on blossoming trees and shrubs. The longer days give us more time to complete a wide variety of gardening tasks. Now is the time to install plant supports for your peonies, delphiniums and other tall, floppy plants. Keep close eye on the weather as seedlings and young plants still need to be protected from late frosts from now until the end of May. If there is a threat of frost, cover up all your vulnerable plants before dusk. You can do this by building a simple frame around the plants just by using a couple of canes.Then drape over some garden fleece or bed sheeting. For small individual plants you can use milk cartoons, glass
jars or even paper cups upside down. Don’t forget to remove the covers in the morning when the frost has thawed, to let the fresh air and light back in. Try to resist the temptation of planting out any summer bedding until the end of the month, but now is a good time to get vegetable seed sowing! Remember to stagger the sowings so you have crops over a longer period. Once your spring bulbs have finished flowering dead head them but remember to leave the foliage to die and break down naturally. Doing this will encourage a stronger growth next spring. Apply mulch around shrubs, roses and trees to help prevent any moisture loss, it will also help to suppress weeds. Sweet peas have an exquisite fragrance, the
flowers resemble fringed butterflies and look lovely when freshly cut in a vase. Before planting your sweet pea seeds it’s a good idea to soak them in water overnight to help them germinate quicker. Choose a sunny position in your garden then sow the seeds at least 6inchs apart. Sweet peas will need to be trained growing up bamboo stick frames or trellis supports. If you prefer a rustic look then choose willow or silver birch branches they make a great support too. Looking good this month is Clematis Montana – This vigorous climber produces a mass of white or pink flowers. Written by Amenity horticulturalist & gardening committee member of Copped Hall and Epping Horticultural Society Victoria Robertson
Vine weevils are 1cm in length and wingless. They’re dull black with light-coloured patching running down their backs. Look out for circularshaped notches along the sides of leaves, which is a sign of a vine weevil infestation. They can become a particular problem for plants grown in pots. Every week check for vine weevil infestations to stop them becoming out of control. Deal with early signs immediately by removing larvae and destroying newly-hatched adults to reduce the numbers of eggs laid in the soil.
WILDLIFE WATCH
Ladybirds are brightly coloured, warning predators of their bitter taste, which helps their survival. They are also able to exude a pungent fluid to ward off ants, birds and people. Look out for them in your garden from now until autumn. Ladybirds are very helpful in the garden as they feed on aphids.
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Save Money Just Replace Doors, Drawer Fronts & Worktops!
...in under 3 days! Very little disruption or mess!
01992 577 737
First Floor, 233-235 High Street, Epping, CM16 4BP Visit Show Room
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ABRIDGE INTERIORS
UPHOLSTERY MANUFACTURERS
D Sofas & Sofa Beds D Corner Units D Chairs
A
bridge Interiors is a locally run family business with over 40 years upholstery experience.
D Re-Upholstery Specialists D Mirrors D Console Tables D Dressing Tables
Our showroom is in the middle of Abridge, (see map below) we also have our own local workshop we can make you a brand new sofa, sofabed, corner unit, chairs, stools, headboards in a choice of fabrics and sizes to suit your requirements. We can also reupholster your existing furniture to look like new in a wide range of fabric or leather. Customers can now visit us to see our range of soft furnishings, mirrors, dressing tables, console tables and much more.
1 Market Place, Abridge, Essex, RM4 1UA | Telephone: 01992 812 323 www.abridgeinteriors.co.uk | abridgeinteriors@live.co.uk ESSEX CENTRAL 
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FOOD & DRINK MEZESPERE
INGREDIENTS
For the Dolma 2 tbsp of olive oil chopped 1 medium finely red onion 1 tbsp pine nuts currants 1 tbsp dried black ite rice 4 tbsp crushed wh namon, 1 tsp each of; cin er, dried pp pe ck cumin, bla salt basil, sugar and ce Lemon jui vine leaves 100g marinated water 2 glasses of hot ed seafood For the deep fri ss ba Half a sea g prawns 8 raw peeled kin gs rin 8 squid ead crumbs Half a glass of br in flour Half a glass of pla ck pepper bla 1 tsp each of salt, kes fla illi ch nd ou gr and oil 1ltr of vegetable
M
ezesphere Restaurant in Loughton is the perfect place to visit for simple but delicious Mediterranean cuisine using fine, fresh ingredients. Here they share the recipes for two of their dishes that will be perfect on a warm summer’s day.
CRISPY FRIED MIXED
SEAFOOD with a tasty Dolma side dish
METHOD Dolma 1. Put the olive oil into a frying pan and place over a medium heat. 2. Add your finely chopped onion to the pan and cook for 5mins. 3. Now add the rest of the ingredients (not including the vine leaves), add one glass of hot water
BEST SERVED WITH... Simply prepared fish and seafood dishes have a natural affinity with a handful of wines produced close to the seaside, and which combine a crisp, Toby Webster of cleansing acidity with s ne Wi g Do k Blac a sometimes distinct salty tang. The best known of these comes from the Pays Nantais, the region that carries the great Loire River into the Bay of Biscay. It is here that the oysters grown on seemingly endless beds of stakes between the points of high and low tide are consumed by the thousands in blue and cream painted seaside fish restaurants, washed down with
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and cook for another 4-5 minutes. 4. Leave the mixture to rest and cool down. 5. Take your vine leaves one by one and teaspoon fill with the mixture and begin to roll. 6. Place the rolled vine leaves into an empty saucepan. 7. Add the other glass of
hot water and cook on a medium heat for 20mins. Leave to cool down and Viola your Dolma is ready to serve! Deep Fried Mixed Seafood 1. Slice the sea bass as per your preferred choice. 2. Mix the breadcrumbs, plain flour, salt, black
one wine, the famous and increasingly reinvigorated Muscadet de Sèvre et Maine. A new generation of young producers are bucking the trend here, making wines of concentration and real vigour. The best choice for this fried seafood dish is the classic ‘Sur Lie’, where the wine is bottled young and coldwater fresh, having spent a single winter on the fine fermentation lees. The French Mediterranean coast has its own version of this seaside wine, the increasingly popular Picpoul de Pinet, grown within a shout of the oyster beds on the Bassin de Thau. It is very like Muscadet, with a pin-sharp acidity and a salty tang, and sometimes a hint of white flowers and even honey. So too do Spain and Portugal, respectively dry, fresh, zesty and lightly prickly Vinho Verde, and its close cousin just north of the border with Galicia, the super-trendy Albariño from Rias Baixas.
The Mezesphere Team
Mezesphere Restaurant offers simple yet brilliantly executed Mediterranean dishes in the heart of Loughton. It is the culmination of simple creative ideas and a passion for food, drink and entertainment. pepper and chilli flakes in a mixing bowl. 3. Place all of the seafood in the mixing bowl and shake so that it is coated in the flour mix. 4. Boil the vegetable oil in a pan. 5. Place your mixed seafood into the oil.
6. Cook until they turn golden in colour. 7. Serve with your choice of salad. Mezesphere Restaurant 112-120 High Road, Loughton, IG10 4HJ Tel: 020 8502 3329 Website: www. mezesphere.com
Any of these, served chilled will perfectly compliment this simple but delicious recipe. H 2012 Muscadet Sur Lie, Yves Bretonnière £10.70 (£9.95 if you buy 6 bottles) H 2013 Picpoul de Pinet, Domaine Félines Jourdan £10.70 (£9.95 if you buy 6 bottles) H 2012 Albariño, Rias Baixas, Diluvio £12.95 (£12.20 if you buy 6 bottles) These and many other artisan made wines are available from The Black Dog Wine Company at Ashlyns Farm Shop in North Weald. www.blackdogwines.co.uk, Tel: 01992 525009.
Two Course Lunch with Drink *
only £9.95 choose from a selection of starters and mains *Soft drink only
Valid until May 31st Mondays - Fridays only Mezesphere Restaurant 112-120 High Road, Loughton IG10 4HJ
Tel: 0208 502 3329
loughton@mezesphere.com
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“Now owned by head chef Gavin Maguire”
The Bluebell restaurant is located in the heart of Chigwell, Essex and represents the finest in modern British and European cuisine. We pride ourselves on The Bluebell’s elegantly relaxed atmosphere, beautifully and simply presented food and first class service. Housed within a lovingly restored five hundred year old building, The Bluebell is deceptively large on the inside. Part of the restaurant’s charm are the two separate dining areas; at the front a cosy and intimate space whilst at the rear you will find a larger sophisticated dining area. The Bluebell is perfect for business entertaining, intimate evenings, delicious lunches or even a family celebration. Whatever the event we will do our utmost to make sure you have a truly special experience in a relaxing and elegant environment.
SPECIAL OFFER! 50% off 6 course tasting menu when quoting Essex Central at time of booking Tuesday to Friday nights throughout May 2014
117 High Rd Chigwell, Essex, IG7 6QQ TEL: 020 8500 6282 www.thebluebellrestaurant.co.uk 42 ESSEX CENTRAL
LOUGHTON’S
FOOD & DRINK
MARY BERRY CELEBRATES
Loughton’s own Mary Berry this month celebrates the first birthday of her Fabulicious Baking School.
B
ased above a shop in Loughton High Road, it boasts two kitchens and a range of baking classes aimed at adults and children. Owner Latifa Hassanali is French trained having turned her lifelong hobby into a business. She specialises in French patisserie, bread, cupcakes, birthday parties and kids’ clubs. Her food is also available at
Loughton’s Farmers Market on the first Sunday of each month. Mother of two Latifa said, “I want to make it easy for everyone to enjoy my food, whether they make their own or buy mine. Our school is a great way for children to learn to bake and enjoy what they create.” Baking Clubs for children three years and older run once a week after school and during the holidays. Birthday parties are a big hit with children, and their parents, as it’s a unique way to celebrate. So whether you are a beginner or a home baker there’s a class to suit you. The Baking School is at 251a High Road, Loughton - access is around the back by the junction of Brooklyn Avenue. As a 1st birthday celebration offer £5 off the first class booked. Visit www.fabbakingschool.com or call 020 3129 5451.
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A lux�rious yet affordable Gezi park restaurant Restaurant presents on its menu a complimentar� selection of classic mezzes and mains �om finest t�rkish and mediter�anean cuisine.
Fresh meat, fish and poult�� is t�aditionally prepared with authentic herbs and spices and cooked upon order by our dedicated chefs paying par�icular a�ention to authentic taste and presentation. Our staff display the char�, a�ention to detail and war�th t��ical of the Turkish cult�re. Such hospitalit�, coupled with the restaurant’s relaxed and sophisticated ambience, completes the superb culinar� ex�erience. Whether an intimate candlelit dinner for t�o, an enjoyable night out with the family or a large par�� booking let our �iendly and efficient team t�r� your dinner into a g�eat occasion.
Open Daily - 12 am to 11 pm 27 Hight Street, Wanstead, London E11
Tele: 020 8530 5499
Email: info@geziparkrestaurant.com
10% off all food
Monday to Thursday
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throughout May 2014 – with this voucher
FOOD & DRINK REVIEW
GEZI PARK
RESTAURANT REVIEW G Exterior picture courtesy of Atakan Mercan
by D James
ezi Park Restaurant is one of the newest openings on Wanstead High Street (on the former site of Hadley House), and offers traditional Turkish cuisine. Upon our visit we were greeted by the owner, Eddie and manager, Semih who made us feel very welcome. As we passed the sizzling charcoal grill the sounds and smells took us back to a recent holiday to Turkey, and we couldn’t wait to see if Gezi Park’s menu could match up to our memories of authentic Turkish food. We were seated at the raised area towards the back of the restaurant and loved the huge fish tank and colour changing ceiling, as well as our view down into the restaurant of the chandeliers and lovely wood panelled décor. It’s a great position which offers a little more privacy than the main seating area without losing any of the buzzing atmosphere from groups of chatting diners. We wanted authentic drinks to accompany our meal and were recommended Efes, the Turkish pilsner beer and Yakut, a fruity red wine from the Anatolian region by our very helpful waitress. We had tried both whilst on holiday and were pleased to see them on the menu. Our starters of Mixed Cold Meze arrived promptly. The dish included dolma, Mediterranean olives and a
variety of dips with a basket of warm flatbread which was all very tasty and attractively presented. For mains my dining partner opted for the Swordfish which was succulent and perfectly cooked with a nice meaty texture, plus not a dish you see in every restaurant. It was cooked on skewers in chunky pieces - so no annoying bones to remove. I had a lamb and chicken mixed shish, which was delicious, very tender and full of flavour. We also ordered a couple of sides, a salad and a squid dish but soon realised the generous main portions alone would have been sufficient to fulfil our appetites. We were too full for dessert but a square of sweet sticky Baklava proved a nice end to the meal. We really enjoyed our evening at Gezi Park, the food was very authentic and matched what we previously enjoyed in Turkey. The restaurant was beautiful to be inside and has a nice relaxed friendly feel plus the service was first class even though we visited on a busy Friday night. I’m sure we will return with friends this summer to enjoy al fresco dining on the terrace area at the front! Gezi Park Restaurant, 27 High Street, Wanstead, London E11 2AA Tel: 020 8530 5499 www.geziparkrestaurant.com
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PERFECT
PORTO Perched on a hillside overlooking the River Douro, Porto, also known as Oporto, may not be the most obvious choice for a break, but it’s one of the best.
P
ortugal’s second city has a cool Mediterranean climate with temperatures from 15° to 25°C, and heat-waves likely. Beaches are often breezy and more comfortable than many other destinations, thanks to the River Douro. A former European City of Culture, it houses many beautiful churches, monuments and impressive structures. These include the Ponte de Luis, built by a partner of Gustave Eiffel and, on opening, the world’s longest metal arch bridge. Casa De Musica is a venue whose striking shape, resembling a crashed meteorite, catches the eye, while the 14th century Sao Francisco church is crammed with gilt wood carvings layered, it is said, with 400kg of gold. From one vantage point of the city, pastel-shaded houses with vibrant tiled facades appear to tumble down the hillside to the buzzing waterfront. From another,
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2,000 years of history unfold. The historic city centre has been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status, honouring a place where vibrant contemporary living meets traditional culture. Porto is, of course, the home of port wine, and no visit would be complete without a trip to one of the wine lodges in Vila Nova de Gaia.The river is at the heart of the wine industry, and you can still see the traditional Rabelos boats sail past laden with barrels on their way to and from the wine lodges. If time allows, head out into the countryside vineyards and quintas, the wealthy estates where wine and port are still produced according to traditional methods. Plan your trip for early Autumn and you should be lucky enough to experience the harvest. Anyone booking an Anatolian Sky Porto break through Abbotts Travel will benefit from a complimentary half-day city tour for an insight into the history and culture of the vibrant city of Porto.
It includes a visit to a wine lodge and a port tasting. This offers relates to the following three hotels. Prices shown are for three nights but holidays of any duration can be arranged.
EUROSTAR OPORTO 4* B&B
A modern, 4-star hotel offering good standard of accommodation in a convenient location. Prices per person: from £469-£599 for departures between April and October 2014.
PORTO PALACIO HOTEL 5* B&B
A stylish, contemporary hotel set right in the heart of Porto. A member of Leading Hotels of the World. Prices per person: from £579-£719 for departures between April and October 2014.
PESTANA PORTO HOTEL 4* B&B
A charming, historic hotel in Old Porto set on the city’s medieval
TRAVEL PORTO
Porto by nigh
t
Luxurious facilities
Gorgeous Geres
walls. Prices per person: from £575-£715 for departures between April and October 2014.
ALL PRICES INCLUDE:
u Return flights from the UK plus all taxes u Private return transfers from airport to hotel u Baggage allowance of 20kg u Three nights accommodation on B&B basis u Services of local representative You might like to combine 3 nights in Porto with 4 nights in Madeira. Staying in 4* hotels, and including all flights and transfers, prices start from £855 per person (based on departures from 1 July 31 October).
Superb hotel views
ABBOTTS RECOMMENDS
We must tell you about two more places, picked by Abbotts’ management. Abbotts will be happy to quote on any combination of stays:
INTERCONTINENTAL PORTO PALACIO DAS CARDOSAS
Superb 5* hotel located near Porto Cathedral, with many influential fans. A former monastery, tastefully converted, it boasts an excellent restaurant, spa and fitness centre appealing to both the personal and business traveller.
POUSADA DO GERÊS CANIÇADA, SÃO BENTO
Sited in the Peneda-Gerês National Park, 83km from Porto, among the breath-taking forests, the
5* Intercontinental
translucent cascading waters and the unforgettable sights. Gerês is one of Portugal’s more attractive Natural Regions, considered by UNESCO to be a World Biosphere Reserve. This gorgeous destination hotel is the perfect excuse for a twin-centre break. It overlooks the Caniçada dam in the Cavado River, giving you visibility of both Portugal and Spain. 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.
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Glimpses Of Vietnam With a vivid history, rich culture and deep beauty, Vietnam is a stunning place crammed with highights.
Tours include return flights from London Heathrow with Singapore Airlines, return private transfers and the services of an experienced and knowledgeable guide.
See them all with our exclusive Glimpses of Vietnam, a 12-night privately escorted tour with 3* accommodation and breakfast throughout. Your itinerary includes landmarks and attractions such as:
Prices start from just £2099pp. This exclusive tour is also available with luxury five star accommodation throughout, from only £2499pp.
• Ho Chi Minh City’s Cu Chi Tunnels and Binh Tay Market • Hanoi • Mekong Delta • Can Tho • Hue • Hoi An, with a cyclo tour of the Old Quarter
This offer is based on two adults sharing and is valid for travel between 1st May – 15th June and 1st - 30th November 2014. Please ask for details of other selected dates available during 2014 and 2015.
We remain a family business, run by Julian Abbott on the same street and on the same principles - as his grandfather and father. Visit us in person at 134 George Lane, South Woodford E18 1BA (open Monday-Saturday). Track more exclusive offers and receive your free monthly newsletter online at www.abbottstravel.com Twitter: @abbottstravel
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I Heart Candy working to support MacMillan Cancer. It is a real honour to be invited and take part in the amazing charity event held at Woolston Manor, Chigwell for
The Macmillian Charity Big Band Ball on
Saturday 17th May 2014 I Heart Candy will be showcasing and auctioning the Candy Cart whilst also bringing lots of treats to the event. We'll be giving someone the opportunity to bid for the use of the Candy Cart at their own personal party with all the proceeds of course going to this amazing charity. For booking enquiries for the Charity Big Band Ball then please Contact Katherine.loe@me.com
Our Candy Cart is a be au any event, a real cent tiful feature for re piece and talking point. You will not be disappointed.
If you wish to hire our Candy Cart for an up and coming event please Contact us Lisa@iheartcandy.co.uk or Jenny@iheartcandy.co.uk
Tel: 07725 648164
Web: www.iheartcandy.co.uk
MOUTHWATERINGLY
GOOD FOOD ALL DAY, EVERY DAY
44 Queens Road, Buckhurst Hill
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T: 020 8505 4400
www.greenowlcafe.co.uk
WHAT’S O N
ESSEX GET OUT AND ABOUT IN
WHEN: Various Fridays and Saturdays in May WHAT: Live Music from Stacey Lee (3rd) Ray Collings (9th), Alex Jones (10th), Claire & the Cowboy (17th) and Premonition Duo (23rd) WHERE: The Garnon Bushes, 13 Coopersale Common, Coopersale, Epping, CM16 7QS
WHEN: Friday 9 May 7.30pm WHAT: Talk on the 1662 split of clergy from the Church of England and the establishment of Non Conformist Churches by Revd Prof. David Thompson, Followed by Refreshments No charge for entry WHERE: Ongar United Reformed Church (on the High Street opposite the Fire Station) th
WHEN: Saturday 10th May 11am-3.30pm WHAT: North London and Essex Transport Enthusiasts; bazaar and vintage bus display. Selection of bus and railway books, photographs, DVDs and other memorabilia. Up to 20 vintage buses on display. Admission £3 (accompanied children free). Refreshments available. WHERE: Theydon Bois Village Hall, Coppice Row, Theydon Bois. WHEN: Saturday 10th May 11am-4pm WHAT: Flamingo Fairs - A Greener Flamingo event: Recycled, Upcycled & Vintage Fair, Admission free. Refreshments available. WHERE: Churchill Room, Wanstead Library, corner of Woodbine Place and Spratt Hall Road, Wanstead WHEN: Wednesday 14th May 10am-4pm WHAT: Cultural Tour - Art, architecture, sculpture and garden design in one unique day out with an expert led tour exploring Sir
Frederick and Lady Gibberd’s life and art. Tickets £25 inc. transport and lunch - Tel: 01279 446 404 Email: gallery@harlowtrust.org.uk or from The Gibberd Gallery WHERE: Start at the Gibberd Gallery, Civic Centre, The Watergardens, Harlow, CM23 1WG WHEN: Tuesday 22nd May 1pm-5pm WHAT: Free workshop as part of National Dementia Awareness Week, for friends and families of those with dementia and for those working in the community to support those with dementia. For more details, ring 01992 666777. WHERE: Home Instead offices, High Street, Epping
WHEN: Sunday 25th May 11.00am - 4.00pm WHAT: Copped Hall Open Day £7.00 - a wide variety of stalls including Ferret Roulette from Essex Ferret Welfare Society, a chance to look around the mansion and the gardens. In the walled gardens Victoria Robertson will be revealing a garden living statue to celebrate 450th anniversary of William Shakespeare. WHERE: Copped Hall, Epping WHEN: Monday 26th May from 11.30am WHAT: Chigwell Village Fete Arena events, stalls, music, falconry
display, barbecue, tea tent, Pimms tent, bouncy castle. The event will be raising money for a number of local charities. Free admission. WHERE: The green opposite Brook Parade shops in Chigwell
WHEN: Friday 30th May WHAT: National Jazz Archive concert, The Gresty-White Ragtimers, with classic jazz. For more details and to book tickets visit www.nationaljazzarchive.org. uk, ring 020 8502 4701 or email events@nationaljazzarchive.org.uk WHERE: Loughton Library, Traps Hill, Loughton WHEN: Thursday evenings. Starting 12th June. 8pm to 11pm WHAT: Modern Jive freestyle. Come before 8.45pm - only £7 MJ Dance - Tel: 07967744025 or 07939247326 WHERE: Chingford Assembly Hall, Chingford Green, Station Road, Chingford, E4 7EN
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THE GARNON BUSHES
13 Coopersale Common, Coopersale, Epping, Essex CM16 7QS
Tel: 01992 560211
E-mail: info@garnonbushes.co.uk
Under New Ownership
Pauline and Mark extend a warm welcome to this lovely village pub.
2 for £10
All food served is home cooked and available 7 days a week
Quiz nights
LIVEEveryMUSIC week
All our ales are cask marked
We look forward to seeing you soon.
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Special Menu nights
COMMUNITY
THE
BOX
A social space, information point and education centre for young people
U
By Devon-Elizabeth Tabersham.
pon realisation that there was nothing much for young people in Epping to do, former teacher Alison and her husband Tim Dolan developed The Box. A charity, open to all, which provides a safe place for young people to attend after school and on Friday evenings, a welcome alternative to hanging out on the streets. Founded in 2005, the Dolan’s went into schools conducting market research in order to determine what young people in local areas really needed in terms of support and mentoring. It was important for The Box to have a position on Epping High Street as in their research, they found that young people felt pushed aside and wanted to provide a place where everybody felt welcome. While The Box provides support in the way of a counselling service and access to information, they also provide
cooking lessons and life skills, promoting a healthy lifestyle is instrumental in ensuring that The Box knows that they are doing all that they can. Aside from life skills, The Box also offers DJ workshops, pool tables and arts and crafts which creates a diverse range of activities so that young people feel fulfilled in what they are doing. Not satisfied with providing a comfortable after school environment for young people, they also started an educational programme in September 2005, providing alternative tuition to vulnerable and struggling students. Alison Dolan runs the educational programme which is free and funded per student by education funding. The programme provides teaching to children who might be struggling and slipping through the net, each student who has attended this programme has seen a benefit. The Box has
incredibly strong local affiliations and therefore are able to secure work experience placements for students, making the transition from school into work as comfortable as possible. The main values of The Box are providing a safe place to go where young people feel comfortable and supported with an adult presence. It is testament to the work of Alison and Tim that half of the volunteers who were there in 2005 are still here to this day, showing the importance that they value in continuity for the wellbeing of their visitors. In July The Box will be hosting a fundraising event in conjunction with the Tour de France, details of this and much more are available on their website. The Box, 34 High Street, Epping, Essex, CM16 4AG. Website: www.theboxepping.org.uk Tel: 01992 577300
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PUZZLE ?
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CORNER ?
SUDOKU
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Difficulty: Hard
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SPOT THE DIFFERENCE
Can you spot 6 differences between these two pictures?
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WORD SEARCH
Find these golfing terms: Albatross Birdie Bogey
Unplayable Lie In the Leather Whiff Fairway
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Driving Range Green Par
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CRISS-CROSS Fit these foods into the grid.
Pizza Pasta Steak Bread Sushi Salad Bacon
Cheese Samosa Cereal Burger
Pancakes
9 LETTERS Casserole
7 LETTERS Sausage Popcorn
Which word is missing?
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For puzzle solutions please visit www.essexcentralmagazine.co.uk
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6 LETTERS 8 LETTERS
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5 LETTERS
PUZZLES COMPETITION
WIN! Win a Zookeeper Experience Day!
D
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@essexcentralmagazine.co.uk. Closing date: One winner will be selected at random on Wednesday 21st May 2014. *Prize suitable for persons aged 14 and over. *By entering this competition you agree to provide a picture for publication if you are picked as a winner. Website: www.pwpark.com
ZOOKEEPER COMPETITION NAME:
!
iscover what it’s like to be a zookeeper! You too can be a Zookeeper with this great competition. Spend the whole day getting to know everything about caring for the animals at Paradise Wildlife Park in Broxbourne, Hertfordshire. Learn and experience all aspects of animal care with their experienced keepers. This amazing day will allow you behind the scenes to get fully involved in the care of the animals including; cleaning, food preparation, feeding and walking animals, helping out at daily events and more.
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ADDRESS: TEL: EMAIL: ESSEX CENTRAL 
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PARENTING
MUM’ S CORNER Discussing the wonderful world of parenting By Sarah Mackie.
W
elcome, lovely mummies, mummiesto-be, daddies, nannies, child-minders, and anyone else reading this to the magazine’s first Mum’s Corner! We’re delighted to be here! Are you sitting comfortably with your feet up, hot tea in hand, feeling Zen-like and refreshed? Haha! *JOKE* Of course you’re not! Does Petit Filou stained, exhausted, with a to-do list (much) larger than your bank balance sound more like it? Thought it might. We get it. And that’s why we’re here…to share the woes and wonders of the crazy world of parenthood. A place to read about what’s going on in your area for your little ones, things to do, to share ideas for rainy days, to discuss those lovely parenting issues of contention and much more. Written by a local mummy, we also have the expert advice of a post-natal fitness trainer giving tips on how to get back into shape safely and healthily after pregnancy and child birth.
ATTACHMENT PARENTING
In an age where parenting approaches are more contentious than politics, ‘attachment parenting’ has become a bit of a buzz-phrase and has been bandied around, but if you’ve ever wondered what it actually entails, here’s a brief summary of the core beliefs: 4 Child-birth without use of intervention unless medically necessary. 4 Responsive breastfeeding (i.e. - on demand). 4 Co-sleeping.
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DID YOU KNOW?
When we are pregnant, our tummy muscles (the rectus abdominis) split and separate to allow for the growing bump. The medical name for this is diastasis recti. (Less admirably, this also happens if you have a beer gut.) Once baby is born, it takes a while for the two sheaths of muscle to fuse back together and often, they don’t ever fully fuse, leaving a peculiar little gap in the middle of our tummies. As a 4 Lots of physical post-natal fitness instructor, I always contact, particularly ‘baby advise mummies to check their wearing’ (i.e. - carrying in a diastasis recti before going sling or wrap). back to exercise. 4 Responding with sensitivity this encompasses a timely response to the child’s needs by the caregiver so methods such as controlled crying do not adhere to this. 4 Consistency in the loving caregiver - this depends on continuity of care by a single, primary caregiver, ideally the parent/s 4 Positive discipline - this encourages and celebrates positive behaviour rather than berates negative behaviour So, what do you think? and doesn’t believe in punishment Is this something you did techniques such as ‘time out’ or the without realising it had use of the word ‘naughty’, instead it a name? Have your say! encourages such things as distraction Write to us at: editor@ and substitution. essexcentralmagazine. 4 Family balance - this means that co.uk or Essex Central the children and the adults have Magazine, Brickfield equal value, of course the parents set Business Centre, High boundaries but they are not stringent Road, Thornwood, Epping, rule makers. Parents are not tyrants yet CM16 6TH. not martyrs.
THINGS TO DO
WOODFORD
RUGGERBUGS Fun non-contact rugby for girls and boys from 18months to 6years. Sunday 9.15-10am Woodbridge High School, St Barnabas Road, Woodford Green, IG8 7DQ www.ruggerbugs.co.uk HARTBEEPS BABYBEEPS Imaginative and interactive sound and play classes for babies and young children. Wednesday 10am Happy House (for toddling - 4 years). 11am Babybeeps (for sitting - walking). All Saints Church, Inmans Row, Woodford Green, IG8 0NH. Contact Moira Tel: 07961 318444. Email: moira@hartbeeps.com
Centre, Hemnall Street, Epping Tel: 01992 20564564 EPPING - ONGAR RAILWAY Visit the longest heritage railway in Essex, get whisked back in time to period stations with steam and diesel hauled heritage trains. Open every weekend with extra dates during holiday time and lots of special events during the year. Visit www.eorailway.co.uk for more info and tickets Tel: 01277365200
LOUGHTON
Eppnet Business Networking Group
eppnet eppnet business networking
ONCE UPON A TIME is a local group of like-minded people who meet on a weekly basis EPPING Story adventure and MINI BOUNCE activities based on the An introduction to story discovered. trampolining in a fun 0-5 years, Tuesday 9.30environment. 10.30am. Little Oaks Friday 10-11.30am Children’s Centre, 94 Epping Lawton Road, Loughton Sports IG10 2AA Tel: 0208522 2633 Eppnet ad 74x110mm.indd 1
NEED DISTRIBUTION?
BUTTERFLY CLUB Parent/carer and toddler group. Stay and play for pre-schoolers. Monday 1.30-3pm term time only. Wesley Hall, Loughton Methodist Church, High Road, Loughton IG10 1RB Tel: 0208 5023071
TRY THIS
Lay on your back with your feet on the floor and your knees bent. Place your index and middle fingers 1cm above your belly button, horizontally. Inhale through your nose, as you exhale, sit up as if you were doing an ab crunch, just 45 degrees from the floor. Wiggle those fingers to feel for the gap between the two sheaths of muscle. If you can fit more than two fingers in the gap, your muscles are still rather weak. I only advise stomach exercises when the gap is two fingers wide or less, and only after your 6 week GP check.
02/04/2014 15:06:20
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DAD’S DIARY
In Partnership with
ENTERING FATHERHOOD
WITHOUT A MAP
I
know quite a few jokes, some very short ones “venison’s dear isn’t it?” but none quite as short as the one my son seems to have learned. It’s just two letters long, and when I say it he appears to fall around in fits of laughter with tears in his eyes. The word (joke) is “no”, and this small little word, however forcefully it’s said, seems to be the current source of all laughter, which as you can imagine slightly defeats the point of the word. He lunges towards the fireplace, or attempts to eat my phone, I suddenly put on my stern face, drop the voice a few octaves, and release the word “no!” As the smile starts to spread across his face, my stern expression cracks and I can’t help but smile back, by the time he’s burst into fits of giggles I have lost all sense of discipline and try to turn away to shield my grin. This needs to be rectified ASAP and I hope to update you shortly on my progress, perhaps I should wear a mask? At least then he won’t see me creasing up with laughter myself! A few weeks back we took him to get his first ‘fitted’ trainers (after the previous debacle that
“An“X-Ray The amofbuhis lance belly would probably breathing d wiathcar ivelike arr look apparatus forboot the sale.” store clerk .” nearly cost him his big toe!). All was going well and they fitted perfectly, the lady then asked us if we would like a picture of him in his new trainers, as it was part of the package. What
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commenced was a 30 minute chase around the store and a series of photos that were merely a blur with some trainers in the corner of the shot, as the lady tried to keep up with him for his photo. I could hear her panting in the distance a few aisles away, I wandered over to see the little fella whizzing around the corner like Road Runner with a face of joy (had she told him the ‘no’ joke?) and I started to get ready with my own camera. Finally we got the photo and drove away just as the ambulance arrived with breathing apparatus for the store clerk. Back at home his running was at least contained with various stair gates and shut doors, then we watched in horror as his little hand lifted up and grabbed the door handle for the first time, one quick “ping” and it was opened. He shot out like greased lightning and zoomed up the stairs, I threw my dinner off my lap and into the air to give chase, only to see a blur of red trainers as he passed the landing and I leapt the stairs three at a time panting all the way. It was at that moment the ambulance pulled up with breathing apparatus for me. When I came back in I found him quietly sat on the floor eating something, I started to relax (finally) until I realised I could only see one flip flop in the shoe rack, I turned the little lad around to see a face of flipping flop, only flip had remained unscathed. Over the next 3 days parts of flop were returned back to us by the natural courses of digestion but alas these could not be used to piece together my long lost flop (and besides, they stank in his nappy,
nearly as bad as they used to stink on my feet). A few days ago we decided to take him out for the day and visited a local flower garden, to us
“They flung them selves around with scant disregard for their own lives.” it looked lovely, to him it looked like a buffet of colourful food. Armed with his new trainers he sped off for some gourmet tulips for starters and then decided the grass would be good for mains. I held him aloft by the legs as he continued to ‘face mow’ forward at a rate of knots. The Groundsman remarked on what a beautiful job we had done with his lawns but was curious to know why our boy was green and bulbous. We promptly made our excuses and left. Finally, it was his 1st birthday last week and we all had a great time, we went with the bouncy castle idea and soon managed to get the kids off so we could have a mature bounce. The kids quickly regained control and we watched as they flung themselves around with scant disregard for their own lives. There was a slide on one side of the bouncy castle and parents watched in horror as kids flew out like torpedoes barely touching the slide on their way back to earth. As the games subsided the ambulance (now on speed dial) gave all the parents some much needed oxygen.
...TO BE CONTINUED
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Tony Amdur of Motech Vehicle Services shares his customer stories, advice, hints and tips to keep you on the road. YOU’RE NOT HAVING IT!
AT YOUR SERVICE She said, “Tony it’s broken, I think Mr Green is 80 years old, still a very I’ve broken it”. Sure enough the good driver with a 1.2 Renault Clio poor Fiesta had taken a 2010 model. He came into the garage the other day with turn for the worst, but it DON’T wasn’t her fault. She his engine misfiring and FORGET suddenly found the asked me to “look at I have never seen so electric windows his points”. I explained many cars with would not open, the to him that his Clio headlamps not working doesn’t have “points”, central locking did as I have lately - so not work and the or contact breakers as remember to check indicator in the mirror they were known, and your lights! no longer flashed. his car is all electronic On examination, and the computer would someone had cut through need scanning to determine the wires with a hacksaw blade what was wrong. in the gap between the door and 10 minutes later the scanner the front wing. This is a common revealed a pencil coil had failed… theft tactic nowadays, once new coil unit fitted, happy days. the wires are cut it disables the What’s really wrong is the modern lack of maintenance, central locking and all they need meaning split A & is a programmed laptop in the 16 B servicing. This pin diagnostic socket and away means your car only they go. gets a partial service at the dealers, Luckily they never got the car relying on your modern car being because I had already hidden the real 16 pin socket and moved it up more reliable than yesteryear when your car needed a set of points every under the dashboard then fitted three months or it wouldn’t start. an identical dummy socket in its 18 to 24 thousand miles between place connected to nothing, which service intervals is ridiculous. I undoubtedly saved the car. This wouldn’t leave the engine oil and cheap but effective modification filter in my cars for more than certainly fools them, and 6000 miles. imagine their frustration But a good full service when their “car to order” TOP TIP with your MOT test once won’t play the game. Checking your I advise all car oil, water and tyre a year and an oil and filter change in between owners to employ this pressure once a is good advice. tactic, as it will hinder week will pay Motech Vehicle thieves taking your car, dividends. Services Unit 4, Hainault and can be applied to all Works, Hainault Rd, Little makes and models. Heath, Romford, RM6 5SS A new door loom was www.motechvehicleservices.co.uk obtained for the Fiesta, and an Tel: 020 8599 6767 hour later it was as good as new.
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CLUB FOCUS ALLSTAR
ALLSTAR KICKBOXING ACADEMY By Devon-Elizabeth Tabersham
S
ince its founding in 2009 by Ian Hardy and his wife Sevda, Allstar Kickboxing in Woodford Green has become a staple in the kickboxing community in Essex. From an early age, kickboxing was one of Hardy’s main passions, citing John Claude Van Damme as an early inspiration, which led to a lifelong passion for the practice of kickboxing. Starting out in Plymouth, Hardy practiced with some of the best coaches and competitive meets in the field, he then relocated to be with his now wife Sevda, Loughton being her hometown. The club itself, while tucked away behind Woodford Broadway, is a highly respected club, open to all and teaching the discipline from the age of four into the fifty plus demographic. The range of age groups and levels is extremely varied, and the method of teaching relies on the encouragement provided to students, while there is opportunity to compete, and to be graded, it is not a vital aspect of the Allstar mentality. Hardy believes that kickboxing from an early age will help a child develop fitness, learning and listening skills which are all necessary in learning the foundations of martial arts. Allstar Kickboxing are a part of the ICO (International Combat Organisation) and officer, Andy Hennessy will attend the club for graded meets, in which students can earn belts, showing their
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Allstar studio
progress in their chosen sport. No belts are worn in the children’s classes however, in order to promote equality and to maintain morale. Hardy himself has been knocked back when he failed his first belt at an early age, however that knock back gave him the motivation to push himself to the next level, feeling pride in his self-achievement and this is his hope any for students who experience the same sense of loss. Some of his students who joined the academy from the very beginning are now helping out in classes as well as branching out and starting their own classes, something which Hardy takes pride in and deems reliant on the expansion of Allstar Kickboxing, to spread the same lessons as far afield as possible. Classes at the club take place in the upstairs studio, and the average group size for adults is between 8-12 people, the children’s classes take between 24-26 people, with up to five teachers on the mat at any given time. 1-2 Bairny Wood Approach, Woodford Green, Essex, IG8 0HH Website: www.allstarkickboxing.com Tel: 0208 505 8281 or 07930 142 321
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01992 564564
01277 363969
Loughton Leisure Centre
Waltham Abbey Swimming Pool
01992 564574
01992 716733 Everyone Active manages these sites on behalf of Epping Forest District Council. *Terms apply.
www.everyoneactive.com ESSEX CENTRAL 
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LOCALDEPENDABLE RENTINGEXPERT SUCCESSFULSELLING CONVENIENTGROWING ESTABLISHEDMODERN PROFESSIONALQUALITY VALUEEXPERIENCED LETTINGBUYING
EXPERT. We pride ourselves on having a real expert knowledge, skill and commitment to the local housing market. Delivering a comprehensive service that’s tailored to meet your individual needs - everytime.
Wayne
Amy
Victoria
Tom
your local letting & sales experts
telephone: 01992 571175 www.montaguesepping.com