Haveringlife Magazine Winter 2014

MAGAZINE WINTER 2014

The show

MUST GO ON

HaveringLife looks at the Queen’s Theatre’s history and some of its upcoming performances and events

Christmas in Havering

Everything from foodie ideas, to interior decorations and the Christmas gift guide

@HaveringLife

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WELCOME

Hello and welcome to the winter edition of HaveringLife magazine. We are very proud to bring you a mix of articles and style pages, from fashion and interiors, to local events and food.

This issue the focus is on Christmas with our fabulous annual gift guide. Whether your budget is large or small, and whoever you’re buying for, we have ideas for all the family.

HaveringLife also takes a brief look at the history of Havering’s beloved Queen’s Theatre and some of the events coming up, as it faces funding cuts.

We also review two great destinations worth considering for the new year – a mini break in Strasbourg, and a trip to Dubai. Plus if you’re staying closer to home, there are a whole host of different events happening within our borough.

We hope you enjoy this latest issue and would love to hear your feedback, get in touch by emailing hello@haveringlife.co.uk.

With many thanks to: David Christie, Gulen Abdullah and Stewart Mason Blog: www.haveringlife.tumblr.com Website: www.haveringlife.co.uk Email: hello@haveringlife.co.uk Twitter: @HaveringLife Facebook: Search ‘HaveringLife’

Written, designed and published by Lisa Wade t/a HaveringLife. Whilst HaveringLife promises to take the utmost care with submitted material, responsibility cannot be accepted for loss of or damage therein. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent from HaveringLife. Whilst every care of information accuracy is taken, and everything is published in good faith, we cannot accept responsibility for any errors or consequences arising as a result of incorrect information. Views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. This publication and HaveringLife is in no way associated nor affiliated with Havering Council.

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FEATURES 06 | The HaveringLife Christmas Gift Guide

HaveringLife brings you great local gift ideas, for him, for her, and for the kids – to suit all budgets 36 | The Show Must Go On

As Hornchurch’s Queen’s Theatre faces cuts to funding, the public show their support, and HaveringLife looks at the history of the theatre and shines a spotlight on some of the different events it offers FASHION & BEAUTY 27 | Style Selection

Winter fashion for everyone from local retailers, including our pick of Christmas jumpers, scents for him and sleepwear for her. Snuggle down or glam up – the choice is yours 34 | Beauty

Local hairdresser Gulen Abdullah speaks to HaveringLife about her passion for making people look glamorous for the festive season, and what’s hot in hair trends at the moment 4

CONTENTS

FOOD & DRINK 44 | Chef’s Corner

Get your kitchen ready for Christmas with these festive essentials, plus a quick recipe to impress your guests with 46 | Restaurant Review

HaveringLife dines out at the award-winning Bekash in Romford to see whether it’s worthy of its many crowns REGULARS 15 | Events

A huge selection of events for the festive season and beyond, from cookery and arts and crafts classes, to theatre shows 24 | Snapshot

We showcase another old photograph of Havering, courtesy of David Christie. This issue – Hornchurch, 1970 49 | Pets Corner HaveringLife’s resident sausage dogs Coco and Max share their news, favourite shopping buys and top tweet 51 | Interiors

This issue we bring you beautiful products to decorate your house for Christmas, from stunning wallpaper to beautiful cushions and ornaments TRAVEL 54 | Vacation To… …Dubai. HaveringLife jets off to Dubai for a change of scenery and culture and stays in five star luxury 60 | Mini Break

This issue the focus is on France’s Strasbourg, close enough to the border to spend a few hours in Germany 5

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FEATURE

THE

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

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Christmas gifts FOR HER

Clipping holder, £7.50, Wilkinson, Romford

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Tick tock clock across body bag, £25, Accessorize, Romford

Pillar candle in toasted marshmallow scent, £1, Poundland, Romford

FEATURE

6 Aperture wooden heart frame, £25, Next, Romford

Zadig & Voltaire Papillon acier gold tone watch £129.99, £40, T K Maxx, Romford

Hot Diamonds sterling silver stud earrings, £40, H Samuel, Romford

Salmon cableknit hat and scarf set £34.99, TK Maxx Christmas tree charm, £65, Pandora, Romford

Flowers in a Jug Painting, £105, buy online at www.made-in-essex.com

Beaded trinket box, £1, Poundland, Romford

Stag head tapestry cushion, £9.99, The Range, Romford

Pink Malden leather iPad holder, Filofax, £16.99, T K Maxx, Romford

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Black classic wallet, The Savile Row Company, £9.99, T K Maxx

Four piece wine connoisseur set, £14.99, H Samuel, Romford

Christmas gifts FOR HIM 10

Modern gents shaving kit, £25, The Body Shop, Romford

FEATURE

Dunlop shoulder bag in brown, £19.99, Argos Hornchurch

Blue cashmere scarf, Heritage Cashmere, £29.99, T K Maxx, Romford

James Bond 007 eau de toilette, 30ml, £19, Superdrug, Upminster

Southend United Football Club Print, £22.70, buy online at www.made-in-essex.com

Romfords Buses 1967 - ‘70s book by David Christie, from approx. £34, buy online at www.blurb.com/b/1623003romfords-buses-1967-70s

Accurist men’s black dial gold strap watch, £29.99, H Samuel, Romford

Signature eau de toilette gift set, £15, Next, Romford

Cast iron stag thermometer, £6, Wilkinson, Romford

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Twistable pencils paper set, £16, Debenhams, Romford

Engraved teddy bear moneybox, £27.99, H Samuel, Romford

Little Tikes rocking horse in pink, £22.99, buy online at www.boots.com

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Christmas gifts FOR KIDS

FEATURE

Sevi ride on quad bike in blue, £29.99, T K Maxx, Romford

My Friend Chloe doll, £59.99, Argos, Hornchurch

Little Miss complete book collection, £29.99, T K Maxx, Romford

Monsters University musical instrument £1, Poundland, Romford

Disney Frozen lunch-bag, £8, Matalan, Romford

Remote controlled inflatable minion, £29.99, The Range, Romford

Wooden taboggan, £39.99, The Range, Romford

Teksta Scooby-Doo robotic dog, £54.99 Argos, Hornchurch 13

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EVENTS

EVENTS DIARY HaveringLife brings you a selection of the season’s finest local events LOVE FOOD HATE WASTE COOKERY WORKSHOP

Thursday 15 January, 10.30am-12.30pm Book yourself on this free cookery session to save money and reduce the amount of food thrown away. You’ll be guided by professional chefs to cook up a storm! Book online at www.tinyurl.com/lfhwhavering Hornchurch Library

CATERPILLAR CLUB

Wednesday 17 December, 10am-12pm Pre-school kids can get close to nature with a themed morning of indoor and outdoor activities of play, arts and crafts. £5 per child. Booking and donation in advance essential – book on 01708 748646.

Bedfords Park Visitor Centre, Broxhill Road, Havering-atte-Bower 15

Christmas

SWITCH-ONS & CELEBRATIONS

IN HORNCHURCH…

Hornchurch Christmas Cracker Saturday 22 November, 2pm-5pm Hornchurch

IN UPMINSTER…

Upminster Christmas Event Thursday 27 November, 4pm-6pm Upminster

IN HAROLD HILL…

Light Up Harold Hill Christmas Event Thursday 4 December 4-6pm Hilldene Shopping Centre & Harold Hill Library

IN COLLIER ROW…

Collier Row Frozen Christmas Event Friday 5 December 4.30pm-6.30pm Collier Row

IN RAINHAM…

Rainham Village Christmas Fayre Saturday 6 December 10am-4pm Rainham Village

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EVENTS

CHRISTMAS TREE DECORATIONS CRAFT

Saturday 6 December, 10.30am Take the little ones to Upminster Library to pick out some books for over Christmas. Then, whilst you’re there, entertain them with a craft session to make their very own Christmas decorations for the tree.

Suitable for ages 7+ years, £4 for library members, £5.50 for non members.

Booking essential on 01708 434933.

Upminster Library

GIVE AND TAKE DAY

Wednesday 26 November, 10.30am-1.30pm Pop along to Central Library, and swap things you don’t want for things you do – for free! Including clothing, kitchenware, books, CD’s, DVD’s bric-a-brac, toys and games.

Romford Central Library 17

CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL

FINE ARTS WORKSHOPS

Wednesdays, 5.30pm-7pm If you have artistic and creative older children (ages 11-19) they’ll love these workshops in fine arts – learning about portraiture, landscape, stilllife, composition, shading and colour. Book on 01708 376004. £4.50 per session.

MyPlace Youth Centre, Harold Hill

FAIRKYTES LIVE

Friday 30 January, 7pm Spend an evening enjoying the local musical talent in Havering. The best young bands including The Broken Strings will play covers and original songs. Doors open 6.30, tickets £5, call 01708 456308 to book.

Fairkytes Arts Centre, Hornchurch 18

Saturday 29 November, 10am-4pm The theme for this year is “Around the World” and local organisations from church and community are invited to decorate trees for this event using the theme.

Head along to have a look at the results, and visit the charities market (until 2pm). There will be refreshments available all day.

Upminster Methodist Church

EVENTS

Christmas SHOPPING EVENTS

Saturday 22 November, 11am-2pm Christmas Bazaar, Elm Park Baptist Church, Rosewood Avenue Sunday 23 November, 11am-3.30pm Charity Christmas Gift Fair, The Chafford School, Rainham Sunday 23 November, 11am-4pm Indoor Christmas Market at Havering Museum, Romford Sunday 29 November, 10am-2pm Christmas Craft and Gift Fair, Hall Mead School, Upminster Sunday 29 November, 11am-3pm Christmas Spectacular Fair (Frozen theme), North Romford Community Centre, Clockhouse Lane, Collier Row Saturday 6 December, 11am-3pm Christmas Market, MyPlace Youth Centre, Harold Hill Saturday 6 December, 11am-3pm Collier Row Xmas Shopping Fair, Collier Row Library Saturday 6 December, 2pm-4pm Christmas Bazaar, Havering Road Methodist Church, Rise Park Saturday 13 December, 10am-3pm Fairkytes Festive Fayre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch 19

Christmas IN ROMFORD

Thursday 27 November, 12pm and 3.30pm CPA Studios perform carols in The Liberty Saturday 6 December Free face painting in Romford Market Saturday 13 December, 11am Face painting and Hornchurch Drum and Trumpet Corps in Romford Market Sunday 14 December, 11am-3pm Christmas Sunday Funday at The Mercury Mall Saturday 20 December, from 11am Free face painting. Costumed Reindeer and Santa Bear from 11am to 4pm. Hornchurch Drum and Trumpet Corps at 1pm at Romford Market. The Haverettes All Girl Marching Band in Romford Market Sunday 21 December Free face painting in Romford Market Monday 22 December, 11am-3pm Real Reindeer in Romford Market Tuesday 23 December, 11am-4pm The magical Christmas Puppet Show in Romford Market 20

EVENTS

IRON CUPCAKE CHALLENGE - A GIFT FOR SANTA

Sunday 7 December, 3pm-5pm Spend the afternoon indulging in cake, as you taste and score cupcakes made to a theme. Bakers can challenge themselves and enter the event for free with a batch of cakes, with the chance to win a prize. Money is raised for Saint Francis Hospice. Eaters pay £5 entry.

MyPlace Youth Centre, Harold Hill

SEW AND SWISH WORKSHOP

Saturday 17 January, 10am-12.30pm Join this friendly workshop on a Saturday morning, to learn how to prolong the life of your clothes. You’ll also get the skills to mend, alter, customise and reconstruct your garments in the future. Free – book on 01708 434933.

Upminster Library 21

ADULT CRAFT WORKSHOP ZENTANGLE

Tuesday 17 February, 1.30pm-3pm Pop along to Upminster library to try a new craft and meet other local residents.

All materials are provided and all abilities welcome. £6 library members, £7.50 non members. Book on 01708 434933.

Upminster Library

SING-A-LONG A SOUND OF MUSIC

Saturday 24 January, 7pm Take the chance to watch this classic film again, this time with an interactive element as you sing along to the songs. £16, call the box office to book on 01708 443333.

Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch

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THE DREAMBOYS

Friday 23 January, 7.30pm Enjoy a proper girls night out and pay a visit to the Queen’s Theatre to see male strip show The Dreamboys. The show is action packed from start to finish, with celebrity guest appearances.

Tickets £18.50-£25, call the box office to book on 01708 443333.

Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch

NEVER MISS AN EVENT Follow us on Twitter to get the Havering Weekender every week

@HaveringLife

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REGULARS: SNAPSHOT

HAVERING SNAPSHOT

CITY Coaches JXC128, an ex London Transport RT type built 1948, at Hornchurch White Hart. The smart newly applied CITY livery is rather spoilt by apparently being applied around the original (by now tatty) LT adverts! This livery was short-lived, having been previously dark blue /cream ‘Upminster & District’ and by 1972, a light blue /cream ‘Blue Line’.

Photo taken by David Christie in October 1970

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STEP BACK IN TIME… ROMFORDS BUSES 1967-‘70s

A book featuring photographs by David Christie

Browse the online store at www.blurb.com/user/store/crisdave

FASHION

Style selection

For Him

Wrap up warm on chilly days with our top picks as winter closes in Image: M&Co. Upminster 27

THREE TOP

Christmas jumpers

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3 1. Santa sleigh jumper, £28, M&Co. Upminster 2. Rockin’ robin Christmas sweatshirt £12, Matalan, Romford 3. Christmas very merry jumper, £10, ASDA, Romford

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Image: Next, Romford

FASHION

Brown textured satchel bag, Red Herring, £30, Debenhams, Romford Grey lambs wool scarf, Polo by Ralph Lauren, £24.99, T K Maxx, Romford

Alpine duffle coat, £224.99, Superdry, Romford

Limehaus black super slim shirt, £45, BHS, Romford

Brown textured satchel bag, Red Herring, £30, Debenhams, Romford

Luxury suede moccasin, £24, Next, Romford

FABULOUS FRAGRANCE Smell as good as you look this winter with these purchases

1Million eau de toilette 50ml, Paco Rabanne, £41.50, Debenhams, Romford

Viktor & Rolf Spicebomb Eau Fraiche eau de toilette 90ml, £50.40, Boots, Upminster

Aramis advanced moisturising aftershave balm, £35, Superdrug, Upminster

Paul Smith Extreme for men eau de toilette 30ml, £14, Wilkinson, Romford 29

Silver Tree Designs

Personalised Gifts

Money boxes • Message hangers • Keyrings • Noticeboards • Badges Acrylic letters & bunting • Keepsake boxes • Canvases • Magnets Visit us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/Silvertreedesigns Email: contactus@silvertreedesigns.co.uk Call: 07828 635090

FASHION

Style selection

For Her

Glam up for the party season and snuggle down for cosy nights in Image: Monsoon, Romford 31

THREE TOP

Christmas jumpers

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1. Petite scotty dog jumper £29, M&Co. Upminster 2. Christmas holly jumper, £14, ASDA, Romford 3. Christmas tree jumper, £59, Monsoon, Romford

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Image: Boxy sweater, £26, Next, Romford

FASHION Martine wester cosmic statement medallion collar necklace, £50, H Samuel, Romford

Moda V-neck and back lace dress, £20, ASDA, Romford

Black/white petite textured coat, £65, BHS, Romford

Cream faux fur collarless jacket, £29.50, New Look, Romford Inca blanket scarf, £25, Accessorize, Romford

Leather court shoes, £34.99, H&M, Romford

Dark pink chiffon embellished waist sleeveless dress, £32.99, New Look, Romford

Black jewel boxy clutch, £38, Next, Romford

SNUGGLE UP Keep cosy in the evenings this winter

Heart slipper boots, £15, Accessorize, Romford

Satin pyjamas, £24.99, H&M, Romford Love heart bed socks, £4, M&Co. Upminster Cream check hood dressing gown, £26, Dorothy Perkins, Romford

Mink owl spot onesie, £28, Dorothy Perkins, Romford 33

PARTY READY HAIR Hairdresser Gulen Abdullah who works in her home salon, and at Marc Stewart Hairdressing in Ilford, speaks to HaveringLife about what’s hot this Christmas in the world of hair work. I keep up-to-date by attending regular workshops or courses – new products are always coming onto the market.

products for the hair – to make people’s busy lives easier. The Kerastraight treatment is very popular at the moment, as is the What do you enjoy Steampod which gives most about the straight hair to G IFT IDEA job? last the Marc Stew a rt My favourite festive vouchers are alway s popular fo How did you initially part is season. r all occasions – ideal fo get into hairdressing? making Some r a Christm as gift!

I started out working clients feel glitter spray as a Saturday girl in a happy with on a hair do family run salon. I really their hair and can add some enjoyed it, so decided to how they look. You can sparkle at a party! follow it as my career. transform someone with a blowdry!

Marc Stewart Do you specialise in Hairdressing, anything in particular? What is going to be the 198 Longwood Gardens, I specialise in hairstyles next big thing in the Ilford IG5 0EW for bridal and prom world of hairdressing? 020 8550 1221. hair, and also colour I think straightening www.marcstewart.co.uk 34

BEAUTY

TOP THREE

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products for fabulous hair this winter

Amargan oil This oil is instantly absorbed into all hair types, and is great for eliminating frizz – perfect for dry, damaged and untreated hair. This product is great for home use, and not only is it used for styling, but also can promote healthy, strong, moisturised hair.

“Stacey Soloman is a regular client at Marc Stewart Hairdressing, often popping in for a blow-dry, whether it’s straight – or full and bouncy”

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Kerastraight Kerastraight gives smooth, frizz free hair with Brazilian Keratin treatments. It has been designed to repair and renew, and will leave hair feeling healthy, straighter and stronger for up to four months.

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Loreal Steampod This product is designed for creating sleek and smooth hair, with a beautiful, shiny-looking finish. The Steampod is designed for dry, damaged and sensitive hair, and works by putting keratin back into the hair’s cuticles.

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The Show

Must Go On As our beloved Queen’s Theatre faces financial cuts, HaveringLife takes a look at its history

T

he people of Havering have a fondness for the Queen’s Theatre, and rightly so, as a venue that has served the community for over

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60 years. The recent announcement that The London Borough of Havering is proposing cuts to the theatre has many residents riled, and a Facebook group

in support of the theatre was set up a couple of weeks ago, with already nearly 2,000 ‘likes’.

The theatre employs around 175 people each year, and 150,000 others

FOODFEATURE & DRINK

FOCUS ON… MUSIC IN THE FOYER Andrew Linham Jazz A relaxing afternoon with a fine group of professional jazz players, with new compositions to enjoy.

Friday 21 November, 3pm, £5 The Jeff Short Swing Band If Hollywood musicals, films and shows are your thing, head to the Queen’s Theatre to hear Jeff and Sue and their swing band. Classics will feature such as Frank Sinatra, Doris Day and Judy Garland. £5.

Sunday 23 November, 7.30pm Sunday Jazz with Pete Corrigan and the Band of Hope Enjoy the sounds of Dixieland Jazz.

Celebrity guests make a regular appearance. £4.

Sundays 23 & 30 November, 14, 21 & 28 December, 11, 18 & 25 January, 12.45pm

Sound Scenes (Acoustic Roots Collective) Be taken on a worldwide musical journey, from African and Latin American music, to folk and Indian classical. Five individual artists will take the stage in this acoustic solo guitar performance. £8.

Tuesday 25 November, 8pm The DG Quartet featuring Sharon Scott Beat the new year blues with some smooth sounds from the DG Quartet, featuring vocalist Sharon Scott. The American Song Book will be brought to life throughout this afternoon of music. £5 Friday 16 January, 3pm 37

FOCUS ON… THE KIDS There’s plenty to keep the little ones entertained at the Queen’s Theatre this winter Story Plays Alongside plays and musical entertainment, the Queen’s Theatre puts on regular Story Plays for children on Saturday mornings, enabling them to watch their favourite stories come to life, through structured play and imagination. They will learn more about the characters and themes within the stories. A great way to start the weekend. All are suitable for ages 5-7. £5 per child (adult tickets not required). Takes place in the foyer.

Saturday 22 November, 10am: Where the Wild Things Are Saturday 6 December, 10am: Sleeping Beauty 38

A Pinch of Pickle, A Whisk of Wise!

Snail Tales’ storytellers entertain the little ones with puppets, magic and songs as they tell fairytales and curious stories. Of course, there will be plenty of audience participation!

Suitable for ages 3-10, £5 per child.

Saturday 22 November, 11.30am Sleeping Beauty This years’ panto arrives at the Queen’s Theatre for the festive season at the end of November.

The well-known tale follows handsome Tom Clutterbuck as he tries to break the spell and awaken Princess Aurora.

From £12.50-£26.50.

29 November - 10 January

FEATURE

visit and enjoy the many performances put on.

Although it has been assured that the theatre will not face closure, the cuts will nonetheless, have a drastic effect.

The Queen’s Theatre originally started life in 1953, the coronation year of Queen Elizabeth II, hence its name. The site was previously a cinema on Station Lane which had closed some 18 years earlier and lay derelict. Before housing the theatre, it had also been used to store furniture during the second World War. The building seated 379 in the audience, and opened with a performance of Philip King’s See How They Run. Over 400 plays were presented in the time that the theatre

was situated on Station Lane, and despite cramped conditions, it became a great place for emerging talent. The resident Queen’s Players rehearsed one play during the day, then

performed another to audiences at night.

Eventually it was decided that a purposebuilt theatre was needed for the borough, and against some argument that it should be in

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The Elephant Man and Hot Stuff and can be booked online. They also make a great Christmas gift for those who enjoy an evening out locally.

The theatre now thrives today, with a huge range of plays, musical performances, magic shows and sing-along screenings.

The residents of Havering love the theatre and continue to support with their bookings and messages written online.

As it was said back in 1984 when the Queen’s “Audiences went from around 25% Theatre faced cuts (but capacity, to over 75%, which is well above survived), “God Save the national average” the Queen’s!”

Romford, it was decided to keep the theatre where it had begun life, in Hornchurch. In 1975 the Queen’s Theatre as we know it today, opened its doors on Billet Lane.

In 1998, cut to the chase... was formed – a talented ensemble of actors who were also musicians, to put on around eight in-house productions and the pantomime each year – and still do. Although the nineties had been a period of decline, things started to look up, and

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audiences went from around 25% capacity, to over 75%, which is well above the national average. The Jump The Q subscription scheme contributed to the theatre’s turnaround, and has proved very popular, allowing patrons to purchase a set of tickets at once for different shows each season at a large discount.

The upcoming performances for the next season (January to June) are: Deadly Murder, Boeing! Boeing!

FEATURE

FOCUS ON… SOMETHING DIFFERENT Alongside the big shows and music events, there are a whole host of different activities happening at the Queen’s Theatre – something for everyone Baby Sensory The baby sensory sessions are ideal for helping your baby develop their senses through music and actions.

Both traditional rhymes and original songs are used, which help with early communication skills. £6 per child, adult ticket not required.

Takes place in the foyer.

Thursday 4 December, 10.30am

rehearsed readings from emerging playwrights being performed by professional actors. £6, takes place in the foyer.

Wednesday 28 January, 8pm

Tea Dance If you love to dance, brush off your dancing shoes and get ready for a little waltz! You’ll be helping raise money for Saint Francis Hospice at the same time, as part of the takings will be donated to the charity. Local choir Dawn Chorus and singer Paul Rhodes will be leading the Write night lighthearted afternoon of music and For something completely different, humour, with hits from Frank Sinatra, watch as the results of the theatre’s Glenn Miller and more.

Playwriting Course come to life, with Friday 30 January, 3pm 41

DE Y FRE SI OU E D GN R E , P CH LIV O HO I ER TO CE Y & OF TE XT

Mini 25 for £8.99 Small 10 for £8.99

ge Lar 9 £3.9 h eac

PERFECT FOR “Ho ho ho! order now for Christmas”

• Christmas Stocking Fillers • Teachers’ Gifts • Table Place Names • Children’s Party Bags • Birthday Favours • Birth Announcement + loads more…

Call Lisa on 07734 712855

www.choccasions.com

FOOD & DRINK

HaveringLife

e v i t s e f

FEASTING

HaveringLife gears up for the festive season and puts together everything you need to make the day go smoothly Image: White Christmas basket, ÂŁ27.99, order online at www.debenhamsflowers.com

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Chef’s corner HaveringLife gets ready for Christmas with chocolate gifts, drink and foodie treats

Waitrose Christmas dried fruit selection £8, Waitrose, Upminster

Tia Maria dark liqueur, £15, ASDA, Romford

Cake boards, £2 each, Hobbycraft, Romford Lanson Rose Champagne non vintage, £37.99, Tesco, Romford

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Heidi Christmas tree, £3, ASDA, Romford

Milk chocolate Ronnie reindeer model £10, Thorntons, Romford

FOOD & DRINK

Christmas snowflake bamboo chopping board, £8, Matalan, Romford

Christmas cookie cutters 4 pack, £1, Poundland, Romford

CHRISTMAS COOKERY

Christmas crackers

Lebkuchen assortment, £3.29, Aldi, Upminster

Panettone, £1, Poundland, Romford

INGREDIENTS • 120g Scottish porridge oats • 120g plain flour, plus extra for dusting • Pinch of cayenne pepper • 70g cubed unsalted English butter • 1 egg, separated, white only • 1 teaspoon poppy seeds • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds • 1 tablespoon pumpkin seeds

Specially selected florentines, £1.99, Aldi, Upminster

Waitrose Christmas nut crackers & mixed nuts selection, £6, Waitrose, Upminster

METHOD 1. Blend porridge oats to make a coarse flour.

2. Mix plain flour and cayenne pepper, then rub the butter into the oat mixture 3. Use 3 tablespoons cold water to create a dough, then lightly knead until smooth.

4. Roll out dough, then cut out the biscuits, glaze with egg and bake at 180°C/gas 4 5. Cool, and store in an airtight container for 3-5 days.

Recipe courtesy of Sainsburys

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RESTAURANT REVIEW

BEKASH, ROMFORD HaveringLife heads to the award winning Bekash Indian Restaurant in Romford, so see what all the fuss is about

T

he Bekash Indian restaurant – which opened its doors back in 1993 – sits on Victoria Road in Romford, with its exterior decorated in award logos, from an Archant Food & Drink Award, to the highly coveted House of Commons Tiffin Cup Award.

HaveringLife decided to see whether it was worthy of its many crowns, and settled in for a night of cuisine, in the same restaurant 46

FOOD & DRINK

where the likes of Tony Adams, Les Ferdinand and Steve Davis have dined before.

A very warm welcome greeted us, and restaurateur Sulaman Ahmed (Solly) was seen chatting to diners throughout the evening. Despite it being a Wednesday, the restaurant was busy, as it was one of Bekash’s Banquet nights, where patrons can enjoy four

and seasoned with delicious herbs and spices.

Chicken tikka came moist and full of flavour, bombay potatoes were soft and perfectly cooked, and nan breads courses and a papadom came up hot and for just £12.95. garlicky.

After the decisions The service were made, the food throughout the night arrived and we were was second to none and not disappointed. All we agreed that yes, it is of the dishes were worth the hype and clearly made from the more so, well worth a freshest ingredients, second visit.

Bekash, 20 Victoria “All of the dishes were clearly made from Road, Romford RM1 the freshest ingredients, and seasoned 2LA. 01708 737841. with delicious herbs and spices” www.bekashromford.co.uk

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REGULARS: PETS CORNER

o t g n i d r o c c a The world

COCO & MAX

HaveringLife’s resident sausage dogs keep their paws on the pulse, bringing you doggie facts, best buys and their top tweet

MAX

I

COCO

t has been a bit of a manic couple of months for us recently, involving lots of visits to the vets. Poor Max had a spinal injury, causing his back legs to be paralysed – very common in us sausages. After being rushed to the vets, then the doggy hospital, he was home after surgery for a boring month of being confined to a crate or buggy. Then it happened again, much worse! He’s now home recuperating with love and physiotherapy, in the hope he will walk again soon.

FoxHunter Pet Stroller, £41.99, www.amazon.co.uk

DOGGIE FACT The wetn e dog’s nose ss of a is essentia l for determ ining wha t direction a smell is coming fr om

TOP TWEET: @DDWalks It is much easier for dogs to learn spoken commands if they are given in conjunction with hand signals or gestures.

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Email sales@drathmore.co.uk www.drathmore.co.uk

REGULARS: INTERIORS

Inspirational

INTERIORS Decorate your home this winter with modern cushions and stunning finishing touches

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REGULARS: INTERIORS

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9 10

1. Stag cream wallpaper by Arthouse, £7.99, The Range, Romford 2. Faux silk table runner in mulberry, £3.49, The Range, Romford 3. Winter owl cushion, £12, Next, Romford 4. Willow wreath with glitter stars, £7.49, The Range, Romford 5. Christmas stag ornament, £18.99, The Range, Romford 6. Candle in apple and cinnamon, £1, Poundland, Romford 7. Gold taffeta check cushion, £16, Next, Romford 8. Christmas hessian bird single tree decoration, £3, Matalan, Romford 9. Set of three silver glitter butterfly clip decorations, £5, Debenhams, Romford 10. Image by Matalan 53

Vacation to‌

DUBAI

HaveringLife jets off to Dubai in the UAE for a spot of luxury living

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D

ubai is a place full of luxury and excess, home to the Burj Al Arab frequently described as the world’s only seven-Star hotel and Burj Khalifa (Khalifa Tower, known as Burj Dubai), the world’s tallest building, standing at 829.8m.

The tower contributes

to Dubai having the world’s tallest skyline.

Dubai continues to grow as more and more people visit. In the last ten years, the capacity of Dubai International Airport has increased from 21 million to 75 million passengers.

There is a fabulous range of hotels to stay in, many being five star

“The Burj Al Arab is frequently described as the world’s only seven-Star hotel and Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest building, standing at 829.8m” 56

– and several with their own unique features, such as the previously mentioned Burj Al Arab, shaped like a sail, and the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, which has a wave-like structure.

The Mina A’ Salam (meaning ‘Harbour of Peace’) is a five star

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boutique hotel, located within the Madinat Jumeirah (which also houses the Al Qasr, Dar Al Masyaf, Malakiya Villas, a huge range of restaurants and the Talise spa). The resort has been open for around ten years and is situated right on the shores of the Arabian Gulf. The various parts are connected by 3km of waterways and landscaped gardens, and residents can get around using golf buggies on land, or on the water, a small boat called an Abra. In the last year, around 3.3 million guests have travelled in this way.

The private beach is a wonderful way to relax and soak up the sunshine, with luxury loungers available and

plenty of places to stop for a cool drink.

The resort also houses a large souk – a market, selling all manner of gold jewellery and exotic homewares, gifts and clothes.

However, for those wishing to shop until they drop, there is the Dubai Mall – the

largest retail centre in the world. In 2013 alone, approximately 75 million people visited the popular shopping destination.

Mall of the Emirates is another great place to shop, and this mall even includes Ski Dubai – the first indoor ski slope, a bizarre way to enjoy the

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“Mall of the Emirates even includes Ski Dubai – the first indoor ski slope” snow, in the middle of the desert!

For those with children – or even just big kids themselves – the Wild Wadi Waterpark is located right near the Madinat Jumeirah, and guests can take a golf buggy there for free.

Temperatures in Dubai are high all year, from around the

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low twenties from December to February, to the high thirties in the height of summer, so the waterpark is an ideal way to cool down.

The park has the best range of rides in the UAE including the incredible Tantrum Alley and Burj Surj.

The Wipeout and Riptide Flowriders are great for aspiring

surfers. The Wipeout Flowrider is one of only four similar rides in the world, and was devised by the maverick American lawyer and surf fanatic Thomas Lochtefeld. It shoots out more than seven tonnes of water per second in a thin sheet across a moulded foam structure, producing a realistic wave effect, ideal for body-boarding and knee-boarding.

When the day is

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done and it is time to wind down, Madinat Jumeirah has over 40 restaurants and bars to choose from.

These range from MJ’s Steakhouse which is perfect for meat lovers, to Tortuga offering Mexican cuisine, and Zheng He’s, a five star Chinese restaurant.

As it stays warm even at night, it’s a pleasure to take a moonlit stroll around the resort where the twinkling lights

reflect upon the waterways. After exhaustion hits, slip into the most comfortable bed you have ever

experienced, to fall into a deep sleep, before you awake afresh, ready to do it all over again the next day.

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MINI-BREAK

Strasbourg

HaveringLife enjoys a weekend in France’s beautiful city, Strasbourg – plus home of the European Parliament

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WHERE TO STAY The Best Western Monopole Métropole is ideal – not only is it a short walk from the main train station with direct links to the airport, but also is located right by the undercover shopping centre, and is ten minutes walk into the centre of Strasbourg.

There are several bars and restaurants in the immediate vicinity. www.bestwestern.fr

de Strasbourg or the Musee Alsacien.

For those who like to shop, there is plenty of opportunity, from big brands to smaller independent shops.

Visit the park for a walk amongst the flowers, or venture further out to spend time at the Bains Municipaux where you can swim in stunning surroundings. www.musees.strasbourg.eu.

who enjoy duck, as the restaurant serves tender duck breast adorned with a berry jus. There are many cake shops and bakeries selling all manner of decorative desserts and breads. www.schnockeloch.fr

FURTHER AFIELD Strasbourg is located very close to the German border, making it easy to travel there for a few FOOD & DRINK hours. You can reach For a beautiful setting, the German town of SEE THE SIGHTS head to Petite France Offenburg within half Strasbourg is very where you can wander an hour on the train, pretty, with a river amongst the waterways. direct from Strasbourg. circling the main La Table du Gayot streets. Take a walk has plenty of outdoor GETTING THERE along the river, or cross seating for when the Easyjet flies to it using one of the weather is warm, and Strasbourg in just over many bridges decorated serves fabulous French an hour from Gatwick, with beautiful flowers. food at affordable for around £70 per For culture, visit the prices. Schnockeloch person.

Cathedrale Notre Dame is perfect for those www.easyjet.com 61

THE DIRECTORY

Where to find all the lovely things featured in this issue…

shopping HORNCHURCH Argos 0845 165 7274 84-86 High Street, RM12 4UH www.argos.co.uk

ROMFORD Debenhams 0844 561 6161 Market Place, RM1 3ET www.debenhams.com Dorothy Perkins 760348 17 Stewards Walk, RM1 3RJ www.dorothyperkins.com Matalan 0845 330 3330 117 North Street, RM1 1ES www.matalan.co.uk Tesco 0345 6779589 Bryant Avenue, RM3 0LL www.tesco.com THE BREWERY, ROMFORD Hobbycraft 0845 051 6545 www.hobbycraft.co.uk The Range 771790 www.therange.co.uk T K Maxx 761978 www.tkmaxx.com

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THE LIBERTY, ROMFORD Accessorize 747337 www.accessorize.com BHS 0844 4885127 www.bhs.co.uk H&M 0844 736 9000 www.hm.com H. Samuel 746807 www.hsamuel.co.uk Monsoon 747337 uk.monsoon.co.uk New Look 760637 www.newlook.com Next 0844 844 5235 www.next.co.uk Pandora 607464 www.pandora.net The Body Shop 757990 www.thebodyshop.co.uk Thorntons 746428 www.thorntons.co.uk Superdry 760588 www.superdry.com THE MALL, ROMFORD ASDA 388700 www.asda.com Poundland 762651 www.poundland.co.uk Wilkinson 738132 www.wilkinsonplus.com

UPMINSTER Aldi 0800 042 0800 119-129 St Mary’s Lane, RM14 2QB www.aldi.co.uk Boots 222880 57-59 Corbets Tey Road, RM14 2AJ www.boots.com M&Co 251280 57 Station Road, RM14 2SU www.mandco.com Superdrug 220303 Corbets Tey Road, RM14 2AT www.superdrug.com Waitrose 224444 218 St Mary’s Lane, RM14 3BT www.waitrose.com

DIRECTORY

FEATURED PLACES COLLIER ROW

HORNCHURCH

Collier Row Library 434936 45 Collier Row Road, RM5 3NR www.havering.gov.uk

Fairkytes Arts Centre 456308 3 Billet lane, RM11 1AX

ELM PARK Elm park Baptist Church 451567 Rosewood Avenue, RM12 5LD

HAROLD HILL MyPlace 376004 343 Dagnam Park Drive, RM3 9DJ www.myplacesupport.co.uk

HAVERING -ATTE-BOWER Bedford Park 748646 Broxhill Road, RM4 1QH

Hornchurch Library 434903 44 North Street, RM11 1TB www.havering.gov.uk The Queen’s Theatre 443333 Billet Lane, RM11 1QT www.queens-theatre.co.uk

RAINHAM The Chafford School 552811 Lambs Lane South, RM13 9XD www.thechaffordschool.org.uk

North Romford Community Centre 766308 Clockhouse Lane, RM5 3QJ www.nrca.co.uk Romford Central Library 432389 Saint Edwards Way, RM1 3AR www.havering.gov.uk

RISE PARK

UPMINSTER

Havering Road Methodist Church 732496 Moray Way, RM1 4YD www.haveringroadmethodist church.yolasite.com

Hall Mead School 225684 Marlborough Gardens, RM14 1SF www.hallmeadschool.com

ROMFORD Havering Museum 766571 19-21 High Street, RM1 1JU www.haveringmuseum.org.uk

Upminster Library 434933 Corbets Tey Road, RM14 2BB www.havering.gov.uk Upminster Methodist Church 222278 Hall Lane, RM14 1TT

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