Oracle on-Sea March 2016

March 2016

Your all-seeing local

ORACLE

Leigh, Chalkwell, Westcliff & Southend Conservation Area

WIN! Tickets for Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

Could this be the new Miss Essex?

GOLD award-winning business.

Now reaching 2,500 more homes!

c2c responds to residents' complaints!

Photo courtesy of Gabriel DeSouza

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March 2016

£19,974.50

Total amount of credit

£1.00

6.9% fixed

£27,462.53

£9,101.03

Representative 6.9% APR

Rate of interest

Total amount payable

Optional final payment^

Option to purchase fee^

Arterial Road, Eastwood, Leigh-on-Sea, Essex SS9 4XX Tel: 01702 429429 www.fairfieldmini.co.uk

Fairfield MINI

GET £100!

VE! Produce this flyer wh en purchasing any new/used MINI an d to spend on MINI accessories

ORACLE EXCLUSI

Finance example is for a MINI Select agreement for a MINI Cooper Convertible with optional Caribbean Aqua metallic paint, upgraded 17’’ alloy wheels (Propeller Spoke 2-tone), Leather Lounge Upholstery, Chili Package, Chrome Line exterior, Mirror caps in body colour, LED fog lights and LED headlights, with a contract mileage of 40,000 miles and excess mileage charge of 5.12p per mile. Applies for new vehicles ordered between 24 December and 31 March 2016 and registered by 30 June 2016, (subject to availability). Retail customers only. *On the road cash price is based on manufacturer’s recommended retail price and includes 3 year MINI Retailer Warranty, MINI Emergency Service, 12 months’ road fund licence, vehicle first registration fee, delivery, number plates and VAT. ^Optional final payment and option to purchase fee not payable if you opt to return the vehicle at the end of the agreement (vehicle condition, excess mileage and other charges may be payable). Finance available subject to credit acceptance to UK residents aged 18 or over. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Terms and conditions apply. Offer may be varied, withdrawn or extended at any time. ‘MINI Select’ is a form of hire-purchase agreement provided by MINI Financial Services, Summit ONE, Summit Avenue, Farnborough, Hampshire GU14 0FB. You will have a 14 day statutory right to withdraw from the agreement.

Official Fuel Economy Figures for the new MINI Cooper Convertible Range: Urban 47.1-47.9 mpg (6-5.9 l/100km). Extra Urban 62.8-65.7 mpg (4.5-4.3 l/100km).

Combined 55.4-57.6 mpg (5.1-4.9 l/100km). CO2 Emissions 114-118 g/km. Figures may vary depending on driving style and conditions.

MINI Financial Services

£3,555.50

Total deposit

£23,530.00

£315.00

47 monthly payments On the road cash price*

48 months

Term of agreement

MINI Select Representative example: MINI Cooper Convertible with optional Caribbean Aqua metallic paint, upgraded 17’’ alloy wheels (Propeller Spoke 2-tone), Leather Lounge Upholstery, Chili Package, Chrome Line exterior, Mirror caps in body colour, LED fog lights and LED headlights.

COMPELLING FINANCE ON THE NEW MINI CONVERTIBLE.

THE NEW MINI CONVERTIBLE.

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ORACLE

WELCOME

I am pleased to announce that Oracle has been awarded 'Gold' status by the Southend Business and Community Charter Awards with a unanimous vote from the committee. The BCCA recognises businesses that are supporting the local community through fundraising, volunteering, mentoring, employing apprentices, pro bono work; or anything that helps our local community thrive. If you think your business would be eligible for an award then enter via www.bccawards.org.uk/Southend During the last ten years, since Oracle launched, it has always been my aim to support local businesses, give residents a say, cover local issues and help local charities. Last year, saw Oracle's largest charitable project yet, with the launch of the town's very own cookery book 'Cooking-on-Sea'. To date Oracle has raised a staggering £3,850 for HARP, Southend's Homeless Charity. To buy your copy – now for just £10 – please call the Oracle office.

For this month's competition, win a pair of tickets to see Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at the Cliffs Pavilion on Wed 13 April at 7.30 pm. This is one of the world's favourite musicals, which will have audiences of all ages flying high with its mixture of madness, intrigue and exuberance.

To enter, simply send your contact details by 31st March 2016 to: Oracle/Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Competition, 11 Clarence Road, Southend, Essex SS1 1AN or email: info@oraclepublications.co.uk Happy Easter!

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 oracleessex oracle_essex

Printed by Printwize Ltd, Witham, Essex CM8 3BN

01376 500900

March 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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CONTENTS Crossing the points

9/10

Local Issues by Chris Atkinson of c2c

Pompadour and circumstance

16

Salon advice by Craig Smith

London-on-Sea (Londen-aan-Zee)

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Council news by Cllr Ron Woodley

Today Essex – tomorrow Miss World? 26 Spotlight on Miss Essex contestant, Emily Evans

One-pot Salmon and Asparagus

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Judy's Recipe Page

Big ideas for small gardens

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Get your fingers green with Katrina Kieffer-Wells

Local Letters

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Residents have their say

Brainbox 42 What's On 46 Useful Numbers 48 Advertiser Index 50 Advertorials Cameo 13 Oracle Estate Planning 15 Original Sport 31 Cliff House Clinic 35

All rights reserved. No part of Oracle Publications UK Ltd may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means either wholly or in part without prior permission of the publisher. Oracle Publications UK Ltd is editorially autonomous and the opinions expressed are not those of the publisher unless expressly stated.

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March 2016

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March 2016

Sporting Chance Awards

2016

DO YOU KNOW SOMEONE WHO DESERVES TO BE RECOGNISED? THE SPORTING CHANCE AWARDS CELEBRATE THE SPORTING ACHIEVEMENTS OF YOUNG PEOPLE UNDER THE AGE OF 19 AND THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF INDIVIDUALS, CLUBS AND PROGRAMS THAT ENABLE YOUNG PEOPLE TO ENJOY SPORT.

AWARD CATEGORIES • Young sportsperson of the year • Spirit of sport award • Young volunteer of the year

• Community sports club of the year • Team of the year • Jean Ratcliff lifetime contribution award

TO NOMINATE SOMEONE AND FOR MORE INFORMATION ON INDIVIDUAL AWARDS AND CRITERIAS PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE:

lordstaverners.org/sportingchanceawards Applications close at midday on Thursday 30 June 2016 and shortlisted nominees will be notified by the end of July. The Sporting Chance Awards Lunch takes place on Friday 21 October 2016 at Guildhall in London.

Registered charity no. 306054 | contact@lordstaverners.org | @LordsTaverners

March 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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Music & Lyrics AND West yorkshire PLAyhouse PreseNt

The mosT

fanTasmagorical sTage musical in The hisTory of everyThing!

The Guardian

The Stage

The Independent

Wed 13 – Sun 24 April

www.thecliffspavilion.co.uk 8

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March 2016

LOCAL ISSUES

Crossing the points We were sorry to read about Daniel’s experience travelling on c2c from Thorpe Bay in last month’s letters page.

We don’t want Daniel, Rosa or any of our passengers to be unhappy with their daily commute. So what are we doing about this?

Daniel is right to say that his trains have been busy since the c2c timetable changed at the end of last year. Put simply, we are carrying a lot more people than we used to.

Train of thought The numbers have really surprised us – we’re currently averaging 8% more passengers in the morning peak, and nearly 10% more in the evenings. The honest answer is that we don’t yet know for sure why there has been such a large increase – the scale of this growth was unexpected, as well as being very real.

What has been particularly striking is that there has been a strong increase, to varying degrees, across the entire c2c route. It isn’t something that is restricted to only a handful of stations or to just one area.

their money locally. It is a strong indicator of a healthy local economy. It does also show that more people are travelling to where they want to get to (or to go to work, which isn’t always the same thing!) and as a transport company, it’s our job to get them there.

Time for change But we know that praising local economic growth isn’t much help if you’re stood reading this on a crowded train. Daniel highlighted the changes we have already made to train times and stopping patterns since launching the new timetable, and those amendments have helped to ensure that we’re making the most of our current fleet of trains.

Yet, given that the increase in passengers has been greater than the extra capacity we have created, the answer is that we need more carriages.

It’s something we’re working very hard on at the moment. We can’t simply resolve it on our own, so we are in active discussions with our partners in the rail industry, and the Government, regarding the different options that are available for getting extra carriages. That work is ongoing at the moment, so we can’t give you firm details or timescales yet. But we will do so as soon as possible.

Track record

Read between the lines

Meanwhile, we’re concentrating on what else we can do to improve your journey.

There are some real positive elements behind this.

Having more people travel means there are more people working, getting paid, and then spending

c2c has long had a strong reputation for providing you with a punctual journey and we’re doing our best to maintain that record.

March 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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That's the ticket We’re also backing that up with the promise of more money for you – if you use one of our smartcards for your journey (and a quarter of our annual season ticket holders do, with that number rising fast) then you can now get automatic compensation when your journey is delayed. That starts when your train is just two minutes late and the amount increases for every minute. It’s only a few pence for each minute, but we expect it will add up over the course of your season ticket. If your train is half an hour late, you’ll get 50% of the single ticket back automatically, without having to do anything like fill in forms or submit an application. Obviously we’ll be doing our best to make sure your train does arrive on time but when it doesn’t work out you’ll be getting what you are due.

We’ve got other exciting projects coming up this year too, like our new, flexible season tickets which will provide you with a discount if you’re a part-

time worker. And watch out for the improvements at your local station, as we start a multi-million pound programme of investment across the line.

On the right track So, we are really sorry that you’ve been unhappy with your commute recently. We hope it may have eased already and if not, then rest assured we are doing our best to improve things and we hope you will see the difference soon.

Chris Atkinson c2c Communications and Stakeholder Manager

O

Customer Relations We want to hear from you, whether you have any complaints or wish to leave good or bad feedback.

FREEPOST ADM3968 Southend SS1 1ZS Email: contact@c2crail.co.uk Tel: 0345 744 4422 (option 6) Open: Monday to Friday 8am–8pm Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays 9am–4pm

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March 2016

IF WE BUILD IT, THEY WILL COME . . .

These days, if your business wants customers, you need a website that can deliver a home run.

Call Oracle for a FREE, no-obligation design consultation and see how we can build the website of your dreams.

Call ORACLE on 01702 393838 email: info@oraclepublications.co.uk www.oraclepublications.co.uk

March 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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March 2016

Advertorial

Stunning outfits you won't find on the high street Cameo Boutique is a charming, independent boutique situated in the main shopping area of Hadleigh, offering clothes and accessories that can’t be found on the high street.

All the ranges are handpicked and chosen for their compatibility with each other allowing many of the collections to be mixed and matched to create a unique offering. They are best known for their Mother of Bride collections and stocking collections from some of the best British occasionwear labels.

There is something for everyone.

Taking the stress out of the dress Looking for your special outfit is exciting but can be stressful too.

At Cameo we aim to take the stress out of the dress! You will find great personal service in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

We work really hard to ensure that the clothes we have are exclusive and select our

collections from designer labels who only supply independent boutiques.

Unique and exclusive – just like you!

This means that you won't find the things we have on the general high street or in department stores.

Whether you are going to a wedding, the races, on holiday or just need to update your summer wardrobe, now is the time to call into the boutique.

Spring-Summer has definitely arrived at the boutique with an abundance of colour. You will not be disappointed!

An eye for quality Above all, the Cameo team are committed to ensuring our customers have a thoroughly enjoyable retail experience and everyone leaves feeling they have the perfect purchase. Our expert eye will ensure that you look and feel your best.

Parking is free in Hadleigh on Saturdays, so there really is no excuse not to call in and see us!

O

01702 811 731 223 London Road, Hadleigh SS7 2RD www.cameo-boutique.com fb: cameo.boutique.uk

March 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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IF WE GET

DELAYED WE GET AUTOMATICALLY

REPAID GOT A C2C SMARTCARD? From 25 February 2016 you’ll get automatically repaid on delays over 2 minutes

Find out more or get your free c2c Smartcard at c2c-online.co.uk

ame 00 e Surn Mr Nam 0162 0000 01 123456

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March 2016

Advertorial

A fine state of affairs Who will manage your affairs if you lose mental or physical capacity? Who will make decisions on your behalf, control your assets and organise your care?

Instead of preparing while we are fit enough to, many of us choose to put off dealing with such unwanted eventualities until the inevitable happens and by then, it's too late.

Who would you trust with your life?

In the event that you are unable to make decisions for yourself due to mental or physical incapacity, Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) gives someone you trust – such as a relative or a friend – the power to make decisions on your behalf. Without it, all decisions will have to made through a lengthy, costly and highly restrictive court process and you still may not get what you want.

What kind of LPA do I need?

There are two types of LPA for you to choose from or you can have both: Property and Financial Affairs LPA – This type of LPA gives your attorney the authority to deal with buying and selling your property, your bills, bank

ORACLE estate planning

accounts and investments. This can be used while someone is still capable but has chosen to delegate to their attorney.

Personal Welfare LPA – This type of LPA can only be used when you have lost capacity and are not able to make decisions for yourself. It gives someone you trust authority to make decisions about where you should live and what medical treatment you should receive.

Who can help me?

When estate planning, it is important that you can rely on the adviser that you choose to put your trust in. Oracle Estate Planning offers a friendly and professional estate planning service, including Will Writing, LPAs, Trusts and Funeral Plans. We offer a confidential, reliable and professional service that will give you the best possible advice at the time you need it most.

So, don't leave it too late – to arrange an informal chat or meeting, which can be held at our offices or in the comfort of your home, or for any further information or advice, please feel free to contact me on 01702 393838.

by Clive Rowe

O

Oracle Estate Planning

01702 393838 e: info@oracleestateplanning.co.uk w: oracleestateplanning.co.uk Oracle House, 11 Clarence Road, Southend SS1 1AN

Will Writing • Power of Attorney • Trusts • Funeral Plans • Will Updating & Storage Facilities • Probate Administration

March 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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SALON

Pompadour and circumstance

Whether you’re a frustrated Stray Cat, ageing grunger or working class hero for the 21st century, men’s hairstyles are oh-so cool right now.

Going in the opposite direction, a trend inspired

by Jared Leto is the curly, shoulder-length look. Be warned though, as your hair gets longer, the weight will usually create a centre-parting. This is fine if you have an oval face but is best avoided if you don’t.

Fashion may well be a merry-go-round – women’s dungarees back in vogue some 40 years after they were a fashion item cum feminist statement – but on the Milan catwalks, things were really topsy-turvy.

Also, as this is 2016, you need thick, glossy and clean hair. If your hair is thinning or receding, it’s probably best that you don’t try to look like Pearl Jam’s Eddie Vedder in his early 90s pomp.

At the ModaUomo show, men were styled to look boyish and young lads to appear ‘manly’. The underlying message though was versatility. Men want something that works in the office but also cuts it during the weekend. Echoing trends in women’s hairstyles, guys want to project casual sophistication.

Time works wonders

I'm ready for my closeup

Last year, a funked-up version of the 50s pompadour style made a return. Its popularity with celebs, students, hipsters and businessmen alike means that it’s back for 2016. Essentially, long on top, swept up and backwards with short back and sides, the pompadour can take being razor sharp, or casual and messy. It works with a bespoke suit or with jeans and a leather jacket. Either way, it’s badass.

With films like Kingsmen and The Man from U.N.C.L.E. rebooting that Swinging Sixties vibe, the sideparting is back. This look is given a modern twist by close-cropping the sides up to the parting and using a gloss or matt finish for either a classic or grungier look. Teamed with a beard, this is hip for all ages.

A preppy side-parting also suits chaps who wear glasses. Think Michael Caine as Harry Palmer – way cooler than Bond!

If the 60s parting and beard makes kids look like grown-ups, how about old geezers going the other way? A messy, tousled mid-length cut (with short back and sides) carries a youthful, rebellious air that will knock years off you.

O

by Craig Smith

Director of Grateful Heads Hair Salon, Southend Providing expert hair care to Essex for 30 years.

Isn’t it time you made your head grateful?

01702 340965 32 Alexandra Street, Southend SS1 1BU 16

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March 2016

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Dream Kitchens, made reality…

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Visit our showroom: 159 Leigh Road, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 1JF

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March 2016

Ipad Tablets

Laptops & PC’s

1-1 Lessons or group courses

We offer individual lessons or group courses with maximum of 4 learners.

All ages welcome  IPad, tablets, laptop or desktop computer  Social Media - Facebook, twitter, etc  For home and small business users Don’t delay - contact Learn Computers @ Home today!

Easter Offer – Book 4 lessons get 5th FREE Bookings now being taken for Spring courses

: Claire on 01702 479082 or 07734347073 : www.learncomputersathome.co.uk : claire@learncomputersathome.co.uk

Keep me, you never know when you might need me?

Computer Tuition

CLEANING & SEALING OF DOMESTIC DRIVEWAYS & PATIOS

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March 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

21/01/2015 14:54

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COUNCIL

London-on-Sea (Londen aan zee) So much is going on in Southend-on-Sea which is good news for the town. Our visitor numbers are growing and the area is now being marketed as a short break alternative to London.

There has been a television advertising campaign in the Netherlands aiming to tempt visitors, using the new air route between Southend and the Dutch city of Groningen, focusing on our tourist attractions.

This will boost trade for our hotels, restaurants and the airport.

Stealing the spotlight Interestingly, Southend was the third most mentioned place in the UK on Twitter in 2015. It could be that the Cliffs Pavilion and the Palace Theatre have something to do with this popularity, having almost tripled their profits in the space of one year, putting the increase down to a growing economy and star-studded names using them as their preferred location.

The golden touch Positive on-going talks with a developer about the Old Gas Works site are taking place and we expect the commencement of the Marine Plaza development in the autumn. This, along with the Seaway Development of a hotel, restaurants, cinema and a leisure centre, will see a transformation of the Golden Mile, a huge boost to the seafront, creating much needed housing and jobs. Also, plans

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to regenerate the Queensway area are well under way, and significant work to revitalise a number of buildings along Victoria Avenue has started.

The real McCoy An independent review/peer challenge has recently been undertaken with the aim of providing an external reality check regarding the future of the council. The result was extremely positive, indicating that the council and its leadership are very well respected in terms of their focus to improve Southend-on-Sea, with a clear corporate plan which is known, understood and repeated often by all employees. Employee engagement was found to be "breath-taking", with staff having a strong desire to improve themselves, their working environment and practices on behalf of the council’s leadership.

Worth every penny Finally, careful budgeting has enabled substantial financial savings of £2.6 million, with a further £2.9 million next year and revised contracts saving a further £4.5 million per year.

Therefore, to summarise, this council is fully engaged, with everyone working together to make Southend-on-Sea a great place to live, work and visit and above all, financially stable.

by Cllr Ron Woodley

O

Leader of Southend-on-Sea Borough Council

01702 588662

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March 2016

“Carpet Cleaning that is thorough, dries quickly and stays clean longer…or it’s FREE!” Audit 3rd Room FREE Bottle of Spot Cleaner FREE Chair Cleaning FREE Carpet FREE Every Expires 30/04/ 2016 Expires 30/04/ 2016 Expires 30/04/ 2016 Expires 30/04/ 2016 Save Big!

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A carpet audit is much more than a price quote. We will tell you exactly what we can do to improve your carpet, how good it will look & how long you can expect it to last.

Great Deal!

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For every two rooms you pay for, we will clean a third room absolutley free! The more you have cleaned the more you save!*

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visit www.hygiene-n-clean.com email services@hygiene-n-clean.com

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March 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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March 2016

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SPOTLIGHT

Today Essex – tomorrow Miss World?

Photography courtesy of Gabriel DeSouza

"It's come a long way since the 50s," says potential Miss World, Emily Evans from Thorpe Bay, about the longestrunning international beauty pageant.

Emily, 22, a blue-eyed, blonde-haired HR specialist for an insurance syndicate in London, only recently managed to overcome her lack of confidence and take the first step to fulfilling her ambitions by auditioning for the Miss Essex competition where she was swiftly voted into the finals to be held on the 10th March. Whether successful or not, she will still be in with a chance to become Miss England, Miss UK, and then Miss World.

"It brings young girls into the 21st century on so many levels and gives them an opportunity to showcase all of their hard work," she adds.

Not just a pretty face And hard work it is, for as well as maintaining their photogenic looks, contestants these days compete in charitable fundraising, battles of intellect, talent contests, fashion their own eco-friendly costumes and must survive a gruelling test of physical ability.

Fortunately, Emily is fighting fit, having already run two London marathons, raising over £2,000 for Sponsored by:

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the British Heart Foundation to support her mum and she's now getting in shape to tackle Mount Kilimanjaro to raise funds for the contest.

If she does win, the title and modelling opportunities will allow her to take her efforts to a wider platform and spend a year championing Essex, fundraising and helping those in need. "I'm so passionate about Essex. I believe I'm a good role model and I'd like the opportunity to break down the 'Essex Girl' stigma. So many of us are not like that – it's not who we are."

Sea legs Of course, some traditions do remain and Emily does intend to take part in the optional beachwear round.

"I'll give it a go – it's all part of the fun, isn't it?"

Emily's positive attitude isn't confined to modelling – "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder," she says, "people can obsess about their looks but it's often just hiding underlying insecurities. It's important to have other elements in life. Challenge yourself, study, and be the best you can be."

O

If you would like to support Emily, please visit: uk.virginmoneygiving.com/EmilysKilimanjaroChallenge You can also join her in person for a fundraising Casino Night on Friday 22nd April. Tickets are available at: thearlingtonballroom.co.uk

Tel: 01702 584737 158 The Broadway, Thorpe Bay ss1 3es email: info@hellogorgeousbeautysalon.com www.hellogorgeousbeautysalon.com www.oraclepublications.co.uk

March 2016

TILLY’S AFTERNOON TEA

Enjoy afternoon tea with your family and friends in your own home or venue of your choice.

Delicious sandwiches and scrummy homemade cakes for any occasion : birthday, anniversary, christening, hen party, funeral, baby shower, etc.

Contact : 07810410377 Burgessdi59@yahoo.co.uk Facebook.com/TillysAfternoonTea

March 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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March 2016

QUALITY KITCHEN FACELIFTS

A new look for your old kitchen this Spring EST.

1999

Before

• Trusted reputation • Large choice of doors, worktops, appliances and accessories • 50% deposit balance on completion CALL JAI FOR A FREE ESTIMATE:

®

01702 713533 OR EMAIL los@dreamdoors.co.uk

dreamdoors.co.uk

Visit our showroom: 1741 London Road, Leigh on Sea, Essex SS9 2SW

March 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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March 2016

Advertorial

Original Sports – make it happen!

This year sees us celebrating 11 years since our doors first opened.

and badminton rackets. We stock over 300 state-of-the-art rackets.

Our aim then was to create a fantastic ‘destination store’ where customers could view, and in some cases, even road test the latest sports equipment backed up by friendly expert advice. This still applies today at our showroom in Progress Road where we specialise in running, racketsports, rugby and fitness.

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

1. 2000 ft2 Showroom – Spacious open plan layout allows customers to browse with ease.

2. Top Brands – All at competitive prices.

3. Free Parking – Hassle-free, right outside in our own car park.

4. Free Video Gait Analysis – Just hop onto our treadmill in our Gait Test Area and Ben or Dan will film you running. By watching the video back in slow motion, they will be able to advise which is the correct running shoe for you.

5. Racket Testing Area – We have a rebound net in our warehouse for customers to try out tennis

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

7. Try Before You Buy – To avoid costly mistakes we have test rackets of all the latest models.

8. The Rugby Room – Protection, headgear, boots, base-layers and accessories – all you need to play the great game.

9.

Friendly Advice - With over 30 years' experience, our dedicated team are always available to give the best advice and service to support all levels and budgets.

10. Event Support and Sponsorship – We are always happy to support local events and sponsor several major, local tournaments.

A big thank you to all our customers for their continued support and to all new customers, we hope you will have the opportunity to visit our unique store very soon.

01702 718944 / 01702 718949 18 & 19 Rutherford Close, Progress Road, Eastwood, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 5LQ www.originalsports.co.uk March 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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One-pot Salmon and Asparagus

FOOD

When you are short of time or worn out after a long day, these one-pot suppers are so easy and satisfying. I have added salmon but this works just as well with chicken breasts. You can also leave out the salmon completely and simply roast the vegetables to make a delicious side dish. Grate a little parmesan cheese to add a bit more flavour.

Enjoy!

Method:

Ingredients (serves 2)

6. Scatter over the basil leaves and serve everything scooped straight from the dish.

• 300g new potatoes, halved if large • 2 tbsp olive oil • 8 asparagus spears, trimmed and halved • 2 handfuls cherry tomatoes • 1–2 tbsp balsamic vinegar • 2 salmon fillets, about 140g/5oz each • handful basil leaves

1. Heat oven to 220°C/fan 200°C/Gas Mark 7.

2. Tip the potatoes and 1 tablespoon of olive oil into an ovenproof dish then roast the potatoes for 30 minutes or until starting to brown.

3. Toss the asparagus in with the potatoes and return to the oven for 10 minutes.

4. Throw in the cherry tomatoes and vinegar and nestle the salmon amongst the vegetables.

5. Drizzle with the remaining oil and return to the oven for a final 10–15 minutes until the salmon is cooked.

7. Serve with a big pot of mayonnaise or warm hollandaise sauce.

by Judy Barden

To serve –

• mayonnaise or hollandaise sauce

Next month: Chocolate and Raspberry Creams

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Big ideas for small gardens

GREENFINGERS

I often get asked what planting I would recommend for small gardens. When space is tight, plants need to work hard to prove their worth. Less is more – keep things simple and your space will ooze sophistication.

It will create a more cohesive look and give your garden a feeling of continuity.

A good way to create maximum impact is to select long-flowering perennials. Perennials, also known as Herbaceous Perennials, are the mainstay of garden borders. They can be deciduous (die back each year) or evergreen. They are a great way to plant a garden as they offer seasonal interest and if you plan well and select long-flowering blooms you can enjoy flowers throughout the entire year.

Using blooms with similar tones will create a sense of calm, giving the garden a stylish, glamourous feel. Contrasting colours will enliven a space adding zest and punch. Resist the temptation to buy plant varieties in ones and twos. Instead, plant in big bold drifts for a stunning result. Long-flowering plants that work well in small spaces include Sedum, Rudbeckia, Echinacea, Geranium, Salvia Nemorosa, Helenium, Japanese Anemone and Penstemon.

Budding genius There are many perennials that may only give two or three weeks of flowering time. These plants really need to earn their place in a small garden. I tend to only allow one of these ‘attention grabbers’ in a small planting scheme, instead preferring to select five or six long-flowering perennials planted in large blocks for maximum impact. You are better to plant a few long-flowering plant varieties than lots of plants that have staggered, short flowering seasons.

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From little acorns Remember – what your plot lacks in square feet can be made up for with intelligent design. There is always room to create a beautiful garden so be sure to plan carefully before you dig in and you can really make the most of your space.

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HOME FREE Dear Orac le, your m ind?

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And you ca n't even ma ke a ltern ative pla ns or decid e to go home for a b it a nd have a cu p of tea as the comp uteri sed lady who is su ppos ed to g ive usefu l infor matio n does n't know how to add u p – first she says the tra in will a rrive in 15 m inute s, a m inute later , 16, 17, a nd so on! Find ing myse lf locke d out of the lovel y, new, a ir-co nditi oned wa iting room at Hock ley two days runn ing – on both the colde st days of the mont h – certa inly did noth ing to wa rm my mood !

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WHAT’S ON Fund Raising Concert for Freda Parry Saturday 16th April at 7.30pm. St Saviour's Church, Kings Road, Westcliff SS0 8LL. Featuring 2016 winner, Chloe Treharne. Tickets £10/£8. Tel: 01702 580413 / 07890 340279.

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