Oracle on-Sea August 2019

February August 2019 2018

Your all-seeing local

OR CLE ORACLE

Leigh, Chalkwell, Thorpe Bay, Southchurch, Westcliff & the Garrison Southend Conservation & Shoeburyness Area

BRAND NEW SERVICE! Oracle Travel Offers p21 COMPETITION! Oracle 2019 Photographic Competition

LOCAL ISSUES! Is there a future?

COMING SOON! Southend Oracle Directory back page

Cover image ‘The Race is On’ by Frances Beckerman - Oracle Photographic Competition 2017 entry

Adjudicators: Vanessa Crocker Sandra Gundy Jena Pang

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August 2019

ORACLE

Qualified Foot Health Practitioner Hannah Brown Dip.FH, MCFHP, MAFHP

WELCOME

Over the years, Oracle has had numerous requests from residents and businesses asking for Oracle’s catchment area to be expanded. Having listened, Oracle has invested and this Autumn it is launching an online service, called ‘Southend Oracle Directory’. This will give residents further afield the opportunity to tap into Oracle’s reputable businesses.

Oracle Creative Media Ltd have built an impressive website which will ‘piggy back’ Oracle Publications strong ranking with Google, giving local businesses greater opportunities with online exposure. I have planned an initial 116,000 door drop campaign around the Southend Borough to support the launch, alongside social media and continued marketing. The Directory will give businesses their own private login so they can amend their Web Vert as many times as required plus many more great features. If your business is looking for further exposure pre-Christmas to help boost sales, then call me on 01702 393 838 for more information including introductory offers.

Treatment and advice for the following conditions: Nail Trimming Corn removal Callus / hard skin reduction Ingrowing toenails Verrucae Athletes foot Diabetic foot care Thickened nail reduction Fungal infections

All in the comfort of your own home

The visit includes a full medical history and foot health check as well as a neurological and vascular assessment Prices start from £25 Fully Insured and DBS Certified

Please call: 07754188368 Email: Feet1stFootcare@outlook.com

Okay, sales pitch over! For the last 4 years Oracle has held a very successful photographic competition along with Keith Hoskins of Picture Perfect, Leigh. This August you are all encouraged to snap away and send in your photographs. The competitors will not only win a great prize worth £175 but also have the opportunity of seeing their photographs printed in the Oracle magazine and publicised on Oracle’s social media. The categories for this year, open to all ages – Local Wildlife, Local Landscape and Local Architecture. For more information on how to enter this competition please turn to page 21.

Please send your photos to us by Monday, 19 August.

25 Years’ Experience

Happy Snapping!

Emma Wynne-Morgan Publisher

01702 393838

Oracle House, 11 Clarence Road, Southend-on-Sea, Essex SS1 1AN www.oraclepublications.co.uk info@oraclepublications.co.uk Oracle Publications and Creative Media @oracle_essex August 2019

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we are here and we are...

CONTENTS

Photo by Miriam Fleming

Is there a future?

Structural Calculations \ Building Control Applications \ Planning Applications Structural Openings RSJ & Lintel Sizing Structural Frames Extension Design Loft Conversions Foundation Sizing New Structural Roofs Structural Surveys

9/10

Local Issues by David Dedman

Oracle Photographic Comeptition 2019

13

Oracle competition

Essex police town centre teams

Structural Design for: New Build Houses & Flats Existing Houses Commercial Buildings

16

Article by Essex Police

Mix history with pleasure

20

www.structuralworks.co.uk

24

E: hello@structuralworks.co.uk

Oracle Travel by Francesca Wynne-Morgan

My Summer survival guide

T: 07977 510378

Salon advice by Craig Smith

Sausage and Egg picnic pie

42 Castleton Road \ Southend on Sea \ Essex \ SS2 4UD

28

Recipe by Judy Barden

What’s On

32

Useful Numbers

36

Advertiser Index

38

Advertorials Apollo Kitchens

6/7

White & Co

15

Gina Blundell

19

Brights Locksmiths

23

High-Tech Membrane

34/35

All rights reserved. No part of Oracle Publications UK Ltd may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means either wholly or in part without prior permission of the publisher. Oracle Publications UK Ltd is editorially autonomous and the opinions expressed are not those of the publisher unless expressly stated.

4

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August 2019

We’ve got it covered!

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August 2019

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Expert advice for your kitchen Apollo Kitchens have many years of experience in kitchen design and installation, they are a well-regarded company with years of experience and have built up an unbeatable reputation in the Southend-on-Sea area with many reviews by satisfied clients. Apollo not only offer kitchen design and supply with a full in-house installation service; they also offer replacement doors, bathrooms, fitted bedrooms and even home offices.

kitchens with their many ranges, they also do a

Kitchens Bedrooms & Bathrooms Magazine

and design for future modern living.

(KBB) gave showrooms across the UK visits from

Our expert advice

mystery shoppers, Apollo Kitchens received the best showroom in South East Essex in their Shopping Around Design and Retail Awards 2019, the award recognizes the best new designs in retail environments and experience of the designers.

service in any colour, matt or gloss that show’s their flexibility. The Terra range for example is a great value everyday kitchen and excellent value for money, beating competitors not only in cost but with better quality and features including a water resistant carcases to aid long service.

ARAN’s new impressive range called LAB 13 is going to change the way we think about our kitchens in the future it features technologies

If you are looking for expert advice on how to design a kitchen, whether your current kitchen is outdated and in need of a refresh or if you're in need of your ideal kitchen designing from scratch, with all the practicalities such as worktops, lighting and flooring, Apollo Kitchens is

As an independent showroom Apollo can offer

the service you’ve been looking for; don’t delay,

you much more choice and better value. They

call today.

can supply all the latest innovational appliances

Apollo Kitchens www.apollokitchens.co.uk 01702 616117 Boscombe House, 68b Boscombe Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS2 5JD

from Neff, Bosch, Siemens, AEG, Electrolux and BORA, with a range of products to suit all price bands. Apollo believes in a quality fit and that the final details are what finishes your kitchen.

ARAN kitchens Apollo were so impressed by ARAN Cucine Italian 6

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August 2019

August 2019

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Make your summer last longer with the NEW Chesney BBQ/heater

fire .; 7 HETAS Photo for illustration purposes only

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Tel/ Fax:

0 l 702 42606 7

www.fireplaceanddesign.co.uk

Showroom: 132 Kiln Road, Benfleet, Essex SSl lTE

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,..ii

• REGISTER

August 2019

LOCAL ISSUES

Is there a future?

High Streets across the country have been evolving for many years - Southend High Street being no exception.

Originally ‘The High Street’ mostly a range of terraced three and four storey housing to cope with the burgeoning population of Southend transformed into the retail shopping area we know today. During the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s, Southend High Street was one of the most highly valued (in rental value) High Streets in the UK outside Central London.

Why the change?

At my last count there were 22 vacant shop units in the High Street with boarded-up shop fronts and to-let signs with so called ‘street art’ on the boarded-up units. The High Street looks a very poor shadow of years gone by.

The Government could and should do far more to alleviate the problem. Rateable values based on the rental value of the property remain so high that potential occupiers will not take a lease setting up a business with a high payment in business rates to the local authority. The rateable August 2019

value assessment is dealt with by the Valuation Office Agency, a Government department which for a number of years has steadfastly refused to accept that the High Street requires radical reduction in rateable value and rates to attract businesses starting up or relocating.

A number of units have been let with rents equating to £30-£40 per square foot compared to the all time high in the early 2000s of £130 per square foot. This has not been taken into account by the VOA setting rateable values in 2017. The VOA are under instruction from Central Government to resist substantial falls in rateable value.

The Government has to obtain revenues from somewhere and business rates across the nation are a contribution to the Government coffers of £30 billion per annum. This could be reduced to half, based on true and fair rateable values, not just in Southend but across High Streets in general.

This is not the fault of Southend Council, but HM Government. However, car parking charges should be reduced by the

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9

Council in order to discourage out of town shopping.

It is also true to say rents for many years were too high and unsustainable given the onslaught of retail sales on the internet which are more than 25% of non-retail sales.

It is admitted that this is really beyond the control of Southend Council as the problem is very much private sector based with the exception of the Government intransigence relating to business rates payable.

Property values There needs to be a readjustment of rental values and in the long term this problem will resolve itself. Landlords will have to adjust their sites to accepting lower rents.

Upper accommodation above retail units in the High Street are now gradually being converted to self-contained flats. This is good news, but this has only occurred as a result of falling market values making a conversion to residential more viable.

Leases need to be shorter; we are now living in a fluid changeable society.

Rents should also be paid monthly and not quarterly to assist the cash flow of a start-up or even an established business.

Short term tenancy agreements should be permitted. Longer leases currently contain provision for upward only rent reviews which should be abandoned, all rent increases based on the cost of living CPI index.

10

Market values of retail properties will be required to be adjusted. Price falls of 20-40% cannot be ruled out. Overall, this may be bad news for landlords but would be of great benefit to the nation as whole.

This would encourage small businesses to start up in places like Southend High Street.

Family businesses could operate once more as was the case during the 1920s to 1960s.

To an extent at least this is beginning to occur in Southend but the whole process needs to be speeded up in order to bring life back into the High Street.

It is true to say Central Government has assisted small businesses by not making assessments for business rates where rateable value of the premises falls within certain criteria. This has been a great assistance to shop properties elsewhere in Southend in secondary and tertiary locations but has not assisted the High Street as rateable values are greater.

I am convinced the High Street could be rejuvenated and small local family businesses could once again operate profitably serving the community and bringing an attractive centre to Southend.

David Dedman FRICS Oracle welcomes thoughts from all sides as balance is very important. Write your letter in the comment section located under the relevant article on our website. oraclepublications.co.uk #SaveSouthend

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August 2019

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Specialists in Marble and Granite Kitchen & Bathroom Worktops Tailor-made Fireplaces to suit your home

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commercial & Residential gutter clearing service Leaves and moss in your gutter can lead to damp and rot in your property.

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August 2019

Flora & Fauna by Philip Wingfield – 2018 winner.

COMPETITION

Oracle Photo Competition 2019 It’s time to clean up those Kodaks and lose those lens caps because Oracle is, once again, looking for its local photographers for the 5th year running!

Give it your best shot

Again there are three categories this year, open to all ages – Local Wildlife, Local Landscape, and Local Architecture. The winner of each category get a half a day mentoring session and a free studio shoot and print for them and or family or friends, worth £175 per winner! Not only that, but the winning entries will also feature in Oracle's magazine and be put on display in Picture Perfect’s studio window on Leigh Road!

• Lighting is most dramatic in the early morning

You may use any camera, including smartphones, but your pictures must be high-resolution and of good enough quality to reproduce in the magazines.

All entries may be used by Oracle for any other purpose and the author will be credited where practicable. To enter, please send in up to three photos (one per category) with titles and/or a brief description, along with your contact details, to our email address: info@oraclepublications.co.uk, no later than Monday 19th August 2019. If you are under 18, please also include your age as this will be taken into account during judging.

To help you take that perfect picture, Keith has a few hints and tips to help you on your way:

• If you have a case on your smartphone, it’s best to

take it off and give the lens a wipe before shooting. and late afternoon/early evening.

• Unless it’s setting, taking a photograph directly into the sun can be dangerous for eyes and can also cause flare in the lens. Avoid this by shooting away from the sun or side-on to it.

• Wildlife often moves quickly so use the ’sport’

setting on your camera and a fast shutter speed setting. If your subject is moving across your vision then move your camera with it while you take the photo. This is called ‘panning’.

• Remember the ‘rule of thirds’ when composing

your shot, i.e. a shot looking across land out to sea usually looks best if either the sea or the land take up two thirds of the photo.

Good luck everyone!

Visit Keith’s website to see some of his awardwinning work: www.pictureperfect.pro

Professional Photographer Portraits • Weddings Events • Commercial August 2019

01702 474079 or 07931 593241 e: smile@PicturePerfect.pro www.PicturePerfect.pro 284 Leigh Rd, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 1BW

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PAULS

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August 2019

A family law firm with a heart All families hit difficult times so it is comforting to know that there are friendly, local lawyers on hand.

Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) for Financial Affairs and Health & Welfare and Wills Nobody wants to contemplate a situation where they are unable to manage their affairs due to lacking mental capacity.

Unfortunately, difficulties can arise if you are not properly prepared.

We can help you ensure that appropriate decisions are made on your behalf if you were to lose mental capacity. We are able to guide you through the process in a hassle-free way and with a straight forward approach.

We can assist you in obtaining an LPA and preparing a Will to ensure your wishes are met when you pass away.

Separation and arrangements for children Sadly, not all family unions work out as planned or hoped. Untangling the union by way of arrangements for children, financial affairs and uncoupling can be emotional and difficult on your own. If a prenuptial agreement is in place then all the better but some advance planning at the outset of August 2019

a family breakup can spare a great deal of unnecessary stress and expense.

Domestic abuse A wider set of behaviours are now recognised as domestic abuse including financial control, psychological torture, bullying, belittling, shouting and manipulation. We can advise how to secure the best protection if you are a victim of any of these behaviours.

Social services involvement with children Unexpected events can lead to difficulties in meeting the needs of children. Social Services are there to help, but sometimes you may need legal advice and assistance. We can assist and advise and also represent you if there are court proceedings.

White & Co have specialists who can assist you with all these matters. We can assess whether you would be eligible for legal aid but, if you are not, we are offering a discounted rate of ÂŁ90 including VAT for an initial consultation throughout September and October.

01702 340 340 info@whitesolicitors.co.uk www.whitesolicitors.co.uk

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15

Essex police town centre teams Monday 22 July saw an increase of officers across the county with Town Centre Teams.

Essex Police’s investment will place officers in 23 locations across the county including: Canvey, Rayleigh, Rochford, Southend and Wickford.

As part of the force’s dedication to visible, frontline officers, the 58 constables across the county will tackle the most prominent issues in local communities, making for a safer county and stronger relationships with the public.

Officers in Town Centre Teams will focus on community concerns, including drug dealing and antisocial behaviour. Under the guidance of their sergeants, they will work closely with local businesses and support groups to get to the root of ongoing issues and tensions and investigate appropriately.

They will proactively seek opportunities for partnership working to highlight the crucial work taking place in local spaces, giving voices to communities across Essex.

Town Centre Teams Speaking about the creation of the Town Centre Teams, Chief Constable BJ Harrington, said: “My priorities for

16

the force are clear: we will be visible to deter crime in the community, we will provide better and consistent support to victims and to the vulnerable and we will act against anyone who is intent on inflicting violence in our county.

“With the introduction of the Town Centre Teams, we can be at the centre of these conversations. The public know their local area the best, and so do local officers who can put their boots on the ground and their faces in the village hall. If people have got an issue, or suspect criminal acts are taking place in their community, I need them to feel comfortable reporting it to us. If we work together we can keep the tide turning and put a stop to antisocial behaviour, drug dealing, and other insidious crimes that cause irreparable harm to families, friends and whole communities."

“With a record number of officers passing out in a single ceremony last month, our force is continuing to grow. I am so proud that we’re able to have response-trained officers to answer your 999 calls and, on top of that, provide additional officers to your community.”

SouthendCPT@essex.pnn.police.uk

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August 2019

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August 2019

Network Marketing Busting a few myths What’s so great about network marketing then?

I had the same thoughts when I first came across it a while ago now. I had vaguely heard about it, however it wasn’t on my radar when working in London so I didn’t really think about it. After all, at school we were taught to study hard and then apply for a great job which paid well and then retire….

When I came across Forever Living and their aloe vera products, it was a surprise to me that you could physically drink aloe vera. My gut was ok, however it could be much better as I wasn’t that great at drinking fluids and started to look at what I was putting into my body. I can honestly say, these changes as well as drinking my daily shot of aloe, i’ve learned over the last few years how my body works and to nurture it with nutrients and goodness.

Your gut health may not be something that you have thought about, however putting up with poor digestive health can directly impact your immune system, mental health and other areas of wellbeing.

For more information connect with me via my website ginablundell.com or call me on 07710498606 or email hello@ginablundell.com.

Gina Blundell 07710 498 606 hello@ginablundell.com ginablundell.com

My Journey

My journey in network marketing started over five years ago now and I was very skeptical at what I had believed it was at first. I’ve learned so much since i've been on this incredible journey. Firstly about myself and about other people too. Learning the skills has been challenging at times and great at other times. My background was in accountancy. It wasn’t a passion, I just fell into it as a means to an end when I started working in London. When I had my son Sam, I was a mum at home for eleven years and was actively looking to work differently.

My mindset has changed so much since I first started from the books that I’ve read, the trainings within the company as well as generic training in network marketing. It’s like starting any other business except you’re in business for yourself but not by yourself.

August 2019

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19

Norman Rockwell (1894-1978) was an iconic American Illustrator, who illustrated covers for The Saturday Evening Post for 47 years. The public loved his often-humorous depictions of American Life. In January 1941, USA President Franklin D. Roosevelt gave one of the most important speeches of the 20th Century. This inspired Rockwell to produce four paintings to illustrate the “Four Freedoms”. During WW2, these paintings travelled the United States, raising millions of dollars to support the war effort.

Mix history with pleasure A vital part in history, Caen in Normandy, is bustling with memories of the past from William the Conqueror to WW2.

With just a quick hour flight via Flybe, from London Southend, Caen is extremely accessible. The whole experience is delightfully relaxing, especially with the newly opened Ruuby beauty in the departure lounge, whom offer drop-in mini treatments from manicures to massages for all. Or if you are more organised, book in advance on southendairport.com.

With a very warming reception from the locals, Caen is the perfect place to soak up history or sunrays on the vast beaches.

Rockwell & Roosevelt - The Four Freedoms "Freedom of Speech"

by Norman Rockwell

For the first time ever, the “Four Freedoms” paintings have left American soil and are being exhibited at the Caen Memorial for the 75th anniversary of the Allied Landings and the Battle of Normandy until 27th October 2019. This is a great opportunity to see how the illustrations were put together, as well as to see other iconic pictures of Rockwell’s.

Book your exhibition tickets here: www.normandy. memorial-caen.com.

local's memories of WW2 It is recommended for a minimum of four hours to soak up all the detailed history provided at this wonderfully put together Caen Memorial museum to receive the full experience of WW1 through to the Cold War. Just a short distance from Caen, along the River Orne is the famous Pegasus Bridge. This was the first place to be liberated on D-Day, 6th June 1944. Then at the mouth of the river you will reach Ouistreham with its stretches of golden beaches.

At the tourist centre grab your headphones and sun parasol, for only €6, to be transported back to the occupation of WW2 and listen to local’s memories while wandering around the town on the brand new walking tour. This is an unforgettable experience as you really do feel as if you are back in time as landmarks are pointed out to you as you walk with the GPS tracker. It is important to remember and respect what happened here. Lest we not forget.

Caen is perfect for a long weekend of discovery for all ages. From William the Conqueror’s castle founded in 1063, to Caen Memorial, to cider orchards, to theme parks. Stay at one of Caen’s wonderful hotels such as the 4* Best Western Plus Le Moderne, located in the heart of the town which has reasonably priced rooms. With so much to do, it’s ideal to just hop over the Channel and explore!

By Francesca Wynne-Morgan 20

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August 2019

August 2019

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TV over fireplace local specialist BEFOR

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Visit our new showroom Visit our showroom or contact us to discuss your room transformation.

t: 01702 904002 e: info@thornwoodfireplaces.com w: thornwoodfireplaces.com

Fireplaces • Electric Fires • Gas Fires • Stoves • Radiators • Bespoke Design Service

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August 2019

All locksmiths are the same, aren't they?

You’d have thought that like most industries, locksmiths would have to go through stringent testing or a Government accreditation scheme, but the truth should come across as quite frightening…

After all, a ‘locksmith’ is dealing with your security, giving you advice, supplying locks,

Trust & confidence paramount When searching for a Locksmith or security Company, trust and confidence should be paramount and evidence that the company has been around for a reasonable time period, a company with a rich heritage in the town

keys, installing home alarms, CCTV etc, so why

perhaps or a company that can demonstrate

wouldn’t they have to prove firstly who they

their qualifications and abilities.

are and then be able demonstrate that they

The name ‘Brights Locksmiths LTD’ should

have the skills to do the job required?

spring to mind when talking about the real

The fact is that ANYONE can legally call

deal. Established in Southend for nearly

themselves a locksmith and thereby set up a

100 years and using quality products with a

company and turn up in a smart van looking

2-year guarantee as standard demonstrates

like they know what they’re doing, leaving

confidence in their craftsmanship and

you the customer believing that they’re a

customer care programme.

professional, which the scaremongers will love!

don’t Google it, just call Brights Locksmiths

Rogue Locksmiths

LTD and we’ll throw in a FREE Home Security

With so many rogue Locksmiths out there, it’s difficult for ‘bona fide’ companies to be viewed as any different from fraudsters calling themselves Locksmiths, especially when anybody can pay to be in the top position on a website search.

August 2019

So, when you’re looking for a Locksmith,

check too for good measures.

Brights Locksmiths 01702 346274 info@brightsgroup.com www.brightslocksmithsltd.co.uk

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23

BEAUTY

My Summer survival guide ‘Going anywhere nice on your holidays?’

The question may be a hairdressing cliché but I admit, it is used a lot. To be fair, with the kids now off school for six weeks, it is a perfectly reasonable question. Especially as for many of us, the long summer break represents a chance to travel, kick back and soak in the sun.

However, August in foreign climes can be challenging. Not all of us are blessed with a Love Island contestant’s physique and temperatures in the mid to high 30s, or higher, can present a series of problems for your skin.

The most obvious concern is sunburn but other issues, such as humidity and sweating, should be considered.

Greater Humidity

Ironically, greater humidity can be a godsend to people who have dry or dehydrated skin. You may be able to briefly see an improvement in your skin’s condition but if you’re not drinking enough water and knocking back the local coffee and booze instead, you’re in for more than a banging headache.

It’s a given that heat makes us sweat. The result of which can be unsightly spots. In these circumstances, the obvious and most sensible thing to do is wear breathable materials, like 100% cotton, stay hydrated and cool, and shower whenever you feel that layer of sweat clinging to you.

If you’re sunning yourself by the pool, regular dips

will lower your core body temperature and help to prevent heatstroke.

Apres sun, if you begin to see the early signs of spots, use a salicylic acid cleanser (available locally in places like Boots and Superdrug) as a wash for the affected areas of your skin.

UV Rays

Summer is, of course, the time when we are most exposed to dangerous levels of UVB rays – whether at home or abroad. UVB rays are the type of UV ray that cause sunburn and can cause irreparable damage to skin cells, so prevention is always better than attempted cure.

It is good sense to make sure you’re wearing an SPF of at least 30 that protects you from both UVA and UVB everywhere that could be exposed to light. If you’re fair-skinned, my advice would be to opt for factor 50 sun cream or moisturiser.

Finally, heat rash can be a real pain. Soothing, calming ingredients are key to easing this condition.

Probiotic cleansers and moisturisers are your friend; exfoliating acids and scented, stripping products are your skin’s worst enemy when heat rash strikes.

A ceramide wash or cream will help to ease it and you can easily pick up a top-notch product from stores such as Body Shop, Holland & Barrett or Debenhams.

by Craig Smith Director of Grateful Heads Hair Salon

Providing Providing expert expert hair care hair care to Essex to Essex for 30 foryears.

30 years.

Isn’t Isn’t it time it time you made you made your your headhead grateful? grateful?

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DISCOUNT CARPET WAREHOUSES LIMITED

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advertorial

Has Your Double Glazing Steamed Up? Established for over a decade Cloudy2Clear windows have become a leading company for glass replacement.

Issues with double glazing can often be gradual and may only be noticed during a clear sunny day or during the winter. A failed glass unit may no longer provide you with the protection you need or be energy efficient. Why not spend a few minutes checking your home to see if you have any failed double glazing?

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50g/2oz mature cheddar, grated oil, for greasing 2 x 375g sheets ready-rolled puff pastry

Method

FOOD

Sausage and Egg picnic pie

This recipe was from one of my cookery demonstrations and was a firm favourite with everyone. It’s fairly straightforward to make and if you have visitors, serves a crowd.

Ingredients: 6 medium free-range eggs 600g/1lb 6oz good-quality Lincolnshire pork sausages, skinned 2 small dessert apples, peeled, cored and roughly grated Bunch of spring onions, finely chopped Small bunch of fresh flat leaf parsley, chopped 1 tbsp each freshly chopped thyme and sage Large pinch cayenne pepper ½ tsp each salt and ground white pepper 1 tsp ground mace or nutmeg ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper 3 tbsp crème fraîche

2. Split the sausages, remove the skin and break up the sausage meat into small pieces, then place in a bowl. Squeeze as much juice as possible from the grated apple, then add the apple to the sausage meat. Mix with all the remaining ingredients, except the remaining egg and the pastry.

3. Unroll 1 sheet of the pastry onto a large baking sheet lined with baking parchment. Arrange half of the sausage filling down the centre of the pastry, leaving a 5cm border, then arrange the whole peeled eggs in a row on top, lengthways. Top this with the remaining filling and shape with your hands to cover the eggs.

Enjoy!

½ bunch of fresh chives, chopped

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C/fan180°C/gas 6. Place 5 of the eggs in a pan of cold water and bring to the boil, then simmer gently for 3 minutes for softboiled. Plunge the eggs into a bowl of cold water and leave to cool completely before removing the shells. Set aside.

4. Crack the remaining egg into a bowl and beat gently. Brush some over the edges of the pastry.

Unroll the other sheet of pastry and drape over the sausage filling and press down well to seal in the filling. Trim the pastry and crimp around the edges with a fork, or between your thumb and forefinger.

Brush the top of the pie with the remaining egg and make a hole or several slashes in the top to release the steam. Chill for at least 10 minutes, then bake for 55 minutes-1 hour until golden brown.

5. Remove from the oven and set aside to rest for about 10-15 minutes before cutting into slices. Serve with the crunchy tomato gratin, the homemade salad cream and some dressed leaves.

To get ahead: The completed pie will keep for up to 2 days in the fridge.

Serves 12-16

1 tbsp wholegrain mustard 75g/3oz fresh white breadcrumbs

by Judy Barden Next month: Oaty Fish and Prawn Gratins

Have you written a WILL? Call Clive for a FREE Will review today on 01702 393838 e: info@oracleestateplanning.co.uk www.oracleestateplanning.co.uk

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LET THE SUNSHINE IN WITH BIFOLD OR SLIDING DOORS, FLUSH WINDOWS OR A MAYBE A NEW CONSERVATORY FROM CLIMATEC HOME IMPROVEMENTS

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WHAT’S ON RIDELONDON 100

DATE 4th August 2019 VENUE Not specified

TIME Not specified

Ride with friends and family at the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 19 – limited spaces available! Visit www.prudentialridelondon.co.uk

THE SOUTHEND PIER PUPPET FESTIVAL DATE 3rd/4th August 2019 TIME 11:00 - 17:00 VENUE Southend Pier Returning for it's 31st year, The Southend Pier Puppet Festival is an annual event not to be missed. A free event but Pier admissions apply.

FREDA PARRY PUBLIC SINGING COMPETITION 2019 TIME 18:30 DATE 7th September 2019 VENUE St Augustine's Church, Thope Bay, SS1 3JH

Hear the best local talent in Essex, be judged by professionals as they compete for a £1500 prize.

FREE OUTDOOR CINEMA: CORALINE

TIME 15:00 - 17:00 DATE 10th August 2019 VENUE Focal Point Gallery, Elmer Ave, Southend SS1 1NS Free Outdoor Cinema screenings at Big Screen Southend returns for the fourth year running.

LEIGH FARMERS MARKET

TIME 10:00 - 12:00 DATE 16th August 2019 VENUE Leigh-on-Sea Community Centre, 71 Elm Road One of the longest running markets in the Essex area which prides itself on delivering local produce to residents and providing a range of stalls selling various types of homegrown produce. If you are interested in hosting a stall, call 01702 716288 or email council@leighonseatowncouncil.gov.uk.

FAMILY PUPPET SHOW ON STRAND WHARF TIME 12:30 - 14:30 DATE 29th August 2019 VENUE Strand Wharf, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 A free family event in the beautiful surroundings of the Leigh Estuary. No need to book. Face paining and refreshments available.

FREE OUTDOOR CINEMA: JUMANJI

TIME 15:00 - 17:00 DATE 17th August 2019 VENUE Focal Point Gallery, Elmer Ave, Southend SS1 1NS Free Outdoor Cinema screenings at Big Screen Southend returns for the fourth year running.

SOUTHEND CARNIVAL 2019

DATE 17th August 2019 TIME 18:00 - 00:00 VENUE Southend Seafront Attracting around 20,000 people to Southend seafront with over 60 floats and acts, the Southend carnival procession is one of the largest in the UK.

THE FOODIE FEST

DATE 25th August 2019 TIME No specific time VENUE Chalkwell Park From tasty little bites to full on indulgence, The Foodie Fest has something for every gastrophile, and is coming to Chalkwell Park on Bank Holiday Sunday 25th August 2019! For one day only the lovely people of Leigh and Southend will be playing home to the very best eateries, restaurants and pop-ups to celebrate that most British of activities - the outdoor feast! Entrance is free.

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Maximise your natural light with a beautiful skylight

Free survey for roof and room design A wide range of lanterns and skylights available All roof lanterns have an aluminium finish All our skylights are compliant with Building Regulations

Roof lanterns look great inside and out

Pilkington self-clean temperature glass as standard All structural works undertaken by High-Tech All internal works inclusive of new electrics and lighting A complete extension or conservatory thermally efficient transformation

High-Tech Roofing have installed over 10,000 flat roofs along with 1500 plus skylights and roof lanterns. Every roof installed comes with a LIFETIME guarantee. Let us, a company you can trust, transform your extension or conservatory into a stunning orangery style room.

All waterproofing products will have our LIFETIME guarantee as standard

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Brochure and free sample available on request

For a Free Quotation

Are you retired?

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Advertisement Feature

Do you own a conservatory not fit for purpose?

There are literally many 1000’s of home owners throughout the UK who own a conservatory, it is without doubt that a high majority are totally inefficient during the summer and winter months.

Is this you, do you own a conservatory that is really not fit for purpose?

A high number of conservatories installed during the late 80’s, 90’s and early 2000’s will have a polycarbonate roof. A roof with no insulation value and virtually zero protection from direct sunlight. This gives you a room which is far too hot during summer and has a fridge effect in winter. You also have a roof which is difficult to keep clean as well as being a haven for insects.

The frustrating thing for many owners is that the conservatories are in a satisfactory condition, all double glazed with many years of life to offer. More and more home owners are opting to have a more thermally efficient roof installed.

High-Tech have various options available. The first and most popular is to create a thermally efficient sky room by removing the existing roof. A timber frame roof will be constructed to the same standards as if you had

a new extension built. Timber joists are then reinforced to accept a glass lantern or flat roof light. Treated timber boarding and warm roof insulation is fitted along with new external UPVC roof line and guttering products. It is then made permanently water tight with our lifetime guaranteed flat roof system.

The glass roof light is installed.

Followed by internal installation of a new conventional plaster board ceiling along with lighting etc. The ceiling is plastered ready for painting.

Thus, giving you a beautiful sky room orangery, oozing natural light.

Another option would be to install a tiled roof system manufactured by Leka systems. This will keep the new roof to the same dimension’s as the existing roof. Sky lights can be installed to create natural light, with a large range of tile colours available.

Internally, the vaulted ceiling will

be plastered ready for painting and electrics installed. This creates a more conventional living space; the vaulted ceiling offers a feeling of more space and most importantly, a thermal efficient room to use all year round.

High-Tech will always remove the existing roof and comply with building regulations.

High-Tech will create a luxurious living space. The tiled roof conversion offers a more closed in style of room with a high vaulted ceiling. The orangery style sky room with the glass lantern or sky light will not only offer the WOW factor, it will also give all the natural light required.

Bring your conservatory back to life, add value to your home and enjoy the comforts. High-Tech offer very completive funding options along with interest free credit. Terms & Conditions available on request.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE SPRING & EARLY SUMMER SALE AND SAVE 20% ON ALL GLASS LANTERNS AND SKY LIGHTS.

The Problem

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There are limited early summer installation dates still available.

ALONG WITH A FURTHER £600 DISCOUNT making it a great time to replace your conservatory roof with High-Tech.

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