Oracle on-Sea March 2020 by Oracle Publications

Your all-seeing local

February March 2020 2018

OR CLE ORACLE

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

COMPETITION! WIN a Yon-Ka Excellence Code Facial at Hello Gorgeous, Thorpe Bay - Worth £65 RESIDENT’S LETTERS! Why 5G should be stopped in Southend LOCAL EVENTS & MORE! www.SouthendOracle.co.uk LOCAL ISSUES! Seaside town going places

“Inside this month’s Oracle there’s a special gift from me - £50 to spend in Southend’s leading aesthetic clinic. It’s time to treat yourself! Penny Hawker, owner

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March 2020

ORACLE

WELCOME

With the overwhelming response to the new Southend Oracle Directory, I have made a decision going forward, Oracle will no longer print a ‘What’s On’ section each month, all of these events can now be added to the new local directory. Readers are encouraged to add their own local event to southendoracle.co.uk, it’s easy to create an account and this service is free of charge. The new site is achieving up to 14,500 visitors per month and already has just under 500 members and growing. For those who do not have access to a computer or mobile device, you are still very welcome to send in your event and we will add it. Each month the articles are added to the website and residents are able to leave their own comments on the issues raised. On the subject of 5G, opinions are varying, and I welcome comments from both sides of the argument. My job is to print, not to judge or take sides. This month’s competition, Hello Gorgeous of Thorpe Bay, Broadway is offering a special facial perfect for mature skin. Excellence Code Facial is an exceptional anti-aging care that incorporates a high-performance technical treatment worth £65. To see further information on this treatment and their full treatment menu please visit: hellogorgeousbeautysalon.com. Happy Mother's Day on 22nd March!

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 is now 100% recyclable

Oracle Publications and Creative Media @oracle_essex March 2020

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CONTENTS Seaside town going places

9/10

Local Issues by Marc Miller

Why 5G should be stopped in Southend 16 Residents Letter by Sarah Jennings

What can I do to get ready for retirement?

Money Matters by Charlotte Wood

The bald truth

Hair & Beauty by Craig Smith

St Clements drizzle cake

Recipe by Judy Barden

Brainbox 30 What's on

Useful Numbers

Advertiser Index

Advertorials

Oracle Estate Planning

VitB12 15 High-Tech Membrane

20/21

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

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March 2020

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March 2020

SHOWERS

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March 2020

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March 2020

Photo by Miriam Fleming

LOCAL ISSUES

Seaside town going places I wanted to write an article with a view of explaining why I appreciate being part of the Southend community, both in terms of specialist retail and as a resident. Many years of living within easy reach of London, the beach and open countryside have been a joy. We are lucky to have these amazing individual geographical advantages to reside. After travelling to Epping for my business for 14 years, I decided to bring the retail experience to Southend. At first, I was hesitant of the marketplace, for contemporary solutions that I have been selling for years, to another marketplace. I have been incredibly surprised by the talent, skills and expertise of our local community.

Our determined businesspeople There are many younger determined businesspeople building exciting businesses in our area and continue to harness the knowledge and wisdom of the older business generation. As retail is forever changing which has its own challenges, I have been humbled by the sheer determination our local entrepreneurs to succeed and develop. March 2020

In my view, our Council needs to connect more with the business community with a true consultative approach, to bring back much of which is evidently missing in our town.

Potential to develop

Imagine flying in from an amazing city like Amsterdam to reach the Kursaal, an amazing building with much history, languishing unloved on the seafront. We have so much potential to develop into a cultural hub which could bring our tourism into another dimension. Just the other day, I really took notice of how many tourists I could spot, who were either day trippers or over for the weekend from abroad, far more than I first thought. From that my focus changed to where are they going, what is available for them and why? Obviously, the seafront is an absolute destination, our amusements are an institution, Adventure Island and the various cafes and eating establishments are different to other parts of Essex. We should consider making the seafront area more like a cool artisan area for food and retail for craft people, galleries etc. this would add to our already brilliant

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offering to residents and travellers. We do not need a High Street with empty shops, vagabonds or the unsavoury. Making the High Street a road again will bring a different shape to trading, possibly allow the retailers who have left to consider a return. I know there are plans afoot to change the desperate situation in our High Street, this is welcomed with open arms and is long overdue!

Free parking

Parking also affects our businesses, free parking in the town would be a real lift to shoppers and visitors. Saving a few pounds on the car park charges will actually go a long way to revitalise the High Street, the Council will obviously have to fill a funding gap though. The more visitors we have, the likelihood of retail and local business will soon look to take over the vacant shops, revenue will then be directly paid to the council through rates and tariffs. Reducing the rates will undoubtedly create the same scenario, more shops of interest, more community-based business schemes, vibrant enterprise will flourish if the changes are made to establish a change in a drab High Street. The markets in the High Street can only get better, has anyone from the Council travelled up to Spitalfields in London to see how a market with specialist retail and street food is achieved? Maybe not on the same scale. Southend is currently the 63rd best place to live in the country, I think we can slide up the rankings... 10

I know I would love a marina and we should use more of the pier, we have so much to potentially offer, I’m sure we will and hope we achieve this. My point is we need to work together for our town, businesspeople, Councillors, charity foundations and the young gifted generation. In my view we need a cohesive space for our community to not only socialise differently in a public space, but also network and showcase their businesses in order to develop. Venue space in this town is pretty poor in terms of availability. As a company, we have built a Hi-Fi on a large scale for events so people can listen to music and film as an experience never seen in this town. It is a shame the venue is not available. We could mix artisan crafts with street food vendors, DJ’s, film screening, charitable events, theatres, book clubs, networking or venue hire for special occasions – all under one roof. If anyone (including the Council) are aware of a space which could be utilised or radically revamped, we would love to hear from you. The space could be crowdfunded, our community uses the space whilst investing in the project for use in conjunction with the brilliant people we have in our town.

Marc Miller Local Resident/Business Owner marcmiller@thornwoodfireplaces.com 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

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March 2020

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March 2020

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

In association with Countrywide SE LLP March 2020

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

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March 2020

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Alzheimer’s has increased by 663% in women and autism will affect one in two by 2025. Today 50% die either with or from Alzheimer’s. In Korea, the first country to have Smart technology, 20-year-olds have ‘digital dementia’ and dementia globally now affects people in their 30s and 40s.

LETTERS Why 5G should be stopped in Southend Electromagnetic radiation (EMFs) from wireless technology overpowers the natural frequencies the body uses for communication and to regulate biology. 5G uses short range frequencies, so masts would be installed on lampposts outside every fourth house. 5G is banned in Brussels, Russia, Geneva and parts of the UK and many Swiss cantons have an indefinite moratorium on 5G. The roll-out of 5G contravenes the Nuremburg Code. You are living in a microwave. EMF radiation levels have risen by one quillion (1,000,000,000,000,000,000) over ten years. Devices would work equally well using harmless frequencies and fibre optics are faster than 5G. The industry is unregulated and uninsurable. The effects have been known for over 40 years and in 2015 the International Scientific Declaration on EMFs, written by doctors and scientists, was held at the Royal Academy of Medicine, Brussels. http://www.ehs-mcs.org/fichiers/1441982143_ Statement_EN_DEFINITIF.pdf

Tips to reduce radiation exposure • Research ways of using technology safely • Don’t wear underwired bras • Eat a raw oyster daily to protect mitochondria • Eat plenty of greens and sea vegetables such as Atlantic Dulse • Have metal fillings removed • Sleep on a mattress without springs • Don’t have a digital display clock by your bed • Turn your router and mobile off at night – not just on flight mode • Get natural daylight within 30 minutes of waking • Spend time in nature • Limit screen time

EMFs

EMFs damage cells, confuse the autonomic nervous system and accelerate ageing. They are linked to fatigue, chronic infections, inflammation, autism, anxiety, depression, insomnia, headaches and autoimmunity. They stop cells from burning fat which can cause carb cravings and obesity. In trains, planes and cars the frequencies bounce from side to side through your body. In the 20 years we’ve been exposed to electrosmog, 16

Cells cannot tell the difference between a virus and EMFs. 80% of miscarriages are attributed to EMFs and miscarriage rises by 600% in women exposed to 16mG. Children’s skulls are thinner, their blood brain barrier more porous and nerves unprotected by a myelin sheath. EMFs interfere with the wiring of the brain in babies and baby monitors expose babies to toxic levels of radiation. Teenagers growing up with wireless technology show altered brain function and addictions.

• Go to bed by 9.30pm to help balance circadian rhythm and cell energy production. For various links with more information on 5G please visit www.oraclepublications.co.uk/articles.php

Sarah Jennings Concerned Local Resident 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 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 2020

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MONEY MATTERS

What can I do to get ready for retirement? In the UK, we are fortunate to have the state pension to help fund our retirement. However, not everyone is entitled to receive the full state pension – and this can be a nasty surprise for people approaching retirement age. The state pension generally isn’t enough to provide a comfortable lifestyle, at just £8,767 a year (rising to £9,110.40 from April 2020). It is therefore essential to have built up a pot of savings alongside the state pension. Here are some actions you can take right away to boost your chances of an enjoyable retirement.

Check your national insurance history In order to receive the full state pension, you need to have built up 35 years’ worth of qualifying national insurance contributions. You can check your record and whether you have any gaps at the Government’s online portal (https://www.gov.uk/ check-state-pension). Gaps are when you didn’t pay enough national insurance in a particular year – perhaps because you were studying, living abroad or didn’t earn enough.

Consider filling the gaps

being as low as they have been in recent years so it’s important the buying power of your retirement fund isn’t eroded. However, make sure you invest through a legitimate company to avoid being the victim of a scam. A Financial Planner can guide you with investments and help you draw up a financial plan.

Pay more into your pension

Saving into a private pension is one of the best ways to boost your savings due to generous tax relief. For example, basic-rate taxpayers only need to pay £80 to get £100 paid into their pension. For higher-rate taxpayers (those earning between £50,001 and £150,000), a £100 contribution costs just £60. Get your FREE ‘retirement ready?’ checklist at our website at www.rosewoodfp.co.uk for easy, simple action points to get your planning on track. A pension is a long term investment. The fund value may fluctuate and can go down. Your eventual income may depend upon the size of the fund at retirement, future interest rates and tax legislation.

You could consider making voluntary contributions to boost your national insurance record. It currently costs £780 to “buy back” a full year of national insurance credits. If you are unsure whether it is worth paying, the Future Pension Centre can help on 0800 731 0175. You usually have to make up the shortfall within six years of the end of the tax year for which the contributions are being paid. However there are extended time limits for some tax years.

Charlotte Wood trading as Rosewood Financial Planning is an appointed representative of The OnLine Partnership Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Take a close look at all your private savings and see whether you are getting the best from your money. If retirement is some way off, investing is worth considering. Cash will not keep pace with inflation long-term. This is particularly true with interest rates

Charlotte Wood APFS Director, Chartered Financial Planner 07738 118 845 charlotte@rosewoodfp.co.uk www.rosewoodfp.co.uk

Check your savings

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March 2020

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March 2020

Advertisement Feature

Do you own a conservatory not fit for purpose? There are literally many 1000’s of home owners throughout the UK who own a conservatory, it is without doubt that a high majority are totally inefficient during the summer and winter months. Is this you, do you own a conservatory that is really not fit for purpose? A high number of conservatories installed during the late 80’s, 90’s and early 2000’s will have a polycarbonate roof. A roof with no insulation value and virtually zero protection from direct sunlight. This gives you a room which is far too hot during summer and has a fridge effect in winter. You also have a roof which is difficult to keep clean as well as being a haven for insects. The frustrating thing for many owners is that the conservatories are in a satisfactory condition, all double glazed with many years of life to offer. More and more home owners are opting to have a more thermally efficient roof installed. High-Tech have the perfect solution. A very popular option is to create a thermally efficient sky room by removing the existing roof. A timber frame roof will be constructed to building regulation standard. Timber joists are then reinforced to accept a glass lantern or flat roof light. Treated timber boarding and warm

The Problem

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Always 100% committed to customer care and satisfaction March 2020

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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.

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March 2020

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HAIR & BEAUTY

The Bald Truth

I can pretty much guarantee that any man with more than just a soupcon of vanity looks at himself in the mirror. Now, there’s nothing wrong with this as we all like to look our best, so a cheeky little check of your reflection doesn’t go amiss. However, for as many as 70% of the male population, one day you might see more than you had previously bargained for; the wall behind you. Balding, or at least thinning hair, is a condition that will happen to the majority of chaps in their lifetime. Whilst this is simply down to your genes, when you do realise that hairline is receding the psychological blow can hit hard. In this instance, the best thing to do is to accept it, whilst understanding that there are also ways of addressing the issue. By that, I don’t mean adopting a classic, Seventies-style combover.

A new hairstyle Arguably the easiest and less costly solution is to adopt a new hairstyle that is better suited for thinning and balding hair. The general rule is simple: the more hair you lose, the shorter you should cut it. Ironically, if you have a receding hairline a side parting can look really good, especially with a higher hair line.

Another style that can work if you have a thinning crown is what some people in the trade call a disconnected fade. Essentially, you keep the hair longer at the front and taper it short towards the crown. You then push it back towards the back of your head and keep it there with a firm hold product. I like this style as it looks quite hipster-ish and gives you an air of working with what you have, rather than fighting what you don’t.

A beard In another twist of irony, many men who are going bald, find it easy to still grow an impressive beard. This is a great way of drawing the gaze of someone looking at you down and below your receding hairline. A beard has a balancing effect and can give you a distinguished appearance. According to the NHS website, a hair transplant can cost between £1,000 to £30,000 depending on how advanced your hair loss is, what procedure you opt for and which clinic provides it. A local barbers or hair salon which charge you between just over a tenner to less than thirty quid, and who knows, you might just discover your inner Jason Statham, The Rock, Idris Elba or James McEvoy…

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March 2020

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FOOD

St Clements drizzle cake

We all love lemon drizzle cake and the twist by adding a little orange just makes a change. I also like making some butter icing with the addition of lemon or orange curd and cutting the cake through the middle and layering it together, delicious. Enjoy!

Ingredients 175g caster sugar 175g softened butter Grated zest and juice of 1 big lemon Grated zest and juice of 1 big orange 4tbsp milk 2 eggs 175g self-raising flour 3tbsp granulated sugar

Method

prepared tin/tins, levelling the surface. Bake in the oven for about 45 minutes for a large cake, or 30 minutes for smaller cakes, until they are golden and a skewer comes out clean when inserted in the centre. Place the lemon and orange juice in a saucepan, bring to the boil and allow to reduce to about 3tbsp. Leave to cool, and then stir in the granulated sugar until it just starts to dissolve. As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, prick it with a skewer several times, then slowly pour the lemon and orange sugar all over the top, letting it soak into the cake.

Preheat the oven to 180Â°C/gas 4. Grease and line the base of 1 large (900g) or 2 small (450g) loaf tins. Place the caster sugar, butter and lemon and orange zest in a bowl and beat together until pale and creamy. (an electric whisk makes the job easier) Add the milk, and then beat in the eggs, one at a time, with a spoonful of the flour.

Mix in the remaining flour and spoon into the

Leave to cool completely in the tin before turning out. The cake will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days in an airtight container, and will also freeze really well. by Judy Barden Next month: Vegetable Pissaladiere

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March 2020

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Articles inside

What can I do to get ready for retirement?

St Clements drizzle cake

Why 5G should be stopped in Southend

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