MT Welcome
Hi readers,
Welcome to the January edition of Moulsham Times
Firstly a happy New Year to you all and we hope you had a great festive break! The days will be slowly starting to get longer now, and before we know it the spring bulbs will be in flower and summer will be on its way!
Our next issue will be out from 31st January. If you would like to advertise in this edition of the magazine, please contact us for prices and also for distribution details. We can then send over all the information you will need.
Regards
Paul Advertising & Editorial
Paul Mclean 01245 262082/07595 949701 paul@moulshamtimes.com
Disclaimer: It’s Your Magazines Ltd publish the Moulsham Times. The opinion expressed in each article is the opinion of its author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of It’s Your Magazines Ltd. No part may be reproduced without the prior written permission of It’s Your Magazines Ltd. Reg Co No. 12080535. Printed by Warners (Midlands) PLC.
Latest
News
Believe it or not, Chelmsford Community Radio 104.4FM has been established in the city for over 11 years now. We pride ourselves on being a wonderful inclusive platform and are proud to have welcomed so many great guests.
Shakey’s Sessions has been thriving, with the best of local music represented such as Woody Pearce, Magic Seas and Sarah Louise. Plus, we’ve had established popstars interviewed across our shows such as Beverley Knight, D-Ream, Albert Hammond and Eurovision legend, Mike Nolan from Bucks Fizz.
National causes have been discussed when Nita interviewed Nick Wallis, who highlighted the Post Office Horizon scandal, and Justice 4 Windrush spoke with with our DJ Ben Kearns. Local wellness heroes have also graced the airwaves with Rich Lyman talking about the importance of nutrition, fitness, gong baths, laughter yoga and much more, all to make your life just a little bit better.
Sport has been an area of growth, as we partnered with Chelmsford
Believe the Hype
This year seems to have flown by - and with it has come a flurry of new food ventures popping up in Chelmsford.
Essex Foodies Market is a food-centred Sunday market popping up in Writtle and Channels run by XO Dough & Butter and Scotch, where you’ll find the best of local makers and producers.
There is also a new Malaysian street food pop-up restaurant Kampungku Malaysian Bites in Chelmsford Market (more on that next month), and my husband Wiggy, the apple of my eye - with me dragging him along to every single event I have ever catered as my sous-chef - kicked off a new side-hustle: Never Not Cooking.
Known as a barbecue and slow cooking connoisseur, he turned his hand to one of his all-time favourite things to eat - the humble chicken wing. He subsequently popped up in The Cricketers trialling a Wing Wednesday series on 18th December with 4 flavours.
General TSO is of Chinese origin, packing a sticky-sweet hoisin vibe with an undertone of salty heat. Wiganero is his take on a buffalo/ Habanero fiery hot sauce. Smokey BBQ is a firm favourite with a chipotle kick and of course a Parlour Masala (aka Butter Clucker). If you came to our fried chicken pop-up you’ll recognise it - and I promise I did not have to force him to put this on the menu!
At £1 a wing, each was smothered in sauce and toppings with many comments on how big they were. He used the flat and drum joints, with tender meat that pulled away from the bone with ease. The meat is sourced by Farm2Table Butchers in Bishop Stortford; I recommend them for local and sustainably-sourced meat. You can order for delivery online from farm2table.co.uk/PARLOUR using my affiliate link.
Wig made each of his sauces from scratch to develop those unique flavours - most commented on was the Wiganero and TSO as being favourites. I don’t know how he did it, but even with the wings
Sport and Athletics Centre and with the support of nearly-promoted Chelmsford City Football Club.
Local charities have always been at the heart of our community, so we were lucky enough to attend the Helen Rollerston bike race, and have interviewed many others such as Farleigh Hospice.
We loved getting out into the community and recording with the public and organisers, such as the Chelmsford Market Fun Day and ARU Science Festival teaching how radio is made. Other notable guests have included MX Drag UK, and three-time Nobel Peace Prize nominee, Dr Scilla Elworthy for International Women’s Day.
If you have a local cause you want to promote or something great going on in the community, then please come on the radio by emailing admin@chelmsfordcommunityradio.com or contact us via the website.
www.chelmsfordcommunityradio.com
smothered in sauces, the batter still stayed crunchywhich to me, is everything you look for in a wing.
He’ll be back doing Wing Wednesday every first Wednesday of the month starting in February 2025, so you can them try for yourselves.
What story do you aim to tell with your food?
Food that’s hopefully delicious and try to slightly push the boundaries with flavours and ideas.
Do you have a food memory from childhood?
My first introduction to spices was my mum’s sausage curry; basically a sausage casserole with curry powder - it might sound weird, but it was oddly satisfying.
What’s your guilty food pleasure?
Back in the day when I lived on my own, super noodles with a mini kiev cut in half nestled nicely on top. It was so leng!
Advice for aspiring food businesses?
Starting out in this game, I guess you just do your best and work hard at it. Make it how you want it to be and hopefully people will admire and follow your hustle.
If you’re a local food or drinks business with an event coming up, drop me an email at parlourcatering@gmail.com. You can find out more at www.parlour-catering.co.uk, or search ‘@parlour. homecooking’.
Kitchen Design Trends for 2025: A Sneak Peek at What’s Hot
As we move into 2025, kitchen design continues to evolve, reflecting changes in lifestyle and advancements in technology. Kitchens are no longer just for cooking; they’re multifunctional spaces for socialising, working and relaxing. Here’s a glimpse of key trends and how Regal Kitchens can bring your dream kitchen to life.
Sustainable Materials and Eco-Friendly Design
Sustainability is a cornerstone of 2025 design. Kitchens are embracing eco-friendly materials like reclaimed wood, recycled glass, and bamboo, alongside energy-efficient appliances and watersaving fixtures. Regal Kitchens offers sustainable cabinetry, highefficiency appliances, and expert guidance to create environmentally responsible kitchens without compromising on style.
Warm, Earthy Tones
The dominance of cool greys is giving way to warm, earthy hues like terracotta, deep greens and browns, paired with natural materials like wood and stone. Accent shades like mustard yellow or burnt orange add vibrancy. Regal Kitchens provides bespoke colour palettes to create spaces that are both modern and inviting.
Smart Kitchens and Integrated Technology
The smart home revolution is transforming kitchens with voiceactivated controls, touchless taps and energy-efficient smart appliances. Control your lighting, appliances and even temperature with ease. Regal Kitchens offers cutting-edge smart solutions, integrating technology seamlessly into your kitchen design.
Multifunctional Spaces
Open-plan living continues to shape kitchen design, making these spaces multifunctional hubs. Kitchen islands now serve as dining areas, workspaces and entertainment zones. Innovative storage solutions like pull-out pantries and built-in organisers maximise space. Regal Kitchens specialises in creating functional, stylish designs tailored to your needs.
Minimalism with Character
Minimalism evolves in 2025, blending clean lines with personal touches. Open shelving, bold splashbacks, or statement lighting add personality while maintaining a streamlined look. Regal Kitchens helps balance simplicity with individuality to reflect your unique style.
Conclusion
The 2025 kitchen is all about sustainability, functionality and personal style.
Whether you want earthy tones, smart technology, or multifunctional spaces, Regal Kitchens can make it a reality with tailored designs and unparalleled craftsmanship.
Let Regal Kitchens transform your space into the kitchen of your dreams. Contact us today to start your journey!
Happy Birthday Backhouse!
Backhouse Solicitors has been giving great legal advice to individuals and businesses in Chelmsford and around Essex for many years. Celebrating their 20th birthday this January, we take a look at how it all began.
A long, long time ago in a spare room not so far away, Minal Backhouse, an expert in employment law, started Backhouse Solicitors with a clear mission: to offer clients exceptional expertise, a first-class service and value for money. Starting with a small number of clients, the firm grew steadily as word spread.
With the support and encouragement of her husband Ben Backhouse, it soon became apparent this wasn’t going to be a ‘one man (or woman!) band’ operation, but a successful law firm. As the firm developed, so did its services, with the company encountering more and more enquiries relating to other areas of law outside of employment law.
In 2009, Backhouse Solicitors launched a debt recovery department, working with clients ranging from small businesses to large multinational companies, helping them improve their cashflow.
In 2015 an opportunity arose to merge with Duffield Stunt Solicitors and move into 71 Duke Street. However, it wasn’t long before the company had outgrown those offices and decided to take the leap to larger premises and relocated all the way across the street at number 17. With a team of 26 people, it was hard to imagine ever filling the larger new offices, but their rapid growth and continuing expansion meant by 2022, the company had doubled in size again with over 45 people on the team!
Just a few months ago, the decision was made to make another ambitious leap by opening a second office in Leigh-on-Sea. This opens doors for a wide range of expert professionals to join the team and provides opportunities to work with many more clients by the seaside. There is absolutely no doubt that reputation, recommendations and outstanding Google reviews have played a big
part in the growth of the business.
With a team of over 65 talented individuals who share the same dedication to delivering outstanding client service, it is a great place to work and helps make Backhouse Solicitors the success it is today.
Backhouse Solicitors firmly believes that every client, large or small, deserves a personal service, a fast response and clear, value-formoney advice. With a focus on client needs rather than call centres or scripts, they continue to uphold their core values.
Backhouse Solicitors provides legal advice from friendly, approachable experts. As the company motto says: ‘Backhouse Solicitors: We’ve got your back!’
01245 893 400 info@backhouse-solicitors.co.uk 17 Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JU
Chelmsford - By Marie Goldman MP
Happy 2025! As this is the last Moulsham Times article I’ll be writing in 2024, I thought I’d spend some of this edition doing a little round-up of my first six months or so as the Member of Parliament for Chelmsford.
Since July, my small team have been handling all sorts of emails and other correspondence from constituents on all manner of subjects. Through our casework management system, Caseworker, we have received 5,721 emails and sent out 3,249. From these, we have created 3,259 pieces of casework on a whole range of subjects. Top of the list have been issues related to health services and medicine, taking up 26% of all the cases. In second place (perhaps a little surprisingly for Chelmsford) at 14% are issues related agriculture, animals, food and rural affairs, and in third place, at 11% of all cases, are issues related to international affairs.
In Chelmsford, I’ve attended lots of community events and visited various businesses and other organisations. I’ve visited the new Beaulieu Park Station and the new Beaulieu Heath Centre. I’ve been to meetings to discuss the Army & Navy junction redevelopment, pushing for better flood prevention and safety in this area.
I’ve also met with parents of children with special educational needs and taken their concerns and ideas for a better system into Parliament where I’ve advocated many times for change. I’ve listened to the concerns of Chelmsford residents about issues affecting Chelmsford and the area around it, such as the proposed great swathe of pylons being planned from Norwich to Tilbury. I’ve worked cross-party with other east of England MPs to argue for a better solution that doesn’t destroy the countryside in its wake. I’ve worked with Chelmsford constituents on building and fire safety issues and had some success in pushing for building owners to take more responsibility for what they have built - although there is still far more to do.
In Parliament, I’ve spoken in the House of Commons chamber about the importance of listening to residents’ building safety concerns and not allowing developers to get away with shoddy workmanship. I’ve become a member of the House of Commons Commission, the Modernisation Committee and the Restoration & Renewal Board. In their different guises, each of these focus on different aspects of how Parliament works.
The House of Commons Commission is responsible for the internal, day-to-day workings of Parliament, with responsibility for staff, maintenance, catering and digital services.
The Modernisation Committee is a new committee set up by the Labour Government to look at the standards, culture and working practices of Parliament and how these might be brought more into the 21st century (some have argued that bringing them into the 20th century would be a good start - I have some sympathy with that point of view!).
Restoration & Renewal (R&R) is about working out the best way to preserve, protect and prolong the life of the Palace of Westminster. As a UNESCO World Heritage site and arguably one of the most easily recognisable and iconic buildings in the world, the Palace of Westminster is of huge cultural significance, but it’s falling apart and in some places, literally sinking into the Thames. An enormous project is required to fix it and to ensure can still be used as the seat of our democracy. At some point towards the end of next year, R&R will be asking the Houses of Parliament to vote on how best to proceed with that, which may include temporarily moving out to allow the works to take place. More on that later this year!
Then of course, there’s legislation. As a Liberal Democrat I’ve been playing my part in supporting the government where we agree with them, voting against them when we don’t, and abstaining where we want to encourage improvement without throwing the baby out with
the bath water. We’ve put forward our amendments to legislation and proposed our own Private Member’s Bills, including on important subjects such as changing the voting system. And on 24th January, I’ll be supporting the Climate & Nature Bill, being brought by my Lib Dem colleague, Roz Savage MP.
There’s lots coming up in 2025, but before we get there, let’s spare a thought for those who’ve had to work their socks off over the festive period to keep everything going. At this time of year, some people’s jobs get incredibly busy, especially our beloved posties who deliver so many of our Christmas parcels and cards to loved ones.
At the beginning of December, I had the opportunity to visit the Royal Mail Chelmsford Delivery Office and have a look behind the scenes at the big operation they have there to get our deliveries out to us. I was lucky to be shown the ropes by Jackie who’s been doing the job for many years, currently looking after parts of the city centre. Jackie showed me how she sorts out her letters and small tracked parcels in her ‘frame’, and then bundles them up every day to go out on delivery. We chatted about the importance of her role, especially during the pandemic when she was often the only contact some people had with another human being for the entire day.
Really, posties play a kind of community support role; they get to know their rounds so well that they notice when something isn’t quite right and can alert others to issues - perhaps an elderly resident who has had a fall. It was lovely to join Jackie briefly on part of her delivery round behind the station in Chelmsford city centre, even delivering a few letters and parcels myself!
I hope Santa brought you everything you wished for this Christmas and that whatever you had planned, you managed to have a good break with your loved ones. Thanks for reading.
Marie
Name a Star Memorial Event at Old Park Meadow
On Wednesday 11th of December 2024, Old Park Meadow hosted their annual Name a Star memorial event where families and friends came together to remember their loved ones.
The event was wellattended, and there was a lovely atmosphere as everyone decorated their stars and took time to stop and reflect. Through money raised from the sale of refreshments and a raffle, Old Park Meadow’s Name a Star event raised £648.80 for Farleigh Hospice and St Clare Hospice.
Delyse Jackaman, manager of Old Park Meadow, had this to say about the event: “We were delighted to see so many families, not only because it helped raise £648.80 for Farleigh Hospice and St Clare Hospice, but also because they were able to talk with one another and share memories of their loved ones.”
Old Park Meadow’s charitable efforts do not stop there as they regularly raise money for several of their chosen charities: The Essex Wildlife Trust, Essex & Herts Air Ambulance and of course Farleigh Hospice and St Clare Hospice, through donations raised from their coffee morning’s every Wednesday between 10am-12pm. Everyone is welcome to come along for a cuppa, a coffee or a bit of cake and a wander around the grounds.
To learn more about Old Park Meadow and how they can help you say goodbye to your loved ones, please visit oldparkmeadow.co.uk or call 01245 806 332.
MT Gardening
Welcome back to a brand new year brimming with opportunity! As we step into January, the garden offers a moment of calm - a time to reflect on last year’s successes and plan for the growing season ahead. With frosty mornings and bare branches setting the scene, now is the perfect time to sort seeds, prepare tools and dream of flourishing borders, allotments and wildlife havens. From late winter snowdrops hint at the first signs of spring and the garden will soon awaken, ready for another year of growth and discovery.
This year, I’m considering making some changes to a couple of key borders by adding shrubs. These versatile plants play an essential role in most gardens, serving a variety of purposes:
• Structural planting: Creating a backdrop for more ornamental plants.
• Screening: Hiding unsightly features like bins or compost heaps.
• Ornamental planting: Adding flowers, coloured foliage, berries and winter stem colour.
• Focal points: Acting as specimen shrubs to draw the eye.
• Groundcover: Filling spaces effectively.
• Wall shrubs: Benefiting from the warmth of a south or westfacing wall to enhance flowering or fruiting.
• Scent: Bringing delightful fragrance to your garden.
In large gardens, shrubs work beautifully in dedicated borders or woodland settings. In smaller gardens, they can blend seamlessly into mixed borders alongside herbaceous plants, grasses, bulbs and even annuals or biennials.
1. Abelia x grandiflora: Semi-evergreen with funnel-shaped, pinktinged white flowers from late summer to autumn.
2. Buddleja davidii ‘Nanho Purple’: A smaller shrub with deep purple flowers loved by butterflies and bees.
3. Choisya ternata: Evergreen with aromatic foliage and scented white flowers.
4. Deutzia x rosea: Features pink-tinged white flowers in early summer.
5. Hebe ‘Midsummer Beauty’: Evergreen with lilac-purple flowers from mid-summer to autumn.
6. Magnolia stellata (Star Magnolia): Offers star-shaped, white or pink-flushed flowers in spring.
7. Philadelphus ’Belle Etoile’: Single fragrant white flowers with purple throats in early summer.
8. Pittosporum tenuifolium: Evergreen with glossy green, wavyedged leaves.
Ten Shrubs Suitable for UK Gardens
9. Viburnum x burkwoodii: Semi-evergreen with fragrant white flowers emerging from pink buds in spring. 10. Weigela ‘Bristol Ruby’: Bell-shaped, dark red flowers in early summer.
Now is the perfect time to plant shrubs, provided the ground isn’t too wet. Shrubs are widely available as container-grown, bare-root, or root-balled options. For detailed planting guidance, check out the RHS link: Planting Trees and Shrubs here: www.rhs.org. uk/plants/types/ trees/plantingtrees-shrubs.
Caring for Newly Planted Shrubs
• Feed in spring with a general fertiliser like organic blood, fish, and bone or an inorganic option like Growmore.
Lightly fork it in around the plant at 50g/ m².
• Avoid applying fertiliser to dry soil unless you water it in.
• Weed regularly to reduce competition.
• Remove suckers on grafted shrubs and any reversion on variegated plants.
• Deadhead shrubs, such as rhododendrons, before they set
seed.
• Check soil moisture regularly, especially during summer, and water as needed.
Other Gardening Tasks for January
• Organise your garden shed: Declutter, take inventory and create an efficient workspace. Clean, sharpen and oil tools to extend their lifespan and improve performance.
• Inspect garden structures: Check fences, trellises and supports for wear or damage, making repairs as needed to ensure they’re ready for the growing season.
• Plan your garden indoors: Escape dreary weather by browsing seed catalogues. Use this time to plan your garden layout and try new varieties suited to our UK climate.
For more January gardening tips, visit the RHS guide for Garden Jobs in January here: www.rhs.org.uk/advice/in-month/january.
Happy gardening - and here’s to a year of thriving gardens!
For personalised gardening advice, feel free to contact Tom Cole, Freelance Horticulturist and online tutor, at tomcole8@hotmail.com, or visit Learning with Experts.
Nick Garner’s Music & Ramblings
Firstly, I wish you all a very healthy and happy 2025. Let’s just hope this is a better year for us all.
Are you back to work yet? Have you got a break planned for later in the year already, something like skiing or getting some sun? For me, it’s working on the magazines and of course the music. I have 52 shows confirmed for 2025 already and a few more to go yet. I will write more about this a little further on.
The weather in 2024 has thrown all it can at the world, sadly with some truly disastrous results. We really do need to be aware that this is not normal, so please lets all do what we can to try and avert this from continuing - the future will be for my great grandchildren I feel.
I was supposed to go to Enlightened at Hylands Park, but sadly I was unable to make it - which I am sad about as I do not get out that much and do enjoy the event.
I mainly get out for the magazines and music of course, so l really need to start to make more effort to do other things this year - while I can still get around! I also need to see more of my family and friends. As I am getting older, I do tend to feel lonely at times. While I do get out, it is not quite the same as social activities and not often for regular socialising, which is what I need to do more of.
Currently my vehicle is in the garage, so I am hoping that they can fix its wiper problem. Modern vehicles are not so simple to fix these days. In the old days we used to fix our own vehicles, as they were simpler to work on back then; no computers or the likes. Much like how homelife was, with no computers or mobile phones. We used to talk to each other back then - can you remember those days!?
My children were also born before the internet and mobiles, and they have grown up well. But my grandchildren; that is another matter. Happily, they are not really into social media but they could not do without computers - especially for their school work.
I do remember my elder brother working with computers, as he mentioned they were the size of a room when he started out! I also remember that he helped create a machine to sort out coin money of different currencies and it was a feature on a programme called Tomorrow’s World many years ago. He stayed in that line of work until he retired. I do still call him with problems I have though and he normally gets it sorted for me.
Do please remember that if you have anything that you think that could be of interest to our readers or there is something you want to comment on, then please send it to paul@moulshamtimes.com.
Music
As this edition is coming out, I will have put on my first show with
plenty more to go for the year at both the Chelmsford Social Club and Hot Box under my Blues Box banner. I think I have some great lineups for both venues, but then I would say that I suppose! What I and all live events need is for customers to prebook, as this really help us all to continue. Events in the main should be up on the ’net - or call me; my number is in my adverts.
I saw Joe Anderton play a solo show which was very enjoyable, and I cannot wait for his band Greene to open for Hamish Stuart on the 31st January at the Social Club. l then put on Merry Hell who are a mind-blowing folk-rock act. They had Virginia Kettle opening for them too. We all loved it; a great night - and I want them to come back at some point.
It was then off to Blues at Barleylands to see Saints and Sinners, who I have also booked to play next October. Then It was the return of The Rolling Clones, who are always great fun - and again they will be back.
On the Saturday I went to Southend where there was a tribute show for Wayne Bronze, who was a great drummer and played with many artists. It was a great event with many people playing and a really good collection for Macmillan Cancer Support. it was then back to the Social Club for a great night with Jeff Chapman’s Roosters opening the night paying homage to the late great Wilko Johnson.
Then we had The Dirt Road Band with ex-members of Dr Feelgood, The Specials and Bad Finger - and the were just fantastic. On the Saturday it was back to Blues at Barleylands to see Joel Fisk’s Breakdown, and I have to say they were as good as ever. They got Tim Aves up for number also. Mid-week it was off to Hot Box for for the last Radio City Sessions run by the Jackson Line, and once again it was a fab night. Our last show of the year was on Friday 13th December with Imagine The Beatles. I thought nothing can go wrong, but we had problems on our live streaming side, but now it is all fixed thankfully. It didn’t affect the show though, and the band were great and got people up and dancing - a great night was had by all.
I was back to Barleylands again for one of the last shows of the year with Sam Kelly’s Station House, who I booked for September 2025 to play Blues Box. I was honoured to be asked by Sam to play some harmonicas with them also.
Remember that we return to Hot Box with Blues Box on Sunday 5th January and then back there again on Saturday 24th January with Paul Rose. Please do come along; it is just £12 entry and the doors are at 1pm and the show is from 2pm and finishing by 4.30pm.
If you have anything you think that could be of interest to our readers for either publication, then please let us know by emailing editorial@itsyourmedia.co.uk - it may be an event or a topic of interest. Or have you done anything unusual or are you planning something? If so, we want to know about it. And if know of someone who may wish to advertise with us, then please ask them to contact ads@itsyourmedia.co.uk and we can send over full details.
Tickets for all our Social Club shows are available at Chelmsford Social Club, at our shows or from Intense Records, Hopsters and Chelmsford 4 Good - please pay with cash. Tickets are also available online from www.wegottickets.com/BlackFrogPresents, or via our ticket hotline for both the Chelmsford Social Club and Hot Box at no extra charge - call or text 07508 496 411 and you can then pay the advance price on entry to the show rather than the walk-up price.
For all our gigs and updates and information for Black Frog Presents and Blues Box go to www.linktr.ee/BlackFrogPresents, or scan the QR code in the advert in this magazine.
It would be fantastic if you could share our magazines The City Times and Moulsham Times for us just go to our websites for the online versions.
Veganuary Happy New Year!
If you have taken the plunge and decided that this is the year that you will do Veganuary, you might wonder what exactly is it?
Veganuary is for many a trial vegan/plant-based month where you see how you get on for a month without consuming any animal products. The big shops, especially food outlets, will have tempting displays just for the month of January of meat-alternative foods - usually items that will simulate the texture, look and taste of fish or meat.
This is by and large to help people who enjoy the taste of meat without actually eating it, or those who are looking to lessen their animal produce consumption.
Veganuary is a great start to looking at ethical changes you can make in your day to day life - even if it’s just a small a change it makes a difference. Choosing to purchase products which are in recyclable packing, buying fresh fruit and veg from one of the many fantastic local markets and delis, or cooking a meal from scratch, even if just once a week, all helps.
Did you know that there are many animal-derived ingredients in everyday products that you wouldn’t even think of being there? This includes ink in printed materials, beauty and skincare, household and cleaning supplies. So, if you are looking at January and wanting to make more than just a food change and see what else you can switch up, but aren’t sure where to start, have a look at www.veganuary.com.
If you are plant-based, vegan for the animals, ethical vegan or just wanting making a little change and want to know where to buy many cruelty-free household, skincare products and more, then visit our little eco-friendly gift shop at 158 Moulsham Street, Chelmsford. Also, check out the delis and restaurants on the same street and ask what vegan-friendly products they stock - you will be surprised and delighted.
Do you Know your Cockles from your Hag Stones?
Free New Year Coastal Safari Walks with Beach School Explorers
Whether you’re a seasoned beachcomber or a curious explorer, our Coastal Safari Walks are perfect for all the family!
Walking by the coast can boost your mental health and well-being. Just breathing in the fresh sea air, being in a blue space and connecting with nature are proven to reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being.
These free guided walks along the beautiful Essex coastline combine the mental health benefits of outdoor activity with the joy of discovery.
If you’re looking for a way to lift your spirits, learn something new and enjoy the natural beauty of the coast, these events are perfect for you.
Thanks to #FindYourActive and @ActiveEssex, Beach School Explorers is excited to invite you to discover the stunning Essex coastline in 2025: Maldon, Heybridge, Goldhanger, Osea... there are so many wonderful places on our doorstep!
Join us for guided walks where we’ll explore local wildlife, fascinating coastal features and hidden treasures of the shore. Along the way, you’ll learn to spot unique finds like hag stones and seashells and find out their stories.
Afterwards, we’ll gather for a friendly chat and a well-earned coffee to
connect and chat about our coastal treasures. Whether you’re looking to learn something new, meet like-minded people, or simply enjoy the beauty of the coast, these events are for you.
We can’t wait to share the wonders of the Essex coastline with you!
To book, please search for ‘#FindYourActive’, or ‘@ActiveEssex’ or you get in touch with lisa@beachschoolexplorers. co.uk, or call 07841 371 391.
lisa@beachschoolexplorers.co.uk
Non-Spoiler Film Reviews -
A Different Man
A drama about life from the perspective of someone born with a physical condition that draws looks from everyone he walks past. He eventually decides to undergo procedures that might change his life for the better.
This gets billions of points for just how unique it is. It goes down the dark comedy route rather than sinking into the sadness of it; a great decision in my opinion.
Dramas like this do well when conversations stay interesting, and events keep being surprising (without feeling too contrived).
It did all of that, with some moments where I felt the time go by.
Wicked
I’ll dispense with the long intro because most people know this is a stage show musical adapted into film.
For anyone who watches my video reviews they will know that I thought this was very average when I first watched it. I’ve now watched it 3 times and the music has just won me over. Ariana Grande was one casting I thought would be silly, but turned out to be the best part of the film.
What first felt like a childish story instead appeared more like dramatic irony upon rewatch. So it felt like an easier experience to enjoy with that sense of familiarity.
However, the colours were a bit washed, and it is very dependant on your liking for musicals - and it was rather stretched out.
The Last Dance
Another very unique foreign-language film about a funeral company. The owner is a Taoist priest who dimly gets on with his role of helping the dead ‘find the other side’, whilst his new partner - formally a wedding planner - focuses on treating the living and grieving.
It’s quite an interesting clash between the two, and it also leans into some dark humour. Similar to A Different Man, your enjoyment will depend on your proclivity for enjoying a slow-burning drama. I liked it but I think perhaps a little too low in tempo for the high ratings.
Small Things Like These
I’m just now realising how many slow-burning dramas there have been this month…
This one intertwines with the very real and harrowing history of the Catholic Church in Ireland, and I don’t know the half of it. It introduces a character who is honest, hardworking and excellently portrayed by Cillian Murphy.
He witnesses something that forces him into a serious conundrum and becomes extremely conflicted about whether he should compromise his peaceful life in order to step in.
It’s a very interesting synopsis and excellently-acted, but once again it’s very slow moving and that will only suit you when you’re in the right mood.
Conclave
Oh my goodness it’s another slow-burning drama! This one is probably the best of the lot.
The pattern continues with another storyline that’s so niche that you might never have thought about it… the selection of a new pope after a death.
It feels like a dramatic episode of The Apprentice - and it was addicting to watch and listen to as it turns out, because the music was just so tense. There’s also lots of depth in the dialogue and some nice commentary on what place religion has in the modern world.
This makes up for its slow speed with a feast of visuals and sounds, so its pacing is no problem whatsoever.
Moana 2 Eurgh, do I have to? Okay…
People always questioned me for reviewing kids’ films, and I always tell them that there’s just as much to admire, it just comes in different forms.
This ain’t one of ’em - but it’s not all bad, it’s just a bit starved of any genius animation and perfect U-rated jokes that I’ve come to expect from Disney. That’ll do I think.
The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim Everything before that colon in the title was responsible for the money it made and the initiative to make it. A huge franchise with millions and millions of fans with their hands halfway into their wallets/purses.
That’s not a problem if it stands on its own two feet and a masterpiece in its own respect - when it’s just… okay, I’m docking it more points.
There was some good animation, and - if you weren’t familiar with LotR - you’d probably admire the tale, but I’m afraid it heavily leant on on-the-nose references and beloved music from the noughties film series.
It became very boring after a fairly decent opening.
Kraven: The Hunter
Every damn review I do regarding superhero movies is the same! It winds me up as much as it does you.
It’s more or less another mindless supernatural action fest, which isn’t terrible by itself, but most of the conversations in between are just slightly reworded scripts from other half-cooked superhero flicks.
Then again, if you’ve enjoyed any Marvel or DC film in the last year, then I imagine you’ll quite like it. It’s not the cast and crew, it’s the decision makers at fault.
Author’s note: I also film my reviews and upload them on my instagram. My username is Henrygodfreyevans.
henrygodfreyevans@gmail.com
Facing Winter’s Mental Health Challenges Together - By Cllr Charlene Adutwim
This past month, I’ve had the pleasure of speaking with many residents across Moulsham and central. Each conversation reminds me of the strength we have as a community and the difference we can make when we look out for one another. With winter upon us, I want to take a moment to reflect on the unique mental health challenges this season brings and share some ways we can support each other.
How Winter Affects Our WellBeing
Winter, with its shorter days and cold weather, can take a toll on our mental health. Reduced sunlight can lead to seasonal affective disorder (SAD), leaving people feeling down, tired, and unfocused. These struggles, while common, can be eased when communities come together with understanding and compassion.
Social isolation is another challenge that worsens during the colder months. For some, especially elderly residents, new arrivals to the area and single parents, loneliness can feel overwhelming. Small gestures - checking in on someone, joining a local group, or offering to help - can make a world of difference in combating these feelings and strengthening our bonds.
Financial worries also weigh heavily at this time of year. The ongoing cost-of-living crisis is hitting many households hard, exacerbating mental health pressures. Increased costs during the festive period, from heating bills to Christmas expenses, can intensify stress levels. Affordable activities that foster connection and offer respite are crucial to easing this burden.
Addressing the Stigma Around Men’s Mental Health Mental health can be a difficult subject to broach, and this is especially true for men. Societal expectations often discourage open conversations, creating barriers to seeking help. To tackle this, the Safer Chelmsford Partnership introduced On Your Team.
This initiative provides free sports sessions designed specifically for men or women aged 18 and above, encouraging them to stay active while building meaningful connections. Activities like football and badminton offer participants a chance to bond in a relaxed setting. It’s not therapy - it’s about creating a space where friendships can form and support can flow naturally. If you’re looking for a fresh start or a new hobby this year, this could be a great place to begin. More information can be found online: chelmsford.gov.uk/communities/ community-safety/on-your-team.
Supporting Well-Being with You in Mind Chelmsford’s With You in Mind hub at the Sport and Athletics Centre offers another valuable resource. Open to those aged 16 and above, this inclusive programme promotes mental well-being through a range of activities. For just £3, you can join sessions featuring table tennis, relaxation exercises, or even board games. Each session is supported by trained coordinators and mental health first aiders, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment.
If you’re interested, please reach out to the Wellbeing Team at 01245 606 569 or email withyouinmind@chelmsford.gov.uk. For those who want to give back, there are volunteering opportunities to support others through the programme. More information can be found on their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/withyouinmindchelmsford.
Embracing the Outdoors Through Volunteering
For those who enjoy fresh air and nature, volunteering with Love Your Chelmsford offers a fantastic way to stay active while giving back. Gardening sessions are a great opportunity to meet people, improve local green spaces, and benefit from the therapeutic effects of working outdoors.
Volunteers play a key role in enhancing parks and nature reserves, making them more enjoyable for both visitors and wildlife. Sessions are guided by skilled staff, ensuring that everyone’s efforts make an impact. To learn more, visit: www.loveyourchelmsford.co.uk/volunteer.
Seeking Professional Help When Needed
While community initiatives provide meaningful support, professional help remains vital for those who are struggling. A visit to your GP can provide personalised guidance, and Chelmsford CVS offers a wealth of resources through its comprehensive database. Explore what’s available at www.chelmsfordconnects.org.uk.
Building
a Resilient Community
Winter undoubtedly presents challenges, but it also offers opportunities to come together. A simple gesture, like a friendly chat or an offer of help, can make a big difference to someone who may be struggling. Whether you check on a neighbour, join a local initiative, or lend a hand through volunteering, your actions help to create a stronger, more connected community. Let’s embrace the season as a chance to support one another and foster an environment where everyone can thrive.
Charlene
Cllr Charlene Adutwim
Liberal Democrat
charlene.adutwim@chelmsfordlibdems.org.uk
City Councillor for Moulsham & Central Chair of Policy Board Equality and Diversity Champion
Spicy Lamb Paratha Wraps:
Tired of reaching for the takeout menu on weekends but still craving something a little indulgent? Meet the spicy lamb paratha wrap - a family favourite that’s effortless yet packed with flavour.
With just a bit of prep, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal that’s as satisfying as it is easy, blending spicy lamb, cool cucumber yogurt and a zesty salad.
Why This Recipe Works
These wraps are a perfect solution to the ‘should we cook or order in?’ debate. While the lamb brings an irresistible kick, it’s balanced by a creamy cucumber yogurt dip and a crisp, tangy salad.
The whole affair is wrapped up in a fluffy paratha, bringing you a satisfying texture with every bite. There’s hardly any cooking involved
- mainly marinating, mixing and assembling. Plus, with quality premade paratha now available in most supermarkets, you can cut down on time and mess without sacrificing flavour.
What You’ll Need
For the Lamb
• 450g lamb leg steaks (minted lamb adds depth, though plain works if you add 1 tsp tamarind paste).
• 1 garlic clove, grated.
• ½ inch fresh ginger, grated.
• 1 tsp cumin powder.
• 1 tsp turmeric powder.
• ½ tsp chili powder.
• ½ tsp dried parsley.
• ½ tsp dried oregano.
• 1 tbsp olive oil.
• Juice of ¼ lemon.
• ½ tsp salt.
• 1 tsp black pepper.
For the Yogurt Dip
• 150g plain yogurt.
• 2 inches cucumber, diced into small cubes.
• Pinch of salt and pepper.
• Juice of ¼ lemon.
• ½ garlic clove, grated.
For the Salad
• ½ cucumber, thinly sliced.
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced.
• Handful of baby plum tomatoes, halved.
• Handful of flat-leaf parsley, chopped (stalks included).
• Heavy pinch of salt and pepper.
• Juice of ¼ lemon.
• 2 tbsp white wine vinegar.
For the Bread
Shop-bought paratha (or substitute with roti/chapati if preferred; 1-2 per person).
Step-by-Step Guide to Your Perfect Wrap
1. Marinate the lamb: Begin by combining all the lamb ingredients in a bowl or a Tupperware container. Make sure the lamb is thoroughly coated, then cover and refrigerate it for at least an hour - three to four hours is even better if you have the time. The marinade lets the spices and lemon work their magic.
2. Prep the salad: Mix the sliced cucumber, red onion, tomatoes,
parsley, lemon juice, vinegar, salt and pepper in a bowl. Let this sit for about an hour. This extra time will soften the onions and let the flavours meld into a bright, tangy side that perfectly cuts through the richness of the lamb.
3. Whip up the yogurt dip: Mix the yogurt with the cucumber, lemon juice, grated garlic, salt and pepper. Set it in the fridge to chill for 30 minutes.
4. Get cooking: Take the lamb out of the fridge to come up to room temperature (around 20 minutes). Heat a non-stick pan with a small amount of oil (about three to four sprays of lowfat sunflower oil works well). Cook the lamb for 5-7 minutes on each side until it has a lovely char. If you’re using a meat thermometer, aim for a temperature of about 64°C.
5. Rest the lamb and warm the paratha: Set the cooked lamb aside to rest, allowing the juices to redistribute within the meat. While it rests, place the paratha in the hot pan to warm through. You’ll notice the bread puffing up and bubbling - a sign that it’s time to flip. Each side should only take about a minute, so keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
6. Slice and serve: Once the lamb has rested, slice it into bite-sized pieces. Arrange all your ingredients on the table and let everyone build their own wrap with lamb, yogurt dip, salad, and - if you’re a fan of heat - some extra sliced chilies for garnish.
The Experience: Flavors That Dance
The star of this wrap is the lamb, which is spicy, earthy, and lemony all at once. The yogurt dip brings a creamy, refreshing counterpoint, while the tangy cucumber-onion salad keeps every bite fresh.
Encased in the flaky, buttery paratha, each mouthful is a harmony of textures and flavours that’ll have you reaching for seconds. Best of all? You hardly broke a sweat putting it together!
Bread options: While paratha is the top choice here for its buttery layers, don’t shy away from using chapati or roti if paratha isn’t available. Most large supermarkets carry these in the freezer aisle.
Marinating: If you’re pressed for time, even a straight marinade and cook still yields delicious results, though a longer time lets the flavours penetrate more deeply.
Heat Level: If you want more spice, add fresh chopped chilies to the lamb marinade or use extra chili powder.
I hope you enjoy this dish and the many to come! If you’re hungry for more, follow us on Instagram at @roselilyclub, where we’re always sharing new recipes, tips and flavour-packed inspiration straight from our kitchen to yours.
We can’t wait to keep cooking up delicious delights for you and your home!
Chef’s Tips
Grove Road Evangelical Church
Well, we’ve arrived at the beginning of yet another year! Over my lifetime there have been so many changes in the world - a lot for the better, though sadly many that have been for the worse.
In the Bible we read these words from God himself: ‘For I the Lord do not change’. In other words, you can rely on me every day. Here is another promise that we can read in the Bible: ‘Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever’.
No, God never changes, which means among so many things that he always keeps his promises. That truth, that assurance, can give us a solid rock foundation to base our lives upon as we face the year ahead.
Now for each of us, it is possible that 2025 may turn out to be a year full of all sorts of changes, difficulties, struggles and fears. If we find ourselves facing dark days like that, what a source of hope and encouragement it can be to know that God will keep his promises. If you want to see what wonderful promises God has made to anyone who turns to him for help, read the Bible.
Here’s one of God’s many promises for those who have put their faith in him through the Lord Jesus Christ. ‘I will never leave you or forsake you’. So we can say with confidence, ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can anyone [or anything] do to me?’
Yes, God always keeps his promises. What a wonderful foundation to build our lives on as we face the year ahead - whatever our age!
We meet on Sunday mornings at 11am. We warmly invite you to join with us as we build our lives in days of uncertainty on the certain foundation of God’s promises.
Philip Loose, Senior Pastor
Grove Road Evangelical Church (Behind Tesco Express, Moulsham Street) www.grecuk.co.uk pastor@grecuk.co.uk
A happy New Year to all our readers, advertisers and writers!
Life at Moulsham St Luke’s...
For Auld Lang Syne my dears, for Auld Lang Syne...
Happy New Year and whatever your tradition, this tradition encourages us to remember the good old days. The new year arrives without fail and the traditions taking place around the world vary hugely and often sound interesting. In Spain, people eat 12 grapes at midnight, one for each month and for good luck - first footing will happen in Scotland, and hanging an onion outside your door in Greece is necessary to symbolise fertility and growth in 2025.
However you spend your New Year, I pray that it will pass peacefully, and that 2025 will be a year of great kindness.
At St Lukes, we are looking forward to some interesting fundraising events. Firstly, we have an American Line Dancing Masterclass led by Joani St Cliere from Fitness 4 Everyone on the afternoon of Sunday 2nd February.
The advantage of joining in this fun activity is that you will have room to join us for our second event, a Pudding Evening, later in the week on Friday 7th February from 7pm. An opportunity to come together and eat puddings! It should be fun and sociable - bring a friend and let’s find a favourite pudding. For more information and to book tickets to both events, email moulshamchurches@gmail.com, or send us a message on Facebook.
In church we start the new year thinking about the arrival of the Wise Men, we call the season Epiphany. In these modern times it is hard to imagine these wealthy travellers, with their camel train, weighed down with gifts as they flatter and charm their way through country after country in order to reach their destination. Getting lost can have disastrous consequences, and the Wise Men certainly accidentally motivated a tragedy via an angry and jealous king.
I hope that you received some lovely Christmas gifts, certainly the baby Jesus was the recipient of quality gifts - gold will always be useful, frankincense has a beautiful aroma, but myrrh leaves us wondering, as did Mary all those years ago. The Wise Men were seekers like you and like me, searching for a king - they recognised this kingship in a young boy whose name was Jesus - born to be Saviour of the world.
Come and join us as we explore the Epiphany season togetherhappy New Year for 2025.
Here are some photos of just some of the things we got up to over Christmas, from hosting the Farleigh Hospice Light Up A Life service, to creating a display of four candles signifying Hope, Peace, Love and Joy in our large hall window during our ADVENTure event.
Reverend Canon Stephanie Gillingham
St Luke’s Church, Gloucester Avenue, Moulsham Lodge, CM2 9DT www.stlukemoulshamlodge.co.uk Facebook: @stlukesmoulshamlodge
Hello everyone. Well, there’s another one gone and on we go to 2025. Wow, that seemed so much into the future in 2000 and here we are.
I was thinking what has changed in that time. The big change, I think, is in technology. Smartphones or mobile phones in general. Remember when they first appeared? Do you remember those first ones? The size of a brick, and I remember thinking that’s not my idea of a ‘mobile object’. I can’t see that catching on - I’ll stick with the red telephone boxes.
Wrong. Although mobiles have reduced in size, the latest ones are getting bigger again... I must admit, I do have trouble seeing the text on mine for sending a text - it takes me 10 minutes to type even the shortest message, most of which is correcting words leaving total rubbish, as I have pressed the wrong key. I mist remember to chuck tham before I sand them in futcher!
What about transport and cars? SUV (Sports Utility Vehicles, or 4X4s) first appeared in the mid 2000s, Before, these were mainly used by farmers and the military. Now look at them. Very expensive and full of gadgets and most not to see any conditions where they would be essential.
Electric cars. Can’t say what I really think, as I might be charged with something! As for driverless cars... scary!
Zoom! Say no more, I would rather do face-to-face. Podcasts? Still don’t know what they’re for.
Twitter, Facebook, TikTok. To misquote Winston Churchill, ‘Never have I had so many friends but have met so few...’
Wikipedia. The online reference website. This, to me, is a bit of a worry. If I understand correctly, anyone can enter stuff on here, but is not necessarily accurate. So, if you were trying to find out about something you don’t know, how do you know whether it is correct or not, if you see what I mean?
I use supermarkets quite a lot for our shopping. I realised that I have spent about an hour over the past few visits by picking the wrong checkout. The first was when I went to the shortest queue. Well, I had not noticed that the customer in front of me had split their shopping into five lots. At the end of each one, she carefully packed the shopping in the trolley. Fished out a plastic bag with the money for those items, paid and then repeated this another four times. I nearly fell asleep waiting, though I guess they were being kind and shopping for a number of friends, but it’s fifteen minutes that I will never get back in my life. Why didn’t I move to another checkout, I hear you say? Well, as I said, they had longer queues! Another wrong decision.
We were away in the motorhome last week, (north Norfolk) and while there, we were just leaving to get the bus, when I couldn’t find the keys for the doors. Firstly, I tried advice that I once received which
was, if you can’t find an item, then stop looking and they will turn up. Well that didn’t work, and I had to catch the bus in ten minutes. Then I tried the ‘try to remember where you last saw them’ method. If I could remember that, they wouldn’t have been lost in the first place!
Right, getting desperate now. They must have slipped out of my pocket when I went to the facilities block. Off I go, retracing my short journey, staring at the ground with some funny looks from people. Isn’t it strange that even if you have never met the onlookers, you feel the need to explain what you are doing. ‘I’m just looking for my keys’ I said, but nobody took any notice. Still no keys. Five minutes to the bus arrival. In desperation, I went back inside and sat down, only to look up and see the keys on the hook I had recently put on the wall near the door expressly for the keys!
We caught the bus.
I am definitely getting old!
Over the last couple of months, we have been reliving our younger days. No, we haven’t taken up jogging or other sports, we have attended performances by groups and entertainers from the ’60s and ’70s. We saw a number of them at the theatre in the city, and this included Vanity Fair, who had several hits in the ’60s both here and in the USA. They did their stint, then acted as a backing group for some of the other acts. Steve Ellis, the lead singer of The Love Affair was very good indeed, a great voice and a good performer.
This was followed by The Rolling Clones, and Imagine The Beatles, both at Nick Garner’s Black Frog nights at The Social Club. Brilliant stuff. I know it’s all in the past but if you are getting on a bit, it brings back fond memories, Having said that, there were also young people in the audience with a lot singing along to the music. Just goes to show how good (most of it) was.
Bin End Chuckles
What’s a spider’s New Year’s resolution? To spend less time on the web...
Why do you need a jeweller on News Year’s Eve? To ring in the new year...
I wish you all a very happy and successful 2025.
Stay well and look after each other.
MT History - The Fabric of Essex - Textiles
Many of us would have received items of clothing as Christmas presents and possibly returned them already; but do we fully appreciate where the base textiles come from? Many people know that cotton is made from a plant and constructed into clothing. Historically, many textiles were able to be produced in the UK and Essex was an area that featured within this industry.
Early Textile Industry
One of the earliest was the woollen trade. In Essex we can trace it back to Roman and Saxon periods. During the mid-sixteenth century Essex was producing baize which is made from wool. Past uses were soldiers’ uniforms, cloaks and garments for the clergy, and this product was then exported.
Although Colchester was the prominent area for this product, Chelmsford was also involved in the production, the spinning and weaving taking place in the homes of the workers by hand, weaving and using spinning wheels. When this trade declined, the silk trade took its place.
Silk Trade
Spitalfields in London is well known for the silk weaving industry and it is here where Dutch settlers and French Huguenots refugees arrived to set up their businesses. It was when the need arose for cheaper labour that they looked at Essex where they could take on skilled weavers that were currently unemployed.
In 1818 a firm from Coventry, Sawyer and Hall opened their business in Coggeshall. John Hall took over the business and expanded into Essex towns including Chelmsford, where he built the Hall Street warehouse and residential properties. By 1863, his business had unfortunately failed and the site sold to the French Huguenot family, Courtaulds in 1865 when they used it as a silk mill until 1893.
Textiles from Plants
Moving forward, the industry today is constantly looking into more sustainable products, away from nylon, polyester and other plastic and petroleum derivatives that became popular after WW2. Whilst it is common knowledge that some textiles derive from animals, such as leather, it is amazing that plants we least expect can not only be used as dyes (which has been happening for centuries), but also produce textiles. So as consumers champion the need for a more natural approach, maybe it is time to revert to what our ancestors used to create their clothing.
Due to our manufacturing techniques and scientific knowledge of understanding the structure and properties of plants, producers will are able to create textiles more easily, as historically these would have all been made by hand.
Let us take a look at some plants both on land and in the water, where textiles are created and we already wear or may be wearing as clothes in the future.
Bamboo is already used in clothing, but undoubtedly production will increase due to it being the largest fast growing grass. Capable of regenerating after cutting, it saves the need for replanting so provides a constant supply. Bamboo fibre creates a soft fabric and being 100% biodegradable is kind to the planet. We see it already used in sportswear, underwear and made into headwear for people who have sensitive skin.
Dandelion is perhaps not the most obvious, and although not yet made into a clothing textile, a dandelion stem holds latex which when dried can be turned into a type of rubber. I am sure at the rate
dandelions appear in our gardens during the summer there would never be a reduction in production.
Nettles are considered nasty when you brush against them causing an itchy sting, but they can be made into fibres. The fibres are spun then woven and produce a strong, soft, warm, breathable textilenothing like their origin. Nettles are now being made into different types of clothing.
Banana fibres are made from the inner and outer peel of the banana. Once the fibres are separated they are dried in bunches. Having been spun into yarn, then dyeing can take place. It is then woven into garments or made into matting. It is sustainable as the peel is deemed as waste.
Seaweed is a superfood with health benefits, but technology has now taken it to a textile level. Made from sea algae known as Knotted Wrack, it is found around the British Isles coastline. The end product allows the fibres to be spun and then knitted or woven into fabric. So next time you are out and about noticing a nettle, swimming with seaweed or blending a banana, have a thought for the textiles that these plants produce. Will the people of Essex need to relearn the trades of spinning and weaving that their ancestors once did? Is it a bad thing if we all think how we can live sustainably by either buying products made from plants or reusing and recycling those we already have, like our ancestors before us did with their ‘make do and mend’ approach? We are fortunate to have open spaces, agriculture and a large crafting community in our county, perhaps we should create an Essex brand of clothing - I am not sure nettle underwear would be popular though!
Helen Finch
Freelance Writer; Author of Kiddiwalks in London, Barkingside Memories and Children’s Voices of the Second World War; Chair of Brentwood Writers’ Circle
Striking Back: Parkinson’s Disease Meets Its Match in Boxercise
I’ve been running some chair-based exercise classes in Chelmsford for just over a year now. These classes are a mixture of people with mobility issues, older adults and some who just prefer to go at a slower pace. Some of the attendees have neurodegenerative conditions like dementia and Parkinson’s Disease (PD).
A few months ago, I came across a website in America for a boxing gym that caters for people with Parkinson’s Disease. I was curious to find out if there was anything similar over here. To my delight, I found out there was to be a Parkinson’s Boxercise Instructors course run by Boxercise Ltd in November 2024 - which I promptly signed up to.
This article is about what I learnt and how I’d like to use that knowledge going forward to help people with Parkinson’s Disease.
Here are a few facts about PD: Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition. This means that it causes problems in the brain and gets worse over time. People with Parkinson’s don’t have enough of the chemical dopamine in their brain because some of the nerve cells that make it have stopped working.
PD is the second most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer’s. According to Parkinsons UK, around 153,000 people in the UK have PD. This figure is set to rise.
Men are 1.5 times more likely to get it than women. So, what’s Boxercise got to do with PD? According to Parkinson’s UK, ‘Being active for 2.5 hours a week can help manage Parkinson’s symptoms. Physical activity has a positive impact both physically and mentally. It can be as important as getting the right dose of medication’.
The 4 main types of activity to concentrate on are as follows:
Aerobic (Moderate to High Intensity) e.g. Cycling
Coordination and balance. This is where Boxercise comes in; it’s fairly intensive, builds strength and balance, gets you out of breath and it’s also really good fun.
Strength, eg, Resistance Training with Weights, Bands, Bodyweight This will help with muscle strength and endurance.
Flexibility, eg, Yoga, Mobility Exercises Etc
As a Boxercise instructor, going forward it’s going to be important to adapt my classes for people with PD. There are 5 different stages and people’s abilities differ depending on which stage they are at.
How Do I Adapt My Classes for PD?
1. Assess and determine which stage they are.
2. Work out a cue for freezing.
3. Ensure that exercises consider balance - how good it is and how to improve it.
4. Communication - explicit make sure that the instructions are perfectly clear.
Aside from the medical benefits, here are some of the other benefits of Boxercise for people with PD:
• You become an athlete for the duration of the session and not someone with PD.
• There is a sense of community - everyone is in the same boat, and you understand each other.
• You gain an extended family.
• Fun, enjoyment and laughter.
So, what’s next for me and how do I help people living with PD going forward? That’s the hard bit. You’ll have to watch this space, but I’m looking forward to working with more people in 2025. By the wayhappy New Year!
www.beencouragedwellness.co.uk www.facebook.com/BeEncouragedBeStrong
Wishing You a Happy and Healthy New Year - By
Happy New Year! Many of us start the new year with good intentions for self improvement only for life to get in the way and hinder our ability to get started with our self improvement plans.
‘Once I’ve got the children back to school I’ll...’ ‘Once I’ve finished this work project I’ll...’ and with this, life and sometimes health gradually ebs away with our ever-competing priorities. The secret to actually managing to make a change is thinking about what you could do to create an easy win.
Instead of considering a drastic life change when you neither have the time or space to action it, resulting in almost immediate failure, how about finding just one thing that you’d like to improve?
Afterall, a number of progressively introduced successful changes can add up to an epic shift, but in a positive and achievable way.
In the physio world, we often help our patients to set SMART goals to help ensure that their treatment is meaningful, measurable, achievable, realistic and able to happen within a given period of time.
SMART stands for:
S Specific
M Measurable
A Achievable
R Relevant
T Timed
Why don’t you try and set a SMART goal and work to achieve it at a sensible, workable pace, which you can achieve?
If your goal relates to improving your health, fitness, or general wellbeing, then at Hummingbird Pilates and Yoga, we are here to help.
Here is a free class pass to help you to get started. Go to www. hummingbirdpilates.co.uk and click ‘Book Now’ for the schedule of classes and use code ‘HPYFREECLASS’ to book in. We have lots of expertly taught, small group classes to choose from.
MT Finance - Another Great Year for Global Equities
In 2024, world stock markets had another strong year, led by the US technology giants. As the year draws to a close, the main participants in the All-Country World Equity Index remain much as they were a year ago, though at much higher share price levels. This index has delivered a return of more than 30% over a year. Eight of the top nine companies in the Index are US. All of the top companies are in technology or AI-linked sectors, with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC) the only non-US company that makes the list. TSMC is plugged into the US digital revolution as a crucial supplier, now extending its investment into the USA with manufacturing facilities.
The Technology sector weighting in the All-Country World Equity Index is now 25%, the largest of all, and the strength of the US market in general has seen its share of the same index now account for 67%. That is, US stocks now account for two thirds of the entire global index value. The UK, by contrast is now just 3%.
The ‘Magnificent Seven’ leading technology have had mixed moves throughout this year. Tesla had a difficult first half of the year on fears of falling margins and sales and difficulties with battery cars, only to recover later after the US election, with the view being that US companies will benefit from more favourable taxes and support for US based manufacturing. Apple had a quiet period before it demonstrated its ability to evolve its products to participate in the new artificial intelligence (AI) waves. By May, Apple shares had plunged, but the shares price is ending the year around 35% up. Tesla has surged to calendar year gains of 93% as I write this. What next for the world equity index?
Most of the arguments we made to be positive about shares for 2024 still apply to 2025. Interest rates in the US, Europe, UK and China are coming down, with further reductions likely next year. Whilst governments on both sides of the Atlantic are facing budget pressures, the advanced countries can still raise borrowings and are not urgently trying to cut their deficits or reduce spending. Most want to help lead an expansion of infrastructure and energy investment.
Most countries have brought inflation under better control, with the euro area now needing stimulus to offset anaemic growth. The US is stronger economically and has just elected a president who wants to accelerate the growth rate from around 2.5% to 3% - and who will cut taxes to help achieve this.
The world cannot get enough technology; businesses are busily adding to their software and hardware to include AI in their business models and to enhance their digital delivery of services. Consumers want to do more on their mobile phones, are downloading more entertainment, doing more shopping online and reaching for apps to carry out many of their activities from booking a restaurant to hailing a taxi or locating a holiday. This all points to continued revenue growth for the leading players pushing this revolution.
There are, however, two important differences between the end of 2023 and the final days of 2024. Equity markets are a lot higher, in anticipation of continued growth in earnings.
There remain some inflationary headwinds and realisation that interest rates cannot return to the low levels of the pandemic period, driven there by extensive central bank easing in the West. Given markets have moved meaningfully higher, this argues for equities offering considerably lower returns next year than this, on the grounds that markets often find it better to travel than to arrive, to quote a well-known investment phrase.
What Could Go Wrong Next Year?
As always there are risks that could change the otherwise benign background. Whilst the upcoming Trump administration has pledged to speed-up growth and lower taxes, it is also keen on higher tariffs. This could hurt US consumers where exporters to the US pass on some or all the tariff in the form of higher prices. Currently the US consumer is holding up reasonably well, but this could undermine
spending next year.
Whilst some of the tariff threats will inevitably be bargaining positions, there is also a thought in the inner Trump circle that a general tariff against the world could be good for US jobs and would bring extra revenue into the US Treasury. The tariff policy needs close attention, as large tariffs that triggered substantial retaliation would be bad for world growth, put up prices and would unsettle markets. President Trump returns to the Oval Office wishing to be the peacemaker.
Dramatic events in Syria are reshaping a troubled Middle East, and Ukraine has now shifted to saying they will look at ceasefire proposals if Russia will engage. Whilst this means things could improve in both regions, there is also the danger of miscalculation or continued hostility. It is therefore important not to become complacent and continually assess ongoing risk factors which could alter the narrative.
Graham Austin, Chartered FCSI Investment Director
Graham.Austin@charles-stanley.co.uk
0207 149 6696
The value of investments can fall as well as rise. Investors may get back less than invested. Past performance is not a reliable guide to future returns. The information in this article is for general information purposes and is not a trading recommendation. Charles Stanley is not a tax adviser.
Nothing in this article should be construed as personal advice based on your circumstances. No news or research item is a personal recommendation to deal.
Charles Stanley & Co. Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered office: Ropemaker Place, 25 Ropemaker Street, London EC2Y 9LY.
Minibus and/or car drivers - Chelmsford Community Transport
Can you help isolated people to get out and about? Having access to affordable door-to-door transport helps with simple everyday tasks like shopping, visiting friends/social clubs and attending medical appointments (GP and hospital), tasks that most of us take for granted. Getting out of the house makes a huge difference to a person’s quality of life, increasing independence and giving someone a new lease of life.
We are looking for volunteers to drive our fully accessible minibuses, or their own cars.
Weekly coffee morning helper at Palmerston Lodge
We are looking for someone to help run our Thursday coffee mornings for residents at their independent residential housing in Chelmsford. You will be bright, cheerful and happy to chat to residents.
The position involves setting up the tea and coffee station, making each resident their requested drink and cleaning up and putting things away at the end of the coffee morning.
Could you help someone who is facing court alone?
The volunteers at the Support Through Court help vulnerable people who are facing court. Our clients may need help completing application forms, completing statements, preparing paperwork and even attend the hearing with them for moral support.
We can signpost to other organisations as well as help them find legal representation. We train and support volunteers to do this.
Hearing Help Essex - technical volunteer
Hearing Help Essex is a charity that exists to alleviate the isolation and loneliness that hearing loss can bring. We work with those who have acquired hearing loss, by offering practical help, support, advice and guidance.
Hearing aids need cleaning and retubing every 4-6 months for them to work effectively, we run hearing aid support sessions in the community to support NHS audiology departments
for retubing and basic maintenance. We train a team of volunteers to do this at community health clinics, day care centres, libraries and church and village halls.
Hospital radio ward visitor and show presenter
Volunteers will need to come to Broomfield Hospital for at least one evening a week (7.15pm - 10.15pm) where they will join a team who visit the wards, collect requests and talk to patients, then return to the radio studio to produce and present the nightly request show.
Volunteers will also need to take part in other radio station activities, eg, fundraising events and members’ meetings.
Everyone at MLCT hopes you all enjoyed the festivities of Christmas. We held our annual Breakfast With Santa event again in early December where we welcomed nearly 200 guests, of those around 80 were children who were eagerly waiting to see Santa. Pictured here are the volunteers from both the Saturday and the Sunday and also Santa with his chief elf.
This year we were supported by Tile & Kiln Estate Agents and we would like to thank them and Jim and Scott for coming along and sponsoring the event, and as you can see, they managed to sell the grotto to Santa!
Next year’s dates will be Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th of December, and we hear the Grinch has heard about our event and wants to come along and cause mayhem! Not to mention the Naughty Elf may get in on the act as well.
MLCT would like to thank all of the volunteers who both help prepare for the event and those that helped on the day - volunteers are how
we can keep this event affordable.
Next year, we will be holding a review of where we are as a charity and decide on a strategy for the next 5 to 10 years.
We will be sending out a newsletter to everyone in Moulsham Lodge and Tile Kiln and will be part of a public consultation and awareness campaign of what Moulsham Lodge Community Trust does here at The Community Station. Please pop in to The Copper Pot Café and share any ideas you have either with staff or you can use our new suggestion box.
The Copper Pot Café is open Monday-Friday 8am - 4pm, and Saturday 9am - 3pm.
www.mlct.org.uk enquiries@mlct.org.uk 07434 678 999
An Update From Moulsham Lodge Ward - By
Community Spirit in Moulsham Lodge: A Year of Giving Back
We wish you a happy New Year! We hope your Christmas was filled with joy and that the new year brings happiness, health and success your way.
Moulsham Lodge is a vibrant community known for its strong spirit of togetherness and generosity. In 2024, this spirit shone brightly through the inspiring efforts of the local knitting group, which dedicated itself to creating hundreds of knitted items for local charities. As councillor’s in Moulsham Lodge, it has been an honour to witness all the hard work being presented to these various charities. These items have gone on to support some of the area’s most vulnerable individuals through organisations such as CHESS, Sanctus, Food Bank, Baby Basics, and United in Kind.
The knitting group, which meets on the second and last Sunday of every month, as well as alternate Mondays, has become a cornerstone of community life in Moulsham Lodge. Whether you’re a seasoned knitter or someone looking for friendly company, this group welcomes all with open arms. Each meeting is filled with the hum of needles clicking, laughter and meaningful conversations. The group’s sense of purpose has fostered not only creativity but also camaraderie among its members.
Throughout the year, the group has crafted a wide range of items, including warm scarves, hats, blankets and baby clothing. These handmade goods have been donated to charities that provide vital support to people in need across the community. CHESS, a local organisation helping those facing homelessness, has been one of the primary beneficiaries, receiving hats and scarves to provide warmth during colder months. Sanctus, which supports those struggling with food insecurity, has received beautifully crafted blankets. Baby Basics, which provided over 140 hampers to new parents in 2024, distributed knitted baby clothing and blankets, offering vital support to families.
Beyond the practical benefits of their work, the knitting group has created something even more valuable: a sense of belonging. For
Ashley Thompson
&
Simon Goldman
many, these meetups offer a much-needed opportunity to connect with others, share stories and feel part of something meaningful. In a world that can often feel isolating, the knitting group’s gatherings are a reminder of the power of simple acts of kindness and community.
The group’s inclusive ethos ensures that everyone is welcome - whether you’re a knitting expert, a beginner eager to learn, or someone who simply wants to enjoy the warm atmosphere. Many participants have noted how joining the group has positively impacted their mental well-being, giving them a sense of purpose and new friendships. Donations are always welcomed and any spare wool you may have can be dropped off at the Copper Pot.
As 2024 came to a close, the Moulsham Lodge knitting group is already looking ahead to continuing their mission into the new year. Their dedication has not only helped local charities but also strengthened the community’s bonds, proving that small, consistent efforts can make a big difference. If you’d like to help, pop along to one of their sessions or visit www.MLCT.org.uk for more information.
That’s it for now. For any local issues, please do get in touch any time. Take care.
simon.goldman@chelmsfordlibdems.org.uk ashley.thompson@chelmsfordlibdems.org.uk
Follow us on the following platforms - search for ‘Chelmsford Liberal Democrats’ Facebook - www.facebook.com/ChelmsLibDems
Facebook - search: ‘Simon Goldman - Moulsham Lodge Councillor’ Twitter - twitter.com/ChelmsLibDems
www.moulshamtimes.com
Tile Kiln Corner - By Cllr Linda Mascot
Happy and healthy New Year to you all. I hope you’ve enjoyed the festive season and enjoyed a break and quality time with your families.
I’d like to thank all the groups and organisations who support our community and the wonderful volunteers across Chelmsford who make such a difference to all our lives. If you, or someone you know are having a difficult time, please email me on mascotlinda@gmail.com so I can pass on information about local support groups.
We are so fortunate to have Baby Basics close by to support expectant parents by supplying all the essentials for their new baby by referral from midwives, health visitors and other local organisations. There are more families struggling with the financial and practical burden of looking after a new baby - if you can help by donating items either in person on online via their wishlist on Amazon it would be much appreciated - for drop-off ring 07895 904 594 (it’s at Moulsham Lodge Methodist Church on Friday 10th January) or via www.amazon.co.uk/baby-reg/3JGNZEXHSMHOX. More information can be found on the Facebook page by searching ‘Baby Basics Chelmsford’.
Thanks to Joelle and all the volunteers who have provided more than 100 baskets in 2024. Thanks also to the Moulsham Lodge Community Trust Sunday Yarn, Hamptons knitters and CVS groups coordinated by Jenny Brown who presented bags of hand-knitted items at the end of December for new parents.
For our older residents, Tile Kiln Church has places for their fortnightly lunch club Food on Friday. This friendly group provides an opportunity for those of a senior age to meet with others and enjoy a home-cooked meal. Thanks to all the brilliant volunteers who support our elderly residents, ably coordinated by Mary Wood. For more information ring 07778 549 331.
FOOD ON FRIDAY LUNCH CLUB
TILE KILN CHURCH, ROBIN WAY.
IF YOU WOULD LIKE SOME COMPANY AND A HOT MEAL ( £5.00 ) OUR LUNCH CLUB COULD BE THE PLACE FOR YOU!
Held fortnightly, we provide a 2 course meal with Tea or Cofee in the main hall. After dinner we sing favourite hymns for those with a birthday that week and hear a short Christian thought for the day or an informative topical talk.
We have a few places available at the moment. If you are interested yourself, or for a friend.
Email. marywood2012@me.com or call Mary on 07778549331
Longing for Light
We are creatures of habit, aren’t we? Each time January comes around, we experience the post-Christmas lull. The flatness of January. No Christmas to look forward to, the days are cold and the nights are dark.
With each January comes a deep longing - longing for change (have you got a resolution?), longing for light (the nights are still so, so long), longing for warmth (how much longer until spring?!).
There has always been a powerful sense of longing associated with winter. Traditionally, winter has been a time when food produced in the summer months was eaten up in the winter, and in the depths of winter it can be hard to trust that the days will eventually turn and the light will come and there is hope.
Nowadays, Aldi opens all year round. Yet we still experience longing. And it’s no good trying to hide it - far better to face the longing and direct our petitions to someone who can do something about it.
Eleanor Parker in her book Winters in the World shows how such longing has been expressed in this country for centuries. Talking about the Advent Lyrics, an Old English poem written between the end of the 8th century and the start of the 9th (some 1,200 years ago), she says that, ‘They speak as if on behalf of the whole world, calling out for aid and comfort, light and liberation. ‘Help the heart-sore,’ cries one, ‘have mercy on your servants and think on our sorrows, how we stumble on, weak at heart, wandering hopelessly’’. (Eleanor Parker, Winters in the World, page 65).
Are you heart-sore? Stumbling on? Sorrowful? A longing for help and mercy is not unusual, we have longed for such things for centuries. But where will help come from?
Further back, perhaps around 2,800 years ago, there was a response to such longing. Here’s what it said: ‘The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in the land of deep darkness, on them has a light shone’. (Prophecy of Isaiah, chapter 9, The Bible).
In the darkness of the land, light has come. What is this light? It is Jesus of Nazareth, the Light of the World. Jesus came for the bruised and broken, the sorrowful and heart-sore. It’s easy to miss this point.
When we celebrate Christmas, we can very easily cover up the hardness of life, the brokenness we all experience. In January, all is stripped away and we simply long for help, hope, healing.
Well, if you are in that place of darkness, the light has come - call out for help to Jesus Christ, he will hear you.
If you want to know more, or have any questions, please get in touch!
Tim Goodall, Pastor, Tile Kiln Church.
tim.goodall@tilekilnchurch.org.uk
Phone: 07821 866 301
YouTube: tinyurl.com/y24qlkvx Facebook: www.facebook.com/tilekilnchurch www.tilekilnchurch.org.uk
Quiz Time - By John Theedom
What fish is used to make calamari?
What was the Baader-Meinhof Group also known as?
Anything You Can Do is a song from which musical?
Who was the first woman to win a Best Director Oscar?
What Indian curried soup literally means ‘pepper water’?
In Roman mythology, who was the messenger of the gods?
Which South American country was formerely known as Dutch Guiana?
What did the composers Beethoven, Faure and Smetana have in common?
Who was the Roman goddess of the moon?
Approaching Menace is the name of the theme tune to which television show?
Montgomery is the capital of which US state?
Which country singer’s only number 1 hit was Distant Drums?
Who reached number 1 in the charts in 1972 with Long Haired Lover From Liverpool?
Constantinople was the former name of which city?
The crusader is the logo of which newspaper?
The biggest selling English newspaper in the world is published in which country?
What was the first name of TV’s Sergeant Bilko?
Which Irish political party’s name is the Gaelic for ‘we ourselves’ or ‘ourselves alone’?
Where is the San Andreas Fault?
What classic Christmas film was based on a short story called The Greatest Gift?
Who played Margaret Thatcher in The Iron Lady?
What is the process of splitting atoms called?
What is the name of the desert that separates Egypt and Israel?
Who was named Time magazine’s Man of the Year in 1938?
Tony Lommi, Geezer Butler and Bill Ward are members of which rock group?
Alan White was the drummer with which Manchester band?
Hindi is one of two Indian official languages; what is the other one?
Berlin replaced which town as German capital in 1990?
The traditional Irish dish ‘champ’ is made using potato and which vegatable?
Vincent Furnier is the real name of which rock legend?
Black-bellied, whiskered and roseate are types of which seabird?
Which singer launched a range of chocolates called Chakalates?
Bruce Lee, Joan Collins, Liberace and Zsa Zsa Gabor all had guest roles in which super heroinspired TV show?
On what part of the body would a babouche be worn?
What graffiti artistis is famous for stencilled images?
What was the ‘year of three kings’?
Ralph Lifshitzis the real name of which fashion designer?
Often worn by Tommy Cooper, what name is given to a red, rimless felt hat with a tassel?
The tango originated in which South American country?
What name is given to the number that is above the line in a fraction?
Take a Look Through the Moulsham Lodge Camera Club Lens
Do You See January in 50 Shades of Grey? It’s a question you can ask yourself following the excitement of December. The festive season brings lights and colour, rendering January a bit of a shock to the system as normality hits.
Yet there is good news for photographers, and January does not have to be viewed as a dark grey month. Being stuck inside enduring short days and long evenings can be seen as a gift. This is the time to grab your camera or mobile phone and get busy and add fun and colour to your life.
Here is a wonderful task for you to tackle indoors from where you are sitting. Grab a few props, eg, last year’s calendar, an ornament, a flower from December’s decorations - basically anything, and just photograph it. Start to get creative with your phone camera. There are many apps which can help with this and there are plenty of settings on a camera that can be changed to enhance photographs. If you don’t know how, then we do - and we are are waiting to greet new members.
I have literally done exactly as given above. I set up last year’s
calendar with some bees on, plonked an attractive flower arrangement on top, and then put them both on a desk and clicked away, changing few settings on my mobile phone.
The results are two bees in focus while the flowers are not. One bee is out of focus and one flower is in focus. And one bee is flying into the frame from the side.
Why not give it a go this month? You can then imagine transforming those grey Monday nights into 50 different shades of colour and join our small enthusiastic club to learn more about photography.
We will be happy to see new members for a free trial on Monday nights at Moulsham Lodge Methodist Church, 110 Lime Walk, CM2 9NJ. We start at 8pm, with tea and biscuits at 9pm, and finish at 10pm.
Liz Croxson
moulshamlodgecameraclub@gmail.com www.moulshamlodgecamerclub.co.uk
Squid
The Red Army Faction
Annie Get Your Gun
Kathryn Bigelow
Mulligitawny
Mercury (Hermes)
Surinam
They were all deaf
Luna
Mastermind
Alabama
Jim Reeves
Jimmy Osmond
Istanbul
Pain and injury treatment, now on Beehive Lane.
Sports & remedial massage
Injury & pain treatment
Back Pain Care Plan
Pregnancy & Pelvic Floor Rehab
www.charlieking.uk
info@charlieking.uk 07796060163
Daily Express
India
Ernest
Sinn Fein
California, USA
It’s a Wonderful Life
Meryl Streep
Fission
The Negev (from the Sinai Desert)
Adolf Hitler
Black Sabbath
Oasis
English Bonn
Spring onion
Alice Cooper
Tern
Chaka Khan
Batman
Feet
Banksy
1936 (George V, Edward VIII, George VI)
Ralph Lauren
Fez
Argentina Numerator
