Oracle-on-Sea
November 2014
ORACLE Leigh, Chalkwell & Southend Conservation Area Est. Oct 2006. Circulation 6,700
Oracle Competition WIN! A meal for two at Oracle’s Question Night with guest speaker Cllr Ron Woodley
Local Issues
About the Keyhole Cancer Appeal
Council News Growing and supporting local businesses
Hair & Beauty How to sparkle on Bonfire Night
O
JIM DICKENS
HARLEQUIN
D
ES
IG
N
CO
N
SU
LT AT I
FR EE
N
JANE CHURCHILL
DESIGN, STYLE & CRAFTSMANSHIP Visit our extensive showroom and workshop in Thorpe Bay. We offer a complete interior design service. A fantastic choice of styles, finishes, fabrics, leathers, accessories, BESPOKE UPHOLSTERY AND CURTAINS – a talented and dedicated team of interior designers, furniture craftsmen and curtain makers to create your specific requirements – let us transform your home. We also provide a full RE-UPHOLSTERY and RE-MODELLING service and have a huge selection of FABRICS, WALLPAPERS and CARPETS. Interior design by MICHELLE ELLIOTT-BRITTO.
MORRIS
* * 9(03
INTERIORS :;(;065 96(+
;/697, /(33
;/, )96(+>(@
(*(*0( +90=,
4(7305 >(@
(=,5<,
;/697, )(@ :;(;065
:6<;/,5+ 65 :,(
:,(
;/697, ,:73(5(+,
:/6,)<9@5,::
:,(
SANDERSON
23-25 Station Road, Thorpe Bay, Essex SS1 3JY Tel. 01702 586800 Fax. 01702 586054 www.morrisinteriors.ltd.uk Opening hours: 9am–5pm Monday–Friday 9am–4pm Saturday
ROMO
ZINC
COLEFA X AND FOWLER
FOR
OR ACLE
S AL E
Publisher’s letter
A
s a small thank you to all Oracle readers for their loyal readership over the past 9 years, I have decided that Oracle will donate this month’s competition and launch something new for both magazines and its readers. Oracle strives to be a community magazine and I feel part of its job is to give the community a voice; hence the free local issues pages every month. Taking this a stage further, I thought it would be a great idea to give residents the chance to meet with decision makers in the town and ask them questions face to face.This next month sees the launch of Oracle Question Night; the first evening to be held at the Café Masala, Thorpe Bay with the new leader of Southend Borough Council, Cllr. Ron Woodley. How it will work; Oracle will pay for 15 readers plus their partners to dine and ask their previously submitted question to Cllr.Woodley.The evening, I am sure will be of great interest,debate and revelation.So,if you wish to partake in the evening then please send in your question and contact details as outlined below. Oracle Question Night’s initial evening will take place at the Café Masala, Broadway, Thorpe Bay at 7pm on Wednesday, 12th November. Please note that your question along with your contact details must be submitted either by email or by post to:- Oracle Question Night,39 Alexandra Street,Southend,SS1 1BW or email info@oraclepublications.co.uk closing date for question is Friday, 7th November. Good luck!
Emma Wynne-Morgan Publisher
01702 393838
39 Alexandra Street, Southend, Essex SS1 1BW
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
Treat a loved one to a bespoke hand painted painting for Christmas and be truly original.
Fashion illustration, ink paintings ready for commission, any canvas size can be requested. Prices start from £140 for small to medium sized canvases.
Please feel free to call the locally based artist and discuss your requirements without obligation.
info@oraclepublications.co.uk
www.twitter.com/oracle_essex www.facebook.com/oraclepublications
M: 07557098593
E: charleswynnemorgan@hotmail.com
Printed by Printwize Ltd, Witham, Essex CM8 3BN 01376 500 900 NOVEMBER 2014 www.oraclepublications.co.uk
ORACLE-ON-SEA
3
Beautiful florist in Leigh-on-Sea Flowers, Gifts and Cards for any occasion 148 Broadway, Leigh on Sea, SS9 1AA
info@ 01702 482034 WEDDINGS
FUNERALS
CORPORATE
10% off any purchase
contents Local Issues About the Keyhole Cancer Appeal by Keyhole Cancer Appeal
9/10
How to sparkle on Bonfire Night Hair & Beauty by Craig Smith
16
Growing and supporting local businesses Council News by Cllr Ron Woodley
22
Chinese Chilli Beef Judy's Recipe Page
26
Preparing your Garden for Winter Wildlife 30 Oracle Gardening by James Dalton Landscaping
Security:Grilles, Bars & Roller Shutters
32
Oracle Security by Simon Wakefield Sudoku Diary Dates Advertisers Index
34 36 42
Advertorials Cameo 4
6 ORACLE-ON-SEA
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
NOVEMBER 2014
Trade Carpets
640 SUTTON ROAD, SOUTHEND-ON-SEA, ESSEX, SS2 5PX
t. 01702 612424 / 01702 612425
D HE IS BL A T ES
27
S AR YE
OPEN DAILY: 9.00am - 5.30pm
COME & VISIT OUR SHOWROOM
CARPETS
REMNANTS RUGS
VINYLS
LAMINATES
MODULEO KARNDEAN ENGINEERED WOOD
1000’S OF CARPETS IN STOCK QUALITY FITTING SERVICE FREE DELIVERY NOVEMBER 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
ORACLE-ON-SEA
5
At Cameo we work really hard to ensure that the clothes we have are more exclusive and select our collections from designer labels who only supply into independent boutiques. So you won’t find the things we have on the general high street or in department stores.
Advertorial
Get wrapped up for Winter Autumn is well and truly here with Christmas just around the corner. It’s time to dust off your winter wardrobe, see what still fits and then relish the thought that you just have to have some new Winter clothes! The new season collections are in stock now at the boutique so it’s the perfect time to take a visit to Cameo for some well needed retail therapy.
Not in the High Street
This season we have 3 super new casual-wear collections from Marble, Strawberry Bay and Brandtex with prices starting from just £25. We also have a fabulous accessories collection from Pia Rossini with beautiful scarves and handbags all just perfect for updating your look or the perfect gift.
C
ameo Boutique is situated in the main shopping area of Hadleigh. It is a charming independent boutique offering clothes and accessories that can’t be found on the high street. All the ranges are handpicked and chosen for their compatibility with each other allowing many of the collections to be mixed and matched to create a unique offering.
Of course we still have our fantastic dressed up collections from Michaela Louisa, Gina Bacconi, John Charles and Irresistible. Parking is free in Hadleigh on Saturdays, so there really is no excuse not to call in and see us!
We are best known for our Mother of Bride Collections and are stockists of some of the best British Occasionwear Designers. But don’t forget we also carry casual-wear collections, offering something for everyone whatever the occasion. We offer a really fantastic personal service helping all our customers to make the right decision on their outfit and make sure that have all the coordinating accessories.
A thoroughly enjoyable shopping experience. Above all, the Cameo team are committed to ensuring all our customers have a thoroughly enjoyable retail experience and leave knowing they have the right outfit. Whatever the occasion our friendly and experienced staff will work with you to ensure you look and feel your very best.
6
ORACLE-ON-SEA
01702 552250 www.cameo-boutique.com
223 London Road, Hadleigh, Essex, SS7 2RD
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
Find us on Facebook NOVEMBER 2014
New Kitchens & Bedrooms Call Now for a free Home Survey and Quotation
Showroom: Company House, Stock Road, Southend on Sea, SS2 5QF
www.kitchen-base.co.uk NOVEMBER 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
01702 461228 ORACLE-ON-SEA
7
Memory Lockets To treasure those who you love mostâ&#x20AC;Ś
SHAUN LEANE
David Roberts
Exquisite Diamond Collections
David Roberts 8 Broadway Leigh-on-sea Essex, SS9 1AW 01702719007 www.davidrobertsjewellery.com
8
ORACLE-ON-SEA
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
NOVEMBER 2014
Local Issues
About the Keyhole Cancer Appeal
S
outhend Hospital Charitable Foundation has taken on an exciting new challenge to raise £600,000 for the provision of a new state-of-the-art laparoscopic (keyhole surgery) theatre suite at Southend University Hospital. The Keyhole Cancer Appeal will enable surgeons to perform the latest and most complex keyhole procedures for patients undergoing cancer and general surgery. At the heart of the new theatre will be some of the most advanced camera systems in Europe, which deliver extremely high quality 3D images. Hundreds of Southend patients are likely to benefit each year. They include people suffering with bowel and prostate cancer or gynecological conditions. Many of these patients would have previously had to have ‘open’ surgery’ which would have meant longer hospital stays and recovery times and greater post-operative pain and scarring. Mr. Mike Dworkin, speaking on behalf of the surgeons at Southend University Hospital said: “The new operating theatre will deliver high resolution 3D images allowing us to see and identify anatomical structures more easily and perform the most complex keyhole procedures. For the first time all the systems in the operating theatre will be under the central control of touch NOVEMBER 2014
panels and the new equipment will be free of pipes, tubes and wiring. We will also be able to bring digital x-rays and body scans to the screens and to record or film the operation for the benefit of patient records. It also means the surgeon can use the two-way video conferencing function to dramatically enhance the teaching process. We really are incredibly grateful to Southend Hospital Charitable Foundation for launching this appeal which we know will make a significant difference to the patients we treat”.
How you can help - Events? Winter Ball, Sat 6 December:
Join us for our fabulous Winter Ball for a spectacular night of great food and entertainment at the luxurious Orsett Hall. Following a champagne reception, 300 guests will make their way to their tables in the stylish Main Pavilion where a delicious three-course meal and wine will be served. You will also be given the chance to bid for luxury packages in our charity auction. After your meal you can dance the night away to an array of professional entertainers who will be sure to leave you feeling festive. Whether you attend for personal enjoyment or to offer quality
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
ORACLE-ON-SEA
9
entertainment to clients and colleagues, we promise you an evening you will never forget. Ticket Price: £50, Included: Welcome drink, 3-course meal, ½ bottle of wine and live entertainment. For more information call: 01702 38533
Volunteer We are supported by a wonderful team of volunteers who kindly donate their time. Whether it’s to serve customers in one of our shops or marshalling at an event, our volunteers are a valued part of the team. We're always looking for new volunteers to join us and make a difference. We’d love to have you join the team! Roles are available in a wide variety of areas: n n
n
In our shops:- we have two shops in the Westcliff and Leigh area Fundraising:- whether on a regular basis helping to plan events or arrange collection boxes or occasionally helping out at events. To register your interest please visit: www.southend.nhs.uk/support-us/volunteering
Involving your Company There are many different ways for companies, large and small, to get involved with Southend Hospital Charitable Foundation. With health being a key concern for many customers, clients and staff, we are a registered charity with a strong community appeal. If you think your company or office might like to make a corporate donation or encourage employees to donate as individuals or via their payroll, run an employee fundraising initiative, promote our exciting fundraising events, or sponsor some aspect of our work, we can work with you to make the most of your ideas.
Don’t forget our Christmas Craft and Gift Fair! Sunday 16th November, The Mill Rayleigh See Oracle diary dates page 36 for info.
As well as creating interesting PR and marketing opportunities, a partnership with Southend Hospital Charitable Foundation also brings many internal benefits including better employee relations and increased staff morale. We believe that we will best achieve our aims by meeting yours. Whichever type of corporate partnership you are interested in, we will tailor it to suit your needs. For further information, please fundraising@southend.nhs.uk or 385337. Our grateful thanks to companies, large and small, who support our appeals.
e-mail us call 01702 the many generously
O
Keyhole Cancer Appeal
01702 385337 fundraising@southend.nhs.uk
www.southend.nhs.uk
10
ORACLE-ON-SEA
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
NOVEMBER 2014
NOVEMBER 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
ORACLE-ON-SEA
11
V{Ü|áàÅtá ctÜà|xá in the Windsor Suite Three Course Meal DJ Dancing till late
FROM
30.95
£
_tÅÑÄ|z{àá UÜtááxÜ|x CHRISTMAS DAY
Four Course Festive Lunch and Live Music
FROM
84.95
£
Pay deposit before 1st November and receive £50.00 off a table of 10 guests
01702 345 247 www.westcliff-hotel.co.uk
Antique and modern reupholstery french polishing & repair service, pub club & hotel work undertaken Ercol, Cintique, Parker Knoll
George Evans Upholstery t . 01702 716921
e. georgeevansupholstery@yahoo.co.uk Unit 3, R/o 213 Leigh Road, Leigh-on-Sea
Westcliff Parade, Westcliff on Sea, Essex ,SS0 7QW
12
ORACLE-ON-SEA
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
NOVEMBER 2014
NOVEMBER 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
ORACLE-ON-SEA
13
10
W he n En the me ds n 30 Ora tion NO cle ing V . 20 14
%
of f
Family run with 60 years experience All styles of lighting available
Stockists of all light bulbs including traditional ones
New gift ware ranges now in stock for Christmas
Friendly and knowledgeable staff
Largest range of Tiffany lighting in South East Essex
Fantasia ceiling fan stockists
Celco Lighting 144-146 London Road, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS1 1PH 01702 348234 14
ORACLE-ON-SEA
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
NOVEMBER 2014
Design, service & quality
Beautifully bespoke kitchens DK2 Kitchens of Leigh-on-Sea can help you design, update and improve your kitchen, by providing ideas, inspiration and advice to guide \RX WKURXJK WKH ED̈ LQJ FKRLFH RI NLWFKHQ products and designs available today. And, once you’ve settled on a kitchen design that’s right for your home or project, we will supply and install your made to measure kitchen at a price you will be delighted with. &RPH DQG ¿ QG \RXU GUHDP NLWFKHQ WRGD\ LQ RXU QHZ /HLJK VKRZURRP
DK2 Kitchens Showroom 159 Leigh Road, Leigh-on-Sea, Essex SS9 1JF T: 01702 479201
www.dk2kitchens.co.uk NOVEMBER 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
Opening Times Mon-Fri: 9.30am to 5.30pm Sat: 9.30am to 5.30pm Closed Sun & Bank Holidays
ORACLE-ON-SEA
15
Oracle Hair & Beauty
How to sparkle on Bonfire Night… O ne of my favourite aspects of autumn is Bonfire Night. It’s a great excuse to get out of the house, meet up with friends and family and be a big kid. It’s also the perfect excuse to dig out our favourite slouchy sweaters, chunky scarves and sturdy boots without anyone judging your fashion sense. Least of all, your hair!
Much as the style industry loves a trend and sends everyone scurrying off in different directions looking for the season’s hottest look, nobody’s really thought about this fabulous evening of sparklers, firelight and vivid, rainbow-coloured explosions. So, I’m starting a thing, Bonfire Night Hair!
Wow Factor! Of course, me being me, Bonfire Night Hair is still about creating a wow factor that is the envy of all your friends. Of course, Bonfire Night Hair is not strictly restricted to November 5th, I’ll have you looking smokin’ hot whenever and wherever you are. A wrap-around braid has a fairytale princess look about it and is something that many women practiced doing as in their childhood. For a more grown-up look you can accessorise it with a barrette or clip, even weaving coloured thread or faux flowers into it.
Naturally, running around with excitable children, or trying to eat a cheeky hotdog without getting your hair in the way can be a challenge. That’s when a gorgeous, wraparound bun – on your head, not in your hand – really comes into its own. If you have long, thick locks, this is ideal for you.
Classic look An all-too overlooked hairstyle that is ideal for events like a firework party, is the classic French plait. It requires a little more effort but don’t let that deter you. It doesn’t take much time to do and the effect is stunning. You can use your plaiting skills to jazz up a simple ponytail, by turning it into a rope braid version a la Nicole Scherzinger. This style really works with all hair types and colours, so long as it’s long, and takes just five minutes to do.Which leaves you with more time to decide whether to team it with a plain top and some statement jewellery, or an eye-catching outfit that says that the stars aren’t only in the sky at night. by Craig Smith Sponsored by
A Four-Step Ponytail also looks sassy. It’s simple to create and works with thick, curly, fine or straight hair. It has the benefit of looking effortless whilst remaining sophisticated.
16
ORACLE-ON-SEA
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
O
32 Alexandra St., Southend SS1 1BU
01702 340965 NOVEMBER 2014
%)&9 5 & 3 # "* 3
&"65:
* /530%6$503: 706$)&3
101 * / '03 " '3&& $0/465 "5* 0/ "/% " $61 0' $0''&& 50 %* 4$644 )"* 3 45:-& 3&26* 3&.&/54 :063 :06 $"/ 64& 5)* 4 706$)&3 1-64 8* 5) 03 ""30/ 7*,,* .&("/ #30"%8": 8&45 &* () 0/ 4&"
1)0/&
888 %&95 &3)"* 3"/%#&"65 : $0 6,
5 &3.4 "/% $0/%* 5 * 0/4 "11-: NOVEMBER 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
ORACLE-ON-SEA
17
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 18
ORACLE-ON-SEA
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
NOVEMBER 2014
AB B EY M AR B L E E ST A BL I S H E D 1 998
Specialists in Marble and Granite Kitchen & Bathroom Worktops Tailor made Fireplaces to suit your home
TE L : 0 1 7 0 2 6 1 5 7 6 0 Units 8-9 Robert Leonard Ind. Est. Stock Road, Southend-on-Sea Essex, SS2 5QD
MINDFULNESS BASED
STRESS REDUCTION 8 WEEK COURSE
Nice things for your home
This course teaches the skills of mindfulness and their use to reduce feelings of stress.
8 two-hour sessions A half-day on a Saturday Guided meditation CDs or USBs Plus a course booklet
THE COURSE INCLUDES:
The full cost is £150, concessions £100.
A deposit of £50 is required at the time of booking.
Devised in 1979 by Jon Kabat-Zinn, MBSR is now recognized as a powerful tool, bringing wholeness, happiness and peace into busy lives. Everyone can benefit!
THE NEXT COURSE IN LEIGH COMMENCES IN FEBRUARY 2015 Taster sessions on Mindfulness will take place in November & January. For further details see the website below. For further info and an application form, please contact Pat Elliott:
P.ELLIOTT7@SKY.COM WWW.SOUTHEND-MINDFULNESS.CO.UK
NOVEMBER 2014
Furniture Jewellery Pictures Mirrors Gifts c
c
c
01702 719782
Visit us at 41 Elm Road, Leigh-on-Sea, Essex SS9 1SW
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
ORACLE-ON-SEA
19
Same dedicated maid each week only ÂŁ11.55 per hour Then call us on:
LOOKING FOR AN ACCOUNTANT? .....then call Colin Taylor NOW!
For help and advice with:
Self Assessment Tax Returns Accounts Bookkeeping VAT Payroll / RTI Tax Planning CIS Refunds TAYLORS CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS
01702 552008 colin.tca@virgin.net
www.taylorscharteredaccountants.co.uk
20
ORACLE-ON-SEA
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
NOVEMBER 2014
Come and Celebrate Christmas With Us
NEW YEARS EVE GALA 2014 A VERY SPECIAL EVENING OF DINNER DANCING AND MUSIC WITH PROFESSIONAL
Christmas Fayre 3 course meal £19.95
SINGER
GARY OLIVER
Christmas Day Fayre 3 course meal £49.95
3 course meal set Meal £39.95
10% SERVICE CHARGE WILL BE ADDED ON YOUR BILL
10% SERVICE CHARGE WILL BE ADDED ON YOUR BILL
NOVEMBER 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
ORACLE-ON-SEA
21
Council News
Growing and supporting local businesses S outhend-on-Sea was recently successful in receiving £1.8m from central government. All small and medium sized local businesses who are creating new jobs and safeguarding others can apply for the funding. There have been 23 grants awarded so far, with a further nine nearing completion.
This initiative is also levering in significant private sector investment and is providing a major boost to the town’s economic growth. The money is not from local council tax and grants to businesses are determined on clear criteria which are based upon meeting the match funding requirement along with delivering new, or safeguarding existing jobs. It is for individual businesses to decide if their plans merit submitting a bid but we welcome submissions from any sector of the business community. The successful use of this funding and the wider programme is a sign of Southend’s growing potential which has been recognised by central Government.
Business grants Grants are retrospective, therefore payments will be made once businesses have made their investment and created or safeguarded jobs. Small businesses have been included in receiving grants and more are interested. Seafront traders have been advised of this funding opportunity and some have applications in place. The panel which accesses applications is
22
ORACLE-ON-SEA
made up of various businesses and is audited by Lancaster University.
If you are a small or medium sized business, please visit www.businesssouthend.co.uk for more information.
Recent Local Flooding The central part of town was recently hit by a major storm. Clearly some of the infrastructure struggled to cope and has highlighted areas across the town that are susceptive to flooding. We need to be realistic in the fact that we cannot solve flood risk overnight, there are investigations to be done before a robust engineering solution can be found. Therefore an internal team has been tasked to review drainage at flood hotspots across the borough including an inspection schedule of drains and gullies in Southend. In addition exploratory work will be carried out by Anglian Water, who has responsibility for the capacity and maintenance of the public sewer network and are co-operating in finding a long term solution. In the meantime, we will look into what can be done to improve our flood response and find better ways of deploying teams to sites at times of flooding. A report into last year’s flooding is due to be published very soon and a report into the recent flooding is being fast-tracked. Cllr Ron Woodley Leader of Southend-on-Sea Borough Council
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
NOVEMBER 2014
PSST...MEMOIRS Precious Stories Simply Told...
ORDINARY PEOPLE: EXTRAORDINARY STORIES Tell me your story & let me write your unique book Great gift idea for special occasions info@psst-memoirs.co.uk
01702 719078 / 07904 975690 www.psst-memoirs.co.uk NOVEMBER 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
ORACLE-ON-SEA
23
0% INTEREST FREE CREDIT Buy Now Pay November 2015
Terms and Conditions apply. Ask dealer staff for Details
24
ORACLE-ON-SEA
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
NOVEMBER 2014
• • • • •
Helping you weather the storm
To see how we can help, please contact our Southend office on T: 01702 348646 E: southend@wilkinskennedy.com
www.wilkinskennedy.com www w.wilkinskennedy .w y.com
recipe of the month
Method:
In the Kitchen with Judy Barden
Put the meat in the freezer 25-30 mins before you plan to start cooking. This will firm it up a bit and make it easier to slice really thinly. Meanwhile, remove the core and seeds from the pepper and cut it into very thin strips. Slice the spring onions diagonally and slice the broccoli spears in half or quarters through the stems and florets. Thinly slice the pak choi. Mix together the orange juice, vinegar, soy sauce and chilli sauce. Set aside. Slice the beef into very thin strips. In a bowl, beat the egg white with a fork to make it slightly frothy, then stir in the beef with the five-spice powder, cornflour, flour and a good grinding of pepper so everything is evenly coated. Pour 1 tbsp of the oil into a non-stick wok or frying pan.When it’s very hot (test if ready by dropping a small piece of beef in – it should immediately sizzle), put the beef in, stirring to separate, and stir-fry for 3-4 mins. remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Chinese Chilli Beef
T
his is a super quick supper dish just as good as a Chinese takeaway but much lighter, lower in sugar, fat and salt. If you want to make it even healthier add more vegetables and you can spice it up by adding more chilli if you like. Enjoy!
Ingredients: 250g lean beef, such as sirloin steak, trimmed of any excess fat ½ red pepper 4 spring onions, ends trimmed 85g Tenderstem broccoli spears 100g pak choi (baby pak choi is good) 3 tbsp fresh orange juice 1 tsp Chinese rice wine vinegar or white wine vinegar 2 tsp dark soy sauce 1 tsp hot chilli sauce, 1 medium egg white ½ tsp five-spice powder 1 tbsp cornflour 1½ tsp self-raising flour 1 tbsp plus 1 ½ tsp rapeseed oil 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped 2 tsp finely chopped root ginger ¼ tsp chilli flakes, or a good pinch if you prefer it a bit milder
26
ORACLE-ON-SEA
Steam the broccoli spears for 1 ½ mins, then sit the pak choi on top and steam for another 45 secs-1 min until both are tender-crisp. Remove and cool under running cold water so that they stop cooking and retain their colour. Set aside. Pour the remaining oil into the wok and heat it again until very hot. Throw in the garlic, ginger, red pepper and spring onions, and stir-fry for 2-3 mins until starting to brown. Add the chilli flakes, then pour in the soy sauce and orange juice mix with 4-5 tbsp water. As it comes to the boil, stir in the beef and steamed veg, and cook briefly just to heat through. If you want a little more sauciness, splash in another 1-2 tbsp water.
O
Next month’s recipe: Festive Spiced Ham with Cumberland Sauce
Mobile Website Solutions
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
01702 393838 www.oraclepublications.co.uk
NOVEMBER 2014
NOVEMBER 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
ORACLE-ON-SEA
27
www.gatfireservices.org.uk
NEWARK MULTIFUEL STOVE
CARRON ENAMEL MULTIFUEL Range of colours
7.3kw Output (Group 7) Defra approve
ÂŁ1599.00
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
28
ORACLE-ON-SEA
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
NOVEMBER 2014
...Not just for weddings
Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re catching an early morning business flight or simply want a fabulous end to a night at the theatre, relax in the luxury of a chauffeured Mercedes.
Quality Service Our prestige vehicles and uniformed staff will make you feel a million dollars but wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t cost the earth. Fares and other services available on our website:
AbbeygateChauffeurs.com 01702 313800 43 Highfield Gardens, Westcliff, SS0 0SY
NOVEMBER 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
ORACLE-ON-SEA
29
Oracle Gardening
Butterflies and moths These insects will head to sheds to hide away and escape the cold temperatures. Moth larvae will hide away in the soil for maximum protection. Keep the exterior of your shed clean and frost free.
Fallen leaves Now the leaves have started to fall from the trees, spread these over your flowerbed. The leaves provide mulch and also create a great shelter for frogs and toads looking for safe hiding places.
Hedge care Don’t trim hedges until the end of winter. Hedges provide a haven for hedgehogs and birds, who can feast on the winter berries.
Preparing your Garden for Winter Wildlife
A
s the evenings draw in and the temperature drops, doing a bit of garden maintenance is probably the last thing on your mind.
Pond care Save cleaning out the pond until January. Newts, snails, dragonflies, frogs and toads prefer ponds with vegetation in anyway. You can place clay roof tiles in the pond to provide shelter for frogs. On frosty mornings, make sure your pond isn’t iced over, or the water will become deprived of oxygen.
However, if you want to make your garden a haven for wildlife in the cold winter months, experts recommend that you should actually leave tidying it until around the end of January. Read on to find out how you can play the perfect host to popular Essex wildlife during winter.
Newts, frogs and toads Keep a few empty plant pots and piles of bricks out to make a home for these creatures during the winter. Frogs prefer hiding in leaves or deep in your pond.
Birds On a winter’s night, wrens can lose ten per cent of their body weight. They keep warm by roosting communally, usually in empty bird boxes, so make sure yours are cleared out for these feathered friends. Give birds a helping hand by providing food for them during the winter months. This will help improve their chances of breeding.
30
ORACLE-ON-SEA
Please be extra careful if you’re having a bonfire. Bonfires are hedgehog hotels and shouldn’t be built until the day you decide to light them. If you do have to make the bonfire in advance, check there aren’t any hedgehogs hiding away by using a broom to gently lift it section by section.
07708 509415 www.jamesdaltonlandscaping.com info@jamesdaltonlandscaping.com
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
NOVEMBER 2014
Oracle Security
Security : Grilles, Bars & Roller Shutters
I
f you’ve been following our articles about beefing up your security but more IMPORTANTLY, taking action too; you should be ‘as safe as safe can be’ but… you can always go the extra mile to make sure you feel even safer, more secure, protected & self-assured”.
Rise in Crime No matter what you hear, crime is on the increase, and if you’re like most of us you’ll do nothing about it until something does happen, and when it does you’ll shout and scream, holler and probably shout again, but you might as well be having a go at yourself for not taking heed. Where crime is concerned, you should NEVER EVER put off till tomorrow what can be done today. If however you’ve taken action you can give yourself a pat on the back for a job well done but… If you’d like to go the extra mile, you might want to double check that you’ve done all there is to do & consider installing Security Bars, Grilles or even Roller Shutters.
A}
1. Locks (previous Oracle issue) 2. Safe/Security Boxes (previous Oracle issue)
B}
3. Alarms (previous Oracle issue) 4. CCTV (previous Oracle issue)
C}
5. Laminated Glass/Bandit Film (last issue) 6. Grilles, Bars & or Roller Shutters (this issue)
32
ORACLE-ON-SEA
If you want your place ‘safer than safe’ you should consider installing grilles, bars or roller shutters to further safeguard your windows & doors. You know the ones, they’re the sort that we all see when we’re abroad, the ones that make your place pretty impregnable. So, now you know your ‘ABC’, all that remains is NOT to do the typical ‘Brit’ thing; to sit back and wait for something to happen, but to take the ‘bull by the horns’ and to do something about it before it’s too late.
O
01702 346 274 www.brightslocksmiths.co.uk 41 Alexandra Street, Southend-on-Sea, Essex , SS1 1BW
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
NOVEMBER 2014
NOVEMBER 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
ORACLE-ON-SEA
33
ORACLE Enigmas No humdrum conundrum s
1
7 9
8 3
7 9 7
1 4 3 5 5 4 2 3 6 1 2 9 6 5 5 1 4 2 5SUDOKU
SHARE
Fill in the grid above so that each 3 x 3 box, every row and every column contain the Nos 1 - 9. The answer to last month’s puzzle is at bottom.
WORD LADDER Start at the top and change one letter each rung making a new word to arrive at the final word.
SPECIALISTS IN LAWNS (Removes weeds, give it a feed, make it green) SHEDS & FENCES (Repaired and preserved) WOODCHIP Delivered & Distributed
SUPPLIER OF LOGS
Phone Paul on 07957 388285
WHILE
WHALE
STALE
SHALE
STALK
STACK
SLACK
BLACK
GARDEN MAINTENANCE (From weekly visits to total clearouts)
Give us a call and see how we can help!
LAST MONTH’S SOLUTIONS
34
A Friendly, Family run business Very competitive quotes (with concessions)
TREES FELLED & TOPPED (Hedges also trimmed)
3
PLANT
Paul’s Gardening Services
ORACLE-ON-SEA
or freefone 0800 043 3913 email: paulthegardener@hotmail.com Established 1994 - Recommendations & references available
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
NOVEMBER 2014
FOR ALL OF YOUR INSURANCE NEEDS Our aim is simple; to offer you excellent cover at competitive premiums, without compromising on service. Whilst others talk – we listen, helping us to understand what is really important to you. UK & Overseas Home Insurance At Carroll’s, our household insurance is tailor made to provide our clients with wider cover than most Insurers policies. We offer you the following benefits: • UK & Overseas Home Insurance including Accidental Damage cover • Overseas Home Insurance including Subsidence (normally excluded) • Large discounts for optional increased excesses • Interest free direct debit facility
Business Insurance Our commercial team have direct access to Lloyd’s Insurers as well as company markets. We specialise in the following types of business: • Shops, Offices & Restaurants • Contractors Liability • Property Owners Portfolios • Motor Fleet
CARROLL INSURANCE GROUP If you would like more information or a no-obligation quote, please call us on:
0207 623 2228
or alternatively, email us at enquiries@carrollinsurance.co.uk
www.carrollinsurance.co.uk
GRASS ROOTS LANDSCAPING
Diary Dates FIREWORK DISPLAY Sat 8th Nov & 15th Nov - Southend Seafront
CHRISTMAS BAZAAR Saturday 8th Nov. Bellevue Baptist Church Hall, off Southchurch Road - 10.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. Lots of Christmas goodies. Refreshments and homemade cakes. Admission £1
WYRD SISTERS Dixon Studio, Palace Theatre Wed 12th Nov till Sat 15th Nov 7.30pm Saturday Matinee 2.30pm A fantasy comedy production adapted from the Discworld novel by Terry Pratchett. £10.50 – £11.50 Advanced bookings 01702 232683 / Box office 01702 351135
GARDEN MAINTENANCE LANDSCAPING PATIOS & DECKING TURFING FENCING GARDEN CLEARANCE TREE WORK WATER FEATURES DRIVEWAYS Astro turf laying FULLY INSURED NO JOB TOO BIG! 24 YEARS EXPERIENCE. CALL MIKE FOR A FREE QUOTATION ON
01268 456140 / 07756941544 MJ.GRASSROOTs@HOTMAIL.CO.UK
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH-ON Sat 15th Nov 11am-8pm Southend Town Centre Throughout the Christmas period the town will be decorated with sparkling lights and decorations.
CHRISTMAS CRAFT & GIFT FAYRE Sunday 16th Nov 10.30am-4pm The Mill, Bellingham Lane, Rayleigh (free parking) Craft & gift stalls, Santa’s Grotto, raffle , refreshments and more! £1.50 adults children under 16 free 01702 385337
Good things for the home
LEIGH LIGHTS SWITCH-ON Friday 28th Nov 5pm - Get into the Christmas Spirit at this annual family fun event with charity Stalls in Elm Road, Festive Craft Fayre, Children’s pre-parade Fun Time at Leigh Community Centre from late afternoon, fairground and Leigh's much loved Yuletide Procession at 6.30pm.
SANTA’S PARADE Sat 29th November 12pm-6pm, Southend High Street Lots of activities including lantern-making and face painting, meet Santa’s reindeer and watch the parade.
TUDOR CHRISTMAS Sat 29th November 10am-3pm Southchurch Hall - Step back into the Tudor Period at the atmospheric Southchurch Hall as it prepares for Christmas when mince pies were rectangular, Christmas trees were prickly and hung from a beam, when the pudding was pottage and tinsel was evergreens!
www.oraclepublications.co.uk www.twitter.com/oracle_essex
36
ORACLE-ON-SEA
Furniture • Bespoke upholstery Lamps • Cushions • Mirrors • Gifts Visit us at 1721 London Rd, Leigh-on-Sea, Essex SS9 2SW
www.amysatticinteriors.com 07762 125310
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
NOVEMBER 2014
PSSSS P SSSST! SSSS T! Gett 15% o Ge off ff at Jus Justt Fo Fo ox x when y you ou h have ave a beauty treatment reatment over o ver £20 at Jus Justt Glowing Glo wing
JG: T To o book a an n appointment ca callll 017 0 1702 17 02 4 477 77525 77 525 o orr visit w www.jus ww.jus .justglo tglo glowing. wing. ing.com com
JF: F For or sa sales es enquiries ca callll 0 017 1702 17 02 4 471110 71110 or visit ww www w.jus .justf .jus tfoxbo tf oxbo xboutique utique.com utique com
Justt Glo Jus Glowing wing . 45 Br Broadw oadway oadw ay W Wes estt . L es Leigh eigh on Sea . Es Esse sex se x.S SS9 S9 2B 2BX X Justt F Jus Fox ox . 9 S Stt C Clements ements Ar Arcad cade cad e.T The he Br Broadw oadway oadw ay . L Leigh eigh on Sea . Es Esse sex se x.S SS9 S9 1P 1PA A
Really positive signs Hopson Property Services. Selling, managing and letting properties consistently for over 20 years. Client money protection
ARLA approved letting agent
Rent Guarantee Scheme available
Free Rental and Sales Appraisal Service Large Client-Base of Fully-Vetted Tenants and Purchasers Courteous, Professionally-Trained Staff Servicing all your Residential Property Needs Throughout the Southend Borough
Southend’s leading Estate Agents 3 9 Ale xandr a St r e e t , S o u t h e n d S S 1 1B W NOVEMBER 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
HOPSON Property Services
01702 334353 i n fo @ ho pson pr ope r t y . co . u k
www.hopsonproperty.co.uk ORACLE-ON-SEA
37
38
ORACLE-ON-SEA
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
NOVEMBER 2014
Adult & Youth Counselling
I can help with: Anger, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, ERG\ LPDJH ORZ VHOI FRQÂż GHQFH VWUHVV drugs & alcohol & associated feelings, panic, emotional abuse, self harm, bullying, loneliness, isolation, sexual abuse, loss, guilt, shame & sexuality.
Telephone: 07950 964524 Email: cacounselling@hotmail.com www.carladamscounselling.co.uk
Greenfingers COMPLETE GARDEN SERVICES
Regular Maintenance to complete new gardens Lawns, Fences, Decking and Patios supplied and installed Complete Power Washing Service for Decks, Patios and Driveways
534 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 9HS
FREE
Les 07774 783339 Sam 07432 284790
half-hour initial consultation NOVEMBER 2014
For a Friendly reliable service, please phone for a free no obligation survey & estimate
Based in Leigh-on-Sea www.oraclepublications.co.uk
ORACLE-ON-SEA
39
40
ORACLE-ON-SEA
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
NOVEMBER 2014
NOVEMBER 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
ORACLE-ON-SEA
41
Oracle-on-Sea
ORACLE
ORACLE View the latest issues ONLINE
Index to advertisers
Oracle-on-Sea
ACCOUNTANTS Taylors Chartered Accountants Wilkins Kennedy ARTIST Charles Wynne-Morgan BUILDING LMJ Building CAFE Cafe Tiere Pebbles Two CARPETS Trade Carpets CERAMIC TILES IMPORTERS Kenbro CHARITY Keyhole Cancer Appeal CHAUFFEURS Abbeygate Chauffeurs CHRISTMAS PARTIES Westcliff Hotel CLEANING Maid in Essex COUNSELLING Carl Adams Counselling DRIVING INSTRUCTOR Red Driving School DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIR Cloudy 2 Clear FASHION BOUTIQUE Cameo Just Fox FIREPLACES Fireplace & Design GAT Fireplaces FLOORING Athena Flooring Daniel James Flooring FLORIST Penny Jane Flowers GARDEN CENTRE Morley's Garden Centre GARDEN SERVICES Greenfingers Paul's Gardening
20 25 3 23 38 4 5 13 9/10 29 12 20 39 11 18 6 37 44 28 33 43 4 31 39 34
GUTTERS & FASCIAS AC Solutions HAIR & BEAUTY Dexter Hair & Beauty Grateful Heads HOME ACCESSORIES IV HOME FURNISHINGS Amy's Attic HOMECARE Caremark INSURANCE Carroll Insurance INTERIOR DESIGNERS Morris Interiors JEWELLERY David Roberts KITCHENS Apollo Kitchens dk2 Kitchens Kitchen Base KITCHEN INTERIORS Prittlewell Interiors KNITTING Knitting Emporium LANDSCAPING Grassroots Landscaping James Dalton Landscaping LETTINGS Hopsons Property Services LIGHTING Celco Lighting LOCKSMITHS Brights Locksmiths MARBLE WORKTOP Abbey Marble MEMOIRS BOOK Psst... Memoirs OVEN CLEANING Ovenclean PANTO Razzamataz
November 2014
Thorpe Bay
November 2014
ORACLE ORACLE
Thorpe Bay at a glance
Leigh, Chalkwell & Southend Conservation Area Est. Oct 2006. Circulation 6,700
Est. Sept 2005. Circulation 5,100
41 Oracle Competition
17 16
WIN! A meal for two at Oracle’s Question Night with guest speaker Cllr Ron Woodley
Local Issues
About the Keyhole Cancer Appeal
Council News Growing and supporting local businesses
Hair & Beauty How to sparkle on Bonfire Night
Oracle Competition WIN! A meal for two at Oracle’s Question Night with guest speaker Cllr Ron Woodley
Local Issues
About the Keyhole Cancer Appeal
Council News
Growing and supporting local businesses
Recipe Page Chinese Chilli Beef
19 Photography by Picture Perfect www.pictureperfect.pro
36 21
To advertise in ORACLE call
01702 393838
35 2 8 27 15 7 23 33 36 30 37 14 32 19 23 38 11
PET CARE Bubbles Pet Care PET SHOP Leigh Pet Express PHOTOGRAPHY Picture Perfect RESTAURANT Affinity Pavarotti SKIP HIRE Leigh Skip Hire STRESS REDUCTION Mindfulness THERAPY Dawn Lister Therapy TILING Battlesbridge Tiling MCG Tiling TREE SERVICES Treefella TUTORING First Class Learning TV & VIDEO SERVICES HB Electrical UPHOLSTERY George Evans Upholstery WEBSITE DESIGN Oracle
20 33 41 12 21 29 19 11 38 34 29 39 24 12 26
ORACLE - the smart little glossy mags for Southend
Reach a 29,000 readership in Leigh, Chalkwell, Southend Conservation Area & 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
ORACLE-ON-SEA
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
NOVEMBER 2014
NOVEMBER 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
ORACLE-ON-SEA
43
Your Stove is waiting for you! Photo for illustration purposes only
44
ORACLE-ON-SEA
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
NOVEMBER 2014