The City Times - May/June 2021

The City Times

Including: Boreham, Broomfield, Danbury, Great Baddow, Maldon, South Woodham Ferrers, The Walthams and Writtle 10,000 copies per month Issue Number 91 - May 17th - June17th 2021

The Chelmsford team look forward you to welcoming you back - Here to help you reach your weight loss dreams! Our in venue COVID safe groups return from May 17th!

Booking essential, please get in touch for more information!

MONDAY Monday Morning Millennium Community Centre, Gt. Baddow CM2 9RL Samantha 01245 266442

WEDNESDAY Wednesday morning St. Augustine Church, Springfield CM1 6GQ Emma 07887 692906

FRIDAY Friday evening Springfield Park Baptist Church, Springfield Park Road. CM2 6EB Emma 07887 692906

Monday evening Springfield Community Centre, Lawn Lane. CM1 7PP Heidi 07557 331671

Wednesday afternoon/evening Beryl Platt Community Centre, Writtle CM1 3LY Jennifer 07792 516866

Monday evening Millennium Community Centre, Gt. Baddow CM2 9RL Helen 07710 112345

Wednesday evening Springfield Park Baptist Church, Springfield Park Road. CM2 6EB Heidi 07557 331671

SATURDAY Saturday morning Springfield Park Baptist Church, Springfield Park Road. CM2 6EB Emma 07887 692906

TUESDAY TUESD Tuesday afternoon/evening Broomfield Village Hall, Behind the Angel Pub CM1 7AH Heidi 07557 331671

THURSDAY THURSD Thursday morning Millennium Community Centre, Gt. Baddow CM2 9RL Samantha 01245 266442

Tuesday afternoon/evening Millennium Community Centre, Gt. Baddow CM2 9RL 9R Samantha 01245 266442

Thursday evening Newland Spring Community Centre CM1 4UU – Next to Morrisons Car Park Jennifer 07792 516866

Saturday morning Great Notley Community Centre, Great Notley CM77 7US Heidi 07557 331671

Call your consultant to book your time slot

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City Times Intro Hello readers, Welcome to the May/June issue. As you might have noticed, we are available for pick up in more and more places once again which is good news.

We’re also pleased that for the first time in over a year we have the return of our What’s On section (see page 16). Fingers crossed all events can go ahead!

Ashtree Joinery We supply and fit • Plantation shutters • High Quality • Any Colour • Many designs

If you are putting on an event between 17th June and 18th July please email us at one of the addresses below to let us know so that we can add it to the listings for the next edition.

Stay safe!

Paul & Nick www.thecitytimes.co.uk | www.moulshamtimes.com Advertising Editorial Nick Garner Paul Mclean 07970 206682 01245 262082 / 07595 949701 ads@itsyourmedia.co.uk editorial@itsyourmedia.co.uk

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City Times Food - The Merry Month of Asparagus Now is the time to indulge in the heady delights of British grown asparagus - one of the world’s most desirable vegetables. The delicious taste, the succulent texture and suggestive shape of the emergent shoots combine to create an eating experience verging on the decadent which has been celebrated for over 2,000 years.

Pliny the Elder describes cultivation methods used by the Romans for producing plants with blanched stems, and mentions a cultivar of which three spears weighed a pound. Wild asparagus grows in Europe, Asia and north-west Africa, from which our modern-day asparagus originated.

It’s a short season though. Dependant on the weather, cutting can begin in April, but the cold spring we have had this year has held it back. May is the abundant and guaranteed month for English asparagus and the last harvesting happens in June. Then it’s over.

You may not even notice because asparagus will still be available in the shops, as it is, all year round, but ‘Peru’ will be on the label as its place of origin having travelled literally thousands of airmiles around the world. But imagine how it was for our ancestors, only being able to eat asparagus now, in May - the month where nature explodes into life. You would be indulging, wouldn’t you?

One of the key benefits of British asparagus is its freshness. From field to plate can be a few days. If you are lucky enough to have your own asparagus bed in your garden, then top chefs recommend for the most exquisite sweet flavoured results you need to pick, cook and serve the asparagus within one hour. I know this to be true of picking and eating courgettes, but I’ve never had the pleasure of growing, cooking and eating asparagus with such close plant-to-plate timing.

Asparagus is quite a tricky thing to grow mind you and takes up quite a bit of space to generate a decent sized crop. Being a member of the lily family, asparagus takes its time to build up large enough resources below ground to throw up good, thick spears - it usually takes three years before it becomes productive and is best in full sun.

There are many health benefits to asparagus; it is nutritious with many vitamins and minerals (vitamin A,C,E - all antioxidants - K for bones and blood clotting and folate for red blood cells, potassium for nerve function and acid/alkaline balance, phosphorous for bones plus small amounts of iron, zinc and riboflavin) and also is a good source of soluble fibre which encourages growth of good bacteria in the gut such as bifidobacterial and lactobacillius. Rather like the sprouted seeds I wrote about last month, asparagus is at the stage in the cycle of growth of the plant where it is growing really fast, full of beneficial enzymes and growth factors, or simply what you might call ‘life-force’.

Naturopaths (nutritionists who particularly work with food as a form of medicine) are enthusiastic about us eating fruit and vegetables that are grown locally and are in season. They love May, the British asparagus season, as asparagus has the quality of being a natural diuretic which means it is good for bloating, cleansing and detoxing - apparently it is particularly good for detoxing the kidneys, also gout and cystitis. You may notice the distinctive smell of your urine when you have been eating asparagus - its an amino acid in the asparagus called asparagine which our body doesn’t break down, but lets you know the asparagus effect has passed through your kidneys.

It’s so good for you that naturopaths recommend making the most of it and eating British asparagus every day while it’s in season.

How To Prepare Asparagus You may have noticed asparagus comes as fine stems or thick stems.

Both have a succulent tip and a woody end. If you apply a little pressure to the woody end by bending the spear it will have a natural snapping point where the stem begins to be tender. Another way of finding this is to press with a knife at points going up the stem. If you apply medium pressure when you get to that spot where it stops being woody and becomes sweet at tender the knife will easily go through.

Boiling or steaming is the simplest way of cooking asparagus - around 2 minutes for fine asparagus and 4 minutes for thick; this is for a reasonably firm result. You may want to adjust this if you want it al dente or softer. If cooking goes horribly wrong and you over cook you can always make a soup with this asparagus and blend it up. You could be particularly pedantic and cook the stems for longer than the softer more delicate shoots - do this by tying equal length spears together and stand it upright in the saucepan and fill with water so the tips are poking out. Cover the tips for the last minute of cooking.

You can also griddle asparagus and roast it in the oven - just not for too long, keep it moist.

How To Eat It • In my opinion you can’t beat just butter and perhaps salt and black pepper. Or the same with added olive oil.

• Hollandaise sauce is a decadent, delicious option.

• Blue cheese dressing made from 125ml butter milk, 125ml sour cream, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, a handful of crumbled blue cheese of your choice and chopped chives all whisked together.

• Asparagus, warm or cold with vinaigrette, Parmesan or mayonnaise, in a salad works wonders.

• Have it warm or cold on bruschetta.

• It’s lovely in an omelette or frittata.

• Have it as a pizza topping.

• Cook it briefly in pasta or a risotto.

• Have it with dill, new potatoes (like Jersey Royals), chopped red onions all roasted as a one dish in the oven then add still slightly runny soft-boiled eggs.

• Sweet and sour asparagus Sichuan-style can be made with a mixture of ginger, garlic, honey or maple syrup, vinegar and soy sauce and finely and freshly ground black pepper corns. Fry the asparagus in oil for 3-4 minutes, add your sweet and sour sauce and fry for a further 1 minute loosening with a splash of water if needed - delicious with roasted salmon.

Creamy Asparagus and Rocket Pasta Ingredients - serves 4.

1 large tbsp of olive oil.

Around 100g of asparagus in 1inch pieces.

320g dried pasta of your choice.

250g soft cream cheese or nut cream cheese for a vegan option 40g rocket.

1 tsp lemon zest from an unwaxed lemon.

Instructions 1. Heat a saucepan of salted water over a medium heat. Place a medium sized frying pan on the hob over a medium heat, add the olive oil and chopped asparagus. Gently pan fry until tender, then remove from the pan.

2. Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook for 8 minutes until al dente.

3. While the pasta is cooking, add the cream cheese and 2 tbsp of the pasta cooking water to the frying pan used for the asparagus. Bring to a simmer over a medium heat for about 1 minute.

4. Once the pasta has cooked, drain and add to the frying pan with the cream cheese sauce. Mix and season to taste with salt and pepper. Add the lemon zest. Serve topped with rocket and asparagus.

Lisa Whittle

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Nick’s Music and Ramblings Welcome to our new life as we move forward - and hopefully not backwards once again! Let’s hope it all goes well and we can let the fun begin again both in and outside. So please do not stop being cautious and careful, or we could go back to square one I fear.

you:

A reminder that we continue to put on free live-streams every Sunday from 5pm to 6pm via www.fb.com/IsolationMusicFestival.

I saw this on social media and it just resonated with me as I hope it does

I don’t know who wrote this but someone finally put into words what I’ve been thinking and I couldn’t agree more!

I’m sick of COVID-19.

I’m sick of black vs white.

I’m sick of Labour vs Conservative.

I’m sick of gay vs straight.

I’m REALLY sick of the media.

I’m sick of the language being used and plastered all over the media...

I’m sick of no-one being allowed to think what they want and feel what they do without offending someone.

I am sick of the people who are out there jumping on the bandwagon to protest just to cause mass confusion and more hatred and to riot, loot, and destroy.

I am sick of blaming the world for the sins of a few.

You like meat, again your choice to eat meat, my choice not to eat meat. End of.

I’m sick of people who think that 60 year old history is our fault... it’s history... get over it!!

We’re one race - the human race. We All Matter!!

You want to support Boris Johnson. You do it! It’s your choice.

You want to support Starmer? Fine… also your choice!

You want to believe in God? Ok, believe in God. You want to believe in magical creatures that fly around and sprinkle fairy dust to make life better? Awesome... you do it!!

BUT how about being mature enough to be able to deal with the fact that everyone doesn’t have the same exact mind-set as you.

Having our own minds is what makes us all individuals and beautiful.

If you can’t handle that fact... I’m sorry!! I don’t have to agree with everything you believe in, however you will still be my friend.

So be a decent human being. Love one another, be kind, be humble, be thankful, help a stranger and do a good deed, daily I hope that you agree with me; it would be nice if we all in the world could live by these sentiments. You could cut this out or scan it to keep as I think it is a pretty good mantra to live by.

Now as the country opens up, I hope we can keep on the right path, so that we can be outside and mix and enjoy our planet together again. I can’t wait to get to see my family again and to get away in my caravan at some point. I have some music events coming up too - not only my own but a few gigs and festivals I will be hopefully be attending, plus plenty of friends to see and enjoy and play music with.

What do you have planned and what are you looking forward to?

Please let us know by emailing editorial@itsyourmedia.co.uk and we will try to publish it for you.

Music As you know this is a massive part of my life and I cannot wait to start putting on live music events and going to live shows again. I have invested in some new sound gear as well as cameras, video and recording equipment, as we are not only going to put on live shows but we also plan to continue to stream them live via a pay-to-view platform. I have to hope it all pays off - although I don’t do it for the money of course - as those who know me know: I do it for the love of it.

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think this is going to be a no brainer of a great night.

I have got a couple more shows booked in now at Chelmsford City Football Club.

On Friday 16th July we have Robin Bibi with his big band; yup, the 3-piece has doubled in size with the inclusion of a 3-piece brass section. We also have Jeff Chapman’s Roosters on the same bill, so we

On Friday 15th October we have booked and confirmed the Trembling Wilburys - if you liked the Travelling Wilburys you will love this band.

With Roy Mette’s Dangerous Daydream playing the same night, we reckon this will be another great night of music.

News just coming in for Friday 10th December is that Denny Newman & Friends will be playing. Sadly we have had to postpone the Gibson, Martin, Fender gig due to the football club having already planned another booking on the same date - other than that, hopefully it is all go.

Do please remember, if you have an event of any type - open garden or fête or festival - we want to know so we can add it to our What’s On section. You can see below where to send your info to.

I know I am not the only one waiting to get going; there are places like the Hot Box, the Bassment and all of the other pubs and clubs just waiting to start up again with live events and booking acts who also are chomping at the bit to get back out playing live for you again.

A note to say that we must now bid a fond farewell to Scott of the UB in Chelmsford at the end of the May. He will of course be going out with a bang. I had the pleasure of helping to get the pub on the music map with doing most of the bookings for him for the first few years which was great fun. I now have a new venue for the smaller acts to play - we hope to get going with this shortly after the summer, so watch this space.

For all our events, please get your tickets today - see the advert in this magazine for dates and details. Please note that you cannot currently get tickets from the football club - please book online or via our ticket hotline which is 07508 496 411.

It would be fantastic if you could share our magazines the City Times and Moulsham Times for us. We also continue to publish both magazines online at www.issuu.com/itsyourmedia. If you are interested in advertising with us please contact us at ads@ itsyourmedia.co.uk, or if you have a comment or an article please send to editorial@itsyourmedia.co.uk and we will reply to you as soon as we can.

For all my updates and information go to Black Frog www. blackfrogpresents.com, or for shows visit www.fb.com/ BlackFrogPresents.

The Isolation Festival/blackfrogbands page can be found at www. fb.com/IsolationMusicFestival.

We are on YouTube please visit www.youtube.com/blackfrogpresents.

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Cedral Cladding - the Way Forward According to some sources, original timber cladding has been used throughout history ever since the Dark Ages. Timber cladding was typically found in areas near forests, as wood materials were easily accessible. By the 16th century ‘weatherboarding’ became a popular type of cladding to use on building exteriors.

Fast forward to the modern age and the introduction of a fibre cement - timber cladding now has some tough competition. Timber is now giving way to fibre cement as the choice for new facades adorning many new builds and renovations alike.

What Is Cedral?

“Fibre cement combines the best of science and nature.

It is a sustainable material made of wood, cellulose, sand, synthetic fibres and water, allowing for strong and high performance cladding that adds value to your home. It’s the ideal low-maintenance alternative to traditional timber weatherboard. Cedral comes in a range of 23 factory applied colours that allow homeowners to create striking, individual homes that are easy to maintain.” Daniel Frith, Regional Manager, Etex.

So what advantages does it hold over traditional weatherboarding?

“Fibre cement is water-resistant, frost-resistant, rot-proof, mouldresistant and immune to attacks by bacteria and insects. That’s why it has a life expectancy of more than 50 years, meaning that you don’t have to worry at any time.”

• •

• • •

It is resistant to damp, fire, staining, mould and infestation.

It does not warp, shrink or rot.

It has fantastic weather-resistance.

Is It for Me? Cedral can be fitted to one, part, or more exterior walls to create the unique style you desire.

Get inspired and take a look at a range of styles and colours in store.

There’s always a member of the team at Chandler Materials to help you make the most of your project. www.chandlermaterials.co.uk 01245 352 650

It is available in a vast array of contemporary and classic colours.

It is extremely low maintenance and easy to install.

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City Times Gardening Even with the mixed weather conditions at the moment, at this time of year it can be very dry out there in the garden. In some cases I’ve had to increase the watering for a number of container grown plants and recently planted borders. I’m trying to help my lot by mulching where the ground has been moistened to try and conserve moisture and also start combating the dreaded surge in weeds popping up everywhere.

On another note, the nights have been exceedingly cold recently and frosts are still very much with us, so please consider the following: Have to hand sections of horticultural fleece to lay over newly emerging shoots such as potatoes or recently sown carrot or parsnips. These floating mulches will absolutely give protection over night - however, do remove during the day to ensure plants do not overheat or get to leggy or etiolated. For the seed-sown root crops, keep on until germination is secured. I’ve found this ensures a more even germination rate.

Ensure watering is increased carefully to avoid overly wet plants and possible rotting of roots. If you see little black flies hovering around the base of plants, this will be the sciarid fly (fungus gnat). It loves humidity and as a result produces a larval stage that attacks root and shoot systems. Simply reduce your watering and the pest is controlled.

Feed with either a liquid feed appropriate to the plant for best results.

For orchids, use the drip feeders for a slow steady flow of nutrition.

All your good garden centres and online stores will have these and similar products for interior plants.

If your potatoes have produced shoots and you’ve not got any fleece or even window netting, earth-up to give added protection. Simply drag soil over the crown with a draw hoe, rake or border spade to cover all shoots and then allow to grow through at their own rate.

For recently germinated windowsill grown veg (and also ornamentals) remove to a cooler place in the house/greenhouse. However, take care when bringing outside that you do harden off plants over a longer period of time (around a week). Bring out during the day, but take back in for the evening. If you don’t harden off plants over a longer period, plants (for example for beetroot, rocket, spinach and lettuce) can bolt and run to seed.

Aside from protecting plants from the cold or hardening them off, spend time looking at you house plants as well to ensure they are maintained in tip-top fashion. Check out these simple steps for success:

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Prune and train plants for improved structure and possibly enhanced seasonal interest. Bougainvillea glabra (the paper flower); a supertastic climber with brilliantly coloured bracts flowering on new growth. Cut hard to framework for masses of flowers. Creepers/ ground cover plants like Tradescantia zebrina can be thinned out and side shoots reduced by ½ to promote new vigour trailing growth.

Click on this link for all you houseplant queries: www.rhs.org.uk/ plants/types/houseplants/houseplant-101/episode-one.

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Lastly, check out this link for other jobs for the garden as we move through May: www.rhs.org.uk/advice/in-month/may.

Happy gardening and keep safe!

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 by email at Tom.Cole@capel. ac.uk.

Page 8

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Regal Kitchens - Case Study

Mr and Mrs W from Grays commissioned Regal Kitchens, together with sister company Regal Developments, to reconfigure their entire downstairs. To achieve the look they desired, Regal removed a load bearing internal wall and bricked up a doorway to open up the space and give them that ‘open plan’ feel.

Regal Kitchens beautiful showroom in Chelmsford is situated at 2 Navigation Road, CM2 6HX and open 7 days per week between 10am and 4pm. Free parking is available.

Regal supplied and fitted new flooring throughout, installed a new fireplace, TV and bar area which the customers really wanted to complete the downstairs of their home.

This amazing new kitchen consists of contrasting shaker-style doors with beautiful quartz worktops on the island and surrounding, as well as full set of Neff appliances.

Mr and Mrs W have already started recommending Regal to friends and family.

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City Times Finance

Investments and you

Despite some turbulent times in the markets this past year with COVID-19 complicating matters further, there are signs that the markets are partially recovering, however caution is needed as volatility remains.

So, You Want To Invest?

When it comes to investing, I often hear phrases such as ‘daunting’, ‘risky’, ‘for other people’ or ‘maybe one day’. But the good news is that learning more about investing does not have to feel confusing and the main take away point here is that you are not on your own.

07908 109 741 / 020 8720 7249

Royale Thames Wealth Ltd is an Appointed Representative of New 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.

Word of Caution There is no such thing as a free lunch and nor is there a totally risk free investment. If you want risk-free investment with a guaranteed return the answer is simple - don’t invest!

Next City Times Issue Deadlines:

There are different degrees of risk, and some can be offset and mitigated by various strategies such as diversification - otherwise known as not putting your eggs in one basket. Always seek independent financial advice about your personal attitude to risk and your specific circumstances to ensure any investment strategy is tailored to your requirements in the most suitable way.

Articles - 7th June Artwork - 10th June

It’s imperative that you are aware that any form of investment can go down as well as up in value and you may not get back the amount you put in. There is no reason to be concerned about this on your own, but the biggest lesson is do not try and DIY your investments without educating yourself first as things can go wrong, and very quickly.

There is plenty of literature on ‘investing for beginners’ and ‘how to beat/time/own the markets’ but please do not fall for it - you need expert advice by an IFA who is authorised and regulated by the FCA, this will not only afford you a protection should things go wrong, but it will also afford you the access to the knowledge, tools and expertise of a fully qualified, professional adviser. After all, you would hardly attempt to perform a root canal surgery on yourself, so why would you ever do this with your money?

Spare Cash If you are in a position of having readily available spare pot of money, you should make sure that it works hard for you and gives you the opportunity for potential growth. If it just sits in a low (or worse, zero) interest rate bank account, not only it does not grow in real terms, it is actually losing value due to inflation. In practical terms, whilst your money is ‘safe’ your purchasing power diminishes if inflation goes up.

Issue Date - 17th June

t o p s s i th n i e s i t Adver e City Times in Th 130 + VAT for £ Promote your business to thousands of local people every month!

There are investments which are designed to be capable of keeping up with inflation with the caveat that it will come with a risk to your capital - again, please speak to your adviser about the most suitable investments for you.

The Outlook Investing is by and large a long game, the more time and patience you have the potential for return is proportionate to the duration of the investment. There are many types of investments with many variables and many risks. Whether you are a complete novice, or a veteran of investing please feel free to talk to us and see how we can help.

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 Page 12

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Rotary Youth Is Our Future The headline is axiomatic. Obviously the young will become the leaders in every strand of society, but the Rotary structure is such that it prepares for the time when the enthusiasm of the young replaces and compliments the experience of the older generation.

In May, the focus is very much on Youth Service when Rotary Clubs around the world pay special attention to the youth element. In the youngest age group we have Rotakids, which is an exciting way for children aged 7 - 12 to get involved with important activities in the community, all whilst having a great time in the process. Rotakids clubs are usually based in schools and Rotary works with teachers who support the children appreciate the need to help others.

The next opportunity for the young to become part of the Rotary family is at secondary school through Interact, which is a Rotarysponsored service club for 14-18 year olds. Interactors develop their leadership skills and initiative while meeting new friends.

Members exchange ideas, opinions and plans with other talented energetic people in an atmosphere free from negative pressures and distraction. Interact strives to promote student leadership, local volunteer service, and to make members aware of the many global and world issues that affect people every day.

other countries and accept 300 young people from other countries in return.

Accepting a youth exchange student into your club, community and household can be a very rewarding experience. It’s a chance to learn about a different culture and also help a young person understand your culture. The goal of Rotary Youth Exchange is to promote the advancement of international understanding, goodwill and peace at the person-to-person level.

There is so much more that Rotary does at the youth level. Each year thousands of young people take part in the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) programmes worldwide. Young people are chosen for their leadership potential to attend a seminar, camp or workshop to discuss leadership skills and to learn those skills through practice.

Any young person who has been on a RYLA course will benefit from the leadership and team building experience, and having RYLA on your CV goes a long way to influence businesses when recruiting. In Essex this particular programme is very strong and we are fortunate to have excellent outdoor facilities in Danbury and East Mersea.

At this time of year, the various youth competitions would be nearing their climax. Of course, during the pandemic things have not gone according to plan but, nevertheless, some competitions have continued virtually and a few have managed without too much disruption.

After leaving school there is a further organisation called Rotaract which is for ages 18-30. Rotaract clubs are community or universitybased and are sponsored by a local Rotary club, making them true ‘partners in service’ and key members of the Rotary family. Whilst you can be a Rotarian from aged 18, many feel they would rather work within their own age group and although the goals are very similar, young adults have a different, fresh approach and they augment their knowledge and skill for addressing the physical and social needs of their communities. Rotaract has more than 9,500 Rotaract clubs with 291,000 members in 177 countries.

Rotary offers many opportunities to young adults, such as its Youth Exchange Scheme, which is an excellent and inexpensive way for students to travel and study in a foreign country. It all adds up to world understanding which can only be a good thing to avoid conflict.

Besides learning opportunities, Youth Exchange participants act as ambassadors for their home country. Each year, Rotary districts that are part of the scheme send approximately 300 young people to

The standard of Young Musician is awe-inspiring and some of these talented musicians will go on to have great careers as concert musicians and will command good money to hear them. Similarly, Young Chef demonstrates enormous talent, and I can envisage the day when they open their own restaurants.

Space is limited here but other competitions include Young Artist, Young Photographer, Young Writer and Youth Debate. These events are all about support for the new generation to help hone their skills, to appreciate that life can be competitive and instil a work ethic to achieve your best. I describe the youth competitions as ‘the jewel in the crown of Rotary’.

These Rotary programmes do not run themselves, so Rotarians are always on the lookout for more Rotarians to help put on these events, whether adjudicating or setting up the chairs. If you would like to know more about how you can get involved, please visit www. rotary1240.org or give me a call on 01245 260 349.

Stan Keller

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How Props Can Aid Your Yoga Practice - by Mandy Haynes In last month’s article (Spring Clean Your Yoga Practice), I mentioned the use of props in yoga. Most yoga studios (when open during normal times) will have an array of props for you to use - some will have them set out for you depending on what you might need for that class, others may just invite you to take what you like to use. If however, your yoga class tends to take place outside of a yoga studio or gym setting then it is more than likely that you will need to supply your own props, or they may not be suggested at all.

When I started attending the yoga class that inspired me to start teaching, following the first session my teacher said to me, ‘if you plan on continuing with me then I suggest you invest in the following props…’ - this meant that everyone in the class all had their own props and they would feature in more or less every class, which I loved.

If you are looking to invest in some props of your own, whether it’s for self practice or to use in a led class, it is a good idea to look at the kind of yoga you practice to see what might best be suited to you (if in doubt, ask your teacher!) There are so many props and pieces of equipment available; blocks, bricks, straps/belts, wedges and bolsters to name a few of the basics, as well as wheels, benches and swings. Implementing a block or brick into your practice can enhance your flow and support and align your body. Blocks or wedges are really useful for tight hips in seated poses where a pelvic tilt forward is needed and bricks can add height, space or length in poses such as Half Moon and Triangle. Straps or belts are designed to help extend your reach and increase flexibility. I love using a strap for hamstring stretches where they can act as extension of your arms,

and are amazing for shoulder rotations to increase flexibility and release tension.

A place where props are essential is in a restorative yoga practice - think bolsters, eye pillows and lots and lots of blankets! Props are used to provide comfortable support to encourage the body to open, unwind and completely relax. Don’t be put off from a restorative practice if you don’t have ‘official’ yoga props - you will probably have everything you need in your home. A bolster can easily be substituted by a pillow or two (they can be folded or wrapped tightly in a towel to create the height or support needed), cushions and blankets are great (the more the merrier), a dressing gown belt or a tie can be used instead of a strap and a bricks can be replaced with a few sturdy books. An eye pillow is probably my favourite accessory - they are affordable and can be found in an array of wonderful designs, different fabrics, scented or unscented - if you don’t already own one, I urge you to gift yourself one!

Once you know where in your practice to use different props, according to your body’s needs, you will find that they can add a whole new dimension to your yoga practice, helping you do everything from improve your alignment to making formerly awkward or uncomfortable poses easier and more accessible.

If you would like to join me for a class or ask me how props might help you, you can find me at Hummingbird Pilates & Yoga in Writtle. I also teach online restorative yoga classes where you will experience first-hand the joy and benefit of the use of props that can be found around the home!

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What’s On Guide

May

Friday 21st Hoppily - We Are Hotbox - Shakey’s Sessions: Kid Hyena + Rebelion Saturday 22nd Geek Retreat - Grand Re-Opening Party Hotbox - Jar Records: Sandcastle Jesus + The Naked French The United Brethren - Playlister Weald Park - Weald Park Country Show Sunday 23rd Black Frog Presents - online shows from 5pm (see page 6 for details) Weald Park - Weald Park Country Show Thursday 27th The Panic Awards - Online (search Facebook for details) Friday 28th Hotbox - Penelope Isles + The Last Living Cannibal The UB - Paolo Morena (plus DJs) Saturday 29th Hotbox - Repo Man The UB - Max Bianco + Francis Botcherby + Tom McQ + Sunscream + Velveteen Orkestra + The Bob Baker Sound + Safenath + DJ Paul Dupree Sunday 30th Black Frog Presents - Online shows from 5pm (see page 6 for details) Hylands Park - All About Dogs The UB - Lo-End: Sally Can’t Dance + David Arscot + Darryl Butcher + Ian Wright + David Gooday Monday 31st Hylands Park - All About Dogs The UB - St Paddy’s Day in May: Barry Owens

Saturday 5th Hotbox - The Utopiates + San Remo Sunday 6th Black Frog Presents - Online shows from 5pm (see page 6 for details) Friday 11th Hotbox - Shakey’s Sessions: The Meffs + Kulk Saturday 12th Hotbox - Red Hot Riot + Hayride Wranglers Friday Sunday 13th Black Frog Presents - Online shows from 5pm (see page 6 for details) Friday 18th Hotbox - Ramon Goose Sunday 20th Black Frog Presents - Online shows from 5pm (see page 6 for details)

Please send in any local events for us to feature on this page. Hopefully we will get back to a time where we have two full pages of events very soon!

Email editorial@itsyourmedia.co.uk

June Friday 4th Hotbox - Lunatraktors

To view any issues you may have missed, you can find both the City Times and the Moulsham Times magazines online - please visit www.issuu.com/itsyourmedia

Page 16

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Chelmsford Library

Canon Tom’s E-Pistle

Its great to be open again and able to welcome both old and new customers back to our libraries!

Essex Libraries is now part of a new consortium of libraries, which will mean that our customers will have access to a much greater number of library items from many more libraries across the consortium in the near future.

As part of this, our new Library Management System - which stores all customer information and the library catalogue and records all transactions such as issues, returns, renewals - is now up and running. Take a look at our website for further details.

Hello friends. On Ascension Day this year, Thursday 13th May, we shall be dedicating and blessing our new Community Garden project at the Ascension with All Saints. The service will be at school leaving time in the hope that some of the families who are passing by might like to join in.

The Community Garden speaks to us about new life, growth, sharing and of course, community. These are all themes that the Bible speaks of time and time again, and it does so because they are important. In a way the Community Garden will be an ‘acted parable’ a physical demonstration of some of the truths of what the Church believes.

We hope that we will see people, friends and strangers alike, come to engage with us (the Church) through the garden in a way which they may not have done otherwise. Opportunities for new friendships will hopefully arise which may lead to us making some useful contacts in the community. In this way the Church family may learn of new ways in which we can be of help in our wider community.

In compliance with Government restrictions, we are now able to offer limited study space along with computer use and book browsing and borrowing. You can also collect your hearing aid batteries from Chelmsford Library as well as lateral flow Covid tests for home use.

We continue to be optimistic that our Summer Reading Challenge will take place this summer in our libraries! Open to all children, the theme is Wild World Heroes. We are currently looking for volunteers to help us run this event, so if you love reading and are aged 14 or over, we’d love your help. See our website for details on how to apply.

Part of what we have been thinking about during the lockdown has been how can we make use of our resources, not just for ourselves but for the people of Chelmsford in the wider sense. To that end we are looking to make Ascension with All Saints a kind of arts hub, perhaps hosting musical events or as a space for viewing art of all kinds. Do keep a look out as we seek to develop this new venture over the next few months.

I hope, as we begin to enjoy a little more freedom over the summer, that you will all still take care of yourselves and each other. A little caution now may save us a lot of grief in the future.

Tom

Don’t forget; opening hours of libraries have changed - for opening hours of all libraries, to keep up to date, check your library account or follow us on Facebook or Twitter, or by subscribing to our newsletter, go to our website at libraries. essex.gov.uk.

We continue to adhere to all Government guidelines regarding social distancing, face coverings and hygiene to ensure your visit will be safe and enjoyable.

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City Times History

Agriculture in the Chelmsford Area (Part Four) - By Stephen Norris This fourth article in this series looks at the problems in local farming between the wars, the establishment of the Essex Farmers Union, Cramphorn’s the corn and seed merchants, as well as the continuation of the history of Marriages and the Essex Agricultural Institute.

The First War brought about a big change in farming conditions. By this time Britain was largely dependent on imported food. The attacks

by German U-boats on international mercantile shipping seriously disrupted these imports. This led to wheat production in the county increasing, in part ordered by the War Agricultural Committee. The shortage of labour changed the position of the remaining farm labourers decisively - wages on average more than doubled to 30 shillings a week. The war saw the first significant use of tractors in the area.

The end of the war brought about a short-lived boom in food prices.

Moves to control labourers’ wages caused sporadic trouble and strikes in the county. The Workers Union handed out strike notices for ten thousand members in Essex, but the Chelmsford district organiser said he had not been consulted. In Essex, the Agricultural Labourers Union had eight thousand members. The new Government Wages Board was proposing to offer four shillings more than many current rates. Part of the problem was that wage rates varied between different types of agriculture in the region. The market gardeners in mid Essex, for example, were already paying higher than the average rate.

The boom proved short-lived and in 1921 food prices fell sharply.

Many, mostly small farms in the county, failed. The National Union of Agricultural Labourers came out on strike in the country in 1923, but the strike failed to materialise in Essex. Farmers were able to make individual deals with their groups of workers.

The Essex Farmers Union had been formed immediately prior to the war in 1913 after a meeting at the Saracens Head Hotel. It was meant to advise individual members and promote their interests. It didn’t get involved with commercial activities, but there was disguised support for buying groups. The EFU emerged from the war far stronger with a much increased membership; this was partly because of the increased number of small and medium sized farmers buying their own farms and ceasing to be in the relatively weaker position of tenants. Its first County Secretary was George Knowles who farmed at Lordship Farm, later to be part of Writtle College. The Union’s office was in Duke Street, and early meetings were in the boardroom of the Corn Exchange. The EFU moved in 1936 to 1 Edward Avenue, now part of County Hall, and then to Agriculture House at Brierly Place, New London Road. This building was eventually sold in the 1990s for just under a million pounds.

In 1922, despite the depressed nature of local farming, the Chelmsford branch of the EFU voted against a motion for protection - they did not want to see the price of bread increase. Taxes and the tithe were still a bone of contention however. Chelmsford MP Pretyman said: “Landlords do not even have sufficient income to pay the taxes levied on them: farmers cannot get as much for their products, as it costs them to produce it, and labour cannot get a living wage.”

By 1925 the local branch of the Farmer’s Union said regarding protection and subsidies ‘the country refuses to have one and pay for the other’. In 1927 the union was continuing to apply for state help because beef and milk couldn’t be sold to cover their costs. Wheat production continued to decline in the county until 1934. By 1932 however, after the belated adoption of protection under the Ottowa agreement, the Chronicle reported that the wheat quota was helping farmers. The amount of land under wheat was still decreasing but would have decreased more without the quotas. During the 1930s there was also a belated attempt to help dairy farmers both nationally and locally. In 1932 an Eastern Area Milk Organisation

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was formed which met at Chelmsford to fix milk prices. This was not however, completely effective. Six months later milk was being sold in Chelmsford at 2d a quart less than official prices. Despite these Government policies, times were extremely difficult for Essex farmers.

The EFU reported a big fall in subscriptions in the early 1930s. In the 1920s and 1930s however, a further migration of Scottish farmers into the area occurred attracted by low land prices and the work of the Milk Marketing Board.

Despite the depression, by the 1930s mechanisation was beginning to make serious inroads on the farm. Immediately after the First War farmers had needed a lot of convincing to change age old methods; the unreliability of tractors, even those of Henry Ford, meant that most farmers stood by the horse. The number of horses had even increased during the First World War. One of the biggest firms associated with Essex agriculture in the late 19th and through most of the 20th century was Cramphorns.

Although they had a substantial farming operation until 1963, they were principally corn and seed merchants. They had two head offices situated in Chelmsford and Brentwood. By the 1960s the firm had over 70 shops after their retail operations had expanded three times as fast as their farming. Cramphorns ran a mill at Springfield and had granaries at Brentwood and Halstead as well as at Chelmsford.

Marriages continued to expand during and after the First War. They bought Barnes Farm and Mousham Mills from the Mildmay Estate - the family had been long-term tenants of both farms. In 1926 the General Strike cost the business £700 because of the extra price of coal. The Marriage farms grew an increasing amount of potatoes.

Although sugar beet production started in earnest during the First War, due to the shortage of sugar Marriages didn’t start producing it until 1926. They used steam cultivators extensively between the wars, but didn’t own them.

Marriages were actually one of the last farmers in Essex to use steam ploughs. They did own an early electric threshing machine and bought a Marshall tractor in 1934. The family kept two herds of pigs, one at Chignal and another at Good Easter. They were sent by the firm on the flour wagons to London. ‘These pigs ran with the fattening bullocks and were supposed to live and thrive on the food the bullocks wasted!’

Two flocks of sheep were kept for lamb at Easter, this meant lambing in mid winter and building straw yards every year. Another notebook of the family showed that man and horse were still the mainstays of work on the family’s farms. In 1928 the family used a blacksmith (G Mansfield and Son of Dolphin Yard off Tindal Street) but also had their own blacksmith who did all the shoeing and repairs to farm implements - the family’s farms kept many horses for farm work and transport. A wheelwright was employed full time at their shop in Springfield, working on carts and wagons etc. All timber was homegrown on the farms and transported by wagon to saw mills in Chelmsford. It was brought back the same day, stored and then sawed by for the purpose it was needed for. All wheels were repaired at the blacksmith’s shop at Broomfield Mill.

The introduction of roller milling had largely made stone grounding obsolete, but a few people still preferred the quality of stone ground flour and the old stones still turned at Marriages’ Moulsham Mill until well after the Second War. Roller milling however brought spectacular improvements to the output of flour. Even by 1900, millstones were mainly being used for ‘gristing’ for animal feeds and a little wholemeal for brown bread.

The work of the Agricultural Institute had been considerably disrupted by the First War. The teaching programme was abandoned as some staff left to join the armed forces and others were seconded to the War Agricultural Committee, which took control of the Institute. A great deal of work was carried out advising farmers how to increase

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production. After the war normal courses resumed, but out of 80 students on a market garden course for example, there was only one female. By this time some students were entered for external University of London degrees. A review of the Institute heralded a move from advisory work to more education. The increased importance of poultry farming led the Institute to establish a poultry station in Beehive Lane, Galleywood.

The depression, of course, affected the Institute and by the 1930s it was having problems paying its staff. A report of 1934 emphasised the increasing lack of space at the Institute’s old buildings and the difficulty of working from a site in the centre of town.

In a little over 30 years, Essex had gone from being a leader in agricultural education to being left behind. An out of town site was first proposed in 1935, and early possible sites included Hylands House, Boreham House and Margaretting Hall, but eventually a 550 acre site was bought at Writtle including Lordship Farm.

Four farms were bought in all from Mr George Knowles at a cost of £25,000. The first design was turned down because of the estimated £250,000 cost. Money rapidly ran out for the approved design because of the shortage of labour and materials caused by the outbreak of the Second War. ‘The Institute began work (in 1940) without any ceremony but with two full hostels of students and a full complement of staff’.

In 1930, Henry Ford had established the Henry Ford Institute of Agriculture at Boreham to teach British farm workers the use of tractors and other innovations. It was later used for the training of Land Army girls before being cleared to make way for the American airfield.

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City Times Fun

Page 20

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Answers on page 30

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Page 21

Spot the Difference - 10 to find (answers on page 23)

Quiz Time - by John Theedom 1. Who acquired the nickname the Iron Lady in 1967?

2. Who played Rene Artois in the TV programme ’Allo ’Allo!?

3. Which is the only UK city to start with the letter R? 4. Sister Wendy was famous for TV programmes on which subject?

5. What sort of creature is a jerbo?

6. Which sport did Jimmy Connors play?

7. On which London Street is the Harrods store?

8. Which of the Disney dwarfs wore glasses?

9. In the initials RCMP, what does the ‘C’ stand for?

10. In which year did Gone With the Wind have its premier?

11. What is the small target ball in Crown Green bowls called?

12. Which is the world’s longest running serial drama?

13. Which actor won Oscars for Forrest Gump and Philadelphia?

14. Which type of puzzle first appeared in New York in December 1913?

15. In which sea is the Isle of Man? 16. Who was nicknamed the Lady With The Lamp?

17. Who wrote the TV series Rumpole of the Bailey?

18. Which famous star had her legs insured with Lloyds of London for $1m?

19. If you have just created a ‘moue’, what have you done?

20. What is a transparent polyhedron?

21. Who played Alf Garnet in the TV series Till Death Do Us Part?

22. Which Scottish-born inventor patented the telephone in 1876?

23. What connects ‘Dark’, ‘Field’ and ‘Opera’?

24. Apart from bell ringing, total amount etc, where else can the word toll be used?

25. What gift would you have received on the seventh day of Christmas?

26. Which sour wild fruit is used to make jam?

27. Charlie Chaplin died on Christmas Day, but which year?

28. Which of these British animals never turns white in winter: ptarmigan, mountain hare, stoat or fox?

29. What is a tarantella?

30. Which film star did Princess Diana dance with at The White House in 1985?

31. Who was the creator of the character Paddington Bear?

32. Who is the late husband of Sheila Hancock who died in 2002?

33. What was Christmas 2020’s most googled Christmas movie?

34. Which year was the Lockerbie Disaster?

35. What is the popular name for Milton Keynes’ football club?

36. By what common name are the Royal Botanic Gardens known?

37. Where is the world’s first ‘garden city’?

38. What is the name for a group of penguins on land?

39. During WW2, what was a spiv?

40. In the USA, on which coast is the county of Washington?

(Answers on page 31) Correction to last months quiz: Question 4. Which tree produces Conkers?

Answer: Oak The correct answer should have been horse chestnut. Thank you to Martyn for emailing us with the correct answer.

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Page 21 www.thecitytimes.co.uk

A Year in the Life of the Mayor It was with great sadness and regret that the death of His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh was announced on Friday 9th April. Due to coronavirus restrictions the Books of Condolence were online rather than in public places to be signed. Flags at Chelmsford City Council buildings were flown at half-mast during the eight day period of national mourning and an area in Bell Meadow, next to Central Park, was set aside for floral tributes. I sent a letter of condolence to The Royal Family on behalf of the residents of Chelmsford and took part in the national minute of silence at 3pm on 17th April at the same time that the official funeral took place.

The Mayoress and I attended The Cathedral for evensong on Friday 19th April for a service which commemorated HRH Prince Philip. It was a beautiful service which was broadcast on social media.

In these difficult times for small businesses, I had the pleasure of meeting the owner and staff of Acacia Beauty in The Vineyards when I cut the ribbon to open their new premises. I was very impressed and wish them well.

garden. I was invited along to see her latest hot air balloon, which was towering up to her roof and made of biodegradable balloons which are ‘pinned and binned’ to be environmentally friendly. Up, up and away!

Another online event included the launch of the St Andrew’s Church in Sandon Bell Restoration Appeal. My thanks to Mike Warboys for explaining how the bells are rung, and the wear and tear which takes its toll.

It was a delight to visit Larkrise Primary School and officially open their beautiful Happiness Garden to enhance wellbeing. The Deputy Mayor and I spoke to all the Class Bubble groups as they showed us their drawings of what happiness means to them, and we were impressed by the painted pebbles by each child which were incorporated into the design.

Another socially distanced visit was to Baddow Hall Junior School, where the Year 6 Pupil Councillors asked me many probing questions about my role. It was a pleasure to meet new Headteacher Richard McIntosh and hear that the pupils have pledged to raise money for my charities by holding a non-uniform day in June.

It was great fun attending a Mencap Gateway evening online with the theme of Cheesy Disco! There were disco lights and great music including Dancing Queen; I really enjoyed meeting everyone and had a lovely evening.

On 23rd April it was a pleasure to visit The Crown in Sandon to present Landlady Charlotte with a certificate to acknowledge her support for local disadvantaged families. Throughout the lockdown Charlotte provided meals for local families and it was heartening to meet such a generous lady who is making such a valuable contribution to her local community, despite having to close her premises to the public.

The weekend of 24th April saw thousands of balloon artists across the world celebrate One Million Bubbles of Kindness. The idea being the brighten up the community with balloon displays during these uncertain times. One such artist is Heydi Alvarado. Tile Kiln residents are likely to have seen her balloon tributes to the NHS during lockdown as well as elaborate Halloween creations in her front

Please email mayors.office@chelmsford.gov.uk if you’d like a Mayoral visit.

Facebook: Mayor of Chelmsford Twitter: @chelmsmayor Instagram: Chelmsford_mayor

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Page 23

Chelmsford Window Gallery Presents...

The Window Gallery Chelmsford was set up in June 2018 to give local artists a space to display their work. We host a new exhibition every month.

For May 2021 we present an exhibition of nature-inspired paintings

by Nicola Osborne.

You can see the exhibition at the Window Gallery on Broomfield Road.

Check our Facebook, YouTube and Instagram accounts for an interview with the artists and a video of the exhibition with music by Tigress.

full-time career.”

When did you start making art?

“I have always created art. From a formative age it was my constant and solace. However, formally I studied Illustration at KIAD and became an art teacher. About 4 years ago, with the support of my family, I was able to make the decision to follow art as a

What sort of art do you create?

“I create paintings influenced by the natural world, mainly floral. I am particularly interested in colour and form.”

Has this changed over time?

“Overtime, my work has become more abstract and looser. Mixed media has entered into my painting. This is something I am really enjoying.”

What inspires you?

“My inspiration comes from the beauty of nature, colour and form, in particular circles and spheres. I enjoy the challenge of trying to depict the transience of flowers, their fragility and majesty.”

Lopping Hall Gallery.”

Do you sell your work? If so, is it difficult to part with it?

“Yes, I do sell my work. No, it’s never difficult to part with. I really enjoy the prospect of a piece of my work, bringing enjoyment to someone else’s home.”

What superpower would you have and why?

“The power to make things grow just with a touch. I hate it when I plant anything and they don’t survive and I can’t help feeling a real pang of sadness.”

Instagram: @mrso1234rs Facebook: Nicola Osborne Art www.nicolaosborneart.com Window Gallery - Broomfield Road, Chelmsford www.windowgallery.org

Please send all your events for inclusion in our listings from 17/6/21 18/7/21 to editorial@ itsyourmedia.co.uk

What do you do if you’re not inspired?

“Feeling uninspired!? Well I find that this is when you revisit your obsession. Looking at previous sketches and paintings. Choosing to loosen up and experiment both with media and also composition.”

Where do you practice art?

“I create my work in my home, amongst the day-to-day chaos of family life. Obviously, it’s been more problematic this year than most.”

Do you have any connections with the art community in Chelmsford?

“Only through the lovely Candy. But I’m hoping that will change as the world begins to change.”

How often do you create?

“As often as is possible. This year has been a struggle with a house full, but I am looking forward to the return to a 5 day a week pursuit.”

What’s the best thing about being an artist?

“I particularly enjoy the contemplation involved in painting. Planning is such an integral part in painting and is juxtaposed by the freedom of mark making, experimentation and happy accidents.”

Where have you exhibited before?

“Chelmsford Museum, Lloyds Art Group, Lloyd’s of London The Fishermen’s Chapel in Leigh-on-Sea, Leigh Community Centre, Page 24

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Page 25

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Can You Help Young People Recover From the Pandemic?

Research tells us that young people’s mental health has really suffered as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent disruption to everyday life. It is vital as we move forward for young people to be given opportunities to understand how to take care of their mental health both now and in the future.

At Explore we believe with your help we can be part of the solution.

Healthy long-term relationships are associated with good physical and mental wellbeing throughout our lives: How can young people learn the skills they need when they may not have positive examples around them? Through the media, they are often exposed to relationships between celebrities which are portrayed as short-lived along with acrimony and tension - not providing them with the healthy role models they need.

immense sense of satisfaction from being Explore volunteers. We want young people to be as prepared as possible to cope with their future close relationships and to have the skills they need to deal with the inevitable issues that they will face. It is important that young people realise that difficulties can pull you together rather than tear you apart, so an honest chat with people who have coped with life’s challenges and survived will help them look at their own relationships more realistically, and will help them see that real life can be more satisfying than the media portrayals of what the ‘perfect marriage’ is all about.”

If you would be interested in helping young people explore what it takes to build and sustain those long-term healthy relationships, please email your Essex Local Development Officer at rose@ explorerelationships.org.uk, or call 0784 320 7505.

For the last 20 years Explore Relationships has worked in schools to empower young people to explore what it takes to create and sustain happy, healthy and loving long-term relationships. Our sessions provide a unique opportunity to explore the realities of lasting relationships in today’s world.

We work with real-life volunteer couples who share their stories with young people, enabling them to think differently about love, commitment, and long-term relationships. During our sessions, our volunteer couple alongside our trained facilitator counteract negative or unrealistic media portrayals of relationships to help young adults understand what real relationships are like.

We provide hope to young adults that healthy, happy and loving relationships do exist, and they too can have this type of relationship in the future.

Explore helps young adults recognise that all relationships - romantic or otherwise - require time and effort and that experiencing challenges is part of life, but these challenges can be overcome.

So, could you be one of our volunteer couples? We are looking for married couples from all backgrounds - including divorced and remarried or same-sex - to use their experiences to support our sessions. As a volunteer couple, you will spend time together with groups of around 30 young people where you will answer their questions about your experiences within your own relationship.

We are not seeking the ‘perfect couple’ - in fact, you may be on a second or third marriage or have faced and overcome significant challenges together. We have found that young people respond best to couples who are prepared to share what they have learnt, are open, honest and most importantly - authentic.

We asked one of our couples Kim and Steve what they get out of being an Explore couple? They said: “We get an www.thecitytimes.co.uk

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Steam Returns to your Local Heritage Railway the stations and operate both steam and diesel services.

After many months of closure due to the pandemic, we are delighted to announce that steam hauled (subject to availability) services will be back for our Mother’s Day Dining Trains on 4th July. There will be a choice of three dining options - brunch, lunch and afternoon tea. Full details can be found under ‘Events’ at www.eorailway.co.uk. Advance booking is essential. Other events, throughout the rest of the year, are in the planning stage and will be announced on our website as they are developed.

Resident steam locomotive Pitchford Hall, departing North Weald Station for Ongar (by Andy Duncan) Your local heritage railway operates just under 10km of standard gauge track between Epping and Ongar. The railway originally opened in 1865, and after WWII became part of the London Underground Central Line. As passenger traffic diminished, London Underground closed the line with effect from 30th September 1994.

The railway subsequently suffered from many years of neglect before a group of volunteers were formed intent on repairing the track and preserving the historic station buildings. Today, the group is known as the Epping Ongar Railway Volunteer Society and they work with the owner to provide volunteer staff to maintain the infrastructure, man

Over recent weeks, our volunteers have been busy preparing the railway to welcome our loyal visitors back to the site. In addition to our regular weekday work gangs, special Saturday gangs have been engaged in tidying up, painting fences, gardening and carrying out minor repairs. We are grateful for their commitment and support.

If you have some time to spare and would like to help on the railway during weekdays or on operating days, please contact membership@ eorailway.co.uk Adult membership costs just £20 per year and that includes four copies of our 44-page magazine, Mixed Traffic, which is packed with interesting railway related articles. If you would like a complimentary copy of our latest issue please email me at mixedtraffic@eorailway.co.uk. By volunteering, you will be contributing to the heritage movement and will be made most welcome. We look forward to hearing from you.

Robert Good Epping Ongar Railway Volunteer Society

From Little Acorns Mighty Oaks Grow - Support the Acorn Fund Challenge and Help Local Charities A golden opportunity is available to people in Essex to take part in a matched-funding challenge aimed at raising a total of £750,000 that will increase the amount of vital support to local community groups and charities.

We have all become increasingly aware of the incredible work charities have been doing throughout the coronavirus pandemic, and continuing to support their work is now more important than ever.

This initiative is being put into action by the highly respected independent charitable trust Essex Community Foundation (ECF) to help improve the lives of people in need, particularly those who are struggling during these difficult times.

Called the Acorn Fund Challenge, ECF is appealing for donations to its Acorn Fund and matching them on a 2 to 1 basis until a total of £750,000 is raised. This means that for every £2 received, ECF will add £1 - and if Gift Aid can be claimed, it nearly doubles the value of donations.

Caroline Taylor, Chief Executive of ECF said: “We are pledging £250,000 for the challenge and are delighted to be offering this matched-funding opportunity which we hope will be taken up by local people.

“The money will go into our Acorn Fund, from which we can respond quickly with financial support to meet local needs highlighted by charities and voluntary organisations. The more we can raise, the greater amount of help we can give by awarding grants to organisations who do such vital work in the community. The matched-funding challenge is a great chance for people to support local charities and voluntary groups, so we are asking people to share this opportunity as widely as possible through their families,

friends and colleagues.”

Anyone can give towards the challenge - individuals can make a oneoff donation or contact ECF to set up a regular donation. Companies and their employees can get involved in raising money in their local teams. There are also tax incentives associated with gifts to charity, so professional advisers may have clients who will want to support this initiative.

It is easy for local charities and voluntary groups to apply for grants from ECF at any time either for specific projects or for their running costs. All applications are assessed and where possible ECF awards the full amount requested, so that local groups can really make a difference in their community.

There is great demand on charities to increase their services and support at this time, but with restrictions enabling limited opportunities to fundraise, they are desperately seeking funding for their work.

Support the Acorn Fund Challenge and Help Local Charities It is easy to give to ECF’s matched-funding challenge: • • •

Give online through justgiving.com/campaign/ECFAcorn.

Send a cheque to Essex Community Foundation at 121 New London Road, Chelmsford CM2 0QT. Call us on 01245 355 947 to make a payment by bank transfer or to set up a regular gift.

For more information, email perry@essexcf.org.uk

www.thecitytimes.co.uk

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Stargazing with Mark Willis - May/June 18th May - 01:08: Looking east you will see the Beehive cluster 2.9°S of the Moon. In Chelmsford, the street lamps will have switched off at this very early hour. It is also a wonderful opportunity to study the Moon’s craters with a telescope of about 4.5 inches upwards or 7x50 binoculars.

August, 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.

31st May - 02:18: Conjunction of the Moon and Saturn. Looking southeast, quite low on the horizon. These objects are too far apart to be viewed through a telescope, but will look wonderful through a pair of binoculars, either 7 x 50 or 10 x 50.

I normally present on Chelmsford Community Radio. As soon as I have had both my vaccines I will return to Lite Bites at 12pm on Tuesdays.

13th June - 20:13: Looking west, this conjunction of the Moon and Mars is quite a bit higher in the sky than the previous conjunction on 31st May, The Moon and Mars appear to be very close together in the night sky. In reality, they are many millions of miles apart. Mars is currently 350 million km distant and also moving further away from Earth.

As usual, email me with any questions.

www.chelmsfordcommunityradio.com Twitter: @WillisWireless m.willis@hrc.org.uk

Spot the Difference Answers

28th/29th June - Early Morning: The Moon and Jupiter will make a close approach, passing within 4°10’ of each other. The pair will be visible in the dawn sky, rising at 23:46 (BST) and reaching an altitude of 25° above the southern horizon before fading from view as dawn breaks around 04:11.

New Moon: On 10th June, 10th July and 8th

This month, we were able to share the news that Chelmsford Community Radio will be official Media Partners for the Chelmsford Festival and Carnival.

The festival launches on the 19th June with various art exhibitions, followed by Make Music Day on the 21st which will feature an exciting line up of local groups, schools and performers being showcased up and down the High Street.

A whole two weeks of fun activities and events will follow, leading up to Streets Alive on Saturday 3rd, and finishing off in style with Chelmsford Carnival on the 4th July, where we will enjoy a parade of costumes and decorated non-motorised vehicles.

The line up for the festival can be found at www.chelmsfordfestival.co.uk.

Registration to take part in the parade is open to individuals, families and local community groups. For more details head over to www.chelmsfordcarnival.co.uk.

Do please stay tuned to us on 104.4FM or online via www.chelmsfordcommunityradio. com to hear updates and interviews as we build up to what promises to be an awesome fortnight.

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Margaret Thatcher Gordon Kaye Ripon, Yorkshire Traditional art A rodent Tennis Brompton Road Doc Canadian 1939 The jack BBC Radio 4’s The Archers, 70 yrs on January 2nd 2021 Tom Hanks Crossword Irish Sea Florence Nightingale Sir John Mortimer Betty Grable Made a pouting grimace A prism

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Warren Mitchell Alexander Graham Bell Glasses Charge for using a private road ‘Seven swans a swimming’ Crab apples 1977 Fox A whirling dance, once thought to cure a wolf spider’s sting John Travolta Michael Bond John Thaw Love Actually December 21st 1988 The Dons Kew Gardens Welwyn Garden City Herts, UK A waddle Black marketeer

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