Oracle March 2021

March 2021

Your all-seeing local

ORACLE Thorpe Bay, Southchurch, Garrison, Shoeburyness, Leigh, Chalkwell, Westcliff & Southend Conservation Area Circulation: 14,000

SPOTLIGHT Aspirations for Southend COMPETITION Hawkins dine at home competition worth £60!

LOCAL ISSUES

Fighting

the virus together?

Be a part of Census 2021 Census day is 21 March 2021.

By taking part and encouraging others to do the same, you’ll help make sure your community gets the services it needs.

Find out more at www.census.gov.uk Follow @Census2021

2

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

A4GIP1-A

www.census.gov.uk

March 2021

ORACLE

WELCOME

Spring is definitely in the air and I am very happy to be back after having to suspend February’s edition. The positive news of the vaccine roll out has given a real boost to our mental health and businesses are beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Obviously, it is still very important that we all continue to follow the government’s guidelines on keeping safe.

10 % CREAM

Market Leading Services for Market Beating Fees

During this last lockdown we have taken the opportunity to revamp the Oracle and I hope you like its fresher more updated look. The Oracle is still being reliably distributed by our own great team of deliverers to 14,000 homes and I am proud to say it is the longest running local magazine in the area (16 years)!

This month’s competition will appeal to any foodies Oracle/Hawkins At Home! Since Covid-19 it’s become popular to eat restaurant tasting food at home. Hawkins At Home was set up by local chefs who found themselves out of work due to the pandemic.

Win a deliciously prepared food box for 2 people worth £60 and dine-in in style!

To enter please visit Oraclepublications.co.uk, competition page closing date, 15 March 2021.

Finally, as a local business, I would like to thank both clients and residents for the tremendous support during this last year.

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

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

01702 588 599

Oracle is now 100% recyclable

Oracle Publications and Creative Media @oracle_essex Est. 2005 Printed by Print Acumen, Rettendon, Essex

March 2021

www.huntroche.co.uk

www.oraclepublications.co.uk HR_Oracle_Ad_January.indd 1

3

22/03/2019 11:34

Photo by Laura Kelly

Find out how we could help your business

CONTENTS Accountancy support & finance consultancy for small to medium businesses.

Fighting the Virus Together?

10/11

Local Issues by Philip Miller

- Bookkeeping & accounting - Corporation Tax & VAT - Payroll - Business consultancy

"My Aspirations for the Prosperity of Southend"

01702 870133

Hair & Beauty by Craig Smith

16/17

Spotlight by John Harland

Love is in the Hair

blackwaterbusiness.co.uk

22

Is a Will enough?

27

Estate Planning by Clive Rowe

Apple pancakes with toffee sauce

4 Page Ad.indd 1

08/12/2020 10:30Recipe

32

by Judy Barden

Give the next generation a head start

36/37

Money Matters by Rob Burgeman

D-Day. We are not out of the WARS!

42

Health & Wellbeing by Jacqui Sayer-Noble

Brainbox 46 Useful Numbers

52

Advertiser Index

54

Advertorials High-Tech Membrane

28/29

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 All reserved. NoOracle part of Oracle Publications Ltdis may be of rights the publisher.

Publications UKUKLtd editorially reproduced or used in any form or by any means either wholly or in autonomous the opinions expressed not those part without priorand permission of the publisher.

Oracleare Publications UK of the publisher unless and expressly stated.

Ltd is editorially autonomous the opinions expressed are not those of the publisher unless expressly stated.

4

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

March 2021

STAYING IN IS THE NEW GOING OUT! 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 March 2021

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

5

Fed up with drafty and unsightly windows?

We give

We specialise in windows, doors & conservatories.

We repair and replace the following:

free of charge, no obligation quotes!

Window handles Locks

Adjussng windows or doors Replacing leeerboxes

Hinges

Door knockers

Misted or broken glass

Panels

Specialist installers and service engineers in all forms of double glazing, triple glazing, UPVC, aluminium and hardwood windows, doors, conservatory's and roof line. All new installations are fully guaranteed, FENSA registered and also come with an independent security guarantee against break ins. We repair all types of windows, doors and conservatory's. We offer a full range of security upgrades and service packages. We also provide break in assistance.

A family run business proudly serving the local community for over 25 years!

01268 527112 www.thewindowmanessex.net window.man@btconnect.com 6

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

March 2021

Get Tested

Up to 1 in 3 people can have COVID-19 without having symptoms.

Protect yourself and your loved ones and help stop the spread.

Get a free test now.

Your local rapid test centres are at:

St Aidan’s Church The Fairway, Leigh-on-Sea, SS9 4QW Open 7 days a week - 7am to 5:30pm Shoebury Youth Centre Delaware Road, SS3 9NS Open 7 days a week - 8am to 6:30pm University Square London Road, Southend-on-Sea (entrance opposite Sainsbury's) Open 7 days a week - 7am to 2:30pm

Book an appointment www.southend.gov.uk/gettested or just turn up and you will be slotted in.

March 2021

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

7

8

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

March 2021

KAT

LOST

9ST Resolutions never last.

START

YOUR

Virtual support and

Lose a stone a month, every month.

deliveries to your door

Hello, I’m Judy, a LighterLife Mentor. Get in contact so I can support you every step of the way to achieve your goal of living a healthier Lighter Life.

Contact me on 07590 991118 or judy.hoskins@lighterlifementor.com

March 2021

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

9

LOCAL ISSUES

Fighting the Virus Together?

S

outhend, alongside the rest of the country is going through hell, economically speaking. Businessmen are counting down the days until breakout day. If Southend is not going to vanish down the financial plug hole, it will need a huge boost to drag us out of the abyss.

The Council in particular will need to throw in the kitchen sink to help businesses revival. For many it is already too late. Walking past parades of shops in the area makes me wonder how many will re-open after the war’s end?

The Chancellor has done a good job in trying to keep businesses afloat and hopefully this will continue. However, we also need local government to follow suit.

If raising parking charges and coming up with a parking pass that allows you to park where you don’t want to for a few hours is the best they can do, we might as well all go on the dole now!

visited Leigh, Thorpe Bay, Shoebury etc. or the High Street! The revenue lost could have paid for a parking reduction and filled a few pot holes! The local authority is the only organisation in the position to make Southend great again, we just need decent leadership.

I have serious concerns about the current administration, mind you I said that about the last lot!

No penalty for failure Certain local councilors have no skin in the game. It's not their money they are burning or their businesses they are wrecking! They talk big about wasting tax payers money with no penalty for failure.

By the way, could you see any sense in closing parking on the seafront during the lockdown? Seemingly to stop the spread of the virus. Well it must be a very well trained virus as it never 10

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

March 2021

❝ I believe

there will be an end to the prohibition feel across the UK

Squeezing tax payers for more cash as we receive less and less is not the answer. They have had it ‘cushy’ through lockdown with full pay and perks. We the taxpayers need a better return on our investment.

We need all parties working to one goal ‘The health & wealth of the town’ I have always followed my Dad’s advice that the cheapest thing in the world is other people’s brains. Now it’s time for local leaders to cross the Rubicon and not just pay lip service or conduct phoney consultations, but sit down with local businessmen, really listen and act for the best of the town.

They need to understand that without business creating wealth, they will have nothing left to waste it on.

❝

What a bargain!

For my part I’m giving it my best shot! I’m reducing prices by an average of 41% across Adventure Island and the Sealife Adventure Zooquarium. This is thanks to the Chancellor discounting VAT which we are gambling on Rishi continuing.

Adventure Island 12 month passes will be £50 (half of last year) and Sealife 12 month passes just £15!

Single entry’s online and in the park are cheaper as well! Excuse my advert, but what a bargain!

Furlough, whilst saving jobs, has left

many short of money and there will be millions more unemployed once furlough ends. So many previously sound businesses are on life support and are close to ‘throwing in the towel’ Why would you just keep on increasing your debt without an exit in sight?

A fraught year Many businessmen in the town are thinking life would be much easier just getting a job….if they can find one.

Let somebody else have the worry, who can blame them? However, for us on the seafront, we have done the unthinkable and done more or less a bit of a reboot so to speak. We are leaner, meaner and keener than we have ever been.

Depending on how we exit the virus, I believe there will be an end to the prohibition feel across the UK. I do not believe folks will be wasting money for the sake of it. Many will have accumulated wealth through the lockdowns and are ahead of the game, but I can’t see them throwing it away, just because they can. I think many have become very canny about who gets their ‘dosh’ maybe with one exception, the booze game which will flourish! Just hope its controlled with boundaries set and followed.

Philip Miller

To all you self-employed, entrepreneurs and business folk, you are the only wealth creators! Your town needs you to push hard! I’m sure with the right mind-set we will come out the other side feeling good about ourselves. We just need a little nurture, that’s all! It’s in our DNA to succeed – it’s the Essex Way! Online companies are here for keeps, but share and share alike. Nothing beats the real experience of shopping….just ask my daughters! Forget the past, let’s push on and not get beaten by the BUG! Finally, I wish the town and all who sail in her the best of British going forward. Let’s help each other when we can, buy local including suppliers if you can. I have for years.

March 2021

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

11

12

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

March 2021

JONES & SONS PLASTERING & RENDERING INSULATION RENDERING ALSO AVAILABLE

FULLY INSURED WITH OVER 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

07717 295538 01702 748002 WWW.JONESYSCONSTRUCTION.CO.UK

A BESPOKE HOME INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICE Curtains, blinds, and shutters Sofas and chairs Re-upholstery service 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 March 2021

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

13

Spring Back To Health in 2021

The last year has meant more sitting, more screen time and more aches and pains for a lot of us. Do you want to get back to living with less aches and pains?

If this is a yes for you then make 2021 the year to move more and have less aches and pains. Give your body the love and care it needs this spring and come in for an pain/injury initial consultation with one of our therapists to get you back to your best.

THIS OFFER INCLUDES: Day 1: A Full and Thorough Consultation & Day 2: Report of Findings appointment - where our therapists will go through your results and advise the best care for you - £75 State of the art Posture Screen - £35

TOTAL - £110 Readers of Thorpe Bay Oracle pay only £35!

You Save 68% Call the clinic on 01702 613542 to claim yours Offer ends March 31st 2021.

14

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

March 2021

“I’m the Queen of Scones!”

Joyce’s scones were legendary but she struggled to make them like she used to. Having once been very sociable and independent she hadn’t been able to do as much in recent years.

With that little bit of extra help Joyce is leading a fulfilling life and maintaining her level of independence.

Care designed to find your smile

For more information contact the Care & Support team on 01702 361405, careandsupport@ensgroup.co.uk or download our brochure at www.ens-care.co.uk OLDER PEOPLE • LEARNING DISABILITY • COMPLEX HEALTHCARE • CHILDREN & YOUNG ADULTS

March 2021

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

15

SPOTLIGHT

John Harland:

"My Aspirations for the Prosperity of Southend"

I

am delighted to be the prospective Conservative Candidate for Milton Ward which encompasses Our Town Centre and much of our Seafront, as well as the delightful Cliff Gardens and Prittlewell Square.

I have worked in this area for over 40 years so this particular area is very well known to me.

However, the effects of the dreadful pandemic has shattered many lives and businesses, so we really need to work together to bring the Town back to the prosperous position it once boasted.

certainly need to encourage visitors to come and enjoy these facilities and bring all parts of the Town back to life again. It is our Tourism offering that boosts our local economy and creates employment, which is essential to our future, as we recover from the restrictions we have all found ourselves under in the past year.

Cliff Gardens, Southend On Sea

Crime is an issue to be considered

Talking to residents in Milton Ward, this is what matters to them as well.

Like all residents, they also want a safe Town, so crime is an issue to be considered. It is my intention We are a Town renowned for its leisure to work with the authorities and agencies to play my part in making activities, the seven mile seafront, the Ward a safer place. I have built up iconic pier, superb hotels and guest relationships with different groups houses, beautiful parks and first class over the years especially through my restaurants to attract all ages and of work with several Southend Charities. course our two great theatres, The Cliffs Pavilion and Palace theatre. We Unfortunately the challenge of crime 16

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

March 2021

All future development needs to complement the businesses that already exist and we certainly will be hoping that a thriving Town Centre will return in the very near future, offering employment to our young people.

Town Centre will return I know another of the concerns of residents in Milton Ward is parking.

Milton Ward has so many beautiful Victorian houses and very few have garages. At this time its essential, that residents are able to park close to their homes. This means we must ensure that parking charges are not increased to a level that in the Town and Seafront areas, hence then bringing stress to residential streets.

Also, as businesses have suffered so much over the past year we need to ensure that we support them and not put obstacles in their way as they attempt to rise from the restrictions that Covid-19 has placed upon them as well.

March 2021

email: johnharland5 @gmail.com facebook: John Harland Conservative Candidate Milton Ward Southend 2021

So I`m looking forward to being able to make a difference, to being part the massive effort to bring the Town Centre back to life and seeing visitors flocking to Southend, to enjoy our wonderful heritage. It`s only by working collaboratively that we can bring about change.

My wish is to see Milton Ward a happy and thriving area, where people feel safe, have secure employment and live enjoyable and fulfilled lives.

❝I hope you share these

sentiments. Together we will get the feel good factor back

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

❝

and disorder has not gone away and we certainly need to address these issues especially in the Town Centre.

I have always worked with integrity and continue to encourage people to be positive and have a can do attitude.

I will always put the issues before party politics and wont be afraid to speak up for people whatever their concerns.

John Harland Conservative Candidate for Milton Ward

17

Travel in comfort and style... in this luxury Mercedes with air conditioning and leather seats for up to seven passengers.

AIRPORTS n

n

City Airport £90 Stansted £90 Gatwick £105 Heathrow £115 n

Please be assured Covid 19 safety measures will be fully observed at all times.

3475 TRANSFERS

n

ALSO... n

n

n

Events Sea ports Business trips Special occasions n

N 07528

844 015

E pcollie19@gmail.com F 3475_transfers I 3475_transfers D www.3475transfers.co.uk

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

18

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

March 2021

March 2021

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

19

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

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

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

20

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

March 2021

Window & Door Repairs

Carpentry Works

l Window & Door Repairs Furniture assembly Plumbing l Carpentry Works General Maintenance assembly Decorating l Furniture Carpentry Works Window & Door Repairs Carpentry Works Window &&Door Carpentry Works irs Window DoorRepairs Repairs Carpentry Carpentry Works Wo l Plumbing • Free Quotations Plumbing Furniture assembly Plumbing Furniture assembly Plumbing assembly Plumbing Plumbing lFurniture General Maintenance Decorating General Maintenance Decorating • Fully Insured Decorating General Maintenance Maintenance Decorating Decorating lGeneral Decorating l Free• Quotations No job too small ations • Free Quotations uotations FreeQuotations Quotations • • Free l Fully Insured Call Mark on ed • Fully Insured sured Fully Insured • • Fully Insured l No job too small

07394 152916

otoo small Email: info@topmark.pro • No job too small small Nojob jobtoo toosmall small • • No

CallMark Markon on Call

Call Mark on

Email:info@topmark.pro info@topmark.pro Email:

Email: info@topmark.pro

07394152916 152916 07394

March 2021

07394 152916

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

21

HAIR & BEAUTY

L♥ve is in the Hair

A

re we still in lockdown? What tier are we in now? To be honest, I’m not even sure what day it is... With – at the time of writing - limited places to go and few people to see, it’s been rather too easy to adjust to the new lifestyle choices of joggers or jimjams, another Netflix binge or make yet another banana bread loaf? Y’know, just for old times’ sake.

Dress Up Not Down Of course, as is the way of all thing’s social media, there has been a reaction to this with #DUND, or Dress Up Not Down. It’s a great way to break the monotony of lockdown and bring a little glamour back into your life.

For many of us, especially those in a long-term relationship or marriage, the concept of a ‘date night’ when you can’t go anywhere might seem rather odd. But I think it’s definitely worth making the effort. Even though salons like mine remain closed as I write this, it’s quite easy to create a professional look for your date night. Arguably, frizz is almost always a hair passion killer, so smoothing and softening it makes a big difference. So, squeeze a moisturising product into your hands and take the very top layer of your hair and just touch it. It’s not about putting the cream into the hair or layering it in, but more about just touching it.

Then, still in the top section of hair, take either side of your parting and smooth it down with your fingers. Then, use a hairdryer to quickly dry your hair and voila, smooth and glossy hair!

by Craig Smith Director of Grateful Heads Hair Salon

Smooth and glossy hair Of course, it’s also bearing in mind that we are still in the grip of winter, so don’t try to make your hair look too elaborate or ‘done’. In many respects, less is very much more. So, begin by de-frizzing and then bend your hair lightly around a tong, without exposing it too much heat. The resultant curls will look super sexy and give you an air of chilled sassiness at the same time.

After weeks of being locked in your home together, something new and unexpected could add a fresh spark into your relationships. And well, after dinner and a few glasses of wine, there’s only so much Netflix and chill you can do…

Providing expert hair care to Essex for 30 years.

Isn’t it time you made your head grateful?

01702 340965 32 l Alexandra Street, Southend SS1 1BU 22

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

March 2021

Helping to

BRING THE OUTDOORS IN

March 2021

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

23

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

Call: 01702 615760 Units 8–9 Robert Leonard Industrial Estate, Stock Road, Southend-on-Sea SS2 5QD

www.abbeymarble.co.uk

PAINTING & DECORATING COMMERCIAL & DOMESTIC Interior & Exterior

New website now live!

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 www.gmhrenovations.co.uk

24

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

March 2021

Cloudy2Clear, A Local Service With A Smile.

I think we can all agree that the sooner we see the back of 2020 and this dreadful corona virus the better. That said, there are also some heart warming positives that we can take out of this situation. It has often been said that we can only really get to know one another and realise what is truly important in times of crisis. I think few would argue that in this case what has proven to be important is local community spirit.

When talking to the Manager of Cloudy2Clear windows Chris Miller it became clear that these values have been held dear for a number of years. Since starting the business some years ago Cloudy2Clear have remained true to their core values of

supporting the local community by providing a service that saves the public money.

The Cloudy2Clear service only requires the glass to be replaced and not the whole window once the unit has failed. Chris commented “Cloudy2Clear were able to assist our community through the last financial crisis in 2008 due to the savings that can be made in using our service. Unfortunately we might be going through something similar again soon and the public can rest assured that we will be there to help again”.

All C2C employees operate a strict social distancing policy.

For a free quotation please call 0800 61 21 118 or visit cloudy2clear.co.uk.

Have Your Windows Steamed Up? Replace the pane, not the frame!

All glazing backed by our

“I really liked the fact that they were a local community run business” Janet Beard

Social distancing in operation

We are a Which?

Trusted Trader

Faulty locks, handles or hinges?

Priority freephone www.cloudy2clear.co.uk

Love Your Home - Protect Your Windows - Save Money March 2021

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

25

Climatec

CALL TODAY AND BOOK YOUR FREE HOME VISIT

Home Improvements

01702 447600

www.climatec-hi.co.uk

CLIMATEC HOME IMPROVEMENTS WE TICK ALL THE RIGHT BOXES ü - SO WHY GO ANYWHERE ELSE? ü Large selection of aluminium/ uPVC windows & doors ü Local factory & showroom ü Accredited manufacturer since 1993 ü FENSA registered and approved Installers ü Supply only or supply & fit for Trade and Retail ü Customer focused staff ü Genuine prices with written quotes ü Free advice on window & door safety requirements

SPRING IS (FINALLY) IN THE AIR

ü Home visits, or virtual quoting by request Installsure logos, colours and typeface

ü 10 year installation guarantees

Green CMYK: 80/21/100/6 RGB: 52/138/54 #348a36

Tint 60%

IT’S BEEN A LONG WINTER, SO WHY NOT CELEBRATE SPRING’S ARRIVAL WITH SOME FEEL GOOD HOME IMPROVEMENTS!

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

Installsure.co.uk

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

WE MAKE THEM

WE FIT THEM

WE GUARANTEE THEM

Climatec Home Improvements Ltd is part of the Climatec Group Fletchers Square, Temple Farm Industrial Estate, Southend-on-Sea, Essex SS2 5RN

26

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

Find us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter

March 2021

ESTATE PLANNING

Is a Will enough?

Assets not protected by a Trust, face attack from... !

our home being sold to pay Y for your long term care costs

!

T he chance that your assets won’t reach your children, grandchildren and other relatives, but end up in the wrong hands!

(Bloodline Planning)

!

reditors or C Bankruptcy claims

!

T he divorce or separation settlements of future generations

!

F urther Inheritance Tax bills

Trusts The strategic use of Trusts can ensure that your children and grandchildren are able to benefit completely from the inheritance you want them to receive and at the same time, protect the family home and other assets from being lost to the costs of long term care.

Friendly and professional service When estate planning, it is important that you can rely on and trust the adviser you choose.

Oracle Estate Planning offers a friendly and professional service including

ORACLE estate planning

In association with Countrywide SE LLP March 2021

l Wills l Lasting Powers of Attorney l Trusts l Probate & Funeral Plans We are confidential and reliable and give the best possible advice at the time you need it most.

So, don’t leave it too late! To arrange an informal chat at no cost (we are fully covid compliant) or for any further information or advice, please feel free to contact me on 01702 393838.

by Clive Rowe, Oracle Estate Planning in association with Countrywide SE LLP

Will Writing • Power of Attorney • Trusts • Funeral Plans Will Updating & Storage Facilities • Probate Administration Call Clive Rowe on: 01702 393838 e: crowe@countrywide-se.com w: www.countrywide-se.co.uk Oracle House, 11 Clarence Road, Southend SS1 1AN

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

27

Lifetime guaranteed

Flat Roofing EARLY SPRING OFFER SAVE UP TO

15% *Conditions apply

100% resistant to algae & moss Free of stone chipping’s Manufactured never to blister or crack 100% maintenance free

Another flat roof guaranteed for life

Proven in all climates Durable enough to be walked on Designed with a unique anti-slip finish Storm resistant

High-Tech Roofing has now installed and guaranteed more than 10,000 domestic projects – every roof we install comes complete with a LIFETIME guarantee. We give the homeowner absolute peace of mind.

Installed never to leak Aesthetically pleasing

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 discounts. Head Office: Linden House, 30 Linden Road, Benfleet, Essex SS7 4BA

28

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

March 2021

Advertisement Feature

The Rain is Forecast Is Your Roof Secure?

Spring maybe in the air but will the rain return?

Is your flat roof ready to cope?

be walked on and is aesthetically pleasing. As it is a vapour permeable product it will never blister or become brittle and crack. High-Tech will create a 100% storm resistant watertight roof, maintenance free and guaranteed for life never to leak.

Are you one of 70% of home owners in the UK incorporating a mineral felt flat roof?

Mineral felt generally has a slow breakdown often allowing water ingress to cause unnecessary damage before anything can be visibly detected within the home.

A failing roof & the warning signslook for signs of cracking around the roof edge, pipes, upstands and roof lights etc. Beware of blisters on the roof surface, during colder months they can become brittle and crack.

THE HOME-OWNER SHOULD ALSO BE MADE AWARE that insurance companies will no longer accept any liability for any external or internal damage caused by a leaking flat roof which is over 10 years old.

FURTHER VERY IMPORTANT INFORMATION: -ALL PROPERTY OWNERS PLEASE BE AWARE when a flat roof is replaced there are Building Regulations that the homeowner and the contractor must comply with. Failure to comply can leave the homeowner open to major problems when selling the property.

PLEASE CALL FOR FREE INFORMATION REGARDING THE REGULATIONS. In 1999, High-Tech Roofing first introduced the most advanced flat roof technology to the homeowner.

Protan, based in Norway, has a pedigree in the design and manufacture of water- proofing materials dating back to 1939, and producing the first roofing membrane in 1971. Protan is our preferred PVC single-ply flat roofing system and will cope with all climates, millions of square metres are installed here and abroad with a proven track record stretching over four decades.

Protan is predominantly an architectspecified roofing system, winning many awards serving the very competitive commercial sector.

A High-Tech roof is dimensionally stable and solar reflective, the material is unaffected by climate change and 100% resistant to moss & algae growth. The membrane has a unique anti-slip finish allowing the roof to

Early Spring offer

15% OFF

up to

*T&Cs apply.

We will be delighted to welcome you at our brand-new showroom located in Leigh-on-sea. This gives us the opportunity to show you first hand our superb Lifetime Guaranteed flat roofing systems. We have a variety of displays showing the glass skylights and roof lanterns offering the opportunity to view everything before you buy. We welcome you come and visit us at 850 London road, Leigh-on-Sea, Essex SS9 3NQ. Please call to arrange an appointment.

WORKING WITH COVID-19.

WE ARE STILL ABLE TO OFFER FREE QUOTATIONS AND CARRY OUT EMERGENCY ROOFING WORKS. WE ARE PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE OUR EARLY SPRING DISCOUNT IS AVAILABLE TO EVERYONE. THERE ARE SOME EXTRA DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE FOR ALL NHS AND KEY WORKERS ALONG WITH ALL RETIRED.

Always 100% committed to customer care and satisfaction March 2021

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

29

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 30

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

March 2021

GAS ● PLUMBING ● HEATING

 All boilers Serviced and Repaired  Condensing Boilers and Warm-Air Units  All work undertaken including: Leaks, Upgrades & Installations  No Call-out Charge  OAP discounts available  Full public liability insurance  Fully Qualified Engineers

A professional family-run business.

Honest and reliable.

Over 20 years’ experience.

From a tap washer to a full heating system, call:

01702 580577

email: hammondandsons@hotmail.co.uk www.hammondandsons.co.uk

March 2021

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

31

RECIPE Step one Make the toffee sauce. Put the butter, sugar and golden syrup into a small saucepan and bring slowly to the boil, stirring. Reduce the heat and simmer for 3 minutes or until thick. Stir in the cream, then remove from the heat and set aside to cool. Make clarified butter by melting the butter in a pan. Remove from the heat and stand for a few minutes.

Pour off the clear butter into a bowl and reserve. Discard the milky-white solids at the bottom of the pan.

Apple pancakes with toffee sauce Serves 4-6

Ingredients

by Judy Barden Next month: Lamb Cornish Pasty Pie'

T

his recipe is great to use all year as Bramley apples are always available.

Buttermilk is readily available and you will usually find it with the cream. The pancakes are more American in style but if you prefer a normal crepe type recipe it works just as well. I have served it with Greek yoghurt but I know lots of people would love vanilla ice cream. Enjoy!

32

50g butter 225g self-raising flour 2 tsp baking powder 50g caster sugar 175ml buttermilk 2 medium eggs 175ml full-cream milk 500g Bramley apples 1 tsp vanilla extract reek-style natural G yogurt, to serve For the toffee sauce: 50g unsalted butter 50g light muscovado sugar 2 tbsp golden syrup 2 tbsp double cream

Step two Sift the flour, baking powder and sugar into a bowl. Make a well in the centre, then add the buttermilk, eggs and milk.

Whisk until smooth and thick. Peel, core and coarsely grate the apples and measure out 300g.

Stir into the batter with the vanilla.

Step three Heat a large, non-stick frying pan over a medium heat. Brush the base with a little of the clarified butter. Add 4 large spoonfuls of the batter, spaced well apart, and cook for 2 minutes or until bubbles appear on top of the pancakes and they are golden brown underneath.

Flip and cook for another minute.

Transfer to a plate and keep warm while you cook the rest, to make about 16.

Step four Pile the pancakes onto warmed plates, top with a large spoonful of yogurt and drizzle with the toffee sauce. Serve immediately.

STEPS for helen

Sign up

Aiming to walk, jog or run 10,000 steps per day? www.helenrollason.org.uk

online

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

March 2021

R ICH A R D B E S P O K E

ATTFI E LD U P H O L S T E R Y

 CURTAINS AND BLINDS  ANTIQUE RESTORATION  RE-UPHOLSTERY  BESPOKE UPHOLSTERED FURNITURE

PLEASE CALL Richard Attfield Ltd Richardattfieldtld

01702 300871 07876 688841

sales@RichardAttfield.co.uk www.richardattfield.co.uk Unit 2A Swaines Industrial estate Ashingdon Road, Rochford, SS4 1RG

& 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

Gates Cleaning Services

125 HIGH STREET

Domestic and Commercial work undertaken

March 2021

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

GREAT WAKERING

01702 216377

33

34

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

March 2021

NEW EXCLUSIVE GARDEN FURNITURE SETS & GAZEBOS

Life Nevada Mini Corner Garden Set

Life Anable 10 Seater Dining set

Life Timber Corner set- Height adjustable table

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

March 2021

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

35

MONEY MATTERS

Give the

next generation a head start Save into a Junior ISA You can invest up to £9,000 into a Junior ISA (JISA) in the 2020-21 tax year. Dividends and growth within these accounts are tax free. While only parents or legal guardians can open a JISA, anyone can contribute – be they grandparents, godparents, or family friends.

The child can access money in a JISA at age 18, using this however they wish – perhaps towards university costs, or building a property deposit.

❝It can be tricky

knowing when and how to give money to your family alongside securing your own financial future

❝

Y

our child or grandchild could face significant financial challenges in an uncertain economic environment, alongside high property prices and living costs. Here are a few simple ways you could potentially transform their financial future.

Make use of bare trusts If you hold assets on behalf of a child in a bare trust there are no investment limits, and money can be used at any time for the child’s benefit, such as towards school fees.

Gains or income on investments held in a bare trust can use the child’s personal allowances for tax purposes, and the account can remain open beyond the child’s 18th birthday, although at that age they become legally entitled to access the money if they wish.

36 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

March 2021

Brewin Dolphin Limited is a member of the London Stock Exchange, and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Financial Services Register reference number: 124444). Registered office: 12 Smithfield Street, London, EC1A 9BD. Registered in England and Wales – company number: 2135876.

VAT number: GB 690 8994 69

Pay into a junior pension

Make a gift count

If you would like to give a child a head-start for retirement saving, a junior pension is an attractive option.

You can gift wealth you have accumulated over the years in several ways. Each year you can give away up to £3,000 which will not be subject to IHT when you die. You can also give £250 to any number of people each year, free from IHT.

You can save up to £2,880 a year - boosted by tax relief from the government to a maximum of £3,600 a year. Anyone can invest on behalf of a child into a junior pension, but only a parent or legal guardian can open the account.

It is also possible to make further tax-free gifts – known as ‘potentially exempt transfers’ – but you have to survive for seven years after making the gift for your estate to get the full benefit.

However, it can be tricky knowing when and how to give money to your family alongside securing your own financial future. A financial adviser can help you to build a tailor-made plan to ensure you and your family have the financial security you need today and in the future.

The value of investments, and any income from them, can fall and you may get back less than you invested.

Tax treatment depends on the individual circumstances of each client and may be subject to change in the future.

Information is provided only as an example and is not a recommendation to pursue a particular strategy.

Information contained in this document is believed to be reliable and accurate, but without further investigation cannot be warranted as to accuracy or completeness.

We are here to help you achieve your ambitions through expert, personalised financial planning.

Rob Burgeman

March 2021

020 3201 3900 l www.brewin.co.uk www.oraclepublications.co.uk www.oraclepublications.co.uk 37 37

Relax, Rejuvenate & Recharge

straight out of lockdown with a 30-minute massage Our body scanning technology have built in sensors that will precisely detect your body type and spine length, adjusting roller settings to create a massage that is just right for you.

The zero gravity experience of the massage chair promotes overall well-being, reducing your heart rate, soothing stress and calming both the body and mind for a one-of-a-kind relaxation experience

@BeyondImageRetreat FREE PARKING AVAILABLE!

@beyondimage_retreat 455 Woodgrange Drive,@BeyondImageRetreat Thorpe Bay, Essex, SS1 3EB Website: www.aimassage.co.uk l Email:@beyondimage_retreat info@aimassage.co.uk l Tel: 01702 612502 @BeyondImageRetreat @BeyondImageAI

@BeyondImageRetreat @BeyondImageRetreat

38

@beyondimage_retreat @beyondimage_retreat

@BeyondImageAI @BeyondImagewAi

Beyond Image – Beyond ImageIntelligent - Intelligent Massage Retreat

@beyondimage_retreat

@BeyondImageAI

@BeyondImageAI

Beyond Image – Intelligent www.oraclepublications.co.uk Massage Retreat

Beyond Image – Intelligent

Beyond Image – Intelligent Massage Retreat

Massage Retreat

March 2021

HOPING TO OPEN AGAIN SOON!

March 2021

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

39

10% OF F Fo

CONSULT

|

SECURE

|

r OAP’s on Wednesday m ornings

PROTECT

No call out charge - pay ONLY when the problem is solved Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week Fast response time - usually within 30 minutes Card payments accepted

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

Get a fixed price quotation and know exactly what you will pay We're not a call centre - call now & speak to a professional locksmith

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

Southend - Thorpe Bay - Shoeburyness - Gt Wakering - Westcliff Chalkwell - Eastwood - Rayleigh - Leigh - on -Sea - Thundersley

Emergency Locksmith Local Locksmiths

PVCu & Aluminium Door Lock Specialists

Lost Keys Locked Out Locks Changed & Replaced

PVCu & Aluminium Window Repairs

Lock Upgrades

Window Handles

Glazing Specialists Misted or Broken Sealed Units

Computer Network Ventilation Air Conditioning Test and report Rewires

Boarding Service

Window Hinges

Call Mark on

01702 597927

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

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

or email mark.scarff @lockfit.co.uk www.lockfit.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

40

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

A LOCAL PLUMBER FOR LOCAL PEOPLE March 2021

March 2021

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

41

HEALTH & WELLBEING

D-Day We are not out of the WARS!

A

s the fear of catching the virus continues, waiting for the vaccine is the main daily focus!

Many have been told to shield and not go out of their homes to protect them, but no one is telling them how to keep healthy so that if they contracted the virus they would stand the best chance of fighting it.

Sunshine is important There is clear evidence in reports from the US that 90% + of people who have died from the virus were deficient in vitamin D, the sunshine vitamin!

It supports the immune system and promotes well being physically and mentally.

Sunshine is so important for us, so if you are shielding and cannot get this naturally then your body needs a supplement.

I have been telling all my friends, contacts and especially the group H.E.A.L.L I run in Chelmsford for people suffering with Autoimmune conditions.

Please ensure you take vitamin C and D as well as making sure you get

H.E.A.L.L JSN Therapies 42

your bloods checked for vitamin D deficiency as it is vital.

Only a few weeks ago I was told by one of the group who has a very serious autoimmune condition that her blood test confirmed she was deficient in vitamin D, alike many people unknowingly. When speaking to her GP, a comment was made via telephone that she wished everyone was taking their vitamin D supplements to help protect them from this virus!

by Jacqui Sayer-Noble H.E.A.L.L / JSN Therapies

Vitamin D is in the food we eat As this is a vitamin and not medication it’s not freely available on prescription.

However, it can be purchased over the counter at Boots, any chemist or in most local supermarkets.

Vitamin D is also in the food we eat, such as, dairy, eggs, fish, mushrooms and peas.

Please ensure you research this yourself, as well as taking control of yours and your loved ones Health!

If you are suffering from stress or anxiety, I can help you!

0771 785 69 99 l jacqui@jsntherapies.co.uk I am able to do consultations via Face Time, Skype or Zoom www.oraclepublications.co.uk

March 2021

We have invested!

We now have the fastest and the most accurate scanner, primarily for our invisalign patients!

We are open to provide all treatment in a safe environment!

See video on our website*

• neW Scanner! no need for impressions • invisalign platinum provider • Most treatments completed within 6 months to a year • FRee teeth whitening and consultation • interest FRee payment plan • Accepting new patients • We now offer online consultations

Open all day Saturday!

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

March 2021

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

43

44

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

March 2021

March 2021

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

45

BRAINBOX Based in

9 4

7

8

1

9

6

3

6

7

2

3

9

2

3

6

7

8

5 6

6

8

3

1

1

7

8

5

4

3

5

Call us now:

7

9

1

Tree Pruning • Shaping Precision Felling • Thinning Stump Grinding • Dead Wooding • Ground Maintenance

Discounts Available for OAP & Disabled in the local area

5

8

QUALIFIED • LICENCED • INSURED • 24HR EMERGENCY

4

6

1

8

1

9

8

4

2

6

01268 857550 07719 837777

6

or email: enquire@tree-king.co.uk www.tree-king.co.uk

9

numbers into the

blank

Ref: 21415

SUDOKU – Enchterrow, column and 3x3 box spaces so that ea ers 1 to 9. contains the numb

LOCAL LOCKSMITH

b the ladder,

– Clim a new word. WORD LADDER each rung to make

CALL: 01702 418861

changing one letter

REST

CONUNDRUM clue. the

Thorpe Bay • The Garrison • West Shoebury

C T DU O E I A N

Emergency Locksmith

–

lve Unscramble to so

TENT

Rayleigh

LOGS FOR SALE !

Clue: The process

ning.

of facilitating lear

Southchurch • Leigh • Chalkwell • Westcliff • No Call Out Charge! • 1/2 Hour Service!* • Free Home Security Check!** uPVC Door & Windows Specialists!

Last month’s solutions: WORD LADDER :

MINDMINEMIMELIMELAME

CONUNDRUM : AWARENESS

46

5

6

4

7

2

8

1

9

3

7

8

9

1

3

4

2

6

5

3

1

2

5

9

6

4

7

8

6

9

5

2

4

3

8

1

7

8

3

7

9

6

1

5

2

4

2

4

1

8

7

5

6

3

9

9

5

3

4

1

2

7

8

6

1

7

8

6

5

9

3

4

2

4

2

6

3

8

7

9

5

1

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

Fully Assessed & Accredited Locksmiths!

All Locks Supplied and Fitted! *where possible **once a job has been completed

March 2021

March 2021

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

47

Santry Davis Chartered Certified Accountants

Tax Return keeping you awake?

Don’t miss the deadline!

We can help!!

Tax return completion from £75 plus VAT (introductory offer)

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

48

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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

March 2021

MOLLY MAID Benfleet MOLLY MAID Benfleet

Keeping your home Healthy Keeping your home Healthy The HomeSafe cleaning system puts the health and The HomeSafe cleaning safety you,the your family systemofputs health andand our team of maids the core safety of you, your at family and of weofwork. ourhow team maids at the core In all our of how wecleans work.we use our specialist andour In all our disinfectant cleans we use anti-microbial Xtra Protect specialist disinfectant and cleaner which Xtra passedProtect anti-microbial independent laboratory cleaner which passed tests proving it’s effective against independent laboratory tests all enveloped virusesagainst including proving it’s effective all coronaviruses. all enveloped viruses including all coronaviruses.

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

Call can us today learn more HomeSafe and why

01268 442023 01268 442023

you can trust MOLLY MAID in your home.

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

MOLLY MAID Benfleet

Keeping your home Health

Really positive signs The HomeSafe cleaning system puts the health and safety of you, your family and Hopson our team Property of maids at theServices core of how we work.

In all our cleans we use our Selling, managing and letting properties specialist disinfectant and consistently for over 20 Protect years. anti-microbial Xtra cleaner which passed independent laboratory tests • FREE Rental and Sales Appraisal Service proving it’s effective against • Rent Guarantee all envelopedAvailable viruses including all coronaviruses. (offering client money protection)

• A.R.L.A Members • FREE Professional advice Call us today to learn more about HomeSafe and why you can trust MOLLY MAID in your home.

• Large Client-Base of Fully-Vetted Tenants and Purchasers Please call:

01268 442023

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

sales : 01702 334353 lettings : 01702 390990

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

March 2021

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

49

50

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

March 2021

Professional IT Services

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

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

Tel: 07778 653339 Tel:

March 2021

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

51

Sponsored by:

Est. 1982

MIKE's Tree Services

01702 305217 l 07835 926644 Felling l Pollarding l Shaping l Pruning

USEFUL NUMBERS 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

Hospitals & Health

Southend General Hospital

Pharmacies

435555

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 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 French Circle www.southendfrenchcircle.org.uk 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 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

52

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

James Duddridge (Conservative) (Southend East) 616135 Sir David Amess MP (Leigh) 472391

Animal Welfare

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

Christopher Plummer (1929-2021) 'Working with Julie Andrews was like getting hit over the head with a valentine'

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

March 2021

Paul’s Gardening Services A friendly, family-run business Very competitive quotes (with concessions)

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

● TREES FELLED & TOPPED Hedges also also trimmed trimmed Hedges

APPLIANCE REPAIRS AND SALES

We repair all makes and models Washing Machines • Tumble Dryers Dishwashers • Ovens • Hobs • Cookers Fridge/Freezers • Extractor Hoods

New appliances in stock for same day delivery & installation

Prices listed on our website

Call 01279 310793

Or Book Online www.spindoctoruk.co.uk March 2021

● 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!

Phone Paul on 07957 388285 or freefone 0800 043 3913 e: paulthegardener@hotmail.com Est. 1994 1994 –– Recommendations Recommendations & & references references available available Est.

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

53

NEW SERVICE * NEW SERVICE * NEW SERVICE * NEW SERVICE * NEW SERVICE *

SOUTHENDORACLE.CO.UK NEW ONLINE LOCAL SERVICE DIRECTORY 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 48 Blackwater 4 AIRPORT TRANSFER Air & Back 50 3475 Transfers 18 APPLIANCES REPAIRS Spin Doctor 53 BATHROOMS John Howard Bathrooms 44 BLINDS & SHUTTERS Worth & Co. 34 BLOCK PAVING Brooks Paving 51 BUILDERS D Turner 50 CAR DEALERSHIP Fairfield BMW 1 CARE AND SUPPORT ENS 15 CARPET, OVEN & PATIO CLEANING Gates Services 33 CARPETS & FLOORING Gainsborough Carpets 39 Trade Carpets 5 CENSUS Southend Borough Council 2 CLEANING Molly Maids 49 COMPUTER SERVICES Computopia 51 COVID TESTING Southend Borough Council 7 DAMP & TIMBER PRESERVATION Pass & Co 47 DECORATORS RSC Decorators 53 DENTAL Royal Mews 43 DIET PLAN LighterLife 9 DIRECTORY (ONLINE) Southend Oracle Directory 55

54

DOUBLE GLAZING A1 Glazing 23 The Window Man 6 DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIR Cloudy2Clear 25 DRIVEWAYS DP Resin Driveways 48 ELECTRICAL DMB Electric 49 Emergency Electrician 51 Need an Electrician 48 RDM Electrical 40 ESTATE AGENTS Hunt Roche 3 Hopsons 49 ESTATE PLANNING Oracle Estate Planning 27 FIBRE BROADBAND City Fibre 8 FINANCIAL ADVISER Brewin Dolphin 36/37 FUNERAL SERVICES AR Adams Funeral Services 47 FURNITURE RESTORERS Richard Attfield 33 FURNITURE SHOWROOM John James 8 GARDEN FURNITURE Highgate Furniture 35 GARAGES RS Automotives 45 Service Garage 30 GARDEN SERVICES Paul’s Gardening 53 HANDY MAN Top Mark 21 Piper Construction 47 HOLIDAY LET Medieval Malthouse 19 HOME IMPROVEMENTS Climatec 26 HOUSE CLEARANCE ATS House Clearance 31 INTERIOR DESIGN Michelle Elliott-Britto Interiors 13

IT SUPPORT Applecheck 20 JEWELLERS AV & BV Andrews 31 KITCHENS Howdens 12 KITCHENS & BATHROOMS Dream Doors 21 LANDSCAPE GARDENING RJM Landscapes 18 LIGHTING Celco Lighting 41 LOCKSMITHS Keytek 46 Lockfit 40 MARBLE WORKTOPS Abbey Marble 24 MASSAGE Beyond Image 38 PAINTING & DECORATING CB Homes & Gardens 21 GMH Renovations 24 PET PORTRAIT ARTIST Charles Wynne-Morgan 23 PHYSIOTHERAPIST WDC Physiotherapy 14 PLASTERER Jones & Sons 13 PLUMBING & HEATING Ascot Plumbing 4 Sonray Heating 40 Hammond & Sons 31 ATS Heating & Plumbing 53 Robert Bailey Plumbing & Heating 24 PROPERTY MAINTENANCE THM Property Maintenance 20 ROOFING SERVICES CSJ Freeman & Sons 13 High-Tech Membrane Roofing 28/29 P Howarth Roofing 49 SCHOOLS Thorpe Hall School 56 TREE SERVICES Tree-King 46 Mike’s Tree Services 52

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

March 2021

March 2021

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

55

OracleBest artbackcoverFeb20 1v2.ind 1

19/02/ 021 09:2

09:23 19/02/202

Junior& s &Senior SeniorSchool School t of s Year i Junior of the the YearFinalists Finalists The Independent Schools

“It is, I think, a reflection of the imagination and

The Independent Schools “It is, I think, a reflection of the imagination and Association h (ISA)t has shortlisted r innovative e spiritv of our amazing O staff and pupils. Over the Association (ISA) has shortlisted innovative spirit ourgreat amazing and Over the d Thorpe Hall School e for two of p its last ten o years, so of many l e ideasstaff havev beenpupils. developed Thorpe Hall School for two of its last years, so many ideas have been developed most coveted awards – The f ISA o andten implemented, s to thegreat point e at which v both halves of l mostJunior coveted awards – Year The ISA and ton the point at which both halves of School of the and The the implemented, school g are teeming with exciting i and stimulating t Junior School the Year and The the school are teeming with exciting and stimulating ISA Senior of School of the Year. opportunities.”

Andrew Hampton, Headteacher ISA Senior School of the Year. opportunities.” Andrew Hampton, Headteacher

Winner 0 -- 2016 20 Winner -- 2017 2017 2 Winner -- 2019 s Two n Nominations -- 2020 Winner 2016 Winner Winner 2019 Two Nominationso 2020 Excellence Excellence r & Innovation Innovation ae Pupils’ Y e School h Year Excellence & & Innovation Innovation Excellence & Pupils’ Wellbeing Wellbeing School of of the the Year Senior Provision Early Years Senior Provision Early Years

Winner - 2016 Excellence & Innovation Senior Provision

Winner - 2017 Excellence & Innovation Early Years

Winner - 2019 Pupils’ Wellbeing

Two Nominations - 2020 School of the Year

Virtual tours and online meetings are available for prospective families. Waiting lists now operating for admissions in several year groups.

Virtual tours and online meetings are available

for prospective families. Waiting lists now operating for 0 T: 01702 2 582340 Wakering Road | Southend-on-Sea | Essex | SS1 3RD 3 admissions in several year groups.4