Oracle July 2020

February July 20202018

Your all-seeing local

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

LOCAL ISSUES! Policing Essex coastline LOCAL SUGGESTION! A blooming solution COMPETITION! Oracle photo competition 2020 HEALTH & WELLBEING! Life, but not as you know!

'Summer Visitor' by Phil Wingfield - Oracle Photo Competition 2019 Wildlife Winner

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July 2020

ORACLE

WELCOME

I

t’s that time of year again when Oracle asks Southend to participate in its local photographic competition! This is the sixth year and over the years we have had some fabulous entrees which I really enjoy sharing with you all via the magazine, website and social media. Again, I'm pleased to announce that our local professional photographer, Keith Hoskins of Picture Perfect, Leigh will be helping me judge this year. Please send your images to info@ oraclepublications.co.uk by 10th August 2020.

10 % CREAM

Free Valuation Certificate - Call us now

In order to have a chance of winning a prize worth £175, please turn to page 44 to find out what the categories are and how to enter. Under 16’s are very welcome but don't forget to tell us your age.

The easing of lockdown has been a welcome relief for many local businesses. However, I have had many conversations with business owners and some are finding the challenge to keep their business going very difficult. The pandemic issue has been extremely tough on everyone, more so than during the banking crisis of 2008 and that was bad enough.

I cannot stress enough that if you are planning to spend, please buy local.

Your support is needed like never before!

Stay well and happy snapping!

170 The Broadway Thorpe Bay SS1 3ES

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

01702 588 599

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22/03/2019 11:35

CONTENTS Policing Essex waterways and coastlines 9/10 Local Issues by Essex Police

Life, but not as we know!

16

Health & Wellbeing by Jacqui Sayer-Noble

Hair we go!

22

Hair & Beauty by Craig Smith

Getting your finances back on track

32/33

Money matters by Brewin Dolphin

Crispy prawns with zingy chilli

36

Recipe by Judy Barden

Oracle photo competition 2020

44

Competition by Picture Perfect/Oracle

A blooming solution

52

Local suggestion by Charles Wynne-Morgan

Brainbox

56

Useful Numbers

60

Advertiser Index

62

Advertorials Oracle Estate Planning

7

WDC Physiotherapy

29

Brights Locksmiths

31

High-Tech Membrane

46/47

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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July 2020

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July 2020

NE

D T GE VI IAN RRAN CO PL N BE A M S CA CO EETING

I NL O

Advertorial

M

D.

Worried about your mental or physical capacity?

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 July 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

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July 2020

LOCAL ISSUES

O

Policing Essex waterways and coastlines

ur county has the second largest

responding to a medical emergency, detecting

coastline in the UK and Essex Police

terrorism, intercepting the movement of illegal

has a specialist unit that police our

drugs or responding to reports of unexploded

waterways and coastlines, helping to keep

ordnance devices, to name just some of the

people safe and catch criminals.

things we could be dealing with throughout

From the Thames at Crayford Ness to the River

the year."

Stour in Manningtree, the Essex Police Marine

While out on patrol covering the Essex

Unit police more than 350 miles of coastlines

waterways and coastline, the Essex police

and waterways, protecting the community and

Marine Unit will visit more than 80 marinas

targeting those who attempt to exploit our

and marine businesses, speaking to local

waters to commit crime.

residents, water users, holidaymakers, day

Specialist unit celebrating 70 years

visitors and business owners.

The specialist unit, which recently celebrated

Excellent relationship

its 70th anniversary, regularly work alongside

They pride themselves on the excellent

the RNLI, the National Crime Agency, Port

relationship they have with the marine

of London Authority, Border Force, the

community which helps to ensure everyone

Coastguard Agency, National Coastwatch

can enjoy the water in a safe and responsible

Institution and the marine community, to help

way.

people, keep them safe and catch criminals.

PC Newling added: "Whatever it is we are

"Being a Marine Police Officer is a really

doing, we work alongside the community,

diverse and sometimes challenging role" said

whether it's responding to reports of anti-

PC Ian Newling.

social behaviour on the water or acting upon

"On a day-to-day basis, we could be dealing

information provided by someone about a

with any number of incidents in all types of

vessel acting unusually.

weathers and conditions".

The community are key in helping us keep

"We could be investigating the theft of marine

people safe and catch criminals and we

equipment, searching for missing people or

urge water users to remain vigilant and

July 2020

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9

report anyone acting illegally, dangerously or suspiciously to us via our website. Any footage captured can be sent to marineu@ essex.police.uk. No matter how trivial it might seem, we want to know about it.

Unusual or suspicious What does unusual or suspicious behaviour on the water look like?

• Vessel crew who show signs of nervousness or a lack of awareness of maritime protocols

New number

and customs

Our new number is 01245 452815, but

• Vessels showing signs of unusual

remember, in an emergency, always dial 999."

modification or minor damage

The team is made up of a core of full-time

• Increased activity at isolated coastal

Police Officers, two Special Constables, a

locations or at unusual times of the day or

marine technician and supported by reserve

night

police officers, who work part-time on the Marine Unit who help the Harbour Masters and local authorities with enforcing the byelaws.

• Attempts to signal to vessels offshore or guide them into an unusual location • Strange patterns of payment, such as large amounts of cash

PC Newling said: "Byelaws are the responsibility of local authorities, we support their enforcement to make sure those using

• People testing site security or an unusual interest in site structures and wharfs

the water are adhering to the rules. These are

Immobilise

put in place to keep people safe and ensure

Immobilise is a national property register

Essex waters are used responsibility, so that

which is supported by Essex Police in a bid

we can all keep enjoying our beautiful marine

to combat the theft of high value marine

environment."

equipment.

You can keep up to date with what the Essex

Those who own marine equipment can learn

Police Marine Unit are up to by following them

about property marking as well as registering

on Twitter @EPMarine

any equipment that they believe may have been stolen on second-hand trade and publicly checkable stolen goods database CheckMEND. Visit www.immobilise.com for more information.

Essex Police www.essex.police.uk 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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July 2020

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

How can we move forward?

Life has changed

I

am not going to dwell on what has happened and I am sure most of you have been through so many emotions these past few months wondering if and when you were going to emerge, how you and your loved ones would emerge, health wise, financially and mentally.

Is life ever going to be the same again?

I believe the answer is; how can it be?

As a human being our first core need is feeling safe followed by feeling loved, both are equally important. So hands up, how many of you feel safe and how many feel loved? How we feel comes from within but is based upon our beliefs and how we are treated by others.

There have been many kind actions by others that have been so heart warming and of course there are always some who will take advantage of the situation.

What I have seen is communities coming together helping each other enjoying and appreciating life, which I hope will continue.

We cannot help our emotions and how we feel but we can help what we do about them.

So if you are suffering from fear, stress, anxiety, panic attacks, please contact me for free consultation, at jacqui@jsntherapies.co.uk or on 07717856999.

16

Life, but not as you know!

A big difficulty with many people is the fear of change and there certainly have been so many changes these past few months totally unprecedented and we were not in any way prepared.

For those of us over 50’s we have seen vast changes from black and white television, no home phone and having to go to a local telephone box to make a call or write a letter and to make contact with anyone. Today virtually everyone has a mobile phone and a computer and we can communicate with anyone no matter the distance in an instant.

So we have been through so many changes in the last 50 years that was called progress! We moved forward and embraced it.

I’m not saying we should embrace this pandemic, lets learn from it, and from everyone who helped in any way by putting their health and lives on the line for others.

We can evolve from this; stronger, personally and as a community.

Jacqui Sayer-Noble JSN Therapies 07717 856999 jacqui@jsntherapies.co.uk

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July 2020

July 2020

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HAIR & BEAUTY

Hair we go!

Local salons are preparing to reopen soon, here's what you can expect

be mindful of this if you are on a parking meter.

O

ne of life’s simplest pleasures is getting your hair cut and styled in a salon, and I know that many of you will have sorely missed a trip to your favourite hairdresser during lockdown.

I also know that for some readers, a whopping twenty weeks will have passed since your last trim.

Hopefully, if the national ‘R level’ remains below one, the UK’s salons will be allowed to reopen in early July – at Grateful Heads we are looking to the 6th as the day we welcome our customers back.

Under lockdown, I and my colleagues have been preparing for this date and with all the preparations and measures we’ve had to put in place to ensure that both our staff and clients are safe, it feels like I’m starting up a completely new business.

Get in touch

In the first instance, we like many salons will prioritise honouring those bookings that were cancelled when lockdown came into effect back in March. If they haven’t already done so, I would anticipate your regular stylist will be in touch to make an appointment. By all means contact your favourite salon to see when they can accommodate you.

When we reopen, we will be operating a shift system between 8am and 8pm, Monday to Saturday.

From 1:30 every day, we will close the salon to completely sanitize it before opening again at 2pm.

Please be patient and allow plenty of time, especially if you’re one of those people who has not seen the inside of a salon for the best part of five months. We will only have a maximum of three stylists per morning and afternoon shift. This will allow them to give you their best attention, but do

Bring your own protective mask

When visiting your salon, bring your own protective mask and, if you prefer, towels and clothing that you don’t mind getting splashed with a little colour or covered in hair. Of course, salons would have invested in disposable towels but if you prefer your own and don’t want to wear one of our gowns, please consider this in advance of your visit.

If needed, remember to bring your own refreshments, as the new guidelines will prevent salons offering complimentary drinks. Waiting areas will also be closed, so please expect to be asked to wait outside for a few moments before your stylist collects you and don’t bring anyone else along. Plus, shopping bags won’t be allowed under the new restrictions.

Please be mindful and tolerant of the loss of traditional personal touches. Having your hair styled is one of the most intimate and personal experiences that two relative strangers could share.

Under the ‘new normal’, the necessity for masks, gloves and Perspex screens will seem bizarre at first.

But don’t forget, your stylist will be every bit as keen to see you, as you will them.

Support your salon

After such a long time unable to work, local salons will now have to contend with restricted customer capacity but with longer opening hours and increased operational costs. This will affect their revenues, so buying gift vouchers, in-store hair products, rebooking in advance and telling as many people as you can about your positive experiences, you’ll be doing your bit to support your salon.

by Craig Smith Director of Grateful Heads Hair Salon

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Advertorial

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We have worked extensively with the current England Rugby Physiotherapist to make sure we are using the most up to date techniques and treatment approaches. Wendy herself has had these treatments successfully used to help her chronic back problem and she fully admits it’s nothing like any other treatment she has ever had before or been taught on her physiotherapy degree courses at university.

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EST 1986

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30

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A LOCAL PLUMBER FOR LOCAL PEOPLE July 2020

Advertorial

All locksmiths are the same, aren't they?

F

irstly, Brights would like to say a big thank you to all of its customers for their ongoing support during the last few months. We would also like to extend that thanks and gratitude to the NHS, key workers and support staff in doing a magnificent job during this difficult time.

Be warned!

it’s difficult for ‘bona fide’ companies to be viewed as any different from fraudsters calling themselves Locksmiths, especially when anybody can pay to be in the top position on a website search.

Trust & confidence paramount When searching for a Locksmith or security company, trust and confidence should be

You’d have thought that like most industries, locksmiths would have to go through stringent testing or a Government accreditation scheme, but the truth should come across as quite frightening…

paramount and evidence that the company

After all, a ‘locksmith’ is dealing with your

The name ‘Brights Locksmiths LTD’ should

security, giving you advice, supplying locks,

spring to mind when talking about the real

keys, installing home alarms, CCTV etc, so why

deal. Established in Southend for nearly

wouldn’t they have to prove firstly who they

100 years and using quality products with a

are and then be able demonstrate that they

2-year guarantee as standard demonstrates

have the skills to do the job required?

confidence in their craftsmanship and

The fact is that ANYONE can legally call

customer care programme.

themselves a locksmith and thereby set up a

So, when you’re looking for a Locksmith,

company and turn up in a smart van looking

don’t Google it, just call Brights Locksmiths

like they know what they’re doing, leaving

LTD and we’ll throw in a FREE Home Security

you the customer believing that they’re a

check too for good measures.

professional, which the scaremongers will love!

a company with a rich heritage in the town perhaps or a company that can demonstrate their qualifications and abilities.

Brights Locksmiths 01702 346274

Rogue Locksmiths

info@brightsgroup.com

With so many rogue Locksmiths out there, July 2020

has been around for a reasonable time period,

www.brightslocksmithsltd.co.uk

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

31

MONEY MATTERS

Y

Getting your finances back on track

our finances may have seen some

first step, and then you can work out how to

volatility during the Covid-19 crisis.

build your finances around these.

From sudden downturns in the

Evaluate your spending

markets and interest rate cuts, to falling salaries and job losses. Plenty of factors could have impacted your overall finances and plans for the future.

You may have dipped into savings during the crisis if your circumstances have changed.

In this case, rebuilding your savings will be a priority to get back on track with your

Here, we look at steps you could take to get

finances. Draw up a budget detailing your

your finances back on track.

monthly income and outgoings. Consider

Consider your priorities

whether you could be spending money more

The pandemic may have prompted you to

effectively, and what might be cut to boost

re-evaluate your financial priorities. You may

your cashflow and savings potential.

have had plans to travel the world, or start

The pandemic has highlighted the need for a

your own business, for example, but find that

cash fund and, ideally, you want enough put

your personal ambitions have shifted. Perhaps

away to cover three to six months’ worth of

your finances are no longer able to support

living expenses.

your goals, or you want to change these in

Save tax-efficiently

light of the crisis.

Any spare cash needs boosting however

Taking time to reconsider priorities is a wise 32

possible. Remember that income and growth

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

July 2020

on investments within an Individual Savings Account (ISA) are tax free. Over time, as the value of your investment grows, the tax benefits can significantly boost your returns.

You can save up to ÂŁ20,000 a year in an ISA in the 2020/21 tax year.

You could increase your pension contributions towards retirement saving. You may benefit from so-called pound cost averaging while the market is down, buying more shares when the price is lower and fewer shares when the price is higher. This has the potential to increase

Your capital is at risk.

This is not intended as investment advice.

No investment is suitable in all cases.

Brewin Dolphin is not a tax adviser and tax law is subject to frequent change.

and smooth returns over the long term.

Tax treatment depends on your individual

Hold your nerve

circumstances.

History shows that markets typically rebound,

London Stock Exchange, and is authorised and

Brewin Dolphin Limited is a member of the regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

given time, so hold your nerve. There may

(Financial Services Register reference number:

be further bumps ahead but cashing in your

124444). Registered office: 12 Smithfield Street, London, EC1A 9BD. Registered in England and

investments during a downturn will cement

Wales no. 2135876.

losses, without giving them time to recover. If

Rob Burgeman

you contribute regularly to your investments try to continue doing so to benefit from long

Brewin Dolphin

term returns, and gradually help your finances

020 3201 3900

back on track.

www.brewin.co.uk

Brewin Dolphin 020 3201 3900 www.brewin.co.uk July 2020

expert hair care to Essex for 30 years.

We are here to helpProviding you achieve it time you made your head grateful? your ambitions throughIsn’t expert, personalised financial planning.

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July 2020

Workshop: 01702 216638

m: 07565 633322 / 07588 002931

@cctupholstery

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

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July 2020

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35

FOOD

T

Cripsy prawns with zingy chilli

his simple dish is surprisingly versatile.

Use strips of chicken breast or large pieces of white fish, plaice works really well. Add a lovely salad and crusty bread for Saturday lunch or just as a starter.

Zest and juice 1 lime 1 spring onion, finely sliced

Method 1 - Mix the breadcrumbs, sesame seeds and

You don’t need to use a lot of oil just 3-4 tbsp and shallow fry to get the lovely crispy effect.

Serves 2, enjoy!

lime zest together and season with salt.

Ingredients

and then into the crumbs and coat thoroughly.

2 - Dip the prawns in the flour then the egg

50g breadcrumbs

3 - Heat the oil in a frying pan and when hot

3 tbsp sesame seeds

cook the prawns in batches for 2-3 minutes

Zest of 1 lime

until golden and crispy.

200g raw king prawns, deveined

4 - Mix the ingredients for the dipping sauce

2 tbsp plain flour

together and serve with the prawns.

1 egg beaten Vegetable oil for shallow frying

For dipping sauce 4 tbsp sweet chilli sauce

36

by Judy Barden Next month: 3 Bean salad with citrus dressing

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July 2020

July 2020

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37

Bentalls Close, Sutton Road, Southend-on-Sea SS2 5PT 01702 463363

YOUR NO.1 CHOICE FOR BATHROOM & SHOWER SUPPLIES

VE SI N E M XTROO E , GE HOW R S LA

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R J M Landscapes of Rayleigh Creative, competitive, conscientious

PATIOS � DRIVEWAYS � FENCING � DECKING � PONDS PLANTING � TURFING � CONSTRUCTION & MAINTENANCE

• City & Guilds trained • Free consultation and estimates • Fully insured

Rayleigh Office: 01268 642896 / 07703 444244 Email: rjm4landscapes@gmail.com www.rjmlandscapes.co.uk

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July 2020

Specialists in Marble and Granite Kitchen & Bathroom Worktops Tailor-made Fireplaces to suit your home

Call: 01702 615760 Units 8–9 Robert Leonard Industrial Estate, Stock Road, Southend-on-Sea SS2 5QD

www.abbeymarble.co.uk

Really positive signs Hopson Property Services

Selling, managing and letting properties consistently for over 20 years.

• FREE Rental and Sales Appraisal Service • Rent Guarantee Available • A.R.L.A Members (offering client money protection) • FREE Professional advice • Large Client-Base of Fully-Vetted Tenants and Purchasers

sales : 01702 334353 lettings : 01702 390990

e : info@hopsonproperty.co.uk w : hopsonproperty.co.uk

July 2020

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39

no job too small at your beck and call

T.H.M

all aspects of home maintenance:

THE HANDYMAN PROPERTY MAINTENANCE & BUILDING SERVICES

• Painting & decorating (interior and exterior) • All Roof repairs • Gutter repairs & cleaning • Fascia’s & soffits • Plaster and rendering repairs • UPVC window and door replacement/repairs • Shed bases • Patios, patios repaired, cleaning patios & driveways • Re-grouting tiles • Fencing and gates • Loft Boarding • Garden walls repaired • Property Management for Landlords

just because it’s not listed doesn’t mean we don’t do it.

Give us a call and we’ll be happy to help.

trustworthy and reliable with over 25 years’ experience in the building industry.

All works covered by liability insurance.

Free estimates and advice.

Telephone: 01702 307556 Mobile: 07984 490817 Website: www.thehandyman5.co.uk

Carpenter & Joiner JOHN SORRELL - your local carpenter and joiner for over 25 years Most aspects of woodwork and property maintenance undertaken, including:

* Doors hung * Kitchens refurbished * Wardrobes built * Wooden & laminate floors laid * Shelves fitted * Stairs refurbished * Locks supplied & fitted * Social distance/Facemask/ Handwash aware For advice and free, no-obligation quotations please telephone:

01702 902796 or 07984 924916 Friendly, professional service guaranteed

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July 2020

• Driveways and Patio Areas • Footpaths Block Paving • Natural Stone • Resin Bound Stone

free estimates professional service

• Maintenance and Cleaning • Childrens play areas

We specialise in all types of outside surfaces our team of skilled professionals carry out all aspects of landscaping services Call or email us today

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www.bespoke-surfaces.com July 2020

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41

Helping to

BRING THE OUTDOORS IN

42

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July 2020

July 2020

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43

Southend Sunrise by Mark Stennett – 2019 landscape winner.

COMPETITION

Oracle Photo Competition 2020

I

t’s time to clean up those Kodaks and lose those lens caps because Oracle is, once again, looking for its local photographers for the 6th year running!

Again, there are three categories this year, open to all ages – Local Wildlife, Local Landscape, and Local Architecture. The winner of each category get a half a day mentoring session and a free studio shoot and print for them and or family or friends, worth £175 per winner! Not only that, but the winning entries will also feature in Oracle's magazine and be put on display in Picture Perfect’s studio window on Leigh Road!

You may use any camera, including smartphones, but your pictures must be high-resolution and of good enough quality to reproduce in the magazines.

All entries may be used by Oracle for any other purpose and the author will be credited where practicable. To enter, please send in up to three photos (one per category) with titles and/or a brief description, along with your contact details, to our email address: info@oraclepublications.co.uk, no later than 10th August 2020. If you are under 18, please also include your age as this will be taken into account during judging.

Give it your best shot To help you take that perfect picture, Keith has a few hints and tips to help you on your way:

• If you have a case on your smartphone, it’s best to

take it off and give the lens a wipe before shooting.

• Lighting is most dramatic in the early morning and late afternoon/early evening.

• Unless it’s setting, taking a photograph directly into the sun can be dangerous for eyes and can also cause flare in the lens. Avoid this by shooting away from the sun or side-on to it.

• Wildlife often moves quickly so use the ’sport’

setting on your camera and a fast shutter speed setting. If your subject is moving across your vision then move your camera with it while you take the photo. This is called ‘panning’.

• Remember the ‘rule of thirds’ when composing

your shot, i.e. a shot looking across land out to sea usually looks best if either the sea or the land take up two thirds of the photo.

Good luck everyone!

Visit Keith’s website to see some of his awardwinning work: www.pictureperfect.pro

Professional Photographer Portraits • Weddings Events • Commercial 44

01702 474079 or 07931 593241 e: smile@PicturePerfect.pro www.PicturePerfect.pro 284 Leigh Rd, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 1BW

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July 2020

advertorial

Has Your Double Glazing Steamed Up? Established for over a decade Cloudy2Clear windows have become a leading company for glass replacement.

Issues with double glazing can often be gradual and may only be noticed during a clear sunny day or during the winter. A failed glass unit may no longer provide you with the protection you need or be energy efficient. Why not spend a few minutes checking your home to see if you have any failed double glazing?

If you act now you can avoid these problems.

Now, you may think you need to replace the whole window including the frames and all the hardware, however Cloudy2Clear have come up with a simple and cost saving solution‌ Just replace the glass!!

If you see condensation in your windows just visit our website or give us a call on 0800 61 21 118. We will send out our highly experienced engineers for a free no obligation quote. A Cloudy2Clear quote takes on average no longer than 20 minutes. Once the quote is completed, we will sit down with you and

explain the problem and tell you how we can fix it. With years of experience Cloudy2Clear have a wealth of knowledge and are recognised as a Which Trusted Trader, plus our work is backed by an industry leading 25 year guarantee. Cloudy2Clear also replace faulty locks handles and hinges on all windows and doors.

Your friendly local Cloudy2Clear specialist is Chris Miller and he services the Thorpe Bay & Southend area.

So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Chris a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118.

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

Cloudy2Clear Windows...

Service With A Smile!

July 2020

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Maximise your natural light with a beautiful skylight SAVE

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to all staff and any other key workers*

Free survey for roof and room design A wide range of lanterns and skylights available All roof lanterns have an aluminium finish All our skylights are compliant with Building Regulations Pilkington self-clean temperature glass as standard All structural works undertaken by High-Tech All internal works inclusive of new electrics and lighting

Roof lanterns look great inside and out High-Tech have installed nearly 11,000 roofing projects. Every roof installed comes with a LIFETIME guarantee. Let us, a company built on trust transform your extension or conservatory.

A complete extension or conservatory thermally efficient transformation All waterproofing products will have our LIFETIME guarantee as standard

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Are you retired?

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Call: 01702 668977 www.flatroofs.net *T&Cs apply. Please see our website for details on Key Worker Discounts. Head Office: Linden House, 30 Linden Road, Benfleet, Essex SS7 4BA

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July 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

roof insulation is fitted along with new external UPVC roof line and guttering products. It is then made permanently water tight with our lifetime guaranteed flat roof system.

The glass roof light is installed.

Followed by internal installation of a new conventional plaster board ceiling along with lighting etc. The ceiling is plastered ready for painting.

Thus, giving you a beautiful sky room orangery, oozing natural light.

High-Tech will always remove the existing roof and comply with building regulations.

WORKING WITH COVID-19.

WE ARE STILL ABLE TO OFFER FREE QUOTATIONS AND CARRY OUT EMERGENCY ROOFING WORKS. WE ARE PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE WE ARE STRETCHING OUR DISCOUNTS FOR THE RETIRED TO INCLUDE EX FORCES, NHS STAFF AND OTHER KEYWORKERS

High-Tech will create a luxurious living space. There are tiled roof conversions creating a more closed in style of room with no or limited natural light. An orangery style sky room with a glass lantern or sky light will not only offer the WOW factor, it will also give all the natural light required.

Bring your conservatory back to life, add value to your home and enjoy the comforts.

The Problem

The Solution

We can assure you all quotations are carried outside and social distancing is being adhered to at all times. Please stay safe.

Always 100% committed to customer care and satisfaction July 2020

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47

Paul’s Gardening Services A friendly, family-run business Very competitive quotes (with concessions)

● GARDEN MAINTENANCE From weekly weekly visits visits to to total total clearouts clearouts From

● TREES FELLED & TOPPED Hedges also also trimmed trimmed Hedges

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Phone Paul on 07957 388285 or freefone 0800 043 3913 e: paulthegardener@hotmail.com Est. 1994 1994 –– Recommendations Recommendations & & references references available available Est.

48

High Quality service guaranteed

No job too small!

GMH Renovations tel: mob:

01702 307 233 07775 500 420

email: ghenrym65@gmail.com 58 Yarnacott, Shoeburyness SS3 8AP

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July 2020

DISCOUNT CARPET WAREHOUSES LIMITED

It’s good to welcome our customers back again!

Carpets, rolls, remnants, vinyl’s all in stock and room size remnants available.

Ceramic floor and wall tiles, many imported.

Laminate flooring and a wide range of rugs also available.

45 years of very successful trading in Southend.

Thank you, it’s good to be back!

USE OUR OWN FREE CAR PARK 141-159 SUTTON ROAD, SOUTHEND-ON-SEA, SS2 5PB

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Emergency Electrician Established locally over 25 years Faults our speciality No Job too small Special rates for OAP’s No call out charge

Tel: Tel:

50

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July 2020

WHITE GOLD PLATING FACILITY

Specialising in Bespoke Handmade Jewellery and remodelling of your old jewellery.

Call in for a free consultation.

18ct yellow gold & diamond rub-over set cocktail ring - £2995 lavishly set with a total of 1.50cts of diamonds.

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01702 615056

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(rhodium plating) only £25 per item Ends 31/07/20

9ct rose gold & diamond rub-over set ring - only £895 set with seven brilliant cut diamonds weighing over half a carat in total.

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For more informatio n or a

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51

LOCAL SUGGESTIONS

A blooming solution

T

he current epidemic has put a massive strain on local authorities and over the past few months up and down the country, councils have battled to keep core services going while also providing economic relief to local businesses. As a result some non-essential maintenance has been placed on hold.

A long term solution It’s been noticed around Southend that some verges on the road side have been left to grow, either due to council gardening teams being instructed to stay home or emergency cost cutting initiatives employed by a desperate council. This is a prudent and pragmatic approach and isn’t a criticism but it must be considered that maybe there is an opportunity here for the council to adopt a long term cost saving solution when it comes to maintenance of our parks and roadside verges, a solution that saves the council money but also provides a tranquil benefit to both residents and wildlife.

The argument is that councils can save money on extensive mowing by letting neatly-mown grass verges develop into “mini meadows” where wild flowers along with wildlife can blossom (council gardeners would sow wild flower seeds first before letting verges grow) .

This is not a novel approach, several councils have already adopted this method such as Rotherham (who let an 8 mile long stretch along a major route develop into a “river of flowers”).

52

Hartlepool has also heeded the call and mini meadows have sprouted up in Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, Birmingham, Newcastle and Sheffield.

According to Plantlife (a British conservation charity) the UK has lost 97% of its wildflower meadows in the course of a century. The desire for keeping urbans areas looking neat and providing ease of access for litter-picking has resulted in councils' inclination to keep verges short.

A noble endeavor that still saves money According to an online BBC article Rotherham Borough council has saved an estimated £23,000 a year in mowing costs since adopting the new policy. This may seem insignificant compared to the millions it must spend on services, but when combined with the hundreds of other cost cutting initiatives councils are having to adopt due to Government cutbacks at least this one can be passed off as a noble endeavor that still saves money.

All things considered, we are all aware of the negative impact urbanisation has had on insect populations, especially pollinators such as bees.

Given the dynamic and aggressive change we are seeing and have seen over the decades concerning our wildlife, they need all the help they can get.

Charles Wynne-Morgan Local resident

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July 2020

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July 2020

HETAS and OFTEC Registered Installers

THESE PRICES INCLUDE: flue pipe, closure plate, liner, caps, clamps, plates etc., and fitting by HETAS and OFTEC Registered Installers.

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! til 31.07.20 F F t* un O % ver

1wit0h this ad

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BRAINBOX 2 5

6

8

8

9

7

4 3

7

5

6

4 8

1

3

3

6

2 9

8 3

6

9 Based in

SOLE

SUDOKU – Enter numbers

COSY

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

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

CONUNDRUM – Unscramble to solve the clue.

F

E

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L

Clue: A tall annual plant.

N

U O

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QUALIFIED • LICENCED • INSURED • 24HR EMERGENCY Tree Pruning • Shaping Precision Felling • Thinning Stump Grinding • Dead Wooding • Ground Maintenance

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Local garage with a good service history WE MOT & SERVICE ELECTRIC CARS

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224600 435555

Bansal Pharmacy 587500 178 The Broadway, Mon–Fri 9–6.30pm/Sat 9–1pm Howells and Harrison Thorpe Bay Pharmacy 582658 The Broadway, Mon–Fri 9–6.30pm/Sat 9–5.30pm Closed 1–2pm Wed+Sat

Local MP 586383 534495 0344 4770 808 588662 0800 555 111 213843 456800 615000 0800 169 0190 0300 123 6600 215620 116123 393933 215000 898900 0845 4565995

Actorcrats (Amateur Dramatics) 306506 Belfairs Mixed Bowling 525648 Burges Estate Residents Association (BERA) 588662 Charles Dicken’s Fellowship 588069 Cockleshell Clog Morris 218081 Essex Handicrafts Association 479862 Essex Society for Family History 522992 Leigh-on-Sea Royal British Legion 559996 Lower Thames Rowing Club 482205 Naval & Military Club 347169 Piertalk 07474 119899 Prittlewell Bowls Club 612476 Scouts: Southend, Thorpe Bay & Shoeburyness 584026 Southchurch Park Bowling Club 07434 190067 Southchurch Croquet Club at Rayleigh 525106 Southend Anglo Italian Circle 712177 Southend & District Pensioners Campaign 341047 Southend Blind Welfare Association 342131 Southend Bowls Club 467073 Southend Cardiac Support Group 309042/293469 Southend Chess Club (Steve – Club Secretary) 345902 Southend Golf Club 473206 Southend-on-Sea Lions Club 582828 Southend Photographic Society 332491 Southend Rugby Club 546682 South Essex Natural History Society 588115 St Augustine’s Church 587597 Stone Masons & Dry Stone Wallers 292867 Thames Estuary Lacemakers 476034 The Shoebury Society 586622 The Wine Circle 295325 Thorpe Bay Art Group 585382 Thorpe Bay Bowling Club 582074 Thorpe Bay Bridge Club 875234 Thorpe Bay Floral Arrangement Group 585350 Thorpe Bay Horticultural Society 588297 Thorpe Bay Ladies Thursday Club 296975 Thorpe Bay Lawn Tennis Club 585245 Thorpe Bay Men’s Forum 588297

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Primary Care Trust Southend General Hospital

James Duddridge (Conservative)

Animal Welfare

616135

Downes & Prtnrs, Veterinary Surgeon RSPCA Rochford

584511 0300 1234 999

Police emergency Police non-emergency Essex Police Marine Unit HM Coastguard

999 101 01245 452815 01702 294998

Police Services

Public Services

Southend Forum 215011 Bournes Green Post Office 582241 Traveline 0871 200 2233 Arriva Southend 0844 800 4411 First 01268 525251 National Express 08705 80 80 80 Odeon Cinema 0871 2244007 SSAFA (Soldiers, Sailors, Airmens Families Assoc.)

463113 24 hour Emergency Homeless Shelter 430696

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Manufactured in Great Britain

Paul Newman Interiors have been creating, designing and installing exciting and exclusive kitchens and bathrooms since 1984 from leading manufacturers Siematic, Charles Yorke and Villeroy & Boch.

Attention to detail sets us apart and our team of expert fitters will ensure you are delighted with your new room. We also offer a complete building programme.

136 High Street, Hadleigh, Essex, SS7 2PB T: 01702 552 868 | E: info@paulnewmaninteriors.co.uk www.paulnewmaninteriorsltd.co.uk

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WOLF • SUB-ZERO • SIEMENS • SIEMATIC • CHARLES YORKE • BORA • GAGGENAU • VILLEROY & BOCH • HANSGROHE • ARDECO • TOTO • KOINOR

July 2020