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CT Welcome Hello readers,
Welcome to the November/December edition. Well this month the Christmas adverts are in; whether it’s a Christmas meal or a new camera (see the Cameraworld advert on the left), keep an eye out throughout the magazine! Also, please remember to tell our advertisers that you saw them in this magazine. Enjoy your month! Regards Nick & Paul www.thecitytimes.co.uk | www.moulshamtimes.com
Advertising Editorial Nick Garner Paul Mclean 07970 206682 07595 949701 ads@itsyourmedia.co.uk editorial@itsyourmedia.co.uk
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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 Printwize.
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Ct Fashion - Sparkle in to the Festive Season ‘Tis the season to get dressed up, fa la la la la… Yes, it is upon us already; the countdown to Christmas is real and the party invitations are coming thick and fast. There’s the work do, the kid’s party, the obligatory family buffet… not to mention the cosy nights in wrapping presents (or indeed, scanning the Internet for last minute online shopping!) There’s definitely an outfit for every single festive occasion. Here’s a rundown of the trends that will keep you festive on the countdown to Christmas - and hopefully, beyond! Deck Yourself with Sequins: It wouldn’t be the festive season without the Sequin Appreciation Society in every restaurant, bar and club on a Saturday night would it? Yes, the sequins and embellishments are back with a vengeance again this year, and we would be fools not to dabble in a few sparkles here and there (it is Christmas after all). This year’s shine is more about metallic pops and stripes of sparkles, as well as the good old fashioned colour block sequins. Body tops just waiting to be teamed with black jeans and dresses dying to be completed with a killer heel are decking most high street stores this run up to Christmas. River Island, Primark and New Look have some really affordable styles. If you’re feeling brave, team a metallic co-ord (culotte or full length), like the styles found on ASOS, with a faux fur coat if you’re aiming for a kiss under the mistletoe this year. Faux Fur Friends: Feeling a tad chilly after a gloriously elongated summer? (Y’know… the one that lasted from June to September and now feels like a just distant memory... yes, that.) Whether it’s a mad dash to the shops, or a throw-on over your date night outfit, every self-respecting woman needs herself a good coat. This winter, you’ll not be able to swing your tote without bumping into a few (hundred) styles of the faux fur coat. There are so many styles around that even if you’re a fur cynic, there’ll be a cut for you, and trust me - you won’t regret it. Longline styles, such as the ones found in New Look for around £40, are great for day to night and are available in a range of colours. H&M have some great shorter length jacket styles and Topshop have some fantastic colours and cuts available too.
Leather and Lace: Perhaps you’re feeling like you really want to stand out this festive season? Well, the best coupling I can think of for that is the leather and lace combination. Lace and mesh is still very in for the festive season, with the high street shops offering some fantastic lace dresses and tops. Why not team your top with a pair of leather trousers? Or my personal favourite, a faux leather mini skirt and heels. Some great options on the high street include Oasis and Topshop for the perfect lace top, and River Island have some really classy dresses hanging on their rails. Perhaps you have a leather jacket you could team with a lace dress to vamp it up. Honestly, the combination will turn heads and definitely make you the belle of the ball. Christmas Jumper: Perhaps your Christmas party is more of a relaxed affair, or maybe you are planning something for the kids. We all know everybody needs a Christmas jumper for those chilly winter nights, or the obligatory Christmas Jumper Day at work. My advice on these would be to invest early and reap the benefits for as long as you can - I often see some great styles in the shops only for them to disappear within a few days. I always find supermarket clothing brands design some great, affordable jumpers check out Tu at Sainsbury’s darling dog print for just £20. Maybe you find fun in a pun (like me), in which case you’ll enjoy Select Fashion’s ‘Bah Humpug!’ complete (again) with cute dog print for £12.99. Or maybe you really are a bit of a Scrooge and want everyone to know it - get a personalised ‘Bah Humbug!’ jumper from notonthehighstreet. com for around £30. Rebecca Forde is a writer with a penchant for fashion, great literature and drinking a lot of coffee. You can contact her by emailing rebeccaforde@hotmail.co.uk. © All Images: Primark
Cold Shoulder: Baby, it will be cold outside and yes, you can expect to need to team a ‘cold shoulder top’ with a suitable jacket to ensure you’re not completely frozen. But these tops are definitely staying around over the festive period. Demure and sophisticated, the cold shoulder top for your Christmas party will make sure you stand out in the crowd. Cold shoulder styles include Bardot, slit sleeves and off the shoulder styles that look great teamed with a high waisted skirt or simply with jeans and statement heels. Dorothy Perkins have updated their styles for the festive season with sparkles, glitter and sequins at really affordable prices. Page 4
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Revolution Pro Wrestling Returns to Chelmsford
Revolution Pro Wrestling, the UK’s leading independent wrestling promotion, returns to Chelmsford for another night of exciting Pro Wrestling at its best! Following on from a successful debut as part of their Summer of Independence tour, RevPro are back to finish off the year in style, as every superstar will be looking to build up some momentum to carry into 2019. Already announced to appear are Aussie Open, arguably the biggest unsigned team in the world who, by the time of the show, could hold tag team gold as they look to cap a meteoric rise from the latter half of 2018. If they do hold the belts, who will be the team looking to take them away from the hugely popular team..? Also eyeing gold is Zoe Lucas, who unsuccessfully challenged for the women’s title at RevPro’s debut Chelmsford show. But with a change of attitude, she’s looking to get some more wins to prove she deserves another shot at the belt that has always eluded her. Standing in her way, however, is the debuting Chardonnay who wants to lay down her own marker for a shot at the belt. Also appearing are the rest of your RevPro favourites, including MK McKinnan who’s had a resurgent return to the company in 2018. Get your tickets now at www.revolutionprowrestling.com.
All Things Music - by Nick Garner Chelmsford Arts & Cultural Festival 2019 We held two public meetings on the 30th November in Chelmsford which were very well received and we would like to thank Transition for hosting the events and all of you who attended. We gained some good support and got some great ideas as well, so now it is time to press on and make 2019 bigger and better than the hugely successful 2018 festival. We are still looking for people to get involved and there are many ways you can do that. If you are interested, or you have any suggestions, then please let us know. You can email the team at hello@chelmsfordfestival.org and we will get back to you as soon as we can. Music and Ramblings We are nearing the end of yet another year - and what a year it has been! Looking ahead, we have a great 2019 planned with the Chelmsford Festival from 21st to 30th June, plus we are also lining up some great acts for Chelmsford City FC as well as many other events across the city. Our monthly Blues in the City will cease to be held at the Bassment, but it’s looking like a new venue and format has been found - more on that next month, as we still have the rest of the year at the Bassment. We are still looking to continue to do some of our special events at the Bassment next year though. The UB (United Brethren) in New Writtle Street is fast becoming one of the most prestigious free music venues around the city, with Scott the landlord very enthusiastic about live music. He allows me to book a whole range of different music there for him, and 2019 is going to see even more going on in the UB. You will find all the listings in this magazine. The UB hosts the best in covers acts as well as folk, blues, Americana, bluegrass, jazz and the best DJs along with some fab storytelling events. One event they are hoping to launch soon is a mic night for new and upcoming talent, featuring a showcase artist or act. As well as all that, the UB has a great choice of drinks and food from a very welcoming team, all rounded off with some cool decor - a great place to relax in. There are plenty of other great things going on in and around our city too of course. Only the other weekend there was a highly successful weekend at the Bassment with Andy Poole’s Rhythm and Booze Orchestra playing the music of Queen - they even gained some support from Brian May and Roger Taylor of Queen - they did not let them down at all. There is also a growing comedy night scene around, which is good to see. I would like to see more storytelling and poetry though, as well as more debating societies, as this is all part of our cultural growth along with the arts. It is also good to see that the Ideas Hub is back up and running too (in the library these days), as they are a much needed part of our city. There is surely a lot more that goes on - and we all want to know about it, so please do tell us at the City Times and we can help to get the word out for you. Our contact details are all on page 3 of this magazine. What is coming up I hear you ask... Well, from 30th November the UB will have music every Friday, Saturday and Sunday and the odd Monday as well. At the Bassment on Thursday 5th December we have Zoe Schwartz Blue Commotion, who are a top act who between them have played with countless greats - a not-to-be-missed end to our many years of regular monthly nights from Blues in Town, to Blues in the City and finally Blues & Roots in the City at the Bassment. We want to thank everyone for at the Bassment all for their help and support over the years and to the team who have always helped me. As I said, we will be back there doing some one-off specials though. Friday 7th December is going to be a party at Chelmsford City FC with the return of Limehouse Lizzie with special guests Joe Anderton and
Connor Selby. This is gonna be a great one to end our year on! So far confirmed for 2019 we have ChangesTwoBowie plus The Delta Ladies, then we have the wonderful Robbie McIntosh Band with Jamie Williams & the Roots Collective. For March we have only gone and got you The Christians with Rich Young - and if that is not enough, in April we have the legendary John Coghlan’s Quo. John of course being the original drummer - and they have Stony Road opening on the night (Trevor from Stony Road used to play guitar in John’s band). We are just waiting on some other very exciting confirmations to come through. As soon as we get those, we will let you know. Do keep and eye on the websites and Facebook pages. Also check out Whats Going on Chelmsford and Essex Gig Guide (both on Facebook) plus Visit Essex. As ever, please do try to come out and support the great live scene that we have in Essex - because if you do not we may lose it. For more information on all of the above and more, see the links below and go to our What’s On pages to see what else in happening in your area. Check the Internet see what’s on in your area. Facebook is great as is Twitter, as well as your local papers and community boards. www.bluesinthecity.co.uk www.facebook.com/bluesinthecitychelmsford Twitter: @BluesintheCity1 www.itsyourmusic.co.uk www.facebook.com/itsyourmusic Twitter: @itsyourmusic The Arts and Cultural email: hello@chelmsfordfestival.org www.chelmsfordfestival.org www.facebook.com/chelmsfordfestival Twitter: @chelmsfordaacf
Christmas Sparkles & Pamper Evening 7th December 2018 - 6pm - 11pm In aid of: Breast cancer unit Epping Dementia War Paws International Animal Rescue • Unusual gifts at discounted prices • Neal's yard, Elemis, Ted Baker, Body Shop • Prosecco, mince pies and mulled wine available on the night • Raffle with lots of lovely gifts to Be won Pampering including: • Indian Head Massage • Reflexology • Hot Stone Massage
Just £2.50 entry
At Writtle Village Hall, 18 The Green, Writtle, Chelmsford, CM1 3DU Call Melissa 07511 939049 to book tickets or a stall
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CT Gardening - by Tom Cole
A perfect time for planting all things this month! The best times for planting are now and in the spring. •
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In preparation for planting, the site has to be cleared, so remove all weeds. Particular attention must be paid to perennial weeds such as ground elder (Aegopodium podagraria) and field bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis) as they will persist in the soil and become problematic. Annual weeds can be removed by hand. Many perennial weeds may be spread by disturbance. A total translocated herbicide can be applied to the weeds when in active growth. Organic gardeners can mulch with material such as carpet or weed matting, but this will take up to two years to rid the site of perennial weeds. If the tree or shrub is to be planted in a lawn, cut a circle and skim off the turf. Excavate the planting hole. When planting a standard tree the hole should be round and large enough to accommodate the root ball plus 5cm extra. The depth should ensure the flare of the trunk (the area where the roots form at the base of the trunk) will be at soil level. Planting too deep is a major fault, usually one spade depth is sufficient. The base of the hole should be flat and the sides vertical. Spike the sides and base of the hole with a fork on heavy soil. Do not turn over the soil in the base of the hole or add organic matter beneath the tree roots as this can lead to settling and the tree becomes too deep. Do not add any fertiliser at the planting stage; it is not desirable to produce a rich soil environment which is inconsistent with the surrounding soil. Drive in the stake. If planting a tree a stake will be required to provide support for the first two to three years. The stake is usually driven in prior to planting in order to avoid damage to the root ball and should be placed on the windward side of the tree. There are several different methods of staking trees, but modern thinking is that a short stake (or stakes) encourages root development. The stake should be roughly one-third the
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height of the tree. Angled stakes can be used for container grown specimens. Position the tree. Using a length of wood placed across the planting hole to represent ground level, hold the tree at the correct height. If planting a bare root tree, ground level can be established by looking for the nursery mark - a slight change in colour and texture on the trunk. Root balled and container grown specimens should be planted to the same depth as the soil in the container or root ball. A length of plastic piping can be placed into the planting hole to facilitate watering. Back fill around the tree, taking care to eliminate air pockets. Firm soil with your boot and finish the soil surface neatly. Attach a proprietary tree tie to the tree and stake to support the tree. Water in the tree thoroughly to settle the soil and to ensure the roots have adequate available water. Mulch with a material such as bark chips. A 10-15cm layer of mulch material will help to retain moisture and prevent weed seeds germinating.
After Care Spring • Refresh the mulch (ensure the soil is moist prior to mulching). This will help to prevent the germination of weed seeds and aids the retention of moisture. • Carry out formative pruning to develop the shape of tree. Remove any water shoots (unwanted shoots arising from the trunk) from the main stem. Double leaders should be removed, as should crossing or rubbing branches. Cut back to healthy wood removing any dead, diseased or damaged wood. Summer • Ensure the tree is well watered for the first two to three years. 15-20 litres of water should be applied every fortnight during the growing season when sufficient rain has not fallen. A thorough soaking is preferable to light watering, as it will promote deep rooting, making the tree more tolerant of drought in the future. Watering through plastic piping used when planting the tree ensures a good supply of water at the roots. • Keep the plant weed free. Weeds compete for water and nutrients, and may harbour pests and diseases. • Check for pests and diseases and treat accordingly. Winter and Autumn • Check the stake and loosen the tie if necessary, the stake should remain in place for two to three years. • Remove heavy falls of snow - particularly from conifers, as it can damage their shape. We’re taking bookings for our next RHS batch of classes starting February 2019: RHS Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Garden Planning, Establishment and Maintenance and for next September, RHS Level 2 and 3 Certificates in Practical Horticulture. Email tom. cole@writtle.ac.uk for information on availability of days and times.
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If you’ve got more time, we also offer full time Level 2 & 3 programmes plus apprenticeships for those that want to ‘earn and learn’. If you’d like a shorter programme for say 1 or 2 days, then give our Short Courses a call. We’ve got courses on construction (erecting fences, paving and brickwork), general garden tasks such as pruning, propagation (new for this year we’re running grafting courses), container gardening, successful care of lawns and growing fruit and veg. For the professional, a whole load of competence certificates covering arboriculture, pesticide application and use of various machinery and equipment. Happy gardening!
Page 8 www.chelmsfordthecitytimes.co.uk
CT Food: Christmas - by John Jacobs I’m so excited. I just can’t hide it. I’m about to lose my savings because - and I cannot stress this fact enough - CHRISTMAS is coming. Now that Halloween and bonfire night have gone, I start to regress to my childhood. The yuletide brings out the Greek in me. I don’t mean borrowing vast amounts of money from Germany and retiring at thirty, I mean the inherent Mediterranean need to feed everyone. This year though I’m taking the day off, hiding out in the apartment with complete control over the television schedule and not a single party game. Just the three of us and a year’s subscription to Weight Watchers. Just a quick reminder to all grandmothers out there, you’ll want to put the sprouts on about now. I start reading Dickens this time of year too. Did you know there are over fifty three million different takes on A Christmas Carol? I’m partial to the Muppet’s version. I think TOWIE are filming their own; after a night of ghostly self-discovery, Ebenezer Scrooge realises he is living pointless life and gifts Bob Cratchit vouchers for a butt lift and hair transplant. I look forward to the EastEnders Christmas day offering too, where for the one day of the year they all unite to be slightly less miserable. Some of you will know that I’m teetotal. If I needed a reason to be less boring this ticks that box, but last month I lamented the challenge of finding alcohol-free alternatives in restaurants around the city. Apparently, I am ill-informed. Stand up and take a bow Wendy Sillett, the brains and fortitude behind Abstinence, which is opening on Fairfield Road, directly opposite the Civic Theatre. Drinks, food, a deli counter and live music with no alcohol anywhere. Don’t get me wrong, I’m neither self-righteous nor a prohibitionist. For me it’s a personal health choice, though I do balance ‘no alcohol’ with kebabs and doughnuts. Also, this time of year everything edible seems to be flavoured with brandy. I think this is the first of its kind in Essex (if you don’t count the pop up cafés) and if anything, an interesting social experiment in human nature. Abstinence is perfectly situated to the weary commuter alighting from the hellishness that is the Liverpool Street line. I watch with interest and will pop in there this month for a quick review. Have a great month everyone. Can you hear them? The jingle bells?? Here’s a starter for you. Simple Non-Alcoholic Brandy Sauce Ingredients: 250g butter 1 teaspoon brandy flavoring 100g brown sugar 3 egg yolks 1 sheet gelatin Sprinkle of nutmeg. Method Beat the butter, brown sugar and egg yolk in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy. Place the mixture in a saucepan and simmer for 5 minutes over a medium-low heat, stirring constantly. Add the gelatin, then pour the sauce into a bowl and sprinkle with nutmeg. Perfect on Christmas pudding. John Jacobs is the author of Snow Goose, available from Amazon and on Kindle.
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What’s on in the Area
November Friday 16th Bassment - JAR presents Leyline Pass + Past Kings + RAZ Civic - Phil Crosby Jnr: The Great American Songbook Cramphorn - How (Not) To Live In Suburbia (14+) The Golden Fleece - Illicit The Public Hall (Collingwood Road, Witham) - Rich Clifford & The Young Once (box office: 0345 017 8717) Saturday 17th Bassment - Emjay Sessions: Morrisey & Marshall + Indigo Face + Joe Anderton CCFC (home) - Chelmsford City FC v Truro City Civic - Little Stars Circus Galleywood Heritage Centre - Essex Society for Family History monthly meeting The Golden Fleece - Cakehole Mafia The Transition - Miss Kiddy & the Cads United Brethren - Tanya Piche Band Sunday 18th Civic - Dance Insirations Galleywood Heritage Centre - Remembering 1918 (exhibition) United Brethren - Trev Gentry (4.30pm) Tuesday 20th Boreham Village Hall - Ballroom and Latin American Dance (classes for beginners & improvers - www.danceasy.co.uk) Cramphorn - Classic 60s Night: An Evening of Classic Thunderbirds (U) Galleywood Heritage Centre - Talk: A to Z of Christmas Wednesday 21st The Chichester Hotel (Rawreth) - Belvedere Jazz & Music Club: Susana Sheiman + Vasilis Xenopoulos Qrt Thursday 22nd Bassment - Asylum Night: Skraelings + AOS3 + Tim Smith Cramphorn - UnCivic Arts: Bi-curious George & Other Sidekicks The Golden Fleece - Quiz night Friday 23rd Bassment - Alex & The A-Sides (60s classics covered live) Cathedral - Lunchtime concert Cramphorn - Women 100: The Company of Strangers (PG) The Golden Fleece - Break for Cover Saturday 24th Bassment - Mandeville EP Launch + Rubber Jaw + The Drama Llamas Bond Street Christmas Market Christ Church - Essex Symphony Orchestra Concert Cramphorn - Mat Ricardo vs The World Danbury Village Hall - The Fantastic Family Quiz (www. jacobsbackpackcampaign.co.uk) The Golden Fleece - Strikeout United Brethren - Mighty Bosscats Sunday 25th Bond Street Christmas Market The Golden Fleece - Exposed Acoustic Sessions The Gold Swan Hotel (High Street, Maldon CM9 5EP) - Jazz Workshop (2pm - 5pm, jazzworkshopsmaldon.co.uk) Galleywood Heritage Centre - Christmas Market Page 12
Sunday 25th (continued...) St Mary with St Leonard Church (Broomfield, CM1 7BD) The Anglia Singers (tickets £5 on door) United Brethren - Paul Steven Wood (4.30pm) Wednesday 28th Cramphorn - Dad’s Army Radio Hour The Chichester Hotel (Rawreth) - Belvedere Jazz & Music Club: Salute to Benny Goodman - Pete Long Quartet Thursday 29th Bassment - Acoustic Night with Marc Halls + more (TBA) The Golden Fleece - Quiz The Lion Inn (Boreham) - Chelmsford Comedy Club O’Connors - Charity quiz night in aid of Farleigh Hospice Friday 30th Bassment - Friday Night’s Alright! Indie Disco! Cathedral - Lunchtime concert Civic - Cinderella Cramphorn - Troilus and Cressida The Golden Fleece - The Flashbacks The Two Brewers - Shakey’s Sessions: Third Dart + The White Gospel + Threefall United Brethren - Steve Hooker
December Saturday 1st Bassment - Crème de Chèvre (ukulele covers band) + Lala Lupe (Mexican mariachi band) (free entry) CCFC (home) - Chelmsford City FC v Gloucester City Chelmsford Salvation Army - Charity concert in aid of Farleigh Hospice Civic - Cinderella The Golden Fleece - Barney and the Rubbles United Brethren - Bob Collum Sunday 2nd Civic - Cinderella Cramphorn - Chelmsford Jazz Club: Pete Long’s Ellingtones (10 piece band playing the Music of Duke Ellington) The Golden Fleece - Asylum’s Sunday Service United Brethren - Connor Selby (4.30pm) Woolpack - GC’s Jazz Club: Paul Higgs Trumpet & Graeme Culham Trio (8pm - free admission) Monday 3rd Civic - Cinderella Tuesday 4th Boreham Village Hall - Ballroom and Latin American Dance (classes for beginners & improvers - www.danceasy.co.uk) Civic - Cinderella Old Court Theatre - A Christmas Carol Wednesday 5th Bassment - BRITC with Zoe Schwarz Blue Commotion + special guest The Chichester Hotel (Rawreth) - Belvedere Jazz & Music Club: Pasadena Roof Orchestra Civic - Cinderella Cramphorn - Don Quixote Old Court Theatre - A Christmas Carol
Please note, all events are subject to change. Please visit the relevant websites or Facebook pages for more details
Thursday 6th Bassment - Bassment Blues Jam! St Michael and All Angels Church (Main Hall, 62 Leigh Road, Leigh-onSea, SS9 1LF) - Christmas Concert Over ers 35 ye n n (an evening of jazz, popular and i g e arting ars te b w Christmas tunes) Ne ses st n achin g Civic - Cinderella clas autum Cramphorn - And This Is My Friend this Mr Laurel The Golden Fleece - Quiz Old Court Theatre - A Christmas Carol Writtle Community Cinema (Writtle Library) - The Odd Couple Friday 7th Bassment - Shakey’s Sessions: Crooked State + Guilt Coins + Alice + First Principles Cathedral - Lunchtime concert CCFC - Limehouse Lizzy Civic - Cinderella 07946 733379 tishandsteve@blueyonder.co.uk 01245 351552 The Golden Fleece - Scooby Friday 14th Old Court Theatre - A Christmas Bassment - Winston & The Lads Xmas Special! Carol Civic - Cinderella United Brethren - Keeping it Soulful Cramphorn - Santa in Love Saturday 8thth Danbury Village Hall - Dick Whittington Bassment - A Very Lemon Curdmas with Lemoncurd Kids & The Golden Fleece - Expose friends Old Court Theatre - A Christmas Carol CCFC (away) - East Thurrock United v Chelmsford City FC United Brethren - The Boomers Civic - Cinderella Saturday 15th The Golden Fleece - The Heaters Bassment - Saturday’s Alright For Dancin’! Indie Disco! Hamptons Sports & Leisure - Revolution Pro Wrestling Civic - Cinderella Maldon Town Hall - The Fantastic Family Quiz (www. Cramphorn - Santa in Love jacobsbackpackcampaign.co.uk) Danbury Village Hall - Dick Whittington Old Court Theatre - A Christmas Carol The Golden Fleece - 6 String Makeover United Brethren - The Delta Ladies Galleywood Heritage Centre - Essex Society for Family History Sunday 9th monthly meeting Civic - Cinderella Old Court Theatre - A Christmas Carol Old Court Theatre - A Christmas Carol United Brethren - Jamie Williams and the Roots Collective United Brethren - Joe Anderton (4.30pm) Sunday 16th Monday 10th Civic - Cinderella Civic - Cinderella Cramphorn - Santa in Love Cramphorn - The Nutcracker (Royal Ballet) Danbury Village Hall - Dick Whittington Old Court Theatre - A Christmas Carol United Brethren - Morrigans Path Trio Tuesday 11th Bassment - Mencap Gateway Xmas Party! Boreham Village Hall - Ballroom and Latin American Dance (classes for beginners & improvers - www.danceasy.co.uk) Civic - Cinderella WITH PRIVATE SWIMMING POOL FOR RENTAL Cramphorn - Christmas Classics: It’s A Wonderful Life (U) Galleywood Heritage Centre - Scrabble Group Meeting • Close to Es Castell, restaurants, bars Old Court Theatre - A Christmas Carol Wednesday 12th and amenities Civic - Cinderella • A short 15 min drive to gorgeous Old Court Theatre - A Christmas Carol th Thursday 13 beaches. Bassment - Jazz Funk with Robin Porter (saxophone) • Air conditioned bedrooms Civic - Cinderella • Sleeps 2-7 Cramphorn - Santa in Love Danbury Village Hall - Dick Whittington The Golden Fleece - Quiz night Tel: 01621 741810 / 07860 232854 menorcaholiday@aol.com Old Court Theatre - A Christmas Carol
MENORCA HOLIDAY VILLA
www.menorcaholidayvilla.co.uk
Please send us your events for the next edition (for events between 14th December and 20th January) to editorial@itsyourmedia.co.uk
CT Business: Carry on Matron - by Lindsay Whitehouse When you are in pain you just want it to stop, now, then you need to know what caused the problem. Finally you need to know what can be done to stop it coming back to haunt you. The good news is that there is a city centre location that will help with all those issues. It is called The Chelmsford, which is a private day surgery hospital on New London Road just behind the new court buildings.
required clinical standards they can work in the hospital. Some of the consultants really are world class in their chosen field, particularly in pain management and ophthalmic services. Or put another way, this is a bit like a local golfer going along to the driving range in Chelmsford to receive a lesson from one of the Ryder Cup winning team. Who wouldn’t want to be treated by one of the very best in their field? When I checked the cost of treatments, I was pleasantly surprised. I recommend that you carry out the same exercise for yourself - visit the website at www.thechelmsford.co.uk.
If you are one of the 80% of the population who has suffered from back pain, then - just like me - you want a good and quick response. If you go to The Chelmsford, your first appointment will provide you with a consultation, a scan and a treatment plan. In my substantial personal experience as a patient, this type of first response is not so common.
The Chelmsford is one of 9 centres comprising the Aspen Healthcare Group. They have three facilities in London, two in Yorkshire, two in Essex and one each in Edinburgh and Solihull. The group operates a short but highly effective management hierarchy and Jill was keen to tell me that any member of her team can pick up the phone and call direct to the CEO of the whole group. I am always telling my business students that communication is vital, and the man or woman at the top must know what is going on at the bottom. This management structure fits my idea of a perfect communication template.
Of course, The Chelmsford does much more than treat back pain. I spoke to Jill Norman, the hospital manager, to find out more. Jill is a nurse by training and experience and when I pressed her, she agreed that her job was pretty similar to the old matron role. I would describe her as a matron plus, with the plus being all the responsibilities of business management allied to her clinical responsibility. The Chelmsford’s main focus is on pain management, MRI scans, physiotherapy, podiatric surgery, ophthalmic surgery, cosmetic surgery and vascular surgery. They also provide a private GP service, an eye clinic, women’s health (HRT) consultation, musculo-skeletal consultation/treatment, dermatology, X-ray and ultrasound. There is more; a quick google search will take you to the website where full details are available. Personally, I believe that provision of cosmetic surgery is also a significant response to the ever growing threat of mental health issues. Anyone with a significant disfigurement that can be sorted by cosmetic surgery will be much less likely to suffer from self doubt, self-harm and low self esteem. I would like to live in a society where the NHS provided everything I needed and wanted, to the required standard, with speed. Unfortunately - and this is no criticism of the wonderful people who work for the NHS - that is not always possible. So there is clearly a market for private medical services. People can be referred to these services by their GP, or they can self-refer. Sometimes, the NHS contract The Chelmsford to undertake work on its behalf. Around 30 million working days are lost each year in this country to back pain alone, so employers would do well to consider funding access to fast track private medical treatment for their staff - the number of expensive, lost working days would reduce dramatically. That is something for HR directors to take to the board when developing or reviewing employment strategies. Funding such treatment could well save businesses money, as well as building up huge staff goodwill. Jill told me that there are 33 permanent core staff at The Chelmsford. Additionally, there are the consultants and physiotherapists who are granted practising privileges. This means that if they meet the
Another aspect of their business practice that I liked was the response to marketing. They avoid highly paid external consultant marketers and use their own staff to develop initiatives to raise the profile of the business. All staff, in any business, have some responsibility for marketing and business development, but they are often not included, to the detriment of the business. Jill’s team have avoided that trap. The group has just been purchased by a company called NMC Healthcare, who are a FTSE 100 listed company even though they are based in Abu Dhabi. The new owners will no doubt look to further develop the hospital and its business model. No matter where you stand on the Brexit debate, it is encouraging that even in this time of perceived business uncertainty, large multinational companies are prepared to invest in the UK and Chelmsford. I asked Jill what was the most important part of their practice from her perspective. She is clear; it is about focus on the patient and she personally reviews every patient feedback communication. If a patient has made any comment, with even a hint of disappointment in the service, Jill will contact them personally. She wants to find out exactly what disappointed the patient and then she and her team will set about fixing it. I am sure this approach will win favour with the new owners, whose business motto is ‘Every Patient Matters’. The most important asset any business has is its staff. The most important asset a person has is her/his own body. The Chelmsford looks after both. www.thechelmsford.co.uk
December/January Issue Deadlines: Artwork - 6th December Articles - 30th November
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Hairy Monster - Random Thoughts ‘No, I don’t want fries with it, I want chips’. And I don’t want cookies, I want biscuits, and when I’ve finished I may need to use the toilet, because I don’t need a bath. After that I may go to the cinema to watch a film, not a movie. There’s nothing wrong with the English language that the Americans can improve upon. And as for that nonsense of Hallowe’en. How come trick or treat has suddenly entered our culture? Knock on my door and I’ll have you arrested for demanding money with menaces or blackmail. It’s not that I dislike Americans, or maybe it is? I wonder how long before we adopt Thanksgiving and Groundhog Day and Covfefe weekend? It’s time to fight back and we should go on the offensive before we are overwhelmed. Let’s set up covert groups of morris dancers in the US and maybe a regiment of cheese rollers. That’ll learn ‘em!
based in a night shelter where we prepare for the following day’s activities, clean the premises and make breakfasts for up to three hundred guests - and their pets.
A couple of weeks ago I was riding my motorcycle in town when a woman stepped off the pavement a few feet in front of me. Luckily, I wasn’t going very fast but I still had to brake hard to avoid her. In doing so, the front end of the bike folded in and slowly dropped to the deck. Funny how these things happen in slow motion isn’t it? Two cracked ribs and a fair bit of bruising, but nothing that won’t mend in a few weeks. More importantly, only a broken brake lever on the Triumph. Anyway, the moral of this story is - if you are staring down at your iPhone and wearing earphones, get a guide dog.
New Year’s Eve is a very sad time there; we have to dismantle the centres so that they can return to their usual operations - usually as educational facilities - and the guests slowly dissolve into anonymity and invisibility for another year.
I’m not a fan of Krizmuz, but I have learned to tolerate it by volunteering with Crisis at Christmas homeless charity. So each day from Christmas Eve until New Year’s Eve, I’ll be travelling to London to join thousands of others to make sure the homeless of our great capital have warmth, food and entertainment - things that the rest of us take for granted. In the past I have driven one of many minibuses and vans that move the guests, volunteers and provisions to the dozen or so centres throughout the city. This year I’m going to be
If the President Of The United States is called POTUS, what will William be called when he inherits the throne? Just wondering, because he will be William The Fifth...
The bonding between the homeless and their pets is amazing. I once offered to take a guest’s staffy for a walk and he was terrified that I might not come back. After three nights walking together with them, he finally allowed me to take her for a solo walk. Twenty minutes later they greeted each other as if they’d been apart for year. It was very touching. I once asked a guest the name of his dog. He replied, ‘Barry Manilow’s Brother’. ‘That’s an unusual name’ I said. ‘Why did you call him that?’ He looked at me with a frown and said: ‘It’s a girl’. Take nothing for granted in life.
If any readers would like to help out, get yourself onto the Crisis website (www.crisis.org.uk) and see if there are any roles you might be interested in. I promise you it will be one of the most rewarding and humbling experiences of your life.
Next month’s issue will be the dreaded ‘Christmas edition’ and my friend Rose says I should only write happy, festive and positive stuff. Not sure how that’s going to pan out. But I’ll give it a try. First time for everything!
Essex Symphony Orchestra at Christ Church We hope to attract a good sized audience and the usual tea, coffee and biscuits will be served in the half-time interval, while it will also be another opportunity for audience and orchestral members to mingle. We will also have our usual Friends of ESO refreshments table. All proceeds from the interval refreshments will go to the local charity. This year we will be supporting J’s Hospice.
Free Ticket Offer! We will be giving away 20 FREE tickets to the first few lucky audience members to step through our doors on the night of the concert. For those who have never seen the Essex Symphony Orchestra in action before, we would love to offer you the chance to see your first concert with us for free! If you are a newcomer, just let us know on the night as you come through the door and if you are one of the first 20 people who have never been to one of our concerts before, we will happily give you a free ticket and show you to your complimentary seat! Date/time: Saturday 24th November, 2018 at 7.30pm. Venue: Christ Church, 164 New London Road, Chelmsford, Essex, CM2 0AW. Tickets: £14/under 18s get in for FREE!
• Professional local eye care • Bespoke service • Over 20 years experience as a qualified Optometrist • Proud to provide that individual attention to detail • Friendliest caring team in Chelmsford Call now to make an appointment with Louise
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Tickets are available from Daces and Allegro Music in Chelmsford, or from Pam Gladwell on 01245 601 418, or you can simply turn up on the night and buy them at the door. www.essexsymphony.org.uk
T. 01245 352803
www.broomfieldopticians.co.uk
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Wildlife Corner - by Nick Green
Curlew (copyright: Jeff Delve)
October was quite settled for the most part with a blocking anticyclone. But mid month there was Storm Callum to contend with - gale force winds and rain for two days. With decreasing day length, temperatures started to fall, as indeed many leaves!
In Essex, the curlew is a common passage migrant and winter visitor with small numbers in summer. Nationally, a population of some 66,000 pairs are estimated to breed in mainly upland areas - there are no confirmed breeding records for the county. The ‘bubbling’ call of the species on breeding grounds or on passage is very memorable, though the flight call transcribed as ‘cur-loo’ is very distinctive too. The long decurved bill of the curlew indicates clearly that it feeds on mud flats for shellfish and shrimps, while on wet meadows for worms.
In Essex, the species feeds mainly on the coast, though it is recorded regularly on inland sites too, particularly the major reservoirs of Abberton and Hanningfield. Essex Selected Highlights Naze: yellow-browed warblers, dusky warbler, red-breasted flycatcher. Brightlingsea: rough-legged buzzard, great grey and red-backed shrikes. Abberton Reservoir EWT: 2 great white egrets, ferruginous and ring-necked ducks. Wallasea Island RSPB: rough-legged buzzard, cattle egret. Canvey: seabirds, scoter, terns, skuas, gannets, manx shearwater, puffin. National Selected Highlights Shetland Isles: pechora pipit, river warbler, American Swainson’s thrush and white-crowned sparrow, White’s thrush, Siberian rubythroat. St Kilda: snowy owl. Orkney: black-eared wheatear. Outer Hebrides: American Baltimore Oriole. Musselburgh: American whitewinged scoter. Northumberland: American Black Scoter. Yorkshire: white-rumped swift (first UK record). Norfolk: king eider, two-barred greenish warbler. Minsmere RSPB: little bittern. Lundy: green warbler, American robin. Cornwall: American grey catbird, brown shrike. Isles of Scilly: eastern yellow wagtail, great shearwaters, American greycheeked thrush and red-eyed vireo.
Movember - Men’s Health Awareness Month A primary component of men’s health is urological health, and several urological diseases can be experienced by men of all ages. Specifically in males, such urological diseases are responsible for affecting the reproductive organs and the urinary tract. Among many conditions, some are characterized as frequent, crucial and common. This article will look into some of these common conditions experienced by men, including benign prostatic hyperplasia, prostate cancer and erectile dysfunction. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) - Big Prostate A BPH condition is characterised by an increase or expansion in the normal size of the prostate gland in males. The term hyperplasia indicates an enlarged prostate gland. Although it is not associated directly with a prostate cancer, it is quite commonly experienced by men in their late ages. Due to the enlargement of the prostate, a pressure is put within the local region and the urine pipe. As a result, the pressure congests the already narrow tube of the urethra that passes the urine out of our body. This can result in certain symptoms, such as difficulty during urination, weak and inconsistent urine stream, frequent or urgent need to urinate, waking up to pass urine, and dribbling after urination. The diagnosis of the condition may vary depending on the condition and severity. The doctor may conduct a blood test, urine test, transrectal ultrasound, camera test or prostate biopsy. The treatment option would consider your age, health, symptoms and size of the prostate. The first line of treatment includes medication, such as alpha blockers, 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, Cialis (Tadalafil) and combined drug therapy. If a surgery is required, the doctor would generally go for minimally invasive surgeries at first, such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), laser therapy, prostatic urethral lift (PUL), holmium enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP), embolisation of the prostate (PAE). Prostate Cancer Prostate cancer is among the most common type of cancers in men. As the name suggests, it impacts the prostate gland in males which is responsible for the production of semen and nourishment of sperm. Approximately 1 in 8 men will suffer from this at some point in the lifetime. A prostate cancer can vary in aggressiveness. It may cause symptoms and problems, while less severe conditions are not readily expressed. The success of the treatment for prostate cancer is greatly determined by early detection as it becomes easier to confine cancer only to the prostate gland. The early stages of prostate cancer can be symptomless. However, as the disease progresses, it can cause a variety of problems and symptoms that must be immediately reported.
Some of the most common symptoms include: • The patient experiences discomfort in the pelvic area. • Pain in the bones. • Frequent experiences of erectile dysfunction. • Difficulty and/or pain during urination. • Weaker urine stream or waking up at night. • Blood in semen. Although these are primary indicators of prostate cancer, it can be due to some other condition. Nonetheless, such symptoms should be given medical attention. Researchers are still trying to identify the causes of prostate cancer. However, several studies indicated that there are a number of risk factors involved, such as obesity, age, family history and race. There are various treatments for prostate cancer ranging from mild medication to invasive surgery. The disease, or sometimes the treatment itself, can cause certain complications for the patient, such as erectile dysfunction, incontinence and metastasises (the spread of cancer). A PSA blood test, physical examination of the prostate and MRI scans can be helpful in the diagnosis of the condition. If these test show an abnormality a biopsy may be required. How to Improve Overall Urological Health There are a number of things we can do to keep our urological health in check. Improvement in health can be a great way to prevent and protect oneself from developing these conditions. Exercising regularly, eating healthy, keeping weight in check (BMI <25), reducing alcohol and quitting smoking can make a great difference. Some measures include: • • • • • • • • •
Stay away from smoking or consider transitioning to vaping. Use cranberries as they can prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs). Do not hold in if you feel the need to pee. Children and adults should urinate right before going to sleep. Do not drink a lot of liquid during the night. Use less caffeine and salt in your diet. Use athletic guards in sports to prevent injury. Keep yourself hydrated - 2-3 litres a day. Prevent obesity.
Article written by Mr Sam Datta, Consultant Urologist. Mr Datta holds clinics at The Chelmsford Private Hospital on Monday mornings. Call on 01245 253 760 for more information.
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Therapy - by Chelmsford Therapy Rooms Hey folks, Jenny here! Today our hypnotherapist Anna is writing about self love. Enjoy! Self-Love - It Might Be a Game Changer for You! Such a simple thing as self-love can transform your whole life! But if it is so simple, why it is so difficult to love ourselves? And doesn’t it sound a bit selfish? Self-love is not just about pampering yourself. Although it might be a nice addition and a sign that you care about yourself, without real self-love it would be meaningless and might leave you feeling guilty and empty inside… at least without a particular reason. Do you have feelings towards other people? What kind of feelings do you have towards people who are important to you? Do you care for them? Do you do your best to support them? Now think for a while what kind of feelings you have for yourself? Do you care about yourself? Do you support yourself with warm, compassionate words? Do you give yourself the space to hear and fulfil your deepest needs? Do you think you are an important person in your life? Do you believe you are a ‘good enough’ person? That is what a real self-love means to me: Being compassionate, understanding and forgiving towards yourself. Taking care of your deepest needs and respecting them. Appreciating yourself and being able to say NO, wherever you feel that something is against you. Standing up for your own values and beliefs. If you still think that it is selfish, consider how would you call a person who puts everyone else first, wants to help everyone and give advice, neglecting their own needs and problems. A person who never says NO to anything despite their own beliefs. A person who doesn’t follow their true life values and doesn’t appreciate their efforts in any part of their life. Is this person in a good position to help and support others? Will it be genuine and effective?
that moment, listen to its needs, appreciate it just as it is, give it some love and understanding. 3. Affirmations/Suggestions: Our subconscious mind loves repetitiveness. The more times we repeat something, the more true it becomes to our subconscious mind. Accepting affirmations might not be easy for you from the conscious point of view. When I first stumbled upon some affirmations in self-help books, I found it was very strange for me to repeat something like ‘I love myself’, so I just didn’t bother trying. But then I found something less straightforward which was closer to my heart. I begun to start my affirmations with: ‘I am ready…’, ‘I am opening to…’, ‘I accept…’. And one day saying ‘I love’ to myself became just natural! Try it! :) Anna Yardley is a therapist at Chelmsford Therapy Rooms who can help with a multitude of issues. Please see our therapist list on the website at www.chelmsfordtherapyrooms.co.uk, or you can email info@chelmsfordtherapyrooms.co.uk, or call 0330 100 5162 to enquire about an initial consultation. Alternatively, Anna’s own company website is www.justimaginetherapy.com, her email is info@ justimaginetherapy.com and her telephone number is 07449 430 340.
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I feel compassion towards this person, because loving yourself is key to the love and respect of other people! Hypnotherapy or self-hypnosis is an amazing technique that can deeply heal your heart, mind and soul and sooth it with some selflove. There are at least 4 important elements that will have an impact on your life if practiced daily. The transformation starts even before you start your practice. There is this very important moment of taking a conscious decision to take care of yourself, taking control and responsibility for your life whether by practicing self hypnosis, meditation, taking some hypnotherapy, counselling sessions or any other form of self-care. As you start, there are these 4 elements that can deeply change your life: 1. Safe Place: It is important to create in your imagination a place that is safe and comfortable for you to be. A place where no one disturbs you and no one has access without your permission. If your subconscious mind feels that it is a safe environment, it is more open to change. This is a place where you can go whenever you feel you need some healing time. This is YOUR place. 2. Inner Child: It is another very important aspect. What is essential to remember is, that it doesn’t mean you are still a child. It means that this part is inside you, simply because you once were a child - a vulnerable little person that needed unconditional love, understanding and attention. This part of you may still need these aspects fulfilling. Inner child work is the best done during hypnotherapy sessions when the therapist facilitates you through this process and is there for you. After you have had some inner child work, you can always come back to the safe place you created to give your inner child whatever it needs at Page 20
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Press Pause in the Craziness of Christmas with Hummingbird’s Pre-Christmas Half Day Retreat - by Mandy Haynes After the success of our first half-day retreat at Hummingbird Pilates & Yoga, we’re excited to announce our next one which will be held on Sunday 9th December. As well as the joys and excitement of the festive season, it can also bring stresses and never ending to-do lists, so this retreat comes in time for some pre-Christmas chilling out.
On this retreat we will be be focusing on hip and shoulder opening to release stress and tension. There will be a vinyasa flow practice that will work on loosening up these areas so that we can open further and sink deeper into longer held poses during a restorative yoga practice. Once you’ve eased your body through our yoga practice, you’ll settle into blissful stillness, ready to unwind further with candle gazing and finally a guided meditation. You can enhance your retreat experience by booking a treatment to further your relaxation journey. Choose from: •
• •
Hot Stone Back Massage: Allow warm basalt stones to release deep seated tension and fatigue from the muscles. Combined with a soothing aromatherapy blend of frankincense, lavender and black pepper. Indian Head Massage with Hot Stones: While lying on a bed of warm basalt stones, enjoy an ayurvedic scalp, neck and shoulder massage. Thai Yoga Massage: Focusing on hip opening and deep stretches. This invigorating massage is a combination if acupressure, reflexology and yoga which manipulate the sen or energy lines to restore balance to the body.
In an article for Yoga Journal, San Francisco yoga teacher Stephanie Snyder calls hips ‘the junk drawer of your house’. Cleaning out that drawer lightens your spiritual load, making room for prana to flow through the entire pelvic region and allowing breath and vitality to move freely throughout your body. Book now for the perfect Christmas gift to yourself! Email us at info@ hummingbirdpilates.co.uk, or call us on 01245 422 556 and we’d be happy to help. We look forward to welcoming you!
There will be the opportunity to relax and rest between classes with a break, where you’ll be treated to delicious Christmas inspired juices, herbal teas and organic snacks (including mince pies of course for those of you who want to indulge!). Use this time to let go of your Christmas shopping and to-do lists, curl up under a blanket with a good book or simply relax. There will also be the option to take part in some Christmas crafts! Release Stress and Tension Working on opening your hips pays benefits that go far beyond your asana practice. Counteracting tightness in your hips can help to ease back pain, improve circulation to your legs and even improve the way you walk. It can also be the key to releasing stress, emotion, fear and negative memories that are energetically stored in your hips.
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Brainstretcher Quiz - by John Theedom 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21.
Which Frenchman designed the Statue of Liberty? The Royal mistress Langtry’s first name was what? What was the name of Rod Hull’s puppet? On which UK river is Tiverton located? The island of Sicily is famous for which volcano? Which cheese is covered in red wax? Guacamole is made using which vegetable? In Roman warfare, what was a scutum? In the past, what were xebecs? What is the motto of the Royal Navy Special Boat Service? Len McCluskey is general secretary of which Union? What is the green coating that forms on the surface of some metals? The Tynwald Court is the parliament of which country? Where in your body is your ileum? Where is coir used? What did Sweeny Todd do for a living? Biggles was a famous what? What is a sortie? What was Del Boy’s famous saying about becoming rich? Where is gypsum used? In which sport is The Calcutta Cup awarded?
22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32. 33. 34. 35. 36. 37. 38. 39. 40.
Apart from a sailing vessel, what is a schooner? What is the OED? Who hosted the TV show Cheap, Cheap, Cheap? A group of foxes is known as what? Which singer had a hit with My Heart Will Go On? Which cartoon character lived in Jellystone Park? In which European city was the film The Third Man located? In milimetres, what is the diameter of a table tennis ball? Mulligatawny soup originated in which country? In motoring, what is a PCN? What is a 4 letter equine sport? From what is the drink perry made? Tarzan was written by a Mr Burroughs, but what are his 2 first names? The Enigma Variations were written by which Essex composer? Which king was nicknamed The Unready? What is ESP? Who wrote the novel Les Miserables? Aircraft have a black box on board, but what is the real colour? What kind of creature is a copperhead? (Answers on page 29)
Ristorante Rossini at The Two Brewers
Ristorante Rossini is an independent Italian restaurant situated inside the Two Brewer’s pub on Springfield Road. Pub owner’s Ross and May ran a restaurant of the same name for 10 years in Cumbria before moving to Chelmsford to take on a new project. May said of the recently opened Rossini’s: “We’re always looking for ways to expand our offer, for example we have some Christmas children’s theatre happening in December, so we’re really happy to have opened the restaurant inside the pub, it gives our customers a new way to enjoy the venue that already caters for many different events in our multi-functional 80 capacity Malt Room as well as regular drinkers and bar snacks. Rossini’s is an area of the pub reserved for dining and is popular with couples, friends and families, especially with our Kids Eat Free offer.” Ross said of the menu: “We developed this menu over 10 years operating in the Lake District and we think Chelmsford is missing a restaurant that serves down to earth, simple and tasty, home cooked food at reasonable prices. At Rossini’s you can have a pizza or pasta for £6 during happy hour, or choose to enjoy ‘one of the best steaks you’ll ever have’ as reviewed by several of our customers since opening early October - there’s something for everyone.” Rossini’s is open now, Tuesday to Saturday midday-2.30pm, 5.30pm-9pm and midday-5pm on Sunday. Christmas menus are available online at www.twobrewerschelmsford.com. Page 22
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Black Friday is Coming to a Record Store Near you Soon!
If you love your vinyl, then you will be well aware of Record Store Day, a special celebration held in April, when independent record stores come together with artists to celebrate vinyl. Artists and bands release special limited edition records, with vinyl junkies queuing round the block outside their local record shop to get the hands on their favourite artists. The people behind Record Store Day decided to mark another special day on the calendar, Black Friday. This year it falls on Friday 23rd November 2018 and Intense Records in Chelmsford will be taking part. Record Store Day’s version of Black Friday is an excuse to celebrate both the exclusive releases and artists themselves and the special indie record stores who carry them. This year Intense will be stocking a whole host of exclusive releases from iconic artists like Bob Marley, Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Zappa, Guns ‘n’ Roses, Jimi Hendrix, Madonna, Rage Against the Machine, The Doors and U2 amongst many more. Among the offerings, our favourites include a limited picture disc of Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein’s Stranger Things. Also a picture disc edition of Smashing Pumpkins’ new album Shiny and Oh So Bright. Hip Hop artist Czarface every year brings out a 7” single packaged in a comic book. Last but not least is Weezer’s cover of Africa by Toto on shaped picture disc 10” single (yes it’s in the shape of Africa). These rare and in-demand titles will be available on the day in store, so make sure you get down to Intense early before they sell out! If you can’t make it on the day, they will be listed on the Intense website, check out www.intenserecords.com. Intense Records can be found just round the corner from Chelmsford train and bus station under the arches. For more info contact them on 01245 347 372 or pay them visit at 33/34 Viaduct Road, Chelmsford CM1 1TS. Or visit their web site www.intenserecords.com.
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Pilates, Yoga, Meditation Book your space online or call: Small Classes & 1-2-1’s www.hummingbirdpilates.co.uk Inspirational Teachers 01245 422556 Friendly, Community Vibe Reeds Farm Estate, Writtle, CM1 2ST www.chelmsfordthecitytimes.co.uk Page 23
Music in Chelmsford. Part One - by Stephen Norris This is the first of a two part history of music in the town, now a city. During the 1880s there was a wide variety of musical entertainment available for middle class patrons in Chelmsford. In one week in 1880 for example there was a musical glee concert at St John’s, Moulsham, a concert lecture and recitation at the Mechanics Institute, a concert of sacred music at the Shire Hall by the Chelmsford Town Band and a series of recitals for the Infirmary at the Shire Hall. In addition, the West Essex Band gave a concert at the Corn Exchange as well as one in Broomfield. The town band gave another concert in front of the Shire Hall. For the upper classes and the county set, there were balls held at the Shire Hall such as the County Ball held each year and a Bachelor’s Ball which was also popular. There were also subscription balls such as the one that took place in 1884, when the Chronicle reported ‘a company numbering about 130 was present’. ‘Dancing commenced shortly after 9 o’clock to the strains of Mr H Byford’s quadrille band and was kept up with spirit until between five and six in the morning.’ The first festival of choirs was held at St Mary’s Church in 1881 and became an established part of the Chelmsford calendar. In 1884, 15 choirs took part at the church. The festival grew into the Essex Musical Association which was formed in 1906 and their first competitions and concerts were held at the Corn Exchange, but the Association’s events were extended to include the Shire Hall in 1911. The Association also put on orchestral concerts. A 1913 performance of Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring provoked a strong response. The audience shouted, booed and whistled, drowning out the music and forcing the composer to hide backstage. There was an increase in the participation of Women’s Institute choirs during the inter-war period. The Association gave increasing prominence to contemporary British composers such as Holst, Delius, Vaughan Williams and Cecil Armstrong Gibbs from Danbury. Gibbs was born at the Vineyards, Great Baddow in 1889. He was brought up by five maiden aunts after his mother died when he was two. His prodigious musical gifts were evident at an early age and his aunts wanted him to obtain a musical education abroad, but his father, the soap and chemical manufacturer, insisted that he receive a public school education. After going to Winchester he read history at Cambridge, whilst also receiving composition and harmony lessons. Adrian Boult was so impressed with Gibb’s music to a play The Crossings that he funded Gibbs for a year that he spent as a mature student at the Royal College of Music. There he studied conducting under Boult, composition under Vaughan Williams and was given a part-time teaching post. Gibbs moved to Danbury in 1919 and set up a choral society which took part in the EMA festivals. After one of his compositions was played at a festival in Bath, he became an adjudicator and later the Vice President of the National Federation of Music Festivals. Gibbs then combined touring the country, He also conducted the Danbury Choral Society and sang with the church choir. During the Second World War he went to the Lake District, where he wrote his third symphony, the Westmorland. He returned to Danbury after the war and reformed the choir. Gibbs was mainly known for his songs for solo voice, but also wrote music for the stage, religious music and a great deal of chamber music, much of which remains unpublished. He continued composing and conducting until his death in Chelmsford in 1960 and is buried with his wife in Danbury church. Apart from Cecil Armstrong Gibbs, another famous local classical composer was Elizabeth Maconchy. She was a socialist and after being born in Hertfordshire and growing up in Ireland, spent the last 40 years of her life in Boreham having come to Essex in the 1950s. Before the Second World War, she had studied at the Royal College of Music and her suite The Land was premiered at the 1930 season of Promenade Concerts. After the war, Maconchy wrote for the leading ensembles, orchestras and soloists of the day. She chaired the Composers Guild of Great Britain and was president of
the Society for the Promotion of New Music. Over 50 years she wrote 13 string quartets and many other chamber and instrumental works. Maconchy also wrote for single voice, piano and chamber orchestra. In 1987 she was made a Dame of the British Empire. Maconchy died in 1994 and in February 2007 a blue plaque was unveiled to her by her daughter. Although a survey in the 1950s showed up the lack of live entertainment in Chelmsford compared with Colchester, there was however a considerable amount of live music, particularly for dances. One of a number of popular local ballroom dance bands were the Blue Ramblers. One of the eight members, Johnny Alliston, remembered, “everybody had a function, especially at Christmas, including factories, shops, as well as hunt balls that were sometimes a fair distance from Chelmsford such as Saffron Walden”. They didn’t have an agent, after the band started as a hobby and then became semi professional. The Ramblers sometimes had to play for five hours at one gig and occasionally, champion dancers were also hired for example at the Shire Hall. They were the relief band for the Ted Heath Orchestra several times, because the latter would only play one and a half hour sets. Alliston found the functions at Crompton’s and Hoffmann’s very smart with nice dance rooms. Other local dance bands included the Chelma Five, the Embassy Orchestra and Bill Bateman’s Orchestra. Clive Beattie worked at Marconi in the 1950s and he remembered Chelmsford having a lively social scene. Before the arrival of the teddy boys, he would wear a gabardine suit, dark and sombre, but he might sport a waistcoat and brothel creeper shoes. Beattie said the Shire Hall had all the best big bands including Kenny Baker, Cyril Stapleton, Joe Loss and Ted Heath. The Corn Exchange also got the biggest bands but in ‘rough and ready’ surroundings. He also remembered several coffee bars including the Orpheus on the New London Road, which was underground, and the Amber which was close to the Cathedral. Pete Searles, who lived in Danbury in the 1950s, played in various skiffle groups, including Mark Shelley and the Deans, which were pushing out the dance bands by the end of the decade. His various bands played the Odeon, the Marconi Club, the Lion and Lamb and the County Hotel. They often played five nights a week. In the 1960s his band played the Saturday Scene concerts supporting acts like Joe Brown, Screaming Lord Sutch and The Who. The teddy boys divided opinion in the town. Despite occasional disturbances, the manager of Chelmsford’s casino supported them and organised a dance for the teddy boys and their girlfriends: “I find them perfect gentlemen... Teddy boys dress immaculately and are always spotlessly clean, though I don’t like their shoes.” Despite this support, brawls outside the Odeon were quite common. By the early 1960s, well known rhythm and blues groups were the order of the day at the Corn Exchange. Although the Rolling Stones and the Beatles never played in the town, Georgie Fame, Zoot Money, the Small Faces and the Animals all played there. The Who also played an early date. There were sometimes fights when mods came over from Basildon. They met in the Steamer and would meet skinheads from Brentwood off the train. There was a scooter club called the Prize Guys which met at the Golden Fleece. Later in the decade, one of the most memorable nights was when the Corn Exchange was packed for Jimi Hendrix just after his first single had been released. Footage of the gig can still be found on YouTube. All the local groups including the Mooche, the Coletrane Union and the RBQ played the Corn Exchange regularly to support the headliners. In 1967, apart from Jimi Hendrix, the venue hosted Shotgun Express, featuring Rod Stewart, the Small Faces, Graham Bond, Arthur Brown, Pink Floyd, Fleetwood Mac and John Mayall. To see Pink Floyd would have cost you 8 shillings and 6 pence in advance, or 10 shillings on the door. Besides the rock acts at the Corn Exchange, there was a thriving folk
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scene with two clubs, one at the White Hart and one at the Saracen’s Head. Well known acts such as the Strawbs, the Incredible String Band and Martin Carthy played the town. Nic Jones, who became well known in the 1970s before a bad car accident in 1982, grew up in Chelmsford and was a swimming lifeguard in the town. Dave Moran, who also went on to be a nationally known musician, ran the Chelmsford Folk Club. Paul Simon, who lived for a while in Brentwood, played at the club. Folk singers booked for the Civic Theatre included Buffy Sainte Marie, Bert Jansch and Julie Felix. For a while there was even a reggae club in the town.
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Buffalo Bill’s Wild West
Colonel the Honourable William Frederick Cody, was one of the most famous men in the world. Better known as Buffalo Bill, he had been an Indian fighter, army scout and buffalo hunter. In 1903 and 1904 he could be found on the streets of several Essex towns. The reason lay in his other great talent; he was above all a brilliant showman and had been the star of his own travelling Wild West show for nearly 20 years. His show was no circus. The men and women who took part had often been involved in the incidents they portrayed: The cowboys had ridden the range, the cavalrymen were real veterans and the indians were real indians. It was, in effect, the world’s first reality show.
George Custer and his 7th Cavalry were massacred by Sioux indians. The two performances went without a hitch. No sooner was the second performance over, than the whole show was packed up and taken back to the station never to return. Buffalo Bill’s Wild West: The First Reality Show in Essex is published by Essex Hundred Publications at £7.99 and available from bookshops or online.
Now a new book, Buffalo Bill’s Wild West: The First Reality Show in Essex, reveals what happened when this amazing show visited the county. It’s written by former BBC journalist, David Dunford, who lives in Chelmsford. The show was massive, featuring hundreds of performers and animals and was transported on three special trains. These rolled into Chelmsford station at 5am on June 19th 1904. Cast and equipment were soon ferried to the showground at Goldlay Meadows off Baddow Road. The extraordinary sight of cowboys, indians, Japanese, cossacks, Mexicans and Arabs walking the streets of Chelmsford proved a big draw. The show’s highlight was a re-enactment of the Battle of the Little Big Horn, in which General
Chelmsford Library News
With a new season approaching, take a look at what is happening in Chelmsford Library.
Our New Baby Rhyme is now being held between 3pm-3.30pm every Wednesday. This has shown to be a popular event held every Wednesday for new parents and grandparents. This is a great way to meet new mums and dads and to make new friends. Help take the stress out of being a new parent and visit our Children’s Hub. A health professional will be on hand to talk about any concerns that you may have about your new arrival (located in the old Registrars Offices in the public square across from library entrance). Friendly professional staff are on hand for all baby queries and for children. Babies can also be weighed during the week - just call in! It is that time of year again when we start thinking about Christmas. Cards for Good Causes are selling a wide range of Christmas cards representing a variety of worthwhile charities. They will be in Chelmsford Library, Monday to Saturday between 10am and 4pm until 18th December. Pop in and support a charity dear to our heart.
Essex Sight have a table each Friday within Chelmsford Library between 10am and 1pm. Free advice is on offer for the blind and partially sighted. The volunteers have a display of various equipment which can be purchased to help aid every day tasks. Winter can bring on more aches and pains. If you are not into zumba how about trying a chair-based stretch class? This is held at Great Baddow Library every Tuesday between 1.30pm and 2.15pm. This class aims to work on your mobility, flexibility and alignment with support of a chair. Just a little exercise each day can make the world of difference. Writtle Library have their own not-for-profit cinema, Screen on the Green. Doors open 7pm for 7.30pm showing with tickets priced at £5. Next showing, 6th December - The Odd Couple (1968). For more information visit screenonthegreen.org.uk. For more information on our events and services, visit libraries. essex.gov.uk. Please follow and/or ‘like’ us on our Chelmsford Library Facebook www.facebook.com/ChelmsfordCentralLibrary.
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Chelmsford City Walking Football Club (CCWFC) Do You Want to Play or Find out More? The club welcomes players of all standards. In fact, it’s not even a requirement to have played football before and you don’t need to be physically fit! Aside from their age, a number of our members have suffered conditions that have made them less mobile. Walking football is aimed at the over 50s and all competitions are either for over 50s, over 60s or over 65s - our oldest player is in his 70s. An observation that walking football requires a different skill-set would be spot on! We pride ourselves on being a friendly club and recognise that for some it’s not just about football, but also about meeting new people.
You can search for the basic rules of the game on YouTube. We look forward to seeing you! For further information, contact info@chelmsfordwalkingfootball. co.uk.
We play every Tuesday and Thursday as follows: Tuesday Venue: Chelmsford Sport and Athletic Centre, Salerno Way CM1 2EU. Currently outdoors on a 3G pitch. It is imperative that you wear either moulded or metal studded boots. The pitch owners will not allow the wearing of astroturf boots or trainers. The wearing of shin pads is also compulsory. Time: 10am to 12pm. Cost: £5 per session (payable to the club). Thursday Venue: As above, but we play indoors within the centre. Trainers are most suitable for this surface. Time: 11am to 1pm. Cost: £5.80 per session (payable directly to the centre. There is a reduction to £4.80 for members of the centre).
A Small Good Thing Project
A Small Good Thing Project runs every summer and this year ran from July until the middle of October. The project entailed a collection of personal care items such as wipes, toothpaste, socks, razors etc. These items were distributed to two local homelessness charities, CHESS and Sanctus, in Chelmsford.
Small Good Thing has been amazing this year, so I ended up extending the project for another couple of weeks. We have reached 1,035 items, which is double the amount in comparison to last year. It’s been lovely to see that people have responded to the project in such a positive way. I really hope that the donations make the lives of the service users at Sanctus and CHESS a little easier.” Angela Frazer, fundraising assistant at CHESS said: “Thank you very much for your recent generous donation of items to CHESS Homeless. We really appreciate your support. Your donations were used to support our residents in the night shelter, and those in our longer-term residential houses. “In total, we support 32 residents sleeping each night in CHESS houses and we also continue to support many ex-residents and rough sleepers who come to us each morning, at weekends and in the evening for food and drink. “Thank you so much for helping us to provide basic human comforts and to make a difference to the lives of people for whom life is proving difficult. We couldn’t do what we do without the support of kindhearted people like you.”
A large proportion of the donations were from a group of 15 young people who participated in the National Citizen Programme (NCS) over the summer. They completed a 15-mile sponsored walk and fundraised £429.54. They used these funds to purchase items from local shops that the two charities were in much need of. The team had organised and packed all the items for the charities and handed them over on the last day of their NCS social action project. GO30 ladies gym was used as a donation point for the public throughout the project. There was an event held there on 12th September to raise homelessness awareness and there were 186 items collected at the gym during the event.
Emma Hughes, trustee at Sanctus said: “Here at Sanctus we are incredibly grateful for the items donated to us by A Small Good Thing and members of GO30 gym. “We currently support in the region of 80 individuals on a daily basis who are homeless, recovering from homelessness or are incredbly vulnerable and in need. Support of the local community makes a difference to our service users because not only are they given essential items that the average person takes for granted, but they know there are community members who do care about their plight.” If you have any questions, then they can email me at samia.uddin14@ gmail.com.
Samia Uddin, the founder of the project, said: “The response to A Please let our advertisers know you saw their advert in The City Times
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A Spoonful of Sugar... Did you know that the song A Spoonful of Sugar from Mary Poppins was inspired by the polio vaccine? Songwriter Robert Sherman was having a hard time coming up with a catchy number for Julie Andrews in the hit movie, until one evening his children told him about the polio vaccination they had received at school. They said it didn’t hurt because the vaccine was put on a sugar cube.
a letter from Father Christmas himself - provided of course they have been good during the year! It will be great fun for the children as they talk to Santa. It costs just £5 for children to enter the grotto, including the present, so we are expecting a lot of excited youngsters - so Rotarians have to be ready! Proceeds from Santa’s grotto will be donated to KidsInspire in Chelmsford. This highlights again how a local firm collaborating with Rotary can exercise its corporate social responsibility through the auspices of Rotary, and Rotary would welcome enquiries from other businesses and organisations who would like to become involved in the partnership scheme.
The vaccination programme, driven by Rotary’s End Polio Now campaign, has been 99.9% successful. So close to eradication but not quite there yet as there are still a few new cases in Pakistan and Afghanistan being reported, so that is why we still need to promote World Polio Day which was the 24th October. In 1985, Rotary made a promise to the children of the world and it must keep that promise and continue until we see the final case. To date, it is estimated that the campaign has prevented 17.4 million people from being paralysed by polio.
As soon as World Polio Day finished, Rotarians were busily working on the next project - Christmas. Actually, both events were being planned simultaneously as you can’t put these major events on without careful and full planning. The good people of Chelmsford will no doubt be seeing Rotarians as they do their Christmas collections and once again all the money collected will go solely to local good causes. If you would like to know more about joining Rotary, either in a personal or business capacity, please visit www.rotary1240.org or give me a call on 01245 260 349. Stan Keller
To mark World Polio Day, the Rotary Club of Chelmsford Rivermead partnered with ARU University to show the film Breathe, starring Andrew Garfield and Claire Fay. It is a story of a young man, Robin Cavendish, who contracted polio at the age of 28 and who is confined to bed and given only months to live. However, with the help of his wife and friends he emerges from hospital and devotes the rest of his life to helping other patients. This is an example of Rotary working in partnership with a local organisation for the benefit of the local community. Another such example was a couple of weeks ago, when Edmund Carr Accountants, the first business to form a corporate partnership with Rotary in Chelmsford, helped the Rotary Club of Chelmsford to wrap presents for Santa’s grotto. This is part of the Frost Fair at Hylands House taking place on Friday 30th November, Saturday 1st December and Sunday 2nd December from 10am to 5pm. Chelmsford Rotary Club will be organising the grotto and it will be an exciting family event especially for the children. The wrapping session is to ensure every child visiting Santa’s grotto will receive a gift and Page 28 Please let our advertisers know you saw their advert in The City Times
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Stargazing with Mark Willis - November/December Orion returns! Looking due south, this famous constellation has a star called Betelgeuse. Latest science reveals that the star has used up its stock of hydrogen, which means it’s near the end of its life. It may be in the next million years - or sooner. When it ends, it will be a supernova. But don’t worry! It’s too far away to be a concern for us. Orion is a good way to navigate your way around the night sky. 23 November: Looking due south, the Moon cruises through the Hyades Star Cluster. You can locate this by looking for the bright star Aldebaran. Aldebaran is a mere 65 light years away. However, the Hyades Star Cluster is much further away, 153 light years. rd
Comet 46P Wirtanen appears in the November evening skies. This is the comet of the year. It’s quite big - a 1.2 kilometre object. Binoculars are best for this and 7x50 or 10x50 will be best. This promises to be a good show which will last all of November and to the end of December. During December the comet will be visible to the naked eye. For more information on comets go to: www.cometwatch. co.uk. Mars dominates, spending most of the evening in the night skies until it sets around 11:30pm.
6th December: Moon near Mercury and Jupiter. 7th December: 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. 9th December: The Moon, which is a crescent Moon, is near Saturn. Finally, a word about the Winter Solstice 2018 which this year is on Friday, December 21st 2018. It marks the shortest day of the year (the day with the least daylight and the longest night) and occurs every year between December 20th and December 23rd. The winter solstice marks the end of autumn and the beginning of winter. As usual, email me with any questions... Mark Willis presents Willis Wireless at the new time of 12pm every Tuesday afternoon on Chelmsford Community Radio on 104.4 FM and online at chelmsfordcommunityradio.com. Twitter: @WillisWireless Email: mark.willis@chelmsfordcommunityradio.com
Chelmsford Creative Collective Chelmsford Creative Collective (CCC) is a group of friendly, local creatives. We have an active Facebook group where we share events, discuss collaborations and support each other’s creative endeavour. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at a local pub; please check Facebook or email chelmsfordcreativecollective@gmail.com for details. Everybody is welcome for a drink and a chat.
publisher, but my contract says I can’t say anything more! (Finding the secret thing quite hard, though!). “Meanwhile, I’m updating my Chelmsford City print, which has so many more new and exciting venues since I created it six years ago! Have you got any workshops, exhibitions or other events coming up?
Introducing One of Our Artists: Who are you and what do you create?
Twitter and Instagram: @dianamayoillo
“My name is Diana Mayo and I freelance as an illustrator, now living in Chelmsford after studying at Kingston University and being London-based for twenty years. I make children’s books and illustrations for publishing, editorials, design and images to exhibit and sell as giclée prints. You can see my work at www.dianamayo. com, and I am represented by my lovely agent Christine at www.artistpartners.com.”
How would you describe your working process? “My working process usually starts with a lot of thinking, daydreaming and pondering, followed by lots of thumbnail plans, rough drawings, acrylic-painted artwork on stretched-arches paper, touched up with pencils, graphite and digital tidying up!” Who or what inspires you to be creative? “I’ve always loved making something or other, and am inspired by nature, my garden, colour, pattern, visiting new places, and sometimes my two kids!” Tell us about your most recent project.
“I convene the Just Imagine Illustrators Group who meet regularly with other local illustrators in Chelmsford, sometimes at The Transition. We share and discuss work, both commissioned and personal, and try and help each other get better at illustrating! “I’m also looking forward to showing my work in the Chelmsford Window Gallery in December, have work up currently at The Transition, and am looking forward to the Just Imagine Illustrators Group showing our work at Chelmsford Museum next June when it reopens its fabulous new building!” What does Chelmsford Creative Collective mean to you? “It’s really exciting to hear about all the creative talent in Chelmsford so many exciting people and work I was unaware of before now!” You’re stranded on a desert island with three items of your choice what would they be and why? “If I got stranded on a desert island, I’d better take my sketchbook, pencils and glasses - there’d be loads to draw, I’m sure!”
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