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EXPLORING Great Yeldham | Danbury | Canewdon | Great Henny
SEPTEMBER 2015
Generation Success
County heroes at all stages of life
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Anna Pancaldi Chappel’s hit songstress
Music Making New life for
Colchester’s Moot Hall organ
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EDITOR’S LETTER
ESSEX LIFE
Much to Celebrate
Press House, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich IP4 1AN www.essexlifemag.co.uk
EDITORIAL Editor Julian Read................................................................07834 101686 julian.read@archant.co.uk Designer Jaz Harris .....................................................................01603 772064 jaz.harris@archant.co.uk
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“
IF YOU’RE a regular
award-winning Funky Voices in
reader of Essex Life,
2007. Now Essex and Suffolk’s
you will no doubt be aware that
largest award-winning modern
we are never shy about
community choir welcomes all ages
celebrating all that is best about
and abilities from all walks of life.
the county. Of course, there are
And there’s no stopping
too many excellent things going
Graeme Fraser Steele, who
on around the county to catch it
celebrates his 70th birthday this
all, even within the pages of Essex
year. Graeme practiced law for his
Life. In fact, it seems that
entire working life and is now the
whichever corner of the county you
chairman of trustees at Marks
visit, there are good news stories to
Hall in Coggeshall. He explains
be found, so when Holly Eells
how honoured he is to be
started to compile this month’s
following in the footsteps of the
Generation Success feature, there
first trustees appointed in 1971
was plenty to talk about.
who first rescued the estate
e t n
Holly was looking to find some of the success stories of the
d ire
following significant damage during World War II. To find out more about these
county from across the age groups, from the young guns,
and many more of our county’s
through the middle-aged marvels
heroes from across the age
CIRCULATION AND SUBSCRIPTIONS
and on to the golden oldies.
ranges, turn to page 130.
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Colchester-born John Hoggett is
On the subject of celebrating
one of those holding high hopes
success, don’t miss the chance to
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for his future after launching his
catch up with the judges of the
first business at 21. The Healthy
Essex Life Fine Food & Drink
Chef in Upminster is a clean-
Awards on page 151 to discover
living restaurant, focusing on
what they will be looking for when
healthy eating and diet plans.
they begin judging our
Archant Community Media Ltd
Further along in life is Sandra Coulton. As a successful and
Publishing director Archant East Bob Crawley.....................................bob.crawley@archant.co.uk
finalists. There certainly is much to celebrate.
acclaimed choir director, she has
Commercial Director Archant Magazines
created multiple choirs on a
Tim Thurston................................tim.thurston@archant.co.uk
community basis for high profile clients both in the UK and also
Postal subscriptions mailed to any address in the world. Price (inc. P&P): UK addresses £28.95, Overseas £100. TELEPHONE: 01858 438832. ADDRESS: Archant Magazines, Tower Publishing Services, Sovereign Park, Market Harborough, Leicestershire LE16 9EF. Printed by William Gibbons and Sons Archant Anglia is part of Archant Community Media Ltd, Prospect House, Rouen Road, Norwich, NR1 1RE. Tel: 01603 628311. www.archant.co.uk. Essex Life is published monthly by Archant, trading as Essex Life, Press House, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich IP4 1AN Š Essex Life, 2015. Reproduction of any material, in whole or in part, is strictly forbidden without the prior written consent of the publishers. All material is sent at the owner’s risk and, whilst every care is taken, Archant will not accept liability for loss or damage.
worldwide. The 40-year-old musical director founded her
“
Publisher
Julian Read Editor
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OUT AND ABOUT
IN Brentwood
| Dedham | Ulting |
Greensted
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Vicki
elle Mich ‘Allo star's ‘Allo Jungle fever
Barking & Dagenham Still Essex after 50 years?
Chelmsford Enjoying the Hylands life
The Essex Book Festival 2015 Welcome stars of the literary world
Maggi Hambling
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Recipe p149
September CONTENTS FEATURES 09 An Essex Portrait Colchester’s Colour Extravaganza 20 Making Music Colchester’s Moot Hall organ is restored
Southend p100
68 Beautiful Essex Readers’ scenes of the county 84 The Boys are Back in Town Blake arrive in Essex and are looking for singers to join them
Fashion p158
118 Introducing Anna Could this Chappel songstress be our next singing sensation? 122 Essex in the war How World War II changed our county 124 League of Their Own Celebrating the beautiful game Fashion p156
128 Essex History The Bentall family from Heybridge 130 Generation Success Meet the county heroes from all stages of life
156 Family Time Fashion for all at Blake House Craft Centre
245 Motoring Adam Daly takes a look at the Mazda CX-3
155 Travel Glorious Copenhagen
165 Beauty Tips Top advice for looking your best
249 Five Essex Things Burnham on Crouch beauty expert, Anne Gray, picks her favourite
This month’s cover
167 Sue Moxley Beauty expert explains contouring 169 Jump to it Bouncing to fitness in Colchester 196 Arts Review: Music, Theatre, Exhibitions and more 199 Book Club Literary insights in Essex 201 Join the Great Essex Art Debate Southend is centre stage for the 56th Essex Open Exhibition
Harvest at Beauchamp Roding
6
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PLACES 92 Danbury Delightful countryside and the Devil’s mischief 98 Getting around Great Henny Enjoy a stunning summer walk of countryside and architecture 100 Southend on Sea Something to write home about
211 Education Guide Find the right school for your child
107 Colchester’s High Street Heroes Meet the traders of this historic town
237 Leading Lights Business leaders calling the shots
116 James Merriott paints Canewdon
HOMES AND GARDENS 27
Property News
29 Hot Property Homes close to schools
‘I am very happy to visit any recommended places in Essex, perhaps for an evening out’ Blake p84
Home Truths 31 Location, location, location Property Special 61 Inspiration for retirement living 172 Marking their Mark Transforming Canterburys in Margaretting 179 Be Inspired Fabulous flooring 185 Top trends Inspiration for your home from Essex experts 187 Room Set Home entertainment advice
Historic Colchester p130 Miracle Transformation p172 Gardening p190
190 Act of enclosure Inside the walled garden at Spencers near Great Yeldham Generation Success p130
COUNTRY LIFE
PURE TASTE
11
Your Views
137 Gourmet Life
13
County Life
17
Essex Life Online
139 The Producers… Daymens Hill Farm, Tolleshunt Major
19 Penny Fordham: TRUE or TOWIE 194 September’s Events Diary 202 Rural Life 203 Bird Life 204 Wild Life 206 Wild About Essex 209 Charities Life 243 Business Life 250 Sybilla Hart: Capital to Countryside
COMPETITIONS & SPECIAL OFFERS 90 A great deal to subscribe to Essex Life and enjoy six issues for £6
140 Dining Out at… Bartellas in Margaretting 143 Here’s Cooking With You… Roger Underwood from the Shoulder of Mutton in Fordham 145 Recipe Roasted sea bass with spring onion and ginger in a coconut sauce 147 Recipe Purdina lamb 149 Recipe Cod loin with roasted Mediterranean vegetables 151 Essex Life Food & Drink Awards Meet the competition judges
Marking their Mark p172
ESSEX SOCIETY 74
Headway Essex marks 30 years
76 RCCE AGM takes place at Writtle College 78
Felsted School Leavers’ Prom
80 PSC Celebrity Golf Day at Hanbury Manor 82 Colchester’s LPP marks 10 years of trading
CALLING IN AT Colchester | Danbury
| Canewdon | Great Henny
SEPTEMBER 2015 www.essexlifemag.co.uk
Anna Pancaldi
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ESSEX PORTRAIT
Colchester’s Colour Extravaganza
David Mears shares this image of the Colour Extravaganza taken at the Colchester Colour 5K recently
â– Have you taken a portrait image that sums up life within the county? Send it in to the editor at julian.read@archant.co.uk and your portrait picture could be published in a future issue.
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Bu
ry S N Op t Ed EW en mu ing nd Au s Sh gu st 2 owro 01 om 5
EDITOR’S NOTE
Countylife
This is your opportunity to react to previous letters and to share your thoughts. Email the editor at julian.read@archant.co.uk or write to Essex Life, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN
Your letters and emails
A touch more on Tollesbury I READ with interest the feature on Tollesbury in the August issue of Essex Life in which Laurie Page described a walk
Wildlife Wonders
around the area. As an avid walker and lover of Tollesbury, I
I THOUGHT you might like to see these two photos taken at
found it a bit of a surprise that there was no mention of The
Rainham Marshes recently. This coincides with Andrew
Loft Tearooms. The Loft is a little gem based in one of the Sail
Fallan’s article in the July issue of Essex Life. The first shows
Lofts in Tollesbury. It was set up by two mums who had
a Little Egret, followed by a pair of baby bearded tits. This
dreamed of running a vintage tearoom. It’s a wonderful place,
county is also blessed with many stunning birds such as this
with wonderful home-cooked food and cakes, and is
Yellowhammer. This little fellow sings almost continuously
extremely well priced.
to whoever cares to stop and listen. Angela Lodge
Barry Tranfield
Via email
Via email
More comments on Clacton AS ALWAYS, I enjoyed reading the latest issue of Essex Life. The July issue was of particular interest, as will become clear, but left me somewhat confused. For me the piece on Clacton on Sea by Petra Hornsby had the potential to be of most interest as my maternal grandparents both moved to Clacton in the 1890s as very young children and spent the rest of their lives there. It should be made clear that Clacton was a very successful seaside resort well before Billy Butlin opened his camp in 1936. My late grandfather during the 1920s and 1930s was firstly an apprentice watchmaker and jeweller, and then shop manager, for Bernard French. Mr French had jewellery shops in Clacton, Frinton and Walton (my late mother also worked as a Saturday
Watercolour was wonderful
girl in one of them in the mid-1930s). His trading strategy, like
MANY, many thanks for the beautiful painting of the dovecote at
many others, was that in the summer season you made enough
Hanningfield Resevoir, which I won through Essex Life in April. I
money to survive until Christmas, the money you made over
often go to Hanningfield, it is very special to me.
Christmas kept you going during the following spring until the next summer. One can only conclude these must have been
Kaye Milne
successful businesses before the Butlins camp was even
Via email
thought of. A particular complaint about the arrival of Butlins among local trades people was that everything for the camp was bought in from outside the area, so no advantages there for long-established businesses in the town. Additionally, the visitors to the camp had everything they needed in the camp so did not much venture in to Clacton. Yet another loss of
Coming up in ESSEX
LIFE
• Celebrating the Hundreds of Essex • Living the Green Life across the county • Food & Drink Awards: Finalists announced • Chelmsford, Maldon, Brentwood and more
business for local traders. In the 1970s there was a number of large manufacturing businesses in the town who provided more stable and reliable employment than could be had at Butlins. I know because I worked for one of them, an international company that made
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&RXQW\ /,)( Email julian.read@archant.co.uk to share your local news and events from the county
Chance to explore wildlife wetlands on two wheels
Calling all Essex bikers!
T
Wendy Marcon-
HE Essex Air
performances from local
Ambulance is
bands, a Moto GP-inspired
Knightley, sponsorship
calling on bikers
charity auction and
and events manager for
of Essex and
attractions for all the
Essex & Herts Air
beyond to join more than
family. Hundreds of
Ambulance Trust, said:
5,000 fellow motorcyclists
spectators are expected to
‘Our charity Motorcycle
on its annual charity
line the 60-mile, police-
Run gets bigger and better
Motorcycle Run on
approved route to cheer
every year and we hope to
September 6. The Charity’s
on riders.
welcome more riders than ever this September. A big
biggest fundraising event
All bikers must pre-
of the year, sponsored by
register by August 30 for
thank you goes to our
Woodland Group and Jack
the chance to save on
supporters and sponsors
Lilley Motorcycles, starts
entry fees, gain priority
— without them we simply
out at Ford Dunton
positions when the run
could not put this event
Technical Centre from
starts and get the chance
on and raise all-important
11am and finishes at
to win top pre-reg prizes
funds to keep your local
Harwich for a Family
donated by corporate
air ambulance flying and
Festival with
supporters.
saving lives.’
Hayman’s enjoys double gin joy WITHAM-based gin distiller,
‘We are delighted to have won an award
Hayman Distillers, has won two
at the prestigious IWSC competition and
awards for its Hayman’s Family
following last year’s win of World’s Best
Reserve Gin. The gin won Gold
Gin for Hayman’s London Dry Gin at the
at last week’s International
San Francisco World Spirits
Wine and Spirits
Competition, this further endorses the
Competition and this
essence of what we have always strived
success followed the recent
for, which is to produce world class
award of Master at the
authentic gins. Hayman’s Family
Global Gin Masters
Reserve Gin was only relaunched at the
Competition.
end of last year and we continue to see
Miranda Hayman, Hayman’s director, said:
FAMILIES can now explore the Lee Valley on two wheels with the launch of ten new exciting cycle routes. Specially designed for all ages and abilities, the routes range from three to 16 miles and offer families the chance to discover the distinctive wildlife and award-winning open spaces of the Lee Valley. The routes start and end at free car parks and have easy access to all the essential amenities that children and adults need, such as toilets and cafés. Each cycle route includes locations that are particularly interesting for visitors, such as wildflower meadows, picturesque lakes and wetlands, award-winning nature reserves, historical landmarks and the many sites around Waltham Abbey where munitions were produced and tested. Jon Carney, head of parklands at Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, said: ‘These new cycle routes are a great way for families to explore the park and discover the array of wildlife as well as learn the fascinating stories behind the many sites.’
enormous positivity towards the gin here and abroad.’
Writtle College claims prize at Hampton Court Flower Show A TEAM of Writtle College students and staff have won a Silver Gilt award for their display at this year’s Hampton Court Flower Show. The exhibit, based on a Mary Poppins theme, included four designs which consisted of an arrangement for the front entrance of the theatre, a hat to be worn during the show, a wired presentation bouquet to be given to the female star of the show and a table arrangement for the after-show party on the opening night. Elaine Thackray, lecturer in floristry at Writtle, commented: ‘After a hectic and emotional week, the floristry team are so pleased to have received such wonderful recognition for all their hard work. We are all so passionate about the design and can’t wait to spend the rest of the week talking about it with the public.’
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13
Countylife Essex Mud Runners raise over £11,000
Home is where the
ominously titled Death Slide, the Ridge of Revenge and the world’s
heart
longest monkey bars. The team at Nuclear Races made a generous £5
is…
Every day, the RSPCA Danahar Animal Home in Wethersfield is looking to find caring homes for animals in need of care and attention. Essex Life showcases one of these animals each month in the hope that our readers can find it in their heart to give these animals a home…
donation for every entry in the Blesma Wave, while participants were encouraged to fundraise to support injured veterans. Laura Hyde, community and events manager at ORGANISERS of the
competitors took part in
Blesma, said: ‘We were
Brentwood-based Nuclear
the Blesma Wave at the
delighted to be one of the
Races, have helped to raise
award-winning Nuclear
chosen charities for this
more than £11,000 to
Rush event in May on
year’s Nuclear Rush event.
RIO is a
support injured ex-service
behalf of Blesma, the
It was a tough but amazing
four-year-old
men and women to
Limbless Veterans.
experience for all involved
American bull
lead independent and
Competitors tackled
and the money raised will
dog cross
fulfilling lives.
around 50 obstacles,
make a real difference to
which included the
the lives of our veterans.’
who needs a
More than 200
home with owners that have owned
National award for Ilford anti-crime campainger
large breeds of dogs before and who feel they are experienced enough to bring him on to his full potential. He is a cheeky, clever dog who needs to keep his mind active so he doesn’t suffer from boredom-related mischief. He enjoys being out on his walks and is very responsive to food reward-based training, so his new owners can have lots of fun teaching him new things which will also keep him stimulated. Rio will make a rewarding companion but his new owners will need to expect to take time settling him in and getting to know him and the best way in which to handle him. Due to his size and strength, it is important that he be trained and taught manners in the home. His new
Getting crafty at Cressing Temple
owners will need to be patient, confident and
THE Essex Craft & Design Show is returning to
consistent in their approach to his training.
the stunning Cressing Temple Barns for its eigth
His new home would ideally be without
year in 2015 on September 19 and 20. With more
young children or other pets, although Rio
than 60 exhibitors, there will be ceramics,
does get along nicely with dogs on his walks.
textiles, jewellery, fine art, photography and many other contemporary crafts as the event
GET IN TOUCH
provides a showcase for both established artists/
RSPCA Danahar Animal Home Thorley Farm Hedingham Road Wethersfield Essex CM7 4EQ 0300 111 4321 reception@rspcaessex.org.uk www.rspcaessex.org.uk
designer makers and new emerging local talent. For the visitor, it is the ideal opportunity to buy an original piece of work and meet talented individuals who are passionate about their craft. With artist demonstrations during the weekend, the venue to explore and a pop-up vintage tea room, this is very much a day out and more than just a craft show.
14
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DANIEL O’BRIEN from Ilford has been given a British Citizen Award for his services to the community after campaigning tirelessly against knife crime for the past seven years. The British Citizen Awards (BCAs) were launched in January this year to honour the incredible accomplishments of individuals in society who positively impact their communities. BCAs are awarded twice annually, and recognise ‘everyday’ people whose achievements may otherwise be overlooked. Speaking about his nomination, Danny said: ‘I was humbled and very surprised to receive the nomination. It’s great to get the award, as it will help me to push the anti-knife crime message out further. For me, this award is dedicated to all those lost to knife crime across the UK and to the loved ones left to pick up the pieces, and also to all members of Anti-knife UK, espieally Kathleen Rohan and Alfie Clegg.’
Email julian.read@archant.co.uk to share your local news and events from the county
Celebrity Cruises set to depart from London Stansted’s private jet terminal Guests will experience a taste of
Barry Kirk’s Essex insight
modern luxury even before they leave London with a host of VIP services on offer and the chance for guests to arrive at the London Stansted private jet terminal and take off just 60 minutes later. Other benefits include free parking just 50m from check-in, access to the luxury departure lounge with complimentary refreshments, an enhanced luggage allocation of 25kg and CELEBRITY CRUISES has announced a
complimentary in-flight catering. Sailings available as part of the Jet Set
new innovation for its cruise guests with the launch of Jet Set Sail, an
Sail package include a host of seven-
exclusive VIP air charter service from
night itineraries with varying ports of
London Stansted’s private jet terminal
call, including Greece and Italy fly/
on selected Celebrity Equinox sailings in
cruise from £1,598 per person based on
the summer of 2016.
two people sharing a balcony stateroom.
I HAVE come to the conclusion that Maldon has a different time zone to the rest of us; by about a couple of centuries. Take for instance the Mud Race. It appears to have been started in the 1970s on an evening to remember in the pub. As closing time approached, a challenge lay on the floor to the landlord to: rush across the exposed river bed in evening dress and provide dinner to customers on the other side. Subsequent events have been used to raise money for charity as well as secure images for posterity. The reason for my cogitations is also a recent memory when I jointly-owned a 40ft sailing Ketch called Gemma. We used to take every third week each and my favourite trip was a couple of days hike from the neighbouring River Crouch to the Blackwater.
Pride of Essex Awards open for nominations THE 2015 Pride of Essex Awards has been officially launched on the campus of the Anglia Ruskin University Chelmsford, where later in the year the presentations will take place. The awards are now open to receive nominations until the closing date of October 31. In
addition to the winner, each category will award four highly commended prizes and all winners will also receive acknowledgements and cash rewards. Categories include the Ultimate Pride of Essex Award, the Child of Courage Award and the Unsung Hero Award.
Walk with a Fork for Ormiston Families
events and guarantees participants a great day out. We are hugely grateful to Layer Marney
IF YOU’RE an Essex
health and care services
Tower for opening its
foodie that enjoys a good
across Essex. Local food
grounds to us and a big
Sunday walk, why not
producers supporting the
thank you to all the great
join Ormiston Families for
event include Aspall
food producers that
this year’s Essex Walk
Cyder, Fairfield Crisps
support us. Walk with a
with a Fork, taking place
and many more.
Fork is a fantastic way to
on Sunday, September 20?
Gavin Lamb, from
celebrate Essex at its best,
Ormiston Families, said:
while at the same time
England’s leading family
‘Walk with a Fork has
raising much-needed
charity, the eight-mile
become one of our
funds to support families
walk is returning for its
favourite fundraising
in need across our region.’
Hosted by the East of
third year and features some of the county’s local food producers, all providing tasty treats along the route around the grounds of Layer Marney Tower, England’s tallest Tudor gatehouse. This year’s Walk with a Fork is being hosted in association with Provide,
As the crow flies it was a mere few miles, but sailing on both rivers meant a diversion into the North Sea and first left or ‘left hand down a bit’ to navigate the cunning matrix of sand banks that attracted the eight tonne keel of Gemma like bees to a honey pot. However, it was an overnight stay in Maldon and a visit to the pub that first introduced me to the uniqueness of Maldon people. No matter the time of day, there is always an ‘old Maldon salt’ sitting on the Quay ready to chat to boat skippers. On this occasion I shared my lack of knowledge with one such on how I was going to take Gemma off into the river. He contemplated my reasoning with an, ‘oh yes’. So taking this as a blessing, off I sailed. I must have got about 20 feet before hitting the ‘oggin and remained stuck as the tide went out. Eight hours later and with one very muddy side of my boat, I tracked him down for an explanation. It was concise and given simply as, ‘I wouldn’t have done it that way, son’.
SHARE YOUR VIEWS To share your thoughts on Barry Kirk’s comments, or anything else about Essex, you can email the editor at julian.read@archant.co.uk.
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EDITOR’S NOTE
CountyLife
Keep up to date with all the great articles in Essex Life plus so much more by visiting our website at www.essexlifemag.co.uk. To find out more, email the editor at julian.read@archant.co.uk
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Essex Life online Essex Life online has been asking readers to send in their reviews of the things they love to do in Essex. To get involved,
Essex Life on Twitter this month
simply follow @EssexLife on twitter or Like EssexLifeMag on Facebook. Here are a couple of examples…
REVIEW Turtle Bay in Walthamstow WHY IS it you can find a bowl of ramen, a gourmet burger or a sourdough pizza with relative ease, IMAGE FOR ILLUSTRATION ONLY
but some quality jerk chicken just seems so difficult? Well, short of holding your own Afro-Caribbean street festival, hop on down to the Walthamstow branch of Turtle Bay for some fantastically flavoursome and fun West Indian fare. Hunks of bream, lamb, steaks and rib stacks also get the sticky, spicy jerk treatment to mouthwatering effect. And if you’re not a fan of jerk? Grab a rich, bubbling stew or curry that pair colourful vegetables and soft dumplings with different meat and vegetarian options. The place itself blends funky reggae vibes with more modern design touches, making it a great place for meeting friends, taking a date or treating the family. Between the amazing cocktails and decadent desserts (a barbecued pineapple counts as one of your five-a-day, right?) you’ll find it hard to settle for only a main course. The best part — you’ll easily eat for less than £20 a person. Get on down!
REVIEW
by Mathew Tata
Hudson and Hudson in Colchester AS NEWCOMERS to the county (we can only claim one decade!) keen to expand our list of top dining destinations in and around Colchester, we were inspired by the feature in June’s Essex Life and went in search of Hudson and Hudson in North Hill, Colchester. We could not have been happier with the result! My husband enjoyed the featured dish of roasted sea trout and cockles and, as a vegetarian, my open lasagne with wild mushrooms and wild garlic was a winner. The front of house service was friendly and helpful and the time of day we chose meant that the chef, Colin Lawrence, was also able to take a little time out to discuss the dishes and his focus on food prepared on the premises. Before we left we made the most of the deli offerings — although it took a while to feel hungry again! We would recommend that readers make their way to this hidden gem, or on second thoughts, we will keep this one to ourselves. by Elizabeth Nash
BUBAKES @BuBakesCakes Really beautiful sunset sky in #Chelmsford @Essexlife this evening.
NICKY NEW @Nickymartinnew My copy of @Essexlife has arrived! Magazine tick, garden tick and cuppa tick
PAUL JOHN SPEER @after8mintz @Essexlife really enjoyed reading your magazine this month, been travelling around Essex, after reading some of the places you have added
ANNA PANCALDI @annapancaldi Had such a wonderful interview with @Essexlife, can’t wait for you to see it!
HIGH 5 HR SERVICES @High5HR @Essexlife Finally purchased a copy of your magazine — it’s rare I read from cover to cover, but it had me hooked! An informative glossy read! HELEN SINCLAIR @HelenSinc @Essexlife the sun has been shining in Essex and I’ve been busy in the garden
ESSEX POOCH PALACE @EPP5star @nannypat_carol nanny pat looking lovely in @Essexlife mag today GRAHAM SMALES @gsmales @Essexlife sitting in the garden.....my own little piece of #Essex PAUL LAURIE @Essexwineman Thank you Jane @weststreetwine great sparkling wine today!
KAREN BROUGHTON @KarenRBroughton @Essexlife yes lovely! Very relaxing in the garden mostly enjoying the sunshine! How was yours?
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17
PENNY FORDHAM
Countylife
TRUE vs TOWIE
With an inquisitive mind and a zest for life, Penny has been described as ‘diverse’ in the past, with a vast and varied range of interests. Writing about love, life, current affairs and everything in between, Penny’s column in Essex Life recounts life as a real person living in the real Essex. You can read more from Penny at www.lilliesandlove.co.uk
Penny Fordham compares the TRUE (The Real Unexplored Essex) with TOWIE
Summer’s Hot!
I
’M NEVER 100% sure
the chilly days are upon us I
if my memory of
find myself struggling to
each year’s weather
function and I can’t help but
is skewed — adjusted
spend my days wishing I was
in my mind to fit an
tucked up on my sofa under a
ideal that suits me yet is
blanket with a hot chocolate in
factually incorrect — but to
hand and an old classic black
me it feels like in 2015 we
and white film on the
have been blessed with
television.
some fantastic sunny days.
I end up verging on
‘For me, the onset of autumn isn’t welcome. I like the summer. No, I absolutely LOVE the summer’
and really value what our planet is doing. So, here I am readers, asking you for your tips. How does a sun worshipper like me enjoy the icy chill this new phase of the year brings? What can I do and where can I visit in this fine county that will bring me a new appreciation of the season?
It seems the mercury levels
hibernation, adjusting my
have been pushed higher than
lifestyle to something that
we’ve seen in some time and
resembles as closely as
the post-summer blues;
long lazy days have been spent
possible that of a hermit,
tweet me your secrets at
outdoors as the firey ball in
while still allowing me to
@apenny_for_them using the
the sky delivered us some
function as an adult human
hashtag #EssexLife.
beautiful weather.
being with things to do.
But, as they say, all good
However, this year I want to
things must come to an end
embrace the autumn. I don’t
and here we are turning our
want to gaze out of the
thoughts to returning to
window and reminisce on
school and harvest, kissing a
those long hot days spent
sad goodbye to the days of
walking through the Essex
high summer that had us
countryside, or the lazy
guzzling water and panic
evenings spent sipping a glass
buying fans like they were
of wine in a pub garden. I
going out of fashion.
want to welcome it with open
For me, this onset of
arms and revel in the beauty
autumn isn’t welcome. I like
of the trees changing from
the summer. No, I absolutely
green to orange to brown,
LOVE the summer.
before shedding their leaves
Spring is OK, but for me, the
and providing natures very
three other seasons are merely
own crunching carpet for us to
tolerated. As spring fades
walk on.
away and summer arrives, I
I want to look at the change
find myself coming to life,
in the environment around me
emerging from my winter
and marvel at its beauty rather
jumpers and thick socks like a
than focus on the fact that it’s
caterpillar breaking free from
too cold to go outside without
its chrysalis.
donning a jacket.
I’ve always been a person who feels the cold, so when
If you can help me banish
Basically, I want to stop being such a miserable critter
FOLLOW PENNY
Web www.apennyforthem.co.uk Twitter @apenny_for_them Facebook www.facebook.com/apennyforthemblog
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19
ORGAN RESTORATION
Making Music
20
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ORGAN RESTORATION
As Colchester’s honourary borough organist since 1988, few people anticipated the restoration of the Town Hall’s magnificent three manual organ which stands resplendent in the Moot Hall more than Ian Ray. Here he shares his own passion for this historic instrument and how it has been restored to glory in Colchester
Edwardian Town Hall, perhaps most famous as the setting for the annual October Oyster Feast, has
recently been resounding to the splendid sounds of the newlyrestored organ that dominates the historic Moot Hall. As a small boy growing up in Dedham, in the heart of Constable Country, during the years following World War II, I can still remember my first sight of the organ with its elegant golden pipes encased in beautifully carved wood, as I joined in dancing around our primary school Maypole during a local schools festival of folk dance. Several years later, while singing in my secondary school choir, I ➤ www.essexlifemag.co.uk
21
IMAGES COURTESY OF JAMES FLETCHER AND DR WILLIAM MCVICKER
C
OLCHESTER’S impressive
ORGAN RESTORATION
The magnificent three manual organ
dignity of formal civic occasions, such as
played by the late Leonard W Simpson,
was built in 1902 at a cost of £1,000 by
the annual Mayor-Making Ceremony and
Colchester’s Honourary Borough Organist
Messrs Norman and Beard, popularly
the famous Colchester Oyster Feast, the
from 1950-1988, during one of his popular
regarded as the pre-eminent organ
specification of the organ was
Saturday afternoon recitals. Now, half a
builders of the late Victorian/Edwardian
characteristic of the early 20th century
remember the thrill of hearing the organ
century on and as Leonard’s successor, following 27 years of campaigning and waiting (including the last ten years
The magnificent three manual organ was built in 1902 at a cost of £1,000
during which the
era. Designed by Mr John Belcher, the
late Romantic period. Before the luxury of recorded and
architect of the
transmitted sound, as well as the
Town Hall, the
considerable challenges of travelling, the
beautiful oak case
provincial organ recital often included
was constructed by
transcriptions of standard orchestral and
Messrs Kerridge and
operatic extracts. So alongside the typical
organ has been largely silent), I have
Shaw, with Messrs Fabrucci and
fundamental diapasons, we find the
finally had the joy of hearing and playing
McCrossan contributing the carved
clarinet, oboe, horn and flutes. The organ
this remarkable instrument once again.
woodwork. Built primarily to enhance the
remained in its original form until it was
22
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ORGAN RESTORATION
ABOUT IAN RAY Ian Ray was appointed as Colchester’s Honourary Borough Organist in 1988 and up until the organ’s demise in 2004, he presided at the Moot Hall Organ for the annual Mayor-Making ceremony and the Oyster Feast as well as playing for a variety of miscellaneous cultural, social and official civic events. Ian is also director of music at Lion Walk Church, where he runs a popular lunchtime concert series, and conductor of the town’s Choral Society. In October of this year he is to receive an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Essex in recognition of his services to music in Colchester and the surrounding area.
overhauled in 1938 when the original zinc pipes were gilded, the old trigger-swell pedal was replaced by a balanced swell pedal and thumb and pedal pistons were added, enabling the organist to rapidly change and combine various tone qualities. In 1952, a second overhaul saw the pitch being raised from A=435Hz to A=440 Hz, by then the accepted norm, enabling the organ to be played with other instruments. In 1964 a further overhaul took place and in 1972/3 the organ was once more overhauled and the choir organ was significantly remodelled tonally, in line with the contemporary fashion for providing registers to facilitate greater clarity in the performance of the music of JS Bach and other composers of the Baroque era. Hill, Norman and Beard also replaced the doors in front of the choir organ with a mesh which allows the pipes to speak more freely into the hall. After this, apart from the twice-yearly regular tuning and maintenance visits carried out more recently by craftsmen from The Village Workshop following the demise of Hill, Norman and Beard, no further overhaul or refurbishment of the organ took place. Regular pleas from the borough organist and the organ tuners for increasingly urgent repairs sadly fell on deaf ears as the condition of the organ steadily deteriorated over the years. www.essexlifemag.co.uk
➤ 23
ORGAN RESTORATION On arriving to prepare for the 2003
retained, but the later tonal changes have
organist was informed by the town’s
been reversed to allow the organ’s
Serjeant-at-Arms that the organ tuners
broad-shouldered Edwardian musical
had left a message to the effect that the
character to be re-established. The total
organ was too unreliable to be played
cost, approximately £450,000, was met
in public.
by funds generously provided by the
Fortunately for posterity, this was not
the Moot Hall Organ with support from
On May 15, 2002, exactly 100 years to the
The Essex Heritage Trust and The Hervey
day after the Earl of Rosebery had opened
Benham Charitable Trust, as well as many
the Town Hall, Nigel Chapman was
individual benefactors. In May this year an ambitious
first acts was to vow to raise a few pounds
programme of events to mark the opening
to repair the organ during his year of
of the restored organ, including the
office. Realising that the work required
performance during the opening recital of
was more serious, he began a campaign
a specially composed work by Julia Usher
to restore the organ, which gained
in collaboration with Duncan Chapman, a
momentum in 2009 when he and his wife
competition for local composers to
Mary formed the Friends of the Moot Hall
submit fresh compositions and various
Organ, of which Nigel was appointed
activities involving local school children.
chairman. There followed a series of
Having enjoyed the chance to play the
fundraising events and regular meetings
organ earlier this year at the Annual
of the trustees, and the borough council
Mayor-Making in May, an Organ Fest has
was persuaded to engage the well-known
featured a series of four lunchtime organ
organ consultant Dr William McVicker,
recitals during July and August which will
curator of the Royal Festival Hall organ,
hopefully become the starting point for
as project consultant to plan and
establishing regular opportunities for the
administer the restoration of the organ.
people of Colchester and the surrounding
The organ has been carefully restored by Harrison & Harrison Ltd of Durham.
Above: Pipes are stored before restoration. Below: A series of workshops for children and families took place in the firstsite learning spaces in Colchester, exploring the sounds, history, materials and mechanisms of the organ
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Heritage Lottery Fund and the Friends of
to become the end of the organ’s story.
elected Mayor of Colchester. One of his
24
The pitch change made in 1952 has been
Annual Mayor-Making Ceremony, the
district to enjoy once more the glorious sounds of their civic organ. ■
EDITOR’S NOTE
PropertyLife Keep an eye on the movers in the housing market
For choice of dream homes visit Homes24, Essex Life’s online property service at www.essexlifemag.co.uk
Chelmsford named UK’s second best commuter hub
Only the wackiest can win!
E
SSEX estate agency, Ashton &
speeds of up to 40mph over jumps and
Charters, represented the county
through chicanes using only gravity.
at the craziest cavalcade on
Previous designs have included a piano, a
wheels recently — The Red Bull
giant baby carriage, a massive corn on the
Soapbox Race. Dubbed the world’s wackiest road race, the event has been
cob, a jail cell and the Golden Gate Bridge. Only 70 teams were chosen from
staged in places as far flung as Mumbai
thousands of applications’ to entertain
and Hong Kong, and this year it took
the thousands of spectators at The Red
place at Alexandra Palace in London.
Bull Soapbox Race. Racing The Hobbit
Competitors from all over the world
House, Ashton & Charters reined in
created weird and wonderful non-
friends and family to help create a
motorised soapboxes to hurtle down the
fantastic vehicle which was piloted by
specially-designed racecourse, reaching
company director, Mark Reeve.
Prices rise as Brentwood and Southend devlopments launch Launching this September is Mascalls Park in Brentwood, an exclusive development of three, four, five and six-bedroom homes perfect for growing families. Bellway is making its mark on the highly sought-after location of Brentwood with this trendy enclave ACCORDING to research
the fourth consecutive
of homes with
from The Halifax Building
month. Offering a fantastic
contemporary, open-plan
Society, property prices
opportunity for capital
living spaces.
have seen an annual
growth for investors and
increase of 9.6%, as capital
homebuyers alike, Bellway
Park in Southend on
growth is at its highest
is launching four new
Sea, a contemporary
level since last September,
developments between
development of one, two,
with the latest figures
August and October across
three and four-bedroom
released showing a rise for
Essex and Suffolk.
homes.
Also launching is Ecko
CHELMSFORD has been named as the second best location for offering a combination of good schools, competitively priced property and an easy commute to London, according to research by the buying agents Garrington Property Finders. Chelmsford is a 36-minute train journey from the capital and also has exceptional educational standards with 86% of the city’s state schools rated ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’, and eight independent schools. The cost of commuting into London is slightly higher than the overall winner, High Wycombe, with a railway season ticket costing £3,728 a year. However, the average detached property in Chelmsford costs less than in High Wycombe, at £418,000. Colchester was named the sixth best commuter hub in the same piece of research.
Essex homes in high demand SALES of new houses in Essex have, ‘exceeded all expectations’ according to leading regional developer Persimmon Homes Essex. With new developments right across the county, the housebuilder has described the housing market as ‘buoyant’, with dozens of properties being snapped up by househunters each week. One of the builder’s success stories is The Village development in Aveley, where a second phase of development is now underway less than two years after the first phase of 340 apartments and houses began. Norman Sharpe, sales director at Persimmon Homes Essex, said: ‘The market is certainly buoyant in Essex at the moment. We are seeing strong sales right across the board — and all different house sizes and styles are performing well. The Village in Aveley is a perfect example of the success we are experiencing. We’ve also seen huge success at Quantum in Grays and at Neave Place in Romford.’ www.essexlifemag.co.uk
27
HOT
property
Stephen White is head of Savills Chelmsford residential team and has more than 30 years’ experience of selling property across Essex. This county is known for its selection of excellent state and private schools, making it a good choice for families. Living nearby not only cuts down on the school run, saving time and fuel, but is essential where catchment areas apply. The need to find a home within such catchments has a significant impact on the property market. We saw this clearly when the radius for the Chelmsford County High School for Girls and KEGS (King Edward VI Grammar School) was reduced to 12 miles a few years ago. This led to intensified demand for houses in the city and surrounding villages. Little Sir Hughes in Great Baddow dates from the 17th century or earlier and is Grade II listed. The property occupies a hidden and rural location at the end of a long private road in attractive countryside between Great Baddow and West Hanningfield. Great Baddow has a good range of amenities and shops while slightly further afield is Chelmsford city with two outstanding grammar schools. Little Sir Hughes is on the market with Savills Chelmsford for £1,470,000.
Close to good schools 1
Moat House Farm, Brentwood Moat House Farm is a detached,
five-bedroom, three-reception family residence, set on a substantial and important plot of 22 acres. The property benefits from outbuildings including stabling, indoor swimming pool complex, a workshop, Essex Barn, garaging and a detached former brew house. Situated within an idyllic setting it is just a 10-minute drive from Shenfield station and close to Brentwood School. The property offers privacy, equestrian facilities and further development potential (stpp). Guide Price: £2,150,000 Contact: Beresfords on 01245 397475
2
65 School Lane, Broomfield This Countryside-built, four-
bedroom family home is located 3 miles north of Chelmsford city benefits from two reception rooms plus a spacious garden room. The property enjoys access to a wide range of amenities and is conveniently situated within the catchment areas of Chelmer Valley High School and Broomfield Primary School, with King Edwards Grammar School and County High School for Girls within walking distance. Guide Price: £520,000 Contact: Karl Manning at Fenn Wright on 01245 292100
3
Ilfracombe Crescent, Hornchurch
Located on the popular Suttons Farm development within convenient distance of Scott’s Primary School and Hornchurch District Line station is this extended four-bedroom detached property. Features include three reception rooms, ground floor cloakroom, ground floor shower room, four double bedrooms, first floor family bathroom, 60ft rear garden and private driveway leading to an attached garage. Guide Price: £465,000 Contact: Balgores Property (Hornchurch) on 01708 470756 www.essexlifemag.co.uk
29
Home Truths Phaedra Howard shares the key to picking the right location for your dream home
Always...
In Profile Phaedra Howard is a member of Savills’ Chelmsford-based residential team. She grew up on the east coast, but now lives in Chelmsford and has been selling houses for 13 years. Phaedra joined Savills in 2005 and specialises in prime property in the city and surrounding villages.
Finding the right location IT’S NOT for without good reason that
good idea to test out any commute,
estate agency is synonymous with the
whether by rail or road, to make sure it
adage location, location, location. The L
really is manageable. Bear in mind that the
word is incredibly important and buyers
best route may not always be the most
will often compromise on other
obvious and it is worth asking if the agent
requirements in favour of the perfect
knows of a quicker way.
position. With its coastline, countryside
consideration if not the prime motive for a
offer in Essex means there is great scope
move, which makes location crucial. The
for house hunters to find just the right
sought-after King Edward VI Grammar
spot, especially if they build a relationship
School and Chelmsford County High
with an estate agent who has excellent
Schools for Girls, for example, have a
local knowledge. A clued-up agent will
12-mile catchment radius. Facilities such as a pub or Post Office are
are marketing but also about its
must-haves for many, particularly for
surroundings and will be able to suggest
purchasers who are downsizing to a village
areas that a would-be purchaser may not
rather than a larger town. We are fortunate
have considered.
in Essex that these local amenities are still
So what are the key questions to ask?
different times of the day to get a real feel for the area and an idea of noise levels ■ Do a dummy commuter run to see exactly how long it takes and which is the best route to take ■ Build a relationship with your agent and take advantage of his or her local knowledge
For many people, schools are a major
and urban landscape, the diversity on
know not only about the property they
■ Be prepared to compromise ■ Visit your preferred location at
widespread. Being on a bus route is also a
One of the most pressing priorities is
popular request as are opportunities for
proximity to a train station and the length
sporting pursuits and nearby bridleways for
of time it takes to get to London. It’s a very
equestrian enthusiasts.
Never... ■ Rule out an area without considering its potential
■ Assume a house is in the
PICTURE THIS Sparrows in Little Baddow really does tick all the boxes, offering the best of both worlds in terms of location. It is situated in a secluded position in the desirable village of Little Baddow, which is at the heart of the Chelmer Valley but is just 15 minutes from Chelmsford town centre. Sparrows is a delightful country house, with six bedrooms and four bathrooms set in about 1.78 acres. It is on the market with Savills in Chelmsford for £1.6m. For more details, call 01245 269311.
catchment area of your chosen school. It is vital to double check ■ Forget places can change over time and may not be as you remember ■ Dismiss the idea of renting in an area before buying, especially if you are relocating
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31
T H E
N U M B E R
1
S P E C I A L I S T
B A R N
A G E N T
I N
Morris Green, Sible Headingham - £1,100,000
Chelmsford Road, Barnston - OIEO £1,000,000
Lower Farm Lane, Brightlingsea - OIEO £200,000
Little London, Berden Nr. Bishops Stortford - OIEO £900,000
Woodend, Beauchamp Roading Nr. Onger - £1,375,000
Burton End, Stansted - £1,350,000
Grange Green, Tilty, Nr. Gret Dunmow - £925,000
High Garrett Nr. Braintree - OIEO £797,500
Bromley Road, Ardleigh - OIEO £650,000
Little Maplestead Road, Gestingthorpe - £649,500
Mill Lane, Pebmarsh Nr. Halstead - £540,000
Barwick, High Cross, Ware - OIEO £825,000
FREEPHONE 08000 934116
E S S E X
www.essexbarns.co.uk
PROPERTY
SU M M ER R EFL ECT IONS ON BU Y I NG PROPERT Y With many routines returning to normal following the busy summer season, local property expert Toby Ridge discusses the benefits of decisive action in September and why many home buyers look to purchase in the autumn months
As the holidays draw to a close many householders decide that this is an ideal time to put the ideas discussed on the beach into action and start the process of looking for a new home. Over the summer, local estate agents reported brisk activity in the sales side of their business with some properties that had sat unwanted for months being snapped up by hungry buyers. As expected, the definitive election result created a wave of activity as pent up demand that had held fast during the period of uncertainly was released onto the market. The pre-election lull in activity had also dampened seller’s confidence somewhat and so as asking prices on some properties reduced, active buyers have shown renewed interest. Buyers are typically either upsizing locally to larger properties, purchasing after a prolonged period in rented accommodation or moving back to the region with young families after having built a career in London or overseas. However, with prime housing stock not being replaced quickly enough, many Essex-based agents are reporting a significant shortage of larger village properties. This stock shortage trend mirrored the national picture with the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) reporting in July that the number of house hunters was at its highest level for a decade and this coincided with dwindling stock levels. Indeed, a typical agent had ten buyers registered for every property on their books.
Toby Ridge SOUTH EAST REGION
What to expect in the Autumn If past years are anything to go by, it is likely that the autumn will see an increase in new instructions as homeowners look to move before the Christmas period. The shortage of prime properties may mean that sellers will become more bullish with their asking prices so buyers will need to be careful when making an offer on a property that it is realistically priced, despite the current supply and demand situation. This said, sellers should also be careful not to overprice their homes. Most buyers have a savvy feel for a property’s value and as a consequence, we have all seen lovely homes sit on the market for months just because the asking price is over ambitious. Sometimes it is better to be modest with your asking price and generate masses of interest (possibly leading to competitive bid situations) than overpriced with no viewings. So how do you tackle this market? Once in a position to act, ensure that you are very clear about your search criteria (I would recommend documenting this), listing the
absolute essential aspects and those which are a ‘nice to have’. Naturally, the smaller the search area, the more restricted you will be on choice, so try looking as widely as possible. A plea I make to all my clients is to view as many potential properties as possible. Too many people try to buy property online and miss out on gems because they assume a supposed negative is a deal breaker. I recently worked with a homeowner who was selling a glorious property near a railway crossing. The agent reported that many buyers had declined to view the property because it was ‘too close to the railway’ and they were concerned about the noise, whereas the reality was that you could not hear the freight and trees blocked the view of the track from the grounds. Another buying tip is to look carefully at properties that have been on the market for a long time. Longevity doesn’t necessarily mean there is anything wrong with the property and could present you with an opportunity to buy well. Once the ideal home has been found, it is important to act both decisively and prudently. Be wise about your next property purchase and make the most of the market opportunities that are currently being presented whilst consulting professional advisors before embarking on your property journey. Garrington work on behalf of clients who want to invest in property, both locally and throughout the UK. They also provide property finding and relocation services.
If you are thinking of investing or moving this year and would like further information on how Garrington can help you save time, money and hassle please contact Toby Ridge: Tel: 01245 905377 | info@garrington.co.uk | www.garringtoneast.co.uk
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PROPERTY SPECIAL
RETIREMENT LIVING
Property Special Your work is done and it’s time to relax, but is your current home the one to last you through your retirement? Essex Life profiles local developments that could provide the answer DEVELOPER: The Hawthorns DEVELOPMENT: Meadow Park, Tortoiseshell Way, Braintree, Essex CM7 1TD CONTACT: 01376 778755
Describe the home...
companionship for all residents, allowing
The Hawthorns is an independent living
them to take time to relax and enjoy each
retirement facility offering the perfect
day as much as the last.
scenario for retirees who want to maintain an active, independent and fulfilled retirement. Everyday worries are
What is there to do in the area around the home?
replaced with everyday pleasures and
The Hawthorns is a short distance from
those golden years you’ve worked so hard
the historic Essex market town of
to enjoy become a reality.
Braintree and the garden village of Great
month. With a selection of spacious
Notley. There are lots of spectacular
studio, one bedroom and two-bedroom
What facilities are available?
walks and Freeport Designer Shopping
apartments, all with en suites, built in
The Hawthorns offers an all-inclusive
Village is only a stone’s throw away.
storage and some with a luxurious balcony or patio.
rental retirement facility. With your bills, housekeeping, meals, maintenance and reassurance of live-in managers all
What makes this home stand out from the crowd?
Are there any current incentives?
included, everything you could ever need
The development offers continued
Moving can be the most stressful part
is right on your doorstep.
independence without the worries of
of relocating, so a professional removal
home ownership and total flexibility to
team will take care of this for you.
Who will these homes appeal to?
change your lifestyle at only one month’s
Everything from packing, moving,
The Hawthorns will appeal to retirees
notice.
unpacking and even setting up your new home will be covered by The
who want a little more from their retirement. The development provides a
How much does it cost?
Hawthorns, allowing you time to sit
varied social calendar, security and
Prices start from £1,500 per calendar
back and relax. www.essexlifemag.co.uk
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PROPERTY SPECIAL
surroundings with friendly like-minded neighbours into a reality.
DEVELOPER: Hayes Country Park DEVELOPMENT: Burnham Road, Battlesbridge, Wickford. Essex SS11 7QT CONTACT: 01245 320054
What is there to do in the area around the home? Hayes Farm Park is a unique location for a
with hundreds of variations.
second home. Less than 30 miles from
3. Downsizing and workload — The
London and only a short drive from the
nature and the construction of park
famous holiday resort of Southend on Sea,
homes minimises maintenance work
Hayes Farm rests in more than 25 acres of
costs and difficulty.
greenbelt parkland by the banks of the
4. Security — Many residential parks are
River Crouch and is just a short distance
‘gated’ communities in which security is
from the historic city of Chelmsford.
a high priority and where strangers and
Describe the development...
suspicious goings on are much more
Tell us about the transport links
Hayes Country Park offers you the
noticeable.
There is great access to the A130, A127
opportunity to experience the very best.
5. Peace, Quiet and tranquility — While
and A12, and Hayes Farm Park is just 15
By combining real home comfort with
the homes may be ultra-modern, there is
minutes from the South Woodham
sleek and contemporary styling, each
still a real old fashioned commitment to
Ferrers and Wickford train stations.
home is unique to each person and from
living in a community where people still
the very first moment you turn the key,
care and look out for each other.
you feel at home.
Are there any current incentives? Enjoy market value on your home to
Who will these homes appeal to?
eliminate delays and disappointment
What makes this development different?
The 50+ age group. Tucked away in a
associated with the selling process. No
Here are five things:
picturesque corner of the Essex
stamp duty is charged and there are no
1. Cost — Park homes are considerably
countryside, a quiet revolution is taking
estate agent fees.
cheaper than bricks and mortar!
place in care-free living. The residents of
2. Flexibility — There are dozens of
Hayes Country Park have turned their
How much does it cost?
different models of park homes available,
dream of residing in beautiful
Prices start from £185,000.
DEVELOPER: Highfield Private Care Home DEVELOPMENT: Mandeville Road, Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 4AQ CONTACT: 01799 668 574 www.highfieldprivatecarehome.co.uk
beautiful landscaped gardens, hairdressing and pampering as well as arguably the most important feature, fresh, home-cooked food courtesy of a head chef who creates a menu which reflects the tastes and nutritional
The dedicated team of staff at Highfield,
requirements of the residents.
many of whom have worked at the home for more than 10 years, are the
Describe the home…
Who will this home appeal to?
cornerstone of a family that has created a
Highfield is an established, largely
Highfield attracts a discerning elderly
home-from-home experience for all the
purpose-built care home offering elderly
resident, who enjoys all the comforts of
residents.
residential, nursing and dementia care.
home, who no longer wishes to live
Highfield has been furnished by a
independently or who needs a little help.
professional team to an exceptionally high
Many local professionals have chosen
The Summer Respite Care Offer includes
standard, providing elegance and comfort.
Highfield over the years.
seven nights of respite care for the price
What facilities and special features are available?
What makes this home stand out from the crowd?
August 2015. This offer is exclusive to
Highfield boasts an abundance of
Highfield offers the highest standards in
availability.
facilities and special features all designed
caring for the elderly and is CQC fully
to enhance the lives of the residents.
compliant. The home recently underwent
How much does it cost?
These include luxury suites, an extensive
an extensive refurbishment programme
Fees range from £950 to £1,450 per week.
activities programme including outings,
which has enhanced the aesthetic appeal.
These are dependent on the level of care
Are there any current incentives?
of five nights for bookings made in new customers only and is subject to
www.essexlifemag.co.uk
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PROPERTY SPECIAL
DEVELOPER: Moat Park DEVELOPMENT: Dunmow Road, Great Easton CM6 2DL CONTACT: 01371 870192 01371 483360
Describe the home…
Who will these homes appeal to?
Set within Moat Park’s six acres of
Anyone over the age of 55 who wants an
wonderful parkland is the brand new
active, social and independent lifestyle
Maynard House apartments. Maynard
within a safe and secure environment.
House is a unique collection of just 26 private apartments, designed specifically for people aged over 55. The arrangement
What is there to do in the area around the home?
of the apartments allows residents to live
Moat Park is just a short drive by car
a life of independence within their own
from the shopping town of Great
private space, yet at the same time,
Dunmow with many amenities and a
How much does it cost?
benefit from the communal facilities.
major supermarket. Moat Park’s mini
All properties are leasehold and range in
With its own care home onsite called
bus makes a journey once-a-week to
price starting from £225,000 for a
Moat House, this also provides some
Great Dunmow for anyone who’d prefer
one-bedroom apartment to £350,000 for a
peace of mind that care is available,
not to drive.
two-bedroom apartment. All leases
should you need it now, or in later life.
include an obligation to pay an assignment fee on purchase or re-sale,
What facilities are available?
What makes this home stand out from the crowd?
The residents’ clubhouse has a dining and
Moat Park is set within its own
lounge area, library and outdoor summer
beautiful parkland. There is also a guest
Are there any current incentives?
patio area. There’s a growing social
suite, which can accommodate up to
The village offers a Try Before You Buy
programme where events are organised
two people, should your family or
scheme, enabling people to experience
and planned by residents and supported
friends wish to stay overnight. Pets are
their potential future retirement home
by the management team.
also welcome.
before making any commitment.
ground rent and service charge.
DEVELOPER: Priory Hall Retirement Village DEVELOPMENT: 62 Dame Mary Walk, Halstead, Essex CO9 2FF (SAT NAV CO9 2ET) CONTACT: 01787 472491
village atmosphere. Purchasers have access to communal gardens or private gardens as well as the elegantly furnished Resident’s Lounge & Orangery, with an overnight guest suite also available for a resident’s visitors to stay.
Tell us about the transport links There is a bus stop directly outside the
Who will these homes appeal to?
development with excellent transport
This development is perfect for the over
links to Halstead, Braintree, Colchester
60s purchasers who are wishing to move
and Chelmsford. The A120 is also nearby
to a community with a welcoming and
giving access to the A12, M11 and Stansted
Describe the development...
independent feel but with the added
Airport.
Priory Hall is an exclusive development of
benefits of security, careline and like-
68 retirement properties nestled within
minded people.
beautiful landscaped gardens. The converted Priory Hall forms the centre of
Are there any current incentives? There is a contribution of £500 towards
this collection of apartments and cottages
What is there to do in the area around the home?
focusing on independent living.
The vibrant quintessential Essex market
legal fees if using the nominated solicitor and carpets are included on some plots.
town of Halstead is close by and offers an
How much does it cost?
What makes this development so special?
array of small boutique shops and major
Prices start from £155,000 for the
retailers. There are cafes, a leisure centre
apartments and £285,000 for the
All the properties at Priory Hall have been
and the town theatre all within a short
cottages. For further information, please
built to create a friendly community
distance of each other.
contact the sales team on 01787 472491. www.essexlifemag.co.uk
65
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%HDXWLIXO(66(;
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Scenes of the county from our readers
Blaize Thake, 17 I AM a born and bred Essex girl, who is currently studying photography at a Sixth Form. Ever since a young age I have enjoyed creating my own images and being inspired by other photographers. I am forever attending photographer exhibitions and galleries to appreciate the arts of photography and the power of natural beauty which meets the eye through the camera lens. I’ve always got a camera at hand when approaching great landmarks or if the wonders of the weather have created a beautiful natural light. I enjoy any type of photography and wish to pursue a career involving this in my future. I hope you like my work and enjoy my views of beautiful Essex. www.essexlifemag.co.uk
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Ron Jeffries NOW retired after a lifetime in the City of London and journalism, Ron enjoys wandering around his local area with a camera slung over his shoulder to record the colourful countryside on the edge of the metropolis green belt — which he and others fight to protect from intrusion. When Fairlop Plain was threatened with the development of the London City All-weather Racecourse at the turn of the century, success in having the planning applications rejected left a legacy of green open space for future generations to enjoy. Seven Kings Water is a stream running across Fairlop Plain, under the A12, through an area between Goodmayes Hospital, then onwards — eventually ending up in the River Thames. Happy Valley — the area at the side of the stream on either side of the A12 — used to be a delightful area in which children might play, but today is overgrown. However, downstream, where the waters run between Goodmayes Hospital and Seven Kings Park, a transformation has been carried out to create a wildflower meadow, a community orchard and a stream of sparkling water. With valued funding from Lafarge (the company extracting sand and gravel on Fairlop Plain) The Redbridge Nature Conservation Team and volunteers from the Friends of Seven Kings Park have worked to enhance the area, planting seeds to create a wildflower meadow of great beauty and colour. In addition, apple, pear and plum trees have been planted as part of the Helping Britain Blossom Project. And the stream has been worked upon to improve the banks, with planting to enhance the area and increase the habitat of a range of wildlife.
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Sammy Farthing, 16 REGISTERED youth charity Essex Boys and Girls Clubs (EBGC), has been on the hunt across the county to find talented photographers hidden among its network of 140 independent, volunteer-run youth clubs. This year, EBGC asked young people to take a photo of their favourite thing — whatever that might be. As expected the entries were incredibly varied and showed what an array of hobbies and interests young people have. Sammy Farthing, from Hedingham Youth Club, was announced the winner. Sammy was awarded with a VH-520 Olympus Camera which had been kindly donated by Olympus. Sammy was also offered the opportunity to showcase some of her photos within Essex Life magazine and here is a selection of her pictures. For more information about EBGC, and the other activities and events that they provide for young people across Essex, please contact 01245 264783 or visit www.essexboysandgirlsclubs.org.
HAVE YOUR PICTURES PUBLISHED To share your images of the county with the rest of Essex, email them to julian.read@archant.co.uk or visit www.essexlifemag.co.uk and click on Photos www.essexlifemag.co.uk
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Society
To purchase a copy of Essex Life scan the QR code
For more social pictures visit www.essexlifemag.co.uk
Headway Essex marks 30 years of care and support HEADWAY ESSEX celebrated its 30th anniversary in style at the Stock Brook Country Club in Billericay. Guests were greeted with a sparkling reception and serenaded by the classical singer Marilena Gant before Headway client Mervin Graham captivated the guests when he took to the stage to speak of his experience with brain injury and received a standing ovation. The event, sponsored by BTMK Injury, Towergate Connect and Investec Wealth and Investment, raised more than ÂŁ9,500.
Singer Marilena Gant
Colin Davis and Joanna Wright with Juanita & Christopher White-Thomson
Rosie Wren and Olivia Royle
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Mervin Graham makes a speech. He is supported by son Leigh Graham and Anna Smith from Headway
Magicians, Darren Gooding and Dean Allen Jones
Miriam Low, Lorraine Gilbert, Alan Bacon, Johanne Turner, Richard Elsen and Isobel Wooffitt
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Gavin Hockey, Jo Hockey, Ben Whiting, Sallie Whiting, Steve Finch, Sally Finch, Peter Rayner and Sherrin Rayner
Bradley & Anna Smith
Hamish Macdiarmid, Jeff Goy, Richard Jarvis, Deborah Green, Abigail-Kate Reid and Chalene Sibbons
David Hart, Matt Eaton, Simon Pinion and Daniel Aldworth
Society
To purchase a copy of Essex Life scan the QR code
For more social pictures visit www.essexlifemag.co.uk
Felsted named Village of the Year at RCCE AGM FELSTED beat off strong competition from runner-up Great Waltham and joint-third prize winners Little Hallingbury and Wickham Bishops to be named the Essex Village of the Year at the RCCE AGM at Writtle College recently. The top two villages receive prizes of £500 and £150 respectively and Felsted also received a new winners’ shield, while the joint-third prize winners share £100 between them. All prizes are provided by sponsors Essex & Suffolk Water.
Councillor Peter GL Elliott (Chairman of Maldon District Council), Councillor Heather Glynn (Chairman of Rochford District Council) and Cllr Jack Lawmon
Felsted Village of the Year winner
Councillor Fred Nicholls (Chairman of Tendring District Council), Veronica Hume and Norman Hume (Chairman of Essex County Council)
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St Mary-at-Latton Church: First Prize Best Kept Churchyard Competition
Councillor John Cloke and Councillor Noelle Councillor Lyn Walters (Chairman of Braintree Hones, Deputy Mayor of Brentwood District Council) and Nick Shuttleworth
Brightlingsea: Winner Class 1 Best Kept Village Competition
Vincent Thompson (High Sheriff of Essex), Jacqui Stone and Simon Lyster
Councillor Peter GL Elliott (Chairman of Maldon District Council) and Lord Petre
Councillor Paul Hutchinson, The Mayor of Chelmsford
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Society
To purchase a copy of Essex Life scan the QR code
For more social pictures visit www.essexlifemag.co.uk
Fond farewells for students at Felsted School Leavers’ Ball FELSTED SCHOOL Leavers’ Ball was held on Saturday, July 4 in the Lord Riche Hall at Felsted School. Upper Sixth students, parents and staff were treated to a stunning evening, with an elegant ‘hummingbird’ theme, masterminded by Hannah Grace, Felsted’s theatre manager. Guests were treated to a delicious meal, fun fairground rides and dancing into the night. Alicia Bates, Lydia Breen, Grace Breen, Jess Robinson, Elena Bates, Lauren Bates and Mary Breen
Jack Prior, Ian Prior, Melanie Prior and Alex Prior
Paula Ursu and Kira Doran
Connor Joyce, Tom Brabrook and Laurence Bell
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Henriette Joop and Johanna Spitzy
Penny Lyons and Phillip Lyons
Marta Valls and Andrea Smith-Valls
Emily Smith and Chiara Ardoino
Darren & Anna Williams
Philip Seers, Claudia Seers and Sally Seers
Anne Burton, Suzie Burton and Mike Burton
Areana Golder and Frances Coulson
Society
To purchase a copy of Essex Life scan the QR code
For more social pictures visit www.essexlifemag.co.uk
PSC hosts Celebrity Golf Classic at Hanbury Manor Marriott Hotel THE PRESIDENT’S SPORTING CLUB held its Celebrity Golf Classic at the Hanbury Manor Marriott Hotel and Country Club in July. Celebrities from the worlds of sport and entertainment attended to help raise funds for the President’s Sporting Club / Essex Disabled Sports Foundation (Registered Charity Number 1001176) which has now raised £2 million to provide sporting facilities and opportunities for disabled children throughout Essex and the surrounding area. The event raised more than £24,000.
Rory Underwood MBE
John Lyons
Sir Trevor Brooking
Alan Kennedy
Luther Blissett
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Russell Rints, Josh Phillips, Bob Anderson and James Gold
Peter Shilton OBE
John Conteh and Ian Richards
Tony Cottee
Frank McLintock MBE
Dave Scriven, Allen Scriven, Stuart Bingham and Michael Caine
Frank McLintock MBE
Jess Conrad OBE
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Society
To purchase a copy of Essex Life scan the QR code
For more social pictures visit www.essexlifemag.co.uk
Lawson Planning Partnership Ltd celebrates tenth year in business INVITED guests, clients, staff and friends joined the Lawson Planning Partnership Ltd (LPP) to celebrate its tenth year in business with a special evening at the GreyFriars hotel in Colchester. Guests enjoyed Champagne and music from a string quartet before a few words of thanks from John Lawson. Based in Colchester, LPP has significant town planning experience gained in both the public and private sectors throughout the UK and abroad.
James Lawson, Charles Carver and John Lawson
Georgina Brotherton, Phil Holding and Debbie Coulson
Gareth Barnes, Miriam Kemp and Jamie Dann
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Rod Lay, Natalie Harris, Aarti O’Leary, John Lawson, Sharon Lawson, James Lawson and Georgina Brotherton
Suzanne Lawson and Sharon Lawson
John Lawson
Steve Field and Rod Lay
Natalie Harris and Richard Sands
A string quartet entertains guests
Jonathan Frank and John Lawson
BLAKE
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BLAKE
The boys are
BACK IN TOWN Blake return to Essex as part of their In Harmony tour this month, but could you be performing on stage with them or even enjoy a night out in Essex with the band? Holly Eells finds out all the details
T
HEY are Dame Shirley Bassey’s favourite vocal trio and this month they are back in Essex with an exhilarating new show.
Blake boast an impressive CV of achievements including several number one hits and multi-platinum albums, and they count their loyal fans as an attribute to their longlasting success. The three singers who have all come from classical backgrounds combine a mixture of different styles to their harmonies. Stephen Bowman explains how they have continued to remain a solid success over the last eight years. ‘I believe it is down to one particular thing and that is we have never had a front man in the group,’ says Stephen. ‘Everyone knows who the front man is in the www.essexlifemag.co.uk
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BLAKE work with her and she is absolutely incredible. Now we are headlining our own shows. I think as performers we have currently visited close to 25 countries including the majority of America and Asia and we want to perform in a lot more. When Blake finishes, if we have performed in more than 50 countries, I would be absolutely delighted.’ Blake’s In Harmony tour will commence at the beginning of September at the Memorial Theatre & Assembly Rooms in Frome, Somerset, and will continue to include visits to The Harlow Playhouse in September and The Queen’s Theatre in Hornchurch in November. Stephen says: ‘We love performing in Essex and we have been here on many occasions. The Essex audience is different to other places in the south east because they are quite fun and rowdy, which is exactly what we want when we are on stage. Many of our performances are based around a lot of banter throughout the shows and the Essex crowds always get involved. In Essex they have no problem speaking out and it makes the show much more vibrant.’
majority of bands and everyone else fades
it is the first Christmas album we have
off into the distance. We work very
ever made, which is based entirely
differently and not one voice is more
around the support from our fans across
completely changed the show and added
important than another. All three of us
the world. They have lobbied us to make
new music, which comes off our latest
are linked together and it works.
this album, so we said if you really want
album, In Harmony. It is an opportunity
us to make it, pre-order it via our website.
to hear us singing as soloists with special
have respect for each other and we all
They have funded the whole album in
moments in there too and we concentrate
have equal responsibilities in the group.
less than three weeks, which is
on different styles.’
We also all have a similar sense of
unbelievable. Normally record labels and
humour and love Monty Python! We hang
investors get involved, as that is the
hours of uplifting and emotional music
out quite a lot, whether we are out for
normal way to make an album. It shows
from the pop, classical and musical
dinner, around each others’ houses or at
how lucky we are, and it is all down to
worlds, and Stephen guarantees there
special events. We share a varied life
our fans who have supported us. We are
won’t be a dry eye in the house.
together that doesn’t just involve
very grateful. I
performing, making albums and
believe it is a new
promoting them. Blake is part of our lives
way of approaching
and that’s why I believe we have stayed
music. Traditionally
together for so long.’
it used to only be
‘There is no jealously between us. We
Despite all of this, Stephen is quick to
major artists who
Stephen adds: ‘We have also
The boys, who will be performing two
Combined with
We work very differently and not one voice is more important than another
ad-libbed banter and comedy, live instruments, stunning projected videos and dramatic lighting, Blake are
mention the loyalty of the band’s fans,
were allowed to do
what this has contributed to their success
it. However, even a
and how their support has enabled Blake
group like Blake can do it, so this is a
with a love of powerful songs and Rat
to create something new this year.
massive milestone for us.’
Pack fun.
Stephen explains: ‘We have had so many
Over the years, Blake has also had
sure to thrill anyone
In a special twist, local choirs will be
people asking us to make a Christmas
various worldwide tours across the world
performing alongside Blake on stage and
album over the last eight years and this
including in Asia, America, Russia and
the Band is once again searching the UK
year it felt right. The album has 16 songs
Europe, as well as performances in front
for talented local choirs to join them on
on it, which has been great fun so far. We
of the Queen. ‘The biggest highlight has
stage as part of the In Harmony tour.
have everything from very cool bands to
to be the concerts we did with Katherine
Over the last five years the group has
big string orchestras. It is a large
Jenkins,’ Stephen continues. ‘We
been joined by more than 250 local
production.’
supported her on 45 concerts all over the
choirs around the UK and overseas, in
UK. It was an enjoyable experience to
venues as far apart as Manchester,
‘The amazing thing about this project is 86
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BLAKE
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BLAKE
Moscow and Manila. Choirs wanting to
part of our lives. This gave us the
especially in the Essex area, and we are
get involved simply need to email their
confidence to find our voices, to get out
keen for schools or community choirs to
latest videos to the Blake website and
on stage, to become soloists and to join
come forward. We would be delighted to
the chosen groups will perform alongside
up as Blake. We are giving the next
hear from them.’
Blake on five big ensemble songs, as well as present their own solo song to the audience. Stephen explains
I am very happy to visit any recommended places in Essex, perhaps for an evening out
generation a chance
via Facebook or Twitter, I am very happy
looking for that
to visit any recommended places in
next generation of
Essex, perhaps for an evening out. I
talent.’
would be more than happy to join in.
Performers in the past for Blake’s
further: ‘Whenever we put on shows in the UK in the last
shows have recently been seen attaining
five years we have always had this
places at prestigious London music
ongoing search to find really good local
colleges and even taking star roles in West
choirs to sing with us on stage. It’s a real
End shows.
joy for us because we all came from choir backgrounds and we enjoyed this
He adds: ‘Also if anyone contacts me
and we are always
Stephen adds: ‘We are still looking for a
Essex is a beautiful place and I haven’t been out in this county as of yet, so I am definitely missing something.’ ■
FIND OUT MORE www.blakeofficial.com
choir to come and join us on this tour, www.essexlifemag.co.uk
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DANBURY
Delightful countryside and the Devil’s mischief
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DANBURY
Once a great vantage point for defending troops during the Napoleonic Wars, Danbury not only has a rich and fascinating history it also offers plenty to delight visiting walkers and nature lovers alike. Petra Hornsby finds out more
S
ITTING high, some 376ft above sea level, Danbury began to develop on an Iron Age hill fort where the village’s parish church
stands today. The name Danbury almost certainly derives from the Saxon tribe of the Daeningas, who took up residence in the area until the Viking defeat of the Saxons at the Battle of Maldon in AD 991. Danbury’s geological history can be traced back to the Ice Age, when moraine deposits were left by retreating glaciers heading northwards — creating The
Danbury Ridge. But it was the period following the Norman invasion that saw significant changes to the village and the surrounding area. William the Conqueror handed the region to Geoffrey de Mandeville, making him Earl of Essex. The Sinclair family (or Saint Clere) were assigned to administer Danbury and they took it upon themselves to take financial care of the church of St John the Baptist, extending it in 1233. Three wooden effigies were found in the church that date back to around the 13th century and one which was identified as that of William St Clere is now exhibited in The Louvre in Paris. The Grade I listed church is the oldest building in the village and its location offers some great views of Danbury and the surrounding countryside. Its spire stands an additional 112ft high and local folklore tells of the damage caused to the spire by the devil who disguised himself as a monk. The church was renovated in 1866 by the architect Gilbert Scott but suffered significant bomb damage during World War II. www.essexlifemag.co.uk
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DANBURY Another report which raised questions is that of the body of a knight laid to rest in the church. The body was disturbed in 1779 and found to be perfectly preserved. This was fiercely contested by the MP for Maldon at the time — Joseph Strutt — but, in 1985, Andrew Collins (a psychic investigator) claimed the body to be that of a Knight Templar. Another of the village’s significant buildings, Danbury Palace, stands on the site of the mansion Danbury Place which was built in 1589 by Sir Walter Mildmay, Clerk to the Court of Henry VIII. Mildmay had done very well financially (thanks to Henry’s controversial dissolution of the monasteries) and he went on to become something of local benefactor. The mansion remained in the hands of the Mildmay family until the early 19th century when it fell into disrepair. In 1832, a new building was erected near to the site of Danbury Place and this was bought by the church commissioner for the Bishop of Rochester and was
Danbury Country Park provides a lovely spot for a picnic or a stroll by one of the lakes given the name Danbury Palace. The palace remained under ecclesiastical ownership until 1892 when it was sold as a private residence. During World War II, it was used as a maternity hospital but now lies empty – earmarked for private residential development. Part of the estate of the palace that is open to the public is Danbury Country Park, now owned by Essex County Council, providing a lovely spot for a picnic, for a stroll by one of the lakes or for a walk through the woodlands. In the grounds of the park is the Old Ice House, a storage facility used to keep the ice that would form on the lakes. This would then be used by the palace kitchen staff to create impressive ice sculptures which were presented at summer garden parties. The park is open from 8am to dusk and its features include ancient oaks, hornbeams, sweet chestnuts and stunning rhododendrons. Fishing permits for the lower lake are also available from the park ranger. The village itself is very much 94
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DANBURY
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DANBURY
blessed by its surrounding countryside
Lingwood Common is a mix of trees
available from their offices situated at
comprising large areas of woodland and
and open clearings and, because it has
The Old School House on Main Road.
heathland which is owned and
some special and varied heathland plants,
Other walks can be downloaded for free
maintained by either the National Trust
is now a designated area of Special
at www.walkinginessex.co.uk.
or Essex Wildlife Trust.
Scientific Interest. On the south-western
After a good, hearty walk, it is
edge of Danbury, Backwarden Nature
comforting to know that Danbury can
Owned by the National Trust, Blakes
Reserve also has plenty for flora and
offer its visitors a good choice in the way
Wood is made up of 100 acres of ancient
fauna enthusiasts to admire with
of refreshments. The Griffin, The Bell
woodland which, in the springtime, offers
woodland, heathland, streams and bogs
and the Bakers Arms have all got their
a fantastic display of early woodland
providing a home for a great variety of
own history of hospitality and provide
Among the highlights is Blakes Wood.
flowers, including
wild flowers, reptiles
comfort and respite for the weary and
an impressive
(including adders),
thirsty walker.
display of native bluebells. Danbury Common was once effectively
Blakes Wood is made up of 100 acres of ancient woodland and features woodland flowers
maintained by the
birds and insects.
If a refreshing post-ramble cup of tea is
There are many
preferred, then at the heart of the village
walks to be taken
opposite the green at Eves Corner, is the
around the village and
lovely and award-winning tea room, Tea
its wonderful
on the Green, which is much appreciated
landscape, which
by both locals and visitors. If a walkabout is on the agenda this
grazing animals of the local population
includes commons and reserves. Many of
who would also cut back scrub which
these walks take in the major places of
autumn, then Danbury, situated in the
they used for fuel. This would help to
interest and afford wonderful hilltop
Borough of Chelmsford, is a great
create open terrain and encourage the
views. The war memorial at Elm Green
location to consider. With its fascinating
re-growth of the plant life. As the second
has views over the Chelmer Valley and,
history and impressive menu of
largest heathland in Essex, the National
on a clear day, Stansted Airport’s control
countryside delights, it represents
Trust now has the task of preserving the
tower can be seen. A map and guide to
perfectly the beauty and intrigue that
common and this essential habitat for
the village is downloadable from the local
can be frequently found within the
wildlife.
parish website or hard copies are
county of Essex. â– www.essexlifemag.co.uk
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EssexWalks
Strolling around
Great Henny On the Essex/Suffolk border, marked by the River Stour where the walk begins, this route takes you from Henny Street and out to the lovely countryside around the village of Great Henny WORDS AND PICTURES BY LAURIE PAGE OF THE PUBLIC RIGHTS OF WAY TEAM AT ESSEX COUNTY COUNCIL
1
FROM the pub, walk up the road towards Sudbury and at the next road junction just past the Old
3
Almost immediately, turn left over a stile and go up along the edge of a large meadow with the
Post House, turn left towards
thick hedge on the right. Just before the
‘Middleton Only’, going gently uphill
far corner of the field, keep right going
on a narrow Tarmac lane. As the road
through the trees and down to where you
bends sharp right, take the bridleway
cross a track, going straight on through
path on the left running between
more trees. You emerge into the open by
high hedges. Continue on, passing
a wooden fence. You are forced right
over a bridge crossing a little brook.
alongside the fence on a wide grass path,
When you reach the track, turn right
which bends sharp left. At the bottom
going uphill.
soon after, at the way-marker post, go left through the metal gate and follow the
2
Follow this track with a hard
edge of a large meadow. Go all the way to
surface. The church comes
the end where you have to get over a
into view. Immediately after
fragile stile and through a gate into the
the open corrugated barn, turn left
woodland.
along a wide grass path on the edge of a wheat field. Then turn right heading uphill towards the church. At the bungalow, go left through the
4
Follow alongside a wooden a
ABOUT OPEN ACCESS Open Access Land means that where you see this symbol you can walk without sticking to the mapped paths. For more information on Open Access and the right to roam visit www.openaccess.gov.uk or call 0845 100 3290 Each month Essex County Council’s Public Rights of Way team provide Essex Life with a walk in the county. Walking, riding and cycling leaflets are available to download from www.essex.gov.uk
fence all the way to the end of the wood (you may have
5
Turn right then follow the road
lych gate into the churchyard. The
to improvise the route and deviate
Great Henny Parish Church of St
from the fence where the path has
Mary is usually open to the public.
become overgrown), going out
Proceed through the wooden gate
through a wooden gate. Bear left at
the left. This runs between two large
on the other side of the churchyard
the pylon and along the track to the
fields. Go to the end where it meets the
and go straight on down the wide,
lane. Turn left going uphill along the
little lane. Turn right and proceed along
dusty track. At the bottom, turn
lane. Continue past Typerly Farm to
the lane to the road junction. Here turn
right.
the road junction.
left and watch for traffic around the bend,
For a shortcut you can turn left along the lane and re-join at point 5.
If you have taken the shortcut, you will approach this junction from the left.
where it immediately bends sharp left. It then bends right and
a little further down, take the footpath on
but you will soon arrive back at the Henny Swan pub.
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GREAT HENNY
FACTFILE Places of interest nearby: There are lots of interesting places not far from here. At Castle Hedingham, not far to the south-east, is the Norman keep, once the seat of the Earls of Oxford. There is the Colne Valley Steam Railway nearby too. Just two miles north is the town of Sudbury, where Thomas Gainsborough the famous artist was born, and there is an interesting museum in the place where he lived near the town centre. Long Melford, a little further north, has two impressive stately homes, Melford Hall run by the National Trust and Kentwell Hall.
Distance: 3.5 or 2.8 miles Starting point: The Swan public house at Henny Street. From the B1051 that runs between Stansted Mountfitchet and Thaxted, take Mill Road, a mile north-west of Elsenham, which takes you directly into the village. Map: OS Explorer 195 Braintree & Saffron Walden Refreshments: Try the Henny Swan pub at the start. The food is recommended. Tourist Information: Sudbury Library, Market Hill, Sudbury CO10 2EN. Call 01787 881320
Saffron Walden Great Henny Harwich Braintree
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99
SOUTHEND ON SEA
Write all about it
The sea is often a source of inspiration for artists and writers and Southend on Sea is proud to have its very own literary and artistic network, keen to put the appeal of the town and the talents of its residents’ on the map. Petra Hornsby finds out more
1 00
www.essexlifemag.co.uk
SOUTHEND ON SEA
S
OUTHEND ON SEA is a
Along with its near neighbour,
here too and those already living locally
much-loved, British seaside
Leigh on Sea, it is a community,
clearly continue to find inspiration. The
resort, with a famous
which has seen some change in its
Southend Arts Council promotes amateur
theme park, fantastic
demographic over the years as people
arts by supporting a range of local groups
beaches, plenty of
move into the area from outside the
and the Temporary Arts Project (TAP)
amusements, events for all
county, often from London, to settle
which offers studio and exhibition space
generations and the longest pleasure
with young families.
for emerging young artists.
pier in the world.
Artists and writers have been drawn
So what about the writers? Writing
www.essexlifemag.co.uk
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SOUTHEND ON SEA
can be a solitary craft but, as Audrey
photographers, storytellers and also
group can offer. ‘By sharing advice and
Snee knows from experience, the
therapists — anyone who has a
experience with each other, we aim to
chances of making a breakthrough and
connection to the arts.
give support and help boost confidence,
finding success can be made harder by going it alone. Audrey describes a poignant meeting
‘Some of our group members are
exhibition space can be complicated and
resident Claire Freedman who is the
sometimes daunting.’ The group aims to meet at least twice a
with one lady at a book fair. ‘This lady was in her eighties and had published hundreds of books. Wanting to know more about her success, she explained to me that it was important to have a tribe behind you — a presence — and this is really what SWAN is all about.’
as trying to get published or find an
already published, including Leigh on Sea
‘Southend has impacted on us and provided us with inspiration to write’
year at one of its self-funding SWAN gatherings and this year the arts group METAL assisted in providing a free venue for an event which was attended by around 60 people. Audrey adds: ‘Everyone there was invited to stand up and give a three to
The Southend Writers and Artists Network (SWAN) has been going for
author of the Aliens in Underpants series
four-minute presentation on themselves,
around two years now and operates as a
that has just been made into a stage show.
their experiences or to hand on some
method of contact and communication
We look to inspire other residents
helpful advice. One lady talked about
largely via its Facebook page. The group
through their success.’
how to give a radio interview —
is made up of writers, poets, artists, 1 02
www.essexlifemag.co.uk
Audrey explains what she feels the
something not many of us are
SOUTHEND ON SEA
The AD65 moulding line at the Ecko Factory
1932 service engineers from the Southend Ecko Factory
experienced in, but could well be called upon to do when promoting a book. Other aspects of self-publicity, especially social media, can also be rather baffling, particularly for older members.’ Audrey herself is a published writer, journalist, blogger and publisher (Estuary Publishing) so is well aware of the knock-backs all writers and artists can experience. ‘SWAN serves as an advice exchange forum on the various ways to keep going and how to aim for success. Each member will have their own unique experience and will know all too well that sometimes results come when you least expect them, but by maintaining a profile and by promoting your work where possible, the odds of success are higher.’
➤ www.essexlifemag.co.uk
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AFTER
SOUTHEND ON SEA Peter Brown, Audrey Snee and David Amess MP
So why has Southend become such a
this will become an annual event
Southend on Sea. Audrey says: ‘All artists, writers and
magnet for writers? Audrey explains: ‘One
promoting local authors. As part of the
reason could be the love of local history
festival, there was also a talk on Discover
organisers give their time for free at local
and the many books that have been
Southend in Books where authors Dee
book events like this and self-fund the
written about Southend’s past. One of the
Gordon, Karen Bowman, Judith Williams,
hire of the venue. This is because they
most successful books that I worked on
Ann Duggans-Robson and Audrey herself
love what they do and also want to
was about Southend’s Ecko Factory (Ecko
revealed local secrets and scandals —
promote the region as a cultural centre
Sounds). At one stage the factory
including some covert war-time activities
— sadly arts funding has all but
employed around 7,000 workers drawn
— during an entertaining afternoon held
disappeared for such events, so we do
from the local area, so when a book about
at the end of Southend’s famous pier.
hope the public can come along and
that time was published, there were plenty of people who knew someone who had worked there and who would like it as a gift. There are plenty
SWAN will also be supporting the first
‘It is great to meet members of the public at a book event and to hear their feedback’
of things about
Festival, a free event to be held on September 19 at the Leigh Community Hall from 10am to 4pm. The fair will
Southend that have impacted on us and
feature a wide selection of tomes
provided us with inspiration to write.’
including autobiographies, local history
Audrey feels there is a great
books and cook books. Young readers are
appreciation of writers, particularly local
catered for with a range of children’s and
ones, where people get the chance to
young adult books and lovers of comedy,
meet the author at a book signing and
fantasy and science-fiction are not
share their enthusiasm — or otherwise! ‘It
forgotten either. The event will also
is great to meet members of the public at
include talks, poetry readings,
a book event and to hear their feedback,
photographic exhibitions, short films and
good or bad.’
there will be plenty of displays of
SWAN held an Author’s Day at this
support local artists and writers!’ ■
Leigh Literary Arts
artwork. During a special designated
year’s Southend Forum (as part of the
Children’s Hour, Ann Robson will read
Essex Book Festival) and it is hoped that
from her latest book Zippitt and Lee Go to www.essexlifemag.co.uk
105
HIGH STREET HEROES
High Street Heroes in…
Colchester
Famed for its Roman heritage, Colchester is also a modern and vibrant town that has much to look forward to as well as a past to be proud of. Emily Talbut tells us more
W
HEN most people think of Colchester, they may recall family trips to the
popular zoo, Saturday afternoons at Colchester United Football Club or picture the stunning 11th century Norman keep which is Colchester Castle. Delving a little deeper into this town’s historic past, St John’s Abbey and St Botolph’s Priory can also still be found here, while many of the town’s parish churches also date back to the medieval period. However, within this historic setting and keeping in line with a desire to preserve the town’s heritage, the people of Colchester are equally passionate about supporting and growing the town as a centre for local trade. Found along the high street, nestled among a generous smattering of national chain stores, you can find a traditional sweet shop, stationery suppliers, a furniture store and even a specialist rubber stamp shop, all ran by Colchester residents who are dedicated to keeping the vibrant spirit of the local high street alive.
➤
Hatfields Malcolm Durbridge (Financial Director), Andrew London (Operations Director) and Robert London (Managing Director)
Kerseys Solicitors Clare Thomas, Elaine Webb, Victoria Mead and Janet Raeburn www.essexlifemag.co.uk
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HIGH STREET HEROES In April this year, the town also saw the reintroduction of its long-standing market back on the high street, with a well attended grand opening. The stalls are now supplied with electricity and have access to a specialised waste management service when they take place, every Friday and Saturday. Speaking at the launch, Anne Turrell, Colchester borough councillor for economic development and regeneration, said: ‘We know people have wanted to see the market back on the High Street for a long time and I am proud that we have made it happen.’ To further sustain this sector, there is also an annual Colchester Country and Town Show where local traders can showcase their products, whether they be delicious foods, arts and crafts or unique gifts. The combined efforts of locals who persist in their trading while other towns succumb to the pressures of larger and more well known brands will hopefully allow Colchester to remain known as a town that is both rich in history, but also dedicated to preserving long-standing values. Here Essex Life introduces you to just some of the friendly faces you might come across on a visit to Colchester…
Porsche Colchester The Sales & Services Team
The Oaks Hospital Nick Ratcliffe (Operations Manager) and Douglas Watson (General Manager) with The Voice Committee
Bang & Olufsen Colchester Michael Francis and Robert Smith
William & Griffin Department Store George The Swinging Chimp with Poppy Tompkins
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HIGH STREET HEROES
John Fowlers Solicitors Neil Watts, Ian Bradford, Sheila Crosby and Francesca Root
Mussi’s Fulvio Mussi
Upchurch Jewellers Stephen Trott, Jade Meakin and Adrian Batchelor
The Gallery at Upchurch Jewellers Lana Carey and Natasha Bird
Tymperleys Tea Rooms Alice Charrington
Neptune Alice Barrett, Lewis Webb and Debbie Pearce
The Design Studio Andrew Foley
Owen Aves Opticians Irene Boon, Clive Roots, Richard Allen and Andrew Chenery
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‘I T’S R A I N I NG A GM... H A L L ELUJA H ! ’ When Oaks Hospital held their monthly ‘The Voice of the Oaks’ meeting, their General Manager, Douglas Watson did not realise it would lead to him jumping out of an aeroplane! The Voice Staff Satisfaction Commitee, chaired by Nick Ratcliffe, Operations Manager, meet regularly to put forward ideas regarding raising staff morale through team events and outings but also to suggest ways of fundraising for their Hospital charity – Essex and Herts Air Ambulance. Oaks Hospital have already raised in excess of £970 this year for the cause through holding staff raffles and competitions; Nick had a task persuading Douglas as this idea left him a little more apprehensive than his usual ‘judging the tastiest cake’ competition! In recognition of the ‘Go Yellow’ event - part of National Air Ambulance week 21st-27th September, schools, businesses and individuals all over Essex are being encouraged to join in, have fun and raise awareness and much needed funds. Douglas will be attempting a Tandem Skydive at Beccles Airfield. He said ‘given my severe fear of heights and having attempted to overcome this in the past with a hot air balloon ride without success, this is a huge personal challenge for me. We choose to support Essex Air Ambulance, part of the Essex & Herts Air Ambulance Trust, because it is a vital life saving charity. They provide a Helicopter Emergency Medical Service which is solely funded by charitable donations. Essex Air Ambulance operate 365 days a year and currently each mission costs £2,700’ Clair Mitchell, Fundraising Coordinator at Essex Air Ambulance,
Oaks Hospital, 120 Mile End Road, Colchester, Essex, CO4 5XR Tel: 01206 752121 | www.oakshospital.co.uk
said: “We are very grateful to the staff at Oaks Hospital for all their hard work and support in raising vital funds to keep the Essex Air Ambulance saving lives across the County. A big thank you to Douglas for facing his fears and taking the plunge this September, good luck with the jump! It is only with such support from the local community and businesses that the helicopter emergency medical service can continue to be provided for the critically ill and injured of Essex, Hertfordshire and surrounding areas.” You can sponsor Douglas and support this nerve-wracking challenge by the following link:www.doitforcharity.com/DouglasjumpingWatson
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CANEWDON
James Merriott paints...
Canewdon
Letters from Canewdon I was lucky to catch the postman collecting from the mailbox in the brilliant sunshine
Parish Church of St Nicholas Following Canute’s victory over Edmund Ironside at the alleged site of the Battle of Assunden in 1016, three churches were founded Hockley, Ashingdon and Canewdon
The Anchor Inn The effects of time have given this magnificent old inn enormous charm. It was painted against strong sunlight
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ANNA PANCALDI
Introducing
ANNA Music has been in the blood of Anna Pancaldi for as long as she can remember and so much of her passion for life has been inspired by her upbringing in Chappel. Sybilla Hart met this talented artist poised to be the next chart-topping sensation from our county
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ANNA PANCALDI
E
SSEX musician Anna Pancaldi is not at all
not my new best friend. Anna has been tipped as the next
what I expected. In her
Joni Mitchell by Emerging Icons
online music video she
who describe her as having the,
cuts a sultry figure, all
‘emotive presence of Eva Cassidy’
billowing blonde hair whipping
while BBC London presenter Gaby
around her face on a stormy beach.
Roslin couldn’t believe she was
So when I meet Anna in person at a
still unsigned and thought her
private gig at Stanley Hall in
performance was nothing short of
Pebmarsh, I was surprised when she
‘sensational’.
had us all in hysterics. Far from the
Anna does seem to be making
earnest, distant beauty, Anna is in
ripples wherever she goes.
fact a proper, down to earth Essex
Pre-orders for her album Black
girl and a comedienne to boot.
Tears even outdid the rhapsodical
She put on a silly voice and told us
Ed Sheeran and on release day she
funny stories about the shoot for her
topped number 52 in the charts
music video on the beach in Kent,
and came in sixth place in the
where the crew narrowly escaped being
iTunes singer songwriter chart.
struck by lightening. Anna could not
Anna has spent the past month
have been more charming and
on tour and is currently
approachable. In fact, she is the very
performing in Devon. By all
antithesis of the archetypical music
accounts, she is going down very
diva. Not only is she a joy to listen to,
well in the West Country. She
she is just the sort of person who you
made her debut last year at
could happily spend hours chatting with
Glastonbury and will wind up
over a cup of tea. I have to keep
her summer of touring at the
reminding myself she is a songstress,
Cambridge Folk festival, an
➤
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119
ANNA PANCALDI ‘Our home has always been an open one, for the most part filled with laughter, joy and the happiest of times. I love the fact that the door was always ajar for anyone to pop in for an impromptu cup of tea or dinner. My parents loved the hustle and bustle of people coming and going, that happiness wrapped around the walls of Rosemary, it was special like that.’ The front garden was flourishing with bursts of colour thanks to her mother’s love of gardens. Geraniums, roses, foxgloves, poppies, heather and lavender were scattered around surrounded by a black iron fence, brick walkway and a little gate. The house was next to the village pub by the bridge. Chappel certainly still holds a special place in Anna’s heart. ‘The countryside was beautiful. There was field upon field of sun-filled buttercups. My big brother artist, now live on the Orkney Islands, but
Joey and little sister Charity and I were
Anna was seven years old when the
returned to Essex, after their time in
never too far from a field or forest for
family moved from Burnham on Crouch
South Africa, when Anna was 15. The
adventures. We had barbeques, endless
to Chappel, where she spent five blissful
cottage where the family lived in
games of failed badminton and built
years of her childhood. She is full of
Chappel, called Rosemary, holds some of
kennels for Joe’s dog, Stanley.’
surprises and you would never guess
Anna’s dearest childhood memories. ‘I
The family had the perfect view of the
from her performance at Stanley Hall
wish we still had that house!’ she says
viaduct, the second largest brick structure
that she ever suffered from stage fright.
wistfully. The home was a red brick
after the Battersea Power Station. Anna
This severe bout took hold from a very
Georgian cottage with white-tipped
continues: ‘As mischievous children I
early age, while performing at a
jasmine hanging over the bright red door.
recall Joey trying to climb up there for the
‘It’s funny,’ Anna continues. ‘When
view over Chappel. We would explore the
apt place for her given her style of music.
competition in Sudbury. Thanks to the tough love she
you look back at
World War II anti-tank defenses, go
attributes to her
your younger
blackberry picking and fish in the stream
years, the things
with our nephew, James.’
coach, she managed to conquer her fears after the family relocated to South Africa when she was
The cottage where the family lived in Chappel holds some of Anna’s dearest memories
12 years old. Despite
that are seemingly
Her brother Joe helped plant a huge
insignificant
field full of silver birch many years ago in
become the most
the field next to the Millennium green.
poignant. That
‘It’s so wonderful to go back now and see
inanimate object,
how they have grown so tall, a little imprint of our family I guess.’
the obstacles, Anna has been driven to
being our front door, was the door we
succeed by her innate love of singing.
would welcome back our brother from
Something she describes as, ‘always a
Scotland where he used to work and our
ambitions to move back to Essex, the
part of my inner most being. Not
family friends visiting from South
answer is an unequivocal, yes.
something I nurtured, or grew to love,
Africa. It was the door that my granny
but just in my blood’.
would knock on with one of her
being all over the place and based in
When I ask if there are any
‘With my music I can see myself
delicious homemade sponges, the door
London, but one day I would love to
banished once and for all when Anna
that opened onto the most cherished
buy back Rosemary Cottage, if it is ever
went travelling. ‘I found the anonymity
Christmases with family and friends and
possible, and keep it in the family.’ ■
really helpful,’ she explains. It was on
it was the door to our home, with which
her travels that Anna had the
I hold so much affection.’
The debilitating stage fright was
opportunity to perform on stage and at
In the back garden there was a small
last felt comfortable doing so. She is still
courtyard full of lush green plants, a
something of a globetrotter and declares
grapevine and a mini pond. Within
how she wants to see, ‘as much of this
those walls the family celebrated Anna’s
amazing planet as I can’.
18th birthday and her mum’s 50th
Anna’s parents, a fashion designer and 1 20
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birthday.
FIND OUT MORE Anna Pancaldi will be performing as part of the Colchester Free Festival on August 29. For more details about Anna and her music, visit www.annapancaldi.com
ANNA PANCALDI
www.essexlifemag.co.uk
1 21
ESSEX DURING WORLD WAR II
How World War II CHANGED ESSEX Essex historian Paul Rusiecki highlights some of the striking themes to emerge from his new book, Under Fire: Essex and the Second World War, as he reveals how the war changed our county forever
I
N SPITE of flirtations with
unity stemmed from the experience
physical changes too such as bomb
defeatism and a huge growth
of sacrifice in the face of enemy
destruction (especially in
in criminal activity, often
action. Virtually every town, village
metropolitan Essex), a fortified
related to the black market,
and hamlet experienced at least one
coastline, deep anti-invasion
Essex was a largely united
‘incident’. Indeed for the vast
trenches, pillboxes and a countryside
county during World War II, pulling
majority of people in Essex, whether
pock-marked with bomb craters.
together with common purposes
it was the Blitz, V-1 and V-2 rockets,
— the retention of its freedom, to
conscription for both men and
ordinary people led to a move to the Left
build a fairer world and to bring
women or rationing, it was
politically. Many felt that Conservative
Hitler and his allies crashing down. It
impossible to avoid becoming part of
governments, having tolerated in the past
was an early form of the idea that
the total war effort.
mass unemployment, slums, inferior
‘we’re all in this together’ and this 1 22
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The county experienced extensive
The great wartime effort endured by
quality schooling and a divisive medical
ESSEX DURING WORLD WAR II at Maldon, where Tom Driberg, a crusading and charismatic left-wing journalist, stood as an independent candidate and sensationally overturned a Tory majority of 8,000 into a victory by 6,000 votes. Following the death in action of Chelmsford’s Conservative MP, the new Tory candidate was defeated by a serving RAF officer of the left-wing Commonwealth Party. This feeling that change was needed culminated in the
Essex were evacuated into more rual
emphatic Labour Party victory in the 1945
Essex. When raids failed to occur during
General Election. In Essex, the Labour
the Phoney War, many evacuees
Party won 21 of the 26 seats, leaving the
returned home. For instance, by May
Conservatives with only three MPs.
1940, nine months after their arrival, of
As in the Great War, women took over
the 2,500 sent to Chelmsford just 600
some traditional male roles in transport,
remained. However, when the Blitz
the postal service, farming and war
began, evacuees reappeared and there
factories. Many women joined the
were 34,000 back in Essex by the end of
women’s services and they were fully
1940. Change was bound to stem from
engaged in Civil Defence as air raid
the social interaction of evacuees and
wardens, ambulance drivers, transport
natives. Evacuees from metropolitan
and first aid. The war led to a relaxation
Essex often had their eyes opened to the
of rules about married women in
benefits of rural living, however
teaching, the introduction (after a long
primitive it may have seemed, and
male resistance in Essex) of the Women’s Auxiliary Police service and the provision of childcare facilities in
country dwellers
Women took over traditional male roles in transport, farming and war factories
were confronted with the depth of deprivation and poverty which existed in urban areas.
areas with factories to allow mothers to do vital war work.
It would be foolish to claim that World
This only occurred in Chelmsford after
War II produced a great transformation in
the borough council resisted such a step,
British or Essex society. The wartime
alleging that as a mother’s place was in
sense of unity evaporated fairly quickly
the home, state-run nurseries would lead
after victory and old pre-war antagonisms
to the breakdown of family life.
re-surfaced. These focussed on the
The county experienced foreign
Labour government’s attempt to create a
invasion in the shape of Allied
fairer society, which clashed with the
servicemen, first from the Empire and
efforts of some Conservatives to turn the
service, could not be trusted to build a
then from the USA. By 1943 there were 18
clock back to 1939.
more equitable post-war Essex. These
American airfields in Essex, as part of the
feelings paved the way for the post-war
Eighth Air Force, or the Mighty Eighth.
a new conflict stemming from the old
welfare state and the NHS. The
Prior to D-Day there were about 46,000
one, the Cold War, which was to exercise
destruction by the Luftwaffe of tens of
American service personnel in the
a powerful but rarely positive influence
thousands of houses made a post-war
county. Towns like Colchester,
on the way that Essex people regarded
housing programme a vital necessity,
Chelmsford and Braintree were the focus
their county and their world. ■
although for many years it also
for a terrific influx of American
contributed to an acute housing shortage.
servicemen on leave. They filled hotels,
Get the book
packed cinemas and drank pubs dry. With
Under Fire: Essex and the Second World
Symptomatic of this move to the left
Over and above this was the spectre of
were the Maldon and Chelmsford
their glamorous image and big pay-
War, 1939–1945 is by
wartime by-elections. A growing
packets compared with the hard-up
Paul Rusiecki and
dissatisfaction with military defeats,
Tommy, they were always popular with
published by Essex
retreats and disasters between 1939 and
English women.
Publications, an imprint
1942 led people to feel that the Churchill
When war began, fear of German air
of University of
government was struggling to win the
raids meant that some 124,000 evacuees
Hertfordshire Press.
war. This disaffection was demonstrated
from East London and metropolitan
ISBN: 978-1-909291-28-7 www.essexlifemag.co.uk
1 23
ESSEX FOOTBALL
LEAGUES OF THEIR OWN
The Beautiful Game has travelled across the world, but here in Essex, football as strong roots as you will find anywhere. Stephen Roberts looks at the strength of the game in Essex up and down the leagues 1 24
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ESSEX FOOTBALL
E
SSEX football fans have
walls of Colchester Castle if there was an
northern Thames Estuary, Southend is a
watched their teams work
upset, so he maybe wasn’t counting on his
club founded in a pub (the Blue Boar in
their way up and down
climbing skills being tested.
1906), rather aptly for representatives of
the leagues for generations and the
While this stand out moment remains Colchester’s greatest day, achieving a
the working man’s game. That was it for Football League
grassroots of football in Essex have
highest league finish in 2007 (above
representation by Essex clubs at one time,
produced some of England’s most
regional rivals of Ipswich and Norwich)
but nowadays there is the past-master of
famous players. But perhaps the most
and moving to a new ground in 2008 will
amalgamations, Dagenham & Redbridge
famous moment in football history for
also resonate with fans as an historic
(The Daggers) who officially date from
an Essex team belongs to Colchester.
highlight. For a club with a crest featuring a
1992, but have swallowed once famous
Roman eagle, Colchester United has had its
amateur sides along the way (including
of an FA Cup earthquake when the
misfortune too. Weather the Romans
Leytonstone, Ilford and Walthamstow
mid-table 4th Division minnows of
would have detested have caused
Avenue). The modern side’s claim to fame
Colchester, with a team described as
difficulties with gale-force winds almost
is that it featured in the then world record
ageing pros and journeymen, disposed of
destroying the Layer Road End in 1938 and
penalty shoot-out, when Leyton Orient
the mightiest team in the land in 1971,
the old ground’s highest crowd (more than
were despatched 14-13 after 28 spot-kicks.
Don Revie’s metronomic Leeds United.
19,000) going home disappointed a decade
I pity the poor lad who missed.
Colchester United were at the epicentre
Such a shock was it that it was described by Geoffrey Green in The Times thus, ‘Miracles are rare and must be
later when thick fog came sweeping in and forced a match to be abondoned. The county’s other long-established
But football in Essex is about so much more than the League teams, that Pantheon of 92 clubs which have
savoured: this one in particular will have
Football League side is Southend, a
traditionally ruled the roost as the
its place in memory. Great-grandchildren
peripatetic club of five grounds, whose
professional teams. In fact, far more
will hear tell of it.’
Roots Hall (1955) was built on the site of a
football is played outside of this august
sand quarry, council landfill and gas
body. Take Braintree, one of the county’s
Colchester gaffer, had promised man-
board premises. It was the Football
most senior clubs in what is often
marking so tight, his players would
League’s newest ground until 1988.
depreciatingly termed, Non-League
accompany their much-vaunted opponents
Nicknamed The Shrimpers after the
football. Interesting tales abound here
to the loo. He also pledged to scale the
decapod crustaceans fished in the
too. Dating from 1898, Braintree FC
Dick Graham, the charismatic crew-cut
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The Carling Stand at Dagenham & Redbridge (David Ingham, October 2008)
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1 25
ESSEX FOOTBALL
Brightlingsea are named Essex & Suffolk Border Football League champions 2010-11 Fathers came from the town.
are known as ‘The Iron’, referring to the
and bought a quantity of ‘fine fish’. Pepys
works team of the Crittall Window
did well and so did Grays when they won
Company from which they hailed. It
the FA Trophy (the FA Cup of Non-League
low-lying, a few feet below sea-level,
wasn’t until 1981 that the Crittall
football) in successive years (2005 and
which explains how the club’s early
connection was finally extinguished.
2006), but sadly not at Wembly due to the
records were destroyed in a major flood
ground’s redevelopment at the time.
in 1953. The Gulls only date to 1926, but
Chelmsford City got rather ahead of themselves, dubbing the club ‘City’ from
Only two sides have won the FA Vase
Canvey Island’s Park Lane ground is
football has been played on the island
1938, although the settlement didn’t
(the FA Trophy’s junior partner) three
since Victorian times, while some of its
achieve city status until 2012. No-one
times and one is Billericay Town. When
more recent exponents of the game have
seemed too bothered, however. It was all
Dougie Young claimed a hat-trick in the
appeared in World Cup Qualifying
very quaint, with a football club
1979 final, he was the first player to score
matches for Dominica and Guyana. The
established by the Lawn Tennis & Croquet
a hat-trick at Wembley since a certain
world is small these days, even on
Club, giving members something to do in
Geoff Hurst in 1966. Formed in 1880,
Canvey. The club was another from Essex
the winter. The old ground (New Writtle
Billericay has an image of The Mayflower
to suffer the, ‘what, no Wembley?’
Street) saw some life, being a barrage
in its club badge as some of the Pilgrim
disappointment when they won the FA
balloon site in World War II, then witnessing greyhound racing briefly after the war. One of The Clarets most famous former players was top English goalscorer Jimmy Greaves, who pitched up there for the 1976-77 season. If Chelmsford claimed to be a city, Concord Rangers, nicknamed The Beach Boys, took a different geographical entity, naming itself after nearby Concord Beach on Canvey Island, apparently becoming the only English team named after a beach. Grays Athletic are known as The Gravelmen, not the name of a pop-group, but a reference to three Victorian chalk quarries hereabouts. Samuel Pepys recorded in his diary when he visited Grays back in September 1665, that it was a calm morning when he took a wherry 1 26
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ESSEX FOOTBALL Trophy in 2001. One of the wackier nicknames is that of
(founded in 1879) had eccentrically chosen their side by committee for their
AFC Hornchurch, The Urchins, which is
first 77 years, but had a manager picking
presumably derived from ‘church’. The
the 11 by the time Uruguay visited in 1966
current side dates from 2005 after its
for a World Cup warm-up. The South
predecessor, Hornchurch FC, closed
Americans won 6-1, but were less
down. The original club dated back to
effective when the serious stuff started.
1923 when a team was formed as Upminster Wanderers. We’ve had grounds that flood and ones
The Essex car industry also made an impact on the local world of football. Redbridge FC originated from two motor
named after beaches, but is there
companies, Ford Sports (Dagenham) and
anything weirder than Heybridge Swift’s
Briggs Sports (previously Briggs Motor
Scraley Road, landscaped out of a former
Bodies), both founded in 1934, merging
carrot field in the mid-1960s? There is
into Ford United in 1959. The club
plenty of history for a club dating back to
renamed itself Redbridge in 2004, but
1880, yet, ironically, Swift’s greatest claim
retains vehicle roots with its nickname of
to fame may be that reality TV star Mark
The Motormen.
Wright of The Only Way is Essex, played twice for them in 2011.
LEAGUE STANDINGS FOR ESSEX TEAMS FOR THE 2015/16 SEASON League 1 Southend United Colchester United League 2 Dagenham & Redbridge Conference Premier Braintree Town Conference South Chelmsford City Concord Rangers Ryman Premier Grays Athletic Billericay Town Canvey Island East Thurrock
Brentwood Ryman North AFC Hornchurch Heybridge Swifts Thurrock Aveley Tilbury Maldon & Tiptree Harlow Town Redbridge Romford Waltham Abbey Brightlingsea Regent Great Wakering Witham Town
Does any club in Essex have a more fascinating history than Romford? The original club dates back to 1876, with a
soldiers demobbed after World War 1 who
rousing oration at the time of the licking
second incarnation in 1929, before today’s
were finding employment in local
of the Armada is home to a football club
presence established in 1992. Formed
brickfields. Its Burroughs Park ground was
dating back not quite as far, but at least to
back in the mists of time in halcyon
constructed on the site of 104 disused
1895. Appropriately nicknamed The
amateur days, the side was good enough
allotments in 1985 and named after a local
Dockers, Tilbury moved to Chadfields, a
to reach an FA Cup quarter-final in 1881
farmer and former player. I wonder whether
former greyhound racing venue, after
(although they lost 0-15). The later
any really old spuds pop up occasionally.
World War II. A more recent brush with
amateur side did well too, reaching the FA
fame came in 1978 when the club reached
Amateur Cup final of 1949 at Wembley,
football can be, we should finish with
the Third Round of the FA Cup, losing to
when a crowd of 100,000 (yes, 100,000)
Witham Town. Formed in 1876,
Stoke. Stoke’s players were undoubtedly
saw them lose to Bromley. Romford
disbanded in 1914 due to World War I
motivated by their boss’s programme
would fold in 1978 though, and this a club
breaking out, reformed in 1918, then
notes, relating his sorry attempt to spy on
that played home matches at no fewer
disbanded again due to World War II.
Tilbury at a preceding home game. He got
than 17 grounds over the years. Perhaps
After its second reformation the club
lost trying to find their ground and made
Danny Benstock deserves a mention too,
played initially on a cow pasture with a
it quite clear he didn’t want to return for a
a player who scored a goal in 11 seconds
barn acting as changing rooms. I’m sure
cup replay. Stoke won 4-0 and their
in August 1995. Blink and you missed it.
when Olly Murs played for them, he
Tilbury, the scene of Elizabeth I’s
manager put his A-Z away. The Jammers is one of the excellent
To show just how quaint grass roots
Waltham Abbey, reputedly the burial
expected slightly better facilities, even
place of King Harold, has a football team
though he hadn’t yet been ‘X-Factored’.
nicknames adopted by Maldon &
appropriately dubbed The Abbots which
Tiptree, who amalgamated in 2010.
formed in 1944. When mighty
resides the whole otherworld story of the
While they may play in Maldon, the jam
Manchester City moved from Maine Road
Essex Senior League. The crowds get
connection is firmly Tiptree,
to the Etihad, some of their old Maine
smaller, scores get bigger and tales
commemorating an internationally-
Road seating headed for Waltham Abbey’s
continue to proliferate. But as the new
recognised brand of preserves
modest ground.
football season kicks off, it is time to
manufactured in the village by Wilkin &
Great Wakering’s club was formed by
There is more, of course. Below this
catch the action for real. ■
Sons, a family business dating to 1885. Gary Lineker, household name, legendary goal-poacher and TV presenter, is not usually shy about recalling games he played in, except perhaps for one that took place at the Sportcentre, Harlow in January 1980. OK, so he was young at the time and anonymous on the night, but Harlow claimed quite a scalp, Leicester City and Lineker to boot, in front of a bewildered crowd of over 9,700. Leicester would have drawn no comfort from the fact they had been bettered at England’s first ever sports centre team. Harlow www.essexlifemag.co.uk
1 27
ESSEX HISTORY
Stepping back through history…
The Bentall family of Heybridge Underpinning the Industrial Revolution was an evolution in agricultural machinery and the innovations of The Bentall family from Heybridge played a key role in the developments of the industry. Hannah Salisbury from the Essex Record Office shares more of their story
E
H BENTALL & CO of Heybridge was a wellknown agricultural engineering firm, which
Britain but to the overseas Colonies. Edward Bentall patented new designs including an improved
exported products all over the world. A family
version of the Goldhanger plough and the Broad Share Cultivator
firm handed down from father to son, it had
which won a gold medal at the Great Exhibition of 1851, and
its roots in the late 1700s and continued work
three first prizes at the Royal Agricultural Society Show in 1859.
into the 1980s.
Its reputation spread and orders came in from all over the world.
Improvements in agricultural methods and equipment were
Edward Bentall’s spirit of inventiveness was also evident in
hot topics in the 18th and 19th centuries. More efficient farming
the house that he designed for his family in Heybridge in 1873.
meant more food could be produced to support a bigger
The Towers was a large Italianate building which pioneered
population. Greater efficiency and mechanisation also meant
concrete block construction and which was heated by hot-air
that fewer people would be needed to work on the land, and
ducts rather than fireplaces (although some were added for
would be freed up for other occupations. This agricultural
decoration). The house was designed to accommodate his
revolution was the underpinning for the industrial revolution
hobbies of astronomy, natural history, botany and spiritualism.
and the Bentall company played an important part in designing
Bentall was also a keen yachtsman and experimented with yacht
and supplying innovative farming equipment.
design. He built the Jullanar in Heybridge Basin which set the
The firm began with William Bentall (1779-1836), a farmer who lived in Goldhanger. He designed a new kind of plough for use
fashion of racing yacht design for years to come. Edward’s son, Edmund Ernest Bentall (1855-1945), began to take
on his own farm, which he Christened the Goldhanger plough. It
over the business in 1889. During his time in charge, the company
was so effective he equipped his whole farm with them, and
began to experiment with the internal combustion engine and the
soon other local farmers wanted them too. Initially the ploughs
Bentall design engine became an important part of the factory’s
would probably have been made by the local blacksmith, but as
output. It was one of the cheapest petrol engines on the market
word spread and demand grew Bentall set up a small foundry of
with low fuel consumption and designed for ease of repair.
his own on his farm. In 1795 he decided to give up farming and focus full-time on agricultural engineering. In 1805 he moved the business 3 miles to Heybridge, on a site
Edmund was a keen motorist and was the first man to own and drive a car in Maldon. He also designed a car including a Bentall engine and about 100 of them were made, although they
adjacent to the recently-opened Chelmer and Blackwater
were not a commercial success. By the time they were launched,
Navigation. Demand for agricultural equipment was high, as the
technology had already left them behind and car manufacture at
Napoleonic Wars limited the amount of food being imported from
Heybridge was discontinued. Just one of the cars still survives.
overseas and more land was pressed into agricultural service. The
It was not, however, a wasted experience and the lessons
business grew and grew, expanding from ploughs into other kinds
learned shaped improvements to the Bentall engine, resulting in
of agricultural equipment, and Bentall became a wealthy man.
the first horizontal petrol engine to be produced in Britain. It
William’s son, Edward Hammond Bentall (1814-1898), shared
also began Bentall’s manufacture of valves, which from 1904
his father’s inventiveness and aptitude for engineering and took
was an important part of their output, as the factory produced
over the company in 1836 aged 22. The business underwent
more than a million of them a year.
rapid expansion under his leadership and in 1839 he established it as EH Bentall & Co. Sales expanded not only throughout 1 28
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During World War I, part of the works was given over to the production of shell cases, and with the addition of women to the
ESSEX HISTORY workforce many millions were made. Likewise, during World War II, part of the factory was engaged in wartime production, producing parts for aircraft. They continued, however, to produce agricultural machinery, which was much in demand due to the difficulty of importing food. Bentall’s was an important part of local life in Heybridge for over 150 years, employing hundreds of people. The business continued to operate through the 20th century, but closed down in the 1980s, after nearly 200 years of innovation.
ERO events Tuesday, September 1, 10.30am Essex History Group: William Pynchon — from Springfield in Essex to Springfield, Massachusetts
Above Bentall’s warehouse on the banks of the Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation
A talk from David Powers for the Essex History Group. Entry is £1 including a cup of tea or coffee. There is no need to book. Thursday, September 3, 10am to 3.30pm First World War Ancestors Helpdesk: Great Baddow Library Throughout 2015 and early 2016, ERO’s Essex at War display will be touring various Essex Libraries. In addition, ERO staff will also be available at selected libraries for First World War Ancestors Helpdesks. These is an opportunity to seek advice on how to trace the stories of your World War I ancestors or names on your local war memorial. Entry is free so just drop in at Great Baddow Library, 27 High Street, Great Baddow, Chelmsford CM2 7HH Saturday, September 12, 10am to 4pm Heritage Open Day: Explore the Essex Record Office The Essex Record Office’s collections cover 1,000 years of our county’s past. Come and see some of the treasures of the ERO and
Above One of the cars manufactured by Bentall’s in the early years of the 20th century
find out how staff look after this wonderful and unique collection, as well as how you can access it for yourself. Tours of the Searchroom will be taking place at 10am, 11am, noon, 2pm and 3pm. Tours are free, but places are limited, so please book in advance to ensure a place. Tuesday evenings from September 15, 6pm to 8pm
Left Photograph of Edward Hammond Bentall
Introduction to Bookbinding This four-week course in the Conservation Studio at ERO will introduce you to the world of bookbinding. Learn how to make your own books from scratch starting with a simple pamphlet style binding working up to a sewn hardback book using traditional methods. Tickets are £100 per person (including all equipment and materials). Please book in advance on 033301 32500
TRACE YOUR HISTORY Each month the Essex Record Office helps Essex Life trace the history of a particular aspect of county life. For more information about the Essex Record Office, call 01245 244644. Leaflets explaining how to begin to research your family or house history are available free of charge on receipt of a SAE. Write to: Essex Record Office, Wharf Road, Chelmsford CM2 6YT.
Above An illustration from one of Bentall’s early catalogues showing a piece of farming equipment in use www.essexlifemag.co.uk
1 29
GENERATION SUCCESS
GENERATION SUCCESS There are no age barriers when it comes to making a difference in Essex. Here Holly Eells meets just a handful of our county heroes living their lives to the full at various stages of life
The Young Guns
Alex Lynn
T
HERE’S a new generation
‘I have been planning my own business
like because many people don’t like too
of ambitious youngsters
for more than a year-and-a-half with the
much change. We are just trying to
that are planning to bring
help of my twin brother, Alex, and
educate people with a healthier approach
success to Essex and
partner, Tom O’Hanlon,’ says John. ‘The
to eating and slowly break them in.’
prove it is never too early
Healthy Chef is a clean-living restaurant,
to pursue your dreams, whatever they
focusing on healthy eating and diet plans
business-focused mindset. John’s career
may be.
It is evident that John has always had a
which can cater for any needs. We
began when he was only 11 years old and
Colchester-born John Hoggett is one of
understand it is hard when you are trying
has combined his passion for nutrition
those sparking high hopes for his future.
to follow a clean-living plan or you are on
with a knack for making money from a
Launching his first business at 21, The
a diet and you are surrounded by the
young age. ‘My first job was as a paper
Healthy Chef in Upminster, less than two
temptation of bad food when you leave
boy, where I had to lie about my age as I
months ago, John already has big ideas
the house. However, this is where we can
was too young. Before long, I was doing
for the years ahead.
help. We want to offer people what they
six paper rounds before school. A couple
1 30
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John Hoggett of years later I was working three jobs,
continues to set challenges for herself. ‘In
sometimes all in one day. I just wanted to
every opportunity which has arisen I have
be the richest person for my age.’
accomplished something because I have
reputation for producing great sportsmen,
finished in the top 10.’ Ben truly believes Essex has a good
given it a go. I’m currently having
including those in motorsport. He adds:
success doesn’t happen overnight and it’s
motorbike lessons, which is something
‘In owner-driver karting, a lot of the
key to have a good group of people
very different to the beauty competitions.
drivers at the top of the field are from
behind you to make the business work.
I truly believe everyone is responsible for
Essex and the results speak for
He says: ‘My vision is that if you believe,
their own limitations.’
themselves. I plan to continue racing in
Nevertheless, John recognises that
you can achieve it. I am lucky to have a
The pageant winner goes on to explain
supportive team working alongside me,
that even though this is a massive
which is vital if you want to expand.’
opportunity for her, she still has other
cars at the most competitive level I can for the foreseeable future.’ Another racing star, 21-year-old Alex
aims. ‘I have never had someone to look
Lynn, is a British driver currently
the bigger the risk you take in business,
up to when I was growing up, but I have
competing in the GP2 Series, the well-
the bigger the thrill. ‘I have lived in
always wanted to be a role model for
known feeder series to Formula One. With
Upminster all of my life and I feel I know
others,’ she says.
The young Essex entrepreneur believes
the clientele well. It is a great area to grow
Another ambitious
up in, but it is one of the hardest areas in
young star in the
the county to crack. If we can succeed
making is 17-year-
here, we can make it anywhere.’
old racing driver Ben
Another star in the Essex spotlight for
Green from Waltham
I only started applying for pageants this year and it feels amazing to have won titles already
his biggest ambition being to be a Formula 1 world champion, he is certainly heading in the right direction.
2015 is 25-year-old Charlotte Hamilton-
Abbey. With Lewis
Macy, an administrator in Witham who is
Hamilton and Jenson Button as his
Macau GP was my biggest achievement to
also an equestrian enthusiast and a
motor-racing inspirations, he has set his
date. It’s the highest status race in the
dancer. Staggeringly, she has even found
sights on having a successful sports
junior calendar and the win definitely set
time to win a variety of pageant titles this
career. ‘I started kart racing when I was
me on the path I’m on today,’ Alex says.
year including Miss Earth Essex. She will
13-years-old, progressed through different
soon be representing the region against
classes of karts and now I am focussed on
French team DAMS, Alex is halfway
100 other candidates at the Miss England
racing cars. This year I am racing a
through the season and at the moment he
final, each hoping for the chance to go
lightweight sports car, a Ginetta G40,
is fifth in the championship. ‘That’s pretty
abroad to compete internationally.
capable of going up to 120mph.’
good for a rookie,’ Alex adds.
Animal lover Charlotte, who lives in
One of Ben’s biggest highlights in his
‘Winning the
Currently racing in the GP2 Series with
Growing up in Great Dunmow always
Layer de la Haye near Colchester, explains
motor-racing career to date was
brings back good memories for Alex
how pageantry had never been something
qualifying with his team for an
and the county has proven to be a real
that initially appealed to her. ‘I am only
international world final, at the
inspiration for him. He explains: ‘Essex
5’3 and naturally quite curvy, but I do
prestigious Le Mans circuit in France. Ben
always feels like home and it is good to
look after myself. I only started applying
explains: ‘It was a team-based, 12-hour
see all my friends and family after
for pageants this year and it feels amazing
night race event and we came 26th out of
being away for long periods of time
to have won a couple of titles already!’
40 teams from around the world. At one
racing. I think the county is home to
point we were 7th for part of the race, but
some very ambitious and focused
doors for Charlotte, including a number
unfortunately we had mechanical
people and that’s something I’m proud
of modelling contracts, but she still
problems. No British team has ever
to be associated with.’ ➤
Pageantry has opened a variety of
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1 31
GENERATION SUCCESS
Middle-Life Marvels
which lobbies for the ethical treatment of animals. Its overall goal is to give animals a voice and express that animals are not ours to use or abuse in any way. Winning such a prestigious title has given Anna the opportunity to project her compassion further. She explains: ‘Winning the competition is still sinking in, but the best part is being able to use this platform to spread the word about veganism and how to speak up for animals. I would also love to open a funky, vegan snack bar in Essex one day.’ Unsung hero, Fiona Oakes, is a vegan marathon runner who has made impressive achievements over the years,
Fiona Oakes
I
despite a busy work schedule. At 46, she has numerous work commitments including being a retained firefighter,
T ISN’T just the new kids on
years ago owing to her love of animals.
competing as a marathon runner and
the block that are causing a stir
She says: ‘For me, it was all about making
doing long shifts at her animal sanctuary
in our bustling county, with
the connection and then everything fell
in between Tillingham and Southminster.
more experienced characters
into place. Animals are voiceless
It is there that she cares almost single-
making their mark too.
creatures and, as humans, we should
handedly for more than 400 animals
speak for them. Switching to a
including sheep, dogs, pigs and horses.
Anna Solaiman, was recently crowned
compassionate, vegan lifestyle feels like a
When asked how she manages to allocate
PETA’S UK Sexiest Vegan Female 2015.
massive weight has been lifted off my
her time, she says it’s simple. ‘I get up at
Born and bred in Ilford, the make-up
shoulders.’
3.30am and work steadily through the day
Another proud Essex award-winner,
artist became a vegan more than two 1 32
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PETA is a charity-based organisation
until everything is done. The animals
GENERATION SUCCESS always take precedence over the running,
next year I plan to complete the 4
so my time for training is very limited and
Deserts Grand Slam, which is a seven-
I have to grab every opportunity when it
day ultra marathon (around 160 miles
arises.’ Fiona runs around nine times a
each week) in the four main deserts
week and she is often asked where she
— the Sahara, Atacama, Gobi and
finds the motivation and time to keep
Antarctica. People who have achieved
going. She responds: ‘It is all down to my
this in the same year are very few and
lack of time and as I know time is short, I
far between.’
can’t talk myself out of it. Also, I honestly think that if you are dedicated to the task and believe 100% in what you are doing, the rest is simple.’ Fiona has
After studying for her music degree in Essex,
‘If you are dedicated to the task and believe 100% in what you are doing, the rest is simple’
completed some
Worcestershire-born Sandra Coulton has never looked back. As a successful and acclaimed choir director, she has
momentous triumphs in running, which
created multiple choirs on a community
seems all the more impressive given her
basis for high profile clients both in the
incredibly full lifestyle. She says:
UK and also worldwide. Sandra co-
‘Travelling around the world and seeing
ordinates and organises tours, including
so much poverty and hardship really does
hiring touring companies to arrange
make you very aware of how lucky you
concert dates, venues, accommodations
actually are and how easy it is to take
and promotional activities.
everything for granted. One of the biggest
The 40-year-old musical director
Sandra Coulton recording of albums.’ After 13 years in education
lessons came when I ran the Marathon
founded her award-winning Funky Voices
institutions, Sandra decided to follow a
des Sables in the Sahara Desert for the
in 2007. It aims principally to meet a real
more intense choir-focused path. Under
first time.’
need in the community for something
her guidance, many choirs and groups
fresh and new: a choir that sings modern
including Funky Voices have recorded
the toughest footrace in the world.
music and can be enjoyed by everyone,
and released multiple albums on
Competitors have a week of running in
with no audition or experience needed.
iTunes and Amazon. As well as
This marathon event is recognised as
some of the hardest and most hostile
Now Essex and Suffolk’s largest
television and radio appearances
terrain the desert has to offer. The
award-winning modern community choir
broadcasted worldwide, the group and
marathon hero explains: ‘It is really
welcomes all ages and abilities from all
creator have received many awards
tough because you have to complete a
walks of life. Sandra explains: ‘Funky
including Best Repertoire and
marathon each day, with one day
Voices sets itself apart from other
Conductor at the International Pop
actually being a double marathon. All
community choirs by offering singers a
Choir Festival in Berlin. It’s no wonder
your supplies are on your back in your
multitude of varied experiences. These
that this year, Sandra has been invited
rucksack for the entire week (weighing
range from once-in-a-lifetime
to Buckingham Palace to Her Majesty
around 11 kg). Breaking my world record
performance opportunities to chances to
The Queen’s Garden Party in lieu of her
again is a goal for this year and then
travel the world and take part in the
musical services. ➤
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1 33
GENERATION SUCCESS
Golden Oldies
Marks Hall
A
GE is really just a number and we could all learn a thing or two from these intrepid achievers who prove
you’re never too old to do great things. Long-standing local legend Michael Dedman has lived in Southend borough for all of his 67 years. Working as a partner in his brother’s estate agency firm, he is now semi-retired and running the short-term lettings department. Also a proud garden devotee, his keen green-fingered interests have contributed significantly to raising thousands of pounds for a variety of charities across the region. Michael explains: ‘I have always had an interest in charity work and during my retirement I realised our one-acre garden had potential for bigger things. My wife
Michael Dedman and his Southend garden
and I have always been keen gardeners ever since we started living here more
NGS has donated more than £45 million
than 33 years ago and it has a natural
to its beneficiary charities, of which
18 friends who contribute to charity
tendency to be a beautiful garden.’
nearly £23 million has been donated
events and help out in the garden, which
within the last ten years. Its
has continued to cause great interest in
interest in his garden so he approached
commitment to nursing and caring
the area. Michael explains: ‘The British
the National Garden Scheme (NGS) to
remains constant, and the charity
people do like to get involved in
become involved. Since its founding, the
continues to grow and flourish.
charitable work. The membership of the
Ten years ago Michael took more of an
134
www.essexlifemag.co.uk
Michael and his wife have the help of
GENERATION SUCCESS Essex NGS has increased and it has made
teenagers and young people with cancer.
around £115,000 each year during the last
‘As soon as we knew the seriousness of
arboretum and gardens. Marks Hall goes from strength to
few years alone, which is very impressive.
Tom’s condition, I used my contacts to
strength, but to maintain and enhance
Our garden openings have grown too, so
get a big charity dinner ball together and
this unique and special place is a serious
we have help with preparing cakes and
it grew from there. Within a year, when
challenge for everyone involved. The
refreshments, and selling and organising
Tom was around, we all worked together
funds required to develop and maintain
plants. At one of our events this year we
to raise more than £180,000 for Teenage
an arboretum of this quality are
made around £5,000 and we also opened
Cancer Trust. Tom’s family are really
considerable and it needs the support of
a couple of weeks ago and attracted more
great people and it is incredible what they
the public to do this. The aim of the
than 530 visitors.’
have done. I am pleased to be a trustee
trustees is to provide more and better
for it,’ says John.
facilities for Marks Hall’s visitors. Despite
Some might say Michael is also a true ambassador for Southend, with an
He adds: ‘We are always trying to raise
the fact that Marks Hall is a national
immense passion
funds to help find
asset, it receives no government funding
to see his town
ways to work with
and is totally reliant on its own resources.
flourish. He says: ‘In my lifetime, I would like to see Southend become more of a place for
Although a national asset, Marks Hall receives no government funds and is reliant on its own resources
people to enjoy.
cancer research for
Graeme adds: ‘My fellow trustees and I
young people. We
are passionate about pursuing the success
need to raise more
of Marks Hall, its capacity to educate and
than £170,000 a year
its ability to inform, to amuse and to
for technicians to
afford outdoor enjoyment. Anyone within
work on specific
striking distance of Marks Hall should be
There is so much here: great education,
cancers. We also have great news to be
a regular visitor and every season of the
good lifestyle and generally a well-
released soon.’
year brings a new experience. Marks Hall is a jewel in the Essex crown, a county
balanced town, but I think for most it’s a
Celebrating his 70th birthday this
very good place to live. I have lived here
year, Graeme Fraser Steele has always
which has a huge amount to offer.
all of my life and there are many great
had a passion for architecture.
Certainly it is diverse with its proximity to
places in Essex, but in my opinion
Practicing law for his entire working life,
London, its industrial areas as well as the
Southend has got it all.’
he is also the chairman of trustees at
density of its population, but it is an
Marks Hall in Coggeshall.
enormous county with vast areas of
John Schultz is a man who has contributed much to Essex. He is
Moving to the area with his wife a
agricultural land, beautiful villages,
currently a consultant at Colchester-
couple of decades ago was when Graeme
undulating countryside, fascinating
based Readers Offers Limited, he is a
took an interest in this field, in particular
coastline and the benefit of some of the
former chairman for Colchester United FC
timber-framed and vernacular buildings
best weather available. I have found it a
and he is also well known for his work
which abound in this part of the county.
wonderful area in which to live and work,
with local charities.
With a growing family, he took the
and I am delighted to have made even a
opportunity to pursue his interest and
small contribution to its wellbeing.’ ■
John explains: ‘Seven years ago I was introduced to the UK’s largest
became the National Trust tenant at
independent travel agency, Readers
Paycockes in West Street, where he stayed
Offers Limited, which is now celebrating
for five years.
20 years in business, and I am pleased to be involved with them.’ At 67 years old, John is a happily
Graeme explains further: ‘It is a wonderful house and it was an amazing experience. While living at Paycockes I
married, family man, who commits his
became involved with The Coggeshall
time to a number of charities in Essex
Society and, in due course, the Coggeshall
and across the UK. This includes being a
Grange Barn Trust.’
trustee for the Tom Bowdidge
Graeme became a trustee of Marks Hall
Foundation and the men’s health
Estate in 2007 and was appointed
charity, CHAPS.
chairman of trustees in 2010. He says: ‘I
The Tom Bowdidge Foundation is a
have known Marks Hall since the 1960s
charitable foundation founded early last
when it was all but derelict, having
year and launched by Tom’s parents,
suffered the ravages of World War II and
Richard and Nikki, on the anniversary of
fallen into disrepair. I am honoured to be
Tom’s 20th birthday. Tom died of a
following in the footsteps of the first
desmoplastic small round cell tumour
trustees appointed in 1971.’
and extensive peritoneal disease in
The task confronting everyone involved
October 2013, at the age of 19. The
was enormous and only their foresight,
foundation has its headquarters in
the subsequent dedication to their
Colchester and its goal is to raise funds to
successors and the permanent staff on
support research projects and to provide
the estate has enabled Marks Hall to
physical and emotional support to
become a nationally-significant
John Schultz with fellow trustees of The Tom Bowdidge Foundation
www.essexlifemag.co.uk
1 35
PRESENTS
TRIBUTE NIGHTS
Bank Holiday Monday Special
31st August Comedy Night An entertaining night of great comedy and music by Ian Richards and Johhny Mack
- Opening Times - Mon-Thurs 12-2.30pm & 5.30-11.30pm
Thursday 27th August Marshall King as Elvis Presley Thursday 29th October Gary Goodmaze as Freddie Mercury Check Our website for all our events during 2015
Fri & Sat 12-2.30pm & 5pm-Midnight Sun 12 noon to 11.30pm
01245 261 167 07983 521 981 info@indiannight.co.uk www.indiannight.co.uk London Rd, Widford, Chelmsford, Essex CM28TE
FOOD&DRINK
GourmetLife A feast of Essex food and restaurant news COMPILED BY SARAH DE SOUZA-INGLE
Oyster Creek Kitchen opens in Southend
promises to bring great food in a laid-back atmosphere to the seafront. Featuring brightly coloured walls and furniture, with a distinct nautical theme throughout, Oyster Creek Kitchen’s menu will offer diners the best locally-sourced ingredients with the emphasis firmly on seafood. Also, drawing on owner Antonia Waite’s Italian heritage, freshly-made pasta will feature, as will as gelati. ‘My family is well known for owning Tomassi’s on the High Street, but this is my
O
YSTER Creek Kitchen, a
first venture as a restaurateur in my own
stunning new restaurant
right,’ said Antonia. ‘I’m very excited about
located in an iconic former sun
Oyster Creek Kitchen as I’ve been involved
shelter on Southend seafront,
in every aspect of its creation; from
officially opened on Saturday, July 4. The
choosing the décor, finding a terrific chef
new, 100-cover restaurant and bar (65
and brigade for the kitchen, warm and
inside, 35 outside) is the result of a £500k
friendly personalities for the restaurant
regeneration of the distinctive, curved
and bar, plus of course, selecting the menu
building on Western Esplanade and
and what drinks we serve.’
Could you open a pop-up restaurant? ESSEX husband and
To boost their income in their first year
wife team, William and
of marriage, the entrepreneurial couple
Abigail Alldis, have
started running pop up restaurants from
spent their lives working
their cottage in Wivenhoe and they have
with food. A former chef
now written a book together on how you
and food critic, William
too can turn your passion for food into a
wooed his wife-to-be in
profit and run a restaurant or supper club
just five days through a
from your front room. The book is packed
meal of potted partridge
with everything amateur chefs need to
and pan fried pigeon,
know about delivering a pop-up
and the two launched a cookery blog
restaurant, including tips from the
together, The Shotgun Chef, just weeks
country’s leading pop-up restaurateurs.
after they had eloped to Scotland to get
For more details on the book, How to
married on a grouse moor, less than two
Run a Pop-Up Restaurant or Supper Club,
months after they’d met.
visit www.theshotgunchef.wordpress.com
New head chef at The Westleton Crown THE WESTLETON CROWN is pleased to
the prestigious Good Food Guide’s Pub of
announce the appointment of a new head
the Year 2015 award.
chef, James Finch. James is returning to
James commented: ‘I am very much
The Westleton Crown’s kitchen after four
looking forward to the challenge and
years away. James worked at The Crown
journey ahead with the team at The
for two years as sous chef prior to moving
Westleton Crown near Southwold in
to the popular Sibton White Horse, where
Suffolk. I am pleased to be carrying on my
he started his head chef career and won
work with suppliers and producers.’
Leading names in Essex food join forces to help children’s charity AN evening of expert breadmaking, hosted by two leading names in Essex food, has raised £208 for local children’s charity Wipe Away Those Tears. On June 30, The Cookery School at Braxted Park, teamed up with Marriages, Essex’s oldest flour millers, to host an evening of breadmaking demonstrations, tuition, tips and advice with the aim of getting the county baking and also to raise money for Wipe Away Those Tears. 20 people attended the event and saw Hannah Marriage, joined by expert baker Kelvin Ellam, demonstrate just how easy it is to make simple and nutritious bread using ingredients produced right here in the county. Following the demonstrations, guests were able to quiz the experts on tips and advice for making the perfect loaf.
Wine of the month Courtesy of The Wine Company 2014 Costières de Nîmes, Château Teulon, Rhône Valley, France For lovers of Rhône wines, here is a syrah/grenache blend with a real flavour of the region — ripe red and black berry fruits with an appealing meatiness and supple texture. There is an Essex connection too, as the Côtes-du-Rhône’s main city of Avignon is twinned with Colchester. It has all the classic Rhône flavours, like bramble fruit with a hint of spice, and is not too weighty, with an appealing roundness and smoothness, plus a bright, fresh finish. It is light enough to enjoy with chicken or duck, but with enough stuffing to partner any grilled red meats. It is priced at £8.49 per bottle. Visit Wheelers Wine Cellar, Birchwood Farm, Dedham CO7 6HX. Open Wednesday to Saturday, 10am to 6pm, and Sunday, 10am till 4pm, or visit www.wheelerswine.co.uk
www.essexlifemag.co.uk
1 37
PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
The taste of the Countryside Discover fresh produce & a feast of delights at local farm shops and delicatessens
Carpenters Farm Shop Blackwells Farm Produce
The Bakehouse
Herons Farm, Colne Road, Coggeshall, Colchester, Essex, CO6 ITQ Tel: 01376 562500 www.blackwellsfarmproduce.co.uk
Cooksmill Green, (Next to the Fox & Goose), A414 Chelmsford www.thebakehouse.co.uk Tel: 01245 248245 Open Daily, 8AM – 4PM
Award-winning farm shop, stocking quality local meats seasonal fruit and vegetables.
The Bakehouse is a family run fully licenced café. Serving homemade scones, cakes, pastries, lasagne’s & also freshly prepared salads, sandwiches & bagels.
Ethically focused and competitively priced, we are open 7 days a week and you can also find us on our website, Facebook and Twitter where you can keep abreast of all comings and goings on and around the farm, as well as our special offers. With our Turkeys and Geese looking great for Christmas, it’s not too early to make any enquires or reservations.
Tuck into breakfast or enjoy a locally brewed ale in the walled courtyard. We pride ourselves in locally sourced ingredients & our freshly made produce available to eat in or takeaway. Afternoon Tea is available and must be booked in advance, for any party size. Whole Cakes can be ordered in advance for any special occasion!
St Mary’s Road, Aingers Green, Great Bentley, Colchester, Essex CO7 8NJ Shop: 01206 255365 | Holiday Let: 07796642755 | Café: 01206 251585 www.carpentersfarmshop.co.uk Like us on Facebook for offers & updates A working farm, modern farm shop and café (under new management and open daily), onsite fishing and a 4* holiday let in our beautiful converted barn (3 bed/sleeps 6). There’s, homegrown potatoes and ready picked strawberries, PYO fruit and asparagus in season, Fresh local vegetables, local juices and ales. Locally sourced fresh meat, cooked meat & pies, locally caught fish stall (every Wednesday morning). Vegetarian, dairy and gluten-free foods, local ice creams and Tiptree preserves are on offer. Plus a large selection of greetings cards, home wares, Tractor Ted gifts for children, hampers, shrubs, flowering plants & compost. Regular tastings. Ample parking. OPEN 7 DAYS
The Little Fish Company High Street, Kelvedon Essex CO6 9AG Tel: 01376 573535 At The Little Fish Company we pride ourselves on the quality of fish and seafood we supply to our customers, we source as much as possible from local fishermen as well as catching some of it ourselves. Much of the fish is prepared for delivery within 24 hours of capture, ensuring it is received by our customers in optimum condition. Fish that cannot be sourced locally is bought in from the major fish markets through-out the UK such as Peterhead in Scotland and Brixham in Devon. More exotic fish such as tuna, swordfish, shellfish etc are bought daily from Billingsgate fish market. We are a small independent company and feel it is very important to give our customers the quality and service they deserve. We prepare the fish to your requirements, whether it’s butterflied Mackerel or simple Salmon portions. Our Oysters are second to none, they are totally wild and picked daily from the shoreline at the mouth of the River Colne by the Point Clear Bay Oyster Company. We are the company’s chosen wholesaler.We also run The Little Fish Shop in Kelvedon, a very busy high street shop selling the same great produce to members of the public.
French’s Farm Organic Shop
Lathcoats Farm
Wigley Bush Lane, South Weald, Essex, CM14 5QP Tel: 01277 264317 www.frenchs-farm.co.uk
Beehive Lane, Galleywood Chelmsford Essex CM2 8LX Tel: 01245 353021 www.eapples.co.uk
AWARD WINNING ORGANIC FARM SHOP for totally traceable environmentally Friendly Farming Methods. Huge selection of barbecue meats including kebabs, steaks, sausages and burgers. Various marinades are available. We offer succulent and juicy West Mersea Saltmarsh lamb of the highest quality. Our succulent pork is bursting with flavour. We have our own smoke house on the premises to dry cure and smoke our bacons and gammon. Our chickens are organic free range. We also stock a range of home-made sausages, burgers and pies. Also available is organic salmon fresh from West Mersea. We strongly believe that we are better than our competitors when it comes to cost, quality and service.
Lathcoats Farm will be opening their doors for their annual Apple Day celebration on Saturday October 17th. Visitors will have the opportunity to taste most of the 40 plus varieties of apple grown on the farm as well as taste and buy some of the wonderful food and drink from around our region and meet the producers. There will be lots of other fun and competitions. Full details will be posted on the website.
THE
FOOD&DRINK
PRODUCERS
Essex produce, from farm gate to plate WRITTEN BY STEPHANIE MACKENTYRE
Daymens Hill Farm, Tolleshunt Major
R
ACHEL HAYTER has lived on the farm all of her life and her parents have been running the orchards at Daymens Hill Farm
for more than 40 years, looking after almost 4,000 trees. ‘That sounds like a lot but it’s actually quite small for an orchard,’ says Rachel. It’s a very traditional orchard with trees which are from three years to 70 years old. Most of the trees were already planted when Rachel’s parents Mary and Ralph took over the farm, which was originally owned by Rachel’s grandparents, Joan and Norman McCready. The family grow a
GET THE TASTE
variety of apples from traditional Bramleys to Howgate Wonder, which is a really good cooking apple slightly sweeter than a Bramley. There’s also Cox’s Orange
The orchard is open for you to pick
Daymens Hill Farm Tolleshunt Major Maldon CM9 8JZ 01621 817479
Pippin, Early Worcester apples, Laxton
your own apples, opening for four to six
Fortune and Jonagold, while three years
weeks for seven-days-a-week, or you can
ago they planted some Braeburn trees and
buy them ready picked from the farm’s
this year they are hoping for their first
pop-up shop which opens from mid-
on a clay soil which holds water quite
crop.
September.
well and the apples thrive on it, giving the
Daymens Hill Farm is all part of J
At 36, Rachel is the only child to work
McCready and Son which has a farm
on the farm. ‘I do have an older brother
growing a variety of fruit and vegetables in
and sister, and a younger brother. I wasn’t
Heybridge and a farm shop there too which
sure what I wanted to do, but I knew I
sells Daymen Hill Farm apples and juice.
wanted to work outdoors. I’m probably
‘My mum and dad settled here and so
the only one who is interested in the farm
they took over the running of the
and the orchard. However, my brothers
orchards,’ explains Rachel. ‘My dad does a
have children who love it on the farm, so
bit of everything, but I’m mainly focused
hopefully they will be the next generation
on apples.’ The apples are all harvested by
to carry on.’
hand from August through to November.
The farm also producers its own apple
‘We don’t pick them all in one go, we pick
juice each year. ‘Every year we change the
the fruit once it’s at its best, which means
varieties, so it tastes slightly different,’
going over a tree three or four times.’
says Rachel. ‘We only use our own apples
The varieties are ready at different
and we don’t blend it with anything else,
times, so they start off by picking
so it’s just pure apple juice.’
Discovery, then move on to other varieties
They also make a cox and quince juice
including Tydermans Early Worcester and
and a comice and quince juice with all of
a cooking apple called Gwenevere,
the juices under the Daymens Hill Farm
finishing off finally in November by
label and available to purchase either at
picking the D’Arcy Spice, which is an old
the orchard shop, which is open from
Essex variety which originated in
September every Saturday and Sunday, or
Tolleshunt D’Arcy, a little village around
via local farm shops and markets.
the corner from Rachel’s home. ‘D’Arcy
As with all crops, the weather plays a
Spice is a type of russet apple which also
major role. Rachel adds: ‘We could do
makes really good juice,’ adds Rachel.
with some more rain this year, but we are
crop a really good flavour.’
3
MORE TO TRY
Take your pick at these fruit farms Lathcoats Farm Beehive Lane Galleywood Chelmsford CM2 8LX 01245 353021 www.eapples.co.uk Park Fruit Farm Pork Lane Great Holland Frinton on Sea 01255 674621 www.parkfruitfarm.co.uk Lamberts Farm Orchard House Lamberts Farm Earls Colne CO6 2LE 07979 690296
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DINING OUT AT Bartellas in Margaretting
REVIEWED BY STEPHANIE MACKENTYRE
B
ARTELLAS restaurant moved in October 2014 into the Ivy Hotel at Margaretting, near Chelmsford. It’s now in a brand new building
to the side of the hotel, which links directly through to the hotel, but the fresh start has given the restaurant the opportunity to create a stylish new interior with plenty of plush, raspberrypink furnishings off-set with silver mirrors and wallpaper. The hotel has also created a new lounge area, next to the restaurant, which is now used to serve afternoon teas. After a jovial welcome I was silverserved a choice of warm bread rolls. There’s a choice of three menus at lunchtime: a la carte, a prix fixe menu and also a traditional favourites. I opted for the a la carte menu and immediately I noticed the spiced avocado pear with prawns, cashew nuts, pineapple and spiced mayonnaise — or you could enjoy as a vegetarian option the warm salad of goats cheese with a red onion marmalade. As a fan of goats cheese, that was my choice. It arrived with toasted triangles of cheese on top of wafer thin bruschetta and rocket with micro herbs and a splash of balsamic zig-zagged across the lavish starter. With its tangy onion marmalade it was an excellent blend of flavours, with a particularly creamy goats cheese. As I surveyed the restaurant, I took in the variety of seating. The far wall has banquette seating and the rest of the newly-refurbished room is made up of square and round dark wood tables. The restaurant is bathed in light thanks to the three skylights and floor to ceiling windows creating one wall of the dining area. There is also a bar to the right as you arrive at the restaurant reception, with an impressive glass and dark wood wine rack making an attractive central feature. With clever drapes and a beaded partition, the whole restaurant, in its new surroundings, is much more intimate and gives the impression of an 140
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exclusive members club. If I’d stayed with the veggie options
lemon curd topping had baked orange slices for added decoration and a sprinkle
for my mains I could have tried the
of lemon sherbet on the side. A perfectly
vine tomato and courgette crumble
piquant end to a delightful lunch in an
with a medley of green vegetables
extremely attractive setting.
which sounded delicious, however, I selected the roasted rump of lamb
Useful to know
with a spring onion mash and savoy
The total bill came to £37.07 for three
cabbage, served with a redcurrant and
courses and a glass of sauvignon blanc.
rosemary jus. I wasn’t disappointed as
This is an independent review, featuring a
five thick slices of tender lamb arrived.
restaurant selected and experienced by
A thin crispy skin led to melt-in-the-
our food and wine editor. The restaurant
mouth meat. Like the starter, this was
was not told it was being reviewed.
also a generous portion with wonderfully creamy spring onion mash, buttery cabbage and a wickedly rich, dark sticky jus. To finish, I could have chosen the chocolate, hazelnut and salted caramel mousse, served with clotted cream, but I needed something a little lighter so it was the lemon cheesecake with caramelised oranges and sherbet for me. The
BOOK A TABLE Bartellas Writtle Road Margaretting Chelmsford CM4 0EH 01277 355021 www.bartellasrestaurant.co.uk
individual lemon cheesecake with a
3
SIDE ORDERS
Three more offering seriously stylish dining Le Talbooth Gun Hill Dedham Colchester C07 6JT 01206 323150 www.milsomhotels.com We say: Breathtakingly stylish both in the food on offer and the ambiance.
Alec’s Restaurant, Bar and Grill Navestock Side Brentwood CM14 5SD 01277 375696 www.alecsrestaurant.co.uk We say: Popular with the cast of TOWIE and with rolling views of the surrounding countryside. Smith’s Brasserie Fyfield Road Ongar CM5 0AL 01277 365578 www.smithsbrasserie.com We say: Famous for fish, it oozes quality, coupled with attentive service.
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1 41
Get Social
www.dogandgunchelmsford.co.uk | info@dgbr.co.uk DOG & GUN BAR RESTAURANT, BOREHAM ROAD, LITTLE WALTHAM, ESSEX, CM3 3NF
Alma Arms Freehouse Navestock, CM14 5ST
SERVING GOOD FOOD AT AFFORDABLE PRICES since 1970 Just come along - No bookings required
Lunchtimes and Evenings
Alfresco dining in Floral patio AWARD WINNING CASK ALES
2 Course Meal only £9.95 5 choice menu - changes daily
Open 7 days Pie and a pint £10.95 www.almaarms.com Tel - 01277 372629 142
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FOOD&DRINK Where do you work? I work as the head chef at The Shoulder of Mutton on the Halstead Road in Fordham, near Colchester. What is your earliest food memory? Seeing pheasants and rabbits hanging on my grandparents’ kitchen door. What was your first ever job and where was it?
HERE’S COOKING WITH YOU...
Are there any celebrity moments you can share with us? There have been too many to single out one, although the Queen Mother coming down three flights of stairs to say thank you was probably the nicest moment for me. Tell us a bit about you at home — where do you originally come from and how did you end up here?
I worked in the kitchens at the Malvern
I’m originally from the Malvern Hills in
Hills hotel in Worcestershire.
Worcestershire. I moved and worked in London for seven years and worked my way to Essex from there.
What was it about food which excited you enough to make a career out of it? I simply enjoy creating food for others to
At home, who lives there and who cooks
enjoy.
most of the time? I live with my partner and we share the cooking.
If you weren’t on the stoves, where would you be now?
When I’m not in the kitchen I love
I’d love to be sailing the world.
nothing better than… How would your team describe you?
Getting out for a round of golf or some
I think they might use the word,
time sailing.
changeable! When I was little I wanted to be… It was always a chef that I wanted to be.
Which is your favourite dish to prepare? At the moment it is a stuffed, deboned
Are there any kitchen disasters you can
poussin dish.
tell us about that you’d rather forget? Who was your inspiration to take up
It was a long time ago, but a chef asked
cooking and how do they affect what you
me to make 100 portions of Dauphinoise
do now? My grandmother was a great country cook and so I use her inspiration to create my menus with traditional dishes that have a more modern twist. Which three ingredients are your favourites to work with? I really enjoy working with smoked eel, halibut and fresh summer fruits.
Roger Underwood would rather be on the golf course or sailing on the high seas given the chance, but his role as head chef at the Shoulder of Mutton in Fordham has brought him regal gratitude despite, during his career climb, piping his way through 100 potatoes instead of slicing them WORDS BY STEPHANIE MACKENTYRE
potatoes. I misheard him and made 100 portions of Duchess potatoes, and it took forever! If you could change one thing about you, what would it be? I’d love to be able to work a little less and see my family more. What is still on life’s list of things to do? I hope to walk the Andes mountains one day. Can you give us three top tips for the kitchen? Try to keep calm, always have a plan, but always be ready for the unexpected too.
GET THE TASTE Shoulder of Mutton Halstead Road Fordham CO6 3LL 01206 243487 www.shoulderofmuttoncolchester.com
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FOOD&DRINK
RECIPE Roasted sea bass with spring onion and ginger in a coconut sauce MIKE SHIELDS has now been running the Lion & Lamb for 14 years and
Ingredients
it’s always a popular destination due to its proximity to Stansted.
Serves 4
Although the pub itself has no accommodation, Mike and his partner,
FOR THE SAUCE
Linda Lewis, own the White House, a 15th century Grade II listed manor
50g of finely diced fresh ginger
house just down the road which offers four-star accommodation. Mike’s
100g of finely diced shallots
menu features locally-produced produce wherever possible. ‘I left
Chopped coriander and basil
catering college 43 years ago and I’m still passionate about food,’ he
Juice of 3 limes
explains. Here Mike shares his zinging sea bass recipe…
1 can of coconut milk 100g of dark brown sugar 1 tbsp of soy sauce 1 tsp of red curry paste FOR THE FISH 4 sea bass filleted to make 8 fillets 6 spring onions (sliced) 100g of fresh ginger (sliced) Olive oil NB: Most fishmongers will fillet the fish for you and I can recommend The Little Fish Company in Kelvedon.
Method
1
For the sauce, fry in a saucepan the ginger and shallot in a little sesame oil until soft then combine the coconut milk, brown sugar, soy sauce and
red curry paste and cook over a medium heat for five minutes, until the consistency of double cream, continually stirring so it doesn’t stick or burn. Finish by stirring in some chopped coriander and basil.
2
For the fish, sprinkle Maldon sea salt on a tray. Lay the sea bass fillets skin side down and cover with ginger and spring onions and drizzle
with olive oil, then season with black pepper and Maldon sea salt and allow to marinate in the fridge for two hours.
3
Turn four of the fillets on top of the other four (making a sandwich of the fillets with the onions and ginger inside) and cook in a hot oven
at 200˚C for 12 minutes. Place on a warm plate with your sauce on the side and serve with minted new potatoes creating a light dish perfect for the end of summer.
GET THE TASTE Lion & Lamb Stortford Road (B1256) Little Canfield Nr Takeley Great Dunmow CM6 1SR 01279 870257 www.lionandlamb.co.uk
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FOOD&DRINK
RECIPE Purdina Lamb
Ingredients Serves 6 800g of boned shoulder of lamb cut into half-inch cubes 160g of onions (peeled and finely chopped) A 2 inch cube of fresh ginger (peeled
Head chef and owner Russell Uddin opened the Blue Sari in May 2011. ‘After
and chopped)
years of working for other people, I realised the only way to produce the
6-8 cloves of garlic (peeled and
highest level of flavours and service was to open my own restaurant,’ says
chopped)
Russell. He opened the Blue Sari in St Osyth as the location ticked all the
4 tbsp of rapeseed oil
boxes. ‘I was convinced if we provided the right mix of ambiance, quality of
6-8 green cardamom pods
food and top service, people would come,’ says Russell. ‘Thankfully they
6-8 cloves
have and they continue to do so.’
1/4 tsp of black peppercorns
Here Russell shares his recipe for a traditional minted lamb dish…
4 bay leaves 2x 1 inch cinnamon sticks 1 ò tsp salt (according to taste) 1/4 tsp of gram masala
GET THE TASTE
1 tsp of ground turmeric
Heath Road (Old Beehive Inn) St Osyth Near Weeley Heath CO16 9BS 01255 830090 www.thebluesari.co.uk
1 tsp of ground coriander 1 ò tsp of ground cumin ò tsp of ground paprika 1/4 tsp of ground chillies 1 tsp of curry powder 6 fresh curry leaves 50g of chopped fresh mint 20g of fresh coriander 4 tbsp of natural yoghurt 2 cubes of lamb stock dissolved in
Method Chop ¾ of the onion finely and set
2
aside. Chop the rest of the onions,
Once the oil is hot, add your peppercorns,
coriander paste and keep stirring until it’s
ginger, garlic then put all into a blender
cloves, bay leaves, cinnamon sticks and
completely mixed in. Now add your lamb stock
with a little water and blend to a smooth
cardamom pods. Stir for 30 seconds and add
and cover tightly with a lid and simmer on a
paste. Now empty into a small bowl and set
the chopped onions. Now turn down to a low
low heat for about an hour and 20 minutes or
aside. Chop the fresh mint and ¾ of the
heat for a further 4-5 minutes until the onions
until the lamb is tender.
fresh coriander in the blender and once
are browned. Add the garlic and ginger paste
chopped add 2 tbsp of natural yoghurt and
and stir for a further 4 minutes until that too
3
1 tbsp of oil and blend to a smooth paste
turns brown. Then add your meat to the pan
stir, cooking for another five minutes or until
and empty into another small bowl and set
and stir in all the ground spices and the salt.
most but not all of the liquid reduces down and
aside. Next finely chop in your blender the
Continue to stir for 4-5 minutes and add 2 tbsp
you are left with a thick sauce. Finally, sprinkle
rest of the fresh coriander and set aside to
of beaten natural yoghurt, continuing to stir for
with fresh, finely-chopped coriander and serve
sprinkle on top.
another minute. Keep doing this until all the
with rice or perhaps a paratha.
1
Put some oil in a large, heavy bottomed
yoghurt has been incorporated and the meat
pan and warm over a medium-high heat.
has begun to turn brown. Add the mint and
Once the meat is tender, remove the lid and turn the heat back to medium and
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1 47
Boathouse Restaurant
ROW & DINE Take one of our beautiful Rowing Boats out for an evening Row from 5.30pm onwards and then Dine in the restaurant at a special price of £22.95 per person. Includes an hours row and set 2 course dinner. Available Tuesday to Thursday. Beginning June - End September. Bookings must be made and this offer is weather permitting. Boat Hire available Tue-Sun during school term and 7 days a week during school holidays.
A La Carte Menu available every day with our with our Summer Special Offer Menu available Mid Week. Restaurant open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch Tuesday to Saturday for dinner.
01206 323153 Mill Lane, Dedham, CO7 6DH www.dedhamboathouse.co.uk
The Queens Head is a family run late 15th century pub situated in the beautiful Fyfield countryside overlooking the River Roding. We are renowned for our quality food, real ales and fine wines. We host intimate weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, baby showers, corporate functions and family get togethers in our newly refurbished restaurant. Weather permitting, pre-function drinks and canapés can be served in our garden overlooking the River Roding. Our team is happy to work with you to create the perfect menu for your party. Please contact is to discuss your requirements or pop in and see us! Queen Street, Fyfield, Ongar, Essex CM5 0RY 01277 899 231 www.thequeensheadfyfield.co.uk
The
STAR
Restaurant
LION & LAMB
Bar
French restaurant at the heart of Essex
Restaurant & Bar
TRADITIONAL COUNTRY PUB
ﱛﱚﱛ
SERVING FRESH LOCAL FOOD
ﱛﱚﱛ
CLOSE TO STANSTEAD AIRPORT www.whitehousestanstead.co.uk
The perfect setting for all occasions. Full menu is served all day every day until 10pm including fantastic Sunday Lunch. Being located close to Stansted Airport (1.5 miles, but not on the flight path), The White House is the perfect venue for travellers going to and from the airport. There is ample parking.
TEL. 01279 870257
WWW.LIONANDLAMB.CO.UK Little Canfield, Dunmow CM6 1SR | Email: info@lionandlamb.co.uk
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Mill End, Thaxted, Essex, CM6 2LT Tel: 01371 238118 | www.thestarthaxted.co.uk
RECIPE Cod oli
FOOD&DRINK
win
htr
Head chefs Dave Scanlon and Nicola Foweraker run the newly-
Ingredients
refurbished restaurant at Lower Barn Farm. They took over in January
Serves 2
taking the building back to a shell to create a light and airy, shabby
2 x 6oz cod loins
chic restaurant with a paved garden area for more than 100 diners.
5 or 6 boiled new potatoes.
‘I’m living the chef’s dream, as I have all of my evenings free!’ says
ò red pepper
Dave with a laugh. From the new menu, the most popular dishes are
ò yellow pepper
the brunches including eggs Benedict and American pancakes. ‘We
1 courgette
also make our own burgers at lunchtime which are also popular,’ adds
1 red onion
Dave. Here Dave shares his recipe for a lovely light lunch or early evening meal.
1 garlic clove 1 sprig of thyme A handful of olives Capers Chopped basil A drizzle of olive oil
Method
1
Roughly chop the peppers, courgette, red onion and half the new potatoes. Place all these ingredients on a baking tray and drizzle with oil.
Add the thyme to the vegetable mix. Crush the garlic and add again to the vegetable mix.
2 3 4
Place the cod loins skin side down in a hot pan for 1 minute until the skin is slightly crispy and golden. Now place the cod skin side up on
top of the vegetables. Roast for 10 minutes at 200˚C until the cod is cooked. Remove the cod from the vegetables, add the olives and a sprinkling of capers plus some chopped basil to the vegetables. Finally, present the vegetables on a plate and place the cod on top of the vegetables. Season with cracked black pepper and a good quality
balsamic vinegar.
GET THE TASTE Lower Barn Farm London Road Rayleigh SS6 9ET 01268 780991 www.lowerbarnfarm.co.uk
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THE RESTAURANT AT THE COUNTY HOTEL
Tel: (01245) 455700 29 Rainsford Road, Chelmsford Essex CM1 2PZ Bookings: Reception or kmurrell@countyhotelgroup.co.uk
www.countyhotelchelmsford.co.uk
Made in Tunbridge Wells, Kent Champagne cream tea gift box from Sconnoisseur ÂŁ39.99
Discover unique British gifts from top-quality brands at greatbritishlife.co.uk 150
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FOOD&DRINK
MEET
THEJUDGES Now the nominations are closed for the Essex Life Food & Drink Awards, our judges begin to sort through the thousands of entries. Here is a brief introduction to those judges
Andrew Oxley Chef of the Year Tell us a bit about you My name is Andrew Oxley and I am the general manager of Down Hall Country House Hotel, where I have been since April of last year. I am a Master Innholder and Fellow of the Institute of Hospitality and have been in the hotel industry for around 20 years.
Stephen Cottrell (formally, The Right Reverend Stephen Cottrell)
Best Family Dining Tell us a bit about you I am the Bishop of Chelmsford, serving East London and all of Essex. That’s 600 churches in total and I don’t know how many pubs and restaurants.
Robert Gunn Field to Fork What do you do for a living? I have been involved in the sales and marketing side of international business for the majority of my career and in 2012 I started my own business consultancy, Burnt Oak Consulting in Brentwood. With a number of their
What will you be looking for while you judge your category? Quite simply, I will be looking for well-cooked and well-presented food. Innovation is good, but often it is the traditional dishes that, when cooked as they are meant to be, prove to be a winning formula.
really is nothing better that a traditional Sunday luncheon cooked well. Sponsored by:
Do you have a favourite food memory? One of my best memories is a recent family Sunday luncheon at The Vineyard at Stockcross in Berkshire. In my opinion, there
What expertise will you be bringing as a judge? I love cooking and eating. I grew up in Leigh on Sea, so have always particularly loved seafood. Essex oysters have to be the best in the world, but I also love cockles, whelks, shrimps and eels. Food gets a lot of attention in the Bible. Heaven is spoken of as a banquet and Jesus gave his friends a meal as the way to best remember him. He produced the biggest fish supper ever and he famously changed
water to wine. I therefore think a bishop who loves food to be as qualified as anyone to be a judge in the excellent Essex Life Fine Food and Drink Awards. I look forward to this year’s competition. Sponsored by:
Resin BESPOKE
SURFACES
members as clients, in 2013 I was invited to become chairman of Tastes of Anglia. What will you be looking for as a judge? Tates of Anglia is focused on food provenance, food education and the support of local growers and producers. These are the things I will be looking for. Sponsored by:
Main sponsor Wilkin and Sons Ltd Associate Sponsor Down Hall Country House Hotel
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FOOD&DRINK Pat Pratley Best Tea Shop or Coffee House Tell us a bit about you I am chairman of the Federation of Essex Women’s Institutes which is a voluntary position. Our head office is in Hatfield Peverel but my role can take me all over Essex visiting any of the 224 WIs in the county.
Stephanie Mackentyre Restaurant of the Year Tell us a bit about you I am the food and drink editor for Essex Life and I am also a presenter for BBC Radio and run my own PR and marketing company — In View Publicity.
Ian Thurgood Destination Dining Venue What do you do for a living? After living overseas, in Austria, I have worked for Wilkin & Sons since 1976. I plan to stand down from my present role as joint managing director early in 2016 and have just graduated with a
Elli Constantatou Customer Service Award Tell us a little bit about yourself I have made the county of Essex my home since coming to this country in 1991. I have brought up my family here and spent many happy years in the county.
David Burch Pride in Essex What do you do for a living, and where? I am director of policy at Essex Chambers of Commerce, which involves representing the views and needs of businesses to politicians and policy makers both in and outside the county. I have worked for the Chambers since 2012,
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What will you be looking for while you judge your category? I will be most looking forward to good tasty food, attractively served in pleasant surroundings with a welcoming ambience and offering value for money.
always seems to be available somewhere not too far away! Sponsored by:
What is the best thing to have happened in the Essex food and drink industry in the last five years? I most enjoy the great diversity of food and food outlets in Essex. Whatever you fancy, it
What expertise will you bring as a judge? I have been writing the food and drink pages in Essex Life now for more than nine years and have had the pleasure of dining at many of the fine restaurants and interviewing the owners and head chefs in our great county, so I can appreciate how high the bar has been set.
winning restaurant needs to be outstanding from the moment we arrive, to the moment we leave in every aspect. Sponsored by:
What will you be looking for while you judge your category? Quite simply, a strong desire to return. The
Masters in Marketing. I spent much of my working life travelling overseas but today I enjoy long-distance walking; I’ve completed the 82-mile Essex Way three times.
Seasonality is a big thing for me and I always look forward to the English asparagus season with great enthusiasm. Sponsored by:
What will you be looking for most as you judge this category? I like simplicity and authenticity in food. Complex flavours can be exciting, but creating foods with minimal ingredients usually means there’s no hiding place, only the best ingredients will do.
What expertise will you be bringing as a judge? As the tourism marketing and PR manager for Visit Essex, I bring more than 20 years of experience in the hospitality sector.
ethos. The establishment that best demonstrates these qualities and goes above and beyond what the customer expects will get my vote. Sponsored by:
What will you be looking for while you judge your category? I am looking for entrants to be putting the customer first, providing high quality service and assistance. Ensuring a positive experience should be part of the business’s
but I have more than 12 years of experience in this type of work in addition to having run my own business in the past.
but show it in the way in which they produce and market their products or services. Sponsored by:
What will you be looking for most as you judge this category? Essex has some really excellent food producers who show that people’s perceptions of the county are wrong and that it really is a place in which to find fine food, so I will be looking for those businesses that are not only proud to be from Essex,
FOOD&DRINK Suzanne Harris Pub of the Year Award Tell us a bit about you Born and raised in rural Essex and a graduate of Writtle College, I have worked for the established charity, Rural Community Council of Essex, for 15 years. Now Business Development and Partnerships Manager, I have previous
Mike Porter Essex Food and Drink Hero Tell us a bit about you I have spent 40 years in the agricultural industry, involved in crop and livestock production, developing into brokering of commodities essential for farming. I also represent many agricultural related charities, clubs and events.
Heather Tarrant Essex Food and Drink Producer Tell us a bit about you I am secretary to the Essex Agricultural Society and married to a farmer producing milling wheat, malting barley and raising a small native breeds beef herd.
Linda Dumbrell Best Farm Shop Tell us a bit about you I have been a partner here at Waitrose in Colchester for the past four years. My role involves delivering the high standard of service that our customers expect and I am also heavily involved with supporting our Community Matters programme in branch.
Julian Read Food Education Award Tell us a bit about you I am the editor of Essex Life. This will be the fifth year of the Essex Life Fine Food & Drink Awards and I am very proud of the success these awards have become and what they mean to the food and drink industry in Essex.
experience of working directly with community groups, supporting them to create local plans and improve services. What expertise will you be bringing as a judge? I am a life-long resident of rural Essex, and have 15 years’ experience working to support active and thriving communities in the county. I have previously been involved in the judging of the Best Kept Village and Best Kept Churchyard competitions in the county.
What will you be looking for while you judge your category? I like to step aside the commercial aspects of individuals and businesses, trying to observe and understand the motivation, knowledge and passion involved.
What will you be looking for while you judge your category? Pubs which are a real part of the local community and which help to bring people together — as well as providing good quality food and drink. Sponsored by:
understanding of food and drink production in Essex, which in turn creates improved demand for high quality, Essex-sourced produce. Sponsored by:
What is the best thing to have happened in the Essex food and drink industry in the last five years? With the aid of media exposure there is a greater knowledge, awareness and
What expertise will you be bringing as a judge? Being involved within the agricultural industry and also an end consumer, I believe that I know the quality of the food that is available and what is affordable to the end consumer. What will you be looking for while you judge your category? I will be looking for produce that combines top quality food at an affordable price.
What will you be looking for as a judge? I feel passionate about food quality and service and believe that locally sourced and grown produce is something that we should all be supporting. Competitive pricing is also important and I also believe that customers are happy to pay more for a good quality product.
Do you have a favourite food or drink memory? One of my favourite memories is from a hotel on Lake Garda where we had scampi risotto accompanied by a local white wine while sitting on the restaurant terrace overlooking the lake as the sun set. Sponsored by:
a Sunday roast, and my idea of a treat would be afternoon tea for two in a quaint English tea shop. Sponsored by:
Do you have a favorite food memory? I enjoy very traditional English food and drink, such as fish and chips, a pub lunch or
What will you be looking for while you judge your category? I am looking for an education programme which inspires people to learn more about our local produce and where it comes from.
her homemade lemon meringue pie. It was always an absolute treat. Sponsored by:
Do you have a favouv rite food or drink memory? One of my favourite food memories would have to be sitting down with my grandma in her kitchen and enjoying a delicious plate of
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IMAGES PROVIDED COURTESY OF COPENHAGENMEDIACENTER.COM
TRAVEL
A Scandinavian Gem When Danny Kaye sang, ‘wonderful, wonderful Copenhagen, friendly old girl of a town,’ he knew what he was singing about, writes Rebecca Underwood
L
woman doing her hair before a mirror, demands the undivided attention of all the fortunate viewers. For keen shoppers looking to bag a bargain, take a leisurely stroll to Strøget, one of Europe’s longest pedestrian
OCATED on Sealand, the
grandfather of the reigning Danish
streets. It is simply crammed with
largest island in Denmark,
monarch Queen Margrethe II; and the
international brands including Louis
Copenhagen offers visitors
palace of Christian IX, the first monarch
Vuitton, Mulberry and Prada.
an intriguing glimpse into
of the House of Glücksburg. The
the colourful tapestry of
Amalienborg Museum, located within
spare, take a brisk 2 kilometre walk to
Christian VIII’s Palace, displays a wide
Langelinie promenade where you will
range of exhibits associated with the
find the Little Mermaid bronze statue by
Viking fishing village and became the
Danish monarchy dating back 150 years to
Edvard Eriksen. Based on the fairytale by
capital of Denmark in the 15th century.
Christian IX and Queen Louise.
Danish history and culture. In the 10th century, Copenhagen was a
For a fascinating insight into the fearsome
Mingle with the crowds at noon and
Should you have some more energy to
Danish writer Hans Christian Andersen, the Little Mermaid statue was unveiled in
Vikings, visit the Viking Ship Museum,
watch the changing of the royal guard
1913 and has become a major tourist
located by the fjord in Roskilde, just 35
marching from their barracks through the
attraction recognised worldwide.
kilometres from the city. The Viking Ship
streets towards Amalienborg and then try
Hall features five spectacular ships, which
visiting the National Museum, housed in
pampered, the Hotel D’Angleterre offers
were discovered in 1962 on the sea bed at
the Prince’s Palace on Ny Vestergade. One
the highest level of comfort and service.
Skuldelev, 32 kilometres from where they
of the most popular exhibitions is the toy
Located on Kongens Nytorv, one of the
are now displayed.
section, which attracts lots of spellbound
city’s classic squares, this imposing hotel,
‘grown up’ children!
established in 1755, is an historic landmark.
Other popular attractions in the city include Amalienborg. Built in the 1750s,
For art lovers, Copenhagen is a
For weary explorers keen to be
Copenhagen has one of the largest
the site is made up of four identical
treasure trove with much to admire. Visit
numbers of bars per capita and for an
Danish Rococco style buildings. Wander
the Hirschsprung Museum on
after dinner tipple, make your way to the
around the fabulous palace of Christian
Stockolmsgade, where exhibits include
K Bar on Ved Stranden, which is for its
VII, husband to Caroline Mathilde of
exceptional examples of German
delicious Martinis. Raise your glass high
Great Britain; the palace of Christian VIII;
Romanticism and Christoffer Wilhelm
and make a toast to ‘wonderful,
the palace of Frederik VIII, great
Eckersberg’s 1841 masterpiece, A nude
wonderful Copenhagen’. ■ www.essexlifemag.co.uk
1 25
FASHION
Family Time Essex Life showcases a must-have selection of the latest looks for all the family to enjoy from local boutiques in the entertaining surroundings of Blake House Craft Centre in Braintree
RYAN wears red T-shirt by Berghaus, £12, from Jacks and bunny blue leggings by Joules, £12, from Williams & Griffin. Shoes, model’s own CRAIG wears dark blue shell jacket by Berghaus, £250, and pointer tee in white by Barbour, £29.95, both from Jacks. Model’s own jeans and shoes JANELLE wears red T-shirt by Berghaus, £12, from Jacks and bunny blue leggings by Joules, £12, from Williams & Griffin. Shoes, model’s own ANNA wears knit sweater by Jack Wolfskin, £95, ladies Winterton shorts by Barbour, £54.95, and white gradient T-shirt by Berghaus, £26, all from Jacks 156
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FASHION
IMAGES BY KEITH MINDHAM WWW.KEITHMINDHAMPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK
MODELS: Anna Gregory, Craig Gregory, Janelle Coward and Ryan Barrow PHOTOGRAPHY: Keith Mindham FASHION DIRECTION: Holly Eells FASHION ASSISTANCE Chloe Tibbott HAIR: Vicky Copping and Laura Robins MAKE-UP: Charli Bignel and Chloe Cordell LOCATION: Blake House Craft Centre, Braintree
RYAN wears joggers, £17, and hoody, £39, both by Billy Bandit and from Williams & Griffin. T-shirt, model’s own
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1 57
FASHION
JANELLE wears leggings, £12, and butterfly sweatshirt, £19, both by Espirit and from Williams & Griffin. Plus night blue jacket by Jack Wolfskin, £55, from Jacks. Shoes, model’s own RYAN wears classic bedale wax jacket by Barbour, £129, from Jacks and red T-shirt by Billy Bandit, £18, from Williams & Griffin. Shoes and trousers, model’s own
ACCESSORIES Left: Graphite walking shoes by Meindl, £155, from Jacks Right: Blue loafers by Loake, £155, from Williams & Griffin
JANELLE wears quilt jacket, £79, and pink top, £29, both by Barbour and from Jacks. Blue jeans by Mayoral, £22, from Williams & Griffin. Shoes, model’s own RYAN wears joggers, £17, and hoody, £39, both by Billy Bandit and from Williams & Griffin. Rain jacket in cucumber by Jack Wolfskin, £55, and from Jacks. T-shirt, model’s own 1 58
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FASHION RYAN wears t-shirt by Mayoral, £12, and navy trainers by Vans, £35, both from Williams & Girffin. Shoes, model’s own ANNA wears structure dress, £99, lurex scarf, £20, both by Sandwich and pink wedges by Dune, £59, all from Williams & Griffin
JANELLE wears dress by Joules, £35, fur vest by Mayoral, £39, and lilac shoes by Vans, £35, all from Williams & Griffin CRAIG wears knit sweater, £95, check shirt, £85, and chinos, £85, all by Gant and from Williams & Griffin. Shoes, model’s own www.essexlifemag.co.uk
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An eclectic range of styles to suit every woman.
Sizes 8-20
Coming soon to Maldon 8 Market End, Coggeshall, Essex CO6 1NH
01376 564498 OPEN 10 - 5 MONDAY - SATURDAY
160
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FASHION
JANELLE wears lace jumper, £27, and fur vest, £39, both by Mayoral, with blue jeggings by Levis, £39, and lilac trainers by Vans, £35, all from Williams & Griffin RYAN wears grey T-shirt by Craghoppers, £19.95, from Jacks, and navy trainers by Vans, £35, from Williams & Griffin. Shorts model’s own ANNA wears structure dress, £99, and long belt cardigan, £79, both from Sandwich. Pink handbag by DKNY, £199, necklace by D&X and pink wedges by Dune, £59, all from Williams & Griffin CRAIG wears check shirt by Gant, £85, and blue loafers by Loake, £155, both from Williams & Griffin. Jeans and accessories model’s own
ANNA wears black flyweight cavalry jacket, £119, white Burnham tee, £34.95, and navy Winterton shorts, £54.95, all by Barbour and from Jacks. Shoes model’s own CRAIG wears bark wax jacket by Barbour, £219, and quill blue T-shirt by North Face, £25, both from Jacks
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FASHION
ON LOCATION Blake House Craft Centre Blake End Nr Braintree CM77 6RA 01376 344123 www.blakehousecraftcentre.co.uk
TOP TIPS
skin care for men
■ I recommend that men cleanse their
by Kryolan. This is good for under the
face using Garnier Skin Perfection
eye area to cover up any dark circles
Micellar Water. Followed by toning the
■ Coconut lip balm is great, and it
skin using two cotton pads
helps the lips to stay soft and not dry
■ Moisturise with Decleor and smooth it all around the face, making sure it is
Charli Bignell
all rubbed in
Freelance make-up artist and director of New Wave Make-Up Artistry Master Classes
■ If you dare to wear make-up, I
London and Essex based.
recommend using a camouflage
07743 095281
concealer mixed with Make-Up Blend
www.filmspecialfx.co.uk
SET in beautiful Essex countryside, the carefully preserved farm buildings at Blake House Craft Centre are centered around a courtyard, which was previously the Blake House farmyard. Wander around the fine variety of shops in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, where there really is something for everyone — from a basket of flowers to beautiful baby gifts, from dolls houses to dancewear and from electric guitars to elegant fabrics. You can treat yourself or find the perfect gift. Enjoy a bite to eat at Timbers, a licensed restaurant housed in an 18th century listed corn barn, then challenge friends to a round of crazy golf or let the kids use up some energy in the play area before you take on the famous maize maze challenge.
TOP TIPS for a mum on the move hair, try a detangling spray to go with it
■ Why not try Invisibobbles? They don’t pull or leave kinks in the
STOCKISTS
hair, which is great for
Jacks 2 North Street, Great Dunmow CM6 1BA 01371 872483 www.jacksandjills.co.uk
swimming or activities where hair needs to be tied up
■ We all know kids love to dress up, so why not make them feel like they are dressing up everyday by taking inspiration
■ For hectic school
conditioner? Vosene Kids
from their favourite
mornings, try a simple
is a three-in-one
films? For example a
Alice band to keep the
shampoo and
simple plait can
hair out of the children’s
conditioner with a
transform them into Elsa
eyes, which will stay neat
natural lice repellent and
from Frozen
and tidy throughout the
it hydrates the hair at the
school day
same time
■ A big worry for all
■ When it comes to the
The Strand,
parents with children in
nightmare task of
12 Moulsham Street
school is head lice. Did
brushing children’s hair,
Chelmsford CM2 0HU
you know, you can buy
a Tangle Teezer can
01245 345179
head lice repellent
become your best friend.
www.thestrandchelmsford.
shampoo and
For particular tangled
co.uk
Jacks 12 George Street Saffron Walden CB10 1EQ 01799 521197 www.jacksandjills.co.uk Williams & Griffin 152 High Street Colchester CO1 1PN 01206 571212 www.fenwick.co.uk/stores/colchester
Laura Robins
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163
Hair Stylists Washington Road, Maldon CM9 6JF Tues & Weds 9am - 5.30pm, Thurs 9am - 8pm, Fri 9am - 7pm, Sat 8am - 4pm. Closed Mon Our friendly team of helpful and experienced staff look forward to welcoming you and to providing you with a high standard of hairdressing. Full range of hair care services offered, for both men and women, including ‘Wedding Hair’, which is charged at an hourly rate - with complimentary champagne and nibbles.
“Stay cool in our air conditioned salon”
Call now to arrange an appointment
01621 843191 | www.TC2hair.co.uk Please visit us on Facebook for special offers, news and more!
164
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BEAUTY
The Ultimate Aromatherapy Experience THE TREATMENT ROOMS at Maison
flower oils, with wonderful exotic scents
Facials could be
Talbooth is delighted to announce its new
and powerful therapeutic benefits for
for you. Using
range of facials and massage treatments.
both body and mind.
luxurious rose
Aromatherapy Associates is a British
The body treatments include carefully
essential oils,
range of award-winning body balancing
applied pressures to stimulate the
long known for
treatments and products. Each treatment
nervous system using techniques to
their
includes a consultation to establish your
relieve muscular tension, and lymphatic
rejuvenating
emotional and physical needs, and your
drainage to encourage healthy circulation.
properties, the
therapist carries out an aromatherapy
The massage is designed to work from
facial will leave
‘smell test’ ensuring the most suitable oil
head to toe and will dissolve away stress
you with a smooth, radiant complexion
for you. This can vary from day to day
and tension leaving you feeling deeply
and a relaxed state of mind.
depending on your mood. There are 12
relaxed and recharged. If you are looking
signature oils to choose from,
for a facial that will boost the radiance
Treatments Rooms in Dedham on
formulated with natural plant and
and glow of your skin, then the Rose
01206 322367.
STEP BY STEP
Easy hair style for busy mums and daughters ■ To create a stylish half up, half down look you need to start by washing your hair then blow dry or leave to dry naturally. (Styling as you wish) ■ Using a back combing brush or a regular comb, back comb the crown of the hair to however you desire. Tip — for finer hair that lacks body, add dry shampoo to the back comb to get a better hold. ■ Take a two-inch section from each side of the front of the hair. Pull each section back to meet at the back of your head and pin in place. To glam this style up, try plaiting or twisting the sections before pinning it back ■ Finish the look with some hair spray or even some accessories if you wish
Laura Robins The Strand 12 Moulsham Street Chelmsford CM2 0HU 01245 345179 www.thestrandchelmsford.co.uk
Treatment of the Month DISCOVER a whole new way to relax and unwind at the Eden Spa at Down Hall Hotel in Hatfield Heath. Its brand new facility opened its doors in August and is now able to take bookings for spa treatments and day specials. Set in one of England’s most established country house hotels with an abundance of character, the new ultra-modern facilities at the Eden Spa can provide ultimate relaxation. Feel rejuvenated in the circular deck hydrotherapy pool or lay under the stars in the state-of-the-art steam room.
For more information, contact the
STEP BY STEP
For an easy, fresh-faced look ■ First off, start with a daily cleansing routine. For example try Garnier Skin Perfection Micellar Water. It is great to unclog pores and give the skin a fresh feel ■ After moisturising the skin, use an anti-ageing moisturiser and allow it to settle on your skin ■ Then mix a highlighting primer with a foundation-based tinted moisturiser. I recommend Kryolan HD Foundation with Kryolan Make-Up Blend and the Body Shop Illuminating Primer. However, it is always good to check for the correct colour match for your jaw line ■ Once the correct shade has been chosen, blend the
This month the Eden Spa recommends its Hero Treatment which targets tension in the back, shoulders, neck and head and the effect stress has on the skin. This luxurious treatment combines a body and face treatment into one. It begins with cleansing and exfoliation on the back, followed by a soothing back massage to ease away any stress and tension. Then relax while you’re treated to a personalised facial and a therapeutic scalp massage to calm your mind. Optimal Skin Pro Serum and Soothing Body Oil are two products that Eden Spa recommends for people to enjoy a spa experience at home. Optimal Skin Pro Serum is an amazing product that has the power of a super serum with the
foundation into the face using a duo fibre brush for an airbrushed natural feel, but always make sure you blend around the neckline. Also ensure you blend under the eyes to avoid creating wrinkles and creases in the under eye area ■ If required, apply concealer to the under eye area and blend with the rest of the foundation ■Set with anti-ageing powder sweeping across the temples, down the nose, across cheekbones and finally the chin Charli Bignell Freelance make-up artist and director of New Wave Make-Up Artistry Master Classes London and Essex based 07743 095281
nourishment of a face treatment oil. It works to brighten and even skin tone, infusing it with subtle radiance. Soothing Body Oil is a divinely aromatic blend containing sandalwood and frankincense, to sooth and de-stress the body and mind. This will help you to carry on your relaxation at home, helping to deeply relax, induce sleep and relieve stress. Call Eden Spa on 01279 732 105 or visit www.edenspadownhall.co.uk to book your spa experience.
www.essexlifemag.co.uk
1 65
PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
TLC LC fo for
DOWNHALL
you your body
GREENWOODS HOTEL
Discover a whole new way to relax and unwind at the Down Hall Spa. Our brand new facility opened in August and we are now taking bookings for treatments and spa days. Set in one of England’s most established country house hotels the new ultra-modern facilities at the Eden Spa can provide ultimate relaxation. Feel rejuvenated in the circular deck hydrotherapy pool or lay under the stars in the state of the art steam room. Guests can choose from a wide variety of revitalising hot stone, Swedish, aromatherapy and deep tissue massage. Other treatments include facials, manicures, pedicures, waxing and make up makeovers. Call 01279 732 105 to book your spa experience.
Perfect for a relaxing day spa with friends or family or a romantic time for two, Greenwoods Hotel & Spa has eight luxury treatment rooms, plus one premier room for VIP pampering with a range of signature treatments, as well as the latest anti-ageing treatments from Elemis, exotic body treatments from La Sultane De Saba and Shellac nails. Prices for a Classic Day spa start from £90 but Essex Life readers can book an exclusive package which includes full use of the spa facilities, including gym and pool, two course lunch in Ellis’s restaurant and the Strawberry Cream Exfoliating Back Massage for just £61 per person (subject to availability – Monday and Thursday).
Down Hall Country House Hotel, Hatfield Heath CM22 7AS 01279 732 105 www.downhall.co.uk
Greenwoods Hotel & Spa, Stock Road, Stock CM4 9BE 01277 829990 www.greenwoodshotel.co.uk
THE TREATMENT ROOMS
BEDFORD LODGE Discover a whole new way to relax and unwind at the Down Hall Spa. Our brand new facility opened in August and we are now taking bookings for treatments and spa days. Set in one of England’s most established country house hotels the new ultra-modern facilities at the Eden Spa can provide ultimate relaxation. Feel rejuvenated in the circular deck hydrotherapy pool or lay under the stars in the state of the art steam room. Guests can choose from a wide variety of revitalising hot stone, Swedish, aromatherapy and deep tissue massage. Other treatments include facials, manicures, pedicures, waxing and make up makeovers. Call 01279 732 105 to book your spa experience. Down Hall Country House Hotel, Hatfield Heath CM22 7AS 01279 732 105 www.downhall.co.uk
With summer nearly over, now is a good time to step back and indulge in a spa day with friends in The Treatment Rooms at Maison Talbooth. Choose from a full day with two treatments or half day with one treatment, and then enjoy a two course lunch in the Garden Room with use of the outdoor pool, hot tub and tennis court if you are feeling strenuous. New for September, we’re introducing two new packages, Good Morning Spa which includes a treatment, coffee and a Danish and Twilight Spa with a treatment followed by a two course supper at milsoms. For all our spa packages, The Treatment Room team use either Aromatherapy Associates or Dermilogica for the face and body ensuring that you get the very best in products and techniques to suit your mood, leaving you relaxed in mind and body. For more information, either visit www.milsomhotels.com/treatmentrooms or call 01206 322367 and speak to one of our therapists. Maison Talbooth, Stratford Road, Dedham Essex CO7 6HN
Control the
BEAUTY
CONTOURS Upminster based beauty expert and writer Sue Moxley shares her insight into the latest treatments on the market and where to find them on your doorstep
use a good foundation. Try Mac Studio Face (£21.50) available in most department stores and online. Don’t powder the foundation as now you can start to contour. Use a shade two shades lighter for your highlighting and two shades darker for your shading. Highlight under the eyes (this helps to disguise bags and dark circles) and on your cupid’s bow at the tip of your chin. Apply a thin line down the centre of your nose (only if you want to slim your nose) and highlight under the brow and in the centre of your forehead. Then, with your darker colour, shade along your jaw to disguise a slacking jaw line and give more definition. Feel just under your cheekbone and apply under there. If you have a high forehead use shading around the hairline to create a smaller forehead and shade the sides of your nose and nostrils to slim a nose or, to make a long nose look shorter, shade with the dark tone at the tip of your nose. Good contouring kits for lighter skins are available. Try Sienna X (£12.95) available from www.feelunique.com or for darker skins use the Mac Pro Conceal and Correct Pallette in Dark (£35). Use good blending brushes like the Real
C
Techniques Collectors Edition Sculpting ONTOURING is the new it
really help sharpen a slacking jaw line,
Set (£20.99 from Superdrug, Boots or
word in the world of
create gorgeous cheekbones and bring
Tesco). Use the angled brush to blend and
make-up. Made famous
attention to parts of the face you want
the fan brush to dust powder.
again by Kim Kardashian,
to highlight.
it is just a make-up trick
One of the biggest mistakes when it
Practise blending the colours so that the effect is natural and finally, when you
that has been used for years in the
comes to contouring is to use a one look
have finished, set the whole face with a
world of photography and films to
fits all approach. Take a good look in the
loose translucent powder and then brush
create sharp jaw lines, high
mirror in the daylight and identify
on some cheek colour on the apple of
cheekbones and slimmer noses,
where the light hits your face (for
your cheek and on the cheek bone.
In the days before Photoshop and digital cameras, it was the only way to
example the cheeks, forehead and chin). These are the areas to highlight. First,
Avoid the final step of shimmer on top of the blusher if you are over 40, as this
enhance and disguise features, but latterly powders have been used to do the job. However, if done correctly and with a more subtle approach using contouring creams, the process can
SUE MOXLEY | Sue Moxley is one of the UK’s leading beauty experts working with an impressive list of national magazines, newspapers and TV programmes, and now Essex Life. Sue has her own make-up range, Famous by Sue Moxley, and has just launched Sue Moxley Pro Tools offer high end beauty accessories with affordable high street prices. www.essexlifemag.co.uk
1 67
HEALTH
Jump to it Essex Life finds out more about a new trampolining centre in Colchester that is helping residents to reap the health rewards of rebounding
J
morning classes three-times-a-week. Outside of the fitness classes, for which pricing is yet to be confirmed, current pricing for an hour’s session is £10 although jumpers must also wear Jump Street non-slip socks which cost £1.75 and can be kept and reused on subsequent visits. Jumpers must be aged five or over. Gavin Levene, director of Jump Street, said: ‘We’ve had lots of enquiries about fitness classes already and we’re keen to respond to the demands of our customers. The benefits of trampolining
UMP STREET is a popular
offers barista coffee plus a range of hot and
for fitness are well documented and we
trampoline park in
cold snacks.
want to make it easy and comfortable for
Colchester which opened in
people who want effective, low impact
June. It has been greeted
Jumping to Fitness
warmly by crowds of
The health benefits of trampolining are
fitter and have some fun. We have some
enthusiastic jumpers of all ages,
well documented. In fact, as early as 1980
excellent instructors lined up to deliver
including X Factor finalist Stevi Richie.
NASA confirmed that 10 minutes
interesting and enjoyable classes, so we
Based in the Cowdray Centre in
bouncing on a trampoline is a more
can’t wait to get going in September.’ ■
Colchester, Jump Street has already
efficient cardiovascular workout than
vastly exceeded the team’s anticipated
more than 30 minutes of running. The
number of customers and is now
report states that, ‘for similar levels of
FIND OUT MORE
planning new fitness classes to exploit
heart rate and oxygen consumption, the
the health benefits of trampolining.
magnitude of the biomechanical stimuli
Jump Street is located at 21 Mason Road, Cowdray Centre, Colchester CO1 1BX. It is the first sole purpose trampoline park in Essex. Groups of 10 people or more attract a 10% discount. Visit www.jumpstreet.co.uk
Back in June, Jump Street was opened by Team GB trampolinists Kat Driscoll and Joshua Newman who put the
is greater with jumping on a trampoline than with running’. Fittingly, Jump Street plans to expand
20,000sq ft park through its paces,
the range of activities it offers this month
wowing onlookers with impressive flips
by introducing a range of trampoline-
and routines.
focused fitness classes. Although the finer
In its first month, the park has
aerobic exercise to use our facilities to get
details are still to be confirmed, the team
welcomed more than 10,000 customers
has shared their intention to introduce
through its doors to enjoy the free-jump
group classes, to gauge popularity, in early
area, basketball nets, foam pit and
September. The exact format and price is
dodgeball courts, as well as many more
yet to be confirmed, although it is probable
spectators to its mezzanine café which
that from early September there will be www.essexlifemag.co.uk
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THROUGH THE KEYHOLE
was coming up to 18 months. The other two, Michael and Sean, were two and three years older respectively. Now they also have a daughter, five-year-old Josephine. She’s about the same age as her eldest brother was when the family took up residence at the house in Margetting. The private estate, which is off the Roman Road a mile-and-a-half from Ingatestone, had previously been owned for about 50 years by a former High Sheriff of Essex, Colonel Richard Bennett Gosling. ‘He rented out the main house and lived in Canterbury Lodge, but he’d lived here in the past,’ Helen explians. The name Canterburys is thought to stem from the pilgrims who used the estate as a stopping point on their way to Canterbury to worship at the shrine of
dining room is about 15ft square. There’s also a shower room on the
doesn’t get in to spoil its latest incarnation as a basement cinema room,
Thomas Becket who was murdered in
ground floor and two staircases up to the
makes a great place for the children to
the cathedral.
first floor where there’s Nick and Helen’s
hang out with their friends and play
palatial master bedroom with dressing
games. Fortunately, there’s still plenty of
room and shower room, five further
space below stairs for a wine cellar and a
bedrooms, a family bathroom and yet
very good one, too.
Helen and Nick couldn’t have chosen a better house to raise a dynasty. The three principal reception rooms are all huge: the drawing room in the Victorian wing is almost 25ft by 16ft, the
another shower room. The total floor area in the main house is
As well as the main house at Canterburys there’s a two-bedroom
sitting room with large bay window is
4,550sq ft. The cellar, which the present
bungalow in the grounds which the
pretty well 20ft square and the formal
owners have tanked to make sure damp
Walshes have completely refurbished. ➤ www.essexlifemag.co.uk
1 75
DISCOVER
SKYROOM
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THROUGH THE KEYHOLE space is exactly as it was originally. The structure was sound. We only had to replace one of the uprights. There was no trouble with any of the footings.’ As for the 67 acres, it’s chiefly arable land, hay mainly. ‘A contractor does it for us,’ Nick adds. So with all this land, are Nick and Helen a modern day Tom and Barbara Good? ‘We’re about 75% self sufficient,’ guesses the builder. ‘A farmer used to have sheep here, but they’ve gone now, which is a pity.’ ‘It was an ugly 1960s or 1970s building when we got here,’ says Nick. ‘We
Domesday Book. Four years ago Nick and Helen
However, the Walshes will also be gone soon and, after what they’ve achieved,
replaced the roof, took it back to its shell,
transformed a traditional Essex barn on
that must be a wrench, but it’s a case of
smartened it up and gave it a modern
their land into a leisure complex. The
needs must.
spec.’
standout feature is the 50ft ballroom.
Their eldest son is about to move up to
With chandeliers hanging from the
a secondary school in September. ‘It’s
two double bedrooms it has a fully fitted
(recently sandblasted) beams of the
about 15 or 20 miles away,’ Nick says,
kitchen, lounge/dining room and shower
vaulted ceiling and a steel reinforcd
which is the reason why the family will be
room. The living area in the annexe adds
mezzanine floor at one end of the
looking for a house in that area to avoid a
up to about 900sq ft. At one stage an
entertaining suite looking like a 21st
long commute for Sean every day. ■
elderly relative lived there, but now it’s
century minstrel gallery, it’s an amazing
mainly used by guests.
facility. Away from the dance floor but
The cottage is self contained. As well as
However, notwithstanding all the work that went into restoring the main house and the bungalow, that was only the first
still in the barn, there’s a games room and bar and also a fully-equipped gym. ‘As soon as we saw the barn we said we’ll
phase of the endeavour to fulfil the
turn it into an entertaining room,’ Nick
potential of this small country estate in
remembers. ‘We’ve had some amazing
an ancient village mentioned in the
parties in there,’ he recalls, laughing. ‘The
Now it’s for sale Canterburys is on the market through Beresfords in Chelmsford with a guide price of £4.25m. For more information, call 01245 500555
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INTERIORS
Fabulous Flooring Be Inspired
Choosing the right flooring for your home to suit your space and the durability you require can be challenging. Sarah Hammill meets three local experts who can help guide you to making the perfect decision
1
THE STYLE: The Style: Woven Wonders
A fine crafted rug is an investment beneath your feet, which can be a dazzling centerpiece handed down for generations to come, and can also be an easy method of transforming the lounge décor. The Rug and Carpet Studio has been dedicated to providing more than 20 years of high quality rugs, in both contemporary and traditional styles. Owner, Sara Tatum, says: ‘The colourful tribal Qashqai carpets and rugs are hand-woven in the Fars province of south-west Iran and are brought to market in the capital city of Shiraz. The Qashqai tribes, now largely settled, who weave these beautiful rugs are particularly well known for their use of vibrant colours, achieved through high quality, hand-spun and often naturally-dyed yarns. The Qashqai rugs not only look magnificent in traditional settings, but look equally good in modern rooms with bare floors, providing a contrast between old and new and a feeling of depth, history and timelessness.’ For further information, contact The Rug and Carpet Studio on 01787 882214 or visit www.rugandcarpetstudio.co.uk
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1 79
Stonemasons Ltd Unrivalled craftsmanship and technology
w from Architectural renovation, exteriors and interiors to bespoke granite kitchen worktops, stone fireplaces, marble bathrooms and memorials, including a wide range of headstone designs.
Our love and understanding of these materials assures you of nothing but the best
Knowledge and experience can never be underestimated. Special attention to every detail is what sets us apart at every step, from design to installation.
Complete Installation Service Telephone: 01376 323037 elegantbathroomsbypgbones.co.uk
Please contact Word for Stone to make an appointment Units 10 & 11, Jubilee End, Lawford, Manningtree, Essex, CO11 1UR Tel: 01206 390003 | Mob: 07816 916 060 www.woodforstone.co.uk | info@woodforstone.co.uk
Interior furnishing commissions in both the UK and Overseas Established since 2000 ID Interior Design undertakes interior furnishing commissions in both the UK and Overseas. We work with private clients, designers, property developers and for the rental market. Our professional made bespoke soft furnishings include: ●
Interlined Hand Made Curtains
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Pelmets & Lambrequins
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Cushions & Throws
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Upholstery & Re-upholstery
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●
Individual pieces of furniture and gift ideas
●
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Blinds
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Headboards ●
Sofa’s & individual chairs ●
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From initial concepts ID Interior Design expertly interprets the clients vision to meet their individual requirements and needs. We offer a complete service from surveying and estimating, to extensive sample book library includes all the major fabric companies and design houses including Osborne and Little, Colefax and Fowler, Romo, Designers Guild, Brian Yates, Casamance, Kandola, Harlequin, Today Interiors and many more. ID Interior Design offers a professional and friendly service, offering bespoke solutions, for curtains or blinds for one room to a complete residence we can help you get the desired results for your home.
143 Heath Park Road, Gidea Park, Romford, Essex RM2 5XJ
Tel: 01708 458256 iddesign@ntlworld.com 180
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INTERIORS
2
THE STYLE: The Style: Timeless Tiles
Tiles are an ideal addition to any home, Being versatile and resistant to stains and spills, they provide any interior with architectural integrity. Family-run business Specialist Floors has been trading for more than 25 years and supplies a free quotation to all customers from reliable fitters. And with an extensive display of tiles, customers are spoilt for choice. Director, Jane Hilliard, explains: ‘Specialist Floors offer distinctive floorings like our innovative ‘life tile’ collection. It is a luxurious vinyl tile/plank and is very hard wearing. It looks as authentic as any real wood, stone or ceramic floor. The new parquet range is just superb with its registered embossed design, plus the added benefit of being easy to clean and maintain. There is also a great choice of colours and designs to choose from in the wood plank collection.’ For further information, contact Specialist Floors on 01206 579603 or visit www.specialistfloors.co.uk
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House of Design Bespoke Interior Design
Free Interior Design Consultation 209-213 St Mary’s Lane, Upminster, Essex RM14 3BU Tel: 01708 221411 Email: angeljane61@gmail.com
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INTERIORS
3
THE STYLE: The Style: Tasteful Textiles
Established in 1886, Hatfields Home Furnishers has thousands of carpet options to suit any requirement, all provided by the world’s leading manufacturers. Hatfield’s latest collection is the Riviera, an exclusive and completely unique range. Not previously available in the UK, Riviera offers luxurious textile flooring of the highest grade which has previously graced homes, palaces, offices and hotels around the world. David Baker, flooring manager at Hatfields Home Furnishers, says: ‘The Riviera Home brand is synonymous with the production of quality textiles distributed worldwide. Riviera Home flooring delivers a range of broadloom carpets and products, which incorporate the latest in design and colour. Striking a balance between the use of traditional skills and the latest technology, Riviera’s quality products are available in a myriad of designs, colours and fibres with luxurious texture, appeal and quality at the core. For further information, contact Hatfields on 01206 765444 or visit www.hatfieldsofcolchester.com
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BE BRAVE Winner of Best of Show at Grand Designs Live
BE COLOURFUL
BE DIFFERENT
But remember you make the choice. The kitchens you see in these pictures are actually in our Showroom with eight other large displays. Meet Teresa, one of our three qualified Kitchen Designers. Trading in Chelmsford for 43 Years.
Tel: 01245 260979 | www.dadens.com UNIT 2, PARKWAY, CHELMSFORD, CM2 7PX Open Tues – Sat 9 – 5pm 184
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WE HAVE MOVED
We have moved
Where Service Matters Postcode for your SAT NAV CM7 2YW
186
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Tel: 01376 349276
Room Set
ROOM SET
HOME ENTERTAINMENT
W
HETHER you plan to invest in one piece of audio visual equipment to enhance an
existing set up or are gunning for a whole new state-of-the-art system, picking out the right home entertainment innovations for your needs is no easy task. So how do you create the completely immersive experience without compromising on the style and decor of your home? Sarah Hammill meets three local home entertainment experts that can move you from clueless to confident.
LEARNING CURVE SENSUAL SOUND
4K Ultra HD
When selecting a high
technical
calibre home audio system,
innovations in
factors to take into account
home
will be space and layout, as
entertainment.
well as design and, most
4K Ultra HD
importantly, sound quality.
TVs can have
Michael Francis, sales
up to four
and curved screen design are the latest
times higher
manager of Bang & Olufsen of Colchester, explains why their cutting-edge products are a celebration of the art of
resolution in comparison to full HD sets, creating an
acoustic perfection. He comments: ‘With technology
unrivalled, sharper image.
constantly changing, it’s no surprise there’s an increased
Jason Digwa, director of multi award-winning RGB Direct,
demand for integrated multi-room audio-visual systems
works with the world’s leading brands. He comments: ‘We
and creating a system from scratch can be a little
are seeing the popularity of curve screens growing by the
daunting. From the elegantly designed Beosound Moment
day. It really does give you the ultimate immersed picture
Digital Music Player to the BeoVision Avant, we can
quality. I would advise anyone to have a demonstration
guarantee a sensational sound.’ For further information contact Bang and Olufsen of Colchester on 01206 763344 or visit www.bang-olufsen.com
before making their choice.’ For further information contact RGB Direct on 020 8924 7744 or visit www.rgbdirect.co.uk
THE PERFECT PACKAGE Finding the ultimate entertainment system that can provide both superior sound and stunning visuals in high quality can be a challenge. But Darren Maynard, director of Bang and Olufsen Chelmsford, feels he has the answer. ‘The BeoVision Avant is the complete entertainment solution from Bang & Olufsen,’ says Darren. Unlike many televisions, the BeoVision Avant features a powerful loudspeaker system built in so you will always have the best experience in picture and sound when watching your favourite TV shows or movies. It is available in 55”, 75” or 85” and is mountable on the wall or an elegant motorised floor stand which will move the set round to your favourite viewing position.’ For further information contact Bang and Olufsen Chelmsford on 01245 266117 or visit www.bang-olufsen.com
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189
GARDENING
Act of
enclosure The walled garden at Spencers near Great Yeldham is a tapestry of colour from flowers, fruit and produce. Philippa Pearson shares the inspiration she found at this charming garden
I
T IS the perfect summer’s day
bed,’ explains the owner, Lynne Bogie, as
Great Yeldham near Halstead, forms part
as I walk through this dazzling
she shows me a deep, long border planted
of the estate built by Lady Anne Spencer
walled garden at Spencers near
with alternate rows of fruit, vegetables
around 1760 with money from her
Great Yeldham, full of late
and cut flowers. The idea is that all the
grandfather, the first Duke of
summer displays from flowers,
produce from here is harvested and used
Marlborough, and was home to Arctic
fruit and vegetables, I stop at a large
for the house and it’s all grown in one,
explorer ‘August’ Courtauld and his wife
border.
large, single bed. The walled garden at
Mollie who bought the estate in 1937.
Spencers, a romantic country house in
After August’s death in 1959, Mollie
‘This is what we call our house garden 190
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GARDENING
married Saffron Walden MP and
the original layout of the walled garden
Conservative politician, RA Butler, known
laid out in Georgian times by Lady Anne
as Rab.
Spencer and added new features
Lynne and her husband, Colin, moved
including a clover lawn and an ox-eye
with their three children to Spencers
daisy wildflower maze. There’s also a
in 2011. Their previous home in
herb garden, orchard, vegetable garden,
Hertfordshire had an acre of garden, but
rose beds, double herbaceous borders
Spencers is surrounded by 90 acres of
running the length of the garden and a
woodland and parkland, while gardens
Georgian greenhouse, the oldest
around the house, a terrace, shrubbery
surviving one in Essex. The rose garden
and the walled garden cover 10 acres. The
in the centre includes a sundial mounted
highlight of Spencers is the one acre
on a column rescued from the old
walled garden, hidden behind 12ft walls
London Bridge.
and approached through a wildflower meadow planted with white flowers. ‘When we first came to view Spencers,’
Late summer in the walled garden sees orchard fruits ripening for harvest while the ‘house garden bed’ creates a
says Lynne, ‘we were a bit hesitant about
colourful tapestry of vibrant cut flowers
buying a home where you couldn’t see
including asters, zinnias and dahlias
the main garden area from the house.’
mingling with squash, French beans,
The walled garden was designed by
lettuces and soft fruit. The gardeners’
Tom Stuart-Smith, together with some
potting shed and adjacent cold frames
other areas at Spencers, several years
are kept busy all year round growing
ago. Divided into four quarters, Tom kept
plants for garden. ‘We supply the
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➤
191
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GARDENING
house with vegetables, fruit, cut flowers
‘We nearly lost the Garrya elliptica in
and potted plants, all grown here in the
our first bad winter of 2012,’ says Lynne,
garden,’ explains head gardener John
‘so we are mindful of protecting
Pilgrim, who is assisted by three
borderline tender plants over the winter
full-time gardeners plus part-time help.
season.’ The white-painted, timber-
Lynne works closely with John and
framed Georgian greenhouse, built in the
likes to try different and unusual
1760s, is filled with colour and interest
produce. ‘We’ve grown different types of
from late summer flowering plants and
beetroot,’ she says, ‘red, white and
there are plans in autumn to restore the
orange, which looked very pretty on
building. Other autumn plans include
salad plates enjoyed by visiting
changes to the clover lawn to incorporate
gardening groups.’
a knot garden.
This year there’s three varieties of peas,
Several borders near the main entrance
several types of squash and celeriac,
to the walled garden are planned for
among other crops thriving in the rich
displays of seasonal interest. In late
loam soil. The walled garden is
spring through to mid-summer, massed
surrounded on all sides by a circle of trees
plantings of foxglove ‘Excelsior’ create a
which creates a microclimate for the
bold effect and are a feast for bees on the
garden, but also keeps the area quite cold
hunt for nectar. John and his team treat
and it can be a frost-pocket in winter.
them as annuals and sow seed in summer
MEDAL WINNERS Coggeshall-based garden designers Jean Wardrop and Alexandra Stevenson were awarded a prestigious RHS Silver medal for their garden at the RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show in July. A Growing Obsession — the Yardley London Perennial Garden was designed by the pair in collaboration with Yardley London and horticultural charity Perennial, and the garden was inspired by a Victorian ladies flower garden, celebrating women’s influence in gardening since the 19th century. Further information about Jean and Alexandra’s work is available from www.wardropdesigns.co.uk and www.alydandra.co.uk
then bring on young plants over the winter, magically producing a display of
VISIT THE GARDEN Spencers Tilbury Road Great Yeldham Essex CO9 4JG 01787 238175 www.spencersgarden.net
flowers the following spring from seemingly out of nowhere. Plantings of Cosmos follow on, still looking good in late summer and into autumn. Spencers is also known for the famous sky blue delphinium, ‘Lord Butler’. Introduced by the RHS in the 1990s, the ‘true blue’ flower with white eyes has an
Spencers is open for the National Gardens Scheme on Sunday, September 13 from 2pm to 5pm. Admission is £5, children free. Homemade teas are available and plants are for sale. The garden is also open on Thursdays from May to September, from 2pm to 5pm, by arrangement for groups. Please book in advance.
Award of Garden Merit (AGM) for outstanding performance. As we walk around the walled garden enjoying the bountiful produce and late summer flowers, Lynne comments: ‘One of the benefits of having a garden away from the house, is that you make time to come out and enjoy the plants.’ What a special treat, indeed. ■ www.essexlifemag.co.uk
1 93
The Diary 1-28 September 9am-5pm Sculpture Trial Staples Visitor Centre Hylands House Estate, London Road, Chelmsford CM2 8WQ September sees sculpture come to Hylands. There will be a fully accessible trail of stunning artwork for all to enjoy, so grab a map form the Stables Visitor Centre and explore. Admission: Free www.hylandsartists.co.uk
1 September 7.30pm Henry IV (Part 1 & 2 Combined) Cressing Temple Barns, Witham Road, Cressing CM77 8PD A spirited adaptation taken from Henry IV Parts 1 and 2 and focussing on Shakespeare’s lovable, larger than life rogue, Sir John Falstaff, and his adventures with Prince Hal, the future King Henry V. This historical drama brings to life the humanity, the politics, the battles and the humour of this period in mediaeval Britain. A colourful two-hour production, performed by this skilled and energetic all-male company. Admission: £15 adult, £13 under 16 and concessions www.thefestivalplayers.co.uk
2&9 September 10.30am-3.30pm Pony days Remus Memorial Horse Sanctuary, Little Farm Ingatestone CM4 9NZ The long-awaited Pony Days organised by Remus Memorial Horse Sanctuary have returned for the summer holidays. Each day children and adults will be loaned a pony, to make up its feed up, be taught how to groom and turn it out into the field, shown how to clean out the pony’s stable and make a nice new bed for him or her to come back into later. Events and fundraising play a vital part in raising much-needed funds to keep the sanctuary going. Admission: £45 01277 356191
3 September 7pm The Beaux Stratagem Firstsite, Lewis Gardens, High Street, Colchester CO1 1JH Mr Aimwell and Mr Archer are two charming, 1 94
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WHAT’S HAPPENING IN OUR AREA THIS SEPTEMBER COMPILED BY HOLLY EELLS
dissolute young men who have blown their fortunes in giddy London. Shamed and debt-ridden, they flee to provincial Lichfield. Their ‘Stratagem’: to marry for money. Lodged at the local inn, posing as master and servant, they encounter a teeming variety of human obstacles: a crooked landlord, a fearsome highwayman, a fervent French Count, a maid on the make, a drunken husband, a furious butler, a natural healer and a strange, turbulent priest. But their greatest obstacle is love. When the Beaux meet their match in Dorinda and Mrs Sullen they are most at risk, for in love they might be truly discovered. George Farquhar’s final play is a fabulous, carnal comedy. Admission: Prices vary 01206 577067
4 September Colchester Farmers Market Colchester Arts Centre, Church Street Colchester CO1 1NF Colchester’s monthly farmers market is back in full swing with lovely local fresh produce including fruit, vegetable, cheese, meats and much more. 01206 500900
5-6 September 10.30am-5.30pm English Wine Festival and Open Day New Hall Vineyards, Chelmsford Road, Purleigh CM3 6PN Adult admission includes entry, tasting glass and four free wine tastings. A great family day out with lots to entertain the children including fire-eaters, jugglers, bouncy castle, trailer rides, craft fair and an art show. Admission: Adult £7 and children £1 newhall@newhallwines.co.uk
5-6 September 10am-5pm American Car Show Museum of Power, Hatfield Road, Langford, Maldon CM9 6QA Classic American and custom cars, stalls, live music and family entertainment. Miniature steam train is open for rides (extra charge applies). Astaria model village open and Marshall, the Lilleshall pumping engine will be run by steam and other oil diesel engines will be running too. Admission: Adult £6, senior £5 and children £2 with children under 2 free 01621 843183
6 September 10am-5pm Helen Rollason Vintage Fair Cressing Temple Barns, Witham Road, Cressing CM77 8PD The Helen Rollason Vintage Fayre is back at Cressing Temple Barns with lots of vintage stalls, classic cars, rock and roll band, The Kingsmen and Chelmsford Morris to entertain you, along with a rockabilly DJ. Free parking and all proceeds will support local people living with cancer. Admission: Prices vary www.cressingtemple.org.uk
12 September 3pm Jumble Sale Great Maplestead Village Hall Contributions will be received by Doreen Faulks and can be delivered to the hall either on Friday 11 or on Saturday morning between 9am and midday. Raffle and refreshments available. In aid of the Village Hall. Admission: 20p For local collection, call 01787 460727
12 September 7pm Bat Walk Castle Park, Colchester For locals and visitors come and enjoy this rare experience on a beautiful autumn evening. Meet at the café in the park before commencing. Admission: Adults £4.20 and children free 01206 282920
12-13 September Essex Country Show Barleylands Farm Barleylands Road, Billericay CM11 2UD Back for its 29th year, there’s something for everyone at the annual Essex Country Show. Highlights include stepping back in time to medieval England with colourful jousting, letting it go at Snow Sisters sing-a-longs, and watching gravity-defying motorbike displays from Britain’s Got Talent runners up Bolddog Lings. As well as a packed programme of displays, demonstrations and shows, with everything from working heavy horses to Newfoundland dog rescue, there’ll be attractions galore. From steam engines, vintage vehicles, modern machinery, craft marquees, food stalls, vintage funfair rides and more. Discover the very best of rural Essex,
past and present on a huge scale and enjoy a fantastic family day out. Admission: ÂŁ8.10 to ÂŁ15 01268 532253
13 September Sponsored Dog Walk Weald Country Park, Brentwood Are you a dog lover? Would you like to raise some vital funds for The J’s while enjoying the beautiful Weald Country Park this autumn? Please help and get involved for a good cause. www.thejshospice.org.uk
19 September 10.30am-4pm Witham International Puppet Festival Town Centre, Witham CM8 2FE Held in Witham Town Centre, this is one of the largest puppet festivals in the UK. Organised by Witham Town Council, the festival has taken place annually since 1999, and continues to delight residents and visitors to the town. As well as the traditional hand-held puppet shows, the streets of Witham come alive with the most amazing puppets imaginable making a great family day out. Admission: Free www.withaminternationalpuppetfestival.co.uk
19 September Maldon Town Regatta Maldon Hythe Quay Enjoy a great programme of events afloat and ashore including sailing, rowing, parade of sail, duck race, stalls and musical entertainment. Admission: Free to spectators www.maldonregatta.co.uk
19-20 September Autumn Plant Fair RHS Hyde Hall, Creephedge Lane, Chelmsford CM3 8ET RHS Garden Hyde Hall is encouraging its visitors to plant now for spring colour by stocking up on bulbs, perennials and shrubs at the Essex Plant Heritage Autumn Plant Fair.
Organised by the Essex branch of Plant Heritage, there will be over 30 specialist nurseries from around the region setting up shop at the garden and selling a range of unusual plants. All exhibitors will be able to sound advice on plant selection so if you’re thinking of making a few changes to your garden, come along and pick up some plants and growing tips. It’s also a perfect time for exploring Hyde Hall’s richly coloured estate with its tones of reds, oranges and russets. And why not treat yourself to a nice cup of tea and slice of homemade cake to round off your visit. www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/hyde-hall
19 September to 11 October 10am-5pm (Wednesday to Sunday) Exhibition The Sentinel Gallery, Chapel Road, Wivenhoe CO7 9DX Visit the newly-opened gallery’s latest exhibition in the beautiful cultural centre of Wivenhoe. See printer Derek Chambers and painter Colin Slee and their representation of our swirling natural world. 01206 827490
Till 26 September 10am-4pm Heavy Horse Experience Day – Driving Hylands House Estate, London Road, Chelmsford CM2 8WQ Enjoy a day working with a rare breed heavy horse including grooming, harness care and an introduction to coach driving techniques with the opportunity to take the reins yourself. This is an exclusive day with only four people, but could be the perfect gift or personal experience. Admission: £85 01245 605500
Get hands on as you draw back your archers bow, spin the pottery wheel and weave with coppice wood to create an autumnal animal. Admission: Prices vary www.english-heritage.org.uk
26-27 September Times vary Chilli Pepper Weekend RHS Hyde Hall, Creephedge Lane, Chelmsford CM3 8ET Not for the faint-hearted, the Hyde Hall Chilli Pepper Weekend returns. Ideal for plant lovers and foodies alike, this year’s show will include the chilli challenge, organised by Battlesbridge Mills Garden Centre, cookery demonstrations by BBC MasterChef 2013 semi-finalist Saira Hamilton and a plant display of more than 40 Capiscum cultivars, all grown by the RHS garden team. Coupled with artisan food producers selling a range of tempting food and drink, such as delicious chilli pastes, chutneys, oils, sausages and sauces alongside spicy cheese, beer and chocolate cake, it will be a true feast for your senses. Mexican and Latin American music and tasty street food will add to the party atmosphere, and chilli plants will be available to buy all weekend. www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/hyde-hall
27 September Copped Hall Run Registration has just opened for the 2015 Copped Hall Run, organised by Epping Rotary Club. This multi-terrain run is a five-mile course around the historic Copped Hall Estate in Epping. Come and get involved for Haven House Children’s Hospice. Admission: Adult race entry costs £12 for unaffiliated runners and £10 for UKA affiliated runners. 01992 571541
26-27 September 11am-5pm Apple Festival Audley End House and Garden, Audley End, Saffron Walden CB11 4JF From bobbing and weaving to trapping and tasting, apples have never been so appetising! Gobble down golden delicious treats in the tea room, see how the Victorians would have cooked a pink lady in the service wing, and enjoy pressing and tasting! Become a bobbing champion before meeting the Victorian gardener to learn how to deal with harvest pests in the orchard, while falconers show how they dealt with them in the field.
27 September 11.30am-6pm End of season Celebration Gibberd Garden, Marsh Lane, Harlow CM17 0NA Celebrate the end of summer in style. Brunch will be served from 11.30am to 2pm including filled rolls and jacket potatoes. From 2pm, enjoy tea time with homemade apple cakes, jams and chutneys all available in the Barn Tea Room. Admission: Adults ÂŁ4, concessions ÂŁ3, and accompanied children five to 16, ÂŁ1 www.thegibberdgarden.co.uk
Find full listings online Each month, Essex Life publishes a snapshot of what’s going on across the county, but you will find a comprehensive list of events and activities in Essex online too. Just visit www.essexlifemag.co.uk and click on Out and About
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195
Artreview Exhibitions
BY HOLLY EELLS
• Events • Galleries • Reviews
An art exclusive in Colchester THE CHAPPEL GALLERIES in Colchester presents its latest exhibition, Constructions and Projections by David Denby. After leaving London’s Royal Academy School in 1971, David was invited to exhibit his paintings in Scandinavia and continued a working relationship there for more than 15 years. Since then, this forthcoming exhibition at Chappel Galleries will be the largest collection he has ever shown in Britain. More than 20 paintings in oils will be on display and all works are for sale. The exhibition runs from September 19 and for more information, call on 01206 240326.
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5 minutes withâ&#x20AC;Ś Mark Thomas Holly Eells talks to the awardwinning comedian about his new show, Trepass, his love for Essex and why heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s looking forward to performing at The Colchester Arts Centre this month TELL US ABOUT TRESPASS? I think people know the score. I go off and do something, intervene in the normal flow of events somewhere, then come back and tell the story. So this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s story is about how we are losing public space, squares, parks, playing fields and homes. It is about gentrification, corporate land grabs and how our behaviour is expected to change when on our new landlordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s land. It is about me misbehaving. HOW WOULD YOU ENCOURAGE THE ESSEX READERS TO HEAD DOWN TO SEE YOUR SHOW IN COLCHESTER? By train. WHEN VISITING ESSEX, WHERE DO YOU LIKE TO GO? My brotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s house, charity shops, chip shops and book shops. YOU HAVE LOTS OF GIG DATES THIS YEAR, WHAT ARE YOUR LIKES AND DISLIKES WHEN ON TOUR? I like seeing friends I have not seen since the last tour, going to places I like, stone circle searching, doing the gigs, finding new places, visiting galleries and rambling. On the down side are a chip diet, missing my family, tiredness, train shops and roadworks on the M1. WHAT ELSE ARE YOU UP TO THIS YEAR, ANY EXCLUSIVES YOU CAN SHARE? My last show, Cuckooed, is just being translated into Turkish to be toured by one of Turkeyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top political theatre groups. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pretty cool huh? Mark Thomas will be appearing at The Colchester Arts Centre on September 25. For more details, visit www.colchesterartscentre.com
A night with Jay Rayner
Liz Leatherdale’s
Classical Essex
AWARD-WINNING journalist, writer and broadcaster Jay Rayner has been a restaurant critic for more than a decade, and if there’s one thing he’s learnt it’s that people delight in reviews of bad restaurants. For one night only at the Mercury Theatre in Colchester, he examines our love affair with lousy reviews, reads accounts of excruciating nights and looks at the worst reviews of his own work. Jay Rayner — My Dining Hell is on September 3 and tickets start from £10-£22.50. Visit www.mercurytheatre.co.uk
THIS MONTH the Roman River Festival includes a commission for a string quartet by pianist and composer Gwilym Simcock. The young and exciting Sacconi Quartet will perform the world premiere within an exhibition of new canvasses by the festival artist John Doubleday at Firstsite, Colchester’s contemporary art gallery.
GET ARTY IN LEIGH THE LEIGH LITERARY and Arts Fair is a
more than 20 stalls and much more.
fantastic day out for all to enjoy. On
This event is from 10am at the Leigh
September 19 this free event is hosting
Community Centre and will have some
talks and workshops, a chance to meet
special offers on the day.
and chat to local authors and artists,
Visit www.leighcommunitycentre.com
BIG CELEBRATIONS AT PARDON MILL THIS YEAR The Gallery at
be a special one. Over the
Glasshaus exhibitions and
Parndon Mill is proud to
years some of the best
this year many will be
present its 10th Glasshaus
glass artists in the country
showcasing their work
exhibition, which is set to
have exhibited in
here again. In May 2015 The Gallery was proud to win the prestigious first prize at the British Glass Biennale. The piece was made by Ashraf Hanna under the guidance of The Gallery’s resident glass artist, Dr Heike Brachlow. He plans to make another piece for the exhibition. Other glass artists include Ewa Wawrzyniak, Yuki Kokai, Jon Lewis and Karen Murphy. The exhibition starts from September 24. For more information, visit www.parndonmill.co.uk
The charismatic and engaging Sacconis have given numerous world and British premières. Simcock’s quartet has been chosen by the BBC Music Magazine as one of 20 unmissable events in September. Quartets by Nielsen and Sibelius will complete the programme. The event is on September 25 at 7.30pm and tickets are from £12. Call on 01206 729356. Studio Music in Brightlingsea begins its 25th season on September 18. The intimate nature of the performing space and the studio’s location in a garden and field on the edge of Brightlingsea Creek make for an unusual and attractive setting that is particularly suitable for the enjoyment of chamber music. Call on 01206 304995. Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and other baroque favourites will be heard at Chelmsford Cathedral performed by the Belmont Ensemble of London and the English Chamber Choir. Tickets are available for this charity concert for a suggested £20 donation to the Essex Clergy Charity. For more details, email nigel@garden-shows.com If you have a forthcoming concert of classical music you would like previewed, please contact Liz on 0800 999 6994 or visit www.colchesterclassics.co.uk www.essexlifemag.co.uk
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Book Club In this Essex Life column, Jane Lambert shares book reviews and author interviews as she turns the pages of the local literary world
REVIEW
INTERVIEW Hadley Books is an antiquarian and second-hand book shop in Harwich. Owner Peter J Hadley talks to us about his love of books and bookshops Tell us more about Hadley Books I started bookselling at university to supplement my grant and, faced with a
The Truffleys by Susan
choice between teaching and bookselling, I
Turner and Michelle Smith Susan and Michelle are a
chose the latter. The business has been based in Ludlow, Norwich and for the last 12 years
such a diverse stock requires very hard
mother and daughter writing
in Harwich, although over the years it has
work. The recently bankrupt Dutch chain
team from Waltham Abbey
also grown more reliant on the fixed space of
Der Slegte also attempted this mix and are
the internet. People don’t seem to have the
much missed.
time to browse these days, while the ease of
The Truffleys is an unusual story, the likes of which
mail order makes it irresistible to most. Many
Which three books would you take
you have probably never
bookshops have converted entirely to
to a desert island?
read before. Telling the
internet selling and yet there is a feeling that
The thought of a desert island fills me with
story of a small group of
shops may have their day in the sun again.
horror, but given the amount of time available
elfin leaders who live in the
it would have to be books that would merit
forest, it follows their battle
Other than Hadley Books, what other
re-reading and closer examination. Having
against the Outsiders, who
bookshops do you love?
taught Moby Dick once and seen the group size
are intent on stealing their
Two bookshops that I love are G David in
shrink in number as the sessions went on, I
precious food stuff. This is
Cambridge and Ken Spelman in York. Both
would choose this in the hope that the time
only a short story, so is a
of these traditional Open Shops (with
spent meant I may be able to convey my
perfect fantasy tale for
reliable hours) combine antiquarian,
enthusiasm better. James Joyce’s Ulysses
children. There’s a message
academic titles alongside publishers’
would be another choice because there is
to think about and the
returns and remainders with such skill that
always something new to discover, particularly
book is the perfect start to
a short visit is impossible. They are the
when read aloud. I guess my final choice
what is sure to become a
closest we have to combining new and
would be The Bible. I can’t remember when I
series of stories about the
antiquarian titles which has to be a
last picked it up, but it’s the source often of
Truffleys.
browser’s and booklover’s dream. Keeping
much that we love in both story and language.
Publisher: Pegasus Publishers Release Date: June 2015 Price: £5.99
REVIEW
With The Enemy Within, Gary Nott has conjured
ISBN: 9781907552687
up a hot Seventies summer, with a mystery at its heart that will have readers guessing. A The Enemy Within
summer circus coming to town has a group of
by Gary Nott
four friends excited, until things start to go
Gary Nott is a head
wrong and the children find themselves
teacher from Brentwood.
investigating the cause of a series of incidents
The Enemy Within is his
that put lives in danger. The influence of Enid
first novel.
Blyton is clear, but the stakes are higher here. The Enemy Within is a great little mystery that will appeal to readers of all ages. Publisher: Pegasus Publishers Release Date: June 2015 Price: £8.99 ISBN: 9781784650469 www.essexlifemag.co.uk
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6 th YE
AR
WOODWORKING IN ACTION Cressing Temple Barns Near Braintree, Essex Saturday & Sunday 12th & 13th September 2015 Tickets now available Visit www.ews2015.com or call 01473 785946
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www.essexlifemag.co.uk
ART LIFE
Join the
Great Essex Art Debate The Beecroft Art Gallery in Southend is centre stage for the 56th Essex Open Exhibition, in a celebration of Essex art and creativity. Caroline Foster reports included and chosen.’ Simon Isaac, strategy partner at ZeroAbove and also a keen photographer who has had his work featured in Essex Life magazine, added: ‘The open art exhibition in Essex is a platform for the benefit, encouragement and support of artists. It’s also recognition for those artists working in the region. It brings together the local community and people want to be part of it.’ The 56th Essex Open Exhibition runs until October 10 and visitors should note that the majority of works will be for sale.
W
Visitors are encouraged to visit HEN described as
more artists to apply. This has also
throughout the summer and marvel at
‘the largest and
attracted a greater variety of work.’
the diversity, creativity and talent that is
most prestigious
The exhibition is open to any artist,
open art
amateur or professional, over the age of 16
exhibition in
and who is either resident or working as an
Essex’, it’s no wonder artists of all
artist in Essex (including the London
calibres have flocked to be part of this
boroughs formerly part of Essex).
year’s open art event. Being held for the first year at the
Kevin also thinks raising the profile of the exhibition in this way has further
Beecroft Art Gallery’s new home (the former
encouraged new sponsors, including
Southend Library in Victoria Avenue), the
categories from Best Work in Exhibition,
56th Essex Open Exhibition has seen a
sponsored by ZeroAbove, to the Most
record number of entries from lesser known
Popular Work in the Exhibition, sponsored
and new artists from across the region.
by The Royals Shopping Centre.
Kevin Marsh, assistant curator for art
‘We have on show a variety of mixed
exhibitions at Southend on Sea Borough
mediums of work including oils, acrylics,
Council, attributes the upsurge in entries to
watercolours, mixed media and
the exhibition’s new online entry
photography, but we would like to increase
application process.
the number of sculptures and 3D works in
‘It was a lot of work for the artists to
future exhibitions. We now have the space
bring their entries to the gallery for the
available to showcase more of these types
selection process,’ explains Kevin. ‘Now
of works, but we are still looking for
they can upload their details and images of
quality,’ says Kevin.
their work, which I believe has encouraged
For visitors, the 56th Essex Open
on display this year and show their support to all of our Essex based artists.
AND THE WINNERS ARE… Best Work in Exhibition sponsored by ZeroAbove Feel The Colour by Steven Wood Best Oil or Acrylic sponsored by Slick 50 Barbers: Head 23 Gary Lawrence by Shona Chew Best Print or Drawing sponsored by The Pouch of Douglas Tavern by Elliot Steele Best Photograph sponsored by KeyMed Olympus The Streets Take 1 by David James The Shirley Robson Bowl for Best Watercolour sponsored by Strand Gallery Big Frosted Blue by John Ellis
Exhibition has something for everyone and
VISIT THE EXHIBITION The 56th Essex Open Exhibition takes place at The Beecroft Gallery, Victoria Avenue, Southend SS2 6EX and is open Tuesdays to Saturdays from 10am to 5pm. Visit www.southendmuseums.co.uk
for artists who have not exhibited in galleries before, this exhibition is a great place to start.
Best 3 Dimensional / Mix Media Work sponsored by The Hive Multi-Cola by John Jarvis
‘The open exhibition offers an opportunity for great exposure,’ continues Kevin. ‘It’s one of the busiest exhibitions of the year. For visitors, it’s an open topic for debate and somewhere they can talk
The winner of Most Popular Work in the Exhibition (sponsored by The Royals Shopping Centre) will be voted for by visitors and will be announced in October
openly about the work that has been www.essexlifemag.co.uk
20 1
BirdLife
Find out more about the county’s bird life from the RSPB each month
Wonderful wetland wildlife
Redrawing the Essex coast helps give nature a home
A
LANDMARK project made
hectares of intertidal saltmarsh along the
possible due to a unique
Essex coast — now there are just 2,500.
partnership between RSPB and
Intertidal saltmarsh is a crucial wildlife
Crossrail reached a major
habitat for a wide variety of plants,
milestone in July as the sea walls were
invertebrates and birds, and acts as an
breached at Wallasea.
effective sea defence for local
Wallasea Island Wild Coast project, located eight miles north of Southend on
communities. Wetland restoration began on Wallasea
Sea, aims to transform 670 hectares of
in 2006 and by 2025 the Wallasea Island
farmland, an area about two-and-a-half
Wild Coast Project plans to have created
times the size of the City of London, back
148 hectares of mudflats, 192 hectares of
into the coastal marshland it once was
saltmarsh and 76 hectares of shallow
some 400 years ago.
saline lagoons. Around eight miles of
Over 3 million tonnes of excavated
allow people to get closer to the island’s
infrastructure project, Crossrail, have
spectacular wildlife. time, on a large scale, how to ‘future
and other wildlife-friendly features and
proof’ low lying coastal areas against
protecting these areas with new sea walls.
expected sea level rise and deliver
completed when the sea walls of ‘Cell 1’
benefits to wildlife. For more detailed information, visit
were successfully breached to allow tidal
www.rspb.org.uk/wallaseawildcoast to
flow into the new Jubilee marsh.
learn about the scheme and the wildlife
400 years ago there were 30,000
To find out more about RSPB in Essex, call 01268 498620 or visit www.rspb.org.uk
Wallasea Island will show for the first
average of 1.5 metres, creating lagoons
The first phase of the project was
GET IN TOUCH
coastal walks and cycle routes will also
material from Europe’s biggest been used to raise part of the island by an
ESSEX is blessed with incredible wetland and marshland habitats, some of which the RSPB is privileged to work on and manage. These habitats provide homes for an array of wildlife from avocets to water voles. As summer draws to a close, we can look forward to both resident and passage waders delighting us with their quirky presence at Essex wetland sites. The ringed plover is a dumpy, short-legged wader which breeds during the summer on beaches around the coast, but has also taken to breeding inland in sand and gravel pits and former industrial sites. At Wallasea Island, wading migrant numbers peak in late August to early September, when up to 500 ringed plovers can be present, joined by avocets, dunlins, curlews, greenshanks and redshanks. Autumn brings the possibility of seeing the distinctive kingfisher at Bowers Marsh. If you’re patient, you may be rewarded with an unforgettable kingfisher encounter. Listen for their shrill, piping calls and then watch for the flash of blue and orange. They fly rapidly and low over the water and hunt fish from riverside perches, occasionally hovering above the water’s surface. If you would like to visit any of RSPB’s reserves and would like more information on them, you can contact the RSPB by emailing southessex@rspb.org.uk or calling 01268 498620.
and plants it aims to help. www.essexlifemag.co.uk 203
ESSEX Wild Life
Charlie Oliver of the Essex Wildlife Trust provides a monthly update
IMAGE OF BEARDED TIT BY AMY LEWIS
Great news for WOODPECKERS T HERE has been exciting news
woodlands with a closed canopy to
Woodpecker and other woodland birds
this summer with the first
provide feeding opportunities at the
at Danbury, including Great Spotted
breeding record for a long time
tops of trees. For nesting they need
Woodpecker, Nuthatch and Treecreeper.
of Lesser Spotted Woodpecker
dead standing woodland, so Essex
Other breeding successes this year
on one of Essex Wildlife Trust’s Danbury
Wildlife Trust’s intricate woodland
included Bearded Tits for the first time
reserves (between Chelmsford and
management plan ensures that
(to the trust’s knowledge) on Blue
Maldon). Better still was that the only
ancient and mature trees are left to
House Farm in North Fambridge.
chick fledged successfully.
age and rot.
Elsewhere on the farm, all four Barn
‘Lesser Spots’ are little bigger
Where there is insufficient dead
Owl nest boxes were occupied for the
than a sparrow, exceedingly scarce
wood, the EWT teams cut out a ring of
first time ever. The first work to create
in Essex (nationally, they are of the
bark around the base of the tree. Known
improved wetlands at Tollesbury Wick,
highest conservation concern) and
as ‘ring barking’, this shortens the life of
on the Blackwater Estuary, is already
very unobtrusive.
the tree and hence promotes the
reaping rewards too, with increased
availability of dead wood, providing
numbers of breeding Lapwing and
nesting habitat for the Lesser Spotted
Redshank this year.
The birds have particular habitat requirements, relying on oak 20 4 www.essexlifemag.co.uk
Fingringhoe Wick’s evolution continues ESSEX WILDLIFE TRUST’S project to create an international wetland at Fingringhoe Wick (an extension to the Trust’s much-loved existing reserve, south-east of Colchester) is progressing well. The marine licence has been granted and all but one planning conditions have been discharged (the remaining one can only be discharged once the breach of the seawall has occurred). Natural England approved the movement of water voles from the site as part of the mitigation work and they have now been strategically released along the River Stort, on the Essex/Hertfordshire border. The habitat has been manipulated around breeding birds to prevent water voles and reptiles
started on the southern end to create the
created by the Environment Agency and a
from returning to the site during the
reedbed. Before the section of the
hibernaculum developed on the higher
construction phase.
seawall is removed, little tern islands and
ground. The breach is planned for
The Environment Agency, a partner in
a platform for the bird hide will be
September or October 2015. Once created,
the project, has completed work on the
created. A new access track linking the
the new wetland is expected to be a haven
northern section of the counterwall and
existing reserve to the new land will be
for wildfowl and wading birds.
INGREBOURNE VALLEY VISITOR CENTRE SET FOR GRAND OPENING OVER the weekend of October 3 and 4,
point in the Battle of Britain during World
entertainment show. For the latest
Essex Wildlife Trust and partners
War II.
information about the weekend,
Havering Council are holding a Grand
On the Saturday (following an AGM for
including travel arrangements, please
Opening Weekend to celebrate the official
Essex Wildlife Trust’s members) the
visit www.essexwt.org.uk or call
opening of the trust’s new centre in
centre will be officially opened by Iolo
01621 862960.
Hornchurch Country Park, Ingrebourne
Williams, conservationist and television
Valley Visitor Centre.
presenter of programmes including the
The weekend also marks the 100-year
BBC’s Springwatch and Autumnwatch.
anniversary celebration of Suttons Farm
There will be a Spitfire fly-past,
Airfield. The park is the site of the former
refreshments, stalls, children’s activities,
airfield which played a vital role in first
guided walks around the park and much
defending London from Zeppelin attacks
more. Visitors can arrive from 11am.
in World War I and later, as RAF Hornchurch, as a key Spitfire dispersal
On the Sunday, from 2pm, there will be
GET IN TOUCH For further information on events and activities involving the Essex Wildlife Trust, go to www.essexwt.org.uk
a fun dog show, cream teas and a wartime www.essexlifemag.co.uk 20 5
WILD ABOUT ESSEX
Should we ever intervene in nature?
O
VER the last couple of
by, these beleaguered creatures,
back into the wild. Most people
years or so, my wife has
which were on the ground and
would think it only right and proper
stumbled upon a
incredibly vulnerable, were duly
that these hapless youngsters be
number of sick and
scooped up and whisked away to the
rescued, even if they are reluctant to
injured baby pigeons
blessed sanctuary of South Essex
get their hands dirty and do it
and collared doves, right outside her
Wildlife Hospital, just outside the
themselves. However, one of these
place of work in the town of
village of Orsett, to hopefully be
incidents in particular, which
Billericay. Not being one to walk on
nursed back to health and released
involved a baby wood pigeon, raises a
20 6 www.essexlifemag.co.uk
WILD ABOUT ESSEX
Andrew Fallan shares his expertise in Essex wildlife with us, sharing his views on the conservation and environmental issues that we face in the county and across the country aside and simply allowed nature to take
consequences. Yet it is with no sense of
its course.
irony that, shielded from the worst of its
One of my great heroes is naturalist and
fondly look back on Mother Nature with
Packham, whose encyclopedic knowledge
rose-tinted glasses and piously declare
and passion for all things wild is matched
that, when it comes to the suffering and
only by his no-nonsense ethics and
death of other creatures, we shouldn’t
fearlessness in speaking his mind. While I
interfere, instead seeing inherent worth,
staunchly agree with much of what he
even perfection, in the brutal cycle of life
says, one area in which we would perhaps
and death that we have long since
differ is that he very much appears to be
removed ourselves from.
of the view that, though we may be
Share your views Andrew Fallan is the author of Winging it – Birding for low-flyers, published by Brambleby Books, and is currently living in Southend. You can read more from Andrew in Essex Life as he explores our more spectacular species and the wilder locations of Essex as part of this regular monthly column
cruelty by medicine and technology, we
BBC Springwatch presenter Chris
Intervening in nature is clearly not
perturbed by its cruelty and violence, we
something that should be done lightly,
should observe nature dispassionately
yet nor is simply walking away and
and without reference to human values,
refusing to get involved. So, which of
never taking sides and certainly not
these options did my wife take when
intervening to prevent, for example, a
confronted with the baby pigeon being
predator from killing its prey.
attacked by crows? Reasoning that, as
There is clearly much to be said for this
scavengers, the crows would likely find a
position, especially as ecosystems are
meal elsewhere, she did exactly what I
incredibly complex and finely balanced,
would have done: she stepped in and did
whereby a seemingly innocuous act, such
the compassionate thing, the only thing
as stopping one animal from killing
her conscience allowed her to do. All this
another, could potentially render a
while being eternally grateful to the
predator unable to feed its young,
wonderful people of South Essex Wildlife
therefore causing more harm than good.
Hospital who, by the way, were confident
However, a strictly hands-off approach
that the pigeon would make a full
also has its limitations, especially if our
recovery. ■
refusal to intervene becomes a general principle that is applied unthinkingly and without reference to the bigger picture. For example, much as we like to think
shining a very revealing light on our
otherwise, we humans are not separate
attitudes towards nature and our
from nature but very much a part of it,
relationship with it.
with evidence pointing to the sorrow and
Rather than being sick, as was the case with the other birds my wife rescued, the
grief we experience at another’s suffering — including those of a different species
juvenile wood pigeon was being set upon
— having an evolutionary origin. When
by a couple of hungry carrion crows.
we feel the pitiless cruelty of nature
Largely due to their habit of eating the
tugging at our heartstrings and
eggs and young of our beloved songbirds,
compelling us to intervene, it is because
crows and magpies in particular seem to
such a response is hardwired within us.
get a very bad press, attracting a level of
Furthermore, in order to meet our own
hostility that is quite at odds with our
needs and to make our lives as
love of certain other predatory animals,
comfortable and convenient as possible,
not to mention our own carnivorous
even to satisfy the whims of our
tendencies. Nevertheless, this incident
insatiable consumerism, we don’t hesitate
clearly raises the question of whether my
to interfere with nature on a monumental
wife should have intervened, or whether
scale, acting as if it’s ours to do with as
she should have put her own feelings
we please and with little thought for the
IMAGE FOR ILLUSTARTION ONLY
potentially thorny issue, while also
www.essexlifemag.co.uk
207
CharitiesLife
COMPILED BY CHRIS PENHALL
News and events from local fundraisers around Essex
Family walk 100km for Alzheimer’s Society Alzheimer’s Society earlier this year. The family took on their self-titled ‘challenge of a lifetime’, to raise money for the charity as they lost their mother/ grandmother who suffered with dementia, in 2013. Mullis & Peake LLP Solicitors based in Romford, where the youngest member of the team, Mary, works as an administration assistant, were the main sponsors of the group whose ages ranged from 24-58. After starting out at Richmond
T
HE BOENKE family from
Park in London at 9.20am on May 23, the
Hornchurch completed a 100km
family finished the following day in
walk from London to Brighton,
Brighton, completing the challenge in 30
raising more than £5,000 for the
hours and 39 minutes.
Plans for tenth anniversary Colourthon underway July 2, 2016, with the team hoping to put on an extra special party to celebrate the milestone as well as ensuring charities will continue to benefit. Lead organiser, Julian Hart, says: ‘Everyone involved in the Colourthon is a volunteer, and while it is sometimes hard to be working on this throughout the year, what makes it worthwhile is seeing the good the event does and the causes it JULY saw yet another
charities. The annual walks
touches. It is
successful Colourthon in
comprise the flagship half
phenomenal.’
Southend which raised
marathon, the Moonlight
£137,000 for causes chosen
Colourthon, plus the
event is open to the public
by the participants. Since
shorter Twilight and
via colourthon.org. For
its inception nine years ago,
Sunlight Colourthons.
charities interested in
the Round Table organised
Plans are already
Registration for the 2016
working with the event,
event has raised £1.25
underway for a special
please contact
million for more than 800
tenth anniversary event on
steve@colourthon.org
Patients go over the O2 dome on four wheels for The J’s TWO PATIENTS from Chelmsfordbased The J’s Hospice led a team of carers and supporters in a climb over London’s O2 in June to raise much-needed funds for the charity. Patient William Creasey, from Romford, was the brains behind the expedition. William had Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and was one of the oldest living patients with this condition in the UK. Unfortunately he passed away earlier this year, before he could make his O2 dream a reality. Fellow J’s Hospice patients, Robert Smith and Lee Cracknell continued to plan their O2 challenge in William’s memory, along with William’s sister Diane Reynolds, aunt Thelma Allen and friends and supporters from the hospice. Robert has a brain tumour and while he is mobile, Lee is wheelchairbound, making this a logistically challenging trip. However the team, with the help of the management of the 02, ensured that this was a successful day. Other participants included Mark Cannon, Sue Upton and Shelley Borley from The J’s Hospice, plus Barry Townsend, Barry Smith and Jeff Parmer, uncle to The J’s very first patient, Milan. Southend’s Fairfield BMW sponsored the challenge.
Vintage fun for all the family THE HELEN ROLLASON Cancer Charity (HRCC) is preparing for its annual Vintage Fayre which returns to Cressing Temple Barns on Sunday, September 6. Popular rock ‘n’ roll band The Kingsmen will be performing throughout the day, playing their music from the Fifties, as well as DJ Rockabilly and dance group A2 Jive, who will be entertaining the crowds with their 1940s style set. Traditional entertainment for children will be provided with Punch and Judy shows, donkey rides, swing boats and face painting. There will also be a large variety of stalls selling vintage clothing, crafts, jewellery, collectables, upcycled items, accessories and food. The event runs from 10am to 5pm with admission £5 for adults, concessions £4 and under 16s free.
www.essexlifemag.co.uk 20 9
1 Mount Ave, ShenďŹ eld CM13 2NS Tel: 01277 211595 www.heringtonhouseschool.co.uk
Herington House School has a happy, safe and stimulating learning environment in which all children realise their full potential. It boasts a friendly, family atmosphere with small class sizes and exceptional standards of academic achievement and behaviour. The school offers extensive extra-curricular activities, with pupils excelling in music, drama and sport. The school community is proud of the annual Form 6 examination results, whereby pupils normally gain entrance to the school of their choice, including a majority to local grammar schools as well as independent schools, with some receiving scholarships.
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The Sheila Ferrari Dyslexia Centre Formerly Avon House Dyslexia Centre Founded 1982 492 High Road, Woodford Green, Essex IG8 0PN Tel: 020 8559 0708 avonhousedyslexiacentre@msn.com
pport for Providing su h dyslexia students wit nge of Offering a ra ildren, services to ch ols, colleges adults, scho s & universitie
At The Shelia Ferrari Dyslexia Centre, we assess, teach and support children and adults with Dyslexia and a range of other special educational needs. The services are delivered by a team of dedicated and highly qualified specialists. The 1:1 teaching at The Shelia Ferrari Dyslexia Centre is unique and enhances the education of students from independent and state schools. We are passionate about educating and supporting students with specific learning differences, working in partnership with parents, carers and schools.
Supporting students and educational establishments for over 30 years NEW! General Tuition Service: Let us help you find a qualified tutor for maths, French GCSE, English, 11+ and Common Entrance
Professional Services for Children and Adults 1:1 Tuition Assessment Access Arrangements Consultation Ed. Psychologist Homework Club Counselling Play Therapy INSET Occupational Therapy Speech & Language Therapy OCR Teacher Training
Referrals accepted from Parents, Teachers, SENCOs and other Professionals
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TO MAKE OUR
BEST BETTER
63%
of students achieved 5 A* - C including English & Maths
At Maltings Academy we believe that we have a real opportunity to transform the provision of education in Witham, and provide our young people with the skills and aspirations they need to lead happy, successful lives. Our results for the last four years have shown rapid progress and staff, parents, carers, students and the local community can be proud of their achievements. I look forward to welcoming you to the Maltings Academy community. J Szynal, Principal
Maltings Academy, Spinks Lane, Witham CM8 1EP
Tel: (01376) 512911 | www.maltingsacademy.org contactus@maltingsacademy.org
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Y ER DA TOBam EN OC11.30 OP AY 90am to
FR
ID
Sixth Form Drop In Day Friday 21st and Monday 24th August from 9.30am to 2.30pm Whole School Open Morning Saturday 3rd October from 10am to 1pm
TH
.0 10
Upcoming Events
Resilience Endurance Perseverance www.heathcoteschool.co.uk
INDEPENDENT SCHOOL INSPECTORATE (ISI) (2013) ● Quality of Pupil’s achievements and learning is excellent. ● Pupil’s attitudes to learning excellent. ● Teaching and castoral care is excellent.
Call: 01245 223131 Email: enquiries@heathcoteschool.co.uk Heathcote School and Nursey Eves Corner, Danbury, Essex CM3 4QB
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MALDON COURT PREPARATORY SCHOOL
Providing an ‘Excellent’ education for children aged 1–11 years
Rated as ‘excellent’ in every area in the May 2013 ISI inspection Outstanding 11+ results Small class sizes Excellent standards of teaching New Nursery provision opened September 2014 Wrap around care from 7.30am–6pm Strong family ethos
“Relationships are excellent throughout the school, which is a happy place: the pupils are very proud of it and feel a strong sense of belonging” ISI May 2013 Inspection Maldon Court Preparatory School, Silver Street, Maldon, Essex Call us on 01621 853529 visit www.maldoncourtschool.org Of find us in the App Store
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Make time to stop, unwind and relax
Luxury Self-Catering Log Cabins Hintlesham, Ipswich, Suffolk | 01473 652149 www.suffolkescape.co.uk | info@suffolkescape.co.uk Peace & Tranquillity | Hot Tubs | Dining Over Water | Wood Stoves | Spa Treatments | Adults only
LEADING LIGHTS
Leading Lights Essex has a proud heritage as a county of entrepreneurial inspiration and here Essex Life tells the stories of 12 driven individuals leading the way in the business world of the county
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PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
We asked local business people the following questions: 1. What is it that makes you good at your job? 2. What’s your top tip for success in business? 3. Away from work, how do you like to relax? 4. What’s your favourite thing about living/working in Essex?
Susan Wessels Framlingham College, College Road, Framlingham, IP13 9EY www.framcollege.co.uk | 01728-723789 A co-educational independent boarding and day school for pupils aged 3-18 1. Passion - the main reason I am in teaching is for the children and I am passionate about ensuring that our pupils get the most out of their time at School. It is a privilege working with and moulding youngsters for the future. Resilience - I believe I have the ability to remain calm, composed and positive when things aren’t always going to plan. 2. Love what you do - I am extremely lucky to be
Malcolm Knox French’s Farm, Wigley Bush Lane, South Weald, Brentwood CM14 5QP www.frenchs-farm.co.uk | 01277 264317
doing a job that I love and everyday provides me with a new and interesting challenge. 3. Sport and exercise are my favourite way to relax - I play golf at Aldeburgh Golf Club and national league hockey for Harleston Magpies Ladies 1st XI. Having played at two Olympic games for South Africa Ladies Hockey team, playing locally is both enjoyable and still exciting. When I am at my busiest at work, daily running, spinning or going to the gym are what keep me relaxed. 4. I grew up on a farm in South Africa so the beautiful landscape (if a bit flat), big skies and the ability to see the stars on a clear night are my favourite things about living in Suffolk.
2. Hard work and dedication to supplying the best for your customers and maintaining the highest quality standards for our products.
High quality organic meats farm shop 1. I am dedicated to providing the best quality food at a competitive price, together with good service and advice to customers. I have a total commitment and passion to the countryside and green policies and our farm is in complete harmony with nature. We pride ourselves on the fact that we have won Awards for Environmental Farming Methods.
3. Socialising with our family and friends. Sailing on occasions and eating out with good company. 4. The diversity of the county with its cross section of people from all walks of life and its close proximity to the countryside and its interesting towns.
Nicola Rands Highfield Private Care Home, Mandeville Road, Saffron Walden CB11 4AQ | 01799 524 936 www.highfieldprivatecarehome.co.uk Highfield offers residential, nursing and dementia care for elderly people. 1. I’m very dedicated to the residents and staff at my workplace. The job is very demanding but incredibly rewarding and I’m passionate about providing and maintaining excellent care. I promote a family atmosphere at the Home where all voices are heard. Humour, reminiscing and entertainment are also very important. Together we have created an
inclusive culture where care with dignity is our focus. 2. I believe that honesty, hard work, empathy and the skill of listening are paramount to creating a successful business. 3. I don’t relax!!!! Only joking. I like to walk my 3 dogs and explore different parts of the countryside. I am also a bag and clothes lady, and like a good shopping trip! 4. I like working in Essex because you meet a large variety of people. I enjoy driving through the country villages when going to do assessments and to be very truthful, I think the support provided by Essex Council is amazing and not something I have experienced in any other county.
We asked local business people the following questions: 1. What is it that makes you good at your job? 2. What’s your top tip for success in business? 3. Away from work, how do you like to relax? 4. What’s your favourite thing about living/working in Essex?
Angela Wybrew Angela - Long Melford, Little St. Marys, Long Melford, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 9HY 01787 370233 | www.angelafashions.co.uk Award Winning Independent Womenswear Shop Celebrating 35 years in fashion 1. I consider myself a very lucky person that I have a job that makes me happy, a team of girlies that endorse my passion for beautiful chic clothes, and a very loyal customer base of all ages and backgrounds who rely on me to interpret the new seasons trends and colours into clothes they find exciting stylish, flattering and affordable.
2. Listen to your customers then mix; hard work, enthusiasm, vision, flexibility, attention to detail, listen to your gut feeling, a spoonful of risk and you could be celebrating 35 years In Business like Paul and I are at Angela’s Long Melford 3. On Holkham beach with my adorable Norfolk Terrier Bella and of course my Husband and our friends. 4. We are only 2 minutes from the Essex Border and we attract many customers from Essex who like our fabulous clothes - there are lots of outstanding wedding venues - restaurants and of course The Constable countryside.
Robert Strathern Fairfields Farm Crisps, Fordham Road, Wormingford, Colchester, Essex CO6 3AQ 01206 241613 | www.fairfieldsfarmcrisps.co.uk We plant, we grow, we harvest, we cook, we bag all here, just for you. 1. Enthusiasm and passion for the job I guess. I think if the people you work with see a good level of overall application from you as the business owner, it should resonate around the rest of the team and prove to be beneficial. I enjoy all the varied and interesting processes of business and particularly working with people. Overall there is usually no
substitute for just good old fashioned hard work and determination. 2. Look around you and listen to the right people. Adjust and improve your business regularly to the frantically changing world around us. Work hard, play hard and persevere with what you really what to achieve, but first know what that is, then get on with. 3. Spending time with family and friends, occasional holidays, nights out, spending time with my two children who are great. 4. It’s a lovely part of the countryside, with great people living in it. I love farming in this area it’s a beautiful part of East Anglia.
Deborah Baxter Solicitor and Director of Baxter Harries Ltd 157 High Street Ongar Essex CM5 9JD www.baxterharries.co.uk | 01277 362332 Baxter Harries is a family law practice offering specialist legal advice and representation in all areas of family law, wills probate and LPAs 1. I couldn’t do it by myself! I lead a team of dedicated, passionate people who all care about the quality of service we offer to our clients and are committed to delivering peace of mind to everyone we represent. We believe that we are outstanding at what we do because we care – about our clients, their families and the outcomes that we help them achieve.
2. I have run a solicitor’s practice for over 17 years now. Looking back, I am amazed at how the business has developed from those very early, frugal days when I set it up on £20K. I don’t have one top tip – it is a combination of always knowing where your next case is coming from, nurturing your clients, investing in loyal staff and keeping calm and carrying on! 3. I have two cocker spaniels – Henry and Maximilian, a rescue bulldog – Emma, a Bengal cat - Leyla and five bicycles! All of those keep me pretty busy and grounded. 4. I spend a lot of time cycling around the Essex countryside and I never stop appreciating how unspoilt and lovely it is.
PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
We asked local business people the following questions: 1. What is it that makes you good at your job? 2. What’s your top tip for success in business? 3. Away from work, how do you like to relax? 4. What’s your favourite thing about living/working in Essex?
Caroline Boshier
2. Listen to your clients. Find out what they want from you and work out how best you can provide them with this. That does not mean trying to be the cheapest, but the best by adding value to each Head of conveyancing person you deal with. 1. I take pride in meeting client’s expectations and I 3. I have a young son, who keeps me busy most have an eye for detail so that my clients know exactly of the time. When I get the chance, I love to what they are getting. I deal with people who are dance. I have done this for years and it gives me under a huge amount of pressure from lenders, estate an opportunity to get completely away from the agents and their own buyers or sellers, so I need to be demands of both work and family. able to make sure I keep to deadlines. Because a house 4. I love being able to get out into the countryside purchase is the major investment most of us make, it is quickly and easily. There are so many beautiful important to make sure there are no hidden problems places to see and exciting things to do, from the and all of the legal issues have been dealt with. seaside to quiet country pubs. Taylor Haldane Barlex LLP, Copt House, 73 Springfield Road, Chelmsford CM2 6JG 01245 349696 | www.thblegal.com
Orlando Jopling Roman River Music, South Green Farmhouse, Fingringhoe, CO5 7DP | 01206 729 356 www.romanrivermusic.org.uk A registered charity that produces a Festival of international performances every Autumn, sustains a year-round education programme and hosts numerous other events in the Colchester area. 1. The success of the Festival is not just to do with me but because no-one else happens to be doing anything like it in Essex. My advice to anyone wanting to set up their own charity or business is to find a gap in people’s lives and create something that fills it. 2. The only important measure of success is will you
leave the world a better place than when you started? For me it is how many school pupils we’ve introduced to new music, given a chance to improve their talents or share the stage with professionals, how many people were moved by a great performance or how many volunteers make new friends and experience the many rewards of taking part in the Festival. 3. Why make a division between life and work? If you only work for money and wait a whole year for your holiday, change job! Do something you love instead. You’ll have more time to go sailing and get beaten by your kids at sport, which is my favourite past-time! 4. The can-do attitude and enthusiasm of people we come into contact with.
Jane Mohan West Street Vineyard, West Street, Coggeshall Essex CO6 1NS | 01375 563 303 www.weststreetvineyard.co.uk West Street vineyard produces award winning wines. It is also a place to relax with family and friends, overlooking a beautiful vineyard, with a coffee, lunch or a glass of wine. 1. Not sure that I am good at my job! When you are a wife and mother, run a very busy restaurant business, which is open 7 days a week, and you are also running a vineyard, the hard work that entails, especially in this country, you feel you are always making compromises so I always feel that I could do better.
2. Perseverance, probably even when you should have given up, a total belief in what you are doing but combined with the flexibility to change, since business never stands still and there is always a new challenge. 3. I play the piano (but not very well) to clear my head of the business and I like to spend time with my family and learning more about wine whether that’s in the drinking, reading about the subject or just travelling to meet other wine producers. The wonderful thing about the wine industry is that some of the most beautiful wines to drink are produced in some of the most beautiful places to visit. 4. Essex is beautiful and underrated, with stunning views, unspoilt villages and down to earth people.
We asked local business people the following questions: 1. What is it that makes you good at your job? 2. What’s your top tip for success in business? 3. Away from work, how do you like to relax? 4. What’s your favourite thing about living/working in Essex?
Diane Nicola Age UK Essex, 112 Springfield Road, Chelmsford, Essex CM2 6LF www.ageukessex.org.uk | 01245 346 106 Age UK Essex is a local charity that has been supporting older people for over 65 years. 1. Being passionate about what you do is one of the key factors of success. I’ve worked for Age UK Essex for 15 years and I’m still here because this is not just a job to me - I believe in what I’m doing, what the charity is working for and because I genuinely like and respect the people I work with. 2. Never become complacent, either professionally or personally. If you’re looking to develop your business,
Alexander Mitchell Holmwood House Prep School, Chitts Hill, Lexden, Colchester CO3 9ST 01206 574305 Colchester’s foremost Prep School for girls and boys aged 4 to 13 and nursery from 6 months. 1. Passion and commitment! Any business leader, be it a Headmaster of a standalone independent Prep School or the CEO of a manufacturing or construction group, must believe fervently in their product and its people. 2. Assume nothing! Leaders need to take the opportunity to repeat their vision at every opportunity. Too often, assumptions are made
it’s absolutely key to know everything you can about your subject as this will help you generate new ideas, move forward and grow. Be open to challenges and changes and understand the expectations of your organisation, clients and staff alike. 3. At the weekends there’s nothing I enjoy more than spending time with my family. My sons are grown up now but it’s always lovely to get together and catch up with them over a nice meal. 4. After being born and raised in East London, and working for a time in central London, I find Essex is a much easier place to strike a healthy work/life balance, with so much to do, nice places to go and I have met some great people.
about people’s understanding of your organisation; decisions and plans can be built upon the wrong perceptions. Leaders should not shy away from engaging at every level and through every media. Speak, write, blog or text, but communicate your vision and values loud and clear. 3. My family fills my non-work time. I love to cook for them at the weekends as well as going out for days and meals. I enjoy reading a good book; educational in term time and a good page-turner in the holidays. 4. North Essex is a hidden secret. The countryside is stunning and yet unknown. There are some lovely villages, pubs and walks as well as easy access to the coast, great shopping, and London.
Robert Smith Bang & Olufsen of Colchester, 61 High Street, Colchester, Essex CO1 1DN | 01206 763344 stores.bang-olufsen.com/great-britain/ bang-olufsen-of-colchester/ Also at 20 Bedford Street, Norwich NR2 1AG Premium & Luxury Audio Visual Retailer. Specialising in Integrated Multi-Room Audio and Video Systems. 1. Having an honest and determined approach to be the best I can. This translates through to my staff and customers enabling successful long lasting relationships.
2. If you’re in a good moment, don’t take it for granted. If you’re in a bad moment, be positive and it won’t last long! 3. Music is good for the soul and holidays abroad detox the mind. 4. I love the people and the surrounding countryside. I also like the fact I don’t have to commute to London. Been there, done that!
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BusinessLife
A round up of company news and events
Romford retailer up for national award
compete for the prestigious award, with the winner being revealed at a gala dinner held on November 10 at Park Lane’s Grosvenor House Hotel in London. Colin Stevens, CEO and founder of Better Bathrooms, said: ‘It’s fantastic news to be shortlisted in the Growth Business of the Year and in the Employer of the Year categories. I strive to create a culture of innovation, giving each employee a
B
ETTER
category at the 2015 Lloyds
sense of ownership on the
BATHROOMS has
Bank National Business
business and rewarding and
been shortlisted in
Awards. Better Bathrooms,
promoting from within. This
the UKTI Growth
the UK’s largest
helps mould talent and
Business of the Year
independent bathroom tile
nurture progression and it’s
category and in the
retailer which has a
great to see staff progress
Employer of the Year
showroom in Romford, will
and grow with the company.’
Brentwood hairdresser up for Junior of the Year title ELLIE BOND, from
industry, Ellie was confirmed as a leading
Spargo
junior in the industry and one of the best in
Hairdressing in
her field. Ellie was judged on her previous
Brentwood has
hair work, her hairdressing skills and
been shortlisted
knowledge, and her input and overall
for the Junior of
influence on the hairdressing industry.
the Year 2015
Ellie said: ‘I feel so honoured to be
category at the
shortlisted for Junior of the Year! I couldn’t
British
believe it when I got the call and I’m still
Hairdressing
completely overwhelmed. I am very proud
Business Awards.
to have made the final and incredibly
After an intense
thankful to the whole team at Spargo for all
judging process by category sponsors and
their support — I couldn’t have done it
key business associates within the
without them.’
Mum’s stroke inspires innovative new Colchester business FOLLOWING three years in research and development, a Colchester charity worker has launched a range of unique, high-visibility In Case of Emergency ID products to the UK market, designed to save time and save lives in an emergency. The inspiration for the idea came about through unfortunate circumstances when, in 2010, Trish Bink’s mother suffered a major stroke at the home they shared in Colchester. Because Trish was present, she could not only summon the emergency services but also supply them with the relevant information that enabled her mother to receive appropriate treatment within the timescale that prevented irreversible damage. Known as the ‘golden hour’, the 60 minutes immediately following a stroke, are vital in getting medical treatment to survive and avoid long-term damage. ‘Thinking of my own situation, my mum was unable to speak when the paramedics arrived, and wouldn’t have been able to give them any information verbally. It made me think of how many other people living alone, without English as a first language or limited speech could be vulnerable,’ explains Trish. ‘When I started researching, I could see that there were a number of In Case of Emergency (ICE) products on the market, ranging from jewellery to ID cards, but I was surprised to find that none of them were high visibility, and that can prove to be a vital factor in many scenarios. For emergency services attending an incident, being able to locate details of a patient’s identity, medical history and special needs quickly could prove to be a matter of life and death.’
Chelmsford dealer wins Nissan Global Award STAFF at a Chelmsford car dealership are
— recognises excellent sales performance
celebrating after scooping Nissan’s top
along with outstanding customer care.
global retail honour for the second year in a
Fraser Cohen, managing director of Glyn
row. Glyn Hopkin Nissan in Bilton Road has
Hopkin, said: ‘This global award is the
once again been given the prestigious
highest accolade Nissan offers to its dealers
Nissan Global Award, which is presented to
in the world and they don’t hand many
only a small number of the world’s best
out. Most dealerships never receive a
performing dealerships. The award — one
Nissan Global Award and so for us to win
of only three to be handed out in the UK
two on the bounce is astonishing.’ www.essexlifemag.co.uk
243
MOTORING
FACTS & FIGURES Based on the Mazda CX-3 2.0 SE 5d 0-60 mph 8.7 secs Top Speed 119 mph Power Output 118 bhp Euro Emissions Standard 6 MPG 47
Much to admire Adam Daly, director at Glenavon Care Ltd, visited Mack Mazda in Chelmsford to try the new Mazda CX-3 and found that there was much more to this sporty and spacious motor than he first thought
A
S A KEEN driving
targeting the mother on the school run
over everything — all my music, my
enthusiast and owner of
as well as individuals who want the
phone, navigation and vehicle
a high performance
practical yet sporty appeal that other
settings. As a techno-phobe even I
vehicle, my first
bandwagon jumpers in this category
found the system easy to use, which is
thoughts of this vehicle
have yet to satisfy.
saying something! In summary, if you are looking to test
before driving it were not ones of
What strikes me immediately upon
particularly high expectation. But
sitting in the driver’s cabin is the quality
drive cars in this particular sector, such
these pre-conceived opinions were
of the finish. Old-fashioned plastic finish
as the Nissan Juke, Renault Captur or
quickly proved wrong.
dashboards are nowhere to be seen.
Dacia Duster, I would urge you to give
Instead I was met with two-tone stitched
this car a try, as I am confident that it
a small crossover that combines strong
leather throughout, which would have
will succeed in becoming the standout
and bold style features with comfort and
not looked out of place in a vehicle twice
prospect of its class. ■
practicality for everyday life. For this
its price.
The all new Mazda CX-3 is described as
reason, I feel Mazda are perhaps
PROFILE Adam Daly is a director of Glenavon Care, devoted providers of care in the home, protecting independence and maintaining lifestyles. Glenavon Care is a family-owned and run care agency based in Chelmsford, borne from more than 40 years of experience in the healthcare industry.
And it didn’t end there, as I found the driving experience to be beyond my
GET IN TOUCH
expectation too. Wherever I took the car,
Mack Mazda Chelmsford Gloucester Avenue Chelmsford Essex CM2 9LG
from country roads to the inner city, it was able to deliver a good overall level of performance. The steering was sharp, the handling agile and the gearbox compact and nimble. Mazda have also gone to great lengths to get the technology right and again they have succeeded. The innovative MZD-Connect infotainment
Mack Mazda Braintree 144 Rayne Road Braintree Essex CM7 2QS www.mack-mazda.co.uk
system gave me easy, fingertip control www.essexlifemag.co.uk
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Account Manager
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Home-based, Essex £20k pa
Home-based, Essex £28k-£30k pa
If you have the enthusiasm and drive to inspire clients and the ability to influence and persuade, you will be interested in an outstanding opportunity presenting and selling magazine advertising solutions as part of our sales team, working on the premium West Essex Life magazine.
If you have the enthusiasm and drive to inspire both colleagues and clients alike and the ability to influence and persuade, you will be interested in an outstanding opportunity for a Sales Manager to lead our magazine team in Essex.
We are looking for someone who has: Ideal candidates will be able to demonstrate: ɀ An understanding of magazine advertising including on-line advertising ɀ The ability to produce and action effective ideas and promotions
ɀ An understanding of magazine and on-line advertising ɀ The ability to manage and motivate a team to hit individual sales targets and key performance indicators ɀ The ability to produce and action effective ideas and promotions
ɀ The ability to facilitate the highest standard of customer care
ɀ Skills to successfully coach, motivate and mentor other members of the team
ɀ A full valid driving licence
ɀ The ability to facilitate the highest standard of customer care ɀ A full valid driving licence
Please send CVs to employment@archant.co.uk or view on www.archant.co.uk/ careers/vacancies
248
essexlifemag.co.uk
Please send CVs to employment@archant.co.uk or view on www.archant.co.uk/ careers/vacancies
5
Anne Gray
Favourite
Anne Gray began her working life at a hair salon in Thorpe Bay aged 13. After working independently for many years, Anne opened a beauty salon, Natural Beauty, with one of her sisters in Danbury. Her daughter Chantal took over the salon ten years ago and it has grown each year. Anne is now very active with Spa Technologies products and white labelling for other trade customers in her fulfilment centre in Burnham on Crouch. She just loves the wonderful aroma of all the different products being filled, labelled, packed off and distributed to her retail and trade customers.
Essex Things
Anne Gray, a beauty and skincare expert in Burnham on Crouch, picks out five of her favourite things about life in Essex
1
2
Visiting Natural Beauty in Danbury
amazing Grade I listed
I love going for a relaxing
of trees between which there
facial at Natural Beauty
is a breathtaking formal lake.
by Chantal, it’s my
Once inside the mansion you are surrounded by history. A
daughter’s salon in
great number of original features have been retained including
IMAGE FOR ILLUSTARTION ONLY
My Favourite Essex Memory
My Favourite Place to Visit Boreham House
Boreham House is a truly mansion with a stately avenue
Danbury. I opened Natural Beauty 20 years ago with one of my
the decorative, hand-crafted plasterwork on the 24ft high
sisters and then passed it on to my daughter who has made a
ceilings, original fireplaces and solid oak hand carved
great success of it. Chantal now offers the Marine Ocean Breeze
panelling. It’s a perfect venue for every type of event and we
Facials and I have to say that I just love them. It’s so nice to
have had some lovely evenings there with the owner, Teresa,
walk in and see the clients that have been coming to Natural
who is a wonderful host, ensuring every event she puts on for
Beauty for those 20 years, and who have become friends.
you is beyond your dreams.
3
Burnham Week in Burnham on Crouch
5
Burnham on Crouch is best known as a
family and even tried roller skating with
yachting centre and hosts the
my granddaughter recently. It was great
internationally famous Burnham Week
fun and good exercise. I did used to go
each year. I enjoy lovely walks along the
years ago when I was a teenager in
River Crouch and stopping off at the
Southend and, surprisingly, I soon got
Olde White Harte, a 17th century hotel
into the swing of it. After half an hour of
My Favourite Essex Event
My Favourite Family Day Out Madison Heights, Maldon
I love to go tenpin bowling with my
4
another place that I enjoy with my
with lots of pieces of local art and
The New London, Chelmsford
unusual gifts as well as homemade
The New London, on London Road in
park to having an ice cream, there are
cakes. It’s just wonderful.
Chelmsford, has an excellent menu
always lots of different events
and also offers a vegetarian menu. It’s
throughout the summer.
and restaurant offering great food and the chance to catch up with local friends. The Tall Green House in the High Street is also a unique tea room
falling over, I managed to keep my
My Favourite Restaurant
balance. It did bring back so many memories. Maldon’s Promenade Park is granddaughter. From walking in the
simply the best I have had locally with such a wonderful choice and a must for a Sunday roast. There’s a great atmosphere and the staff and service are exceptional. It’s also a place where ladies feel comfortable just to meet and have a glass of wine. www.essexlifemag.co.uk
249
SYBILLA HART
Countylife
CAPITAL TO COUNTRY
Sybilla Hart is a freelance writer and mother of three, soon to be four. She has contributed to The Telegraph and The Lady magazine among other titles. She recently moved to North Essex from Fulham and she shares her experiences of this change of lifestyle in Essex Life. She has just passed her driving test and tries to stay on top of things with four children under the age of eight.
Sybilla Hart reflects on her new life in the Essex countryside
IMAGE BY CHRIS DAWES
Pass it on
T
HAT blessed day has
and eight-month-old baby over to Clacton
finally arrived — I have
only to hear the same words for the
passed my driving test!
seventh time, ‘I am sorry to tell you that
I am in a state of utter euphoria and bliss. Nothing
you have not passed today’. I got into the car and started the engine
(not much anyway) can put me in a bad
with a heavy heart. Don’t get your hopes
mood at the moment and, not to put too
up, Sybilla, I told myself. A lunatic could
fine a point on it, but it is as if a great
run across the road and you could fail in
weight has been lifted from my shoulders.
an instant. As fate would have it, the next
Let me tell you how it all came to pass.
40 minutes (though not faultless) were
I arrived in Clacton on Sea to take my
without the incriminating major fault.
practical driving test feeling a bit
When I heard the words, ‘I am sure you
Earls Colne
downtrodden. I just could not bear
will be very pleased to hear that you have
solo! I quickly slotted in to
to drag my husband,
passed,’ I had to resist hugging the
my newfound position as driver.
eight-year-old son
examiner, as you might imagine.
Everyone keeps asking if I am nervous,
My instructor, Sue, was in tears and
and let me tell you, when you have had as
when we emerged into Clacton station
many lessons as I have had, the answer is
she asked me if we were going to
not really. Of course I am not driving
pretend that I had failed. No, was my
around the rural lanes of the Colne Valley
answer, ‘That poor man (my husband) has
as if I own them, but I am not being too mouse-like about it all either. People say
When I heard the words, ‘that you have passed,’ I had to resist hugging the examiner
that you only really learn to drive when
suffered enough’. I could not bear for him
no more traipsing over to Clacton on a
to be in any doubt for a moment longer
Friday morning, booking driving tests,
than necessary, so when he and I caught
taxis and organising endless and complex
eye contact, I did a big thumbs up. Sue
lift shares with very kind fellow parents.
says she has never seen a reaction like it.
At long last I can get on with my life in
He jumped in the air and ran around
rural Essex. I want to thank everyone who
shouting, ‘Yes, yes,’ like a madman!
has joined me on this journey. Although I
you have passed your test. This is true. I am now reversing without a running commentary from the person in the passenger seat, which is such a novelty and a good one at that! I cannot quite believe that there will be
So, one week on and how does it feel? Good, though the news and the reality of
wasn’t sure if we ever would, we got there in the end!
it are still sinking in. I drove to a birthday party without having to drag my poor
250 www.essexlifemag.co.uk
long-suffering husband along, I did nearly
FOLLOW SYBILLA
two weeks of the school run and I visited
Twitter @hart_sybilla
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