Moulsham Times - July 2022

MT Welcome

Hi readers,

Welcome to the July edition of Moulsham Times

Many thanks to those who sent in Jubilee photos - you can see them all on pages 24 and 30.

There is lots going on this summer, with the Chelmsford Festival finishing with the carnival on 3rd July. There are also many events planned for Central Park and at Hylands Estate. Plus we have Heritage Open Days to look forward to in September (more about this in the August edition).

Please do not hesitate to contact me using the details below if you wish to advertise your business or event in the August issue. We are fairly well booked up on front pages, but can always place adverts on the inside pages of the magazine.

Regards

Paul

Advertising & Editorial

Paul Mclean 01245 262082/07595 949701 paul@moulshamtimes.com

Chelmsford - By Vicky Ford MP

I wanted to give readers an update on infrastructure plans in Chelmsford.

I recently met with the officials leading the work on the new junction at the Army and Navy. This is now moving forward through the next stages of detailed design and engineering. The engineers and designers are now putting together the outline business case which is expected to be completed in September - it will need to go through a full planning approval process which is due to commence later this year. It’s an extremely complex project and is taking time to deliver, but it is moving forward. Recently, you may have noticed work has been taking place over night at the Army and Navy to access the drainage systems - this has gone well.

I recently met the Rail Minister to discuss progress with Beaulieu Park Station. The plans to construct the station and the new Chelmsford Bypass was awarded the largest ever housing related infrastructure grant and will also help reduce congestion in central Chelmsford.

infrastructure development happening nationally. I am told this is the first time a new station has opened on the Great Eastern mainline for around 100 years. As part of the project involves splicing in new rails to MOR the pathway of the current tracks, certain elements of the construction can only happen at bank holidays in order to minimise disruption to travellers. It was good to hear that the Rail Minister is very supportive of our new train station.

I have been very concerned about the impact of the recent rail strikes on people across Chelmsford, especially the hundreds of young people who use trains every day to travel to schools and colleges. Scheduling a train strike when they are trying to sit A-levels, GCSEs and other exams is wholly irresponsible and risks disruption their future. Please do keep in touch with me via email about any experiences you are having with new train timetables, as I am monitoring this closely and have been pressing for extra services or more carriages at peak times.

I recently joined Essex Police for a walkabout in the city centre. There has been a notable drop in cycle thefts from the city centre following some recent arrests, but please do check the security on your garages and sheds, as there has been a spate of break-ins in Moulsham.

An exciting bit of construction is already taking place on the enormous new bridge which will carry traffic over the railway line and dual carriageway and then onto what will become the new North East Bypass. This massive structure is being welded together and assembled beside the rail track before it is due to be moved into position in the autumn. The bridge itself is an £18 million investment and is made from British steel.

I recently spoke to NHS managers from the mid Essex Clinical Commissioning Group about the situation at Wood Street Surgery. It has been closed since before the pandemic, and this was meant to be a temporary closure. However, following a structural review and assessment of the building works needed, there has now been a decision to close the surgery permanently. I am concerned about the impact of this closure on local residents and am working to support them. One interim solution that has been proposed is a ‘modular surgery’ if a suitable location could be found. This would be similar to the breast scan clinics that are sometimes moved between different locations. I know this would not be ideal, but it may help until a long term solution is developed.

As ever, please do contact me if you have any questions or need my help on any issue. My email is vicky.ford.mp@parliament.uk.

Plans for the new station are on track and also moving through various stages of planning and design. In the coming months there will be a process to award construction contacts. This will be a crucial period, especially as there is a very significant amount of

MT Health: The Pesky Myth of MotivationBy

Chris

at Forté Physical Health

I’m compiling a list of things I have been wrong about. My wife will assure you this should be a very long list!

But I’m going to share the things that I have been completely wrong about in my career; ideas that I have done a 180 spin on regarding my understanding of the human body. I will release the whole list soon, but the one I want to speak about today is something I have touched on before; the idea of motivation.

I used to think we could hack our motivation to help us start our good habits, but now I know it is an illusion.

I talk a lot about this, which might seem strange as an osteopath. Shouldn’t I be giving you ‘three top tips to prevent sciatica’, or the ‘top five causes of back pain’?

Well, the way I see it is that the role of the osteopath is to facilitate health, and health starts within. The osteopath doesn’t fix anyone; the body does the fixing. Each body is unique and needs a personalised plan. Then the host needs to stick to the plan!

This is why I’m so interested in motivation. Health isn’t that complicated: eat fresh food, move often, prioritise sleep, manage lifestyle stress, work on your relationships. Easy. Then we just need to do all those things - and that’s the hard bit!

As I’ve been training for my ultramarathon (three weeks to go!), my conceptual understanding that motivation is unnecessary to get work done has become a much deeper, more visceral understanding.

To help me get out the door I have come up with a mantra: ‘the race won’t run itself’. That one little sentence is all I focus on, and it gets me out the door. I’m effectively telling myself, ‘go for the run!’ (although in my head, there’s an expletive between ‘the’ and ‘run’).

This carries over to the rest of my life, and it may help you too:

• The race won’t run itself: Go for a run!

• The business won’t grow itself: Do the work!

• The back won’t fix itself: Do the rehab!

• The waistline won’t shrink itself: Don’t eat that snack!

• The mind won’t calm itself: Get off social media and meditate!

Whatever you need to improve your life and health, you already know how to do it. Don’t wait for motivation to start - it won’t come, just start.

Find a little mantra to help get you over that first hurdle - and then the second hurdle, and the third... because they keep on coming!

But your health (and your life) gets better each time you overcome them.

If pain and injury are holding you back, we can help in my clinic. We also like to discuss lifestyle factors, not just to get you out of pain, but to live a healthy life with well-being as a priority.

If you want to learn more, go to fortephysicalhealth.co.uk, or you can say ‘hi’ at info@fortephysicalhealth.co.uk.

For the last few weeks, I have been running six days a week, and my volume has increased dramatically. In about eighty per cent of the runs, I don’t want to go on them, and in about twenty per cent of them, my mind actively tells me it will be harmful. The voices say that rest will be more productive.

I ignore that though, and go for the run anyway - and lo and behold, I feel great after!

Mr and Mrs E popped in to the Regal showroom on a Saturday afternoon after researching online and liking what they had seen. They were interested in using the bespoke approach of a smaller company when compared to the reported service some of the larger nationwide corporations provide. They immediately liked the two-tone painted timber display and were keen to see how this would look in their kitchen.

Mr and Mrs E wanted to reconfigure their downstairs to give them more options and had also considered having an extension. After visiting the property, the designer discussed the different possible arrangements and it was decided that although the side extension would gain a lot more space, it would potentially block some of the natural light available. It was decided that a wall between the kitchen and a large downstairs bathroom should be altered to increase the size of the kitchen. The designer also suggested the clients look at blocking up the back door entrance and turn the existing window into French doors.

This meant that the natural light would fill the entire room and made sure that the kitchen could be opened up into a family social space, but was still functional and suited their busy lifestyle.

Mrs E had previously mentioned needing a lot of useful storage for the family’s walking shoes and coats, but the existing utility just wasn’t functional. The clients asked the designer if it would be possible to build an area for shoe storage as well as housing their laundry appliances, so it looked like one piece of furniture.

Once the layout was agreed, it was time to start choosing colours and products!

As well as providing the same colour timber doors the clients saw on display in the showroom (Bleached Stone and Monsoon), Regal incorporated Black Star Galaxy granite for the worktop and this was also added behind the hob as a splashback. The LVT flooring in Grey Slate really contrasts well with the furniture. Special storage solutions, Quooker boiling water tap and a full set of Neff appliances means Regal’s client can cook up a storm in her new kitchen, and they are extremely pleased with the end result.

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

www.regalkitchens.co.uk

#whereclientisking

Everyman at Chelmsford Theatre Workshop

Chelmsford Theatre Workshop on Springfield Road proudly presents Everyman, the Carol Ann Duffy adaptation of this historical morality play, which runs from Tuesday 19th July to Saturday 23rd July.

This historical play, about a man forced to face his maker and account for how he has lived his life, is given an astonishing modern update by former Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy. This play initially ran to critical acclaim in 2015 at the National Theatre, and this is one of very few amateur productions of this remarkable piece.

This production for Chelmsford Theatre Workshop, directed by Danny Segeth, is a fusion of drama and film in a fast-paced, energetic 90-minute piece. The Director said of the piece and production: “As a play, I think Everyman speaks for itself and is more relevant today than ever. The themes and subjects involved are big and quite devastatingly personal to us as humans; our futile love of commercialisation, our ignorance of the impact of our behaviour, the side-lining of humanity for a quick win. But the writing by Duffy is of such beauty and poetry that even against the backdrop of the looming final curtain that awaits us all, the play is bright, uplifting and really very beautiful. We are very proud of the huge collaborative effort in producing this and are confident it will stick in people’s minds for a long time after they have left the theatre.”

Tickets for Everyman are on sale now via the Chelmsford Theatres website and are available on the night. Ticket prices are £12 with a concession rate of £10 (available only Tuesday - Thursday). The play comes with a parental warning for under 16s and contains strong language.

Booking at www.ctw.org.uk

MT Gardening

The weather is super glorious at the moment, providing me with additional time to spend in the garden tending to it and getting it in the best shape for me and the family to enjoy for the rest of the summer break. There’s plenty to do, so let’s press on!

Tomatoes and All Things Fruity

With the outdoor season being a tad unpredictable and possibly short, with cropping most years limited between August and late September - plus the possibility of catching potato blight which is spread in warm, humid conditions - I’ve gone for growing them in an unheated glasshouse. They’ll likely start cropping shortly in June and through to October. I find them to be more productive, reliable and have a longer season than those grown outside.

This year I’ve grown Sungold F1, an indeterminate or cordon type producing a cherry-type golden fruit; ideal for indoor or outside growing. For simple success I follow this check list for success:

Feeding: Use a balanced liquid feed every two weeks until the first truss sets fruit. Then change to a high potash liquid feed. Excess potassium feed can affect the uptake of magnesium and calcium leading to their deficiency.

Irrigation: Watering is required at least twice a day in hot weather. The compost should be kept constantly moist. Too little water can lead to wilting and calcium deficiency which causes blossom end rot. Erratic watering with too little followed by too much can lead to fruit splitting. Avoid getting the foliage wet as this can encourage potato blight.

Training and Support: I wind mine clockwise up a loose string attached to the ceiling above the plant and anchored to the ground.

Any side shoots that develop in the leaf axils should be pinched out to concentrate growth of the main stem.

Stopping: In an unheated glasshouse, tomatoes should be stopped once they have produced six trusses while those grown outside should be limited to four trusses. In commercial heated glasshouses the plants are not stopped.

Deleafing: The leaves on the bottom third of the plant should be removed with a sharp knife once the tomato has been stopped. This increases air circulation and the amount of light reaching the bottom trusses. Yellowing and damaged leaves should also be removed.

Pollination: Tomatoes are pollinated by bees. In commercial glasshouses where bees may not be able to enter the glasshouse, miniature bumblebee hives are set up inside. In a garden situation misting the flowers at midday and occasionally tapping the flower trusses will aid fruit set. Planting flowering plants such as Tagetes amongst the tomatoes within the glasshouse will also attract pollinating insects inside.

Harvesting and Storage: Tomatoes should be picked when they are fully ripe and will require picking every other day. Tomatoes can be kept fresh in a plastic bag in the fridge. At the end of the season any unripe tomatoes can be placed in a paper bag or drawer next to some ripe tomatoes or other fruit such as bananas. The ripe fruit gives off ethylene gas which will encourage the green fruit to mature.

Pests, Diseases and Disorders of Glasshouse Tomatoes

Glasshouse white fly are probably the most common pest of indoor tomatoes. Botrytis will also affect plants in poorly ventilated conditions. Tomatoes also suffer several disorders usually associated with poor irrigation practices and over or under feeding, such as blossom end rot and fruit split.

With courgettes, a balanced liquid feed should be applied regularly once fruit has started setting. At no time should the plants go short

of water. In cold early summers and with cloche-grown plants, some hand pollination may be required to ensure good fruit set. Courgettes produce an abundance of large leaves and can be used as a smother crop to help control annual weeds. They are particularly useful if grown before carrot or onions, whose seedlings are easily smothered by weeds at the seedling stage.

Harvest two or three times a week when the fruit is 10-15cm long to keep the plant cropping. Picked courgettes will keep in a fridge for a week, but are best eaten fresh.

For blueberries, continue to water and check for any signs of lime induced chlorosis - these are ‘lime haters’, so may need an additional feed of sequestered iron and or top dressing with ericaceous composts at the start of the year.

Aside from working on the garden, I also got time to take a look around the fabulous gardens at RHS Great Hyde Hall - the perennial borders are so impressive, giving you so many ideas. I particularly loved the area behind the original farmhouse with drifts of perennials punctuated with tree ferns and a super Persian ironwood.

Lastly, don’t forget that if you are at loose end during August, please consider popping along to the RHS Garden Hyde Hall Flower Show this coming August 3rd - 8th. Check out this link for more information: www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/hyde-hall/rhs-gardenhyde-hall-flower-show. I’ll be working on the RHS Garden Advice Stand, so I shall hopefully look forward to seeing some of you there.

Lastly, do check out this link for further jobs for the garden as we move through June: www.rhs.org.uk/advice/in-month/june. And check out this link for jobs to do as you move into July: www.rhs.org. uk/advice/in-month/july.

Happy gardening!

For any gardening tips please contact Tom Cole, Horticultural Lecturer, Capel Manor College, Bullsmoor Lane, Enfield, Middlesex, EN1 4RR by post, or by email to tom.cole@capel.ac.uk.

Deadlines for the August edition:

Articles - 13th July

Print-ready artwork - 21st July

A Flash of Colour on the Wing - By Holly Lucking

I am writing this article on the weekend of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, and what a spectacular occasion it was. Especially the flyover that many of us were lucky enough to catch a glimpse of. The colours red, white and blue are very patriotic and it made me think of other animals that fly with those same three colours - my mind went instantly to butterflies and their amazing wing patterns. Now that we have entered the warmest part of our year where there are thankfully more sunny days than not, we get to see these beautiful delights that have spent the winter as caterpillars or as chrysalis and eggs. peacocks and red admirals will have been seen in the early spring, whereas the holly blue and speckled wood prefer the much warmer climates found later in the spring.

Butterflies are not usually seen in the colder months as they are cold bloodied organisms that rely on their environment to keep them warm, and although they do not hibernate like other animals, they lay dormant as the conditions are not right for them to survive and are kept warm and safe in diapause. Their metabolisms slow and they stay in that state for as long as they wish, almost suspended in time until the temperature warms to a tolerable degree.

Pictured above is a red admiral butterfly, kindly photographed and shared by Zach and Amanda, which is a popular visitor to most UK gardens and can be found in a wide variety of habitats from shores to mountain ranges.

Although some do winter here and are able to survive in the south of

England climate, the red admiral is known to migrate northwards from North Africa and Europe during the early spring and stay until the end of the warm period. Their main food source is the nettle which is common in most of the UK, and it is on these plants that they lay their eggs that hatch in about a week into caterpillars.

Each caterpillar will spin a tent onto the nettles, and in four weeks will be fully grown and can enter the pupae stage (metamorphosis will begin where they will transform into a butterfly).

September is a popular month to see these beauties, as this is the month when nectar is most common, eg, the flowers of ivy, heather, bramble and buddleia - and they also feast on rotting fruit.

They truly brighten up the garden and bring it to life, and I know many will be pleased to know that red admiral sightings in the UK have had a long term increase, which means that we will be seeing a lot more of one another. The photo above is a holly blue (a personal favourite of mine) and shows the amazing colours and patterns up closethank you to Nikki for taking this photo and sending it to me.

Holly runs Holly’s Evergreen Dog Walks in the areas of Great Baddow and Moulsham Lodge, offering a friendly, professional and personal service for your dog. You can call or text on 07906 517 931, or email hollysevergreendogwalks@hotmail.com for enquiries and bookings.

Nick Garner’s Music & Ramblings

What a month it has been with lots of ups and downs along the way for me. We started the month with the Queen’s Jubilee, so I thought that the ideal band for the Friday of the Jubilee would be the 80s chart toppers The Korgis! They were fantastic and what a show they put on and having travelled all the way from Wales as well. Both bands gave it 100% and probably deserved an even bigger audience.

The Chelmsford Festival has begun and ends on Sunday 3rd July with the amazing Chelmsford Carnival parade, sadly I will miss it this year as I will be watching The Rolling Stones in Hyde Park. I did though hold a one-day folk festival on Saturday 11th June for the Chelmsford Festival which had acts who came and played from across the UK.

I have to say it is definitely a struggle at present to get people to come to live events, and I know others like me are struggling as well. Please do consider supporting live music in the area - I feel these shows do inject some happiness and positiveness into us all.

A bit of a downer, I got scammed the other week- though I am normally savvy to this kind of thing. I was buying a used item and the scammers asked me to pay through PayPal using Friends and Family. I was a little suspicious, but then they said just pay 50% now and the balance when you get it if you are happy, so I thought that sounds ok and I did this as they had a website and sent me tracking details. Someone contacted me and said they sent the same tracking details to (we have the same first name). When we challenged them everything disappeared online, and because of the way I paid I have no recourse, as far as I have been told by PayPal and my bank, which means I and others have lost our money. So please be warned and don’t risk using Friends and Family for purchases.

On a happier note, at last the weather has improved. Now all we need is some steady rain overnight and all will be well. We have just had the Foodies Festival - did you go, was it good? I went to visit a friend’s garden which was part of Writtle Open Gardens, raising money for the local church. She had over 600 people come through who all seemed to love her cottage garden and she sold an old mangle she had up for sale as well - a good result! The weather was just right as it cooled down a bit and it stayed dry. I know that Springfield also had their open gardens on the same day which I visited and enjoyed a few years back.

I have noticed in Upper Bridge Road that we have a traffic counter across the road at last. I just hope it is there when the cricket is on as it becomes quite manic around here then. We really need something doing as I see so many vehicles speeding down here which is not safe for them or us residents.

Music

As I said, it is tough at present for those of us putting on live shows. Even huge acts like The Eagles and The Rolling Stones are not selling out at the moment, where both would normally sell out in days if not hours. I have heard The Eagles were even giving away some free tickets for a show in Scotland. This will not deter me though; some might say I’m mad, but I just want to bring good music to you to enjoy and to give the artists a stage to play on.

We have two shows left now before we take our summer break, returning in ealry autumn on Friday 2nd September when have a great show coming up with Chesney Hawkes playing a rare UK solo gig. Before then, on Friday 1st July we have a tribute to the late great Peter Green (he of Fleetwood Mac and John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers) along with Supernatural, who are Greg Kofi-Brown who played with Peter in the 80s and has fronted Osibisa for the last 40 years. Supernatural is Tim Hain’s band, along with Alan Glen of Nine Below Zero and The Yardbirds, and with our great friend Robin Bibi.

Bex Marshall will open the evening before joining Supernatural on stage, and we are also hopeful that we will have a special guest who also used to play with Peter Green.

Our final show before our summer break is on Friday 8th July with none other than The Rolling Clones, the number one tribute to The Rolling Stones and who are now celebrating 25 years since their formation in 1997. These guys do it so well - if you have not seen them and you love the Stones, I would recommend seeing these guys. With Rich Young opening, this will be a great night with all the classics being played. It’s only £12 in advance or £15 on the door and you can pre-book with a call or text to 07508 496 411 for all shows.

We have the first Chelmsford Fringe festival from the 7th to 17th July with events happening all over. It’s best to search for them online to see what is on, where and when. The Fringe celebrates all aspects of the arts and we feel that this, along with the Chelmsford Festival, is important for us all and can help to put us Chelmsford and the surrounding areas on the map with your support.

Black Frog Presents has a fine and varied line-up for the rest of 2022, and we are booking 2023 up right now. Take a look at our advert in this mag or check out the link at the end of this article.

As for ther things going on, please remember the monthly rock and roll nights at the Social Club on the last Saturday of each month. I also see that Soul II Soul are at the Racecourse on the 9th July. Do also check out Hot Box who put on regular shows at their venue under the viaducts. Tennessee Fields returns from 15th July as well if you like country music. Over the long weekend of 22nd, 23rd and 24th July Central Park will be the place to be. On Friday 22nd it’s The House and Garage Orchestra playing. Saturday 23rd is The Dualers and Aswad and more, then on Sunday 24th it’s Jools Holland and his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra with Eddie Reader and Ruby Turner guesting, along with Beverley Knight opening, plus more to be announced.

Do not forget the other smaller venues like our pubs and other open spaces that are putting on free-to-enter events. It is good to see that both the Star and Garter and Woolpack are putting on open mic and jams in our local area. Just take a look at our What’s On guide in The City Times magazine, where we list lots of what is happening - or simply go online where you can also find lots of information.

Remember if you have anything you think that could be of interest to our readers for either publication then let us know at editorial@ itsyourmedia.co.uk - it might be an event or a topic of interest. Have you done anything unusual this year or are you planning something? If so, we want to know about it! Do you or know of someone who may wish to advertise with us? Please ask them to contact ads@ itsyourmedia.co.uk, and we will send them full details.

You can get tickets for our shows in Chelmsford from Intense Records, Hopsters and Chelmsford 4Good - please pay cash in person. Tickets are also available online from www.wegottickets.com/ BlackFrogPresents, or via our ticket hotline at no extra charge - call or text 07508 496 411 and you can then pay the advance price on entry to the show. We welcome your own comments, feedback and information as well; please send anything to editorial@itsyourmedia. co.uk.

For all Black Frog Presents gig updates and information go www. linktr.ee/BlackFrogPresents, or scan the QR code on my poster in this magazine. Please note that I also write in the City Times if you like reading my articles.

It would be fantastic if you could share our magazines The City Times and Moulsham Times for us. We continue to publish both magazines online as well at www.issuu.com/itsyourmedia.

Charity of the Month - InterAct

InterAct’s improves lives and communities through learning, leisure, sharing and support

Since InterAct’s inception in 1995, we have strived to support disabled and disadvantaged adults, children, families, carers and young people within Chelmsford and the wider mid/west-Essex area. In 1992 we began the goal to improve working opportunities for local, unemployed adults recovering from mental ill health.

Using Moulsham Mill Centre as a hub, InterAct developed a range of support and training, including personal development, IT and employment preparation skills. To this day InterAct offers a comprehensive suite of training that largely centres on mental health & well-being.

In early 2000, one of the main focuses of the charity shifted to the needs of young people with learning disabilities and additional needs. This came as a response to concerns from local parents and carers about the lack of support during times of transition; for example when leaving school. From 2000 until now, InterAct has developed and run a wide range of projects supporting young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) and their families, often working in partnership with local authorities and other voluntary sector organisations.

Our overall aim is to inform, support and empower people to increase their independence, choice and control, realise their aspirations and play a full part in society. InterAct offers a broad range of activities and opportunities in Chelmsford and local communities across Essex which include:

• Activities for young people with autism, learning disabilities and special needs.

• Befriending and peer support.

• Training and workshops to improve personal, emotional, mental health and well-being.

• Volunteering opportunities to provide valuable skills and experiences to a wide range of people.

• Increasing awareness and reducing stigma associated with disability.

Short Breaks, Clubs and Activities

InterAct supports young people from the ages of 10-18 with SEND to get out and about in the community, so they can have fun, try new experiences and activities, make friends, and develop new skills, whilst also giving parents and carers a break.

We currently have termtime after school clubs in Chelmsford, Colchester, Braintree and Clacton. The young people that use our services play an instrumental role in designing what activities form our after school programmes. We do go further afield for day trips and activities during the school holidays, and our comprehensive holiday programmes are packed full of exciting and fun things for young people to do.

The Together Club, based at InterAct’s Aspire Centre (behind Moulsham Mill) is run specifically for young adults with additional needs between the ages of 18-25. The club programme offers a mix of centre-based activities, and some that are out and about in the Chelmsford area. This is a time for members to relax, make new friends, learn new skills and most importantly, have fun!

Suite of Training

We offer a portfolio of training courses and workshops which we deliver in a range of settings. We have over 20 years’ experience

of working with organisations, young people and families, and communities; of person centred approaches; and of emotional, mental health and well-being, providing us with invaluable experience in shaping our programme of training for practitioners, parents and carers and young people.

Mental Health First Aid Training (MHFA)

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training is an interactive and practical training course to help you spot the early signs of a mental health problem. It will equip you with tools and techniques to help you, your friends, family and colleagues.

Developing Resilience and Well-Being

Our courses will equip you with coping strategies to improve your resilience and well-being and are available for anyone who wishes to continue their personal development in life and work.

Volunteering

In the past few years, InterAct has had a range of exciting and varied volunteering opportunities available for interested parties. Local people from all walks of life get involved, giving their time and skills in all areas of our work, from those who volunteer regularly at activity sessions, administration, and gardening or help out on a less regular basis to promote or fundraise for InterAct. Volunteers allow us to extend our reach to more people across Essex.

Aspire Centre and Garden

The Aspire Centre and Garden is a listed building and tranquil area to be enjoyed by as many people possible. This has been the site of a transformational effort from a range of volunteers over the past few years. We now have a versatile space to meet for individuals or groups and a place for the young people we support to relax and catch up with friends at a our weekly youth clubs.

Volunteering in the garden can involve a wide range of jobs. There’s something to suit all interests and abilities such as: planting, weeding, digging, mowing the lawn or simply feeding the birds, sharing your knowledge, or making the tea. We’re also actively seeking volunteers to join our experienced board of trustees. If you feel like you can contribute your ideas and knowledge to InterAct, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

To join in or find out more contact us on 01245 608 206, or email youngpeopleteam@interact.org.uk.

Moulsham Mill, Parkway, Chelmsford, Essex CM2 7PX www.interact.org.uk Facebook: InterAct Essex Twitter: @interactessex

Traffic on Upper Bridge Road, Century Tower & Shire Walkway and Underpass

Murals

- By Cllr Marie Goldman

Happy July, everyone! For those of you with school-aged children, the summer holidays are nearly upon us. Personally, I’m at the stage where I really look forward to the extra time that I can spend with my children, but I’m lucky because I can be flexible with my working hours - not everyone is as fortunate.

Whether you can’t wait for the school holidays, dread them, or are not affected by them, I hope your plans for making the most of the long summer days are going well, whatever you’re up to.

Traffic on Upper Bridge Road

A few residents from Upper Bridge Road have contacted me over the last few months regarding the speed and volume of traffic on the road. Some residents tell me that they often witness near misses with vehicles travelling too quickly in either direction on this narrow and windy residential road on the western boundary of my ward and division. Some residents have suggested they would like to see a 20mph zone here, much like in Old Moulsham. The first step towards tackling the issue is getting some quantitative evidence about the traffic, how fast it’s travelling and how much of it there is. So, eagleeyed local residents may have spotted the Automatic Traffic Counters (ATCs) stretching across Upper Bridge Road which were put down in June. The data they produce will allow Essex Highways to evaluate the issue, and help to decide what the next steps might be. Please bear with me while this is done.

Century Tower and Shire Gate Walkway

Sticking with the western side of the area, various residents have been in touch to find out what on earth is going to happen to the dilapidated giant Meccano set that was originally supposed to provide a temporary escape route from Century Tower. It was only supposed to be in place until two more towers were built as part of the original planning permission, but those towers were never built and the permanent walkway structure, which was supposed to take a different route through the later towers, was never constructed. This has left a huge and pointless eyesore in the form of a long run of scaffolding and delaminating boards - certainly no longer fit for purpose.

I am finally starting to make some progress on resolving this situation, which has proved very tricky, especially due to the different land and building ownerships involved. A few weeks ago I had a meeting on site with the Fire Service, who will need to give the final say-so over what sort of emergency escape route is necessary. Following on from our discussions, I am hopeful that the scaffolding will eventually be able to be removed. When I know more, I’ll update you.

Skate Park Underpass Murals

And finally, I am so excited that the murals at the underpass by the

Central Park skate park have now been completed. I’m especially pleased because I allocated some of my ECC Locality Fund towards this fantastic project - it’s brilliant to see it come alive. Here are just a few photos, but it really is worth seeing it for real, so if you’re in Central Park, do stop by and have a look.

As always, I try to keep local residents informed about the work I’m doing through the monthly email my colleagues and I send out, which you can sign up to here: bit.ly/CMLDENews. You can also follow my Facebook page here: www.facebook.com/MarieGoldmanLD

Keep well - and keep applying the sun cream!

Marie

Cllr Marie Goldman Deputy Leader, Chelmsford City Council City Councillor for Moulsham & Central County Councillor for Chelmsford Central

MT Finance - Walking the Inflation Tightrope

Markets buffeted by stormy conditions persistent inflationary pressures, made worse by Russia’s war in Ukraine and continuing strict COVID-19 lockdowns in China, are squeezing the disposable income of consumers, as well as raising costs for businesses. This ‘cost-of-living crisis’ has prompted consumers to rein in spending. It is also starting to hit profit margins at companies which cannot easily pass these rising costs onto their customers. Despite this, there are still signs that consumers are prioritising certain purchases; notably services over goods. Recent results from furniture company DFS confirmed a slowdown in larger ticket home item purchases, whereas travel and leisure spending remains robust despite higher prices, as consumers prioritise their holidays and experiences following the pandemic.

The cost of energy has been one of the most significant drivers of higher inflation, which we haven’t seen in major western markets for around 40 years. The recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic had already boosted energy prices, as demand started to recover and factories and supply chains reopened, but matters were made much worse by sanctions on energy-exporter Russia in response to its military actions in Ukraine. This has resulted in a scramble to secure supplies from elsewhere, particularly in relation to gas.

Russia and Ukraine are also major exporters of fertilisers and grains such as wheat. This has resulted in a spike in global food prices and there are concerns that regions such as the Middle East, which depend significantly on staple food exports from Black Sea ports, may see shortages.

Another compounding factor has been Beijing’s strict response to new outbreaks of COVID-19. This policy, which has Beijing’s continuing support, has hit growth in China and caused shortages of essential components for western businesses.

To deal with damaging levels of inflation, central banks are now raising interest rates aggressively, following an extended period of being ‘behind the curve’, which is to say that they kept low interest rates and financial stimulus in place despite economies recovering sharply after the pandemic. Rising concerns around the remedies that are needed to deal with current inflationary pressures will have significant impacts on the real economy, with the likelihood being that central banks will continue to raise interest rates so long as inflation is persistent, indicating there is some way to go yet in terms of the increases they will action.

The higher cost of borrowing money is certain to hit growth as businesses invest less and consumers ultimately spend less, though there is often a lag between rate moves and its resulting impact on activity. Rising interest rates means the oft-turned to technology sector has been at the eye of the storm in the recent sell-off. Higher borrowing costs reduces the value investors place on future profits. This hits companies where the valuation today depends on longerterm growth and future cashflows, as they tend to rely on debt-funded growth.

There is a great deal of uncertainty in the markets at the moment as investors grapple with estimating how far central banks will go with interest rates, how will companies respond to potentially slower growth and higher input costs, and will the economy experience a soft landing in terms of growth or something more severe. In time, we will have further information to provide more certainty which will see improving confidence for risk assets going forward.

When one is in the midst of the storm, things can seem extremely challenging, however for those with a medium to long-term investment horizon, opportunities do present themselves in conditions such as these, and eventually we will reach calmer waters.

To learn more, or to arrange a free initial consultation with us to

discuss how you can make the most of your investments, please do get in touch.

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 one of the UK’s leading wealth management firms. We provide a range of financial planning and investment management services to private clients, trusts and charities.

Charles Stanley & Co. Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered office: 55 Bishopsgate, London EC2N 3AS.

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June has been a Busy Month

We were delighted to welcome work experience students from the Anglo European School. The students have shadowed some presenters, pitched adverts and visited Volfest with recorders interviewing a number of the local volunteers running stalls. They also spoke to Liz from the Heads2Minds charity.

One of our students attended the launch of photographer Freya Lees’ new exhibition located in the Stables, Hylands House. Freya’s collection titled, Women in Music, consists of 13 stunning images capturing the power of women in the industry who work on stage and in the background. Freya was one of the winners of the Keep It 100 Essex Youth Awards last year and the exhibition alongside mentoring support from Mauro Carraro (who kindly agreed to be interviewed at the event) was part of her prize.

Next month, we look forward to supporting a further group of students doing their work experience. All of the students joining us for their work experience will have the opportunity to work towards an arts award, Explore. The Explore Award is the equivalent of an Entry 3 Level, and we must say a big thank you to the Chelmsford Round Table for their kind support to cover the costs.

We have just registered as an Arts Award Centre and are now able to deliver both the Discover and Explore arts awards to young people under the age of 25.

Keep an eye on our social media feeds for news of any upcoming workshops for individuals. Please get in touch if you have any questions, or to find out more about the costs booking workshops for schools and local organisations. Email us at admin@ chelmsfordcommunityradio.com.

Being able to offer these exciting opportunities helps us with our fundraising as a station and our overall community engagement.

If you know someone who might be interested in developing a partnership, then please do send them our way.

www.chelmsfordcommunityradio.com www.mixcloud.com/chelmsfordcr www.facebook.com/ChelmsfordCR

Poorly Pets

Cats can suffer from ‘stress’ when new arrivals encroach on their patch. This stress rubs off on petowning family members and, well, you can imagine how the cycle escalates!

My pet is stressed out and I’m starting to fret Is 5:30 too early to be phoning the vet?

I’m cleaning up spills from every known orifice

I’m a good cat mama - I didn’t sign up for this!

My cat has constipation but I’m the one straining I won’t let her outside but my resolve is now waning I wish she’d start grooming - she knows what to do And I wish she’d pass a life-affirming, ruddy great... Ahem.

My poor baby, first furball from the fur that she’s shed (And poor mama, cleaning up down the side of the bed!)

I’ve now groomed every inch from top down to paw And enough fur for a pillow is spread out on the floor!

Owning a pet is a privilege, a delight

But you’ll lay awake worrying for most of the night!

My baby, my bubba, I love you to the moon BUT FOR GOODNESS SAKE hurry up and get well soon!

By Rosie at www.personalpoems.co.uk

MT History: The White Company - By Henri Lewi

Following the victory at Poitiers and the capture of the French king in 1356 during the Hundred Years War between England and France, the French countryside was subjected to numerous raids by armed Englishmen at arms, that sacked villages and towns and ravaged the countryside. These raids were called a Chevauchée, the object being to bring terror to the countryside with the ultimate aim of bringing the French commanders to the peace table. The peace of Bretagny in 1360 ended the first phase of the Hundred Years War but left large numbers of heavily armed men - both English and German mercenaries who had served under the English king as well as numerous disenfranchised French knights now with little to do. Very quickly these armed men formed themselves into ‘free companies’ and began to sell their services to the highest bidder. Many of these free companies moved to Italy to serve the various city states and towns that were now becoming involved in the numerous Italian internecine wars.

Probably the most famous of these free companies was the The White Company or ‘English Company’. Initially led by the German mercenary leader Alberto Sterz, who for two years (1360-1362) acted on behalf of the Pope, fought against the powerful rulers of Milan. Whilst being extremely successful in 1363, The White Company, now numbering over 5,000 men, took the unusual step of introducing leadership elections and declared one John Hawkwood their leader and commander. John Hawkwood the leader, or Condottiero, who had served as a longbowman in the English army, successfully led the White Company for over 30 years and was said to have introduced the concept of using dismounted men at arms rather than uncontrolled cavalry charges when engaged in battle.

Whilst little is known of his early life, it is clearly documented that he was born in Sible Hedingham in 1323, the son of Gilbert Hawkwood a wealthy landowner who held property in both Sible Hedingham and Finchingfield. At some point he moved to London and subsequently joined the English army under Edward III as a longbowman and in all likelihood participated in the battles of Crecy (1346) and Poitiers (1356). It is said that after the victory at Poitiers he was knighted by Edward the Black Prince, who was the eldest son of Edward III.

Following the formation of the White Company and his election to its leadership, it is unlikely that Hawkwood ever returned to Essex despite having a wife and daughter and lands in Sible Hedingham. The White Company, so called because of their highly polished armour and white surcoats, successfully pursued many campaigns on behalf of the many Italian city states of the 14th century, such as Naples, Florence, Pisa and Milan. In a number of cases Hawkwood and his allies found themselves in direct conflict with the Pope and his papal forces.

Hawkwood later married for a second time in 1377, and whilst pursuing further campaigns, made his home in Florence where he died in 1394 and was buried in the famed Duomo. Some 40 years after his death, the powerful Medici family engaged the artist Paulo Uccello to paint the Duomo and included in his work is a portrait of Hawkwood with the inscription: ‘John Hawkwood, British knight, most prudent leader of his age and most expert in the art of war’.

Is he remembered in Essex? Yes. In St Peter’s Church in Sible Hedingham there is a memorial and statue to this Essex knight.

Hello everyone, hope you are all well.

I am away on holiday this month and will not be able write my usual article. So I thought I could take a few photos of our travels, with a few clues so that you can guess where they were taken. If you want to, of course...

Did you watch any of the Platimum Jubilee celebrations? I thought they were fantastic. These events are something the British can excel at. The quality of the production, the numbers of participants and the whole feeling of ‘happy’ was a tonic in these troubled times. The amount time people have given up to practice all of the routines must be enormous. Well worth it though. The Paddington Bear sketch was hilarious, Her Majesty really entered into the spirit of it and seemed to enjoy it.

Experienced my first visit to the county ground recently. Enjoyed it, took a little picnic. Showed my ignorance of the game when I asked my mate John who the goalkeeper was. Oh well, I will know next time, he’s the one with the big gloves on!

See you as normal next month.

Bin End Chuckles (Thanks Again to John) How can you tell the difference between an Indian and an African elephant? One is an elephant...

My friends bakery burned down last night. His business is toast... Stay well.

You may picture someone magical WANDering round here..?

This RHS garden is close to this spa town, but where is it..?

A town on the largest body of water in this national park, where surprisingly the is only one lake...

This town in the Cotswolds has a farm shop selling top gear...

Grove Road Evangelical Church

Paying Grove Road Evangelical Church a Visit

You may have walked along Grove Road and seen our church building not far behind Tesco on Moulsham Street.

Maybe you have wondered what that church is like, or what goes on there? What are the people there like? Well, the best way to find out answers to questions like that is for you to come and visit us.

If anyone would like to find out more about us, you can arrange to visit the church at a convenient time and meet the pastor and others, and to be shown around the church, to be told something of our history, to talk about what our meetings are like, and to have your questions answered about what it is that we believe, and why we believe it.

The easiest way to get in touch to arrange a visit is to send an email to pastor@grecuk.co.uk, with the subject of ‘VISIT TO GREC’ and we will get back to you as soon as possible. We can then arrange a

suitable date and time for you to come along and meet us.

Visiting us doesn’t commit you to anything. We will only keep in touch after the visit if that’s what you want. You won’t be pressured in any way, but we will tell you about what we believe and why, but if you come along for a visit, I guess you are interested in knowing that anyway!

Our main meetings each week are: Friday lunchtimes at 1.15pm, and Sundays at 11am and 6pm. If you would like to come along to one of our meetings, we look forward to seeing you. You’ll be very welcome.

Philip Loose, Pastor

Grove Road Evangelical Church (Behind Tesco Express, Moulsham Street)

www.grecuk.co.uk

pastor@grecuk.co.uk

Love Your Back With Easy Exercise to Manage Back Pain - By Erica Foulds

If I had a penny for every time I heard someone say, ‘I wish I had been told about pilates sooner…’ You know the saying! I also wish for them that they had discovered it sooner and all its wonderful benefits. Where someone reports they have been suffering long-term intermittent back or joint pain or stiffness that hasn’t been resolved it is such a shame. One of the biggest reasons people are referred to pilates, whether by a GP or word of mouth through friends, is due to the well known results it has on helping back pain. The most common reasons or reports about back pain that we see at the studio include people saying, ‘I’ve been told I have a weak back or core’, or, ‘I’m sitting down all day and feel stiff’, or, ‘my back hurts every now and again but I don’t know why’.

Before I go further, let me make the clear distinction between a serious back injury and non specific back pain (chronic or long term). Weak muscles around the core, especially the spine, can result in incorrect biomechanics which is the way we use our backs. Certain muscles get over used whilst others do very little, so we feel pain in the over used ones. This can include habits over time or overdoing a particular movement, such as several hours gardening one weekend, or a long car journey. With a back injury such as disc issues or the development of disease including arthritis, you should consult a GP or physiotherapist before following an exercise routine.

What Are the Main Aims of Exercise for Relieving the Symptoms of General Back Pain?

First and foremost, we want to create mobility around the lower back, this includes moving the pelvis and hips - even legs - in as many safe ranges as possible. We also want to work around teaching the different muscles of the core to work together and steer away from having dominance. We want to strengthen key components and create flexibility in tight areas.

In a good pilates class you are guided through movements that work your whole body, exercises that warm up, activate, strengthen and stretch your whole back. Working at a slower pace we make sure the exercise feels totally effective.

Here is a simple 8-minute exercise sequence for back pain that requires no equipment:

Warm up and mobilise your back. Standing wide leg roll downperfect if you know you have a tighter side. Stand with feet at least 6 inches wider than your hips, place your hands on the top of your right

thigh, nod your head down to right shoulder, roll shoulders forward to right, trace hands down right thigh, to knee, bend both knees slightly, continue down to the right shin (to the foot if you can) looking at the right foot, return up the same slow way til youre standing. Repeat x3. Then repeat the same tracing down the left side. Repeat x3.

Warm up the hips and initiate core control through easy balance. Opening the gate - standing feet hip width hands on waist, lift right foot from the floor, knee to hip height if possible and open the knee to the right as though ‘opening a gate’, place foot to floor facing away, lift foot and return knee to centre ‘closing the gate’. Repeat x5, then repeat left leg too.

Strengthen the Lower Back and Glutes Swimmer: Lay face down, hands by your sides (easier option here), point toes and straighten legs as much as you can behind you, draw in your abdominal (front of waist muscles), lift both legs slightly from the floor and kick 10 times like you are swimming. Repeat 10 kicks x3. A harder version: Arms stretch out in front, still looking to floor, pulse your arms up and down at same time as the legs kicking. For 20-30 seconds if possible! Stretch and relax your back to finish.

Shell Stretch: Kneel down, sit on your heels, place hands out in front of you and fold chest down to your thighs as low as you can. Hold for 10 seconds.

At Hummingbird Pilates and Yoga, based at Reeds Farm, Writtle, we have plenty of classes where no experience is needed. All classes are 8 in studio, simultaneously streamed through Zoom for those who want to take part from home avoiding traffic, expensive fuel, are tight on time or just fancy being in your own space with the pets next to you. Or you might like to see me 1-2-1 first for an introduction to pilates before joining a class.

To get started and try an unlimited month for £45, find us Facebook or Instagram (@hummingbirdpilatesyoga) search ‘Hummingbird Pilates & Yoga Writtle’, or email us at info@hummingbirdpilatesyoga. co.uk. Or call us on 01245 422 556.

See you on the mat!

Erica xx

Yikes, I’m Going on Holiday - By Ola Adamolekun

So, the summer holidays are upon us. This is the time of the year that I start to worry about my clients and/or patients!

We’ve set out on a lifestyle journey learning new habits to make us healthierchanges to what they eat, sleep, move and relax, creating better new habits. They are progressing at the speed of light and seeing results.

And all of a sudden, the sun comes out and the summer holidays arrive! So, what’s all the panic about? All that sun, sea, sangria and stodgy food! The thought of my clients going back to their old habits terrifies me.

One of the benefits of coaching is that it encourages behaviour change so I guess I should trust my clients to stick to the changes they have made and all the good habits they’ve learnt. Going on holiday should be fun, and eating and drinking are a big part of that fun. So, what can we do!?

The first thing you have to do is make a plan - which is something you’ve already done. You’ve planned your holiday, booked your flights, hotel, transport etc. So you should be able to plan your food, drink and the other stuff you want to enjoy so it doesn’t sabotage your hard earned success - or in body building terms - your ‘gains’?

There are three simple rules:

• Eat regularly - ideally only three times a day!

• Always eat protein at every meal.

• Be selective about the amount and type of starchy carbohydrates.

3. Eat a snack before you hit the town - alcohol is essentially sugar, which spikes your blood sugar levels, leading to weight gain and cravings. It is, however, arguably a holiday essential. The key to not letting alcohol undo your good work is to have a little something with protein on before you go out. Try something like a little cottage cheese or unsweetened nut butter on an oatcake (if you can find them) or even a small handful of nuts. The protein will help offset the sugar in the alcohol.

Whatever you decide, make sure you enjoy yourself - it’s your holiday and you’ve earned it!

www.beencouragedwellness.co.uk

www.facebook.com/BeEncouragedBeStrong

Here are a few tips for your holiday plan:

1. Establish the ground rules. The first thing to do is to work out what your new agreements are. You will need to choose whether you have an ‘anything goes’ policy for the duration of the holiday with the explicit intention of returning to your regular pattern when you return.

2. Remember the 80/20 rule - 80% of the time you eat well, allowing space for treats on high days and holidays. It’s possible to stick close to this on holidays - if you choose to. So, let’s recap what healthy eating actually looks like. At its most basic level ‘eating well’ involves eating real food almost all of the time (rather than processed foods) and getting a variety of different foods into your diet.

Jubilee Day at Widford Lodge School

On Friday 27th May we celebrated the Queen’s Platimum Jubilee here at Widford Lodge School. We had a fantastic day of creativity and craft. The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Sue Dobson, visited and planted a tree for us, and she also joined us for a wonderful outside lunch where we sang the National Anthem and raised a toast to the Queen.

We wore red, white and blue, and had fun decorating crowns - and we were very lucky that the sun was shining.

The Singing Chef

Its been a funny few years. Quite a struggle for most of us in fact, but I really do feel like this summer is going to be a good one. I feel a lift in my mood and I think it’s because I’m singing again. Not gigging or vocal coaching during lockdown made me lose my confidence a little, but it’s come back and i’m so happy. Singing undoughtedly makes you happy, it’s great for your mental health, just hard to do when your feeling a little low.

This recepie this week reminds me of holidays in The Canary Islands Its a fresh take on Mojo Sauce, served with hot, crispy, salty potatoes.

This also happens to be great vegan dish. Seriously though, you could dip a flip flop in this sauce and it would taste great.

I peeled the potatoes for the fussy child, but ideally you roast new potatos with their skin still on in plenty of salt and oil.

Ingredients

Half a cup olive oil

2 slices white bread (no crusts)

2 cloves garlic

2 red bell peppers

1 tbsp paprika

1 tsp ground corriander

½ tsp chilli flakes

1 tomato

Salt

Water to thin

Method

Blend everything and let it sit in the fridge at least overnight or longer. This is a perfect dip to take to any summer gatherings. Serve with salty roast potatoes, BBQ veg or meats.

Sarah is a singer and vocal coach based in Chelmsford and offers singing lessons to people of all ages and abilities. You can email Sarah at sarahmtfood@gmail.com, or search for ‘Sarah Beth Vocal Coaching’ on Facebook.

Do you wish you had a partner for scrabble, draughts, chess, cards? Every board or card game needs two to play! At the Community Station there is always someone around on Tuesdays from 11am till 2pm (or when the game is decided!) where there are all sorts of games available. Light lunches or refreshments are available from the Copper Pot Café.

Many activities already take place, but if there is anything you would like to participate in please let us know. Pay us a visit to discuss the possibility of partaking or setting up an activity. Community games is open to everyone over 18 and under 100! All skill levels or beginners. A side effect of a good game is lots of laughter and a plus is making new friends in your local area.

Do you have any spare time to help with out jobs list? Currently we have about 100 jobs, from painting to gardening to some general filing. Any time you could spare either as a one-off or part of a regular offer of help, we would appreciate any time you could spare. Come in during the week to see the list and discuss over a coffee and cake.

During the summer we have a couple of cool spots (pictured right) to dine at The Copper Pot Café. Our Secret Garden at the rear offers shade from the sun, and we now have a couple of canopies over the front decking if you like it a bit warmer but still out of the sun. Daily specials are always available, well behaved dogs are welcome and we have dog bowls both at the front and rear.

Monday: Closed: Available for private hire from 12pm.

Tuesday - Saturday: The Copper Pot Café open.

Tuesday: The Copper Potters friendship group meet every week between 10am to 12pm.

Tuesday: MLCT Community Games Group - tabletop games. No need to book, just turn up between 11am and 2pm. Small donation welcome!

Wednesday: Community Games group for over 60s welcome, 1.45pm to 3.45pm (small fee to join in applies).

2nd Wednesday of the month: Menopause Café 6pm - 8pm. Booking essential. Please contact Julie Harding on 07400 582 823.

1st and 3rd Friday of the month: Community Games/Crafts group run by the Moulsham Lodge Women’s Institute. No need to book. Midday3pm.

2nd and 4th Friday of the month: Computer Club with the IT Man. No need to book. Bring own devices. £2pp fee applies. 10am - 12pm.

Sunday: MLCT Knitters Group, No need to book and no experience necessary! For enquiries contact Jenny on 01245 250 129. 2pm4pm.

www.mlct.org.uk enquiries@mlct.org.uk 07434 678 999

Deadlines for the August edition:

Articles - 13th July

Print-ready artwork - 21st July

With the hot weather taking us into the summer solstice, summer is definitely here - and with it, some brilliant events taking place in Chelmsford. Running for a month from the 3rd June to the 3rd July, the Chelmsford Festival has brought us everything from history tours, to art exhibitions and concerts and engineering events, all culminating in the Chelmsford Carnival on the 3rd July. There is so much to showcase in Chelmsford and I’m really proud of everything our city has to offer. We have a great history of such events, and coming from a long line of Chelmsfordians who have taken part in carnivals and the like over the years, it is great to see so many people taking part and enjoying the atmosphere. Well done and a big thank you to everyone who has taken part or been working behind the scenes to make this happen!

One of the events of the festival enjoyed by many was the Platinum Jubilee Picnic on the 5th June at Central Park. This was just one of a range of formal and informal events that took place within neighbourhoods and communities nationally, an important moment in history as many across the country celebrated a life of public service. Monarchist or not, I think we can all agree that spending 70 years of one’s life serving the community is no mean feat and something to be congratulated. I hope that whatever you did, you were able to enjoy the long bank holiday weekend. After the couple of years we have had such events being unimaginable, the opportunity to come together as a community is so valuable.

As parents of young children, my wife and I are looking forward to some time with the family as we soon head into the school holidays - there are some great clubs and activities out there, and it’s brilliant to see that Active Essex are once again running holiday clubs for primary and secondary aged children who are eligible for benefits based free school meals, as well as those from low income working families who would benefit from the support. There are also a range of opportunities for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities. Children will enjoy a range of activities, plus a free, nutritious meal for eligible children. To find out what is on locally, just google ‘Essex Activate’.

Over the last month, among other things, I have had a number of emails and discussions around the plans to replace the play equipment and remodel the park adjacent Chislett Row and also, a resurgence of questions and concerns about e-scooters. No doubt you’ll have noticed the move from Spin to Tier, but I’d be keen to hear your views and observations about the use of e-scooters.

As always, you can get in touch with me via Chelmsford City Council, through my Facebook Page (Cllr Rob Gisby) or via Chelmsford Conservative Association. Please do reach out - I look forward to hearing from you.

Stay safe, keep well, be kind and in the words of Baz Luhmann - ‘wear sunscreen’.

Cllr Rob Gisby

An Update From Moulsham Lodge Ward - By Councillor Rob Gisby

Wood Street Surgery Update

Thank you to the many patients and residents who contacted me after my article in the Moulsham Times regarding Wood Street Surgery. 45 of us met outside the surgery to discuss concerns and how to voice these. On behalf of you all, I have been working with a committed group of patients with local councillors to put your views forward and push for local health services to be reinstated as soon as possible. Here is an update from patient and campaigner Paul Jardine LLM:

to provide medical and clinical services to the ward. The briefing continued, highlighting the confidence the appropriate committee members had in having a suitable location for development of a new medical centre for the ward. Sadly, Wood St itself will remain closed during this period.

“The briefing concluded, it was the turn of the public questions. Cllr Stephen Robinson opened placing emphasis on the need for transparent communications (sadly lacking in certain quarters) and the support the City Council can provide. Clive was next on the microphone, querying why the current Wood St site could not be redeveloped; the response being that a minimum of 8m2 per room was required for social distancing and mobility access, the site being too narrow. Clive’s next question raised again the need for transparent communication for patient well-being and how to keep people informed of developments; a 90-day update cycle was agreed.

“What a result. I would like to point out that Derek ‘Del’ Robinson has been challenging Rivermead Gate over the Wood Street Surgery since 2016, his efforts have been an inspiration to us all. This team will not stop pressuring and raising the appropriate challenges until the first patient walks through the new surgery door.”

I will regularly update you on the search for a new local surgery.

A Landmark Day for the Goat Hall Ward! A Travesty Averted

“On 16th June 2022, the Primary Care Commissioning Committee started its meeting - key on the agenda was the application to close Wood St Surgery. An apprehensive group of people, Derek Robinson, Clive Hodges and myself, logged into the meeting with the addition of Cllr Stephen Robinson, Leader of the City Council representing Cllr Linda Mascot of the Goat Hall Ward and Jude Deakin, Essex County Council. A more diverse and integrated team it is hard to imagine, who have come together over the last few months to the common cause of fighting the application for closure of Wood St surgery.

“The briefing commenced, and the first key point raised was the recommendation to reject the closure application, primarily on the ground that Rivermead Gate still had contractual obligations

Although the weather was grey and drizzly, the events at Tile Kiln Church for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and their 50th anniversary celebrations were vibrant and well attended. Cream teas were served followed by a hog roast and many activities and crafts for all the family. Well done to all who won the cake and pudding competition - they all looked delicious!

Mascotlinda@gmail.com

Perfection and the Unexpected

Strawberries and cream; Pimms o’clock; sunny days and rain delays… Wimbledon is upon us again!

Whilst Andy Murray may be battling back to find some semblance of full fitness, British hopes lie more with Emma Raducanu. Or at least, we like to think they do.

The shockingly unexpected US Open 2021 winner has been having a tough run of results so far this year, and with the added media attention that her win last year gave her, the pressure to perform must be almost unthinkable. She’s reflected on this recently when talking about expectations and perfection.

Who hasn’t felt the pressure to be perfect or to pursue some form of perfection? It’s as if we have to produce something from deep within us in order to be accepted and form our own identity. Achieve at work, succeed in relationships, drive forward to lose the weight - all so that we can be perfect in some way or other.

But, as Raducanu said, perfection is not a good or healthy destination. It’s also terrible motivation on the journey. Perfection says that our value as people comes from what we can achieve on our own and how other people perceive us. Both are doomed to failure because we never can know whether we’ve achieve enough, or exactly

what other people think of us.

Christians believe that humans have inherent value because of something else - something that comes from outside of ourselves, and is more significant than the opinions of other people. Our inherent value comes from being created by God and loved by God. Each and every person - that’s you! - is created by God and in the image of God. Because of that, you are inherently valuable. You don’t have to achieve anything for God to love you, value you, and seek you so you can know Him.

Striving to be perfect and living under the weight of other people’s opinions is a sure way to die whilst still alive. Receiving your value from being made by God frees you up to live life to the full here and now. You might think this is a completely unexpected place to find your value, and it might feel impossible? That’s fine, but don’t ignore it, explore it! Jesus Christ makes it possible - ask him and find out! Oh, and let’s hope for another shockingly unexpected win for Emma at Wimbledon this year!

Tim Goodall, Pastor, Tile Kiln Church

tim.goodall@tilekilnchurch.org.uk

YouTube: tinyurl.com/y24qlkvx

www.facebook.com/tilekilnchurch www.tilekilnchurch.org.uk

Quiz Time - By John Theedom

What is a grunion?

What was the name of the Englishman who invented the lawnmower in 1830?

What do the initials CV stand for?

Miss Haversham is a character in which Dickens novel?

Who sang the song My Heart Will Go On from the Titanic film?

Where will you find a confluence?

In which English county is the village of Wookey Hole?

‘House’, ‘Hedge’ and ‘Tree’ are all varieties of which bird?

In which TV soap did the alsatian dog Wellard feature?

What do the initials CRE stand for?

On the TV programme Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? what disappears between contestants?

When did the Bank of England £1 notes cease to be legal tender?

How many wives did King Henry VIII have?

What is the rather silly TV advert where dozens of people chase after a red balloon?

What kind of clothing is a boater?

You must remember the singer Cher - how old is she in 2022?

What kind of tool is a mattock?

Who presents between 12pm and 2pm on Radio 2 on weekdays?

What was the name of the lady who opened her waxworks in London in 1802?

Who was the original host of the TV game Catchphrase?

‘Ketch & Sloop’ are types of what?

Which American city was named after the country’s first president?

In which London park is Rotten Row?

How many wives are allowed at one time under Islamic law?

Hollyoaks featured a map of which city in it’s opening credits?

Prince William graduated from which Scottish university in 2005?

A sufferer from alopecia is likely to lose what?

Which Katie is better known as Jordan?

How is a footpath indicated on a modern map?

Which letter and numbers follow Albert Square, Walford?

Who sits on the Woolsack?

What was called the ‘Pluto Platter’ when it was first sold?

Which word means vocation and also moves wildly?

The now extinct dodo was which type of creature?

Where does a hippopotamus spend most of it’s life?

In Dad’s Army which character often declares ‘we’re doomed’?

How many English kings known as Henry came after Henry VIII?

What was Ken Barlow’s main career through his years in Coronation Street?

Which bridge on the River Thames is closest to the Tower of London?

According to Edison Lighthouse, what happens ‘where my rosemary goes’?

Celebrating the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee

Moulsham Drive Street Party (Vicarage Road End)

A raffle was held for the Ukrainian Relief Fund and we raised £160 which will be doubled to £320 through the generous matching support scheme provided by Utility Warehouse.

Photos from Paul Richardson

Cake Competition

Goshawk Drive neighbours and Cormorant Walk

Goodwin Close

The crown on the multi-storey roundabout

Quiz and Wordsearch Answers

Jonny’s answers: The Betty’s cup is in Harrogate, the castle is Alnwick, Bowness on Windermere. The rest of the ‘lakes’ are meres, waters or tarrns, Diddly Squat is in Chipping Norton.