Oracle on-Sea October 2016

October 2016

Your all-seeing local

Leigh, Chalkwell, Westcliff & Southend Conservation Area

WIN! Colchester Zoo family ticket – £76!

Council news – adult social care at risk?

The Cherry Tree Pub – back for another bite

Cover photo courtesy of Cal Finnegan (calfinnegan1997.wixsite.com/cfphotography)

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October 2016

ORACLE

WELCOME

This special Halloween edition comes with a warning, so watch out for some spooky surprises!

I feel that the photograph of Hadleigh Castle on the front cover, taken by local photographer Cal Finnegan, really adds to the Halloween mood.

The Cherry Tree was always one of those favourite destination pubs when I was younger, so I was pleased when the new owner, Charlie Ball invited us along for this month’s restaurant review. Read on and I am sure you will decide to add it to your list of places to eat out at in the town.

Staying with the Halloween theme, Colchester Zoo has kindly offered the opportunity for a family (2 adults and 2 children) to WIN a ticket worth £76 to visit Colchester Zoo during their event-filled Shriek Week (22nd–31st October 2016) and enjoy spooktacular events suitable for all ages! Listen to ‘Tales from the Crypt’, take a tour of the ‘Panic Rooms’, visit ‘The Woods’ and check out the Halloween Festival at All Saints Church! PLUS little ones will also be able to enjoy the spooky fun with daily magic shows and the chance to mix up their own potions and spells with the good witches in the ice cream parlour! This is a week not to be missed! For more event details please visit www.colchesterzoo.org To enter, please send your contact details to: Oracle Colchester Zoo Competition, 11 Clarence Road, Southend-on-Sea, Essex SS1 1AN or email: info@oraclepublications.co.uk by 17/10/16.

Happy Halloween!

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

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CONTENTS A woman’s place

9/10

Local Issues by HARP – Southend’s Homeless Charity

Autumn? Don’t use that tone with me! 16 Salon advice by Craig Smith

To care or not to care?

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Council news by Cllr Ron Woodley

The Cherry Tree 22/23 Wine & Dine with Oracle's restaurant review

Caramelised Shallot & Thyme Frittata 26 Judy's Recipe Page

Local property market flying high

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Property by Michael Naumann

What’s On

34

Brainbox 36 Useful Numbers

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Advertiser Directory

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Advertorials Councillor Ron Woodley

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Structural Works

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Cliff House Clinic

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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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Advertorial

On-Sea change As I write, most readers will know I am no longer the council leader. My joint administration was overturned by the formation of a new political coalition of the Conservatives and UKIP. It was positive to note that, although we lost control of the council, the Independent Group received 14% more votes than the Conservatives in wards we challenged.

As a local resident who put his head above the parapet, I am proud of what I achieved and looking back, I believe we had two very successful years, delivering services and driving change, with the projects achieved and those planned, such as the regeneration and delivering of new housing, the Pier, the new museum, highway improvements and economic stability. There was a positive feeling around the town, despite the economic uncertainty of the financial cutbacks from central government.

Short change The council has responsibility for local government functions such as waste, recycling, street scene, leisure, parks, recreation, environmental health, children and adult services, roads and street lighting. By 2020 local government will be fundamentally different from what it was before 2010. A form of localism has been introduced into councils over the last 6 years by central government, with cuts to funding being the most obvious sign, but at the same time central government has transferred risk to local government, risk to children’s services and risk to health and adult social care.

Ring the changes We need to make the most of opportunities to generate income, through the establishment of trading companies, through fees and charges and sensible investments. It is important that there is a dialogue with residents and businesses about what is needed and what is fair.

Although I am no longer involved in the day to day running of the council, I am, however, still involved in local politics, as a local councillor, spokesman for the Independent Group, a member of the Essex Fire Authority and vice chair of two Local Government Association Committees. I am also still in touch with central government regarding Southend-on-Sea on the subjects of housing and adult social care.

by Cllr Ron Woodley

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Independent Councillor for Thorpe

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An Original Theatre Company and Salisbury Playhouse Production in association with Eastbourne Theatres

STARRING

GWEN TAYLOR

DARAGH O’MALLEY

MON 31 OCT – SAT 5 NOV Mon – Sat 8pm, Matinees Thu and Sat 2.30pm

www.palacetheatresouthend.co.uk Box Office 01702 351135

NIAMH MCGRADY AND WILL FEATHERSTONE

Affinity Restaurant London Road on the borders of Leigh and Hadleigh is open for Lunch Tuesday to Sunday and evenings from Tuesday to Saturday with our set price menus that change seasonally.

Affinity Event Catering – for all your Outside Catering Needs – home, hall, marquee or venue or your choice and we also have connections with venues in the Castle Point area, contact us for menus, details on outside bars, barbeques or just ideas for your event.

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Follow us on twitter or sign on the website – for details of events and our special days thoughout the year join our e-mailing list which also includes money saving coupons and loyalty awards.

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October 2016

HARP Trustees Mac Felton (L) and Alex Kay (R) and Chief Executive, Gill Garwood, break ground for a new hostel.

LOCAL ISSUES

A woman’s place HARP, Southend’s homeless charity, is looking to the future with the brand new development of a 19-bedroom allfemale hostel.

Making use of previously derelict ground to the rear of their existing Bradbury Day Centre facility, the charity is excitedly looking ahead to completion of White Heather House in spring next year.

Nicky Houston, HARP’s Property Development Manager explains: “Almost a quarter of our service users last year were women – female homelessness is a hidden issue rarely explored in the mainstream media, so it’s important to us that people are aware how badly this new facility is needed.”

“The development of White Heather House has been driven by in-depth research showing that people – most notably women – are returned more effectively to independent living if they’re housed in a single sex environment.”

“As you can imagine for homeless women, issues of safety and privacy are huge concerns, and although fewer women resort to sleeping on the streets than men, this too is changing as more and more women find themselves homeless.”

Lady luck The name chosen for the new hostel reflects the associations of the white heather plant with good luck, new beginnings and nurture. Gill Garwood, HARP’s Chief Executive says: “Our aims for White Heather House are to create an environment of safety and protection for the women who will live here as they get back on their feet and move away from a life of homelessness.”

“The arrangement of the buildings on the site has been designed to promote a feeling of protection, with the three accommodation blocks placed around a quiet central courtyard, where women will be able to sit and read, or simply have the space to think.”

Ladies first “It’s vital that we treat everyone who comes to us for help as a human being firstly,” states Gill, “and as an individual. We need to offer them space and time to make their own choices. For the women who’ll stay at White Heather House, the ability for us to provide them with a calm, safe place really will offer the

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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Artist’s impression of the new 19-bedroom hostel. very best chance of getting back on their feet, whilst addressing the issues which lead to them becoming homeless in the first place in a manageable, structured way.”

staffing and other associated costs must still be paid for by our fundraising activities.”

As Julie, a HARP service user about to move on to the next stage of her journey away from homelessness says: “I honestly don’t know what would have become of me without HARP’s help. The staff are wonderful and care so much about helping people. I was headed in a bad direction, and had put my young daughter into care because I knew I wasn’t helping her. Now, I’m looking forward to the future, back with my daughter and living in our own home again.”

This is where YOU can help! HARP has a range of events throughout the year to enable local people to support their work. The next event is “The Really Big South Essex Sleep Out” which will see children and their families, as well as schools and other community groups across the South Essex area organise their own one-night sleep out under the stars – getting sponsored in order to raise money for HARP.

Home grown The project has been enabled thanks to capital funding for the building of the hostel by a grant from the Government’s Homes & Communities Agency. However, as Gill explains, this is only part of the story: “We’re enormously lucky to benefit from the continued generosity of the people of Southend, who have always supported our work right from day one. It’s only thanks to local people, businesses, community groups and schools, as well as all the agencies we work in partnership with, that we’re able to provide our services to vulnerable homeless people in the town.”

“Although building White Heather House has been enabled by a grant, the running, maintenance,

Girls’ (and boys’) night out

Taking place on or around the weekend of Saturday, 8th October, you can get find out more and get involved by visiting: www.essexsleepout.org

Building on success HARP began life over a decade ago, as a range of connected services spread throughout Southend.

Gradual amalgamation of these services has strengthened the charity’s ability to provide a comprehensive and far-reaching service, enabling homeless people to access training and work opportunities, as well as rehabilitation pathways and life-skills workshops. To find out more about HARP’s work, visit: www.harpsouthend.org.uk

by Kirstie McHattie Communications Officer, HARP

www.harpsouthend.org.uk Reg Charity No: 1098126

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Advice about homelessness: 01702 430696 General enquiries/fundraising: 01702 615000 Furniture donations/collections: 01702 337843

Head Office: 4th Floor, Dencora Court, Tylers Avenue, Southend SS1 2BB

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Limited Edition Print Sales Photography Sourcing Service Bookshop Reference Library Artists’ Talks Portfolio Reviews Professional Development Š Richard Page: Lurcher, 2014

An Independent Photography Gallery Showcasing the work of emerging and established contemporary photographers. We are dedicated to providing a welcoming space to experience, acquire and collect photography.

Leigh Road - Leigh on Sea - Essex - SS9 1BW

01702 474 300 francescamaffeogallery.com

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25 Years’ Experience

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October 2016

Advertorial

Structural Works – the shape of things to come Set up in Southchurch, Southend-on-Sea a little over three years ago, Structural Works brings together nearly twenty years of engineering, architectural and construction experience. The company is directed by Glasgow-born Rehan Wazir.

The dynamic company undertakes a wide variety of work and scale. The residential work includes but is not limited to lintels, beams, structural openings, loft conversions, roofs, extensions, basements, underpinning and foundations of all types. Within the last three years we have successfully carried out over 20 extensions, conversions, many with new basements under existing houses which have involved the use of underpinning to release valuable space with the vast majority of these containing light wells.

Drawing on experience Structural Works are regularly asked to provide architectural planning drawings for planning applications as well as Building Control applications, as part of a full design service.

Approved planning drawings also require a structural engineer to calculate and draw structural plans that competent builders can follow. We undertake both architectural plans and structural work: thus providing a complete solution to your building needs from concept to completion.

Most projects begin with a call, to discuss the project, task or concern, location: leading to a

visit on site. Following this site visit a formal fee proposal/letter is sent to you for your consideration.

This will outline in detail the stages of design, the timescales for design, calculations and applications.

Your project may require more than an initial meeting on site, the frequency of which will depend on the type and scale of work that we may be asked to undertake.

With many homeowners/developers and landlords opting to refurbish and re-develop existing properties, many of which are of historic importance or are of a traditional build; Structural Works also has considerable experience in providing expert guidance and advice on the repair of existing buildings. Such as dampness, subsidence or cracks in walls.

Building confidence When the architectural part of our service ends and the structural design comes to a satisfactory conclusion, we can provide a Client-side Resident Engineer role; to oversee and check your preferred builder’s workmanship and compliance, giving peace of mind.

by Rehan Wazir Company Director

07977 510378 42 Castleton Road, Southend SS2 4UD e: hello@structuralworks.co.uk www.structuralworks.co.uk

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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Unique handmade affordable gifts & homewares

A hidden gem, nestled within the trendy lanes of Broadway West showcasing the wares of over 20 talented crafters.

Offering beautiful creations which can be customised & personalised to suit any occassion.

83 Broadway West. Leigh on Sea. Essex. SS9 2BU www.anerleysemporium.co.uk

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SALON

Autumn? Don’t use that tone with me!

Autumn – season of mists and mellow fruitfulness. As the leaves turn from green to a riot of browns, reds and yellows, the season is inspiring warmer, richer tones for your hair.

If your hair is already a dark, earthy brown, it is already rich in colour, but adding some red and gold accents will lift it and bring added shine and warmth to your look.

For platinum blondes, why not try transitioning the cool tones of your hair into a warmer, lighter shade by asking your stylist to put in a flesh-toned, lighter colour into it? Alternatively, blondes can have more fun by running a dusty, rose tint through their tresses to create a gorgeous new look, without veering too far from their usual look.

The name is bronde Over in the United States, many female celebs are adopting what has been dubbed as “bronde” – think HiddleSwift before the split. As the name suggests, this shade is a sexy blend of blonde and brunette.

Essentially, the base is a darker, brown base with caramel highlights. This combination will warm up your skin tone and will maintain that summery

glow as the days get shorter and memories of your holiday fade. If you’re already a brunette, use a rich caramel gloss to really bring out those honey tones in your hair.

Out on the tiles If you’ve been to the Med this summer, you’ve no doubt seen terracotta, either on roofs, patios or plant pots. That lovely, reddish-orange with a hint of burnt brown and pink also looks amazing as a hair colour. As ever, I’d recommend that you have your stylist take you lighter – if your hair is already darker – and then add the colour. The idea is to have you looking as stylish and classy as Jessica Chastain, rather than the roof of a Spanish villa.

Mid-brown hair has suffered a bad press for many years. Often referred to as “mousey”, this shade has had very few champions. Well, I’m not one of the naysayers. If you call it “milk chocolate brown”, it sounds so much more appealing and is the perfect base colour for highlights. Honey and caramel tones can look like spun gold in this colour, while auburn and cinnamon tints also work beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, uber-light blonde highlights can make medium-brown hair look really dramatic.

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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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October 2016

Notice the Difference in 10 weeks.

This is the perfect time to see how tuition can deliver visible results.

Children can fall behind in their school work after the long summer break.

Making it hard for them to go into a new class or start a new school in September.

• Free Consultation • Free Assessment • Progress Every Week

Call Craig or Julie on 01702 680400 to book your free consultation.

genietutors.co.uk

Get ahead over the Summer

Southend St Saviours Church Hall, Kings Road, Westcliff-on Sea, SS0 8LL

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

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Simply Business

Always

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October 2016

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To care or not to care?

COUNCIL

As our population grows older, adult social care becomes an ever-increasing problem, which was why my planned, independently verified as financially sound, business model for an adult social care campus and care in the community model was so important.

Despite the best efforts from dedicated public care workers and a well-meaning decent care service, it is still often a nightmare for family members looking for somewhere for their elderly relative to live. Many adult care systems have a warped view of their purpose in response to funding pressures, and this is clearly the case of Southend’s adult social care service, which could lose sight of what happens to the elderly person on the receiving end. We must provide services that are truly people-centred rather than how the funding framework has developed.

Keep in mind It is well known that there will be a continuing increase in our elderly population suffering from dementia, and a corresponding increase in demand for the number of residential care places. We need to be able to look after our elderly and we can’t just sit by and watch as services suffer, or stick our heads in the sand and ignore what will be required in the future.

Despite huge cuts to local government funding, I made sure that investment in our adult social services continued. Being passionate about caring for our elderly, I decided to invest in their future, with a properly funded plan, rather than spending money closing down much needed care homes. Adult social care should not only be about money – it needs to be about dignity and kindness.

We need care homes of excellence, with properly trained staff, run by the council’s own trading company. We should not be solely reliant on the private sector.

Devil-may-care I am extremely concerned that the latest cabinet papers from the new administration now indicate a change to the adult care proposals that, under my administration, went through full council unopposed. Previously the Conservatives wanted to close council run care homes and privatise all adult social care. Is history about to repeat itself?

by Cllr Ron Woodley

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Independent Councillor for Thorpe

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WINE & DINE

The Cherry Tree – back for another bite

There can’t be many of us that haven’t, at one time or another, stopped at The Cherry Tree pub for a drink with friends or a memorable family celebration.

You may even have shared a pint with Rochford-born, Charlie Ball, who – seeing The Tree being shaken – recently stepped in to keep our memories alive.

“This is not a gastro –” says Charlie, passionately, in reference to the previous owners’ choices, “it’s a traditional, country, family pub. It always has been.”

In 2015, with the help of his own family – wife, Jo, and two daughters – Charlie grabbed his chance and set about reviving the withering Tree. With a lifetime’s experience building successful restaurants and managing pubs, Charlie knew just what to do with his local, but the investment did not come problem-free. ‘Repairs’ to the conservatory leaks were unfortunately counter-productive and the roof has had to remain covered for many months while he waits for the work to be rectified.

Fortunately, the issue is barely apparent from the inside and work will finally be completed within the next couple of months, Charlie assures us.

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Set in stone With its low ceilings, rustic timber beams and parts dating as far back as 1790, The Cherry Tree was originally built as a tap room for Winters Manor House, Stambridge Road, Rochford. Although much has changed internally since then – it now offers bed and breakfast (with a disabled wet room facility), a modern, air-conditioned restaurant and a private events room – little can have changed outside, as it remains idyllically nestled amongst peaceful country lanes, picturesque fields and the estimable Rankin’s Cricket Club (which was founded in 1881 following a meeting at The Cherry Tree).

Cherry picking Keen to extol the virtues of his locally-sourced, quality ingredients – including sausages from John Lothian’s in Westcliff – Charlie describes his food as: “traditional, homemade, wholesome pub food”, then adds, “with a bit of twist.” With his history of running Chinese restaurants and assisted by Chef Craig Blandford – classically trained in French cuisine – perhaps we should expect the unexpected, but we will get to that shortly.

We start with the Flat Mushroom with Melted Blue Cheese and Whitebait with Tartar Sauce. £5 each, they come very generously sized and garnished with a pleasantly dressed lamb’s lettuce side salad. The tangy, meaty

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October 2016

mushroom is a great opener for any cheese lover and the whitebait, with its particularly crispy batter, is devilishly moreish and filling. We’d better wash them down to clear some room for mains.

With Guinness on draft, a selection of local real ales and seasonal guest ales, the bar is well stocked – we go for a pint of Crouch Vale Brewery’s award-winning Brewers Gold (£3.50) – but Charlie is also proud of his hand-picked selection of house wines: “You can always judge a pub by its house wines. Are they selling cheap wine to make a quick profit, or offering good value to make customers come back?” From the six on offer, we try a woody Sauvignon Blanc (unusual in that it is Spanish) and a silky-smooth Shiraz (both from £3.50 per glass) and it is immediately obvious that Charlie has gone for the latter option.

For mains, we order the traditional Steak & Ale Pie with New Potatoes and Garden Vegetables (£9).

Under the homemade, rough puff pastry, the beef is deliciously soft, slow-cooked in its rich gravy containing no less than three real ales – luxurious whilst remaining traditionally honest. It is our second choice, however, that reveals the “twist”.

Morrocan Spiced Lamb Wrap (£10) seems an unusual addition to a traditional English pub menu but on arrival – perhaps because of the accompanying salad and chips – it looks and feels remarkably at home. Ominously labelled as “Hot”, the harissa paste offers an exuberant kick without overpowering the flavoursome lamb, cooling cucumber, tomato and garlic mayo-loaded flatbread. The superchunky chips are wonderfully crispy on the outside, perfectly soft in the middle and not in the least bit powdery or oily. It is an exciting and very hearty meal. We are certainly getting our money’s worth.

Cheesecake with Berry Compote & Chantilly Cream (both £5) on the table. It is clear that Charlie is deriving some pleasure from challenging our bulging waistlines to resist the temptation of his beautifully but unpretentiously presented sweets. Well, maybe just one bite …

As we scrape the dishes clean, Charlie brings out one last twist to really finish us off – a freshly cooked taste of his signature Chilli Con Carne with Dark Belgian Chocolate. This mellow, unique indulgence has to be tasted to be believed but is definitely worth coming back for. Return we shall, but first we must attempt to roll out of the door.

Fruits of their labour Clearly, Charlie and Co. are doing an amazing job of rebuilding The Cherry Tree’s reputation as the place is buzzing with satisfied locals, they report a daily increase in customer numbers, and our sources confirm that it is, indeed, the talk of the town. And it’s hardly surprising when this old favourite pub is offering such generous, quality, no-nonsense (yet interesting), home-cooked, value-for-money fare. It’s the good old days but better, and it’s lovely to see The Cherry Tree in full bloom once again.

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• Cater for private family events.

• Live music last Saturday of month.

• Lunchtime Special (Mon–Fri) 2 courses only £10.

• Sunday lunch 2 courses – £12, 3 courses – £14.

• Beer Festival in October.

01702 543173 Stambridge Road, Rochford, Essex SS4 2AF e: info@thecherrytreestambridge.co.uk www.thecherrytreestambridge.co.uk

XMAS PARTY MENU! (From 1st Dec) 3 COURSES for Only £20!

The cherry on top Satiated, we accept Charlie’s confident recommen­ da­tion for dessert and notice the cheeky glint in his eye as he places his Eton Mess and New York

XMAS DAY MENU! 4 COURSES – Adults: £75,

Children (age 5–15): £35, Under 5s: FREE! Early booking essential!

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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FOOD

Caramelised Shallot and Thyme Frittata

A frittata is bit like an omelette that gets baked in the oven or put under the grill and puffs up. This is a really delicious tasty lunch or supper dish, suitable for everyone and gluten-free. The slow cooked sweet shallots are then topped with mozzarella and eggs and baked.

It is best hot but also nice cold. I like it with a lovely salad on the side. Enjoy!

Method:

Ingredients (serves 4 as a main meal, 6 as a starter):

4. Transfer the onions to a pie or flan dish which has a capacity of about 750ml, and spread evenly.

Pour over the beaten eggs, then roughly tear the mozzarella and scatter it over with the remaining sprigs of thyme.

• 50g butter plus a splash of olive oil • 20 round shallots or 10 banana shallots, peeled and sliced

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme leaves, plus sprigs for the top

• 3 tbsp clear honey or maple syrup • 8 free range eggs, lightly beaten • 250–300g buffalo mozzarella

3. Turn the heat to low, add the honey or maple syrup to the shallots, and carry on cooking for another 10 minutes, stirring until the mixture is caramelised. If it starts sticking to the bottom of the pan just add a little water and stir.

5. Bake for 15–20 mins until puffed-up, golden and cooked through.

6. Serve hot with some dressed salad and crusty bread.

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Next month: Hot and Sour Pork and Pepper Stir-Fry

In association with Countrywide SE LLP 26

2. Heat the oven to 200°C/fan 180°C/Gas Mark 5.

by Judy Barden

ORACLE estate planning

1. Heat the butter and oil in a large frying pan and cook the shallots and thyme with a good pinch of sea salt and black pepper. Cook for 15 minutes, stirring now and then until the shallots are soft and golden.

Will Writing • Power of Attorney • Trusts • Funeral Plans Will Updating & Storage Facilities • Probate Administration t: 01702 393838 head office: 01277 202233 e: crowe@countrywide-se.com w: www.countrywide-se.co.uk Oracle House, 11 Clarence Road, Southend SS1 1AN

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October 2016

Manoly’s – the true taste of Thailand Serving the true taste of Thailand in the heart of Leigh-on-Sea A wide range of exquisite dishes for all tastes, served by Thai staff Book a table at our restaurant or order a takeaway Menus available online at www.manolys.co.uk

Bookings & Takeaway 01702 475513

www.manolys.co.uk

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

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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Local property market flying high

PROPERTY

Summer may be waving goodbye for another year, but morale levels are still high for those involved in the property market. Following the initial shock of the Brexit vote, it appears the worst of the predictions have been avoided and confidence is returning across both residential and commercial.

According to the latest report from the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), for the first time since April, surveyors are expecting house prices to increase over the next three months.

Members are forecasting a 3.3% increase on average, per year, over the next five years – the most optimistic prediction since the EU vote.

The RICS’ figures, which are seen as a key indicator of market activity, showed prices rising rather than falling. The strongest being felt in East Anglia and the West Midlands.

Setting the house in order In a recent announcement, RICS Chief Economist, stated, “There are clear signs that the housing

market is settling down after the initial surprise of the outcome of the EU referendum. Sales expectations are beginning to edge upwards once again, with the swift response from the Bank of England with the cut in interest rates playing a huge role in helping support confidence”.

Looking at the stats from the Prime Central London Index, there has been a 22% rise in the number of new prospective buyers since the vote, compared to the same period in 2015. With the number of properties under offer in the last 8 weeks rising by 19%, web activity up by 20% and actual viewings up by 49% over last year.

Home run Looking closer to home, Stirling Ackroyd Essex reported a rise as high as 62% in residential viewing activity in September compared to the same period in August, for properties from Thorpe Bay through to Leigh-on-Sea, with the commercial market not far behind.

For further information or advice on property matters, feel free to contact your local premier residential and commercial estate agent.

by Michael Naumann

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Commercial Manager, Stirling Ackroyd

STIRLING ACKROYD Residential & Commercial Estate Agents Unit 6, 3 Church Road, Southend SS1 2AL t: 01702 669166 www.stirlingackroyd.com e: essex@stirlingackroyd.com 30

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October 2016

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COLE & SON

CASAMANCE

DE SI

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CO

NS UL TA T

FR EE

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JANE CHURCHILL

DESIGN, STYLE & CRAFTSMANSHIP Visit our extensive showroom and workshop in Thorpe Bay. We offer a complete interior design service.

A fantastic choice of styles, finishes, fabrics, leathers, accessories, BESPOKE UPHOLSTERY, CURTAINS, BLINDS AND SHUTTERS – a talented and dedicated team of interior designers, furniture craftsmen and curtain makers to create your specific requirements – let us transform your home.

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SANDERSON

SHOEBURYNESS

23-25 Station Road, Thorpe Bay, Essex SS1 3JY Tel. 01702 586800 Fax. 01702 586054 www.morrisinteriors.ltd.uk Opening hours: 9am–5pm Monday–Friday 9am–4pm Saturday

ROMO

ZINC

COLEFAX AND FOWLER

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

31

advertorial

Cloudy2Clear Announce Trusted Trader Partnership Consumer champions Which? have now joined the thousands of customers who recognise that Cloudy2Clear Windows really are a business that you can TRUST. The company which specialises in repairing windows which are steamed up, broken or damaged by replacing the panes – not the frames has received the coveted ‘Which Trusted Trader’ status after going through a rigorous accreditation process entirely focussed on customer service.

Group Managing Director Marcus McGee believes that Which? have endorsed Cloudy2Clear’s long standing company

32

policy of delivering the highest standards possible at all times. ‘Our service is simple. If your double glazing has misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 25 year guarantee.

But it’s not just about saving people money, although that obviously helps. Whilst a number of tradespeople perhaps don’t focus on customer care as much as they should do, we make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle.

Locally Cloudy2Clear service the Leigh on Sea & Southend areas and

manager Chris Miller agrees that this approach is a major factor in his success. ‘The truth is that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I get from doing a good job but also it makes good business sense. I get a huge amount of business from friends and family of people I’ve done work for, which just goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated as both my customers and, obviously a body as nationally important as Which? now recognise.’

So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Chris a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

Cloudy2Clear GUARANTEE All Customers That An Average Quote Will Take No Longer Than 20 MINS!!!

October 2016

Advertorial

As seen in

VOGUE

magazin

e

Move over Botox, Collagen Wand is here! ­For those in the know, Botox has become yesterday’s news. A host of ‘the great and the good’, who rely upon their youthful appearance, have suddenly ‘discovered’ Collagen Wand Stimulation Therapy.

For celebrities and A-listers, Collagen Wand is the treatment for the face, forehead jawline and neck.

Cliff House Clinic was at the forefront of pioneering this technology. Our specialised equip­ment is truly cutting edge: not only this, but our Clinicians are professionally trained, qualified and experienced in providing these revolutionary treatments.

What is Collagen Wand?

The principle is that heat is delivered into the deeper layers of the skin by a ‘wand’ which glides across the skin’s surface, without damaging or marking it in any way. This heating action causes collagen structures in the skin to tighten as well as stimulates new collagen growth. The result is healthier and smoother skin with a more radiant and youthful appearance.

The treatment is not only totally painless: many of our Clients have commented that their treatment has been warm, pleasant and comfortable. In addition, there is no ‘down-time’ and, in fact, make-up can be applied immediately after a treatment session.

Another major advantage is that Collagen Wand Stimulation Therapy can be combined safely with other skin rejuvenation and aesthetic treatments.

Unlike Botox, there is no invasive or potentially painful treatment, nor the risk of the dreaded ‘frozen features’. No wonder the A-Listers have turned to Collagen Wand as the only proper alternati­­­ve.

Take advantage of our Trial Treatment offer! Our Practitioners will be pleased to answer any questions you may have both before and during the Trial.

Please note that, as Professionals, we insist on a prior (and free) consultation before we undertake any treatments at all.

We also offer

• Cool Sculpt Laser Lipo with Sonic Acoustic Wave Technology

• • Permanent Hair Removal • Semi-permanent Makeup • Stretch Mark Reduction • IPL Skin Rejuvenation

Collagen Wand Non-invasive Face Lift

October 2016 Offer: Trial Treatment & Consultation - until the end of October 2016

O Only

£50

Cliff House Clinic 01702 431 970 Oracle House, 11 Clarence Road, Southend-on-Sea, Essex SS1 1AN email: penny@cliffhouseclinic.co.uk www.cliffhouseclinic.co.uk

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

33

WHAT’S ON Snip & Chip 4th & 11th Oct, 1–3pm. Vets4Pets, 1603–1609 London Rd, Leigh SS9 2SQ. Bring yourself and receive a £10 voucher for neutering/microchipping. Call: 01702 710630.

Purple Festival 2016 FREE Sat 8th Oct, 3–9pm. Pier Hill/City Beach, Southend SS1 1EE. Live music and fireworks display.

The Really Big South Essex Sleep Out Sat 8th Oct. Sleep out in support of homeless people! www.essexsleepout.org Seafront Fireworks FREE 8th Oct–19th Nov, every Sat at 7.30pm. City Beach, Marine Parade, Southend SS1 1EE. 11th Annual Centenarians Tea Party FREE Sun 9th Oct, 2pm. Nazareth House, 111 London Rd, Southend SS1 1PP. Sir David Amess MP invites local people over 100 years old.

Call: 0207 2193452 e: josephine.jackson@parliament.uk.

WI Southchurch Village Friends Meeting Every 2nd Mon, 7.30pm. The Hamstel Children & Families Centre, Hamstel Rd SS2 4PQ. 10th Oct – Judy Barden cookery demonstration.

Saturday Cinema: Zootropolis FREE Sat 15th Oct, 10am–12pm. TAP, The Old Waterworks, North Rd, Southend SS0 7AB. Film shows for children with disabilities.

Charlie Bear Halloween Picnic FREE Sun 16th Oct, 12–4pm.

Victoria Shopping Centre, Southend SS2 5SP. Best dressed bear prize, free trick or treat raffle, drinks and 10% off instore. To book, visit: www.teddystation.co.uk.

Charity Casino Night Thurs 20th Oct, 7–10.30pm. Arlington Ballroom, 905 London Rd, Leigh SS9 3LL. £20 (inc. £5 game chips, buffet). Info/tickets call Jo or Pam: 01702 466886 or email: joanne@npaccounts.com. themusicmanproject.com 4th Annual Rossi Ice Cream Southend Comedy Festival Sun 23rd Oct, 7.30pm, The Clifftown Theatre, Nelson Street, Southend SS1 1EF. Hottest up-and-coming acts battle in competition. £15. To book tickets: southendtheatres.org.uk Children’s Book Festival 2016 20–29th Oct, The Forum, Elmer Square, Southend SS1 1NE. Fantastic author events. £3 per child. Book at: www.southendlam.eventbrite.com Hide and Shriek: Scream Park 28th–29th Oct. Victoria Plaza Shopping Centre, 362 Chartwell Square, Southend SS2 5SP. £20 + booking fee. 3 Scare Mazes, live entertainment and more. To book: www.hideandshriek.co.uk.

Southend Hospital Breast Unit Charity Quiz Fri 28 Oct, 7.45pm, Freight House, Rochford SS4 1BU. £6/p, teams of 8.

To book: 01702 385337 or e: fundraising@southend.nhs.uk The Jurassic Day FREE Sat 29th Oct, 11am–4pm, Royals Shopping Centre, Southend SS1 1DG. Arts, crafts, games, singing, free face painting and giant dinosaur with 3 babies!

The Invasion! FREE Sun 30th Oct, 11am–5pm, Royals Shopping Centre, Southend SS1 1DG. Arts, crafts, competition and free face painting. The Doctor and his evil enemies will be available for photos.

34

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

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

35

BRAINBOX 5

1

HOT SPOT – Where am I?

6

8

8 4

7

3

5

2

5

9

6

7

4

6

3

6

4

4

5

5

8

7

1

2

5

3

SUDOKU – Fill in the grid so

MOON

that every row, column and 3x3 box contains the numbers 1–9.

WORD LADDER – Climb

the ladder, changing one letter each rung to make a new word.

HOWL

CONUNDRUM – Unscramble to solve the clue.

U

N

S

O

L

D

C

A

R

Clue: They help you cook, for a spell!

Last month’s solutions: HOT SPOT – Old Leigh Buoy WORD LADDER –

TERMTEEMTEESWEESWOES

CONUNDRUM – EDUCATION

36

2 7 5 6 9 1 4 3 8

9 4 8 7 5 3 2 1 6

1 6 3 4 2 8 5 7 9

5 8 1 9 3 2 7 6 4

7 2 4 5 8 6 1 9 3

6 3 9 1 4 7 8 5 2

8 5 6 3 1 4 9 2 7

4 9 7 2 6 5 3 8 1

3 1 2 8 7 9 6 4 5

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

BE FLEXIBLE WITH YOUR C 2C SMARTCARD Save time and money with 10 flexible day tickets to use when you need them.

5%* cheaper than an Anytime Day Return and a further 10% saving when you travel in the off-peak. It’s perfect for part time commuters.

Only available at c2c-online.co.uk/flexi

Surname 00 Mr Name0162 0000 01 123456

*Terms apply. Excludes journeys from Fenchurch Street travelling to stations outside of the Travelcard area where a 2% discount on Anytime Day Returns will apply. Visit c2c-online.co.uk/flexi for more details.

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

37

Air&Back

Q Airport Transfer Specialists Air & Back, the airport-transfer specialists, provide an efficient and friendly door-to-door transfer to and from your airport. seaport or ferry terminal, at a reasonable cost.

Get your holiday or business trip off to a comfortable start with an effortless transfer from Air & Back.

Q Q Q Q

Q

Polite, experienced and wellpresented drivers Full comprehensive insurance including Hire and Reward Drivers and vehicles licensed by the local authority.

Detailed confirmation to you the day before departure

Call today for a competitive quote Air & Back, 22 Coronation Close, Great Wakering, SS3 0JG

Tel/Fax: 01702 435722 Mobile 07903 301086 airandback@yahoo.co.uk

CITY H STANSTED H GATWICK H LUTON H HEATHROW y ilit iab nce L ll ra Fu nsu I

The Crystal Tree

MIKE’s

69 Broadway West Leigh-on-Sea SS9 2BX (opp Leigh Library)

Tree Services Est. 1982

Felling Pollarding Shaping Pruning Shrub/Hedge Trimming Friendly & Reliable Service

For a FREE Quotation call Mike

01702 305217 07505 794203

38

Angelic Reiki, Crystal Healing, Rahanni Crystals Crystal Jewellery Angel Gifts Incense & Space Clearing Items Candles Salt Lamps Books, Cards & CD’s Meditation Groups & Workshops www.the-crystal-tree.co.uk Healing for Mind Body and Soul

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

Where pets truly come first!

We are now seeking a

FREELANCE, BACK END

bubbles pet care

. com

WEB DEVELOPER

“The Home of Healthy Pet Food”

Must be fluent in PHP, MySQL, Javascript, Ajax, HTML5 and CSS3 for integration of elements developed by a front end developer.

36/38 Broadway, Leigh on Sea, Essex SS9 1AJ T: 01702 831286 & 17 high Street, Ongar, Essex CM5 9DS 01277 366182

Please send your CV/portfolio and rates to:

hr@oraclecreativemedia.com

www.OracleCreativeMedia.com Oracle House, 11 Clarence Rd, Southend SS1 1AN

Formerly Leigh Pet Centre

Stockists of quality pet foods from James Wellbeloved, Burns, Barking/Meowing Heads, Natural Dog Food Company, Arden Grange, Orijen, Markus Muhle Loyalty card scheme, Healthy food and treats Vast range of accessories Newly Refurbished

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

39

476034 342700 541499 525648

Thames Estuary Lacemakers Westcliff Poetry Prose Lyric Club Westcliff Rugby Club Woodside Bowling Club

Sponsored by:

Council & Services

01702 780066 www.brymanrecruitment.co.uk

Child Protection Citizens Advice Crimestoppers Cruse Bereavement Care Pier & Foreshore Inspectors Drugs, Alcohol & Substance Misuse HARP – Southend’s Homeless Charity National Drugs Freephone Samaritans Freephone Trading Standards Victim Support Group

Clubs & Associations

534495 0844 4770 808 0800 555 111 213843 215620 440400 615000 0800 776900 116123 0845 4040506 0845 4565995

Belfairs Golf Club 526911 Belfairs Mixed Bowling 475766 Charles Dicken’s Fellowship 588069 Cockleshell Clog Morris 218081 English Speaking Union 588069 Essex Yacht Club 478404 Essex Handicrafts Association 479622 Essex Society for Family History 522992 Estuary Social Club 477022 Highlands Badminton Club 476009 Hoy & Anchor Folk Club 715111 I.C.C Saturday Club 437861 Leigh Afternoon Women’s Institute 710232 Leigh-on-Sea Cricket Club 712105 Leigh-on-Sea Lions Club 715111 Leigh Camera Club 478717 Leigh Film Society 07957 129309 Leigh Motor Boat Club 714858 Leigh Sailing Club 476788 Leigh Travel Club 474475 Lower Thames Rowing Club 482205 Prittlewell Bowls Club 612476 Royal British Legion Leigh-on-Sea Branch 559996 SEESS Scottish Country Dancing 585473 Southend Athletics Club 472195 Southend Anglo Italian Circle 478105 Southend Chess Club (Steve Wedlock) 345902 Southend & District Pensioners Campaign 341047 Southend Photographic Society 332491 Southend Rugby Club 546682 Southend West District Scouts (19 groups) 587647 South Essex Natural History Society 588115

40

Hospitals & Health

608908 224600 435555 462944 111

BMI Southend Private Hospital Primary Care Trust Southend General Hospital Spire Wellesley Hospital NHS Direct

USEFUL NUMBERS Advice & Helplines

716288 215000 215001 215005 215006 575700

Leigh-on-Sea Town Council Southend Council Civic Centre Council Tax & Benefits Environment and domestic Council Waste Department Jobcentre Southend

Local MP

0207 2193452

David Amess (Conservative)

Animal Welfare

Downes & Prtnrs, Veterinary Surgeon RSPCA Rochford

Police Services

Police emergency Police non-emergency Marine Police HM Coastguard

584511 548261 999 101 01268 775533 01702 294998

Public Services

Southend Forum 215011 Bournes Green Post Office 582241 Traveline 0871 200 2233 Arriva Southend 08701 201088 First 01268 525251 National Express 087050 80 80 80 Odeon Cinema 0871 2244007 SSAFA (Soldiers, Sailors, Airmens Families Association) 463113

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

Jonnie Peacock (b. 1993)

“I lost my leg aged five … Now I’m 1.9 seconds behind Usain Bolt.”

October 2016

Call Brights Locksmiths Ltd & find out why we’re considered ESSEX’S MOST TRUSTED Locksmiths & Security company by far.

Tel. 01702-346-274 Email: info@brightsgroup.com October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

41

Advertise with

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42

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Call 01702 393838 for a Media Pack or visit www.oraclepublications.co.uk ADVERT DESIGN SERVICE AVAILABLE HIGH-QUALITY, GLOSSY PUBLICATION SELECT DISTRIBUTION AREAS

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www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

ENTERTAINMENT Southend Theatres ESTATE AGENTS Stirling Ackroyd FASHION BOUTIQUE Cameo FITNESS Fitness4Less GALLERY Francesca Maffeo Gallery GARDEN CENTRES Morley’s Garden Centre GARDEN LANDSCAPES Amax Landscapes GARDEN SERVICES Paul’s Gardening GRANITE WORKTOPS Granite Transformation HAIR & BEAUTY Grateful Heads HAIRDRESSERS Taylors Hairdressing HANDMADE JEWELLERY The Crystal Tree HARDWARE Boni-Vee HEALTH & BEAUTY Cliff House Clinic HOMECARE Caremark HOMEWARE Anerley’s Emporium INSURANCE Swinton Insurance

8 30 29 1 11 24 28 36 12 16 15 38 17 33 21 14

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Call us on 01702 393838 www.OracleCreativeMedia.com

Oracle House, 11 Clarence Road, Southend-on-Sea, Essex SS1 1AN October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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ORACLE

in association with

estate planning

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October 2016