Outlook Issue 22 Spring 2012 by i•creation

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YOUR OFFICIAL SOUTHEND-ON-SEA BOROUGH COUNCIL MAGAZINE www.southend.gov.uk

ISSUE 22 Spring 2012

WIN a pair of flights from London Southend Airport PAGE SEVEN

g n i p l e h s i r e e t n u l o f V o y m r a n to grow a 10 & 11 S E G A P Top accolade for loos leaves staff flushed with success PAGE SIX

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Make a difference to your business with an Apprentice

Is an Apprentice just what you are looking for? Apprenticeships are increasingly recognised as the gold standard for work-based training, and are designed around your needs. Southend Adult Community College’s Apprenticeship programmes enable you to mentor and train the “perfect” employee for your business. The whole process is designed around your business needs and timetables.

We currently offer Apprenticeships in the following areas at Level 2 and Level 3: ■ Business Administration ■ Children and Young Peoples Workforce ■ Customer Service ■ Horticulture

■ Health and Social Care ■ IT Professional ■ Management ■ Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools ■ Team Leading One of our existing customers, Planet Leasing, (pictured at our recent adult learning celebration event where they received the Employer of the Year Award), have been so impressed with their current apprentices that they have offered them full-time positions following the successful completion of their apprenticeship training with the College.

Through our Training for Business – Employer Responsive provision, Southend Adult Community College specialises in providing public sector training to Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, Southend University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and The Primary Care Trust, whilst supporting over 130 SME’s with their training needs. Apprenticeships are able to access government funding to support staff development. The level of funding varies and we also offer discounts to employers who train more than one staff member. Some trainees are fully funded. Talk to us to find out how much funding you can have.

Director Gary Rose said: “The support we’ve all had from the college has been excellent; they’re head and shoulders above the rest. We were able to talk to tutors regularly so we could monitor progress. Our apprentices picked things up so quickly it’s great for the business. Not only are we happy, we applied to take on a fourth apprentice. We must invest in our youth.”

For more information on packages for apprentices and how bespoke training can be beneficial, call: 01702 445721 or email: businessinfo@southend-adult.ac.uk

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By Council Leader Councillor NIGEL HOLDCROFT

Spring 2012 N E W S & F E AT U R E S Life-changing support for autistic boy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

THOSE of you who read the local papers will know that I described last year’s budget as being the most difficult we had to set for many, many years. The decisions we had to take this year were even harder and setting a progressive budget for 2012/13 proved an equally onerous task. Without doubt, we are experiencing one of the toughest periods local government has ever had to face. But we have listened to the public and carefully considered which services our residents need. Once again this year no leisure centres, arts or cultural facilities have had to be closed and we have frozen Council tax, car parking costs and many other fees and charges. We have worked hard to protect these and other front line services by achieving as many savings as we can through working smarter, harder and better. Around a third of the savings required of us have been achieved by our officers renegotiating contracts and other corporate work stream initiatives and they deserve a great vote of thanks. Despite the difficulties we are all experiencing, Southend continues to be a vibrant and diverse town where major regeneration is helping improve the lives of each and every resident. Our efforts have not gone unnoticed. As Outlook went to press, we were eagerly awaiting the results of judging which could see our Borough named the UK’s Council of the Year in the prestigious Local Government Chronicle Awards. The judges who visited us in February were clearly impressed by what we are all achieving together in difficult times. And, whether we are awarded the top prize or not, we should recognise that the services and facilities we provide for the residents of Southend are worthy to be shortlisted among the very best in the country... and of that we can all be very proud.

This magazine can be provided in alternative formats such as Braille, audio-tape or in large print. For a copy of this magazine in another format, or to order more copies, please call 01702 215000 ext 5020 or email youroutlook@southend.gov.uk.

Older generation stay fit and active . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Books deliver positive message to youngsters . . . . . . . 6 Personalised advice on travel alternatives . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Council balances budget and protects services . . . . . . . 9 Celebrating centenary of iconic cliff lift . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Olympics inspire sporting and social events . . . . 12/13 College wins funding for apprentice training . . . . . . . 14 Priory restoration almost complete . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Initiative to warn of loan shark dangers . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

CONTENTS

Pride in services judged among the best in country

DO IT ONLINE! Smartphone users – scan the QR code below with a barcode scanner app to access our website

Multi-million pound plan to boost business district . . . 17 National recognition for Council services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Heritage trail at the ‘cemetery classroom’ . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 What’s On Sea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20/21 Know your councillors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22/23

Outlook is written, designed and produced by Smith Davis Press in partnership with Southend-on-Sea Borough Council. The information contained in this publication has been accepted from the contributors in good faith, and whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of going to press, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council cannot accept responsibility for any errors, misrepresentations or subsequent changes. Whilst all possible care is taken in the preparation of this publication, no responsibility for loss occasioned by any person acting as a result of the material contained herein can be accepted by Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, the authors or the publisher. Southend-on-Sea Borough Council does not endorse any of the products or services advertised within this publication. Printed by PCP.

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for Southend Outlook is printed on recycled paper. When you have finished with this publication please help the environment by passing it on to a friend or recycling it.

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New Citizen’s Account is set to go live PEOPLE are being encouraged to pre-register for a personalised internet service that gives them access to details about their Council Tax payments and other tailored information. Citizen’s Account, which will go live in the summer, will also provide details on rent due dates, housing and Council Tax benefit entitlements and business rate accounts. It means Borough residents don’t need to ring or visit a Council office to get an answer to their every day queries – they can simply do it online. The secure website will also be linked to the existing online payment system, so residents can pay their council tax or rent over the internet. Web Services Manager Debbie Kennett said: “We are asking people to pre-register for the scheme, which is due to go live in the summer. “Citizen’s Accounts will be secure and personalised to each account holder, so they will have the very latest information such as their council tax due date and what benefits they are receiving.” To pre-register for a Citizen’s Account, log onto www.southend.gov.uk/ countmein.

‘‘’’

He even lets me hug him. The first time it happened was really lovely. I cried. JUDY BARTON pictured with her son Adam.

Do it Online

Under 16s living away from parents IF someone else is looking after your child, or if you are looking after someone else’s child for 28 days or more you could be “privately fostering” and the Council must be informed of the arrangement. The Council needs to know so officers can monitor arrangements to make sure they are suitable and safe for the child. To notify the Council please call the First Contact Team on 01702 215007. For more information and advice contact Liana Gowen on 01702 354366.

4 Outlook SPRING 2012

Practical support transforms

autistic boy’s life M

UM of six Judy Barton felt guilty for holding back her autistic son Adam – and admits she was stunned when projects, clubs and workshops backed by the Council eventually brought out his hidden talents. The 43-year-old had spent years spurning opportunities thinking she was protecting her teenager, who has cerebral palsy and profound learning difficulties. But she started saying yes last year and since then her 14-year-old has zip wired over a lake, taken part in the No Labels Purple Goat Theatre project and performed in Pinocchio. He attends Kids Kingdom, spends two days a month tackling activities as part of the Team YP Challenge and enjoys Club Inclusion, the after school club. Judy said: “The change in Adam is out of this world. The Purple Goat guys have been brilliant and

concentrated on what he could do, not what he couldn’t do. Now he sings and dances and is more confident. He stays downstairs and watches television with us. He even lets me hug him. The first time it happened was really lovely. I cried. “I’m happy Adam is progressing and I’m so grateful to the Council. The staff are absolute diamonds. To think I thought I knew best. I’m glad I was wrong as I wouldn’t have the Adam I have now.” The Council supports a range of short-break activities for young people under 18 with a disability. Many are run by voluntary groups and parents and carers can apply direct to projects without the need for social work assessments. For more information call 01702 215007 ext

2310 or visit www.southend.gov.uk/short breaks.

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o t d l o o o t r e v e N More senior citizens than ever are taking exercise and staying active

UNDREDS of men and women in Southend are finding out they are never too old to keep fit and active. Whether it’s a dip in the swimming pool, exploring the benefits of yoga or an energetic game of table tennis, there’s something to suit everyone in the Active Seniors project aimed at helping those of an older generation to be more active. Taster sessions which showcase the sort of leisure activities available throughout the Borough have so far been well attended by older residents – some in their eighties – who find that age is no barrier to taking part in healthy exercise and having fun. The sessions have been held at Southend Leisure and Tennis Centre, Shoeburyness Youth Centre and Queensway Club 60 and more are planned at other venues to be confirmed. Other agencies and schemes have supported the delivery of activities, such as the Blues Bodycare Fit for Life and the Walking the Way to Health scheme.

The Active Seniors project was originally established via funding from the Essex Community Foundation, and, with support from a dedicated volunteer who has visited places such as luncheon clubs where older people gather, the project has been able to develop. As a result more older people are discovering that taking part in carpet bowls, pilates, aerobics and the many other activities on offer really does keep them feeling young no matter what date is on their birth certificate!

For some people it is not only the fact they are keeping fit – taking part gives them the chance to meet people and make new friends as a great way to combat isolation and loneliness. Kate Trueman, the Council’s Leisure and Sports Manager, said: “The aim of the Active Seniors project is to encourage older people to take advantage of the sports and leisure activities on

Enjoying an Active Seniors fitness session at Shoeburyness Youth Centre are, left to right, Patricia Moss, Stan Kelly, Susan Kelly and Lynda Hindle. offer across the town as part of an holistic approach to their overall wellbeing. We have something for everyone – whether they are used to taking part in sporting and exercise activities or would like to give it a try.” For more information about Active Seniors telephone 01702 215011.

Building work set to start on Forum THE Forum Southend-on-Sea, a £27 million state-of-the-art library and learning facility in the centre of Southend, will soon be taking shape as a new feature on the town’s skyline. As Outlook was going to press, building work was due to start on the cleared site of the former Farringdon multi-storey car park. The pioneering joint enterprise between the Council, the University of Essex and South Essex College will form the stunning centrepiece of a new public square being created just off the town’s High Street. Main contractors Wates Construction has committed to sourcing up to 75 per cent of its supply chain partners for the project from within a 50-mile radius of Southend. It will also provide four apprenticeships, stage community

days in the area and host 70 work experience days for local students and school pupils. In addition Wates has pledged to stage a training event where it will recruit local unemployed people to a two-week training course with the hope of finding them work or future training opportunities. As well as replacing the Central Library in Victoria Avenue, the four-storey Forum will also make the extensive library resources of the University and College available to residents as well as students. The new integrated public and academic facility will include a main reading area around 40 per cent bigger than the existing Central Library. There will be more than 100 computer terminals and over 200 other seats, with the

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children’s section located on the ground floor for easy access. The Forum will also provide a new home for the Focal Point Gallery, a new teaching facility for around 600 College students and new research and learning facilities for 450 University students. A new café, 203-seat lecture theatre and a 6.2m x 3.5m outdoor LED screen to show cultural events are also included in the scheme. Simon May, the Council’s Library Services Manager, said:“Residents and visitors will soon see construction work well under way. “We are confident that The Forum will be opening its doors to the public on schedule in September 2013.”

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Southenders Cleaner Moleen Vambe pictured outside the Loo of the Year at Marine Parade with the award certificate.

Author Anthony Quinn reads his Mo books to pupils, left to right, Saphron Collison, aged nine, Shannon Collison, eight, and nine-year-old Brandon Franklin.

Books deliver key messages I

Top public loo award is no

FLASH IN THE PAN...

THE impending arrival of guests sends most of us scurrying to the smallest room in the house to check that all is spick and span and suitably fragrant. Similarly, the sweet smell of success welcomes anyone visiting the pristine public conveniences at Marine Parade in City Beach and at Crowstone Shelter, Chalkwell, in order to spend a penny. For the two top toilets really shone at this year’s Loo of the Year Awards when they received five star ratings from British Toilet Association judges who have a nose for sniffing out the nation’s best-kept loos. The stringent judging panel scrutinised every inch of the competing conveniences, including signage, state of repair, taps, locks, hooks and ceilings, as well as all aspects of cleanliness, ventilation, accessibility and much more.

6 Outlook SPRING 2012

The winning conveniences were built by Danfo UK and are operated by the Council in partnership with Cory Environmental. Needless to say, staff who keep the winning conveniences in sparkling form were somewhat flushed with success when they attended the awards in Birmingham to be presented with their highest five-star certificates. Congratulating those responsible for lifting the top toilet honours, Steven Crowther, Council Group Manager for Waste and Environmental Care, said:“It’s essential for Southend to have high quality public conveniences because we are such a popular destination for visitors.” In other words, the public convenience accolades achieved by Southend this year will be no flash in the pan!

LLUSTRATED children’s books are helping to promote positive messages including leading healthy lifestyles, standing up against bullying and respecting road safety. The Mo books are aimed at youngsters aged six to 10-years-old and are proving popular throughout Southend. They centre on the hero, Mo, and his friend Molly as they help one another through a series of adventures. The first entitled Mo and his New Trainers was developed in partnership with the Home Office and promotes an anti-bullying message. The second, Happy Healthy Mo, was produced in partnership with NHS South East Essex and features a healthy eating message. The third book, called Oh No Mo! – produced with the support of the Council’s road safety team – was funded by medical supply specialist Olympus Keymed and NHS South East Essex and provides children with positive messages about road safety and active living. The books have been produced by Turning Tides – a community based project set up by Southend Association of Voluntary Services (SAVS), which offers a range of Mo activities for young and Molly people living in and their disadvantaged areas. friend Mouse.

They have proved so popular that a fourth is now in the pipeline and they are regularly read in schools. Author Anthony Quinn, who is also Turning Tides Manager, said: “We have had a great response to the books and the message they deliver. Part of the success has been involving the children in the production process. For instance, the title of the third book was chosen through a competition which invited school children to come up with the name.” For more details about the books, call Turning Tides on 01702 356070 or email turningtides@savs-southend.co.uk.

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COMPETITION

WIN a pair of

return flights THE UK’s largest airline, easyJet, is offering readers the chance to win a pair of return flights to any destination from London Southend Airport. The airline’s inaugural flight from the airport takes off on 2 April 2012 with routes available to Alicante, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Belfast, Faro, Ibiza, Jersey, Majorca and Malaga. Prices start at £24.99 (one-way including taxes). There will be 70 easyJet flights a week making it an ideal gateway for both business and leisure travel across Europe. To be in with a chance of winning the competition, simply answer the following question: How many new routes are easyJet operating from London Southend Airport? 1 Five 2 Eleven 3 Nine To enter, please send your answer on a postcard along with your name, address and day-time telephone number to: easyJet Competition, Media and Communications, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, Civic Centre, Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea SS2 6ER or email: outlookcomp@southend.gov.uk. The deadline for entries is Friday 20 April. EasyJet Terms and conditions apply – see www.southend.gov.uk/outlook.

ship with

In partner

easyJet

Travel Advisor Volunteers Jane Sealy, left and Victoria Young discuss sustainable travel alternatives with Southend resident Vernon Harris.

Doorstep advice on

travel options A

pilot project aimed at helping up to 8,000 Southend households better plan personal travel has been launched by the Council. Ten specially trained volunteers are knocking on doors in Milton and St Laurence wards at the start of the two-year scheme. Their brief is to discuss people’s current travel arrangements and offer tailored advice and information about sustainable alternatives like walking, cycling, trains and buses. The volunteers are from the Turning Tides Neighbourhood Project. Other partners include Southend Association for Voluntary Services and travel charity Sustrans. Travel Advisor Volunteers and Turning Tides Team Leaders will wear uniforms with red jackets, carry identification and have been given Bikeability training and bicycles by the Council and Cycle Southend to help them get around. The project is part of a wider £4.8 million transport scheme funded by the Department of Transport through the Local Sustainable Transport Fund (LSTF) programme, which also involves cycle ways and improved infrastructure Andrew Meddle, the Council’s Head of Planning and Transport, said: “We are very

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grateful indeed to our terrific volunteers who have undertaken very detailed training to enable them to offer the very best transport advice for residents. “They aim to help make travelling around cheaper, easier and healthier for individuals and for families. They will also be able to direct residents to specific services to help them make the best use of transport opportunities.” Ashley Dalton, the Council’s LSTF Community and External Funding Manager, said: “Personalised travel planning has been around for about 10 years but we’re one of the first councils to use volunteers like this to deliver it – so we’re really excited about this new way of delivering local services. “The experience gained by the volunteers means they can meet new people, get involved in the local community, develop new skills and increase their employability. We plan to audit the project to see what changes there have been in local residents’ travel choices.” For more information about Personalised Travel Online Planning, contact the Turning Tides Team on 01702 356070 or email turningtides@ savs-southend.co.uk.

Do it

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Adver tisement

dmiral Court in Leigh-on-Sea is a new care home specialising in dementia care. The purpose-built home combines stateof-the-art facilities with a homely and welcoming environment. Each of the bedrooms is cosy and inviting, elegantly furnished and has its own en-suite shower facilities. Several rooms on the ground ďŹ&#x201A;oor have large bay windows, while some have direct access onto a private patio garden area. All bedrooms feature a Dementia Monitoring System to support the well-being of residents.

Facilities include a therapy room, dedicated activities room, and a choice of spacious lounges and kitchenette/dining rooms for those who wish to help prepare their own snacks or drinks in between mealtimes. Outside, the home has a stunning sensory garden which has been specially designed for those living with dementia, and is planned to stimulate interest in gardening and outdoor activities. For more information or to arrange a visit please call 01277 314196.

Manchester Drive Leigh-on-Sea SS9 3HP

admiralcourt@hallmarkcarehomes.co.uk www.hallmarkcarehomes.co.uk

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Balancing the books and

Efficiencies across five key areas

protecting services S

OUTHEND-ON-SEA Borough Council has once again managed to protect the full range of services it offers while balancing its books under the most severe financial constraints. The Cabinet has put together a budget which achieves the efficiencies demanded by Government – totalling almost £12 million for 2012/13 – while minimising the impact on front line services. Almost £4 million in efficiencies has been achieved by renegotiating existing contracts, rationalising systems and sharing service delivery with other local partners. No leisure centres or arts or cultural facilities have been closed despite the Council’s reduced budget. And to ease the burden of difficult financial times on residents, Southend’s Council Tax, which is already one of the lowest in the country, will be frozen. Parking charges have also been frozen across the Borough to assist the local economy and boost local businesses. Unfortunately the need to make such significant savings will lead to job losses – 120 posts have been identified as being at risk, of which 49 are currently vacant. The Council’s policy of keeping vacant posts open and operating a Talent Pool system has enabled it to keep the number of compulsory redundancies to an absolute minimum. Despite the financial restrictions, the Council is pressing on with a capital programme to deliver improved facilities and boost local economic growth. These include: ■ The provisional creation of a new primary school and the redevelopment of seven existing primaries. ■ The stabilisation of the cliff slip on the seafront which will eventually provide a site for the town’s proposed new museum. ■ Infrastructure improvements and ongoing maintenance to the town’s world famous pier. Council Chief Executive Rob Tinlin said: “Times are extremely tough at the moment and they are

TO balance its books for 2012-13, the Council has identified £11.846 million of efficiencies across key spending areas:

‘‘’’

■ Adult & Community Services – £2.825million.

We’ve managed to protect £4 million of front line services by renegotiating existing contracts with suppliers and other efficiency measures.

■ Children & Learning – £2.005million. ■ Enterprise, Tourism & the Environment – £1.640million. ■ Support Services – £930,000. ■ Corporate – £449,000.

Chief Executive ROB TINLIN almost certainly going to get tougher still. “A lot of hard work has been done and a lot of very difficult decisions made to produce another balanced budget. “Once again we’ve been able to do this without stopping any

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services. But with continuing Government austerity measures, it will be increasingly difficult to preserve all our services year on year. “For 2012-13, we’ve managed to protect £4 million of front line services by renegotiating existing

Council Canvasser Faith Nassuna reminds people to make sure they are eligible to vote on election day.

■ Additional efficiency programmes – £3.997 million. contracts with suppliers and other efficiency measures. That’s a massive achievement and represents a third of this year’s savings.”

Voters urged to register in time for elections THE countdown is already on to the local elections in May so voters across Southend are being urged to make sure they are registered in time. The last date to register as an elector is 18 April. Any requests, cancellations or amendments involving postal votes have to be made before 5pm on that day. The closing time for requests of proxy votes, other than for medical emergencies, is 5pm on 25 April. The first date electors can apply to replace lost postal votes is 27 April. Polling takes places between 7am and 10pm on 3 May with a third of the Council’s seats up for election. All eligible electors will have received polling cards and information by then telling them where their nearest polling station is. To register to vote please visit www.southend.gov.uk/registerto vote or call 01702 215010.

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The older volunteers who help themselves Photo courtesy of Echo Newspapers

by helping other people H More red, white and blue street parties – like this one held last year celebrate the Royal Wedding – are being organised for this June to mark The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

Simple guide to

Royal jubilee celebrations PEOPLE planning to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee with a street party are being reminded that using the Council’s step-by-step guide is a right royal piece of cake. The special page on the Council’s website flags up out-of-doors celebrations as a great way of getting to know neighbours and meeting members of the community. They are also very simple to plan – small, private street parties do not generally require a licence for activities such as the consumption of alcohol. However residents do need to complete a form online, or download a form and send it in, if they are organising a street party or fete. It may not always be possible for the Council to agree a road closure (for example if the street is a main public transport route or a major road that would require complex diversions), and in these cases people could consider holding their party in a local park or green open space. Residents going on to the street party web page at www.southend.gov.uk/street parties will find an easy-to-use guide and an application form as well as a

10 Outlook SPRING 2012

UNDREDS of people in Southend are finding that they are helping themselves by helping others – as a volunteer. There is certainly no shortage of opportunities when it comes to offering time, life experience or skills to support charities and community groups. If you have time on your hands – say, through retirement, long term unemployment or simply because children have grown up and left home – volunteering could fill a gap in your life while helping to improve the lives of others. Many of those who have volunteered have found it a rewarding experience and a great way to make new friends or learn skills that can lead to a qualification or boost their CV.

Beecroft Art Gallery is one service that could not continue without its volunteer stewards who direct visitors from all over the world around the various exhibitions and answer their questions. Claire Fox, Marketing and Events Officer for Southend’s Museum Services, said: “Our volunteers play a vital role in the running of the art gallery and greatly enhance its service to visitors. “The volunteer stewards enjoy interacting with other people in a safe and pleasant environment. The gallery is really a part of their lives.” Tenants of South Essex Homes can make a real difference in their communities by getting involved in focus groups, local residents associations or the umbrella organisation Southend Ray Helliar lends his IT expertise to local resident Judith Levy.

10-point checklist dealing with issues such as putting up signs to indicate road closure, and hanging up bunting. There is also an ongoing “road closures due to special events” list of forthcoming road closures due to celebratory events around Southend. ● A series of children’s activities on the theme of “red, white and blue” are to be held at the Central Museum in Southend to mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. Craft sessions will be on offer as well as quizzes and trails based on objects or events significant during the last 60 years, to test the ingenuity of the youngsters around the Museum.

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HELPING FELLOW RESIDENTS HAS GIVEN RETIRED ENGINEER Chinn Kylafapathy chats with fellow residents over a cuppa – left to right, Glynis Whiteman, Pam Smith, Joan Neal and Gloria Good.

Tenants and Residents Federation to improve their neighbourhoods and tackle problems and concerns. To find out more phone South Essex Homes on free phone 0800 833 160. Shirley O’Reilly, Chair of the Federation, said: “Most of our members find it a very rewarding experience. People with a problem often prefer to talk to another resident rather than an officer.” Many of the local volunteering opportunities are channelled through the Volunteer Centre Southend which offers more than 500 volunteer opportunities with charities and community groups. They are as varied as working with schools, the elderly, gardening and IT support – and even the

talents of a zany children’s entertainer can be put to good use! For details phone 01702 356060, visit www.do-it.org.uk or pick up a leaflet at your nearest library. Southend Libraries provide Volunteer Information Points in partnership with the Volunteer Centre and depend on volunteers to provide library services in the community. More than 50 volunteers work with the Home Library Service to deliver books, CDs, audio tapes and other reading aids to 200 residents and carers who cannot easily get to a library, while 27 Bookstart volunteers give 600 hours of their time annually to encourage parents to share books

with their children from an early age. Southend Libraries also work with Royal National Institute for Blind People (RNIB) local volunteers who deliver “talking books” to 240 blind and partially sighted people in the area, while volunteers also help with a vital behind-the-scenes work at Focal Point Gallery, the public funded contemporary art gallery housed in Southend Central Library. Simon Wallace, Community and Diversity Manager for Southend Libraries, said: “Our volunteers tell us they get so much out of giving their time to help others share their enjoyment of books and other services provided by the libraries.”

Ex bank accountant’s IT skills are creating more silver surfers FOR retired accountant Ray Helliar donating his time to teach others the IT skills he picked up while working for a major bank added up to a great idea. When Ray, 72, suddenly found he had spare time on his hands in 2010 he went along to the Volunteer Centre Southend armed with his cv to offer his services – and very soon found a high rate of interest in his expertise with a keyboard. Ray was quickly signed up to teach IT to older members of the Jewish community for an hour a week at the Finchley Road Synagogue in Westcliff and another hour each week at Southend and Westcliff Jewish Community Centre. His groups are aged from their 60s onwards and one lady currently exploring the wonders of the worldwide web is in her 90s!

Ray said: “I learned my computer skills as an internal auditor with Abbey National. Most of the people in my groups have had no computer experience and I begin by telling them how to switch on and, more importantly, switch off a computer. “But within four or five weeks they are usually OK with emailing, using the internet, word processing and even spread sheets. Some of them are even learning to text!” Ray added: “The IT sessions help me to get out into the community and meet people, while I find volunteer work is also very rewarding on a personal level. There’s so much satisfaction in seeing absolute beginners becoming confident with IT and discovering a whole new world through computers.”

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NEW PURPOSE HE may be retired, but Chinn Kylafapathy keeps busy by looking after the interests of fellow South Essex Homes residents. Sri Lankan-born Chinn was raised in Malaysia and trained in England as a civil engineer, working for over ten years in the South East on building the M25. After his wife died Chinn settled in secure sheltered accommodation in Southend and although happy in his new home he was lonely and felt his life was without purpose. However, life changed for the better when Chinn threw himself into community engagement as a volunteer. Now he is a member of no less than seven residents’ focus groups – including Residents’ Involvement, Planned Maintenance and Sheltered Housing – and when a property becomes vacant he carries out a “void inspection” to make sure it meets the needs of the next tenant. Chinn is also one of the founder members of the South Essex Homes Black, Asian, Minority, Ethnic focus group and is a member of the committee of Southend Tamil Association. Chinn said:“When I came to the UK to complete my studies I volunteered to work with the Salvation Army at Christmas and remembered just how much I enjoyed the experience. “Now I’m retired I use my professional and personal experiences to help others. It has also benefited me tremendously because now my life is fulfilled once again.”

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IT’S countdown to the 2012 London Olympic Games and Paralympic Games and in Southend the spirit of the world’s greatest sporting event burns as brightly as the Olympic flame. People of all ages across the Borough have been inspired by the Games to participate in all sorts of sporting and social activities. Here Outlook focuses on some of the many ways in which residents keep fit, discover new interests and make new friends.

Basketball freestyle player Andrew Wilding and cheerleader Esmee Gummer practice at City Beach in readiness for the Urban Games in Southend.

Big public extravaganza is great way

to warm up to the Olympics T

Kickz Co-ordinator Joe Skeels, left, and Coach Scott Macdonald pictured at Southend United’s Roots Hall Stadium.

Teaming up to encourage youngsters to play sport FOOTBALL is top of the league with youngsters discovering the joys of sport thanks to a programme designed to engage young people in positive leisure activities. The Council’s Integrated Youth Support Service has teamed up with Southend United and the League club’s highly successful Community Trust Kickz programme. Young people aged between 12 and 19 are referred by the service to the Kickz scheme, which besides offering a structured football programme, has also helped to reduce crime and antisocial behaviour across the Borough. The Integrated Youth Support Service is able to offer a wide range of other activities for young people to choose from. Cricket, basketball, badminton and volleyball are just some of the many other activities on offer and coaches are on hand to develop skills. However, soccer has scored as the most popular sport at a time when followers of the

12 Outlook SPRING 2012

“beautiful game” look forward to watching Great Britain’s football team take on the world in the London Olympics. Richard Meads, Operations Manager for Integrated Youth Services, said: “A recent survey of 382 children found that 70 per cent of our young people prefer traditional outdoor sports – and a large majority of the boys who responded voted football as their favourite.” He added:“Getting young people involved in sporting activities is an effective way of focusing their minds on an interest and keeping them out of trouble. It also helps them to stay fit and healthy.” Joe Skeels, who runs Kickz for Southend United’s Community Trust, said:“Our sessions also help young people gain coaching qualifications and for some young people it is part of a pathway to employment.”

HERE is a great opportunity to celebrate the Olympic Year of 2012 by being part of Southend’s first major events of the year on 23 June. Sparks Will Fly will bring together the Urban Games and Southend Carnival on the same day – just over a month before the world watches the opening ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games. Attractions of Sparks Will Fly – Southend, part of the Essex-wide cultural celebration and the London 2012 Festival, include the appearance of Marina Mightier, one of two giant characters travelling around Essex to champion Sparks Will Fly, who will lead the carnival procession. The event will take place along the seafront, Southchurch Park and Warrior Square Gardens. Activities throughout the day and into the evening include: the Carnival, 5k race, whacky walk, urban games, a variety of sporting and dancing demonstration with a taster session, Battle of the Bands, Busking Out, Leigh Folk Festival, taster sessions at Southend Marine Activity Centre, learn to fish taster sessions at Southend Pier and an RNLI open day also at the pier. Meanwhile, Southend’s third Urban Games will also be offering a host of street sports and activities for all the family and all ages in Southchurch Park – including

Inderjit Sandhu, Essex County Council Cultural Diversity Project Manager, will be leading Bollywood dance workshops at the Big Dance Day event. Inderjit is pictured in his Bollywood costume.

Visitors to Southend’s Big Dance Day have the chance to join in Bollywood dancing sessions.

cheerleading, breakdancing, beatboxing and DJ-ing to freestyle football and basketball. No tickets are required for the Urban Games, which are free of charge for both participants and spectators. Leisure Officer Kevin Read said: “Urban

Games are great activities for young people to enjoy, but like Sparks Will Fly and Southend Carnival it is also an event for the whole family. Urban Games focus on urban sports, music and other activities that bring people together in the best tradition of the Olympics.”

Event features dances from around the world THE Big Dance Day is a great chance for people of all ages to stay in shape while having lots of fun by learning different dances from all over the world – including Bollywood, African dance, Flamenco, Salsa, Zumba and Street Dance. The whole-day event in October will be the third of its kind in Southend-on-Sea and in previous years it has attracted more than 200 people, including a number of families. A small admission charge gives visitors access to as many dance performances, workshops and taster sessions as they wish to attend. As in previous years, this year’s Big Dance Day will most likely be held at Southend Leisure and Tennis Club. Look out for exact details of the date and venue later this year.

View it – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

Left, Henna hand tattoos are part of Bollywood dance fashion – and visitors to the Big Dance Day will see how the tattoos are applied as part of the entertainment.

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Basketball freestyle player Andrew Wilding and cheerleader Esmee Gummer practice at City Beach in readiness for the Urban Games in Southend.

Big public extravaganza is great way

to warm up to the Olympics T

Kickz Co-ordinator Joe Skeels, left, and Coach Scott Macdonald pictured at Southend United’s Roots Hall Stadium.

12 Outlook SPRING 2012

Inderjit Sandhu, Essex County Council Cultural Diversity Project Manager, will be leading Bollywood dance workshops at the Big Dance Day event. Inderjit is pictured in his Bollywood costume.

Visitors to Southend’s Big Dance Day have the chance to join in Bollywood dancing sessions.

View it – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

Left, Henna hand tattoos are part of Bollywood dance fashion – and visitors to the Big Dance Day will see how the tattoos are applied as part of the entertainment.

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COMPETITION

Chance to WIN

£130 towards a college course

Planet Leasing staff who have benefited from tailor-made training at Southend Adult Community College are, left to right, Marketing Manager Elliot Rasch, Sales Support Ben Sparrow and Administrator Evie Roberts. Elliot and Evie were both apprentices who now have permanent jobs and Ben is an apprentice who knows he will have full-time employment with the company.

Tailor-made training for

new apprentices M

ORE tailor-made training packages are being offered to Southend employers now the Adult Community College has won a Government grant of nearly £70,000 towards 50 new apprenticeships. The money covers training costs and will be allocated on a first come, first served basis to companies taking on apprentices aged under 25. Donna Hallissey, the college’s Innovation and Employer Responsiveness Director, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for businesses thinking of taking on an

apprentice. They’ll be able to benefit from the financial support and our highly specialised training packages. “Employers can’t buy packages like these off the shelf. What we do is go out to a firm, assess their training needs and write a programme specifically for them. “It’s a real partnership designed to meet their needs while supporting the apprentice. It’s an area where we’re continually developing our own expertise so we can respond to firms and their requirements.” That tailored approach helped

Ofsted rating is second highest SOUTHEND Children’s Services continue to “perform well” according to the latest inspection by the Government education watchdog Ofsted. It is the third year running the Borough has achieved the second highest rating possible. Inspectors said: “The large majority of services, settings and institutions inspected by Ofsted are good or better. Most providers help children and young people to stay safe and enjoy learning.” Inspectors noted a wide variety of strengths covering nursery, primary and secondary schools and reported that the number of good special schools had improved.

14 Outlook SPRING 2012

win the college Training Quality Standard certification from the Government’s Skills Funding Agency in recognition of its work providing high quality training to more than 1,000 employees a year. One firm to benefit from bespoke tuition is vehicle brokers Planet Leasing, who have just won the college’s Employer of the Year award. Its first two apprentices now have full-time positions and a third already knows he will be taken on when he completes his. Director Gary Rose said: “The support we’ve all had from the college has been excellent, they’re head and shoulders above the rest. “We were able to talk to tutors regularly so we could monitor progress. Our apprentices picked things up so quickly it’s great for the business. Not only are we happy, we applied to take on a fourth apprentice. We must invest in our youth.” For more information on financial support packages for apprentices and how tailor-made training packages can help, call 01702 445721 or visit www.southend-adult.ac.uk.

ONE lucky reader can scoop a £130 voucher towards an exciting course at Southend Adult and Community College. The voucher can be used to pay for, or contribute to, a course from a huge range of personal interest programmes at the college. But it does not include accredited courses like NVQs and apprenticeships. All you have to do is answer the following question:

When is the last date voters need to register by for this May’s council elections? The answer can be found in this issue of Outlook. To enter the competition please send your answer on a postcard, along with your name, address and day-time telephone number, to: College Competition, Media and Communications, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, Civic Centre, Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea SS2 6ER, or email outlookcomp@ southend.gov.uk While you’re sending your entry, please let us know your thoughts on what you like and what you would like to see in Outlook. The closing date for entries is Friday 20 April. Terms and conditions apply: please visit www.southend. gov.uk/outlook for more information.

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Interactive workshops to help people achieve their career goals

Claire Fox, Marketing and Events Officer for Southend Museums Service, pictured on the first floor balcony at Prittlewell Priory overlooking groundfloor restoration work.

Painstaking research

pays off at priory C

ONTRACTORS and staff at Southend Museums Service have gone to amazing lengths to breathe new life into the 12th Century Prittlewell Priory. Nothing escaped their attention during the £1.8 million inch-by-inch internal and external restoration and conservation. Painstaking research identified original paint colours while a lift has been installed to open up most upstairs areas to disabled visitors for the first time. Years of paint have been stripped from the Victorian pitch pine front door while Conservator Claire Reed and Curator Clare Hunt saved the door’s previously unloved iron studs. It now provides a fitting entrance to the stunning building, which will reopen to the public with a day of celebration on 16 June. Peter Vadden, the Council’s Group Manager for Culture, Improvement and Development, said: “I am delighted with how it’s turned out and can’t wait for the public to see it.”

Say it – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

WITH the London Olympics around the corner, many world-class athletes are thinking how to optimise their performance and overcome challenges to achieve success in their events. Local conference and training facility The Tickfield Centre is encouraging local businesses, charities, community organisations and members of the public to do the same… by considering how the centre can support them with their performance and challenges. The centre is hosting a free discovery day on Thursday 24 May, focusing on maintaining and improving performance in times of change. There will be a number of interactive workshops to broaden and support thinking on achieving short and long-term goals. The half day event will be opened by motivational business coaching specialists Go Mad Thinking Ltd. During lunch guests will have the opportunity to gain access to information relating to learning and personal development by visiting the “marketplace”.

Personal development

The restored Victorian pitch pine front door which provides a suitably impressive entrance to the priory.

Tickfield Centre Manager David Webb said:“The open day is aimed at everyone from new and established businesses looking to train staff, to individuals seeking new skills and boost employment opportunities. “There will be a variety of stalls where private companies and public organisations will offer their services and explain benefits.” The Council-run centre was set up to provide a conference and training facility alongside unique personal development opportunities in a dynamic, modern environment for learning with fantastic interactive equipment. The Centre has an on-site team with extensive experience in commissioning and delivering training and tailored consultancy, plus facilitating conferences and events. For more details about attending the open day, or to take part in the marketplace, call David on 01702 215000 ext 2332 or email tickfield@ southend.gov.uk.

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Biting back at

LOAN SHARKS F

AMILIES in Southend are being warned about the dangers of borrowing money from loan sharks – as part of determined efforts to tackle child poverty in the Borough. The England Illegal Money Lending Team held training sessions for Council staff and other agencies such as the police to help them provide the best possible support and advice to families caught in the poverty trap. The training was organised by the Council at no cost to the community as it was funded from assets seized under the Proceeds of Crime Act. Further training was provided for staff identified as “champions” who will continue to pass on their knowledge to colleagues.

The move follows research that shows an increase in the number of Southend people turning to loan sharks who charge exorbitant rates of interest, as legitimate loan companies restrict lending due to the credit crunch. Darren McAughtrie, Group Manager – Commissioning, said: “Currently 23 per cent of children and young people in Southend live in poverty, and this can be exacerbated if families fall prey to unscrupulous loan sharks. “This training, as part of a wider training programme, has equipped staff to offer the best possible support and advice to help low income families manage their money and use alternatives to loan sharks.”

Swimathon for charity THOUSANDS of swimmers are being urged to dive into the world’s biggest fundraising dip in aid of Marie Curie Cancer Care and Sport Relief. The swimathon takes place at Southend Swimming and Diving Centre, Shoeburyness Leisure Centre and Belfairs Swim Centre, Leigh, on 27 and 29 April. The 2.5 kilometre, 5k or Team 5k challenges are for Cancer Care, and the Big Splash Mile is for Sport Relief. Register online at www.swimathon.org.

Family Intervention Project Key Workers Shelley, left, and Adele give advice and sup port to a service user.

Free advice on funding care

Work continues to support troubled families

FUNDING long-term care can be a great financial strain for older people who do not qualify for state support. Older people and their families are reminded that free advice is on hand to help them make the most of their resources and avoid running out of money. To access the service call 01702 215008 or visit www.southend.gov.uk/ carefundingadvice.

PIONEERING work to support troubled families in Southend is continuing now the Government is pumping at least £300,000 into the Borough over the next three years as part of a new initiative announced by Prime Minister David Cameron. The Council will receive £100,000 a year to cover staff costs and further part funding based on results. The idea is to build on the successes of its Think Family and Family Intervention Projects (FIP), which will also continue. FIP, launched in 2006, targets those families most at risk of

16 Outlook SPRING 2012

eviction because of their antisocial behaviour. Around 80 families have benefited from intensive one-to-one support with the majority supported to stay in their homes and turn their lives around. Ade Butteriss, the Council’s Senior Partnership Advisor, said:“It’s safe to say the new initiative will help us support hundreds of families as we work with a wide range of partners to meet a greater range of needs. “Think Family and FIP have been brilliant and have taught us some valuable lessons about the best ways of working with families. We’ll

build on the general principles established by these projects as we start the new initiative.” Carol Compton, Group Manager of the Integrated Youth Support Service, said: “Antisocial behaviour results in considerable costs to public services and we worked out that the Family Intervention Project alone saved £1 million in its first two years. “Southend FIP has made a significant impact in both improving the lives of the families it has engaged and the communities around them.”

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Chance to boost

BUSINESS DISTRICT T

HE next phase of the multi-million pound plan to boost Southend town centre and seafront by designating it a Business Improvement District (BID) is underway. The Town Centre Partnership (TCP) has staged a workshop with key stakeholders and is hiring a consultant to guide the process ahead of a vote by traders themselves this October. Under the TCP scheme, traders would pay more in business rates to raise £2.5 million over five years for improvements and initiatives like town centre ambassadors, marketing

and promotional events. Dawn Jeakings, Manager of the Royals Shopping Centre and Chair of the Town Centre Partnership, said: “The BID is an opportunity for town centre businesses to gain a collective benefit, to see improvement within the immediate vicinity of their businesses and to capitalise on recent regeneration.” Park Inn Palace Hotel General Manager Roderick Smith said: “This is a real opportunity to seize the collective power of all businesses within the BID to make dramatic

improvements to the profile of the town centre.” The Council’s Cabinet has already approved the BID in principle, which is also being backed by the Essex Chamber of Commerce and several high profile entrepreneurs including Philip Miller, Executive Chairman of the Stockvale Group which owns the popular seafront theme park Adventure Island.

Dawn Jeakings, Manager of the Royals Shopping Centre and Chair of the Town Centre Partnership, and Alan Hughes, owner of Sara Beth Jewellers, discuss plans for the Business Improvement District.

Dial-A-Ride service moves up the gears

Dial-A-Ride user Manji Solanki and service Manager Mike Chapman with one of the vehicles which are specially adapted for ease of access.

THE popularity of the revamped Borough-wide Dial-A-Ride service continues to grow. More than 400 people have now enrolled with the service offering door-to-door transport for residents who through disability – whether registered, permanent or short term – find it difficult to use public transport or local taxis. Uptake of the service, operated by Access Anyone Ltd in conjunction with the Council, has increased markedly since it was publicised in the last edition of Outlook and elsewhere, with 100 new subscribers since December. The new service has expanded operating times, opportunities to book in advance and quarterly day trips. “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Access Anyone

Do it Online

Pay it – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

and glad to see that they are making a success of a very worthwhile service,” said Karen Wright, Group Manager, Facilities, Transport and Registration Services.“There are a number of new developments of the service which have a positive impact, providing greater choice and enjoyment to the members. “There’s no doubt that the articles in Outlook have made people more generally aware of the kind of service that is on offer.” The wheelchair-accessible Dial-A-Ride vehicles operate between 8am and 5:30pm Monday to Friday and 8am to 1pm on Saturday. Feedback from the first day trip to Morley’s Garden Centre was excellent, with one member commenting:“It was delightful to be picked up from home, driven along the seafront in sunshine and given time to shop at Morley’s at leisure.”

For more information on the Dial-A-Ride service please visit www.southend.gov.uk/dialaride or call Access Anyone on 01702 527992 or visit their website www.accessanyone.co.uk.

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More national recognition for Council’s work and services T ‘‘’’ HE Council and three of its groundbreaking initiatives have reached the finals of prestigious national awards. For the second year running, the authority has been shortlisted for the hotly-contested title of Council of the Year at the Local Government Chronicle Awards. Meanwhile, projects on Corporate Governance, Workforce Strategy and the Public Law Partnership are also in the running for top prizes. Two judges from the national panel visited Southend-on-Sea to assess its credentials, and see for themselves how the Borough has been further transformed in the 12 months since they last visited. After taking in a panoramic view of Southend from the Airport’s new observation tower, they saw a host of regeneration initiatives including City Beach and the revitalised Warrior Square Gardens. They concluded their trip at the restored and refurbished North Road Chapel, which is now a vibrant environmentally-friendly community facility. The winners will be announced at a ceremony in London later this month. Council Chief Executive Rob Tinlin said: “It is a real boost for residents and staff to know that the Council’s continuing achievements are being nationally

In the midst of this very difficult economic climate, it is all the more significant that we are being counted among the best councils in the country. Council Chief Executive ROB TINLIN recognised. To be shortlisted for four awards across a whole range of areas shows how people throughout the organisation are continuing to deliver high levels of service, despite the tough financial pressures. “In the midst of this very difficult economic climate, it is all the more significant that we are being counted among the best councils in the country.” Meanwhile, staff who work with children in Southend were judged the best in Britain. Southend Adoption Team was named as Children’s Services

This seaside postcard was sent to those Council of the Year Award judging panel members who were not on the official visit. management and collaborative Team of the Year, in the national working between planners, civil 2011 Social Worker of the Year engineers and others has delivered Awards. And Ellie Hal-Fead won these schemes on time, within the Practice Teacher of the Year award for her continuing efforts in budget and offering excellent value for money.” teaching and supporting student Southend Visitor Information social workers on work Centre has added to the Council’s placements in Southend. latest raft of accolades – after They received their awards at a receiving a special award for being glittering ceremony at the House recognised as the best in the of Lords, in front of colleagues county. The Centre, based at from across the country. Southend Pier, won the coveted Sue Cook, the Council’s title of Tourist Information Centre Director of Children and of the Year at the Essex Tourism Learning, said: “To bring home Awards. two national awards is a terrific achievement. It is another mark of national recognition following our most recent ‘good’ Ofsted report.” The Council’s Better Southend Project, comprising the City Beach, Victoria Gateway, Cuckoo Corner and Progress Road Schemes, was honoured in February when recognised by the Royal Town Planning Institute. Awarding the prize for the Public Realm category, the judges said The Progress Road improvements, which of the project: “Sound have cut traffic congestion, were part of leadership, good project the award-winning Better Southend Project.

Easter, early May and Spring Bank Holiday

Collection Dates Normal collection day

Revised collection day

Easter Bank Holiday 2012 Friday 6th April Monday 9th April Tuesday 10th April Wednesday 11th April Thursday 12th April Friday 13th April

Saturday 7th April Tuesday 10th April Wednesday 11th April Thursday 12th April Friday 13th April Saturday 14th April

18 Outlook ■ SPRING 2012

Normal collection day

Revised collection day

Early May Bank Holiday 2012 Monday 7th May Tuesday 8th May Wednesday 9th May Thursday 10th May Friday 11th May

Tuesday 8th May Wednesday 9th May Thursday 10th May Friday 11th May Saturday 12th May

Spring Bank Holiday 2012 Monday 4th June Tuesday 5th June Wednesday 6th June Thursday 7th June Friday 8th June

Tuesday 5th June Wednesday 6th June Thursday 7th June Friday 8th June Saturday 9th June

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New Youth Mayor and deputy set out agendas for their year SOUTHEND’S campaigning Youth Mayor and his deputy are settling in to their new roles after winning a Borough-wide election involving 13 to 19-year-olds. Zeeshan Mitha, aged 16, was voted into the top job with Martin Skam, 17, getting the deputy’s position. Their platform included pushing for better careers advice and information on apprenticeship schemes. They also raised the issue of a discount scheme in restaurants for young people. Zeeshan said: “I was very delighted and shocked to be elected but I am

really looking forward to my year in office. Martin said:“It’s definitely going to be a really exciting year and I hope we can make some good changes.” Both have been presented with their chains of office. One of their duties will be to represent Southend Youth Council at various prestigious events. Sue Hadley, the Council’s Head of Children’s Commissioning and Learning Infrastructure, said:“We are very proud of our Southend young people and our Youth Council is flourishing.”

Youth Mayor Zeeshan Mitha and his deputy Martin Skam.

ON THE HERITAGE TRAIL: Westborough School pupils study a headstone at the North Road Burial Ground. They are, left to right, Erin Carney, Arron Donaldson, Ellie Sparkes and Fortunate Mucheuki.

Heritage trail unlocks social history secrets A

heritage trail is to be set up in a Southend cemetery telling the hidden stories of those buried there since it was opened in 1879. Children and staff from Westborough School at Westcliff-on-Sea are working with the Council’s Bereavement Services and Blade Education – a social enterprise – to unlock the social history secrets of the North Road Burial Ground in Prittlewell. They will help compile an online archive of photographs, audio recordings, artwork and official information about the people –

including many war dead – who were laid to rest in the cemetery. The youngsters, aged nine and ten, will also produce heritage and nature trail boards interpreting the history of some of the people, together with the biodiversity of the site. “The Shared Spaces project aims to preserve the stories of some of the 8,945 people buried in the cemetery, with the help of both the younger and older generations of Southend residents,” said Beth Hooper, Creative Director of Blade Education. “By turning the cemetery into a

Report it – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

respectful classroom we will be able to help the participants understand a little better each other’s place in the history of Southend.” The project, which also involves the Southend Association for Voluntary Services, is funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, the Ernest Cook Trust and the Essex Heritage Trust. Anybody wishing to volunteer should call 0208 133 0061 or email sharedspaces@bladeeducation.org.uk. More information can be found on www.blade-education.org.uk.

Good rating for adoption services ADOPTION services in Southend have been rated good after the latest inspection by Ofsted. The inspectors praised the quality of services provided by the Council, stating in their report that:“This is an agency that is managed and staffed by committed and child-centred personnel. “The quality of the work is good and the services provided overall achieve positive outcomes for children and adults.”

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What’s On Sea A GUIDE TO KEY SPRING EVENTS IN SOUTHEND

Until Sat 31 March

Sun 25 March

JOURNEY TO THE PODIUM – THE PRIDE OF ESSEX

SAINSBURY’S SPORT RELIEF MILE

Beecroft Art Gallery, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea. 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm. 01702 215011

Until Sat 26 May DINOSAUR’S ROCK Central Museum and Planetarium, Victoria Ave, Southend-on-Sea. 10am to 5pm. 01702 215011

Until Sat 24 March MARC CAMILLE CHAIMOWICZ EXHIBITION Focal Point Gallery, Southend Central Library, 2nd Floor,Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea. 9am to 5pm. 01702 215011

Southend Leisure and Tennis Centre, off Eastern Avenue, Southend, and The Eastwood School, Rayleigh Road, Eastwood. Can you run at least a mile for charity? It’s not too late to sign up for this extravaganza of activity – visit www.sportrelief.com to take part

Holiday Pier Activities. Meet the Easter Bunny who will be handing out Easter eggs to the children. Activities will include a lucky dip, raffle & children’s colouring competition. 01702 618747

Sat 14 April SOUTHEND FILM FESTIVAL CHILDREN’S TREASURE HUNT

Mon 2 April, Mon 16 April, Mon 23 April, Mon 30 April, Mon 14 May, Mon 21 May, Mon 28 May, Mon 11 June, Mon 18 June, Mon 25 June

High Street, Southend. Search out the clues and you could win tickets to a great children’s film screening.

DISABILITY CLUB – VARIOUS SPORTS FOR 9-19YR OLDS

JUGGLING PARADE

Sat 14 April

around Southend-on-Sea. More than 30 films including premieres, classics, shorts and international films form part of the programme, with guest question and answer sessions at many of the screenings.Whether you are interested in seeing an all time classic on the big screen, a popular family film event or a cult classic with a chance to participate in questions and answers with one of the actors, Southend-on-Sea Film Festival has it all. www.southendfilmfestival.com. 01702 618747

Mon 7 May MAY DAY ON STRAND WHARF

Until Sun 10 June

Southend Leisure and Tennis Centre, Garon Park, Eastern Avenue, Southend-on-Sea. 6pm to 8pm. 01702 613000

Sea front, Southend Pier and High Street in the afternoon.Watch hundreds of jugglers perform as the national juggling convention comes to Southend in 2012.

IN MY LADY’S CHAMBER – VICTORIAN COSTUMES

Leigh-on-Sea High Street, Leigh-on-Sea. 1pm – 4pm. Crowning of the May Queen, maypole dancing by local Brownies, Mumming Plays, Morris Dancing and folk music. 01702 716288

Sat 7 April

Sat 14, Sun 15 April

Sat 12 May

Southchurch Hall Museum, Southchurch Hall Close, Southend-on-Sea. 10am to 3pm. 01702 215011

Until Sat 31 March JACK DELEMONTE PHOTOGRAPHIC EXHIBITION Beecroft Art Gallery, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea. 01702 215011

Wed 14 March, Wed 21 March, Sat 24 March, Wed 28 March, Wed 4 April, Wed 11 April, Wed 18 April, Wed 25 April, Sat 28 April STORIES & NURSERY RHYMES

EASTER EGG HUNT Southchurch Hall Museum, Southchurch Hall Close, Southend-on-Sea. 10am to 3:30pm. 01702 215011

Sat 7 April EASTER EVENT AT LEIGH LIBRARY GARDENS Leigh-on-Sea Town Centre, Leigh-on-Sea, Essex 2pm to 4pm. Easter Egg hunt, Easter Bonnet parade, bouncy castles, face painting, Punch and Judy and other children’s attractions. 01702 716288

Sat 7 & Mon 9 April ART ON THE RAILINGS

Southend Central Library, Southend-on-Sea 10:30am. Story and Nursery Rhymes for families with children under 5. 01702 215011

Royal Terrace / Pier Hill. First weekend of each month. Meet the artists and see hundreds of artworks displayed to enjoy or purchase. Free children’s workshops on the Saturday.

Wed 21 March

Sat 7 – Sat 28 April

SAMANTHA WARD – PIANO LUNCHTIME RECITAL Southend Civic Centre,Victoria Avenue, Southend 12:15pm. 01702 215011 Ext 5624

Sat 24 March CAM TO COAST CHARITY BIKE RIDE A 74 mile bike ride from Cambridge to Southend to raise money for the British Heart Foundation. (Entry fee applies to this event) Training rides for this event are available through Cycle Southend. 01702 215004 Ext 5338

MALCOLM KEOGH PHOTOGRAPHIC EXHIBITION Beecroft Art Gallery, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea. 10am to 1pm, 2pm to 5pm. 01702 215011

Sat 7 April – Sat 16 June THAMES DELTA Focal Point Gallery, Southend Central Library, 2nd Floor,Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea 9am to 5pm or Beecroft Art Gallery, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea. 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm. 01702 215011

Sun 8 and Mon 9 April EASTER ON THE ESTUARY Southend Pier,Western Esplanade, Southend-on-Sea. Easter Bank

The Easter Bunny will be handing out cream eggs to children at Southend Pier on 8 and 9 April.

BIG ROCK WEEKEND Central Museum and Planetarium,Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea. 10am to 4pm. 01702 215011

Wed 18 April EMILY GRIFFITHS – SOPRANO Southend Civic Centre,Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea. 12:15pm to 1pm. 01702 215011 Ext 5624

Fri 20 April RECITAL The Plaza Centre, Southchurch Road, Southendon-Sea. 8pm. 01702 215011 Ext 5624

Sat 21 April FESTIVAL OF THE SEA OPEN DAY Southend Marine Activities Centre, Eastern Esplanade, Southend-on-Sea. 11am to 4pm Free taster sessions in sailing, windsurfing, kayaking and jetskiing plus free boat rides.There will also be stalls set up on the beach and the RNLI will be doing a demonstration.We will also be holding half hour taster sessions in sailing, windsurfing and kayaking.These will be £5.00 per session and will need to be booked in advance. 01702 612770

Sat 21, Sun 22 April ST GEORGES WEEKEND Adventure Island,Western Esplanade, Southend-on-Sea. A weekend to celebrate our Great British heritage with stilt walkers, still statues, interesting facts/history, free face painting and much more. All entertainment is absolutely free of charge, so come down and wave the British flag at Adventure Island. Event Entertainment and entrance to Adventure Island is free however wristbands/tickets need to be purchased for ride access. 01702 443400

NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM Central Museum and Planetarium,Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea. 6:15pm to 9:15pm. 01702 215011

Wed 16 May MERCURY BRASS QUINTET Southend Civic Centre,Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea. 12:15pm to 1pm. 01702 215011. Ext 5624

Fri 18 May PERCUSSION DUO The Plaza Centre, Southchurch Road, Southend-on-Sea. 8pm. 01702 215011 Ext 5624

Sun 20 May SUMMER MIGRANTS – WALKS & BIRD RINGING DISPLAY Two Tree Island, Leigh-on-Sea. 8am to 12pm Mark Bridges. 01702 557971

Fri 25 May MINSTREL’S GALLERY – MUSIC FOR A GOLDEN QUEEN Southchurch Hall Museum, Southchurch Hall Close, Southend-on-Sea. 7:15pm. 01702 215011

Sat 26 and Sun 27 May SOUTHEND AIR FESTIVAL IN PARTNERSHIP WITH EASYJET Southend Seafront, Southend-on-Sea. 10am to 6pm. (See story right).

27 May JUNIOR BIKEATHON

Tue 1 May – Sat 2 June

Bandstand, Priory Park,Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea. 10am. A fun off road bike ride for primary school aged children to raise money for Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research. 01702 215004 Ext 5338

SOUTHEND FILM FESTIVAL PHOTOGRAPHIC EXHIBITION

Fri 1 – Tue 5 June

Beecroft Art Gallery, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea. 10am to 1pm, 2pm to 5pm. 01702 215011

Thu 3 – Mon 7 May SOUTHEND FILM FESTIVAL Southend Town Centre, Southend-on-Sea A week of film focus for all the family returns across a number of different venues in and

FESTIVAL OF THE SEA – ATLANTIS TALL SHIP SAILINGS & OPEN SHIP Southend Pier,Western Esplanade, Southend-on-Sea.There will be opportunities to go sailing on the magnificent ship as well as the chance to go onboard and have a look around during ‘open ship’. The Atlantis is a popular ship so book your place now so as not to miss this exciting opportunity. 01702 618747

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Windsurfing taster sessions will be one of the many activities at the Festival of the Sea Open Day on Saturday 21 April.

Wing walkers pictured thrilling the crowds at last year’s Air Festival – and they will be back again this year.

Fri 1 June – Tues 5 June

Thu 21 – Sun 24 June

SOUTHEND CRICKET FESTIVAL

LEIGH FOLK FESTIVAL

A number of events will be taking place in aid of Southend’s new Cricket Festival, including a Summer Ball and Comedy Evening. 01702 215120

Old Leigh Town, High Street, Leigh-on-Sea. The largest free folk festival in the UK, featuring international and local musical performers, traditional and contemporary dance, children’s events, ceilidhs, workshops, street theatre, comedy, film and much, much more. All outdoor events are free. 01702 715111

Sat 2 – Tue 5 June DIAMOND JUBILEE EVENT Leigh-on-Sea Town Centre, Leigh-on-Sea. Leigh Town Council. 01702 716288

Sat 2 June – Sat 6 October THAMES MARINE ARCHAEOLOGY Central Museum and Planetarium,Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea. 10am to 5pm. 01702 215011

Wed 6 – Fri 8 June JUBILEE ACTIVITIES Central Museum and Planetarium,Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea. 10am to 5pm. 01702 215011

Wed 6 June MULBERRY MUD RUN Shoebury East Beach, Shoeburyness. 01702 618747

Wed 13 June DOMINIC CHILDS & NAOKO LAW – SAXOPHONE & PIANO Southend Civic Centre,Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea.12:15am to 1pm. 01702 215011 Ext 5624

Fri 15 June LONDON CONCERTANTE The Plaza Centre, Southchurch Road, Southend-on-Sea. 8pm. 01702 215011 Ext 5624

Sat 16 – Sat 23 June LEIGH ART TRAIL Leigh-on-Sea Town Centre, Leigh-on-Sea www.leigharttrail.co.uk. Richard Baxter 01702 470490

Sat 16 June PRIORY OPENING EVENT, Priory Park,Victoria Avenue / Priory Crescent, Southend-on-Sea. 01702 215011

Sat 23, Sun 24 June RNLI OPEN WEEKEND Southend Pier,Western Esplanade, Southendon-Sea. 01702 467421

Sat 23 June SOUTHEND CARNIVAL Southend seafront. A unique and exiting family event with a week of activity including children’s competition, dog show and carnival procession. info@southendcarnival.org.uk

Sat 23 June SPARKS WILL FLY A series of events across Southend to celebrate the cultural Olympiad. Events include Watersports taster sessions at Southend Marine Activities Centre, Fishing taster sessions at Southend pier, 5k run Southchurch park to the pier, Busking music entertainment on City Beach, Southend Carnival procession from 4pm, Battle of the bands at Chinnery’s in the evening. A fantastic day to spend in Southend. 01702 618747

Sat 23 June WATERSPORT TASTER SESSIONS Southend Marine Activities Centre, Eastern Esplanade, Southend-on-Sea. 01702 612770

Sat 23 June FISHING TASTER SESSIONS Southend Pier,Western Esplanade, Southend-on-Sea. 01702 618747

For more details on up and coming events and ones that did not make this listing, log onto the Council’s events website at www.visitsouthend.co.uk.

Seafront Air Festival is ready for take off ONE of Europe’s largest free air spectaculars is all set for take off again in the Borough. Hundreds of thousands of spectators are expected to pack along two miles of seafront on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 May to experience the colour and carnival of Southend Air Festival, sponsored by easyJet. Against the backdrop of the Thames Estuary, aircraft from across the decades will present flying displays. They will include modern RAF and Royal Navy machines along with stunt display teams, aerobatic aircraft and historic planes. Back on terra firma, entertainment will be laid on by the armed forces and there will also be trade stands, fairground rides, simulators and a packed

COUNCIL DIARY ■ Community Services & Culture Scrutiny Committee: Tuesday 3 April, 6:30pm. ■ Economic & Environment Scrutiny Committee: Thursday 5 April, 6:30pm. ■ Development Control Committee: Wednesday 11 April, 2pm. ■ Children & Lifelong Learning Scrutiny Committee: Monday 12 April, 6:30pm. ■ Council: Thursday 19 April, 6:30pm.

arena of family entertainment, It will be the 27th year that Southend-on-Sea has staged the huge two-day event which regular attracts up to half a million people. Most of the aircraft that display at the show operate out of London Southend Airport at Rochford. To coincide with the event, the airport will be staging open days so people can view the aircrafts at close quarters. There will also be the opportunity to see the resident Vulcan (XL426) at the airport, which will be demonstrating taxi-runs. For more details and up to date information on the full line up of aircraft, log onto the Council’s events website: www.visitsouthend.co.uk.

■ Council: Thursday 10 May, 3:30pm. ■ Council: Thursday 17 May, 6:30pm. ■ Development Control Committee: Wednesday 30 May, 2pm. All meetings are held at the Civic Centre, Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea. Details of all Council meetings are available at www.southend.gov.uk/ councilmeetings. Youth Council meetings take place on the first Wednesday of every month in the Council Chamber at the Civic Centre, 5pm-7pm.

SPRING 2012 Outlook

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To find out which Ward you are in please visit www.southend.gov.uk/whereilive

The Council normally has 51 Councillors elected to represent you. There are 17 wards, each with three elected members. See the map to find out which councillors represent you.

Your Councillors BELFAIRS WARD

BLENHEIM PARK

Cllr Stephen Aylen (Con)

Cllr Fay Evans (Con)

Cllr Lesley Salter (Con)

Cllr James Courtenay (Con) Cllr Graham Longley (LD)

Cllr Duncan Russell (LD)

16 Woodside, Belfairs, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 4QU Tel: 01702 527747 cllraylen@southend.gov.uk

192 Highlands Boulevard, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 3QX Tel: 01702 558657 cllrevans@southend.gov.uk

4 Chadwick Road, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 8LS Tel: 01702 432364 cllrsalter@southend.gov.uk

44 Bournemouth Park Road, Southend-on-Sea SS2 5LP Tel: 01702 611669 cllrcourtenay@southend.gov.uk

15 Lindisfarne Avenue, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 3NR Tel: 01702 480713 cllrrussell@southend.gov.uk

CHALKWELL WARD

28 McDivitt Walk, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 5UD Tel: 01702 520234 cllrlongley@southend.gov.uk

EASTWOOD PARK WARD

Cllr Richard Brown (Con) Cllr Stephen Habermel (Con) Cllr Ian Robertson (Con)

Cllr Trevor Byford (Con)

Cllr Andrew Moring (Con) Cllr Chris Walker (Con)

16 Cherrybrook, Thorpe Bay SS1 3QZ Tel: 01702 584003 cllrbrown@southend.gov.uk

2 Badgers Close, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 0AP Tel: 01702 437274 cllrbyford@southend.gov.uk

554 Woodgrange Drive, Southend-on-Sea SS1 3EL Tel: 01702 585957 cllrmoring@southend.gov.uk

256 Rayleigh Road, Eastwood SS9 5XL Tel: 01702 528027 cllrwalker@southend.gov.uk

6 Leas Gardens, Southend-on-Sea SS0 8JL Tel: 01702 478354 cllrhabermel@southend.gov.uk

68 Thorpe Hall Avenue, Thorpe Bay SS1 3AU Tel: 01702 584580 cllritrobertson@southend.gov.uk

KURSAAL WARD

LEIGH WARD

Cllr Louise Burdett (Con)

Cllr Judy Mcmahon (Lab)

Cllr Blaine Robin (Con)

Cllr Alan Crystall (LD)

Cllr Barry Godwin (LD)

Cllr Peter Wexham (LD)

144 Alexandra Road, Southend-on-Sea SS1 1HB Tel: 01702 430309 cllrburdett@southend.gov.uk

37A Pleasant Road, Southend-on-Sea SS1 2HQ Tel: 01702 462489 cllrmcmahon@southend.gov.uk

76 Tankerville Drive, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 3DF Tel: 01702 472187 cllrrobin@southend.gov.uk

16 Cliff Parade, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 1AS Tel: 01702 474047 cllrcrystall@southend.gov.uk

63 Steyning Avenue, Southend-on-Sea SS2 4TW Tel: 01702 589318 cllrgodwin@southend.gov.uk

119 Vardon Drive, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 3SH Tel: 01702 715981 cllrwexham@southend.gov.uk

MILTON WARD

PRITTLEWELL WARD

Cllr Dr Maria Caunce (Con) Cllr Nigel Folkard (Con)

Cllr Jonathan Garston (Con)

Cllr Mary Betson (LD)

Cllr Mike Grimwade (LD)

Cllr Ric Morgan (LD)

Fairlight Lodge, 37 Park Road, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 7PQ Tel: 01702 430684 cllrcaunce@southend.gov.uk

23a Clifftown Parade, Southend-on-Sea SS1 1DN Tel: 01702 335017 cllrjgarston@southend.gov.uk

11 Byfield, Eastwood SS9 5TG Tel: 01702 524026 cllrbetson@southend.gov.uk

94 Eastwood Old Road, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 4RS Tel: 01702 520642 cllrgrimwade@southend.gov.uk

5 Hobleythick Lane, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 0RP Tel: 01702 432361 cllrmorgan@southend.gov.uk

25 Hayes Barton, Thorpe Bay SS1 3TS Tel: 01702 582828 cllrfolkard@southend.gov.uk

22 Outlook SPRING 2012

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SHOEBURYNESS WARD

SOUTHCHURCH WARD

Cllr Mike Assenheim (Ind) Cllr Roger Hadley (Con)

Cllr Anne Chalk (Ind)

Cllr Tony Delaney (Ind)

Cllr Ann Holland (Con)

Cllr Brian Kelly (Con)

76 Elm Road, Shoeburyness SS3 9RD Tel: 01702 291720 cllrassenheim@southend.gov.uk

94 High Street, Shoeburyness SS3 9AS Tel: 01702 295449 cllrchalk@southend.gov.uk

76 Burlescoombe Road, Thorpe Bay SS1 3QB Tel: 01702 586973 cllrdelaney@southend.gov.uk

7 Silchester Court, Silchester Corner, Gt Wakering SS3 0PX Tel: 01702 580855 cllrholland@southend.gov.uk

10 Withypool, Shoeburyness SS3 8BH Tel: 01702 585015 cllrkelly@southend.gov.uk

33 Mountbatten Drive, Shoeburyness SS3 8UY Tel: 01702 294945 cllrhadley@southend.gov.uk

ST LAURENCE WARD

ST LUKES WARD

Cllr Mark Flewitt (Con)

Cllr Ted Lewin (LD)

Cllr Adam Jones (Con)

Cllr Peter Ashley (Con)

Cllr Sally Carr (Con)

Cllr Paul Van Looy (Ind)

11 Borman Close, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 5UJ Tel: 01702 510463 cllrflewitt@southend.gov.uk

19 Little Thorpe, Thorpe Bay SS1 3RN Tel: 01702 586359 cllrlewin@southend.gov.uk

18 Park Street, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 7PA Tel: 01702 437166 cllrjones@southend.gov.uk

15 Appledore, Thorpe Bay SS3 8UW Tel: 01702 589152 cllrashley@southend.gov.uk

42 Marcus Avenue, Southend-on-Sea SS1 3LA Tel: 01702 586231 cllrcarr@southend.gov.uk

54 Arlington Road, Southend-on-Sea SS2 4UW Tel: 01702 615658 cllrvanlooy@southend.gov.uk

THORPE WARD

VICTORIA WARD

Cllr Alex Kaye (Ind)

Cllr Mike Stafford (Ind)

Cllr Ron Woodley (Ind)

Cllr Margaret Borton (Lab) Cllr Ian Gilbert (Lab)

Cllr David Norman (Lab)

470 Woodgrange Drive, Southend-on-Sea SS1 3ED Tel: 01702 588432 cllrkaye@southend.gov.uk

124 Parkanaur Avenue, Thorpe Bay SS1 3JD Tel: 01702 586265 cllrstafford@southend.gov.uk

91 Tyrone Road, Southend-on-Sea SS1 3HD Tel: 01702 588662 cllrwoodley@southend.gov.uk

85 Rochester Drive, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 0NJ Tel: 01702 348817 cllrborton@southend.gov.uk

41 Vernon Road, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 2NG Tel: 01702 470215 cllrdnorman@southend.gov.uk

WEST LEIGH WARD

18 Avenue Road, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 7PW Tel: 01702 339765 cllrgilbert@southend.gov.uk

WEST SHOEBURY WARD

Cllr Nigel Holdcroft (Con) Cllr Gwen Horrigan MBE (Con) Cllr John Lamb (Con)

Cllr Tony Cox (Con)

Cllr Liz Day (Con)

Cllr Derek Jarvis (Con)

7 Sylvan Way, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 3TU Tel: 01702 214008 cllrholdcroft@southend.gov.uk

Flat D Mill Lodge, West Road, Shoeburyness SS3 9DP Tel: 01702 297039 cllrcox@southend.gov.uk

5 Withypool, Shoeburyness SS3 8BH Tel: 01702 586185 cllreday@southend.gov.uk

66 Leitrim Avenue, Shoeburyness SS3 9HF Tel: 01702 292744 cllrjarvis@southend.gov.uk

15 Hazelwood Grove, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 4DE Tel: 01702 524333 cllrhorrigan@southend.gov.uk

77 Vardon Drive, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 3SJ Tel: 01702 483908 cllrlamb@southend.gov.uk

Southend-on-Sea Borough Council Cabinet

WESTBOROUGH WARD

Cllr Paul Collins (LD)

Cllr Martin Terry (Ind)

Cllr Dr Vel (Ind)

219 Green Lane, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 5QN Tel: 01702 512239 cllrcollins@southend.gov.uk

66 Victoria Road, Southend-on-Sea SS1 2TF Tel: 01702 619655 cllrterry@southend.gov.uk

41 Leasway, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 8PA Tel: 01702 711299 cllrvelmurugan@southend.gov.uk

Find it – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk

■ Nigel Holdcroft (Leader) ■ John Lamb (Deputy Leader with special responsibility for Regeneration and Enterprise) ■ Derek Jarvis (Culture and Tourism) ■ Mark Flewitt (Children and Learning) ■ Lesley Salter (Adult Social Care, Health and Housing) ■ Tony Cox (Public Protection, Waste and Transport) ■ Andrew Moring (Corporate Support Services) ■ Jonathan Garston (Planning) SPRING 2012 Outlook

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Team GB divers prepare for Olympics at Southend’s world-class centre

Springboard to

SUCCESS

EAM GB divers are using world-class facilities in Southend as their springboard to success at the London Olympics. The elite team staged a six-day World Cup pre-camp at the Southend Swimming and Diving Centre in early February and will set up home in the town for most of the Games. Head Coach Alexei Evangulov said:“We want to be able to stay in the Olympic Village and Southend, where the divers can have a calm environment. It’s a very good base.” The £13.5 million Garon Park complex features fixed platforms at 1m, 3m, 5m, 7.5m and 10m as well as two springboards at 1m and 3m. Alexei said:“We helped with the design so we’re satisfied that it’s a really contemporary facility. It’s an excellent pool with the best dry side facilities in the country. “The Council staff are so friendly and helpful. They have done all they can to make it comfortable and convenient for us. We like the Borough. The divers like the quay and the beach. They like a stroll because it’s a very cosy, friendly town.“ Council Leisure and Sports Manager Kate Trueman said:“We’re thrilled that Team GB are using Southend’s world class dive facility. “The legacy of their support will be felt for years to come as it’s now put the town and the pool on the world diving map. “Diving has boomed in Southend since the new centre opened. More than 240 young people now belong to our diving club. Who knows – perhaps one of these will be the UK’s next diving star.”

DALEY EXPRESS: IN SYNC: Team GB women’s 10-metre synchro pair Sarah Barrow (front) and Tonia Counch fly through the air in perfect unison.

24 Outlook SPRING 2012

Fast frame photography taken in a fraction of a second shows the skill, strength and artistic movement of teenage superstar Tom Daley in training at Southend Swimming and Diving Centre.

Book it – do it online: www.southend.gov.uk