En mag feb 15 by Doug

February 2015

MAGAZINE Valentines Gift Ideas & Giveaway

Fit and Healthy for 2015 Spring Gardening

Local News & Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s On In Your Area

Welcome to your February issue of en MAGAZINE Hello and welcome to the February 2015 edition of EN Magazine. In our first issue of 2015 you may notice some changes to EN Magazine, we hope you like them. As well as the design changes we have also introduced a new editorial feature. Each month we will meet and find out about a local person who is having an impact on the area, the country or the industry or sport they work in. In this issue we bring you some gift ideas for Valentines Day along with the chance to win a few. We also take a look at some romantic locations to whisk your loved one off to. How many of us made New Years Resolutions and have given up on them already? We take a look at ways to stick to your resolutions in 2015. I hope you enjoy reading this issue of EN Magazine. You can now also keep up to date with what is happening in the EN area by following us on Facebook - enmagazine and twitter @_en_magazine. Please do not hesitate to get in touch with me if you have any comments on this issue or any local matters at dal@enmagaine.co.uk Kind regards

Doug

Douglas Lee Publisher, en magazine

Contents

Page Page Page Page Page Page Page Page Page Page

4 - Local News and Events 13 - Local People - The Man Behind a Good Nights Sleep 14 - Valentines Ideas and Giveaway 17 - Romantic Destinations 20 - Sticking to Resolutions 23 - ETFC - A Local Success 25 - Spring Gardening 29 - Showtime 28 - EN Directory, Local Trades and Services 29 - Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s On and Things To Do Douglas Lee Publisher Sarah Vittachi Features Editor

en magazine (Print) ISSN 2049-5722 Contacts

Joy Prince Credit Control

Tel: 020 8367 3917 63 High Street Potters Bar Hertfordshire EN6 5AS email: Editorial @enmagazine.co.uk Sales @enmagazine.co.uk

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EN MAGAZINE - issue 67 February 2015 3

Local News and Events

Enfield Sports and Culture Awards Enfield has a great history of sport and culture. From Charlotte Dujardin who won Gold in the individual dressage equestrian event, at the 2012 Olympic Games who was born in Enfield, the world leading athletic training facilities at Picketts Lock, to the local people who give up their time week in week out to support and organise sport in the local community. Enfield Council is once again recognising the contribution that sport and individuals in sport and culture make to our local community by hosting the Enfield Sports and Culture Awards. A panel representative of Sport and Culture in the Borough will judge the nominations received for the Enfield Sports and Culture Awards. Nominations for the individual categories cannot be from the nominee themselves or members of their

EN MAGAZINE - issue 67 February 2015

immediate family. Nominations need to be made by Friday 6th February 2015. Nomination forms can be downloaded from www. enfield.gov.uk

Categories •

Young Volunteer of the Year • Young Leader of the Year • Young Sports Performer of the Year • Young Disabled Sports Performer of the Year • Dedication to Sport or Culture • Sports/Culture Leader of the Year • Enfield Service Provider of the Year • Volunteer of the Year Innovation in Sport and Culture

Local News and Events

Your Vote Matters

Fitness in the Park

Do you care what happens in your local area? Then please make sure you are correctly registered to vote.

Being registered to vote gives you an opportunity to influence what goes on where you live – if you’re not registered to vote, you can’t have your say and you could be refused credit. And it’s quick and easy to do online, taking just a few minutes. Jo Bateman, Hertsmere’s Principal Electoral Services Officer, explained: “We are currently writing to every household in the borough to check the information

we hold is correct, ahead of the UK general election and local elections on 7 May. The letters explain what action, if any, those wanting to vote need to take. The registration system changed last year so everyone is now responsible for registering themselves. I’d urge everyone to take action now.” Visit www.hertsmere. gov.uk/registertovote for further information Alternatively, call Electoral Services on 020 8207 7481. Alternatively www.gov. uk/registertovote or by contacting Enfield Council’s electoral services on 020 8379 8582.

The Our Parks scheme runs on Saturdays and Sundays until 5 April, offering a number of different exercises to improve health and wellbeing. Log on to the website and book hour-long sessions led by qualified instructors at three different levels. Green offers residents a gentle or light workout, blue classes are light to moderate with black – the hardest – being moderate to intense training. Parks involved in the pilot

scheme include Jubilee Park, Ponders End Park, Pymmes Park and Town Park. The Our Parks initiative comes to the borough following a successful pilot programme across East and North London. All classes in Enfield are funded by the council to encourage residents to be more active. Classes include back to exercise, box fit, circuits, and tone zone to keep those New Years resolutions going and get a park body. To find out more visit www.ourparks.org.uk

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Local News and Events

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London Bike Show returns The UK’s largest cycling Show returns to ExCeL London from 12 – 15 February with loads of bikes, gear and accessories to browse and buy, exciting features to watch and take part in, and everything any road, mountain, urban or family cyclist could ever need. If you’re looking for a new bike, new clothing, accessories, a cycling holiday, training advice or something else - the Show has all bases covered! There will be over 200 exhibitors present including a number of retailers.

26/01/2015 10:59

This year, the Cycling Performance Theatre – Sponsored by British Eurosport is set to deliver the best line up of special guests the Show has ever welcomed. Guests currently include Great Britain’s most successful Olympian Sir Chris Hoy, 2-time Tour de France winner Greg LeMond, downhill MTB legend Steve Peat and Team Wiggle Honda Manager Rochelle Gilmore. The importance of riding a bike before buying it can

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never be overlooked, which is why the 500m BikeEtc Test Track will return to the Show for another year, allowing visitors the opportunity to try a whole range of road bikes, commuter bikes and the latest electric bikes. There will also be a dedicated kids test track for the younger ones to try out the latest bikes on the market. There are more reasons for visitors to attend the Show in 2015, as the organisers have added a host of new attractions, including the Training & Safety Arena, The StreetVelodrome, The Innovation Lab The breath-taking Action Sports Tour.

1 Ticket 4 Shows

That’s not all! A ticket to The London Bike Show will also gain visitors entry into three other events running alongside it at the same time: the Triathlon Show: London, The Telegraph Outdoor Adventure & Travel Show and the London International Dive Show (Saturday & Sunday only). It’s great value for money and a fantastic day out, with plenty of opportunities to try new activities, browse a range of kit and prepare to get active next year. www. thelondonbikeshow.co.uk

Find out about Cycle Enfield Local residents and businesses will be able to have their first look at Enfield Council’s ambitious plans to revolutionise cycling in Enfield at a series of exhibitions due to start in February. Enfield Council was awarded £30 million to transform cycling across the borough by the Mayor of London, and these exhibitions will give residents a chance to find out more about the proposed projects in their area, ahead of a full and extensive public consultation on the project later in the year. The first event will take place at the Fox Public House in Green Lanes, Palmers Green on Wednesday 11 February. Other events will be held at the Dugdale Centre in Enfield on Tuesday 17 February, Community House in Fore Street, Edmonton, on Monday 2 March and the Ordnance Unity Centre in Hertford Road, Enfield, on 2 April. For the convenience of local residents, these exhibitions will all run from 3-8pm. Enfield Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Community Safety, Cllr Chris Bond, said: “This is an opportunity for residents to see our proposals for Cycle Enfield, ask questions about them

and provide their own early views on challenges and opportunities.” “Enfield Council is absolutely committed to improving our cycling network, transforming our borough for residents and getting more people on their bikes therefore improving air quality and their health, and Cycle Enfield will be integral to that process.” The project aims to transform cycling in Enfield by providing a network of cycle routes including protected cycle lanes on some main roads and routes through parks and quieter streets. Town centres will be rejuvenated with improvements to paving, pedestrian facilities and street furniture as well as provision for safer and easier cycling. Secure on-street cycle parking and cycle ‘hubs’ will be provided to enable cyclists to park their bikes, get their bikes fixed, buy a recycled bike and make it easier for them to travel around the borough. The project has its own website at www. cycleenfield.co.uk and www.facebook.com/ CycleEnfield and Twitter @ Cycleenfield where you can keep up with all the cycling activities Enfield already provides.

Local News and Events

BEST BOSS AWARDS 2015 We all know that having lousy a boss can drive you half crazy, BUT having a great boss can make a REAL difference to your career,but when do you get the chance to thank them? How about nominating them for the Best Boss Awards 2015. The Best Boss Awards are open to any boss in the following postcodes EN, N, SG, WD, HP, HA. As well as your nomination giving your boss the chance to win this prestigious award, all nominators will be entered into a prize draw to win a dinner for two at a well know restaurant chain AND a laptop computer. So, what’s it all about? The Best Boss Awards aim to identify the people behind the staff who really make a difference. Not just the Directors and owners but the managers, team leaders and supervisors who nurture, develop and share their experience with their colleagues. Whether in the boardroom, the warehouse, the accounts office, the canteen, the factory or out in the field making sales, cutting trees or making home visits to the elderly; we have all been inspired, mentored and helped along the way. We want to know about

EN MAGAZINE - issue 67 February 2015

these great people, many of whom are unrecognised by their peers but who YOU know often go the extra mile providing support, out of hours training, encouragement and a sense of fair play. The Best Boss Awards recognise those who consistently try harder to help it make sense for others; make work more meaningful; make workplaces safer and openup new opportunities for as many as possible. By recognising and rewarding their success we hope to encourage and foster an environment of excellence in management through the Boss of the Year Awards creating a community of workplace leadership heroes and role models. The awards are sponsored by local organisations including: Click Return, Orchard Recruitment, Enterprise Enfield, The Recruitment Guy, Good Looking Optics, Mostons, Panther Office Supplies, BlueCircle IT, The Enfield Advertiser and DAL Media, publishers of EN Magazine. The judging panel is headed up by MP for Enfield North Nick de Bois. A member of the influential 1922 Committee and the founder of a successful business in Ware, Herts employing over 100 staff over the years, he really does understand leadership

and the importance of staff development. As well as a range of prizes for the winning bosses (including meals for two and weekends away) all the nominating employees will be entered into a prize draw to win meals out and a Laptop. The Best Boss Awards 2015 will run during February and March with judging in early April. The awards will be delivered in person by representatives of the judging panel at times to

suit the winners. There will be 5 categories depending upon organisations size. Organisations must have an office/operation in the following post codes to qualify. EN, N, SG, WD, HA, HP. To nominate your boss, simply visit www. bestbossawards.co.uk and complete the nomination form. Good luck, to your boss, but also to YOU. We hope you are a prize winner to.

Local Jobs Fair Enfield Jobs Fair, now in its fourth year, organised by Nick de Bois MP will take place Thursday 26 February at Southbury Leisure centre. Working with Enfield JobCentre Plus, Nick will be aiming to repeat the success of previous Jobs Fairs which have seen dozens of companies offering hundreds of jobs. Last year’s Jobs Fair was attended by almost 1,000 people. Nick said, “Since being elected as an MP in 2010 I’ve tried to find lots of ways of offering people practical help. By using my office as an MP to bring together companies looking for new staff with people looking for work, I hope I’m achieving that”.

He added, “The previous three Enfield Jobs Fairs have been successful and I want the same again for this year - ensuring there are real vacancies on offer for people to come and find out about and apply for”. One big difference is this year we have an over 50s jobs Forum centre for one to one advice sessions etc for over 50s as part of www.eo50s.com Companies attending this years job’s fair promoting their vacanices include Crossrail, AEG, Greggs, National Apprenticeship Service, Ardmore Consulting, Johnson Matthey, Kelvin Hughes, Chase Packaging, Fortuna Healthcare, Risual Ltd, Stirling Careers Consultancy. Support from Enfield Jobcentre Plus.

Local News and Events

Become a Life Saver Volunteer as a Community First Responder Enfield, Edmonton and Haringey residents can become St John Ambulance Volunteer Community First Responders operating alongside the London Ambulance Service in their area and help to save local lives.

and equipment they are dispatched from their own homes in their own cars at the same time as an ambulance and can often give help to a patient before the LAS crew arrives. This can make a big difference in saving a life. Community First Responders (CFR) have been running in the area since 2009 as a partnership between London Ambulance Service (LAS) and St John Ambulance. Every volunteer is trained to manage emergency situations and use basic life saving techniques.

London Ambulance Service (LAS) reach the majority of the most seriously ill patients within eight minutes of a 999 call, but, if an “on call” volunteer in the next street has the basic skills

The Enfield, Edmonton and Haringey CFR unit is

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EN MAGAZINE - issue 67 February 2015

endeavouring to increase its number of volunteers in order to cover more of the area for longer hours. A Community First Responder Information Evening is being held on Tuesday 10th February at 19:00 in the St John Ambulance HQ, Shirley Road, Enfield, EN2 6SB David Forward, an active responder in Enfield and the unit manager for Enfield, Edmonton and Haringey areas, said “I started responding after doing a First Aid at Work qualification with St John Ambulance as it gave me an opportunity to use the skills that I had been taught. I can assure you of the reward and pleasure that you feel when you see someone out and about in the street, when you know that you helped them or even saved their life.” No prior knowledge or experience is required as every first responder goes through extensive practical first aid and basic life support training including how to use oxygen and an automated defibrillator. They are taught how to deal with serious conditions including cardiac arrest, chest pain, breathing problems, diabetic emergencies and the unconscious patients. David said “Whilst on call, we carry all of the equipment that we need to

deal with the emergencies that we are sent to. This includes carrying oxygen and a defibrillator, which shocks a heart that has stopped beating into life.” Steve Colhoun, LAS Area Operations Manager for Enfield, Edmonton and Haringey area said “When someone’s heart stops beating every second counts and getting essential, basic life support to that patient as quickly as possible becomes a priority.” “If someone living or working around the corner has the necessary skills and equipment, we can dispatch them at the same time as our own staff. These responders can often reach the patient quickly and greatly improve their chances of survival with a good quality of life” Volunteers should: be physically fit, work well under pressure, be a good communicator, have held a full driving license for at least two years, have access to a roadworthy vehicle and they will have to undergo a Disclosures and Barring Services (DBS) check. To book a place on the Community First Responder Information Evening on Tuesday 10th February or to found further information, please email cfr@london.sja.org. uk.

Local News and Events

A Fishy Tale The annual Small Business Saturday took place on 6th December, when local people were encouraged to shop at and support local small business who are the lifeblood of the local economy. Small Business Saturday UK is a grassroots, nonpolitical, non-commercial campaign, which highlights small business success and encourages consumers to ‘shop local’ and support small businesses in their communities. The day itself takes place on the first shopping Saturday in December each year, but the campaign aims to have a lasting impact on small businesses. As a small local business ourselevs, EN Magazine ran a competition to support one local business with a £1000 promotional campaign as a prize. The winner of our prize is local company Just Fish. Just Fish is an innovative company run by Justin and Sarah Venn.

throughout North London. “A few years ago friends started asking me if I could pick up a box of prawns or a few fillets of cod or salmon for their own use. Over time we noticed more and more friends asking for and it was Sarah who suggested that we open up the service to members of the public.” “ Today we are able to offer a service where by people can place a fish order before 3pm and receive delivery of fresh fish the following morning. Many of our customers have commented to us that the fish is so much nicer than from the shops. This is probably due to the fact we are not storing it for days before you receive it.”

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You can find out more about Just Fish from their facebook page or for more information and to place an order call Sarah on Tel: 020 8482 3787

For more than 10 years Justin has been getting up at 2am to get to Billingsgate Fish Market to get the pick of the catch which he supplies to a network of restaurants

Please Mention

MAGAZINE when responding to adverts and editorials

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30/01/2015 11:19

Suppliers of Fresh and Frozen Fish Daily Fresh Cod Fillet Fresh Whole Bass Fresh Bass Fillet Fresh Whole Monkfish Fresh Monkfish Fillets Fresh Red Mullet Fresh Salmon Fillet Fresh Sea Bream Fresh Squid Fresh Swordfish Steak Fresh Tuna Steak Fresh Trout Fillet Fresh Coley Fresh Pollock

£10.50 per kilo £6.80 per kilo £2.90 Each £16.00 per kilo £21.00 per kilo £10.00 per kilo £12.50 per kilo £6.00 per kilo £10.00 per kilo £4.00 Each £4.00 Each £2.50 Each £30.00 per 6 kilo box £8.00 per kilo

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If you require any more prices then please do not hesitate in contacting us. Prices may vary due to market variations please check when placing your order.

Order Hotline Tel: 020 8482 3787

EN MAGAZINE - issue 67 February 2015 11

Local News and Events

Winning Businesses Awarded! Local businesses celebrated their well deserved awards at the 2014 Enterprise Enfield Business Awards Gala Dinner and Presentation Ceremony on Wednesday 3rd December at the Royal Chace Hotel in Enfield. The annual competition, now in its tenth year, is run by local enterprise agency, Enterprise Enfield, supported by Enfield Council, and aims to recognise and reward the achievements of businesses

as well their owners’ determination to succeed in the current challenging economic climate. Enterprise Enfield’s Chief Executive, Des Johnson, said, “We had a fantastic response to our awards competition this year, so many strong entries from Enfield businesses, the quality was higher than ever, which made judging very difficult. All our finalists should be congratulated on their excellent achievementsespecially in this tough economic climate!” Winners in each of the 4

Ray Quinn

Fri 13th March 8.00pm Tickets: £19, £18 concs, groups 10+ £17 Enjoy classics from Ray and his live band including: ‘Fly Me to the Moon’ & ‘That’s Life’.

A Night of ELO

Sat 14th March 8.00pm Tickets: £19, £18 concs

Fabulous tribute to The Electric Light Orchestra. Jurassic Adventures

categories were awarded with certificates and prize cheques of £1,000 at the event, which was attended by over 100 guests including the Mayor of Enfield, Councillor Ali Bakir. The winning businesses were selected by 4 panels of judges (3 in each category).

EN MAGAZINE - issue 67 February 2015

WINNER: Home Care Preferred, Ken Waterhouse Homecare Preferred

Sponsored by Financing Start Up Enterprise WINNER: Enfield Community Acupuncture, Stacey Chapman www. enfieldacupuncture. co.uk

RUNNER UP: Tanning Station, Elise Mehmet www. tanningstationenfield.co.uk

Young Entrepreneur of the Year Sponsored by Let’s Go Business Hub

RUNNER UP: Joanna Campos de Pinho, Campino Embroidery Services www. campinoembroidery.com

WINNER: Research Through Gaming, Betty Adamou www. researchthroughgaming. com

Business of the Year

Sponsored by The RSA Trust WINNER: Halo Dogs, Justin Kumaran www.halodogs.co.uk

A brave cast of actors, a fun script, superb scenery & of course dinosaurs! Ideal for age 3yrs+

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Call the Box Ofﬁce for further information or if you would like to receive our free cinema and entertainment brochure. WYLLYOTTS BOX OFFICE 01707 645005 Wyllyotts Theatre, Wyllyotts Place, Darkes Lane, Potters Bar, HERTS EN6 2HN www.wyllyottstheatre.co.uk

Enfield Retailer of the Year

RUNNER UP: Elizabeth Lahav and Olivia Wakeford, Streetz Ahead www.streetzahead.org

RUNNER UP: Styliana Vasili, Viva La Vita www.vivalavita.com

Local People

Meet the Man Behind a Good Nights Sleep In the first of our new regular feature, EN Magazine will meet and interview local people to find out more about them, their thoughts on the area and their success. The first person we met up with, who is responsible for tens of thousands of people getting a good nights sleep – is Vic Smith of Vic Smith Beds. For more than 30 years Vic Smith Beds has been selling and delivering beds in the area. Today his two shops, along with his bright pink and blue vans , are a regular feature on our streets delivering beds and a peaceful and comfortable night to his customers.

But where did it all start? “I started my career working for a furniture company, which some of your older readers may remember, Colin Sellers Furniture, who had shops throughout North London, including Enfield and Cockfosters. I started as a fresh faced 16 year old at the Cockfosters store and soon worked my way up to Store Manager. It was in 1984, when Colin Sellers started to close stores, that I realised I wanted my own store. I approached Barclays Bank for a loan to be turned down – not much has changed in banking supporting local business! But that was not going to stop me.” “I spoke to bed manufacturers and managed to buy a selection of beds in various sizes which I stored at a friend’s warehouse. I bought my first van which I converted, adding lights and carpets to become a mobile showroom.”

“I would deliver leaflets through letterboxes promoting my beds and delivery and then when people called, responding to my leaflets I would pop back with my mobile bed showroom with beds of the right size and sell and deliver them the bed there and then.” “The mobile delivery van format worked and in 1986 I had managed to save enough to open the first Vic Smith Beds shop in Myddleton Road, Wood Green.” “In 1990 we opened Vic Smith Beds in Southgate and in 1991 in Whetstone. In 1990 my father, an experienced cabinet maker, was made redundant and joined the business, which we expanded over the next few years to include furniture. We even started manufacturing our own furniture for a few years from a workshop in Crews Hill, supplying the furniture trade in general as well as our own stores.” “Today, we have two North London outlets. Southgate, which has expanded from one shop into three, as the adjoining premises have become vacant. Our second store is in Savoy Parade, Enfield Town. When I opened the Enfield Shop it felt like coming home, as this had been the premises of Colin Sellers’ store in Enfield when I

EN MAGAZINE - issue 67 February 2015 13

Local People started out all those years ago.”

What do you put your success down to? “For me it is all about sharing our knowledge and our customer service.” “Buying a bed is a necessity not a luxury. You may decide to upgrade your television because you want the latest thing, but you don’t buy a bed like that. When people come to us we know they are unlikely to return for at least 10 years, so we want to make sure they have the information that they need to make a decision on the choosing the correct bed; the right number of springs, coil sprung or pocket spring, divan or frame size etc to get a great night’s sleep.” “I make sure that it’s not just our in store service that’s exemplary but also my delivery teams. They not only deliver the beds, but put them up and will take away old beds.” “Because buying a bed is a very infrequent purchase, I need to constantly remind people of the fact if they need a bed, they need a Vic Smith bed.” “Over the years, I have spent a lot of time, money and energy promoting the business. From traditional advertising in newspapers and magazines, including EN Magazine; our brightly coloured pink and blue vans; radio and, over the Christmas period, for the first time advertising on TV. We have also appeared on TV before on shows including This Morning and 60 minute Makeover.”

Vic has lived in Enfield all his life and is married with three children, but what does he like about the area? “My wife works with me in the shops and I hope one day the kids, who attend local schools, will join us in the future.” “I have always enjoyed living in Enfield, I think it’s a great place with lots to do. The area has a strong and supportive community, both as a family and friends as well as strong local businesses.” “I really enjoy, as people who know me can vouch for, the excellent number of restaurants on offer in the area (just don’t mention dieting!).”

So what does the future hold for Vic Smith Beds? “Over the years I have tried to adapt to customer’s needs, one area of growth has been beds and furniture that help people with mobility issues. We have always sold Lift and Rise beds, which are great for people who have had knee or hip replacements or other mobility issues. We have expanded in this area to sell Lift and Rise chairs and last year launched a range of mobility scooters available in store as well.” “But most of all I want to make sure everyone locally gets a great night’s sleep in a Vic Smith Bed!”

EN MAGAZINE - issue 67 February 2015

Valentines

Share the love on Valentines Day…

by Janet Fearon

With only a few days until Valentines Day, have you decided what to get for the one you love? Simple – you are the gift! Yes, you! You’re the reason they fell for you! You’re the reason there was a connection and you’re the reason the spark eventually tied the knot of love. Yep, you captivated their heart. But with all relationships the honeymoon phase of dating is over and now you are committed to each other and the demands of life can sometimes have a toll on relationships. Before you know it, you’re taking each other for granted. It doesn’t have to be that way. You

Valentines Gift Ideas Choosing the right gift for Valentines Day can be a problem - chocolate, flowers, romantic underwear - so much to choose from. EN Magazine has come up with a few ideas: Bring the scent of romance to your home. The Tokyo fragrance from Ted Bakers Residence has the perfect story to accompany the scent. This story is about a Princess from ancient Edo falling in love with a servant’s son, but being forbidden from seeing him - so she places a candle on her balcony each evening to let him know of her desire. (House of Fraser and John Lewis, candles £28 diffusers £35) If it’s a scent you are looking for how about Ghost Fragrances which would be a perfect gift for Valentines Day. The fragrances have floral and vanilla notes which could leave that special woman feeling sexy for the day of romance. Ghost Cherish Sweetheart and Whisper are available in 30ml £22.50, 50ml £34.00 and £75ml £46.50.

Valentines have the power to ignite the passion again that once flowed freely at the start of your relationship. Sure, you still tell each other those 3 special words, but it’s even sweeter when it’s shown. Wouldn’t you agree? Take action for love, it speaks volumes. So here are some valuable secrets I want to share with you to keep the flame burning: Start with the element of surprise – romance never dies, unless you allow it too. Even the simplest gesture of writing a love letter or notes of affection will melt any heart when they least expect it. This will build excitement to see you later. Your surprise can be anything, just keep your mind open and the ideas will come to you. Be creative – Gifts from the heart are never forgotten. Either activities you will do together or a bunch of adorable gift items, these presents will surely last beyond the day of giving. Always set the mood to reconnect with fun – this can be anything from going out and doing something extra special together, to staying at home and sharing a luxurious bubble bath in candlelight with a bottle of bubbly. Bring ambience into play when you create the mood, it allows romance to bloom. This means from selecting the perfect music, lightning or where and when Perhaps you want to treat her to the kind of romantic gesture she will enjoy wearing but may not let you see? Millesia Cristal Chemise and Matching Brief Black Small – XL £248.99 A beautiful chemise with matching briefs, a delicate deep pleated fabric which is handmade to lie flat. A wealth of embroidery and stunning lace cups with hook and eye detail to the back - simply beautiful.

to pick a day to make your loved one know how much you cherish their love. Woo your love with food – Did you know that certain foods are aphrodisiac? Such as dark chocolate which aids the release of feeling good chemicals called endorphins. Feeding your loved one with strawberries dipped in chocolate will surely make them smile. What is fundamental, a meal cooked by you, makes it more personal and intimate. Listen and engage – Be attentive, look your partner warmly in the eyes. It’s good to listen when your loved one shares their thoughts, and don’t be afraid to ask questions, to encourage them to express themselves. Questions like, what are they thinking? You may be surprised to know that a simple question like this can steer the conversation to a deeper level of intimacy. When you communicate effectively with your partner it brings you even closer together. Keep the fire burning – Sometimes just forget the electricity and bring out the candles – lots of them. An open flame ignites desire. But choose your candles wisely as scent serves as aphrodisiac too, choose vanilla or patchouli. So you see romance is alive and well if you tune into it and allow yourself to open up. Yes, life is demanding but your relationship is just as important. So go on, bring back share the love and watch the sparks fly! This eau de toilette will give men the chance to get closer to their masculine side and show off their bold and adventurous personalities. It’s the ultimate choice for the men of today. Happy gift hunting!

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And let’s not forget something for the man in your life. The Bluebeards Revenge Eau-de-Toilette Gift Set kit is available to buy, priced at £24.99 www.bluebeardsrevenge.co.uk Inspired by the real life heroes and other larger than life characters who put the “Great” into Great Britain, this eau de toilette features an atomiser spray that is easy and efficient to use. Rob Lamberti EN MAGAZINE.indd 1

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Valentines

Melt the Heart of the One You Love Chocolate Ecstasy Tours is the home of indulgent, five-star guided chocolate tours around some of the most exclusive addresses in Brighton and London that will seduce any chocoholic, whether male or female. You can book a tour from the on-line tour calendar at a date to suit you and your loved one, opting for a three or three-and-a-half hour tour around Mayfair, Chelsea or Brighton a full-day Saturday tour or an evening tour, or purchase a Golden Ticket gift voucher that will leave their options open but still delight on Feb 14. Your expert guide will lead you to exquisite chocolate shops and boutiques at which you can meet top chocolatiers, sample their divine creations and learn

a little local history on the way. VIP discounts on purchases are also available for those who wish to top-up their Valentines treat with extra chocolate gifts! Head to www.chocolateecstasytours.com to buy the perfect Valentines gift for your chocolate lover and reveal your soft centre!

WIN WIN WIN WIN Treat your loved one to a chocaholic treat and win them a Mayfair Tour The Mayfair Chocolate Tour is the closest tour to the Original Chocolate Tour, which was first offered in 2005 when there were far fewer chocolate shops than there are now! This chocolate tour now stays mostly in Mayfair but ventures into Soho, where its finishes.  The tour starts with a rich hot chocolate and pastry at one of London’s best kept secrets: a remarkable building where art and food collide.    EN Magazine has two tickets to giveaway to the Mayfair tour, value £40 each. These can be booked at a time to suit the winners, within a year of receipt. To be in with a chance of winning just tell us which year the Original Chocolate tour started. Send your answer to competitions@enmagazine.co.uk or EN Magazine 63 High Street Potters Bar EN6 5AS by Wednesday 11th February .

Shade of Grey for Valentines ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’, the hotly anticipated film adaptation of the bestselling book that has become a global phenomenon, launches on the big screen on Friday the 13th of February. Since its release, the “Fifty Shades” trilogy has been translated into 51 languages worldwide and sold more than 100 million copies in e-book and print—making it one of the biggest and fastest-selling book series ever. Stepping into the roles of Christian Grey and Anastasia Steele, who have become iconic to millions of readers, are Jamie Dornan and Dakota Johnson. Joining Dornan and Johnson in the cast are Luke

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Grimes as Elliot, Christian’s brother; Victor Rasuk as José, Anastasia’s close friend; Eloise Mumford as Kate, Anastasia’s best friend and roommate; Marcia Gay Harden as Dr. Grace Trevelyan Grey, Christian’s mother; Rita Ora as Mia, Christian’s sister; Max Martini as Taylor, Christian’s bodyguard; Callum Keith Rennie as Ray, Anastasia’s stepfather; Jennifer Ehle as Carla, Anastasia’s mother; and Dylan Neal as Bob, Carla’s husband. Fifty Shades of Grey is directed by Sam Taylor-Johnson and produced by Michael De Luca and Dana Brunetti alongside E L James, the creator of the series. The screenplay for the film is by Kelly Marcel’.

WIN WIN WIN WIN Cineworld Cinemas Enfield has given EN Magazine 2 merchandise packs and 5 pairs of tickets to give away to our readers. To be in with a chance of winning the tickets just tell us how many languages the Fifty Shades Trilogy has been translated into. Send your answer to competitions@enmagazine.co.uk or EN Magazine 63 High Street Potters Bar EN6 5AS by Wednesday 11th February.

Romantic Destinations

Romantic Destinations to Celebrate Valentines Day Do red roses and chocolates seem a bit last year? Is the diamond necklace a bit out side your budget? How are you going to celebrate with your loved one this Valentines day? Why not consider whisking your loved one, and of course yourself, away for a short break? EN Magazine has come up with a few suggestions. Just a short journey from the EN area 5 star luxury awaits you and your loved one at Luton Hoo Hotel which is offering a special Valentine’s Escape package. Upon arrival couples will be treated to delicious Champagne and canapés followed by a sumptuous five course candlelit dinner in the awardwinning Wernher Restaurant. The delicious menu includes fresh crab and avocado tian served with tomato and coriander salad with black lemon jam, twice basked Jerusalem artichoke soufflé accompanied by sautéed spinach, truffle emulsion and crisp shallots and, to finish, a tantalising warm dark chocolate fondant with white chocolate ice cream. After an intimate candlelit dinner, guests can then retreat to one of Luton Hoo Hotel’s elegant lounges before retiring to one of the hotel’s luxurious bedrooms. The following morning couples will be treated to a delicious full English breakfast and have use of the hotel’s relaxing spa facilities. General Manager at Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf & Spa, Matthew Long, commented: “Our Valentine’s Escape package is for those who really want to treat that special someone to an evening they will never forget. From a candlelit dinner to luxurious accommodation, couples will experience a truly romantic Valentine’s Day.” The Valentine’s Day package at Luton Hoo Hotel starts

from £210 per person. To book, please call 01582 734437 or for more information, please visit www.lutonhoo. co.uk. If you would rather the getaway be just the two of you how about choosing a self catering option? Look no further than this spellbinding 18th century fairytale tower which has been lovingly restored to five star status and merges the mystery and intrigue of the past with 21st Century comforts. The Ducket – as it is locally known- looks out over the sea and the Holy Island of Lindisfarne on one side and offers views over tranquil green fields to the Cheviot Hills on the other. It has five rooms on five floors, connected by a hand crafted spiral staircase. Once inside this lovely romantic retreat, you have comfort, warmth and an exceptionally high standard of fittings and furnishings as well as Wi-Fi access, DVD player, Freeview TV, washer drier, fridge freezer, dishwasher and ground source heating. The Ducket is available for three night weekends and four night midweek stays for two from £480 - £690 and also for a week at a time from £630 to £940 per week. It is five star accredited. This unique stone tower, standing 60 ft high, is situated in peaceful, rural countryside, close to the magnificent Northumbrian castles of Bamburgh, Dunstanburgh and Alnwick (where Harry Potter was filmed). There is so much to do in the surrounding area including boat trips to the Farne Islands, visits to lovely gardens at Cragside Estate and The Alnwick Garden, guided wildlife safaris and outdoor activities as well as visits to nearby Alnwick, Berwick upon Tweed and the Scottish Borders. For keen cyclists, the Ducket is also situated right on the Coast and Castles Cycle Route 1 and very close to numerous beautiful walks. Alternatively there are a number of friendly and knowledgeable guides in the immediate area who can take visitors on memorable coastal and inland walks throughout Northumberland. The owners of the Ducket, who live nearby also offer a charming collection of high calibre holiday cottages just minutes from a three mile beach; and also run an oyster farm nearby. For visitors who don’t wish to cook

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Romantic Destinations for themselves, freshly prepared meals can be ordered from local cooks in advance of your stay. David, the friendly and helpful site manager is available at all times for any guest queries. Set within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, clear night skies to see the stars and with miles of sandy beaches close by, all these properties offer a great sense of tranquillity and calm for a truly restorative break. For more information, or to book, please go to www. rosscottages.co.uk Or if your looking for something a little closer to the EN area how about a couple of hours drive to Norfolk? The Dream Lodge Group is one of the UK’s leading holiday park operators and offers a selection of luxurious rural lodges in a selection of dedicated five-star holiday parks across the UK’s most popular holiday destinations. The award-winning lodges are the perfect country escape for a secluded and romantic getaway. There are a range of modern, chic and homely properties available to rent, and for Valentine’s day in 2015, the Deluxe Lodge with private Hot Tub is available with a special romantic package to guarantee a memorable occasion. Carefully selected details include outdoor hot tubs overlooking surrounding meadows, log burning fires, private saunas, vast decked areas with patio heaters to enjoy the English countryside, rainforest showers and Jacuzzi baths. Further extras can be arranged upon request, such as maid service, BBQ starter packs, logs for burning, picnic hampers and champagne upon arrival. Here are details and pricing of the two (slightly different) romantic packages available for Valentine’s Norfolk Park Romantic Package– Deluxe Lodge with Hot tub Located between the Broads and the North Norfolk Coast, this park is set within 20 acres of mature parkland. Long walks along the beach and forest trails through Bacton Woods are a must. This park also boasts a heated outdoor swimming pool and stylish on-site restaurant called The Olive Tree. What’s Included: - 2 nights accommodation - Late checkout of 3pm on the 15th February 2015 - Chilled bottle of champagne on arrival - Dinner for 2 in the Olive Tree restaurant on the 14th February - Price: £539.00

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Woodlands Park Romantic Package – Deluxe Lodge with Hot tub This East Sussex park is surrounded by woodlands and fields which can be enjoyed from the comfort of the Deluxe lodge’s hot tub with a glass of champagne. Located near a selection of beaches, golf courses and museums, you and your loved one will enjoy the idyllic countryside with a number of leisure activities on your doorstep. What’s included: - 2 night’s accommodation - Late checkout of 3pm on the 15th February - Chilled bottle of champagne on arrival - Roses and Petal on the bed - Price: £499.00 Is getting away to Europe is outside your budget? How about considering renting a home for a few days via HouseTrip, one of the largest holiday home rental websites in the world. They have fantastic properties throughout Europe including: Lisbon- perfect for childhood sweethearts Experience some old-world romance in the heart of Lisbon, whisk your long-time lover off for a special romantic getaway this Valentine’s day and explore the delights the city has to offer. Despite being built on seven hills, this European city is one of the most accessible cities for exploring on foot. If you fancy a break from strolling why not check out the unique creaking old elevadores (cable-winched lifts), or alternatively the city offers old trams that carry you into Lisbon’s delightful heart. The São Jorge Castle is a Moorish castle occupying a commanding hilltop overlooking the historic centre of the city and offers the perfect panoramic point to see the whole of Lisbon. At night, book a candle-lit dinner for two overlooking the Tagus River, and remember all the reasons you fell in love with each other…. As if Lisbon isn’t magical enough, just a short train

Venice- perfect for lovers looking to put a ring on it Separated by canals and linked by bridges this city offers the ultimate romantic a chance to play Prince Charming. Standing in the middle of the magnificent piazza, San Marco is an experience in itself. It is said that Napoleon called it “the drawing room of Europe”. The Eastern end of the piazza is dominated by the great church of St Mark, with the Basilica di San Marco, housing the breath-taking beauty of the Pala d’Oro, which is studded with 2000 emeralds, amethysts, sapphires, rubies, pearls and other precious gemstones. The piazza is also home to the clock-tower Torre dell’Orologio, which was completed in 1499, with no expense spared in the decoration of the tower and the clock, made using vast quantities of ultramarine and gold leaf. Venice offers the most magical back drop for a proposal, so why not take a punt down one of the city’s picturesque waterways in an iconic gondola, and serenade your loved one with the offer of a life time. Or for the true romantics; you can tie the knot under Juliet’s window, at the Casa di Giulietta, in the courtyard beneath the balcony. Casa Letizia Venice - from £56 per night (sleeps 3) This comfortable and traditional Italian apartment is located on the ground floor of an old Venetian building in the heart of Venice, giving love birds the perfect starting point to visit the main attractions the city has to offer. Book through: www.housetrip.com/en/rentals/185813

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Romantic Destinations

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journey away is the stunningly beautiful hilltop city of Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Sintra offers the idyllic setting for your fairy-tale romance filled with winding cobblestone streets and little alleyways, castles and palaces, and grand manor houses with ornately landscaped gardens- offering a day out with irresistible charm. Apartment in the heart of Lisbon- from £69 per night (sleeps 6) This comfortably charming apartment is situated in the heart of Lisbon, on a quiet and picturesque street, on one of the city’s seven hills. It is very close to the historic areas of Chiado and Bairro Alto, also known as the cultural, commercial and bohemian centre. Book through: www.housetrip.com/en/rentals/273042

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Health and Fitness

Sticking with New Year Resolutions Well, you have made it to February. After all the indulgence in celebrations of Christmas and New Year, did you make a New Year’s resolution? Have you stuck to them? Did you decide that 2015 was the year that you were going to get fit, lose weight or perhaps, like over a quarter of people in one survey, stop spending so much time on your mobile phone using social media? New Year’s Resolutions, like new shoes, need some breaking in. Here are 6 tips from Clinical Psychotherapist Terri Bodell, to help you to get started: Keep your list short. Between one and three resolutions are realistic and achievable. Any more than that will mean that you can lose focus and become demotivated. Think about what you want to start doing – not what you want to stop. Most resolutions begin with the words ‘I want to stop …’ whether it’s smoking, eating fattening foods, alcohol etc. The problem with the word ‘stop’ is that it focuses your mind on what you don’t want, and most people tend to fail this way. Phrase your resolution in positive terms and think about what you want to start doing differently. For example, ‘I want to eat healthily’. Be committed. Not just to the end result of your resolution, but more importantly to working towards it. Wanting something isn’t enough on its own. You have

to be committed to doing what it takes to achieve it. It’s about the choices you make, so ask yourself: What am I willing to do to get what I want? What am I not willing to do to get what I want? If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. What do you need to do to achieve your resolution? What steps will you have to take? How will you deal with temptation or obstacles that you will encounter? You need to have a clear guideline in place. Without a plan you have a wish-list, not a well thought out resolution. Accept that lapses happen. You will make mistakes and slip up from time to time. Don’t beat yourself up when it happens. You haven’t blown it; you’ve just had a momentary slip-up. Get yourself back on track and take it one day at a time. Be persistent. It takes about 28 days for a new action or behaviour to become a habit and between 3-6 months before it becomes completely automatic. As humans, we like to find a short cut or quick-fix if we can. But successful achieving our resolutions is hard at first and it takes work. Sometimes a lot of work! Keep in mind that nothing worthwhile is easy. Be persistent, keep taking action towards your goal and you will find, in time, that it does become easier.

More than a quarter of us want to give up checking social media and our mobiles A survey questioned more than 1,000 people across the UK, and was commissioned by Anamaya, the groundbreaking meditation app from the owners of the renowned London-based health and wellbeing centre, to better understand the reasons and motivations behind making self-improvements in the New Year. And, rather than traditional Resolutions topping the list, the focus was on technology, with more than a quarter of people stating they want to give up checking their social media on their mobile phones (27%). When it comes to gender differences, it’s no surprise that ‘quitting takeaways’ was revealed as the top New Year’s Resolution for women (19%), while men were more concerned with cutting down on technology usage (18%). Overall, the research found that almost a fifth of people said they want to quit takeaways (19%), a sixth wanted to give up gaming (16%) and amazingly 8% even wanted to give up on romance. For more information on the Anamaya application, go to www.anamaya.co 20

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Health and Fitness And finally, keep in mind the old saying that ‘Rome wasn’t built in a day’. Resolutions aren’t achieved in a day, but over many small actions take each and every day throughout the year. There will be days when you’ll feel like you can’t be bothered. You will hit road-blocks and obstacles along the way. But winners are adaptable and they keep going. They have both the commitment and drive to keep at it and do what it takes to reach their target. Taking small, consistent actions every day will mean that you can achieve your Resolutions. But remember that you don’t have to try everything alone. Weight loss counsellor Heather Newham who has worked with hundreds of local people to help them achieve their weight loss says, “for many people weight

loss is not just about eating less or changing your diet, support and guidance can be key to achieving success.” “By joining a weight loss group, like mine, not only do you get the information on calorie control and diet but also by attending regular meetings you are not left to feel all-alone. Imagine how daunting it is at the start of a diet deciding I want to lose, say 4 kilos, sat in a room all alone. Compare that to being in a group of like-minded people all setting out to lose weight who will encourage and motivate your success, I think I know where many of you would prefer to be.” “With over 12 years experience of working with local people, I have had the opportunity to see the benefits achieved by group members, many of whom have gone on to not only drop the weight but become friends. Sticking to any diet or weight loss plan is going to be much easier when you are doing it with someone to help motivate you.” Weight loss is not the only area where working within a group can produce better results. Just opened is the David Lloyd Studio Enfield, offering the fitness programme Orangetheory. The classes are available to clients on a non-membership basis as well as to members of the David Lloyd Enfield Club, which houses the studio and provides a full range of health, sports and leisure facilities and programmes for the whole family.

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Health and Fitness Orangetheory group training is a fun and effective workout for up to 24 adults, of all ages and ability, designed to help achieve personal fitness goals. “The beauty of Orangetheory is that you use individual heart monitors to calculate your own heart rate and optimum training zone - it’s like having a personal training session within a group environment,” studio supervisor Miguel Cruchinho told EN Magazine. “Although you are in a group, you go at a pace and level that is suited to you. For example, someone who runs regularly may be on a machine topping a speed of 12 km per hour to get their heart rate to the orange zone. The person standing next to them may be jogging at 6kmh, but regardless of speed, both are achieving a great work out”. “Each 60-minute session comprises of intervals of cardiovascular and strength training, producing a huge metabolic increase and between 500 and 1,000 calories per session - with extra calorie burn for up to 36 hours after each workout. We constantly change the format of the session to keep them varied and interesting so, even if you turn up to the same time slot each week, you are unlikely to do the same routine. We find this helps to keep interest in the workout. “The programme features four components three components - treadmills, rowing machines and weight training blocks and stretching - with sessions set to upbeat music and using heart rate monitors to track performance and optimise cardio and resistance training. Benefits include weight loss, improved fitness, increased stamina and muscle endurance.” But gyms and diet groups are not for everyone. With the news that obesity issues in both adults and children are on the rise perhaps we should all be looking to use a New Year’s resolution to improve our health. Enfield Council’s Sports Development team are encouraging people of all ages to do just that. “In and around the borough we have fantastic sports and recreational facilities. From the Olympic standard athletics training centre at Pickets Lock, gyms and

swimming pools, ballroom dancing to Tai Chi we think there is defiantly something for everyone whatever their age, interests and abilities.” “As well as an extensive range of groups, classes and centres organised directly by the council we also work with other local providers, for example ever wanted to try horse riding, footgolf, box fit, or spinning? These are just a few of the hundreds of classes we have on offer locally.” The sports development team have number of activities going on including weekly sessions, tasters and school holiday activities for all ages and abilities. The sessions are included in the New Year New You booklet this information is accessible on the website www.enfield.gov.uk/sport As well as offering classes we want to help local people improve their health and lifestyle and a have launched an online system www.trackitenfield.co.uk. The Online Health assessment programme has been designed to give you the information, tools, support and motivation to improve your health and get more active. It doesn’t matter if you want to improve your diet, sleep better, reduce stress or jog a mile the Online Health Assessment programme can help.” “The personalised application allows you to monitor and measure your health and wellbeing across a range of measuring factors. These include Nutrition analysis, Activity, Lifestyle, Stress, Sleep, Work/Life balance, Medical and more. It is just like having your own online coach to help you improve how you feel now and in the future. The Online Health Assessment is the ideal starting point to start your fitness, weight loss and wellness goals. Your report will help you discover where to start, whatever your goals are.” Terri Bodell www.terribodell.com Heather Newham Tel: 020 8366 8986 Mbl: 07970 252647 www.davidlloyd.co.uk www.enfield.gov.uk/sport

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Enfield Town FC

Proud to be Towners The community of Enfield can boast a first in football history in this country. A success story for over 13 years – that of Enfield Town Football Club – the first ever ‘supporter-owned football club’ in the country. The formation of this club by the Enfield Supporters’ Trust has become the blue print for supporter-owned clubs such as AFC Wimbledon, FC United of Manchester, Wycombe Wanderers and a host of clubs nationwide. The Demise of Enfield FC Back in the 1980s, the now defunct Enfield FC were knocking on the door to be let into the Football League. They had won the Conference (the division immediately below the Football League) twice and the FA Trophy twice during that decade, and lost out in a vote (by League clubs) to Torquay United, who retained their League status, in 1986. The following year automatic promotion and relegation were introduced between the League and the Conference and the rest, as they say, is history. Enfield FC were relegated from the Conference in 1990, and proceeded to be pipped to the post of league champions and the one club per season that was then promoted, by various other clubs whilst attempting to gain promotion again on a number of different occasions. In 1995, when Enfield did win the Ryman (Isthmian) League the Conference cited “financial irregularities” and blocked the promotion that had been earned emphatically on the pitch. Supporters Take A Stand And Make History By 2001, Enfield fans had grown so disenchanted with a sequence of events which culminated in the then Chairman’s decision to sell Enfield’s Southbury Road ground for development. Leaving the club without a viable alternative site to serve as a home ground was the last straw, and the vast majority of supporters broke away to form a completely new club, which was the first

of its kind in this country. Enfield Town are, proudly, the first ever supporter-owned football club in the United Kingdom. Having previously formed a Supporters Trust to help find the old club a home in the London Borough of Enfield, but having made no progress with the then Chairman to this end, Enfield supporters passed an overwhelming majority vote to form a new club, Enfield Town, in June 2001. The new club was helped to find its feet by Supporters Direct - an umbrella organisation set up originally by the government, with cross-party support, in 2000 to promote sustainable spectator sports clubs based on supporters’ involvement and community ownership. Supporters Direct also work in other sports, most notably rugby league and ice hockey, and there are now over 180 Supporters’ Trusts in the UK, including more than 30 clubs completely owned by their supporters. Formed as a Community Benefit Society with a wholly owned subsidiary ETFC Limited (a private company limited by shares), the club initially competed in the Essex Senior League and played at the ground of Brimsdown Rovers in Goldsdown Road, to the east of the Borough. This ground sharing arrangement lasted for 10 years. During that decade, the dilapidated QEII Athletics Stadium, half a mile or so to the north of the site of the old Southbury Road ground, was identified as being a ideal site for the club to eventually make its home. Enfield FC, meanwhile, struggled along until 2007 before collapsing into liquidation before a new club (Enfield 1893) was formed. Enfield 1893 merged with Brimsdown Rovers in 2010, and currently play home matches at Harlow Town FC. Home At Last - And A Promotion! In October 2008, work to started on the Queen Elizabeth II athletics stadium on Donkey Lane. The club were awarded grants by the Football Stadium Improvement Fund towards necessary works on the new ground. Following completion of the works, Enfield Town moved into the stadium in November 2011 with a friendly match against a Tottenham Hotspur XI, and ended the season getting promoted (via the play-offs) to the Premier Division of the Ryman League. The majority of the cost of the QEII Stadium Grade II listed refurbishment was met by the Council. The Stadium was used as a case study in the 2013 London Borough of Enfield Olympic and Paralympic Legacy Strategy Review, not least as it is being used regularly for athletics as well as for football. Last year, London Skolars Rugby League team played a number of matches at the stadium while their own ground in Haringey was being upgraded. It is fair to say that the spirit and soul of the old club moved to the QEII Stadium with Enfield Town. There is a dedicated core of supporters who volunteer huge amounts of their time and energy to sustain and develop the new club and it is testament to these few that this club has risen like a phoenix from the ashes of the old club. From match day staff and facility management

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Enfield Town FC and maintenance work right through to the board it is these loyal custodians that carry the club forward. Former players and managers are regularly seen at home matches, reminiscing about old times and sharing photos, including days out at Wembley. That said, it is also fair to say that it is a different club now, with different challenges, forging ahead in a new era of football in Enfield. As a community club, Enfield Town is working within its limited resources towards a vision of being an inclusive club for all and a football and social centre for its local community, with a range of teams playing at the highest sustainable levels possible. With a published business plan, the main focus is on: * the development of football facilities which will improve the quality and the experience of playing and spectating for the local community; * to increase and sustain participation in all club activities, and * to improve the standards of play of all Enfield Town FC teams The Club and The Community The club’s biggest task has been in raising awareness and engaging a broader community within the Borough. In part this has been helped by a Heritage Lottery Fund grant, which helped to create an oral history project called “Enfield Football Tales”. The project includes interviews with former and current players and supporters of the old club, Enfield Town and other local teams. As part of the clubs commitment to the community engagement, representatives of the club go out to local schools and local community groups performing presentations with film footage and boxes of memorabilia throughout the borough. The main successes of the old club were over thirty years ago, so a whole generation is hearing about that for the first time. More information and a collection of videos can be found on the dedicated website at www.enfieldfootballtales. co.uk. Over the past three years, there has been a steady increase in the match attendances. The average home league attendance in 2011-12 was 330; in 2012-13 it was 365; and in 2013-14 it was 385, with some games reaching around 600. For the club it is a constant challenge to keep moving forward, to keep supporters engaged and to attract others to get involved with the club. A winning team is of course instrumental in building the supporter base. As part of achieving this there is a balancing act between increasing the playing budget and not over committing the club, so as to grow in a sustained manner when it is prudent to do so. At the outset, the club was set up and kept afloat for a number of years by sponsorship and generous donations. In order to help progress to the next level of professionalism and growth both on and off the field, a community share issue was launched in June 2014 (a successful model of raising capital for FC United and other clubs). The proceeds from the scheme go towards refinancing the liabilities that were incurred in order to allow the move to the QEII stadium to go

ahead, and will create a funding for various club-wide projects. The first such project, subject to a feasibility study, could potentially be the construction of an additional social clubhouse space or training facilities for club use and private hire. The club is definitely heading in the right direction and is steadily going from strength to strength. The Board of Directors are constantly reviewing opportunities, objectives and targets, whilst involving Society members in the planning of its business. On The Field On the pitch Enfield Town are playing good football under our ambitious manager Bradley Quinton. Since he took charge, there has been a distinct improvement in the morale, fitness and work-rate, which has led to better performances. Earlier this season, Town played Eastbourne Borough, a team from a division higher (the Vanarama Conference South), in the FA Cup. Following a 1-1 at Eastbourne, the replay at the QEII Stadium proved to be a thriller which finished 3-3, went to 4-4 during extra time and on t to a penalty shoot-out. Eastbourne eventually progressed into the next round by 4 penalties to 3. Eastbourne were very complimentary about the team, the club and its facilities. The reaction to the two games from Town supporters, rather than resorting to traditional football clichés such as “it was all the referee’s fault”, was one of pride and a feel-good factor throughout the club of ‘what could be achieved’ on a regular basis given the ambition, passion and support, a fair wind, continued efficient and effective management, and prudent housekeeping. In other matches, in October 2014 the team went unbeaten in 7 games, including six consecutive league wins, a feat which culminated in Bradley Quinton deservedly winning the Ryman League Premier Division Manager of the Month. Enfield Town’s website carries fixtures and all the latest news and details of forthcoming matches: www. enfieldtownfootballclub.co.uk/ So come along! We invite you; as a football fan and/or a member of our community, to come and watch a game before the end of the season! - You’ll find a great family atmosphere and splendid match-day facilities at the QEII Stadium– and you may well be pleasantly surprised at what a good time you have!

EN MAGAZINE - issue 67 February 2015

Gardening

Time to Look for the First Signs of Spring February. It’s cold, the days are still short, often dull and dank, and spring still seems a fair way off. What’s to love about it? Well, quite a lot actually, for the hardy gardener. The aptly-named flower of hope, snowdrops, have already poked their noses through the soil and the other early spring flowering bulbs are getting ready to erupt in a profusion of bright, refreshing colour. They are fantastic for cheering the soul and brightening the house and garden in these late winter days. A trip to your local garden centre or nursery (and we’re spoiled for choice for them in Enfield) will also show you just how many plants and shrubs are looking their wintery best right now, many with beautiful berries, foliage, coloured stems and scent. Some of the nurseries have gorgeous displays, so do go and explore. They’re a great source of ideas and inspiration and guaranteed to banish those winter blues!

If you didn’t get around to buying and planting spring bulbs in the autumn, you can buy them in pots now with foliage already up and the promise of flowers to come. There’s a huge amount of choice, from jewel-bright crocuses to sunny yellow narcissi, inky blue irises and the rich purples and pinks of hyacinths with their heady perfume. Bulb bowls are a good way of displaying small or delicate bulbs such as muscari or the snake’s head fritillary. Use wide, shallow bowls and plant with just one variety or colour for best impact, then place on a garden table near the kitchen window so you can see them up close when they come into bloom. Dwarf irises are another good choice for this kind of planting. Spring bulbs are good in all kinds of containers, so you can mix and match both containers and plants. Try mixing aged terracotta tom pots with colourful resin pots, or contemporary zinc planters with brightly glazed ceramic containers. Use in groups of 3 or 5 for an impactful and cohesive effect on the patio, or I sometimes use single hand-painted flowerpots with just one kind of bulb in each, placed up flights of steps, maybe flanking the front door. Try mixing purple hyacinths with dwarf citrus-lime conifers and darkleaved heucheras, or mini daffodils with small-leaved ivy, and pale blue muscari. Icy-white snowdrops can look dramatic planted with the black grass, Ophiopogon Nigrescens and white hyacinths. As I mentioned earlier, there’s also quite a number of other plants and shrubs that really come into their own in February, and these are really valuable as they will help to give your garden structure and interest at this rather bleak time of year. Here are my top picks for February:

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Gardening Hamamelis x intermedia ‘Jelena’ (witch hazel) – spidery orange-flushed, scented flowers in winter. Garrya elliptica ‘James Roof’ (silk tassel bush) – extralong catkins and evergreen foliage, good as a wall shrub Mahonia x media ‘Winter Sun’ – architectural evergreen foliage and bright yellow scented winter flowers Cornus (dogwood) – all have beautifully coloured stems and look great grown together as a small group. Try C. alba ‘Sibirica’ (red stems),C. alba ‘Kesselringii’ (purpleblack stems), C. sericea ‘Flaviramea’ (yellow-olive stems) and C. sanguinea ‘Midwinter Fire’ (orange-red stems) Pyracantha (firethorn) – available with red, yellow or orange berries with vicious thorny stems. Good grown as a hedge or to deter intruders! Daphne odorata ‘Aureomarginata’ – fragrant pinktinged flowers in late winter and gold-edged foliage. Slightly tender so be careful where you plant this one. Can be good in a pot so you can move it to appreciate its intoxicating scent! Jasminum nudiflorum (winter flowering jasmine) – an invaluable climbing plant with cheerful yellow flowers to really brighten up a dark corner. Viburnum tinus ‘Eve Price’ – tiny rose-pink buds opening to fragrant flowers followed by blue-black berries. A great backdrop for other flowering plants.

- lustrous gold and green leaves brighten a dark corner. Can be bought as mini plants and added to spring bulb plantings. Skimmia japonica ‘Rubella’ – a small winter evergreen with sprays of long-lasting wine-red buds. Another one which can be bought as a mini plant for spring containers. I’ve planted them this year in hanging baskets with bronze-leaved heucheras and trailing ivies. Hellebores – I particularly love H. x hybridus ‘Harvington Shades of the Night’ with its sumptuous purple-black flowers and H. x hybridus ‘Harvington double lime-green’ but there’s a huge choice available with colours ranging from white to near-black, some speckled, some not! Don’t forget heathers, the winter-spring flowering varieties are widely available now in shades of ruby, magenta and lilac and are excellent for mixed planting in containers, especially with black grass and the tutti-frutti shades of primulas. And last word to pussy willow! Cut stems of pussy willow last for ages (don’t put them in water) and look fabulous in tall containers indoors mixed with glass bead and twig lights. Seek out the purple and red-dyed ones for extra romance and glamour and make the most of the remaining long February nights!

Clematis cirrhosa – ‘Freckles’ is cream speckled with red and ‘Lansdowne Gem’ is rich claret. The pendant flowers are best viewed from below so let them climb and scramble up fences and through wall shrubs.

Amanda Clibbens-Stoney Owner of Amanda Clibbens-Stoney Planting Design RHS and Capel Manor qualified (m) 07813 955002 (e) amanda.cstoney@gmail.com

Euonymus fortunei ‘Emerald ‘n’ Gold (winter creeper)

Spring events for your horticultural diary 2015

RHS London Plant & Potato Fair 20-21 February 2015 RHS Lawrence/Lindley Halls, Greycoat Street, London SW1 www.rhs.org.uk Coffee Morning 4 March 2015 Myddelton House and Gardens Bulls Cross, Enfield, EN2 www.visitleevalley.org.uk Great Dixter Spring Plant Fair 28-29 March 2015 Great Dixter, Northiam, East Sussex www.greatdixter.co.uk Edible Garden Show 20-22 March 2015 Alexandra Palace, London N22 www.theediblegardenshow.co.uk RHS Great London Plant Fair 14-15 April 2015 RHS Lawrence/Lindley Halls, details as above Plant Heritage Spring Plant Fair 18-19 April 2015 RHS Hyde Hall, Rettendon, Essex www.essexplantheritage.co.uk RHS Chelsea Flower Show 19-23 May Royal Hospital, Chelsea, London SW3 www.rhs.org.uk

EN MAGAZINE - issue 67 February 2015

Showtime

SHOWTIME Viva la Drag!

Saturday 28 February, 2015 ~ 7.45pm Millfield Theatre Silver Street, Edmonton, N18 1PJ Tickets: £20 Box office: 020 8807 6680 www.enfield.gov.uk/millfield Directed by Kylie Minogue’s creative director, featuring songs especially composed by Boy George, the latest hit show from London’s West End – Viva la Drag! – is coming to town. “It’s an outrageous party night out to die for,” says Michael Taylor the show’s producer, “packing in more hit songs than any other production.” Classic hits are combined with today’s chart toppers. The party-packed score is performed by “one hell of an all-male girl group” – The Stage Newspaper – as the plot of Viva la Drag! charts the rise from rags to the queens of drag of a close harmony group. . . with a difference. It’s an evening of glitz, hits, dance and kitsch boasting a real musical pedigree,”

SOUL LEGENDS

Saturday 25 April 2015 ~ 7.45pm Millfield Theatre Silver Street, Edmonton, N18 1PJ – Ticket prices: £23.00 Box Office: 020 8807 6680 enfield.gov.uk/millfield Billed as “the feel good show of the year”, brand-new smash-hit, Stateside spectacular Soul Legends is coming to town. Boasting that it “features more soul classics than any other production” songs from Aretha Franklin, James Brown, Tina Turner, Wilson Pickett, Sam and Dave, Michael Jackson, Barry White, George Benson, Lionel Richie, Sam and Dave, Eddie Floyd, Chaka Khan, Edwin Starr, Earth Wind and Fire, The Emotions, Kool & the Gang, The Pointer Sisters and many more are among the 32-song score.

A NIGHT OF DIRTY DANCING THE ULTIMATE TRIBUTE SHOW Saturday 7th February 2015

wyllyotts Theatre,

Wyllyotts Place, Darkes Lane, Potters Bar, EN6 2HN Tickets: £20.00 Box Office 01707 645005 www.wyllyottstheatre.co.uk Saturday 21st February 2015 Millfield Arts Centre Silver Street, Edmonton, N18 1PJ Tickets £20|£18 concs Box office: 020 8807 6680 www.millfieldtheatre.co.uk

Featuring all the hits from everyone’s favourite dance movie Dirty Dancing, an all-new, spectacular stage show featuring all the hits from the film is coming to town. Recast and rescripted and billed as “the sexiest song and dance sensation of 2015”, music and dance fans have the chance to experience the all-new box office hit A Night of Dirty Dancing, the ultimate tribute show, as it embarks on a brand-new nationwide tour Michael says that only a production featuring an allstar cast, truly gifted musicians, elaborately authentic costumes and jaw-dropping choreography could do justice to the passion and fervour of everyone’s favourite soul classics. These include: Respect, Soul Man, Ain’t Nobody, Knock On Wood, Midnight Hour, Proud Mary, You’re My First My Last My Everything, Best Of My Love, River Deep Mountain High, Ain’t No Stopping Us Now, Beat It, Three Times a Lady, Get Down on It, I Feel Good. . . and many, many more.

Show producer Michael Taylor says: “It’s all aboard the sensational soul train show of the year. We embark from soul’s heady Sixties origins. . . steaming, non-stop, through to the present day. . .via everyone’s favourite Seventies and Eighties dance classics.”

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