Around town magazine rayleigh edition june 2015

June 2015 Edition 19 Delivered to 15,000 Homes & Businesses in Rayleigh aroundtownmagazines.co.uk

MARSHALL Driveways & Patios Ltd

FREEPHONE: 0800 292 7610 MOBILE: 07768 355 072 www.marshalldriveways.co.uk

10%

NT DISCE WOOURKING WHIL AREA IN YOUR

MINI GOT MASSIVE FAIRFIELD MINI HAS MOVED!

BRAND NEW MINI CENTRE OPEN NOW. STATE OF THE ART 11 CAR SHOWROOM DISPLAYING ALL THE LATEST MODELS AND AN EXCLUSIVE INDOOR CUSTOMER HANDOVER BAY. KITTED OUT WITH ALL THE LATEST MINI STUFF INCLUDING OUR FIRST MINI HUB, WHERE YOU CAN GRAB A COFFEE AND RELAX! ADDITIONAL CUSTOMER CAR PARKING SPACES.

BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER. COME IN AND VISIT US TODAY.

NEW MINI SHOWROOM OLD MINI SHOWROOM

FOR ALL THE GOSSIP

OUR OFFICIAL OPENING PARTY TAKES PLACE ON SAT 15TH AUGUST. EVERYONE IS WELCOME.

www.fairfieldmini.co.uk

ACCESS AWNINGS SPRING AWNING SALE 25% OFF ALL MARKILUX AWNINGS

ALSO CHOOSE FROM A RANGE OF OPTIONS AT 35% DISCOUNT. FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY

GARAGE DOOR WAREHOUSE CLEARANCE EX DEMO MODELS UP TO 75% OFF RRP GARAGE DOORS SUPPLIED & FITTED FROM £395 INC VAT*

Unit 1, Upminster Trading Park, Warley Street, Upminster, RM14 3PJ CALL NOW 01708 227042 or Email upminster@accessgaragedoors.com OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE www.accessgaragedoors.com *Price for a 7'0''x6'6'' Horizontal White Steel Door with Canopy Gear to an existing timber frame

PLEASE MENTION AROUND TOWN MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

3

AL TURN YOUR DREAMS INTO RE

ITY

Lodges Fully Furnished Park Homes & Shop Open 7 Days A Week 24 Hour CCTV Waterside Bar & Diner Pet Friendly Part Exchange Available

Release Equity Example CURRENT PROPERTY

£ 230,000

PARK HOME PURCHASE

£ 180,000 CASH BACK

£ 50,000

www.leisureparksuk.co.uk

Tel : 01245 320054 Burnham Road, Wickford Essex. SS11 7QT

4

PLEASE MENTION AROUND TOWN MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

... Around Towners to YOUR Rayleigh community magazine!

June is upon us, which means the Summer is here! Although, as I write this on a cold, wet Monday afternoon in May, it’s hard to believe... Still, we remain positive and think about the fun that can be had in fair weather at our local parks and outdoor spaces.

Following last months General Election, the Conservatives regain their seat in the district.

See Mark Francois article inside for a special thank you to everyone who voted ‘blue’.

And commiserations to the other parties standing.

The third title to the Around Town family – Around Town Upminster – is out now, on its second edition. We have had some great feedback and responses from the area and we couldn’t be happier.

With all the regular reports, local businesses & events and more inside, we hope you enjoy this edition of Around Town Magazine.

Until next time...

From the Around Town Team

Features 7 Nature Notes EWT Volunteer Neil Sumner 10 Rayleigh Lions Club / Rotary Club of Rayleigh Mill Organisations ‘Around Town’ 13 Know Your Tradesmen Down Hall Garden Services 16 A View from the Church Rev. Mike Lodge Why Advertise?

18 Mark Francois Political Update 20 Around Town Sports Focuses on Tennis 22 - 23 Martin Lewis The Money Saving Expert 24 Recipe Chicken Tikka Masala 26 What’s On When & Where...

27 Useful Numbers

We hand deliver 15,000 copies every month to homes and businesses covering the whole of Rayleigh. This includes several thousand copies available from venues throughout the town and an online edition.

To Advertise Contact our details below.

Sales

Team

Booking deadline for our June edition of Around Town is: Friday 12th June.

Copyright 2015. Around Town Rayleigh is an independent magazine and does not endorse the products or services that appear in the magazine. Opinions expressed in Around Town do not necessarily represent those of the editors of Around Town Magazines. Around Town Magazines are published by Black Square Print Media Ltd produced by Black Square Litho Ltd.

Around Town Magazines Graphic House, Radford Way, Billericay CM12 0DE

01277 658444 www.aroundtownmagazines.co.uk admin@aroundtownmagazines.co.uk

PLEASE MENTION AROUND TOWN MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

5

Perfectly crafted timber windows and doors Come along to one of our showrooms to see more...

Ingatestone The Old Forge, 53 High Street, Ingatestone Essex CM4 0AT. 01277 350950 Bury St Edmunds 8 Fornham Business Court, Hall Farm, Bury Drift Fornham St Martin, Suffolk IP31 1SL. 01284 760222 Woodbridge New showroom opening Spring 2014 at Notcutts Garden Centre, Woodbridge.

www.burgess-group.com

GreenThumb

...treats lawns,

turning them from tired, weed infested areas into lawns you can be proud of.

Our simple lawn care services can cost you less than DIY, treatments start from just ÂŁ15

6

PLEASE MENTION AROUND TOWN MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

SOUTHEND FLYING CLUB www.southendflyingclub.co.uk

From the rail station I walked through the streets, and into Hockley Woods. It was 1st May and the sight of the trees with their fresh green leaves gave a great sense of anticipation.

Alongside the paths, Bluebells abounded and in some places these were mixed with the white of Lesser Stitchwort and Yellow Archangel. The areas of understorey and woodland flowers gave off a fresh perfume of spring. There was at first a reasonable mix of bird-song, especially from melodic Blackcaps and repetitive Chiff-chaffs, but at times it was quiet. In many Essex woodlands we have very few sub-Saharan migrants nowadays so after April the birds have established their territories. At one point there was a brief total silence but this was soon broken by a burst from a Wren. Looking towards the sound I spotted a Stoat which climbed over a log pile and disappeared into the coppiced undergrowth.

I went into the neighbouring farmland, and was greeted with a vista into the Roach valley and the houses beyond. Over the horizon, the sky colour brightened, reminding me of the estuary that lay beyond. With binoculars I and picked out a Sparrowhawk being shadowed by two Swallows and causing a little group of pigeons to fly in a tight cluster. Along the path there were no hedgerows and once again it was briefly without bird-song, until a Skylark rose out of the golden rape which rolls down to Cherry Orchard Jublilee Country Park. Passing the edge of a private wood with a magnificent display of Bluebells, I paused to watch a great spotted woodpecker hammering at an old Hornbeam tree. The next wood was a canopy with no understorey or flowers and criss-crossed with paths. I imagined a dangling knotted rope and remembered a boyhood often spent climbing trees and making swings.

Into the Country Park alongside the river, the bird-song picked up. Whitethroats performed from the bramble and hawthorn, more Swallows skimmed the grass and parties of Linnets picked at the dandelion heads. Orange-tipped and Comma butterflies flew along the scrub by the path and a few Bumblebees whizzed over the rape. As the day warmed and the thermals rose 4 Buzzards soared over the woods, joined by a Marsh Harrier.

TRIAL FLYING LESSON £125

from inc VAT and includes Log Book & Certificate

Take to the Skies!

01702 545 198

Constable Landscapes Ltd WE CAN TURN YOUR GARDEN INTO A PICTURE

For all your driveway and patio requirements,

ASE

PLE

This is a Living Landscape. In June, the birds will become quieter but the butterflies will increase and dragonflies should emerge from the lake.

There is much here to be conserved and there is more we can do to improve the biodiversity and generate more benefits for ourselves. There is much woodland and open space and there is room for recreation, wildlife and the economy. The Friends of Cherry Orchard Country Park are already working with Rochford Council to this aim and Essex Wildlife Trust have drafted a Vision Document for the area, identifying what is special and suggesting what can be done to make it more so – new ponds and wet woodlands, for example, and new outdoor activities. It will need the support of the local community to do this. If you would like to know more about this initiative please get in touch. (photo credits www.swallowbirding.co.uk, http://www.friendsofcherryorchardpark.org/

The ideal Father’s Day gift

ou w : If y

E NOT

ish t

Our regular lawn mowing service starts at

£25

om

We offer competitive set prices for all our jobs

ake

Neilsumner123@aol.com follow me twitter.com/neilsumner123

cha

Please call us with your requirements on

nge s to

01702 206604 or 07802 600973

this

Visit our website at www.constablelandscapes.co.uk

artw ork

se r

plea

PLEASE MENTION AROUND TOWN MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

7

es

10

EssexMaintenanceApr14 07 April 2014 15:38:43

8

PLEASE MENTION AROUND TOWN MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

ELECTRICIAN With 34 years experience, we can help with any electrical issues! » » » » » »

Fault Finding Extra Sockets Lighting Showers Fuse Boxes Garden Lighting

CALL FOR

FREE ESTIMATES

ALL ASPECTS OF BUILDING WORK UNDERTAKEN EXTENSIONS & CONSERVATORIES GARAGE & LOFT CONVERSIONS KITCHENS & BATHROOMS DESIGNED & INSTALLED

EMERGENCY CALL OUTS NO JOB TOO SMALL OR TOO BIG WE DONT CHARGE THE EARTH

Call Dave on

BRICKWORK & PAVING

01268 - 733225 07979 - 845835

07885750744 or 07874225752 deb1956@hotmail.co.uk

On site survey Full installation service

Plastering, Electrics, Gas Insallation or Supply only .

PLEASE MENTION AROUND TOWN MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

9

ROTARY CLUB OF RAYLEIGH MILL During the afternoon of June 6th members of our Rotary Club will be joining other clubs from the Southend area and surrounding districts to attempt a World Record! Our District Governor is organising what we hope will be ‘The World’s Biggest Quiz’ at Southend United Football Ground. We obviously hope that we will have enough people, Rotarians and others, to get into the Guinness Book of Records but it is bound to be a success as profits from the event will be going to Lancaster Special needs School in Southend. Details can be found at www. rotarybigquix.org.

The club is also moving its meeting location from June. We will now meet at the Rayleigh Golf and Country Club, Hullbridge Road, Rayleigh with the meetings starting at 7pm.

If you wish to visit us or know more about the Club please contact Andrew Shackleton on 01702 201783 or robertashackleton@googlemail.com.

Our website and Facebook page can also help you see what we do. www.rotaryribi.org/clubs/homepage.php?ClubsID=1797 or put ‘Rotary Club of Rayleigh Mill’ into Facebook.

RAYLEIGH LIONS CLUB The Lions Club of Rayleigh is part of the International Association of Lions Clubs, and our primary aim is to raise and distribute funds within out local area.

The Lions Club Of Rayleigh was chartered in 1974 and serves the Rayleigh, Hockley, Hullbridge and Rochford areas. Our club is a Voluntary Service Organisation and a registered charity, we are always looking for people willing to help make their community a better place to live.

By visiting our website, you will be able to find out about the work of the international organisation of Lions and the Lions Club of Rayleigh in particular, including our activities and also details of forthcoming events, and who to contact for further information.

Our club meets on the 1st (business) & 3rd (social) Tuesdays in every month in Rayleigh.

Guests are always welcome. http://www.rayleighlions.org.uk

10

PLEASE MENTION AROUND TOWN MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

As a company we offer real value to our bathroom customers. We love nothing more than to bring an old tired bathroom back to life, by installing high end to budget products that simply transform your room.

info@essex-bathrooms.co.uk www.essex-bathrooms.co.uk

07712 674877 | 01702 232979

Ian’s curtains & blinds

Curtains | Tracks and Poles | Roman Blinds | Roller Blinds | Vertical Blinds Venetian Blinds | Wooden Blinds Pattern books also available.

FREE QUOTE - Call today on Wickford: 01268 410516 | Mobile: 07743562384 ian.dipple@yahoo.com | www.ianscurtainsandblinds.co.uk PLEASE MENTION AROUND TOWN MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

11

Over 100 BRAND NEW Appliances in Stock • Washing Machines • Fridge Freezers • Gas & Electric Cookers

Call: 01268 745455

• Dishwashers & Tumble Dryers • Built in Appliances

FREE local delivery

within 5 mile radius

ConnECTion SErviCES • rEpAir & DiSpoSAl • DElivEry • BEST priCES in ToWn

www.rayleighdomesticappliances.co.uk RDA • 88 The Chase • Rayleigh • Essex • SS6 8RW

DOWN HALL G A R D E N S E RV I C E S

Tim Poulter started Downhall Garden Services ten years ago, having always been passionate about gardening and feeling inspired to try something new and start his own business. Downhall Garden Services offers a wide range of garden

services from full landscaping to general maintenance, and Tim prides himself on the rapport he builds with customers in order to tailor his services to their exact requirements. He said ‘It’s really important for me to get to know my clients and understand their needs. All my customers are top of my priority list regardless of the type of work that’s involved’.

To feature your business contact:

HANDYMAN DAVE For all your general property maintenance, call Dave! » » » » »

Tiling Plastering Refurbishments Kitchens Bathrooms

CALL FOR

FREE ESTIMATES

NO JOB TOO SMALL OR TOO BIG Call Dave on

07885750744 or 07874225752 deb1956@hotmail.co.uk

Tim recently moved to Rayleigh and is excited to be bringing Downhall Garden Services to local residents in and around the area. ‘We offer a completely personalised service, and can always ensure complete dedication to the task at hand. We’re not just chasing pound notes – we like to really get to know the people.

No job’s too small’.

01277 658444 sales@aroundtownmagazines.co.uk

DOWN HALL G A R D E N S E RV I C E S

For all local garden maintenance - friendly & professional.

Tim Poulter

01268 785101 07761 958072

poplarvista@btinternet.com

PLEASE MENTION AROUND TOWN MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

13

TO ADVERTISE

CONTACT

REPAIR SPECIALIST

Glass & Glazing Services Single & Double Glazing Repair Specialist

01277 658444 sales@aroundtownmagazines.co.uk

Like us on Facebook LKE Glass & Glazing Services

From a simple door swap to a full replacement kitchen!

• Free estimating, planning & design service • Fitted kitchens or replacement doors ore..! kitchen bef & worktops • Huge choice of doors, worktops, sinks, taps & appliances

find Call us to ! out more

Call Hayley for a FREE 411148 quote: 01322 01702 713533 Visit ourshowroom: showroom: Visit our 92 1741Nuxley London Road, Road, Belvedere, Kent DA17 Leaigh-on-Sea, Essex SS9 5LD 2SW

14

Proud members of

www.dreamdoors.co.uk

Find us on

PLEASE MENTION AROUND TOWN MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

L. McCARTHY

ELECTRICAL Lighting / Sockets Cooker & Hob Installation Fuseboards & Re-wiring Inspection & Testing PAT Testing All Works Fully Insured

All Aspects of Electrical Work Carried Out

07984 525567 24 HOUR CALL OUT

  GAS●PLUMBING●HEATING  GAS●PLUMBING●HEATING GAS●PLUMBING●HEATING GAS●PLUMBING●HEATING   Allmakes&modelsofboilersserviced Allmakes&modelsofboilersserviced Allmakes&modelsofboilersserviced andrepaired

Allmakes&modelsofboilersserviced andrepaired Allmakes&modelsofboilersserviced andrepaired CondensingBoilersandWarmAirUnits andrepaired CondensingBoilersandWarmAirUnits andrepaired CondensingBoilersandWarmAirUnits AllworkundertakenLeaksUpgrades CondensingBoilersandWarmAirUnits AllworkundertakenLeaksUpgrades CondensingBoilersandWarmAirUnits AllworkundertakenLeaksUpgrades Installations AllworkundertakenLeaksUpgrades AllworkundertakenLeaksUpgrades Installations Installations NoCallOutCharge Installations NoCallOutCharge Installations NoCallOutCharge OAPdiscountsavailable NoCallOutCharge OAPdiscountsavailable NoCallOutCharge OAPdiscountsavailable Fullpublicliabilityinsurance OAPdiscountsavailable Fullpublicliabilityinsurance OAPdiscountsavailable Fullpublicliabilityinsurance  FullyQualifiedEngineers  Fullpublicliabilityinsurance  FullyQualifiedEngineers Fullpublicliabilityinsurance FullyQualifiedEngineers   FullyQualifiedEngineers   FullyQualifiedEngineers Aprofessionalfamilyrunbusiness Aprofessionalfamilyrunbusiness 

Aprofessionalfamilyrunbusiness Honestandreliablewithover20yearsexperience Aprofessionalfamilyrunbusiness Honestandreliablewithover20yearsexperience Aprofessionalfamilyrunbusiness Honestandreliablewithover20yearsexperience ..fromatapwashertoafullheatingsystemcall.. Honestandreliablewithover20yearsexperience ..fromatapwashertoafullheatingsystemcall.. Honestandreliablewithover20yearsexperience ..fromatapwashertoafullheatingsystemcall.. ..fromatapwashertoafullheatingsystemcall.. ..fromatapwashertoafullheatingsystemcall..

01702435400 01702435400 01702435400 01702 435400

P E GARDENING Garden Design Hedge Trimming Tree Pruning Topiary Lawn Care Ground Maintenance Stump Grinding

Mob: 07751 702523 Tel: 01268 776349 Based in Rayleigh

PLEASE MENTION AROUND TOWN MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

15

The Art of Discovery…

I am excited to announce the launch of the first Rayleigh Art Trail, from Thursday 11th June to Saturday 20th June. The Rayleigh Art Trail is coordinated in partnership with Rayleigh Town Team and is proud to be part of the Essex Summer of Art initiative.

The Town Team’s aim is to establish Rayleigh Town Centre and surrounding district as a unique destination with something for everyone. It is working to achieve this by raising awareness of the unique historic character and historic buildings and places that can be visited in Rayleigh, highlighting to a wide audience the unique opportunities that Rayleigh has to offer…

Did you know that when William the Conqueror invaded England in 1066 one of his first acts was to order the building of a network of castles. Robert Fitzwymarc who held the ‘Honour of Rayleigh’ before the invasion was one of few allowed to retain his land and

he built his castle in Clavering in the north of Essex. It was his son Sweyne who built Rayleigh’s Motte & Bailey. It is the only Essex castle mentioned in the Domesday Book. After the castle fell in to disuse, it was used for grazing sheep. The castle is known now as Rayleigh Mount and is managed by the National Trust.

Did you also know that the first documented mention of a windmill in Rayleigh dates from 1300 when King Edward I instructed the Prior of Prittlewell to erect a mill in Rayleigh. In 1793 a second mill was erected close by and the name of the road was changed to Two Mill Lane. Both these mills were demolished in the 1880s. There was conjecture for many years as to the date that Rayleigh’s remaining mill was built but recent research attributes the date to 1809.

You can discover more about Rayleigh’s history by taking the Rayleigh Heritage Trail. See the High Street notice board.

Embracing our unique town, the Town Team exists to co-ordinate and mutually publicise events run by different organisations in the town centre and deliver initiatives and events to attract people to Rayleigh, including our first Art Trail by showcasing local art culture.Local businesses, Rayleigh Library and Churches in the High Street and Eastwood Road area of the town are hosting artworks in their

16

premises over the ten day period, displayingseventeen local artists, two Rayleigh Art Groups and pupils’ artwork from The FitzWimarc and Sweyne Park Schools.

Featured artists include wood turner Clive Lewis and science and astronomy artist Steve Lodge. Steve will also be running a Space Art workshop, on Saturday 13 June, in Rayleigh Parish Centre, behind Holy Trinity Church. Other local artists will also be hosting workshops.

Other highlights will include free guided tours of the trail by artists and local people. There will also be the opportunity to scale Holy Trinity Church’s Tower on Saturday 13 June, which provides stunning 360 degree views of the County from Southend and the Thames Estuary to Canary Wharf in London.

Rayleigh Art Trail guides will be available across the town and where you see the Rayleigh Art Trail Logo, providing a map and details of all the artists and venues so that you can discover some exciting artwork and find places in Rayleigh you haven’t been to before…!

Yours in the love of Jesus, The Revd Canon Mike Lodge Team Rector Parish of Rayleigh 01268 742151 info@parishofrayleigh.org.uk www.parishofrayleigh.org.uk

PLEASE MENTION AROUND TOWN MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING ADVERTS The RevdTO Canon Mike Lodge

we uplift your old flooring and dispose move and replace you furniture including kitchen appliances all newly installed areas left clean and vacuumed we guarantee to beat any genuine written quote

products

all commercial flooring supplied and installed

all major brands of carpets

karndean flooring

amtico flooring

solid woods and pre-engineers woods

laminated flooring

cushion flooring

01702 200232

e. sales@hockleyflooring.co.uk w. www.hockleyflooring.co.uk 9 main road, hockley, essex ss4 4qy

free estimate and measuring services all our fitting works guaranteed

I AM VERY GLAD TO HAVE BEEN RE-ELECTED AS YOUR MP At the General Election on the

represent all of my constituents,

two and a half years at the

7th May I was very pleased to

whatever their personal politics

Ministry Defence but I have now

be

Member

might be. Over the last 14 years

been moved to become Minister of

of Parliament for Rayleigh and

I have run over 300 constituency

Wickford after a long 6 week

advice

re-elected

as

the

election campaign. I have served the constituency for 14 years and I am very grateful to my constituents for placing their faith in me to continue serving them for another

surgeries

and

I

have

pledged to continue doing that so if anyone needs to come and see me they are encouraged to ring the constituency office on 01268

State at the Department of Local Government

and

forward to.

I would like to conclude by thanking my constituents for their support

742 044 in order to make an

and I look forward

appointment.

to continuing to

While I was re-elected with a

I have also changed ministerial

work

majority of over 17,000 votes, I

roles having had a very enjoyable

them in the future.

five year term as their local MP.

do realise of course that not all of my constituents will have voted for me and, as I said during the campaign, I will work to try and

Communities

– a new challenge I am looking

hard

for

MARK FRANCOIS

Conservative Parliamentary Candidate for Rayleigh & Wickford

OUR ROOF RESTORE SYSTEMS ARE THE MOST COST EFFECTIVE SOLUTION FOR ANY FLAT OR LOW PITCH ROOF

NEW FOR THIS SUMMER!!

RUBBER ROOF AGGREGATE (patent pending)

SAVE

£££ ’S ON AIR CONDITIONING - KEEPS BUILDINGS COOL!!!

Call Bert on 07522 247989 for more details.

18

PLEASE MENTION AROUND TOWN MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

ROCHFORD HUNDRED RUGBY CLUB Rochford Hundred Rugby Club is a local rugby club formed by three local residents in 1962 and today showcases rugby across all ages, ability and both genders covering over 20 teams. The 1st XV play in the RFU London 2 North East league and the club’s main focus is developing local players to as high a standard of rugby as it possibly can.

WOULD YOUR SON OR DAUGHTER LIKE TO TRY RUGBY? We are celebrating over 25 years of youth rugby and looking for girls and boys of all ages and abilities to continue into the next 25 years.

3 WEEKS FREE TRAINING TASTER PERIODS FOR ALL TEAMS Year 1 to Year 7 is Saturday mornings 10am - 12pm Year 8 to Year 11 and all Girls is Wednesday evenings 7pm - 8:30pm Year 12 and Year 13 is Tuesday and Thursday evenings 7pm - 8.30pm

COME ALONG AND HAVE A GO - THEY’LL LOVE IT! SOCIAL AND CORPORATE EVENTS

GIRLS AND WOMENS TEAMS

YOUTH AND MINI SIDES FROM UNDER 6

MULTI FUNCTION VENUE FOR ALL EVENTS

FAMILY ORIENTATED CLUB

SENIOR SIDES

Main 1st XV Sponsors (please see below)

- MAGNOLIA ROAD - HAWKWELL - ESSEX SS4 3AD Telephone 01702 544021 - Website WWW.ROCHFORDRUGBY.COM Twitter @ROCHFORDRUGBY - Facebook FACEBOOK.COM/ROCHFORDRUGBY THE RUGBY PARK

It is sometimes hard to know when summer has started in England, especially in recent years, but certain events help remind us that summer months are approaching. With the winter sport seasons drawing to a close, sports fans around the world will turn their attention to London as Wimbledon captures the British public for two weeks.

Even those who are not avid Tennis followers will tend to keep updated with the progress of the tournament.

Strawberries and cream, dressing in all white, the temperamental weather and the chance of Cliff Richard breaking into song ensures that Wimbledon has kept its traditional British feel.

Andy Murray gave Britain something to cheer about when he won the title in 2013, a year after when he claimed Olympic Gold on Centre Court.

However, as well as turning our focus to the sport globally, I wanted to focus on the local scene and whether or not we had clubs nearby that are perhaps nurturing the next British Tennis star. I have been speaking to the club coach at The Rayleigh Lawn Tennis club, Ryan Wilson, about tennis on a local level as well as the national game.

How long have you been at the club and how did you become a coach in Rayleigh? I have been a member of the club since I was 7 years old so around 27 years. I became their Head Coach in 2008 when the previous coach left. I had just over 2 years experiences from Deanes and a David Lloyd Centre, so when the opportunity arose, to become Head Coach at the club I had always played at, I jumped at the chance.

How do locals join up? We always encourage people to come down and join in with one of our coaching sessions or one or our organised club social play sessions. The first session at our club is always free. Generally juniors and beginner/improver level adults would start with a free coaching session.

More experienced adults that already play may choose to come along to one of the club social playing events.

We provide plenty of coaching and social play opportunities during the day, afterschool, weekends and some weekday evenings. These sessions can be arranged through me, by emailing ryangwilson@hotmail.co.uk and membership enquiries can be made

through lynnpiper28@gmail.com What does the club do for youngsters?

And what about the adults? We have plenty of junior classes Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday at various times and we always field plenty of junior teams in local competitions.

We also provide plenty of opportunities for adults. We have adult classes for beginners and upwards on Saturdays at 12.30pm, Sunday mornings at 9am, a Tuesday morning ladies class. We are aiming at starting a brand new group for beginners Fridays at 10am. Adults looking to start tennis can contact me to arrange a discounted first private lesson or a free group lesson by e-mailing. For more advanced players we have club social play, Saturday afternoon, Sunday mornings, Monday and Wednesday afternoons from 1pm and Wednesday evenings from 6pm. For those that are a bit more competitive, we field a large number of teams in local competitions such as the Essex Leagues, Leigh & Westcliff Leagues and the Southend & District Leagues.

Also coming soon is the Rayleigh Junior Schools Tournament for Years 3&4 pupils.

Several hundred pupils from Rayleigh Junior Schools take part and in the tournament that will get underway with Grovewood Junior School on 29th June.

I will visit the rest of the Rayleigh junior schools over Wimbledon fortnight, all the individual class winners are invited back to our club for the finals on Sunday 12th July (Wimbledon Mens Final Day).

I think Tennis still has a ‘rich person’s sport’ tag attached. I think a lot of people think it is going to cost a lot monthly for them or their child to be a member, where as other sports may not have that financial commitment to think of? Is that fair to say? And what would you say to people of this mind set?

I would say it is far less of a “rich persons” sport than it used to be. A tennis group class generally costs around £5 hour which I don’t believe is to different from fees for other sports. I would say it is now affordable for most people to play the sport, however to reach higher levels, that is unfortunately when the money comes into it. Private lessons are a must for those wanting to reach the top of the sport.

With Wimbledon fast approaching, I

expect the local park courts will be full again, what are the advantages of coming down to the Lawn Tennis Club over the local park?

1. The Synthetic Grass Court surface at Rayleigh Lawn tennis Club is far superior to the hard concrete surface of the local parks. Being synthetic grass, it is far kinder on the knees and joints than a harder surface that you will often find at local parks. Also the ball bounces higher on hard/concrete surface found at local parks, this makes it more difficult for beginner adults and young juniors to control their shots.

2. The Club environment offers quality coaching and the option of either private or group coaching; this is needed for those that want to improve their level of play.

3. The Club offers more of a social environment; Rayleigh Lawn has club social plays for adults on, Saturday, Sunday, Monday and Wednesday afternoons and Wednesday evenings.

The club also has plenty of social evenings in the newly refurbished Bar Area of the Club Pavillion such as quiz nights, BBQ’s etc.

It seems that whether you are looking for a competitive Tennis or a social game with locals, the Rayleigh Lawn Tennis club have it wrapped up. See across the page their advert for details if you have any questions or are interested in joining. No doubt Andy Murray, Roger Federer and the Williams sisters will have you searching in the shed for the Tennis racket again!

Nokes & Co, Squire House, 81-87 High Street, Billericay, Essex CM12 9AS 01277 633971

07949 266321

mark@nokesandco.co.uk

www.nokesandco.co.uk

Rayleigh Lawn Tennis Club www.rayleighlawn.co.uk Watchfield Lane, Rayleigh SS6 7SG

Limited

Adult and Junior Lessons with 2013 Essex Tennis Coach of the Year

FIRST GROUP SESSION IS FREE Adult Memberships available from only £75 a Year

Junior Memberships available from £40 a Year Book a space in one of our Free Adult Open Sessions: Saturday 27th June 12.30-1.30pm Sunday 28th June 9am – 10am Tuesday 30th June 11am – 12pm To Book a space Email: ryangwilson@hotmail.co.uk

rayleighlawn.co.uk

(for more about the club and membership)

rayleightennisacademy.co.uk (for more info on coaching and juniors)

• Bathrooms and Kitchens • Boilers installed and serviced • Blockages • All leaks and repairs • Renovation and Refurbishment • Ongoing building maintenance

Please call us for a FREE QUOTE

01702 203 186 We are a Hockley based family run business

PLEASE MENTION AROUND TOWN MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

21

SION PRIVATE CHANGES PENSION CHANGES

al a ’s et it o

g ly es er. ms er

of scammers), but don’t do it without genuine of scammers), but don’t do it without genuine Easter Monday saw the most radical independent financial changes to private pensions for a advice independent financial advice generation. The political spin is it’s Is it worth taking out pot out as Is itmy worth taking my soon pot as soonas as ‘freedom and choice in pensions’. Yet I can? Usually not. IIfcan? you’re your 50s Usually not.in If you’re in your 50s more choice means it’s far easier to get it or early 60s you’re or probably early 60s you’restill probablyworking still working wrong, so here’s what everyone needs to towards retirement and should be focusing towards retirement and should be focusing know in 5 minutes… on putting yourself in a position to have on putting yourself in a position to have Pension freedom income sounds like something enough when enough you income do retire –retire so– so you when you do you from Braveheart what’s actually want your–pension to keep want your growing. pension to keep growing. happening? I suspect George Osborne does Plus accessing earlier than Plus byfunds accessing your funds earlier than picture himselfby as a financial freedom fighter.your needed you can reduce your ability to make needed you can reduce your ability to make Yet only time will tell whether these reforms willfuture paint him ascontributions. the man who liberated older future contributions. savers, or who exposed them to huge risk. if Yet Yet you’re saying I you’re want to, I can just saying if I want to, I can just

on er es se ty ch nd mp he me

take out the you to yes, all the choose cash? If you choose to yes, This is all about how all you use your cash? pension takeIfout but remember only 25% of it is tax-free.

The but remember only 25% of it is tax-free.

The savings. As always you can take a quarter rest is taxed at your current income tax rate rest is taxed at your current income tax rate of it as a tax-free lump sum. Yet for decades like salary, and if you a and huge whack, just like salary, if you take a huge whack, just most people have effectively needed to use take like if you earn more, some of it will push you like if you earn more, some of it will push you the remainder of the money to buy an annuity higher taxeach bracket.

See theSee income into the higher tax bracket. the income - ainto product the that pays you an income tax calculator to see to see year until you die. Now anyoneat agedwww.mse.me/taxcalc 55 and tax calculator at www.mse.me/taxcalc the various levels. over can take the whole amount as a lump the various levels.

o, ns a se ey

Does it apply to all of pension?

Option 1:types Leave it No, in your for when Option 1: pension Leave it in your pension for when we’re only really talking private pensions you need it. Then each time you withdraw, you need it. Then each time you withdraw, where you and/or your employer saved up is a tax free. Eg, if you had 25% of that amount 25% of that amount is tax free. Eg, if you had pot of cash for retirement. Technically these £100,000 and took £20,000 out you’d £100,000 and took £20,000 out you’dget get are known as ‘defined contribution’ or ‘money £5,000 of it tax-free, the rest would £5,000 of it tax-free, the restbe wouldtaxed be taxed purchase’ pensions. at your current rate. at your current rate.

It doesn’t apply to the state pension, nor in Option 2: Take 25% Option tax 2: free, buy Take 25% then tax free, then buy a a the main part does it apply to pensions where flexible income drawdown product.

ThisThis isis a flexible income drawdown product. a what you’re paid is a proportion of your final product you buy to keep the rest invested product you buy to keep the rest investedso so salary – known technically as ‘defined benefit’ it can still hopefully grow, you can also it can still but hopefully grow, but you can also pensions. use it to take income needed.

Here use when it to take income when needed.

Here you get the these first you withdraw tax tax free get the first 25% you withdraw free There are ways to convert final25% salary you andinto then rest is taxed you take itit – pensions a pot ofthe cash (be very careful and thenwhen the rest is taxed when you take –

in re al fit’

ry ul

sum, no tax onwant the first 25% andtake the If I it If paying I don’t to all can don’t wantout to take what it all out what can II rest taxed as if it were a salary at their income do? There are many options, some do? There are many options, of somethem of them taxcan rate. be combined, here’s main can bethe combined, here’s ones. the main ones.

possibly useful if you’re likely toto bebe inin aa lowerpossibly useful if you’re likely lower- totododothat thatyou youknow knowyou’re you’reprobably probablyeither either tax taxbracket bracketonce onceyou’re you’reolder. older. rather rich already, know you’re being foolish, rather rich already, know you’re being foolish, ororthat thatyou youain’t ain’tgot gotlong longleft. left.

Option Option3:3:Take Take25% 25%tax taxfree, free,then thenbuy buyanan annuity. annuity.This Thisgives givesyou youa aguaranteed guaranteedincome income Actually, Actually,I’m I’mfarfarmore moreconcerned concernedmany manywill will each eachyear yearforforthe therest restofofyour yourlife. life.There There bebenervous nervousabout aboutreleasing releasingthe thecash cashinincase case are they’releft leftwith withnone noneininold oldage ageand andwill will aredifferent differentcharges chargesononallallofofthese, these,and and they’re sitsit onon it,it, never spending it,it, depriving it’sit’simportant therefore never spending depriving importanttotocheck checkthem themout outand andalways always therefore themselves themselvesofofthe thebenefit benefitand andliving livinga aworse worse compare comparedifferent differentproviders. providers. life lifethan thannecessary. necessary.We’re We’renot notananinvesting investing Eh, Eh,I thought I thoughtannuities annuitieswere wereasasdead deadasas nation nationand andare arerelatively relativelyrisk riskaverse, averse,sosoI see I see a adodo’s dodo’sgranny? granny?Actually Actuallyannuities annuitiesare are this asas being aa real potential problem.

There’s this being real potential problem.

There’s a adecent decentconcept, concept,you youget getthe thesecurity securityofof also alsothe theworry worrythat thatthere’s there’sa alotlotofofscammers scammers knowing knowingexactly exactlyhow howmuch muchyou youcan canspend spend about abouttrying tryingtototap tappeople peopleforforcash cashtoo. too. each year, and that it’llit’ll last forfor the rest ofof your each year, and that last the rest your OK OK soso it’s it’s complex, complex, but but hasn’t hasn’t the the life. life.

Government Governmentset setupupa afree freeadvice adviceservice? service?

The Theproblem problemis isthe therates rateshave havebeen beencrap, crap, No. No.It Ithas hasset setupupa afree freeguidance guidanceservice service and and60% 60%ofofpeople peoplejust justgot gotthem themfrom fromtheir their called calledwww.pensionwise.gov.uk. www.pensionwise.gov.uk.This Thisisn’t isn’t pension pensionprovider providerrather ratherthan thanchecking checkingforfor just justa asemantic semanticdifference difference– –this thissystem systemwill will better betterdeals, deals,especially especiallypeople peoplewith withpoor poor tell you what you can do, not what you should tell you what you can do, not what you should health healthwho whocould’ve could’vegot gotmuch muchbetter betterrates. rates. do. do.It Itwon’t won’tinclude includehelp helpononyour yourbenefits, benefits,nor nor Yet Yetdone doneright, right,with withsome someofofyour yourpension, pension,it it ononwhat whatproduct producttotoget. get. can canbebea auseful usefuloption optionforforsecurity securityofofincome income If Ifyou’ve you’vea asizable sizablepension pensionpot potit’sit’sworth worth forforlife. life. spending spendingthe the£300 £300toto£1,000 £1,000it’llit’llcost costtotoget get ananindependent independentfinancial financialadviser adviserwho whocan can tell tellyou youwhat whattotododo(get (getquotes quotesfrom froma afew few first). first).You Youcan canfind finda alocal localone onethrough throughwww. www. vouchedfor.co.uk vouchedfor.co.ukororwww.unbiased.co.uk. www.unbiased.co.uk.

How HowdodoI know I knowhow howmuch muchcash cashI should I should take takeout? out?That Thatdepends dependsononwhen whenyou’ll you’lldie. die.

I’m I’mnot notbeing beinga asmart smartarse arse(well (wellmaybe maybea a little), little),but buttruly trulythat’s that’sthe theonly onlyway waytotoknow. know.

Yet Yetthe theOffice OfficeofofNational NationalStatistics Statisticsmortality mortality stats dodo show likely odds.

The typical life span stats show likely odds.

The typical life span forfor aa man who hits 6565 inin the UK is is another 1818 man who hits the UK another years, years,a awoman woman21.

21.Add Adda alittle littleononthat thatforfor safety and it means unless you’ve bad health safety and it means unless you’ve bad health you youprobably probablywant wanttotospend spendaround around4-5% 4-5%ofof what whatyou’ve you’vegot gota ayear. year.

What’s you What’sthis this‘huge ‘hugerisk’ risk’ youtalked talkedabout about– – letletme meguess guessyou’ll you’llwarn warnme menot nottotobuy buya a Ferrari?

Ferrari?I don’t I don’tthink thinkI need I needto.to.If Ifyou youchoose choose

Tastes so good...

SLOW COOKED CHICKEN TIKKA MASALA

One of the many great advantages of the slow cooker is that there’s no need to marinate dishes that normally require it. This gentle lengthy cook enables flavors to develop and mingle together naturally during the lengthy cook. This is wonderful to come back to after a hard day at work or play.

Ingredients:

Equipment: Processor

4 chicken breasts, cubed 2cm fresh ginger root, peeled and grated 3 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed 1 small red chili, chopped and deseeded 1 teaspoon ground coriander 2 teaspoons garam masala 1 red bell pepper, deseeded and cut into chunks 1 medium sized onion, peeled and chopped 2 tablespoons sunflower oil 1 can plum peeled tomatoes 2 tablespoons tomato puree 100ml creme fraiche, or sour cream Good handful of fresh coriander, finely chopped ( garnish)

Method: In a processor place the ginger, garlic, chili, ground coriander, garam masala, red bell pepper, onion and sunflower oil.

Process until you achieve a paste.

Put the chicken in a bowl and add the paste. Stir and coat each chunk of chicken in the mixture.

Mix the tomato puree with the canned tomatoes.

Place the chicken into the crock pot and pour the tomato mixture over the top.

Cook on a medium heat for 4 -5 hours until the chicken is beautifully tender and succulent When ready to serve gently stir in the creme fraiche whilst still in the slow cooker and serve on a bed of wild rice, garnished with the chopped coriander.

Diane Johnson

24

PLEASE MENTION AROUND TOWN MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

Great reasons to own at Waterside:

£999 SITE FEES ON SELECTED PITCHES. LAST FEW REMAINING!

EXTENDED SEASON FOR OWNERS*

• Small indoor swimming pool with spa pool & sauna • Fantastic children’s playground • Great dinner and takeaway • Chilled entertainment in the Water’s Edge Tavern • Sports facilities and events • Boat launch ramp

01621 929 242

Call us on or call Ben on 07453 283 195 Visit us at www.park-resorts.com/caravan-sales

Waterside Holiday Park, Main Rd, St Lawrence Bay, Southminster, Essex CM0 7LY *Owners can holiday as often as they like within their specified holiday season and pitch agreement. Parks are not a permanent residence. Park facilities may not be open for the full duration of the opening season, ask staff for more details. **Prices vary between models and Park Resorts parks. Subject to availability. Images are for illustration purposes. All prices include VAT. Park Resorts reserve the right to amend or withdraw this offer at any time.

Summer Party

Choir Concert

Dance the night away at Hullbridge Sports

Hear a variety of beautiful songs featuring

and Social Club on 20th June from 7.30pm

Gabriel’s Oboe at Holy Trinity, Rayleigh on 27th

at a Summer Party (beach theme) with live

June from 7.30pm. Concert by the Crofton

band The Dancing Monkeys in aid of Cancer

Singers in aid of Cancer Research UK. Come

Research UK and help beat cancer sooner.

and help beat cancer sooner. Advanced

Advanced tickets £15 each including buffet.

tickets £8 (£10 at door) less £2 concessions.

Call David on 07785 947973.

Call parish office 01268 742151. Funds will

Funds will help David’s Grand Canyon Trek

help David Wightman’s Grand Canyon Trek

Challenge for CRUK see www.justgiving.com/

Challenge for CRUK see www.justgiving.com/

david-wightman-grand-canyon-trek-2015.

david-wightman-grand-canyon-trek-2015.

If you would like to promote your club or event then please email a maximum of 70 words to admin@aroundtownmagazines.co.uk. Please ensure that all contact details are included.

Your trustworthy and trained VW & Audi dealer-level alternative.

Why pay more than you have to?

Did you know that you don’t have to take your car to a dealership for servicing – and it won’t affect your warranty – this is EU law.

At Colbert Auto Services, we provide dealer-level servicing and repairs – we only use manufacturer’s specified parts and all our technicians are specifically trained. We also like to think that we are a more flexible

£10

Vouc her + Se cret

FREE Gift

dealer alternative too, plus we provide additional guarantees for your total reassurance. You’ll also find us a lot more affordable.

And if you’d like to save more, here’s a complimentary £10 off, valid against MOT’s, servicing and repiars. just bring this with you when you visit us.

C servic heaper deale ing than rsh th invali ips, with e out datin warr g your call anty – t

out o find mor e.

Colbert Auto Services Ltd 6 Kelvin Road, Manor Trading Est. Benfleet, Essex SS7 4QB 01268 756650 / 795533 customerservices@colberts.co.uk Westminster Garage Ltd 378 Westborough Road, Westcliff on Sea, Essex SS0 9TN 01702 342255 info@westminstergarage.co.uk

26

PLEASE MENTION AROUND TOWN MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

Brooks

Care and Nursing Services Limited

- Are you looking for high quality, individualised, flexible and compassionate care in your own home?

- Providing assistance with all personal care needs.

- Respite, shopping and light house chores.

- Our company is owned and managed by registered nurses.

- Free Assessment upon request.

Please contact us on 01702 526797

www.brooks-care.co.uk

USEFUL NUMBERS

BIRTH, DEATH MARRIAGES REGISTRATION

01268 361350 01268 361351

POLICE Rayleigh Police Station

0300 333 4444

HOSPITALS Brentwood Hospital Basildon Hospital Broomfield Hospital Essex Nuffield Hospital Queen’s Romford Southend Hospital Spire Hartswood Hospital

01277 695000 0845 1553111 01245 443673 0800 688699 0845 1304204 01702 435555 01277 232525

HELPLINES Alcoholics Anonymous Childline DIAL Disability Helpline Drugline Essex In Focus (family disabilities support)

Narcotics Anonymous Parentline Samaritans S. Essex Rape and Incest Crisis Centre Victim Support Essex Women’s Refuge

CHEMISTS Boots the Chemist, Rayleigh 01268 771883 Audley Mills, Rayleigh

01268 776479

Lloyds Pharmacy, Rayleigh

01268 771703

Grange Pharmacy, Rayleigh 01268 784192 Hambro, Rayleigh

01268 781623

Yardley Chemist

01268 743283

BLOOD TEST Booking Line NHS Direct

01245 256147 0800 11 11 11 01268 294400/1 01708 749151 01245 353575 0300 9991212 0808 8002222 08457 909090 01375 380609 0845 4565995 01268 541140

01268 242159 0845 4647

ROAD & TRAVEL UPDATES Essex Travel www.bbc.co.uk/travelnews/essex COUNCILS Rochford District Council

01702 546366

Rayleigh Town Council

01268 741880

TRANSPORT Bus Service

0870 6082608

Rail Service

08457 484950

TAXIS Rayleigh Taxi Bestax Abba Cars Cab Call

01268 531888 01268 777300 01268 771666 01268 777300

UTILITIES Anglian Water 0345 145145 Electricity – Power Supply Problems 0800 7838838 Gas – Urgent Calls / Gas Escapes 0800 111999 Minicom – Transco 0800 371787 Thames Water (Supply or Wastewater Services) 0845 9200800 Three Valleys Water 0345 823333 Water – Essex & Suffolk Water 01245 491234 VETS YourVets Vets4Pets Rochford Veterinary Surgery Downes Vets Medivet LIBRARIES Rayleigh

01268 745180 01268 772283 01702 545558 01268 776883 01702 413902

0845 603 7628

PLEASE MENTION AROUND TOWN MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS

27

CALL NOW!

01268 293440 07977 992211 Elm Farm, London Road, Crays Hill, Billericay, CM11 2UZ

All Digger Work - Drainage - Tarmacadam - Hand & Machine Lay - Hot Tar & Shingle/Resin Bonded Block Paving/Concrete - Council Vehicle Crossings Brick Work - White Lining Hot Thermo Plastic & Rubberized Traffic Paints RJB Construction & Lining are a well established family company based in Billericay. We provide a complete service including road reinstatement, driveways and lining work. All our employees are fully trained to high standards, eliminating the need for sub contractors meaning quality of product throughout. We are efficient, ambitious and hardworking and we pride ourselves on carrying out our work to the highest standard.

www.rjbconstructionandlining.co.uk