Oracle on sea dec 2015 web

December 2015

Oracle-on-Sea

ORACLE Leigh, Chalkwell & Southend Conservation Area Est. Oct 2006. Circulation 6,700

Oracle Competition!

WIN! 3-Piece ‘Butterfly London’ Jewellery Set from Callie & Finn worth £175

Christmas Checklist Pull-out and keep special!

NEW! Beat the Christmas blues With SUFC this Christmas magnificent views over the Thames Estuary

Southend-on-Sea S outhend - on - Sea

A Stunning collection of high specification one, two and three bedroom apartments from £153,000

T el: 01702 311042 Tel: Cover photo by Edward Clack courtesy of Skyscan

GO WITH YOUR GUT. Fully loaded with MINI Navigation System, MINI Connected and distinctive looks as standard. With space for five and a range of advanced TwinPower Turbo petrol and diesel engines, the stunning new MINI Clubman creates a powerful feeling that makes perfect sense.

Pre-book a test drive* at www.fairfieldmini.co.uk/contact-us Fairfield Arterial Road, Eastwood Leigh-on-Sea SS9 4XX Tel: 01702 429429

THE NEW MINI CLUBMAN AVAILABLE NOW. Official Fuel Economy Figures for the new MINI Clubman Range: Urban 35.3-60.1 mpg (8-4.7 l/100km). Extra Urban 52.3-76.3 mpg (5.4-3.7 l/100km). Combined 44.8-68.9 mpg (6.3-4.1 l/100km). CO2 Emissions 147-109 g/km.

Figures may vary depending on driving style and conditions. *Test drive is subject to status and availability.

OR ACLE Publisher’s letter

T

his year has been a huge but rewarding challenge, what with the launch of the reader events, photographic competition in August, the huge undertaking of publishing Oracle's very first book for charity, Cooking-on-Sea and finishing off with Oracle’s 10th anniversary party at the Park Inn Palace where over 100 clients and supporters were treated to a sparkling reception and live music.

You can view some of the photographs from the party in this month’s edition.

While on the subject of the charity recipe book, I want to let you know that there are a number of Leigh outlets where you can purchase a copy: Cook, Broadway Opticians, Grateful Heads and SUFC. It would make a fabulous Christmas gift and you would be buying it knowing that every penny from the sale of the book will help Southend’s homeless. This is such a worthwhile cause, especially this time of the year as HARP is extremely stretched financially.

This month’s competition will definitely be a lovely addition to anybody’s jewellery collection. Callie & Finn of Alexandra Street, Southend, have very kindly given a three piece jewellery set from Butterfly Jewellery London. Callie & Finn are stocking this fabulous range which is also worn by celebrities including Darcy Bussell who is a big fan. To view the jewellery please go to www.oraclepublications.co.uk To enter please send your contact details to: Oracle/Callie & Finn Competition, Oracle House, 11 Clarence Road, Southend-on-Sea, Essex SS1 1AN or email to: info@oraclepublications.co.uk Merry Christmas!

Emma Wynne-Morgan Publisher

01702 393838 Oracle House, 11 Clarence Road, Southend, Essex SS1 1AN

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

www.twitter.com/oracle_essex www.facebook.com/oracleessex Printed by Printwize Ltd, Witham, Essex CM8 3BN 01376 500 900 DECEMBER 2015

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ORACLE

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contents

TTotal otal Bar re Barre

Local Issues YOOHOPP

9/10 Digital service transforms shopping in Southend

Back to the Future (again)

16

Hair & Beauty by Craig Smith

SPECIAL FEATURE! Celebrating 10 Years of Oracle

A ballet-inspired class mixing elements of Pilates, dance, yoga & functional training choreographed to motivating music & using exercise equipment to sculpt, slim & stretch your entire body .

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A Game of Two Halves

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Council News by Cllr Ron Woodley

PULL-OUT & KEEP SPECIAL! Christmas Checklist

28/29

Be sure to check it twice!

Orange & Walnut Mince Pies

32

Judy's Recipe Page

Supporting someone living with cancer 36

By Macmillan Cancer Research

Beat the Xmas blues with The Blues

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SUFC news by Danny Macklin

Local Letters

44

Residents have their say

Sudoku Diary Dates Useful Numbers Advertisers Index

46 50 52 54

Advertorials

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This incredibly power ful piece of equipment changes the way you look & feel by offering the body both resistance & support. Exercises on the reformer promote length, strength, flexibilityy, & balance.

Book your class class ttoday oday Book online at bodyblissyoga.co.uk Call 01702 474 555 Pop in to the studio at 1430 London Road, Leigh-on-Sea

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Yoga and Pilates just got hotter hotte DECEMBER

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DECEMBER

2015

Local Issues

Don’t just hop to town this Christmas –YOOHOPP! S

outhend-on-Sea has become the first seaside high street in the UK to offer the innovative “Click & Collect” platform, YOOHOPP. Brought to you by Southend BID (the driving force behind OnSouthend.com), it’s the key to simple online shopping.

scheme – “This new website is brilliant for our customers who can now order online and not worry about missing out on the coveted new bears because they can’t get to our store in time.”

No longer do you have to search a number of retail websites to find what you want. Instead, this fantastic new facility allows you to shop Southend’s high street all in one place with ease.

Gone are the days of traipsing around the high street struggling to find something suitable. You can now find exactly what you want online, check it’s availablility nearby and collect it at a time convenient to you. Simply browse the categories to find inspiration or, if you know what

HOPP on

HOPP to it

As well as big name national retailers, YOOHOPP will also host a number of local independent shops, helping you uncover hidden gems in Southend that you wouldn’t have found before.

Ravens, Southend’s original family-run department store, is one of several independent stores in Southend to be utilising this shopping platform. Company Director, Hannah Conacher commented, “As one of the oldest businesses in town (established 124 years ago) we are thrilled to be part of such a cutting edge project.”

Steve Kohler of Teddy Station, the collectible bear shop in town, is also benefiting from this new DECEMBER 2015

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ORACLE-ON-SEA

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you’re looking for, type the description in to the search box and see what can be found in Southend. Once you’re happy with what you’ve found, click on the item and place it in your basket.

Then you can decide to carry on shopping or checkout. Once you’ve completed your purchase, you’ll be sent details of when your items will be ready and you can arrange a time to collect them when it suits you.

HOPP ‘til you don’t drop You’ll also save time now that you don’t have to hunt round for that perfect item and, instead, you can spend that time catching up with a friend over lunch or taking the children to panto.

Not only that, but every now and then we’ll also send you some fantastic offers to enjoy in the town centre when you’re collecting your purchases.

Christmas HOPPing Don’t miss out on the events in Southend over this festive period! Combine your Christmas shopping with a swoosh around the ice at Skating on Sea, outside the Forum until 3rd January.

Don’t forget Saturday 5th December the Winter Extravaganza comes to town, and the launch of the amazing 4D Light Show, bringing Christmas to life every evening until 12th December.

Visit

ONSOUTHEND.COM/CHRISTMAS for more information.

HOPP, skip and jump Alison Dewey, Southend BID Manager says, “Retailers in Southend town centre now have the opportunity to increase their online sales as well as encourage people into their stores. Customers can uncover hidden gems in Southend, browsing products ranging from clothing, home interiors, wine, gifts and much more. All whilst sitting in the comfort of their own home.”

A massive 95% of online shoppers used Click & Collect in the UK last Christmas. This year it’s even easier, just visit YOOHOPP.CO.UK/SOUTHEND and start shopping.

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DECEMBER

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DECEMBER

2015

Move over Botox, Collagen Wave is here!

F

or those in the know, Botox has now become yesterday’s news. A host of ‘the great and the good’, who rely upon their youthful appearance, have suddenly ‘discovered’ Collagen Wave Stimulation Therapy. From Amanda Holden to Mel B, Collagen Wave is the treatment for the face, forehead jawline and neck.

Cliff House Clinic was, again, in the forefront of pioneering this technology. Our specialised equipment is truly cutting edge: not only this, but our Clinicians are professionally trained, qualified and experienced in providing these revolutionary treatments.

What is Collagen Wave?

The principle is that heat is delivered into the deeper layers of the skin by a ‘wand’ which glides across the skin’s surface, without damaging or marking it in any way. This heating action causes collagen structures in the skin to tighten as well as stimulates new collagen growth. The result is healthier and smoother skin with a more radiant and youthful appearance.

The treatment is not only totally painless: many of our Clients have commented that their treatment has been warm, pleasant and comfortable. In addition, there is no ‘down-time’ and, in fact, makeup can be applied immediately after a treatment session.

Another major advantage is that Collagen Wave Stimulation Therapy can be combined safely with other skin rejuvenation and aesthetic treatments.

Unlike Botox, there is no invasive or potentially painful treatment, nor the risk of the dreaded

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‘frozen features’. No wonder the A-Listers have turned to Collagen Wave as the only proper alternative.

Take advantage of our Trial Treatment offer! Our Practitioners will be pleased to answer any questions you may have both before and during the Trial.

Please note that, as Professionals, we insist on a prior (and free) consultation before we undertake any treatments at all.

We also offer Cool sculpt laser lipo with sonic acoustic wave technology Collagen wave non-invasive face lift Permanent hair removal Semi permanent makeup Stretch mark reduction IPL Skin rejuvenation

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2015

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Oracle Hair & Beauty

Back to the future (again): My hair & beauty predictions for 2016

I

f the catwalks of Milan, Paris, London and New York are to be believed, we’re in for a kaleidoscope of trends next year.

For some of us, that means having fun revisiting looks we sported in our youth and for others, a chance to experiment with some classic and quirky styles. The leading designers and fashion houses have plundered past decades for ideas and inspiration, resulting in the return of wet-look hair and intense eye make-up.

Replicating Fans of Siouxsie and the Banshees and Blade Runner will perhaps be excited by the iconic singer and Daryl Hannah’s character Pris influencing the new trend for statement, mask-like eye shadow. In other shows, an updated version of the 90’s love of smokyeyed, kohl eyeliner offers a still fashion-forward but less challenging style to emulate. If you were into Grunge, this could be your time to dig out your leather jacket and Nirvana albums again.

Bowled not over One of the original supermodels of the 1990’s, Linda Evangelista, still acts as a muse for the fashion industry and her trademark bowl-cut hairstyle was seen on several runways.

chicks-on-the-beach revival. It’s all about being carefree, unfussy and living life to the max.

Another aspect of this way of thinking is the continuing appearance of hair accessories.

Clips, corsages, ribbons and headbands add an instant touch of glamour without having to faff around with your hair.

Where we’re going,

we don’t need à la mode Of course, the dilemma of which way to go with your makeup isn’t quite solved with the emerging nude lips or eye-catching vivid colours? Either is cool but I must say I can’t wait to see someone sporting Prada’s stunning gold lipstick in my local supermarket.

Although the 70’s have been overlooked as inspiration for Spring/Summer 2016, the spirit of punk lives on.There were no safety pins on display but necklaces created from cable ties could well catch on. You heard it here first …

Sponsored by

Linda, also famed for her honey-coloured complexion has also inspired a return to models sporting healthy, sun-kissed tans. This in turn, has sparked a rock-

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O

by Craig Smith

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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2015

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DECEMBER

2015

Advertorial

Lydia’s Beauty Spot – where our beauty secrets … become yours

W

elcome to my lovely new salon, Lydia's Beauty Spot, situated in an idyllic location directly opposite the Cliffs Pavilion, Westcliff-on-Sea so there’s plenty of parking available.

Qualifying as a beauty therapist in 2008, I have seven years of salon experience. After completing my degree in Beauty, Spa and Management at the London College of Fashion, gaining my NVQ Level 5, I worked in two local beauty salons, then progressed to working as a mobile therapist, and now finally my dream - having my own salon!

Fresh faces Bringing with me, a long list of loyal clients, who I have built up truly wonderful relationships with over the years. I couldn't have opened my salon without the support of my clients, it is so important to me to keep great relationships.

Ellie joined the team in June this year, and has nearly finished her NVQ Level 3. She is a great asset to me! Always has a smile on her face, I love her positivity! Ellie’s massages are to die for, clients literally float out of the room!

Genuine beauty We know how important it is to enjoy your experience and be happy with service. Therefore we always use genuine products, and like to keep the salon pristine and smelling gorgeous. Both being perfectionists with fantastic attention to detail, you will find us professional, yet very friendly, in a warm environment.

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Pop in and say hello, take a look at our salon and pick up a price list. We will always be happy to answer any questions you may have or create bespoke treatments just for you.

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Celebrating 10 Years

Oracle’s 10th birthday party!

L

ast month, well over 100 people assembled at the Park Inn Palace Hotel, Southend, to celebrate Oracle’s 10th anniversary.

The sparkling reception kicked off with some super-smooth live enter tainment from multitalented jazz singer/guitarist, Joe Gibson, who is also appearing at Ronnie Scott’s this month.

After a very touching welcome and thank you from Oracle’s own Emma Wynne-Morgan, Cookingon-Sea, Oracle’s charity cookbook in aid of HARP – Southend’s Homeless Charity – was officially launched in style. HARP’s Chairman, Richard Hair then explained the amazing progress that the charity has achieved, which was echoed and supported by a short speech from the Mayor.

Street talk Surprise highlight of the evening, however, was a breath-taking talk from Matt Pettitt who described his own experiences of being homeless with shockingly revealing honesty, leaving nobody in doubt of the amazing, life-changing work that HARP perform.

Guests were then treated to a cookery demonstration (and a very enjoyable food-tasting!) by cook-extraordinaire, Judy Barden, who magicked up her delicious Paprika Arlettes recipe featured in Cooking-on-Sea. As the evening got into full flow, guests danced (and sang) the night away with the effervescent vocalist, JD “Mr Soul Machine” Fitzgerald, who’s infectious charisma lit up the room like a birthday sparkler and raffle prizes were excitedly awarded, including a football signed by the whole Southend United team.

Going like hot cakes All too early, the night was over and guests collected their copies of Cooking-on-Sea to take home, to give as presents and many to generously sell in their own shops.

Sales of the limited edition book raised nearly £2,000 within the first week and have continued with vigour. So If you would like to purchase one for Christmas this year then don’t delay, and remember – you will not only be buying a book filled with some delicious, tried and tested, local dishes but you will also be helping to feed and shelter Southend’s homeless this winter. Go to Oracle’s website to see where you can purchase a copy of the book and remember that every penny is being given to HARP.

By Simon Ramet

O

Photographs by Keith Hoskins, Picture Perfect

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DECEMBER

2015

DECEMBER 2015

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21

Council News

A game of two halves A

s we head towards the festive season, one of the big topics at the moment is the proposed new Southend United Football Stadium and associated homes, shops and leisure facilities.

At last, a revised planning application will be submitted to the Council for consideration. The programme anticipates starting construction in the autumn of 2016. There is still a very long way to go until the new stadium and retail complex are built and ready for use, and a number of issues for the council to consider from a planning and wider perspective. If approved, the whole development is expected to take 3–5 years.

Pitch perfect The architects who have drawn up the plans are Populous, who previously jointly designed the new stadiums at Wembley, the Millennium in Cardiff and Arsenal’s Emirates.

The public consultation documents show that there could be a 21,000 seater stadium, a 131 bedroom hotel, 240 residential units over 3 tower blocks, a 35 store complex, 10 restaurants, a 12screen cinema along with 1,000 parking spaces for the retail park and 830 match day car parking spaces. As with all planning applications there are both advantages and disadvantages.

Home advantage This development is likely to be hugely popular as there are facilities to suit all ages, the town

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ORACLE-ON-SEA

could see the benefits of major job creation, and the possibility of new visitors to the town. With possible further promotion into higher leagues, the side will be playing against teams who have large established supporter bases, and the club will attract increased home fans along with the existing loyal supporters that I am sure would be as keen as ever to support Southend United.

Top score or own goal?

The disadvantages must also be considered. For instance, will the local infrastructure be able to cope with the many people likely to be moving into the new homes around the stadium, exacerbating existing problems of available places at local schools, and in doctor and dental surgeries? Can the highways cope with the increased level of cars likely to be on the roads, and the large number of football fans walking to and from the stadium? More importantly, will Southend-on-Sea High Street be able to survive if such a big retail area is likely to draw shoppers away from it?

Good or bad for Southend-on-Sea – what do you think?

I wish you and your families a very merry Christmas.

O

Cllr Ron Woodley 01702 588662 Leader of Southend-on-Sea Borough Council

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

DECEMBER

2015

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Our Racket Testing Area – In our

warehouse we have a rebound net for customers to try out tennis rackets. Badminton players can also use this area. We stock over 300 rackets and our “racket wall “ is always current.

Racket Re-String Service – We offer a superb re-stringing service and take great pride in assuring customer satisfaction. We can also re-grip and fit dampeners when required.

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his year sees us celebrating 10 years since our doors first opened. Our aim then was to create a fantastic ‘destination store’ where customers could view, and in some cases, even road test the latest sports equipment backed up by friendly expert advice. This still applies today from our showroom based in Progress Road where we specialise in running, racketsports, rugby and fitness. We would like to thank all our customers for their continued support and to all new customers, we hope you will have the opportunity to visit our unique store very soon.

If your passion is running, tennis, badminton, squash, racketball, rugby or general fitness here are 10 reasons to visit Original Sports.

2000sq ft Showroom - Spacious open plan

layout allows customers to browse with ease.

Top Brands - All at competitive prices.

Friendly Advice - With over 30 years of experience our dedicated team are always available to give the best advice and service. All standards and budgets catered for.

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always happy to support local events and are Sponsors of several large tournaments and events in the area.

Free Parking - Hassle free right outside in our

own car park.

Video Gait Analysis – We offer this service free of charge. Ben or Dan will ask you to hop onto our treadmill in our Gait Test Area and film you actually running. After playing the video back in slow motion to you they will advise which is the correct running shoe for you.

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01702 718944 / 718949 18 & 19, Rutherford Close, Progress Road, Eastwood, Leigh-on-Sea, SS9 5LQ www.originalsports.co.uk

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DECEMBER

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recipe of the month

Method: First make the mincemeat. Soak the raisins, sultanas and currants in the orange juice and Grand Marnier or Cointreau for about 1 hour until the liquid has been soaked up. Now mix the rest of the ingredients and give it a good stir.

Spoon into sterilised jars, seal tightly and store in the fridge.

In the Kitchen with Judy Barden

To make the pastry, sift the flour, icing sugar and ½ tsp salt into a bowl or a food processor. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.

Add a little cream, or milk to bring to a soft dough. Turn out onto a worktop, knead briefly, wrap in some cling film and chill for half an hour.

Orange and Walnut Mince Pies

T

his orangey mincemeat is not too sweet.

Many of the commercial varieties are very sweet and sugary. The mincemeat can be made and kept for up to 2 months and the lovely American style cream cheese pastry can be made and frozen ready to use when you need it. Enjoy!

Enjoy!

Orange and Walnut Mince Pies Makes about 24

Ingredients: For the mincemeat – 100g/4oz each of raisins, sultanas and currants juice of ½ an orange 3 tbsp Grand Marnier or Cointreau 85g/3oz walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped 100g/4oz unsalted butter melted 85g/3oz candied peel finely chopped zest of 1 orange 90g/3½ oz light muscovado sugar 85g/3oz Bramley apple, grated For the pastry – 300g/12oz plain flour 3 tbsp icing sugar 175g/6oz unsalted butter, very cold 175g/6oz cream cheese 3 tbsp single cream or milk

32

ORACLE-ON-SEA

Roll the pastry onto a floured worktop to the thickness of a pound coin and cut tops and bottoms in equal numbers using a 6cm cutter and a 7cm cutter. Reroll until all your pastry is used up. Lightly grease a 12 hole bun tin (you will make 24) and use the larger circles to line your cups. Place a heaped tsp of mincemeat in each one and top with the smaller disc pressing the edges together (I sometimes just wet the edge of the pastry with a little water to help it stick).

Heat the oven to 220°C/fan 200°C/Gas Mark 7 and place a baking sheet in the oven to heat up.

Place the mince pies on the hot baking sheet and cook for 10 mins then reduce the heat to 180°C/fan 160°C/Gas Mark 4 for another 10 minutes until lightly golden. If you want a lovely crusty sugary finish, brush with milk and sprinkle with caster sugar and return to the oven for 2 mins. Cool in the tin for 5 mins before easing out.

Serve warm or cold or freeze for up to 2 months.

Defrost and warm through in the oven.

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Community

Supporting someone living with cancer B

eing diagnosed with cancer has the power to make someone feel as though their world has fallen apart. Even the prospect of a diagnosis can create so much change and uncertainty that it often seems there is no “normal” any more.

Natural reactions Effects of coming to terms with a cancer diagnosis are as unpredictable as they are unsettling. Many different responses are stirred up, with no wrong or right way of dealing with the feelings experienced. One or all of shock, fear, denial, anger, withdrawal and coping are natural reactions and can happen in any order.

Advances in understanding and treatment allow a person to continue to live well whilst dealing with cancer, whatever the outcome. There are many forms of support and help available to cancer patients, but what about those people around the patient: family, friends and carers?

How does someone provide much-needed help and support to a loved one, friend or colleague dealing with cancer, whilst also coping with the impact on their own life?

Live with and live well with cancer The Macmillan Information Centre, based at Southend Hospital helps anyone overcome the trauma of cancer. Focused on enabling people to live with and live well with cancer, support is given on a 1:1 basis and is non-judgemental, nondiscriminatory, discrete, private and confidential.

36

ORACLE-ON-SEA

Using a “drop-in” approach, users can access the centre’s services for information (both clinical and non-clinical), complex emotional and psychological support, benefits, welfare and employment advice and sign-posting to a broad range of health and social care services. There is also access to various support groups, helping to cope with distress, relationship and emotional issues, find support networks and promote self-management.

As a joint partnership between Southend Hospital and Macmillan Cancer Support, the centre is a calm and “safe” place for people to gather their thoughts, talk about their concerns with a trained volunteer, or seek specialist advice from an oncology nurse.

If you are dealing with cancer, or supporting someone who is, visit the centre for support and advice.

Or even just for a cup of tea and a friendly face.

by Friederike Englund Macmillan Information & Support Manager

Macmillan Information & Support Centre, Southend University Hospital

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DECEMBER

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Beat the Xmas blues with The Blues this Xmas!

S

outhend United appear to have settled well to life back in Sky Bet League 1.

Following our dramatic penalty shoot out victory in May at Wembley the ‘feel-good’ factor remains at Roots Hall. Some good player acquisitions along with an array of different scorers have, at the time of print, put the Blues just a few points adrift from the play-off spots.

If a few back-to-back victories can be obtained in the coming weeks there is a great chance to break into the prized play off spots. With the exception of perhaps one game, we can certainly say we have held our own in a league occupied by a number of former Premier League clubs such as Blackpool, Coventry, Wigan and Bradford.

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Christmas lineup Back on the pitch: The first third of the season has seen Southend gain vital away victories at Millwall, Crewe and Oldham, along with some more than credible draws at the likes of Gillingham, Sheffield United and Coventry.

As we enter the busy festive season, Phil Brown's men take to the field no fewer than five games including two visits from near neighbours Millwall.

First up we welcome them in the Semi Final of the Johnstone's Paint Trophy on Tuesday 8th December – the Blues once again find themselves with a good opportunity to reach yet another Wembley final. We then kick start the festivities on Friday 18th December with the visit of Bury under the Roots Hall lights. After the visit to rivals Colchester we welcome Millwall who will be familiar with the route from South London to Roots Hall for the 1pm kick off on Monday 28th December.

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Your Stove is waiting for you!

Photo for illustration purposes only

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DECEMBER

2015

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43

Local Letters Dear Abe,

Re: Pier Pressure (in October’s Oracle) ---------------------------------------

There are a range of prices which include walk both ways, train one way and train both ways which mean that visitors only pay for the journeys they take. Walking the length of the pier this time of year is just £1 and is £2 in summer although for concessions it is £1 for the summer as well. An annual pass is available for regular multiple use which is £70 adults £35 for concessions. The Pier is a tourist attraction rather than a passenger train and is good value compared to other attractions of its type.

Scott Dolling | Head of Service – Economy, Regeneration and Tourism | Southend-on-Sea Borough Council

’ pricс were missing fron Southнd Piр’s Oracle’s investigation uncovered that the ‘walk only тd pricс. This has now been rectified. webpage which may have suggested infla RETURN TO SENDER I use the Post Office in Southend High Street so infrequently that I only recently learned of it’s ‘advances’ in technology. Unfortunately, now I find I can’t use it all! First I discovered the numbered queueing system but couldn’t locate the ticket dispenser. After much searching I was helpfully shown that it was a actually a computer that gives you the tickets but then found that it forces you to answer a questionnaire before it will do so! I then spotted the self-service machines and decided to avoid the considerable queue altogether. It didn’t take long to realise that only someone with a degree in computer engineering would be able to buy so much as a stamp from one of these creations, so I approached a member of staff who was busily assisting the customers using the other machines. She quickly programmed my ‘self-service’ machine for me and I left having finally received the swift, human service that I had wanted in the first place! I wonder how many salaries this ‘progress’ has cost?

Mr. M. Wright

– Fallen Angels –

Remembrance Day was our chance to honour the many brave men and women who gave their lives in the service of their country. As usual, we did this by wearing poppies yet they were only widely on sale for less than a fortnight beforehand. In contrast, Christmas decorations, cards, gifts and other merchandise have been appearing in shops since October. After about a week, the poppies were all stashed away for another year, out of sight and out of people's minds. By January, sales in the shops will be urging us to buy early for Xmas 2016. Thought provoking isn't it?

A. Resident

Something on your mind?

Consult the Oracle by sending your letters to: info@oraclepublications.co.uk 44

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DECEMBER

2015

Head to Hyde Park Winter Wonderland with c2c this Christmas

SAVE S AVE 1/3* WHEN OR M MORE ORE TRAVEL TR AV EL 1/ 3 * W HEN 3 OR WITH W ITH GROUPSAVE GROUP S AV E For For more more Christmas Christmas aadventures, dventures, vvisit isit c2c-online.co.uk c2c-online.co.uk *Terms apply. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland open from 20th November 2015 - 3rd January 2016

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Welcome to the Southend 11+ Tuition Centre where students can look forward to being educated as individuals.

Laraine Harris has been teaching 11+ for the Southend and Chelmsford area grammar schools for more than 10 years and has attained a 95% pass rate over this time.

We believe that education goes beyond the academic curriculum. In addition to preparing pupils for selective secondary schools, we endeavour to help them develop life skills necessary to thrive in our rapidly changing adult world.

What often appears “impossible” becomes “possible” through motivational practises.

Our preparation classes are for year 4 pupils who attend for one hour each week and year 5 pupils who attend for 1½ hours each week. Online papers are provided and workshops will be available for specific areas of weakness and extra practise.

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Air&Back

Airport Transfer Specialists

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Diary Dates WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA

FREE

Sat 5th Dec, Southend Town Centre Lots of events throughout the day to celebrate Christmas.

DIGBY FAIRWEATHER - CHRISTMAZ JAZZ

Wed 9 Dec 12.15pm–1.00pm, Southend Civic Centre THAMES ESTUARY DECORATIVE AND FINE ARTS SOCIETY

Meets every first Wed at 10.30am and 2.00pm, The Freight House, Bradley Way, Rochford We have an exciting programme on the Arts. Visitors welcome (£5). For further information call 01702 479416 or 01268 771120.

WOMEN'S INSTITUTE SOUTHCHURCH VILLAGE FRIENDS MEETING

Every 2nd Mon at 7.30pm, The Hamstel Children & Families Centre, Hamstel Road THE THAMES THROUGH TIME

Sat 12th Dec, Beecroft Art Gallery, Victoria Avenue South Essex Natural History Society. The course of the river has changed and left behind interesting geological and archaeological clues. By Ian Mercer.

CAROLS ON STRAND WHARF

FREE

Sat 12th Dec 6pm–7pm, Strand Wharf Join us singing popular and well known Carols.

CATS PROTECTION HOMING SHOW

FREE

Sat 12th Dec 10.30am–12pm, Shalynn Cattery, 569 Prince Ave (access via Southbourne Grove or slip roads to Westcliff from the A127).

All our cats are neutered and chipped, vet checked and vacinated. All lovely and looking for a good home. For further information please call Rita on 01702 710630 or come along on the day and meet our moggies!

CHRISTMAS CAROL-ALONG

FREE

Sun 20th Dec 2pm, Southend Bandstand, Priory Park The Southend Band present an hour’s free concert of Christmas music and carols. Wrap up warmly and enjoy the festive cheer.

Do you have an event? Email us to get it on here!

info@oraclepublications.co.uk

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Professional Painters & Decorators Our wide range of services include: Interior Painting Exterior Painting Decorating Services Plastering Property Maintenance Joinery Work Fully insured Clean and reliable staff We are Dulux select and Trust Mark approved

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CLUBS & ASSOCIATIONS Belfairs Golf Club 526911 Belfairs Mixed Bowling 475766 Charles Dicken’s Fellowship 588069 Cockleshell Clog Morris 479622 Essex Yacht Club 478404 Essex Handicrafts Association 479622 Essex Society for Family History 522992 Estuary Social Club 477022 Highlands Badminton Club 476009 Hoy & Anchor Folk Club 715111 I.C.C Saturday Club 437861 Leigh Afternoon Women’s Institute 710232 Leigh-on-Sea Cricket Club 712105 Leigh-on-Sea Lions Club 715111 Leigh Camera Club 478717 Leigh Film Society 07957 129309 Leigh Motor Boat Club 714858 Leigh Sailing Club 476788 Lower Thames Rowing Club 482205 Prittlewell Bowls Club 612476 Southend Athletics Club 472195 Southend Photographic Society 332491 Southend Rugby Club 546682 Southend West District Scouts (19 groups) 587647 The English Speaking Union 588069 Westcliff Rugby Club 541499 Woodside Bowling Club 525648 Southend Chess Club Steve Wedlock (Club Secretary) 345902 SEESS Scottish Country Dancing 585473 Thames Estuary Lacemakers 476034 Leigh Travel Club 474475 Southend & District Pensioners Campaign 341047 Westcliff Poetry Prose Lyric Club 342700 Southend Anglo Italian Circle 478105

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DECEMBER

2015

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Thorpe Bay

December 2015

December 2015

Oracle-on-Sea

ORACLE ORACLE Thorpe Bay and the Garrison at a glance

Leigh, Chalkwell & Southend Conservation Area Est. Oct 2006. Circulation 6,700

Est. Sept 2005. Circulation 5,100

ACCOUNTANTS Taylors Chartered Accountants AIRPORT TRANSFER Air & Back BLINDS & SHUTTERS Creative Shutters & Blinds Wave Interiors Worth & Co BUTCHERS Philip Splett CAFE Cafetiere CAR DEALERSHIP Fairfield Mini CAR REPAIRS Bellevue Motors CARPETS Athena Flooring Gainsborough Carpets Trade Carpets CHARITY Macmillan Samaritans CHAUFFEURS Abbeygate Chauffeurs CLASSIC CARS Pride & Joy Classic Cars CLEANING Maid in Essex CONSERVATORIES BJ Davis COSMETIC CLINIC JR Medical DECORATORS Essex Brush & Trowel Stuart Wylie DOG GROOMING Head 2 Paws DOORS Dream Doors DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIR Cloudy 2 Clear ELECTRIC DMB Electric Emergency Electrical FASHION BOUTIQUE Just Fox FASHION & GIFTS Callie & Finn FIREPLACES Fireplace & Design

17 48 17 17 18 28/29 49 2 55/28/29 35 56 5 36 38 35 35 24 27 33 25 50 46 24 34 31 28/29 15 28/29 42

FLOORING Daniel James Flooring FLOORING SPECIALIST Kenbro GARDEN CENTRES Morley's Garden Centre GIFTS Ravens GRANITE WORKTOPS Granite Transformations HAIR & BEAUTY Grateful Heads HANDMADE JEWELLERY Crystal Tree HEALTH & BEAUTY Body Bliss Cliff House Clinic Forever Living Lydia's Beauty Spot Tiny London HEATING Sonray Heating U-Bend Plumbing & Heating HOMECARE Caremark HOME IMPROVEMENT Climatec Home Improvement INTERIOR DESIGNERS Morris Interiors JEWELLERY Lyons Jewellers KITCHEN INTERIORS Prittlewell Interiors KNITTING Knitting Emporium LANDSCAPES Amax Landscapes LASTING POWERS OF ATTORNEY Oracle Estate Planning LETTER FROM SANTA Send Me a Santa Letter LETTINGS AGENT Dedman Gray LIGHTING Celco Lighting Essex Lighting MARBLE WORKTOP Abbey Marble PEST CONTROL G&S Pest Control Pestcleare

30 Oracle Competition!

Oracle Competition!

WIN! 3-Piece ‘Butterfly London’ Jewellery Set from Callie & Finn worth £175

55

WIN! 3-Piece ‘Butterfly London’ Jewellery Set from Callie & Finn worth £175

Christmas Checklist

Christmas Checklist

Pull-out and keep special!

Pull-out and keep special!

NEW! Beat the Christmas blues

NEW! Beat the Christmas blues

With SUFC this Christmas

13

Diamonds - Gifts - Repairs

With SUFC this Christmas magnificent views over the Thames Estuary

S outhend - on - Sea Southend-on-Sea

A Stunning collection of high specification one, two and three bedroom apartments

The National Association of Goldsmiths

from £153,000

Est. 1950. The Oldest Established Jewellers in the Area

89 West Road, Shoeburyness, SS3 9DT

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www.andrewsltd.co.uk

28/29

Cover photo by Martin Sherlock

T el: 01702 311042 Tel: Cover photo by Edward Clack courtesy of Skyscan

3

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PLUMBING & HEATING Hammond & Sons PROPERTY SERVICES Hopsons Property Services PUBLIC HOUSE The Angel Inn RESTAURANTS Manoly's Restaurant SEALANT SOLUTIONS Ultimate Sealing SEWING & ALTERATIONS Sew in Love SHUTTERS/BLINDS/CURTAINS Love my Curtains & Blinds SKIP HIRE Leigh Skip Hire SPORTSWEAR Original Sport THEATRES Southend Theatres TRAIN TRAVEL c2c TREE SERVICES Cedarwood Tree Specialists Mike's Tree Services Treefella Tree-King TUITION First Class Learning WILLS Oracle Estate Planning

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DECEMBER

2015

DECEMBER 2015

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

ORACLE-ON-SEA

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