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DELIVERED TO THE ESSEX TOWNS OF THE CENTRAL LINE AND BEYOND
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THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR LOCAL PEOPLE - ISSUE 16 FEBRUARY 2015
LOCAL LANDMARK Iconic Iconic Ilford Ilford Pub Pub Reopens Reopens
BE MY VALENTINE Gifts Gifts For For Your Your One One And And Only Only
DINING GUIDE Our Our Top Top 10 10 Romantic Romantic Restaurants Restaurants
TURKISH DELIGHT Dreams Dreams Of Of Summer Summer Sun Sun
WIN!
...a meal for two at...
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We lovingly return our customers’ faulty or damaged iPhones, iPads and iPods to a happy, working condition. We aim to do so quickly and efficiently, all the while ensuring a hassle-and stress-free experience for you. We’re based in East London, but we repair devices for people all over the UK (and even Europe).
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hello@itechstore.co.uk
www.itechstore.co.uk
iTech Store, 175 Cranbrook Road, Ilford, Essex IG1 4TA
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ON THE COVER 14 Valentine’s Dining Guide 23 Gift Guide 40 Turkish Delight 44 Local Landmark 57 Competition Win a meal for 2 at Marina
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Th ey De HEALTH & FITNESS doSynergy Fitness Healthy Living B b27 oiat de n s 29 Fight Back on Dental Fear n FASHION & BEAUTY 31 Valentine’s Fashion with Passion 33 Permanent Hair Straightening
Lo & GARDEN HOME ug htGet Cooking 36 Let’s on 39 February Gardening Guide
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COMMUNITY 6 Your Comments 10 Local News Wo SoYour u 47 Vaccinate od th Pet 51 BabyBallet for d 53 What’s On
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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, Lauren Brown, Matt Brace. Sales Manager: Dennis Hutton Contributors: Sarah Mackie, Victoria Robertson, Josie Stevens, Amanda Anastasiou. 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.
FOOD & DRINK 49 Restaurant Review
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FUN & GAMES 56 Puzzle Corner 64 Entering Fatherhood Without a Map PARENTING 60 Mum’s Corner SPORT 66 Harlow Hawks
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elcome back! We are well into the new year now and slowly working our way towards spring. Hopefully next month we will be able to speak of slightly warmer weather as our Turkey travel feature is certainly making us dream of sunny days. In the meantime cuddle up to someone special and keep warm this Valentine’s Day. We have featured ten of the best restaurants for a romantic meal in the local area and also bring you some gift inspiration. Devon-Elizabeth Tabersham delves into the history of The Cauliflower pub in Ilford, and with ghostly tales and a musical past we hope you find it an interesting read. We also have our usual mix of features including fashion, beauty, gardening, what’s on and Mum’s corner. Happy Valentine’s Day and see you next month.
Darren Perry Editor/Owner
LITTLE LAVER
EPPING
A beautiful five bedroom barn conversion set in rural location. The property is finished to an exceptionally standard throughout. Large open plan lounge with modern fully fitted kitchen, Utility room, second reception room, play two en-suite shower rooms to master bedroom and a well maintained garden
A lovely two-bedroom top floor flat within a stone's throw of Epping High Street and walking distance to station. Good size lounge, modern fitted kitchen, modern bathroom plus en-suite shower to master bedroom. Hemnall Mews also benefits from SECURE UNDERGROUND PARKING and a LIFT
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EPPING
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Montagues are pleased to offer to the market this well presented TWO BEDROOM top floor flat located on the outskirts of Epping forest, however within walking distance to Epping High Street and central line station. The property offers a good size lounge, modern fitted kitchen, modern bathroom with shower, GAS CENTRAL HEATING AND DOUBLE GLAZING. To the exterior are communal gardens and a GARAGE with electric supply
Montagues are pleased to offer to the market this well presented two bedroom ground floor flat in popular location being a stone’s throw of Epping forest. The property offers a Fitted kitchen, good size lounge, bathroom with shower and also benefits from gas central heating, double glazing and garage. SHARE OF FREEHOLD and CHAIN FREE £329,995 FREEHOLD
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84 High Street, Epping Essex CM16 4AE
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01992 571 175
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01279 319 318
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COMMUNITY
E
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
R A T S Hi, pick up The Loop at Newbury Park station every month from the lovely lady who hands them out and find it very informative on the local area. I actually run a couple of free community social clubs in Ilford and I was wondering if you would help me spread the word with an entry into your what’s on page? Thank you in advance. Asma Aslam
I
at ing EC d a e r ord radley tors, Woodf B & s o Ros gham M Tony , W.J . Kin
A nice little article we did for @EssexCentralMag January’s health and fitness edition @PegasusGO Cannot wait for my overnight stay next weekend in Downhall plus a full Swedish body massage, courtesy of @EssexCentralMag @SimJadeCM
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Cheers guys! @r4mole Congratulations to Stephen Cumber (right), Charlie Wright, Jane Moody, Sophie Field & Bev Lawrence who were the winners of our Black Tower competition.
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Superb work from @EssexCentralMag in making our #Costa Rica feature look so brilliant. #blownaway @AbbottsTravel
Read @EssexCentralMag page 42-43 for our guide on Sushi rolls! @sumofresh
CONTACT US Address: Essex Central Magazine, Brickfield Business Centre, High Road, Thornwood, Epping, Essex CM16 6TH @EssexCentralMag EssexCentralMag editor@essexcentral magazine.co.uk
Carthy's Plumbing & Heating Services Ltd
Carthy's Plumbing and Heating is a highly qualified company based in Essex, we pride ourselves on providing great business rates whilst ensuring a second to none service of work. We provide a quick, reliable and approachable service in all conditions may it be an emergency or not. Our Essex based plumbers provide design, installation, repair and maintenance services to customers covering the whole of Essex and some of Greater London.
Gas/Heating Installations Emergency gas leak repair • Boiler Servicing Annual Boiler Safety Check All Electrics (NIC EIC Approved Contractor) Mobile: 07850 411868
Landline: 01992 570286
Carthys, Bailiffs Cottage, Gardeners Farm, Fluxs Lane, Epping CM16 7PF
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Plumb-go is a well-established plumbing shop at 532 Chigwell Rd, Woodford Green, Essex IG8 8PA
Trade Counter
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WE SUPPLY 100S OF LOCAL PLUMBERS ON A DAY TO DAY BASIS WE ALSO SUPPLY:
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ESSEX CENTRAL
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LOCAL NEWS
A short roundup of what’s been going on
REDBRIDGE COLLEGE STUDENTS REBRAND QUADRANT ARCADE BUSINESSES IN ROMFORD
Redbridge College design students unveiled the results of an ambitious new creative rebranding project on 16th January at the Quadrant Arcade in the Romford Shopping Centre with hundreds of people in attendance. The students worked in collaboration with Havering Sixth Form and Havering College along with artists in residence and industry professionals with the goal of encouraging business growth in the shopping centre in the face of the recent recession. Redbridge College film students offered support by filming the process to produce a promotional video. The students worked with local businesses and business owners within the Quadrant Arcade to rebrand, promote and develop each business. Projects included the rebranding of Meat Express, the renaming of the Seahorse Fish Bar and the launch of the Synergy Media gallery. The project was scheduled to be completed in eight days, which meant the students were under immense pressure to meet their targets on time. Curriculum Manager Yamena Farkhani was confident in her students’ abilities and is pleased with the results. Yamena says, “The event was fantastic and the students have really done us proud. I think we’ll be working with some of the
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businesses again. This is really the start of something great.” One local business owner who was a part of the rebrand says, “It’s fantastic to be working so closely with the college students. They bring a fresh perspective to the arcade, helping to improve their community and the lives and businesses of people living in it.” The professional relationships built Quadrant Arcade students working
by Blue Orange, the creative arts department at Redbridge College, have grown tremendously in the last year. Based on the success of previous exhibitions including the Lahore and Chandigarh Exhibition, Blue Orange has begun collaborative projects with Romford Contemporary Arts Programme, and hopes to continue its successful work with the Quadrant Arcade local businesses.
CHIGWELL SCHOOL CHAPEL CHOIR CONCERT SUPPORTS TWO CHARITIES
The Chigwell School Chapel Choir continued its fundraising efforts by performing a charity concert at Christ Church, Spitalfields, London. The concert raised almost £13,000 for the charities Smiles with Grace and Kids Inspire. Smiles with Grace was founded by Chigwell student Grace Boxall who died following a brave fight against cancer. Kids Inspire provides therapy for children traumatised by abuse or bereavement and is currently supporting nearly 400 children in Essex through clinical support and love. The programme included works by Handel, who wrote The Messiah also in aid of a children’s charity, and the Spotless Rose by Paul Mealor who supported the concert. The school’s Director of Music, Howard Ebden, said: “The choristers of the school inspired all those present with some glorious sounds and singing of the highest calibre.” The Chapel Choir has raised over £40,000 in two years, with two corporate concerts, a rowathon on the Serpentine, Hyde Park; and the sale of the latest Chapel Choir CD which went as far as America, New Zealand and Holland.
COMMUNITY EXCITING NEW FASHIONS FOR CHILDREN
December 2014 saw the grand opening of Rollybaby, a brand new children’s boutique in South Woodford stocking bright and colourful unique designs from Britain, Spain and Italy. With a combined retail experience of 30 years, Aisha and Cassim Ghanty have opened Rollybaby with the vision of selling the highest quality children’s wear up until 12 years old. They sell clothing and accessories including rompers, dresses, hats and shoes. At Rollybaby, they are “very passionate” and with an ever changing store, they ensure to provide exciting new fashions for children. As they never order in bulk, customers will find unique and exceptional clothing made to the highest possible quality. You won’t find these wonderful wares anywhere else on the high street, they stock shoes from Earlydays, Rollybaby shop front a brand favoured by the
royals and seen on Prince George as well as Leon, a Spanish leather brand which is frequently worn by the Spanish royal family. Aisha and Cassim are extremely dedicated to Rollybaby, Cassim says that “the difference between us and other baby wear boutiques is that we go and search ourselves for the best quality to go to our customers.” Aisha and Cassim often travel to Madrid and Florence to view new collections and to find the best stock for their store, they also customise stock directly with factories to ensure individuality. Their hats and mittens are hand knitted in Britain and due to Aisha’s close relationship with the makers, they are tailor made for Rollybaby. Rollybaby has garnered attention online at a nationwide level and were recently featured in Channel 5’s Blinging Up Baby. Find Rollybaby at 8A The Galleria George Lane, South Woodford. www.rollybaby.co.uk, Tel: 0758 522 9237.
Perfect pooches Peanut and Daisy will be taking the lead when St Clare Hospice holds its popular Winter Walkies on Sunday 22nd February. The cute canines are the furry faces of this year’s fundraising event after they won a Facebook competition to find a top dog to star on the Hastingwood-based charity’s posters, leaflets and other promotional material in the run up to the sponsored 5km countryside walk. From beagles and boxers, to collies and Cocker spaniels, almost 90 handsome
hounds and pretty pups entered the online competition, with both Peanut and Daisy winning more than 300 votes each! They were then invited to the Hospice with their owners Claire Hands and Nicola Parker for a special photo shoot with Pawtrait of Your Pet photographer Vikki Lince. Claire, from Hunsdon, said: “It’s lovely to see Peanut on the posters, and I’m just really happy she can help and hopefully raise lots of money for the Hospice.” Nicola, who lives in Harlow, added: “We were over the moon to hear that Daisy was one of the winners - to see her picture being used to promote Winter Walkies is just so exciting.” St Clare fundraising manager Dominique Brunning said: “We know our s photoshoot
ing the Winter Walkie
Peanut and Daisy dur
supporters are barking mad for their pets, but we were overwhelmed with the response to our Winter Walkies competition. The event, which has been kindly sponsored by Mullucks Wells, is one of the most popular in the Hospice fundraising calendar.” Peanut and Daisy will be setting off at the head of the Winter Walkies pack when the pooch parade leaves the Hospice at 11am. Anyone can join the walk whether you are a pet owner or not. On the morning there will be doggy-friendly fun and games for all the family, including competitions for dogs and owners as well as a children’s quiz. Free soup and a roll for all walkers will also be available along with other hot refreshments on sale. Registration for Winter Walkies is £10 for adults, £5 for children or £27.50 for two adults and two children. For more information, call the St Clare fundraising team on 01279 773750, email fund@ stclarehospice.org.uk or visit www.stclarehospice.org.uk.
ESSEX CENTRAL
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Photography: Vikki Lince
PEANUT & DAISY TAKE THE LEAD FOR ST CLARE WINTER WALKIES
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FOOD OF
LuVEa Where to dine on the most romantic day of the year It’s February, the month of love, and Valentine’s Day is upon us once again. Whether you have been married for years or have just plucked up the courage to ask someone on a first date take time to show that special person you care with a romantic meal on February 14th at one of our top ten local restaurants.
u TABLE 7
Table 7 in Chingford is known for great affordable food and excellent service. They specialise in serving fine Modern British and European cuisine with a few big differences. Their passion and ethos is simple, they are the restaurant with a personal touch! They pride themselves on delivering a high quality dining experience in a relaxed environment at unrivalled value. On Valentine’s Day Table 7 are offering a delicious 4 course meal and a glass of Prosecco for £50. Entertainment will be provided on the night in the form of a singer. Church View Buildings, The Green, Chingford E4 7EL, Tel: 020 8524 8438 table7chingford.co.uk
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u LONGHORN
For a laid back date venue try Long Horn on Wanstead High Street. This American diner has a lively atmosphere and interesting quirky décor. They serve up the very best BBQ ribs, pulled pork, chicken and steaks along with a wonderful selection of expertly prepared cocktails such as frozen margaritas and daiquiris as well as milkshakes and draught lagers. This is a fun place to take someone for a first date and the comfortable, relaxed feel of the place will banish any first date nerves. 147 High Street Wanstead, Ell 2RL, Tel: 020 8279 5855 www.longhornlondon.com
u HAYWARDS RESTAURANT
For fine dining in Epping Haywards is the only place to go. Haywards concentrates on using seasonal, local produce at its best, in order to bring together the freshest of ingredients to create elegant, attractive and tasty dishes. With Jahdre Hayward’s extensive CV and culinary knowledge the restaurant concentrates on modern European cooking techniques. Haywards is situated on the edge of Epping Forest, half a mile from Epping, and is in the grounds of The Forest Gate Inn, a 17th century free house owned and run by the Stokes family for over 50 years. The Gate House bed and breakfast is also adjacent to Haywards with four individually designed guest rooms. Haywards are offering a fantastic 5 course tasting menu for Valentine’s night. The menu will include a champagne cocktail on arrival, tea, coffee and petit fours priced at £70 per person without matched wines, or £100 per person to include matched wines. 111 Bell Common, Epping CM16 4DZ, Tel: 01992 577350 www.haywardsrestaurant.co.uk
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u SUMO FRESH
Specialising in Japanese cuisine, Sumo Fresh is the perfect venue for lunch or dinner, the ambiance is warm and inviting and the food served is the freshest quality Japanese cuisine you will find, situated in the heart of Wanstead. The Executive Head Chef, has over 15 years experience in the art of sushi preparation. Experience the very best Japanese rice wines, sake and expert cuts
of sushi, maki and sashimi along with a selection of hot dishes. At Sumo Fresh you can also relax at the cocktail bar, where you can watch the skills of the top Sushi Chef’s, who combine cookery with artwork. If you pay them a visit, make sure you try the lychee cocktail, they are amazing! 141 High Street Wanstead, E11 2RL, Tel: 020 8530 7500 www.sumofresh.com
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020 8524 8438 The Green, Chingford, London E4 7EL Table7@hotmail.co.uk
Valentine’s Day Menu £50 per head including a glass of Prosecco
Starters
Desserts
Consommé of Wild Mushroom with home-made Tortellini Char-grilled Asparagus with a poached Duck egg and Hollandaise sauce Rare Fillet of Beef served with Gorgonzola Picante and Pomegranate balsamic Pan seared Prawns and Chorizo Picante in a citrus butter ~~~
Selection of European Cheese with a Home-made chutney Chocolate Fondant with vanilla ice cream and a red berry compote Chocolate bread and butter pudding with crème anglaise Pear Tart with a caramel sauce and vanilla ice cream
Fish course ~~~
Mains
Fillet of Beef with dauphinoise potatoes, green beans and a Port jus Pork belly accompanied with half a Lobster, cauliflower purée and a pineapple salsa Sweet potato Gnocchi served with mixed bean brassato Pan seared Sea Bass with roasted squash, tomato cumin sauce and a Parmaham crisp
facebook.com/tableseven.seven
OPENING TIMES
Monday to Thursday 12:30pm until 11:00pm Friday 12:30pm until 2:00am Saturday 12:30pm until 2:00am Sunday 12:00pm until 6:00pm
@table7e4
Table7@hotmail.co.uk
117 High Rd Chigwell, Essex, IG7 6QQ TEL: 020 8500 6282 www.thebluebellrestaurant.co.uk
Midweek Lunch Menu (Served Tuesday - Saturday)
£18.95 for Two Courses / £22.95 for Three Courses Daily Market Soup with toasted Brioche
Roquefort & Apple Terrine with Spiced Red Pepper Cutney, Olive Tapenade & Garlic Toast Chicken & Duck Liver Pate with Pear Chutney & Toasted Broiche ~~~ Roasted Rump & Slow Cooked Breast of Lamb with Mini Shepard’s Pie & Aubergine Caviar (£1.95 supplement) Roast Breast & Braised Winglet of Suffolk Chicken with Bow Tie Pasta, Parsnip, Leeks & Cepes Market Fish of the Day ~~~ Dark Chocolate Orange Fondant with Marmalade Ice Cream Fresh Fruit Salad with Seasonal Sorbet
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SPECIAL OFFER
10% OFF MID WEEK LUNCH MENU throughout February
Precious Metals Jewellery
PRECIOUS METALS JEWELLERY WHERE DESIGN & NATURE MEET
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recious Metals Jewellery is based in South Woodford, east London. We specialise in beautiful sterling silver, exotic gemstones and the finest amber jewellery from the Baltic sea.
We pay careful attention to the quality of our jewellery. We have over 10 years experience, we sell only the highest quality and most unique contemporary pieces. That is why we have a loyal customer base who return time and time again We spend all day helping customers choose exactly to treat themselves or buy something special for the right piece of jewellery for themselves or as a friends and family. gift. We don’t bulk buy! Each piece is hand picked and we know our stock inside and out.
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u MARINA MEZE GRILL
If you read our review of Marina in last month’s issue then you will already know that we are a fan of this restaurant. Situated in the heart of Woodford Green in the old bank building (opposite The Castle pub) Marina offers a real Mediterranean experience with traditional home-style cooking. When you dine at this authentic restaurant it certainly gives you a feeling of being on holiday! The food is wonderfully tasty, the service is extremely friendly and everyone is made to feel welcome. The Meze selection provides a great opportunity for couples to share and enjoy the food together and the impressive décor from the giant fish tank to the 3D wall mural and elegant chandeliers will certainly be an interesting talking point. 352 High Road Woodford Green, IG8 0XQ, Tel: 020 8505 8999 www.marinamezegrill.com
u TEMPLE
u LUIGI’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT
Luigi’s is a traditional Italian restaurant that has been situated on Beehive Lane for over 20 years and is even included on The Knowledge test for London taxi drivers as they are such a prominent landmark. Diners visit again and again for their authentic Italian cuisine using the same recipes that have been passed down through the generations. Luigi’s always strives for the best ingredients for their food, they grow their own herbs and vegetables, but also import some of their produce from Luigi’s mother’s farm in Italy. The atmosphere provided by Luigi’s is aided by the staff who give a personal touch to the service. This is because many of the staff have worked at Luigi’s for a long period of time. For Valentine’s Day a three course meal can be booked for just £22.50 per person. 5 Beehive Lane, Ilford IG1 3RG, Tel: 0208 554 1229 www.luigis-italian-restaurant.co.uk
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Temple restaurant is situated by Woodford station and serves contemporary Indian food. At Temple they have created a menu to tantalise the most demanding of taste-buds. The Indian fusion style cuisine contains dishes from the Indian sub-continent including Bangladesh, India and Nepal. If you are feeling adventurous, try their unique range of house specialities including seafood delicacies which you will not have tried in an Indian restaurant before. If you feel like a traditional favourite such as Korma, Madras or Masala, you will be well catered for as the chefs have multiple years of experience in creating these delicacies just the way you like. The interior of the restaurant has a luxurious feel with plush seating, crisp tableware, ornamental features and low-lighting making it a great venue for a romantic meal. For Valentine’s Day they are offering a set menu for a very reasonable £21.95 per person. Old Parcel Office, Jubilee Parade, Snakes Lane East, Woodford Green IG8 7QF, Tel: 020 8505 6687 www.templefusion.com
u THE BLUEBELL
The Bluebell is famously regarded for the finest in modern British and European cuisine but with a sophisticated simplicity. They offer a la carte menus, set lunches and suppers as well as popular Sunday lunches. The cosy dining room and unfussy service creates the perfect atmosphere for an intimate dinner. Their Valentine’s Dinner menu is £59.95 per person for a delectable 8 course feast of Prosecco & Oysters, Lobster Cappuccino, Truffle Scented Asparagus & Quails Egg Salad, Seared Scallop, Honey Roast Pork & Apple, a choice from Herb Roasted Loin of Lamb, Wild Seabass or Wild Mushroom & Taleggio Arancini, Bellini Sorbet, Chocolate & Strawberries and finally Coffee & Petit Fours. 117 High Road Chigwell, IG7 6QQ, Tel: 020 8500 6282 www.thebluebellrestaurant.co.uk
u LA SALA
The recently opened La Sala Chigwell is fast becoming known as the most glamorous place to dine in Essex. La Sala offers diners a unique social dining experience with honest portions of food, inspired by rustic homecooking but with an eclectic twist. Taking inspiration from Mediterranean and international cuisines, La Sala offers a diverse eating experience, combining fun and vibrant flavours with the freshest ingredients, all expertly prepared using traditional methods. With live entertainment every night of the week there really is something for everyone. For Valentine’s Day they are open for lunch from 12pm with a set menu for £25 per person and during the evening listen to the sultry tones of Haifa Jordan whilst enjoying a romantic meal or perhaps a cocktail at the bar. The stunning interior and excellent food make La Sala the place to impress this Valentine’s Day. 692-694 Chigwell Road, Woodford Green, IG8 8AL Tel: 0333 006 3008 www.lasala.co.uk
u DOVE & OLIVE BRANCH
You are sure to be blown away by the standard of food available at this lovely little restaurant on Woodford High Road. The restaurant, formerly Meghna Grill, has been beautifully refurbished with a fresh contemporary interior with a few traditional touches.
The Dove & Olive Branch offers an intimate dining experience with an exquisite menu created by Head Chef and owner Boris Halpin who has 20 years experience in the industry. Specialising in modern European cuisine, the Dove & Olive place an emphasis on creating fresh, high quality food and make everything in house. On Valentine’s Day they will be offering a beautiful 4 course menu with a glass of strawberry Bellini and chocolate petit fois with coffee for £45 per head. 219 High Road, South Woodford, E18 2PB, Tel: 020 8506 2327 www.doveandolivebranch.co.uk
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Mention ‘Essex Central’ to get your
FREE GLASS OF SPARKLING PINK, OR SPARKLING ELDERFLOWER with any starter or main throughout February NOW TAKING VALENTINE’S DAY BOOKINGS: BEAUTIFUL 4 COURSE MENU, WITH GLASS OF STRAWBERRY BELINI AND CHOCOLATE PETIT FOIS WITH COFFEE JUST £45 PER HEAD Tel 020 8506 2327 219 High Road, Southwoodford, London E18 2PB facebook/Doveandolivebranch
Opening hours Tues-Sun 12.30-11pm
You’re going to love our Steaks, Authentic Texan BBQ, Slow & low Pulled Pork, Burgers, Wings & much more. Milkshakes, Cocktails, Wine & Draft Lagers all served in our inviting and authentic American diner atmostphere
rners Little Longho ble la ai av u men
147 High Street Wanstead E11 2RL Call for reservations on 020 8279 5855 www.facebook.com/longhornlondon
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marina meze grill L
ooking for a great takeaway menu? Well, you can now enjoy a MARINA meal at yours, as well as at ours! Whether you fancy a full Marina feast, meat platter, Sea bass Calamari, or Lamb/Chicken sheesh you'll get it freshly cooked and served with rice, salad, homemade bread, chilly and garlic sauce. Plus, while our chefs get cooking, take Turkish tea, coffee or any cold drink on the house! Open from 12pm to Midnight Parking for the Marina is a two minute stroll and is free after 5-30pm
All collection orders over ÂŁ30 receive a
free bottle of wine!
1% of all profits go directly to haven house
children's hospital
To make a reservation or if you have any enquiries please call us on
020 8505 8999
352 High Road, Woodford Green Essex IG8 0XQ
www.marinamezegrill.com info@marinamezegrill.com ESSEX CENTRAL 
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Bringing a World of Fine Wines to your home!
Special Valentines Deals Available
Home based wine tasting events for you and your friends. Never again be daunted by a mammoth wine list or snooty sommelier! The Vin Van host informative, entertaining wine tasting events, accessible to the layman who has an interest in drinking good wine, but who perhaps would avoid a traditional wine tasting environment. Our experts will explain the complexities of flavour and origin. You will discover which food to pair with each wine, learn how and where it was made and the various factors which influence its overall taste. Call us now for a FREE NO OBLIGATION PLANNING MEETING and receive an exclusive ‘hosts only’ voucher to use on VIN VAN wine purchases.
020 3751 7532 - enquiries@thevinvan.com
THE
THE
BB
BLOOM BAR
FLOWERS
Valentine’s Day
selection eautiful b a e v a h ers, We will onal flow s s a e s d n a well a of roses oons as ll a b tes d n chocola plants a rds and a c e. e n o d a d ve handm at your lo e tr to u for yo 20 gift entary £ with every m li p m o Ac iven will be g irginia voucher tesy of V r u o c s e s o r dio. dozen care stu in k s s m Willia
FREE LOCAL DELIVERY
32 High Road, South Woodford London, E18 2QL t:
22
0208 989 1211
ESSEX CENTRAL
e: info@thebloombar.co.uk
t
Fall in love all over again with this opulent gift complete with seven products to help bring you and your loved one closer at this special time of year. Lots of Love gift £36.95 & Heartthrob bubbleroon £3.65. www.lush.co.uk
a
BE MY
VALENTINE Gorgeous gift ideas for your one and only
t
BOSS Men’s Ambassador Analogue Leather Strap Watch £139 www.johnlewis.com
t
Paco Rabanne 1 Million Eau de Toilette Spray For Him 100ml £56 www.superdrug.com t
For jaw-dropping jewellery head to Precious Metals by South Woodford station. They specialise in sterling silver and gemstones and source beautiful handmade pieces at affordable prices. 1 Station Approach, George Lane, South Woodford, E18 1AG
t The Bloom Bar is the place to go for expertly arranged flowers. They have a beautiful selection of roses and seasonal blooms, balloons, handmade cards and chocolates available for Valentine’s Day. 32 High Road, South Woodford, E18 2QL
Valentine’s eli D Bubbles & 5 3 £ t Gif rks www.ma r. ce andspen com
Book a couples pamper day at The Spa for a treat you can both enjoy. The package includes a selection of treatments tailored to him or her, 2 hour spa, lunch and a drink for £95 per couple. Fullwell Cross Leisure Centre, Barkingside, IG6 2EA
tHappy Valentine’s Day Giant Cookie £16.99 www.milliescookies.com t
A beautiful way to send a heartfelt message to the one you love. Open the bottle to reveal the personalised note typed on satin ribbon. This Love Message In A Bottle is £20. www.notonthehighstreet.com
ESSEX CENTRAL
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T TH F ON AST REE REE CE ER H WE SE OU ’R E S S I R OP ON EN
THEATRE TRAINING FOR CHILDREN AGED 818 WITH TUTORS DIRECT FROM THE WEST END SINGING, DANCING AND ACTING TRAINING
FORD 1G8 7NA
OPENING: SATURDAY 10TH JANUARY 2015 PROSPECT HALL, WOOD Founded by current WICKED star Katie Rowley Jones, the academy provides the unique opportunity to be trained by the best working professionals the industry has to offer, as well as termly workshops led by current West End performers. Whether it be a fun hobby or potential career, we believe passionately in passing on our knowledge to young people. For more information on how to obtain a FREE THREE - HOUR TASTER SESSION in January, please visit our website or contact us.
krjtheatreacademy.co.uk I email: krjtheatreacademy@gmail.com I phone 07803 173453 All our tutors are professional, experienced and fully DBS checked.
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FANTASTIC SPECIAL OFFERS
KICK START YOUR NEW YEAR WITH A MEMBERSHIP AT
020 8114 2222
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Lake Forest House, Forest Road, Barkingside, IG6 3HJ
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H E A LT H FITNESS
&
HEALTHY LIVING AT SYNERGY FITNESS
To help support your aspirations for healthy living, Synergy Fitness are pleased to announce their association with Skinni Chilli Healthy Living Club. NOT ONLY THE FOUNDER OF SKINNI CHILLI HEALTHY LIVING CLUB, JUDY IS ALSO:
Judy Benoit Milner
S
o what’s the Skinni Chilli Healthy Living Club all about? It’s the weight loss program that really works. You’ve probably heard that one before, but this package simply and elegantly solves the issues of conventional dieting, allowing you to eat foods regularly off limits to dieters. In addition it relies almost exclusively on nutritious and
“Real food is what our body was designed to eat.” wholesome REAL foods. Real food is what our body was designed to eat. When you feed your body in a manner consistent with its design your body becomes lean and healthy - and you become happy as it easily translates into your lifestyle that can, and will, last the rest of your life. Skinni Chilli not only offers personal diet plans, but also Studio
sessions, Boot camps, Zumba, Gym session, Personal Trainer Boot camps and Challenges which allows you to become fitter, stronger and most importantly, HEALTHIER than ever before. Judy, founder of the Skinni Chilli Healthy Living Club has been through her own Journey of weight loss. Once a size 22, Judy lost an incredible 5 stone! She says “I fell in love with Salsa, I was totally addicted to Salsa. Dancing every night apart from Saturdays, I lost weight very quickly and then plateaued... once I started to perform and knowing I was the oldest on stage I realised I need to step this up... I changed my diet again, stepped up my water intake and off it went. I developed a skill for losing weight, just when I needed to... and as everyone saw how successful I was with this, I started training to firstly, change my career from IT to dance and fitness and then become qualified to give people the skills to achieve lifelong weight loss.”
n Professional Qualified UKA Salsa instructor n Founder of Dos-Seis Salsa Dance Company n Level 2 Exercise to Music Instructor n Spin Instructor n Level 3 Exercise Referral Instructor n Level 4 Obesity and Diabetes Specialist n Zumba, Gold, Toning, Kids and Aqua instructor n Aqua Aerobics Instructor n Water Fitness Aqua Instructor’s Tutor n Level 3 Teaching Award Tutor Skinni Chilli Healthy Living is based at Synergy Fitness, where Judy also runs Zumba at 8.30pm on Tuesday and 10am on Friday, Abs Attack at 1pm and Bootcamps at 8.30pm on Thursday. For a free consultation regarding Skinni Chilli Healthy Living club call 0800 0488665 or www.skinnichilli.org.uk. For class info call Andrew at Synergy Fitness 07725 544867 or www.synergyfitness.net, Lake Forest House, Forest Road, Barkingside IG6 3HJ.
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SV Sports Therapy are proud to announce we are an Official Virgin London Marathon 2015 Sports Injury Clinic – the only Clinic in Essex! At SV Sports Therapy we are 100% committed to the success of our clients. Specialising in the examination, diagnosis and treatment of injuries, everyone is treated with a personal and unique approach. Our clients range from GB Olympic athletes to the casual ‘gym goer’ - our aim is to get you back to full fitness as soon as possible using our multidisciplinary approach.
SV Sports Therapy can help with: • • • • • •
Muscle injuries – muscle and tendon strains Joint pain – ligament sprains, meniscal injuries, arthritis Back and neck pain – sciatica, disc injuries Pre and post operative rehabilitation – joint replacements, arthroscopies Adolescent sporting injuries – Sever’s disease, Osgood Schlatters disease We also specialise in Sports Massage and this can have a huge benefit to you, especially if you regularly train or training for a marathon or event. Sports massage can also help somebody who is suffering from tight muscles caused through stress, poor posture or lack of flexibility - Contact us to find out more!
SPECIAL OFFER! 50% OFF FIRST SESSION – QUOTE THIS ADVERTISEMENT! (Terms and Conditions apply, subject to availability)
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Sophie Vowden BSc (Hons) Sports Therapist MSST. Station Road Wellness Centre, 12 Station Road, Epping, Essex CM16 4HN T: 07904 116 757 ● E: sophie@svsportstherapy.com ● W: www.svsportstherapy.com ESSEX CENTRAL facebook: facebook.com/svsportstherapy ● twitter: @svsportstherapy
FIGHT BACK ON
Dental Fear
7 Top Tips to help fight dental fear
Dr Jazz Battu
If oNlY I HaD a pouND for EvErY tImE somE oNE tolD mE ‘tHEY HatE tHE DENtIst’. NotHINg pErsoNal I am tolD, tHougH I am startINg to DouBt tHat! The reason people hate (going to) the dentist really intrigues me. Speaking to patients, I find the things that put patients off most are remembering bad experiences; the smell, the sounds, the needle, the drills and the pain. Once we have had a negative experience, it takes a long time, and several good experiences before we can start to forget. For some patients, this fear can always be present in their mind. Bad experiences at the dentist many years ago can stop people visiting the dentist again for many years. Often 30 or 40 years can pass by without so much as a check up or hygiene visit. Obviously this can lead to many dental and health problems. Dentistry however has changed massively since the days of the gas mask, painful injections and noisy drills. Advances in materials, techniques and technology mean we now have the tools to provide expert treatment, painlessly. You need to find a dentist that can deliver this. Here are my 7 top tips to help fight back on dental fear:
Dr Jazz Battu is a very forward thinking general and cosmetic dentist in Essex. He has travelled to places such as Chicago and New York, keeping up to date with the latest advancements in modern dentistry. Jazz has a very calming nature, and is particularly good with nervous patients
1) look oNlINE:
A smart website shows that the Dental Practice has taken time to engage with their patients. Practice details, staff information and treatment options should be easily accessible. Why not check online reviews on pages such as Google, or on social media to help get to know a practice before visiting.
2) vIsIt tHE DENtIst:
Ask to come in for a visit or free consultation. Some practices will offer a free consultation with the treating dentist themselves. This is a chance to have a look at the practice, meet the staff and the dentist, before having any treatment done.
3) small stEps:
Book in for a check up. Here your dentist will examine only and discuss treatment options. Start with a simple treatment next. If you feel able to, maybe a small hygiene visit or simple filling would be a good place to start.
4) stop:
Your dentist should not be in a rush. This helps no one. Ask them to book in extra time so you can stop at any
point. Agree a sign such as raising your hand to stop.
5) musIC:
Background music can help create a relaxing atmosphere. Ask the dentist to tune in to your favourite radio station, play some calming music, or even take some headphones to help block out the noise.
6) sEDatIoN:
For some patients, having any dental procedures can just be too much. Sedation techniques are a safe option available to create a relaxed state of mind, which is maintained throughout the procedure.
7) prEvENtIoN:
Maintaining a healthy mouth will of course help to minimise any dental procedures that you do need. Healthy eating, good oral hygiene habits and regular visits will help prevent the need for major dental treatment. Look out for next months issue where I will be giving my top tips to prevent dental problems. FREE CONSULTATION Reception: 01992 574 004 Out of Hours: 01922 800 947
Dr Jazz Battu BDS MJDF RCS Eng General & Cosmetic Dentist 2 St Johns Road, Epping CM16 5DN
Reception: 01992 574 004 Out of Hours: 01922 800 947 www.croftsdental.co.uk enquiries@croftsdental.co.uk ESSEX CENTRAL
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Perm, Cut & Blow Dry Full Head Highlights, Cut & Blow Dry
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s Roses are Red, Violet the ow kn u yo oh e, Blu are s ng thi ve rest so I’ll lea it there. Love it or loath us, on up is y Da e’s Valentin d an e lov of a celebration owing affection, not that sh t lus or e, lov u yo the one ned to after, should be confi t if it is, one day a year. Bu th is a big 14 ary and Febru to date night you want king loo e u’r yo re su make er your best. So wheth out to you’re single and off nds, frie st be r you h party wit tic or planning a roman g evening in reminiscin g days over your early datin ks for here’s are my hot pic te. da t ho your
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FASHION BEAUTY
Bra Klein Calvin hong £26 T £45 & of Fraser e Hous
Acacia Trouse Print Soft r Phase s £59 Eight
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A decent underwear set is probably not the first thing you think of when putting an outfit together, but it’s so important. Pink to make the boys wink in this beautiful satin and jacquard set.
Per Una Dress £99 M&
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I love the feminine touch the bright pink adds to these studded camo print courts, not dissimilar to a designer pair which will set you back well over £600! Print amo C d e de Stud £89 Dun t Cour
gs Earrin oticca £50 B
Sue Skir de Wra p t £7 0 AS Penci l OS
VALENTINE’S FASHION WITH
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By Josie Stevens www.notjustadress.com lutch Lips C ry e V 0 £3
Let your clutch do all the talking with this lipsmackingly beautiful bag from Very.
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There is something incredibly sexy about flashing a little bit of skin. This body/blouse from Lipsy offers a subtle nod with sheer arm detailing and a flattering draped front.
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Kha £55 ki Jump Rive s r Isl uit and
PASSION
Military is a big trend this summer, so see this jumpsuit as a key purchase that’s also sure to get his ATTENTION!
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lous er B sy e h S Lip £45
Todd L EDITIO ynn/ £55 D N Dress eben hams
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We also offer:
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Shellac Gel Mani
&
FASHION BEAUTY
PERMANENT HAIR
STRAIGHTENING Does it really work?
I
f you’re after something that won’t just last until your next shampoo, doesn’t require a battle with the hairdryer AND withstands the most extreme weather conditions, then permanent hair straightening may just be the solution for you... Permanent hair straightening has been a salvation for those with even the most rebellious curls, kinks and frizz, but how much maintenance is really involved, and how long do the results last? Bobbie, Manager & Keratin Complex Expert at Finesse Hair & Beauty, has given me the low-down on all your unanswered questions... She uses Keratin Complex Smoothing Theory by Coppola, a system and product that helps transform unruly, curly and wavy hair to achieve smoother, silkier locks lasting up to 5 months! Since the launch in 2007, Keratin Complex has led the way with innovative technology and amazing results. It is now the leading smoothing system in the World! The Keratin Complex Theory is specially formulated to contain natural keratin protein, which rebuilds, restores and rejuvenates all types of hair.
Q A
What is Keratin Complex Smoothing Therapy? The Smoothing Therapy line is comprised of advanced, in-salon treatments that restore and restructure the hair by infusing a special blend of hydrolyzed keratin deep into the cuticle. The hydrolyzed keratin is bonded to the cuticle with heat from a flat iron to relax the hair’s subcuticle layer, resulting in renewed smoothness and shine.
“Natural keratin protein rebuilds, restores and rejuvenates all types of hair. ”
A
You must wait three days (72 hours) before washing your hair or swimming.
Q A
Can the hair be pulled back or clipped up during the 72-hour waiting period? No, avoid making any impressions on the hair from clips, ponytail holders, hats or sunglasses.
Q A
How much maintenance is required? What results can The treatment can be done every be expected? 2 months but can last 4 months. The hair will be more manageable and Results last longer and are better after a easy to style, and will be resistant to second treatment. humidity. It will feel noticeably softer and How long will the Smoothing silkier, with added life, shine and vibrance. Therapy treatment results last? Can the treatments be done on The Natural Keratin Smoothing chemically treated, relaxed or Treatment lasts up to five months, straightened hair? and Express Blow Out up to six weeks, Yes; in fact, the Smoothing Therapy depending on lifestyle, treatments work to repair damage maintenance and caused by chemical treatments. It adherence to all aftercare is recommended to wait two weeks instructions. By Amanda Anastasiou, between any chemical services and owner of Finesse Hair & adjust iron temperature based on hair Beauty in Chingford. type as listed in instructions. If you would like to have your hair or nails done Am How many days after the Natural anda Keratin Smoothing Treatment before by Amanda, please visit Anastasiou www.finessesalon.co.uk the hair can get wet or be washed?
Q A Q A
Q A
Q
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spanish Designer and British Desig
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“A professional kitchen designer will always be happy to advise you”
LET’S GET
COOKING
Five practical top tips when buying a new kitchen by local experts Anderson Sinclair
1
Spend your budget wisely: Choose the best quality units that you can as they will last up to 20 years. It’s a false economy to buy cheaper kitchen furniture, it will not be finished to the same standards as the better quality ranges. The carcase material is as important as the doors; make sure they’re at least 18mm, preferably 19mm thick and the carcase should be of dowel and glue construction for greater strength and durability. For the best overall finish the carcase interior should be colour coordinated with the door finish and the exterior carcase colour. Cheaper units tend to offer only a very limited range of interior colours. Sounds obvious, but an important element of the overall effect!
2
Everyone loves the beauty of solid worktops: They always look so good and some types are incredibly flexible in terms of their styling ability. If your budget does not run to the more expensive solid worktops such as granite, quartz, glass or Corian acrylic
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straight away, don’t worry, opt for a laminate top that will look good although not as good as the more expensive granite but will still be hard wearing. You can always upgrade your kitchen later to the solid worktops that you really want.
3
When deciding on your new appliances: Consider the advantages of eye-level cooking as opposed to built-under or range ovens. If you have a young family an eye-level oven may well be best for you from a safety point of view. If you need the additional space for cooking that a range oven brings why not have two eye-level ovens built into tall units? Remember, it is always a good idea to have worktop space along side your oven to place hot and potentially heavy items on, straight from the oven. Age can also play an important part in your choice of oven; you may not want to be bending down to a low oven to lift out that huge turkey in 20 years time so consider the alternative of retrieving it with comparative ease from an eye-level
HOME GARDEN
&
Steam oven
built in oven. A professional kitchen designer will always be happy to advise you on the best ergonomics for your kitchen space.
4
Drawers verses cupboards: This is a very important decision that you have to make at what can be quite a stressful time. To help with this conundrum consider the differences between drawers and cupboards: drawers tend to be a more expensive option but the benefits are many: sleek lines especially if you opt for the handle-less look, drawers fully extend so that reaching the back is actually really easy, cleaning is also made comparatively easy as you don’t have to crawl into a fairly inaccessible space, also finding items that have disappeared into the back recesses of a cupboard becomes a thing of the past. Cupboards on the other hand, whilst cheaper, suffer from all of the problems solved by drawers detailed above. For corner units, when drawers cannot be used, there are some very futuristic internal solutions well worth considering.
5
Steam verses microwave: Often a very controversial idea relatively new to the kitchen list of decisions to be made. The microwave is now an accepted addition to most kitchens and to consider life without one can be a step too far for some people. But statistics have shown that those who opt for a steam oven never regret that decision. When asked, most people only use the microwave for heating up baked beans or thawing out frozen food so why not consider an oven/microwave combination? Steam ovens, as well as looking gorgeous, are widely known as being the healthiest way to cook all your vegetables but what is not generally known is that they also cook most other things to perfection too! Talk to your kitchen designer about Steam Oven cooking demonstrations. Anderson Sinclair Unit 13A, Oakwood Hill Industrial Estate, Loughton, Essex IG10 3TZ Tel: 020 8508 194, www.anderson-sinclair.co.uk Opening times: Monday to Friday 9.30am to 5.30pm, other times by appointment.
Eye-level ovens
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40% off all Plantation Shutters
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Lenten Rose (Helleborus orientalis)
HOME
“The Lenten Rose are not related to roses at all”
GARDEN
&
PESTS AND DISEASE
Are squirrels digging up your bulbs? One of the best ways of protecting your bulbs from hungry squirrels is to use chicken wire. Simply cut a section of it to the size of your planting area, and lay it over the top of the soil. You’ll have to D on aw rts n Viburnum Victoria Robe secure it, either with stakes or large rocks, to keep it where you install it. Simply cover it with a mulch of shredded leaves or shredded bark mulch if you don’t want to look at the wire. The stems will come up A seasonal guide to help you get the most out of your garden. through the holes in the inter has the box during the day, the base of fruit trees. chicken wire protecting been going face the bird nest box in _ Some plants are in the bulbs from digging on for a long a position that will avoid bloom this month like squirrels. time now and the Dawn Viburnum; this strong sunlight and the
GARDENING WITH VICTORIA ROBERTSON
W
February may well be one of the coldest, toughest gardening months. General gardening duties can still be completed on those rare sunny days.
_ After bouts of severe weather, remove any ice from woody ornamentals and shrubs to prevent branch breakage. _ Cut back any ivy growing on walls or fences before birds start nesting. _ Place cloches over your strawberries to encourage early fruiting. Remember to ventilate on warm, sunny days to allow insects to pollinate the flowers. _ Clear and mulch round
lovely shrub has dark green, bronze foliage and a rugged texture. It simply lights up any garden especially at this time of year. The flowers have a scent of warm vanilla and lilac. The Lenten Rose (Helleborus orientalis), despite having ‘rose’ in their name, are not related to roses at all. Hellebores shine in the colder months. They are evergreen flowering plants that are a great addition to any shade garden. _ Put up bird nest boxes. Blue Tits will be looking for the ideal nesting home during February or March. Unless there are trees or buildings which shade
wettest cold winds. Make sure that the birds have a clear flight path to the nest without any clutter directly in front of the entrance. Tilt the box forward slightly so that any driving rain will hit the roof and bounce clear. _ Continue to keep planning ahead, ordering your seeds and looking out for the first signs of spring which is only just around the corner. Written by amenity horticulturalist & gardening committee member of Copped Hall and Epping Horticultural Society Victoria Robertson.
WILDLIFE WATCH
The violet ground beetle is a large, shiny, black beetle that has violet edges to its smooth, oval elytra (wing cases) and thorax. It is a nocturnal hunter, resting during the day under logs or stones. Violet ground beetles do not fly, but are fast runners. The adults and larvae eat slugs, snails, worms and insects.
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TURKISH
T
Aqua-Park
he Turkish town of Belek is a place of peace. It lies just 45 minutes from the fabulous ancient port of Antalya and has earned its reputation as a premier family beach resort with sporting and leisure facilities rivaling any in the region. Where the Mediterranean Sea and the river Acisu meet, Gloria Hotels & Resorts inspire with their ultra all inclusive Five-Star Resorts in the sunblessed and whole year destination at the Turkish Riviera, which is only 30km away from Antalya airport.
GLORIA GOLF RESORT
Don’t be misled: this is not just about golf, but a brilliant all-inclusive and award-winning family location. The mild climate of the Turquoise Coast and the unique natural landscape with view onto the Taurus, is a good start. This well established five-star hotel has a total of 515 rooms, suites and villas with room types to suit everyone and all are furnished and equipped to a high standard. Gloria Golf Resort is offered on a half board or All-Inclusive basis and with à la carte restaurants to choose from Italian, international and seafood and two main restaurants, for breakfast, lunch or dinner, including the Gloria Pub or Turkuaz restaurant for lunch. Children are extremely well catered for at the Gogi Kids Club, with an entertainment programme which is open from 9am until 6pm and 7.30pm to 10.30pm. For those aged up to 6, there’s Comfyland, while Gogi Town is a social play area aimed at those aged 6-12. For ages up to 14, there’s Crazy Jungle, an electronic games area and fun wall for climbers. A cinema, bowling alley and even a zoo are also on hand. For the very young (one to three year olds) there is the VIM Club, Very Important Minis! It’s the last word in Gloria Serenity baby pampering, with
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DELIGHT Fun for all the family at Gloria Hotels & Resorts
TRAVEL
Gloria Golf Resort
TURKEY
Gloria Golf Resort Spa
Serenity Spa offers an amazing selection of treatments
a What-When-Where personal service serving your baby’s food at a time and place, and to the exact recipe you specify. Alternatively, use the Kids Club kitchen as your own. Activities and games are also provided Gloria Serenity along with changing facilities, Superior Room a feeding room, baby pool and sleep room. (Some facilities do have an additional charge). luxurious Suites and even private There are excellent leisure facilities Villas, some with private pools. including a selection of outdoor pools Naturally all rooms are furnished and and the La Source Spa with numerous equipped to a high standard. Gloria treatment rooms and a wide selection Serenity Resort has eight choices of of à la carte treatments. A heated restaurant, from open buffet global indoor pool, Turkish bath, sauna cuisines to French, Asian, Aegean, and gym are all free for guests. Italian, seafood or steakhouse. Various watersports are available There are numerous bars on the beach (subject to weather throughout the resort to enjoy conditions, and payable locally) a pre- or post-dinner drink and and you can also sample the entertainment is provided every magnificent Aqua-Park containing evening during the summer. 8 different slides with something for The Gogi Kids Club and facilities every member of the family. are also available to Serenity guests Gloria Golf Resort has the largest with children. playing area of any hotel in Europe, two 18-hole courses and one 9-hole SERENITY SPA academic course, all designed by the A place of tranquility and revival, renowned specialist Michel Gayon. Serenity Spa’s certified therapists Here golfers find the perfect service: provide the latest in massage and whether on the golf course, in the body work, Far East rituals and Club House, in the restaurant-bar or in native rituals such as the Turkish the Proshop with well-known brands bath and its European counterpart, or individual oases of quietness. the Finnish bath, are available, all in private treatment rooms. GLORIA SERENITY RESORT Personal hairdressers and Situated on the Acisu River amongst aestheticians are also part of the pine forests, Gloria Serenity Resort Serenity SPA, delivering treatments promises peace, harmony and which include intensive and ageluxury and may well suit those defying facials, detoxifying and looking for a more adult focused restorative therapies, manicures, solution. Sun and sea are in balance pedicures and much more. - the blue horizon and rolling green For prices and booking vistas of Mediterranean beauty. information please contact This well appointed five-star hotel Abbotts Travel: has 369 rooms, including ground 134 George Lane, South Woodford, floor Superior Laguna rooms with E18 1BA. Tel: 0208 989 9445 direct pool access and of course www.abbottstravel.com
ESSEX CENTRAL
41
THE GARNON BUSHES
13 Coopersale Common, Coopersale, Epping, Essex CM16 7QS
Tel: 01992 560211
E-mail: info@garnonbushes.co.uk
LIVE MUSIC from Lee Weller
performing swing, soul reggae and much more!
on Saturday 21st February
Valentine’s Day Menu
Booking advisable
Theme night on the 1st Wednesday of each month Wednesday 4th February
ITALIAN Check out our Facebook page for more info
All food served is home cooked and available 7 days a week
42
ESSEX CENTRAL
We look forward to seeing you soon.
140 Hermon Hill, South Woodford, London, E18 1QH
621 Garratt Lane, Wandsworth, London, SW18 4SX
Phone: 0208 530 7555 Fax: 0208 530 8844
Phone: 0208 944 2001
www.theradiatorgallery.com
CALL NOW FOR LATEST DEALS FREEPHONE 0800 055 6450
ESSEX CENTRAL 
43
HMS Titanic
, Previous owners n names unknow
A
local landmark in Ilford, The Cauliflower, has recently been reopened under new ownership, it’s back and better than ever. The Cauliflower has a rich history, with links to the Titanic, it has played host to some musical icons and even had albums recorded on site. The Cauliflower stands at 553 High Road Ilford, gaining its name from originally being built on a cauliflower patch. It predates 1897, however this is when plans were submitted to open the site
44
ESSEX CENTRAL
LOCAL LANDMARK THE CAULIFLOWER
as The Cauliflower Hotel. The Cauliflower Hotel opened in 1900 as a hotel and gin palace, it had the reputation of being one of the best establishments this side of London. It was held as place of importance in the community and became the official venue of the Seven Kings Lodge; the Seven Kings faction of the Freemasons. The Cauliflower Hotel became a Grade II listed building in June 2014, it was described by English Heritage as, “A good example of the opulent late 19th Century Gin Palace style
with an imposing street presence.” Due to its listing, the newly reopened Cauliflower has maintained a
“It was held as place of importance in the community”
plethora of its historical decor, the opulent ceilings, bar counter and integral glazed in publican’s office. With the pub now fully refurbished and open for business, it is a large
COMMUNITY coming from all over Essex because we are famous for live bands here.” Established bands such as Expose and East of Java are billed for upcoming nights and have both been playing at The Cauliflower for many years. In 1974, The Original East Side Stompers recorded ‘Live From The Cauliflower’ which was released nationwide. Not only does The Cauliflower have a rich musical history but there are also ghostly tales from the establishment. On the night of April 2nd 1912, The Cauliflower Hotel hosted a party to honour
“The Small Faces and Ian Dury are among a wealth of talent ere” who have played h
The Small Faces
open plan space with exposed brickwork, antique wood and glass panels and an array of comfortable sofas and seating. 18 year old Reiss Matto bought The Cauliflower last year with the objective of opening a local community pub, it has since undergone extensive refurbishment and has now been “restored to its former glory.” Reiss has worked in pubs for many years and through learning about the management side, decided to open his own. With the pub on the ground floor,
Ian Dury
Reiss and his father Bugsy are currently refurbishing the rest of the building to create a function suite and boutique hotel. The Cauliflower reopened in December 2014 and their custom has been growing steadily. It has always been famed as a great music location with a large stage area, The Small Faces and Ian Dury are among a wealth of talent who have played here. Reiss is keen to make The Cauliflower an esteemed live band venue, he said, “On the band nights we have people
Mr Benjamin Hart, his wife Esther and their daughter Eva upon their departure for Canada to which they were travelling on the doomed Titanic. On this evening it is said that the ghost of Kathy, a young orphan girl appeared to Mr Hart in the dining room dripping wet and waving frantically at him. A toast was also given wishing them safe passage. It was reported on April 19th 1912 that Esther and Eva were among the saved however Benjamin Hart perished. The pub is a part of Heineken UK and Reiss is passionate about making The Cauliflower an asset to Ilford and is working closely with the brewery to make it a successful business. They stock a wide range of quality beers, ales and ciders and have curated an extensive wine list. As The Cauliflower gains popularity, they hope to establish a pub environment which will attract locals as well as customers from further afield. The future is bright for The Cauliflower, the restaurant is opening in February and in spring the function suite will be opened, seating 350 it will be able to cater for weddings and engagements. This will be followed by the opening of their boutique hotel later in 2015. The Cauliflower 553 High Street Ilford, IG1 1TZ
ESSEX CENTRAL
45
Award
Winning SALONS SALONS
tikadi IS DESIGNED BY
ONGAR
THEYDON BOIS
01277 366775
01992 815700 www.tikadi.co.uk
46
info@thechungpartnership.com
ESSEX CENTRAL
VACCINATE YOUR
PET
Here are some reasons why it is important to vaccinate your pet.
CANINE PARVOVIRUS - a highly contagious disease, this can cause vomiting, severe diarrhoea, high temperature, depression and often death. Puppies are particularly susceptible.
CAT FLU - this highly infectious disease is spread by contact but also in the air. Purebred cats get more severe infections but in all
abortion and infertility in queens, as well as high temperatures, vomiting, diarrhoea, tremors and incoordination in all cats.
“Forest Veterinary FELINE LEUKAEMIA - this is a common cause of death in young adult tre will be cats and is highly contagious. It can LEPTOSPIROSIS - contracted en C a range of symptoms depending through the urine of infected dogs ru nn ing a vaccine cause on where in the body the origin is. and rats, this is often found in canals and rivers and can cause amnesty throughout Thankfully vaccination helps protect Weil’s disease in humans. In dogs it against all of these diseases. causes kidney problems, vomiting, February 2015.” Forest Veterinary Centre will diarrhoea and abdominal pain. Comprehensive medical rehensive medical cats it causes sneezing, runny eyes be running a vaccine amnesty & surgical for small animals throughout February 2015. If your DISTEMPER (hardpad) - this and care nose, inappetance and high Comprehensive medical vaccinations have lapsed they will virus causes eye and nose infections temperatures. care for hardened small animals of the artand medical and surgical facilities. get them up to date and give you as well as theState pads
ive medical &giveitReferral surgical for small the second half of the two-part FELINE ENTERITIS - similar to animals nose that it the name. Thanks tocare service for other veterinary surgeons. parvovirus in dogs, this virus causes vaccination FREE. vaccination is rare. r small animals and surgical facilities. Emergency service provided by our own vets.
of the art medical and surgical alveterinary facilities. 24 hour in-patient nursing care.facilities. rate surgeons.
y surgeons. MRI suite and Laparoscopic Spay (Keyhole Surgery) for your dog available at the Epping Hospital. ded by our ownfor vets. ferral service other veterinary surgeons. r own vets.
Comprehensive medical
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t nursing care. care. mergency service provided by our own vets. & surgical care for small animals EPPING WOODFORD HARLOW
vailable at the Epping 01992Hospital. 575790
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Comprehensive medical Comprehensive medical Referral service Comprehensive for other veterinary surgeons. medical surgical care forEpping small animals HARLOW & surgical care for aroscopic Spay (Keyhole Surgery) & forEmergency your dog service available at the Hospital. provided by oursmall own vets. animals EPPING CM16 4LQ
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ESSEX CENTRAL
47
Phoenix Gourmet Restaurant Huaiyang Cuisine
OPENING TIMES: Every Tuesday to Sunday Lunch 12:00pm – 2:00pm Dinner 5:30pm – 9:30pm
Tel: 01992
523 853
Email: billywong@ppmilondon.co.uk Phoenix Gourmet Restaurant North Weald, Epping A414 Epping Road, Essex CM16 6RZ
Need a reliable roofing contractor?
..then look no further Slating and Tiling • Flat Roofs Fascias and Soffits • Leadwork Pointing • Guttering and much more... All work guaranteed
Nearly 30 years proven experience • No sub contractors used
t 01992 575241 m 07973 532125 e eppingroofingco@btinternet.com www.eppingroofingcompany.co.uk
VAT Registration number 180 446 707
48
ESSEX CENTRAL
RESTAURANT
FOOD & DRINK JALALABAD 2
REVIE W Jalalabad 2
Bangla Beer
WE ORDERED:
ra £2.50 Aubergine Pako rfly £4.30 tte Bu n King Praw £7.95 ni Tandoori Makha ala £9.95 King Prawn Mas .25 Coconut Rice £2 £1.90 an Na i Peshawar .90 Bangla Beer £3 grass Ginger & Lemon £1.85 Sparkling Presse
W
e were recently invited to dine at Jalalabad 2 in Newbury Park and snapped up their offer as we both love Indian food. We have tried many local Indian restaurants and takeaways over the years and couldn’t wait to see what Jalalabad had to offer. Upon arrival we were shown to our table and offered a drink. Their drinks menu is extensive with a great selection of soft drinks available for non-drinkers as well as a well-stocked bar for those who like a tipple or two. The Bangla beer made a refreshing change to the usual Cobra available in most establishments and the Ginger & Lemongrass Presse by Bottle Green went down very well with a couple of pappadoms and mint sauce. The restaurant is tastefully decorated in a contemporary style with comfortable cream leather chairs and crisp white tableware.
Aubergine Pakora
The decor is simple but very nice. The ambience of the restaurant is nice and relaxed with friendly service from knowledgeable staff who didn’t mind explaining dishes to us. We decided to choose items from the menu that we wouldn’t usually go for and were pleased with the varied selection available. The batter on the aubergine pakora was crisp and light and the portion size was very generous. The side salad could have done with a little jazzing up but was fresh and served its purpose. The king prawn butterfly was equally as delicious as the pakora and was well presented. The main dishes were beautifully presented and smelled amazing. The king prawn shone through the thick, creamy masala sauce and the flavour combination was perfect. The tandoori makhani has a rich tomato based sauce that was delicious and the chicken was succulent and plentiful. The coconut
Mains
rice was the best we have eaten, it was soft, light and packed with flavour. The peshwari naan also proved a tasty accompaniment to the main meals. Despite it being a Friday evening we were very happy with the speedy service of the staff and freshness of the food. The prices were very reasonable for the standard of food on offer and generous portion sizes provided. We would definitely recommend Jalalabad 2 for a night out and if their standard of takeaway food is anything like the restaurant quality then try them for a night in too! Jalalabad 2, 992-994 Eastern Avenue, Newbury Park, Ilford, IG2 7JD, Tel: 020 8590 0000, www.jcuisine.co.uk
ESSEX CENTRAL
49
www.davis-homes.co.uk Tel: 01992 676500 Email: sales@davis-homes.co.uk
New Year… New Start?...
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Lambourne Road, Chigwell
£895,000
arrange your FREE no obligation Market Appraisal! Your West Essex Estate
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Connec�ng you with traders you can trust Put your mind at rest and visit the Age UK Business Directory today • Large selec�on of trustworthy traders and businesses • Checked by Age UK London staff Call us free on
0800 334 5056 or visit us online www.aubdlondon.co.uk Traders interested in becoming a member company on the directory, please contact the team on businessdirectory@ageuklondon.org.uk or phone 020 7091 2591 Registered Charity Number 1092198
50
ESSEX CENTRAL
DAUGHTER INSPIRES NEW
DANCE SCHOOL A
n award-winning national song and dance academy is heading for East London. And it’s all down to five-year-old Gabriella Nunes. As a toddler she was very timid and shy but her personality and confidence changed dramatically after she started going to a dance school. Research shows learning to dance is an advanced skill which helps develops children’s bodies and brains and babies are born to dance and enjoy it. Gabriella’s dance school was 40 minutes away from her home across the river, so her parents did some research and decided to start their own song and dance academy in South Woodford. The babyballet South Woodford branch opened in November. Babyballet is the UK’s leading preschool song and dance academy. It was set up in Yorkshire in 2005 by mum-of-four Claire O’Connor and
in South Woodford
has 65 franchisees across the country with over 10,000 youngsters attending more than 1,000 classes every week. “Gabriella was a different child after she started singing and dancing. She is now attending summer workshops in drama and tap at the Sylvia Young Theatre School. We believe children in East London will benefit from babyballet classes which are non-competitive. The ethos of the company is that everyone has a right to dance and enjoy it,” says Karen. Classes will be held at Redbridge Drama Centre and there will be an introductory offer of £15 for a three week class trial. Anyone who would like more details can contact Karen on 07714 252563 or southwoodford@ babyballet.co.uk or visit www.babyballet.co.uk
ESSEX CENTRAL
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Roding Valley Pentecostal Church Roding Valley Hall Station Way Buckhurst Hill Chigwell IG9 6LN Every Sunday Morning At 10.30
f
This is a new pioneer church. Warm welcome to all.
click here to join me on
More information on website.
Join Mads at facebook.com/pianistmadslaursen to see videos of him playing
www.rodingvalleychurch.org
Krazy Kidz Café
Sof t Play and Party Venue
Bear y d o l e M ays ednesd W at 11am
0-2 years - £2.50 2-8 years - £4.00
Party Packages from £11.95 * * per child ( min numbers apply) We can also arrange Cakes, Party Bags, Face Paint ing and much more! Mus Open 7 days a week ic Monthly and Yearly Membership at Private Hire Available
Ti n y Mi te s M
onda 10am ys
01277 365979 Email: krazykidzcafe@mail.com 156-158 high St reet, Chipping Ongar, Essex CM5 9JJ 52
ESSEX CENTRAL
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t i h Qu Nig
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WHAT’S O N
ESSEX GET OUT AND ABOUT IN
WHEN: Every Saturday, 9.30am-10.30am WHAT: Salsa Aerobics - A new dance themed fitness session. This class is pay as you go, no need to book, just turn up! £6.50. WHERE: Wanstead Leisure Centre, Redbridge Lane West, E11 2JZ
WHEN: Every Sunday, 10am-3pm WHAT: Indoor Market - Come along and enjoy a family day out! Children can enjoy the park, and the soft play area. Adults can browse the stalls and enjoy refreshments from the café. WHERE: James Leal Centre, Ray Park, Snakes Lane East, IG8 7JQ WHEN: Monday 9th February, 8pm-10.30pm WHAT: Theydon Jazz Club - With The Carlton Jazz Band. For more information, ring Dave or Sheila Dyer on 01945 588325 or email 2359o675@gmail.com. WHERE: Theydon Bois Golf Club, Theydon Road WHEN: Saturday 14th February, 11.30am-3pm WHAT: Lent Activity Day Celebrating St Valentine - Crafts for the children, buffet meal and pancakes for everyone. Ring Rev’d Gill Hopkins on 01992 760492 for more details.
WHERE: Church of the Holy Innocents, Church Lane, High Beach
WHEN: Saturday 14th February, 9.30am WHAT: West Essex Ramblers Walk - Five-mile circular morning walk starts from the road bridge near Epping Station. For more details ring 020 8502 1628. WHERE: Road bridge, Epping Station WHEN: Saturday 14th February, 6pm-10.30pm WHAT: The Valentine’s Day Professional Singles Matrimonial Matchmaking Event - Inclusive of Rocker Sal Show (romantic entertainment consisting of evergreen love songs) performed by Sal Bashir. This event is focussed on busy career minded professional singles who are seeking a marriage partner. Age 18+, £25 per person. To book contact Mo Ayyaz on 07590422011. WHERE: Ilford Town Hall WHEN: Tuesday 17th February, 11am, 1pm and 3pm WHAT: Handa’s Surprise - A blend of physical performance, puppetry, live music and song combine to create an intimate, magical production with audience participation. Come and share in the magical tangerine surprise! Recommended for children 2 to 6 years and their families, all tickets £5. WHERE: Churchill Room, Wanstead Library, Spratt Hall Road, Wanstead E11 2RQ WHEN: Saturday 21st February, 11am - 3pm WHAT: POSH JUMBLE - 2 Halls full of wonderful
pre-loved items. Designer clothes, household bits & bobs, accessories, furniture, vintage, bric-a-brac, books and CDs. All at fantastic prices! Café serving tea and cakes. £1 entry. Organiser contact: 07860 214 009. WHERE: Wanstead United Reformed Church, Nightingale Lane, Wanstead, London, E11 2HD
WHEN: Saturday 21st February, 7pm for 7.30pm start WHAT: Copped Hall Trust Quiz Evening - Tables of six to eight people. Take your own food, drinks and glasses. Cost £8 per person. For more details ring Frances Dennett on 07749 397932 or emailf.dennett3@sky.com. WHERE: Theydon Bois Village Hall, Coppice Row, Theydon Bois WHEN: Saturday 28th February, 11am - 5pm WHAT: Wanstead Vintage Fashion & Brocante Fair - Affordable selection of genuine vintage fashion & accessories in two halls - Stunning Jewellery; Handbags, Hats and Shoes; Gorgeous Textiles and Trimmings; Buttons; Lace; Fashion books and Menswear. For the interior; Covetable vintage pieces Homewares, Ornaments, Furniture and Collectables. The Great British Tearoom will be serving light lunches, morning and afternoon teas. Admission: £2.50 (accompanied children under 14 free). Love Vintage: 07860 214 009, www.lovevintage. co.uk WHERE: Wanstead United Reformed Church, Nightingale Lane, Wanstead, London, E11 2HD
ESSEX CENTRAL
53
YOUR ADVERT HERE
We carry out all electrical work -
Domestic, Commercial and Industrial Visit
www.dceclimited.co.uk to see previous jobs and more information about us
to advertise in Essex Central please call
01279 319 318
DCEC is a Part P approved company, registered with NICEIC as an approved contractor.
All work is NIC EIC certified on completion
or email advertising@essexcentralmagazine.co.uk
46,000 monthly magazines from Wanstead to Ongar
If you would like us to quote a job of any size please don’t hesitate to contact us via our website, email or phone
Rates start from just £60!
Contact us:
07949 247694 (James) or 07805 414508 (Sean)
(includes FREE social media promotion)
Email: dceclimited@gmail.com
AMPLE FREE PARKING STOCK TO GO
Something F U R N I T U R E
&
I N T E R I O R S
Opening hours: Mon to Fri 9am–4pm Sat 9am–5pm Sun 10am–4pm
MASSIVE SALE – FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR SPECIAL BARGAINS AND FREE ENTRY TO OUR COMPETITION
Victorian style 2 door – 4 drawer wardrobe Was £950 Now £575
3 foot pine wardrobe From £265
Table and 2 chairs Was £229 Now £99
check out our Virtual Tour
Esgors Farm, High Road, Thornwood Common, near Epping, Essex CM16 6LY e: info@somethingfurniture.co.uk
54
ESSEX CENTRAL
l
t: 01992 573111
l
www.somethingfurniture.co.uk
ESSEX CENTRAL
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?
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? PUZZLE ?
CORNER ?
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SUDOKU
Difficulty: Hard
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s SPOT THE DIFFERENCE
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Can you spot 6 differences between these two pictures?
?
? s WORD SEARCH Find these romantic words: Perfume Flowers
Dating Chocolates
Romance Cards
Love Attraction
Valentine’s Day Relationships
CRISS-CROSS Fit these flowers into the grid.
5 LETTERS Roses Tulip Daisy Poppy
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6 LETTERS Azalea Orchid Dahlia Violet
7 LETTERS Begonia Burdock Fuchsia Gerbera Jasmine
8 LETTERS Bluebell Foxglove 9 LETTERS Dandelion
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ESSEX CENTRAL
For puzzle solutions please visit www.essexcentralmagazine.co.uk
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PUZZLES COMPETITION
WIN! Win a meal for two at Marina Meze Grill!
T
16th February. Terms and Conditions: *Prize may be redeemed Monday to Wednesday only. * By entering this competition you agree to provide a picture for publication if you are picked as a winner. Website: www.marinamezegrill.com
MARINA COMPETITION NAME:
!
his month we have teamed up with recently opened Marina Meze Grill in Woodford Green to offer Essex Central readers a fabulous prize. If you are feeling tired of the wet and windy winter weather then this prize could be just what you need. Marina will take you back to memories of holidays on the Mediterranean coast with their authentic and traditional home-style cooking and beautifully decorated interior. One lucky winner and a guest will be able to choose a starter, main and dessert from the extensive menu plus a bottle of house wine to share will also be included.
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 winner will be drawn at random on Monday
&
ADDRESS: TEL: EMAIL: ESSEX CENTRAL 
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Next to M&S, above Jewellers
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ESSEX CENTRAL
ESSEX CENTRAL
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PARENTING
MUM’ S CORNER
e
e
W
“Choosing the right childcare for your little one can feel like a real web of confusion.”
d
According to a recent study, a fifth of working parents are considering reducing their hours or giving up their job altogether because of childcare costs, and a large proportion of the remaining four fifths are cutting back on luxuries and even essentials because of the financial strain. A hot topic on the lips of most parents, writer and mum, Sarah Mackie enters the minefield.
hen I first went back to work, 3 days a week, we were living in West London and paying £75 a day for the nursery fees. Which, by the way, was average. After paying that and almost £10 a day on commuting costs, there was barely any financial gain at all to going back to work. When you are leaving a screaming and tired baby after a stressful nursery run and a dash to the office, it’s difficult to see the benefits at all. However, of course it does get easier, as the babies get older and the costs go down. This was just my experience...I also know of little ones who charged through the door without so much as a wave goodbye to mum or dad. The reality is though, that most of us do have to go back to work, and choosing the right childcare for your little one can feel like a real web of confusion. Here are the opinions of the people in the know who have first-hand experience - you guys! Diana, who has 2 boys aged 3 and a half and 18 months has a nanny and says that her stress levels on work mornings are dramatically reduced as a result. She’s also tried a nursery and a child-minder and her order of preference is; nanny, child-minder, nursery. She says “The
major benefit of having a nanny is the convenience of not packing up your kids and all that that entails in the morning. If you get a, ‘I’m not putting on my shoes’ tantrum at 7:15, and you are short on time, it scuppers everything.” She also likes that the boys get to stay in their own homes and sleep in their own beds and develop a close bond with one person. Diana is aware having a nanny is a luxury most can’t afford with just one child but with two, it makes sense as you’re paying roughly the same as you would a nursery. Kate, mum to a 3 and a half year old girl and a 1 year old boy, has a child-minder. She says the days the kids go to her are her favourite week days! The benefits are that she’s been a fab influence on the children, and they get to play with other children when they are there. They go to the child-minder’s house so their own house is kept nice and clean. The children are fed homemade food, so all that’s left is bedtime once everyone is home.
THINGS TO DO Have some fun with the little ones this month. babies and toddlers with rhymes, stories and chat. Suitable for children aged 0-5 years. Mondays 2 -2.30pm at Epping Library
BABY & TODDLER SONG & RHYME TIME
Very informal sessions for
60
ESSEX CENTRAL
PYJAMA DRAMA
A fun session of music, movement and drama suitable for children aged 2-5 years. £2.50 per
session, runs term time only. Thursdays 9.30-10am at Theydon Bois Baptist Church Hall
STAY AND PLAY
Sticking, painting,
drawing, Playdough, a bouncy castle and bubbles! Contact Krissie on 07720850105 or phillipskrissie@gmail. com. Fridays 10.30-11.30am and 1-2pm at James Leal Centre, Ray Park, Snakes Lane East, Woodford Green
LaSala_Advert_224x74mm_EssexCentral_Dec2014_Layout 1 09
Finally, Lucy who is mum to a 3 year old girl says the benefit of a nursery is that it really prepares children for school. The older rooms are set up similar to a reception class and the teachers adhere to the EYFS syllabus, and the little ones are used to structure and group activities. She believes that mixing with lots of other children is healthy and improves social skills, such as sharing, kindness and understanding.
THE CREATION STATION
“Helping to inspire your child to explore, discover and develop is at the heart of what we do.” Quality arty time with your little one without any of the mess and stress. Contact Benedita on 020 8263 0023 or benedita@ thecreationstation.co.uk.
Wednesdays, Little Explorers 1.30-2.20pm, Baby Discover 2.453.30pm at St Johns Church Hall, Church Lane, Loughton
lasala
www. .co.uk To make a booking email reservations@lasala.co.uk Telephone 0333 006 3008 692-694 Chigwell Road, Woodford Green IG8 8AL
ESSEX CENTRAL
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come to our open evenings!
Chadwell Heath Campus: n
Tue 3 February 2015 // 4:30pm - 7:00pm
Ilford Skills Academy: n
Wed 4 February 2015 // 4:30pm - 7:00pm
Learn more about our different courses, meet teachers and tour facilities during our open evenings. No need to book ahead - just arrive on the day!
download your prospectus today: redbridge-college.ac.uk ESSEX CENTRAL 
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DAD’S DIARY
In Partnership with
ENTERING FATHERHOOD
WITHOUT A MAP
E
ver jumped out of your skin? Almost felt the bones come flying away from the ground and wonder why your heart no longer appears to be beating? Well, it happened to me last week. I was peacefully making a cup of coffee, bothering no one, and looking happily out of the kitchen window to see the birds in the trees. From out of nowhere appeared the loudest, most frightening sneeze I’d ever heard, with a kung fu theme, as our son had silently positioned himself behind me and released an earth shatteringly violent “Aaaaarghhh Chhhooooo!!!” There was coffee on the ceiling and sugar on the floor whilst I just stood there frozen, holding a spoon... like some crazy street art piece of utensil theatre. The boy was in fits of laughter, uncontrollable, nearly as loud as the sneeze itself. With that the coffee started to come back down off the ceiling, landing around him like some clumps of chocolate. Before I had the chance to say, “Please god no! Don’t eat it! The last thing you need is caffeine!” he had chewed a little mouthful, which thankfully had mostly gone around his chops but I’m sure some had snuck in. I immediately washed his mouth out and felt that as soon as his little legs touched the floor he’d whizz off like a wind-up toy, and that’s exactly what happened. He shot out into the garden, dragging all of his new toys behind him to put on the trampoline, whilst pleading “Daddy, bounce. Daddy bounce”. I tried replying, “No son, daddy still has quite a weak heart from the kung fu sneeze you just hit me with,” but my words fell on death ears. Pretty soon I was bouncing alongside him… in-between 20-30 toys, hard toys, the ones that would happily pierce through the skin of your feet or break your ribs if you
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fell on them from my height. My son on the other hand was in no danger, his short frame meant that any fall would be quite safe and his feet hardly leave the trampoline anyway, so the danger was all mine. “Up! More! Up!!” he demanded, “I’m jumping as high as I can,” I replied, but again those little ears appeared oblivious to the words being fired back at them. So, with each jump the toys are flinging up around me, I bounce again and see plastic horses, puzzles, and trains, another spring and they’re bouncing up by my eye-line, footballs, wooden animals, a cat... hang on, a cat? How on earth did he get... “Ooouch!!” it had happened; I came down and landed on his wooden rhino toy, with the horn straight into
“He’d whizz off like a wind-up toy.”
the underside of my foot. My knees crumpled to the matt and smacked firmly against a piece of Lego “Arrgghhh!” he tried finishing my yell “Arrghh-chooo!?”, “no mate, just arrggh, just bloody arrgghhh!” One of his new games is a sticker book and he loves it, quite often the stickers end up in quite strange places (as the cats can testify) but generally they make it into the book. However, one of the sections had a food theme and we kept wondering where the stickers had gone to, it was only after catching him eat a sticker of a cake with a cry of “Mmmm cake!” that all become clear. Needless to say, his recent nappy contained 3 hot dog stickers... and a faint smell of coffee. Ultimately though, when the coffee wears off, the trampoline is wrapped with darkness, and the toys are packed away... it’s time for
bed. This had been going great for quite a few months, but recently he has been staying up a little later and having a few awakenings during the night, but as long as we allow him to drop off into a deep sleep in our arms after his final feed then he tends to go through the night. So that ‘final feed’ becomes a very crucial time for us, to make sure our own nights sleep is a nice, uninterrupted one! Last week my brother was helping us out whilst we finished off some work. I received a text “eyes closed”... good work I thought, give it another 10 minutes, let him start to snore then lay him down in the cot, 5 minutes later another text “his ears are squeaking”. That’s not what I was expecting. I crept upstairs to see my brother looking defeated, whilst my son was smiling, “What happened?” I said, “He was falling asleep, then heard a noise, rose his head slightly, then went to put it back down on my arm, but as he did it there was a squeak as he put his head down. It confused him because he couldn’t work out where it had come from at first, and so he woke up a bit more, curious. He laid his head back down and realised it was his sweaty ears that were folding over and making a ‘squeak’ noise. After that he spent the next 5 minutes laughing and slamming his head into my arm to make bigger and bigger squeaks. I had to put him down because I’ve got a dead arm.” I turned back to the boy who was just smiling up at the pair of us. My first thought was “I have to remove his ears”, however, I put this on the backburner and tried drying the sweat from them instead. I’m pleased to say his head hit my arm without a squeak, and 10 minutes later his snores beautifully filled the room. Success! ...TO BE CONTINUED
Epping
We are currently looking for
EXPERIENCED, QUALIFIED, CHILDCARE NURSERY PRACTITIONERS to join our Blossoms family. Please call and/or email CV to -
info@blossomsnurseryltd.com
We’re Hiring
Ofsted registered • Open 7am - 7pm Mini Bus • Holidays Club 5-11 years Before and After School Clubs • Flexible Hours EYFS Curriculum “Our son loves being with the Blossoms team, it’s such a friendly environment and he’s learning new things every dayâ€?
Blossoms Nursery, Horseshoe Farm West, London Road, Thornwood Common, Harlow, Essex, CM17 9LH
01279 429937
www.blossomsnurseryltd.com
ESSEX CENTRAL  Follow us on Facebook and Twitter - www.facebook.com/blossoms.nursery @BlossomsNurser2
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CLUB FOCUS
HARLOW
HAWKS S
By Devon-Elizabeth Tabersham
hab Niaz, head coach of Harlow Hawks, formed the club in 1999 at Harlow Leisure Zone. When Harlow Hawks began, there were around 12 players under the age of 18 and with substantial growth over the years they are now 100 strong with youth and senior teams. Shab has played basketball for 25 years and at the time he was playing National League basketball at Division 1 level. In the junior programme, children are invited to train from 5 years old up until 18. Training includes running drills, learning how to play the game and learning the codes of conduct, competitive play doesn’t occur until Year 4. Children of all abilities are invited to play, Harlow Hawks are not an elitist club and “welcome all levels at all ages.” Children are divided into teams via year group and during the summer they hold an internal summer tournament for Years 3,4,5 and 6, children from Year 3 are welcomed to the tournament in order to get used to competitive play and to meet their fellow teammates to allow a smoother transition into the group. Harlow Hawks junior programme offers two avenues when joining the team; there is an annual fee for children who wish to join the club and they also offer a pay as you go scheme which gives children
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the chance to build up their confidence before committing to the team, however everybody does the same drills. There is also a Junior National League team who play in the U18 East Conference and Harlow Hawks have a primary age league of 9 teams from Stevenage, Thurrock and Cambridge. Joshua Steele started at Harlow Hawks at primary level and has gone on to become the best U18 in the country. Harlow Hawks are currently building up a girls team from Year 6 to 12. At the end of the year a basketball day camp is held for all age groups when they mix up players for fun activities, there is also an end of year presentation in which everybody is awarded for their participation. Parents also participate in the club through volunteer roles, they take responsibility for the kit as well as collecting money so that the coaches can focus their time on the children. The senior programme consists of social and competitive play. Social players meet once a week and play as a fun method of keeping fit, this is welcome to players of all abilities. Competitive players train once a week and play on weekends. Harlow Hawks have recently formed a partnership with the Essex Leopards who play in National League One to enhance the level of basketball in Harlow. For more information about Harlow Hawks contact Shab Niaz on 07958 470 133 or shab@harlowbasketball.com.
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indian fusion
Temple Indian Fusion offers diners a unique culinary experience. GET £10 OFF YOUR MEAL MINIMUM SPEND £60 (Dine in & Takeaway orders)
GET £5 OFF YOUR MEAL MINIMUM SPEND £30 (Takeaway only)
Terms and Conditions Please mention voucher when reserving your table or when placing your takeaway order. Vouchers do not have any cash value and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers or promotions. Expires 28/02/2015, valid Sunday to Thursday excluding Sunday Buffet
Our Cuisine At the heart of any successful restaurant is it's cuisine. Here at The Temple, we have created a menu to tantalise the most demanding of taste-buds. Our 'Indian Fusion' style cuisine contains dishes from the Indian sub-continent including Bangladesh, India and Nepal.
Valentine’s Day set menu £21.95 PER PERSON
Old Parcel Office, Jubilee Parade Snakes Lane East, Woodford, Essex IG8 7QF
Tel: 020 8505 6687 or 020 8504 4380 Email: woodford@templefusion.co.uk