Leigh oracle aug 2013 web

Leigh-on-Sea

August 2013

ORACLE Leigh at a glance

Est. Oct 2006. Circulation 5,500

Oracle Competition WIN! ÂŁ50 worth of goodies from The Fragrance Shop

Local Issues

Thames Sailing Barge Trust

Hair & Beauty

The Mane Attraction of Wimbledon

Oracle Gardening Watering Tips

Discount Vouchers See page 11 for vouchers

LEIGH-ON-SEA NOW OPEN - 29 RECTORY GROVE, LEIGH-ON-SEA Cover photography by Rachael Pereira Photography www.rachaelpereira.com

NEW AREAS NEW NAME

Oracle-on-Sea why the change?

S

eptember’s Oracle editions will be

This makes both Oracle magazines unique and this

celebrating 8 years of trading and as

September’s editions will have a combined

part of this celebration there will be a free

circulation of 12,000. Going forward, September’s

increase to the circulation by a further 1200 homes

edition

in the Leigh area, to include more homes in

Oracle-on-Sea to incorporate the new and

Chalkwell and Southend’s Conservation Area.

potentially expanding areas, Thorpe Bay Oracle will

Part of Oracle’s success is understanding what its

of

Leigh

Oracle

will

become

remain the same.

clients require and within that remit it

All businesses will be pleased to know that there will

continues to provide a quality vehicle that

be no increase in advertising rates and for

enables its clients to target the correct market,

everybody’s information both Oracle magazines have

ensuring great results for either their services or

held their rates for the past four years. Please book

products.

early to guarantee your space for this special month.

01702 393838 info@orclepublications.co.uk

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

ORACLE

Leigh

OR ACLE

publisher’s letter

O

racle is expanding due to popular demand and I am delighted to announce that from September’s edition the Leigh Oracle will be delivered to an additional 1200 homes making the circulation 6700. This edition will be renamed and known as Oracleon-Sea to incorporate the new areas which will include further roads in Chalkwell and Southend’s Conservation area. Oracle’s clients will be pleased to hear that Oracleon-Sea’s advertising prices will remain the same until further notice, so don’t hesitate to call me to reserve your space for September’s editions.

This month’s front cover images are gorgeous and have been supplied by wedding and lifestyle portrait photographer, Rachael Pereira. The photos reflect the emotions, characters and family connections.Please look at the website for further examples of work:w: rachaelpereira.com t: 07958 748978 e: rachael@rachaelpereira.com The Fragrance Shop, is opening an exciting new store in Southend High Street on 3rd August and to celebrate they have kindly donated £50 worth of The Fragrance Shop goodies for this month’s Oracle competition. The Fragrance Shop will be handing out goodie bags to the first 100 customers. www.thefragranceshop.co.uk To enter the competition please give full contact details via email to info@oraclepublications.co.uk or by post to the address below.Closing date 29thAugust 2013 Enjoy the sunshine.

Emma Wynne-Morgan Publisher

01702 393838

Floral Designs for all Occasions

Weddings Funerals Birthdays Anniversaries

39 Alexandra Street, Southend, Essex SS1 1BW

www.oraclepublications.co.uk info@oraclepublications.co.uk

www.twitter.com/oracle_essex www.facebook.com/oraclepublications

Call Carol: 07896 309585 www.bunchesandbows.co.uk info@bunchesandbows.co.uk

Printed by EVONPRINT, Small Dole, Sussex 01273 494631 AUGUST 2013

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

3

ORACLE contents

G R A S S R O OTS L A N D S C A PI N G L A N DS C A PI N G PAT IO S & D EC KI NG TU R F IN G F EN C I N G G A R D E N C LE A R A N C E T RE E W ORK WAT E R F EATU RE S DRI V E WAYS F UL LY I NS URE D

Local Issues Thames Sailing Barge Trust

By Gareth Jones

9/10 NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL 24 YEARS EXPERIENCE.

CAL L MIK E FOR A FR E E QUOTATION O N

Kitchen Planning Interior Design by Samantha Gundy

14

The Mane Attraction of Wimbledon Hair & Beauty by Craig Smith

16

Southend Carnival Let’s Celebrate!

20

Amy makes waves Cultured Club

22

French Strawberry Tart Judy's Recipe Page

26

Watering Tips Oracle Gardening

30

Anyone for Tennis?

Health & Beauty by Cris Ramis

32

Why dogs bite Dog Tips by Vicky Kelly

36

0 1 2 6 8 4 5 6 1 4 0 / 0 77 5 6 9 4 1 5 4 4 MJ . GR A S S R OOTs HOTM AIL .CO . UK

HED ESTABLIS ARS OVER 30 YE

ESSEX CLADDING The PREMIER installers of UPVC roofline products

Bargeboards • Cladding • Fascias • Soffits Installation • Guttering - All Sizes & Colours

Local Primary School Cricket in Safe Hands Oracle Sport by Chris Bunce

38

Oracle Vouchers

11

Diary Dates

28

T:01702 584058 M:07771 553003

Advertiser Index

42

19 Withypool, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS3 8BH

4

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

Call our specialist team for advice or for a free no obligation quote

www.essexcladding.com essexcladding@btinternet.com

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2013

Carpets, Vinyls, Rugs

ED H IS BL TA ES

27

RS A YE

Laminate Flooring & Remnants

640 Sutton Road Southend-On-Sea Essex, SS2 5PX

Trade Carpets

Open Daily: 9.00am - 5.30pm

SALE NOW ON 50% OFF Tel: 01702 612424/5

AUGUST 2013

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

s a l e s @ t r a d e c a r p e t s . f r ee s e r v e . c o . u k w ww. t r ad e c a r pe t s s o u t h e n d . c o .u k

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

5

6

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2013

s ’ r e m Sumreeze! ab ne and now o t s 8 t s lo Vanessa

20

years of years of life-changgingg life-changing weight w eight loss loss

Before losing 8 stone with LighterLife Vanessa was self-conscious and hid behind baggy clothes. Now she’s never felt so confident and is making the most of life.

To find out more, contact:

Judy Hoskins Leigh on Sea 01702 710900

lighterlife.com/judyhoskins

Discover the real secret to life-changing weight loss www.lighterlife.com ©LighterLife UK Limited 2012. All rights reserved.

AUGUST 2013

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

7

Want to impress your friends & family with your own wood-fired Pizza oven?

FREE

T w ool K

with orth it eve £120 ry o ven

Cook authentic Italian pizzas that taste great and are healthy in a matter of seconds in your own home.

• Ovens start from 600cm sq. to 2m sq.

• Can be used along side BBQ. • Brilliant all year round • Can cook Spit-Roast Pig, Rotisserie Chickens, Succulent Pig, Stews, Grilling, Breads etc

WOOD-FIRED PIZZA OVEN

Call William : 07780706254

8

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2013

Local Issues

Thames Sailing Barge Trust

T

he Thames sailing barge trust traces its origins back to 1948. In that post war era it was becoming plain that the traditional working life of the Thames Barge was coming to an end. For centuries these crafts in increasing sophisticated form had been a vital link between the Thames in docklands London and the rivers and estuaries of East Anglia and North Kent.

Trade was in both directions and linked with the international maritime trade of London.

It is no coincidence that ‘Henry Dodds the Golden Dustman’ started barge racing because barges carried horse feed in to London and it's end product back to fertilise the fields.

AUGUST 2013

Barge matches started in 1865 and continue to the present day. These matches helped to develop the split sail form of the Thames barge into a vessel that as well as being able to be handled by a man and a boy were a real racing vessel in the right hands.Their flat bottoms meant they could carry around a hundred tons of cargo but go anywhere and float on and off beaches to load and unload from horses and carts. They had no need of sophisticate docks and loading facilities.

The trust has two wooden barges and a metal lighter. All are regarded by National Historic Ships as important. Keeping these vessels operational is a challenge. Our oldest vessel is Centaur which was built in 1895, she has been extensively refitted by the club and will this winter have the outer sacrificial layer of her bottom renewed.

Pudge is a Dunkirk little ship, built in 1922 she recently completed works to her stern which gave her a new certificate for 5 years and enabled her to participate in the Queens Jubilee parade of sail. Sailorman, out lighter , is currently having her plate work renewed at Maldon, her home port. www.oraclepublications.co.uk LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE 9

The Trust’s main aim apart from preserving the barges in working order is educational and is a registered charity. While much of the restoration work is done by professional shipwrights we encourage apprenticeship schemes so that skills are passed on to future generations. We use volunteers extensively for routine maintenance which is an ongoing need.

Our skippers, mates and third hands, traditionally known as Sailormen are volunteers and we have a training programme which last year produced three new mates. As well as the Sailormen the barges are now fitted out to carry 12 people on weekend or longer trips in the Thames estuary.These may be young or old and they will have a healthy, stimulating voyage learning something of what it was like to be a Sailorman one hundred years ago. We also take people with us on barge matches and the spectacle of a dozen or so of these majestic crafts in competition is wonderful to behold.

Membership of the trust is open to all and you can come on a sail before being a member . Full details are on our website www.bargetrust.org . This also contains extensive details of the trust, essential

contacts, sailings, booking and membership details . Eight times a year we publish the "Golden Chaffcutter" which lets members know the up to date details on activities and barge history . We also report on Facebook.

I started with the trust on a National Maritime Museum charter in 1994 subsequently joining as a member and then the committee. I am now secretary ,trustee and fund raiser . Each year since 1994 I have been on at least one charter learning more and more about barges and the life of a Sailorman. It has been most rewarding.

The trust has been well supported by its members and by national and Essex charities . Notable are Essex Heritage Trust, Garfield Weston , Pilgrim Trust , Magnox and the Idlewilde Trust . We are in discussions with the Heritage lottery fund and are looking for sponsorship to continue our work. Do join us if only for a weekend sail, You’ll be hooked and your help and support will be appreciated for one our more of the diverse tasks which have made the trust work for 65 years, helping to preserve Britain's magnificent maritime heritage for generations to come.

O

For more information, please contact:

www.bargetrust.org 10

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2013

#

RELIABLE CLEANING SERVICE

Buy one meal Get one free

Making your home sparkle!

(excluding drinks) (monday - Thursday)

01702 589494 www.thecafemasala.co.uk 187 Broadway, SS1 3EX

Family run business Reliable service Same cleaner every time Weekly/fortnightly/ on/off cleans

Of House Wine!

T he P al m Tree

FREE BOTTLE

80 Leigh road SS9-1BZ

with a table of 4 or more

01702 467793

www.thepalmrestaurant.co.uk

ONLY

One voucher per customer (OFFER ENDS 31st August 2013 ) T&C APPLY

Lunchtimes Tues - Sat (OFFER ENDS 31st August 2013 ) T&C APPLY

ph £9.00

£15.00 SAVING! 1 x free membership

THE CLEANING COMPANY 07923652819 01702617543 www.cleaning-co.co.uk

(for new members)

or 01702 710900

1 x free group session (for existing members)

One voucher per customer

lighterlife.com/judyhoskins

(OFFER ENDS 31st August 2013 ) T&C APPLY

60% off!

anti-ageing facial, now only £20 01702 431970 www.essexlaserlipo.com By appointment only

One voucher per customer (OFFER ENDS 31st August 2013 ) T&C APPLY

20% Off of 2 lessons per week

Victorian / Geometric Floor Tiling Specialist Paths, Hallways & Steps Designed & Installed

01702 314674 07825 629124 516 London Road SS0 9LD

Free bottle of house wine with every 2 people dining

ALL ASPECTS OF WALL & FLOOR TILING Please call for a free quote today t: 07900 258359 / 01702 541489

(monday - Thursday)

01702 713040 1350 London Road, SS9 2UH

e: info@mcgtiling.co.uk

AUGUST 2013

One voucher per customer (OFFER ENDS 31st August 2013 ) T&C APPLY

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

Leigh-on-sea

One voucher per customer (OFFER ENDS 31st August 2013 ) T&C APPLY

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

11

12

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2013

ADVERTISEMENT

Cloudy2Clear Windows – Service With A Smile!

It’s been a crazy few months for Cloudy2Clear Windows.

The company which specialises in repairing windows which are steamed up, broken or damaged by replacing the panes – not the frames has grown rapidly as homeowners take advantage of their services.

Managing Director Chris Miller feels that it’s all about service.

‘Our product is simple.

If your double glazing is misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 5 year guarantee. But it’s not just about saving people money, although

that obviously helps.

Many tradespeople have struggled since last year and I honestly feel that during the good times a minority perhaps didn’t focus on customer care as much as they should have done. We make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle. I often get comments back from customers on how they really didn’t expect that sort of service which, in a way, is very sad for the service industry as a whole.’

Cloudy2Clear service the Southend, Leigh on Sea and Thorpe Bay areas DQG &KULV LV ÀQGLQJ WKDW his approach is a major

factor in his success.‘The truth is that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I get from doing a good job but also it makes good business sense. I get a huge amount of business from friends and family of people I’ve done work for,

which just goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated.’

So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Chris a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!

78)%1)( 94 (39&0) +0%>-2+# (SR´X VITPEGI XLI *VEQIW NYWX XLI 4ERIW

&VSOIR SV (EQEKIH ;MRHS[W# *EYPX] ,MRKIW ,ERHPIW SV 0SGOW# ;ERX 8LI 0EXIWX )RIVK] 7EZMRK +PEWW# %PP +PE^MRK &EGOIH &] 3YV =IEV 1ERYJEGXYVIVW +YEVERXII 4VMSVMX] *VIITLSRI

[[[ GPSYH] GPIEV GSQ [I QEOI WEZMRK QSRI] TIVJIGXP] GPIEV AUGUST 2013

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

13

Oracle Interior Design

Kitchen planning

By Samantha Gundy

I

don’t know about you, but when I am at home, I seem to spend almost all my time in the kitchen. It’s the place we all congregate as a family and when we have our friends and family over we rarely venture beyond the kitchen. When we first moved into our house I couldn’t bare to spend any longer in there than I absolutely had to. It was totally overdone. Tiles everywhere, 70’s brick arches and pillars dominated the space, It was not a place to linger and certainly not for hanging out with friends. So after living with it for about 2 years, we eventually created a space we all love to be in. It’s definitely a party kitchen, my friends will vouch for that! Our Espresso Martini’s are legendary.. and lethal!

mood board of things you see that you love, or just rip pics out of mags and stick in a little book to show to kitchen retailers.

Storage is really important. I personally find it a much nicer environment to work and live in if I’m not surrounded by unnecessary clutter. Think about lighting early in your design. You need task lighting for work areas, overhead lighting (spots or pendants) and then mood lighting (lamps etc).

There are a so many decisions to make when it comes to the kitchen it can feel a little overwhelming.

Take your time, use professionals to help plan the space and use the services of a professional interior designer If you are planning a new kitchen, where do or interior retailer to help you pull together you start? I would begin with a list of things the colours, lighting and finishings. that are essential and a list of things you’d love to have. Do you have sufficient space or do you need to extend to get everything incorporated? A well reputed kitchen planner will help you come up with the LEIGH-ON-SEA answer to that and give you a sensible layout.

O

01702 582555

When it comes to choosing fixtures and www.gardners-paint-paper.co.uk finishings I’d recommend you make a simple AUGUST LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE www.oraclepublications.co.uk 14

2013

Oracle Hair & Beauty

The Mane Attraction of Wimbledon

W

e have a new Queen of Centre Court – and it is not Marion Bartoli. This Wimbledon all eyes were firmly on Andy Murray’s artist girlfriend of 7-years Kim Sears, whose swishy and shiny hair barely seemed to move out of place, even when temperatures reached a scorching 49.8C! So how does she keep her mane looking so consistently champion?

Let’s start with the basics. Kim is probably using a frizz-reducing shampoo and conditioner; there are some really great products to buy on the High Street that will help keep the curls and frizz under control.

Kim’s hair appears loose and styled with big waves at the bottom, and the secret to this style is all in the blow dry.

To create a long-lasting natural-looking style prepping your hair properly is essential. Start by combing through damp hair with a styling mousse, focusing on the roots to mid-length.

With locks about 70% dry, roughly curl sections of the hair to give the required body or a natural bend. Take a soft smoothing brush, gently back brush at the root to create a little more height on the crown area as well as extra movement. Part the hair down the centre using your fingers rather than a brush to avoid that clean-cut straight line. This style is all about looking groomed, but relaxed.

Get a glossy shine by spritzing all over with a dry oil micromist finishing spray.

Kim’s very natural honeyed caramel tones always look unobtrusively beautiful and are set to be the big colour for autumn/winter 2013, so talk to your stylist next time you are visiting your favourite salon.

And don’t forget, if you want to keep up with all the latest on Kim Sears hair you can check out its Twitter account @KimSearsHair. Though I do have a feeling this might be a spoof?!

Section off your hair and start with the back as this is the trickiest. Using a large radial brush blow dry medium size (8cm) sections at a time - this particular blowout relies on the bounce that the big bristles create.

16

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

O

Sponsored by

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

32 Alexandra St., Southend SS1 1BU

01702 340965 AUGUST 2013

AUGUST 2013

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

17

18

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2013

o

Esta b

ver lished 25 Professional, yea rs Experienced, Painter and Decorator

All aspects of interior and exterior decorating undertaken General Maintenance Specialists in all wall coverings Free estimates and friendly advice given

References available - Fully insured

D B DECORATORS T: 01702 465059

M: 07767604437

danielhenry63@gmail.com

AUGUST 2013

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

19

Celebrate with Southend Carnival

S

outhend Carnival’s mission is to bring community cohesion, promote culture within Southend and support local charitable organisations. Everyone is invited to each of our events for young children to silver surfers.

Southend Carnival has been in Southend for over 100 years.

For the first time this year’s Southend Summercare Fair is extended to 10 days meaning an additional discounted afternoon on Thursday 8 August as well as Tuesday 13 and Thursday 15 August and Rossi Bear will be attending the Teddy Bears’ Picnic. Rossi will also be present at the Fair throughout the week so everyone can enjoy Southend’s best ice cream.

Visit our Facebook page to download discount vouchers for this year’s fair.

David Seago, Acting Chair of Southend Carnival said, ‘we are really excited about this year’s events– in recent years we have seen more community groups and local businesses entering. This year we are expecting entries ranging from jazz artists to farm yard animals and samba dancers – we look forward to you joining us along the seafront.’

Southend Carnival Week 2013 will run Thurs 8th – Sat 17th August and include; Southend Summercare Fair: 8-17th Aug - Chalkwell Park Dog Show: 11th Aug Priory Park Junior Prince and Princess Competition: 13th Aug - Palace Park Inn Hotel Teddy Bears’ Picnic: 14th Aug - Priory Park Children’s Fancy Dress Competition: 14th Aug - Priory Park Southend Summercare Carnival Procession: 17th Aug - Southend Seafront

We will accept entries into the procession until 16 August so if you want to enter or to get up to date information, please visit our website www.southendcarnival.org.uk or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

20

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

www.southendcarnival.org.uk facebook.com/SouthendCarnival twitter.com/CarnivalSEnd

O

AUGUST 2013

Telephone any orders for collection or delivery at your convenience.

rs as Same owne afe ge C Water’s Ed hes rc under the A

226a Station Road Westcliff SS0 7SD 01702 808253 Over the railway line at the bottom of Valkyrie Road - Less than a 10 minute stroll to the Cliffs Pavilion

Tuesday - Saturday :11am - 8pm Traditional home made Kosher Style cooking Salt Beef, slow cooked to perfection, melts in the mouth Chicken Soup with Lokshen and Matzo Balls.

Fish in Matzo Meal, or grilled

Sunday : 10am - 8pm

Eat in, takeaway or delivery (delivery subject to conditions) Outside catering available for your business meetings, parties or functions. Call to discuss Hot / Cold Lunchtime deliveries to businesses welcome

Latke / Chopped Liver / Chopped Herring / fried fish balls A comprehensive lunch / dinner menu available

Beigels and Rye Bread sourced from Shalom bakery in Gants Hill

Check us out on Trip Advisor

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter

AUGUST 2013

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

21

Culture Club

Amy makes waves:

‘Racing the Tide’ EP out now

A

my Sergeant is an 18 year old singersongwriter from Thorpe Bay. She has just finished her A-Levels and plans to study a four year integrated masters Commercial Music degree at Bath Spa University in September.

After which Amy hopes to be a musician full time writing, recording and performing music.

In November 2012 Amy released her debut single ‘Uneven Ground’ which charted at #178 in the iTunes singer-songwriter charts. Since then Amy has been working on an EP which she released on to iTunes and Amazon on the 15th July 2013. The EP is called ‘Racing The Tide’ and features five original songs. It was recorded at the MattKeyMusic studio and produced by Matt Key and Fariz Riaz. The EP shows clear ‘Racing The Tide’ EP by 18 year old Amy Sergeant

influences from artist such as KT Tunstall, Lucy Rose and Amy MacDonald but still maintains a fresh original sound. Within 24 hours of release ‘Racing The Tide – EP’ had charted at #17 in the Amazon Folk Charts alongside artists such as Ben Howard, Gabrielle Aplin and Ed Sheeran.

Amy regularly gigs at places such as Café Ciao, The Peterboat, The Miley and The Exchange.

One of the most significant places Amy has performed would be at The Palace Hotel for a charity night raising money for ‘The Clarence Adoo Trust’ in February 2013. This summer she will be gigging regularly with her band (Matt Key, Marcus Day and James Maltby), at local venues to promote ‘Racing The Tide-EP’.

Amy is now taking bookings for December when she will be home from university for a month, if you are interested in booking Amy please contact amysergeant.music@gmail.com.

Further information about gigs and future releases can be found at: facebook.com/AmySergeantMusic

22

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2013

" ## %#

(

" ' " #

" % "% "#

# %&" % # # " ' "!

AUGUST 2013

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

23

www.gatfireservices.org.uk

NEWARK MULTIFUEL STOVE

CARRON ENAMEL MULTIFUEL Range of colours

7.3kw Output (Group 7) Defra approve

ÂŁ1 5 9 9 . 00

OPEN: MONDAY - SATURDAY 9.15AM - 5PM SUNDAYS 10AM - 3PM We have lots more to choose from all offering the same great value for money

Visit our website www.gatfireservices.org.uk or visit our showroom at

1717 London Road, Leigh on Sea, Essex, SS9 2SW

24

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2013

CONSULT | DESIGN | CONSTRUCT W W W. G R E E N P R I N T G A R D E N S . C O. U K

01702 4 6 0 8 9 8

recipe of the month

Method 1. Roll the pastry out on a lightly floured surface to the thickness of a pound coin. Use to line a deep, 23cm fluted, loose-bottomed tart tin. Trim the excess and prick the base all over with a fork. Chill for 30 minutes.

In the Kitchen with Judy Barden

2. Meanwhile, make the crème pâtissière. Put the milk and vanilla pod or paste in a large pan, bring to the boil, then turn off the heat. In a large bowl, whisk the yolks and sugar for 10 minutes until voluminous, then beat in the flour and lemon zest.

Strain the warm milk slowly into the egg mixture, whisking continuously. Clean the pan, then pour the mixture back in and gently bring to the boil, stirring constantly until it has thickened. Take the pan off the heat, cover the surface of the crème pâtissière with cling film and leave to cool.

3. Preheat the oven to 180°C/fan160°C/gas 4. Line the pastry case with baking paper and fill with baking beans or rice. Place on a baking sheet and blind-bake for 15 minutes. Remove the beans/rice and paper, then cook for a further 10 minutes until golden. Leave for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

French Strawberry Tart

T

his is a classic tart for summer time and it is amazing how many people have not tried to make it when it is so heavenly.

The pastry case and the crème patissiere can be made the day before but do not put it together too early or it will all go soggy (I have made that mistake ).

I have said use ready-made pastry but for all you cooks out there just make a good shortcrust with butter. Strawberries are meant to be very good this year because of the early rain so give it a go.

Enjoy!

375g pack all-butter shortcrust pastry 500g small strawberries, hulled and halved 4 tbsp redcurrant jelly For the creme patissiere 350ml whole milk 1 vanilla pod, split lengthways or 1tsp vanilla paste 4 large free-range egg yolks 100g golden caster sugar 25g plain flour, plus extra for dusting Finely grated zest of 1 lemon LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

5. Gently warm the jelly with 2 tbsp water until melted, brush over the strawberries and leave for 2 minutes to set. Serve.

O

Next month’s recipe: Pan-Fried Sea Bass with Cauliflower Puree

PHILIP SPLETT

Sponsored by

Ingredients

26

4. Spoon the crème pâtissière into the tart, then level the surface with the back of a spoon. Place a strawberry half in the centre of the tart, then arrange concentric rings of fruit around it until all of the crème pâtissière is covered.

Traditional Butcher and Sausage Maker

HOG ROAST & BBQ SPECIALISTS

01702 216062

Burtons Farm, Barling SS3 0LZ

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

www.philipsplett.com AUGUST 2013

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

#! '& '$ "

$ $

%' $# % # $(' # $#

&'

&& )

Same dedicated maid each week only ÂŁ11.55 per hour Then call us on:

AUGUST 2013

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

27

Fully Insured

Driveways

Diary Dates SUMMER FAYRE Saturday 17th August 12.30 - 4 p.m.

Nazareth House, 111 London Road, Southend Goods for sale - Refreshments - Tombola - Raffle Admission £1 All proceeds to Cats Protection Southend OPEN GARDEN FOR CHARITY Little Foxes, Marcus Gdns, Thorpe Bay Sat & Sun 17th & 18th Aug 2-5pm Plants for sale. Admission £3 Children Free LEIGH-ON-SEA CONSTITUTIONAL CLUB,116 -118 ELM ROAD, LEIGH-ON-SEA Sun 15th Sep 7pm £2.00 Open to all musicians & vocalists, solo, duo’s, trios, Bands. Just bring your instruments, backing tracks Etc. PA equipment supplied. Sound by a professional engineer. All proceeds to cancer research. Colin Cross 07702 543117 or 01702 517419

Patio

Block Paving

Local

Decking

Reliable

Fencing

Extension Work

Turfing

Footings

Brickwork

Garden Walls

Drainage

BKB

Landscaping

Trusted Contractors BRICKWORK SPECIALISTS & QUALIFIED CARPENTER

91 North Street, Great Wakering, SS3 0HT Mobile: 07921 263366 / 07527 779905 Office: 01702 568762 Email: bkbgandc@hotmail.co.uk

www.bkbgandc.com

ESSEX JUNIOR CLOSED LAWN TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIP 2013 Hosted by Thorpe Bay Lawn Tennis Club 26th -31st August. email lesleypitt@sky.com ROTARY CLUB OF THORPE BAY FOULNESS ISLAND BIKE RIDE 8th Sep 9.30am Great Wakering Primary School The Rotary Club of Thorpe Bay’s Annual Foulness Island Bike Ride. Supporting the Essex and Herts Air Ambulance Trust. Riders have the rare opportunity to cycle on the country roads of the secret island of Foulness Island. www.rotaryclubofthorpebayevents.co.uk SOUTHEND CARNIVAL 17th August - See page 20

PARRY SCHOLARSHIP SINGING COMPETITION Sat 7th Sept 6.30pm Southend High School for Boys

www.oraclepublications.co.uk www.twitter.com/oracle_essex

28

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2013

#"

Three generations of traditional Jewellery Craftsmen

$

%&

!

"

'() # # * *+ ++, ) -

.

/ )/ '

For over sixty years the Andrews family have retained their reputation as a trusted local jewellery business, who always offer excellent value for money.

Jewellery, gifts & watches and a quality repair service

-

Substantial ranges of rings, brooches, chains, pendants, earrings, beads, pearls and watches are held in stock. As are individual gemstones - diamonds, rubies, emeralds, sapphires and a host of semi-precious jewels.

Andrews offer a fast and efficient jewellery repair and remodelling service.

Watch repairs are also undertaken.

The majority of work is produced in-house by experienced craftsmen at a realistic price.

01

+

+ -

0

m Li

d ite

+

.

3 31

4 5 6-5 4 5 -5 , 5 -5 ,76 5 (-5

+ +

tim

2

y nl eo

Mobile phone websites from

£190

+VAT

Insurance work is also welcomed.

Mobile phone friendly Website Familiar App style features Set prices, no hidden costs Easy ‘Touch’ Navigation Bespoke design Competitive prices

CERTIFIED DIAMONDS SUPPLIED 89 West Road, Shoeburyness, Essex SS3 9DT Tel: 01702 292472 Fax: 01702 299392 Email: enquiries@andrewsltd.co.uk www.andrewsltd.co.uk WE HAVE NO CONNECTION WITH ANY OTHER BUSINESS WITH A SIMILAR TRADING NAME

AUGUST 2013

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

Call now to arrange a FREE consultation

01702 393838 www.oraclepublications.co.uk LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

29

Oracle Gardening

Watering Tips W

ell blimey, I started this feature in hangs over our heads so get in now whilst you Siberia and am now writing it from the still have the chance!

Sahara so some watering tips would no doubt be helpful right now.

On the subject of drought, leave your lawn cuttings in situ right now as they will act as a Plants need water, this we all know but waving mulch (also apply phosphorous rich lawn feed the hose around like a sparkler for twenty to prepare the roots for winter) minutes every other day just won't do I'm afraid.

Ideally, each plant should be watered at its Other things to do include deadheading to rootball with a hose (and attachment - too prolong flower production ( no room to expand much power may expose the roots) for a few upon this so you'll have to look it up -sorry) Cut minutes at least. If you only moisten the first two back your lavender (when flowers have faded of inches then root production will increase near course) to about eight inches to prevent woody the surface making the plant more vulnerable growth and chop back any perennials which are in times of drought. I appreciate time is a taking over their alloted space to improve precious commodity, so if you can only use an airflow (and make the garden look a little tidier) independent system then invest in a seep/soaker hose which you can weave through Finally, if you are going on holiday then put all your plants allowing it to slowly water each your containers in the shade to reduce water rootball. loss and cut off all the flowerbuds and flowers If time really is an issue then use this hose in of plants now flowering to ensure you don't conjunction with a water computer which will miss the show when you're away (see deadcompletely automate your system. This is not as heading) Enjoy. technical as it sounds and involves attaching a small box to your outside tap and punching in the times/duration you want it to release water.

O

A good computer will cost around forty pounds with a sump hose costing around ten for a twelve metre length. If you don't wish to spend this and can only water by using a sprinkler system then use an oscillating rather than circulatory dispensor. So, water deep because this will sustain your plant if -heaven forbid- you occasionally forget and a hosepipe ban surely

30

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

01702 460898

www.greenprintgardens.co.uk

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2013

Air&Back

Airport Transfer Specialists

Air & Back, the airport-transfer specialists, provide an efficient and friendly door-to-door transfer to and from your airport. seaport or ferry terminal, at a reasonable cost.

Get your holiday or business trip off to a comfortable start with an effortless transfer from Air & Back.

Polite, experienced and wellpresented drivers Full comprehensive insurance including Hire and Reward Drivers and vehicles licensed by the local authority.

Detailed confirmation to you the day before departure

Call today for a competitive quote Air & Back, 75 Mayfield Avenue, Southend-on-Sea Essex SS2 6NR

Tel/Fax: 01702 435722 Mobile 07903 301086

CITY # STANSTED # GATWICK # LUTON # HEATHROW

AUGUST 2013

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

31

Health & Beauty

Anyone for Tennis?

T he wonderful sight of Andy Murray winning Wimbledon will have inspired many of you to dust off your racquets and head to the nearest tennis court. Whether you’re just hoping to improve your social game or a serious enthusiast aiming to win the club title, with a little extra effort you can improve both your tennis and your health.

Aside from the mental aspects of temperament, tactical awareness and the ability to cope under pressure, what makes a great tennis player?

The better your posture is the less energy it’s going to take to get through a match, and the more quickly you’ll recover from your exertions.

You’ll also pick up fewer injuries – for example, if you walk around with rounded shoulders your ability to extend your arm overhead becomes compromised, as does the integrity of the shoulder joint. And being able to lift your arm overhead in tennis is pretty essential!

Good core strength and stability by that I mean the muscles on your torso that stabilise and protect your spine and internal organs. Given the dynamic nature of tennis - at whatever level it’s played - you need to have a strong core to protect you and your spine from all the twisting and turning it’s exposed to during a match.

then it’s pointless spending hours on the bike or rowing machine. Tennis is a stop start game rather than a constant one, so you are better off performing regular interval training.

Whilst you don’t need the strength of an Olympic weightlifter to play good tennis, a decent level of overall strength will help your body stand up to the rigours of a match and allow you to put more into your serves, shots and strokes. To build strength that carries over from the gym to the tennis court, use exercises involving bodyweight, free weights and cables.

Regardless of whether you play for the fun or social aspects or because you’re serious about your sport, train and exercise with tennis in mind and you’ll end up improving both your health, and your game.

Good luck and remember I offer a free consultation to anyone who is looking to make positive changes to their health and fitness, so please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Obviously you need a good level of fitness but if you’ve got designs to play more than two sets,

32

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

O

Sponsored by

Cris Ramis Ramis Health & Fitness info@ramis-hf.com

www.ramis-hf.com

07803 042 070 AUGUST 2013

AUGUST 2013

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

33

Don’t Move.

Improve.

• Kitchens & Bathrooms

• Full Design & Build Service

• Property Maintenance

• Loft Conversions

• Decorating

• Extensions

Please call for a FREE, no obligation quote FREEPHONE:

0800 511 8814 Tel: 01702 478814 www.tabor-jones.co.uk property maintenance - general building Project management - property development 34

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2013

Your Stove is waiting for you!

Photo for illustration purposes only

AUGUST 2013

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

35

A Dog’s Life

From beautiful pooch to puncture wounds... why dogs bite.

T

hey’ve never done it before!” claim most clients in dismay; so even if your dog’s never shown any signs of aggression, please read on.

ANY dog can bite and there is ALWAYS a reason behind it that can be avoided: REASON - To defend themselves, their resources or their owners

- Do not approach your dog when it is eating.

- Do not chase after your dog if they snatch something of yours.

- Put your dog in another room before visitors enter, and until they are quiet.

- Ask visitors to initially ignore them, until your dog relaxes then they can call him/her over.

- To discipline others who are stepping out of line

- NEVER attempt to 'pin' your dog down.

- They are playing

If you have young children – whether you own a dog or not, it’s important to teach them that dogs (yours included) may not want them to come up and stroke, tug and play with him/her all the time, sometimes they are just going to want to be left alone to sleep. Instead of approaching it, ask your child to call the dog over, it if won’t come over, leave it alone. For more information on stopping biting behaviour, or to find out how to resolve different behaviour problems, please visit my website

Consider a stranger coming up to you in the street and touching you. How would you feel? You notice someone unknown trying to get into your house.

How would you feel? Your child is really testing your leadership or putting themselves in danger… how abruptly might you react? Your loved ones were being threatened – what would you do? A dog would feel the same! Understanding this helps us learn how to avoid these situations.

PREVENTION - Don’t approach and touch an unknown dog. If it looks relaxed call it over to you instead!

- If your dog growls at you walk out of the room shut the door and don’t return for five minutes.

36

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

O

Contact details: Tel - 07908 192656 Email - info@adogs-life.co.uk Web - www.adogs-life.co.uk

AUGUST 2013

Domestic & Commercial Gas Commercial Catering Breakdowns / Repairs Installations / Servicing Our fully qualified Plumbing and Heating Engineers offer a prompt and professional service Domestic properties to restaurants and schools, we carry out all areas of plumbing and heating works.

Call us now on: Tel: (office) 01702-716354

Quote the O racle and ge t 20% off your first walk!

20% OFF

Happy Tails

Dog Walking Service

t: 07710 139121

e: josannee@hotmail.com w: www.happytailsdogwalking.co.uk Your dog’s happiness is my priority!

Out of the house all day?

Do other obligations stop you from walking your dog, if so, then please get in touch.

Walking, day care and boarding services across Hadleigh, Leigh-on-Sea, Chalkwell, Westcliff, Southend-on-Sea, Thorpe Bay and Shoeburyness.

AUGUST 2013

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

37

Oracle Sport

Local Primary School Cricket in Safe Hands

by Chris Bunce or those of you who were waiting for an interview with Robert Johnston, I would like to apologise, as I thought it would be even better to let you all know what fantastic work is being done in the local community to bring cricket to primary schools. Interview with Robert will follow in next months edition.

F

On Friday the 12th July I was asked to assist with a Chance to Shine Primary School competition being held at Southchurch Park.

The competition was between boys in years 5 and 6 of Primary school and was organised by Paul Johnson , Terry Sims and Kevin Grant, who are well known local coaches assisted by a band of willing helpers from Old Southendian & Southchurch Cricket Club. Due to work commitments, I have never had the opportunity to attend one of these days let alone assist, so how pleased was I to see the result.

We were blessed with great weather, which when over 100 boys and parents are present is really important. I was really impressed with the enthusiasm that the boys had. They played the games with fantastic spirit and you could really see some great talent that will surely be playing on our local grounds for years to come. This is really about getting young boys working as a team at this age. I was really impressed with the way the best players encouraged the weaker players and the end result of

38

LEIGH ORACLE

each match was not the most important thing about the day. The most important thing was having fun.

The event was won on the day by Prince Avenue who beat Temple Sutton in a very close final. On my pitch, I supervised games between Thorpe Greenways, Earls Hall, Heycroft and Temple Sutton.

All boys were a credit to the schools they represented. The highlight of my day was a young lad who had obviously not played a game before, hitting the first ball he faced for six! The smile on his face made an old cricket lover very happy.

On Monday the 15th July a similar tournament took place for girls unfortunately I was unable to attend this due to a holiday, but from what I hear this was as successful as the boys day and I hope we will find some future talent for the expanding women’s game.

My message to teachers in primary schools is, please continue to embrace the Chance to Shine programme, support these days and this will ensure the future of cricket in this area is in safe hands.

Changing the subject, I hope you all had a small bet on India to win the ICC Champions Trophy and Australia not to win a test match this series? You could be collecting your money soon!

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

O

AUGUST 2013

Leading the way in facilities management

Air Conditioning and Ventilation Mechanical and Electrical

Domestic Gas and Plumbing Minor Building Works

Installation & Maintenance PAT Testing

Beckney Lodge, Lower Road, Hockley, Essex SS5 5LD Tel: 0800 032 2760 Fax: 01702 206 266 www.magnoliabuildingservices.co.uk Company Reg: 5744955 Vat No: 877 5277 68

Looking for work?

If you are 14 plus, reliable , sensible and would like to deliver Leigh’s glossy magazine once a month at generous rates, we’d like to hear from you. Please call:

ORACLE

01702 393838

info@oraclepublications.co.uk www.oraclepublications.co.uk

or email:

40

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2013

WANT TO LEARN A NEW LANGUAGE? Language to Treasure offers English, French and German language tuition.

For primary school children we can help develop reading and writing skills including preparation for KS1 phonics screening test and SATS.

" &

!"# !"' (

"$ "$ )

#

!"%

&

!

For secondary school children we offer French and German tuition including GCSE and A level exam preparation.

!"

For adults we offer tuition tailored to individual needs.

"

Hello!

*

Bonjour!

Guten Tag!

CONTACT SUE CORNELL FOR MORE INFORMATION ON:

#

NEW!

07449 959609 or 01702 527361 www.languagetotreasure.co.uk languagetotreasure@hotmail.co.uk Find me on Facebook.com/languagetotreasure

#

"

$

Painting Wallpapering

!

Remote Support & Visits from ÂŁ19 PCs bought, sold & built Fast, Professional Service

Decorating Services

Custom IT Solutions Ltd 1749 London Road, Leigh (by Thames drive traffic lights)

AUGUST 2013

RSC

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

20 Years Experience

07932 709291 Contact:

www.rscdecorating.co.uk

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

41

Leigh-on-Sea

ORACLE

01702 277684 Marketing Solutions for the BEST local businesses

Index to advertisers

ADVERTISING Oracle AIR CONDITIONING Magnolia Air AIRPORT TRANSFER Air & Back BEDDING Bridge Bedding BLINDS Worth & Co BUILDERS BKB Groundswork Tabor Jones CARPETS Gainsborough Carpets Trade Carpets CERAMIC TILE IMORTERS

ORACLE 2 39 31 8 33 28 34 15 5

Kenbro 23 CLADDING Essex Cladding 4 CLEANING The Cleaning Co 11 Maid in Essex 27 COMMERCIAL/DOMESTIC PLUMBING & HEATING Essex Maintenance 27 COMPUTER SERVICES Custom IT Solutions 41 DECORATOR RSC Decor 41 DESIGN Simple Lines 19 DOG GROOMING PARLOUR Head to Paws 27 DOG WALKING AND BOARDING Happy Tails 27 DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIR Cloudy 2 Clear 13 ENTERTAINMENT Astor Big band - Dinner and Dance 6

FIREPLACES Fireplace & Design GAT Fireplaces FLOOR SANDING Old Oak Floor Sanding Co. FLORIST Bunches & Bows GUTTERS & FASCIAS AC Solutions HAIR & BEAUTY Grateful Heads HEALTH & BEAUTY Jade Health & Beauty HEALTH & FITNESS Ramis Health & Fitness HOME ACCESSORIES Gardners JEWELLERY AV & BV Andrews KITCHEN INTERIORS Prittlewell Interiors LANDSCAPES Grassroot Landscaping Greenprint LANGUAGE TUITION Language to Treasure MARBLE WORKTOP Abbey Marble OVEN CLEANING Ovenclean PAINTER & DECORATOR DB Decorators PEST CONTROL KAT Pest control PIZZA OVEN Wood-fired Pizza Oven Co PLUMBING & HEATING Andrew James Magnolia Air

35 24

View the latest issues ONLINE Leigh-on-Sea

3

August 2013

Leigh at a glance

Thorpe Bay at a glance

Est. Oct 2006. Circulation 5,500

Est. Sept 2005. Circulation 5,100

Oracle Competition

3

WIN! £50 worth of goodies from The Fragrance Shop

Local Issues

Thames Sailing Barge Trust

Hair & Beauty

The Mane Attraction of Wimbledon

12 16 17 32

Thorpe Bay

August 2013

ORACLE ORACLE Oracle Competition WIN! £50 worth of goodies from The Fragrance Shop

Local Issues

Thames Sailing Barge Trust

Oracle Sport

Local Primary School Cricket in Safe Hands

It’s a dog’s life

It’s a dog’s life

Discount Vouchers

Discount Vouchers

Why dogs bite

See page 11 for vouchers

Why dogs bite See page 11 for vouchers

LEIGH-ON-SEA NOW OPEN - 29 RECTORY GROVE, LEIGH-ON-SEA Photography by Rachael Pereira Photography www.rachaelpereira.com

Photography by Rachael Pereira Photography www.rachaelpereira.com

To advertise in ORACLE call

01702 393838

1 29 21 4 25/30 41 27 40 19 19/28 8 41 39

PRINTING & EMBROIDERY Brand Identity RESTAURANTS Elahee Tandoori Steve's Salt Beef Bar The Meeting Place SKIP HIRE Leigh Skip Hire TELEVISION AND VIDEO SERVICES HB Electrical TILING Battlesbridge Tiling MCG Tiling TREE SERVICES Treefella VACANCY Oracle Delivery VENUE HIRE Freight House WEIGHT LOSS Lighterlife

18 44 21 29 31 43 40 11 31 40 37 7

ORACLE - the smart, little glossy mags for Southend

Reach a 20,000 readership in Leigh & Thorpe Bay hungry for your business Call for a Media Pack or visit www.oraclepublications.co.uk

To advertise in ORACLE call 01702 393838 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. are editorially autonomous and the opinions expressed are not those of the publisher unless expressly stated.

42

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2013

HB ELECTRICAL WOULD LIKE TO INTRODUCE HB ELECTRICAL THE NEW WOULD LIKE TO INTRODUCE THE NEW:

SONOS PLAYBAR UNLEASH YOUR TV SOUND. UNLEASH ALL THE MUSIC ON EARTH.

Playbars nine-speaker design floods any room with super-realistic audio for games and movies, huge waves of live concert and wireless streams of all the music on Earth and it all comes from one easy-to-use player that brings HiFi sound to your high-definition TV.

Visit our store for great product, pricing, help and advice www.hbelectrical.co.uk 01702 475518 15 ELM ROAD, LEIGH All photos shown for illustration purposes only.

Interest Free Credit.

Written details on request.

HB’s Service Dept. has an efficient, professional 6 Day service

AUGUST 2013

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

43

NOW OPEN

OPENING OFFER FREE BOTTLE OF HOUSE WINE WITH EVERY 2 PEOPLE DINING (Ends 31st August)

Monday - Sunday : 12 noon to 2.30pm and 6pm to 12 midnight

Elahee Tandoori Restaurant, 1350 London Road, Leigh On Sea, Essex SS9 2UH

01702 713040 / 715917