March Thorpe Bay Oracle 2012 by Oracle Publications

Thorpe Bay

March 2012

ORACLE Thorpe Bay at a glance Est. Sept 2005. Circulation 5,100

WIN! Oracle Competition Destination Private Members Spa Spa experience worth ÂŁ300

Local Issues

Giving Young People a Sporting Chance

Recipe Almond and Lemon Curd Cake

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Cover photography by Jamie Burroughs www.jamieburroughsfoto.com

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Thorpe Bay

OR ACLE

publisher’s letter

ood news, Thorpe Bay Oracle has increased its circulation by a further 600 copies due to popular demand from residents on the Garrison and behind the Angel Pub. Oracle’s clients will be pleased to hear that there is no rate increase for this additional service! Last month’s Local Issues covered a volunteer who ended up joining the Samaritans. I just wanted to make it clear that the person the article was about, was not Joanne Buzer herself, but a fellow volunteer. Oracle has teamed up with Destination Private Members Spa & Clinic of Leigh, who is offering one lucky reader the chance to win a two hour Spa journey for two people in their deluxe double opulence room, followed by a glass of champagne whilst relaxing in their Light Therapy Relaxation room. The value of this Spa experience is £300. Destination, launches on 10 – 14 April for more information please call Destination on 01702 622842 or email launch@destinationluxuryspa.com Jamie Burroughs, local photographer, has kindly donated the images for both Oracle’s front covers. Portrait photography is his passion, check out his website www.jamieburroughsfoto.com. Happy Mothers day on the 18th!

Emma Wynne-Morgan Publisher

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ORACLE contents Local Issues Giving Young People a Sporting Chance 9/10 By Francesca Wynne-Morgan Beware the eyes of March Hair & Beauty by Craig Smith

Pension Reforms

Money Matters by Jacqui Moyies

Under The Hammer 28 Ask the Auctioneer by Trevor Cornforth Almond and Lemon Curd Cake Judy's Recipe Page

Low Back Pain Health & Beauty by Cris Ramis

Understanding Architecture Planning by Tim Knight

Sudoku

Diary Dates

56 64 66

Useful Numbers Advertiser Index

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Advertorial

8 Years Gorgeous! H

ello Gorgeous Beauty Salon is celebrating eight successful years in business on The Broadway,Thorpe Bay – proving that being located on a first floor (rather than street level premises) was a challenge but not an issue. The success of Hello Gorgeous is down to its friendly, professional and unhurried customer service. Justine Becaglia, the salon owner, prides herself in the fact that her staff understand that each and everyone of its customers is an individual and with that in mind they strive to offer a personalised treatment plan that best suits each customer’s needs. Bearing in mind the present economic climate, Hello Gorgeous is very keen to introduce ways in which to help its customers’ money stretch further. Its latest initiative is a Loyalty Card that enables clients to collect points which they will be able to redeem against treatments. Please make sure you ask for your Loyalty Card on your next visit!

Hello Gorgeous has always offered 10% discount to clients under the age of 18 but now this offer is to be extended to all students, upon production of a current ‘bona fide’ student card. If you feel that none of the above applies to you, don’t despair! Hello Gorgeous is now tailoring its price list to reflect the length of time which each therapist has been qualified. All Hello Gorgeous therapists are fully qualified and Justine insists on a regime of regular refresher training and in house workshops but to offer their clients further choices, their less experienced therapist will be available at a more affordable rate. Don’t forget that old saying, “look after the pennies and the pounds will look after themselves”. Hello Gorgeous is very keen for its clients to not just enjoy their experience at the salon but to go away feeling that they have had value for money. For further information why not pop in to the salon (above the Lighting shop) and pick up a treatment menu. The unisex beauty salon prides itself in delivering first-class service on all treatments. The range of treatments is very extensive, ensuring that there is something for everyone. To talk about all of the treatments in detail would fill the Oracle, therefore we have concentrated on reminding you of the more exclusive treatments that are offered at Hello Gorgeous. The ever desirable HD Brows, as favoured by celebrities like Cheryl Cole, Dannii Minogue and

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Katie Price, to name but a few, is an art form in itself! Whether your eyebrows are overgrown or over plucked, HD Brows can sculpt your brows into the perfect shape for your face and transform the way you look and feel about yourself. Hello Gorgeous offers this exclusive treatment and has many clients from outside the area using this state-of-the-art brow treatment. The salon’s highly experienced Manager, Carolina – she of the beautiful Italian accent - is the HD specialist and she is more than happy to discuss this and of course all other treatments offered by the salon, with both regular and potential clients. Carolina and Justine are happy to answer your email queries if you would care to contact them at info@hellogorgeousbeautysalon.com or just pick up the phone and give them a call. Did you know that Hello Gorgeous holds a Medical Aesthetics Clinic offering Dermal Fillers and Facial Muscle Injectables? Sally Sills RGN, SCM, who specialises in these treatments has a wealth of medical experience and is very happy to give customers a free, no obligation consultation, to allow customers to ask all those questions they may have before deciding upon any treatment.Make an appointment for an initial free consultation and be one step closer to looking years younger without that awful surgery.

Lashes are big and every girl wants to know how to get that big lash look. Hello Gorgeous offers semi-permanent lash extensions and permanent make-up. Heidi Worman at Hello Gorgeous is one of the most recognised specialists around Essex and offers clients the chance to have longer, thicker and very natural looking lashes. If you have lost your eyelashes or are looking for fuller lips with a natural rosy glow, permanent makeup offers this correction along with many other procedures. Ring for a free no obligation appointment on 01702 584 737. One of our happy customers said: “Thanks for the Dermalogica treatments, I really enjoyed them. I was so scared before I came in (never having a full body treatment before) but you both put me at ease within seconds..... My skin still feels great so I may have to purchase some of your Dermalogica creams as well!"

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Local Issues

Giving young people a sporting chance By Francesca Wynne-Morgan

iving young people a sporting chance l Creating new pathways for their participation, The Lord’s Taverners exists to enhance the development and competition in sport prospects of disadvantaged and disabled young people using cricket and other forms of sport and l Providing play, sports and sensory equipment recreation to engage with them. The Lord’s Taverners is a thriving club, the official We achieve this by: Using specially adapted forms charity for recreational cricket and the UK’s leading of cricket and cricket equipment to engage with youth cricket and disability sports charity. young people and enable the delivery of a variety Our sporting roots are with the cricketing family, but we also have relationships with a wide range of of youth development programmes other sports including rugby, golf, football, tennis l Delivery, management and support of inner and basketball. city, disability and other youth cricket activities We envisage a future where all young people, and competitions . irrespective of background and ability, have the l Supporting the installation of non-turf pitches everyday opportunity to play cricket and enjoy to increase the opportunities for young people other sports and physical activities to the benefit of their self-esteem, health, education and future to play and donation of hundreds of cricket socio-economic potential. equipment bags to communities, clubs and school teams across the UK . The Lord’s Taverners benefits hugely from the l Pathways for young people into employment, fundraising activities of The Lady Taverners, our education, training and other positive activities, Regions and 5,000 Members, many of them drawn from the world of sport and entertainment. This including mainstream cricket year is the 25th Anniversary of The Lady Taverners with many celebrations for the Silver Jubilee Supporting sporting and recreational happening all over the country. activities for young people with special needs At the heart of The Lord’s Taverners are the tireless l Supplying specially adapted minibuses and efforts of our Regions.Throughout the course of the sports wheelchairs, giving young people vital year our Regional volunteers do exceptional work. transportation and access to sport and recreation MARCH 2012

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The Lord’s Taverners currently have 26 Regions which are supported by 24 Lady Taverner Regions. Highlights of our charitable activities. The Lord’s Taverners Cricket for Change Programme Street Elite, our mentoring initiative which specifically works with NEET (not in education, employment or training) young people in London, was launched at the House of Commons in July 2011. To date, we have engaged with 24 young people who are being trained, coached and given the opportunity to get professional coaching qualifications to enable them to deliver sports programmes in their local borough. over 50 years. The organisation’s mission – to ensure that everyone across the country has access Street20, our street cricket programme aimed at to outdoor space for sport, play and recreation – reaching young people in deprived urban and rural fits closely with our aim of giving disadvantaged areas across the UK, was rolled-out in Basildon, and disabled young people a sporting chance. Harlow, Birmingham, Bristol, Crawley, Hastings, Brighton and Newcastle in 2011. HRH Prince Philip, our Twelfth Man, is also Patron of Fields in Trust. To celebrate his 90th Birthday durLV= SOS Kit Aid ing 2011, and recognising that Fields in Trust is a Since its launch on 5 April 2011, our kit recycling beneficiary of The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in scheme has collected 20,000kg of unwanted cricket 2012, we increased our annual donation to the and rugby kit from individuals, schools, clubs and Charity to £47,000 for the period under review. businesses across the UK.This kit will enable 20,000 Get involved youngsters in the UK and overseas to enjoy playing cricket and rugby for the first time. Your local Region is Essex with Les Rowland as the Chairman of The Lord’s Taverners and Linda Bees as LV= SOS Kit Aid won the 2011 Community Chairman of The Lady Taverners. Recycling Initiative Award for Excellence in Recycling and Waste Management, organised by Future events in Essex include: letsrecycle.com. April 26th The Lord’s Taverners Golf Day at Fields in Trust

Warley Park Golf.

We are proud to have supported Fields in Trust October 5th The Lord’s Taverners Greyhound (formerly National Playing Fields Association) for Racing day at Romford Greyhound Stadium. Please contact Les Rowland for further details on 01799 521192. To find out how you can help us give even more disadvantaged and disabled young people a sporting chance, please get in touch.

020 7821 2828 www.lordstaverners.org contact@lordstaverners.org Registered Charity No. 306054

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Happy Learning C

hoosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions that we have to make as parents. You want your child to do well at school, but more than that you want them to be happy, to be encouraged to ‘reach for the stars’, and for their achievements to be recognised and celebrated, all in a safe an nurturing environment. It can be hard to find a school that does all this, and supports the core values that we want our children to live by. At St. Hilda’s School we put the happiness of our pupils at the heart of their education: unless a child is happy they will not learn effectively or realise their true potential. This is why we are committed to keeping class size small so that all our pupils are known well, becoming part of the St. Hilda’s family of committed dedicated staff and the pupils in their care. “The family environment is extremely important to us and is clearly beneficial to our daughter’s confidence.” Lower School parent

style does not suit everyone, which is where St. Hilda’s offers a completely different concept in education. We recognise that children have individual gifts and talents which should be celebrated and developed.This is why our staff work hard to provide an education tailored to each child’s needs, whether this is providing further opportunities to stretch their abilities, or a dditional support to help them achieve success. “The way the teachers work with the children is so wonderful, they sit with each child to teach … & also involve parents to go into the school to cook or read books, it’s nice that they involve us.” Early Years Parent The confidence that your child develops in this nurturing environment means that they have the best opportunity to realise their academic potential; at every stage in the school, pupils achieve excellent results for their ability. Many of our younger pupils leave us at 11 to go to one of the local grammar schools. At 16 all our pupils go on to sixth form study; many of our girls left us this year with 9 or more GCSEs with a significant number of A* and A grades. We look forward to

We are fortunate in Southend, that there are several excellent schools but this proscriptive 14 T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E www.oraclepublications.co.uk

MARCH 2012

them visiting us and telling us of the continuing success they have had since leaving. “St. Hilda’s is a superb school for encouragement, exam results and the happiness of our daughter. Well done St. Hilda’s.” Senior School parent School is more than just academic success; to help them grow into well-rounded young people, children need to be able to become involved in and enjoy a wide range of different experiences. Being a small school means that our pupils have opportunities that are often less available in larger schools: we are keen to support pupils who want to give back to the school by taking on extra responsibility and many of them become School Council members, or become a prefect; they have a good chance of being able to join one of the schools’ sports teams, or gaining a leading part in one of the annual school plays should they want to.

involving themselves in the school life of all pupils. “The school is supportive towards children and parents. It retains its caring attitude whilst ensuring the children receive an excellent education.” Senior School Parent

If you would like to see for yourself how the St. Hilda’s experience can benefit your child, contact Mrs O’Riordan on 01702 344542 or head@sthildasschool.co.uk, and I would be “I would truly recommend St Hilda's School, both to show you the school. my children are very happy there & I cannot thank St Hilda's school, guiding pupils into the school enough.” confident and aspirational young Early Years Parent people. Realising their full potential through As well as having a happy child, we want to know bespoketeaching in small classes surrounded by that our child is safe when they are at school. a friendly, safe and nurturing environment. An independent school in Westcliff taking Boys and Joining the St. Hilda’s family means that your Girls from 3 to 11years, Girls only from 11 to child becomes part of a group where every 16years. member takes responsibility for the welfare of others. Older pupils take seriously their commitment to the younger pupils and are excellent role models, helping the staff to provide a safe and secure environment, and

01702 344542 15 Imperial Avenue, Westcliff - on - Sea, Essex SS0 8NE

www.sthildasschool.co.uk head@sthildasschool.co.uk MARCH 2011

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Oracle Hair & Beauty pencil to draw in hairs. The key is to follow you natural shape, start in line with the tear duct at the inner eye and finish before the outer corner. Avoid creating a point at the top of the arch or extending the brow too low at the tip. High Streets are also seeing a brow boom, with brow and eyelash bars expanding rapidly – and it really is worth investing in a visit to a professional. It might seem bonkers to remove hair in order to make brows appear thicker, but if you get an eyebrow technician to create a clean, crisp line on the outside edges as this has the same effect as removing split ends from your hairstyle. It makes brows appear thicker overall.

Beware the eyes of March B

ig, bold and bushy is well and truly back for 2012.

Easy, Tiger! Before you get the wrong idea, I’m talking about eyebrows! The days of plucking and waxing to a pencil thin line are over (well, for now at least) and have been replaced by big, statement brows! Fortunately this season’s hot beauty trend does not mean having to adopt the Scouse Brow - favoured by D-lebrities everywhere, including the entire female casts of Desperate Scousewives and TOWIE. Nobody in their right mind wants to look like they’ve been attacked by an over-excited toddler with a marker pen but well-shaped brows do create a natural frame that accentuates your eyes.

So how do you do it? The average person has 250 hairs in each eyebrow, though some people have up to 550. A problem many women have in the pursuit of the perfect arch is over-plucking. The result of which is often patchy, triangular-shaped brows that are incredibly ageing. Unlike men, as women get older, hair regeneration slows leaving thinner, sparser brows.

If you do prefer a DIY job, remember to start at the bridge of the nose and work outwards, removing hair only from underneath the brow. The golden rule is ‘Never pluck more than one hair at a time.’ A miraculous new serum named RapidBrow, claims it will enhance the appearance of eyebrow density by over 100% in eight weeks. For £37, the serum, available from Boots, promises to amplify the appearance of volume and density thanks to a substance called Hexatein 2 — a blend of beneficial peptides, biotin, panthenol, keratin, apple fruit cell and sweet almond extract. But the company does admit that RapidBrow is only a cosmetic product, and does not stimulate hair growth. Tinting treatments will temporarily dye brows or, for the ultimate fuss-free brows, try ‘permanent make-up’ treatments, which involve a therapist implanting pigments into the shallow layer of the skin. Using a technique called ‘electro-pigmentation’, you can achieve a full set of brows that will last up to five years. But make sure you’re shown the price before the therapist starts, not during. Looking like Mr Jelly from Psychoville for half a decade is not a good look. Unless you work in a big top.

Brushing a tinted gel on to brows can blur out patchiness and is especially effective if you’re fair-haired. Darker-haired ladies should use a brow

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Money Matters

Automatic enrolment recognises that the solution lies in private provision and compels all employers to enrol eligible jobholders in a workplace pension scheme, unless they are already a member of a qualifying scheme. A fundamental principle is that the jobholder must be enrolled and will then be able to opt out.

Pensions Reform Set To Have Major Impact

ew rules designed to resolve the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pensions savings crisis are set to have a major impact on employers and employees alike when wide-reaching reforms take place later this year. With people living longer and facing the possibility of funding a retirement that could now last 20 years or more, the Government is getting employers to enrol their workers automatically into a workplace pension to make it easier for people to start saving and not rely solely on the state pension. This automatic enrolment will allow people to decide whether to stay in or opt out of a workplace pension. It will begin in October, starting with the largest employers. Smaller employers and newly formed businesses will have until 2016/17 to comply.

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Another option open to employers is the National Employment Savings Trust, or NEST, a centralised pension scheme being run by a Government agency (NEST Corporation) to ensure that employers, including those employing low to medium earners, can access pension saving and comply with their automatic enrolment duties Pensions can seem a confusing subject, full of financial jargon and complicated rules, and the new reforms provide much food for thought. Certainly for employers, a proper strategy is going to be essential and most large scheme advisers consider that planning should already have started. For employees, it is important to remember that your life in retirement is going to be very different from your working one, both personally and financially. Outgoings are likely to be lower, but you may want to spend more money on leisure activities. That is why it is essential to seek professional advice and start planning for retirement now, whatever your age, to provide an income that is going to see you through potentially many more years than those enjoyed by previous generations. by Jacqui Moyies

It is all designed to reinvigorate pension To receive a complimentary guide covering Wealth Management Retirement Planning or saving in the UK, create a simpler system to Inheritance Tax Planning, contact: help people make better informed decisions about how much they need to save privately, Jacqui on 01702 589553 Jacqui.moyies@sjpp.co.uk and make it easier for them to plan for their or visit www.sjpp.co.uk/jacquimoyies retirement. 20 MARCH 2012 T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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Thorpe Hall Prepares for Success T

horpe Hall School was again confirmed as one of the top independent schools in Essex in the 2011 Secondary School Performance Tables, published at the end of January by the Department for Education. The tables chart the performance of English secondary schools at GCSE (or equivalent) and every school in the country is ranked by the percentage of pupils gaining at least five A* to C grades, including the key subjects of English and mathematics. The forward thinking Thorpe Bay school was shown to outperform other independent schools with 91% of pupils achieving top grades, second to only one other school in the area. Forward thinking is vital to exam success at Thorpe Hall as Headteacher Andrew Hampton explained, ‘Planning and preparation for exams is a process we start very early in our Lower School. From the age of 7 children automatically enter a two-stage programme designed to prepare them comprehensively for the 11+ exam and for gaining entry into the High Schools. Children are of course welcome to stay on to our Upper School but our first thought for the more able Juniors is to do the best we can for their 11+ chances to give families as many options as possible. In our highly successful Upper School we excel in all core subjects at GCSE and offer a total of 16 different pathways to choose from. The curriculum is further enriched by activities such as Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme and the BE@T Business and Enterprise initiative. Children

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are challenged, engaged and inspired and the results are evident in these latest Performance Tables. Education is not all about league positions though and whilst it is rewarding to see Thorpe Hall up at the top of the tables, our focus is always on the individual and helping them to fulfill their potential – whatever that may be. That’s our own measure of success and we are firmly committed to it”.

From the 2011 Secondary School (GCSE & Equivalent) Performance Tables: Brentwood School, Brentwood Thorpe Hall School, Thorpe Bay Trinity School, Brentwood New Hall School, Chelmsford St Hilda’s School, Westcliff-on-Sea St John’s School, Billericay

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open morning Saturday 10th March from 10am to 12pm Prospective parents and families are invited to join us at our open morning to:Take a tour of our school and its excellent facilities including the 250 seat, fully equipped theatre, state of the art ICT suites, dedicated studios for food, textiles and D&T and extensive sports and recreation amenities. Meet some of our exceptional nursery, lower and upper school staff and find out how we achieve our outstanding results through forward thinking and first class teaching practices. Meet Headteacher Andrew Hampton and learn more about the many ways in which he and his team bring education to life at Thorpe Hall School. Thorpe Hall is a co-educational day school with excellent facilities and outstanding results. With separate nursery, lower school and upper school, it offers parents great flexibility in the paths they choose for their childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s education from early years aged 2-5 years, through preparatory stages aged 6-11 years and all the way to GCSE from 12-16 years.

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Under The Hammer

Ask the Auctioneer

Trevor Cornforth

ach month Trevor Cornforth of Chalkwell Auctions will be answering some of your questions about antiques and collectibles whether you are thinking of selling or just curious. With almost 40 years as an auctioneer under his belt, and 50 as a dealer, he is well qualified to help. A few weeks ago I had an email from a lady in Leigh who had inherited a collection of gold coins and wondered what was the best way of selling them? My advice was that although the price of gold is high and many buyers say they are paying “best prices” it is often not the case. Selling in auction, even after a reasonable commission charge, is usually better as buyers will compete to get them and they are likely to be sold as coins and not bullion. Many foreign collectors are prepared to pay over the odds to get them. So many have been melted down now that the older coins, especially larger denominations, have become rarer and commanding higher prices.

Sovereigns have been selling for up to £240 each

A Chinese screen very similar to the one which made £15,000

£15,000. The under bidder was in Shanghai. Both were anxious to have it and saw it as a good investment even though it had no great age. However, on another day it could have sold for £1,200 and it would have been the right price! If you would like something valued, for sale or just interest, email me at info@chalkwellauctions.co.uk or call me on 01702 613260 and I’ll be happy to help.Your item may be included in the next issue.

I get lots of enquiries about Oriental items as it has become a speciality of ours. People have seen that some Chinese ceramics have made astronomical prices and they are hoping to have a” lottery” win too. It’s quite rare but I did value an 18thC Chinese porcelain censor last year which went on to sell for over £150,000, bang on my estimate.There can also be some unexpected results. A few months ago we had a beautiful late 20thC porcelain floors screen in one of our sales. I would usually have expected it to realise between £1,200 and £1,500 but the hammer finally went down to a buyer in Beijing for

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Cedars Care Centre is a modern and purpose built residential care cen centre tre situated in a pleasant area of Southen Southend nd very close to the town centre and is easilyy accessed by road and public transport.

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Advertorial

Seafront café launches Southend’s first Salt Beef Bar

ome of the choices on the new Water’s Edge Café menu may have taken a thousand years to develop but, thankfully, they’ll only take a matter of moments to order - giving you more time to savour and enjoy.

Following traditional recipes and using only the freshest, quality ingredients, Water’s Edge’s homemade specialties are wonderfully heimishe – homely, comforting.

The popular restaurant on Southend seafront, famed for filling stomachs and warming hearts for over five years, has launched the town’s first kosherstyle Salt Beef Bar and Homemade takeaway service.

“If you’re too pushed or bushed to cook, we’ll happily do it for you!”, says owner Steve Halfteck. “Whether you want one of our amazing, hot, salt beef sandwiches as a lunchtime treat, or you’re having a party and would prefer to be the perfect host,rather stuck in the kitchen,we can cater for you.”

Traditional favourites such as salt beef, gefilte fish and chopped liver can now be ordered to take home for a properly satisfying lunch in the office or round to mum’s as a peace offering for not visiting sooner.

Whilst the Water’s Edge Café’s menu satisfies all tastes, it is their epic salt beef - pickled for up to two weeks and then simmered in a secret blend of ingredients for up to five hours – for which the Café is justifiably famous and Steve is most proud of. “We’ve always prided ourselves on the quality and freshness of the ingredients we use. I’ve never cut corners when it comes to looking after my customers and when I wanted to introduce salt beef onto the menu, nothing quite matched my

T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E

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MARCH 2012

mother’s.There was nothing else to do, so I brought her to the Café and got her to teach my son in law and Head Chef, Lee. It took a few goes - and some harsh words from her - but I’m proud to say that we now serve the best salt beef this side of Golders Green. Enjoy it with a homemade Latke – for those who don’t know, it’s a potato pancake, similar to a rosti or hash brown, but waaaaay better than both.” He adds: “If you don’t believe me, buy some and try it. If you do believe me, buy some and tell your friends. And your mother too!”

organising and we’ll happily put together a suggested menu to tickle your taste buds and placate your purse.”

Other perennial favourites appearing on the menu include a Steak & Mushroom Pie Dinner, (choice chuck steak and mushrooms combined in a rich red wine and onion gravy), Liver and Onion Dinner (lamb’s liver cooked to perfection with rich onion gravy) or succulent Hand Carved Ham with Egg and Chips. And in keeping with its seafront location, Cod, Plaice, Haddock and Salmon are all on the menu along with Wholetail Scampi. All fish can be cooked in Matzo meal or batter, or grilled as a healthier option.

You can find Water’s Edge at 9 Palmeira Parade, Under the Arches on Westcliff seafront.

If you are you having a party, social gathering, or inviting a few friends over for a rubber of bridge, let Water’s Edge take care of the catering, while you take care of your guests. We can supply anything and everything you see on menu – and more! “Tell us more about the party or event you’re

Alternatively, the Take Away is available! Wednesday to Sunday 12– 8pm. Free Delivery within a 4 mile radius on orders over £10, (£2 charge otherwise). 10% discount on collection. Find out more about Water’s Edge by visiting Facebook.com/WatersEdgeWoS or Twitter: @watersedgewos The full takeaway menu can be found online at: http://www.scribd.com/doc/75575801/Water-sEdge-Take-Away-Menu

01702 353551 www.facebook.com/watersEgdeWoS 9 Palmeira Parade, Westcliff Seafront MARCH 2012

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recipe of the month In the Kitchen with Judy Barden To serve : 150ml pot double cream, whipped 3/4 tbsp lemon curd Caster sugar for sprinkling Lemon zest, optional Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 180c/fan 160/gas 4. Lightly butter and line the bases of 2 x 17cm/7inch round loose-bottomed cake tins with baking parchment. 2. Use an electric whisk to beat the sugar and butter until light and fluffy, then add the vanilla extract. Gradually beat in the eggs one at a time until the mixture is fluffy again.

Almond and Lemon Curd Cake

his is a really quick cake to mix up and stays lovely and moist. It is a great base for a birthday cake and you can make it the day before and jazz it up with cream and lemon curd. Alternatively stir some dark chocolate chips through it.

3. Stir in the almonds, then sift in the flour and baking powder together, fold this through evenly. Finally, beat in the milk. Divide the mixture evenly between the tins, smooth, then bake for about 25 mins until risen and golden. 4. Test with a skewer poked into the centre; if it comes out clean the cakes are ready. Remove from the tins and cool on a wire rack. 5. Place one cake on a serving plate and spread with a layer of lightly whipped double cream and a good drizzle of lemon curd. Sandwich the second cake on top and sprinkle with caster sugar and a little lemon zest

Enjoy! Next month’s recipe:

Almond and Lemon Curd Cake

‘Deep- filled Egg and Bacon Pie’

Ingredients: 150g/5oz unsalted butter softened plus extra for greasing 175g/6oz caster sugar 2 tsp vanilla extract 3 large eggs 75g/3 oz ground almonds ½ tsp almond extract 175g/6oz plain flour 1 ½ tsp baking powder 30ml/ 2tbsp milk

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Understanding Architechture

Planning I

n the last issue I bombarded you with text extolling the virtues of the Architect and their unrivalled skill in the world of design. Now you have had time to recover we are ready for the really contentious subject of Planning!! Most people’s experience of planning is limited to ‘householder’ or residential planning applications. However there are different types of permission including outline, advertisements and specialist permissions for listed buildings, conservation areas and tree preservation. In addition there are “Permitted Development Rights” for some small extensions to residential properties which do not require planning permission. For details of types of application, development rights and whether your property applies visit www.planningportal.gov.uk Many of you will have some experience of planning and will know it can be a complex issue and never be guaranteed, as each application may be treated differently. However the chances of approval may be improved if certain procedures are followed for all types of application Once your imaginative and sympathetic Architect, who understands your inner most desires, has produced your dream house or design this proposal must be presented to the planners in the most favourable light. With any remotely controversial or unique designs pre-application consultation is encouraged, though for simple schemes this may not be unnecessary.This

T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E

involves a meeting or exchange of letters and drawings to give the planners an opportunity to comment on your design, prior to submission. The planner’s response is not definitive nor can it be held as an agreement to an approval, however it should provide information and comment to assist an application, whether positive or not. Your Architect or agent should ensure all necessary information is included. If there is one piece of advice I would suggest it is to ensure your agent does not ‘under submit’…… less is definitely NOT more. In order to justify your application supply as much information as possible to demonstrate your scheme is a positive addition. This may include perspectives, models, computer images, details and statements of support in order to prove your case. The information may cost more at the outset but the benefits are huge. I feel it is always best not to leave it to the interpretation of planners or the subjectiveness of committee members to make a favourable decision….They have been known to be wrong! Planning is too complex to deal in a single issue so I am very happy to answer specific questions at info@oraclepublications.co.uk By Tim Knight Sponsored by:

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A little corner of an English Heaven Savour a drink and good company at the award-winning, traditional, Angel Inn, Free House. at North Shoebury Enjoy the west-facing, beer-garden and extensive views across ripening cornfields. Thatched roof, flagstone floor, exposed timbers, wide range of Real Ales, good wines and excellent food. No gaming machines. No loud music. No TV screens. Heaven! OPEN 11am - 11pm (Closed 3-5:30) Mon-Sat. 12pm - 11pm Sun

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ORACLE Diary Dates WESTCLIFF HIGH SCHOOL FOR GIRLS CAR BOOT SALE 11 March 7.30am – 2pm Buyers 30p Children & pensioners free 01702 471328 VINTAGE AND HANDMADE FAYRE FREE 24 March 2012 10am Leigh Community Centre Over 60 stalls of vintage clothing, accessories, homewares and vintage inspired crafts. Authentic vintage tea room serving tasty treats all day. THORPE BAY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY SPRING FLOWER AND HOMECRAFT SHOW Saturday 31st March from 2.15 p.m St. Augustine's Church Hall Refreshments, bric a brac, plant sales etc Entrance 50p Members free EASTER MONDAY FUN DAY FREE 9 April 2012 at Shoeburyness & Thorpe Bay Baptist Church 1-4pm Join us for games, craft, bouncy castle and hot cross buns, especially suitable for families with Primary age children. SOUTH ESSEX NATURAL HISTORY EVENTS 7th March Avenue Baptist Church, Milton Road Westcliff. Intersociety Quiz 7.30pm 15th March Central Museum 7.30pm Flora of Essex, Past & Present – Ken Adams 25TH MARCH GUNNERS CAR PARK General Natural History 10.30am Chairman 01702 588 115 SOUTHEND RUGBY CLUB HOSTS BL FINALS March 31st. Starts 10.15am-5pm. Entry 50p Largest Rugby Festival. Over 700 players competing. Family day wih live music, BBQs etc. www.oraclepublications.co.uk www.twitter.com/oracle_essex

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Advertorial

Academic Academy O

n the 1st December 2011, Shoeburyness High School became an Academy.

This happened, not because we had to or because someone told us to. We became an Academy because we decided the time was right and because we believed that the school would find academy status helpful on our journey to becoming the most outstanding school nationally. Shoeburyness High School has come a long way since those dark days in 2005/6 when it was issued with a notice to improve. The then newlyappointed head teacher, Mrs Murphy, started the school on a new path, a path that resulted in a positive ethos being adopted, with a clear focus on high expectations and learning and a new “can do” spirit; a school that began to believe in itself and knew it had to improve. The figures look a lot different now: Aspect 5A*-C inc English & Maths (equiv) % 5A*-C (equiv) % Y11 Average Total Points Score (equiv) Y11 Average Capped Points Score (equiv) Y13 Average Total Points Score Y13 Average Points per Entry

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In addition, attendance is now above the national average and includes a 2% improvement since 2009. Fixed-term exclusions for 2010/11 were just 0.5% (of the total roll) compared with the national average of 8.75%. The school has won two national awards for sustained improvement and it is no wonder Shoeburyness High School is classified as “Good with Outstanding features” by OFSTED. But statistics only tell part of the story. Innovation has been at the forefront, with fast tracking, Academy groups, Double Club, Forest Schools, Gradu8, Science,Technology, Engineering 2007 30 46 360 274 564 182

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and Maths (STEM), nationally acclaimed curriculum pathways and this year our “High 5” initiative (which has already produced national interest). There has been success for gifted and talented students at local, regional and national finals, in a whole spectrum of areas from maths and debating to sport and performing arts. The school boasts a Sixth Form that is growing year on year and attracting students from outside the school with an A2 pass rate that matches the national average. This year, against national trends, the number of our students applying for university has doubled. The school’s work within the community continues through the Extended Schools and School Sports Partnership work. This has seen evening classes introduced for adults in science, maths and English, support for primary school sport, fencing clubs, Zumba, a youth club for Year 6 and 7 students, sports teams for the disabled,

the Shoeburyness Fair and the Shoeburyness Debate where youngsters have had a real influence on shaping our community. Shoeburyness High School really has changed for the better and, now we are an Academy, we are even more determined than ever to serve our community and make a real difference to the lives of our students and the wider community. Where next? Shoeburyness offers a truly inclusive education with a curriculum personalised for its learners. It’s where all learners are valued and supported in reaching for the skies, where mass participation and elitism go hand in hand and where education is seen as a journey producing continuity from primary to secondary and beyond. We believe in our students, it’s why more go to university than ever before, it’s why we are introducing a second modern foreign language, it’s why we are oversubscribed and it’s why we offer highlyregarded, industry-accepted qualifications (like our CISCO Academy) alongside highly academic subjects. We are different, we do things differently and we are proud to be different. Proud of our Students! Proud of our School! Proud to be an Academy! By Karen Stock

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James Duddridge (Con)

01702 616135

ANIMAL WELFARE Downes & Prtnrs, Veterinary Surgeon RSPCA Rochford

584511 548261

POLICE SERVICES 24 hour Emergency Number 01702 430696 293748 Shoebury Police Station (Mon-Fri 9-6pm) Southend Police Station (24 hours a day) 0300 3334444 Thorpe Ward Neighbourhood Specialist Officer Warren Lamb 07976 325346 Marine Police 01268 775533 Thames Coastguard 01255 675518 PUBLIC SERVICES Central Library Southend High Street Post office Bournes Green Post Office Traveline Arriva Southend First National Express Odeon Cinema

215011 391063 582241 0871 200 2233 08701 201088 01268 525251 08705 80 80 80 0871 2244007

Whitney Houston 1963 - 2012

COUNCIL & SERVICES Southend Council Civic Centre Council Tax & Benefits Environment and domestic Council Waste Department Jobcentre Southend

215000 215001 215005 215006 575700

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

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608908 224600 435555 462944 08454647

'My mother taught me that when you stand in the truth and someone tells a lie about you, don't fight it'

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MARCH 2012

aving been open now for getting on three years Volkswagen Van Centre Chelmsford are delighted to announce that Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles have awarded Chelmsford Van Centre Tour Dealer status from January 2012.

opening. We are really excited to now be able to offer this fantastic vehicle to Essex and the surrounding area". For further information with regard the Volkswagen California or any other exciting Commercial vehicle products please call.

This is a tremendous achievement for such a young Van Centre and has really now given the Van Centre the ability to offer the full range of vehicles imported by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles UK. Chris Bunce, Head of Business at Chelmsford says: "Having the ability to now sell this prestigious product is a great credit to the way the van centre has grown and developed in its short time since MARCH 2012

01245 216456 Westway Chelmsford Essex CM1 3BH www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/chelmsford Paul.higham@ir.inchcape.co.uk

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01702 277684

ORACLE Index to advertisers

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Wilkins Kennedy AERIALS 1st South East Aerials AIRPORT TRANSFER Air & Back ANTIQUE CLOCKS It's About Time ARCHITECT KG Architects AUCTIONEERS Chalkwell Auctions BABYSITTING Kare4Kidz BARBERS Headhunters BATHROOMS Prestige Complete Bathrooms BI-FOLDING DOORS Essex Bi-fold Door Co. BLINDS & SHUTTERS Creative Shutters & Blinds BLOCK PAVING Brook's Paving BUILDERS AJ Property Services Cortes DJ Contractors Piper Construction CAFÈ Water's Edge Café CAR DEALERSHIP VW Vans Centre CAR VALET Protouch CAR WINDSCREEN REPAIR Chips Away CARAVANS Castle Caravans CARE HOME CHC Property Cedar Care Centre Hallmark Care Homes CARER Karen Earp CARPENTRY & JOINERY John Sorrell CARPETS Gainsborough Carpets Trade Carpets CARPET CLEANING Gates Services CHARITY Lords Taverners CHIROPODIST Arthur Partington COMPUTER SERVICES Flashbyte

47 49 63 63 56 46 28 4 37 39 41 47 62 47 22 22 40 34/35 65 32 31 58 33 31 13 59 52 55 5 32 9/10 58 2

CONSERVATORIES BJ Davis 25 CONSERVATORY CLEANING ECCC 40 CYCLES Bikebase 57 DECORATORS MK Decorating 56 Paul's Professional 59 DESIGNER Caron B 39 DOMESTIC CLEANER Maid in Essex 43 EDUCATION Kip McGrath 38 Shoebury High School 60/61 St. Hilda's School 14/15 St. Michael's School 51 Thorpe Hall School 26/27 ELECTRICAL SERVICES Dan Waller Electrical 62 FENCING BVS Fencing 59 FINANCIAL SERVICES Anderson Financial 20 FIREPLACE FITTERS GAT Fireplaces 24 FUNERAL SERVICES AR Adams Funeral Services 19 FURNITURE RESTORERS TS Baskett 63 GARAGES RS Automotives 54 Service Garage 30 Vanguard Auto's 21 GARAGE DOORS Murray Garage Doors 21 GARDEN SERVICES Root2Shoot 48 GLASS MERCHANT Carter Glass Co. 17 Colin's Glass 36 HAIR & BEAUTY Grateful Heads 16 Images 19 HANDYMAN Piper Construction 52 HEALTH & BEAUTY Hello Gorgeous 6/7 Ramis Health & Fitness 42 HEALTH SERVICES NHS Campaign 12 HOME IMPROVEMENT SUPPLIERS PHI Ltd 67 HOSPITALS Spire Wellesley 68 JEWELLERS AV & BV Andrews 1/44 INTERIOR DESIGNERS Morris Interiors 45 KITCHENS Kitchenbase 23

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Est. Sept 2005. Circulation 4,500

Est. Oct 2006. Circulation 5,500

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February 2012

ORACLE Sweet Cheeks Trees worth £25!

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NEW! Under the hammer Seville Orange Marmalade

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Fully Licenced Waste Carriers

Tel: 01702 430570 Mobile: 07955 274663 www.leighskiphire.co.uk

Cover photography by Jamie Burroughs http://jamieburroughsfoto.com

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OVEN CLEANING Ovenclean PAINT & PAPER Gardner's Paint & Paper PHYSIOTHERAPY Susan White WDC Physiotherapy PLUMBING Brian Lacey Hammond & Sons Matt Rowley PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER Jamie Burroughs PUBLIC HOUSE The Angel Inn ROOFING SERVICES Action Roofing Estuary Roofing SKIP HIRE Leigh Skip Hire SOFTWARE TRAINING Epiphany Training SOLICITORS Hannah Sparrow Solicitors STAIRLIFTS Stay Home Stairlifts TELEVISION REPAIR Wizard Services UPHOLSTERY Peter Weddell VENUE HIRE Freight House/Mill Hall VILLA Karen Goldman WEBSITE DESIGN Oracle Website Solutions WINDOW CLEANING BC Window Cleaning VACANCY Oracle Deliverers Wanted

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Reach over 20,000 readership in Leigh & Thorpe Bay hungry for your business Call for a Media Pack or visit www.oraclepublications.co.uk To advertise in ORACLE call 01702 393838 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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open evenings If you are considering private healthcare, why not join one of our free, no obligation public information evenings with some of our expert consultant surgeons who will give an informal talk and take questions from anyone wishing to know more. Free open evenings: Treatment options for hernias Varicose veins Fertility and IVF treatment Cosmetic surgery

Wednesday 7 March 7pm Monday 12 March 7pm Monday 19 March 7pm Monday 16 April 7pm

Places are very limited so please ensure you book early. Light refreshments will be provided. To book your free place(s) call

01702 447 926 or email info@spirewellesley.com www.spirewellesley.com

Eastern Avenue, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS2 4XH