Oracle on-Sea December 2018 by Oracle Publications

February 2018 December 2018

Your all-seeing local

OR CLE

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

WIN! A pair of tickets for Fastlove George Michael tribute at Cliffs

COUNCIL! Our vibrant High Street LOCAL ISSUES! Development of Southend Seafront

LIFE SHOULDNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T BE PAINFUL!

Turn to page 13 for our offer...

Letting • Management • Investment

Renting or Letting a

Property? Ocean Residential Ltd • 116 Hamlet Court Road Westcliff-on-Sea • Essex • SS0 7LP Call: 01702 430 416 Email: info@oceanresidential.com Visit: www.oceanresidential.com

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

December 2018

ORACLE

WELCOME

Oracle continues to focus on Southend’s problems in and around the High Street and Seafront, keeping the issue in the public eye. I would like to remind all residents to please think of the local businesses in Southend who rely on our trade to survive, especially during this Christmas period. We all know the expense of parking is a problem, but these businesses still need our support. The Council have issued a statement stating that every Thursday, from 4pm and all-day Sunday there will be free parking in 10 of the council run car parks across Southend’s town centre, until the end of December. Paul Thompson, ex Chair of Southend Seafront Traders Association and former director of Southend BID, shares his knowledge of the Seaway Car Park and his thoughts on how the loss of this carpark could affect the town. For this month’s competition, for all those George Michael fans, win a pair of tickets to see ‘Fastlove’ A Tribute to George Michael on Thursday, 17 January at the Cliffs Pavilion. This is a spellbinding experience you don’t want to miss. You’ll be getting up (to get down) to all your favourite songs: Careless Whisper, Freedom, Faith, Father Figure, Outside, Jesus To A Child and many more. For more details www.thecliffspavilion.co.uk To enter the Oracle/Fastlove competition please either email info@oraclepublications.co.uk or visit the competition page on Oracle’s website and leave your name and contact details. Alternatively, for those of you who would prefer, we still accept competition entries by post to Oracle’s office address, please see below for address details. Merry Christmas to you all and thank you for your continued support.

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 Oracle Publications and Creative Media @oracle_essex Printed by Printwize Ltd, Witham CM8 3BN – 01376 500900

December 2018

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

mo e ve d

ARC HITECTURAL I R O N M O N G E RY

DOOR FURNITURE

LOCKS AND SECURITY CABINET FITTINGS

SWITCHES AND SOCKETS

CONTENTS

FRONT DOOR FURNITURE

Development of Southend Seafront 9/10 Local Issues by Paul Thompson

Our vibrant High Street

Council by Cllr. Martin Terry

Look a million dollars this Christmas 22 Salon advice by Craig Smith

WINDOW FITTINGS

NUMBERS AND SIGNS HINGES

TEL: 01702 716171 www. GROVEFITTINGS .co.uk EMAIL: lee@grovefittings.co.uk

1625 London Rd, Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, SS9 2SQ

Stop Doorstep Crime

Council news

Grove Fittings October 2013.indd 1

24/09/2013 16:27

Garlic-infused slow-roast pork shoulder with roasted apples. 28 Recipe by Judy Barden

Discovering organic vegan wine Health by Genesis Ali

Brainbox 38 What’s On 40 Useful Number’s 44 Advertiser Directory 46

Ltdrights mayreserved. be reproduced usedPublications in any form bymay anybe All No part oforOracle UKor Ltd means either wholly orform in part prior permission reproduced or used in any or bywithout any means either wholly or in of the publisher. Oracle Publications UK Ltd is editorially part without prior permission of the publisher. Oracle Publications UK Ltd is editoriallyand autonomous and the opinions expressed are not of those autonomous the opinions expressed are not those of the publisher unless stated. the publisher unlessexpressly expressly stated.

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

December 2018

Flooring to suit all soles! CARPETS VINYLS LAMINATES MODULEO KARNDEAN RUGS REMNANTS ENGINEERED WOOD

Trade Carpets S

E SH

B TA

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 December 2018

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

Quality from start to finish

FR Call EE fo qu r a ote

Commercial & Residential • Interior & Exterior Wallpaper Specialist • Hand Painted Kitchens • Insurance Work Property Maintenance • Fully Insured

T: 01702 346225 M: 07711 330517 E: spencercummings@hotmail.co.uk W: stylishhomesdecorsting.co.uk

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

StylishHomes Painting & Decorating Est. 1986

December 2018

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

December 2018

LOCAL ISSUES

Development of Southend Seafront

In 2002 I switched from my city job to running a business on Southend Seafront. My family had previously run businesses on the seafront in the late 70’s so the concept was not entirely new to me. Almost 17 years on, I’m still running my business. During this time I have chaired the Seafront Traders Association and had a stint as a Director of the Southend BID. I feel passionately about the Seafront and believe it makes a considerable contribution to Southend’s economy. The council’s proposed restaurant/ cinema development on Seaway car park represents a critical threat to tourism in Southend, so when invited by the Oracle to write an article for them I felt compelled to lay out the truth about this development. Located behind the Seafront, the strategic importance of Seaway car park’s 661 spaces is vital to the town’s tourism economy. The A127 and A13 converge at Victoria Circus, following Queensway through the underpass takes visitors directly to the entrance of Seaway where they can park easily and conveniently. Today 85% of Southend’s tourists arrive by car. As residents, you know when the sun is out there is a major shortage of car parking spaces around the Seafront area. The lack of parking capacity creates major congestion as cars circle round and around hunting for non existent spaces. Seaway is full by 1pm on busy days, the traffic queues up, the roundabout grinds to a halt and congestion builds across the whole town and down the A127 past Basildon. December 2018

Resultant pollution and increased journey times are detrimental to the town’s economy. Local residents avoid the Seafront and High St when it’s hot for fear of getting stuck in traffic. Visitors choose not to return as it can take hours to get into the town and find a parking space. More parking spaces are desperately needed to cater for population growth and to allow tourism and our economy to grow.

Development on Seaway

A viable development on Seaway must satisfy the seafront’s parking needs (661 spaces), as well as ‘consuming its own smoke’ in terms of providing spaces needed for the demand created by the development itself. In short, anything less than 1000 spaces would cause congestion and gridlock on sunny days damaging the town and it’s economy. The development comprises a 1370 seat multi screen cinema, 10 restaurants, an 80 bedroom hotel, bowling alley and an amusement centre. In fact the make up and mix of leisure and restaurants is very similar to that in the Festival Leisure Park at Basildon. Festival Leisure has over 2000 parking spaces. (And no Seafront) SBC agreed to and signed a contract with the developer to include a minimum of only 480 spaces in the development, resulting devastatingly in a loss of 181 spaces. Call it commercial naivety or plain stupidity but that was what was agreed and it falls far short of the 1000 spaces needed.

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

The High St will not escape the ill effects of the development. The seafront drives footfall to the shops so anything that hurts the seafront will in turn affect High St footfall. The ‘restaurant

quarter’ and Odeon at the north of the town will also suffer. The sector is struggling nationally, the likes of Prezzo, Jamie Oliver, Strada and Gourmet Burger all in trouble. Demand is simply not there for more eateries in the town. Restaurants will close, some will relocate to the new development. Can the Odeon survive? Jobs will go, businesses close and SBC will lose out on rates, as charity shops fill the voids. Frankie & Benny’s is the first to close from the top of the town, having signed up to Seaway. Squatters and other non desirables have already moved in!

Seaway car park The town’s largest car park, Seaway, is a significant revenue generator and asset which in theory is owned by the residents of Southend. Thus I believe the financial terms of this deal should be in the public domain. SBC thinks otherwise, having kept these details hidden from all but a handful of officers and councillors. Why? Instead of putting the site out to tender on the open market, SBC sold the Seaway lease privately to an out of town developer for the premium of £1. Three years on SBC bought the Gas Works site (half the size of Seaway) to replace the car parking that would be lost to the Seaway development for £9.5mn! Under the agreement SBC’s rent will be £282k p/a for the Seaway site (comprising the car park, the Rossi factory and the neighbouring house in Herbert Grove). However the car park took £607k this year, the Rossi factory and house have a market rent value of £67k and 13kp/a. This puts the site’s current gross revenue at £687k p/a. The tax payer will be considerably out of pocket if the development comes to fruition. SBC’s claim they are seeking a ‘more stable’ income from rent and rates as opposed to

parking revenue pales into insignificance as revenue from Seaway has increased by a staggering 75% in the last 7 years. Last time I looked commercial rents have plummeted and the chancellor had just cut retail business rates by a third. SBC’s claims fail to account for the displacement of jobs and rates as businesses close in the top of the town due to the new development. In November 2014 the then new leader of the council, cllr Ron Woodley was advised by senior council officers to sign this agreement. The 4 year deal was signed, with an expiry date of 10th Dec 2018. Turnstone Estates has failed to achieve planning permission for the development within this timeframe, and thus SBC can walk away from this deal after 10Dec18. I met Ron Woodley for a coffee last week, he agreed that after the 10th Dec deadline, SBC should put the whole development under full review. Why not ask your local councillors if they also support SBC going back to the drawing board on the Seaway development? by Paul Thompson PaulTho32949139 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

At Source Social Value we understand how important it is to remove barriers to local employment for local and diverse people and open up talent pools for local businesses.

• Recruitment

• Training and Development

• Strategy

Purdeys Industrial Estate, Essex, SS4 1ND source_socval Tel: 01702 540145

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

December 2018

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

December 2018

Southend Clinic - 01702 616 880 December 2018

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

We wish all our patients, past, present and future, a very happy Christmas and healthy New Year 01702 352450

royalmewsdentalpractice.co.uk

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

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

December 2018

RAYMOND GUBBAY presents

Stunning scenery brought to life by magical special effects

The Nutcracker Swan Lake Performed by

The Russian State Ballet of Siberia Accompanied by

The Orchestra of the Russian State Ballet

The Nutcracker - 3 February Swan Lake - 3 March

Cliffs Pavilion - Southend thecliffspavilion.co.uk I 01702 351135 December 2018

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

COUNCIL

Our vibrant High Street At the heart of a thriving town like Southendon-Sea you need a vibrant high street. Businesses and experts representing the retail sector say the primary barrier to footfall is excessive parking charges, yet the current administration raised them, and during this year’s budget cycle, a proposal changing rates was pushed through on a named vote, deleting the 1, 3 and 5-hour bands. These changes were objected to at Scrutiny Committee, as the opposition knew that these proposals would cause serious problems to the businesses in the high street, as residents would have to pay for 2 hours to pop to the bank or optician for example, but the administration responded that they were not putting up charges. It was further exacerbated by listing this change as “budget saving” when it was actually a £700,000 revenue generating item.

Budget amendments This decision contrasted with the budget amendment to reduce parking charges and look at affordable borough-wide permit schemes, enabling residents to park cheaply in our car parks. We also recognise the need for free short stay click and collect bays, as they are a strategic part of contemporary shopping. There was also a budget amendment to have police support officers patrol the high street and deter rough sleepers and beggars, which was also voted down. Unfortunately, due to this, we lost at least six months of not having those officers patrolling the high street. 16

Therefore, our high street has problems with rough sleepers and aggressive beggars, which is unnerving for many and frankly undesirable for any town centre. We know that London Boroughs send “difficult” residents to Southend, as it has been publicised in the media. We have challenged Officers and the Administration to deal with the source of the problem, but this has fallen on deaf ears.

Landlords There are poor-quality landlords taking in people with many problems who end up wandering around the high street, adding to the problems. The Opposition attempted to obtain a landlords licensing scheme to control this situation, but it was rejected by the current administration. High streets are suffering with an annual decline of around 5% due to online shopping, so it is not helpful when a Council is incapable of strategic thinking making it a difficult situation for retailers and the high street. by Cllr Martin Terry Independent Councillor for Thorpe Ward

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

December 2018

Get ready for winter As the leaves begin to fall, before we know it, winter will be upon us. From design to installation, we provide the full service. With the days getting shorter and the clocks due to go back, now is the time to consider how you can efficiently heat your home. At Thornwood we have the perfect solution for those cosy nights and weekends in front of your woodburner. So let’s make sure you don’t have to go through another winter without the warmth and comfort of a wood-burning stove in your home. Contact us for a free home consultation or pop in to discuss options at the showroom.

Visit our new showroom 327 Southchurch Road, Unit 8 Southchurch Business Park, Southend-on-Sea, Essex SS1 2PE Our site is wheelchair friendly plus free parking for our customers. t: 01702 904002

e: info@thornwoodfireplaces.com w: thornwoodfireplaces.com

Fireplaces • Electric Fires • Gas Fires • Stoves • Radiators • Bespoke Design Service

December 2018

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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

TACTICAL FAMILY LAW SOLICITORS BECAUSE LIFE ISN’T ALWAYS BLACK & WHITE White & Co Solicitors, 51 Alexandra Street, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 1BW

01702 340 340 info@whitesolicitors.co.uk www.whitesolicitors.co.uk

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

December 2018

ÂŁ4995

December 2018

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

December 2018

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

BEAUTY

Look a million dollars this Christmas

When the Christmas lights go on in Southend High Street, you know that the festive season is upon us - and not only that, with it comes a round of social engagements that keep going through to the New Year. Naturally, the hectic social calendar is simply a series of great excuses to dress up and wear glamorous make-up. Whether you’re celebrating with friends, getting ready for the office party or, let’s be honest here, trying to outdo your brother’s missus at a family do, here are my hair and beauty tips for looking a million dollars this Christmas…

Look amazing this Christmas December is definitely the ideal time to use charcoal eyeliner or some sparkly eyeshadow for some genuine glitz and glamour. The key is to blend - use a softer colour in the corner of your eye and add the darker shades as you work your way out. Don’t neglect your hair. The constant switching between the cold outside to warm, hated or air-conditioned indoor environments can dry your hair out. So, make sure you use moisturising conditioner and, at least once a week, apply a deep-condition hair mask for extra shine.

The cold of Winter has a remarkable effect on your summer tan. Maintain that natural glow by applying a gradual fake tan to slowly build the colour for a natural finish. This will give you a sun-kissed look on the dancefloor and in the obligatory group photos at parties. Talking of photos. If you’re a bit of a coffee fiend and can’t help but have a cheeky peppermint mocha or gingerbread latte every morning, make sure you use whitening toothpaste to keep the stains at bay. A rather delicious way to avoid chapped winter lips is to exfoliate them with a simple mix of honey and brown sugar. Rub the mixture on your lips for a natural way to keep your lips soft and Christmas kissable.

Choosing a hairstyle Now, when it comes to choosing a hairstyle to rock your festive shindig, each season has its own trends and, in some cases, a mind-boggling number of different, on-trend looks. Here at Grateful Heads, we think you can’t really go wrong with tumbling tousled curls. Heated rollers are an easy way of achieving this classic look, and they can be worn while you wrap your Christmas presents for easy multitasking! 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 22

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

December 2018

ers now!

ord Taking Christmas

01702 482034 148 Broadway Leigh-on-Sea SS9 1AA www.pennyjaneï¬&#x201A;owers.co.uk

December 2018

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

COUNCIL

Stop Doorstep Crime Most of us will know a victim of doorstep crime. We may even have fallen victim ourselves. Rogue traders are criminals. They appear to be professional tradespeople, using glossy leaflets, websites and well presented vehicles to portray a legitimate business but these are used to con people. Often the addresses on the leaflets are bogus and their phone numbers are unobtainable.

and often unfinished. The victim will probably have no way of contacting the trader to return to complete the work or to be able to seek redress. Rogue traders present an increasing threat to our communities, often leaving victims severely distressed and hugely out of pocket.

Doorstep rogue traders will target the elderly and vulnerable, worrying them about work they say is needed to their property. Often they will point out a minor problem and convince the resident that the issue needs to be addressed urgently. The most common type of services they offer are driveaway cleaning, tree maintenance and general property repairs.

Remember, it is your doorstep, do not let these people bully their way into your home. If you’re not sure who’s at your door you don’t have to open it, genuine callers will make an appointment to come back at a later date or will be happy to wait while you check that they are who they say they are.

How it works These tradesmen can be extremely persuasive and determined, cajoling their victim into agreeing to unnecessary work at hugely inflated prices without providing any guarantees or legally required documentation. They will seemingly offer big discounts for cash and will demand payment in advance, often coercing and accompanying the victim to the nearest cash point.

What can be done

If you are considering employing a tradesman, search from a reputable source such as the Buy with Confidence scheme which is the only approved scheme operated by Trading Standards. They can be contacted either by calling 03454 040506 or by visiting www. buywithconfidence.org.uk You can report doorstep crime by calling Trading Standards via Citizens Advice on 03454 040506 or if you feel threatened, call the Police on 101.

The work is normally of a very poor standard 24

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

December 2018

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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 December 2018

NEW EX DISPLAY CONSERVATORY FURNITURE SALE We have some stunning ex display Conservatory sets on sale at Highgate with savings of up to 50%

Desser & Ex display sale Desser & Co. have over 95 years experience manufacturing conservatory cane furniture, featuring British made cushions. We will have a full display of their products all year round. Choose from the many fabric options and have your suite made to order; then delivered to your home by us. This Opera three piece suite including Coffee table was £1933 Now £999

Ex display Corsica Modular Set in costa fabric was £1949 now £1200.

Ex display Stamford Harlow three piece set 2, 3 seater sofas and (Two chairs & sofa) in armchairs up to 35% Oasis was £1880 now off + combined deals. £1250.

Dijon three piece set (two chairs & sofa) in Arkansas was £1665 now £800.

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. Our site is wheelchair friendly plus free parking.

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

December 2018

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

FOOD

Garlic-infused slow-roast Pork Shoulder with roasted Apples

This cut of pork takes quite a long time to cook but well worth it and the roasted apples make a nice change from apple sauce. Use the lovely juices to make your gravy and put the crackling under the grill to puff up. Enjoy!

Cover the whole thing loosely with foil and cook for 3-3 ½ hours. About 30 minutes before the pork is ready, make a shallow cut around the waist of each apple and tuck them round the pork. Remove the foil and continue roasting for about 30 minutes or until tender.

Ingredients:

Remove the tin from the oven and transfer the pork and apples to a carving dish. Remove the skin from the pork, cut into strips and place on a baking tray (put the grill on to high). Cover the pork with foil and leave to rest.

11 tbsp sea salt flakes ½ tbsp garlic granules 2 x 1.2kg boneless pork shoulder joints 1 onion, sliced 3 bay leaves 1 head of garlic, halved horizontally 300ml chicken stock 8 small dessert apples (cox’s) 1 heaped tbsp plain flour Preheat the oven to 200/fan 180/gas 6. Mix the salt, garlic granules and ½ tbsp of ground black pepper in a bowl and rub all over the pork joints. Scatter the onion and bay leaves in a large roasting tin and place the joints on top. Add the halved garlic, cut side down and pour the stock round the meat.

Strain the juices from the pan pressing as much soft onion and garlic through as you can. Skim off the fat and use back in the roasting tin with. Place on the hob add the flour and heat until smooth. Gradually blend in the strained juices, bring to the boil and simmer until thickened. Put the skin under the grill and watch for 3-4 minutes to make the crackling. Slice the meat and serve with the roasted apples, crackling and sauce. Serves 8

by t Next month: Smoked Haddock and wild mushroom tray bake

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

December 2018

EYEBROW MICROBLADING

£50 DISCOUNT WITH THIS ADVERT

Brows in need of a makeover? Eyebrow microblading is sweeping the country and is ideal for those who want to achieve a redefined eyebrow shape. It’s especially ideal for those who have over-plucked, lightcoloured or thin eyebrows that need to be enhanced. Microblading can also reconstruct and redefine the eyebrow shape, whether you want a feathered arch or a straighter, bolder look. It entails creating semi-permanent, individual hair strokes manually inserting pigment with a hand-held tool, an electric ‘tattoo’ machine is not used as this tends to produce block colour. • Fully qualified, fully licenced microblading technician. • Dedicated microblading studio in Hall Road, Rochford – by Rochford Hundred Golf Club. • Special rates for alopecia sufferers and those who have had chemotherapy. Customer Feedback

“ Thank you so much for doing my eyebrows

this morning I absolutely love them. Fantastic job, explained each process in depth, very reassuring and calm manner, very pleased with the outcome, felt comfortable at all times. ”

JH - Thorpe Bay

SOUTHEND

ESSEX

07717 717268

“FOR YOUR EYEBROWS ONLY”

WWW.SOUTHENDEYEBROWMICROBLADINGESSEX.CO.UK

December 2018

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

! til 31.12.18 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 30

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

December 2018

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 solutionâ&#x20AC;Ś 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!

December 2018

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

Qualiﬁed Foot Health Practitioner

we are here and we are...

Hannah Brown Dip.FH, MCFHP, MAFHP

Structural Calculations \ Building Control Applications \ Planning Applications Structural Openings RSJ & Lintel Sizing Structural Frames Extension Design Loft Conversions Foundation Sizing New Structural Roofs Structural Surveys

Treatment and advice for the following conditions: Nail Trimming Corn removal Callus / hard skin reduction Ingrowing toenails Verrucae Athletes foot Diabetic foot care Thickened nail reduction Fungal infections

Structural Design for: New Build Houses & Flats Existing Houses Commercial Buildings

All in the comfort of your own home

The visit includes a full medical history and foot health check as well as a neurological and vascular assessment Prices start from £25 Fully Insured and DBS Certiﬁed

Please call: 07754188368 Email: Feet1stFootcare@outlook.com

www.structuralworks.co.uk T: 07977 510378 E: hello@structuralworks.co.uk 42 Castleton Road \ Southend on Sea \ Essex \ SS2 4UD

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

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

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

December 2018

DON’T Leave it to chance...

“MAKE SURE YOUR PROPERTY IS AS SAFE AS IT CAN BE”

FREE Crime Prevention Risk Assessment FREE Crime Prevention Risk Assessment FREE Crime Prevention Risk Assessment

ACT NOW, BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE! Brights LOCKSMITHS Ltd T. 01702-346-274

41, Alexandra Street, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS1 1BW

December 2018

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

HEALTH

Discovering organic vegan wine You might think all wine is vegan as it’s made from grapes. Well it may surprise you to learn that is not always the case. The process is a bit more complicated than that. As we all know wine is essentially fermented grape juice. Yeasts, either natural or cultured, convert the grape juice sugars into alcohol.

earth, and bentonite and kaolin clays as “fining” agents or produce unfiltered and unfined (“raw”) wines. Now we have defined what vegan organic wine is, lets talk about the benefits of drinking it as opposed to the average bottle of wine.

Defining Organic

1. Less harmful chemicals –no use of artificial and synthetic chemicals, herbicides or pesticides

So, lets define ‘organic’ in terms of wine. Organic wines are made without herbicides, pesticides, fertilizers and genetically modified seeds. Organic wines also typically avoid the use of added sulphur in bottling. The benefit of this is a reduced risk of getting a blotchy complexion or more severe reaction. This may be caused by an allergy to preservatives.

2. Higher levels of Resveratrol – an antioxidant found to be anti-ageing, promote heart health, protect the brain

Defining Vegan Let’s move on to defining ‘vegan’ in terms of wine. The reason that all wines are not vegan or even vegetarian-friendly has to do with how the wine is clarified and a process called ‘fining’. Traditionally, some wineries will use animal proteins such as casein (a milk protein), albumin (egg whites), gelatine (animal protein) and isinglass (fish bladder protein) to remove impurities and sediment from wines. Vegan wineries instead use charcoal, diatomaceous

3. Lower levels of sulphites – less likely to cause allergic reaction 4. Less impact on the environment – not using artificial chemicals or animal by-products means less harm to the ecosystem 5. Above all, tastes better If you would like to learn more about organic vegan alcohol, then pop into the store for a tasting session. We also stock organic vegan beer, vodka and gin. If you don’t drink alcohol, that’s fine come try our non-alcoholic gin. by Genesis Ali Nutritionist at V Health Thorpe Bay

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

December 2018

free estimates

• Driveways and Patio Areas

professional service

• Footpaths Block Paving • Natural Stone • Resin Bound Stone • Maintenance and Cleaning

BESPOKE

RESIN SURFACES

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

0800 130 0540 sales@bespokeresinsurfaces.co.uk

bespokeresinsurfaces.co.uk December 2018

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

Quality Kitchen Facelifts Why replace when you can reface?

Less Time, Less Hassle, Less Cost Est. 1999

• Door swaps to full kitchens – tailored to your needs • Installed by local skilled tradesman Call Malcolm or Jon For a Free Estimate: • 50% deposit, balance on 01702 864343 completion

www.dreamdoors.co.uk

Based in

Rayleigh

southend@dreamdoors.co.uk Dream Doors Southend, 1741 London Road, Leigh-On-Sea, Essex, SS9 2SW

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:

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

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

December 2018

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

BRAINBOX 9 5

4 1

9 7

9 5

5 4

2 8

6 A family run domestic appliance repair and installation company based in Benfleet.

SUDOKU – Enter numbers

WORD

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

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

TIME

r -in o Built ing d n sta Free

Friendly , reliable & profession al service

CONUNDRUM – Unscramble to solve the clue.

W F

Clue: Falls gracefully from the sky. Repair & Install most brands!

Last month’s solutions: WORD LADDER –

WORKWOREWIREFIREFILE CONUNDRUM – GUNPOWDER

7 3

2 5

1 4

5 7

8 2

3 1

4 8

9 6

01268 750485 - 07790 449449 info@amaservice.co.uk www.amaservice.co.uk

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

Like us @amabenfleet December 2018

HAVE AN EYE

FOR A DEAL?

Southend to London for just

ÂŁ11.75* return

Buy online 3 or more days in advance to enjoy the cheapest off-peak fare.

Buy now at c2c-online.co.uk *Terms apply.

December 2018

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

WHAT’S ON ADVENTURE WONDERLAND

DATE Everyday from 1st-24th December TIME Varied times VENUE Adventure Island, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 1EE To obtain the best value please allow for a four hour stay, although many guests stay for the whole day.

FREE SANTA FOR EVERYONE DATE Everyday from 1st-24th December TIME Varied times VENUE Sealife Adventure, Eastern Esplanade, Southend-on-Sea Make sure you have written your Christmas letter to give to Santa and check to see if you are on the good list! Santa will be free of charge and anybody with children can visit Santa.

CAROLS FOR CHRISTMAS DATE 8th December 2018 TIME 13:00 - 17:00 VENUE Royals Shopping Centre, Southend High Street Local choirs performing inside the Royals throughout December.

SOUTHEND CHRISTMAS MARKET DATE 8th December 2018 TIME 09:00 - 17:00 VENUE Southend High Street Festive treats for all the family.

FATHER CHRISTMAS AT PRITTLEWELL PRIORY DATE

8th December 2018

TIME 10:00 - 16:00

Don’t miss your opportunity to meet Father Christmas at Prittlewell Priory on Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th December! For one weekend only, Father Christmas will be in the magical setting of Prittlewell Priory to greet our younger visitors, but don’t forget to book in advance.

SOUTHCHURCH VILLAGE FRIENDS WI WINTER WONDERS DATE 10th December 2018 TIME 19:30 VENUE The Methodist Church Hall, The Broadway, Thorpe Bay Christmas Crafts.

WI GREAT WAKERING EVENING MEETING DATE 17th December 2018 TIME 20:00 VENUE St Nicholas Church, Gt Wakering, SS3 0AH Carol Service at St Nicholas Church, Gt Wakering and afterwards at The Memorial Hall for mince pies etc.

LEIGH FARMERS CHRISTMAS MARKET

DATE 22nd December 2018 TIME 09:00 - 13:00 VENUE Leigh Community Centre, 71-73 Elm Road, Leigh Come along for some tasty treats.

MUSIC IN THE PARK DATE 23rd December 2018 TIME 14:00 - 15:00 VENUE Priory Park, Victoria Avenue, Southend Bandstand

MUSIC IN THE PARK TIME 14:00 - 15:00 DATE 1st January 2019 VENUE Priory Park, Victoria Avenue, Southend Bandstand

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

December 2018

Your recycling and waste collection day will change over Christmas and New Year. Revised Christmas and New Year Collection Days Normal collection day

Revised collection day

Tuesday 25th December

Thursday 27th December

Wednesday 26th December

Friday 28th December

Thursday 27th December

Saturday 29th December

Friday 28th December

Monday 31st December

Tuesday 1st January

Wednesday 2nd January

Thursday 3rd January

Friday 4th January

Saturday 5th January

Remember!

Please put the right thing in the right bag, box or bin!

Between the 7th and 19th January 2019, we’ll collect your real Christmas trees for recycling. Please place alongside your other recycling on your collection day. Remember to remove all decorations and tinsel.

For more information on what to do with cards, wrapping paper and additional recycling please visit our website southend.gov.uk/recycling Thank you!

Please put everything out by 7am. Collections continue until 6pm.

for Southend

Santry Davis Chartered Certified Accountants

Need help with your accounts? Hate bookkeeping? VAT Return keeping you awake?

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)

FOR AN OPPORTUNITY TO HONOUR AND DINE WITH THE SOUTHEND LIFEBOAT CREW

SOUTHEND RNLI ANNUAL CREW DINNER Saturday 9th Feb 2019 • Cliffs Pavilion, Southend £37 Per Person • Bar open at 18:00 • Call for Dinner at 19:15 3 Course Meal • Superb Waterfront Location • Entertainment • Auction & Raffle

For tickets and further information, please visit www.lifeboatcrewdinner.co.uk or contact us on info@lifeboatcrewdinner.co.uk or call 01702 714 213. PROCEEDS TO THE SOUTHEND RNLI STATION.

December 2018

The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea Royal National Lifeboat Institution, a charity registered in England and Wales (209603) and Scotland (SC037736). Charity number CHY 2678 in the Republic of Ireland.

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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

HENLOE EXECUTIVE C A R S

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.

PROFESSIONAL & RELIABLE AIRPORT / CRUISE / EXECUTIVE TRANSFERS Mercedes V Class • Free on board WIFI 4G 3 TVs+DVD • Licenced & insured for 6 passengers Extra-long wheelbase for 6 suitcases

07444 390285

info@Henloeexecutivecars.co.uk

www.Henloeexecutivecars.co.uk

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

The Crystal Tree

69 Broadway West Leigh-on-Sea SS9 2BX (opp Leigh Library) Angelic Reiki, Crystal Healing and Crystal Sound Activation Healing Crystals, Minerals, Gemstones Crystal Jewellery Angel Gifts Incense & Space Clearing Items Candles Salt Lamps Books, Cards & CDs Meditation Groups & Workshops www.the-crystal-tree.co.uk Healing for Mind Body and Soul 42

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

December 2018

www.oraclepublications.co.uk