Thorpe bay dec 2015 web by Oracle Publications

Thorpe Bay

December 2015

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

Oracle Competition! WIN! 3-Piece ‘Butterfly London’ Jewellery Set from Callie & Finn worth £175

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Diamonds - Gifts - Repairs The National Association of Goldsmiths

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www.andrewsltd.co.uk Cover photo by Martin Sherlock

GO WITH YOUR GUT. Fully loaded with MINI Navigation System, MINI Connected and distinctive looks as standard. With space for five and a range of advanced TwinPower Turbo petrol and diesel engines, the stunning new MINI Clubman creates a powerful feeling that makes perfect sense. Pre-book a test drive* at www.fairfieldmini.co.uk/contact-us Fairfield Arterial Road, Eastwood Leigh-on-Sea SS9 4XX Tel: 01702 429429

THE NEW MINI CLUBMAN AVAILABLE NOW. Official Fuel Economy Figures for the new MINI Clubman Range: Urban 35.3-60.1 mpg (8-4.7 l/100km). Extra Urban 52.3-76.3 mpg (5.4-3.7 l/100km). Combined 44.8-68.9 mpg (6.3-4.1 l/100km). CO2 Emissions 147-109 g/km. Figures may vary depending on driving style and conditions. *Test drive is subject to status and availability.

OR ACLE

LIVE JAZZ

At: Thorpe Hall Golf Club, Thorpe Hall Avenue, SS1 3AT Members of the public are welcome at Golf club on jazz nights

TUES 1ST DEC - The Michele Drees Tap Project.

Publisher’s letter

his year has been a huge but rewarding challenge, what with the launch of the reader events, photographic competition in August, the huge undertaking of publishing Oracle's very first book for charity, Cooking-on-Sea and finishing off with Oracle’s 10th anniversary party at the Park Inn Palace where over 100 clients and supporters were treated to a sparkling reception and live music. You can view some of the photographs from the party in this month’s edition. While on the subject of the charity recipe book, I want to let you know that there are a number of Thorpe Bay outlets where you can purchase a copy: Morris Interiors, AR Adams and Hair & Son. It would make a fabulous Christmas gift and you would be buying it knowing that every penny from the sale of the book will help Southend’s homeless. This is such a worthwhile cause, especially this time of the year as HARP is extremely stretched financially. This month’s competition will definitely be a lovely addition to anybody’s jewellery collection. Callie & Finn of Alexandra Street, Southend, have very kindly given a three piece jewellery set from Butterfly Jewellery London. Callie & Finn are stocking this fabulous range which is also worn by celebrities including Darcy Bussell who is a big fan. To view the jewellery please go to www.oraclepublications.co.uk To enter please send your contact details to: Oracle/Callie & Finn Competition, Oracle House, 11 Clarence Road, Southend-on-Sea, Essex SS1 1AN or email to: info@oraclepublications.co.uk Merry Christmas!

A fabulous percussive trio led by Michele with two internationally renowned tap dancers.

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ORACLE PLUMBING & HEATING

contents Local Issues YOOHOPP 9/10 Digital service transforms shopping in Southend SPECIAL FEATURE! Celebrating 10 Years of Oracle

16/17

by Simon Ramet

Back to the Future (again)

Hair & Beauty by Craig Smith

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20 YEARS EXPERIENCE

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Beat the Xmas blues with The Blues

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Local Letters

Residents have their say

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DECEMBER 2015

Local Issues

Don’t just hop to town this Christmas –YOOHOPP! S

outhend-on-Sea has become the first seaside high street in the UK to offer the innovative “Click & Collect” platform, YOOHOPP. Brought to you by Southend BID (the driving force behind OnSouthend.com), it’s the key to simple online shopping.

scheme – “This new website is brilliant for our customers who can now order online and not worry about missing out on the coveted new bears because they can’t get to our store in time.”

No longer do you have to search a number of retail websites to find what you want. Instead, this fantastic new facility allows you to shop Southend’s high street all in one place with ease.

Gone are the days of traipsing around the high street struggling to find something suitable. You can now find exactly what you want online, check it’s availablility nearby and collect it at a time convenient to you. Simply browse the categories to find inspiration or, if you know what

HOPP on

HOPP to it

As well as big name national retailers, YOOHOPP will also host a number of local independent shops, helping you uncover hidden gems in Southend that you wouldn’t have found before. Ravens, Southend’s original family-run department store, is one of several independent stores in Southend to be utilising this shopping platform. Company Director, Hannah Conacher commented, “As one of the oldest businesses in town (established 124 years ago) we are thrilled to be part of such a cutting edge project.” Steve Kohler of Teddy Station, the collectible bear shop in town, is also benefiting from this new DECEMBER 2015

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you’re looking for, type the description in to the search box and see what can be found in Southend. Once you’re happy with what you’ve found, click on the item and place it in your basket. Then you can decide to carry on shopping or checkout. Once you’ve completed your purchase, you’ll be sent details of when your items will be ready and you can arrange a time to collect them when it suits you.

HOPP ‘til you don’t drop You’ll also save time now that you don’t have to hunt round for that perfect item and, instead, you can spend that time catching up with a friend over lunch or taking the children to panto. Not only that, but every now and then we’ll also send you some fantastic offers to enjoy in the town centre when you’re collecting your purchases.

Christmas HOPPing Don’t miss out on the events in Southend over this festive period! Combine your Christmas shopping with a swoosh around the ice at Skating on Sea, outside the Forum until 3rd January. Don’t forget Saturday 5th December the Winter Extravaganza comes to town, and the launch of the amazing 4D Light Show, bringing Christmas to life every evening until 12th December. Visit

ONSOUTHEND.COM/CHRISTMAS for more information.

HOPP, skip and jump Alison Dewey, Southend BID Manager says, “Retailers in Southend town centre now have the opportunity to increase their online sales as well as encourage people into their stores. Customers can uncover hidden gems in Southend, browsing products ranging from clothing, home interiors, wine, gifts and much more. All whilst sitting in the comfort of their own home.” A massive 95% of online shoppers used Click & Collect in the UK last Christmas. This year it’s even easier, just visit YOOHOPP.CO.UK/SOUTHEND and start shopping.

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Celebrating 10 Years

Oracle’s 10th birthday party! L

ast month, well over 100 people assembled at the Park Inn Palace Hotel, Southend, to celebrate Oracle’s 10th anniversary. The sparkling reception kicked off with some super-smooth live enter tainment from multitalented jazz singer/guitarist, Joe Gibson, who is also appearing at Ronnie Scott’s this month. After a very touching welcome and thank you from Oracle’s own Emma Wynne-Morgan, Cookingon-Sea, Oracle’s charity cookbook in aid of HARP – Southend’s Homeless Charity – was officially launched in style. HARP’s Chairman, Richard Hair then explained the amazing progress that the charity has achieved, which was echoed and supported by a short speech from the Mayor.

Street talk Surprise highlight of the evening, however, was a breath-taking talk from Matt Pettitt who described his own experiences of being homeless with shockingly revealing honesty, leaving nobody in doubt of the amazing, life-changing work that HARP perform.

Guests were then treated to a cookery demonstration (and a very enjoyable food-tasting!) by cook-extraordinaire, Judy Barden, who magicked up her delicious Paprika Arlettes recipe featured in Cooking-on-Sea. As the evening got into full flow, guests danced (and sang) the night away with the effervescent vocalist, JD “Mr Soul Machine” Fitzgerald, who’s infectious charisma lit up the room like a birthday sparkler and raffle prizes were excitedly awarded, including a football signed by the whole Southend United team.

Going like hot cakes All too early, the night was over and guests collected their copies of Cooking-on-Sea to take home, to give as presents and many to generously sell in their own shops. Sales of the limited edition book raised nearly £2,000 within the first week and have continued with vigour. So If you would like to purchase one for Christmas this year then don’t delay, and remember – you will not only be buying a book filled with some delicious, tried and tested, local dishes but you will also be helping to feed and shelter Southend’s homeless this winter. Go to Oracle’s website to see where you can purchase a copy of the book and remember that every penny is being given to HARP. By Simon Ramet

Photographs by Keith Hoskins, Picture Perfect

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‘frozen features’. No wonder the A-Listers have turned to Collagen Wave as the only proper alternative. Take advantage of our Trial Treatment offer! Our Practitioners will be pleased to answer any questions you may have both before and during the Trial. Please note that, as Professionals, we insist on a prior (and free) consultation before we undertake any treatments at all.

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Oracle Hair & Beauty

Back to the future (again): My hair & beauty predictions for 2016

f the catwalks of Milan, Paris, London and New York are to be believed, we’re in for a kaleidoscope of trends next year. For some of us, that means having fun revisiting looks we sported in our youth and for others, a chance to experiment with some classic and quirky styles. The leading designers and fashion houses have plundered past decades for ideas and inspiration, resulting in the return of wet-look hair and intense eye make-up.

Replicating Fans of Siouxsie and the Banshees and Blade Runner will perhaps be excited by the iconic singer and Daryl Hannah’s character Pris influencing the new trend for statement, mask-like eye shadow. In other shows, an updated version of the 90’s love of smokyeyed, kohl eyeliner offers a still fashion-forward but less challenging style to emulate. If you were into Grunge, this could be your time to dig out your leather jacket and Nirvana albums again.

Bowled not over One of the original supermodels of the 1990’s, Linda Evangelista, still acts as a muse for the fashion industry and her trademark bowl-cut hairstyle was seen on several runways.

chicks-on-the-beach revival. It’s all about being carefree, unfussy and living life to the max. Another aspect of this way of thinking is the continuing appearance of hair accessories. Clips, corsages, ribbons and headbands add an instant touch of glamour without having to faff around with your hair.

Where we’re going,

we don’t need à la mode Of course, the dilemma of which way to go with your makeup isn’t quite solved with the emerging nude lips or eye-catching vivid colours? Either is cool but I must say I can’t wait to see someone sporting Prada’s stunning gold lipstick in my local supermarket. Although the 70’s have been overlooked as inspiration for Spring/Summer 2016, the spirit of punk lives on.There were no safety pins on display but necklaces created from cable ties could well catch on. You heard it here first …

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Linda, also famed for her honey-coloured complexion has also inspired a return to models sporting healthy, sun-kissed tans. This in turn, has sparked a rock-

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Council News

A game of two halves A

s we head towards the festive season, one of the big topics at the moment is the proposed new Southend United Football Stadium and associated homes, shops and leisure facilities. At last, a revised planning application will be submitted to the Council for consideration. The programme anticipates starting construction in the autumn of 2016. There is still a very long way to go until the new stadium and retail complex are built and ready for use, and a number of issues for the council to consider from a planning and wider perspective. If approved, the whole development is expected to take 3â&#x20AC;&#x201C;5 years.

Pitch perfect The architects who have drawn up the plans are Populous, who previously jointly designed the new stadiums at Wembley, the Millennium in Cardiff and Arsenalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Emirates. The public consultation documents show that there could be a 21,000 seater stadium, a 131 bedroom hotel, 240 residential units over 3 tower blocks, a 35 store complex, 10 restaurants, a 12screen cinema along with 1,000 parking spaces for the retail park and 830 match day car parking spaces. As with all planning applications there are both advantages and disadvantages.

Home advantage This development is likely to be hugely popular as there are facilities to suit all ages, the town

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

could see the benefits of major job creation, and the possibility of new visitors to the town. With possible further promotion into higher leagues, the side will be playing against teams who have large established supporter bases, and the club will attract increased home fans along with the existing loyal supporters that I am sure would be as keen as ever to support Southend United.

Top score or own goal? The disadvantages must also be considered. For instance, will the local infrastructure be able to cope with the many people likely to be moving into the new homes around the stadium, exacerbating existing problems of available places at local schools, and in doctor and dental surgeries? Can the highways cope with the increased level of cars likely to be on the roads, and the large number of football fans walking to and from the stadium? More importantly, will Southend-on-Sea High Street be able to survive if such a big retail area is likely to draw shoppers away from it? Good or bad for Southend-on-Sea â&#x20AC;&#x201C; what do you think? I wish you and your families a very merry Christmas.

Cllr Ron Woodley 01702 588662 Leader of Southend-on-Sea Borough Council

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DECEMBER 2015

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Community

Supporting someone living with cancer B

eing diagnosed with cancer has the power to make someone feel as though their world has fallen apart. Even the prospect of a diagnosis can create so much change and uncertainty that it often seems there is no “normal” any more.

Natural reactions Effects of coming to terms with a cancer diagnosis are as unpredictable as they are unsettling. Many different responses are stirred up, with no wrong or right way of dealing with the feelings experienced. One or all of shock, fear, denial, anger, withdrawal and coping are natural reactions and can happen in any order. Advances in understanding and treatment allow a person to continue to live well whilst dealing with cancer, whatever the outcome. There are many forms of support and help available to cancer patients, but what about those people around the patient: family, friends and carers? How does someone provide much-needed help and support to a loved one, friend or colleague dealing with cancer, whilst also coping with the impact on their own life?

Live with and live well with cancer The Macmillan Information Centre, based at Southend Hospital helps anyone overcome the trauma of cancer. Focused on enabling people to live with and live well with cancer, support is given on a 1:1 basis and is non-judgemental, nondiscriminatory, discrete, private and confidential.

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Using a “drop-in” approach, users can access the centre’s services for information (both clinical and non-clinical), complex emotional and psychological support, benefits, welfare and employment advice and sign-posting to a broad range of health and social care services. There is also access to various support groups, helping to cope with distress, relationship and emotional issues, find support networks and promote self-management. As a joint partnership between Southend Hospital and Macmillan Cancer Support, the centre is a calm and “safe” place for people to gather their thoughts, talk about their concerns with a trained volunteer, or seek specialist advice from an oncology nurse. If you are dealing with cancer, or supporting someone who is, visit the centre for support and advice. Or even just for a cup of tea and a friendly face. by Friederike Englund Macmillan Information & Support Manager

Macmillan Information & Support Centre, Southend University Hospital

01702 385101 Email: macmillan.centre@southend.nhs.uk Follow us on Facebook: Southend Macmillan Information & Support Centre. Or visit www.southend.nhs.uk to find us.

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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 Mon-Fri 11am - 11pm (Closed 3-5:30) Sat 11am - 11pm Sun 12pm - 10:30pm

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recipe of the month

Method: First make the mincemeat. Soak the raisins, sultanas and currants in the orange juice and Grand Marnier or Cointreau for about 1 hour until the liquid has been soaked up. Now mix the rest of the ingredients and give it a good stir. Spoon into sterilised jars, seal tightly and store in the fridge.

In the Kitchen with Judy Barden

To make the pastry, sift the flour, icing sugar and ½ tsp salt into a bowl or a food processor. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Add a little cream, or milk to bring to a soft dough. Turn out onto a worktop, knead briefly, wrap in some cling film and chill for half an hour.

Orange and Walnut Mince Pies

his orangey mincemeat is not too sweet. Many of the commercial varieties are very sweet and sugary. The mincemeat can be made and kept for up to 2 months and the lovely American style cream cheese pastry can be made and frozen ready to use when you need it. Enjoy! Enjoy! Orange and Walnut Mince Pies Makes about 24

Ingredients: For the mincemeat – 100g/4oz each of raisins, sultanas and currants juice of ½ an orange 3 tbsp Grand Marnier or Cointreau 85g/3oz walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped 100g/4oz unsalted butter melted 85g/3oz candied peel finely chopped zest of 1 orange 90g/3½ oz light muscovado sugar 85g/3oz Bramley apple, grated For the pastry – 300g/12oz plain flour 3 tbsp icing sugar 175g/6oz unsalted butter, very cold 175g/6oz cream cheese 3 tbsp single cream or milk

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

Roll the pastry onto a floured worktop to the thickness of a pound coin and cut tops and bottoms in equal numbers using a 6cm cutter and a 7cm cutter. Reroll until all your pastry is used up. Lightly grease a 12 hole bun tin (you will make 24) and use the larger circles to line your cups. Place a heaped tsp of mincemeat in each one and top with the smaller disc pressing the edges together (I sometimes just wet the edge of the pastry with a little water to help it stick). Heat the oven to 220°C/fan 200°C/Gas Mark 7 and place a baking sheet in the oven to heat up. Place the mince pies on the hot baking sheet and cook for 10 mins then reduce the heat to 180°C/fan 160°C/Gas Mark 4 for another 10 minutes until lightly golden. If you want a lovely crusty sugary finish, brush with milk and sprinkle with caster sugar and return to the oven for 2 mins. Cool in the tin for 5 mins before easing out. Serve warm or cold or freeze for up to 2 months. Defrost and warm through in the oven. Next month’s recipe: Bolognese with Vegetable Spaghetti Sponsored by: Will Writing • Power of Attorney • Trusts • Funeral Plans Will Updating & Storage Facilities • Probate Administration

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Our Racket Testing Area – In our warehouse we have a rebound net for customers to try out tennis rackets. Badminton players can also use this area. We stock over 300 rackets and our “racket wall “ is always current. Racket Re-String Service – We offer a superb re-stringing service and take great pride in assuring customer satisfaction. We can also re-grip and fit dampeners when required.

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his year sees us celebrating 10 years since our doors first opened. Our aim then was to create a fantastic ‘destination store’ where customers could view, and in some cases, even road test the latest sports equipment backed up by friendly expert advice. This still applies today from our showroom based in Progress Road where we specialise in running, racketsports, rugby and fitness. We would like to thank all our customers for their continued support and to all new customers, we hope you will have the opportunity to visit our unique store very soon. If your passion is running, tennis, badminton, squash, racketball, rugby or general fitness here are 10 reasons to visit Original Sports.

2000sq ft Showroom - Spacious open plan

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Beat the Xmas blues with The Blues this Xmas!

outhend United appear to have settled well to life back in Sky Bet League 1.

Following our dramatic penalty shoot out victory in May at Wembley the ‘feel-good’ factor remains at Roots Hall. Some good player acquisitions along with an array of different scorers have, at the time of print, put the Blues just a few points adrift from the play-off spots. If a few back-to-back victories can be obtained in the coming weeks there is a great chance to break into the prized play off spots. With the exception of perhaps one game, we can certainly say we have held our own in a league occupied by a number of former Premier League clubs such as Blackpool, Coventry, Wigan and Bradford.

Match-fit With exciting plans for the new ground at Fossets Farm we have certainly witnessed an increasing interest from the business community of Southend and even further afield. Such is our exposure on a local, regional and national level

that businesses can benefit by advertising with the biggest sports Club in Essex!

Christmas lineup Back on the pitch: The first third of the season has seen Southend gain vital away victories at Millwall, Crewe and Oldham, along with some more than credible draws at the likes of Gillingham, Sheffield United and Coventry. As we enter the busy festive season, Phil Brown's men take to the field no fewer than five games including two visits from near neighbours Millwall. First up we welcome them in the Semi Final of the Johnstone's Paint Trophy on Tuesday 8th December – the Blues once again find themselves with a good opportunity to reach yet another Wembley final. We then kick start the festivities on Friday 18th December with the visit of Bury under the Roots Hall lights. After the visit to rivals Colchester we welcome Millwall who will be familiar with the route from South London to Roots Hall for the 1pm kick off on Monday 28th December. Come and watch live football on your doorstep, www.southendunited.co.uk / 08444 770077. Together we're United … by Danny Macklin Commercial Director, SUFC danny.macklin@southend-united.co.uk

08444 770077 Roots Hall Stadium, Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea, Essex SS2 6NQ

www.southendunited.co.uk 46

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DECEMBER 2015

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Local Letters Dear Abe,

Re: Pier Pressure (in October’s Oracle) ---------------------------------------

There are a range of prices which include walk both ways, train one way and train both ways which mean that visitors only pay for the journeys they take. Walking the length of the pier this time of year is just £1 and is £2 in summer although for concessions it is £1 for the summer as well. An annual pass is available for regular multiple use which is £70 adults £35 for concessions. The Pier is a tourist attraction rather than a passenger train and is good value compared to other attractions of its type. Scott Dolling | Head of Service – Economy, Regeneration and Tourism | Southend-on-Sea Borough Council

’ pricс were missing fron Southнd Piр’s Oracle’s investigation uncovered that the ‘walk only тd pricс. This has now been rectified. webpage which may have suggested infla RETURN TO SENDER I use the Post Office in Southend High Street so infrequently that I only recently learned of it’s ‘advances’ in technology. Unfortunately, now I find I can’t use it all! First I discovered the numbered queueing system but couldn’t locate the ticket dispenser. After much searching I was helpfully shown that it was a actually a computer that gives you the tickets but then found that it forces you to answer a questionnaire before it will do so! I then spotted the self-service machines and decided to avoid the considerable queue altogether. It didn’t take long to realise that only someone with a degree in computer engineering would be able to buy so much as a stamp from one of these creations, so I approached a member of staff who was busily assisting the customers using the other machines. She quickly programmed my ‘self-service’ machine for me and I left having finally received the swift, human service that I had wanted in the first place! I wonder how many salaries this ‘progress’ has cost? Mr. M. Wright

– Fallen Angels –

Remembrance Day was our chance to honour the many brave men and women who gave their lives in the service of their country. As usual, we did this by wearing poppies yet they were only widely on sale for less than a fortnight beforehand. In contrast, Christmas decorations, cards, gifts and other merchandise have been appearing in shops since October. After about a week, the poppies were all stashed away for another year, out of sight and out of people's minds. By January, sales in the shops will be urging us to buy early for Xmas 2016. Thought provoking isn't it? A. Resident

Something on your mind? Consult the Oracle by sending your letters to: info@oraclepublications.co.uk 52

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Head to Hyde Park Winter Wonderland with c2c this Christmas

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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!

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DECEMBER 2015

Advertorial

Shoeburyness High – you can count on us! S

hoeburyness High School's Mathematics Department has continued to go from strength to strength in 2015. Yet again our Year 11 leavers’ GCSE results were above the national average for students achieving grades A*–C, with more students than ever achieving top results. One of the biggest successes last year was the rise in the number of top grades achieved by our students. Pupils achieving A*–B grades were up to 30%, which was again an improvement on previous years. There were more A*, more A, and more B grades than ever before. 98% of students in the top two sets successfully achieved a B grade or above, with another 31 students reaching the same heights in other sets.

It all adds up Our current Year 11s are on target to push these results up even further in 2016. In the examinations sat at the end of year 10, 54% of students have already managed to obtain an A*–C grade in their Application of Mathematics GCSE. Every one of those Year 11 students is now aiming to improve on their grades during the 2015/16 academic year. As a result of these GCSE successes, A-level mathematics numbers are continuing to rise in Years 12 and 13. Last year saw a 100% pass rate

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

for the AS and A2 examinations, with the vast majority of our Year 13 Maths students going off to continue their studies at university.

Complementary figures One clear indication of the drive, focus and determination of our maths students is the fact we regularly see 25 or more of them attending an optional maths A-level workshop, which runs every Wednesday afternoon. These sessions are supported by up to 2 or 3 members of the department, enabling students to work on tasks and activities which develop their understanding of key concepts and topics. The workshops have proved very successful in recent years and are a key factor in ensuring our students achieve their potential during their time in Post 16 at Shoeburyness High School.

Number crunching On the 17th March 2015 we took a team of Year 8 students to compete in the regional finals of the UK Mathematics Trust (UKMT) Junior Team Challenge. The students who formed the team had gone through a fun and engaging, yet rigorous selection process and were very proud to have been chosen to represent Shoeburyness High School.

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DECEMBER 2015

On the day, we took a minibus to Woodford Green and joined around 30 other teams from a number of other schools, many of them grammar schools. The rounds consisted of different group activities, such as relays and whole team challenges. One of the rounds was a paired relay, where the team of 4 would split into two groups of two and could only answer each question once the other pair had answered the previous one correctly.

The final activity of the day was another relay, where the team had to work as a four to complete the tasks set whilst racing against every other team at the same time. Coordinated teamwork and mathematical problem solving skills were essential and the team were a credit to themselves, the department and the school. They performed fantastically on the day, but unfortunately just missed out on qualifying for the next round. Shoeburyness High School maths students will be attending the regional finals again in 2016 and we are looking forward to the challenge.

What do points make? In July the Maths Department ran a reward trip to Thorpe Park for students in years 7, 8 and 9 who had made the most progress over the school year. Twenty-three students were selected in total and it was based on the fact they had made excellent progress during the year. In a couple of cases students had made 6 fine levels of progress in just one year! For anyone who is unsure how these levels work, trust me when I say that this is a massive achievement!

level, students from Years 7 to 11 will be taking part in more UKMT challenges, an ever increasing number of students are looking to continue studying mathematics in Post-16, and we see the forthcoming launch of our own Mathematics Department Twitter account, @Mathematic_SHS. Our Twitter account will focus on promoting revision opportunities, include mathematics based competitions for students and parents, and be key in celebrating pupil successes. As things stand, it looks like 2016 will offer a lot to celebrate!

Dates for your diary: Monday 14th December 2015 from 7â&#x20AC;&#x201C;9pm - A Christmas Celebration at the Thorpe Bay and Shoeburyness Baptist Church. Mock exams â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Monday 11th January 2016 to Friday 15th January 2016. Look out for news of the Revision Conference week beginning 4th January 2016.

Summing up

Shoeburyness High School

It looks like 2016 is going to be an exciting year for the Mathematics Department: results are on target to be better than ever at both GCSE and A-

schooloffice@shoeburyness.southend.sch.uk

DECEMBER 2015

01702 292286 www.shoeburynesshigh.co.uk

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Diary Dates WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA

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Sat 5th Dec, Southend Town Centre Lots of events throughout the day to celebrate Christmas. DIGBY FAIRWEATHER - CHRISTMAZ JAZZ

Wed 9 Dec 12.15pm–1.00pm, Southend Civic Centre THAMES ESTUARY DECORATIVE AND FINE ARTS SOCIETY

Meets every first Wed at 10.30am and 2.00pm, The Freight House, Bradley Way, Rochford We have an exciting programme on the Arts. Visitors welcome (£5). For further information call 01702 479416 or 01268 771120. WOMEN'S INSTITUTE SOUTHCHURCH VILLAGE FRIENDS MEETING

Every 2nd Mon at 7.30pm, The Hamstel Children & Families Centre, Hamstel Road THE THAMES THROUGH TIME

Sat 12th Dec, Beecroft Art Gallery, Victoria Avenue South Essex Natural History Society. The course of the river has changed and left behind interesting geological and archaeological clues. By Ian Mercer. CAROLS ON STRAND WHARF

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Sat 12th Dec 10.30am–12pm, Shalynn Cattery, 569 Prince Ave (access via Southbourne Grove or slip roads to Westcliff from the A127). All our cats are neutered and chipped, vet checked and vacinated. All lovely and looking for a good home. For further information please call Rita on 01702 710630 or come along on the day and meet our moggies! CHRISTMAS CAROL-ALONG

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Sun 20th Dec 2pm, Southend Bandstand, Priory Park The Southend Band present an hour’s free concert of Christmas music and carols. Wrap up warmly and enjoy the festive cheer.

Do you have an event? Email us to get it on here!

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DECEMBER 2015

Welcome to the Southend 11+ Tuition Centre where students can look forward to being educated as individuals. Laraine Harris has been teaching 11+ for the Southend and Chelmsford area grammar schools for more than 10 years and has attained a 95% pass rate over this time. We believe that education goes beyond the academic curriculum. In addition to preparing pupils for selective secondary schools, we endeavour to help them develop life skills necessary to thrive in our rapidly changing adult world. What often appears “impossible” becomes “possible” through motivational practises. Our preparation classes are for year 4 pupils who attend for one hour each week and year 5 pupils who attend for 1½ hours each week. Online papers are provided and workshops will be available for specific areas of weakness and extra practise. Please do feel free to contact us. Email: 11+tutoring@laraineharris.co.uk

DECEMBER 2015

Mobile: 0771 800 3141

Landline: 01702 612 317

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Air&Back

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

Air & Back, 22 Coronation Close, Great Wakering, SS3 0JG

Call today for a competitive quote

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

CITY # STANSTED # GATWICK # LUTON # HEATHROW

Emergency Electrician Established locally over 25 years Faults our speciality No Job too small Special rates for OAPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s No call out charge

Tel: 07778 653339 Tel: 01702 588892 64

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DECEMBER 2015

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For a FREE Quotation call Mike

07505 794203

G.. PERKS G PERKS TILING TILING SE RVICES RVICES VIC CES SERVICES Proffessional W Professional Wall all and and Floor Floor Tiling Tiling Established E stablished s since inc ce e 11991 991

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

01702 612602/ 07729 550909 www.gperks-tiling.co.uk Gary Perks Wall & Floor Tiling 66

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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

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DECEMBER 2015

BrooksPaving BLOCK PAVING 5 O %

whe n yo u ORA mentio CLE n th e

Established 1993

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

DECEMBER 2015

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