The City Times - January/February 2025 by Itsyourmedia

City Times Intro

Hello readers,

Welcome to The City Times January/February edition.

Our county has had its first snowfall of the winter, fingers crossed that it will be isolated, but somehow we doubt it! But at least the days are getting longer and some bulbs are poking through the soil which means spring is on its way!

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The first thing for me to say is that I wish you all a happy, healthy and prosperous 2025. For me, I sadly have lost a friend to her heart - RIP Brenda. Looking at all the illnesses going around at present, its scary. I noted that this time last year we also lost a good number of wellknown people as well as friends and family members in some of the many tragedies going on in this world.

We need our so-called leaders to wake up and listen and put a stop to the wars around the world. They also need to look at the gun rules and the climate. We elect these people but most of them don’t seem to listen to us, the people who put them where they are; they just seem to take the money and relish the power which seems to go to their heads - then off they go without consideration for all the damage they cause all around the world. This also happens at local level as well, which includes our local and county councillors etc.

I am sorry but I have to mention the weather, and not just about what’s happening here, but all around the world; things are getting so extreme in so many ways, with storms, fires, flooding, snow and just about everything else the weather can throw at us. Sadly, people are losing their lives and their homes and livelihoods. Yet still there are some who deny global warming even exists. What l say is wake up and just look around you! And this year can we also do something about the fireworks that go off so much?

Let’s hope that this is a better year than last year; here’s hoping for some world peace but I am not holding my breath for that to happen. I hope that we get listened to for once, as there are many people out there doing a lot of good for so many - it’s mainly voluntary work and I want o say thank you to them all - I hope you all get the recognition you so richly deserve.

Please do remember that if you have a comment or something you want to say in this section, then please email editorial@itsyourmedia. co.uk and we will endeavour to include it for you.

Music

We have already put on one great show with Bag O’ Bones, which enjoyed by all who came along. We have lots more to go at the Chelmsford Social Club, and the Blues Box at Hot Box.

There have been a few changes and a few additions to what we are putting on. Firstly we can announce that The Malcolm Bruce Trio (Malcolm is the son of Jack Bruce) will be playing Blues Box at Hot Box on Wednesday 29th January.

Then we have Bill Meade’s SharpeeZ at Blues Box at Hot Box on Thursday 27th February. We also have Held By Trees at the Social Club on Friday 18th July, and Albert Lee with his band playing at the Social Club on Friday 10th October.

There are a couple of changes too: Timmy Moore has a new band, The Baker Moore Band, who are now playing Blues Box at Hot Box on Sunday 4th May. At the same venue Dave Ferra and Katie Bradley have had to withdraw from their show in July - but we are truly thrilled to now have Sister Suzie and Andy Twyman as Nothing In Rambling on Sunday 6th July.

One more show that have withdrawn is Michael Messer and Chaz Jankel, although we are going to look for alternatives for them so

watch this space. We are very happy to welcome back in their place the mighty Who’s Next who will play the Social Club on Friday 10th April. This is an issue I am finding when booking some acts so far in advance that sometimes we do have to make changes. I am already making a start on 2026 as there is so little left for me to do for this year already! So fingers crossed that all goes ahead well and without any more disruption.

As this edition is coming out, I am taking all my crew out for a meal as a thank you for all the help they give to me, as I could not do it without them that’s for sure.

I did go to a few gigs to as always, and I attended a jam the other week. It was good to get up have a good blow on my harmonicas with a band - I have also done some acoustic stuff as well.

I am excited to have managed to get a really good line-up of acts to play at both venues this year - and as always, I will be at all the shows.

The Blues Box has started already and the Social Club kicks off on Friday 31st January with Hamish Stuart of The Average White BandHamish has worked with Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Chaka Khan and many more, not only as a player but also as a writer too. Opening the night, l am thrilled to welcome Joe Anderton’s latest project Greene - he is a must-see, as is Hamish.

We also have Re|Floyd playing as this year is it’s the 50th anniversary of Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd. Opening will be our very own sound and lighting man Roger with his band Rostock. Coming up will be Heartbreak the Tom Petty Show - two of the band were part of Connie Lush’s band, so I know they will be great! You might notice that we have a few more cover and tribute acts this year so that we can mix it all up a bit - so look out for Limehouse Lizzy on 21st November. If you go online, you will see who we have booked for 2025, though I will always mention what is coming up in this article.

Please do remember to support all live events wherever they are, but especially when in your local area. This helps keep artists active and earning. Please do book in advance as it really does make a difference to the organisers.

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 may be 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, The Hop Beer Shop and Chelmsford 4Goodplease pay cash in person when you buy from them as well. Tickets for all shows including Hot Box 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 at the advance price on entry without any commission, rather than paying the walk-up price. To find out more about Black Frog Presents and our shows, go to www.linktr.ee/BlackFrogPresets or scan the QR code in our adverts.

City Times Food!

I hope everyone had a fantastic Christmas and an even better New Year! All the beautiful mess of Christmas is now tidied away and the tree and decorations have been put away.

I for one have eaten well over the Christmas break, but I couldn’t wait to get the ‘big food shop’ after Christmas done and eat some proper meals that aren’t party foods and Baileys!

I’m not one to make New Year’s resolutions, but I have written a few things down that I want to achieve this year on the notes on my phone. I’m not putting pressure on myself, but I’ll have them in the back of my mind.

Now we are in January, my social media is full of diets and fitness plans. I think I’ve said this before, but I have pretty much tried and tested all the diets that are out there and if I’m completely honest, some have really affected the way I see food and have had a big impact on my life. No food should be off-limits - it’s about moderation and balance.

There was a point in my life where if I was invited out to family or friends for dinner and I would cook and take my own food as I was scared of putting weight on - looking back I was so unhappy. Now I don’t have any foods that are off-limits; I have balance in my life and we cook from scratch most of the time and I know exactly what I am putting into my body.

We have treats at the weekend and I can have a glass of wine, but I keep it in moderation. So, what I’m really trying to say is please try not to put too much pressure on yourself to lose weight - ‘new

Essex Food - By Krista

Hello everyone and happy New Year! I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and you indulged in lots of delicious food and drink! Seeing as it’s the beginning of a new year, I thought I’d kick start 2025 by introducing you to a new spot that has recently opened in the charming village of Writtle. If you haven’t been to Writtle before, it’s a small village just a short drive from Chelmsford city centre, with lots of cute houses, a lovely church and a picturesque duck pond. Plus, its home to the food market that takes place every month, which I have mentioned in previous editions of The City Times

year, new me’ etc. Look at the bigger long-term picture instead of seeking quick-fix diets. On that note, I want to share a quick easy little cauliflower dish that is so tasty and perfect for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 large cauliflower.

• 2 tbsp olive oil.

• Salt and pepper.

• 1 red onion, finely sliced.

• 3 cloves garlic, crushed.

• 1 red chilli, finely sliced.

• Thumb-sized piece of ginger, crushed.

• 3 tbsp light soy sauce.

• 2 tbsp sriracha.

• 2 tbsp hoisin sauce.

• 2 tbsp tahini.

• 5 spice.

Serve

Serve with flatbreads of choice or hummus.

Making hummus: 1 can chickpeas, 60ml oil, I clove of garlic, juice from half a lemon, 3 tbsp tahini - blend it all up in a food processor.

Method

Roast the cauliflower in a little oil, salt and pepper in the oven at 180oC for 35-40 minutes.

While the cauliflower is cooking In a large pan, fry the onion for 8-10 minutes until soft.

Now add in the garlic, chilli and ginger and fry for a further minute. Add the 5 spice, soy, sriracha, hoisin sauce and tahini to the pan and mix to combine.

Allow to cook for a couple of minutes, then add the cauliflower. Coat well and cook for 2-3 minutes until infused with the sauce.

Serve with flatbreads or hummus.

I hope you enjoy my recipe of the month. Have a wonderful January!

customer service, which is clear to see when you visit.

The Duckquiri (pronounced duckery, though it looks like daquiri, the cocktail) is a lovely new tearoom situated across from the green and duck pond, which also inspired its fun name. This place is exactly what the village has been missing!

The heart of the village has been lacking a tearoom for a little while, so The Duckquiri has been welcomed with open arms by locals and visitors alike.

I had the pleasure of visiting during their opening week and was impressed by the quality of both the food and the service. Owners Lexie and Dean both share a passion for delicious food and excellent

The menu offers a range of light bites, brunch, afternoon tea and has a specials menu which change weekly. I had the breakfast roll which was stuffed full of bacon, sausage, mushroom, cheddar cheese and a fried egg with a runny yolk, washed down with a cappuccino. I also sampled the full English, with the crispy hashbrowns and black pudding both standing out - the definition of a hearty breakfast!

There are many gluten free, vegan and vegetarian options available and a great selection for children. They also have a spread of homemade cakes displayed on the counter, so delay the January diet and treat yourself!

If you would like to visit for afternoon tea, this must be booked at least 24 hours in advance. Free parking is nearby, it’s dog-friendly and walk-ins are welcome.

Tuesday - Saturday: 8am - 4pm 44 The Green, Writtle, CM1 3DU www.theduckquiri.co.uk 01245 981 374 Follow me on Instagram, @thehungrykp, for more local foodie finds!

January may be the heart of winter, but it’s also the perfect time to embrace the quiet beauty of the garden and dream of what’s to come. Beneath the frosty soil, life stirs in anticipation and every crisp morning offers a chance to plan, prepare and nurture your gardening ambitions for the year ahead. Whether it’s browsing seed catalogues, pruning dormant shrubs, or simply marvelling at the delicate frost patterns on leaves, January reminds us that even in the stillness, there’s a quiet momentum building toward spring. So wrap up warm, grab your gloves and step outside - you’ll find inspiration waiting in every corner!

Aside from keeping ourselves fit and healthy over the winter period, helping garden wildlife survive the winter not only supports the ecosystem but also brings life and interest to your garden during the quieter months. Here’s a January jobs checklist to make your garden a haven for wildlife:

Provide Food

• Refill bird feeders regularly with high-energy foods like suet, sunflower seeds and peanuts to help birds through the cold.

• Scatter fruit such as apples or pears for ground-feeding birds and mammals like blackbirds and hedgehogs.

• Leave seedheads intact on plants like Dipsacus fullonum (teasel) and Echinacea purpurea to provide natural food sources.

Supply Fresh Water

• Keep bird baths topped up and ice-free for drinking and bathing.

• Use warm water to gently melt ice, but avoid boiling water, which can damage delicate features.

• Create small ponds or shallow dishes of water for frogs and other creatures if you don’t already have a pond.

Offer Shelter

• Leave piles of logs, leaves, or stones undisturbed for hibernating animals like hedgehogs, frogs and insects.

• Install bird boxes and check existing ones for damage, ensuring they’re clean and safe.

• Don’t tidy too much! Allowing corners of your garden to remain messy provides vital winter shelter for insects and small mammals.

Protect Pollinators

• Avoid cutting back hollow-stemmed plants like Foeniculum vulgare (common fennel) and Verbena bonariensis, as they may house overwintering insects.

• Consider creating a bug hotel with bamboo canes, pinecones and wood shavings.

Avoid Disturbing Wildlife

• Refrain from heavy digging or clearing areas where animals might be hibernating, like compost heaps or thick foliage.

Enhance Habitats

• Plant winter-flowering shrubs such as: Mahonia × media ‘Charity’, Viburnum tinus ‘Eve Price’, or Sarcococca hookeriana var. digyna ‘Purple Stem’ to provide nectar for early pollinators. Check out this RHS link for further examples: www.rhs.org.uk/plants/articles/graham-rice/shrubsand-climbers/10-agm-winter-flowering-shrubs.

• Mulch your borders to enrich the soil while creating insulated spots for invertebrates.

By ticking off these small but impactful tasks, you’ll ensure your garden remains a sanctuary for wildlife, even in the depths of winter. Remember, every little effort counts in helping your garden’s ecosystem thrive!

Other Gardening Tasks for January

If you haven’t done so already, as the flowers of hellebores start to reveal themselves, cut back leaves to boost the display.

This is also a great time to plant snowdrops and hellebores when in flower, so that you can coordinate your colour schemes - whether that’s in a pot or strategically located in the garden.

If you want to see snowdrops as a mass, pop along to the gardens of Easton Lodge. They are closed at the moment however, but reopen for snowdrops on the 9th, 13th, 16th and 20th of February 2025. Check out this link: www. eastonlodge.co.uk/visit-us/whats-on.

If the ground isn’t frozen or too wet, move deciduous shrubs that are in the wrong place to a more suitable site.

For more January gardening tips, visit the RHS website at: www.rhs. org.uk and search, ‘Garden Jobs in January’.

Happy gardening and here’s to a year of thriving gardens!

For personalised gardening advice, feel free to contact Tom Cole, Freelance Horticulturist and online tutor, at tomcole8@hotmail.com or visit Learning with Experts.

Kitchen Design Trends for 2025: A Sneak Peek at What’s

As we move into 2025, kitchen design continues to evolve, reflecting changes in lifestyle and advancements in technology. Kitchens are no longer just for cooking; they’re multifunctional spaces for socialising, working and relaxing. Here’s a glimpse of key trends and how Regal Kitchens can bring your dream kitchen to life.

Sustainable Materials and Eco-Friendly Design

Sustainability is a cornerstone of 2025 design. Kitchens are embracing eco-friendly materials like reclaimed wood, recycled glass, and bamboo, alongside energy-efficient appliances and watersaving fixtures. Regal Kitchens offers sustainable cabinetry, highefficiency appliances and expert guidance to create environmentally responsible kitchens without compromising on style.

Warm, Earthy Tones

The dominance of cool greys is giving way to warm, earthy hues like terracotta, deep greens and browns, paired with natural materials like wood and stone. Accent shades like mustard yellow or burnt orange add vibrancy. Regal Kitchens provides bespoke colour palettes to create spaces that are both modern and inviting.

Smart Kitchens and Integrated Technology

The smart home revolution is transforming kitchens with voiceactivated controls, touchless taps and energy-efficient smart appliances. Control your lighting, appliances and temperature with ease. Regal Kitchens offers cutting-edge smart solutions, integrating technology seamlessly into your kitchen design.

Multifunctional Spaces

Open-plan living continues to shape kitchen design, making these spaces multifunctional hubs. Kitchen islands now serve as dining areas, workspaces and entertainment zones. Innovative storage solutions like pull-out pantries and built-in organisers maximise space. Regal Kitchens specialises in creating functional, stylish designs tailored to your needs.

Minimalism with Character

Minimalism evolves in 2025, blending clean lines with personal touches. Open shelving, bold splashbacks, or statement lighting add

Conclusion

The 2025 kitchen is all about sustainability, functionality and personal style.

Whether you want earthy tones, smart technology, or multifunctional spaces, Regal Kitchens can make it a reality with tailored designs and unparalleled craftsmanship.

Let Regal Kitchens transform your space into the kitchen of your dreams. Contact us today to start your journey!

personality while maintaining a streamlined look. Regal Kitchens helps balance simplicity with individuality to reflect your unique style.

Youngest Grumpy Old Man

The time of year of the Christmas gift giving and receiving season has not long passed. It’s more complex than it seems. It might seem straightforward but it’s anything but.

It’s a challenge; first, is trying to give the perfect gift - you want to show people you know them. Easier said than done, and some of us do feel the weight of getting the perfect gift. A lot of the time it’s hard and you end up not getting anything.

We can all get it wrong. Sometimes the recipient’s preference or needs are unclear. Unless boundaries for cost have been set, one could buy a cheap gift or expensive. Then it may go the other way the next time, or not at all.

Some gifts can be impersonal or totally unusable for the recipient. I mean, what are the views on regifting? I think as long as the you don’t accidentally give it to the person who gave it to you it’s fineand as long as they don’t find out you have regifted it...

How you act about receiving your gifts is another thing; it’s always nice to show your appreciation. I think most of the gifts I have received have been appreciated. There have been the odd few which I thought, ‘what?’!

I’m not perfect at buying gifts but I do try. I try to notice the odd things that might give me a clue as to what people want. I got it

wrong once with my wife once but she wasn’t too bitter! I also got it wrong a couple of times with an ex.

I think it’s better to ask, which we both this do a lot nowadays. I’m grateful, and do appreciate my wife.

Not everybody would get what my wife wants as presents. She has sensitive skin, so a lot of products available cannot be used.

I cannot believe that Su Harrison and Martin Day have now left Radio Essex, they has been on that station for years, plus many years on Heart Essex. It was a double act that has now gone from my mornings as I listened on the way to work.

What is the fascination with Chelmer Village Retail Park? A lot of the time it is very busy with traffic queuing to the roundabout. We live near the retail park and visit once in a while when we need something from a shop there.

Last year I spoke about what to do with twixmas. You look forward to the time off, but what do you do with it? You hate to waste it of course. Just go with the flow I say, and don’t worry too much.

Happy new year everyone.

Thomas

The Time Between the Years - By Sabrina Moser

Hello to all my friends in Chelmsford, many of whom I had the great pleasure to see last month. Whether we chatted at the Cathedral Christmas Market or shook hands at the Civic Society talk, it was a delight meeting you!

Since we are friends now, I can be honest: writing this January column has been truly rough as it has required diligence during

Twelfthide, one of Germany’s most unproductive seasons. Even for disciplined Swabians, the ‘time between the years’ as it is known in Germany, is a blissful time of socially-sanctioned idleness and domestic retreat. After the hubbub of advent, life comes to a halt on December 25th and (with the exception of those hitting the slopes) stays shut down until Epiphany.

If we look closer, this winter cocooning is not some modern Tik-Tok

Wickham Bishops Jazz Club

Situated in the village of Wickham Bishops, just outside Witham and operating from the Village Hall, Wickham Bishops Jazz Club is the present iteration of a jazz club that was first established in the mid1950s in Dunmow.

The club hosts many the present day top bands on the UK jazz circuit, providing its audience with a fix of live vintage/trad jazz on the third Saturday of each month (except July and August) for just £15 a seat, for which you get two and a half hours of cracking live music. Don’t take our word for it, check it out! There is ample parking and you can bring your own refreshments.

The event is run on a voluntary basis with all proceeds after costs supporting 3 charities.

Nearly all the 1950s and 1960s top jazz bands form the UK and abroad have performed live for the club. The likes of Ken Collyer, Acker Bilk, Chris Barber, Kenny Ball, Monty Sunshine, and Henry ‘Red’ Allen to name but a few.

Nowadays, sadly the band names are less well known, but some of the musicians on the UK jazz circuit can trace their roots back to those earlier bands. The vast majority of today’s musicians have impeccable musical pedigrees, and really know their stuff. They are a pleasure to listen to, even if one may not be a jazz fan - as are most musicians who are at the top of their game.

Covid hit the club’s audience numbers hard, so it is always searching for new custom. Why not try it out? Full details can be found at wickhambishopsvenues.org/jazz-club.

Forthcoming Events

January 18th February 15th March 15th

- Pete Rudeforth’s Jazz Band.

- Paula Jackman’s Jazz Masters.

- Alan Gresty and friends, with guest appearances from Colin Bray on vibes and Pete Neighbour (from the USA) on clarinet.

trend, but rather an ancient practice delivered up from pre-Christian times. It is enmeshed with the suspicions surrounding the Winter Solstice which held that evil spirits were underway in these short, dark nights.

To get through unscathed, one must keep one’s house tidy and oneself tightly under wraps. Forbidden were physical labour and loud noises which might draw the attention of demons rushing through the forests, and while a quiet enterprise, laundering was to be avoided as those very spirits could easily get entangled in washing hung up to dry. Even the weakened sun itself was not to be provoked which meant, by some primitive logic, that circular chores were also taboo, such as sewing, spinning or threshing.

Delicate cleaning and the use of incense were, on the other hand, allowed, as the time between the years was also a time of spiritual cleansing when the veil between this world and the next was at its most fragile.

From my vantage point at my cozy desk on this frosty January morning, I can safely say that these rituals, so seemingly archaic, are actually of tremendous value in modern times. When the clanging machinery of school and work shifts loudly back into gear on January 7th, we who have truly rested will be ready to face whatever challenges the new year has in store.

Please note: all events are subject to final confirmation.

Following these events, Wickham Bishops Jazz Club closes briefly for July and August.

Looking forward to seeing you there!

tApril 19th May 17th June 21st

- Bateman Brothers’ ‘It’s Trad Dad’.

- Pete Lay’s Gambit Jazzmen.

- Harry Strutter’s Hot Rhythm Orchestra.

January

Thursday 16th

Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Quiz night

Chelmsford Social Club - Social Ballroom Dancing Evening Courtyard - Karaoke

Golden Fleece - Quiz Night

Hot Box - Gurn Victim + Acorah + The Burial Code

The Oddfellows Arms - Quiz

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

The Rising Sun - Quiz night

Friday 17th

The Black Bull - Shakey’s Sessions: Two Tree Island + Reverie Sons + Mike Darrah + No Idea

Chelmsford Theatre - Sleeping with Beauty Hot Box - Levent & Taylor’s World Band

Saturday 18th

Chelmsford Theatre - Sleeping with Beauty

The Compasses - Karaoke

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

Hot Box - Menticulture magazine Launch (12pm)

Hot Box - Kill Bosco + Park Drive + The Trial

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

The Wheatsheaf - Karaoke

Wickham Bishops Village Hall (CM8 3JZ) - Wickham Bishops Jazz Club: Pete Rudeforth’s Jazz Band (6.30pm for 7.30pm - contact Pete, wickhambishopsjazzclub@gmail.com, 07548 775 777)

Sunday 19th

The Ale House - Quiz

Chelmsford Theatre - Peter Andre: The Best of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons

Chelmsford Theatre - RBO: The Tales of Hoffman

The Gardeners - Open Mic

Hot Box - Guitar Club

Monday 20th

Ale House - Beery Bingo

The Bootmaker - Swing Dance Hot Box - Chelmsford Chess Club

Tuesday 21st

The Bootmaker - Quiz night

Hot Box - The Only Way is Melee

Wednesday 22nd

Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Karaoke

The Bootmaker - Salsa Dancing

Chelmsford Theatre - Bird (15)

The Golden Fleece - Karaoke

Hot Box - New Music Wednesdays

Old Park Meadow - Gardening Club and coffee morning Old Park Meadow - Meditation (to book call 07906 653 666)

Patch Places - My Career in the Police (talk by Dick Madden - 3pmemail info@chelmsfordcivicsociety.co.uk to book)

The Wheatsheaf - Music, Movie & TV Quiz

Thursday 23rd

Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Quiz Night

Chelmsford Social Club - Social Ballroom Dancing Evening

Chelmsford Theatre - That’ll Be the Day 2025

Courtyard - Karaoke

Hot Box - India, Bharat Vol 1 by Tony Page

Thursday 23rd (continued...)

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

The Rising Sun - Quiz night

Friday 24th

Chelmsford Theatre - Drifters

Hot Box - Satan in Love - Italo, Disco, Post Punk and more...

RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Chair yoga

Saturday 25th

Chelmsford Theatre - The Magic of Mowtown

Chelmsford Theatre - The Thinking Drinkers

The Compasses - Karaoke

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

Hot Box - Black Frog Blues Box - Paul Rose Trio (1pm)

Hot Box - Hutch + The Mink

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

Village Hall (South Hanningfield, CM3 8HL) - Christmas Fayre

The Wheatsheaf - Karaoke

Wickham Bishops Village Hall (CM8 3JZ) - Wickham Bishops Jazz Club: Allen Beechey’s WB New Orleans Allstars (6.30pm for 7.30pmcontact Pete, wickhambishopsjazzclub@gmail.com, 07548 775 777)

Sunday 26th

Chelmsford Theatre - Chelmsford Dance Centre Spectacular 2025

The Gardeners - Open Mic

Monday 27th

The Ale House - Beery Bingo

The Bootmaker - Swing Dance

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

Hot Box - Chelmsford Chess Club

Tuesday 28th

The Bootmaker - Quiz night

Hot Box - Hot Box Waxes Lyrical

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

Wednesday 29th

Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Karaoke

The Bootmaker - Salsa night

Chelmsford Theatre - The Crime is Mine (15)

Chelmsford Theatre - Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club 2025

The Golden Fleece - Karaoke

Hot Box - Black Frog Presents: Malcolm Bruce Blues Trio

Old Park Meadow - Gardening Club and coffee morning

Thursday 30th

Bootmaker - Karaoke

Courtyard - Karaoke

Chelmsford Theatre - What’s Love Got to Do With It?

Hot Box - Basharan

Friday 31st

Chelmsford Social Club - Black Frog Presents: Hamish Stuart Band + Greene (Joe Anderton)

Hot Box - The Kubricks

The Oddfellows Arms - Karaoke

RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Chair yoga

February

Saturday 1st

Bond Street Bowl - Chelmsford Vegan market

Chelmsford Theatre - The Gruffalo

Chelmsford Theatre - Locomotive for Murder 2025

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

Hot Box - Boogie in the Box

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

The Wheatsheaf - Karaoke

Sunday 2nd

The Ale House - Quiz

Chelmsford Theatre - The Gruffalo

The Gardeners - Open Mic

Hot Box - Black Frog Blues Box: Leavin’ Trunk

Blackwater Leisure Centre (Park Drive, Maldon, CM9 5UR) - The Maldon Antiques & Vintage Fair

Ale House - Beery Bingo

The Bootmaker - Swing Dance

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

Chelmsford Theatre - The Gruffalo

Chelmsford Theatre - Vibrant Voies

Hot Box - Chelmsford Chess Club

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

Tuesday 4th

The Bootmaker - Quiz night

Chelmsford Theatre - Behold Ye Ramblers

Chelmsford Theatre - Viggo Venn Hot Box - The Only Way is Melee

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 5th

Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Karaoke

The Bootmaker - Salsa night

Chelmsford Theatre - The Illegal Eagles (2025)

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

The Golden Fleece - Karaoke

Hot Box - The Hot Box Big Music Quiz

Madison Heights (Maldon) - Open Mic

Old Park Meadow - Gardening Club and coffee morning

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

The Wheatsheaf - Music, Movie & TV Quiz

Thursday 6th

Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Quiz night

Chelmsford Social Club - Social Ballroom Dancing Evening

Chelmsford Theatre - The Illegal Eagles (2025)

Chelmsford Theatre - Matt Forde: End of an Era Tour City Centre - Concrete Canvas Charity Walk

Courtyard - Karaoke

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 7th

Chelmsford Social Club - Black Frog Presents: Re|Floyd + Rostock

Chelmsford Theatre - The Funny Mummy

Chelmsford Theatre - Legend: Music of Bob Marley Hot Box - Musical Theatre Anthems

Saturday 8th

Chelmsford Social Club - Record Fair

Chelmsford Theatre - The Dazzling Diamonds Hot Box - Com-unity Roots Double Six Dominos (2pm) Hot Box - Paolo Morena The Mighty Small + Randomduck RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Coffee morning (10am to 1pm)

Thirst Syndicate - Dope: A Night with Danny Bounce

The Wheatsheaf - Karaoke

Sunday 9th

The Ale House - Quiz

Chelmsford Theatre - Baby Broadway

Chelmsford Theatre - The Story of Guitar Heros Gardenders - Open Mic

Monday 10th

The Bootmaker - Swing Dance

Chelmsford Museum - Memory Café

Chelmsford Theatre - Wonders of Our Universe II

Hot Box - Chelmsford Chess Club

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

Tuesday 11th

The Bootmaker - Quiz night

Chelmsford Theatre - Ama Gloria (12)

Chelmsford Theatre - Tap Factory

Tuesday 11th {continued...)

Old Court Theatre - Touching the Void

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 12th

Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Karaoke

The Bootmaker - Salsa night

Chelmsford Theatre - Sherlock Holmes: The Last Act

Chelmsford Theatre - Stewart Lee vs The Man-Wulf

The Golden Fleece - Karaoke

Hot Box - Independance

Madison Heights (Maldon) - Open Mic

Old Court Theatre - Touching the Void

Old Park Meadow - Gardening Club and coffee morning

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

Trinity Methodist Church (Chelmsford, CM1 2XB) - National Trust meeting (talk by Yvonne Lawrence: The Show Must Go On - The early Theatres and Cinemas in Chelmsford - 7.45pm start)

The Wheatsheaf - Music, Movie & TV Quiz

Thursday 13th

Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Quiz night

Chelmsford Social Club - Social Ballroom Dancing Evening

Chelmsford Theatre - The Johnny Cash Roadshow

Chelmsford Theatre - Eshaan Akbar: Live

Courtyard - Karaoke

Golden Fleece - Quiz Night

Hot Box - Koyo

The Oddfellows Arms - Quiz

Old Court Theatre - Touching the Void

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

The Rising Sun - Quiz night

Friday 14th

Chelmsford Social Club - Black Frog Presents: Hearthbreak The Tom Petty Show

Chelmsford Theatre - Mercury

Hot Box - HotHaus Silk Soiree: The Valentines Pyjama Party

Old Court Theatre - Touching the Void

Saturday 15th

Chelmsford Theatre - The Dinosaur That Pooped a Rock Show

Chelmsford Theatre - Ed Byrne: Tragedy Plus Time

Chelmsford Theatre - A Joke

The Compasses - Karaoke

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

Hot Box - The Stretch + Randomduck

Old Court Theatre - Touching the Void

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

The Wheatsheaf - Karaoke

Wickham Bishops Village Hall (CM8 3JZ) - Wickham Bishops Jazz Club: Paula Jackman’s Jazz Masters (6.30pm for 7.30pm - contact Pete, wickhambishopsjazzclub@gmail.com, 07548 775 777)

Sunday 16th

The Ale House - Quiz

Chelmsford Theatre - Andy Zaltzman: The Zaltgeist

Gardeners - Open Mic

Hot Box - Black Frog Blues Box: Greg Coulson Band

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

If you have an event between 14th February and the 15th March for the next issue, then please email editorial@itsyourmedia.co.uk

AC Cars Announces New 2-Litre Engine for AC Cobra GT

An automotive upgrade that you can’t see is, of course, not deemed as being aesthetic and may trouble some manufacturers who naturally look for a decent profit to justify any manufacturing changes. After all, we naturally look for upgrades and changes we can see, not those that are hidden. AC Cars has made a hidden change to the AC Cobra GT, by adding the option of a new engine for their fantastic looking sports car, with the expectation that the new engine will be available from 2026.

For those in the know and who are knowledgeable, the change will be interesting, and perhaps exciting to some. We would always expect an AC Cobra to boast an iconic 5-litre V8 engine giving the Cobra a breathtaking 780Nm of torque and 454bhp reaching 0-60mph in just 3.4 seconds. All powered by a 6-speed manual gearbox or a 10-speed auto with wheel-mounted shift paddles. Impressive, so why on earth would you want to tamper with such a setup?

AC Cars suggest that the addition is to broaden the appeal of the Cobra by adding the option of a high performance 2-litre, offering 390bhp. The thinking behind the idea is sound: whereas some markets might add higher taxes to cars with larger engines, a 2-litre Cobra will certainly address some of these issues. The existing Cobra V8 is sourced from Ford so perhaps the new engine will come from

the same manufacturer too, though AC Cars has left much of what we would like to know blank at this stage.

We do know that the new unit will be powered by a 6-speed manual like the V8, with the option of a dual-clutch automatic, and that pricing for the 2-litre version will be significantly less than the V8 AC Cobra GT which sits at around £10-15,000 under £300,000. Depending on your chosen specifications the 2-litre Cobra is likely to cost around £235,000.

The V8 AC Cobra GT weighs in at around 1,500kg with AC Cars stating that the 2-litre unit will save a fair bit of weight over that figure which will surely enhance the Cobra’s power to weight ratio, perhaps making the new AC Cobra GT a little more responsive. Naturally, AC Cars will have been carefully thinking about how a lighter engined Cobra might affect the sports car’s carefully considered centre of gravity and weight distribution. All in all, it just might be that an AC Cobra with a 2-litre engine will be more exciting than the traditionally engined version… now there’s a thought.

You might be wondering about the relevance of changes being announced to a line-up still using combustion engine power in 2025, but AC Cars has already begun what will inevitably be an ever-increasing EV phase with the Cobra; we saw an announcement in 2021 of a Cobra Series 4 electric sports car with a range of 190 miles with a 0-62mpg of 3.8 seconds, and many custom builders have taken on the task of giving the Cobra some electric powersuch as the Scorpion EV from 2022 with a range of 400 miles and a claimed 0-60mpg of 2.4 seconds.

But while we are still allowed to drive cars with a familiarly throatysounding V8, it is still surely wise and credible to offer options for buyers to choose what will power their AC Cobra.

Sean Neylon

Courtesy of Smart Motoring magazine smart-motoring.com

Images: ac.cars

Super Slimmer Jade Loses Over 15 Stone!

Jade Clarkson from Chelmsford has spent just over a year completely overhauling her lifestyle and is heading into 2025 feeling like a new person, going from size 34-36 to a size 16 with an amazing 15 stone weight loss after joining her local Slimming World group.

The turning point for Jade, 33, came in August 2023 when she was attending her cousin’s wedding. It was the first time in two years that she had seen her family due to Covid, and as she watched the bride walk down the aisle, her knees, legs and back hurt so much. When she needed to stand again during the ceremony she really couldn’t do it and felt embarrassed to stay seated.

The photos were another huge blow, she didn’t want to be in them and avoided looking at them before leaving as the evening party got underway, feeling tired and uncomfortable.

The following morning she was shocked when she looked at the photos. It had been a long time since she had seen a full length picture of herself and this was the heaviest she’d ever been and she was really upset. In that moment she decided she had to do something.

Jade says: “I remembered Slimming World had worked for me about 10 years before and when I searched online I realised there was a group less than a 10 minute walk away from home. I messaged Emma, the consultant there and the next day I joined, I left that night feeling determined to lose the weight. I wasn’t going to tell anyone but a couple of days later, I told my mum and she was so relieved; she’d been so worried about me and had tried to encourage me before but I had just ignored her and pretended I was happy. In my first week I lost 18.5lb and I haven’t looked back since!”

Jade continued, “I love that I can still enjoy the foods I would eat before joining Slimming World, but in a much healthier way. I’ve always been a big fan of takeaways, whether it’s Chinese food or burgers, and being able to make fakeaways inspired by those meals means I never feel like I’m missing out!

“One of my favourites, a ramen noodle bowl, was even picked up from my Instagram and featured in the Slimming World magazine! I don’t have to stress about counting calories or following fad diets because Slimming Worlds Food Optimising Plan has taught me how to live a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle. Nothing is off-limits, but it’s also about finding alternatives to less healthy choices and enjoying treats in moderation.”

Consultant Emma Lodge, who runs 2 groups in Springfield, said, “I felt so proud of Jade when she walked through my doors. It takes a lot for someone to join and particularly when they know they have a long journey ahead - it can feel overwhelming. But I could see her relax as I explained all about our plan, reminding her of all the filling, delicious, real foods that she could enjoy and I could see the determination in her eyes. When she returned with that amazing first week’s weight loss I felt this was the start of something very special and it absolutely has been! I can’t wait to see where it ends!”

For Jade, emotional eating has always been an issue. If stressed or tired it was easy to grab a chocolate bar or order a takeaway and she

says, “It’s been a real challenge to stop myself from emotional eating, but the incredible support of my Slimming World group has really helped, they have had so much advice to help and support me with this and the online network I have built on Instagram have also been so helpful.”

As well as celebrating weight losses, Jade has come to recognise the benefits of the non-scale victories: “Flying without an extender belt, fitting on all the rides at Disneyland and leaving my house and getting active are just as significant. When I first joined my group, Google suggested the walk from home would be 7 minutes but it actually took me 55 minutes and several breaks and left me red-faced and completely out of breath. After a couple of weeks of doing Slimming World I started doing simple exercises, like walking videos online, because I was too embarrassed to go outside.

“However, once I lost 7 stones I felt ready to join the gym, I began with aqua to help my joints and made sure I hit 10,000 steps a day. Now, I walk miles, swim, do zumba and so much more!”

Jade’s health was previously affected by her weight, both physically and mentally: “Before I joined Slimming World, I was working from home and partially signed off work due to back problems and constant pain. I couldn’t see my family or be around colleagues at work because of how much pain I was in.

“Although I still have some ongoing issues with my spine, the general pain has almost completely gone. I no longer need to take daily pain medication and that’s made such a huge difference in my life. I’m back at work full time and have been able to go on the team building days out that I would have avoided before - and take part. The Christmas party was much more fun this year too!”

Jade hopes to reach another significant goal in early 2025 - her Club 50 award. This is a very special award from Slimming World to recognise someone who has lost 50% of their starting weight. Emma says: “We know the huge benefits to someone’s health of losing 5-10% of their starting weight, improved blood pressure, cholesterol, reduced risk of diabetes, heart disease and stroke and to lose 50% is a magnificent achievement and one that I absolutely know Jade will achieve!

“She really has worked so hard to start living her life again and I and the community of members across my groups are loving watching every single moment! I know next year is going to be a very exciting one for Jade!”

By the early twentieth century, towns such as Ipswich had their own technical colleges. The borough, with doubtless one eye as usual on expense, built its school of science and art as part of buildings which also housed the museum and the library. It was soon renamed the School of Art and Technology.

At the same time the county opened its new laboratories in Chelmsford, designed by County Architect, Frank Whitmore. As the demand for evening classes grew rapidly after the First War, with the further the expansion of the big three firms, a new technology block was built in 1929 allowing for classes in cookery, woodwork and metalwork. These facilities were used by local schoolchildren during the day, making up for the lack of facilities in their own schools.

The big three firms were sending their women and boys to special classes. In 1935 the college again changed its name to the Mid Essex Technical College. Fees were charged for most of the boys and girls going to the day college, but in 1937 there were 35 free places for boys and 33 for girls. By 1938, the Marconi Company was releasing 52 students each day to go to the college. Prior to the Second War, new buildings were finished with extra workshops.

The Industrial School had 150 boys in January 1915. 44 left during that year and 42 were admitted. Of the 44, 16 were placed on farms, 10 returned to home, 3 went to Canada, 5 joined the army, 2 went into the hotel service, 7 went into other occupations and 1 was boarded out.

In 1920 a new uniform for going out was introduced, designed to look less institutionalised. Three years later, there were rumours the school was to be closed because numbers had fallen from 150 to 90. It was now sustained by government grants, subscriptions and contributions from parents. The rumours proved to be unfounded and the school was renamed the Essex Home School in 1925. The following year saw the death of the school’s founder, Joseph Brittain Pash, aged 87. He had also run the agricultural machinery business opposite the market. By the time of its jubilee in 1922, more than 1,800 boys had passed through the school. In 1929 a new hall for recreation and gymnastics was opened by the Lord Lieutenant of Essex and the school went on to have considerable success with boxing. By the 1930s, the school had its own theatre and swimming pool, as well as a band which had been originally formed back in the previous century. In 1933 the school was certified as an Approved School for boys between 6 and 16.

In May 1939, Chelmsford was told to expect 9,500 evacuees, of which up to half were likely to be children. The Education Committee was told it couldn’t expect to evacuate any children elsewhere, and teachers were given a course in anti-gas protection and first aid.

After requests to be taken off the receiving list for evacuees, the number was reduced to 7,000 in June. Schools were to operate a double shift system. In the event, 2,543 evacuees had arrived in Chelmsford by the 12th of September, although some who arrived at the station were simply ferried to the rural areas - of these, 1,437 were children.

A request for 200,000 sandbags to defend the schools was turned down. A proposed ‘scattering scheme’, which involved letting pupils go to local houses in the event of a raid, was abandoned in favour of providing shelters for schools. The unclean state of many of the evacuee children caused much comment and the SMO was asked to inspect them. During the ‘Phoney War’ most of the children returned to London and in May 1940 the government decided the town would not be used in the phase 4 evacuation plans.

Meanwhile, the Education Committee was complaining about the slow completion of the shelters. By May 1940, 15 were in various stages of completion. If children were in school when the bombing started they were instructed to take up positions away from the windows. By December, netting had been provided for windows in all

the schools except Rainsford Senior, which had internal shelters. The committee opposed the use of shelters by adults after school had finished but was overruled. They were supposed to be handed over in a clean condition. The camouflaging of schools was considered undesirable because the Germans might think it concealed militar y targets.

From the outset, the war had an adverse effect on attendance. Warning letters were regularly sent out, but the absence of males in most households and the necessity for women to work had a marked effect on attitudes to school and behaviour. This led to the opening of a youth centre in 1942 at Friars School. By the end of the war the education committee were finally forced to start prosecuting the parents of absentees and to provide school dinners. 6d a day was charged for all but a small number of pupils, with the meals being ferried in from Billericay. Once built, the shelters worked well, although several had to be strengthened.

As during the First War, the boys’ grammar school was profoundly affected by the Second War. Initially the school had to receive boys from Tottenham Grammar School, but most quickly went back to London and by the end of August 1940 there were only 40 such pupils left. Air raid trenches were quickly available at the school.

Soon, 200 boys were having school dinners because their mothers were working. Half of the leavers opted to join the Air Force. In 1942 the school was directly in the firing range when the nearby Hoffmann factory was attacked. At the end of that year the school was used for two air balloons, and remains of the concrete bases used for securing the balloons could still be seen 50 years later.

As at the boys’ grammar school, school trenches had been dug at the girls’ school when the Second War broke out. The fact that it still admitted boarders led to record numbers at the school, with 381 pupils in 1943. School buildings were damaged and the worst raid was in December 1944 when ‘windows were broken in nearly every room, the roof and brickwork was damaged, all doors burst open’. The girls spent long hours in the shelters and Miss Cadbury, who had taken over from Miss Bancroft in 1935, remembered ‘the courage of the girls, many of them who spent their nights and much of their days in shelters but regarded it as a point of honour to be at the school on time’.

The 1944 Butler Education Act not only laid out the tripartite system of secondary education, which was to be introduced after the war, but it also provided for the transfer of the borough’s powers with regard to education to the county council.

Those of you who enjoy learning more about the faces behind the microphone will remember Scott and Greg from In the Middle (Wednesdays 10am-12noon) and that they are twins. However, they are not our only set of twins on air and we are also really proud to have the amazing Izzy and Erin on our presenting team.

Introducing...

Izzy joined the CCR team at the start of 2024 during her work experience. She loves a wide variety of music from a range of eras, however indie rock is a particular favourite. After a while of presenting she recruited her sister to join her. Now Izzy presents the Wednesday Drive at 5 show with Erin, where there are always plenty of jokes and games to be had, alongside a brilliant selection of music that focuses on indie rock and alternative music. The show involves music from over the decades, with discussion on music history as well as new artists and events. When not presenting at CCR, Izzy can be found playing the guitar in a band with Erin and attending live gigs.

This month sees the first of City Sound’s monthly live broadcasts from the Hot Box venue. New Music Wednesdays will present the best in up-and-coming new local artists playing their own music in front of an audience of fans and simultaneously transmitted to the world on the radio station as part of Paul Dupree’s Transmission show.

The first show will be on the 22nd and features well-supported bands The Number Twenty, and Lemon and Lime. Limited tickets are still available at the dice.fm website.

City Sound would like to thank all of those who contributed to a very successful festive Christmas and New Year in collaboration with Hospital Radio Chelmsford, not least the following school choirs and singers from theatre groups: Baddow Hall Junior School, The Cathedral School, Mildmay Primary School, and Kings Road Primary School. As well as the adult singers, Springers Singers, wo are part of Springers Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society.

They all sounded great - and those who used it, really showcased our Live Lounge performance and recording facility, where we will continue to feature musicians, theatre groups, popular discussion, poetry and comedy performances live and recorded on air.

City Sound wishes you all a happy New Year too - and don’t forget we are here for you, so if you would like any topic raised on air, would like to use our facilities to make a point, or perform to our growing audience, or a feature on you or your business, or advertise regularly for a small fee, let us know at studio@citysound.radio.

Catch us live 24/7

We love hearing from Izzy and Erin every week - and don’t forget you can tune in too, every Wednesday evening on Drive at 5 www.chelmsfordcommunityradio.com

is downloadable from app stores, on your smart speaker (‘play City Sound Radio’), or on numerous radio apps.

We distribute 10,000 copies around Chelmsford, Writtle, Broomfield, Danbury, Boreham, South Woodham Ferrers, Maldon, Burnham-on-Crouch, Great Baddow, Southminster, Bicknacre, Stock, Ingatestone, Great Waltham and Little Waltham and more...

City Sound - The Voice Of Chelmsford

Erin has a passion for playing the drums and shares the love of live music with her sister. She also enjoys being active, regularly taking part in running and yoga.

Utkatasana - By Steve Johansen, Hummingbird Pilates & Yoga

A new year and a new article! I can hardly believe that I’ve been writing these yoga articles for a whole year now, and while I still find writing quite difficult, I’ve gained experience and confidence in my writing. I decided to write about Utkatasana (OOT-kah-TAHS-ah-nah) Utkata, meaning Fierce or Difficult and Asana Pose, as this was something that I found equally difficult at first.

I was introduced to this pose during the warmup in an Ashtanga class where the teacher called it Awkward Pose. Over time I realised it seems like every yoga teacher has a different name for this pose, including Half Standing Forward Bend, Chair Pose, Intense Pose, Fierce Seat, Powerful Pose and Difficult Pose.

My teacher always called it Lightning Bolt. While I can see the relevance for all the names this pose has, I’m still going to continued to call it Awkward Pose - because it is!

This is one of yoga’s more demanding postures, as it works everything from the soles of the feet, ankles, calves, thigh, glutes, core and the shoulders. Despite its awkwardness, Awkward Pose offers many benefits, increasing strength, stamina, body awareness, balance, developing shoulder mobility, deepening the breath, fostering mindfulness and a sense of well-being.

It is always worth remembering to practice physically demanding poses like this safely, maintaining the alignment of the feet, knees, hips, and lower back, by making sure to fully engage the core muscles - especially when practising Surya Namaskar B or Sun Salutation B, where Awkward Pose is the second pose and the second from last pose within the vinyasa flow sequence. Equally, it can be just as effective as a stand-alone pose, either held statically for a few breaths or practiced dynamically, lowering into the pose on the exhalation and raising back up on the inhalation.

Where to Start

• Start in Tadasana (tah-DAHS-an-nah) or Mountain Pose, standing tall and strong.

• Flexing your feet, activating the arches, will highlight the 4 corners of your feet and the calves and fronts of your thighs. Maintain this strength as you relax your toes.

• Roll the pelvis slightly to stack all the vertebrae one on top of the other. Tighten your abdominal and pelvic floor muscles; this helps you to stand taller and stronger.

• Relax your shoulders downwards, creating as much space between the tops of your shoulders and ears, as you lift the crown of the head to the ceiling.

• Find your Dristi, at eye hight in front of you, to maintain your mental and physical focus.

• Establish a long slow, steady breath - with each inhalation find strength and ease on the exhalation.

Get Into Awkward Pose

• Keep standing tall, strong and immovable in Mountain Pose.

• Maintain your Dristi, an unfocused gaze, at eye hight in front of you.

On Your Next Inhalation

• Sweep the arms upwards, the palms facing inwards and the hands shoulder width apart.

• Keep the shoulder blades down, helping to strengthen and broaden the shoulders.

• Tuck your tailbone down to your heels, helping to engage your core muscles, pulling the tops of your thighs up.

On Your Exhalation

• Try to maintain the core strength with the arms up as you bend the knees, as though sitting in a straight-backed chair.

• Keeping the torso upright, and the knees hip-width apart and your weight evenly on the 4 corners of your feet.

• You will want to lean forward or arch your lower back, but resist this, by keeping the core strong, this is where balance and strength really comes into play.

I like to hold this pose for 3 to 5 long slow breaths, using my inhalation to find strength and tucking the tailbone and lifting the sternum. On the out-breath, find ease within the effort. Sometimes I come back to Mountain Pose, other times I like to fold down to Standing Forward Bend Pose, and when I’m feeling energetic, I move in time with the breath, in and out of Awkward Pose in a dynamic way.

Teacher Tip

• At first you may find this pose difficult, but over time and with practice you will be able to sink lower and deeper into the pose.

• For more challenging variations, you can raise the heels up off the ground. Alternatively, once you sink into the pose you can try adding a twist in the shoulders by placing the back of the hand to the opposite knee and stretching up with the other hand.

For those of you who feel like you would like to know more of the benefits of Awkward Pose or how to incorporate this within your practice, join me at my studio and let me guide you into this fabulous pose. Use this free pass code, ‘HPYFREECLASS’. My gift to you.

Winter Reading Challenge

Take part in fun, interactive activities this winter when you join the Winter Reading Challenge to help six dragon friends make their way home out of the cold!

This year, children go on a mission to find the dragons who are lost around the dragon kingdom and get them home to the castle before they get too cold... Complete six challenges from a choice of twelve, including a range of cool things to read, make and do. Once children complete the six challenges, they can also enter the prize draw - find more information on our website at: libraries.essex.gov.uk/home.

Crochet Club

Thinking about taking up a new hobby for the new year? Then why not try learning crochet! This fantastic crochet club is for anyone with any skill, whether you’re a beginner looking to start your crochet journey or a seasoned crochet expert wanting to socialise with fellow crocheters. Join us every Tuesday and Saturday from 10am to 1pm.

This group is free, no booking is required, but participants need to

Trustees needed

Trustees play a crucial role in guiding charities, helping make plans and decisions and making sure they stay on track. It is a fantastic opportunity to make real difference to the organisation you volunteer for. You don’t need prior experience, just enthusiasm and dedication. Trustee meetings are usually just 4 times a year, so this is a great role for people with busy lives who still want to help.

Marconi Ponds Local Nature Reserve volunteer

Marconi Ponds Local Nature Reserve is an area of wooded land and ponds in central Chelmsford. The area is perfect for wildlife including foxes, deer, small mammals and a variety of bird species.

Local people are invited to volunteer with tasks ranging from practical conservation, helping with community events on the site or helping to promote and manage the project - as part of the Parks Volunteer Sessions led by our rangers.

Charity shop manager

We are seeking a dedicated, responsible volunteer who would like to play a leading role in managing a charity shop in central Chelmsford.

bring their own equipment and materials.

NHS App and Account Support

Do you need help with setting up your NHS online account or registering and using the NHS app? Then consider booking one of our 30-minute NHS App and Account Support sessions, where a library staff member can help you with setting it all up.

These sessions take place every Thursday from 2-4pm and they’re free but booking is required, either by sending us an email to chelmsford.library@ essex.gov.uk, or in person at the library.

This would mean helping out on the till and with donations, but also unlocking and locking up, cashing up and helping us keep a rota of volunteers. Please get in touch if you fancy a fun, varied role with a bit of a challenge.

Community Connector at Dementia Adventure

We are looking for volunteers to promote Dementia Adventure, our mission and support services at local community events. All with a view to enable people living with dementia to get outdoors, connect with nature, themselves and their community, and retain a sense of adventure in their lives in all aspects within the community.

This is an ideal role for those unable to give a set commitment each week, and who enjoy speaking to others.

Minibus and/or car drivers - Chelmsford Community Transport

Can you help isolated people to get out and about? Having access to affordable door-to-door transport helps with simple everyday tasks like shopping, visiting friends/social clubs and attending medical appointments (GP and hospital), tasks that most of us take for granted. Getting out of the house makes a huge difference to a person’s quality of life, increasing independence and giving someone a new lease of life.

We are looking for volunteers to drive our fully accessible minibuses, or their own cars.

Crafts - By Magali Ellis and Scrap-Circle

Opportunities

The last days of 2024 unexpectedly opened doors to two fantastic and exclusive opportunities! I feel privileged to have met two wonderful people at the helm of two beautiful craft companies whose products I have introduced to Great Britian.

Florilèges Design

The first visit happened when it was just meant to be collecting an order. They very kindly opened their shop even though they were closed for the holidays. Well, this collection turned out to be a fullblown visit of their whole craft store and production factory! The owner was proud to show what they have achieved and we walked through their shop and craft work place, down some stairs to their stock warehouse and into their production factory.

While I appreciated that it is very much a small company with not even ten employees, I marvelled at the scale of it all. Designing and producing craft products is complicated, requires a lot of machinery and involves many steps - some of which can only be hand-crafted. It brought home how they live their work ethics and it explained the changes that they have made to their packaging for instance. They are very environmentally sustainable, swapping plastics to cardboard and paper, which can be recycled much better. They also want to be involved in the community. For example, the wood they use for their mounted stamps is the waste from a local factory which makes wood furniture. That wood waste is then taken to another local group of disabled adults who shape the wood to the required sizes of the stamps. I really applaud their initiative and enterprise providing solution to one company and jobs to another.

This exclusive visit of their factory impacted me so much that I wanted to share my unique experience with you.

Ha.Pi Little Fox

The second visit I was honoured to have taken part in was to the

The Art Place by Elena from EKM Gallery @Meadows Shopping Centre: More than a shopcommunity, caring, learning, hope and love...

The Art Place is a unique charity shop that not only sells artworks and crafts but also actively supports local artists and creatives in showcasing their talent. Regular workshops and exhibitions are held here, creating a space for sharing experiences, inspiration and learning.

The shop is open to new initiatives, offering a platform for talents of all levels and helping them connect with an audience. The Art Place aims to unite the community around art and creativity, making art accessible to everyone while supporting its creators. Every purchase here contributes to the development of culture in Chelmsford and the promotion of creative projects.

Workshops and Activities

New activities and workshops are added all the time, particularly during the school holidays. Do follow us on social media and you can also check our website for what’s on.

Monday: Art Group: 10am-12pm (£5). Jewellery 1pm-3pm (£5).

Tuesday: ESOL classes beginners and intermediate: 10-11.30am (free). Pachamama Period pads sewing: 1.30pm-3.30pm (free).

Wednesday: Watercolour: 10.30am-midday (£5). IT ESOL classes beginners and intermediate: 2pm-3.30pm (free).

Thursday: ESOL classes beginners and intermediate: 10am-11.30am (free). Knitting & Crochet: 1.30pm-3,30pm (free). On second Thursday of the month - ESOL book group intermediate/advanced: 12pm-2pm (free).

Friday: ESOL classes beginners and intermediate: 10am-11.30am (free). On last Friday of the month, Death Café: 12.15pm-1.15pm (free).

shop of the other French brand I stock up in my webshop: Ha.Pi Little Fox. It is a much smaller brand, just a husband and wife collaboration in the creation and production of their brand of craft products, centred mainly around their son Harrison - the ‘Ha.’ in the name.

I was there to attend a private and exclusive workshop using their latest collection. While making the cutest little Christmas album, we talked through all the details of the craft world, from exhibiting at a craft fairs to developing new products, including videos of tutorials and finishing on dates for new collections. It was a fantastic time of true collaboration between a designer and a stockist, really valuable and exceptional. It was all the more special that we are both small craft companies and we share a lot of the same struggles and excitement.

It was such a wonderful few hours where I could really get into the designer’s head and see why she created her products and how she was aiming to use them. When I place my orders, I get the products ‘cold’, meaning I have to input the harmony, love and flow into my projects. Having had the exclusive opportunity to talk to the designer and spend time with her, where she could partake her aims, goals and work ethics and how she uses her collections with me. There is no looking at her collections ‘cold’ anymore, they will now make so much more sense and I hope to capture their essence in my next projects.

You

What about you? Will you be on the look out for opportunities, craft and otherwise in 2025? There are many ways you can explore craft avenues with Scrap-Circle (www.scrap-circle.co.uk). For example, you can join one of our monthly crop in Highwood, near Chelmsford. You can join one of our craft weekends, at Highwood, Northampton, Milton Keynes or Perry in Cambridgeshire. Or why not come to our Craft Cruise this summer, sailing from Venice to Athens 4-11th August? There are many opportunities that are awaiting you. Just open one door and see the magic behind…

Saturday: First and third Saturday of the month, GAMES for 18-25 years old: 12pm-3.30pm (free/donation welcome).

Sunday: Messy Play, children 8 months to 6 years old: 10.30am11.30am (free). On first Sunday of the month LGBTQ Over 18 Meet Up: 1pm-3pm. On fourth Sunday of the month LGBTQ Under 18 Meet Up, The Outhouse: 12pm-2pm. Firstt and third Sunday of the month, Chelmsford Amateur Music Playing (CHAMP): 2pm-4pm.

Artist of the Month, Carol Chesher, Painter and Stained-Glass Artist Carol draws inspiration from the world around her, fuelled by a lifelong love of nature and animals. A self-taught artist based in Chelmsford, she creates expressive and vibrant paintings using oil, acrylic and watercolour. Her work often captures fleeting moments with wild and exotic animals, beautifully illustrating the essence of nature.

Carol regularly exhibits her art locally at galleries, art trails and craft fairs. She was a finalist in the Artist and Illustrators Artist of the Year Competition 2018 at the Mall Galleries in London and has showcased her work with the Society of Women Artists.

In addition to painting, Carol works with stained glass, celebrating her passion for colour. She continuously explores innovative ways to bring the timeless beauty of stained glass into modern homes. Using copper foil, leading, fusing and appliqué techniques - she creates both realistic and abstract pieces that honour this traditional art form.

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 by searching, ‘Art Place Chelmsford’.

Interior Design Tips for Your Home - By Tania Dadd

Home Is Where The Heart Is As February approaches, Valentine’s Day is going to be the next event on the calendar for some of us.

Our homes also have an emotional connection; the place where we spend most of our spare time. It’s not necessarily about the status or size of our home, but the feeling it’s our sanctuary and safe place from the outside world. We fill our rooms with layers of our personality.

After Christmas, it can feel bare and dowdy once the decorations have been packed away. Here are my tips for banishing the gloom in every room.

Start with brightening up the entrance to your property. A small change such as adding a new doormat in stripes or a bolder design will give it an instant lift, (clashing colours are good for adding interest).

A mirror in any room will bring natural light into darker spaces. Placing mirrors close to windows can reflect the light and bring the outdoors inside. Placing a mirror on the opposite wall to the window creates an illusion of an extra window.

Box clever with better storage. File those bills, paperwork and clutter in brightly coloured box files and storage boxes. These can be bought online from Amazon or from your local home store.

If you have open shelves or a bookcase, you can tweak them without a major overhaul. Things needn’t match but can connect through colour. Start with the item you love and work from there. The objects

you are placing on the shelves don’t need to be valuable to be on show, they just need to be things you are drawn to. Rearranging the main shelves can vastly change the appearance and feel of the room, this also applies to sideboards and childrens’ book and toy shelves.

Flowers always bring a bit of cheeriness to your room, they don’t have to be expensive as the shelf life can be limited if they are in a warm place. Sometimes the simplest flowers can look really stunning - a bunch of gypsophila (green stems with tiny white flowers) can really lift a table or sideboard, I recently bought a bunch from my local supermarket for a couple of pounds, they lasted over 3 weeks. The same applies with carnations, and daffodils will soon again be making an appearance.

Each person in the house needs their personal space. Children’s bedrooms need to reflect their personalities. They also need to be functional with enough storage. Sometimes just using what you already have and do what you can without forking out on new things can also bring a great deal of satisfaction. Try swapping things around.

Finally, if you have the time and energy, you could add a fresh lick of paint to any areas that might need a little freshen up. Painting over any scuff marks and dowdy walls can give your room a huge boost.

If you would like any advice on interiors we offer a consultation free of charge. Our services include interior design, colour consultation and styling.

07979 66 3339 info@saltmarshinteriors.co.uk www.saltmarshinteriors.co.uk

Tales from the Circle - By Sylvia Kent

Members of our Brentwood Writers Circle met on Saturday 4th January to wish each other a happy new year ahead and to welcome some new faces. The topic of new year resolutions was brought up. A recent newspaper poll on the subject in which lists had been made of the multitude of possible resolves people had made. This included improving personal health, exercise, losing weight, earning more, increasing charitable acts and, surprisingly, offering more kindness. One suggestion came up which involved making a decision to write their autobiography. Another was to fill in a diary.

Personally, as a life-long chronicler this idea of writing a daily diary has been particularly useful and inspirational when writing about my own topic, which is history, and being able to read one’s own notes made at the time of important occasions has been so very useful, and one that I would certainly recommend for folk taking their first steps into a writerly project or career of any kind.

Recently, when interviewing a famous newspaper journalist, she commented: ‘I could not have started my writing career without the help (and self-discipline) of always recording my thoughts and feelings, day by day, and this has certainly lead me to a deeper understanding of highlighting important moments that otherwise might have been forgotten. It’s not easy to develop a consistent scribing routine, but has been invaluable to me over the years.’

She is right. At a recent writers’ seminar, the business of maintaining a regular personal diary and other tips from regular chroniclers can help develop a consistent writing routine; maybe dedicating short time each day to write about one’s current project. Think of your diary as a playground for creativity and tracking your own progress over the year, noticing how your writing skills improve, setting goals and using the diary to track achievements, but also setbacks. Diaries can also serve as an emotional outlet and tool for stress relief.

The Brentwood Writers’ Circle meets throughout the year on the first Saturday in the month from 2.30pm to 4.30pm at the Bardswell Social Club, Bardeswell Close, Brentwood CM14 4TJ. Our monthly meetings have a visiting speaker, provide opportunities for members to read their own work if they wish and enter our regular competitions. Past speakers have delivered talks on their own writing experiences, how to market and publish a novel, make the most of social media to publicise a book and help in using computer software and technology. Members also share their own writing successes and experiences, offer tips and advice, and update one another on current writing activities. Do visit our website. First visit is free.

www.brentwoodwriterscircle.com www.sylviakent.blogspot.com

Photo: Julie Gowers

What day of the week was New Year’s Day in 2025?

Winnie the Pooh lived in which wood?

Which Jackson siblings recorded Scream?

What kind of animal is a chamois?

Lammas Day is in which month?

Which shipping line did Titanic belong to?

What colour is connected with the River Danube?

What is foolscap?

What are Oxford bags?

Which member of the royal family was born in 1900?

On which river does Cairo stand?

What type of animal is a chihuahua?

Maastricht airport is in which country?

What was Lot’s wife turned into?

In broadcasting, what does OB stand for?

What is the flavour of pernod?

What kind of bomb contains hydrogen sulphide?

How many pints in 1.5 gallons?

What is 80% of 400?

What can be cardinal or ordinal?

Which flower is also called a woodbine?

What are canoes usually made from?

Which wine comes from worms?

How many squares does a chessboard have?

What do the initials KCVO stand for?

What is a Swedish Plättar?

Salem is the capital of which US state? Is Sweden a kingdom or a republic?

How many hours are there in a week?

What is a butterfly larva more commonly called?

What is the plural of mongoose?

In which sport would you snatch and jerk?

What is the more common name for ethylene glycol?

What is the chemical symbol for silver?

What is the only food that doesn’t spoil?

What is a camel hump made from?

What foodstuff is the most recognised smell in the world?

What do bullet-proof vests, fire escapes, windscreen wipers and laser printers have in common?

Jessica Fletcher is the main character in which TV series?

Which car was used as a time-machine in the Back to the Future films?

16th January: Mars at opposition. This is a great time to view the red planet. Looking east, using either binoculars 7x50 or 10x50, or a telescope upwards of 120mm or 150mm, will reveal surface details - if you’re very lucky! If you miss out on the 16th January, don’t worry, as the view of Mars, a week either side of the opposition, will still be very impressive!

31st January: Tonight sees a slim crescent Moon with Saturn and Venus as ‘nearby’ companions. Another line of sight illusion as they are, in fact, millions of miles apart!

Latest news: The Nasa Parker probe has passed a mere 3.8 million miles (6.1 million km) from the solar surface. Parker is getting a tremendous beating from the Sun with extreme heat and radiation. We certainly have discovered a great deal about how the Sun works. Although there’s so much we don’t know.

For example, the Sun’s corona is much hotter than scientists expect it to be. Parker should hopefully answer this question.

The Sun’s corona is the outermost part of the Sun’s atmosphere. The corona is usually hidden by the bright light of the Sun’s surface. That makes it difficult to see without using special instruments.

Please, never, ever look directly at the Sun. Only use a telescope with a proper filter fitted.

New Moon: On 29th January, 28th February and 29th March 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