Oracle August 2020

February August 2020 2018

Your all-seeing local

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

COMPETITION! WIN 4 x Adventure Island & Sealife Adventure wrist bands - worth £198!

LOCAL ISSUES! Schools - the pandemic, lockdown and reopening COMPETITION! Oracle photo competition 2020 - prize worth £175!

HEALTH & WELLBEING! Positive thinking POLICE! Local update

Photo 'East Beach Boom' by David and Janine Rawlins

Paul Newman Interiors have been creating, designing and installing exciting and exclusive kitchens and bathrooms since 1984 from leading manufacturers Siematic, Villeroy & Boch and Hansgrohe.

Attention to detail sets us apart and our team of expert fitters will ensure you are delighted with your new room. We also offer a complete building programme.

136 High Street, Hadleigh, Essex, SS7 2PB T: 01702 552 868 | E: info@paulnewmaninteriors.co.uk www.paulnewmaninteriorsltd.co.uk WOLF • SUB-ZERO • SIEMENS • SIEMATIC • CHARLES YORKE • BORA • GAGGENAU • VILLEROY & BOCH • HANSGROHE • ARDECO • TOTO • KOINOR

2

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

August 2020

ORACLE

WELCOME

Headteacher of Southend High School for Boys, Dr Robin Bevan has written this month’s local issues on the challenges local schools are facing, keeping their pupils and staff safe from the pandemic but still maintaining strict government guidelines.

Essex Police update the public on the last year’s performance of its Town Centre Teams.

10 % CREAM

Busy Selling Homes for the Best Possible Price

Don’t forget, for all those keen photographers amongst you, it’s not too late to enter this year’s Oracle photographic competition, open to all ages and standards entries must be sent by 10 August, latest. Please see website for more information on how to enter this popular annual event.

This month’s competition has been kindly donated

by Stockvale Ltd. Win 4 x wrist bands for Adventure Island plus 4 x wristbands for Sealife Adventure.

Enjoy timeout with friends/family and experience the thrilling and creative selection of rides at Adventure Island plus get up close to view the amazing sea life aquarium and the many wild animals at Sealife Adventure.

To enter Oracle/Stockvale competition please go online to www.oraclepublications.co.uk and visit the competition page, giving your name and contact details, the closing date is 31 August 2020.

Good luck and stay safe!

170 The Broadway Thorpe Bay SS1 3ES

Emma Wynne-Morgan Publisher

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

01702 588 599

www.oraclepublications.co.uk info@oraclepublications.co.uk Oracle is now 100% recyclable

Oracle Publications and Creative Media @oracle_essex August 2020

www.huntroche.co.uk HR_Oracle_Ad_August.indd 1

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

22/03/2019 10:46

3

Photo by Miriam Fleming

CONTENTS Schools - the pandemic, lockdown and reopening 9/10 Local Issues by Dr. Robin M. Bevan, Headmaster Southend High School for Boys

Town Centre Teams, a year on patrol

16/56

Community by Essex Police

Oracle photo competition 2020

24

Competition by Picture Perfect/Oracle

"Whether you think you can or think you can't you are right" - Henry Ford

30

Health & Wellbeing by Jacqui Sayer-Noble

Three bean salad with citrus dressing 40 Recipe by Judy Barden

Your beauty prep plan before you get on the plane 46 Hair & Beauty by Craig Smith

Brainbox 58 Useful Numbers 64 Advertiser Index 66

Advertorials

Thorpe Hall School

6/7

WDC Physiotherapy

23

Brewin Dolphin Crown Vocational Training High-Tech Membrane Oracle Estate Planning

34/35 43 52/53 54

All All rights rights reserved. reserved. No No part part of of Oracle Oracle Publications Publications UK UK Ltd Ltd may may be be reproduced reproduced or or used used in in any any form form or or by by any any means means either either wholly wholly or or in in part without prior permission of the publisher.

Oracle Publications part without prior permission of the publisher. Oracle Publications UK UK Ltd Ltd is is editorially editorially autonomous autonomous and and the the opinions opinions expressed expressed are are not not those those of of the the publisher publisher unless unless expressly expressly stated. stated.

4

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

August 2020

Fed up with looking at your carpet?

SUMMER SALE NOW ON!

CARPETS VINYLS LAMINATES MODULEO KARNDEAN RUGS REMNANTS ENGINEERED WOOD

Trade Carpets S

AR

ED

30

YE

SH

I BL

TA

ES

An Independent Supplier

1000s OF CARPETS IN STOCK • EXPERT FITTING • FREE DELIVERY SHOWROOM OPEN 9AM–5.30PM EVERY DAY

01702 612424 / 01702 612425

640 SUTTON ROAD, SOUTHEND-ON-SEA, ESSEX SS2 5PX tradecarpetssouthend.co.uk e: sales@tradecarpetssouthend.co.uk August 2020

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

5

Advertorial

Praise for School’s Lockdown Learning Thorpe Hall’s Headteacher, Andrew Hampton reflects on the challenges and successes of the school’s home-learning provision throughout the lockdown period.

“It is at times of crisis that a community comes together and shows what it is made of. Going into lockdown, no one quite knew what schooling would look like. None of us had any experience of delivering online teaching for such a sustained period, and none could predict how our pupils would respond. While there has been a broad spectrum of homelearning situations and circumstances, what I can say reliably is that everyone in our school community has done their very best.

The pupils kept going and going – 14 long weeks of motivating themselves and finding that extra effort to make home-learning meaningful. The teachers worked tirelessly, having to learn new techniques, be imaginative, inventive and keep the quality of their input as high as ever. Staff were grateful for feedback from parents and their many appreciative comments, recognising the hard work and determination of teachers and supporting staff to make Thorpe Hall’s home learning provision the very best it could be.

Perhaps the group that has had the most challenging time has been the parents of Thorpe Hall School. In many cases, they

have had to juggle their own careers, along with understanding the curriculum being offered to their children - not to mention grappling with technology and connectivity issues. We are grateful to our parents for all they have done to support learning from home.

The triumvirate of pupils, teachers and parents have overcome all the challenges successfully – very well done to all!”

Andrew Hampton BA; LTCL; MEd; NPQH; FRSA

T: 01702 582340 www.thorpehallschool.co.uk Wakering Road | Southend-on-Sea | Essex | SS1 3RD

6

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

August 2020

To all the amazing teachers in the Upper school, including the LSAs. Thank you for all the incredible hard work you have been doing over the last few months - over and above what you normally do.

These have been such very challenging times. The way Thorpe Hall has managed the teaching and learning has been incredible.

Parent - Upper School

I have spoken to parents and grandparents of children in both state and independent schools, locally and nationally, and without wanting to sound boastful, everyone has been impressed by the level of schooling my son is receiving during the lockdown period. Every day he is at Thorpe Hall, my admiration for the teaching and support staff grows.

Parent - Upper School

Lockdown has been a huge learning curve and home schooling has certainly had its struggles. However, these struggles were supported wholeheartedly

by Thorpe Hall School.

The school has been phenomenal, with regular updates, assemblies and constant contact. So, we just wanted to personally thank you for everything the school and your wonderful teachers have done for us all.

Parent - Lower School

August 2020

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

7

The Angel Inn

! k c a B e r ’ We Exciting NEW menu available ALL day from 12pm Amazing specials updated daily NEW additional outside seating Book online or call us to reserve a table Walk-Ins welcome Sunday Roast Dinners Families & dogs welcome

8

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

August 2020

Schools - the pandemic, lockdown and reopening

LOCAL ISSUES

A

s Headteacher of Southend High

seamlessly from classrooms to the internet,

School for Boys, I am not alone in

with daily tasks and activities presented for

looking forward to having a full

every pupil each morning – replicating their

complement of pupils back in school, actively

lessons for that day.

learning, socialising and being socialised! Our

Since lockdown, over 250,000 separate

pupils have not only missed out on being in

assignments have been completed by our

school, they miss school itself. The community

students; and, utilising the best elements of

is a vibrant and energetic place of learning.

web-based technologies, individual feedback

Our pupils are keen to return to lessons, with

has been provided to our pupils on almost

their friends but also – and even more so –

50,000 of these submissions. Regular home

eager to return to the extraordinary array of

communication also ensured the well-being of

music, sport, drama, art, adventure ... as our

those for whom the closure period has been a

recent promotional film celebrates: the ‘sky is

genuine challenge.

the limit’ for learning at our school.

Schools in lockdown

Our teachers at Southend High School for Boys and across the country, wherever this

Lockdown brought so much of that to a

has happened, rightly deserve recognition and

standstill. On March 17th the Prime Minister

credit for sustaining education in this way.

and the Secretary of State for Education announced, in parallel, the end of normal school provision from the following Monday.

Schools had three days notice, without any prior indication, as they went from full normal operation into the ‘closure’ period.

Minimising risks Now, these very same exceptional efforts must be refocused into planning for September.

The intention is to resume learning across the whole curriculum with specialist teachers leading lessons in their own subjects for all

Those three days – under exceptional

pupils. It sounds like normal school, but the

pressure of circumstance – afforded us a

challenge is to manage this whilst minimising

brief window to plan for the translation of

all the possible risks to health.

our entire curriculum provision into a remote

We cannot wait until COVID-19 has subsided.

learning format. The whole timetable moved August 2020

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

9

Any delay might have unwelcome and

that are empty and not in use. This is clearly

detrimental consequences: for pupils and their

an efficient use of our classroom space, but

learning, for families and their well-being, for

provides no capacity for dispersing our pupils

working parents and their businesses.

any more extensively.

Although children seem not to be especially

If we cannot achieve physical distancing we

impacted by infection, young adults do

need to limit social mixing instead. However,

propagate the virus and transmit the disease

secondary schools routinely have classes

extensively. Our staff are keen to see school

that cross over with each other in different

resume but, like any other group of adults in

combinations with ‘sets’ for Maths and

the wider community, there are some who

dedicated groups for GCSE option choices.

will be at increased risk or have legitimate

Science, Computing and Design Technology

anxieties.

require the use of specialist laboratories or

The Government guidance that applies to

workshops, so rooms must also be shared.

all schools and colleges acknowledges this

And, of course, the challenges extend beyond

challenge. There are very few requirements,

the school gates too. Full reopening needs

beyond a key instruction - ‘Schools must do

to exhibit consistency in social and physical

everything possible to minimise contacts and

distancing in school, but also on journeys and

mixing while delivering a broad and balanced

during parental collection.

curriculum’. This might be achieved in many

Schools will find a way

different ways. There has been much reporting on ‘year group bubbles’ but this is actually only a suggestion and not a requirement.

The problems are clear, the solution is in the hands of each Headteacher. Our schools will find a way to make it work: it is not so much

Schools challenges

‘Dunkirk spirit’ as deep logistics! Every school

Many of England’s historic school buildings

will be planning within the constraints of

are densely populated with narrow corridors.

pupil journeys, buildings, classrooms and

Typical school classrooms from the 1920s are

staffing. We will continue to play our part

compact. With a two-metre physical distance

in the national response to the pandemic

between all those present, such rooms can

and will support all learners to achieve their

only accommodate a maximum of 10 pupils

best. Southend High School for Boys will

and one teacher. Even a one-metre separation

be one, amongst the many

is too great to permit the whole class in for a

local schools, that will – by

lesson.

September – be mapping a

Southend High Schools for Boys is

new model of outstanding

exceptionally popular and we accommodate

provision for our pupils.

as many pupils as possible. As a result, at

Dr. Robin M. Bevan - Headteacher

any one time, across the entire site, there will never be no more than one or two rooms 10

Southend High School for Boys 01702 606200 www.shsb.org.uk

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

August 2020

August 2020

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

11

FOR ICES! R P E N I L N O T A E WITH GR SA VE 25% off in-park prices Red band just £15.00 online Green band just £18.75 online Blue band just £22.50 online

WORKING IN ASSOCIATION WITH

12

Just visit our website to get these great value all day ride bands prices - now available for the same day and valid right to the end of the year!

We will be operating under Governments social distancing guidelines but that won’t spoil the fun!

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

August 2020

August 2020

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

13

no job too small at your beck and call

T.H.M

all aspects of home maintenance:

THE HANDYMAN PROPERTY MAINTENANCE & BUILDING SERVICES

• Painting & decorating (interior and exterior) • All Roof repairs • Gutter repairs & cleaning • Fascia’s & soffits • Plaster and rendering repairs • UPVC window and door replacement/repairs • Shed bases • Patios, patios repaired, cleaning patios & driveways • Re-grouting tiles • Fencing and gates • Loft Boarding • Garden walls repaired • Property Management for Landlords

just because it’s not listed doesn’t mean we don’t do it.

Give us a call and we’ll be happy to help.

trustworthy and reliable with over 25 years’ experience in the building industry.

All works covered by liability insurance.

Free estimates and advice.

Telephone: 01702 307556 Mobile: 07984 490817 Website: www.thehandyman5.co.uk

Helping to

BRING THE OUTDOORS IN

14

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

August 2020

Paving, Decking, Garden Buildings Local Landscape Gardener 07712 125751

pollenlandscapes.com steve@pollenlandscapes.com

We are fully insured.

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

Units 8–9 Robert Leonard Industrial Estate, Stock Road, Southend-on-Sea SS2 5QD

Call: 01702 615760 August 2020

www.abbeymarble.co.uk

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

15

Town Centre Teams, a year on patrol

COMMUNITY

I

n the last year our Town Centre Teams have made more than 1,000 arrests and led more than 2,000 investigations – bolstering our ability to catch criminals and keep you safe.

The teams have worked hard to make your towns safer by catching drug dealers, shoplifters, those carrying weapons, as well as dealing with antisocial behaviour.

Recent success

Recent successes include the execution of a warrant at a ‘chop shop’ in which several stolen vehicles were recovered. This investigation is still ongoing and was the result of intelligence gathered by our Town Centre Team in Loughton.

By working with you, our local communities, these teams have increased the information and intelligence we receive which helps us catch more criminals and prevent and detect crime.

The Basildon team

The Basildon team have solved 180 crimes in their first year including shop lifting offences, drugs-related crimes and possession of offensive weapons.

Our Town Centre Teams have built close relationships with residents, businesses, community groups, councils and other organisations over the past year to get to the root of ongoing local issues and tensions.

The team in Southend have seen a number of successes, including working with the local council to combat illegal shellfish harvesting.

They carried out a week-long operation which 16

saw 29 pickers spoken to and the seizure of £11,000 worth of illegally harvested shellfish.

The Braintree and Witham teams have been working with schools to identify those at risk and use effective partnership work to prevent antisocial behaviour among young people. This is linked to our efforts to educate and prevent young people from becoming involved in knife and violent crime under Operation Sceptre.

Across the county the teams have been carrying out targeted searches in parks and other open areas which has resulted in a number of weapons being recovered and removed from our streets.

Venues across Essex have worked with us to accommodate the use of knife arches to detect weapons and to raise awareness of the dangers of carrying knives.

In another example of the Town Centre Teams’ success, Costa Coffee in Waltham Abbey were having issues with teenagers intimidating customers. Our team secured a Criminal Behaviour Order and excluded the people responsible from the area, they are also carrying out regular patrols to make sure the area remains a safe place.

Assistant Chief Constable Rachel Nolan said: “We want to thank you for welcoming our officers into your communities. They have become part of them as we all come together to fight crime and anti-social behaviour, making our town centres safer for all those who live, work or visit Essex.

“By working together, we can keep the tide Continued on page 56...

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

August 2020

Based in

Rayleigh

LOGS FOR SALE !

QUALIFIED • LICENCED • INSURED • 24HR EMERGENCY Tree Pruning • Shaping Precision Felling • Thinning Stump Grinding • Dead Wooding • Ground Maintenance

Discounts Available for OAP & Disabled in the local area

Call us now:

A BESPOKE HOME INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICE

01268 857550 07719 837777 or email: enquire@tree-king.co.uk www.tree-king.co.uk

Curtains, blinds, and shutters Sofas and chairs Re-upholstering Cushions, bed throws, and accessories.

MAKING YOUR FURNISHINGS A S UNIQUE A S YOU

Contact us today to discuss your requirements. studio@mebinteriors.co.uk 07881 813 111 mebinteriors.co.uk August 2020

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

17

NEW EXCLUSIVE GARDEN FURNITURE SETS & GAZEBOS

At Highgate all our garden sets & gazebos are on display for you to try in-store.

Life Nevada Mini Corner Garden Set

Highgate Pandora Leaf Pergolastock

Highgate Sliding Roof Gazebo

WE OFFER THE HIGH QUALITY OUR CUSTOMERS EXPECT Highgate is one of the largest garden furniture and leisure showrooms in Essex and we only work with brands that we trust. We have ample free parking for our customers

Call 01702 904000

327 Southchurch Road, Unit 8 Southchurch Business Park, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS1 2PE www.highgatefurniture.co.uk | sales@highgatefurniture.co.uk

18

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

August 2020

Custom made Shutters & Blinds for your home or office

From urban chic to traditional We have got your windows covered One contact, from survey to installation

01702543024 / 07985566339 www.creative-shutters.co.uk August 2020

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

19

20

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

August 2020

Straighter, whiter teeth 10% OFF INVISALIGN + FREE ELECTRIC TOOTHBRUSH *With this advert. Until the end of August 2020.

The most advanced clear aligner tooth straightening system in the world!

FREE cosmetic/teeth straightening consultation • Invisalign platinum provider with this advert • Most treatments completed within 6 months to a year • NEW Scanner! No need for impressions

• FREE teeth whitening and consultation • Interest FREE payment plan • Now accepting new patients

Now open all day Saturday!

• We now offer online consultations

Email info@royalmewsdentalpractice.co.uk call

01702 352450

(For enquiries and appointments) You can book an appointment online at:

royalmewsdentalpractice.co.uk

17 Royal Mews, Southend on Sea, Essex SS1 1DB

August 2020

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

21

NEED TO

IMPROVE

SALES?

Call ORACLE

on 01702 393838

NOW! 22

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

August 2020

Advertorial

W

Finally, for people suffering with back pain, and or Sciatica

ho else wants to know how to fix your

If you’d like to know 12 more ways to reduce

back pain, live life with more energy

your own back pain, or learn how to reduce

than ever before and make the rest

sciatica pain, then now is the time to call my

of your life the most active of your life even if

physiotherapy clinic and request a FREE copy of

you're over 45?

my special report (worth £58). It’s 10 pages, and

An exclusive report by specialist physio Wendy

full with proven tips and suggestions that we

McCloud - MSc BSc(Hons) MCSP MHCPC

use with our clients in clinic every day that could

Have you or a loved one ever been told or ever

save you from back pain, end nagging muscle

thought that living with back pain, pelvic pain,

tightness, improve your posture and even save

sciatica, is just one of those things that comes

you money!

with age, your job, it’s genetic or it’s stress? In

Most of all, it can save you from needing to take

most case, there is always something NATURAL

painkillers, bothering the GP and even let you

that you can do to treat yourself.

enjoy a pain free Summer, so call today.

Self help tips you can use to relieve your pain

To your great health, Wendy McCloud.

Try These Resting Positions To Ease Acute Pain Or A Flare Up - Lay on your tummy with between 1-3 pillows under your stomach. If this position gives you relief, stay here for 10 mins max! Or try laying on your back with pillows under your knees. Alternatively, lay on your back with your legs up on a chair. Again, lay here for 10 mins max!

flare up of low back pain. The worst thing you can do is do nothing because it stiffens your muscles and joints and makes the pain worse! Try going

August 2020

Option 1 - Request your FREE special report (Just 9 free copies available) Option 2 - Get your FREE special report, plus save £51 off our Gold Assessment at my physio clinic with one of my back pain specialists (this offer is for all of August and is perfect for those that want to get going with treatment).

Keep Moving - Gentle exercise is a must for a

for a gentle walk - 20 minutes daily.

What to do next?

Please choose which option works best for you then call my clinic admin team (Daniel and Tom).

WDC Physiotherapy 01702 613 542 www.wdcphysiotherapy.co.uk

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

23

Southend Sunrise by Mark Stennett – 2019 landscape winner.

COMPETITION

Oracle Photo Competition 2020

I

t’s time to clean up those Kodaks and lose those lens caps because Oracle is, once again, looking for its local photographers for the 6th year running!

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

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

All entries may be used by Oracle for any other purpose and the author will be credited where practicable. To enter, please send in up to three photos (one per category) with titles and/or a brief description, along with your contact details, to our email address: info@oraclepublications.co.uk, no later than 10th August 2020. If you are under 18, please also include your age as this will be taken into account during judging.

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

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

take it off and give the lens a wipe before shooting.

• Lighting is most dramatic in the early morning and late afternoon/early evening.

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

• Wildlife often moves quickly so use the ’sport’

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

• Remember the ‘rule of thirds’ when composing

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

Good luck everyone!

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

Professional Photographer Portraits • Weddings Events • Commercial 24

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

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

August 2020

Over 30 Years Professional Experience, Personalised Services at Competitive Pricing and Highly Reliable

Our Repair Service

C a t F l ap s , k n o c k e r s , l e t t e r bo x e s , s p y ho l e s , C y l i n d e r s , Ha n d l e s , H i ng e s & Lo c k s f o r w i n d o w s & d oo r s - T r i c kl e Ven ts - Se a l e d G l a s s U n i t s (re p l ac i n g m i s t ed , s m a sh ed , sh a t te red o r fa u lt y g la ss) - L e a de d & Ge o rg ia n Gla ss - Co n se rva to ry R oo f rep a irs - P a n e ls

Complete Installation Service

O u r C o m pl e t e I n s t a l l a ti tio o n s e r v i c e - D o u bl e G l az i ng - F r e nc h & P a ti tio o Do o r s Co mpo s i t e Do o rs - Po rc hes - Co n serv a t o ri es

w w w. t h e w i n d o w m a n e s s e x . n e t Te l : 0 1 2 6 8 5 2 7 1 1 2 / 0 1 2 4 5 2 0 7 2 2 5 Unit M, Enterprise Centre, Paycocke Road, Basildon SS14 3DY

August 2020

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

25

Bentalls Close, Sutton Road, Southend-on-Sea SS2 5PT 01702 463363

YOUR NO.1 CHOICE FOR BATHROOM & SHOWER SUPPLIES www.stannsbuildingsupplies.co.uk 26

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

VE SI N E M XTROO E , GE HOW R LA S August 2020

DISCOUNT CARPET WAREHOUSES LIMITED

It’s good to welcome our customers back again!

Carpets, rolls, remnants, vinyl’s all in stock and room size remnants available.

Ceramic floor and wall tiles, many imported.

Laminate flooring and a wide range of rugs also available.

45 years of very successful trading in Southend.

Thank you, it’s good to be back!

USE OUR OWN FREE CAR PARK 141-159 SUTTON ROAD, SOUTHEND-ON-SEA, SS2 5PB

01702 619050 SALES@KENBRO.CO.UK WWW.KENBRO.CO.UK August 2020

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

27

R J M Landscapes of Rayleigh Creative, competitive, conscientious

PATIOS � DRIVEWAYS � FENCING � DECKING � PONDS PLANTING � TURFING � CONSTRUCTION & MAINTENANCE

• City & Guilds trained • Free consultation and estimates • Fully insured

Rayleigh Office: 01268 642896 / 07703 444244 Email: rjm4landscapes@gmail.com www.rjmlandscapes.co.uk

28

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

August 2020

10% OF F Fo

r OAP’s on Wednesday m ornings

 Teacher with 35 years’ experience offering tuition in: o English 11+ examination o English literature:  KS3  GSCE  A-level o English Language:  KS3  GCSE

RDM Electrical Contractors Ltd has the experience to get it right!

Electrical Installation Domestic, Industrial and Commercial Heating Storage and Quartz Fire Alarms, CCTV Access Control Installation of L.E.D Lighting

Computer Network Ventilation Air Conditioning Test and report Rewires

1-2-1 tuition gives students confidence to succeed.

Students’ individual needs are met.

Via Skype during COVID-19.

9 Huntingdon Road, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS1 2XU

Please ring Mrs. R for more information: 07809 722 904

August 2020

01702 464829 / 07885 737575 www.rdmelectrical.co.uk

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

29

HEALTH & WELLBEING

T

"Whether you think you can or think you can't you are right" - Henry Ford

he above statement is so true, just think about it? As humans we are negative by nature which makes it difficult for us to see the positives in life.

When you say "I can’t find my car keys", you can spend hours looking for them but if you say "now where can I find them?" it is more likely you will find them.

When you say something as simple as "I cannot sleep!" How many hours do you stay awake with the same old thoughts circling round again and again saying "why can’t I sleep what’s wrong with me?"

Now, I teach my client’s that they too can learn to control how to think and change a negative to a positive.

That Monday feeling

You can learn

How many people say "I don’t like Mondays"?

I know I used to and a pattern emerged, so that when it came to Sunday, I would start the dread of going to work on the Monday. I loved Fridays as it was the start of the weekend and Saturdays too.

It took me many years to realise that this was just a habit and if I changed my thoughts to "I am going to make Monday a good day, a day I want to go to work," I felt so much better.

So instead of being a victim of my thoughts I gained the power to control how I wanted to feel instead.

My grandson said to me the other day, "nanny I forgot to tell you!" I said "no darling you have remembered.”

30

So instead of thinking what you don’t want, focus on what you do want instead.

You too can learn to control your thoughts. It can take a while, but when you change your way of thinking into positive thinking, this can change your whole outlook.

If you would benefit with positive thinking, I can help you.

Please contact Jacqui Sayer-Noble. I hold therapy sessions via Zoom, Facebook or Skype.

Jacqui Sayer-Noble JSN Therapies 07717 856999 jacqui@jsntherapies.co.uk

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

August 2020

Workshop: 01702 216638

m: 07565 633322 / 07588 002931

August 2020

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

@cctupholstery

31

32

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

August 2020

Make your conservatory SPARKLE again FREE Our services include:

on ligati no ob tes quo

Exterior deep clean & polish Complete internal & external valet ● Decorative mouldings cleaned ● Solar panel cleaning ● Full public liability insurance ● ●

Is your conservatory summer ready?

For more information or to book please call:

01277 790 173 or 07726 323 800 E: enquiries@ukccc.co.uk

www.ukccc.co.uk

Carpenter & Joiner JOHN SORRELL - your local carpenter and joiner for over 25 years Most aspects of woodwork and property maintenance undertaken, including:

* Doors hung * Kitchens refurbished * Wardrobes built * Wooden & laminate floors laid * Shelves fitted * Stairs refurbished * Locks supplied & fitted * Social distance/Facemask/ Handwash aware For advice and free, no-obligation quotations please telephone:

01702 902796 or 07984 924916 Friendly, professional service guaranteed

August 2020

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

33

Advertorial

Five tips for first-time investors

MONEY MATTERS

I

t may seem mad to invest for the first time

children’s future.

given stock markets have sunk heavily over

Focusing on your goals will also help you to

recent weeks. However, current market

avoid selling out during short-term market

conditions will appeal to many investors

falls.

willing to take some risk, and with a long term

2. Consider a ready-made solution

time horizon.

It’s wise to choose a spread of investments

Of course, no-one can say with certainty

– including equities, bonds, and cash – as

which way the market will move next, and

different assets behave in different ways to

there are no guarantees of returns. Yet history

even out returns.

shows that markets often recover over time, sometimes sharply, and investors can usually benefit from the upswing.

But if you are a beginner, this can seem a daunting task. One way to simplify the process is by choosing from a ready-made investment

Here, we consider some tips to get started.

portfolio tailored to your personal needs and

1. Know your goals

risk profile.

You will need a relatively long-term aim to

Plenty of wealth managers offer portfolio

give your investments the time to ride out

services. This way, you know your money is

any market volatility. Perhaps you wish to

spread across a diverse range of investments.

save towards retirement, for example, or your 34

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

August 2020

3. Set up regular investments You don’t need a large sum to start investing.

Drip-feeding what you can afford each month – or gradually whittling away a lump sum - may be particularly beneficial during times of stock market turmoil and economic uncertainty.

If the market falls, your money buys more shares at a cheaper price, or fewer shares

Your capital is at risk.

when the market rises. Over time, this may

Past performance is not a guide to future

help to smooth stock market volatility.

performance.

4. Use your tax allowances

This is not intended as investment advice.

No investment is suitable in all cases.

Remember your individual savings account (ISA) allowance, which renews on 6 April. This amounts to £20,000 for the 2020/21 tax

Brewin Dolphin is not a tax adviser and tax law is subject to frequent change. Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances.

year. You can place your investments in this

Brewin Dolphin Limited is a member of the London

tax-efficient wrapper to benefit from tax-

Stock Exchange, and is authorised and regulated by

free income and gains, which could build a

the Financial Conduct Authority (Financial Services

substantial investment pot over time.

Register reference number: 124444). Registered office: 12 Smithfield Street, London, EC1A 9BD.

5. Manage your emotions

Registered in England and Wales – company

Letting your emotions dictate your investment

number: 2135876. VAT number: GB 690 8994 69

decisions isn’t the sensible route to returns.

It’s understandable to experience some jitters if the stock market falls, particularly as a first time investor.

So hold your nerve, and once you’ve dipped your toe into the market, stay there.

Brewin Dolphin 020 3201 3900 www.brewin.co.uk August 2020

Rob Burgeman Brewin Dolphin 020 3201 3900 www.brewin.co.uk

expert hair care to Essex for 30 years.

We are here to helpProviding you achieve it time you made your head grateful? your ambitions throughIsn’t expert, personalised financial planning.

01702 340965

32 Alexandra Street, Southend SS1 1BU www.oraclepublications.co.uk

35

Local garage with a good service history WE MOT & SERVICE ELECTRIC CARS

FREE PICKUP AND DELIVERY IN LOCAL AREA

MOT & VEHICLE REPAIRS MOT Testing

Batteries

Tyres Punctures

Catalysts Tested

Servicing

Exhausts

Air Conditioning

Diesels Tested

Repairs

Welding

Diagnostic Tests

Free Vehicle Collection

Call us on 01702 297003 4 Towerfield Close, Shoeburyness, Essex SS3 9QP Open 8.00am–5.30pm Monday–Friday. Saturday by appointment.

www.servicegarage.co.uk 36

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

August 2020

August 2020

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

37

advertorial

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

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

If you act now you can avoid these problems.

Now, you may think you need to replace the whole window including the frames and all the hardware, however Cloudy2Clear have come up with a simple and cost saving solution‌ Just replace the glass!!

If you see condensation in your windows just visit our website or give us a call on 0800 61 21 118. We will send out our highly experienced engineers for a free no obligation quote. A Cloudy2Clear quote takes on average no longer than 20 minutes. Once the quote is completed, we will sit down with you and

explain the problem and tell you how we can fix it. With years of experience Cloudy2Clear have a wealth of knowledge and are recognised as a Which Trusted Trader, plus our work is backed by an industry leading 25 year guarantee. Cloudy2Clear also replace faulty locks handles and hinges on all windows and doors.

Your friendly local Cloudy2Clear specialist is Chris Miller and he services the Thorpe Bay & Southend area.

So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Chris a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118.

Cloudy2Clear GUARANTEE All Customers That An Average Quote Will Take No Longer Than 20 MINS!!!

Cloudy2Clear Windows...

Service With A Smile!

38

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

August 2020

To welcome you back to the Clinic after lockdown, we’re giving you £50 off any course of treatment during August...

£50

OFF

any co trea urse of boo tments ked d Aug uring ust

It feels good to be back!

TRY OUR NEW STATE OF THE ART

FAT REDUCTION PROGRAMME only one treatment required

cellulite • skin tightening face and neck lifting face treatments stretch marks anti-ageing treatments fat reduction

Call or text in confidence

www.chcaesthetics.co.uk

35 Alexandra Street, Southend SS1 1BW

August 2020

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

39

FOOD

Three bean salad with citrus dressing

T

his is a lovely salad to make over

the stringy bit down the sides. Cut on the

the summer when runner beans are

diagonal into 1cm/½ in slices and cook in

plentiful. The flavour is enhanced by the

boiling salted water for 3-4 minutes. Then add

toasted sesame oil and you can easily turn it

the French beans and either edamame or peas

into a starter or main course by adding tuna or

to the pot and cook for a further 4 minutes

feta cheese. Serves 4, enjoy!

until just tender. Drain under cold running

Ingredients

water to keep their green colour.

225g/8oz runner beans

Tip the beans into a large bowl and add the

225g/8oz French beans, halved

spring onions, radishes and chives. Mix

225g/8oz edamame beans or frozen peas

together the orange juice, oils and salt and

1 bunch spring onions, sliced

pepper in a jar, give it a good shake and then

8 radishes thickly sliced

toss it through the vegetables.

1 tbsp chopped fresh chives

Mix together the yoghurt, orange rind and mint

Rind and juice of a small orange

and season well.

3 tbsp olive oil

The vegetables can be served in a nice bowl

1 tbsp toasted sesame oil

with the yoghurt on the side at a BBQ or could

150ml pot Greek yoghurt

be divided between plates with a dollop of

2 tbsp chopped fresh mint

the minty yoghurt on top.

Salt and black pepper

by Judy Barden

Method Top and tail the runner beans and remove

40

Next month: Self-Saucing Chocolate Orange Pudding

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

August 2020

LETS MEAT UP THIS SUMMER Salt Marsh New Seasons Lamb • Minted & Boneless/Butterflied Legs to order Prime Scotch Beef • Rare Breed Pork • Natural Chickens • Superb Low-fat Sausages Roasting Joints available including Turkey and Veal • Burgers including Turkey, Steak and Lamb Kebabs • Chicken Fillet and Oyster Thighs • Boneless Chickens in marinade • Chicken Parcels Pork Racks • Racks of Lamb • Barnsley Chops • Dry Cured Bacon made and smoked on-site Snowdonia range of Cheeses stocked and Award-Winning Pies and Black Pudding.

OPEN Thurs–Sat 8am to 2pm Display days: Fri & Sat

01702 216062 www.philipsplett.com Burtons Farm Barling Road SS3 0LZ

www.oraclepublications.co.uk 41 YOUR TRADITIONAL SPECIALITY BUTCHERS

August 2020

42

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

August 2020

Advertorial

Opportunities for 16 to 24 year olds

A

re you aged 16 to 24 (or know someone

route into apprenticeships. The programme

who is) and are at a bit of a loose

is tailored to meet the individual’s needs as

end as to what to do in September?

well as the work placement. College sessions

Crown Vocational Training has an excellent

will be in small groups and on a one-to-one

track record with helping young people get

basis with access to an on-line platform to

a head start with their careers. We have a

supplement study. For ages 16 to 24. Starts

range of opportunities with employers across

from September and then on a monthly basis.

the whole of Essex who are eager to offer

Apprenticeships

apprenticeships or work-placements to those who are keen to start work. Our programmes include:

12 to 18 months depending on programme and level. Apprenticeships currently available in estate agency, property lettings and

Business and IT

management, customer service and business

A 21-week college-based course completing

administration. Most (but not all) employers

an IT User level 2 qualification and working on

prefer some work experience. Apprenticeships

modules including business, customer service

are open to all from 16 years upwards. Training

and employability as well as work experience.

takes place in the workplace with the support

The aim is to progress into an apprenticeship

of an individual tutor who will customise the

or further education depending on interests.

content to meet the needs of the apprentice

4 days a week with ÂŁ40 paid for travel

and the employer. Attendance at workshops is

expenses. This is a small group to allow for

required which are facilitated at our college in

social distancing and individual support. The

Leigh in small groups or on-line. We provide a

age range for this programme is 16 to 18-year

fully blended approach to learning.

olds. Starts in September.

For more information visit our website or

Traineeships

contact us.

From 2 to 6 months with an employer and completing a business and administration level 2 qualification. A traineeship offers valuable work experience and is a great August 2020

Crown Vocational Training 01702 597499 recruitment@crownvt.co.uk www.crownvocationaltraining.co.uk

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

43

44

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

August 2020

PAINTING & DECORATING COMMERCIAL & DOMESTIC Interior & Exterior Over 30 years experience Local, Reliable and Trustworthy Established connections to local building trades High Quality service guaranteed References available upon request Fully Insured Experience of hanging all wallcoverings No job too small!

GMH Renovations tel: mob:

01702 307 233 07775 500 420

email: ghenrym65@gmail.com 58 Yarnacott, Shoeburyness SS3 8AP

& DRIVEWAY CARPET UPHOLSTERY CLEANING & PATIO CLEANING

For more informatio n or a

FREE No Obligati on Quota tion, please co nt

act us

OVEN CLEANING

UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

Fast drying times for carpet & upholstery Guaranteed not to soak, stretch or shrink your carpet or furnishings Ovens and Hobs Sparkle and shine like new Domestic and Commercial work undertaken

August 2020

Gates Cleaning Services

125 HIGH STREET

GREAT WAKERING

01702 216377

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

45

HAIR & BEAUTY

W

Your beauty prep plan before you get on the plane

hether you are fortunate enough to be jetting off to distant shores, or preparing for a staycation in a charming spot here in the UK, chances are that you’ll be wanting to enjoy as much time in the sun as possible.

In either case, preparation is all. I say this, as we all know someone who is immaculately groomed all year round and whom needs little more than a ‘zizz’ of cologne before stepping onto the plane, while there are others who leave everything to the last minute and are sprinting around town, from one appointment to the next but simply run out of time and are therefore reduced to shamefacedly taking their seat with chipped nails and rather wild brows.

Pre-hols treatment

The key to looking absolutely smoking on your sun lounger is getting your pre-hols treatments in order. Mix up your waxing and spray tan sessions, you could end up with a stripy tan, and getting your roots done just before leaving home for your break, could risk all the colour fading.

First, always get a wax before you spray tan - and give yourself a minimum of one day between waxing and tanning, to avoid the fake bake irritating your post-wax skin. Also, if you get a spray tan almost immediately before waxing, you risk your tan coming off with your hair. Remember, the wax will remove the top layers of skin as well as the hairs - which could leave you with some very strange tan lines. Avoid irritation and blemishes by waxing 24-hours before take-off, if possible, as this will help

to keep your skin silky smooth for the whole of your vacation, while also making sure it is cool and calm by the time you slip into your swimmies!

Getting your pedicure

If you’re going to have a pedicure, have it just before you go. All those nourishing, hydrating creams and the new polish will give you fresh feet confidence by the pool.

If you have brow or lash tints, make an appointment with your salon a few days before leaving home.

This will give any excess dye from your brows time to fade a little and the excess colour around your lashes to settle.

When to get your hair coloured

Of course, while there is nothing quite like causing a sensation as you step out onto the pool terrace with a just-from-the-salon hairdo, the practical reality is it’s best to give it a little time to settle. For the best results, avoid having your hair coloured immediately before you go away. Ideally, at least a week before you go is ideal. Why? Because when you dye your hair, the colour oxidises, which opens the cuticle. It then takes around two days hours for it to close and smooth down. During those 48-hours, the colour is more susceptible to colour fade and sitting in strong sunlight too soon afterwards will do the colour no favours at all. In fact, you might like to go one shade darker than usual, as greater exposure to summer sun will make your hair go lighter anyway.

by Craig Smith Director of Grateful Heads Hair Salon

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

30 years.

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

01702 01702 340965 340965 32 Alexandra 32 Alexandra Street, Street, Southend Southend SS1SS1 1BU1BU 46

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

August 2020

ENJOY THE VIEW WITH A CONSERVATORY OR ORANGERY FROM CLIMATEC HOME IMPROVEMENTS

WE MAKE THEM

WE FIT THEM

Climatec Home Improvements

WE GUARANTEE THEM

CALL TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTE

01702 447600

www.climatec-hi.co.uk

DIRECT FROM OUR FACTORY= UPVC AND ALUMINIUM PRODUCTS = WIDE RANGE OF COLOURS/ FINISHES = COMPOSITE, FRENCH, PATIO & BI-FOLD DOORS = TIMBER ALTERNATIVE WINDOWS & PERIOD STYLED DOORS = THERMALLY EFFICIENT FRAMES = REHAU APPROVED PARTNER = SECURITY LOCKING Installsure logos, colours and typeface = SECURED BY DESIGN PRODUCTS = 10 YEAR PRODUCT GUARANTEE Find us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter

Climatec Home Improvements Ltd is part of the Climatec Group Fletchers Square, Temple Farm Industrial Estate, Southend-on-Sea, Essex SS2 5RN Green CMYK: 80/21/100/6 RGB: 52/138/54 #348a36

Tint 60%

Grey CMYK: 0/0/0/60 RGB: 134/134/134 #868686

Installsure.co.uk

August 2020

Typeface: Myriad Pro Light, Myriad Pro Regular, Myriad Pro Semibold, Myriad Pro Bold

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

47

Paul’s Gardening Services

JONES & SONS

PLASTERING

A friendly, family-run business Very competitive quotes (with concessions)

RENDERING, BATHROOMS, RENOVATIONS, LANDSCAPING & MORE

● GARDEN MAINTENANCE From weekly weekly visits visits to to total total clearouts clearouts From

● TREES FELLED & TOPPED Hedges also also trimmed trimmed Hedges

● SPECIALISTS IN LAWNS

Weed removal, removal, give give itit aa feed, feed, make make itit green green Weed

● SHEDS & FENCES Repaired and and preserved preserved Repaired

● WOODCHIP & LOGS Delivered & & Distributed Distributed Delivered

● STUMP GRINDING ● LAWN MOWER REPAIR Full repair repair & & servicing servicing Full

Give us a call and see how we can help!

FULLY INSURED WITH OVER 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

Phone Paul on 07957 388285 or freefone 0800 043 3913 e: paulthegardener@hotmail.com

07717 295538 01702 748002

Est. 1994 1994 –– Recommendations Recommendations & & references references available available Est.

WWW.JONESYSCONSTRUCTION.CO.UK

SONRAY

EST 1986

HEATING n

n

n

BATHROOMS

PLUMBING

Leaks, Ball Valves, Outside Taps Radiators Boilers Full Heating Systems Bathrooms designed, supplied and installed n

n

including: Electrics, Tiling, Plastering and Carpentry Call Stephen Mash on:07778 007535 or 01702 547824 sonrayheating-bathrooms.co.uk stevemashsonray@gmail.com 3 Dalys Road, Rochford, SS4 1RA

48

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

A LOCAL PLUMBER FOR LOCAL PEOPLE August 2020

• Driveways and Patio Areas • Footpaths Block Paving • Natural Stone • Resin Bound Stone

free estimates professional service

• Maintenance and Cleaning • Childrens play areas

We specialise in all types of outside surfaces our team of skilled professionals carry out all aspects of landscaping services Call or email us today

01702 541 514 info@bespoke-surfaces.com

www.bespoke-surfaces.com August 2020

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

49

professional, affordable service Starting at

JUST

£45!

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

Don’t risk dangerous ladders and scaffolding – with SuperGutterVac I can clear your gutters up to 4 storeys high, safely from the ground!

You can also check my work using my onboard camera and monitor!

Don’t risk this!

let me do it safely from the ground!

Call Steve for a no-obligation quote on: 01702 203577 or 07789 954094 or email: info@SuperGutterVac.co.uk www.superguttervac.co.uk

50

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

August 2020

August 2020

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

51

Maximise your natural light with a beautiful skylight SAVE

15% Minimum discount of

to all staff and any other key workers*

Free survey for roof and room design A wide range of lanterns and skylights available All roof lanterns have an aluminium finish All our skylights are compliant with Building Regulations Pilkington self-clean temperature glass as standard All structural works undertaken by High-Tech All internal works inclusive of new electrics and lighting

Roof lanterns look great inside and out High-Tech have installed nearly 11,000 roofing projects. Every roof installed comes with a LIFETIME guarantee. Let us, a company built on trust transform your extension or conservatory.

A complete extension or conservatory thermally efficient transformation All waterproofing products will have our LIFETIME guarantee as standard

Showroom open by appointment only: 850 London Road, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 3NQ

Brochure and free sample available on request

For a Free Quotation

Are you retired?

Possible savings now available

Call: 01702 668977 www.flatroofs.net *T&Cs apply. Please see our website for details on Key Worker Discounts. Head Office: Linden House, 30 Linden Road, Benfleet, Essex SS7 4BA

52

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

August 2020

Advertorial

Advertisement Feature

Do you own a conservatory not fit for purpose?

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

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

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

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

High-Tech have the perfect solution.

A very popular option is to create a thermally efficient sky room by removing the existing roof. A timber frame roof will be constructed to building regulation standard. Timber joists are then reinforced to accept a glass lantern or flat roof light.

Treated timber boarding and warm

roof insulation is fitted along with new external UPVC roof line and guttering products. It is then made permanently water tight with our lifetime guaranteed flat roof system.

The glass roof light is installed.

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

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

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

WORKING WITH COVID-19.

WE ARE STILL ABLE TO OFFER FREE QUOTATIONS AND CARRY OUT EMERGENCY ROOFING WORKS. WE ARE PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE WE ARE STRETCHING OUR DISCOUNTS FOR THE RETIRED TO INCLUDE EX FORCES, NHS STAFF AND OTHER KEYWORKERS

High-Tech will create a luxurious living space. There are tiled roof conversions creating a more closed in style of room with no or limited natural light. An orangery style sky room with a glass lantern or sky light will not only offer the WOW factor, it will also give all the natural light required.

Bring your conservatory back to life, add value to your home and enjoy the comforts.

The Problem

The Solution

We can assure you all quotations are carried outside and social distancing is being adhered to at all times. Please stay safe.

Always 100% committed to customer care and satisfaction August 2020

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

53

54

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

August 2020

! til 31.08.20 F F t* un O % ver

1wit0h this ad

*

• All styles of lighting • Stockists of all light bulbs • Largest Tiffany range in area • Latest Fantasia ceiling fans • Family-run expert advice

Celco Lighting CLASSIC & CONTEMPORARY DESIGNER LIGHTING Over 70 years of trading 144–146 London Road, Southend-on-Sea SS1 1PH - 01702 348234 August 2020

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

55

Continued from page 16...

turning and put a stop to anti-social behaviour, drug dealing and other insidious crimes which cause irreparable harm to families, friends and our communities.”

Continuing to grow

Our force has continued to grow. We saw 58 new officers passing out earlier this month, and this year we will be investing in even more officers dedicated to local policing. Twenty new Community Safety Engagement Officers (CSEOs), who will support their local policing teams alongside our Town Centre Teams are starting to move into their posts now.

ACC Nolan continued: “We are increasing the numbers of new officers who will be bolstering our work to protect and serve our communities and catch the bad guys.

“Our new CSEOs will be looking at solving those longer term problems which really do affect people’s quality of life, at addressing issues that are priorities for communities and telling you about what they are doing so you know more about what’s happening in your town.”

Since the start of the COVID-19 lockdown in March, our Town Centre Teams carried out extra patrols to help protect closed businesses and since June we have worked in partnership with them and local councils as they reopen.

56

Last weekend, it became compulsory to wear face coverings in shops. Again, our Town Centre Teams have worked with local businesses to support them through this change and make shopping an enjoyable and safe experience for all.

Find us on Facebook

You can find out more about what they’re doing on Facebook – each district has its own Essex Police page. You’ll also find details of how to get in touch with them, including Coffee with Cops events and local community meetings.

You can also find out more about the crime in your area and what we are doing by visiting the Your Area section of our website https://www. essex.police.uk/a/your-area Are you interested in doing a job that puts you at the heart of your community?

Or do you know someone who might fit the bill?

View the opportunities we have on offer at www. essex.police.uk/police-forces/essex-police/areas/ essex-police/ca/careers/

Essex Police www.essex.police.uk Oracle welcomes thoughts from all sides as balance is very important. Write your letter in the comment section located under the relevant article on our website. oraclepublications.co.uk #SaveSouthend

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

August 2020

Really positive signs Hopson Property Services

Selling, managing and letting properties consistently for over 20 years.

• FREE Rental and Sales Appraisal Service • Rent Guarantee Available • A.R.L.A Members (offering client money protection) • FREE Professional advice • Large Client-Base of Fully-Vetted Tenants and Purchasers

sales : 01702 334353 lettings : 01702 390990

e : info@hopsonproperty.co.uk w : hopsonproperty.co.uk

Apple Computer Repairs & Sales Apple Mac Networks Apple Mac IT Tech Support 01702 680005

www.applecheck.co.uk info@applecheck.co.uk

August 2020

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

57

The Peter Boat, Old Leigh - Mark Prior Photographic competition 2019 entry DISCOUNT CARPET WAREHOUSES LIMITED

It’s good to welcome our customers back again!

Carpets, rolls, remnants, vinyl’s all in stock and room size remnants available.

BRAINBOX

Ceramic floor and wall tiles, many imported.

6 9 5

2 3

2 5

4

5 8

9

1

7

5

9

1

9

9

1

5

6

3

1

8 9

3

Laminate flooring and a wide range of rugs also available.

45 years of very successful trading in Southend.

Thank you, it’s good to be back!

USE OUR OWN FREE CAR PARK 141-159 SUTTON ROAD, SOUTHEND-ON-SEA, SS2 5PB

7

6 8

5 6

01702 619050 SALES@KENBRO.CO.UK WWW.KENBRO.CO.UK

7 1

1 NAME

SUDOKU – Enter numbers

CUTE

WORD LADDER – Climb the ladder, changing one letter each rung to make a new word.

into the blank spaces so that each row, column and 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 to 9.

CONUNDRUM – Unscramble to solve the clue.

I

N

G

E

N

D

R

G

A

Clue: An activity ususally carried out in the Summer for growing and cultivating plants.

1

Last month’s solutions: WORD LADDER –

SOLELOSELOSTCOSTCOSY CONUNDRUM – SUNFLOWER

58

2

3

6

7

8

9

4

5

5

8

4

2

3

9

7

6

1

9

6

7

1

4

5

3

2

8

3

7

2

4

6

1

5

8

9

6

9

1

5

8

3

2

7

4

4

5

8

7

9

2

6

1

3

8

3

6

9

2

4

1

5

7

2

1

9

8

5

7

4

3

6

7

4

5

3

1

6

8

9

2

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

August 2020

August 2020

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

59

Emergency Electrician Established locally over 25 years Faults our speciality No Job too small Special rates for OAP’s No call out charge

Tel: Tel:

60

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

07778 653339 01702 588892

August 2020

CAN YOU DELIVER? THEN ORACLE WANTS YOU! Distributors required for monthly delivery

Professional IT Services

Desktop/Laptop Repairs & Upgrades Custom Build Specialist (incl. Water-cooling) Full Health Checks & Diagnostics Software Installation Home & Business Network Setup Full Windows 10 Support Remote Support Smart TV & Sound System Setup We are now at Unit C15, Seedbed Centre, Vanguard Way, Shoeburyness SS3 9QY

CALL 01702 393838 August 2020

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

61

ity l i iab ce l Luran l Fu ns I

MIKE’s Tree Services Est. 1982

15% off Felling for senior Pollarding citizens Shaping Pruning Shrub/Hedge Trimming Friendly & Reliable Service

For a FREE Quotation call Mike

07835 926644 01702 305217

• OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK

• TINTED LENS SPECIALISTS

• 50 YEARS EXPERIENCE

• LENSES SUPPLIED & FITTED TO

• EASY, FLEXIBLE PARKING • BUDGET & DESIGNER FRAME STOCKIST • VARILUX SPECIALIST

OWN FRAME (*if applicable) • GOLD SOLDER FRAME & REPAIR SERVICE ON SITE • PRESCRIPTION SWIM, SUN, & SPORTSWEAR GLASSES

Opening Hours Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday: 9.00 am – 4.00 pm Wednesday Sunday 9.00 am – 1.00 pm 9.00 am – Noon

62

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

August 2020

HETAS and OFTEC Registered Installers

THESE PRICES INCLUDE: flue pipe, closure plate, liner, caps, clamps, plates etc., and fitting by HETAS and OFTEC Registered Installers.

August 2020

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

63

Sponsored by:

01702 393 838 www.southendoracle.co.uk

USEFUL NUMBERS

Hospitals & Health

Advice & Helplines AR Adams Funeral Directors Child Protection Citizens Advice Cllr Ron Woodley Crimestoppers Cruse Bereavement Care Drugs, Alcohol & Substance Misuse HARP – Southend's Homeless Charity Jobcentre Southend National Drugs Freephone Pier & Foreshore Inspectors Samaritans Freephone Southend Carers Southend Council Civic Centre Southend Talking Newspaper Victim Support Group

Clubs & Associations

586383 534495 0344 4770 808 588662 0800 555 111 213843 456800 615000 0800 169 0190 0300 123 6600 215620 116123 393933 215000 898900 0845 4565995

Actorcrats (Amateur Dramatics) 306506 Belfairs Mixed Bowling 525648 Burges Estate Residents Association (BERA) 588662 Charles Dicken’s Fellowship 588069 Cockleshell Clog Morris 218081 Essex Handicrafts Association 479862 Essex Society for Family History 522992 Leigh-on-Sea Bowls Club 471944 Leigh-on-Sea Royal British Legion 559996 Lower Thames Rowing Club 482205 Naval & Military Club 347169 Piertalk 07474 119899 Prittlewell Bowls Club 612476 Scouts: Southend, Thorpe Bay & Shoeburyness 584026 Southchurch Park Bowling Club 07434 190067 Southchurch Croquet Club at Rayleigh 525106 Southend Anglo Italian Circle 712177 Southend & District Pensioners Campaign 341047 Southend Blind Welfare Association 342131 Southend Bowls Club 467073 Southend Cardiac Support Group 309042/293469 Southend Chess Club (Steve – Club Secretary) 345902 Southend Golf Club 473206 Southend-on-Sea Lions Club 582828 Southend Photographic Society 332491 Southend Rugby Club 546682 South Essex Natural History Society 588115 St Augustine’s Church 587597 Stone Masons & Dry Stone Wallers 292867 Thames Estuary Lacemakers 476034 The Shoebury Society 586622 The Wine Circle 295325

64

Thorpe Bay Art Group 585382 Thorpe Bay Bowling Club 582074 Thorpe Bay Bridge Club 875234 Thorpe Bay Floral Arrangement Group 585350 Thorpe Bay Horticultural Society 588297 Thorpe Bay Ladies Thursday Club 296975 Thorpe Bay Lawn Tennis Club 585245 Thorpe Bay Men’s Forum 588297 Thorpe Bay Afternoon Townswomen’s Guild 588909 Thorpe Bay Probus 07947613594 Thorpe Bay Yacht Club 587563 Thorpe Hall Golf Club 582205 224600 435555

Primary Care Trust Southend General Hospital

Pharmacies

Bansal Pharmacy 587500 178 The Broadway, Mon–Fri 9–6.30pm/Sat 9–1pm Howells and Harrison Thorpe Bay Pharmacy 582658 The Broadway, Mon–Fri 9–6.30pm/Sat 9–5.30pm Closed 1–2pm Wed+Sat

Local MP

James Duddridge (Conservative) (Thorpe Bay) Sir David Amess MP (Leigh)

Animal Welfare

616135

472391

Downes & Prtnrs, Veterinary Surgeon RSPCA Rochford

584511 0300 1234 999

Police emergency Police non-emergency Essex Police Marine Unit HM Coastguard

999 101 01245 452815 01702 294998

Police Services

Public Services

Southend Forum 215011 Bournes Green Post Office 582241 Traveline 0871 200 2233 Arriva Southend 0844 800 4411 First 01268 525251 National Express 08705 80 80 80 Odeon Cinema 0871 2244007 SSAFA (Soldiers, Sailors, Airmens Families Assoc.)

463113 24 hour Emergency Homeless Shelter 430696

"It is so important to keep going, keep smiling and keep hoping."

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

Vera Lynn - 1917 – 2020

August 2020

Santry Davis Chartered Certified Accountants

Need help with your accounts?

Hate bookkeeping?

VAT Return keeping you awake?

Hand Made by Jacqueline Patchwork & Quilting taught at home from Leigh-on-Sea One to one lessons or groups of four Social distancing & masks provided

We can help!!

Sole Trader accounts from £375 plus VAT (introductory offer)

Company accounts from £550 plus VAT (introductory offer)

Bookkeeping from £15 per hour plus VAT (introductory offer)

Contact us today for more information Pinnacle House 2-10 Rectory Road Hadleigh Essex SS7 2ND

Jacquelinejohnsmith@gmail.com Tel: 07950136237

T: 01702 780055 W: www.santrydavis.co.uk E: admin@santrydavis.co.uk

MOLLY MAID Benfleet

Keeping your home Healthy The HomeSafe cleaning system puts the health and safety of you, your family and our team of maids at the core of how we work.

In all our cleans we use our specialist disinfectant and anti-microbial Xtra Protect cleaner which passed independent laboratory tests proving it’s effective against all enveloped viruses including all coronaviruses.

Call us today to learn more about HomeSafe and why you can trust MOLLY MAID in your home.

Please call:

01268 442023

or email: margaret.king@mollymaid.co.uk See what our customers have to say at uk.trustpilot.com

August 2020

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

65

Ensure your business is listed in our expanding new online directory. Call us on 01702 393 838 or email info@oraclepublications.co.uk for introductory offers.

DIRECTORY ACCOUNTANTS Santry Davis 65 AIRPORT TRANSFER Air & Back 60 BATHROOMS John Howard Bathrooms 37 St Ann's Building Supplies 26 BLINDS & SHUTTERS Worth & Co. 20 Creative Shutters 19 BLOCK PAVING Brooks Paving 61 BUILDERS D Turner 26 BUTCHERS Philip Splett 41 CAR DEALERSHIP Fairfield BMW 1 CARPENTER John Sorrell 33 CARPET & OVEN CLEANING Gates Services 45 CARPETS & FLOORING Gainsborough Carpets 44 Trade Carpets 5 Kenbro 27/58 CLEANING Molly Maids 65 COMPUTER SERVICES Computopia 61 CONSERVATORY CLEANING UK Essex Conservatory Cleaning 23 DENTAL Royal Mews 21 DIRECTORY (ONLINE) Southend Oracle Directory 67 DOUBLE GLAZING The Window Man 25 A1 Glazing 14 DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIR Cloudy2Clear 38 Discount Window Clinic 28 DRIVEWAYS DP Resin Driveways 59 ELECTRICAL Emergency Electrician 60 Need an Electrician 4 RDM Electrical 29 DMB Electrcial 65

66

ESTATE AGENTS Hunt Roche 3 Hopsons 57 ESTATE PLANNING Oracle Estate Planning 54 EQUITY RELEASE Essex Equity Release 40 FINANCIAL ADVISER Brewin Dolphin 34/35 FIREPLACES & STOVES GAT Fire 63 FUNERAL SERVICES AR Adams Funeral Services 50 FURNITURE RESTORERS Richard Attfield 29 TS Baskett 60 FURNITURE SHOWROOM John James 51 GARAGES RS Automotive 42 Service Garage 36 GARDEN FURNITURE Highgate Furniture 18 GARDEN SERVICES Paul’s Gardening 48 GAS STOCKIST St Ann's Building Supplies 19 GUTTER CLEANING Super Gutter Vac 50 HANDYMAN Piper Construction 33 HEALTH & BEAUTY CHC Aesthetics 39 HEALTH & WELLBEING JSN Therapies 30 HOME IMPROVEMENTS Climatec 47 HOUSE CLEARANCE ATS House Clearance 15 HYPNOBIRTHING The Nurture Nest 19 INTERIOR DESIGN Janet Williamson Interior Design 11 Michelle Elliott-Britto Interiors 17 IT SUPPORT Applecheck 57 JEWELLERS AV & BV Andrews 31 Aaron Lyons 59 KITCHENS & BATHROOMS Dream Doors 11 Paul Newman 2

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

LANDSCAPE GARDENING RJM Landscaping 28 Bespoke Resin Surfaces 49 Pollen Landscapes 15 LIGHTING Celco Lighting 55 MARBLE WORKTOPS Abbey Marble 15 OPTICAL CC Optical 62 PAINTING & DECORATING CB Homes & Gardens 4 GMH Renovations 45 PATCHWORK & QUILTING Jacqueline Smith 65 PHYSIOTHERAPIST WDC Physiotherapy 23 PLASTERER Jones & Sons 48 PLUMBING & HEATING Ascot Plumbing 57 Sonray Heating 48 Hammond & Sons 17 ATS Heating & Plumbing 58 John Howard Gas & Boiler 32 Robert Bailey Plumbing & Heating 28 PROPERTY MAINTENANCE THM Property Maintenance 14 PUBLIC HOUSE The Angel Inn 8 RENDERING MSR Rendering 13 ROOFING SERVICES CSJ Freeman & Sons 50 High-Tech Membrane Roofing 52/53 P Howarth Roofing 45 SCAFFOLDING Add Scaffolding 13 SCHOOLS Southend High School 9/10 Thorpe Hall School 6/7/68 THEME PARK Adventure Island 12 TREE SERVICES Tree-King 17 Mike’s Tree Services 62 TUITION & TRAINING Crown Vocational Training 43 Zoe Reynolds 29 UPHOLSTERY Castell's custom trim & upholstery 31

August 2020

August 2020

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

67

Praise for Thorpe Hall’s Lockdown Learning see pages 6&7

Award Winning Education

2019 - ISA National Award for Excellence & Innovation in Pupils’ Mental Health and Wellbeing (Whole School)

2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 & 2019 - A Sunday Times Top UK 100 Independent Preparatory School (Lower School)

2017 - ISA National Award for Excellence & Innovation in Early Years (Nursery & Reception)

NURSERY 2-4 | LOWER SCHOOL 4-11 | UPPER SCHOOL 11-16 68

T: 01702 582340 | www.thorpehallschool.co.uk Wakering www.oraclepublications.co.uk Road | Southend-on-Sea | Essex | SS1 3RD

August 2020