The City Times - Apr/May 2024

Chelmsford, Hatfield Peverel, Danbury, Great Baddow, Maldon, South Woodham Ferrers, Stock, Ongar, The Walthams, Ingatestone & Dengie area

City Times Intro

Hello readers,

Welcome to The City Times April/May edition.

Spring has certainly sprung; the parks are getting more colourful each day and the City Council staff certainly put great thought and effort into the planting of our green spaces each year...

Please remember our free events listings - if you have a regular event or a one-off event in the area between 16th May and 16th June then please send your info to editorial@itsyourmedia.co.uk.

Please also remember to tell our advertisers that you saw their advert in The City Times, as it really helps both them and us to know that their adverts are working.

Paul & Nick

www.thecitytimes.co.uk

Advertising

Nick Garner 07970 206682 ads@itsyourmedia.co.uk

Editorial

Paul Mclean 07595 949701

editorial@itsyourmedia.co.uk

Your Media Ltd

Disclaimer: It’s Your Media Ltd publish The City Times. The opinion expressed in each article is the opinion of its author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of It’s Your Media Ltd. No part may be reproduced without the prior written permission of It’s Your Media Ltd. Registered offices: 15 Hayes Close, Chelmsford. Reg No 9154871. Printed by Warners (Midlands) PLC.

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Nick’s Music and Ramblings

Easter has come and gone already and as ever the year is flying by. The clocks have gone forward as well so spring is here and we can hopefully start to have even more fun.

I have been out-out, but as usual it has been mainly for music. I have been to Southminster, Ipswich, Southend, London and Greenwich and they have all been worthwhile trips - more about some of them later in this article.

I have been to my doctors for a diabetes blood test and am just waiting on the results now, although I have fought it off for many years - but to get to 70 without it is no mean achievement as both of my brothers are Type One. If I do have it I will continue to fight it, as I think it’s more about getting fit at present - with the weather improving I am hoping to get out on my bike, as I used to really enjoy it before, so it’s time to get out again.

Hot Box in Chelmsford is a great venue and I do put on some shows there too. They are still struggling after lockdown, but recently were given a boost with Fat Boy Slim (Norman Cook) having played for free for them as a fundraiser. They sold it out in a minute which helped to pay for a month of running this iconic grass roots venue. In my mind, we cannot afford to lose places like this, but sadly we do continue to lose them across the whole country. I know this venue quite well and it is not just a music venue, it is so much more and it needs to be supported as do all places like this - all live venues of all types and sizes.

I have had my shed roof fixed at long last - it had a massive hole in it for quite some time. I have also been getting out in the garden to do a bit as well and I am so pleased to see the wildlife back in my garden this year and I just hope they stay and that even more wildlife arrives.

I expect you have now had your ballot papers through as I haveplease DO vote, as it is so important that we all do: it does not matter who you vote for as long as you do vote this May.

As I am writing this, the temperature is going crazy. It has been very windy and a tad wet (for a change) but temperatures got up to just over twenty - I am sure it will go down again though! I was recently watching some music in a deconsecrated church and it was freezing in there. Still onwards and upwards hopefully but nothing too extreme, I hope.

I see from reading that it is the end of The Edge magazine as stated in this latest edition (number 320). Shaun, I have to say you have done very well and I doff my hat to you and all of those who have contributed over the years. We do wish you all well and it is always sad to see a publication go.

Please remember, if you would like to comment on anything in this magazine or on anything else, then let us know and we will try and put you in the next edition of this magazine or the Moulsham Times. Just send info to editorial that you can find below, or on page 3 of this publication.

Music

I have booked a couple more shows for Hot Box. First is Del Bromham of Stray on 6th October - he will also bring the rhythm section from Stray and will tell stories from his book and play a mix of his own music with a few classic rock ones thrown in.

We also have Jeff Chapman’s Roosters playing a set of Wilko Johnson numbers, as Wilko often used to get up and join Jeff and the boys on stage.

We have lots of great live music coming up at the Social Club and at Hot Box too, so do take a look at our advert and then get booking

before they sell out!

I went to see Del Bromham play acoustic and ended up joining him on my harmonicas for half the set, which was fun. I then played with The One Tree Hillbilles in Chelmsford as well. Then it was off to London to the 100 Club to see Joe Anderton with his new band Greene play their very first gig - and boy were they great! Their stage presence just blew us all away, and Greene will be making their Chelmsford debut when they open for Hamish Stuart for us on 12th July and we cannot wait.

Next up was Good Friday, and Dennis Greaves and Mark Feltham from Nine Below Zero played as a duet in Ipswich. For me, this was a masterclass from Mark with his harmonicas - even if the venue was freezing cold!

On Easter Sunday, I ventured to Greenwich to the Pelton Arms where Dennis Greaves has a monthly jam session which I had not been to for a long time. There a few friends who came along to watch and play as well. I did enjoy it, and there is such friendly atmosphere and vibe.

I have to thank BBC Essex for putting my interview with Sadie Nine on air the other Saturday. It was good fun to do and I think it sounded great.

There is lots of live stuff happening all over Essex and beyond of course, so please do go and support it - because if we don’t, we will lose more venues, as that is what happens. Then we will start to lose the acts as well as they can’t earn a living. This is not just about music, it’s all types of live shows from all genres - from the theatres to the village halls and affecting all of us in between.

If you have anything you think that could be of interest to our readers for either publication, then please let us know by emailing editorial@ itsyourmedia.co.uk - it maybe an event or a topic of interest. Or have you done anything unusual or are you planning something? If so, we want to know about it. And if you know of someone who may wish to advertise with us, then please ask them to contact ads@ itsyourmedia.co.uk and we can send over full details.

You can get tickets for all our shows at The Social Club in Chelmsford from Intense Records, Hopsters and Chelmsford 4Good - please pay cash in person when you buy. Tickets for all shows are also available online from www.wegottickets.com/BlackFrogPresents, or via our ticket hotline at no extra charge - call or text 07508 496 411 and you can then pay the advance price on entry to the show rather than the walk-up price.

For all Black Frog Presents gig updates and information go www. linktr.ee/BlackFrogPresents, or scan the QR code in my advert in this magazine.

City Times Food!

Hello and welcome to my article all about food. I thought I’d introduce myself again as I’ve been writing my article for a year now, which I can’t quite believe.

I really enjoying share my recipes and tips to make cooking more enjoyable and less of a chore with family life.

My name is Lauren and I am a trained chef and mumma. In my articles, every month I like to include a recipe that me and my family love and that’s easy to follow and full of flavour, as well as chatting about things to do with food that I think you will find useful and interesting.

I’m a working mum and like to help others plan and create meals that don’t cost the earth. It doesn’t mean you have to stand at the cooker for hours on end to prepare a lovely family meal either - it just meals that everyone enjoys the process, as no one wants to be making 4 different dinners every night!

One thing me and my family have noticed is that the cost of eating out has increased a lot. My husband and I have 4 children between us, and a trip to McDonald’s isn’t cheap these days - it recently cost us over £40 for us all to have burger and chips, which isn’t particularly flavourful and not very filling.

We love Five Guys and I really like the taste of the burgers and all the fillings you can add, but it soon adds up when we all go out.

So, this month, I wanted to try and create my own takeout at home, which I think you might agree tastes just as good as what can be found in a burger restaurant. Seasoning is the key in this recipe and salt and pepper really makes a big difference. I really hope you enjoy my takeaway this month.

Essex Food - By Krista

I love discovering places to eat and drink around Essex. Please do follow my journey on Instagram by searching ‘thehungrykp’.

The days are getting longer, the temperature is increasing, and the flowers are bursting into life. Whether it’s meeting friends for brunch, or wandering around a local food market, it’s time to bring yourself out of hibernation and try somewhere new this spring.

The Farm Café by Black Pig

The Farm Café is a beautiful barn nestled down a quiet country road in Heybridge, with lovely fishing lakes and walks nearby. Opening its doors to the public in 2021, the Farm Café has gone from strength to strength, hosting burger and lobster evenings, brunch and Sunday roasts. I recently visited for breakfast and loved it so much that I have been recommending it to anyone that will listen!

The barn is stunning, with high ceilings, wooden beams and a log burner. There is also a courtyard to dine outside during the warmer months. I ordered the Black Pig Brunch which I thoroughly enjoyed. If you want to start your day with something a little sweeter, the French toast with scrambled egg, bacon and maple syrup is divine. Free parking is available and the café is also dog-friendly. When I say you need to put this on your ‘to visit list’ - I mean it!

The Farm Café: 2 Chigborough Road, Heybridge, CM9 4RD

Makes Two Burgers

For the burgers:

• 2 brioche buns.

• 500g lean mince.

• 1 small onion finely chopped.

• 1tbsp garlic granules.

• 2tbsp fat-free natural yogurt.

Toppings

• 4 slices of American cheese.

• Mushrooms finely chopped, as many as you want.

• 1 small onion finely chopped.

• Iceberg lettuce shredded.

• Gherkins sliced.

• Ketchup.

• Mayo.

Method

• Add the mince, onion, garlic granules and yogurt and a generous amount of salt and pepper to a bowl and mix.

• Divide the mince into 4 portions using your hands and shape into burgers. The thinner the better to get that Five Guys taste. If you have time, rest in the fridge for as long as you can.

• Fry your mushrooms and onions for the fillings and set aside.

• Spray some fry light in a pan and fry your burgers on a medium heat turning when needed.

• Next to prepare your buns. Add ketchup to the top and mayo to the bottom half, then pile up the mushrooms and onions, and lettuce and gherkins (you can also add chopped bacon as a filling, but we don’t).

• When the burgers are cooked through add the American cheese to each burger. Let the cheese melt.

• Stack the burgers 2 in each bun and wrap in tin foil and press down, leave for 3 minutes and enjoy!

www.farmcafebyblackpig.co.uk

Queenies

Queenies is a family-run eatery which opened in 2014 opposite Chelmsford Market and soon had a second restaurant on Billericay High Street a few years later.

In 2024, owners Connor and Ruby announced that they will also be opening a brand new, bigger restaurant on Chelmsford High Street!

Offering fantastic coffee, full English breakfasts with amazing swirly sausages, huge American style pancakes and milkshakes, you really are spoilt for choice. Everything is well priced and accompanied by excellent service and a warm welcome. There are plenty of vegan and gluten-free options available and takeaway coffee if you are passing by. Keep an eye on Queenies’ social media for progress photos and videos of the new venue, coming very soon! Queenies: 7 Cornhill, Chelmsford, CM1 1XE www.queeniesessex.com

Writtle Foodies Market

If you’re a big foodie like me, head to Writtle Food Market where you can try a range of dishes from local traders. Indulge in a doughnut or two from XO Dough, or traditional raclette from Beau Fromage. Next market dates: 12th May and 23rd June. Free entry. 10am - 2pm. Writtle Foodies Market: Writtle Green, CM1 3DU

City Times Gardening

As winter slowly loosens its grip and the vibrant colours of spring begin to emerge, gardeners eagerly anticipate the opportunity to nurture their beloved plants.

This season brings forth a myriad of tasks, from feeding acid-loving plants to revealing in the beauty of spring flowering bulbs and ensuring the health of blueberries amongst other things!

Additionally, April presents an array of garden tasks crucial for setting the stage for a bountiful season ahead.

Feeding Acid-Loving Plants

Many gardeners cherish the presence of acid-loving plants, such as azaleas, rhododendrons and skimmias, for their stunning blooms and lush foliage. To ensure these plants thrive, it’s imperative to provide them with the proper nutrients, particularly in soil with a higher pH.

1. Choosing the right fertiliser: Opt for a specialised acidic fertiliser formulated for acid-loving plants. These fertilisers typically contain a higher concentration of nitrogen and sulphur, essential elements for promoting healthy growth and vibrant blooms. If the younger leaves are yellowing this is a sign that the plant is not getting enough iron or manganese. In this case opt for an ironrich feed such as Maxicrop sequestered iron.

2. Application frequency: Apply the fertiliser according to the package instructions, typically in early spring before new growth begins and again after flowering to support future growth and bud formation.

3. Mulching: Incorporate organic mulch, such as composted pine needles around the base of acid-loving plants. Mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds and gradually adds nutrients to the soil as it decomposes.

Enjoying the joy

of spring flowering bulbs

Spring flowering bulbs herald the arrival of warmer weather with their captivating blooms, injecting bursts of colour into the garden landscape. Whether it’s tulips, daffodils, or hyacinths, these bulbs require minimal maintenance for maximum impact.

1. Deadheading spent blooms: As flowers fade, promptly deadhead them to encourage the bulb to channel energy into storing nutrients for next year’s growth rather than seed production.

2. Fertilisation: Apply a balanced fertilizer or bulb-specific fertiliser after flowering to replenish nutrients depleted during the blooming period and support bulb development for the following year. I find that the quickest way of injecting feed into bulb, when in leaf, is to use a good tomato-based liquid feed.

3. Division and transplantation: After the foliage has yellowed and withered, carefully dig up crowded clumps of bulbs and divide them to prevent overcrowding and promote healthier growth. Replant bulbs at the appropriate depth and spacing for optimal performance.

4. What to do with indoor bulb displays once flowers have faded: Don’t compost them, pop them in the ground outside and allow to die back. If leaves are still green liquid feed to boost the bulb for the next flowering season.

Looking Sfter Blueberries

Blueberries are prized for their delicious fruit and ornamental value, but they require specific care to thrive and produce a bountiful harvest.

1. Soil pH maintenance: Blueberries thrive in acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. Regularly monitor soil pH levels and amend as necessary with ground sulphur or acidic organic matter to maintain optimal growing conditions. If your soil pH is too high, these plants work extremely well in containers using ericaceous compost.

2. Pruning: Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches to improve air circulation and promote new growth. Additionally, selectively thin out older branches to stimulate fruit production on younger wood.

3. Watering and mulching: Blueberries have shallow root systems and require consistent moisture, particularly during fruit development. Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as pine bark or wood chips, to retain moisture and suppress weeds while insulating roots from temperature fluctuations.

Here are a few other tasks for April

1. Weed control: As temperatures rise, weeds begin to proliferate. Stay ahead of weed growth by regularly inspecting garden beds and removing weeds promptly to prevent them from competing with desirable plants for nutrients and water.

2. Divide perennials: Early spring is an ideal time to divide overcrowded perennial plants, such as hostas, daylilies and ornamental grasses. Dividing these plants not only rejuvenates them but also provides an opportunity to expand your garden or share with fellow gardeners.

3. Inspect and maintain garden tools: Take the time to inspect and clean your garden tools. Sharpen blades, oil the hinges and replace any worn or damaged parts to ensure they perform optimally when called upon.

Happy gardening

For any gardening tips, please contact Tom Cole (Freelance Horticulturist and online tutor for #learningwithexperts) by email at tomcole8@hotmail.com.

Celebrating 15 Years of Excellence: Regal Kitchens Ltd

In an industry where innovation meets craftsmanship, Regal Kitchens stands tall as a beacon of excellence, celebrating 15 remarkable years of transforming houses into homes. Since its inception, Regal Kitchens has been synonymous with quality, creativity and impeccable service. As they mark this milestone, it’s not just a celebration of longevity but a testament to their unwavering commitment to culinary artistry and customer satisfaction.

Founded on the principles of precision and passion, Regal Kitchens has continuously raised the bar in the kitchen design and installation sector. From sleek modern layouts to timeless classics, each project undertaken by Regal Kitchens is a fusion of functionality and elegance, tailored to suit the unique preferences and lifestyle of their clients.

What sets Regal Kitchens apart is their relentless pursuit of perfection. Over the past 15 years they have honed their craft, leveraging cutting-edge technology and staying abreast of emerging trends to deliver kitchens that are not just spaces for cooking but havens for inspiration and connection. Every cabinet, storage solution and appliance is curated with utmost care, ensuring durability without compromising on aesthetics.

Beyond their prowess in design, Regal Kitchens takes pride in their personalised approach to customer service. From the initial consultation to the final installation inspection, clients are guided through every step of the process, ensuring their vision is brought to life seamlessly. It’s this attention to detail and dedication to exceeding expectations that has garnered them a loyal clientele and

accolades aplenty over the years.

As they reflect on their journey so far, Regal Kitchens remains committed to innovation and excellence. With an eye towards the future, they continue to explore new materials, techniques and design concepts, staying ahead of the curve to redefine the art of kitchen craftsmanship.

As they raise a toast to 15 years of success, Regal Kitchens extends heartfelt gratitude to their clients, partners, and dedicated team members who have been instrumental in their journey. With unwavering determination and a passion for perfection, they look forward to shaping the kitchens of tomorrow for many more years to come.

Regal Kitchens showroom is located at 279a Beehive Lane in Chelmsford, with plenty of free parking immediately outside. The showroom is open every day from 10am to 4pm.

A Relaxing Retreat for All

Embarking on a holiday should be a time of relaxation and rejuvenation. At Braintree Mews, we understand the importance of ensuring your loved one is well taken care of while you’re away. Our dedicated team offers a seamless and joyful transition for new residents, providing unparalleled standards of residential, dementia and respite care. Whether you’re seeking a short respite or a longer stay, trust us to provide a nurturing environment where your loved one can thrive whilst you take a well-deserved break.

Enjoy 16 days for the price of 14 when you stay during April, May or June 2024.* 01376 778088

Church Lane | Braintree | CM7 5SE

*T&Cs apply. Please visit averyhealthcare.co.uk/ouroffers for more details.

The warmer weather will soon be here and outdoor bowls could be the social activity for you!

RHP (Chelmsford) Bowls Club are recruiting for new members to join our very friendly club. We have a well maintained bowling green, a large well-appointed clubhouse and free parking.

For the beginner, we offer free coaching with all the equipment you need to get started. All you need are flat shoes for walking on the green.

We have roll-ups every Friday evening and some Thursday afternoons, where players just turn up and organise informal games - an ideal way to get started and hone new skills.

RHP play friendlies against other clubs from around Essex, and as you improve your skills you will be encouraged to take part.

For the more experienced bowlers, we enter teams (two mixed, two men’s and one ladies) into Chelmsford leagues playing clubs in the surrounding area.

We also play internal leagues on Monday and Tuesday afternoons and Friday evenings. The Friday games are followed by a fish and chip supper.

So do come along and enjoy some gentle exercise!

For more information, please visit rhpssc.co.uk or contact Ian on 07840 347 901.

Chandler Material Supplies Expands Its Reach

Chandler Material Supplies, a revered name in the building supplies industry, proudly announces its acquisition of Essex Timber & Plywood, a well-established timber specialist based in Southend. This strategic move signifies Chandler’s commitment to enhancing its service offerings while fortifying its presence in the region.

As a third-generation family-owned and operated business deeply rooted in the Chelmsford community, Chandler Material Supplies has always prioritised local partnerships and customer satisfaction. With a sterling reputation for quality materials and exemplary service, Chandler has become synonymous with reliability in the area.

Essex Timber & Plywood brings ten decades of expertise and a reputation for supplying top-tier timber products at competitive prices. Renowned for their vast range of sizes, including lengths up to 7.2 meters, ETP has earned the trust of tradespeople, contractors and DIY enthusiasts alike. Notably, ETP distinguishes itself by stocking unique timber products rarely found elsewhere and maintaining exceptional standards of quality and customer care.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Essex Timber & Plywood into the Chandler family,” says Julie, Managing Director at Chandler Material Supplies. “This partnership allows us to combine our strengths and resources to better serve our customers and drive housebuilding and renovations in the region. Together, we’re ready to boost service quality and broaden our product range.”

The acquisition will see Essex Timber & Plywood gradually diversifying its inventory to include a broader range of building materials, while continuing to excel in its speciality timber products.

Chelmsford Library

As the weather warms up and encourages us to get out and about, do come along to the library and see what we have to offer, or to just sit down and relax!

As well as a great choice of books to borrow, tbe library has free WI-FI and computer use, you can recycle small electrical items, batteries and printer ink cartridges, and there are photocopying facilities and study spaces, as well as rooms to hire. For more information on all our events and services, including dates and times and how to book, just visit our website at libraries.essex.gov.uk. You can also follow us on Facebook or Twitter or by subscribing to our newsletter; details on our website.

Work Club: Every Thursday from 9am12.30pm

Are you looking for work/change of career? We offer assistance with CV writing, online searching and applying for jobs, advice and support. Booking is required - book your

Customers can expect an even more comprehensive selection, coupled with the same outstanding customer service and efficiency they’ve come to expect.

Aaron, Branch Manager at Southend, expresses enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating: “The team at Essex Timber & Plywood is excited to embark on this new chapter with Chandler Material Supplies. We look forward to expanding our stock ranges and meeting the evolving needs of our valued customers.”

Customers can anticipate seamless transitions as both the Chandler and Essex Timber & Plywood teams remain with the business, ensuring continuity of service and familiar faces in the branches. With over 450 years of combined experience at Chandler’s Chelmsford branch and over 100 years at Southend, customers can trust in the expertise and dedication of the teams.

For more information about Chandler Material Supplies and Essex Timber & Plywood, visit their respective websites at chandlermaterials.co.uk and essextp.co.uk.

appointment by email at chelmsford.library@essex.gov.uk, or in person at the library.

Drop-in IT Support Sessions: Tuesdays 2-4pm and Wednesdays 10am-12 noon

Do you need any help and advice with your laptop, tablet or smartphone? Then come along to one of our free IT support sessions where you can bring your own device for advice and support, or come in to get help with using one of our public computers. Just drop-in, no booking required.

Community Tea: Every Wednesday 10.3011.30am

A chance to connect with the local community and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee. Run by volunteers who will greet you with a smile and be there for a chat. Bring a friend or come alone, there’s always somebody to talk to and to listen in a nice friendly space. Just come along - no need to book.

Musicians’ Health Matters -

By Jane Hickey

As I write this article on 28th March on the 9th annual World Piano Day, my focus is the well-being of pianists. Normally celebrated on the 29th March, why is it that World Piano Day seems to be a day earlier this year? In fact it’s not early, this international event is celebrated on the 88th day of the year - 88 being the number of keys on a piano. It is the extra February day of this leap year which has landed the 88th day of the year on the earlier date in 2024. With piano events around the world happening, it’s timely to throw a spotlight on the health of pianists.

On top of the joy of music performance, the benefits of piano playing are many; including fine motor skills, dexterity, hand-eye co-ordination and strength of hands and arms. Significantly, piano playing also has benefits for stress management, cognitive health, respiratory health and cardiovascular health. Music performance is demanding however, and musicians are at risk of specific health conditions. Problems may affect both amateur and professional musicians. If you are a pianist you may identify with aches such as back, neck, shoulders, forearms and wrists. You may have suffered from a diagnosed condition such as one of the musculoskeletal conditions commonly affecting pianists, including repetitive strain injury, bursitis, tendonitis, or carpal tunnel syndrome.

If you are a professional musician in a highly competitive world, a condition that stops you playing is likely to make you feel very vulnerable. A condition which threatens your career may be your deepest fear. You may even be tempted to play through pain because it seems like the only option to keep on top - but pain should be a clear signal that you should stop playing. Playing through pain may worsen your condition and delays early treatment, which is likely to be more effective than late treatment.

The world of musicians is a world of highly specialist expertise. Musicians seek advice from specialists about every aspect of their music performance from the most relevant specialists. Initiatives like Health Education and Improvement Wales are raising the profile of the need for specialist understanding and treatment for musicians’ health, recognising this as a specialist area of medicine.

Youngest Grumpy Old Man

The question I ask you first, why have our teeth not evolved? I could do with evolution of the teeth. I have always had problems with my teeth. Had some teeth out when I was younger and also wore a brace or two. What was it with giving kids braces!

When my family moved from one town to another we did not sign up for a new dentist and things seemed to be alright for years.

I started work and I liked my sweets etc. I also got really thirsty at night. Foolish me, to combat the thirst I sucked cough sweets and chewed bubble gum - I did not think of the long term damage. It did erode my teeth over time. I kept it from my family for a while, but then my mum did notice and I booked a dentist appointment.

He tried to take some X-rays after looking at my teeth. The ones where they put put a little X-ray pad in you mouth. Well I have a gag reflex and nearly threw up, I was gagging like hell. They had to get me to have the stand-up machine X-rays.

I had four general anaesthetics with various work done on my teeth. Some taken out, others filled and some crowned etc. I also found I have hypotonia (missing adult teeth/permanent ones) they were on the bottom, the pre-molars on both sides.

I did obtain an electric toothbrush. My teeth are quite weak and I do have a sweet tooth. I also use mouthwash to help with my oral hygiene.

Health care includes not only reactive treatment when a condition has developed, but proactive measures to reduce the risk of a condition developing. There are steps you can take to look after your musculoskeletal health, which are helpful as preventive measures. These steps may also be used to support treatment in conjunction with medical advice.

The first step in a proactive approach is to identify specific risk factors for you playing your instrument. Take advice from specialists about posture and techniques. Check that your piano and piano stool are right for you. For pianists with small hands, some manufacturers make stretto pianos with narrower than conventional keys; small keyboards are available. Strengthen your body’s own resources to support your musculoskeletal system. Control the pace of your practice routines. Warm up before practice and cool down after practice. Nourish your muscles, tendons and joints with beneficial nutrients and hydration. Support your recovery from the demands of music performance with relaxation after the performance.

As not all drinks are hydrating, water is a good choice. Alcohol or too much coffee is dehydrating! You may need to drink more then the daily recommendation of about 2 litres, because hydration requirements increase with physical activity or high environmental temperature. A portion of protein at every meal provides the macronutrient your body needs to build and repair the muscles used in playing. Choose from meat, fish, pulses, beans eggs or dairy. To support relaxation, add Epsom salts to the water to lay in a bath, or to soak your hands in a bowl - for at least 20 minutes.

Not only pianists, but all instrumental musicians are at risk of health conditions associated with performance specific to the instrument.

If you are interested to find out how a nutrition programme for instrumental musicians could help you, I offer a free online well-being review. Use the QR code in the ad (right) to get in touch.

07305 531 583 jane@janehickeyutrition.com

Since then I have suffered toothache, which I found to be one of the worst pains ever. Getting the antibiotics to sort it was soothing. The toothache was not from the operations. Just various problems like teeth nerves playing me up or an overbite. Also since then have had various work done on my teeth, filings, extractions etc.

My dentist has been talking about bridges and implants which are quite expensive as my next step.

I can’t have false teeth or dentures as my gag reflex would prevent them.

I’ll just have to save up which could take sometime.

Regards

Thomas Indergard

At M. Lucking & Sons, we’re proud to have been serving communities of Chelmsford and the surrounding areas for over 360 years. As an independent, family-owned business we have all the regional knowledge and years of experience to make sure everything runs smoothly. We also work in partnership with Golden Charter so you have a simple way to plan ahead with a pre-paid funeral plan. Contact us today for more information and our friendly staff will be happy to help.

April

Friday 19th

Chelmsford Social Club - Black Frog Presents: Splink & Skylines play

Camel

Chelmsford Theatre - Laura Smyth: Living My Best Life

Saturday 20th

Chelmsford Theatre - Laura Smyth: Living My Best Life

F Cooke (Moulsham Street) - An evening of live soul

Hot Box - Com-unity Roots Double Six Dominos (2pm)

Hot Box - Boogie in the Box - Record Store Day after-party

Hyde Hall - Spring Plant Fair

Intense Records - Record Store Day

The Station Arms (Southminster) - Connor Selby

RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Coffee morning (10am to 1pm)

The Wheatsheaf - Karaoke

Wickham Bishops Village Hall (CM8 3JZ) - Wickham Bishops Jazz Club - Simon Nelson and Dixiemix (07548 775 777)

Sunday 21st

The Gardeners - Open Mic

Hot Box - Rockaoke

Hyde Hall - Spring Plant Fair

Hylands House - Open Day

Monday 22nd

Chelmer Village - Pilates classes (carolinesdanceandpilates.co.uk)

Hot Box - Chelmsford Chess Club night

Sandon School (Sports Hall 2) - Scottish Country Dancing (7.309.30pm - all abilities welcome - www.sandonscotdance.org.uk)

The Woolpack - The One Tree Hillbillies

Tuesday 23rd

Chelmsford Theatre - The Dracula Spectacula

Hot Box - Hot Box Waxes Lyrical

Old Park Meadow - Yoga (book by texting 07711 947 199 or visit bookwhen.com/beckysallows)

South Hannigfield Village Hall - St George’s Day Celebration

Widford Village Hall (turn left at Chandlers) - country dancing (barn dance - 7.50pm - £2 - 01245 475 660)

Woolpack - Quiz

Wednesday 24th

Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Karaoke

Cheerful Chai (CM1 7AH) - free event (please book a space via website www.engagefitnessservices.com - 9.30am)

Chelmsford Theate - The Dracula Spectacula

The Golden Fleece - Karaoke

Old Park Meadow - Gardening Club and coffee morning

The Wheatsheaf - Music, Movie & TV Quiz

Thursday 25th

Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Quiz night

Chelmsford Social Club - Social Ballroom Dancing Evening

Chelmsford Theatre - The Dracula Spectacula

Chelmsford Theatre - Johnny Hates Jazz: Turn Back the Clock

Old Park Meadow - Yoga (to book, text 07711 947 199 or visit bookwhen.com/beckysallows)

The Rising Sun - Quiz Night

Friday 26th

Chelmsford Social Club - Black Frog Presents: Held By Trees (Talk Talk) + Calum Ingram

Chelmsford Theatre - The Dracula Spectacula

Chelmsford Theatre - Murder Trial Tonight

Maldon Town Hall - Confident the Tour 2024

RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Chair yoga

St John’s Church - Dance to De-Stress

Saturday 27th

Acanteen - Beardyman

Chelmsford Theatre - The Dracula Spectacula

Chelmsford Theatre - Murder Trial Tonight

Essex Record Office - ‘Welcome to Essex’ Remembering the USAAF Hot Box - Com-unity Roots Double Six Dominos (2pm)

The Wheatsheaf - Karaoke

Sunday 28th

Chelmsford Theatre - Swan Lake

The Gardeners - Open Mic

Museum of Power - Maldon Vegan Market Hot Box - Uber Jam

Monday 29th

Hot Box - Chelmsford Chess Club

May

Wednesday 1st

Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Karaoke

Cheerful Chai (CM1 7AH) - free event (please book a space via website www.engagefitnessservices.com - 9.30am)

Chelmsford Theatre - Chelmsford Gang Show 2024

Friends Meeting House (Rainsford Road) - CRAG Retirement Group monthly meeting (9.30am for 10am. First visit free)

Hot Box - Very Odd Quiz

The Golden Fleece - Karaoke

Old Park Meadow - Gardening Club and coffee morning

Old Park Meadow - Meditation (to book call 07906 653 666)

Rettendon Lodge (Battlesbridge) - Belvedere Jazz & Music Supper Club: Top vocalist Jo Harrop Quintet (7.45pm - to book phone Phil on 07850 607 075)

The Wheatsheaf - Music, Movie & TV Quiz

Thursday 2nd

Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Quiz Night

Chelmsford Social Club - Social Ballroom Dancing Evening

Chelmsford Theatre - Chelmsford Gang Show 2024

Chelmsford Theatre - Esther Manito: Hell Hayh No Fury

Old Park Meadow - Yoga (to book text 07711 947199 or visit bookwhen.com/beckysallows)

The Rising Sun - Quiz night

Friday 3rd

Chelmsford Theatre - Chelmsford Gang Show 2024

Chelmsford Theatre - Primary School Assembly Bangers Live!

Hot Box - Hot Haus Drag Eurovision 2

RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Chair yoga

Saturday 4th

Acanteen - Jimpster Invites Sandy Rivera

Chelsmford Social Club - Record Fair

Chelmsford Theatre - Chelmsford Gang Show 2024

Chelmsford Theatre - Carl Hutchinson: Today Years Old

Hot Box - Com-unity Roots Double Six Dominos (2pm)

Ingatestone & Fryerning Community Centre - Vintage & Makers

Market

RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Coffee morning (10am to 1pm)

St Luke’s Church (Church Road, Tiptree) - Chelmsford Singers’ Spring concert (www.chelmsfordsingers.co.uk)

The Wheatsheaf - Karaoke

Sunday 5th

Chelmsford Theatre - There’s a Monster in Your Show

Chelmsford Theatre - Carman

The Gardeners - Open Mic

Hot Box - Folk Sunday

Star & Garter - Sunday Jams (4pm)

Monday 6th

Chelmer Village - pilates classes (carolinesdanceandpilates.co.uk)

Hot Box - Chelmsford Chess Club

Hot Box - Helicon

St Luke’s Church (Moulsham Lodge, CM2 9DT) - Afternoon Cream Tea

Tuesday 7th

Chelmsford Theatre - Dad’s Army Radio Show

Hot Box - Open Mic

Old Park Meadow - Yoga (to book text 07711 947 199 or visit bookwhen.com/beckysallows)

Wednesday 8th

Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Karaoke

Cheerful Chai (CM1 7AH) - free event (please book a space via website www.engagefitnessservices.com - 9.30am)

Chelmsford Theatre - Punt and Dennis

Chelmsford Theatre - NT Live: Nye

The Golden Fleece - Karaoke

Friends Meeting House (Rainsford Road) - CRAG Retirement Group monthly meeting (9.30 for 10am. First visit free)

Hot Box - The Big Music Quiz

Old Park Meadow - Gardening Club and coffee morning

The Wheatsheaf - Music, Movie & TV Quiz

Thursday 9th

Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Quiz Night

Chelmsford Social Club - Social Ballroom Dancing Evening

Chelmsford Theatre - Macbeth: Ralph Fiennes and Indira Varma

Golden Fleece - Quiz Night

Hot Box - Geraint Watkins & The Mosquitos

Old Park Meadow - Yoga (to book text 07711 947 199 or visit bookwhen.com/beckysallows)

The Rising Sun - Quiz night

Friday 10th

Chelmsford Social Club - Black Frog Presents: Supernatural (Peter Green) + Bex Marshall

Chelmsford Theatre - The Elvis Years

RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Chair yoga

Saturday 11th

Chelmsford Theatre - Windmill Theatre School Hot Box - Com-unity Roots Double Six Dominos (2pm)

RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Coffee morning (10am to 1pm)

The Wheatsheaf - Karaoke

Sunday 12th

The Gardeners - Open Mic

Ride for Helen 2024 - Cycle ride (from 6 miles to 100 miles around the countryside of Essex)

Monday 13th

Chelmer Village - pilates classes (carolinesdanceandpilates.co.uk)

Chelmsford Theatre - My Fair Lady Hot Box - Chelmsford Chess Club Sandon School (Sports Hall 2) - Scottish Country Dancing (7.309.30pm - all abilities welcome - www. sandonscotdance.org.uk)

Tuesday 14th

Chelmsford Theatre - My Fair Lady

Old Park Meadow - Yoga (to book text 07711 947 199 or visit bookwhen.com/ beckysallows)

Widford Village Hall (turn left at Chandlers) - country dancing (barn dance, £2 - 7.50pm - 01245 475 660) Woolpack - Quiz

Wednesday 15th

Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Karaoke

Cheerful Chai (CM1 7AH) - free event (please book a space via website www. engagefitnessservices.com - 9.30am)

Chelmsford Theatre - My Fair Lady

The Golden Fleece - Karaoke

Hot Box - Gasoline Green + Solar Chain Madison Heights - Open Mic

Old Park Meadow - Gardening Club and coffee morning

Old Park Meadow - Meditation (to book call 07906 653 666)

Rettendon Lodge (Battlesbridge)Belvedere Jazz & Music Supper Club: Derek Nash’s Picante Latin Band (7.45pm - to book phone Phil on 07850 607 075)

The Wheatsheaf - Music, Movie & TV Quiz

Thursday 16th

Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Quiz night

Chelmsford Social Club - Social Ballroom

Dancing Evening

Chelmsford Theatre - My Fair Lady

Golden Fleece - Quiz Night

Old Park Meadow - Yoga (to book text 07711 947 199 or visit bookwhen.com/ beckysallows)

The Rising Sun - Quiz night

Friday 17th

Chelmsford Social Club - Black Frog Presents: Steemy Dan

Chelmsford Theatre - My Fair Lady

Hot Box - The Deep Throats

Saturday 18th

Chelmsford Theatre - My Fair Lady

Hot Box - Com-unity Roots Double Six Dominos (2pm)

Hot Box - Topographics

RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Coffee morning (10am to 1pm)

The Station Arms (Southminster) - Richard Townend

The Wheatsheaf - Karaoke

Wickham Bishops Village Hall (CM8 3JZ) - Wickham Bishops Jazz Club - Pete Lay’s Gambit Jazzmen (07548 775 777)

Sunday 19th

The Gardeners - Open Mic

Venues are in Chelmsford, unless mentioned in the listings as being elsewhere. Send

A Year in the Life of the Mayor

Chelmsford & District Welsh Society invited the Mayor and her Consort to their annual St David’s Day dinner at the County Hotel. They enjoyed a lovely evening hearing from guest speaker, Welsh actor, singer and politician, Sue Jones Davies, whose career has included appearing in Jesus Christ Superstar, The Life of Brian and The Life and Times of Lloyd George Harpist Rachel Bartels and soprano Debs Allen-Morgan provided the entertainment with traditional Welsh songs.

The Mayor and her Consort joined the Mayor of Brentwood, Cllr Gareth Barrett, for the Rotary District 1240 Young Musician 2024 Final at Brentwood Cathedral. The standard of performance was outstanding, the judges had a very difficult job choosing the winners. Rotary District Governor, David Willis, announced Rose Buggle as the winner in the Vocalist category and Fred Blackshaw in the Musician category, playing the clarinet. Congratulations to all the finalists and especially the worthy winners.

CAODS (Chelmsford Amateur Operatic Society) production of Cole Porter’s Kiss Me Kate at Chelmsford Theatre was fast moving, well choreographed and really showcased the talents of the cast. The play within a play was very well executed with superb costumes and wellknown songs such as Another Opening, Another Show, and Too Darn Hot The comic performances of the ‘heavies’ turning into ‘luvvies’ was very funny. The Mayor, Consort and Deputy Mayor all really enjoyed the performance - congratulations to all the cast, tech, front of house and backstage crew for another triumph.

Essex County Council Chairman, Cllr Jill Reeves held a service of celebration and thanksgiving for the work of ECC at Chelmsford Cathedral on which was attended by HM Lord Lieutenant Jennifer Tolhurst and the High Sheriff of Essex, Charles Bishop. The Mayor and her Consort particularly enjoyed the performances by choirs Allegro and The Music Man Project, who had the audience up and dancing in the aisles.

Essex High Sheriff, Charles Bishop welcomed guests to the annual Hugh Sheriffs’ Awards Ceremony at Hylands House. He spoke about his interesting 12 months in office, touring the county. Local charities are benefitting from £38K funding from the High Sheriffs’ Fund, which is managed by Essex Community Foundation. Congratulations to all the winners. The Mayor was delighted to see Sanctus in Chelmsford win the Essex County Council Bowl for providing food and support to the vulnerable in the city. Also, YMCA Essex, the Mayor’s charity, were presented with the prestigious High Sheriff’s Shield for offering vital help and support to so many young people in need.

The Deputy Mayor attended a Essex Recovery Foundation meeting at Riverside Leisure Centre Café; the group have only been meeting in Chelmsford since January. She found it very informative talking to staff, volunteers and service users. Representatives from Broomfield Hospital, Phoenix Futures, Open Road and Chelmsford CVS were also in attendance.

The Mayor and Deputy Mayor had a great evening celebrating our great and talented amateur artists bringing live music and drama to our city. Congratulations to all the winners of the PANIC Awards 2024 and well done Andy Poole for putting on the awards each year.

The British Isles Indoor Bowls Championships and The Womens Home International Series were held at the Falcon Indoor Bowling Club in Channels Drive in March, and the Mayor and Deputy Mayor were delighted to join Club President Ernie Brockman in welcoming guests, players, officials and spectators to this prestigious competition in Chelmsford.

The Mayor and Deputy were invited to present an assembly at Baddow Hall Junior School to celebrate International Women’s Day and talk about their roles. They both encouraged the children to be

whatever they wanted to be by working hard towards their goals.

The Mayor and Deputy Mayor joined Rebecca Shipman, director of All Things Alpaca at Lathcoats Farm in Beehive Lane, to meet the new arrivals: micro pigs Elvis, Elton and Elmo. They gave them a good scratch as well as a brush and heard how Elvis was the bossy one!

A new manager was recently appointed to Morrisons Supermarket and the Mayor and Deputy Mayor dropped by to welcome manager Neil Colman to Chelmsford. They spoke about how much the local community appreciates the efforts of staff at the store to support local charities and families. They particularly liked the idea of the recently introduced Saturday kids checkouts.

The Mayor joined anti-knife campaigner and youth advocate Julie Taylor to officially open her fundraising event at St Andrew’s Church Hall for the Liam Taylor Legacy, and to provide bleed bags for local premises. The total raised was £731 - well done to all who contributed to the success of this event.

CEO of the Wilderness Foundation, Jo Roberts, invited the Mayor to join their Chairman, DL Vincent Thompson, Assistant Chief Constable Rachel Nolan and High Sheriff Charles Bishop for their graduation ceremony for the youngsters who took part in the Turnaround 16 programme. The participants and their mentors gave compelling testimony to the power of 1:1 mentoring and nature-based activities for those experiencing challenges which affect their ability to live the most fulfilling lives.

Lots of great music, dancing, tea and cakes at the Fundangles Side by Side Support Group in the Galleywood Heritage Centre. The Deputy Mayor was pleased to attend with her Deputy Mayoress daughter Helen, both thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon.

Caprice, the Essex wind orchestra, held a joyful concert at Chelmsford Cathedral supporting the Mayor’s charity, YMCA Essex. Musical Director David Bome conducted a varied programme of songs including themes from Thunderbirds and Star Wars and The Last Jedi The Mayor and Consort really enjoyed the performance from the talented musicians - particularly, highlights from South Pacific, Hits of the 60s, A Disney Spectacular and Fireflies. Please support Caprice and Young Caprice at their concerts on 11th May and June 8th at St Andrew’s Church.

The Mayor was delighted to officially cut the ribbon and open Munchkins Nursery and Preschool in Great Baddow. She enjoyed a tour of the lovely, refurbished premises in Church Street with spacious outdoor play area and was impressed with the bespoke curriculum and individualised approach to early years education and care.

A large group of students from Backnang Germany, one of our twin towns, were visiting students at Chelmsford County High School and the Deputy Mayor was happy to invite them to visit the Mayor’s Parlour. They were shown the mace, badges and gowns worn by the Mayor and Deputy Mayor on very formal occasions and given a brief history of the council and the various roles and responsibilities.

Boswells School held their Spring Concert which the Mayor and Deputy Mayor were pleased to attend. They were both in awe of the talented young people who performed as vocalists and musicians and both had a very enjoyable evening. Thanks to all the students, their music teacher Dan Hardaker and the Boswells team who encourage and nurture their talent.

The Broomfield Birds invited the Deputy Mayor to their March meeting to explain the role and responsibilities of the Mayor and talk about her experiences in that role throughout the pandemic. The ladies presented her with a pot plant and a donation towards a charity, which she has given to the Mayor’s charity, YMCA Essex.

The Mayor and her Consort had a very enjoyable evening at the 276 City of Chelmsford Squadron Air Cadet dinner and presentation night. Congratulations to all the worthy cadets who were presented with awards for their achievements during the year.

The Deputy Mayor was pleased to welcome teams from England and Ireland to Chelmsford for the start of the Men’s International Series at Falcon Bowls and Social Club. It was such an interesting morning that she promised to return later in the week to watch the final game between England and Scotland - and she did return to watch England win the trophy.

Chelmsford & District Infant Schools Music Association invited the Deputy Mayor to a concert at Christ Church. The week-long event involved different schools participating to dance, sing, play percussion, act and narrate their performance of Eddie the Penguin Saves the World. All praise to the organisers and especially Musical Director Jill Parkin, who held it all together. The children had worked hard with the support of school staff and parents to provide a memorable show.

March 13th was the Young Carers Action Day, and in recognition Action for Family Carers (AFFC) held an event at Harlow Civic Centre to promote their work. The Deputy Mayor attended and took the opportunity to talk to young carers from Harlow and Uttlesford. Cllr Andrew Johnson, Chair of Harlow Council welcomed everyone, and the CEO of AFFC James Clarke spoke about the work of the charity followed by the thoughts of the young carers present. The speeches ended with Deputy Lord Lieutenant Jackie Sully reading a moving poem.

The Mayor, her Consort and the Deputy Mayor spent a lovely afternoon in with Chelmsford Hindu Society celebrating Holi to welcome spring and the spread of colours and light it brings with it. The colours symbolise diversity and the powdered paint covers everyone in the colours of love.

Chelmsford City Women’s 1st Team had a resounding 5-0 win against Corringham in the quarter final of the League Cup. which the Mayor and her Consort Deputy Mayor enjoyed watching. Good luck for the semi-final when they play at home against Colchester on Sunday 14th April.

Moulsham High School students invited the Mayor to their production of Oliver in the school auditorium. She was very impressed by their performances, the scenery, musicians, backstage crew and overall production of this popular musical.

The Mayor officially opened the new Sanctus charity shop, Second Chance, opposite Sanctus in Broomfield Road. Of course, she took the opportunity to make some purchases and donate items to sell. The shop is beautifully kitted out and decorated with fabulous artwork (and hand-painted cards for sale) by the talented Emma Hughes, as well as selling a variety of good quality clothing, shoes and home items.

The RAFA club in Chelmsford invited the Deputy Mayor to join them for lunch and their afternoon fundraising quiz. She spent a lovely afternoon helping raise money for a worthy cause.

RCCG Power of Jehovah Church is celebrating 18 years in Chelmsford.

The Deputy Mayor was accompanied by the Deputy Mayoress Helen, and they were warmly welcomed by the pastors and church members to a joyful service.

St Mary’s Church Broomfield & Chelmsford Competitive Festival of Music & Drama invited the Deputy Mayor and Deputy Mayoress to a fundraising concert in aid of the church organ and spire fund. They enjoyed a wide variety of music, speech and drama performed by very talented 2023 festival winners under the guidance of Festival Chair Jill Parkin.

The Year 9 pupils at Hylands School took part in a programme designed to ignite a spark of social conscience in young people run by firstgive.co.uk. The four groups chose charities that support causes they care about, which were Sanctus, Odd Balls, Chess and Rethink Mental Illness. The panel of judges, including the Deputy Mayor, marked each groups presentation on content, knowledge, creativity, delivery, class commitment to the charity and impact. The marks were very close, with Odd Balls winning a Commendation and the winning charity, who received the cheque for £1,000, was Sanctus (sanctus-home.com).

Chelmsford Studio Theatre hosted the Spoken Word Poetry Slam where the Mayor watched local schools’ poetry performance for the Spoken Word Power project run jointly by Eastside Educational Trust and Essex Book Festival. She was pleased to see pupils from Baddow Hall Junior School after being involved in the school project herself, from the poets running workshops to the performance itself. Congratulations to all the pupils from Moulsham High School, William de Ferrers, Beaulieu Park and Baddow Hall for their confident performances as well as seasoned poet Justin Coe who supported them.

The Mayor and Deputy Mayor had a lovely visit to Barrow Farm RDA (Riding for the Disabled) where they watched children from Bently Primary School enjoying rides and games on the gentle ponies. The joy on the children’s faces was lovely to experience and the Mayor thanked the workers and volunteers for facilitating such lovely experiences for those facing challenges in life.

The Annual Chelmsford Museum Lecture was held in Chelmsford Theatre and delivered by guest speaker Dr Peter Murphy who spoke on Climate Change and the Historic Environment: Essex and Beyond The Mayor was interested and saddened to hear how our climate changes and the consequent predicted rises in sea-levels will result in historical and archaeological sites being lost to future generations. David Buckley, Chair of the Friends of Chelmsford Museums and Dr Mark Curties, Assistant Museums Manager, had more promising updates about the upcoming events at Chelmsford Museum. The Mayor thanked the Friends for volunteering to support and help maintain Chelmsford Museum as such an important part of Chelmsford’s heritage.

Essex RFCA County Forum organised the annual Cadet Forces Reception at Ingatestone Hall where HM Lord Lieutenant of Essex Jennifer Tolhurst presented awards to worthy CFAVs and Cadets from across Essex’s Cadet Forces. The Deputy Mayor was pleased to attend and congratulate the award winners, many of whom were from the Chelmsford area.

Ace Music Therapy was established in 2017 to provide music therapy services across London and the South East. The Mayor and Deputy Mayor joined Amelia Clapham, CEO and Senior Music Therapist at the Ace Making Melodies Spring Concert to see children and adults performing with parents and therapists a variety of songs from their sessions.

They were both happy to join in with the happy performances by singing and shaking their maracas! Well done to all the therapists and performers for a very entertaining evening.

A History of Leisure and Entertainment Part 9

In the immediate post-war years, Chelmsford had four thriving cinemas. The Empire was never used as a cinema after the war and was eventually demolished in 1961. The Pavilion on Rainsford Road was improved in both its exterior and interior in the 1950s. Before it closed in 1988 however, The Pavilion was no longer screening the best films.

The Select cinema in New Writtle Street was refurbished after the war with a state-of-the-art sound-system and a ‘wrap-around screen’ but as early as 1967 it was being used for bingo, after getting a reputation as a ‘flea pit’. Although it briefly reverted to being a cinema in 1988, it closed permanently in 1992. The Regent, apart from occasional amateur productions and pantomimes, operated solely as a cinema after the Second War. It was popular, with queues for entrance often joining up with those for the Odeon in the immediate post-war years. After passing to EMI, The Regent ceased being a cinema in 1975, initially also being used for bingo. The Regent is a grade 2 listed building and the current owners cannot alter the facade at the front.

Chelmsford’s Odeon reopened in 1947 but was taken over by the Rank Organisation in 1948. The cinema was used for variety shows, dances and live music as well as films until it closed in 1981. Unusually for a cinema of its size it had no organ, and despite suggestions for its conversion it was never made into a multi-screen cinema.

By the 1980s Chelmsford was in danger of being without a permanent cinema, although films were still regularly being shown at the Cramphorn. In 1987 a new twin-screen cinema was planned on the old site, and a multi-screen complex was finally opened in 1993, just a few yards from the original site.

As early as 1978 a scheme to establish a local commercial radio station in Chelmsford faltered when the mast was not ready. BBC Radio Essex was also set to be established, but by 1983 there was still no progress, by which time Colchester was also being mentioned as a possible home town for the new station.

The old Hawker Siddeley site in New London Road was found, but the refusal of a planning application for a radio mast again put the plans for a BBC station in Chelmsford in doubt. BBC Essex finally started broadcasting from the town in November 1986 and it now broadcasts from its studios in New London Road. Radio presenters in 2012 included Ray Clark, Dave Monk, Sadie Nine, Mark Punter and Ian Puckey. Well-known presenters who have passed through Radio Essex include Jonathan Overend, Mark Pougatch, Dermot O’Leary and Eric ‘Monster’ Hall.

To commemorate the 40th anniversary of the launching of offshore radio in Britain in April 2004, BBC Essex launched a ship-based radio station. The station transmitted 60s music and memories all week. Another broadcast in August 2007 marked the anniversary of the closing of the pirate stations by the Marine Offences Act. BBC Essex celebrated 25 years broadcasting in 2011. The commercial station Heart FM broadcasted from Glebe Road, Chelmsford, having transferred from Southend. In 2013 plans were announced to start a new Chelmsford community radio station.

In 1959 Chelmsford started its own arts festival week. This included performances by the Chelmsford Ballet Company, the St Cecilia’s Choral Society, the Essex Symphony Orchestra, the Moulsham Dramatic society and the Kelvedon players. Chelmsford Borough Council continued to back the festival in succeeding years and by the time of the fifth festival in 1964 it included operas at the Civic and exhibitions at the Corn Exchange. The 10th festival in 1969 featured events across Chelmsford in Mildmay Hall, the Cathedral, the Odeon and the Civic theatres.

By 1973, the festival was experiencing both artistic and financial problems. In 1975 however, there was the biggest response to the festival with 23 full houses and more than 10,000 people attending the 25 events. During the 1978 festival, events ranged from an opera to poetry in a pub. Despite often shakey finances the festival, now

-

By Stephen Norris

called the Cathedral Festival, involved 3,000 performers. After 2007 the festival ceased when it failed to find sponsorship.

Joan Weston and the Chelmsford Ballet Company had been heavily involved in setting up the original arts festival. She had founded the Chelmsford Ballet Company in 1949 after two years as the Broomfield YMCA Ballet Company. Early performances were often at the Shire Hall. In the 1960s a scholarship fund was started and the number of dancing members rose to above 100. Weston retired in 1969 and sadly died in 1991. Patrons of the company have included Dame Beryl Grey and Lady Sutherland. The company continued to put on high class productions at the Civic Theatre.

Apart from Armstrong Gibbs, another famous local classical composer was Elizabeth Maconchy. She was a socialist and after being born in Hertfordshire and growing up in Ireland, spent the last 40 years of her life in Boreham when she came to Essex in the 1950s.

Before the Second War, she had studied at the Royal College of Music and her suite, entitled The Land, was premiered at the 1930 season of Promenade Concerts. After the war, Maconchy wrote for the leading ensembles, orchestras and soloists of the day. She chaired the Composers Guild of Great Britain and was president of the Society for the Promotion of New Music.

Over 50 years, she wrote 13 string quartets and many other chamber and instrumental works and she also wrote for single voice, piano and chamber orchestra. In 1987 she was made a Dame of the British Empire. Maconchy died in 1994 and in February 2007 a blue plaque was unveiled to her by her daughter.

Galerie der Stadt - By Sabrina Moser

Stadt Backnang

In addition to the Städtisches

Blasorchester, the other Backnang cultural institution that every self-respecting Chelmsforder should know about is our gem of a municipal modern art gallery, die Galerie der Stadt. Housed within St Michael’s tower as part of a unique architectural ensemble and putting on four exhibits a year, our public art museum is at the cultural and historical heart of the old town.

From his office beneath the bell tower, director Martin Schick has, over the course of the last 25 years, made it his mission to showcase an eclectic mix of internationally renowned artists whose dynamic works reflect the complexities and idiosyncrasies of the changing global world. With names such as Neo Rauch, Ilya Kabakov, Christina Kubisch, and Malachi Farrell topping the list, die Galerie der Stadt enjoys a reputation in the German contemporary art scene which extends well beyond city limits.

And for those tourists whose interests are more architecturally or historically inclined, the museum also delivers. Guided tours are available up to the top of the polygonal watchtower erected in the 17th century and from whence visitors can enjoy sweeping views of Backnang and beyond, while the art works below are displayed in what are the remains of a restored 19th century school house and an exquisitely renovated 13th century gothic church choir. A fire escape in the form of a sculptural staircase fashioned of weathered steel, rounds off the ensemble in an artistic blending of old and new, guaranteed to spark discussion and invite exploration for lovers of art, history and architecture alike.

Susan Signs up for Farleigh’s Walk for Life

Walk for Life, the sponsored walk raising money for Farleigh Hospice, is returning on Sunday 12th May. It follows the canal towpath of the Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation between Heybridge and Chelmsford.

This popular event attracts keen walkers of all ages, and many bring their dogs along too. There is a choice of two routes through the beautiful Essex countryside: the 12km ramble begins at Paper Mill Lock in Little Baddow, and the more demanding 24km route starts at Heybridge Basin. Both finish at the Teledyne e2v offices in Waterhouse Lane, Chelmsford.

Everyone taking part will receive a T-shirt at the start and a medal at the finish. Children will be given a nature trail card which they can stamp along the route.

Debbie de Boltz, Farleigh’s Fundraising Manager, said, ”Farleigh Hospice provides specialist care, free of charge, to local people and their families and carers across mid Essex who are affected by life-limiting illnesses and bereavement. This charity relies on income from events like Walk for Life and so we are encouraging everyone taking part to get themselves sponsored. We are very grateful to over 500 people who took part last year, raising over £43,000.”

Susan Watson has already signed up for the 12km walk with her granddaughter, as Farleigh’s Hospice at Home team cared for her husband, Mike, before he died in February last year aged 78. The

couple had been married for 52 years.

Susan said, “The lovely nurses were brilliant and made Mike laugh when they were looking after him. Farleigh also organised a hospitaltype bed and a wheelchair for him which were delivered to our home. “They absolutely made life easier for me too, requesting the necessary pain relief medication from our doctor’s surgery, so I didn’t need to do it myself, which took that pressure off me. I’m getting sponsored by my family to thank them for their kindness.

“Farleigh Hospice provides a wonderful service that people couldn’t manage without. It’s a charity that needs our support.”

It costs £20 for adults to take part in Walk for Life and £5 for under 16s if you register before midnight on 9th May.

On the day, prices are £25 for adults and £10 for under 16s. For more information or to sign up now, visit www.farleighhospice.org/ walk.

Banarasana - By Steve Johansen, Hummingbird Pilates & Yoga

This month I’m going to talk about, Banarasana (bana-RAHS-uh-nuh), although if I’m honest, I can’t remember any teacher ever using the Sanskrit name for this pose! In English, the pose is called High Lunge. However, I am aware of other teachers referring to it as ‘Lunge’, or ‘Low Lunge’ (though for me the latter is a variation). I call it High Lunge when your back knee is off the mat and the leg is straight and Low Lunge when the back knee is resting on the mat.

High Lunge for me is much more than just a yoga pose, as it is used in huge variety of exercise regimes, including pilates and gym programmes. Why it is so widely utilised is because it is so effective! It developes strength and flexibility in the core, hips, thighs and ankles, while improving overall body awareness and balance.

In yoga, the reason that this pose is special is that it is both a standalone and a transitional pose. A transition in yoga is the movement from one pose to another - not a mindless break between exercises, but a place for awareness and flow from one movement to the next: a dynamic challenge for mind, body and spirit! High Lunge also helps to develop the strength and control needed for harder poses such

as the jumps backwards and forwards in the Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation).

I nearly always try to incorporate this pose somewhere within my own practice and always include it in my classes, often adding variations to the basic pose with different twists and stretches of the torso, arms, legs and hips that can be held statically for a few breaths or used as part of a flowing sequence.

Where to start

I like to come into this pose from Tadasana or Mountain Pose because it reminds me of the length and strength that I want to try and find within my body, and extended leg in High Lunge. Also, on a practical note, it’s much easier to step backwards than forwards into this pose while helping to keep your front knee properly aligned above your ankle.

Start by finding Mountain Pose at the front of your mat, standing tall, strong and immovable like a mountain. Your ankles should be hipwidth apart.

Soften the knees, tuck the tailbone engaging your core, find length and strength in your torso, roll the shoulder blades down your back, find your Drishti. On your next in-breath, sweep the arms upward to Upward Salute. On your out-breath fold forward, bending your knees into Standing Forward Bend. Your fingertips should be on the mat either side of your feet, head hanging heavily.

On your next in-breath, lengthen through the torso and engaging the core as you move into Half Standing Forward Bend. Keep the strength and length in the torso, bending the knees slightly and take a big step

back with your right foot. Ensure your front knee is directly above your ankle, your fingertips should be either side of your front foot in line with your toes.

If possible, lower your hips so they’re the same hight as your front knee, walking your right foot back. Ensure that the legs remains hip-width apart. Tuck your toes and press back though the heel, to straighten your right leg.

Draw the kneecaps up engaging the quadriceps, tucking your tailbone downward toward your right heel. To engage your core muscles, lift your head and find your Drishti at eye height directly in fount of you. Draw your sternum forwards while rolling your shoulders backward and towards each other. Try and find the length and strength though the right side of your body, as you did in Mountain Pose right at the beginning.

Ideally, you should try and hold the pose for three to five breaths. Try to find a little more strength with each inhalation and relax into the pose, with each exhalation.

To come out of High Lunge, ensure your core is engaged and draw yourself forward slightly, to transfer your weight into your left foot. Push off with your right toes as you step forward into Half Standing Forward Bend. Repeat the process on the other side.

For those of you who would like to learn more about the benefits of High Lunge and how to incorporate it into your own practice, I’d like to invite you to join me at my studio, Hummingbird Pilates & Yoga. You can use this free pass code HPYFREECLASS, my gift to you.

Mallets Away!

This week saw the opening of Maldon Croquet Club’s lawns at the Keith Bigden Memorial ground in Hatfield Peverel.

25 members rolled up for the first day of our season and Maggie played the first ball.

This is our second season at our new ground which we share with Hatfield Peverel Bowls Club. We play golf croquet, which is easy to learn - and new members will be assured a warm welcome. Contact us at maldoncroquetclub@gmail.com to arrange a visit, or call in to see us during our roll up sessions on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday mornings from 9.30am until noon, or Saturday afternoon from 1.30pm until 4pm.

We play at all levels - for competitions and for pleasure!

Chelmsford Singers’ Spring Concert

Chelmsford Singers’ Spring concert will be on Saturday May 4th 2024 at St Luke’s Church, Church Road, Tiptree, Colchester CO5 0SU, starting at 7pm.

Conducted by James Davy, the Singers will perform Mozart’s Solemn Vespers and Regina Coeli (KV 276), and Mendelssohn’s Lauda Sion Brentwood Cathedral’s organist, Stephen King, will accompany them on the organ. They will also be joined by a quartet of excellent soloists including the soprano Jessica Edom-Carey.

Tickets will be £20, with under 16s free. Tickets are available from chelmsfordsingers.co.uk or on the door.

Can You Make a Difference in Your Community?

One-Off Volunteer Day - Great Baddow Races - 19th May

The Great Baddow Races are a hugely fun day out held for the benefit of local charities. We need some lovely, enthusiastic race marshals to help guide runners along the correct route, give out water and medals, sign people in and out, and loudly cheer along! Volunteers would need to be onsite at The Recreation Ground in Great Baddow for 8.30am until 12 noon.

Please volunteer for a fun day in the sun that will support our local charities!

Volunteer Telephone Befriender at Essex Home Help Service

We are looking for volunteers to support with our Telephone Befriending Service.

This service is designed to be supportive, reliable and enable friendships to be built for people who are socially isolated. You will come into our friendly offices in Ford End, Chelmsford for 2 hours per week to make telephone befriending calls.

Puppy and dog socialiser - Medical Detection Dogs

We are looking for caring and committed homes that can support our puppies and young dogs during their socialising and training journeys.

We provide food and equipment for the young dogs and cover all veterinary costs. You will have 1:1 support from your local Socialiser Trainer and Volunteer Coordinator.

Minibus Drivers - Chelmsford Community Transport

Can you help isolated people to get out and about?

We need friendly, patient volunteers to help drive our minibuses so that elderly and disabled passengers can get to social clubs, shops, and medical appointments.

Our passengers cannot travel without the help of people like you, and our service is a real life line to them.

Coffee group facilitator/volunteer - Reach Out for Mental Health

We need reliable, organised volunteers to help run a new coffee afternoon for clients experiencing mental health issues, and who may feel isolated and lacking support.

This would be an ideal opportunity for someone who has experience of these issues themselves and is looking to give back whilst gaining valuable experience of running a support group.

Steward volunteers for D-Day event at Beaulieu Park - 6th June Chelmsford Garden Community Council is proud to be hosting an event to commemorate - Day on 6th June 2024 at Channels Park, commencing at 7pm. There will be refreshments, activities and music and the event will culminate in the lighting of a beacon. We need 15 volunteers to assist with the stewarding of this event.

Introducing Jared - Chelmsford Community Radio

This month we introduce to you to Jared, our station enigma!

When I turned 16 I wanted to get into some volunteer work, so I went to the volunteering centre and something caught my eye - Chelmsford Community Radio.

I’d been interested in community radio for a bit at this point because I used to listen to the podcast Welcome to Night Vale, which is about a fictional radio show, so I thought why not try the real thing? I got in touch and after about 6 months of worrying if I’d be good enough, I started off with my very first show Wake Up On Stage where I covered a different musical each week with a mix of tunes and some trivia, plus cracked some jokes.

After some time I was starting to run out of musicals that I could feature, so I swapped to the show I still have to this day which is called Half and Half. The basic premise is the first half of the show is more serious and the second half of the show is more goofy, but I’m not a very serious person so it’s more like one half is goofy and the other half is extremely goofy!

I quite enjoy reading some of the lighter news stories and enjoy covering them on Half and Half - usually things like people finding a new species of dinosaur or milestones in space exploration. Speaking of space, the biggest segment we have on the show is where I talk about Doctor Who.

I’ve seen every episode of Doctor Who and I love talking about it, so in this part of the show I’ll talk about anything that relates - a specific monster, a whole season, or audio books maybe - but if there’s a new episode out you know I’m going to review it.

Another one of my obsessions that I bring into the show is Garfield the Cat (yes, that’s right!) I read out a couple of its comic strips on the show. Why? I couldn’t tell you, but I know that it somehow works so I do it.

I usually round off the show with a round of guess the celebrity which is really just an excuse for me to talk about movies, but dressed up like a guessing game. I’ve been doing it for around 7 years and it’s still as weird as day one but it remains good fun. So that’s Half and Half which you can tune in to every Thursday at 10am.

Outside of radio you can find me working on writing projects, playing video games, role playing in Dungeons & Dragons, listening to audio books and of course watching Doctor Who!

In 2019, Michelle one of the other hosts on the station, came to me talking about doing a radio pantomime because she knew I had a background in theatre. We started off with Aladdin and since then it has become a yearly tradition where sometimes Michelle would be the lead writer and sometimes I would be the lead writer. Luckily enough, two of the pantos I’ve written have done well in the Community Radio Awards. In 2020 Camelot won Bronze and 2022s Frankenstein won Gold!

I love doing radio and I’ve met some really great friends, and it’s such a creative outlet. I am already working on the pantomime for this year (oh yes I am!).

www.chelmsfordcommunityradio.com

Your Local Life-Saving Charity

Did you know that your local air ambulance service is a charity relying on residents’ donations?

You might think that the helicopters of Essex & Herts Air Ambulance (EHAAT) often seen flying overhead, are part of the NHS. But this free life-saving service provided 24/7 by helicopters and rapid response vehicles (RRVs) receives limited government funding and no National Lottery grants.

It is thanks to local people and businesses across Essex and Hertfordshire raising funds for EHAAT that the charity can provide its vital medical emergency service.

Last year, their critical care team treated just over 1,900 patients, operating from two airbases in Earls Colne and North Weald. Each critical care team consists of a pre-hospital care doctor, a critical care paramedic plus a pilot and co-pilot who rush their clinical colleagues to the scene of medical emergencies within minutes, carrying life-saving equipment to deliver advanced clinical care. Usually, this equipment is only available in the hospital emergency department. Thanks to EHAAT and local people’s generosity, patients have received life-saving transfusions from the blood reserves carried on board the helicopters and RRVs.

Many volunteers lend a helping hand to support the charity, all playing an important part. Jane Morton, EHAAT Volunteer Manager says their time is hugely valued by the charity. She explains: “The core of our operations extends beyond our fleet of helicopters and advanced medical interventions, it’s the spirit of our supporters and volunteers that drive us forward.

“From helping in our charity shops to sorting treasures in our warehouses, picking up collection tins, giving engaging visitor centre

tours and supporting events, every hour of volunteering makes a meaningful difference. Yet, it’s more than the tasks at hand - it’s about making connections and lasting friendships. Whether it’s sharing experiences, learning new skills or stepping in to support community events, our volunteers not only impact our operations as a charity but inspire others and create positive change across our local communities.”

If you’re looking to give your time to help your local life-saving charity in the most meaningful way, please visit ehaat.org/volunteer and discover how your contribution can support their mission. If you’d prefer to discuss how you can get involved or have any questions, EHAAT Volunteer Manager Jane Morton is just a call or an email away on 0345 2417 690, or jane.morton@ehaat.org.

Crafts - By Magali Ellis and Scrap-Circle

Using letters and words in scrapbooking Traditionally, scrapbooking layouts often adhere to structured designs, but nothing prevents you from adding incorporating asymmetrical letter blocks. Indeed they can add an intriguing and dynamic element to your pages. This unconventional approach allows for more flexibility in design and storytelling.

Scrapbookers usually have leaned towards symmetrical layouts, where all elements are balanced and evenly spaced.

However, asymmetry introduces a sense of movement and spontaneity, breaking away from the expected and inviting viewers to explore the page more dynamically.

Asymmetrical letter blocks can be used to create focal points, guide the eye, and inject personality into your layouts.

When choosing letter blocks for your asymmetrical design, consider factors such as size, font style and colour. Opt for letters that complement the theme or mood of your page. Play with different fonts to add variety and character. You can use stickers, die cut letters, or even hand lettering for a personalised touch. Experiment with mixing uppercase and lowercase letters for added interest.

Before doing anything, take some time to plan your layout. Consider

At Meadows Shopping Centre: More Than a Shop - Community, Learning, Hope and Love When the NHS was set up, it focused primarily on treating single conditions or illnesses, but since then the health and care needs of the population have changed.

People are living longer with multiple, complex, long-term conditions requiring longterm support from many different services and professionals. As a consequence, people receive fragmented care from services that are not well coordinated around their needs. This can negatively impact their experiences and create duplication and inefficiency.

To deliver joined-up support that better meets the needs of the population, different parts of the NHS (including hospitals, doctors, mental health services, health and social care) and communities need to work in a much more joined-up way.

England lags behind comparable nations on many key measures of health outcomes. Our obesity rates are among the worst in western Europe. Improvements in life expectancy have ground to a halt. Inequalities in health are widening, condemning some people to live much shorter lives and in poorer health.

Much of this is preventable, yet the NHS remains a treatment service for people when they become ill and lacks a comprehensive approach to keeping us well.

Our own health behaviours and lifestyles are the second most important driver of health. These include smoking, alcohol consumption, diet and exercise.

Places and communities play a key role in our health, which is increasing recognised, including the positive impact of social relationships and community networks on mental health.

the placement of your letter blocks in relation to other elements such as photos, embellishments and journaling. Think about the overall composition and balance of the page. Keep in mind that asymmetry doesn’t necessarily mean chaos; strive for a harmonious arrangement that feels cohesive.

Establish a visual hierarchy on your scrapbook page by varying the size, placement, and style of your letters: you can emphasize certain words or phrases, guiding the viewer’s attention and reinforcing the narrative of your layout. Experiment with layering, overlapping and clustering letter blocks to create depth and dimension.

One of the advantages of using physical letter blocks is the opportunity to add dimension and texture to your scrapbook pages. Consider using foam or chipboard letters to create raised elements that pop off the page. What about incorporating textured papers or fabrics for a tactile experience? These subtle details can make your layout more visually engaging and interactive.

Don’t be afraid to mix and match different mediums when creating your asymmetrical letter blocks. Experiment with paints, inks, stamps and stencils to add artistic flair to your letters. Mixed media techniques can add richness and depth to your designs, transforming simple letter blocks into works of art.

Start with a focal point and build your layout around it. Experiment with different arrangements before sticking anything down. Use adhesive foam dots or strips to create dimension and prevent flatness.

Pay attention to spacing and balance to maintain visual harmony. Trust your instincts and embrace imperfections; scrapbooking is about creativity, self-expression and fun!

The government has created a new policy called the Integrated Care System (ICS) which recognises the importance of collaborating with local community groups and charities in helping to keep people well.

As a result, ‘Integrated Neighbourhoods’ were developed. This is a system of networking within a very small geographical area, eg Chelmsford Central, for all organisations providing a well-being or health service, including Ideas Hub Chelmsford.

Through this network they know about each other and together they can better support those who need help. If you are such an organisation, please get in touch to be connected to the forums.

The Art Place is an Ideas Hub Chelmsford project. Ideas Hub Chelmsford is a registered charity concerned with supporting wellbeing in Chelmsford.

Community Exhibitions Coming Soon

May/June: Your Hair, Your Crown - by Tia Coker.

July/ August: A Summer of Art for Children.

September/October: Ageing, Caring, Dying: a Celebration of Life - by Compassionate Communities.

If you would like to input ideas for the design of one of the comingsoon exhibitions because it is a subject that matters to you, and/ or enter a piece of art and/or share an experience, please contact: communityexhibition@ideashubchelmsford.org.

For more information about our work, projects, workshops and support offered, please visit: www.ideashubchelmsford.org and follow us on Facebook by searching, ‘The Art Place Chelmsford’ (for The Art Place) and ‘Ideas Hub Chelmsford’ (for the charity in general) and on Instagram, search for ‘Art Place Chelmsford’.

Edith Miller

Interior Design Tips for Your Home - By Tania Dadd

Spring Into the New Season Warmer months are just around the corner. Interior decorating for spring is all about bringing some brighter colours and lighter fabrics into the joy of the much awaited prolonged daylight hours.

Where to Begin…

Think about updating the main spaces in your home, starting with the living room as you are going to be spending more time in here. Small changes can make a big difference and don’t have to cost a fortune.

Spring Update Ideas…

• Swap cushions on the sofa or armchairs, from cosy winter to floral or linen style fabrics. Fresher colours in pastel shades will brighten and bring a touch of spring indoors.

• Freshen up the room with a spring scent; consider adding scented candles or a diffuser (there are many kinds of diffusers, steam, oil or plug-in).

• A bright new rug will transform your room without needing to paint the walls (IKEA has a great range of rugs at reasonable prices).

• If you do decide to go for it, paint the walls in a fresh hue of blush pink, mint green, sky blue or a golden yellow. All of these colours evoke a feeling of fresh energy and vitality.

• Consider adding or replacing a piece of furniture that gives a lighter touch to the room - a rattan chair or glass coffee table.

• If your windows, curtains or blinds are looking tired, refresh them with a spring clean.

Pop in for a free chat at Saltmarsh Interiors design office in Maldon at 17 Kings Head Centre, Maldon, Essex. Our services include interior

design. colour consultation, decluttering and styling.

Book your free consultation: 07979 663 339. info@saltmarshinteriors.co.uk www.saltmarshinteriors.co.uk

Tales From the Circle - By Sylvia Kent

During those long covid years, when so many of our long-standing Essex societies were unable to meet, it’s great to learn that some folk, suddenly forced to stay at home, discovered a talent for writing. Those regular Zoom gatherings became vital and enabled many of us to meet online and continue with our craft.

Members of the Brentwood Writers’ Circle (started in 1941) and the Society of Women Writers and Journalists (established 1894) have worked hard to keep in touch and their writerly output has, on the whole, been successful.

One BWC member, Colin Taylor, a former teacher, who has supported our Circle as Chair for much of the last eighteen years has been particularly industrious, creating fascinating books for children (website www.colintaylortales.com). Colin enjoys writing for youngsters and has created picture books for parents to read to children and for children to read for themselves. Details of his

books Charlotte and The Painted Pixies, The Glitter Monster and The Restaurant Bear are loved by 7-10 along with Return to Eden (a title for older readers). The Secret in the Hills and Stone Circle Secret are full of magic, wonder and excitement and will soon appear on his website and on Amazon.

Last Saturday morning, Colin and I met another local children’s writer in Waterstones in Brentwood. Best-selling author Hollie Hughes arrived to meet a store-full of small excited children and their parents, a perfect fanbase, all of whom obviously enjoy reading Hollie’s colourful books. The author was happy to read a selection of her latest book, The Girl and the Mermaid - and she received a lovely noisy ovation from the children. It was a pleasure to meet two incredible authors and learn a little about their world of creating such fabulous stories and books for small readers.

This year is an important milestone for many creative writers. The Society of Women Writers and Journalists will be celebrating 130 years since this worldwide organization was founded, many members of which live in Essex, particularly Chelmsford. For details of the celebratory lunch, check their website www.swwj.co.uk.

More information about the next meeting of the Brentwood Writers’ Circle can be found on their website www.brentwoodwriterscircle. com who meet monthly at the Bardswell Social Club, Weald Road, Brentwood usually on the first Saturday 2.30-4.30pm. No charge for first visit.

Quiz Time - By John Theedom

Who was the first chancellor to deliver a live televised budget speech in 1990?

What has US president Joe Biden done to help him beat his ‘trip-prone’ feet?

Ananas is another name for which fruit?

Marmande, oxheart and pomodorino are varieties of which food?

Bacon is wrapped around what to make ‘devils on horseback’?

Blue Mountain and Caturra are varieties of which drink?

Which American city is known as the Mile High City?

Who wrote the Thomas the Tank Engine books? What substance is used to seal the gaps between bathroom tiles?

What links authors Jeffrey Archer, William Blake, Oscar Wilde and Alexander Solzhenitsvn?

Which river flows through Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Moldovia and Ukraine?

In Eastenders, what was Kat Moon’s maiden name?

The US state of Virginia was named after which English monarch?

How old was Roy Orbison when he died?

Who starred as Frost in ITV’s A Touch of Frost?

Which group recorded Everybody Wants To Rule The World?

Which Premier League football team nicknamed The Cherries play their games at the Vitality Stadium?

Meaning ‘God and my right’, which French phrase is the motto of the British monarch?

What is Simon Le Bon’s wife’s first name?

What is a reredos?

On which TV programme do Henry Cole and Simon O’Brien appear?

What connects castle, paper and bag?

A bleak is what sort of creature?

Who is listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the ‘most successful female musician ever’?

What is the meaning of ‘gubbertushed’?

Kiev is the capital city of which country?

Which fashion designer was famous for his H line and A line?

Oddjob was the personal bodyguard of which Bond villain?

Excluding royalty, who was the first woman to appear on a British banknote?

On the 14th July each year the French celebrate Bastille Day, but what was the Bastille?

Phasmophobia is a fear of what?

The spice cinnamon comes from where?

What location is used as the point to measure distances to London?

The British Army Officer Training School is in which town?

How many feet are there in 1 mile?

Eurostar trains from London terminate at which Paris station?

Who was president Obama talking about when he said ‘we got him’?

What is the name of the bridge that has been hit by a large boat recently?

Anything You Can Do is a song from which musical?

Which actors birth name is Sarah Sinclair?

(Answers on pages 31)

Stargazing With Mark Willis

22nd April: The Lyrid Meteor Shower is at its maximum, however the very nearly full Moon will be spoiling the show a little this year. 2025 will be better, as the Moon will be nearing a waning crescent phase.

29th April: Arcturus: (Arcturus means ‘Bear Watcher’): Looking east, a mere 37 light years distant. The light from this star was used to open the 1933 Chicago’s World’s Fair, as that light had left the star during the previous Chicago World’s Fair back in 1893.

10th May: Eta Lyrid meteor show is very favourable this year, so don’t miss it.

13th May: Evening 21:00: The Moon lies above The Beehive Cluster. 577 light years distant. So we’re seeing the light that left this open cluster of stars around the beginning of the Renaissance period.

As the days grow longer, the lighter evening presents a problem for stargazing. So why not use this time to study our very closest star, the Sun?

WARNING

Please do NOT look directly at the Sun. Especially through a telescope (and that includes the viewfinder as well!). There are safe ways of observing the Sun: (1) A hydrogen filter attached to a telescope. (2) Projection of the telescope onto white paper.

For more info search: ‘Build a solar projector to safely observe the Sun’. The Sky At Night Magazine and space.com have websites on this subject.

New Moon: On 8th May and 6th June there will be a new Moon. This means the skies will be extra dark which is a great opportunity to see planets, galaxies and deep space objects.

As usual, email me with any questions.

www.chelmsfordcommunityradio.com mark.willis@chelmsfordcommunityradio.com

Rotarty Baddow Races

in Chelmsford are back in 2024 on Sunday 19th May at the Great Baddow Recreation Ground, Great Baddow, Chelmsford, CM2 9RL.

Refreshed as Rotary Baddow Races, we will continue to stage our 10 Mile Road Race for dedicated runners and the 2 Mile Fun Run for families and young children, pushchairs, dogs and fancy dress too!

This year our combined races team from the Chelmsford Mildmay and Chelmsford Rivermead Clubs will feature an inclusive T-shirt for all 10 Mile Race entries received before 30th April. 10 Mile winners will receive a trophy and all 10 Mile finishers will receive a medal.

This BARR Gold Standard Road Race event will provide a runner’s pack, chip-timed numbering and the ability to wear bone conduction headphones for every entrant. At our event there will be stalls, children’s rides, food and refreshments, a sound stage and a warm-up exercise session. Proceeds from the races will support our chosen charities, Essex Dementia Care and The Childrens Society East. All race details and entry application can be found on our new website now open at www.baddowraces.co.uk.

Both races are also an opportunity for all runners to support your own charity and gain sponsorship.

We look forward to welcoming you to our event and on Races Day, the first 10 Mile Race will start at 10am, followed by the 2 Mile Fun Run starting at 10.15am.

Good luck and see you there on 19th May.

Chelmsford Mildmay and Chelmsford Rivermead Rotary Clubs

The Races at Great Baddow

Quiz & Wordsearch Answers

John Major

Bought trainers with wide soles

Pineapple

Tomato Prunes

Coffee

Denver, Colorado

Rev Wilbert Awdrey

Grout

They’ve all been in prison

The Danube

Slater

Elizabeth 1 (The Virgin Queen)

52

David Jason

Tears for Fears

AFC Bournemouth

‘Dieu et mon droit’

Yasmin

Ornamental alter screen

Find it, Fix it, Flog it

Sand

Fish

Madonna

Large projecting teeth

Ukraine

Christian Dior

Goldfinger

Florence Nightingale

A fortress

Ghosts

Bark of the cinammon tree

Charing Cross

Sandhurst

5,280

Gare du Nord

Osama Bin Laden

Francis Scott Key Bridge, on the Patapsco River

Annie Get Your Gun

Olivia Coleman

Easy Diner

Valid for up to FOUR people from Friday 19th April 2024 (Opening Day) to Friday 24th May 2024 (early bookings are advised)

Bookings can be made in person or by calling 01245 257777

Buffet Style

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Friday - Lunch and Dinner TRADITIONAL FISH & CHIPS

Saturday - 9.00am - 11.30am

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Saturday - Lunch and Evening MIXED MENU

Sunday - 9.00am - 11.30am FULL BREAKFAST BUFFET

Sunday - Lunch ROAST DINNER plus MIXED MENU

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Once

Management reserve the right to withdraw this offer at any time.

BOWLING BOOKING ONLINE - FREE VALIDATED CAR PARKING

Opening Times: Mon - Sat: 10am - 11pm Sunday: 10am - 10pm

Rivermead Islands, Bishop Hall Lane, Chelmsford, Essex CM1 1RB 01245 257777