L N ocal ISSUE 6
etwork Magazine
How soft are you? Personalised Holidays Close Protection Training Where is your child? Popular Sayings Sticky BBQ Chicken Crossword & Word Search
THE WOODEN FURNITURE COMPANY Unit 2 Ford Farm, Braintree Road Dunmow CM6 1HU Tel: 01371 872292 www.woodenfurnituredunmow.co.uk Oak, Painted & Rattan Furniture for your Home & Garden. 1,000’s Square feet of furniture on display All at Rock Bottom Prices Open 7 Days a Week For more details see page 2
FREE Magazines delivered through the letterbox
The Notleys - Braintree - Great Leighs - High Garrett - Bocking Rayne - Flitch Green - Dunmow Please see our website for full delivery details www.localnetworkmag.co.uk
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www.localnetworkmag.co.uk Info@localnetworkmag.co.uk 12,000 Free Magazines Delivered Through The Letterbox Every Month Would you like details about advertising? Call - 01371 830200
Page 5 Garden View
Page 24 The origin of popular sayings
Page 7 Sticky BBQ Chicken
Page 26 Crossword & Word Search
Page 10 First Anglia launches new product Page 27 Money View Newsletter
From Kings Wealth Management
Page 11 Steve Chew Page 13 How soft are you?
27 Pension Freedom
Page 14 Where is your child?
28 Your Journey Ahead
Page 19 Personalised Holidays
29 Investment Considerations
Page 22 SQR Close Protection Training
30 Be a Landlord
woodenfurnituredunmow.co.uk
Unit 2 Ford Farm, Braintreee Road, Great Dunmow, Essex. CM6 1HU Oak and painted furniture including traditional and contemporary, for living dining and bedroom, also all weather rattan garden furniture all at rock bottom prices. Thousands of square feet of furniture on display, all at rock bottom prices.
01371 872 292 Open 7 Days a week Disclaimer
Would you like details about advertising? Call - 01371 830200
While every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of artwork. All artwork is accepted on the strict condition that permission has been given for use in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that the description of the goods and services are fair and accurate. Local Network Magazine does not officially endorse and advertising material included in this publication. No part of this publication maybe reproduced, stored in any retrievable system or transmitted in any form-electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise – without the consent of the publisher. Publisher: Local Network Magazine. 8 The Maltings, Thaxted, Essex. CM6 2NB
Palm Tree Pools is a family run business with over 50 years of experience in all aspects of swimming pool management and maintenance. We are based in Essex and offer unparalleled customer service and reliability. We offer a range of maintenance schemes to keep your pool ready to use whenever you need it, taking away the stress of pool management and maintenance. We also provide a wide range of equipment and chemicals at very competitive prices as well as a knowledge base that only comes from servicing a varied blend of satisfied, long-term, clients. If you are not lucky enough to have a permanent pool, we also stock some amazing above ground pools and “easy up” hot tubs and spas which can be enjoyed throughout the summer and easily stored in the winter. Above Ground Pool packages start at £250 plus VAT and can usually be delivered within five days of ordering. Please contact us for details on maintenance schemes, above ground pools, hot tubs, spas, equipment, accessories and chemical supplies or visit our ebay store at www.stores.ebay.co.uk/palmtreepools
01376 528 774
Telephone: E-Mail: palmtreepools1@gmail.com www.facebook.com/palmtreepool
Covering all building work in the Essex area
You love the house, you like the neighbours and you´re very happy in the neighbourhood. But a growing family needs more room. So why move out when you could move up with a Roomadder loft conversion and create valuable new space in your current home. With Room Adder you can create space to work by turning the loft into an efficient office, where you can work from home without distractions. Depending on the size of your loft, you could add an extra bedroom, children’s playroom, shower room or even a master suite. With a little help and some professional expertise, your loft could be transformed into a usable living space without having to move.
Services we offer n Extensions
n Renovations
n Loft Conversions
n Bathroom Conversions n Bedroom Conversions
n Roof Conversions
n Office Conversions
n Dormer Conversions
n EPDM Rubber Roofs n Building Work
Witham: 01376 230 030 | Chelmsford: 01245 830 030 Maldon: 01621 880 080 | Email: info@roomadder.co.uk 4
Garden View
Project Pleasure
Getting Started April is a great month for a garden project; one which can be achieved in a morning or an afternoon, and which improves a few square metres. You’ll feel you’ve achieved something wonderful and if you break the whole garden into a series of small projects it suddenly appears more manageable. Here are three to get you started. Strawberry Pots You don’t need a huge patch to enjoy growing strawberries. Plant a few in pots as a treat. Buy young, rich green plants which have been certified virus-free. Plant 3-4 in a 12 inch (30cm) clay pot. The crowns (where shoots meet roots) should be level with the compost surface. Water them in and stand in the shelter of a house wall. If you have a greenhouse or a cold frame they will establish more quickly and fruit earlier. Pinch off any runners which form. Grass Lawns always look bedraggled after the winter. Remove dead grass by raking the surface with a wire toothed rake. Improve drainage on heavy soil by spiking it with a garden fork every 6 inches (15cm) or so, to a depth of about 4 inches (10cm), giving the fork a good wiggle each time. Sweep sharp sand into the holes with a broom. Then mow the lawn with the blades set on high and remove the clippings. Two weeks later apply a combined weed killer and fertilizer. If you’re lucky it will rain within 24 hours. If not just water it in. Mow weekly to keep the lawn thick and healthy.
Seating Don’t forget an all-weather seat so you can sit and contemplate all your hard work over a cup of tea or a nip of something stronger. Rattan look furniture is particularly popular now and if you choose a good quality make it can last for years and be very low maintenance, it’s really easy to clean using a normal hosepipe or a power washer, can be left outdoors throughout the year and they look stunning. Position it in a sunny area. Buy a few flowering daffodils, tulips and pansies and plant them in a pretty pot next to the bench, then sit back and enjoy.
Happy Gardening Rachel Leverton 5
we love
stoves Stockists of
www.orangestreetphoto.com
ClearvieW StoveS
T: 01371 871 835 Photography Services:
» Weddings make over » Childrens party shoots Training » Photography » Family Portraits
Portfolio » Model Occasions » Special Photography » Commercial & Promotional » Event Photography
Wedding and Event Packages Portraits & Family Photography Children’s Party & Make-Over Shoots Commercial Product / Promotional Work In our studio or on location. Orange Street Photography, Post Office Yard, High Street, Dunmow, Essex CM6 1AW Photography Courses: Introduction to digital photography
See website for dates & details
WANTED
OLD BIKES UP TO 1985
Any condition will be considered Also Spare Parts. Cash Paid on Collection
Visit our showroom to see the full range
Weber barbecues in stock for limited time only
01371 871 816
Open every day except Sunday and Wednesday 10:00am – 5pm sales@welovestoves.com • www.welovestoves.com 3 Ford Farm, Braintree Road, Dunmow, Essex CM6 1HU
We pride ourselves on producing quality workmanship of the highest standards. Paving Brickwork Decking Ponds Driveways Fencing Bespoke garden buildings Garden lighting design and installation
ladies, gents ,children's, butchers, bakers, choppers, shoppers, ,racers, tandems. tricycles etc. No Mountain Bikes
Phone 07815 539779
The Victoria, Shalford Green, Braintree, CM7 5EP
Sticky
Barbeque Chicken
Ingredients
n 12 chicken thighs (chicken wings or drumsticks can be used instead) n For the marinade: n 2 tbsp clear honey n 2 tbs tomato sauce n fresh ginger, peeled and grated (2.5cms / 1 ½”) n 1 garlic clove, crushed n 1½ tsp Chinese five spice n 2 tsp soy sauce n 1 tbsp sesame oil
Instructions
n Mix together all of the marinade ingredients in a non-metallic bowl. n Pierce the chicken thighs several times with a fork place in the bowl with the marinade n Leave to marinate for at least 2 hours turn several times or leave to marinade overnight. n Once it has marinated, place the chicken on the barbecue over medium-hot coals and cook for about 20 minutes, brush with any leftover marinade as it cooks. It’s important you cook the chicken all the way, if its colouring too quickly move the thighs to a cooler part of the barbecue to cook more gently. n Make sure the chicken is cooked if you’re unsure, pierce the chicken with a skewer: if the juices are still pink, carry on cooking. n Cooking time about 20 – 25 mins. Cooked in the oven Gas no 4 / Elec 180c Fan Oven 160c for about 30 minutes. Rest for 5 minutes or more.
Before
After
Professional Oven Cleaning Service Tel: 01279 491594. Mob: 07477 655965 www.myovenhero.co.uk
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www.sgreencatsitting.webs.com
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BIG or small we can do them all BIG or small we can do them all
Tel: 01376 331214 / 07970 352299 Tel: 01376 331214 / 07970 352299 www.groominmarvelous.com Stressed out? Feeling anxious or depressed? Relationship issues? Feel like you have no motivation or direction in life? Are issues from the past still affecting you ? Would you like to feel happier and more relaxed? Then let me help you using Counselling, Hypnotherapy or EFT (tapping) I work with individuals, couples and young people and can help with a multitude of issues including depression, anger, anxiety, low self esteem, compulsive behaviours, abuse, addictions, bereavement and much more. Please contact me to discuss your concerns or book an appointment KAY MILTON MNCS (acc) Dip. Counselling, Dip. Hypnotherapy, Dip. Meridian psychotherapy Tel:
07885 593 964/01376 551 900
Email:
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milton_kay@yahoo.co.uk
Perfectly Personalised Embroidery & Printwear
Green Dragon Upper London Road Youngs End Braintree, CM77 8QN
Dates for meetings 28th April 2015 26th May 2015 23rd June 2015
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ANGLIA FIRST LAUNCHES NEW PRODUCT Having opened their new branch in Braintree in December 2014, Anglia First has had a great start in Essex, having filled 35 job roles already. Martin Burgess – Regional Sales Manager for Anglia First Home Improvements said, “Since opening the Braintree branch in mid December, we have gone from strength to strength. In keeping with our company ethos of being at the forefront of technology, Anglia First has just launched a new state of the art double glazed window system, achieving an A+12 rating.
This new product has five main focuses: 1) Improve the energy efficiency performance, reducing costs to our customers year on year. 2) A five chamber outer frame, ensuring strength as well as thermal, acoustic and security performance. 3) Q-Lon weather seal, offering exceptional performance over a wide range of temperatures. 4) 8 point high security locking system, including multi-point shootbolt locking. Featuring 400% more contact area than traditional flat shootbolts. 5) 10 year transferable warranty supported by first class products and installation.” Mr Burgess said, “This new technology is manufactured using the latest technology in glass and spacer bars ensuring solar gain, free heat. This allows the heat generated from your home to be reflected back into the room but also trap free heat from the sun through solar gain, maximising the thermal performance of our windows. If your home consists of single glazed or older double glazed units, replacement with our ‘New Generation’ A+12 double glazed windows will save you money. It can cut the energy you need to heat or cool your home by giving you substantial savings on your energy bills. Throughout our branches in Norwich, Diss, Bury St. Edmunds, King’s Lynn and Braintree, our customers are taking the opportunity to reduce their energy bills, improve their home security and update the look of their homes by having our products installed.” For more information, please visit www.angliafirst.co.uk or call our Head Office on 0800 92 11 12.
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For a free no obligation quotation, contact your local Anglia First office in Braintree now on 01376 554280 and quote ‘Local Network’ to receive up to 30% off.
Belloc and Devon At the turn of last century the great poet, raconteur, anglophile and all-round French Bloke, Hillaire Belloc, was quizzed rather aggressively by some fellow Frenchies - ’Why do you keep nipping off over the Channel and banging on about all things English? What’s the matter with France, ‘La Belle Pays?’ Why on Earth are you so keen on that ghastly island with its constant drizzle and bad cuisine?’ Belloc, as was his wont, took a deep breath, looked them squarely in the eyes and boomed “Parce-qu’il est vert” (Because it is green). I grew up in a South Devon seaside town which seemed to exist purely as somewhere to dream yourself away from. At 18 you were expected to leave home for the bright lights of the Big City, Totnes, perhaps. Allegedly there were places where the grass didn’t grow along the middle of the road and there were more people than cows. According to some there was life ‘Up North’ (to us that meant Bristol) and buildings were even larger than the Exeter Debenhams. That said as you arrive via the hell that is the local bypass, you could be misled into believing that it’s quite a pleasant place – certainly some aspects are beautiful. The steep hills, grand Victorian villas, cedars and palm trees. At the turn of the century it was quite salubrious – but an influx of characterless, commuter entertainers, who infested the local theatres in the 50s and 60s, bought the town to its knees with their mindless, camp dance routines and their endless pantomimes (always featuring some dodgy Northern comic or someone who once appeared as a ventriloquist on ‘Opportunity Knocks’). Bizarrely, people would come from all over the country for cheap holidays or ‘Stag’ and ‘Hen’ weekends and the pubs and clubs would smell of Brut and suntan oil and Bacardi and desperation. They were full of sun-burnt girls - who wanted to be Pepsi or Shirley - but were actually called Bev or Trace from The Wirral (and smelt of Brut and suntan
oil and Bacardi and desperation)…. and their menfolk - gimlet-eyed, aggressive youths in tank-tops and ox-blood Doctor Martens with their cheeky grins and their sexist T-shirts and their grazed knuckles who smelt of Br-(oh, you get the point…) But for all that Devon remains a gorgeous, stunning, wistfully-beautiful place. I still have to fight the urge to beep the car horn when I pass the county sign on the M5. ‘Parcequ’il est vert’ as Belloc put it. Devon is the greenest of green things. Regardless what our Yorkshire chums will have you believe, it truly is God’s Own County. There are some simply breathtaking places;- Watcombe Beach in Torquay, Wistman’s Wood on the Moor, the walk from Salcombe to Bolt Head, Lydford Gorge, Cockington, Lundy…. You take the wonder of Dartmoor and those long summer days on a beach for granted when you’re younger. Somehow, as you grow up it gets traded in for earning a few extra quid, moving to London and living in the Rat Race. Something wrong with the old priorities there. How ironic. As a youngster you dream of leaving the countryside only to spend the rest of your life dreaming of returning to it.
Steve Chew is an author, archaeologist and Head of Content Marketing at Magnificent Stuff Ltd (www.magnificentstuff.net). You can contact him via the website or on 07723 024 865.
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award-winning, cost-effective
DESIGN&PRINT t:
01799 540173
e: studio@design-mill.co.uk
RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL CLEARANCE SERVICES HOUSE, OFFICE, INDUSTRIAL UNITS, GARDEN AND OUTBUILDING CLEARANCE Here at John James Clearance we will remove all unwanted items from your property leaving the area clean and clear. We will clear all items as instructed, we will clean the area and can provide a redecoration service if required. John James Clearance is a fully insured and registered waste carrier. We only use licensed waste disposal sites and aim to recycle as much waste as possible.
01279 294 294 www.johnjamesclearance.co.uk
leaflet distribution Reliable and trustworthy Leaflet Distribution! If your looking for leaflet distribution, call us now for a free quote on:
01371 238 040
over
ale rem Limesc
in 0 2 . £3 s ’ o c s Te
how soft
are you?
This area is renowned for many things, hard water being one of them!
We see the effects of hard water by the unsightly crusty, chalky deposits on taps and sinks; it’s caused by a concentration of dissolved minerals and as the water evaporates it leaves behind limescale. It builds up on any surface that hard water is in contact with. Damage from hard water is easy to recognise on the things we see but it’s what we can’t see in pipes and inside appliances that cause even bigger and more costly problems.
Having a water softener system installed in your home can help to increase your home’s value as potential buyers feel relieved that they won’t have to deal with the expensive problems hard water causes in the future. Benefits of having a water softener:
running costs • Lower Longer for appliances • Stain freelifespan taps, sinks, and baths • Less spent on cleaningshowers products • Less money spent for detergent and • fabric conditioner
Limescale in your pipes and hot water cylinder will increase your heating costs considerably. Figures show that just ¼” (6mm) of limescale will increase your water heating costs by 50%. Apart from higher running costs, the cost of repair and replacement of damaged plumbing systems is substantial – and that’s without even mentioning the cost of replacing taps, sinks, baths, washing machines and dishwashers. Soft water make appliances last longer by not clogging up heating elements or pipes; washing machines work more efficiently and you use less detergent and fabric conditioner if the water is soft. Clothes also last longer as hard water can often cause fabrics to lose their colour vibrancy and wear out faster. Fact: By stopping the source of limescale which is basically hard water, you save money.
So, the next time you buy a bottle of limescale remover, remember the only thing that it is going to remove is the surface limescale you can see; there is a huge amount more below the surface and that’s what is costing you money! Did you know that by installing a water softener, you can expect immediate improvements in a matter of days and complete descaling of your plumbing in around 6 months?
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Where is your child? What are they doing? Who are they talking to? 70% of 11 year olds now have a mobile phone. By age 14 this has risen to 90%. A new generation of phone child safety apps – such as MAMABEAR – now allow you to answer all the above questions. So what can these new “child tracking” apps do? The answer is – there’s not much they can’t: a) You can specify certain map locations – such as your house or your child’s school - and MAMABEAR will text you when your child arrives (or leaves) that location. Or you can track their location on a map. b) It will monitor all of your child’s activity on social media – including pictures – and alert you of bad language or threatening behaviour. c) It will remind your child of after school activities or clubs. d) It will even monitor their driving and alert you if they drive – or are driven - too fast, telling you where and when it happened. Whereas it is useful for parents to have this information in order to protect their children, how safe are mobile phones for children to use? Safety can take many forms. 11-15 year olds are most at risk of being mugged for their handsets, accounting for 500,000 of the 700,000 devices stolen each year. Due to their thinner skulls, mobile phone radiation penetrates deeper into children’s heads than an adult. From Sept 2014, Imperial College London has been
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monitoring the effects of mobile phone use on 2,000 11 and 12 year olds. It measured their thinking skills, memory and attention, then will do so again in 2017. Although no harm has ever been proven in the case of adults, current NHS guidelines are that under 16s should only use mobile phones when essential, using a hands free kit. Fortunately most children make few calls, but mainly use the handset as a games console or texting device. And if you do check your teenager’s texts, here is a list of text abbreviations which should ring alarm bells: ASL BRB GTG GYPO IWSN LMIRL NIFOC PIR POS
“Age/Sex/Location?” “Be Right Back” “Got To Go” “Get Your Pants Off !” “I Want Sex Now…! “Let’s Meet In Real Life” “Nude In Front Of Computer” “Parent In Room” “Parents Over Shoulder”
ESSEX HARD ESSEX HARD ESSEX HARD WATER ALERT! WATER ALERT! WATER ALERT! Does Does your your Limescale Limescale look look like like this? this? Does Does your your Limescale Limescale look look like like this? this?
WITH WITH WITH WITH
LIMESCALE LIMESCALE LIMESCALE LIMESCALE
NO NO NO NO
LIMESCALE LIMESCALE LIMESCALE LIMESCALE
SAY NO TO LIMESCALE SAY NO TO SAY NO TO LIMESCALE LIMESCALE S OF TE NE R SS S SO OF FT TE EN NE ER RS SOFTENERS
www.softflowsofteners.co.uk www.softflowsofteners.co.uk www.softflowsofteners.co.uk www.softflowsofteners.co.uk 01245 222 203 01245 222 203 01245 222 01245 222 203 203
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Electrotazz Electrical Contractor David Skeates All electrical work undertaken Domestic & Commercial Maintenance Extensions Rewiring Consumer Units Fault Finding ** 24 Hour Service **
Tel: O78 0976 8765
D&J Plumbing & Heating UK LTD D&J Plumbing & Heating are a trusted and professional family run company dedicated to the highest standards in every aspect of performance, with over 12 years experience in the trade. Our service specialises in the following: P All general plumbing P Boiler installs P Boiler services P Boiler repairs P Boiler breakdowns P Central heating maintenance P Central heating upgrades P Radiator installation P Safety certificates And much much more... [t]
01376 331834
[m]
07832 235275
Would you like to tone up/lose weight/add definition or increase your stamina or fitness? Intimidated by the traditional gym environment? We offer low cost, personal training, customised diet and exercise plans and advice for a healthier lifestyle. We pride ourselves on a personal tailored service so that you get the most from sessions and beyond. Train at home or in our premises in Gt Notley, Braintree. References available on request. All levels of fitness catered for with a huge array of equipment.
Email: jfpfitness@gmail.com or call Justin on: 07805 394 175 www.facebook.com/jfpfitness @jfpfitness
Dedicated to bringing you the most comprehensive range of electricals, together with competitive prices and outstanding customer service.
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2 Station Road, Bishop’s Stortford, Herts. CM23 3BL www.mainselectrical.co.uk info@mains-electrical.co.uk ERY V I DEL stock items with this voucher E E 17 FR Offer ends 30th April 2015
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Vintage Glamour Hair Nails Health & Beauty 6 Little Square, Braintree 01376528844 18
Find us between Yumy’s Café & Pasha Café www.vintageglamour.me
Sourcerer Expand Their Magic
To Personalised Holidays
As a sister branch to Sourcerer Business Support, local business woman launches Sourcerer Travel Local business Sourcerer Business Support have been helping businesses out with secretarial and admin duties since 2009. This year, Shelley has branched out to include tailor-made holidays. From personalised honeymoons to business trips, Sourcerer Travel pride themselves on going the extra mile to help buyers find the right holiday for them. Recently, Webcredible conducted a survey into holiday activity which has upped some online travel agents’ ante by reporting that of the 85% of Brits who prefer to booking their holidays online, a huge 60% chose to give up and abandon their purchase and 79% have switched to a different travel provider due to challenges in the website user journey.
the global travel board, what sets them apart from other brands is their focus on providing a unique and personalised service. Entrepreneur Shelley Morris said, “Unlike other travel companies, we are impartial & will strive to find you the best holiday to suit your every desire & budget.” Affiliated with over 450 leading travel companies from Falmouth to Falkirk, families, couples, individuals and companies can benefit from the friendly and professional holiday booking service from the comfort of the home or office. Each professionally trained customer service operator has a helpful, friendly manner when answering queries, as Not Just Travel give advice to maintain high expectations at every step of the journey. Booking a holiday can be an arduous process, whereas using Sourcerer means clients have more time to manage personal or business affairs; and can leave the often time consuming search to the professionals. With consumers being savvier about their purchases and a worldwide recovery from recession on their hands, Sourcerer have picked expert timing to launch their personal and bespoke holiday agency and.
With over 12 million different holidays on offer daily, everything from budget bargains to Millionaire’s retreats can be booked using Shelley’s personal and professional service. Part of the Travel Franchise, the brand new Sourcerer Travel service gives users their own dedicated travel consultant, available to assist, guide & provide expert advice for any adventure. Hertfordshire based, the travel operator offer international holidays flights at reasonable prices to major international destinations spanning the continents of Europe, Australasia, Africa, the Americas, and Asia. As relatively new players on
To find out more information or to look at the fabulous range of destinations Sourcerer offer, see their website at www.sourcerertravel.co.uk. Alternatively, you can contact Shelley Morris on 07816 759 607.
In Partnership with
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The Birds Beads Jewellery Making Classes
New classes starting soon, call or pop in for more details. Please visit www.thebirdsandbeads.co.uk and click on CLASSES for more information. Call us on:
01376 529 766
The Blake House Craft Centre, Blake End, Braintree, Essex CM77 6SH
LOCalNETwOrk LoCaLNETWoRk iSSUe 18
Magazine
iSSUe 5
Magazine
Inside 7 Top tips to planning your wedding Garden View Pass the salt Maybe tomorrow? Steve Chew - Crisp Crossword Garden View Wordsearch Pass the Salt Recipe Steve Chew ‘Crisp’ Killer iPhone App Vegetable Chowder Crossword & Word Search Maybe tomorrow if I get a moment
FREE Magazines delivered through the letterbox See www.localnetworkmag.co.uk for full distribution details www.localnetworkmag.co.uk Bishops Stortford, Sawbridgeworth, Stansted, Newport, Thaxted, Hatfield Heath, Hatfield, Broad Oak, Elsenham, Takeley & Canfield 1 Bishops Stortford Issue 18 - 2015.indd 1
27/02/2015 23:32
11,000 FREE copies delivered every month The Notleys - Braintree - Great Leighs - High Garrett - Bocking Rayne - Flitch Green - Dunmow Please see our website for full delivery details www.localnetworkmag.co.uk
Braintree Issue 5 - 2015.indd 1
1
27/02/2015 15:41
24,000 Magazines Each Month Bishop’s Stortford 12,000 Magazines Braintree 12,000 Magazines PLUS Digital Magazines Distribution by Post Codes. • Targeted delivered directly through the door into homes expected to have a • 95% disposable income. into businesses and public buildings. • 5% • Interesting articles, puzzles & recipes.
We can’t get you through the Keyhole BUT we can get you through the letterbox!
Are you interested in advertising? For more details please call 01371 830 200
www.localnetworkmag.co.uk info@localnetworkmag.co.uk
Enter our competition to win 1 x FREE Hen Party Music Video Experience for one lucky bride or 5 x prizes of 10% off HNE Media Wedding Videography Enter online www.localnetworkmag.co.uk Terms & conditions apply
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James@hnemedia.co.uk 01279 883 270
Allen House Business Centre Station Road, Sawbridgeworth Hertforshire CM21 9JX
SQR’s Enhanced Close Protection Course SQR group’s instructors will guide you through the Edexcel accredited level 3 BTEC qualification. This is a combination of classroom based learning and off-site drills. Training at SQR’s centre of excellence, the intensive 20 day programme includes: Urban Surveillance, overseas firearms training Krav Maga specialised self-defence and first aid training. Trainee Close Protection Officers will be instructed in threat and risk management, in an active, present context as part of the overall operational planning instructions that will also include rout reconnaissance, venue mapping emergency planning and various specialised skill sets to prepare and plan in advance.
Theoretical and practical assessments will be conducted to ensure candidates are trained to the highest standard as Close Protection Operatives. Essential skills required to work in this high-end sector of the security industry including foot drills, vehicle operations, the theory and practice of conflict management are taught as part of this enhanced course. Upon completion of your CPO training, you will eligible for licensing as a professional Close Protection Operative under the Security Industry Authority (SIA). The mandatory requirement of First aid training are included in the 20 days of this enhanced course. Chrissy Norris - 5 starHighly recommend to anyone. Great training, great staff, great attitude.
Kyron Williams - 5 starSimply the best you will not regret joining them. Kevin Horseman - 5 star* Very professional * Excellent facilities * The very best instructors in the profession who are dedicated to passing on there knowledge and expertise. They are always on hand to help you with any problem. * Excellent value for money. SQR will teach you enough to meet the basic requirements set out by the SIA. But unlike many other company’s they go above and beyond standard practice to deliver training that ensures CPO’s they train are of the highest calibre able to deal with any task or situation they may find themselves in. I recommend SQR to anybody that is considering a career in close protection. You will not find a better company or package anywhere that can give you the start you need in this very competitive industry. Haydn Brookes - 5 starI would HIGHLY recommend SQR security solutions to anyone wishing to do close protection course! VERY professional in EVERY aspect!! Train to be the best! Aaron Brian - 5 starWhat a great bunch of guys a girls. Enjoyed every single minute of the course. I would recommend this course to everyone who is thinking of getting in the CP world. Magnar Taranger - 5 star Very helpful staff and A very good CP course.
Your kitchen your choice... Traditional Woodcraft has been trading for 15 years. Their showroom is situated in the village of Rayne, just a 5 minute drive from the centre of Braintree. They welcome visitors to the showroom to browse the selection of kitchens and appliances on show. They use 30 years of experience in the kitchen and appliance trade to listen to your requirements and advise you on the most suitable options for your kitchen area and budget. Planning and buying a kitchen can be an exciting but stressful time, Alan Lepley, the proprietor, is aware of this and offers a personal service throughout the whole process of planning, choosing and fitting of all the kitchens he provides. As Alan stressed, “Kitchens come in different shapes and sizes, therefore careful planning is essential to obtain the maximum benefit from the most functional room in the house. We give a written quotation, which shows a breakdown of everything that is included to help in budgeting. We do not inflate our prices to give you 50% - 60% discounts, free appliances etc. like many big stores but offer a complete personal service. So if a kitchen has come to the top of your list of wants or needs,
Alan can offer you guidance and expert knowledge on design and fitting and the different types of appliances available. Traditional Woodcraft also offers fitted bedrooms and bathrooms; as with the kitchens they can be fitted to utilise those awkward areas making the most of every bit of space, with quality and stylish units. All units and doors are made to measure and colour co-ordinated. Replacing just the doors of your furniture can be a very cost effective way to update your kitchen or bedroom. Replacement doors are available in a wide range of timbers, styles and colours and can be made to measure to fit your specifications exactly. Whichever kitchen, bedroom or bathroom you choose we can offer you simplicity, functionality, affordability and different designs. As proprietor Alan Lepley states “it’s your home, your choice, we listen to your ideas and work with you to design your choice. We offer a personal and friendly service with excellent customer service being our main priority”. Please check out our website at www.traditionalwoodcraft.co.uk
Are you looking for an affordable quality kitchen? Do you need expert advice for a new bedroom or bathroom? At Traditional Woodcraft in Rayne Essex, we use our 30 years of experience and our commitment to personal, friendly customer service to ensure you get quality products and great service at fair prices. Tel: 01376 329794 | Mobile: 07970 390520 17 Brunwin Road, Rayne, Braintree, CM77 6BU www.traditionalwoodcraft.co.uk
The origin of popular sayings
By Brenda Burling
we still use today…
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am a fan of old sayings, though when writing we are encouraged not to use too many as they can be considered a cliché. When you learn their origins however, the fascination increases. Whoever said history was boring?... To be a “June Bride” has its origins from a time where people only tended to take a bath once a year. These baths were taken around May and people considered themselves to be still relatively fresh come June. Brides would carry a bouquet of flowers to help disguise any smell and it’s from there the “Bride’s Bouquet” was born and is a tradition still upheld today. “Piss Poor” this term even today, is often considered a vulgarity yet has a verifiable background. Urine was used to tan hides, although chemicals are often used today, their smell is equally gut-wrenching. A poor family would often use their collective “contributions” to create an income; they would be collected in a pot and taken to the tannery and they would be paid an amount for it. If this was the only source of income for the family you were deemed to be “piss poor”. As for “Don’t throw the baby out with the bath water”; when people bathed more often and in a tin bath in front of the fire it was the father who bathed first in the hottest and cleanest water, then followed the other male members of the family and finally down the women and children. By the time it was the youngest members to
have their turn the water would murky and almost like soup. It does make you wonder how many poor unfortunates found themselves being discarded with the bathing dregs. “Saved by the bell” has more macabre roots. People were sometimes, inadvertently buried alive. With lead contents high in cups and mainly whisky and water being drunk, this often lead to people losing consciousness due to lead poisoning and they were mistakenly considered dead, they would then be buried. This discovery was made at a time when there was a shortage of space to bury people and old coffins were being dug up for the grave to be used again, it was then that scratch marks on the inside of the lids were noticed. The practice then began of people being buried with a long rope being tied around their wrist and threaded through a hole in the coffin; the end would lay on top of the grave with a bell attached. Body snatching and grave robbing was a common occurrence and the folk doing the “graveyard shift” would listen out to hear for the bells ringing, alerting them there had been a mistake. “A Wake” came from around the same time when the body would be laid out on a table and friends and family would visit, eat etc. and wait to see if the body would wake. “Raining cats and dogs” comes from the time when all houses had thatch with no wood beneath and the warmest place for small animals, mice and bugs would be to lay in the
thatch to keep warm. When there was a heavy downpour the thatch would become slippery and they would fall off the roof. “Dirt Poor” came from the fact most people only had dirt floors. Only the wealthy had any other form of flooring, usually slate. This however, would become slippery when wet and they would put down straw (thresh) to help alleviate this. As more and more straw was added, when you opened a door, the thresh would slip out. A piece of wood was placed in the entrance way to combat this, hence the term “threshold”. Most people had a diet of mainly vegetables, a stew, in a huge pot that was added to daily. This gave rise to the rhyme “Pease Pudding hot, Pease Pudding cold, Pease Pudding in the pot, nine days old.” Pork was considered a luxury but if a family was lucky enough to have a man who provided bacon it was seen as a sign of wealth and prosperity and was often saved for special occasions. This brought about the term
“bringing home the bacon”. If you were to have guests visit the bacon would be hung for all to see and chunks were cut off, everybody would sit around, “chewing the fat”. “Upper Crust” is a term given to those of society who are wealthy or privileged. This saying stems from how a loaf would be divided. The top of the loaf, the “upper crust” was saved for the wealthy and most prosperous, the middle would be for family and the workers received the burnt, bottom part of the loaf.
Crossword Clues Clues Across
1 Indicator, meter (5) 4 Artist’s stand (5) 7 Not fit for purpose (8) 8 Back, behind (4) 9 Territory (8) 11 Highest point, peak (4) 12 Middle (6) 14 Yield (6) 16 Golf club (4) 18 Concepts, proposals (8) 20 Cab (4) 21 Muse, ponder (8) 23 Musical or colour harmony (5) 24 Layers (5)
Clues Down 1 2 3 4 5 6
Real, true (7) Overturn (5) Fade, wane (3) Conductor, terminal (9) Attendant, minion (7) Depart (5)
10 Indistinguishable (9) 13 Strain, stress (7) 15 Ineffectual, futile (7) 17 Respond, reply (5) 19 Lift, elevate (5) 22 Enmesh, nab (3)
Alice In Wonderland Word Search List Apple Apricot Avocado Banana Berry Cherry Citron Citrus Coconut Current Date Durian Fig Grape Guava Kiwi Kumquat
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Lemon Lime Loquat Lychee Mango Melon Orange Papaya Passion Fruit Peach Pear Plum Pluot Pomelo Prune Quince Raisin
PENSION Freedom Your Pensions, Savings, Investments and Protection newsletter from Kings Wealth Management Pension Freedom
It’s not often that pensions are a topic of conversation around the kitchen table, in the pub, or on a walk! The planned reforms from April, however, have got lots of people talking and thinking about pensions. And it’s not just pension planholders coming up to retirement that are considering this issue. It will also impact upon those in the workplace who are looking to build up their pension pot (or thinking about taking one out), recognising that the new rules may require a change in strategy. Furthermore, even those with an annuity may now get in on the act from April 2016, following the proposals in the Budget this March. So it’s clear that these changes will have an impact right across the board, irrespective of age, lifestyle situation, attitude to risk, and tax position. And whilst it’s good to chat about this amongst friends and colleagues, it also makes sense to take professional advice, should you want to find out more. We set out in this issue some of the key developments. Pension reforms In short, from 6 April 2015, anyone aged 55 or over will be able to take their entire ‘defined contribution’ pension fund however they want. This will enable most planholders to draw down as much, or as little of their pension, at anytime. The first 25% will be tax-free either as one lump sum, or as the first 25% of multiple lump sums. The remaining 75% would be taxed at the person’s marginal rate.
Historically, three-quarters of the 320,000 or so that retire each year opted for an annuity, which offers a regular guaranteed income. (Source: HM Treasury, March 2014) For many, an annuity may still be the best route, but it does open up a whole host of choices, such as: n Take it all out and spend/invest as you wish, whilst being mindful of the tax issues. n Take a lump sum, or a series of them. n Enter a flexi-access drawdown plan. n Buy an annuity from the pension scheme provider or via the Open Market Option. With drawdown and annuities there are already new options and, no doubt, more will be introduced as the industry gets to grips with this brave new world. Taxation at death Whilst pensions that were still invested could be passed on at death under the old rules, a sizeable 55% tax was applied. With the changes, the retirement pot of someone who dies before the age of 75 will no longer be taxed when passed on. Similar rules now apply
to annuities (joint life or an annuity with a guaranteed term). And a pension pot passed on after the age of 75 may be taxed at 45% for a lump sum payout or at the beneficiary’s marginal rate if taken as income. From 2016/17 it may all be at the marginal rate (the exact details still need to be confirmed). Again annuities are likely to be treated similarly. Choices ahead In this issue we take a broad look at annuities and drawdown, alongside other options should you want to get hold of some (or all) of your money. And this is why options such as buy-to-let, paying off debts, home improvements or gifting money to family members may also come into the mix. Whatever you opt for, it’s essential that you take advice before you act. HM Revenue & Customs practice and the law relating to taxation are complex and subject to individual circumstances and changes which cannot be foreseen.
Welcome... to this newsletter, which covers some of the key issues of the moment that may affect your financial wealth. n Kings Wealth Management is a trading style of MAB Wealth Management Limited, which is an appointed representative of Intrinsic Financial Planning Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Bob Rains, Kings Wealth Management, 2-4 New Street, Braintree, Essex CM7 1ES Tel: 01376 320999 Mob: 07843 006339 Email: bobrains@kingswealth.co.uk
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Your journey ahead... The general message from the chancellor when introducing the pension reforms was that people who have worked hard and saved all their lives should be free to choose what they do with their money. The new freedoms could mean that some people remain invested in their existing pension plan and draw an income from that. This is called an Uncrystallised Funds Pension Lump Sum (UFPLS). These funds are ‘uncrystallised’, as they have not yet been used to pay a scheme pension, buy an annuity, or designated to a flexi-access drawdown fund. There are numerous rules applicable to them, so talk to us to find out more. Annuities The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) recently investigated the annuity industry. It was concerned that too many pension planholders (60%) had opted for the plan offered by their scheme provider, or its thirdparty tie-up, rather than shopping around to see what else was on offer. The FCA believe that over three-quarters of them could have received more from elsewhere. And as part of that process, called the Open Market Option, the FCA felt that an even greater number would have done better (nine out of ten) if they qualified for an enhanced annuity. This is where the payout could be substantially more if a person suffered from a specific health or lifestyle issue such as diabetes, cancer, a heart condition, or from being a smoker.
The rationale behind the higher payout is that they’re not expected to live as long. It’s then down to them to beat the odds! Overall, the FCA suggested that: ‘for people with average-sized pension pots, the right annuity purchased on the open market offers good value for money relative to alternative drawdown strategies and may therefore be a good option for those with low risk appetites’. (Source: FCA, Annuities sales practices, December 2014) Drawdown At the other end of the scale are drawdown products, which could potentially offer a better return but do come with a higher degree of risk, as you’ll still be investing in the stock markets, etc.
you won’t be limited to just one chance to take up to a quarter of your pension pot as a tax-free lump sum. Alternatively, you can make as many withdrawals as you want and each time 25% of it will be tax-free. Although you have to be mindful of balancing the easy access to cash, with your investment strategy, and possible future tax bill for the other 75%. Drawdown planholders who took out their plan prior to 6 April 2015 can also enjoy these freedoms, if wanted, by converting to flexi-access. It’s quite likely that the rules will be tinkered with, and providers will continue to develop their offerings, so do make sure you talk to us.
This product is not suitable for everybody and has historically been more appropriate to those who have sizeable pension pots, and are less averse to risk. However, from April, this sector will also expand with the introduction of flexi-access drawdown funds which will be the format for all new drawdown plans from that date. These are designed to cater for more needs on the risk scale and fund size; with the existing restrictive rules affecting how much you can take out, being swept away. And the change in the tax rules means that
Cashing in an Annuity? From April 2016, up to five million pensioners may be given the freedom to sell their annuity for a cash lump sum, as proposed by the chancellor in the March 2015 Budget. Whilst the outcome of the General Election may have an impact on this, the government wants pensioners to also benefit from the new freedoms. Currently, people who have bought an annuity are unable to sell it without having to pay at least 55% tax. From April 2016, the tax rules will change so that
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people who already have an income from an annuity can sell it when they choose and would simply pay the usual rate of tax they pay on income, instead of 55%. If this option does materialise and it’s of interest, then it’s vital that you take advice, as the most suitable solution could simply be to stay with what you’ve got.
These changes affect those with defined contribution pensions, who need to turn their retirement pot into an income themselves - unlike those with final salary or defined benefit pensions who get a set income provided for them. Whilst you may be able to switch from a final salary scheme to enjoy the new freedoms, in most circumstances, it’s unlikely to be the best move.
Investment considerations Plenty of issues to assess in 2015.
Britain faces years of steeper public borrowing, slower debt reduction and higher taxes after May’s election, despite the economic recovery remaining on track, according to the Financial Times’ annual survey of economists. For 2015, they expect the ‘decent’ recovery to continue, even if expansion slows slightly. With the general view that whoever is in power from May, the new government is unlikely to stick with plans for deep spending cuts to reduce the deficit. And as for the impact on mortgages, not a single economist out of the 85 who expressed a view, thought that the Bank Rate would rise before the Summer, and a large number felt that the rate rise would be held back until at least November. (Source: Financial Times, Annual Economists Survey, January 2015) Your investment strategy To some extent the economic outlook may help shape your investment approach. Everyone, though, will have different objectives, which are also dictated by life stage, attitude to risk, available funds and tax position. For most investors, it’s sensible to spread the investment net in order to deliver measured growth. And, in most cases, to play the longer-game, rather than chasing potential short-term fluctuations
here and there. Broadly, if you were to consider four key asset classes: equities, property, fixed interest (such as government and corporate bonds) and cash - it’s equities that are likely to deliver the greatest level of risk (and potential reward). If you are working to a long timeframe, where you’re not immediately dependent on the money - you may decide that this should form the bulk of your investment portfolio. The general rule has been to move into less risky investments the closer you get to retirement - as you may have too little time to make up any shortfalls, should events turn against you. This could still be the best tactic, but with less emphasis now being placed on taking up an annuity at retirement (as a result of the pension reforms), alternative strategies may also need to be considered. And also it makes sense, at whatever age, to take advantage of the tax-efficient schemes that are on offer. The value of investments and the income from them can go down as well as up and you may not get back the amount originally invested. HM Revenue & Customs practice and the law relating to taxation are complex and subject to individual circumstances and changes which cannot be foreseen. Do get in touch if you want to talk further about your pension and investment objectives.
ISA news
a £3,480 rise over the previous year, and for 2015/16 it is £15,240.
Millions of Individual Savings Account (ISA) holders were given a boost when the chancellor abolished the ‘death tax’. ISAs can now be passed on to a spouse, or civil partner tax-free. Previously the ISA tax ‘wrapper’ passed away with its owner, and the money that had been sheltered became liable for income and capital gains tax.
Savers also have total flexibility to save or invest as they wish, up to these thresholds - in ‘cash’, or ‘stocks and shares’, or any combination of the two.
According to HM Revenue & Customs, 150,000 married ISA savers die each year, and the tax advantages died with them. But from 6 April 2015, the surviving partner will be able to invest as much into their own ISA as their spouse used to have, on top of their usual allowance. Improved limits and flexibility With an ISA any interest, income or growth you receive will be free from any personal liability to income or capital gains tax. For the 2014/15 tax year the individual limit was increased to £15,000,
And, from the 2015/16 tax year, savers will be given the freedom to take money out of their ISA and put it back in later in the year, without losing the ISA tax benefits, as long as the repayment is made in the same financial year as the withdrawal. Let us know if you have any questions, or would like to hear more about ISAs. A stocks and shares ISA is a medium to long-term investment, which aims to increase the value of the money you invest for growth or income or both. The value of investments and the income from them can go down as well as up and you may not get back the amount originally invested. HM Revenue & Customs practice and the law relating to taxation are complex and subject to individual circumstances and changes which cannot be foreseen.
Help-to-Buy ISA In the Budget, the government set out that it will launch in the Autumn an ISA product aimed at first-time buyers. According to the chancellor, George Osborne, this product is effectively a tax cut for first-time buyers, as the initiative will see the government deliver a 25% bonus to help towards the deposit. The scheme would enable the first-time buyer to save up to £200 a month towards their first home, receiving for example, a £50 bonus for every £200 saved. This 25% boost would be applied up to a maximum overall bonus of £3,000. Even better, it’s linked to one per person, so those buying together could both benefit. The bonus would be paid out when buying a first home that meets the eligibility criteria - up to £450,000 for a London property, and up to £250,000 elsewhere in the UK. Of course, the outcome of the General Election may have an impact on the scheme.
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Be a Landlord Here are some reasons why it may be worth looking at this area. However, if you do view it as a future home for your pension pot, do remember that dependent on what you’ve taken out, some of it may be taxed at your marginal rate, so you’ll need to do the maths. n Investor interest After suffering badly at the outset of the financial collapse back in 2007/8, buy-tolet has recovered enough to now account for over one in seven of all outstanding mortgage loans! Around 1.6m buy-to-let mortgages are now in place - an increase of almost 100,000 in a year. (Source: Council of Mortgage Lenders, Q3, 2014 figures) n Renter demand The UK is expected to see a continued population growth (rising from about 65m in 2015 to almost 72m by 2032). And, along with an increase in single occupancy, it will put even more pressure on the need to build the circa 200,000+ homes each year that are already required to meet the current demand. (Sources: Population - Office for National Statistics; Housing supply - Home Builders Federation, March 2014) n Renter attitudes Many renters are very happy to remain just that, as it delivers flexibility and doesn’t require them to jump through the more extensive credit check, affordability and evidencing of income hoops that may be applicable to securing a mortgage loan. Additionally, there would generally be the requirement to build up a decent-sized deposit for a future property purchase. Yet in the case of a third of private renters - no money is put aside at all. And, for those that do save, it may still take at least over four years to build up the required amount, when throwing into the mix the lower deposit options of the Help-to-Buy schemes.
(Source: Scottish Widows, Savings Report, released April 2014) n Future trends The above issues have contributed to the projection that the proportion of households renting privately is on course to hit over 35% by 2032, and combined with the social rented sector, it would mean over 50% of all homes may then be rented. (Source: Intermediary Mortgage Lenders Association, May 2014) n Landlord views During the fourth quarter of 2014, 41% of landlords surveyed said tenant demand was growing or booming, with just 3% of them describing tenant demand as declining. (Source: Paragon Mortgages, January 2015)
letting agent. As part of that process, you’d need to consider issues such as the right area, property type, typical renter (student, families, etc), regulatory and insurance requirements. And, of course, you’ll need to do the maths to work out the expected rental income vs. the cost of the loan, plus any additional expenses and possible void periods. Kings Wealth mortgage fee: A total fee of up to 1.5% of the mortgage amount may be payable on application and/or completion of your mortgage. Typically this would be £595. We will receive commission from the mortgage lender, in addition to the fees you pay.
If you’re thinking of entering this sector as a new landlord (or are an accidental one through house moves, inherited property, etc), then it’s important to take advice; from us, from letting agents and fellow landlords to establish the best way forward.
There is no guarantee that it will be possible to arrange continuous letting of the property, nor that the rental income will be sufficient to meet the costs of the mortgage. The value of your Buy-to-Let property and income from it can go down as well as up. You may also require advice on the legal and tax issues. The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate legal and taxation advice, and most Buy-to-Let mortgages.
You should not enter this sector lightly, as there are numerous regulations to comply with - and do decide if you want to manage it all yourself or pass some of it onto a
Your property may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
n Take advice So, if you’re already a landlord, then you’ll possibly concur with much of this and do talk to us if you’d like to review your borrowing options.
n The contents of this newsletter are believed to be correct at the date of publication (March 2015). n Every care is taken that the information in Money View is accurate at the time of going to press. However, all information and figures are subject to change and you should always make enquiries and check details and, where necessary, seek legal advice before entering into any transaction. n The information in this newsletter is of a general nature and does not constitute advice. You should seek professional advice tailored to your needs and circumstances before making any decisions.
We cover pensions, savings, investments and protection products, along with a number of other financial areas, so do contact us if you’d like to discuss your financial needs: Tel: 01376 320999 Mob: 07843 006339 Email: bobrains@kingswealth.co.uk
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Published by BlueStone Publishing. info@bluestonepublishing.co.uk Copyright: BlueStone Publishing Limited ©2015. MV6
One of the sectors that may benefit from the pension freedom is Buy-to-Let.
K i n g s W e a lt h M a n a g e m e n t Wealth Investments. Pensions Investments.
Kings Financial Mortagages Remortgages Buy to Let Help to Buy Home Movers Life Cover Critical Illness Cover Accident, sickness & unemployment cover Buildings & contents insurance Wills & trusts Business protection Agriculture protection
Robert Rains Kings Wealth Management
Kings property
Exceptional Customer Service and Client liaison Qualified specialists in all aspects for residential Sales and Lettings Access to Buyers through the Kings Group Database Prominent Window Display Advertising on rightmove.co.uk, zoopla.co.uk and primelocation.com Colour Newspaper and Magazine advertising. Members of The Property Ombudsmen Licensed Firm of The National Association of Estate Agents (MNAEA) Professional colour photography Eye catching professional colour property details Eye catching distinctive For Sale and To Let Boards
Stephen King Kings Financial
James Burke Kings Property
Kings, 2-4 New Street, Braintree, Essex CM7 1ES Tel: 01376 320999 31
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