Thorpe Bay - Aug 2014

Page 1

Thorpe Bay

August 2014

ORACLE Thorpe Bay at a glance

Est. Sept 2005. Circulation 5,100

Oracle Competition WIN! Sunday lunch for four people worth ÂŁ80 at the 1935 Rooftop Restaurant and Bar

Local Issues A new beginning

Oracle Travel Active family in Antigua

Recipe Page Salmon salad with bacon and tarragon

great offers great onoffers all new onminis. all new minis. great offers great onoffers all new onminis. all new minis. 01702 429429 01702 www.fairfieldmini.co.uk 429429 www.fairfieldmini.co.uk 01702 429429 01702 www.fairfieldmini.co.uk 429429 www.fairfieldmini.co.uk

EST FREE IMA TES

Thorpe Bay

OR ACLE

publisher’s letter

T

his month’s Local Issues contribution is by the new leader of Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, Cllr Ron Woodley. Cllr Woodley explains his plans for the town and how these changes will prove to be a huge benefit for Southend in the long-term.

New Bathroom? Leaking Tap? Boiler need attention?

From September, Cllr Woodley will also be contributing an article each month keeping Oracle’s readers up-to-date with what is happening in the town. Oracle’s August competition, win a Sunday lunch for four people worth £80 at the 1935 Rooftop Restaurant and Bar at Southend’s Holiday Inn, must be used by 30 November 2014. 1935 offers a spectacular dining experience and views to match. To find out more please visit www.hisouthend.com. To enter please send your contact details to: Oracle/1935 Rooftop Restaurant and Bar Competition, 39 Alexandra Street, Southend SS1 1BW or email info@oraclepublications.co.uk closing date 31 August 2014. I hope the weather remains this fabulous, so we can all enjoy our town at its best. See you on the beach!

Emma Wynne-Morgan Publisher

B

Boiler Repairs and Servicing Fault Finding and Problem Solving Boiler Replacements Landlord Gas Safety Certificates Full Bathroom Transformations Local, Reliable and Friendly No Call Out Charge Fully Insured Based in Marcus Avenue

01702 393838

Call Brian Today:

39 Alexandra Street, Southend, Essex SS1 1BW

www.oraclepublications.co.uk info@oraclepublications.co.uk

www.twitter.com/oracle_essex www.facebook.com/oraclepublications Printed by Printwize Ltd, Witham, Essex CM8 3BN 01376 500 900 AUGUST 2014

Brian Lacey

Gas, Plumbing & Heating

01702 588886 07788 922658

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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

3

ORACLE PLUMBING & HEATING

contents Local Issues A New Beginning by Ron Woodley

9/10

BOILER SERVICING & BREAKDOWN REPAIR OR REPLACE

Scents & Sensibility Hair & Beauty by Craig Smith

16

ALL ASPECTS OF PLUMBING & HEATING INCL. FULL BATHROOM INSTALLATIONS

Active Family in Antigua Oracle Travel by Melanie Williams

22

BEAT ANY REASONABLE QUOTES

Learning the job

26

20 YEARS EXPERIENCE

Apprenticeships by Elaine Wardrop

Salmon Salad with Bacon and Tarragon 34 Judy's Recipe Page

Velodrome of Dreams

FRIENDLY & RELIABLE SERVICE

CALL MARTIN TODAY! 46 50 56 58

Advertorials Polash Café Masala Shoebury High School 4 T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E

NO JOB TOO SMALL! DRIPPING TAPS - FULL HEATING SYSTEM

40

Oracle Sport by Adam Jones

Diary Dates Sudoku Useful Numbers Advertiser Index

NO CALL OUT CHARGE

7 13

M. WALKER Plumbing & Heating Services

01702 218 246 07881785405

30/31 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2014

Trade Carpets

640 SUTTON ROAD, SOUTHEND-ON-SEA, ESSEX, SS2 5PX

t. 01702 612424 / 01702 612425

D HE LIS B TA ES

27

S AR YE

OPEN DAILY: 9.00am - 5.30pm

COME & VISIT OUR SHOWROOM

CARPETS

REMNANTS RUGS

VINYLS

LAMINATES

MODULEO KARNDEAN ENGINEERED WOOD

1000’S OF CARPETS IN STOCK QUALITY FITTING SERVICE FREE DELIVERY AUGUST 2014

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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

5

Traditional Butchery with Local Specialties Philip and David offer a cordial welcome to all customers. Being Traditional Butchers and a display rarely bettered, we stock Salt Marsh Lamb, Rare Breed Pork, Scotch Beef and Natural Chicken. We also cure our own bacon and make low fat sausages including the Famous Barling Beauty. The shop is open Thurs to Saturday from 8am-2pm, with display days Fri & Sat only.

Barnsle y

ties! Beau g n i l r Ba OPEN

Lamb c hops

01702 216062 www.philipsplett.com

Thurs-Sat 8am to 2pm (Di splay days Fri Sat)

We are at Burtons Farm on Barling Road, SS3 0LZ with ample parking available.

Specialists in Hog & Lamb Roasts - New Season Spring Lamb available!

The UK CONSERVATORY CLEANING Company

01277 790173

For a genuine FREE “NO OBLIGATION” QUOTE

6

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

www.ukccc.co.uk

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2014

Advertorial

There’s Naan Better Enjoy international award-winning cooking at The Polash

C

urry connoisseurs reviews of the Shoeburyness institution on the world’s largest travel site,TripAdvisor, have earned The Polash a prestigious ‘Certificate of Excellence.’ In its annual Certificate of Excellence awards, the influential website placed the popular West Road curry house amongst its highest winners after earning a rating of 4.5 out of 5; based on its ‘consistently earned outstanding feedback from Trip Adviser travellers’ as their commendation letter cited. It went on to explain that the award is ‘based on the quality of review and opinion you’ve earned on Trip Advisor over the past year’ adding that the influential website is ‘celebrating hospitality excellence around the world.’ A firm favourite with locals for the past 35 years, The Polash also boasts an international reputation extending as far as Japan and South Africa – thanks to its broad range of South Indian favourites, classic regional specialities and more challenging curries, such as the World Record-breaking ‘Polash Meltdown’. The Polash has also won numerous other awards for its culinary excellence, as the proudly displayed press cuttings featuring his restaurant’s celebrity clientele and the coverage of the famous ‘Meltdown’ dish - the world’s hottest curry – attest. To accompany the superb cooking sent from his kitchen, owner Sheikh Mohammed Khalique prides himself on his team’s unrivalled customer service. A warm welcome and attentive assistance from the waiting staff ensures a terrific experience, time after time. AUGUST 2014

As curry has become as much a British institution as the traditional Sunday Roast, customers expect to be rewarded with rich, flavoursome and comforting food that looks and tastes exactly as they like it – even when visiting for the first time. On that basis, The Polash will tailor the preparation and cooking of any dish to your individual requirements. So, if you want your tikka to have a little more tickle, or a cooler khorma, you only have to ask.

Oracle Offer You can experience the multi award-winning customer service and cooking with a superb offer - mention the Oracle to receive a 3 course mid week special, from Sun - Thurs, lunch or dinner for only £12.95.

The Polash is on 84-86 West Road, Shoeburyness, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS3 9DS. To reserve a table, or order a takeaway call 01702 293 989. The restaurant is open seven days a week, from 12pm to 3pm lunchtimes and 6pm to midnight evenings. More at www.thepolash.com

01702 293 989 84-86 West Road, Shoeburyness, SS3 9DS

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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

7

Colins Glass & Glazing Ltd Bespoke Glass Specialists since 1988

BESPOKE GLASS SPECIALISTS

GLASS SPLASHBACKS IN: FARROW AND BALL, DULUX, PANTONE AND RAL COLOURS ALSO 70 METALLIC COLOURS. SUPPLIED AND FITTED GLASS DESIGNS FOR FEATURE WALLS FRAMELESS SHOWER SCREENS AND DOORS: CLEAR, TINTED AND SAND BLASTED FINISHES. MADE TO ANY SIZE OR ANGLE.

BALCONIES AND BALUSTRADING: GLASS & METAL OR GLASS & TIMBER

MIRROR SPECIALISTS: PLAIN, DECORATIVE & FRAMED. EXPERTS IN OVER SIZED MIRRORS

Brand new website: www.colinsglassandglazing.co.uk

122 East St. Prittlewell, Southend-on-Sea SS2 5EE

01702 617321 sales@colinsglassandglazing.co.uk

TV AERIALS FROM £99.00

New TV? New Satellite Dish? Need help installing it? 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4

NEW AERIALS NEW SKY DISHES EXTENSION POINTS SKY LINKS FLAT SCREEN TV FITTING TELEPHONE EXTENSIONS FREE ESTIMATES

Telephone:

07816 884160

Office:

01702 808717

See our website for reviews www.essexdigitalservices.co.uk RELIABLE FAMILY RUN BUSINESS

8

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

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2014

Local Issues

A New Beginning M

any of you will know me as the Chair of The Burges Estate Residents’ Association and over the past 7 years as an Independent Councillor for Thorpe Ward. I have recently been elected as Leader of Southend-on-Sea Borough Council and in representing the residents of Southend-onSea I believe that any decisions taken on their behalf should be open, transparent and honest. That is what I believe the previous Conservative administration forgot; they forgot to take decisions based upon those principles and they forgot to listen. I believe they became arrogant and repressive from being in power too long and acted as a dictatorship, rather than a democracy. Residents decide on change On the 22nd May 2014 the residents of Southend-on-Sea decided that there should be a change and that no one party or group should be solely in charge of running our town. Therefore Councillors had to decide; should the Council commit itself to a minority administration with all its inherent risks, or form a joint administration with two or three groups working together so that the Council can be run effectively. AUGUST 2014

The Independent Group already had a mixture of Councillors from various political backgrounds and has always been willing to work with anyone acting for the benefit of the town. The voting pattern had seen the following Councillors elected: 19 Conservative, 13 Independent, 9 Labour, 5 Lib-Dems and 5 UKIP. What transpired over the few weeks since the elections was that three groups (Independent, Labour and Lib-Dems) decided that the time was right to work together and form a joint administration that took control of the situation and formed a new team on the Council. New beginning That is why it is a new beginning; a new beginning that has had to look past the political divide and bring together a team of

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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

9

Councillors to work for the benefit of the town, irrespective of their political belief or background. It is about Southend-on-Sea being run in a more adult and responsible manner with talented and committed Councillors contributing to the smooth and efficient running of the town. We all want to see local democracy flourish; operating on consensus, with Councillors working in partnership with residents and local businesses, with fresh thinking and new ideas that meet the needs and aspirations of all residents. No one is pretending that the running of the Council is going to be easy; it is not going to be easy for us Councillors making the decisions, and it certainly won’t be easy for you, the residents. Committed borrowing of £50 Million The previous Conservative administration has already committed the Council to increasing borrowing levels over the next four years by another £50 million taking their original planned debt level to one third of a billion pounds with the estimated total cost to the local taxpayers of £22m per year to finance. They also ignored the outcome of public consultations on the closure of Council Care Homes and the building of a sea-wall for Shoebury Common and decided to get rid of professional staff in our libraries. All of this has been done without taking residents views into consideration. Therefore, the new joint administration has committed to the following: n Review the decision to close all the Council’s Care Homes. n Review the proposed sea-defence scheme for Shoebury Common. n To review the decision made by the previous administration on the library services n Focus on children’s education and youth facilities. n Focus on pavements, street lighting, roads and open spaces.

10

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

Photography by Paul Tait n Develop and maximise apprenticeships within the Council and its suppliers. n Maximise Southend Airport’s potential for further job creation n Continually review parking fees in the town. n Conduct a review of Council finances with a focus on debt reduction. n Review front line services and improve them through efficiency savings. n Review the cabinet system of decision making and to consider whether we should move back to a committee system in the next municipal year n Develop tourism and café culture by extending the tourist season. n Support the High Street market expansion.

Most of the above commitments are now already under way. However, due to changes in the way Central Government now fund local government, there will be financial challenges ahead. I will, of course, do my very best to keep you informed and to minimise the effect on the residents and businesses of Southend-onSea. The proprietor of the Oracle (Emma) is allowing me space every month to make that happen. Ron Woodley Leader of Southend-on-Sea Borough Council

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

O

AUGUST 2014

O

JIM DICKENS

HARLEQUIN

D

ES

IG

N

CO

N

SU

LT AT I

FR EE

N

JANE CHURCHILL

DESIGN, STYLE & CRAFTSMANSHIP Visit our extensive showroom and workshop in Thorpe Bay. We offer a complete interior design service. A fantastic choice of styles, finishes, fabrics, leathers, accessories, BESPOKE UPHOLSTERY AND CURTAINS – a talented and dedicated team of interior designers, furniture craftsmen and curtain makers to create your specific requirements – let us transform your home. We also provide a full RE-UPHOLSTERY and RE-MODELLING service and have a huge selection of FABRICS, WALLPAPERS and CARPETS. Interior design by MICHELLE ELLIOTT-BRITTO.

MORRIS

* * 9(03

INTERIORS :;(;065 96(+

;/697, /(33

;/, )96(+>(@

(*(*0( +90=,

4(7305 >(@

(=,5<,

;/697, )(@ :;(;065

:6<;/,5+ 65 :,(

:,(

;/697, ,:73(5(+,

:/6,)<9@5,::

:,(

SANDERSON

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

ROMO

ZINC

COLEFA X AND FOWLER

Paul’s Gardening Services

WINDOW CLEANING

A Friendly, Family run business Very competitive quotes (with concessions) GARDEN MAINTENANCE (From weekly visits to total clearouts)

TREES FELLED & TOPPED (Hedges also trimmed)

SPECIALISTS IN LAWNS (Removes weeds, give it a feed, make it green) SHEDS & FENCES (Repaired and preserved)

Pure water fed pole system & de-ionised water Detergent free & environmentally friendly

WOODCHIP Delivered & Distributed

SUPPLIER OF LOGS

Give us a call and see how we can help!

Phone Paul on 07957 388285

or freefone 0800 043 3913 email: paulthegardener@hotmail.com Established 1994 - Recommendations & references available

12

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

Ability to reach windows that traditional window cleaning methods cannot Certified to British Window Cleaning Academy (BWCA) standards

ANDY THOMAS MOBILE: 07748 426198 Email: ALTwindowcleaning@hotmail.co.uk

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2014

Advertorial

Café Masala dares to be different A taste of India with a contemporary twist

A

s soon as you walk into its elegant, airy and modern dining room, you know that Café Masala is different. Although it has become a Thorpe Bay institution since it opened its doors eighteen years ago, this is not somewhere to soak up the night's excesses; Café Masala is a destination restaurant for those who appreciate great cooking. The menu is largely based on classic dishes from the Indian continent, using only the best and freshest ingredients. Unsurprising it has won a string of accolades; including back-to-back British Curry Awards in 2007 and 2008.

During the balmy summer days and nights, not everyone wants some of the more traditional dishes, so a special seasonal menu has been introduced. Highlights include lightly spiced, succulent grilled lamb chops and Chicken Tikka Stir-Fried Noodles. Vegetarians are also well-catered for with a Vegetable Biriani fit for a Persian king (where this dish originated), Chilli Aubergine and over ten other delicious choices. With its modern, clean and contemporary décor, Café Masala could be called a ’boutique’ restaurant. Certainly its modest number of covers create an intimate feel; making it perfect for an evening dinner date with your partner, a weekend gathering of friends or business lunch with clients and colleagues.

The main courses offer you a culinary tour of both the comfortingly familiar and completely unexpected. Take, for example, the wonderfully named Rowgoonius range of dishes. Originally from Sylhet in north eastern Bangladesh, the base sauce is prepared using methi paratha leaves, with a little capsicum and a mixture of spices to make it medium hot, then garnished with fried tomatoes and onions. It is a particular favourite with the restaurants most discerning diners, the waiters themselves.

Cafe Masala is open 7-days a week and can be found at 187 The Broadway, Thorpe Bay, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS1 3EX. Call 01702 589 494 to make your booking.

However, it is one particular dish for which Café Masala has become famous for - the Special Sizzler Juliet. As it is brought to the table, every diner in the restaurant turns round to see this piece of culinary theatre. Marinated pieces of lamb, chicken or king prawns are cooked in a traditional clay oven over charcoal, lavished with fresh mint and coriander, capsicums, onions and given an exciting kick, courtesy of flaming brandy. This is not just a main course, it is an event!

187 The Broadway, Thorpe Bay, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS1 3EX

AUGUST 2014

01702 589 494

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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

13

STUNNING KITCHENS

B & R BARNES (Kitchens & Bedrooms) Established 1945

State of the art German contemporary Kitchens Fine English Kitchens & Bedrooms

! FREE d

te tegra Neff In asher w h Dis rder very o with e site for T&C)* b (see we

Bespoke Kitchens & Bedrooms hand made in our own workshop Free measure, design and advice The kind of personal attention the modern age seems to have forgotten about.

Project management, fitting by our own qualified fitters VISIT US AND APPRECIATE THE DIFFERENCE!

01702 341020

313 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex, SS0 7BX (Near Hamlet Court Road, Westcliff)

www.kitchens-1st.com www.bespokekitchens.uk.com

St. Ann’s is your no.1 choice for Bathrooms and Showers

Visit our showrooms at Bentalls Close Sutton Road Southend on Sea SS2 5PT 01702 463363

1259 London Road Leigh on Sea SS9 2AF 01702 475403

stannsbuildingsupplies.co.uk

AUGUST 2014

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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

15

Oracle Hair & Beauty

Scents & Sensibility M

arilyn Monroe famously said that all she wore to bed was Chanel No. 5, while Coco Chanel herself advised “Where perfume where you want to be embraced” and scientists claim that perfume really does make women sexier. ‘Fragrance should be discovered, not announced’ is a simple, but perfect, rule. Perfume is a sensual experience, so it needs to tease and delight rather than club you round the head like an over-sexed caveman. The chemicals in your favourite smell-nice instantly react on contact with the skin and are triggered by your body heat. Applying perfume to your pulse points – the wrists and neck – are tried and trusted locations for a quick spritz, but you can be so much more creative and daring with your atomizer.

Burst of Fragrance Film star Halle Berry sprays perfume on her thighs, whilst your hair is a great place, as you’re covering quite a large surface area and when you flick your tresses, you release a burst of fragrance. It’s a very sexy way of saying ‘Come and get me, Tiger!’ Much of our energy comes from the body’s core, so this intensifies the smell of any scent you spray on it. Musky, amber blends are ideal for this zone of your body and in summer, this works particularly well as more of your flesh is exposed.

be up close and personal to get a heady whiff of perfume. Equally, a cheeky squeeze onto your cleavage also works olfactory wonders. The backs of your knees generate quite a bit of heat, so don’t be afraid to give them a spray of your preferred scent.

Seasonal Smells

Finding the right fragrance for you does require a little bit of thought but it can be great fun checking out the amazing variety of brands. Think about when and where you’ll be wearing a given scent and in what season. A lighter perfume is ideal for work or having lunch with friends and family- at this time of the year, a zesty citrus or sporty cologne is ideal. If you’re looking for a new signature scent, shop around, and wear before you buy – never buy something that smells good on someone else. Your own body chemistry can dictate how the fragrance will sit on your skin, so make sure it is all about you. by Craig Smith

The nape of your neck is very sensual, as you have to

16

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

O

Sponsored by

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

32 Alexandra St., Southend SS1 1BU

01702 340965 AUGUST 2014

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

633*

4 4 64 SV (VEGYPE 8VIEXQIRX

IWSXLIVET] [MXL PEXIWX XIGLRSPSK] 4 1 4 ' EVFS\] 8LIVET] ¯ XLI PEXIWX XIGLRSPSK]

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

;31)2

&RQVXOWDQW 'HUPDWRORJLVW DYDLODEOH )UHH &RQVXOWDWLRQ ® 'LVFRXQW RIIHUHG RQ SDFNDJH ERRNLQJV ® *LIW 9RXFKHUV 6H[XDO +HDOWK &RQVXOWDQW DYDLODEOH WR RIIHU WUHDWPHQW IRU VH[XDO G\VIXQFWLRQ SHUVLVWDQW LQIHFWLRQ

-5 0HGLFDO &OLQLF DW 3ULWWOHZHOO &KDVH GSVRIV SJ ,MKL½IPH +EVHIRW 2S

:HVWFOLII RQ 6HD (VVH[ 66 6;

ORRN IRU VSHFLDO RIIHUV RQ RXU ZHEVLWH MUPHGLFDO FR XN HPDLO LQIR#MUPHGLFDO FR XN rvpdesign@yahoo.co.uk

18

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

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2014

FAMILY BUSINESS ESTABLISHED OVER 60 YEARS

We offer a fast and efficient service. All work is undertaken by experienced craftsmen at realistic prices. Items can be remodelled and stones reset. Estimates free of charge. All aspects of repair undertaken; chain repairs, re-sizing, claws re-tipping, and stones re-set. The majority of our work is carried out in-house.

Over 1,000 wedding ring styles available Certificated diamonds supplied. We are happy to set customer’s stones

All items are fully insured whilst within our care and Insurance work is undertaken.

We purchase unwanted or broken gold

Fair prices paid A.V. & B.V. Andrews Ltd., 89 West Road, Shoeburyness, Essex SS3 9DT

Tel - 01702 292472 Fax – 01702 299392 enquiries@andrewsltd.co.uk www.andrewsltd.co.uk

WE HAVE NO CONNECTION WITH ANY OTHER LOCAL BUSINESS WITH A SIMILAR TRADING NAME

NE SER VIC ORACW E AV LE AILA BLE !

Take advantage of Oracle's fantastic new offer! Oracle will include the print of 13,400 double sided A5 flyers when clients pay for a loose insert in both magazines, this new service costs just ÂŁ649 +VAT. Use Oracle's unique catchment area and target some of the most affluent homes in the Southend Borough and raise your business awareness.

Full Colour A5 Leaflets Printed both sides Delivered to 11,800 homes

Printed on 115gsm Artwork design available Maximum 2 inserts per issue

Call now to take advantage of this great offer:

OR ACLE publications (uk) ltd

01702 393838 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

Terms and Conditions apply

Oracle Travel

Active Family in Antigua C

urtain Bluff in Antigua offers some of the best Active Family facilities in the Caribbean. In two weeks here I would defy any teenager to say “I am Bored”. Flanked by water on both sides, Curtain Bluff sits on a rocky promontory (bluff) that juts into the sea between two beautiful beaches. One is calm, ideal for swimming and water sports, the other beach is washed by ocean surf.

All inclusive Luxury! The resorts exceptional facilities include a championship tennis court, scuba, deep sea fishing, Windsurfing, paddle boarding, water skiing, sailing and kayaks, a squash court and fitness centre. When it’s time to relax there is a tranquil spa overlooking the sea, beachside swimming pool and bar with hammocks swaying in the shade of the coconut palm.The best thing of all is the Resort operates on a Luxury All Inclusive basis! This November the resort is hosting a Tennis and wellbeing week, here you can attend tennis clinics and tournaments with Professionals Annabel Croft

and Andrew Castle. With an array of activities on offer to compliment the tennis this is the perfect get away for both Tennis and Non Tennis participants.

Toast the Sunset

Away from the resort you can take in English Harbour, Nelsons Dockyard and Shirley Heights or sail the coast on the resorts 47ft ketch. Sunday night is party night at Shirley Heights where you can toast the sunset to the sound of steel drums and dance till late with locals and tourists alike. A must for any visitor to Antigua. Curtain Bluff – “ The Perfect Match “ week still available 15 to 22 November 2014

Melanie @ Hermes Travel

by Melanie Williams

O

781 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex, SS0 9SU mob: 07932 176589 direct: 01702 580630 office: 01702 711336

22

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

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2014

Re-upholstery & Antique Restoration by experienced local craftsmen High-quality craftsmanship :FREE Specialists in Young Bros. and Coopers Estimates 3-Piece Suites made to your specifications Extensive library of fabrics including:Voyage,Villa Nova, Ross, Linwood etc. Very competitive rates

All work carried out in the Poynters Lane Workshop

PETER J. WEDDELL Upholstery . Antique Restoration Middle Barn, New House Farm, Poynters Lane SS3 9TS

01702 216638 . 07787 133359

AUGUST 2014

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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

23

A company grown on its reputation and recommendation

•

Beautiful taylor made conservatories

•

W Warm, arm, secur secure e & attractive double glazing

•

No deposit rrequired equired

•

10 year insurance backed guarantee on all works

•

Family run business established over 25 years

FULL RANGE OF COLOURS AVAILABLE FOR ALL WINDOWS, DOORS AND CONSERVATORIES

“We have been ed with the delighted results and would mmend BJ recommend Daviss to others without hesitation.” Matt Vaughan Vaughan

t: 01702 601000

Visit our website:

www.bjdaviswdc.co.uk

info@bjdavis.co.uk

AUGUST 2014

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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

25

Apprenticeships

Learning the job E

laine Wardrop, Director of Business Development, Crown Vocational Training gives us an insight in to what being an apprentice really means in 2014. As parents, when we think about apprenticeships, many of us recall the YTS Schemes of the 1980’s – manual positions in areas such as car mechanics and hairdressing which were renowned for being poorly paid. Apprenticeships have come a long way since then and now there are over 300 apprenticeship frameworks in thousands of different types of companies. The qualifications and opportunities that they create now give young people a real alternative to University and other forms of higher education with fabulous, sustainable career paths at the end of the years study. To give you an example, last week I placed a young man who has just completed A Levels. He told me did not wish to go on to University as he was looking to get in to the Financial Markets in London and felt that gaining work experience as quickly as possible would be the best course of action for him. I managed to source a position with a Brokers which starts in September and the young man will be completing a Level 3 in Customer Service which is the equivalent to another 2 A Levels. We have a real variety of apprenticeships from administrative roles in Estate Agents, retail positions, reception roles in the leisure industry and a variety of customer service positions. Applying for positions is easy – any young person interested just has to give me a call or email and I will organise to meet them to see what they are looking to get out of their career long term then we can see if we have anything to suit their interests.

26

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

We only work with companies that really buy into work based learning and are willing to offer permanent roles at the end of the qualification, if the young person has proven themselves to be a valued member of staff. For any young people who may not feel they are quite ready to start an apprenticeship, we also offer a pre-apprenticeship programme in business & administration to teach the basics of administrative work. Our recent employer survey confirmed how highly our apprentices are valued including comments such as ‘through the apprenticeship scheme we have obtained an invaluable member of staff’ (Affinity Mortgages); ‘Our apprentices have really helped our business grow’ (Total Ink and office). Our delivery model is highly praised due to our ‘flexible training model’ and ‘friendly approachable staff’. If any parents or potential apprentices (aged 16-24) would like to contact me for an informal chat, I am available on 07973 284071 or please email ewardrop@crownvt.co.uk

O 01702 608802 ewardrop@crownvt.co.uk www.crownvocationaltraining.co.uk

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2014

Your Stove is waiting for you! Photo for illustration purposes only

SONRAY

EST 1986

HEATING

BATHROOMS

PLUMBING

Leaks, Ball Valves, Outside Taps Radiators Boilers Full Heating Systems Bathrooms designed, supplied and installed including: Electrics, Tiling, Plastering and Carpentry Call Stephen Mash on:07778 007535 or 01702 547824 sonrayheating-bathrooms.co.uk stephenmash@sonrayheating-bathrooms.co.uk 3 Dalys Road, Rochford, SS4 1RA

A LOCAL PLUMBER FOR LOCAL PEOPLE

For more informatio n or a

CARPET &

FREE No Obligat ion please contQuotation,

act us

UPHOLSTERY CLEANING OVEN CLEANING

UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

Guaranteed not to soak, stretch or shrink your carpet or furnishings Domestic and Commercial work undertaken Ovens and Hobs Sparkle and shine like new Remove all traces of Burnt-on Fat, Grease & Carbon

28

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

Gates Cleaning Services

125 HIGH STREET

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

GREAT WAKERING

01702 216377 AUGUST 2014

AUGUST 2014

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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

29

Advertorial

Open Evening at Shoeburyness High School T

he secondary education system in Southend-on-Sea is unique and there is a broad choice of school available so if you have children going into Year 6 you will be faced with making some big decisions about their future before 31st October 2014. Our Open Evening at Shoeburyness High School is on Monday 22nd September 2014 at 7.00pm and will be followed by two organised open mornings on Tuesday 30th September and Wednesday 1st October at 9.00am; if you are unable to attend any of these, please feel free to contact the school and arrange a private tour.

Why consider Shoeburyness High School for your son or daughter?

l We are committed to providing an outstanding learning experience for all of our students, regardless of previous attainment.

l We sit at the heart of our community and welcome

and value all individuals.

l We we are a big school with a large intake

providing huge opportunities for every student.

l We provide a lively, diverse and engaging curricu-

lum which reflects our positive learning ethos.

30

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

l all students have the opportunity to extend their experiences beyond the school day. l we are one of the most improved schools in the country, recognised as going from strength to strength, year on year.

l we work hard to develop a successful partnership between school, student and parent based on trust and mutual support.

l the governors and staff of our school have a comprehensive range of policies to ensure that we deliver the highest possible quality of service.

l students have the opportunity to experience a wide variety of educational visits both home and abroad. l we take pride in encouraging the active involvement of all our students in a well-supported, varied programme of sport. l our highly acclaimed Theatre Arts productions are events that involve a large number of students from across the whole school. l we believe that students’views should be listened to and valued.

l‘The school supports children with learning, is always welcoming and buzzing with life’ Parent Quote OFSTED 2013

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2014

Our unique features include:

lOur ninth consecutive year of improving GCSE and A level results lOutstanding pastoral care and support

lWe run a successful ‘High 5’ and ‘Super 6’

programme providing opportunities in the local community for high achieving primary students

lOur bespoke, ethos-building programmes for each

year group designed to raise all students’ aspirations for the future

lA very popular, expanding and successful Post 16 which is launching an ever-increasing number of stu dents on to university

lA broad curriculum offer, with our nationally recognised pathways, personalised to meet the needs of the individual child

lA wide range of physical education facilities that And finally………. offer vast numbers of different sports and sports leadership opportunities including our Years 12 and You will find that, at Shoeburyness High School, we 13 Basketball and Football Academies genuinely value and take an interest in each of our lExperienced specialist staff teaching in all students as individuals.They all achieve success at our curriculum areas; we are fully staffed for September school and we focus on this as a foundation for them to grow in confidence. 2014

lA purpose-built Learning Resource Base which ‘Students achieve well and make good progress, supports the needs of children with physical, sensory regardless of their starting points or backgrounds’ OFSTED 2013 and learning difficulties.

l100% of our classrooms use interactive learning Students really enjoy school and are always pleased to share their experiences with visitors; come and see facilities for yourself on Monday, 22nd September, 2014 at lA popular and successful Creative and Expressive 7.00pm. I look forward to meeting you then. Arts department; all students experience Music, Art Proud of our students, proud of our school! and Theatre Studies

lOur SCOPE Academy+ students achieved national Mark Schofield recognition at the finals of the Mock Trial Public Headteacher Speaking competition, beating many schools from Please read our full OFSTED report online at across the country www.ofsted.gov.uk lOur outstanding SSCO and community programmes continue to offer exciting and interesting learning opportunities lAcademy Groups and higher Learning groups are

O

established across the school to support and challenge our highest achievers to reach their full potential

Shoeburyness High School 01702 292286 Ext. 181

‘There is just so much to do here!’

karenstock@shoeburyness.southend.sch.uk extendedschools@shoeburyness.southend.sch.uk

Pupil Quote OFSTED 2013

www.shoeburynesshigh.co.uk/community/extendedschools

AUGUST 2014

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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

31

AUGUST ONL LY Y FREE CONSUL ONSUL LT TATION & TRIAL TREA ATMENT TM An Amazing ÂŁ50.00 Only

Get star started ted d on your your d no now! Summer mmer b body bo ody w!

Wee are THE SPECIALISTS in Fat Loss, Anti Ageing and W Cellulite ite treatments for for the face and body Using a combination of: 2 154 laser s targeting and emptying fat cells and stimulat lymphatic drainage vitation using ultra sonic wa 2 Caavitation to destroy fat cells and target uency to tighten skin ski 2 Radio frequency on bodyy,, face f and neck 2 14 Year s experience The combinationn of high tech equipment equipme coupled with proffessional essiona aesthetic exper tise essional guarantees STUNNING NNING RESUL RESULTS! LTS! TS! We also offfer er : IPL hair removal 50% discount August ation ti ffor or the th face f , prom promoting a IPL skin rejuvenation redness and youthful even skin tone. Banishing redn hyper pigmentation.

01702 431970 www.essexlaserlipo.com www.essexlaser lipo.com

LOOKING FOR AN ACCOUNTANT? .....then call Colin Taylor NOW!

TRADITIONAL VICTORIAN TILED FLOORS DESIGNED & INSTALLED BY EXPERTS RESTORATION & REPAIR ALL ASPECTS OF WALL & FLOOR TILING PLEASE CALL FOR A FREE QUOTE TODAY T: 07900 258359 / 01702 541489 E: INFO@MCGTILING.CO.UK

41

YEARS AUGUST 2014

For help and advice with:

Self Assessment Tax Returns Accounts Bookkeeping VAT Payroll / RTI Tax Planning CIS Refunds TAYLORS CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS

01702 552008 colin.tca@virgin.net

www.taylorscharteredaccountants.co.uk

on Thorpe Bay Broadway www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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

33

recipe of the month

700g small new potatoes, washed and scrubbed, halved if large 400g frozen peas or petit pois 2 tbsp chopped fresh tarragon

In the Kitchen with Judy Barden

For vinaigrette: Grated zest and juice of a lemon 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1 ½ tsp wholegrain mustard 2 tsp honey 3 tbsp chopped fresh tarragon

1. Heat the oil in a frying pan over a medium heat and fry the bacon for about 5 minutes until crispy, remove and drain on kitchen paper. 2. Cook the potatoes in boiling salted water for 10 minutes then add the peas for a further 5 minutes, check the potatoes are tender and drain. 3. Season the salmon and add to the pan, skin side down. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the skin is crisp and golden. Turn the heat off, turn the salmon over and leave to cook in the residual heat until it is just opaque, cover with foil and set aside. 4. Put all the ingredients for the vinaigrette in a screw top jar and give it a good shake, season with salt and pepper and a pinch of sugar if needed. (This will keep up to 3 days in the fridge). Salmon Salad with Bacon and Tarragon

T

his is a great supper dish, quick to make and can be eaten hot or cold. The combination of the salmon, smoked bacon and tarragon is just lovely and the addition of new potatoes and peas with a tangy mustard vinaigrette is perfect. This one is a must.

5. Spoon the potatoes and peas onto plates and top with the bacon and fresh tarragon. Place a salmon fillet on top and drizzle over the dressing.

O

Next month’s recipe: Pistachio and Coconut Meringues with Berries

Enjoy !

Mobile Website Solutions

Salmon salad with bacon and tarragon

Serves 4

Ingredients : 1 tbsp olive oil 4 rashers of smoked back bacon cut into 2cm pieces 4 small salmon fillets with skin (about 175g each)

34

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

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

01702 393838 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2014

FREE

ESTIMATE S

Interior And Exterior ✔ Extensions ✔ Renovations ✔ Bricklaying ✔ Plastering ✔

New Builds ✔ Groundwork ✔ Patios, Paving & Driveways ✔ Fully Insured ✔

ALL WORK GUARANTEED!

A.J. PROPERTY SERVICES 4 Towerfield Close, Shoeburyness, Essex, SS3 9QP

www.ajpsuk.co.uk

t: 01702

296 011

m: 07912

945 288

www.gatfireservices.org.uk

NEWARK MULTIFUEL STOVE

CARRON ENAMEL MULTIFUEL Range of colours

7.3kw Output (Group 7) Defra approve

ÂŁ1599.00

OPEN: MONDAY - SATURDAY 9.15AM - 5PM SUNDAYS 10AM - 3PM We have lots more to choose from all offering the same great value for money

Visit our website www.gatfireservices.org.uk or visit our showroom at

1717 London Road, Leigh on Sea, Essex, SS9 2SW

36

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

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2014

Same dedicated maid each week only ÂŁ11.55 per hour Then call us on:

(

* *

)* *

+

- " -)

! +, ' !

+

" #$%$&''

01702 589768 Open 12pm-10.30pm Daily www.tverde.co.uk .* / 0 AUGUST 2014

1

2 * * /- / 32 ,/ ' 1 2 ++ .2 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

45

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

37

AB B EY M AR B L E E ST A BL I S H E D 1 998

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

TE L : 0 1 7 0 2 6 1 5 7 6 0 Units 8-9 Robert Leonard Ind. Est. Stock Road, Southend-on-Sea Essex, SS2 5QD

38

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

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2014

01702 297360 MECHANICAL AND ACCIDENT REPAIR CENTRE

AUGUST 2014

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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

39

Oracle Sport

Velodrome of Dreams W

hen I was a competitive cyclist in the late 80’s, the sport was considered a bit weird - but a decade of Team GB’s success on the track (and more recently Sir Wiggo and Chris Froome’s triumphs on the road) has sparked the rise of the MAMIL – the middleaged man in lycra. So much so, that cycling is considered ‘the new golf.’ And this is one of the reasons that inspired me to build an open-air velodrome in Southend.

From Yorkshire to London Britain’s love of cycling was also a clincher for bringing the Tour De France here at the beginning of July - the sheer size and passion of the crowds, from Yorkshire to London, proved that the sport is here to stay. I was one of the thousands of people thronging the route in Chelmsford and could count fans thirteen deep on several sections. I believe we need to capitalise on this, just as we were encouraged to do by the London Olympics. The Southend velodrome could and would be a legacy of both and, hopefully, the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. The new facility will bring a series of positives to Southend. Most obviously, is that it will be an addition to the facilities the town has to offer; a world-class diving centre plus the numerous 40

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

football, rugby and cricket pitches plus athletics tracks.

Improving Southend With London Southend Airport thriving and our tourism ‘offer’ benefiting from improvements such as the city beach development, the velodrome could attract regional, national and international events; especially as LSA flies direct to cycling nations such as Belgium, Holland, France, Italy, Germany and Spain. Moreover, anything that inspires our kids to put down their mobile phones, iPads and video game controllers and do something exciting and healthy has got to be good, especially as we’re dealing with an increasing obesity crisis.

Discover Southend’s Potential I am convinced that, in a town as large as Southend, there is a potential Mark Cavendish or Bradley Wiggins and this velodrome is where their talent can be discovered and express itself. I’m inviting you to share that dream. by Cllr Adam Jones 01702 219 912

O

Dove Wood Cottage, 23 Mucking Hall Road, Barling Magna, Southend on Sea, Essex, SS3 0NH

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2014

Carpenter & Joiner

GARDEN MAINTENANCE LANDSCAPING PATIOS & DECKING TURFING FENCING GARDEN CLEARANCE TREE WORK WATER FEATURES DRIVEWAYS Astro turf laying

! " !

!

GRASS ROOTS LANDSCAPING

!

FULLY INSURED

For advice and free, no-obligation quotations please telephone :

01702 582489 or 07984 924916

NO JOB TOO BIG! 24 YEARS EXPERIENCE. CALL MIKE FOR A FREE QUOTATION ON

01268 456140 / 07756941544 MJ.GRASSROOTs@HOTMAIL.CO.UK

Italian / Mediterranean Cuisine! TWO COURSE SET MENU ( Excludes Friday & Saturday Evenings )

Only

12.95

£

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT!

LATINO GUITARIST - SUNDAYS AT THE LEMON TREE LATINO GUITARIST - WEDNESDAYS AT THE PALM TREE PIANIST - FRIDAYS AT THE PALM TREE

The Lemon Tree 01702 467793

513 Southchurch Road, Southend, SS1 2PH

www.lemontreesouthend.co.uk

AUGUST 2014

The Palm Tree 01702 719435

80 Leigh Road, Leigh-on-Sea, SS9 1BZ

www.thepalmrestaurant.co.uk

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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

41

Applying common sense to complex matters

DIVORCE AND FAMILY LAW | CIVIL LITIGATION POWER OF ATTORNEY | PROBATE | WILLS

We know your problems don’t work 9-5, so we have out of hours appointments to suit you – contact us today for your FREE Initial Consultation Call: 01702 804 106 Mobile: 07967 991 472 Email: vincent@vmsolicitors.co.uk Visit: www.vincentmccarthysolicitors.co.uk The Gateway Building, 10 Elmer Approach, Southend-on-Sea, Essex SS1 1LW

Vincent McCarthy Solicitors

AUGUST 2014

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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

43

Now even better value!

WE PAY YOUR VAT *

Call Now for a free Home Survey

Showroom: Company House, Stock Road, Southend on Sea, SS2 5QF www.kitchen-base.co.uk 44

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

* Ask in Store for details and T&C’s Offer ends on 31/7/2014 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

01702 461228 AUGUST 2014

This Winter Warm withGREEN our LOGS WOOD CHIPS, TOPKeep SOIL & ORGANIC COMPOST Look After Your Garden with our

Free within 8 Miles Free Delivery Local Delivery within 8 Miles

AUGUST 2014

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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

45

Does your house need an Outside makeover?

ISHED ESTABL ARS YE OVER 30

Diary Dates SOUTHEND CARNIVAL FREE Around Southend Thursday 7th to Saturday 16th August See some fantastic floats as they make their way along Southend seafront, and help raise money for some amazing charities. Leaves Southchurch Park at 7.45pm SUMMER CARNIVAL FREE 23rd August 11am - 3pm The victoria, SOUTHEND-ON-SEA Come and visit us at The Victoria Southend for an afternoon of Circus Fun, including: "Lion Tamer", Circus Skills Workshop, Clown Balloon Modeller, Fancy Dress Competitions and Prizes, Circus Shows, Circus Bouncy Castle, Face Painting, Free Giveaways and Goodies. THE GREAT PIER SWIM FREE 9th August 2014 at 11:00 The event will be held in Chalkwell Beach, Southend on Sea, SS0 8JQ, and is Free to attend. This exciting swim is back for its seventh year and remains as one of the most unique sea swims in the UK.

Bargeboards • Cladding • Fascias • Soffits Installation Guttering - All Sizes & Colours

Call our specialist team for advice or for a FREE no obligation quote

ESSEX CLADDING

The PREMIER installers of UPVC roofline products

T:01702 584058 M:07771 553003 www.essexcladding.com essexcladding@btinternet.com

19 Withypool, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS3 8BH

PSST...MEMOIRS Precious Stories Simply Told...

BARGE MARCH 24th August 2014 at 11:00 Southend Pier/Seafront, and is Normal Pier admission Charges to attend. Watch Thames barges race for trophies from the Pier head, racing starts at 11am. SUMMER FAYRE Saturday 9th August, 12.30 - 4 p.m. Nazareth House, 111 London Road, Southend Gifts, Raffle, Tombola and Refreshments. Admission £1 THORPE BAY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY AUTUMN FLOWER AND HOMECRAFT SHOW. Saturday 30th August from 2.15 p.m. St. Augustines Church hall corner Johnstone Road / Parkanaur Avenue. Bric a brac, refreshments, plants sale etc. Admission 50p, members free. FARMERS MARKET, St Augustine’s Church Hall, Johnstone Road Thorpe Bay Between 10-12.30am 3rd August Info: 07766233983

www.oraclepublications.co.uk www.twitter.com/oracle_essex

46

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

ORDINARY PEOPLE: EXTRAORDINARY STORIES Tell me your story & let me write your unique book Great gift idea for special occasions info@psst-memoirs.co.uk

01702 719078 / 07904 975690 www.psst-memoirs.co.uk

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2014

FREE MoneySaving Book

FREE MoneySaving Book

‹Â?‡ •‹Â?’Ž‡ –‹’• –‘ Š‡Ž’ ”‡†—…‡ ›‘—” Â?‘Â?–ŠŽ› Š‘—•‡Š‘Ž† „‹ŽŽ•Ǥ

‹Â?‡ •‹Â?’Ž‡ –‹’• –‘ Š‡Ž’ ”‡†—…‡ ›‘—” Â?‘Â?–ŠŽ› Š‘—•‡Š‘Ž† „‹ŽŽ•Ǥ

ƒŽŽ ͲͺͲͲ ͲͺͲ ;͡Ͳͳ ƒÂ?† Ž‡ƒ˜‡ ›‘—” †‡–ƒ‹Ž• ™Š‡Â? ”‡“—‡•–‡† „› –Š‡ ”‡…‘”†‡† Â?‡••ƒ‰‡Ǥ

& '()'* *()+,) -ͲͺͲ '))..*+/*)* ƒŽŽ ͲͺͲͲ ;͡Ͳͳ ƒÂ?† Ž‡ƒ˜‡ ›‘—” †‡–ƒ‹Ž• ™Š‡Â? ”‡“—‡•–‡† „› –Š‡ ”‡…‘”†‡† Â?‡••ƒ‰‡Ǥ

॥ –ŠƒÂ? ͳͲͲ …‘’‹‡• Ž‡ˆ–Ǥ Žƒ‹Â? ›‘—”• –‘†ƒ›Ǥ

" # ͳͲͲ ! ॥ –ŠƒÂ? …‘’‹‡• $ Ž‡ˆ–Ǥ Žƒ‹Â? ›‘—”• –‘†ƒ›Ǥ %$ " $ "

"&

0"

0

0!1

2

&

"

3" !

0

0!1

!

!

!"

Computer Services Fast - Friendly - Fixed! Full

Health Check Broadband SetUp Data Backup & Recovery

Custom

Builds

Branded

Systems Parts to Order Remote Support

We now supply web hosting packages

For Laptop Repairs

For Support

A Reputation Built On Recommendation

Computopia Bespoke Computer Systems

01702 219143

www.computopiasystems.com

48

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

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2014

ADVERTISEMENT

Cloudy2Clear Windows – Service With A Smile! It’s been a crazy few months for Cloudy2Clear Windows. The company which specialises in repairing windows which are steamed up, broken or damaged by replacing the panes – not the frames has grown rapidly as homeowners take advantage of their services. Managing Director Chris Miller feels that it’s all about service. ‘Our product is simple. If your double glazing is misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 5 year guarantee. But it’s not just about saving people money, although

that obviously helps. Many tradespeople have struggled since last year and I honestly feel that during the good times a minority perhaps didn’t focus on customer care as much as they should have done. We make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle. I often get comments back from customers on how they really didn’t expect that sort of service which, in a way, is very sad for the service industry as a whole.’ Cloudy2Clear service the Southend, Leigh on Sea and Thorpe Bay areas DQG &KULV LV ÀQGLQJ WKDW his approach is a major

factor in his success.‘The truth is that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I get from doing a good job but also it makes good business sense. I get a huge amount of business from friends and family of people I’ve done work for,

which just goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated.’ So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Chris a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!

78)%1)( 94 (39&0) +0%>-2+# (SR´X VITPEGI XLI *VEQIW NYWX XLI 4ERIW

&VSOIR SV (EQEKIH ;MRHS[W# *EYPX] ,MRKIW ,ERHPIW SV 0SGOW# ;ERX 8LI 0EXIWX )RIVK] 7EZMRK +PEWW# %PP +PE^MRK &EGOIH &] 3YV =IEV 1ERYJEGXYVIVW +YEVERXII 4VMSVMX] *VIITLSRI

[[[ GPSYH] GPIEV GSQ [I QEOI WEZMRK QSRI] TIVJIGXP] GPIEV AUGUST 2014

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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

49

ORACLE Enigmas No humdrum conundrum s Established 1975

1

4 6

3 5 9 4 3 5 6 1 5 1 8 2 9 2 7 9 8 1 7 5 4 8 9 4

5SUDOKU

SUAVE

Fill in the grid above so that each 3 x 3 box, every row and every column contain the Nos 1 - 9. The answer to last month’s puzzle is at bottom.

3 WORD LADDER Start at the top and change one letter each rung making a new word to arrive at the final word.

VALUE

SHONE

PHONE

STOLE

STONE

STALL

STALE

SHELL

50

SHALL

LAST MONTH’S SOLUTIONS

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

Flat Roofing Problems? Specialise in Felt and Asphalt Roofs Approved contractors to most major Felt Manufacturers For your FREE quote Phone

ESTUARY ROOFING LTD.

01702 295314 Mob: 07970 746712 estuaryroofing@blueyonder.co.uk

POSH POOCHIES GROOMING SERVICES Any breeds catered for Bathed, Dried Trimmed as required Hand stripping Nails clipped Ears cleaned Pick up and drop off service Horse clipping also available

0754 0109844 / 01702 219096 Please contact Beverley on

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2014

Over 65 Years of Great Service

10.00

£ .T’s OFF M.O tioning en when m cle’ ‘The Ora

MOT Testing Servicing Repairs Batteries Exhausts Welding

FRE E

Veh icle Col lect ion /De live ry S erv ice

Tyres & Punctures Air Conditioning Diagnostic Tests Catalysts Tested Diesels Tested 65 years Experience

SERVICE GARAGE MOT & VEHICLE REPAIR CENTRE

Est.1946

Let Service Garage give you and your vehicle the service you deserve with professional expertise honed over half a century. Service Garage offers a professional, fast & friendly service to all vehicle owners at very competitive rates. Four fulltime, qualified mechanics ensure that your vehicle is given all the attention it needs - quickly!

01702 297003 4 TOWERFIELD CLOSE, SHOEBURYNESS, ESSEX SS3 9QP

WWW.SERVICEGARAGE.CO.UK

SERVICEGARAGE@HOTMAIL.COM OPEN 8-5:30 MON-FRI. SAT. BY APP. AUGUST 2014

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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

51

ity bil e a i ll L nc Fu sura In

MIKE’s Tree Services p p p p p p

Est. 1982

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

Have your Driveway/Patio powerwashed Professionally Results like new. Reasonable rates.

For a FREE Quotation call Mike

01702Â 305217 07505 794203

Air&Back

www.mini-webs.com/Treeservices

Airport Transfer Specialists

Air & Back, the airport-transfer specialists, provide an efficient and friendly door-to-door transfer to and from your airport. seaport or ferry terminal, at a reasonable cost. Get your holiday or business trip off to a comfortable start with an effortless transfer from Air & Back.

Polite, experienced and wellpresented drivers Full comprehensive insurance including Hire and Reward Drivers and vehicles licensed by the local authority. Detailed confirmation to you the day before departure

Call today for a competitive quote Air & Back, 75 Mayfield Avenue, Southend-on-Sea Essex SS2 6NR

Tel/Fax: 01702 435722 Mobile 07903 301086

CITY # STANSTED # GATWICK # LUTON # HEATHROW 52

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

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2014

DO YOU WANT A HIGHLY RECOMMENDED TILER? Call Today For FREE Advice & Estimates

Bathrooms Kitchens Conservatories Superior quality work

Competitive prices Highly recommended Fully insured Established 1991

All tiling undertaken to the highest standards!

G. PERKS TILING SERVICES Tel: 01702 612602 Mob: 07729 550909

MAINTENANCE MAN All Garden Work Shed Roofs Renewed Fencing & Repairs Guttering & Cleaning Carpentry Work Painting Etc Crazy Paving Re-pointing & Power Cleaning ANY OTHER WORK CONSIDERED!

www.gperks-tiling.co.uk See our work on Facebook/Gary Perks Wall & Floor Tiling Southend on Sea, Essex

AUGUST 2014

PHONE KEN:

01702 781140

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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

53

BrooksPaving

BLOCK PAVING 5 O %

whe n yo u ORA mentio CLE n th e

Established 1993

FF

Over 100 driveways completed in the Thorpe Bay and North Shoebury areas

HIGHER TEC IN BUILDING : VAT REGISTERED COMPANY

For a

FREE ESTIMATE

please call:

01702 535335 Mob: 07976 204016

Furniture restoration restoration Services available:-

French Polishing All Structural Repairs Hand Veneering Cane Seating Leather Desk-Lining Clock-Case Restoration Antique Specialist

Fully-qualified craftsman in an established, local business offering high-quality service. For a free verbal estimate please call:-

FREEFONE 0800 587 4208 54

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

T.S. Baskett T.S.Baskett Est. 1992 Established 1992

www.tsbaskett.co.uk

6 Durham Rd. Southend

01702 603766  

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

6 Durham Rd. Southend

AUGUST 2014

SUSAN WHITE SW PHYSIOTHERAPY LTD

CHARTERED PHYSIOTHERAPIST HPC REGISTERED

TEL : 01702 322606 14 BUCKLAND, SHOEBURYNESS

!"#!$ %&'(&"

!##$$!"("'(

GENERAL PHYSIOTHERAPY SPORTS INJURIES NECK AND BACK PROBLEMS SPRAINS AND STRAINS WHIPLASH INJURY ARTHRITIS

F U LL A SSE S SM E N T U N DE R T AK E N R E G IST E R E D W IT H A LL M AJ O R IN S U R AN C E C O MP AN IE S

AUGUST 2014

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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

55

useful numbers ADVICE & HELPLINES Child Protection Citizens Advice Crime Prevention Crimestoppers Cruse Bereavement Care Pier & Foreshore Inspectors Drugs, Alcohol & Substance Misuse HARP National Drugs Freephone Samaritans Southend Talking Newspaper Victim Support Group Southend Council Civic Centre Jobcentre Southend

ANIMAL WELFARE

534495 0844 4770 808 464199 0800 555 111 213843 215620 440400 615000 0800 776900 611911 554536 0845 4565995 215000 575700

CLUBS & ASSOCIATIONS Belfairs Mixed Bowling 475766 Burges Estate Residents Association (BERA) 588662 Carers Forum 393933 Charles Dicken’s Fellowship 588069 Cockleshell Clog Morris 479622 Essex Handicrafts Association 479622 Essex Society for Family History 522992 Lower Thames Rowing Club 482205 Prittlewell Bowls Club 612476 Southchurch Park Croquet Club 303957 Southend Blind Welfare Association 342131 Southend Cardiac Support Group 309042 / 293469 Southend Photographic Society 332491 Southend Rugby Club 546682 Southend Golf Club 473206 The English Speaking Union 588069 Thorpe Bay Bowling Club 582074 Thorpe Bay Bridge Club 616145 Thorpe Bay Floral Arrangement Group 585350 Thorpe Bay Lawn Tennis Club 585245 Thorpe Bay Yacht Club 587563 Thorpe Hall Golf Club 582205 Scout Groups Southend, Thorpe Bay & Shoeburyness 587647 Actorcrats (Amateur Dramatics) 306506 Thorpe Bay Art Group 294321 St Augustine's Church 587597 Stone Masons & Dry Stone Wallers 292867 Southend Chess Club Steve Wedlock (Club Secretary) 345902 Southend-on-Sea Lions Club 582828 Southend & District Pensioners Campaign 341047 Thames Estuary Lacemakers 476034 Rotary Club of Thorpe Bay 582872 HOSPITALS & HEALTH Primary Care Trust Southend General Hospital

224600 435555

Downes & Prtnrs, Veterinary Surgeon RSPCA Rochford

584511 548261

POLICE SERVICES 24 hour Emergency Number 01702 430696 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 215011 Southend High Street Post office 391063 Bournes Green Post Office 582241 Traveline 0871 200 2233 Arriva Southend 08701 201088 First 01268 525251 National Express 08705 80 80 80 Odeon Cinema 0871 2244007 SSAFA (Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen Families Association) 463113

INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR DECORATING Painting & Wallpapering

Professional, friendly and reliable Local Thorpe Bay Decorator Top quality workmanship Guaranteed City and Guild qualified Competitive prices Fully Insured

M K Decorating Services

LOCAL MP James Duddridge (Con)

01702 616135

PHARMACIES Bansal Pharmacy 587500 178 The Broadway Mon-Fri 9-6.30 pm / Sat 9-1pm Howells & Brooks 582658 The Broadway Mon-Fri 9-6.30 pm / Sat 9-5.30 pm Closed 1-2 pm Wed+Sat.

56

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

For a free no obligation quotation, Please call Michael

01702 312964 07973 796270

mk.decorating@hotmail.co.uk

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2014

For more fantastic products & information visit our website at www.hbelectrical.co.uk Showroom: 15 Elm Road, Leigh on Sea, Essex SS9 1SW Combining technology and traditional ser vice www.hbelectrical.co.uk

0% INTEREST FREE CREDIT Buy Now Pay August 2015

Email: enquiries@hbelectrical.co.uk

Tel: 01702 475518

Terms and Conditions apply. Ask dealer staff for Details

Thorpe Bay

ORACLE View the latest issues

ORACLE Index to advertisers

ONLINE Oracle-on-Sea - Aug 2014_Layout 1 28/07/2014 11:18 Page 1

ACCOUNTANTS 33 Taylors Chartered Accountants 60 Wilkins Kennedy AERIALS & SATELLITES 54 1st South East Aerials Essex Digital Services 8 AIRPORT TRANSFER 52 AiR & Back BLINDS Worth & Co 25 BLOCK PAVING Brooks Paving 54 BUILDERS AJ Property Services 35 BUILDING SUPPLIES St. Ann's 15 BUTCHERS Burtons Farm Meat Emporium 6 CAKES Bells & Bows Cakes 8 CAR DEALERSHIP Fairfield Mini 1 CARPENTRY John Sorrell 42 CARPETS Trade Carpets 5 CARPET/OVEN CLEANING Gates Services 28 CLADDING Essex Cladding 46 CLEANING Maid in Essex 37 CLOTHING Paul's Discount Clothing 2 COMMERCIAL/DOMESTIC PLUMBING & HEATING Essex Maintenance 38 COMPUTER SERVICES Computopia 48 CONSERVATORY BJ Davis 24 CONSERVATORY CLEANING ECCC 6 DECORATING Keith Gibson 55 MK Decor 56 DOG GROOMING Adorable Dog Grooming 15 Posh Poochies Dog Grooming Service 50 DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIR Cloudy 2 Clear 49 DRIVEWAYS Bespoke Resin Surfaces 47 EDUCATION Crown College 26 Shoebury High School 30/31

FIREPLACES Fireplace & Design GAT Fireplaces FLOORING & CARPETS Daniel James Flooring FUNERAL SERVICES AR Adams Funeral Services FURNITURE (BESPOKE) High House FURNITURE RESTORERS TS Baskett GARAGES RS Automotives Service Garage GARDEN CENTRE Morley's Garden Centre GARDEN SERVICES Paul's Gardening GLASS MERCHANT Colins Glass GUTTERS & FASCIAS AC Solutions HAIR & BEAUTY Grateful Heads Headhunters HANDYMAN Piper Construction HEALTH & BEAUTY Cliff House Clinic JR Medical Le Salon Chic Therapy Life Centre HEATING & PLUMBING Son Ray Heating HOMECARE Caremark INTERIOR DESIGN Morris Interiors JEWELLERY AV & BV Andrews KITCHENS Kitchen Base KITCHENS/BATHROOMS B&R Barnes/Bespoke Kitchens LANDSCAPING Grassroots Landscapes MAINTENANCE MAN Ken Sendall MARBLE WORKTOP Abbey Marble MEMOIRS BOOK Psst... Memoirs

Thorpe Bay

27 36

August 2014

Thorpe Bay at a glance

18 23 54 39 51

August 2014

Leigh, Chalkwell & Southend Conservation Area Est. Oct 2006. Circulation 6,700

Est. Sept 2005. Circulation 5,100

Oracle Competition

59

Oracle-on-Sea

ORACLE ORACLE Oracle Competition

WIN! Sunday lunch for four people worth £80 at the 1935 Rooftop Restaurant and Bar

WIN! Sunday lunch for four people worth £80 at the 1935 Rooftop Restaurant and Bar

A new beginning

Local Issues

A new beginning

Local Issues

Oracle Travel

Oracle Travel

Active family in Antigua

Active family in Antigua

Recipe Page

Recipe Page

Salmon salad with bacon and tarragon

Salmon salad with bacon and tarragon

onoffers all new onminis. all new minis. great offers great onoffers all new onminis. all new minis. great offers great

onoffers all new onminis. all new minis. great offers great onoffers all new onminis. all new minis. great offers great

01702 429429 01702 www.fairfieldmini.co.uk 429429 www.fairfieldmini.co.uk 01702 429429 01702 www.fairfieldmini.co.uk 429429 www.fairfieldmini.co.uk

01702 429429 01702 www.fairfieldmini.co.uk 429429 www.fairfieldmini.co.uk 01702 429429 01702 www.fairfieldmini.co.uk 429429 www.fairfieldmini.co.uk

To advertise in ORACLE call

01702 393838

21 12 8 43 16 33 45 32 17 29 18 28 12 11 19 44 14 41 53 38 46

MONEY-SAVING Cheaper Bills Today OPTICAL CC Optical OVEN CLEANING Ovenclean PHYSIOTHERAPY Susan White PLUMBING & HEATING Brian Lacey Hammond & Son M Walker RESTAURANTS Café Masala Polash Palm Tree/Lemon Tree Trattoria Verde ROOFING Estuary Roofing SKIP HIRE Leigh Skip Hire SOLICITORS Vincent McCarthy TILING Battlesbridge Tiling G Perks Tiling MCG Tiling TRAVEL COUNSELLOR Hermes Travel TREE SERVICES Mike's Tree Services Treefella TV & VIDEO SERVICES HB Electrical UPHOLSTERY Peter Weddell WINDOWS ALT Windows Cleaning BC Windows

48 53 48 55 3 15 4 13 7 41 37 50 45 42 55 53 33 22 52 45 57 23 12 48

ORACLE - the smart little glossy mags for Southend

Reach over 29,000 readership in Leigh, Chalkwell, Southend Conservation Area & 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.

58

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

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2014

AUGUST 2014

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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

59

U U U U U

Come for a free initial consultation over a coffee

To see how we can help, please contact our Southend office on T: 01702 348646 E: southend@wilkinskennedy.com www.wilkinskennedy.com www.wilkinskennedy www .wilkinskennedy.com .wilkinskennedy .com

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.