Haveringlife Magazine Spring 2015

MAGAZINE SPRING 2015

Creative

ROMFORD

HaveringLife investigates the creative happenings at The Quadrant Arcade

Call of Nature

As the Essex Wildlife Trust’s new centre emerges, HaveringLife finds out what it means for visitors to Hornchurch Country Park

welcome

Hello and welcome to the spring 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 we sit down with Becky Gibson to discover what’s happening over at Hornchurch Country Park and learn how the new centre being built will benefit all types of visitors to the park HaveringLife also speaks to Sarah Walters of Romford Contemporary Arts Programme who tells us all about how The Quadrant in Romford has had a vibrant and exciting creative makeover.

We get you ready for Easter with plenty of ideas on our food pages, review a meal out at Tarantino in Hornchurch, and in sprucing up home interiors – bring inspiration from pretty floral motifs 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: Paul Wade, Becky Gibson, Sarah Walters, Charlotte Trower, Lauren Martin and Peter Barrett 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 | Call of Nature

HaveringLife speaks to Becky Gibson about the new centre being built at Hornchurch Country Park, and the benefits it will bring to those visiting the park 36 | Creative Romford

Sarah Walters talks to us about Romford Contemporary Arts Programme, and how it is transforming the once forgotten Quadrant Arcade in Romford with an injection of creativity FASHION & BEAUTY 27 | Style Selection

Spring fashion for everyone from local retailers, including our pick of the top three bags for him and her, plus pretty jewellery to glam up an outfit 34 | Beauty

Can you eat yourself beautiful? HaveringLife thinks so – we put together our favourite superfoods, whether you’re looking for shiny hair, sparkling eyes or just to look a little younger 4

contents

FOOD & DRINK 48 | Chef’s Corner

Get ready for Easter with our top foodie treats, or ditch the chocolate and stay healthy – read the delicious smoothie recipe 50 | Restaurant Review

HaveringLife heads to local restaurant Tarantino in Hornchurch for some authentic Italian cuisine REGULARS 15 | Events

A huge selection of events for spring and beyond, from theatre and music, to kids’ craft and cookery 24 | Snapshot

We showcase a very interesting and beautiful image of Upminster Windmill, by Peter Barrett 53 | Pets Corner HaveringLife’s resident sausage dogs Coco and Max share their news, favourite shopping buys and top tweet 55 | Interiors

This issue we are inspired by spring and all things floral, from beautiful cushions, to bedding and finishing touches TRAVEL 58 | Vacation To… …Majorca. HaveringLife visits the Balearic island for some cave exploration, relaxing by the pool and delicious food 64 | Mini Break

We jump on a train to spend a lovely weekend in the historic city of Bath, with shopping and sightseeing on the agenda, as well some relaxing time at the Thermae Bath Spa 5

Call of NATURE HaveringLife catches up with Becky Gibson, Ingrebourne Development Manager, to learn about the exciting work taking place at Hornchurch Country Park

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f you regularly visit Hornchurch Country Park, you will have noticed some changes happening

CGI: Tim Ronalds Architects

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recently. Behind all the scaffolding, a brand new visitor’s centre is emerging. It will overlook the fantastic

marshland and reed beds of the River Ingrebourne, affording visitors wonderful views. The project is a

FEATURE

partnership between the Essex Wildlife Trust and Havering Council, and is due for completion later in the year, with the main funders being Veolia North Thames Trust, Heritage Lottery Fund, City Bridge Trust and UK Power Networks.

The Essex Wildlife Trust is the county’s leading conservation charity. It has more than 33,000 members, and manages and protects over 8,200 acres of land on 87 nature reserves and two nature parks.

There are currently nine visitor centres

run by the trust, with Ingrebourne Valley becoming its tenth.

The river Ingrebourne runs through the park, which is a Grade I Site of Borough Importance for Nature Conservation. There are 97 hectares of green open space for

visitors to enjoy, and these include a lake and paths for cyclists and dog walkers. The centre will make for a great stop-off for those visiting the park. New facilities will include an observation hall with wildlife and heritage education opportunities

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and activities. Plus, an education room, a café, retail area and toilets. There will also be the opportunity to hire rooms for special events. In addition, a ‘memory booth’ situated in the centre will enable visitors to download their memories of this historical site.

John Hall, CEO of Essex Wildlife Trust, comments “This very 8

exciting project will deliver facilities that the local community has wanted in Hornchurch Country Park for a very long time. The visitor centre will reflect the park’s important wildlife and heritage and will enable all generations to understand and appreciate the great value of this wonderful site.”

Becky Gibson is the Ingrebourne

Development Manager, checking on the site’s progress and planning for the opening of the centre. She explains that the new building will bring many benefits to the park’s yearly 150,000 visitors. “It will provide a great place

FEATURE

for people to go and meet, spending time taking in the view from the café and enjoying the atmosphere,” she says. There will be information on display about the location, plus many events planned, like those taking place at Bedfords Park in Havering-Atte-Bower (which already has a visitor’s centre run by the Trust).

“There will be a wide variety of events taking place all year round – many following on from the success of our other centres, but lots of new events to look forward to too,” explains Becky.

These include

“There will be a range of adult courses, guided walks and talks interpreting the natural and military heritage, plus family events, children’s clubs and activities, buggy walks and dog shows” activities such as birdwatching, pond dipping and craft workshops. Ideal for the children, but also plenty going on for adults. “There will be a range of adult courses,

guided walks and talks interpreting the natural and military heritage, plus family events, children’s clubs and activities, buggy walks and dog shows.”

The centre will also

CGI: Tim Ronalds Architects

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be great for visiting schools, as there will be an education programme in place, plus information and historic artefacts displayed in the centre, since the location has an important place in local history.

The park is the former site of Sutton’s Farm airfield, which later became RAF Hornchurch – an airfield that played a famous and vital role in the defence of London in the First and Second World

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Wars. Biplanes of the Royal Flying Corps took off from the airfield to defend London in World War One; Lieutenant Leefe-Robinson received the Victoria Cross after he brought down the first Zeppelin that was terrorising London, after taking off from the airfield.

Today, history hunters can seek out a number of pillboxes and other items dating from the Second World War which can be found in the park. Following

FEATURE

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Image: John Pringle

“Those who visit to simply enjoy wildlife are in for a treat, as the park is also an important area for several species of butterfly and dragonfly, as well as numerous birds” a period of gravel extraction and infilling with rubbish in the 1970s, the airfield was extensively landscaped to create Hornchurch Country Park, with work commencing in 1980. The old airfield is said to be haunted and was the subject of a paranormal investigation in 2004, so ghost hunters will 12

have to look out for latenight events at the park!

Those who visit to simply enjoy wildlife are in for a treat, as the park is also home to several species of butterfly and dragonfly, as well as numerous birds – among them Redshank, Lapwing, Kingfisher, Bittern, Bearded Tit and Cetti’s Warbler. The new centre will have

panoramic views over the Ingrebourne Valley and its wildlife, and overlooks the largest continuous freshwater reedbed in Greater London – meaning other wildlife, including the Water Vole, can also be seen.

Whether you are interested in local history, keeping the children entertained with activities on offer, exercising the dog or simply going for walks and enjoying the borough’s extensive wildlife, Ingrebourne Valley’s visitors centre will enhance your experience, bringing with it the opportunity to meet with friends over a cup of tea and cake, a place to relax and admire the landscape whilst you rest your

FEATURE

weary legs, or simply somewhere to shelter from an unexpected downpour!

Essex Wildlife Trust relies on volunteers, and is looking to recruit more to support the small staff team at Ingrebourne, to run the centre and its activities.

There will be a range of important roles available, all key to the running of what will be a busy and thriving visitor centre. If you would like to find out more, or you are an organisation or community group interested in using the centre when it is open, contact Becky Gibson on 07742 512610, or email her at beckyg@ essexwt.org.uk. www.essexwt.org.uk/ reserves/ingrebourne

CGI: Tim Ronalds Architects

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

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@HaveringLife

EVENTS

EVENTS DIARY HaveringLife brings you a selection of the season’s finest local events for both kids and adults Paranormal Insight UK

Thursday 19 March, 6.30pm -7.30pm Spend an evening learning all about investigations into the paranormal at local locations. These include Upminster Tithe Barn, Brettons Manor, the Queen’s Theatre and Fairkytes in Hornchurch, and Ingrebourne Valley.

The presentation includes footage of investigations, electronic voice phenomenon, photos and equipment demonstrations. Cost is £3 for library members or £4.50 for non-members.

South Hornchurch Library, Rainham 15

Hornchurch Passion Play

Easter fun day and music concerts

Sunday 22 March, 1pm-5pm The whole family can enjoy this fun afternoon out – there will be a raffle, bake sale, arts and crafts, music workshops and two concerts at 2.30pm and 4.30pm. Admission for the entire day is £5 for adults, and free for under 10’s St Edward’s Church, Market Place, Romford

Victorian Tea Room

Sunday 7 June, 12pm-5pm Head to the Old Chapel in Upminster and find out how Victorian Upminster kept its residents full. Free entry.

The Old Chapel, Upminster 16

Friday 3 April, 7.30pm-8.45pm Celebrate Good Friday by watching The Hornchurch Passion play, which brings to life the last days of Jesus, from his triumphant procession into Jerusalem, to his arrest, crucifixion and rising from the dead. The play is both an excellent piece of drama for all to see, as well as bringing home the events of the Easter story. Free The Green, Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch

EVENTS

One-Pot Cooking Session

Thursday 26 March, 1pm-3pm If you’re over 50 and can’t (or can’t be bothered) to cook, join in with this interactive cooking workshop.

You will learn how to cook a low cost nutritious meal from scratch all in one pot. Then, stay and eat the food you have prepared and cooked.

Romford YMCA, Romford

Talk: Bees are Vital!

Wednesday 25 March, 2pm-5pm Havering Friends of the Earth explains why our bees are suffering and numbers are dropping, plus offers practical advice on what we can do to help – after all, they pollinate 70% of our food crops, so are very important. Entrance is £3.50 for library members or £5 for non-members, and includes a booklet, poster and refreshments.

Romford Central Library

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Bark in the Park Charity Dog Walk

Sunday 10 May, 11am-2pm Get the dog out for some exercise with other pooches and raise money for charity. It’s £5 entry per dog, with all funds raised being donated to the charity Havering Mind. Doggies who walk the 3.5km will receive a certificate and a goody bag of products from Jollyes Pet food Superstores. There will be also be a professional dog photographer present, a number of related stalls, and food and refreshments to refuel afterwards.

Registration from 11am, walk starts at 12pm.

Harrow Lodge Park, Hornchurch

Fairkytes Live: Jazz, Blues and Roots - Mari Wilson

Friday 1 May, 7.30pm-11pm For just £9.50 (£7.50 concessions), spend your Friday night at Fairkyes listening to jazz and blues with ‘the Queen of Neasden Soul’ Mari Wilson as she performs a set of smoky, soulful classics.

Fairkytes Arts Centre, Hornchurch 18

EVENTS

Bon Jovie - The Ultimate Bon Jovi Tribute

Saturday 4 April, 8pm-9pm Rock fans are in for a treat, as Bon Jovie are inarguably one of the world’s most authentic look and sound alike tribute acts to the legendary New Jersey rock band.

All the classics will be performed including Livin’ On A Prayer, Always, Keep The Faith, You Give Love A Bad Name and more.

Tickets £15, book online at www.brooksidetheatre.com.

Brookside Theatre, Romford

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Simply The Best The Tina Turner Tribute Show

Friday 5 June, 8pm-11pm The Brookside Theatre will play host to Julie Nevada for the evening – one of the world’s finest Tina Turner tributes, in her spectacular show, ‘Simply The Best’.

Think energetic stage performances, stunning costumes, powerful vocals, electrifying dance routines and superb musicianship.

Brookside Theatre, Romford

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Upminster Windmill Open DayS

Saturdays and Sundays 4, 5, 18 & 19 April, 2,3,9,10 & 30 May, 6,7,20 & 21 June, 4 & 5 July, 2pm-5pm If you have not visited this iconic structure in Upminster, visiting an open day this summer is a must.

You will explore the mill and learn how flour and animal feed was produced on-site between 1803 and 1934.

Free, but donations very welcome.

The Mill Field, Upminster

EVENTS

RSPB Havering Local Group coach trip

Saturday 25 April, all day If you fancy a daytrip out to learn about nature, this coach trip is ideal. Pick up is 7.30am from Romford town centre, or 7.47am from Harold Park-A12. You’ll visit an area with varied habitats; sea, sand, shingle, pits and grasslands. A great spot for early spring migrants or over-staying vagrant birds. £17 per seat, call 01708 558399 for more information.

Sussex Wildlife Trust, Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, TN31 7TU 21

Fairkytes Arts Centre Open Day

Saturday 13 June, 11am-5pm Creative types should pop into Fairkytes Arts Centre for the open day. There will be arts, crafts, music and entertainment throughout the day and a chance to experience all of the arts centre’s activities which could inspire you to sign up and learn something new this year.

Fairkytes Arts Centre, Hornchurch

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Langtons Summer Concert

Sunday 7 June, 3pm-7pm The cultural highlight of the summer is back at Langtons – the Summer Concert. While away your Sunday afternoon with popular classics performed in the elegant grounds of Langtons House, Hornchurch. Free – bring a picnic and enjoy with friends.

Langtons, Hornchurch

EVENTS

The Original Jukebox Heroes

Friday 20 March, 8pm-11pm Enjoy some music at Brookside Theatre, with The Original Jukebox Heroes – a six piece supergroup featuring an ensemble of world famous musicians from some of the best rock bands of the sensational seventies. Hits will include Blockbuster, Mama Weer All Crazee Now, Massachusetts, Billy Don’t Be A Hero, Coz I Luv You, Cum On Feel The Noize and many, many more. Tickets £20, book online at www.brooksidetheatre. com.

Brookside Theatre, Romford

Sunday Night Live Romford

Sundays 12 April, 3 May, 14 June & 12 July, 5.45pm-7pm Enjoy some free live entertainment with a twist of faith, as this event features top quality artists and inspirational speakers from across the UK. Join a friend for coffee, make some new friends and soak up the atmosphere.

Costa Coffee, The Brewery, Romford

Make an Elsa Crown

Wednesday 1 April, 10.30am-11.30am Frozen fans will love this creative opportunity to make their very own Elsa crown. They can even come dressed as their favourite Frozen character (optional). Suitable for ages 3+. Booking required on 01708 434933 as spaces are limited. £3 Library members or £4.50 for non-members.

Upminster Library 23

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SNAPSHOT

Havering Snapshot

A ‘star trail’ photograph of Upminster Windmill, formed by taking over 120 shots over approx. one hour and then merged or ‘stacking’ them in a photo editing program. The circular pattern is made as the North Star ‘Pole Star’ is stationary in our skies with all the other stars slowly rotating around it.

Photo taken by Peter Barrett (www.digitalcanvas.org.uk)

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Stunning local photography by Peter Barrett Framed Prints • Cards • Aerial Photos • Landscapes and more www.digitalcanvas.org.uk

FASHION

Style selection

For Him

Get ready for spring with our selections for a stylish wardrobe Image: Next, Romford 27

three Top

Rucksacks

1 2 3

1. Contrast montana, £34.99, Superdry, Romford 2. Adidas ClimaCool cycle backpack in navy, £29.99, Argos, Hornchurch 3. D-Struct mens green canvas double buckle backpack, £19.99, Blue Inc, Romford

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Image: The open road printed T-shirt, £12, M&Co. Upminster

FASHION

Ecru check shirt, £28, Next, Romford

Raw denim jeans with stretch, £35, Next, Romford

Chocolate suede ‘Arcade reefer’ trainers, Skechers, £35, Debenhams, Romford

Broadbrim navy hat, £14, BHS, Romford

T-shirt with a print, £7.99, H&M, Romford

Industrialize mens charcoal marl zip up hoody, £19.99, Blue Inc, Romford

Sunglasses, £4, ASDA, Romford

UNDER WRAPS

Spruce up your underwear drawer with our top picks Jeep spirit boxers two pack, £14, M&Co. Upminster

Athletic core boxers, £14.99, Superdry, Romford

2 pack socks, £3.99, H&M, Romford

Versace burgundy designer socks, £14.99, TK Maxx, Romford

4 pack comfort and relax socks, £6, Matalan, Romford

Original Penguin two pack boxer shorts set £12.99, TK Maxx, Romford 29

FASHION

Style selection

For Her

Lighten up with pastel colours to celebrate the arrival of spring Image: M&Co. Upminster 31

three Top

Spacious Bags

1 2 3 1. Bucket bag, £19.99, H&M, Romford 2. Mini alumni rosy denim, £34.99, Superdry, Romford 3. Stone flip lock backpack, £24.99, New Look, Romford

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Image: Black jersey zip pencil skirt, £22, Next, Romford

FASHION

Coral lace scarf, £12, BHS, Romford

Mint bubble hem jersey top, £12, BHS, Romford

Linen belted prom dress, £69, M&Co. Upminster

Linen blend skirt, £20, Next, Romford

Light yellow pixelated floral pumps, Mantaray, £18.50, Debenhams, Romford

Fine-knit jumper, £7.99, H&M, Romford

Loafers, £9.99, H&M, Romford

details, details…

Glam up your outfit with our selection of pretty jewellery Sparkly stone earrings, £6.99, H&M, Romford

Cream pearly and bobble beaded stretch bracelet, £12, Debenhams, Romford

Appleby oval stone ring, £16, Accessorize, Romford Silver multi heart ring, £19.99, H Samuel, Romford

Pavé wishing star charm, £60, Pandora, Romford

Silver multi stone bracelet watch, £19.99, New Look, Romford

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HaveringLife investigates the foods you should be eating to keep you healthy inside, and beautiful outside

Eat yourself

beautiful FOR ANTI-AGING Nobody can turn back time – but there are some foods that could help you stay looking younger for longer.

Sweet potatoes contain beta-catorene which is an antioxidant that helps fight aging. Sweet potato soup, roasties and mash can be added to your

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menu as a variation on traditional spuds. For a double dose, serve with tomatoes, as their antioxidant lycopene has similar advantages.

Blueberries are great too, so add a handful to your yoghurt or cereal.

Keep wrinkles at bay with a dose of spinach which helps fight the

skin’s aging UV rays.

Be sure to still wear sunscreen though.

FOR GLOWING SKIN Great news – chocolate is good for you! Well, in the sense that dark chocolate can help keep skin hydrated and go some way to protecting from sun damage. Be

BEAUTY

And hair and skin also benefit from vitamin C which increases collagen production, found in bell peppers.

FOR HEALTHY EYES Pep up your peepers with carrots! They may not really help you to sure to stick to one with great source of Omega 3 see in the dark – but the beta carotene will help at least 60% cacao and fatty acids - try adding maintain healthy with a high flavanol salmon flakes to your corneas. As well as content (no, a familysalad or use in sushi. being great for antisized bar of Dairy aging, blueberries also Milk doesn’t count).

FOR GREAT HAIR, can help improve vision Keep your skin firm by NAILS AND TEETH and strengthen blood adding kiwis to your Give your nails and diet. They could also teeth plenty of calcium vessels in the back of the help prevent wrinkles, by snacking on low-fat eyes. Add avocado to and are fab for healthy yoghurts. Add fruit for your salads to get a source of lutein which teeth and bones. Stay a healthy breakfast to moisturised and supple start your day. Walnuts helps prevent macular degeneration, cataracts by eating wild salmon, a bring smoother skin, and other age-related healthy hair, brighter eyes, and strong bones. eye diseases.

The zinc found in oysters helps keep nails hair and eyes healthy.

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Romford Creative

HaveringLife takes a walk around the Quadrant Arcade in Romford and spies many exciting changes‌

FEATURE

S

omething’s going on at The Quadrant. The 1930s shopping arcade in Romford town centre has undergone a drastic makeover, all in the name of creativity.

The arcade which runs from South Street to the market is now home to several new shops and updated businesses and plays host to exciting events. This is all down to the work of RCAP: Romford Contemporary

Arts Programme, set up to encourage contemporary creative culture in Romford.

Managing Director Sarah Walters set up RCAP in 2009 with council support, after graduating from Goldsmith University with a BA in Fine Art and Art History. “I decided to return to where I grew up to set up an arts organisation that would benefit the local community,”

she says. We aim to support, nurture, assist, empower and work with those who create contemporary culture in and around Romford.”

RCAP provides advice, opportunities, socially-engaged projects, facilities and a peer network, amongst other benefits – and actively supports entrepreneurship and collaborations.

Their first project was ‘Heart of Dixie’ in 2009, 37

Press Release, 3rd October 2014

Graphic Design students to design 10 vinyls that reflected Romford, and P E R F O R M A N C E these were installed F E S T I V A L around the town in a design trail.

First ever Performance Festival to be held in However, RCAP’s Romford Town Centre work is not just limited to visual arts – music and theatre are also represented. Last year, ‘Pie Eyed Performance Festival’ took place, in Romford Contemporary Arts Programme, The Brewery Romford and The Queens Theatre Hornchurch come together to host Performance Festival featuring The partnership with The Voice star Trevor Francis from 17th October - 8th November 2014.

“21 arts graduates from Goldsmiths University took over an empty shop on the Brewery Shopping High Street to create an art exhibition” Centre and The Queen’s Theatre in Hornchurch.

An empty unit was used where 21 arts graduates and converted it into for a month – filled affordable studios, to from Goldsmiths with a programme of give aspiring artists a University took over comedy, live music, place to work over the an empty shop on the spoken word, theatre space of a year.

High Street to create and dance. Sarah Last year ‘Design an art exhibition and comments, “We provide free workshops Underfoot’ took place, supported high profile to local colleges. A few in collaboration with acts and emerging years later, in the ‘Local Havering College of local talent in a bid to Studios’ project – RCAP Further and Higher bring a new offering to invaded another disused Education. RCAP Romford’s night life.” premises in Harold Hill worked with BA

PIE EYED

Eau de Toilet starring Emily Bee

Gospel Essence starring Gospel Essence Choir

Romford’s first ever Performance Festival will shortly hit The Brewery Shopping Centre, showcasing a variety of acts including live theatre, music, dance, spoken word and comedy. The festival features high profile acts such as The Voice soul singer Trevor Francis, UK Slam Champion Sara Hirsch and the BBC poet Mab Jones as well as emerging local talent such as Rainham based Director Amy Insole and Romford based gospel singer Rebecca Amissah.

Having funded the first ever Pie Eyed Performance Festival, The Brewery’s Centre Manager Tom Stobbart quotes “We are delighted to welcome the Pie Eyed Performance Festival to the Centre. It’s a great opportunity to offer the local community something different and unique to do in the evening. The Brewery Romford is committed to supporting the local community and culture in the area.”

As part of the vision for the project, Pie Eyed Performance Festival attracts both national and local acts, providing a true mixture of entertainment. Amy Insole, a local Director who is featured as part of the programme said “I think Pie Eyed Festival will be a great champion to local artists. Being a local theatre maker means that I can present my work to my community, for my community and is a great opportunity for Romford to see some new and exciting theatre. I hope this innovation within the creative industry in Havering continues and attracts more local theatre makers like myself!”

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FOODFEATURE & DRINK

FOCUS ON… the vault Lauren Martin, 29, from Hornchurch, owns vintage boutique The Vault I’ve always had an interest in alternative learning. With my fashion PR background, fashion was an obvious choice and vintage even more so, as there isn’t anything like it in the area. Now young people can work here and get shop experience but I also teach them graphic design, creative writing, event management and marketing, meaning that they build their CVs and experience.

RCAP’s support has been amazing and to be working side by side with people that have the same creative outlook is very inspiring.

For Arcade Remade, I worked with local colleges including Havering

Sixth Form, Havering College and Redbridge College. I set the students the task of creating a photo shoot for The Vault. It was an amazing project to be part of and the young adults involved were so enthusiastic – a couple have now become part of The Vault team and will continue to work with me on photo shoots, events etc.

I believe we are part of a community which means when things get a bit tough we have a sound board and can all club together to push forward new ideas. It’s made me realise just how important community and creativity are and how much they inspire people.

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FOCUS ON… workshop Charlotte Trower, 29 from Hornchurch, opened Workshop in November We wanted to provide a space to buy and sell affordable artwork, so people could buy real art by real people – things that are a bit different and not mass produced.

We also are in the process of becoming a coffee shop, where we will start organising a range of creative events.

For the Arcade Remade project, we had a group of students who developed our ethos and implemented it into our product labelling and signage in the shop.

The students from the project established a connection with 40

Hobbycraft, who donated hampers to us for our monthly raffles, and are in the process of donating materials that they can no longer sell.

Since the project, we have gained more interest in the shop – some of the students continue to volunteer and have a creative input. We also offered one girl an internship.

We will carry on developing the shop and put on more public events as they seem to encourage people inside, such as contemporary dance and theatre events, poetry, spoken word and comedy – interesting and different things that aren’t usually happening in Romford.

FEATURE

This latest project at the Quadrant – aptly called ‘Arcade Remade’, brings a huge range of artistic talents together.

RCAP have occupied the shopping arcade for a year, transforming it into the new creative hub of the town.

Students from local colleges have teamed up with nine independent businesses within the arcade to make big changes. Seahorse Fish Bar transformed into Vicky’s Chippy after a complete rebrand of

the business, including brand new front and interior signage.

Travel Right, Meat Express and Wright Jewels also were rebranded by the students and had new signage made up. At the newly launched Synergy Media there was also curation of student exhibition which took place inside the shop.

Workshop is a non

profit shop within the Quadrant that is currently partnering with RCAP, Havering College, Havering Sixth Form and Redbridge College.

Owner Charlotte Trower comments: “Artists, students and graduates when coming out of education, find themselves not knowing what they can do with their work, as the arts

“This latest project at the Quadrant – aptly called Arcade Remade, brings a huge range of artistic talents together”

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studios, and at Extreme Nutrition there was development of a female arm of the current brand, which led to updated interior signage and window displays.

The Vault also took part in Arcade Remade.

The new vintage clothing store is the brainchild of Lauren Martin who cited her interest in learning as the main catalyst for throughout, and created setting up the store: “I’ve is so competitive.� The partnerships with other always had an interest shop supports these in alternative learning. young people, and sells local businesses.

Not everyone learns the work of students and At AmisStar Vocal the same way and I graduates to give them a Studios there was the helping hand. Workshop creation of new youtube always thought that the channel and short films education system can also benefitted sometimes fail those made to promote the from new signage 42

FEATURE

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that don’t learn as well in the typical classroom environment. Having worked as a Senior Account Director in Fashion PR for eight years I could see ways in which those skills (budgeting, creative writing, public speaking etc) were transferable in encouraging young adults back into learning.”

She started working with Havering Council running

clothing customisation workshops, culminating in a fashion show. “The young adults were in charge of budgeting for the event, writing the press release and making the poster – with my guidance they were practising English, Maths and Design without even realising. From that, I started thinking about how I could do it independently, and the idea of The Vault was

“With my guidance they were practising English, Maths and Design without even realising” 44

born.” The shop now not only sells fabulous vintage outfits and accessories, but also offers a place where young people can learn new skills and improve the community in which they live.

At the ‘Arcade Remade’ opening party earlier this year, the new work was on display throughout the Quadrant and visitors were treated to an art auction, live music, bar, strong man show, art raffle, vintage fashion make over and photo

FEATURE

shoot amongst other things. Sarah comments, “It was an amazing evening to celebrate all the students’ hard work and the new business developments. The original 1950’s photo of the arcade has been such a huge inspiration for us.”

So what’s next? Well for the moment, RCAP are focusing on The Quadrant project, and really putting the arcade on the map as a place for creativity and entrepreneurship within Romford. Funding bids are out there for exciting new projects, so who knows where they will strike again… one thing’s for sure – Romford has never been a more exciting place to live, work and shop. www.wearercap.co.uk 45

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FOOD & DRINK

HaveringLife

FEASTING

HaveringLife looks forward to Easter with all the delicious foodie treats it brings – plus we review Tarantino in Hornchurch Image: The Easter Collection, £35, order online at www.hotelchocolat.com

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Bacon chops, £1.49 each, Aldi, Upminster

Chef’s corner

HaveringLife brings you a refreshing smoothie recipe, delicious Easter treats and more

Get creative

Head to Hobbycraft for hampers and baskets to fill with goodies this Easter Rabbit mini straw basket in pink, £1 White-washed willow wicker hamper 36cm, £10

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Easter mini felt bunny bucket, £1

Easter chick felt bag, £2

All available at Hobbycraft, Romford

FOOD & DRINK

FRUITY FIX

Turkish delights, £1.59, Aldi, Upminster

California Smoothie

Harry Hopalot Easter lolly, 95p, Thorntons, Romford

Waitrose richly fruited mini hot cross buns, £1.59, Waitrose, Upminster Lindt chocolate hen, £1.49, Waitrose, Upminster Eggbert the Easter bunny, £2.50, Tesco, Romford Champagne Charles Mignon ‘Hymne, £32, Marks and Spencer, Romford

Marcel Wanders Oudinot champagne, £40, Marks and Spencer, Romford

Lindt Lindor milk chocolate egg with truffle, £9, ASDA, Romford

INGREDIENTS • ½ Pineapple, peeled, and woody stalk removed • 400g Strawberries, hulled • 200g Green Grapes • 6 x Kiwis, peeled • 275ml Del Rivo Orange Juice with bits METHOD 1. Chop the pineapple into chunks and put into the food processor along with the rest of the fruit and juice.

2. Process for 2-3 minutes till smooth.

3. Sieve the juice too if you prefer a smoother drink.

Recipe courtesy of Aldi

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R E S TAU R A N T R E V IE W

tarantino, hornchurch HaveringLife enjoys a taste of Italy at Tarantino’s

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ith Pizza Express, Ask, Prezzo and Zizzi in the centre, Hornchurch is not short of Italian restaurants. However, there is definitely something to be said for dining in smaller chains and independent restaurants.

There are just two Tarantino restaurants (the other is in Brentwood), and after a fire in 2010 closed the Hornchurch branch for a year, it is back open serving fabulous food once again.

The homely dining area is covered in pretty murals depicting 50

FOOD & DRINK

left for dessert so a return visit must occur in the near future since they all looked very tempting.

Last year, Tarantino Hornchurch won a Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence and it is easy to see why. Great service and fantastic food in a perfect location.

Tarantino Hornchurch 51 High Street, Hornchurch, RM11 1TP. “This comes bursting with flavour – chicken breast pan fried and topped with 01708 504030. www. tarantinohornchurch.co.uk ham, cheese and tomato sauce”

scenes of Italy. We are welcomed to our table and presented with menus. There is a good selection to choose from – alongside the obligatory pizza and pasta are risottos, ovenbaked dishes, salads, meat and fish plates.

Calamari arrive first, fresh and crispy with a delicious homemade tartare dip. After much deliberation, the ‘Pollo

Valdostana’ is chosen for main. This comes bursting with flavour – chicken breast pan fried and topped with ham, cheese and tomato sauce with delicious sautéed potatoes and vegetables of the day.

The pizzas also look fantastic, straight out of the pizza oven and loaded generously with all kinds of toppings.

Alas, there is no room

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TRAVEL

HaveringLife needs you!

Can you write? Get in touch if you would like to submit an article idea for HaveringLife magazine, or if you are interested in being interviewed for a story you have to tell about the local area. Or perhaps you have some fascinating Havering photographs or stories?

If you would like to contribute, or have any feedback about the magazine, please get in touch via email at hello@haveringlife.co.uk or you can follow us on twitter and send a message @HaveringLife.

Follow on Twitter @HaveringLife

Search HaveringLife

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

M

COCO

ax has been working hard at trying to learn to walk again after his two back operations. Mum bought him a life jacket so that he can have hydrotherapy in the bath, which is actually quite fun! He has also been having physiotherapy and little walks around the block to strengthen his bad leg.

We love wearing our winter coats, but really the pair of us can’t wait for summer so we can have nice walks outside without getting wet paws, which we HATE!

Sourcingmap dog apparel swimming saver life jacket vest, small in orange, £11.98, www.amazon.co.uk

DOGGIE FACT Spiked do g collars were inve nted in an cient Greece an d were ori ginally designed to p dog’s thro rotect ats from wolf attac ks

TOP TWEET: @dogtips4u Pets might lower your heart disease risk. They’re happy to see you when you get home…and make you get up from the couch to take a walk.

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01708 755667 Interior Blinds: Roller | Vertical | Venetian Pleated | Pleated Skylights Roman Panel | Perfect Fit | Cassetted Roller | Roller Skylights Exterior Blinds: Dutch | Wetlook | Foldaway | Domestic units recovered Other Products: Garage shutter doors | Continental Shutters | Fly Screens Wind Breaker Blinds | Trellis Gates | Burglar Bars

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

INTERIORS

Inspirational

INTERIORS

Be inspired by beautiful flowers this issue with our top floral picks for your home

Image: Sketchy floral printed bedding set, from ÂŁ25, BHS, Romford

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INTERIORS

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1. Pink vintage floral brushed cotton bedding set, from £30, BHS, Romford 2. Vintage large floral hanging heart hand crafted, £12, Next, Romford 3. Single stem Dahlia in red, £1, Wilkinson, Romford 4. Pink floral hanging butterfly, £1, Primark, Romford 5. Rose print cushion, £19, M&Co. Upminster 6. Glittered flower candle, £4.99, The Range, Romford 7. Set of four green photographic coasters, £7.50, Debenhams, Romford 8. Grey metal flower oval mirror, £25, BHS, Romford 9. Studio collection ‘Botanical teal flower I’ framed print by Zeo Blakeway, £30, BHS, Romford 10. Flower tree lamp £20, Next, Romford 11. Daisy Seagrass pot, £4, Wilkinson, Romford 12. Tesco meadow flower dinner plate, £4, Tesco, Romford 13. China blossom Flower Pharm cereal bowl, £5, Tesco, Romford 57

Vacation to‌

MAJORCA

HaveringLife soaks up the sun and explores the island of Majorca

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TRAVEL

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Aparthotel Elisa

Paguera Rural Village and Cala Fornells

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long with Formentera, Ibiza and Menorca, Majorca is one of the Balearic Islands and its capital Palma, is home to one of the busiest airports in Spain. With temperatures in the summer ranging from around 26-30, visitors to the island can enjoy

Aparthotel Elisa

plenty of sunshine.

Playa de Muro is an ideal place to stay – an upmarket and secluded resort situated almost midway between Alcudia and C’an Picafort resorts, on the northern coast of the island. Just a stone’s throw away from the beach is the Aparthotel Elisa. The complex is

“With temperatures in the summer ranging from around 26-30, visitors to the island can enjoy plenty of sunshine” 60

Aparthotel Elisa

TRAVEL

right by the Natural Parc S’Albufera, and of course has an outdoor pool, sun terraces and gardens to relax in. There is also a games room with a pool table, bar and restaurant on site. Those wishing to venture out for dinner do not have to go far for a fantastic meal, since (at time of writing) the number one rated restaurant in the area is situated just across the road.

Las Palermas has

welcoming and friendly staff and the restaurant itself serves up steaks, pizzas, barbecued meats and more. In high season there is live entertainment, and with a large outdoor area, is great for sitting out with a cocktail enjoying the last of the day’s rays.

You will find homemade aioli (garlic mayonnaise) served with bread at most restaurants, and there are plenty of places to enjoy the obligatory tapas and sangria.

The resort of Playa

de Muro is quite family orientated and is more of a beach resort than one for nightlife – but it does benefit from several good restaurants, only a short walk from the accommodation. It is also well worth hiring a car to explore the island since there are many other towns and attractions to visit.

Palma is the capital, where almost half of the total population of Majorca live. A bustling city with an abundance of shops and venues

Cala d’ Or

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Cuevas Del Drach (Dragon Caves), a great example of the fascinating stalactite and stalagmite formations.

They were initially explored in 1880 and today, guided tours are given to visitors. There is a lake within the

Valdemossa

“On the east coast of the island are the Cuevas Del Drach (Dragon Caves), a great example of the fascinating stalactite and stalagmite formations” world go by. The Arab quarter is comprised of narrow streets hiding interesting museums, palaces and courtyards.

Behind this area is the Palma Town Hall, a wonderful gothic for arts and culture, it is great place to visit by building. Palma also has day – or by night, with an aquarium on Carrer Manuela de los its many restaurants offering up cuisine from Herreros i Sorà.

On the east coast all over the world, and bars to sit and watch the of the island are the Cala Figuera

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caves, with musicians in boats giving a short live performance – along with the light display, this makes for a magical experience. Other locations on the island with similar caves are the Coves Des Hams in Porto Cristo and the Coves De Campanet in the north west of Majorca.

For those who just

TRAVEL

want to relax on the beach with a good book, there are plenty to choose from in Majorca. Alcudia Beach is a stunning white sand beach just a short drive from Playa De Muro. It has shallow turquoise waters so is ideal for families with small children. There is also the opportunity to take a boat tour from the beach, or indulge in some watersports.

On the east coast is Calla Barca Beach for snorkelers, while in the south west is Cala Portals Vells, a remote natural beach.

For those who enjoy being immersed in nature, a visit to S’Albufera National Park the perfect end to a busy day of sightseeing. Right by the Elisa, this is the

largest and most important wetland area in the Balearics. The Natural Park affords protection to some 1,708 hectares of marshes and dunes. It is

home to numerous species of dragonflies, fungi, fish and plants.

The serene atmosphere is perfect for taking a quiet stroll before dinner.

The Dragon Caves

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M ini - brea k

Bath

HaveringLife hops on the train for a relaxing weekend in the historical city of Bath, just a couple of hours away

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TRAVEL

Where to stay Bay Tree House bed and breakfast is a perfect little guest house situated around ten minutes walk from town. It has just five rooms, providing the personal touch, super comfy beds and a delicious breakfast. www.baytreehousebath. co.uk Shopping Historical Bath has lovely architecture – in fact the city has been designated a World Heritage site. There are plenty of shops to visit, including many independent retailers selling unusual items.

You can seek out the several markets including the monthly Bath Artisan market, held every second

Sunday 10am-4pm and the covered Guildhall market – the oldest shopping venue in the city which has traded for the last 800 years.

Food & Drink Afternoon tea is a tradition upheld by the city of Bath where you can easily find somewhere to relax and indulge. As well as the usual restaurant chains, Bath is home to the Green Park Brasserie & Bar located in an old railway station, and fine dining at the Michelinstarred Bath Priory Hotel, Restaurant & Spa or The Park Restaurant at Lucknam Park Hotel. www.greenpark brasserie.com www.thebathpriory. co.uk; www. lucknampark.co.uk

see the sights Visit the famous Royal Crescent to admire the stunning architecture of the 30 terraced houses laid out in a sweeping crescent – built between 1767 and 1774. And a visit to Bath would not be complete without taking a tour of the historical Roman Baths.

Visit the Thermae Bath Spa to indulge in some pampering and relaxation time in the many pools, as the Romans did over 2000 years ago. www.romanbaths.co.uk www.thermaebathspa. com Getting there Trains run direct to Bath Spa from London Paddington and take around an hour and a half.

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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 Matalan 0845 330 3330 117 North Street, RM1 1ES www.matalan.co.uk Tesco 0345 6779589 Bryant Avenue, RM3 0LL www.tesco.com

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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 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 New Look 760637 www.newlook.com Marks and Spencer 766424 www.marksandspencer.com Next 0844 844 5235 www.next.co.uk Pandora 607464 www.pandora.net Primark 721187 www.primark.com Thorntons 746428 www.thorntons.co.uk Superdry 760588 www.superdry.com

THE MALL, romford Blue Inc. 752847 www.blueinc.co.uk ASDA 388700 www.asda.com Wilkinson 738132 www.wilkinsonplus.com

UPMINSTER Aldi 0800 042 0800 119-129 St Mary’s Lane, RM14 2QB www.aldi.co.uk M&Co 251280 57 Station Road, RM14 2SU www.mandco.com Waitrose 224444 218 St Mary’s Lane, RM14 3BT www.waitrose.com

DIRECTORY

FEATURED PLACES HORNCHURCH

ROMFORD

UPMINSTER

Fairkytes Arts Centre 456308 3 Billet Lane, RM11 1AX www.havering.gov.uk

Costa Coffee 740623 Pavillion 1, The Brewery, RM1 1AU www.costa.co.uk

Upminster Library 434933 Corbets Tey Road, RM14 2BB www.havering.gov.uk

Langtons 433523 Billet Lane, RM11 1XJ www.langtonshouse.co.uk The Queen’s Theatre 443333 Billet Lane, RM11 1QT www.queens-theatre.co.uk

Rainham South Hornchurch Library 434921 Rainham Road, RM13 7RD www.havering.gov.uk

Brookside Theatre 755775 21a Eastern Road, RM1 3NH www.brooksidetheatre.com Romford Central Library 432389 Saint Edwards Way, RM1 3AR www.havering.gov.uk

The Old Chapel 222660 Sacred Heart of Mary Girls’ School, St Mary’s Lane RM14 2QR www.theoldchapelupminster.co.uk

Romford YMCA 766211 Rush Green Road, RM7 0PH www.romfordymca.org St Edwards Church 744973 Market Place, RM1 3AB www.stedwardsromford.org

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