Oracle on-Sea March 2017 by Oracle Publications

March 2017

Your all-seeing local

ORACLE

Leigh, Chalkwell, Westcliff & Southend Conservation Area

WIN! Tickets to Caro Emerald at the Royal Albert Hall!

Local budget warnings by Cllr Ron Woodley

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March 2017

ORACLE

WELCOME

Reviewing the Roslin Hotel Restaurant this month was an absolute treat! The new menu was varied, inventive and had some wonderful, different dishes to offer. At the end of the meal we met the new Executive Head Chef, Kaine Moresley, who informed us that much of his training was at Rules, one of London’s top restaurants and very much a favourite of mine. I am sure that once you have read our review you will want to sample his fabulous new menu too. I am thrilled to announce that Oracle has a pair of tickets for one lucky winner to see the fabulous Caro Emerald who has recently announced her ‘Emerald Island Tour’ in the UK. Since the release of her 2010 multi-platinum debut album, Caro has created her own niche by blending retro jazz with sampling and modern pop to create her signature sound. Oracle’s tickets are for the Royal Albert Hall performance on Wednesday 12th April 2017. See all tour dates on the following link: www.caroemerald.com/tour. To enter, please send in your name and contact details to: Oracle/Caro Emerald Competition, 11 Clarence Road, Southend, Essex SS1 1AN or email: info@oraclepublications.co.uk by 24th March 2017. Lastly, don’t forget Mother’s Day on 26th March, so be sure to book your restaurant reservation early, we have many wonderful restaurants locally. Good Luck!

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 Printed by Printwize Ltd, oracleessex Witham, Essex CM8 3BN oracle_essex 01376 500900 March 2017 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

CONTENTS Good times in store for Southend

Local Issues by Sandra Sutton

Every reason to blow your top!

Salon advice by Craig Smith

Crunching the budget

15/16

Council news by Cllr Ron Woodley

Roslin Beach Hotel – not just a restaurant

22/23

Wine & Dine with Oracle’s restaurant review

Indian Spiced Chicken Platter with Roasted Squash

Judy’s Recipe Page

Style your garden like a professional 32 Grass Roots by Katrina Kieffer-Wells

Brainbox 36 What’s On

Useful Numbers

Advertiser Directory

Advertorials Oracle Estate Planning

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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Try something different this Mother’s Day... Treat your Mum to a fantastic meal at Manoly’s this Mother’s Day and we’ll treat her to a FREE drink MUM GETS A

A wide range of exquisite dishes for all tastes, served by charming Thai staff

FREE DRINK Glass of house wine, Thai beer or soft drink

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Bookings & Takeaway: 01702 475513

Lunch served Tuesday to Saturday 12-3pm Evening service 6pm-late Sunday 5pm-late Manoly Thai Restaurant 31 Broadway, Leigh-on-Sea, Essex SS9 1PA

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March 2017

LOCAL ISSUES

Good times in store for Southend 85-year-old Grace contacted the Southend TimeBank at SAVS and told them how she had spent last Christmas in hospital and would really like a proper Christmas dinner next year …

exchange skills in which hours are the currency. For every hour you help someone as an individual or meet as a community group you earn one credit. You can either use those hours to request help from another timebank member or donate them to the community pot for someone who is unable to earn their own hours, such as Grace.

Due to a broken hip, Grace had not been out of the house for a long time and she explained that making Christmas dinner was difficult. The Southend TimeBank looked into Grace’s request and within days they had found a mother and daughter team registered with TimeBank, who were happy to make Grace’s wish come true.

People from all walks of life with varied skill sets are registered with TimeBank – from teaching a musical instrument to gardening, dog-walking or befriending, the options are endless!

Diane and Yasmin visited Grace on Christmas Day and brought her the full works – turkey, stuffing, pigs in blankets, Yorkshire pudding, bread sauce, roast potatoes, parsnips, carrots and brussels sprouts! They went back an hour later with Christmas pudding and cream with a cracker. Grace told the Southend Timebank how very pleased she was and how much she had enjoyed her dinner. Grace also went on to say that Diane had even done the washing up afterwards which impressed her further! Diane and Grace are now firm friends and she will be continuing to visit Grace on a regular basis.

Happy hour The Southend Timebank is made up of people and groups of people who all have one thing in common – the desire to help each other and share skills. It’s about neighbourliness and bringing people together. Through the TimeBank they can

S outhend Timebank is growing but we can’t continue to grow without you, so we are encouraging everyone living in the area to join the TimeBank and start making a difference, one hour at a time! You only need to offer hours that suit you, so you can still be a valuable member of the community even if you are too busy to make a regular commitment. Please visit: www.tinyurl.com/southend-timebank to take part, or call us at SAVS on 01702 356060 for a no-obligation chat. We look forward to hearing from you and hope you will join us! by Sandra Sutton

TimeBank Volunteer

Southend Association of Voluntary Services SAVS Centre, 29–31 Alexandra Street, Southend-on-Sea SS1 1BW www.savs-southend.org www.timebanking.org.uk

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March 2017

COUNCIL

Crunching the budget I believe that we all understand the need to budget to ensure that we do not spend more than our incomes, and whenever possible put something aside for a rainy day. It is basic common sense, so why are those charged with protecting the future of our Town failing to follow such an elementary principle? Council departmental budgets are estimated to have a £4.2 million overspend, with employees’ costs accounting for £65.2 million, some £1.75 million over budget. The average cost of an employee is approaching £40,000 per year, highlighting the growing difference between the high and low earners within the council. To balance the books, it has been necessary to reduce reserves, revenue contributions to capital, and the use of contingencies. Unfortunately, it is apparent that the original capital investment to ensure the town grows and develops will be missed by some £17 million, or put another way – by 23%.

sector this would not be tolerated, as failing to control expenditure and revenue is a sign of poor financial management, and risks the future of any organisation. In the case of the council, this means front line services to residents.

Cut against the grain Of course, many problems arise from the continuing reduction of government grants. The funding gap for 2017/18 is equivalent to £10.8 million with further cuts of £22.9 million in the following 3 years. As leader of the council, one of the first things on my agenda was to raise the importance of becoming more efficient in the way the council operated, and more commercial in its approach to delivering services. Some of those ideas are now coming forward but, as we can see from this year’s figures, the council seems to have taken a step back in its financial acumen and planning, and has now retrenched.

The buck stops here Missing targets will have implications for our homes, businesses, and the council, which highlights not only the importance of proper budgeting, but also careful monitoring of expenditure and investments throughout the year – something it seems the current administration failed to do. In the private

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Money talks

• The continuing use of reserves to fund over

What is apparent, is that expenditure cannot – and should not – ever exceed revenues. Can we have confidence that next year’s budget will not go the same way as this year’s failures? Well, the proof will be in the pudding but I will highlight the salient points of the UKIP/Conservative budget. They have:

• The ever-decreasing levels of police presence

• Approved a tax increase of 4.99% in council tax

for 2017/18, being 1.99% for general use and a further 3% for Adult Social Care.

• Agreed to the Essex Police Authority increasing

its precept by 3.25% and the Essex Fire Authority by 1.99%.

• Approved the net appropriation of funds from reserves of £16.1 million.

• Approved an increase in borrowings by £21

million during 2017/18 and a further £42 million in the following 2 years.

• Approved 149 new fees and charges including 57 in the bereavement service and 79 for corporate venues.

Therefore, I consider the risks to be:

• The council’s ability in generating sufficient

revenue to supply the quality of care our elderly require and deserve. In approving a further tax increase of 3% for Adult Social Care, which has generated an additional £3.4 million, next year’s budget has only increased to £38.9 million – significantly below the £40.5 million spent this year.

expenditure and shortfalls in government funding. in the town even though the burden of funding them is increasingly falling on local taxpayers.

• Having reduced borrowings during my term

as leader, we are now entering an era of more borrowing without any business plan to fund the costs other than council tax, which in these budget proposals will rise to 27% of tax revenues, reducing the council’s ability to supply front line services in the future. A quote from a current cabinet member: “unlike Councillor Woodley, this administration is not opposed to borrowing”.

A taxing issue I’m not opposed to borrowing, providing there is a business case to fund the financing costs other than the taxpayer. Unfortunately, we are entering a period where the UKIP/Conservative administration seems intent on borrowing, spending and taxing. What is required is to increase the use of our current funding in a way that benefits residents, not pouring it down the drain on ever-increasing financing costs.

by Ron Woodley BERA Chairman and Independent Councillor for Thorpe Ward

01702 588662 e: ronwoodley@hotmail.co.uk

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Every reason to blow your top!

SALON

• It’s a chance to ask the expert for advice and

I’m sure you already possess a topbrand blow dryer, hair straighteners and professional round brushes, you follow all my styling suggestions and yet … go on, admit it – there are times when you still step outside looking like a tree!

guidance for when you may be having styling issues at home. You can sit in a nice comfy chair, look in the big mirror and see what your hairdresser is doing, while asking them questions.

• Want to see if a volumising product that you

read about really works and is right for your hair? Simply ask your stylist to use it when they style your hair and you can try before you buy.

Let’s face it, not everyone has salon superstar blow drying skills, which is why a professional blow dry can rescue your day. Not only is it a brilliant pickme-up, it also saves time and you always feel great afterwards. Let me give you a blow-by-blow:

• You can chillax. Indulge in a coffee or even a

cheeky glass of wine, flick through the latest Oracle without being hassled by the kids, the other half or the dog. Enjoy a gossip with your stylist and just relax in the chair. Then leave and look fabulous for days.

• Someone else washes your hair. • The person washing your hair will do it better •

Don’t blow your own

than you do at home.

It feels like a special occasion and your hair always feels better than when you do it.

So, as you can see, a blow dry can be so much more than just drying your hair. It’s a bit of luxury, a bit of pampering, a bit of a socialising, and a great chance to blow off a little steam.

• You get an amazing head massage. • A professional blow dry lasts longer than when •

you do it yourself.

Booking a blow dry is a great way to check out a salon and experience first-hand how they operate before risking a cut or colour. After all, you wouldn’t buy a new car without driving it first, so test drive a potential new salon too.

I’m not talking hot air – come on, get on the blower and book up a blow dry at your local salon. I reckon it’ll blow your mind!

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?

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March 2017

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WINE & DINE

Roslin Beach Hotel – not just a restaurant

A radiant reception from the ladies at the desk; a warm welcome from our escorting waitress; a comradely nod and wink from the bartender; and a flawless greeting by the Restaurant Manager. And we haven’t even reached our table yet … This is not just a restaurant – this is the Roslin Beach Hotel restaurant, which comes with its contemporary 4-star hotel service included as standard. The courteous, wellpresented staff are as polished as the cleanly designed, spacious Zed Lapardhaja, surroundings and the light from the Restaurant Mgr. copious coastal panorama flows in through the all-glass frontage and rolls off large, thoughtfully placed mirrors. Subtle, rag-rolled dashes of colour and impressive driftwood objet d’art reflect the stunning Thorpe Esplanade location and keep the environment grounded and homely. There is a high-quality, clubby atmosphere but with no pretence – all are welcome to relax here. Travelling business people, holiday makers and plenty of locals are all immersed in merry conversation and judging by the occasional caroling, there

are at least two birthday parties happily underway around large, round, communal tables. On reaching our table, we have little time to admire the sea view before a jug of water – complete with ice and lemon – efficiently appears atop the crisp, white tablecloth, along with an extensive wine list, helpfully apportioned by country of origin and offering something for every taste – from Champagne to organic – and every pocket. We hold tight on the £90 bottle of Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru and opt for the slightly more competitive Chablis Domaine Alain Geoffroy Burgundy at £8/175ml and the Don David Malbec Reserve Cafayate (£6.70/175ml). The French wine is refreshingly crisp and light with just a mild oakiness; the Argentinian, spicy and spirited – adventurous but composed.

Outstanding service For starters, we order Pan-fried Scallops with Cauliflower Purée, Crispy Pancetta and Black Pudding (£12) and the vegetarian, Salt-baked Celeriac with White Stilton and Walnut Cranberry Dressing (£8). At first sight, the crispy pancetta really stands out – clamped between the perfectly tender scallops it quite literally towers from the plate and broadcasts that this food has been prepared with thought and skill. But the baked celeriac, although lower in stature, is also an

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March 2017

outstanding dish. Bright, summery and excitingly fresh, this is not just celeriac – prepared like never before and with either a crunch of walnut or a tang of cheese further enhancing each bite. For mains we are recommended the Bacon-wrapped Monkfish with Lobster Bisque Risotto (£24) and the Roast Rump of Lamb with Courgette Purée, Celeriac Fondant, Broccoli, Beans and Mint Jus (£24). On the side we try the Roasted Beetroot with Goats Curd (£4), Dauphinoise Potatoes (£4) and Mixed Greens (£4). With its thick, meaty slices, and rich, luxurious, lobster-infused rice, the monkfish is a majestic feast, fit for King Canute. Similary sliced, the almost inchthick slabs of succulent lamb however, may better befit the king of the jungle. Encircled by vivid green purée, the mini-elephant legs of celeriac once again unmask the underrated vegetable’s hidden talents in a unique and novel taste sensation. Just as unpredictable are the potatoes – shrouded inconspicuously within a modest, cast iron pot but precisely sliced, regimentally stacked in indulgent, creamy layers and topped with a robust, cheesy crust. And the beetroot? Delectably roasted, sweetly glazed and contrasted with the zesty curd. Those that think they don’t like beetroot, think again! All accompanying vegetables are crunchy and bursting with natural goodness. Also bursting are our waistlines as it dawns that the extra large plates have been somewhat illusory, belying the very generous portion sizes. But to stop now would be a waste as, for dessert, two culinary masterpieces are placed before us. The striking Red Velvet Cake with Mandarin Cream & Chilled Orange Custard (£8) is unexpectedly subtle in flavour and so light it almost feels healthy, as does the naughtier Nutella Cheesecake with Chocolate Sauce & Chocolate

Ice Cream (£9), which dazzlingly supports a fragile, gravity-defying 6-inch strand of sugar glazing projecting skywards from a whole hazelnut.

The icing on the cake From the exquisite, artistic presentation of the food to the palette of flavours within, from the extra-warm plates to the individual form of each serving dish, it is clear that everything has been patiently considered and skillfully constructed to create an experience of luxury, spectacle and comfort. To achieve this level of excellence, The Roslin goes beyond a standard team in the kitchen, also employing seven fulltime Pastry Chefs and a Master Butcher to boot. Whether it’s celeriac, rabbit confit, or honeycomb, every element of every dish has been handcrafted using locally-sourced, ethical ingredients under the charismatic direction of new Executive Head Chef, Kaine Morseley who, at the tender age of 23, recently returned from an illustrious career in the city (which included Rules – the oldest restaurant in London) to make his mark at home. With the construction of a new dining area, daily-changing menus and Kaine’s skill and passion, we predict the restaurant’s two rosettes are about to bloom into a veritable bouquet. Fitting, as Kaine will be celebrating his wedding at The Roslin this summer. We wish him and his brideto-be a wonderful time and are happy to confirm that the Kaine Moresley, catering will be first-class. Exec. Head Chef

01702 586 375 e: info@roslinhotel.com Thorpe Esplanade, Thorpe Bay SS1 3BG w: roslinhotel.com

LUNCHTIME SPECIAL: 3 courses for only £20! Mon–Fri, 12–5pm. Daily menu variations.

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Indian Spiced Chicken Platter with Roasted Squash

FOOD

This lovely, healthy chicken platter can be eaten hot or cold. You can use white cannellini beans instead of red kidney beans and cheaper chicken thighs if you prefer. Roasted squash is low in fat and can be added to most salad dishes to help fill you up. Enjoy!

Ingredients (serves 2):

• 150ml bio natural yogurt • 1 tbsp finely grated ginger • ½ tsp ground turmeric • 1 tsp ground cumin • 2 skinless chicken breast fillets, chunked • 200g butternut squash, chunked (no need to peel) • 1 tbsp coconut oil • 2 red onions, halved and thickly sliced • 1 garlic clove • 4 sprigs of mint, leaves picked • 25g fresh coriander, chopped • 300g can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed • grated zest and juice of ½ a lime • 1 head of chicory, thickly sliced

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Method: 1. Put 2 tbsp of the yogurt in a bowl with the spices, chicken and a generous grinding of black pepper. Set aside for at least 30 mins to marinate. 2. Heat the oven to 200°C/fan 180°C/Gas Mark 6. Arrange the squash on a large baking tray, crumble over the coconut oil (it will be solid at this stage) and roast for 20 mins. Add the onions and chicken, spaced apart, and roast for 20 mins more until everything is cooked. 3. Meanwhile, put the rest of the yogurt in a bowl with the garlic, mint and 2/3 of the coriander, and blitz with a hand blender until smooth. 4. Tip the beans and remaining coriander into a bowl, and add the lime zest and juice with a couple of tablespoons of the yogurt dressing. Add in the squash, onions and chicken, add the chicory and toss everything together. 5. Pile onto plates and drizzle with the remaining dressing (if eating cold as a packed lunch, take the dressing in a pot and dress the salad when ready to eat). by Judy Barden Next month: Rolo Brownies

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Style your garden like a professional

GRASS ROOTS

As the days begin to lengthen again, it’s time to look out at your garden and consider what changes you would like to make this year. Here are some tips to help you design like a professional … Don’t rush – It’s always very tempting when visiting a garden centre to spot a plant you like and buy it instantly, but try and plan a little – buying just one plant can create an itty-bitty effect and cause your garden to seem disjointed, so maybe buy three of the same to create a bigger impact and a more harmonious effect. If you have just moved into a property, wait a full year before making changes to the planting as there maybe hidden surprises under the soil which only make themselves known at certain times of the year.

Down-to-earth design Be practical – If you need storage, make sure you allow for it. If you don’t have much free time, create a low maintenance space, for example, by using selfsufficient planting or an artificial lawn. If you need a washing line, work out where it’s going to go. Make a list of all the things that you want to achieve in your space so that you have something to refer back to you once your design decisions have been made.

Concept-to-Completion Garden Design & Build to help you realise the garden of your dreams

Layer in stages – It is one of the best tricks in the book! Use planting to add depth to the space. Grasses are great for this as many varieties have a see-through appeal allowing things you plant behind to shine through. Play with texture – Juxtapose different materials such as rusty metal next to velvety blooms, or a stainless steel planter beside a reclaimed railway sleeper raised bed. Place rough with smooth, soft with hard, solid with transparent. It adds drama and can give the garden a real designer feel.

Find some shade Get creative with colour – Colour is transformative, cheap and easy to apply. Try painting your fence a dramatic colour, add a sheet of coloured Perspex into your planting bed, accessorise your outdoor sofa with coloured scatter cushions, or invest in an outdoor rug. Trim, tidy and clean – It may sound obvious but you’ll be amazed at what a difference a spring clean makes. Neatening up those edges will really give your new garden that professional finish!

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

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March 2017

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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

In association with Countrywide SE LLP

accounts and investments. This can be used while someone is still capable but has chosen to delegate to their attorney. Personal Welfare LPA – This LPA can only be used when you have lost capacity and are unable 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

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

March 2017 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

WHAT’S ON Essex Book Festival. Various events throughout March. Visit: essexbookfestival.org.uk/events for information. Board Game Club FREE Sun 5th March, 12–4pm. 1st Floor Meeting Rooms, The Forum, Elmer Square, Southend SS1 1NE. Fortnightly board game club for all ages. Games available but feel free to bring your own. International Women’s Day Wed 8th March, 12–2pm. Civic Centre, Victoria Avenue SS1 9SB. Take part in workshops for prospective female leaders as well as talks by inspirational speakers.

WI Southchurch Village Friends Meeting Every 2nd Monday, 7.30pm. Thorpe Bay Methodist Church, The Broadway, Thorpe Bay SS1 3HQ. 13th March – Judy Barden and a selection of Springtime recipes. SALAD: Southend Area Local Authors’ Day FREE Sat 18th March, 10–5pm & Sun 19th March, 10–4pm. A weekend of talks, storytelling and workshops by local authors. Visit: essexbookfestival.org.uk for information. Spring Spectacular FREE Sat 19th March, 11am–3pm. Leigh Community Centre, 73 Elm Road, Leigh SS9 1SP. Family Fun inc. arts, crafts, face painting, magic, Punch & Judy, storytelling, Party Pets and more! Art Competition (submissions by 11.03.17). Call: 01702 477248. Book, Film & Music Fair FREE Sat 25th Mar, 10am–4pm. Leigh Community Centre, 73 Elm Road, Leigh SS9 1SP. Buy and sell old or new CDs, records, DVDs and books. Stalls: £10 for a table, £25 for three! We are looking for a variety of stalls to sell 2nd-hand, new and collectable items. First come, first served basis. Call: 01702 477248 or email: enquiries@leighcommunitycentre.com. Mother’s Day at The Royals Shopping Centre Sat 25th March, 11–3pm. The Royals Shopping Centre, Southend SS1 1DQ. We’re hosting a warm-up event that Mum will love. Bring the whole family. The kids can hang out with Ryan the Lion and his Little Royalty gang for fun and games. Complimentary bunch of daffodils for all mums. Concert for Mother’s Day Sun 26th March, 4pm. Civic Centre, Southend SS1 9SB. Southend Boys’ and Girls’ Choirs with family members and the South Essex Youth Symphony Orchestra. Tickets: 01702 465460.

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

Wildlife Week Event FREE Sun 12th March, 10–3pm. Belfairs Woods, Leigh SS9 3TZ. Family fun, games, crafts, walks and talks on protecting local flora and fauna.

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Southend West District Scouts (19 groups) South Essex Natural History Society Thames Estuary Lacemakers Westcliff-on-Sea Cricket Club Westcliff Poetry Prose Lyric Club Westcliff Rugby Club