The City Times
Including: Boreham, Broomfield, Danbury, Great Baddow, Maldon, South Woodham Ferrers, The Walthams and Writtle 10,000 copies per month Issue Number 100 - March 17th - April 13th 2022
City Times Intro Hello readers, Welcome to The City Times March/April edition - our 100th issue! We cannot believe we are at 100 issues; it is all down to our advertisers, writers - and of course you, our loyal readers for picking up a copy each month - we thank you all! If you would like to publicise your business or event in our What’s On section, please contact us using the details below. Please do also remember to let our advertisers know that you saw their advert in The City Times. Paul & Nick
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it’s 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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Häfele and Regal Kitchens Help Design Students to a Brighter Future
Looking to work in your local community, providing quality care to people in their own homes? Full or Part time hours to suit you Guaranteed hours and shift patterns available Career progression opportunities Paid training and Social Care Qualifications For a third time, Häfele has teamed up with Chelmsford-based kitchen studio Regal Kitchens to host a workshop for interior design students from South Essex College. The event, hosted by Regal Kitchens - one of Häfele’s Studio Partners, educated the group on how lighting can change the look of textures and colours used in a kitchen, before the students were given a brief to design a fresh, bright kitchen in a space with limited daylight. Led by Matthew Lissaman, Regional Sales Manager for Häfele, and Jamie Mclaren, National Accounts Service Manager, the workshop introduced the company’s Loox lighting range and considered how various shades and implementation of white light impact on different materials and finishes. The students, who are all completing design degrees at South Essex College, explored the importance of lighting design as an integral part of kitchen planning and how plug-and-play LED systems like Loox by Häfele can be used to enhance textures. The group also learnt about maximising space using intelligent storage solutions from Vauth Sagel. Armed with their new knowledge, the students were set a brief from Regal to design a full kitchen including cabinetry, lighting, worktops, tiles and splashbacks. The students then presented their concepts to a panel from Häfele and Regal before an overall winner was chosen.
follow the brief to the letter, showed a very good use of light and incorporated Häfele and Vauth Sagel’s innovative storage solutions into their design. “Lighting can often be overlooked when designing a kitchen, but it was clear from the day’s presentations that the students really grasped the concept, and we hope they’ll take what they’ve learnt forward as they develop their careers.” About Häfele Häfele is a global manufacturer and distributor of furniture fittings, lighting, hardware, ironmongery and accessories. For nearly 100 years, it has committed to improving the look and function of furniture and making the best use of space in people’s homes. A trusted name, Häfele offers a range of 25,000 high quality products and outstanding services to trade, providing accreditations, training, next day delivery, bespoke packaging and cutting, life-time guarantees, design services and more. For more information visit www.hafele.co.uk For further details on Vauth Sagel visit www.vauth-sagel.de/en For Regal Kitchens go to www.regalkitchens.co.uk Regal Kitchens’ beautiful showroom in Chelmsford is situated at 2 Navigation Road, CM2 6HX and is open 7-days per week between 10am and 4pm.
Emma Mcloughlin, Business Development Manager for Regal Kitchens said: “We were extremely impressed with the students and their designs. Their presentations to the group and our Häfele representatives were amazing and it’s easy to see that they are all going to do brilliantly well in whatever career they choose after their course finishes.”
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Concluding, Matthew Lissaman, added: “The standard of work from the students was incredibly high and it made choosing a winning concept very difficult. However, the winning team managed to Page 4
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Nick’s Music and Ramblings Hello I hope I find you doing well in these traumatic and difficult times in the world. This is our 100th edition of The City Times, which means it is over 8 years since we started doing this in October 2013 - and we have not missed a single edition as during lockdown we continued publishing online. We are immensely proud of the magazine and also that we have managed to maintain our desire for it to be a free monthly familyfriendly community publication. We have grown since we started, as The City Times was initially just to be found in Chelmsford, but now you can find us all over mid Essex, and we grew from 24 pages to 32 pages very quickly. We must thank all our writers, contributors and advertisers, many of whom have been with us for a long time. Of course, we cannot forget you the reader: without you continuously picking us up and reading us, there would be no point. We hope to be able to continue for many more years to come. Unfortunately, I have just had Covid. In a way I am glad and I hope that I now have enough antibodies going forward. It was not too bad in my case - a bit of a throat for a couple days and then just a lot of catarrh which I suffer with anyway, but all better now. I see we have a new landlord in the Woolpack pub in Old Moulsham, and so I would like to welcome David, who I hear is doing a sterling job of getting the pub back up to being a great community place again with locals returning in their droves. As I don’t drink alcohol, I do not tend to go out to pubs much these days so I need to rely on the feedback that I get. I went to London the other week for the first time in a long time. We went up in the afternoon and grabbed some food which was great; it was Italian and tasted scrumptious. We then wandered off to Covent Garden and decided to visit the Royal Opera House (I had never been inside before). The people were lovely and the place was amazing and what we saw amazed me. We went up to the terrace passing the main restaurant which had stunning flower table decorations. Seeing the many costumes up close was mind blowing, and we were actually able to see the people making the costumes. The view from the terrace across Covent Garden was fab. I was also able to view the amazing arch window in the opera house which was incredible. We then ventured into Covent Garden Market which was fun. Jan purchased a belt and we were entertained by a fun classical quartet who were playing, dancing, singing.
lots of pictures. I could also see the damage that had happened to the dome during the storms the other week. The band played a great selection of boogie woogie and got us all dancing, and they had various people get up and join them too. They also had a wonderful duo there who opened the night. The drive back was not the best with the Limehouse Link being closed - it took about 2 hours to do what should have taken 45 minutes to get home. No regrets from me though, as I had a great day. This month on the 27th the clocks spring forward, so we can look forward to lighter evenings returning, and hopefully warmer and drier weather. Let’s not forget it is also Mothering Sunday the same day. Music Ben Waters and his band are playing for us on Friday 16th September, right before he is off on tour as part of his mate Ronnie Wood’s band. Recently, we had Eric Bell play. He was the founder of Thin Lizzy and the man you hear on Whisky in the Jar. You could see and hear why the late Gary Moore said he is the best - his playing, singing and humour was brilliant and he made time for all who wanted to talk to him afterwards. He was a true gent who we will certainly have back. Trevor Gentry opened the night with his band Stony Road, and I think they were the perfect pairing for the night. Everyone there was blown away and they are certainly another act to catch. Our next show was due to be the following week with Howie Casey and his Beatles with Wings, plus the 251s. Sadly, due to Howie and another band member having Covid they had to cancel this show (we hope this is end of having to cancel shows now). If you have managed to get hold of this edition quickly, you may be in time to come and see Cregan & Co; the act that Rod Stewart once said if you cannot afford to go and see him, go and see them (many will say they are the best). We have Richard Townend opening, who is always fantastic, Richard is also playing at the Orange Tree in Lower Anchor Street in Chelmsford on Saturday 2nd April. On Monday 21st March we have the One Tree Hillbillies playing at the Eagle and Hind in Gloucester Avenue in Chelmsford from 8.30pm. We then have Voodoo Room playing on Friday 25th March - if you like Jimi Hendrix, Cream or Eric Clapton look no further, as this band do it all better than any I have seen. We then have on Friday 1st April none other than Hamish Stuart the man who I always thought to be the main voice in the Average White Band. He was also part of Paul McCartney’s band and a songwriter for Chaka Khan, and since the early 2000s a member of Ringo Starr’s All-Starr Band - he is off on tour with them soon after our show. Next up is U2 Tribe, who must be the best around at doing what they do. Guitarist Paul (‘The Edge’) actually features on the latest U2 album playing guitar on a bonus track! Opening are The Significant Others from Colchester - a new band for us who we love the sound of. If you have anything to say or an event that everyone should know about, then please send it to the editorial email address below, and if you know of any events that are happening that the public can attend, then we want to know about them. It really would be fantastic if you could share our magazines The City Times and Moulsham Times for us. We continue to publish both magazines in print and online at www.issuu.com/itsyourmedia. If you are interested in advertising your business or event with us then please contact us at ads@itsyourmedia.co.uk, or if you have a comment, event to publicise or an article please send to editorial@ itsyourmedia.co.uk and we will reply to you as soon as we can.
It was then time to head to our main destination which was a musical cruise on the Thames. My friend Ben Waters had hired a cruiser for his band to play on and entertain 200 of us for 4 hours, which they did very well. It was great catching up with friends and going up and down the Thames, seeing the buildings and bridges all lit up - I took Page 6
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City Times Gardening What a great time of year for propagating plant from seed. It can be such an easy task with huge rewards! Seeds can be sown in loam based or loamless compost, but ideally sow seed in a compost similar to that in which the plants will be grown. For example, alpines are usually grown in a loam based potting compost, so choose a John Innes seed sowing compost which is also loam based. Houseplants and bedding are usually grown in a loamless potting compost, so sow the seeds in a loamless seed compost. The majority of plants propagated in the glasshouse are sown in loamless compost, whereas plants sown in cold frames outside are usually sown in John Innes. Compost needs to be: • Friable so the new roots and shoots can easily grow through it. Use a fine sieved compost. • Moisture retentive to hold and provide adequate moisture.
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Most seed composts contain peat or a peat substitute for this purpose. Well drained and aerated to reduce the likelihood of fungal diseases and to facilitate root growth. Horticultural sand may be mixed with compost to improve drainage and aeration. Low in fertility, as high levels of fertility can scorch young tender roots and the seed already contains what it requires in the food store of the endosperm or cotyledons. A small amount of phosphate in the compost encourages root formation pH should be around 5.5 - 6.5. Sterile, as the presence of pests and diseases is particularly damaging to seedlings. Store composts in a clean dry place and ensure it is covered.
polytunnel, which will offer protection for an early start of an annual crop such as Lathyrus odoratus (sweetpea).
You’ll need the following kit:
At the other end of the scale is a glasshouse, used for bedding plants which may have a heated bench or closed case to provide warmth. All of these are known as a protected environment.
Containers a traditional container is the tray or ‘squat pot’, but modules, which have the advantage of minimising root damage, are increasingly being used these days. Hygiene is very important to prevent the spread of fungal diseases such as damping off. Prior to use, containers should be scrubbed in warm soapy water and left to dry.
Check out this link for a simple guide to the techniques of sowing seeds indoors: www. rhs.org.uk/propagation/ seed-indoors.
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Brighten your garden for Spring Enjoy getting back out in the garden and add some colour to your containers, pots and hanging baskets with our Meadow Croo Grown Bedding Plants.
Take care to ensure the seeds have adequate moisture and temperature levels for success. Lastly, check out this link for further jobs for the garden as we move through March www.rhs.org.uk/advice/in-month/march. Happy gardening For any gardening tips please contact Tom Cole, Horticultural Lecturer, Capel Manor College, Bullsmoor Lane, Enfield, Middlesex, EN1 4RQ by post (including a SAE), or email at Tom.Cole@capel.ac.uk.
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High Sheriff Awards Celebrates the Work of Local Charities An innovative digital platform to help people who are homeless to access vital services, a campaign to raise awareness of drink ‘spiking’, activities to keep young people off the streets and support for vulnerable people navigating the court system, were among the Chelmsford-based projects to receive funding at the High Sheriffs’ Awards.
platform that will collate information for people who are at risk or already homeless, in partnership with the Chelmsford Homelessness Forum.
Around 180 guests attended this year’s ceremony, held at Hylands House, with support from Essex County Council and Chelmsford City Council. BBC Essex presenters Steve Scruton and Ian Wyatt announced the award winners and conversations were broadcast live throughout the evening show.
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The grants totalling £40,500 came from the High Sheriffs’ Fund and were given out to 18 voluntary organisations that address crime, community safety and anti-social behaviour. The fund is managed by the independent charitable trust, Essex Community Foundation (ECF).
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Around 180 people attended the prestigious High Sheriffs’ Awards, held at Hylands House Simon Brice, the 841st of High Sheriff of Essex, has visited voluntary organisations around the county during his year of office. Simon said: “Over the last 12 months I have met with over 100 voluntary and community organisations across the county.
Open Road received £2,000 to run an awareness and prevention campaign on the issue of drink ‘spiking’. They were also awarded the High Sheriff’s Shield in recognition of their outstanding work. North Avenue Youth Centre received £1,500 supporting the operating costs of a youth centre working with young people from Melbourne Estate in Chelmsford. Support Through Court received £2,000 towards the running costs of a service which helps vulnerable people to navigate the court system.
Since the High Sheriffs’ Fund came under ECF’s management in 1997 it has distributed grants totalling £700,000. Caroline Taylor, Chief Executive of ECF, said: “We are delighted to manage the High Sheriffs’ fund and work with successive High Sheriffs to increase the amount of funding available each year to support voluntary organisations that contribute to community safety in Essex.”
“It has been a privilege to learn about the wide scope of their work and I hope that I have helped to raise their profile and recognise their dedication and commitment to improve the lives of local people and make Essex a safer place.”
On top of the £40,500 being presented from the High Sheriff’s Fund, ECF will award an additional £132,000 in grants from other funds under its management.
He added: “It is wonderful that so many people from across the county were able to come together to celebrate the achievements of our amazing voluntary and community groups in Essex. This is nothing less than they thoroughly deserve.” The Chelmsford-based organisations to benefit are: •
Cool to be Kind received £2,000 to set up an easy to use digital
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Ramblings Through Closing Ranks - By Britain’s Oldest Angry Young Man Eight years ago Sir Cliff Richard was hung out to dry by a lethal combination of a paranoid BBC and gung ho Met Police, only too willing to believe sex abuse lies freely spun by sad fantasists, aided and abetted by a BBC camera crew in a helicopter.
Deputy Chief Constable Andy Prophet shared how Essex Police works closely with local charities to help make Essex safe
Nick Alston CBE DL, Chair of Essex Community Foundation, Simon Brice, the High Sheriff of Essex, Steve Scruton and Ian Wyatt from BBC Essex
Contact no: 01277356306
The High Sheriffs’ Award Scheme recognises community initiatives which address crime, community safety and anti-social behaviour. The office of High Sheriff is an independent non-political Royal appointment for a single year. The High Sheriff receives no expenses and the role comes at no cost to the public purse. For more information about Essex Community Foundation and the High Sheriffs’ Fund, the awards presented this year and to view photographs of the event please visit: www. essexcommunityfoundation.org.uk.
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Sir Cliff watched powerless and traumatised from his sanctuary, a villa in Portugal, as his home was invaded and his personal belongings and papers searched by over-zealous police which proved yet again to be a pack of lies from yet another deluded fantasist. Indeed, it is more than five years since the Crown Prosecution Service ruled out bringing any charges against Sir Cliff and more than three years since he won a landmark privacy action against the BBC for filming the raid. However, such was the humiliation heaped on him by the police search, that he could not bear to return to the apartment in Berkshire. Worse, he also decided to sell the villa in Portugal where he stayed during the two long years he was under investigation. My question is this: who sanctioned this disgraceful raid in the first place? Surely it couldn’t be the Metropolitan Police Commissioner, Dame Cressida Dick? Perish the thought. However, Sir Cliff is entitled to ask his own question. Why haven’t the police chiefs and BBC bosses (who are to blame for his torment) still not been held to account eight years on from this diabolical blot on the Met Police’s already tarnished image? Unfortunately the Met Police under Cressida Dick has a long charge sheet against itself, including the still festering scandal over the Operation Midland VIP abuse enquiry, and the rape and murder of Sarah Everard by - wait www.issuu.com/itsyourmedia
for it - a serving police officer. How did that get past the front desk? Hardly surprising that women’s faith in policing has tumbled since Everard’s tragic death. We’ve also had police officers photographing the bodies of two murdered sisters and sharing the images on WhatsApp and the crass Charing Cross police station debacle. Clearly Cressida Dick didn’t have the strength or courage to take on a toxic locker room culture that destroys women’s lives. The cavalier attitude of some Met officers does not endear them to victims of crime and indeed forces respect for the police a few more notches down towards zero. For the country’s biggest police force doing nothing to retrieve the public’s respect is not an option. Drastic reform of the service is a priority. No more flailing around in a Mickey Mouse investigation of ‘partygate’ while in the process allegedly ‘interfering’ with Sue Gray’s internal report on partygate by ordering a delay in publication of most of the detail. In any case, the worst that could happen is a fine and wrapped knuckles, while the Met Police close ranks as they have done too many times. Met Police footprints should never be allowed through the door of number 10 unless it is on criminal business. Somehow I fail to discern a whiff of criminality emanating from partygate, so I again ask - who sanctioned this ridiculous Met Police own goal? As if we didn’t know... In a recent speech at an event hosted by the Centre for Policy Studies, Sir Michael Barber, a former government advisor, made it clear that policing in England and Wales is out of date and often seems stuck in the past hardly seems for the present let alone the future. Amen to that.
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No Time to Detox? - By Lisa Whittle The days are getting longer, spring flowers are blooming and the birds are singing madly. Maybe your thoughts are turning to the seasonal tradition of spring cleaning, maybe even spring cleaning your body! This time of year coming up to the spring equinox (March 22nd) is in fact the best time of year to do a detox. According to naturopaths, the rapidly changing light levels at this time of year are stimulating subtle changes in the body and a detox can work with it, enhancing its effects, for the benefit of your body. Although the lemon is acidic it creates alkaline in your body giving its detox hydrated is important and all times, but especially important when you are aiming to help your body detox. Aim to drink 2-3 litres a day, depending on your body size, on top of any other liquids you may be drinking. If you don’t do this normally, beginning to drink enough plain water or natural lemon water a day can help your body detox just doing this alone - and give more energy and help you feel lighter. The liver is your body’s chemical processing plant and it has about 500 separate functions. Studies have observed that the liver produces more enzymes in the presence of lemon when compared to other food items. Enzymes are essential to stimulate, accelerate, and catalyse various chemical reactions in the human body. The better your liver works, the better you will feel.
Something as simple as starting your day with lemon water helps your liver detox itself
Lemon as you know is acidic, and this can help stimulate your digestion and add to your stomach’s own acid. However, a very interesting fact about lemon is that although it is acidic when you consume it, within it it has the raw materials to help your body create the opposite - alkalinity in your body tissues, which is healthy and what we are ideally aiming for. The potassium within the lemon combined with the low sugar of lemon is responsible for this. The potassium is also an important electrolyte for the body and it helps the electrical signals of the body helping you feel alive and alert. As with all detoxes, in the first few days you may initially feel a little under parr as your liver lets go of toxins and your body is working these out of your system. But hang in there because after a few more days it will be worth it and you will feel better, I promise.
A detox need not be a complex thing involving deprivation and difficulty. This month I have a very simple easy time-efficient idea for you that none-the-less can uplift your mood and energy levels and be a catalyst for greater things. Like all detoxes this can help kick start healthy routines and build enthusiasm as you reap the rewards. You may even lose a little weight. That simple idea is to drink lemon water when you wake in the morning. Ideally a pint or a large glass of water with the juice of half a lemon mixed in. Maybe you are more used to reaching for coffee in the morning to get you going. Just hold off for half an hour or so and drink lemon water first. The lemon in the water encourages your liver to let go of toxins and if you drink it first thing on an empty stomach your liver can’t fail to notice the message you are giving it. Perhaps prepare it the night before and have it by your bed to make this new routine easier to accomplish. Having it with warm water is another variation. If drinking lemon first thing really isn’t possible, then drinking it through the day is an alternative. Putting pieces of lemon in your water bottle can make water easier to drink if you are not naturally accustomed to this (it’s an interesting fact that if you are dehydrated you don’t feel like drinking water - it’s odd and I think of it as a querky human design fault). If you are not already a water drinker, drinking the lemon water really will help will kick start hydration. Making sure you are optimally
Limes have similar health benefits to lemons and can be used interchangeably Lemons and limes are equivalent, so if you prefer the taste of lime or fancy a change, go for limes - but with both, watch your teeth as the acid in the juice can eat away at your enamel. Ideally brush your teeth after drinking or drink in a way that doesn’t touch your teeth! I have been inspired by the power that small positive changes such as drinking lemon water can make from the book Atomic Habits by James Clear - he says ‘tiny changes and lead to remarkable results’. So I hope this leads to remarkable results for you. Do let me know at lisactfood@gmail.com. I would love to hear from you.
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City Times Finance Golf Club. This was a fundraiser for Rotary’s own charity, The Rotary Foundation, which raises money for good causes and charities too numerous to mention but all over the world. The current invasion in Ukraine is the latest to be supported, and much of the donations through Shelterboxes and money is distributed via the 40 Rotary clubs in Ukraine. This Rotary network ensures support goes quickly to where it is most needed with minimal administration costs.
Rotary Looking Good for Its Age On 23rd February we celebrated Rotary’s 117th birthday. Contrary to a certain perception, none of the Chelmsford Rotary Clubs have any members who were around at the inauguration! In fact, it is part of my job as a Public Image Chairman to dispel the myth that Rotary is an organisation for old people. It is true to say that the age profile does include many in the retired bracket, but it also welcomes thousands of younger members who bring fresh ideas and energy to add to the experience of longer-term Rotarians. In Chelmsford itself there are five vibrant clubs each making a significant impact to the community. Youth is often at the heart of such projects, and on the 19th February the final of the District Young Musician Competition took place in Chelmsford Cathedral. As usual, the standard was incredibly high: the instrumental winner was flautist Viviane Ghiglano from Colchester, whilst the vocalist winner was Libby Simmons from Chelmsford. Prizes were presented by the Mayor of Chelmsford Cllr Jude Deakin and Rotary Youth Chairman, Peter Dowse.
At regular Rotary meetings there is often a speaker, and the Chelmsford Club is fortunate in having some members who have particularly interesting stories to tell. David Axon’s father was a spy during the Second World War and its aftermath at the Nuremberg War Trials and the Cold War. His father was part of a dangerous group, aptly named the Suicide Squad as the mortality rate was so high. He was a true James Bond figure adopting various guises such as a tramp in poorer areas, and as a disaffected German used to the high life on other occasions. He was an M16 spy in the Russian zone passing on information to GCHQ. Gripping and absorbing tales and so brave. Quizzes are a staple diet of Rotary’s fundraising activities and Dunmow Rotary’s annual Rotary Rose Bowl Quiz took place on the 26th February with about eighty eager participants. Pam’s People ran out winners in a keenly contested quiz chaired by President Michael Chapman. It was a fun night and profits in excess of £650 will go towards worthy causes. One such charity deserving of our support is GOSH - Great Ormond Street Hospital, and in an informative talk recently we heard of the wonderful work done for children, including many living in Essex. Without hesitation, the club decided to make a donation to GOSH. Children always tug at the heartstrings and another presentation in support of Hope and Homes brought the reality of the appalling conditions suffered by children in state orphanages in Romania and Rwanda. They are often orphaned through war or economic disasters. The charity trains its own social workers and places orphans with loving family or foster carers in houses bought by Hope and Homes and this transforms their young lives. It also drastically reduces the incidence of suicide. As an aside, the charity is beginning to work in Ukraine as well, which will be imperative given the current political situation. Closer to home, local Rotarians made substantial donations to the Food Bank partly through the clubs’ Reverse Advent Calendar. Besides food items, 354 nappies and sanitary towels were donated as these were specifically requested. Again, this is the tip of the iceberg of projects carried out by your local Rotary clubs. You can help us support such events and enjoy the social side, so please enquire about joining Rotary by giving me call on 01245 260 349, or alternatively visit www.rotary1240.org. Stan Keller
A newer competition, the Ron Gregory Photography Competition, was set up in memory of Ron who was a member of the Chelmsford Mildmay club. The theme for 2021 was Spring and the winners were announced along with the news that Sanctus and the City of Chelmsford Mencap both benefited from the profit of the competition. Next year’s theme is Shapes and Patterns, so the club is hoping for an equally successful outcome. Closing date for entries is Sunday 1st May and can be found on the Mildmay website www.rotary-ribi.org/ clubs/homepage.php?ClubID=1399.
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On 27th February a lunch was enjoyed by Rotarians at Channels Page 14
Put Some Spring in to Your Money!
As we head into spring, the days are getting brighter and warmer and our thoughts tend to take on a fresher, more positive perspective. For some of us this could mean revising our financial positions, so let’s start here: 1. Cashflow - Money In, Out and When Factor in any savings and investments, taxes, debts such as cards or mortgage. All that basic info will give you a great insight into your present situation. If you know where you are right now you know whether you are headed towards or away from your goals. 2. Budget Nobody likes to admit it, but it is crucial if you want to get ahead. Whether you love a good spreadsheet or prefer a pen and paper just do it! Regular reviews of your monthly in and out flows and the type of expenditure (need versus want) do come into their own when assessing your objectives.
3. Emergency Fund Now you know where it all goes, you can ensure that you set aside an amount for three - or ideally six - months worth of expenses. Not everyone has the ability to do this, however with careful planning you can save a little every month and it will soon add up. If you do your budgeting right (see #2) you will have your own crisis fund. The only caveat being: put it into a separate savings account or ISA and do not touch it - that’s the secret! 4. Pension Top up your pension or consider switching funds. If you can afford it, now is an excellent time to increase your contributions. Even a minor increase in contribution of say 2% will make a difference in the long run. If appropriate, your independent financial adviser may recommend switching funds to maximise recovery if you have less than 10 years to retirement. If you have more than 10 years, you can take advantage of the market volatility as in the long run you will reap the benefits. Tax reliefs on contributions mean you effectively receive ‘free money’ to help compensate for any investment losses.
Leaf Distribution Ltd which is authorised and regulated by Financial Conduct Authority number 460421. The value of your investment may go up as well as down and the value is not guaranteed. Past performance is not a guarantee of future performance. Wills and Estate Planning are not regulated by the FCA. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
The Story of Leonora Carrington The Story of Leonora Carrington, is about Leonora, who went to school in Chelmsford preWorld War Two, before escaping France to the US and Mexico. The book also covers other women artists of the Surrealist movement. Available from the Art Place in the Meadows Precinct, Chelmsford.
5. Estate Planning Often the elephant in the room, don’t leave it until it’s too late! Review your will - is it up to date and reflects your current wishes? Are any trusts in place still advantageous and tax-efficient? Lasting power of attorney registered and valid? It takes a few moments to check your documents and will make a world of difference. If you have no plan in place or don’t even have a will (yikes!) contact us immediately. 6. Protection Insurance is something we all need but don’t like to think about... For not a lot of money you could and absolutely should get a cover appropriate for your needs. Life cover is a bare minimum that would make a massive difference to your loved ones. Add a critical illness and you as well as your family will be taken care of. If monthly income instead of a lump sum is preferable, then family income benefit fits the bill. Finally, income protection in the event of a job loss is the ultimate in peace of mind. If you need help or more information about any of the points raised please do get in touch to see how we can help you. Silvia Johnson Bsc(Hons), DipPFS, EFA, CertCII (MP) is a Director and Independent Financial Adviser at Royale Thames Wealth and provides independent financial advice to individuals and businesses. www.royalthameswealth.co.uk silvia@royalthameswealth.co.uk 07908 109 741 / 020 8720 7249 Royale Thames Wealth Ltd is an Appointed Representative of New
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What’s On All events are correct at time of going to press. Please check with the venue for updates.
March
Friday 18th Bay Horse - It’s Not a Phase Mum Civic - Beatrix Potter™ Tales in association with Frederick Warne & Co Cramphorn - Honk Chelmsford Social Club - Cregan & Co ((Jim Cregan of Rod Stewart & Cockney Rebel) + Richard Townend Eagle and Hind - The Locals Hot Box - Tom Hingley RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Chair Yoga (10.45am - £6 per session - to book phone Sue Eddie on 07794 543 147) Saturday 19th Bay Horse - Bulletproof Central Park, Chelmsford - Holi Festival of Colours Civic - Beatrix Potter™ Tales in association with Frederick Warne & Co Cramphorn - Honk RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Coffee morning (10am to 1pm) The UB - First Principles Sunday 20th Hylands House - Open day and farmers and craft market Monday 21st Eagle & Hind - One Tree Hillbillies Hot Box - Chelmsford Chess Club night Tuesday 22nd Chelmsford Library - Baby and Toddler Rhymetime Civic - KIPPS: The New Half A Sixpence Musical Hot Box - Bishop Nehru Widford Village Hall (turn left at Chandlers) - Country Dancing (barn dance, £2 - 7.50pm - 01245 475 660) Woolpack - Quiz Wednesday 23rd Chelmsford Library - New Parents’ Rhymetime Civic - KIPPS: The New Half A Sixpence Musical Hyde Hall - Plants, Pests and Diseases The UB - Pub Quiz Thursday 24th Chelmsford Library - New Parents’ Rhymetime Civic - KIPPS: The New Half A Sixpence Musical Eagle and Hind - Quiz Night The Lion Inn - Chelmsford Comedy Club Friday 25th Barista - Life & Soul Bay Horse - Break for Cover Chelmsford Social Club - Voodoo Room (Hendrix, Cream & Clapton) Civic - KIPPS: The New Half A Sixpence Musical Hot Box - Cosmology Sergio Vilas Bday Special RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Chair Yoga (see 18th March for details) The UB - Ben Eve Saturday 26th Bay Horse - The Target Covers Civic - KIPPS: The New Half A Sixpence Musical Hot Box - Papa Shango Hyde Hall - Bird in Fabric and Threads St Michael’s Church (Galleywood, CM2 8PW) - Chelmsford Singers’ Spring Concert (7.30pm) Wickham Bishops Jazz Club (Wickham Bishops Village Hall) - Al Gresty and Friends with special guest Pete Neighbour (7.30pm, CM8 3JZ - to book phone Pete on 0754 877 5777)
Sunday 27 Civic - The Rock of Ages Experience Sir Evelyn Wood - Widstock Jam (1pm) Monday 28th Hot Box - Chelmsford Chess Club night Tuesday 29th Hyde Hall - Daffodil Show Widford Village Hall (turn left at Chandlers) - Country Dancing (barn dance, £2 - 7.50pm - 01245 475 660) Woolpack - Quiz Wednesday 30th Civic - Father Brown - Murderer in the Mirror Hot Box - Tennessee Fields Radio City Sessions Hyde Hall - Daffodil Show Thursday 31st Acanteen - Boozy Bingo Chelmsford Racecourse - The European Road to the Kentucky Derby Civic - Father Brown: Murderer in the Mirror Eagle and Hind - Quiz Night Hot Box - Bearfist + Regicide th
April Friday 1st Acanteen - Amy Winehouse Tribute Chelmsford Social Club - Hamish Stuart (Average White Band) + Joe Anderton & the Soft Shoe Civic - The Upbeat Beatles Hot Box - Live Transmission RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Chair Yoga (see 18th March for details) Saturday 2nd Civic - The Bon Jovi Experience Hot Box - Emjay Sessions Presents: Koyo + Safe Nath Hyde Hall - Rug Making for Beginners Orange Tree - Richard Townend Sunday 3rd Little Channels - Wedding Open Day Monday 4th Hot Box - Chelmsford Chess Club night Tuesday 5th Essex Record Office - 100 Years in the Life of a Thames Sailing Barge Great Leighs Village Hall - The Essex Spiritual Centre On Tour Woolpack - Quiz Wednesday 6th Belvedere Jazz & Music Supper Club (Chichester Hotel, Rawreth) - The Rag & Bone Club (7.45pm - to book phone Phil on 07850 607 075) Hot Box - Live Transmission: UVTV + Cross Wires LADS Tractor Shed - Educating Rita Thursday 7th Civic - Fireman Sam Saves the Circus Eagle and Hind - Quiz Night Hot Box - Alison LADS Tractor Shed - Educating Rita Friday 8th Chelmsford Social Club - U2 Tribe + The Significant Others Civic - Spontaneous Potter Hot Box - Jamie WIlliams and the Roots Collective Hyde Hall - Drum Lampshade Workshop LADS Tractor Shed - Educating Rita RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Chair Yoga (see 18th March for details)
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Saturday 9th Civic - The Sooty Show Hot Box - Buffo’s Wake Hyde Hall - Natural Perfumery LADS Tractor Shed - Educating Rita RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Coffee morning (10am to 1pm) Sunday 10th Civic - Simon Brodkin - Troublemaker Hot Box - Jazz Sundays with Zak Barrett & Friends Hylands House - Open day and farmers and craft market Writtle Village Green - Writtle Farmers Market Monday 11th Civic - Rapunzel: A Tangled Musical Adventure Hot Box - Chelmsford Chess Club Night Tuesday 12th Hot Box - Walking Through Walls Widford Village Hall (turn left at Chandlers) - Country Dancing (barn dance, £2 - 7.50pm - 01245 475 660) Woolpack - Quiz Wednesday 13th Hot Box - The Hot Box Big Music Quiz Thursday 14th Eagle and Hind - Quiz Night Hot Box - Baxtr + Katy For Kings Friday 15th Chelmsford City Racecourse - Good Friday Race Meeting Civic - Dinosaur World Live Hot Box - Concrete Slugz + Ewan Whosarmy RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Chair Yoga ((see 18th March for details) Saturday 16th Civic - Dinosaur World Live Hot Box - Rubber Soul RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Coffee morning (10am to 1pm) Sunday 17th Admirals Park - Chelmsford Ladies Circle Easter Bunny Hunt
Sunday 17th Civic - Dinosaur World Live Hot Box - Hugsta Bank Holiday Special
Record Store Day Is Coming!
Saturday 23rd April will be like a treasure hunt for vinyl lovers as they celebrate Record Store Day hunting down exclusive vinyl at Chelmsford’s independent record shop, Intense Records, situated right near the bus and train station.
High Contrast.
The event grows year on year with a queue of customers lining the viaduct under the train station, as the releases are only available instore for the first week, then sold online thereafter.
Open from 8am-6pm, Intense Records will be holding an in-store event with live DJs, local bands, special guest appearances plus competitions, food stalls, licensed bar and more.
There are hundreds of limited edition releases catering for every taste and genre, including artists like The Human League, Frankie Goes To Hollywood, Blondie, Madonna, Madness, Taylor Swift, Prince, Blur, Fatboy Slim, Mariah Carey, U2, The Cure and plenty more. David Bowie is always the most popular and most sought after for RSD and he has 2 releases this year with the Toy EP and Brilliant Adventure both available on vinyl or CD. Dance music fans are in for a treat with releases from Fatboy Slim, Future Sound Of London, The Prodigy, and
For those that can’t make it on the day, Intense will be opening specially on Sunday the 19th from 10am-4pm. Then the following Friday at 8pm any remaining stock will be sold online on our website.
You can check out all these releases now at www.intenserecords.com and fill in your wishlist so that we can gauge demand.
For more information pop into Intense Records, 33/34 Viaduct Road, Chelmsford CM1 1TS (under the arches by the bus station). Alternatively, call 01245 347 372 or check out the website at www. intenserecords.com.
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The Power of Breath (Part Two) - Mandy Haynes, Last month we explored some pranayama (breathing) practices - if you gave them a go, I hope you were able to really experience the power of the breath when we give it our full attention. How did each practice make you feel? Calm? Energised? Relaxed? More present? It is always worth noting not just how the breath makes you feel physically but whether it causes a shift or change in your mood/ energy levels/emotions/mind chatter. In this article we will look at two more pranayamas, so find yourself a quiet spot, make sure that you’re warm and comfortable, and let your day move aside for the next little while. Bumblebee Breath (Brahmari) Keeping the lips lightly sealed, inhale through the nose and as you exhale make the sound of the letter ‘M’ - a humming sound. Keep the sound going until you need to inhale and then repeat. Inhale through the nose, then hum like a buzzing bee as you exhale. Continue by inhaling as needed and exhaling for as long as is comfortable with this sound. Practice for 2-5 minutes and then spend a few breaths sitting quietly and tuning in to the vibrations created within. Three Part Breath (Dirga) Let the hands rest on your belly and with each inhale, fill the belly up with your breath. Expand the belly with air like a balloon. On each exhale, release all the air out from the belly through your nose, drawing your navel back towards your spine. Continue for up to 2 minutes. Move your hands to rest on the ribcage and on the next inhale fill the belly up with air, then when the belly is full, draw in a little more breath and let that air expand into the rib cage causing the ribs to widen apart. On the exhale, let the air go first from the rib cage, letting the ribs slide closer together, and then from the belly, drawing the navel back towards the spine. Continue for up to 2 minutes.
Tales From the Circle - By Sylvia Kent
arms resting down by your sides. Next month will be the final part in this series. We will look at two more pranayamas as well as a breath meditation to relax to. If you’d like to be guided through pranayama, you can join me at Hummingbird Pilates & Yoga in Writtle.
Give yyrself a eat and visit... Army & Navy
P a r k Radio w Cafe a B&M y Aldi
Jim’s Secret Chelmsford Perhaps not obvious to people on their first visit to modern Chelmsford, this city possesses an extraordinary history. Once the county’s best known ancient market town before becoming a city in 2012, it has seen countless changes and most certainly has had its fair share of secrets. Credit goes to Jim Reeve, author of Secret Chelmsford, Chelmsford in 50 Buildings and Chelmsford Through Time (Amberley Publishing) for unearthing many tales which have often puzzled not only visitors, but its residents too. Jim who lives locally, was a regular visitor to the Essex Record Office, Chelmsford Museum, and Essex Police Museum, among numerous other well known municipal buildings. As a result, his readers now know far more about their city from past to present.
Located inside Moulsham Mill (Parkway, CM2 7PX)
Enjoy a delicious range of hot and cold snacks and drinks whilst supporting a great local cause!
For instance, the city’s name Caesaromagus (Caesar’s Field) give us a clue as to the age of this part of Essex when the Romans were establishing their military post around 60-61AD. There was a settlement to the north of the present city centre by the time the Normans invaded in 1066, and when William the Conqueror commissioned the Domesday Book 20 years later, the manor of Chelmsford was described as ‘a small rural farm which contained four families.’ Jim explained: “When the Vandals sacked Rome in AD 410 the Romans called their troops back to defend the homeland. Chelmsford and the rest of Britain sank into the Dark Ages and all
Move your hands to rest on the upper chest and on the next inhale, fill the belly and rib cage up with air. Then sip in just a little more air and let it fill the upper chest all the way up to the collarbone, causing the area around the heart to expand and rise. On the exhale, let the breath go first from the upper chest, allowing the heart centre to sink back down, then from the rib cage, letting the ribs slide closer together. Finally, let the air go from the belly, drawing the navel back towards the spine. Continue at your own pace, eventually coming to let the three parts of the breath happen smoothly without pausing with the
Chelmsford Library Chelmsford Library has some exciting events and activities planned as we head into spring and - hopefully - warmer weather! Beatrix Potter Event on 19th March from 10am: Come and meet Peter Rabbit and friends at our drop-in crafts and bookable storytimes, in partnership with the Beatrix Potter Society. Roll up, roll up! Circus fun is coming to Chelmsford Library! On Tuesday 5th April there will be a Big Top Craft session, 10.30am - 11.30am. On Tuesday 12th April we will be holding Circus Skills workshops where you can learn stilt walking, juggling, unicycling, and more! Book your place now! Suitable for all ages. Page 18
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that the Romans had built began to fall into disrepair. The bridge that the Romans built over the Can river collapsed, but there was a ford, controlled by a Saxon called Ceolmaer. It was he who gave his name to Chelmsford. Another Saxon name was given to Moulsham: the Muls Ham, the home of Mul.” Since 1215 Chelmsford was regarded as the county town of Essex - the same year as the signing of the Magna Carta. Among Jim’s many published books, those linked to the city all contain fascinating stories, some of which he has promised to tell Phoenix98fm listeners in a future Book Club programme. He will also outline his contribution to the Brentwood Writers’ Circle’s 80th anthology, A Circle of Words available on Amazon.
My Experience at St Peters Hospital - By Sophie Heptinstall-Bolton Being at high risk, I had to give birth under observation in hospital, and I ended up having an emergency t that went very well. Afterwards though, I was taken to a very busy ward where the staff were rushed off their feet. The noise was unbearable and I could not get to sleep. After having been awake many hours I was then close to breaking point and started to cry uncontrollably. Thankfully I had a plan, and had already organised with my mental health team and midwife that I would be transferred to St Peters for the rest of my recovery. I was discharged in the evening and made my way to St Peters feeling very frazzled and a complete mess if I’m honest. That all changed as soon as I arrived. I was welcomed warmly and offered a hot meal and a lovely cup of tea by a bright and happy HCA who made me feel instantly at ease. I am beyond grateful that I had this opportunity. The hospital is amazing and the staff are next level incredible human beings who go above and beyond to help you in the first days and moments of motherhood. I can’t thank them enough for all their help, love and support for myself and my baby girl Freya. If you have the opportunity to give birth here or to transfer here for help with feeding and adjusting in the first few days, please do so! It will be the best decision you ever make! I left there feeling confident, prepared and ready for going home.
Our Baby and Toddler Rhymetime sessions continue each week during term time but the days and times of some sessions will be changing - check on our website for up to date information. Don’t forget to book a place for the session you wish to attend. Learn My Way: A free 6-week beginners computer course for people who don’t know how to do anything on a computer, on Mondays 10am - 12 noon. Booking required. Tablet Taster Sessions: If you are struggling to use your tablet or iPad, come along to one of our free 1:1 sessions with a computer volunteer who will give you advice and guidance on how to get the best from your device (but not mobile phones). Book a session if interested. Held on first Thursday of the month, 11am - 12 noon. For more information on all our events and services, and to book your places, go to our website libraries.essex.gov.uk. You can also find us on Facebook or Twitter or by subscribing to our newsletter; details on our website.
St Peters was the best experience I could hope for, and even though my journey didn’t start so smoothly, it finished in a sanctuary of calm where women love and support one another in a way that instills confidence and independence. Thank you St Peters!
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City Times History
The Development of Chelmsford (Part Three) - By Stephen Norris This article looks at features of the town towards the end of the nineteenth century. In the town itself in 1876, Mesopotamia Island was either side of the Springfield Bridge over the River Chelmer and on either side of the Springfield Road - it was caused by the gulleys of the river. The island included the Dukes Head Inn, Oriel House and a stone yard. Earlier in the century mock elections had been held on Mesopotamia when real elections campaigns were being held in the town. Speeches lampooned local Whigs and Tories with little difference between them. ‘Candidates’ were paraded around the town on horseback and the losing candidate was thrown into the horse pond. Later the winner met the same fate. A brewery and malt house surrounded the Black Boy Inn. There was a temperance hotel on the High Street. The Kings Head backed on to a meadow and was one premise down from the Springfield Road corner. The Queen’s Head Inn was on the other side of the High Street, not quite opposite, on the site of the present day Marks and Spencer - between the two was the conduit. The Kings Head had been a medieval inn and was later demolished in the 1930s to be replaced by Woolworths. Two premises up from the Queens Head was the Post Office. On the corner of the High Street and New Bridge Street was the Old Oak Inn. Further up the High Street was another public house called the Half Moon Inn. According to Fred Spalding junior, in his reminiscences on his childhood, the Saracen’s Head Hotel had a backroom which served as a club room. Meetings of the Old Town Jury Club and the Beefsteak Club were held there. According to Spalding, just down from the Saracens Head was a wine and spirits shop run by a Mr Champ, a teetotaller. Next door was occupied in the 1870s by a Doctor Gibson who had a large private practice. He was the medical officer for the West Essex Militia. Two premises further down was Courts, a baby linen shop. This was followed by the London and Westminster Bank. Next came Medlicott’s, the tallow chandler, known to all the farmers for his candles or ‘dips’. During Spalding’s childhood in the 1870s there were more private houses in the High Street than shops. The map of 1876 does show however that a promontory of permanent shops had encroached on what was previously the main area for the market. On the site of the later Barclays Bank was a house where Frederic Chancellor lived. It had previously been the site of the original Chelmsford Bank at the end of the 18th century - and in the middle of the 19th century, Sparrow, Tufnell and Co. It was later to merge with Barclays in 1896. Most of the shops had similar windows; mostly semi circular in shape, supported by an iron post in the centre and had panes of glass. Down the High Street on both sides there were iron posts. Midway down each post there were holes about three inches in diameter through which ropes were pulled. The aim was to stop the animals that were driven down the High Street getting on to the pavement and causing mayhem. Dilly Miller was employed to do this. Although the market was moved out of the High Street in 1881 this did not completely remove the problem, because cattle and sheep were still being driven down the High Street until well into the 20th century. Spalding Junior remembered the annual army training with the men going from the Moulsham Barracks to Durrant’s field which later became the goods yard of Hoffmann’s.
Next door to Spalding’s father’s original shop on the other side of the Saracens Head was Freestons shop selling caps, bonnets, leather leggings and gloves. Nearby was Pool the sadler, and Pertwee the chemist. In Tindal Street in 1880, moving towards Tindal Square, was the Spotted Dog with its courtyard and the Dolphin Inn on the left. Further beyond the Spotted Dog was the White Hart Hotel. Behind the hotel was a tonic ale brewery, the forerunner of Britvic. Next to it was the Bell Hotel, just before the Corn Exchange, fronting out on to the Square, which was much larger than it is today. The Corn Exchange had opened in 1857, one year before Spalding’s birth. According to him auctioneers and other agents did their business in the vestibule of the building and in front of the Shire Hall. The market inspector in Spalding’s youth was Richard Francis. He had a difficult if not impossible job, because the area where the market was held had so many entrances and exits, making it difficult for him to find his clients and get them to pay the charges they owed. At the rear of the Corn Exchange was a large warehouse owned by Brittain Pash. The cattle dealers wore top hats. Horse buyers tried out the horses in Duke Street, Tindal Street and other side streets. Behind the Bell Hotel was a malt house. Also by the Corn Exchange was the Golden Lion on the corner of Tindal Square. Just past the Shire Passage on the right hand side was yet another public house, the Market House. This was a very dilapidated building in Spalding junior’s youth. Frank Whitmore, the county architect, later to be the provisional mayor when the town was incorporated, rebuilt it. In front of the Shire Hall was the so called ‘Russian gun’ - the Sebastapol cannon had been presented to the town in 1858. St Mary’s Parish Church was surrounded on three sides by graves. As late as 1870 there was still a stream of water down the High Street from Tindal Square even though the statue of Judge Tindal had replaced the old conduit head in 1852. Chelmsford’s conduit padoga was removed to the corner of the High Street and the Springfield Road. It had itself replaced the Naiad, Chelmsford’s water nymph, which later was moved into the Shire Hall. The clock on the Shire Hall was not added until 1887. Spalding also remembered the town fairs which were held twice a year. During which, Tindal Square was full of booths and caravans. There were usually three roundabouts in the square and one in front of the cannon. It was usually well conducted, but later in the century shopkeepers had the fair first moved, then banned. By the 1870s the Wenleys had already had a store in the town for over a quarter of a century. In 1845 William Wenley and his son of the same name had gone into partnership with each other and opened their first store on the Baddow Road. They were already accomplished cabinet workers and specialised in high quality furniture. In 1869 the firm had opened a store at 55 the High Street, near the stone bridge. They also stocked carpets, wallpapers and timber and in addition began to run a removal business. About the same time as Wenley’s started, George Bolingbroke arrived in Chelmsford. He had worked for Marshall and Snellgrove, later to become Debenhams. Bolingbroke opened a drapery shop with his brother-in-law John Ling, at number 74 next to Wenley’s store. He retired in 1882 and left the business to his son. Ten years later the son took over the shop next door. Because he thought JG Bond, the shop owner on the other side of the High Street, would make a bid, he had a butcher friend bid for the premises on his behalf. Despite this and one or two other takeovers, the town still had 287 shops in
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1887. At the time of the incorporation in 1888, there were still a mass of yards and courts in central Chelmsford seemingly cut off from the town’s main thoroughfares, because they were only reached by passing under archways. Union Court for example, started from halfway up Tindal Street and went a long way down to almost behind Museum Terrace on New Bridge Street. Spalding’s photos of Angel Yard, once an entrance to a Tudor inn and later the site of the Spotted Dog, showed how decrepit many of the yards were - the entrance was eventually demolished in 1927. t Crane Court, an important place for political and educational meetings, was reached by a passageway one premises up from the London and County Bank and two premises before the Saracen’s Head. Off Legg Street, a turning off New Street, was Legg Yard. Almost opposite Legg Street in New Street was Marriage Square. The entrance to Waterloo Lane was very narrow in the 1870s, as was the entrance to New Street next to the Shire Hall. Beyond Marriage Square was Eddington’s foundry. Houses had already been built up on both sides of Victoria Road. On the corner of New Street and
Victoria Road was the Victoria National School. Beyond the railway line there were fields both sides of New Street. In Duke Street going towards the railway station there was first the Golden Fleece, which is still there, then the George. The Grammar School fronted on to Duke Street and went a fair way back. Opposite the station, the Friends Meeting House was a dominant building seating 800. Behind it was the large Vineyards house. On the other side of the railway was the Plough, also still there, with a timber yard opposite. Behind the yard was Fairfield House. In the 1880s it was occupied by the public vaccinator, Henry Newton. A new road, Market Road, was built to provide access for cattle to the new market. In Springfield, the original county police station was shown in the 1876 map almost opposite the gaol. Springfield Place was shown situated completely in the countryside. A series of Spalding photos show the new county police headquarters which were built in 1902. There were five blocks of buildings in crescent form, each two or three stories high. It had residences for the Chief Constable and his deputy and quarters for clerks and other members of staff. The premises were fitted with electric light. Another photo shows a fleet of Austin Seven cars supplied for the police by Pollards garages.
One of Our Youngest Presenters at Chelmsford Community Radio We have been introducing some of our presenters to readers of The City Times recently, and this month would like you to meet Daisy Barker.
Daisy is one of our youngest presenters at Chelmsford Community Radio, already a star in the making having been shortlisted in the Young Audio Awards as a Rising Star - we find out in the next few weeks how she does with the competition.
chelmsfordcommunityradio.com, or follow us on social media ‘@chelmsfordcr’ and ‘@radiocaféchelmsford’. www.chelmsfordcommunityradio.com www.facebook.com/ChelmsfordCR
Our very first front cover from October 2013... how time flies!
Daisy was also shortlisted in the 2021 Community Radio Awards Young Person of the Year Under 25 Category. She also made it as a finalist of the BBC Young Reporter Competition and was asked to take part in an online project with BBC Own It. She started out with Chelmsford Community Radio at the age of 11 as part of our Takeover scheme which last year was nominated for the Rotary Young Citizen Award. Daisy has learned from our team how to conduct herself on air and operate the studio all by herself. She is also experienced in interviews and has spoken to many different people for her shows from Strictly celebs to local authors and fundraisers. You can listen to Daisy every Friday afternoon from 5-7pm where alongside the upbeat tunes, she brings you up to date travel for your journey home and puts her guests through their paces with her quizzes. When she isn’t on air, Daisy enjoys a successful dance career in the latin and ballroom sector and has achieved many accolades. Michelle Durant If you are interested in taking part in one of Daisy’s quizzes, learning more about Chelmsford Community Radio and our team of presenters, or getting involved with our shows or supporting our Radio Café, then please visit our website at www. www.thecitytimes.co.uk
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A Year in the Life of the Mayor
Spot the Difference - 10 to find (answers on page 23) A very worthwhile charity based in Hoffmans Way, Essex Youthbuild, held an open day at which I officially opened their recently completed mezzanine floor. The charity offers young people the opportunity to try out and learn skills in construction and other related trades as well as improving maths and English if necessary. There were several young people who spoke about their desire to qualify as tilers, bricklayers, electricians etc. A very uplifting morning with some very talented young people and dedicated trainers.
were pleased that the rocket climbing frame had remained as it was a favourite of theirs when they used play in the park.
I dropped into Baddow Hall Junior School at the beginning of the month to celebrate the planting of trees for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Green Canopy. The school will be planting 300 trees, one for each pupil and member of staff at the school. The weather was awful, so instead of the whole school being in the playground for this event we had an impromptu assembly. When the weather cleared a little we went outside with the pupil councillors. Mrs Mascot, the school’s Inclusion Manager, had her very own tree to plant in recognition of her role as my Deputy Mayor. It was a lovely if rather wet morning.
Members of the Southend & Chelmsford branch of PMRGCAuk (Polymyalgia Rheumatica and Giant Cell Arteritis) invited the Deputy Mayor and I to a special meeting held at the Holiday Inn, Southend Airport, with many participants joining in on Zoom. There were lots of presentations and tributes from across the world to Professor Dasgupta who is retiring from his role as Head of Rheumatology and Clinical Director of Research at Southend Hospital, but will carrying on his research at Anglia Ruskin University in Chelmsford. It was wonderful to hear from experts around the world praising the work done in Southend Hospital by Professor Dasgupta.
The Chelmsford Drama Centre put on a fabulous production of The Wind in the Willows at the Old Court Theatre which I had the pleasure of attending. A great cast and enthusiastic audience made it a very enjoyable evening’s entertainment. By invitation of Great Baddow Parish Council, I was introduced to a sport I’d never come across before called Padel. It’s a racquet sport that’s a cross between tennis and squash played on a smaller court. I was invited to Great Baddow Recreation Ground to open their two new courts, the only ones in Chelmsford. It was wonderful to watch youngsters playing very skilfully on one court whilst some of the best ranked players in the UK played a fast-paced demonstration match on the other. I feel sure these courts are going to be very popular. Recently the Deputy Mayor and I were invited to visit the Chelmsford Sea Cadets and Lima Company Royal Marines Cadets to present some awards. The younger members made paper boats and had to float them and fill them with coins until they started to sink - 40 coins was the highest on the night! We watched rope throwing and tying knots, we even had a go ourselves but weren’t a patch on the cadets. It was a fun and informative evening. The Mayoress and I travelled to Clacton for the Pride of Tendering Awards hosted at the Princes Theatre by Cllr Jeff Bray, Chairman of Tendering District Council. There were 19 very deserving award winners and some great entertainment from Stagestruck Academy and magician Danny Lee Grew. The Deputy Mayor and I were pleased to visit Springfield Hall Park, though unfortunately the rain came down just as I was opening the newly designed children’s playground. Many parents commented that they
The Deputy Mayor and I spent an evening at the Old Chelmsfordians Club watching The Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League Grand Finals. Congratulations to all the participants who really showed their skills with some very close games. We then had the pleasure of presenting many of the trophies.
I was very sad to see the news that Storm Eunice has damaged the Biodome at Boreham Primary School beyond repair. There was so much work that had gone into its creation. It was a wonderful day of celebration when I officially opened it last year. I hope it won’t be too long before it can be replaced. It was lovely to be asked to the Rotary District Young Musician competition at Chelmsford Cathedral. A big thank you to Rotary for putting on this competition and giving young people the chance to shine in their given field. Congratulations to all the talented young people who took part. The winners were Viviane Ghiglino (Colchester) - flute, runner up Sophia Assitzoglou (Chelmsford) - violin. The winning vocalist was Libby Simmons (Chelmsford) and the runner up was Olivia Rnjak (Bishop Stortford). We were entertained by some very gifted young musicians that evening. With the help of Linda the Deputy Mayor and Ian her escort, Deputy Lieutenant Nick Alston, High Sheriff Simon Brice, Julia, Sidra, Stan and Smita representing faith communities, and Dan and Lorraine representing NHS and the voluntary sector, we planted English oak trees at Springfield Oaks to honour those who worked tirelessly to keep us safe during the pandemic and in remembrance of those who lost their lives and all families affected by COVID-19. It was lovely to see so many people come out to support this dedication. There are 24 oak trees (symbolising the 24 wards of Chelmsford) planted along the footpath, as well as bulbs and wildflowers across the green and along the fencing. There are new benches where you can sit and spend time in reflection if you wish. It really will be a spring field in Springfield. It was great to see the Panic Awards were back live at the Civic Theatre again, as for the past two years they have taken place online. I was so pleased to be able to attend the 2022 awards with the Deputy Mayor and her escort Ian. It was a fun night celebrating local live entertainment, raising money for my charities, and putting on a great night of entertainment. These awards pay an important part in recognising local talent in arts and culture from live bands to radio shows or podcasts, DJs, venues and promoters, theatre productions, directors, actors, musicals, one-off events and special awards. There were 17 awards given out this year and thanks must go to organiser and presenter Andy Poole who does such a magnificent job organising this every year. Well done to everyone nominated and congratulations to all the winners. If you wish to invite the Mayor to attend an actual or virtual event, please email mayors.office@chelmsford.gov.uk. Twitter: @chelmsmayor Instagram: Chelmsford_mayor Facebook: Mayor of Chelmsford
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Charity of the Month - The Tom Bowdidge Foundation Tom Bowdidge was just 19 when he passed away from desmoplastic small round cell tumour with extensive peritoneal disease. A rare and aggressive form of cancer with only 200 cases reported in the world. During Tom’s treatment, he raised over £170,000 to help support other teenagers and young people going through cancer. It soon became apparent to Tom that additional help and support needed to be in place, specifically for teenagers and young adults and their families when going through their cancer diagnoses, either at home or in hospital. Tom’s last wish was for every young person to receive that help and support and therefore in 2014, The Tom Bowdidge Youth Cancer Foundation was set up. Every year, there are around 2,600 new cancer cases in young people in the UK, which is around seven teenagers and young adults diagnosed every day. When a young person and their family are given the devastating news of a cancer diagnosis the family’s world is turned upside down leaving a devastating impact. The charity supports teenagers and young adults aged 13-24 and their families by providing practical, emotional and physical support. It collaborates with social workers and health care professionals to provide this support through the charities grant scheme. The charity meets the needs of these young people on a bespoke basis with assistance being given in multiple ways but always with a view to relieving stress, anxiety, and pressure. For example, we can provide help with travel costs to and from hospital, buy IT equipment to enable them to carry on with their education at home or in hospital and wigs and clothes that give them self confidence that has been lost during treatment. The foundation also funds projects that create age-appropriate rooms for young cancer patients to receive their treatment. This may be on an in-patient or out-patient basis. These rooms are designed so that they are seen as young people first, cancer patients second. The rooms which allow much needed privacy, are equipped with smart TVs, gaming facilities, beds for relatives or friends to stay in, mood lighting and modern décor. Being treated in a local hospital without specialist facilities means that young people often feel isolated, treated alongside much younger children or the elderly. To date, eight rooms have been installed in Essex, London, and Sheffield with plans to expand into other hospitals in the future. Funding into the research of young people’s cancer and the effect of treatment is restricted. The foundation funds a research project into rare teenage cancers with the aim of offering teenagers and young adults with rare sarcomas less toxic treatments, which target the specific molecular flaws that drive the growth of these deadly tumours.
government funding and therefore totally relies on the support of individuals, organisations, trusts and grants to enable the foundation to provide the vital services needed by teenagers, young adults and their families. The charity is keen to hear from businesses, groups and associations and individuals who would like to partner with it during 2022. They offer talks and presentations to an array of groups so please do get in touch. If you would like to hear more about the charity, please email lindsay@ tombowdidgefoundation. org. If you would like to make a financial contribution to support its work, you can do so by visiting: www. tombowdidgefoundation. org.
Sophie asked for help to allow her to buy a laptop so that she could study the British Sign Language course whilst being in hospital receiving chemotherapy. This enabled her to think about her future and what she wanted to do for her career. She had given up thinking of a future, but this has now given her a purpose after spending so long locked away in hospital
Registered charity in England & Wales 1156553
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Since the start of the pandemic, the foundation has seen an increase of over 1332% in requests for support. 51% of grants over the last year have been a direct result of the increase in the cost of living. On average, a family has to find an extra £600 per month to pay for travel costs, food and utility bills and other things, all of which add up. The Tom Bowdidge Youth Cancer Foundation does not receive any
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Can You Make a Difference in Your Community? Groups and teams of volunteers are welcome!
Helpline and Befriending Volunteers We are looking for kind and caring volunteers who are good listeners and want to make a positive difference to people’s lives in the local community. Farleigh Helpers is a brand new online and telephone support and befriending service which will be based from home and supported by volunteers. The service will provide support to patients, families and clients known to Farleigh as well as helping others in the community who may be ill, lonely, isolated or bereaved. Climate Action Farm in a Box - Packing School Resource Boxes - 6th June 2022 One-off Volunteering: Help The Country Trust (a national education charity) pack Climate Action Farm in a Box resource boxes to be sent out to schools to help them to learn about food, farming and climate change. This is a great one to do as family, as a group of colleagues, or just as a simple and fun one-off! Volunteers Needed to Make Grow Your Own Gardening Kits at Abberton Rural Training We need volunteers in Chelmsford and Colchester to help us put together raised gardening beds and gardening starter packs for vulnerable people across the county!
Volunteer Minibus Driver - Chelmsford Community Transport URGENT NEED We are in need of kind, caring volunteers who can drive a 14 seater minibus. This enables our elderly and disabled neighbours to enjoy days out, do their own shopping, and attend healthcare appointments. Volunteer in Chelmsford Prison by Joining the Independent Monitoring Board Inside every prison there is an Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) - a group of ordinary members of the public doing an extraordinary job. IMB members are independent, unpaid and work an average of 2-3 visits per month. Their role is to monitor the day-to-day life in their local prison and ensure that proper standards of care and decency are maintained.
The Stay at Home, Grow Your Own project sends out free gardening starter packs out to people and families to help them be successful in healthy eating, mental health, increasing physical activity and learning new skills.
The application process incudes focused and substantive training, Applicants should be have good communication skills, demonstrate social awareness, maintain an independent outlook and have integrity and enjoy being part of team. If you’re looking for something that is interesting, important and challenging then this could be just what you’re looking for.
We are looking for handy volunteers to help us build the wooden frames and help put the Grow Your Own kits together ready for distribution. Materials and instructions are provided - you don’t have to be an expert or have experience.
Please contact volunteer@chelmsfordcvs.org.uk or call 01245 250 731 if you think you could help, or just want more information about volunteering.
Chelmsford Croquet Club
Are you looking for something to do in the summer months? How about learning to play croquet? We are looking for new members so why not come along and give it a try? We offer three free sessions with equipment supplied. Our lawns are on the Writtle College Sports Ground, Fox Burrows Lane, Writtle. There are two distinct games - Golf and Association. Golf Croquet is a more immediately accessible game, with each of four balls played in sequence. All the balls contest the same hoop, either trying to run it, get into position to do so, or to knock other balls away. The first ball to run a hoop scores the point and the balls then move on to the next hoop. Games are usually the best of 7 or 13 hoops and can be played as singles or in pairs. Association Croquet has been described as ‘snooker on grass’. As with Golf Croquet, games can be either singles or doubles - two balls
per side. Extra strokes can be earned by running a hoop or hitting another ball with the ball you are striking, which means that players can establish and make breaks. Each ball has to try and run all the hoops and then hit the peg in the centre of the court. The winner is the first side to do this with both balls. The club will be open for practice and play from early April to the end of September. Wednesdays and Saturdays are reserved for Association Croquet and Tuesdays and Thursdays for Golf Croquet. At other times and during evenings - unless booked for a match or outside letting - the lawns are feely available for members. Coaching is also available. We are a very friendly club and welcome new members. If you are interested please ring 07796 816 208 for more information. Chelmsford Croquet Club
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Crafts - By Magali Ellis and Scrap-Circle Let’s have a look at stamping on our creative pages! Stamps come either as clear soft acrylic or rubber. They can be mounted, usually on a wood block, or unmounted. For the latter, they will need to be used with an acrylic block or a stamping platform. The clear acrylic stamps are good as you can see exactly what you stamp where. The rubber stamps are usually detailing finer details but you cannot see through them, so they can be a bit more tricky to stamp accurately. So what can you use stamps for? 1) In Cards: Card making is getting more and more popular because you can make a bespoke card for your family and friends and for specific situations. You can tailor the colours too. So stamping is great for card making. You can use them as they are or colouring in, you can stamp on a different piece of card, cut it out and put on foam pads in order to create depth to your card. 2) In Layouts: Your pages can be enhanced by stamping on a background, making your page unique. Of course, you can also use the stamps to create the main feature - after your photo of course! 3) In Journaling: Stamping is a great addition to your journaling pages, they add features around your writing. You can colour them, keeping your journaling page tied in together, or leave them without
any colour, thus picking up your journal background colour. It adds interest, especially if you incorporate your writing around the stamped image. 4) In Embellishments: That’s another technique to try out whether on cards or on layouts. You would stamp on a separate piece of card, add colour (or not), cut out and incorporate into a cluster of stamped image, labels, buttons, die cuts and threads for example. 5) In Sentiments: Of course, stamps come in all sizes and shapes, images, characters and sentiments. They are great on cards, on the front of the card but also inside. Sentiments are also fantastic on scrapbooking and journaling pages. A fun thing to do, is to mix up different fonts in the same message. For example: Interested in trying out some stamping? Why don’t you book a craft day? Scrap-Circle is hosting craft days with a project to try out different techniques at Highwood Village Hall near Chelmsford. You can borrow all our stamps and ink and practise various techniques, stamping being one of them. There will be a new technique every time! The days are for any crafters, whatever level you are. Dates of the craft days are 30th April, 25th June, 23rd July, 27th August, 24th September, 25th October, 26th November and 17th December 2022.
Advertise your event or business with us! We have space for advertisers who are builders, cafés and sandwich shops decorators, dentists, drainage companies, estate agents, hotels, retailers, recruitment companies, restaurants, roofers and many more!
All details are on the website at www.scrap-circle.co.uk, or you can contact me at info@scrap-circle.co.uk.
Mrs Silver’s Tarot/Oracle Section This month’s tarot is taken from The Psychic Tarot - Oracle Deck by John Holland. *As always if you feel drawn to this month’s reading then it’s message was meant for you!* Choose wisely - You are being pulled in many directions, but remember you are the one that is in control and responsible for the choices that you make. Take time now for deep contemplation before making any big decisions and trust in your own judgment. Spiritual Strength: You have the strength within you to complete the work. You may have been through a struggle recently and you may have thought about throwing in the towel but now is not the time for giving up! All that is required is one final push. Keep developing your spiritual side and exploring the new possibilities that are becoming open to you. Accelerated Motion: Things are speeding up and your goals will soon be made manifest. Lady luck is on your side so prepare now for the fruits of your labor. Ask yourself the question: ‘Is there anything in my life that I need to act on now?’ Angel number 798: You are being prompted to serve your community and a gentle reminder to also take care of yourself.
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This month spirit calls to Gemma. Gemma if you are reading this and it resonates then please get in touch for a full reading. Love and Blessings to all. If you would like your own personal reading please contact me on 07909 078 030.
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Quiz Time - By John Theedom
1. In the theatre, what would you be doing if you were papering the house? 2. What is the capital of Nepal? 3. Which village in Huntingdonshire is famous for cheese? 4 Which is a human’s largest organ? 5. What is the Roman numeral for 400? 6. In boating, what is the name of the upper edge of a ship’s side? 7. What is the difference between ‘assault’ and ‘battery’? 8. What is the largest known fish in the sea? 9. What was Judy Garland’s real name? 10. What did Percy Shaw invent in the motoring world? 11. What was the name of Adolf Hitler’s wife? 12. What are blue brindles, headers, flettons and common reds? 13. Who is supposed to have established the yard measurement? 14. How many hoops are used in a game of croquet? 15. Where, in London is The Mermaid Theatre? 16. What is the proper name for the shell of a tortoise? 17. From which fruit was marmalade originally made? 18. What substance is produced in a ginnery? 19. Which is the smallest British bird? 20. Which is the longest railway station platform in Britain?
21. Which British university was the first to admit women for degrees? 22. What is the word for an assembly of goldfinches? 23. What would you be discussing at a meeting of SALT? 24. How many dimes are there in a US dollar? 25. If ‘A’ is Alpha, what is ‘E’? 26. From what kind of animal is rennet obtained? 27. On which island is Fingal’s Cave? 28. What is marzipan made of? 29. The CN tower is in Ontario, what does CN stand for? 30. In which US state is Yosemite Park? 31. In the Bible, what is a leviathan? 32. What do the initials TEFL stand for? 33. Which boy band had a hit with If You Come Back in 2001? 34. Who was David Beckham’s best man when he married Posh in 1999? 35. In which year was the London Marathon first run? 36. Which word can mean the way you speak or a type of shoe? 37. What is another name for a pirate that is also the name of a Ford car? 38. In which continent is Belize? 39. How many people are involved in a game of whist? 40. What sort of creature is a funnel-web?
(Answers on page 31)
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Stargazing With Mark Willis - March/April
20th March: The spring equinox. One of the two times in the year where the length of the day and night is equal. The other time that this happens is the autumn equinox, Friday, 23rd September 2022.
23rd March: Looking due south, early this morning you’ll see the Moon near the star, Antares, located in the constellation of Scorpio. Antares, a big star. If placed at the centre of the Solar System it would reach somewhere between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter. It’s approximately 550 light years distant from us.
4th April: About 10pm looking west you’ll see the Moon is near the star system, the Pleiades. A truly beautiful star cluster. Best observed with binoculars. 21st April: Lyrids meteor shower. An excellent year to observe this meteor shower, as this night the Moon does not rise until 3.30am. As with most meteor showers, these are the remnants of comets. The Lyrids are the remnants of Comet Thatcher.
27th March: Clocks go forward one hour. There’s an old saying that helps you remember which way you change the clocks: ‘spring forward, fall back’. So on Sunday 27th March 2022 at 1am, the clocks are turned forward 1 hour to 2am. Many devices switch automatically these days, but some don’t.
New Moon: On 1st April and 30th April, 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.
28th March: Moon below Venus, Saturn and Mars.
Mark Willis presents The Retro Chart Show on Chelmsford Community Radio on 104.4FM and also online at: www. chelmsfordcommunityradio.com every Monday morning at 10am.
2nd April: Looking south east at around midnight, you’ll have a late night view of the Sombrero Galaxy, otherwise known as M104, about 31 million light years from Earth. From around midnight, you will be able to see this fine galaxy using binoculars or a telescope. The video tells you more: www.nasa.gov/feature/goddard/2017/messier-104the-sombrero-galaxy.
As usual, email me with any questions.
www.chelmsfordcommunityradio.com mark.willis@chelmsfordcommunityradio.com Twitter: @WillisWireless
Wildlife Corner - By Nick Green The last edition featured a warbler species, the blackcap. This edition highlights another warbler, the chiffchaff as it is an early migrant returning from Senegal, and some have already been recorded in Essex - it’s a true harbinger of spring. It sings from the canopy and is a very distinctive ‘chiff chaff chiff chiff chaff’. It is onomatopoeia as its song reflects its own name, as indeed the cuckoo! Other early migrants include garganey, little ringed plover and sand martin.
Quiz & Wordsearch Answers
Marshes RSPB: spoonbill, caspian gull, water pipit, Dartford warbler. Nationally, the major rarities included the long-staying whitewinged scoter in Lothian, white-tailed lapwing in Lincolnshire, plus in both Somerset and Yorkshire, a drake Baikal teal. Otherwise, in Glamorgan, Eglwys Nunydd reservoir: pacific diver - and an Egyptian vulture is in Ireland!
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
The species is an abundant summer resident and passage migrant but an uncommon winter visitor. The breeding range covers west and central Europe and as far north as southern Sweden and Denmark in both deciduous and coniferous forests that possess an open canopy and a lofty herb or bush layer. Many British chiffchaffs winter in Senegal, although a slowly increasing number winter in Britain.
9. 10. 11. 12.
In the Chelmsford area, the species is found in places like Admirals Park and nearby woodland areas for instance. It is a ground nester that makes it vulnerable to predators.
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13. King Henry II, from his nose to his thumb on outstretched arm 14 Six 15. Puddle Dock, EC4 16. Carapace 17. Quince 18. Cotton, on a gin machine 19. The goldcrest or firecrest (3.5” long) 20. Gloucester 21. London University in 1878 22. A charm or chirm 23. Arms limitation, Strategic Arms Limitation 24. Talks Ten 25. Echo 26. Calf’s stomach lining
27. Staffa, Inner Hebrides 28. Pounded almonds and sugar 29. Canadian National, the railway company who built it 30. California 31. Sea monster 32. Teaching English as a foreign language 33. Blue 34. Gary Neville 35. 1981 36. Brogue 37. Corsair 38. South America 39. Four 40. Spider
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Selected February Highlights In Essex, Abberton Reservoir EWT: great northern and red-throated divers, red-necked and Slavonian grebes, up to 3 Bewick’s swans,
Call Mark 07958 912981
Chiffchaff (copyright: Glyn Evans) long-tailed duck, up to 7 scaup, various red kites. Wallasea Island RSPB: red-breasted goose, 3 spoonbill, hen harrier. Rainham Page 30
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