Issue 192

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ISSUE 192

Sixth Annual Feather Ball for the Tom Bowdidge Youth Cancer Foundation See page 12 DOES YOUR DOUBLE GLAZING STEAM UP? WE REPLACE THE GLASS NOT JUST THE FRAMES AT A FRACTION OF THE COSTS OF NEW WINDOWS See page 6 for more details

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ISSUE 192

Dear Reader

Publishing Director

I am with Brenda from Bristol “Your joking not another one” BBC News.

Ian Goldsworthy ian@elitemagazine.co.uk 01206 500543

Editor

Alice Thomas

Advertising Sales

sales@elitemagazine.co.uk 01206 500543

Publishers

Eagle Publishing P.O. Box 7391, Colchester Essex CO4 3WZ

Design and Artwork Creative Fabrik www.creativefabrik.co.uk

Contributors

Alice Thomas, Peter Constable, Ray Pile and Peter Jones

Sorry Brenda from Bristol the run up to Christmas will be dominated by another election, with a couple of sides fighting on Brexit and the others trying to make it about other issues…fat chance in my opinion, Brexit is the big issue of the day and one most of us are absolutely feed up with!

The clocks have gone back the nights draw in, fires on snuggle down.

Apologies but really can’t buy into Halloween an American import, which I wish we did not have, do kids really enjoy it, probably... so good luck to them but bah humbug! Firework night is a whole different matter, latterly I sometimes feel we need Guy Fawkes back to finish the job.

Sport is going well winning the Cricket World Cup and getting to the final of the Rugby World Cup, we have something to enjoy as a nation.

Be lucky and enjoy the festive season.

Alice Thomas - Editor

Although Elite Magazine endorses companies, their products and services in both its advertisements and editorial articles, it is in no way responsible for the outcome or quality of any such business between the advertised supplier and our readers/customers.

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CONTENTS

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Rising guest numbers sees popular ball move venue

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St Mary’s Year 7 Scholars recognised in presentation

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Historic first for EHAAT as 24/7 service begins

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elite magazine 2019 Charity Golf Day

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Colchester Zoo’s leopard Cubs begin to explore outside!

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Helen Rollason Cancer Charity host Open Days

The Tom Bowdidge Youth Cancer Foundation, has revealed it is holding its sixth annual Feather Ball at the historic Braxted Park, Witham.

Year 7 Scholars at St Mary’s School, Colchester have been presented with their badges by Principal Mrs Hilary Vipond in school assembly.

From October 2019, an Essex & Herts Air Ambulance critical care team will be available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Great day at Stoke By Nayland saw 8 teams battle it out with all proceeds donated to St Helena Hospice with Boydens Estate Agents the winners.

Colchester Zoo’s twin Amur leopard cubs, born in September, are now exploring their outside enclosure and visitors may be lucky to catch a glimpse of them.

Trustees, Volunteers, Therapists and Staff welcomed guests to their newly opened Mid Essex Support Centre in Hatfield Peverel, near Chelmsford.

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elite magazine 192

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NEWS

103-year-old veteran Norman announced as winner of SEH BAC Community Giveaway competition SEH BAC, the award-winning home improvement specialists have announced the winner of their 2019 Community Giveaway competition.

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ollowing a record number of nominations from across the region, the Ipswich-based firm chose 103-year-old Norman Boughton-Smith as their winner.

Norman lives independently in his flat along the seafront at Westcliff-on-Sea, where he’s lived for the past 40 years.

He was nominated by family friend, Christine, as Norman’s tired windows were not only spoiling his fantastic view of the seafront and Essex coastline, but were letting cold draughts into his living room.

SEH BAC, which specialises

SEH BAC Community Giveaway Winner Norman and Great Granddaughter Lucy

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in windows, doors and conservatories, consulted with Norman and his son who chose to replace both the large bay window at the front of the property and an adjoining window with brand-new, highperformance alternatives.

Christine comments: “When we received the call to say Norman had been chosen, we were absolutely delighted.

Norman is an amazing character and a real local hero, having served in the Royal Artillery during the war.

He worked in a bank until retirement and then worked at Boots until he was 90!

He’s even volunteered for the ambulance service for many years. He’s 103-years ‘young’, full of life and optimism!

“Norman’s old, draughty windows have made it really hard for him to enjoy watching the ships, boats and the hustle and bustle of the seafront. To make matters worse, Norman suffered a nasty fall back in December and broke his hip.

While Norman is housebound recovering, the new windows will provide a welcome

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transformation, allowing him to enjoy the best possible views of the Essex coastline.

Thank you SEH BAC! John Savage, Managing Director of SEH BAC adds, “It gives us great pleasure to crown Norman as the winner of our 2019 Community Giveaway competition.

When we heard Norman’s incredible story, we knew he would make a worthy winner of our competition.

We take great pride in helping homeowners like Norman transform their properties with our broad range of home improvements.”

Operating across the SouthEast, East Anglia and the Home Counties for over 45 years, SEH BAC was recently named Company of the Year (South-East) by the Master Window and Conservatory Installers Association (MWCIA).

The team also received the coveted ‘Consumer Confidence’ Award from the National Home Improvement Council (NHIC).

For more information, call SEH BAC on 0808 159 6310 or visit www.sehbac.com.

The secret is out... our website is live and there is a great What’s On section, as well as a Voucher Tab for deals and offers in and around Colchester, take a look... #buylocal

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NEWS

Vintage Train visits Colchester On Saturday 11th July 2020, Colchester will be visited by a luxury vintage train for a special journey in aid of an Essex wide hospice charity.

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he famous Belmond British Pullman, the sister train to the iconic Venice Simplon Orient Express, will make the special journey through the Essex countryside transporting their guests to the ‘Golden Era of Travel’ as they enjoy a luxurious gala evening in aid Little Havens Hospice and The J’s Hospice.

Both Little Havens and The J’s are the only services in Essex wholly dedicated to caring for children and young adults with life-limiting illnesses and their families.

The evening starts with a champagne reception followed by a four-course gourmet dinner served on the finest china and wine served in crystal glasses before enjoying entertainment from jazz musicians and magicians.

Fine dining onboard the Belmond

You will travel in some of the more famous carriages that

train - we had a wonderful time. The food was delicious and the onboard service and entertainment were just fantastic. It’s a unique opportunity that really doesn’t come around very often and it was a pleasure to be part of this marvellous experience.”

Michael and Tracey Gloyne are steeped in prestigious history –Cygnus, Phoenix and Pegasus.

Cygnus was used in the Festival of Britain in 1951 and also provided Dustin Hoffman and Vanessa Redgrave the set for their 1979 film ‘Agatha’.

Phoenix was the favourite carriage of both the Queen and Queen Mother and used for visiting Heads of State as was Pegasus which famously carried Winston Churchill’s coffin from London to Bladon as part of his funeral.

Michael and Tracey Gloyne travelled on the Belmond when it visited Southend this summer and both thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Michael said, “If you’re looking for an unusual gift for that ‘hard to buy for’ relative or friend, I would definitely recommend a trip on the Belmond

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A limited number of tickets are now available at £299 per person and available in bookings of two, four or entire carriages can be booked for up to 26 people. Gift vouchers can also be purchased. Tickets include return travel on the Belmond British Pullman, champagne reception, fourcourse dinner, one bottle of wine per couple and coffee and petit fours.

If you are looking for a very special Christmas gift or you have an important anniversary or birthday coming up, there is no better way to celebrate – or you may just want to tick something absolutely spectacular off your ‘Bucket List’. Please contact Wendy Hogarth for more information or to book your tickets on 01702 221660 or whogarth@ havenshospices.org.uk .

To find out more about the charity and how you can support it, visit www. havenshospices.org.uk

We are on the move... ...and something is always bubbling* From November 5th we would love to catch up over a coffee** at our new address: Studio 32, The Maltings, Ardleigh Studios, Station Road, Colchester, Essex CO7 7RT

Rik is on 07900 154579 or r.james@creativefabrik.co.uk

www. creativefabrik.co.uk *Ideas/Coffee/Charts/Wrap **Other drinks available

Rising guest numbers sees popular ball move to historic venue A

POPULAR ball is enjoying a change of location thanks to skyrocketing numbers.

The Tom Bowdidge Youth Cancer Foundation, based in West Bergholt, has revealed it is holding its sixth annual Feather Ball at the historic Braxted Park, Witham.

As always, the theme for the event is a closely guarded secret and guests will have to wait until the night to find out. Previous themes have included James Bond, the Caribbean and the Moulin Rouge. Old favourites will be returning from the popular silent auction and casino to The Beavers, who will be helping ravers to dance the night away.

Nikki Bowdidge, CEO and Founder of the Tom Bowdidge Youth Cancer Foundation, said: “The Feather Ball is always the highlight of our year and we really cannot wait for this one.

many people wanting to come.

“This year we decided to have a change of venue and we were thrilled when we found out Braxted Park was available. The Feather Ball just keeps getting more popular each year with more people wanting to come. It’s fantastic so many people enjoy the night as much as we do. We needed a much bigger venue this time round with so

The event is one of the Foundation’s biggest fundraisers of the year. Previous Feather Balls have raised more than £30,000 for the charity. Nikki said she hopes this year will break all records. The official headline sponsor of this year’s Feather Ball is Lanswood Residential and Commercial Developments.

“Braxted Park is an amazing place and we know everyone will have a fantastic night.”

Nikki added: “We were absolutely thrilled when Lanswood said they wanted to headline sponsor the event. We really cannot thank them enough for their amazing support.”

Darin Shaikly, Managing Director of Lanswood Developments and Lanswood Park, said: “ We are honoured to be able to support such a respected event and work with Nikki and Richard to raise funds for their fantastic charity.”

The Tom Bowdidge Youth Cancer Foundation’s Feather Ball will be held on February 22 at Braxted Park from 6.30pm.

Tickets costing £65 each can be bought by emailing nikkibowdidge@tombowdidgefoundation.org or phoning 07771 646654.

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Earn extra cash in your own time Delivering and up to 4 leaflets to homes in your area For more details please email: ian@elitemagazine.co.uk elite magazine 192

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NEWS

St Mary’s Year 7 Scholars are recognised in presentation ceremony Year 7 Scholars at St Mary’s School, Colchester have been presented with their badges by Principal Mrs Hilary Vipond in school assembly.

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t Mary’s is committed to encouraging, developing and celebrating excellence and Scholarships can be

awarded to girls joining the school in Year 7 who show significant academic potential or who can demonstrate

potential in sport, drama, art or music.

Miss Comrie scholarships are held in very high regard and are awarded to girls who are expected to make a substantial contribution to the life of the school.

“Scholars are recognised throughout their time at the school and are offered opportunities to develop their talents within school and beyond,” said St Mary’s Principal, Mrs Hilary Vipond.

“They make a valued contribution to the rich and vibrant life of the school.”

The deadline for St Mary’s Scholarships applications for those wishing to start in Year 7 in September 2020 is 11 October 2019.

For anyone wishing to find out more information, St Mary’s Senior School have an Open Morning on Friday 4 October 10.30-12.00. See www.stmaryscolchester.org. uk for further details.

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NEWS

Roman River Presents Classical Favourites A live music spectacular is coming to Colchester this November as the popular Roman River Music @ the Mercury concert series returns

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orld class musicians will perform classical favourites including Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite, Holst’s The Planets, Mozart’s Overture to the Marriage of Figaro and Puccini’s O Mio Babbino Caro Performances to include breath-taking operatic solos by award winning New Zealand born Samoan soprano Marlena Devoe.

This event will make full use of the incredible auditorium space at the Mercury’s new pop-up theatre Mercury at Abbey Field.

Classical music fans and newcomers to the genre alike are invited to join Roman River Music and Colchester’s Mercury Theatre on 15th November for “Roman River Presents Classical Favourites”, a musical spectacular of breath-taking operatic solos, hummable tunes and the cinematic sound of an international orchestra.

As part of the Roman River Music @ the Mercury concert series, the Roman River Music team has created an exciting and varied repertoire of easily recognisable favourites including Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite, Holst’s The Planets, Mozart’s Overture to the Marriage of Figaro and Puccini’s O Mio Babbino Caro.

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This glorious programme of all-time popular hits will be performed by the Roman River Orchestra, which brings together some of the UK’s best musicians, all hand-picked from the top international orchestras and conducted by Royal Opera House and English National Ballet’s Orlando Jopling.

Performing alongside this world-class orchestra will be award winning New Zealand born Samoan soprano Marlena Devoe.

This will be the first time the venue, the new Mercury at Abbey Field, will play host to a live orchestra and the acoustics of this stunning “tent” are set to make the evening a musical feast for the ears.

Orlando Jopling, of the Royal Opera House and English National Ballet, who will be conducting the Classical Favourites concert, says: “We are delighted to once again bring live classical music to the people of Colchester. This event follows a very successful year for Roman River Music, with thousands of people in the region attending concerts as part of our festival, enjoying live performances from some of the world’s best classical musicians at unique venues

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across Colchester and the surrounding areas.

“Roman River’s ethos is that live orchestral music should be accessible to all; enjoyed by everyone, regardless of age, background and musical tastes. Our Classical Favourites evening will bring together people from all different walks of life to enjoy some of the most popular and recognisable classical music pieces performed by talented international musicians, with breath-taking solos from award winning Marlena Devoe.”

“The Roman River Music team is thrilled that this event will be held at Mercury at Abbey Field, a really exciting venue, and perfect for enjoying the performances of the artists we have brought together for this event.

Tickets are already selling fast so if you want to be part of the musical event of the Autumn here in Colchester make sure you get your tickets soon.”

For more information about this event or to book tickets please visit https://www. mercurytheatre.co.uk/event/ roman-river-presentsclassical-favourites/

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NEWS

Historic first for Essex & Herts Air From October 2019, an Essex & Herts Air Ambulance (EHAAT) critical care team will be available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. This is the first time in the Charity’s 21-year history that it has been able to provide a fully 24/7 service to the people of Essex, Hertfordshire and the surrounding areas.

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his major development for the Charity has come after many months of preparation and planning. It means that EHAAT can deliver advanced pre-hospital care to critically ill and injured patients regardless of the time of day or night.

Stuart Elms, Clinical Director at EHAAT, said: “We are very excited to be starting 24/7 operations after a lot of hard work from everyone in the Charity and our partner organisation, the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust.

During the day, from 7am until 8pm, the service will be provided by the Charity’s helicopters based at Earls Colne and North Weald airbases.

During the hours of darkness an EHAAT Rapid Response Vehicle (RRV) based at North Weald will be used from 7.30pm to 7.30am.

As is currently the case, RRVs will also be used during daylight hours if the helicopters are unable to fly because of extreme weather conditions.

Like the helicopters, the RRVs carry a pre-hospital care doctor and a critical care paramedic. They are equipped with the same lifesaving equipment.

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“There was an intensive recruitment phase to obtain the necessary number of pre-hospital care doctors and critical care paramedics to give us the numbers and the resilience to safely work 24/7.

“At night we will still be tasked to the same kinds of calls that we would do

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during the day. We will have exactly the same equipment and highly skilled team bringing the hospital to the patient.

“Patient care and the safety of the team when responding in the hours of darkness are very important.

“Working on scene at night

Ambulance as 24/7 service begins

can be very technically demanding so we are giving our teams the training and equipment they require to work safely. “Our excellent governance processes will keep an eye on all the missions to ensure that no matter the hour, we work at the same standard of excellence.�

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NEWS

Spread some kindness and help tackle loneliness Are you interested in making a real difference in your local community without dedicating huge amounts of time?

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ith one in four Essex residents often or always feeling lonely, United in Kind, a new county-wide movement which aims to tackle loneliness and social isolation, needs your support.

By taking just a few minutes out of your day to take a neighbour’s bin out, chat to a stranger at a bus stop or make time to call in on someone who lives alone nearby, you can make a big difference to how connected that person feels in their community.

Or if you have more time to spare, why not volunteer a couple of hours to help at one of the many community organisations, charities and groups who are already

supporting Essex residents who feel lonely or isolated?

It’s time to re-connect and make everyone feel part of a kinder community.

To find out how you can get involved, and to see what’s happening in your community, visit www. unitedinkind.org.uk. You can also share your stories of kindness and inspire others to follow your lead on social media using #UnitedInKind.

Together we can tackle loneliness with kindness.

Start today!

Our new website is live, pop over and have a look, it’s designed to work on a desktop, tablet and mobile and there is a local Voucher area too...

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Telep 01206 5hone (evening 17788 need an s) if you y he garden.lp in your can assis If I at a reas t, I will ona cost. ble

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learing up is the most important out at this time of year like sheds, garden job in November. garages and greenhouses. Clean the glass, to let in as much light Plants that have healed over can as possible, clean the barbecue be cut to the ground and put in the before storing it under cover for compost heap/bin. As you clear the winter, check stored fruit and a section of ground, put down a vegetables, removing any that mulch of about 5cm of garden are suspect, empty and clean the compost or spent mushroom inside of water butts so that they compost on the soil. can start storing new water in a clean butt, to help avoid disease. If Worms will do the rest, taking it you use a heater in the greenhouse, down into the soil to enrich it ready give that a careful clean so as to for next season. There is also no avoid any damage or unwanted need to remove fallen leaves from dangerous fumes. the soil as the worms will move them too, but do rake them from Outdoors there is plenty to do, like paths and lawns, which will help planting garlic that likes a touch the grass to thicken and avoid of cold weather before starting paths becoming slippery. into growth, broad beans such as aquadulce should be sown It is also a good time to put the this month for an early crop next contents of recently stored compost year, while this month is the last into the heaps or bins that have just recommended time to sow tulip been emptied, thereby effectively bulbs for a good display next spring. ‘turning’ the heap or bin.

If you are a fan of digging this There are always indoor places should be continued, removing that need tidying and clearing as many weeds as possible as

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you progress, although many gardeners today adopt the no digging regime and rely upon mulching.

That is fine if you have a lot of compost available or do not mind spending money on bought in compost and micorrhizal fungi.

Both methods are popular, but with raised beds becoming the preferred option, especially on allotment sites, the garden spade may soon become obsolete, believe it or not.

Other jobs include pruning apple and pear trees, hybrid tea and floribunda roses, mowing lawns when weather permits, and spiking them where moss is prevalent due to poor drainage and impoverished soil. Application of a combined winter feed, weed and mosskiller will also help.

Need some help in your garden? If I can assist, I will at a reasonable cost. Telephone 01206 517788 (evenings).

Our website is growing... come and have a look at our new Voucher area that will give you access to some great LOCAL deals

John Fisher

Gardener & Landscaper 25 years experience

Fencing Patios Turfing Driveways Concreting Brickwork Gravel Gardens Shed Bases Shed Roof Repairs Hedge Cutting Tree Cutting Regular Garden Maintenance One off Tidy Ups New Planting Schemes Pressure Washing Garden Design Garden Gates Made to Size

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Very competitive rates. Good references.

For a friendly and reliable service please call John on 01206 251276 or 07775 562201

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NEWS

Pupils dance to the tune of charity as they help abuse message reach more children Pupils at a Leigh-on-Sea school danced their way to raising more than £1,300 for a charity that taught them about abuse.

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he NSPCC delivered their Speak Out Stay Safe service to children at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Primary School, empowering children to recognise and report abuse and neglect.

Following the assemblies at Our Lady of Lourdes pupils took part in a danceathon to help the child protection charity reach even more children with their safeguarding message.

The age-appropriate and accessible programme uses a speech bubble mascot named Buddy to encourage children to talk about any worries they may have with a trusted adult or to Childline.

Their moves raised £1,333, enough to cover the cost for the NSPCC Speak out Stay Safe programme to visit two primary schools and speak to every child.

The scheme, which relies on volunteers, reached more than 52,000 children as young as four at 2017 primary schools in Essex in the last academic year.

Headteacher, Mrs Nutman, said: “We are delighted that the NSPCC workshops and assemblies in school have provided our pupils with high quality information and I have had parental feedback about how this clear

message has made a real difference to their children.

“We have also enjoyed dancing to raise money for the NSPCC, all the activities have been fun, informative and helpful for us and hopefully others.”

Kiren Chima, NSPCC Schools Organiser for Essex, said: “It’s fantastic when a school is so supportive not only of the vital messages we deliver but in helping us deliver those to more schools.

“To hear the pupils take the information on board is heartening and its really rewarding for volunteers to know that their work could change a child’s life.

“We are currently looking for more people to deliver the assemblies in Southend and Thurrock so please get in touch if you’d like to find out more.”

For more information about volunteering for the NSPCC email helen.marrnier@ nspcc.org.uk.

Schools can request a visit via the NSPCC Learning website at nspcc.org.uk/ speakout.

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Littlegarth – the ideal independent

primary school experience Littlegarth is a non-selective independent preparatory school for children between the ages of 2½ and 11 situated in the beautiful Stour Valley overlooking the village of Nayland.

The school prides itself in preparing children thoroughly for the rigours of entrance exams to Grammar and selective Independent Schools whilst embracing a broad and exciting curriculum. Specialist teachers offer guidance in key subjects and the children achieve extremely high standards across a wide range of activities.

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The school has been judged as ‘Excellent’ in all four categories by the Independent Schools’ Inspectorate (ISI) inspection in 2017 and the excellent reputation the school has for academic success was highlighted in the Standard Inspection Report which commented, “The overall achievement of the pupils is excellent, because of the exemplary attitude to learning by the pupils, who approach every task with delightful enthusiasm” and “The evidence from the inspection is that the pupils make exceptional progress when compared with those of similar above-average ability”.

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Littlegarth children also achieve outstanding standards in music, art and drama and in recent years, sports teams have achieved unbeaten seasons and have won regional and national titles in major sports. Children of all abilities acquire a passion for a wide variety of activities inside and outside the classroom and the school works hard to feed that enthusiasm to ensure that each child leaves Littlegarth a confident member of a successful team.

In the past four years, more than half of the Year 6 leavers have been awarded scholarships to senior independent schools with over 90 children gaining a significant number of top scholarship awards. Headmaster, Peter Jones is delighted with these excellent results; ‘The children and staff work extremely hard and we are very proud of the achievements of all our children. They really enjoy supporting each other and children of all ability levels feel that they are making a valuable contribution to the success of this very exciting school’.

For further information please contact: Peter Jones, Headmaster, Littlegarth School, Horkesley Park, Nayland, Colchester, CO3 9ST.

elite magazine 192

01206 262332 office@littlegarth.essex.sch.uk www.littlegarth.essex.sch.uk

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Office 4, Little Green Storage, Colchester Rd, Elmstead Market, Colchester, CO7 7EE Info@visiongetaways.co.uk | www.visiongetaways.co.uk

To Book Call 01206 580505 Bury St Edmunds Christmas Market

Festive Mystery Tour

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Join us as we take you to the most popular Christmas Market in East Anglia!!

This is going to be fun a Christmas Mystery Tour but where will we be going????

Friday 22nd November

Wednesday 27th Nov

Guest Testimonial

Rochester Dickensian Festival

‘One of the best day trips I have ever done, the Houses of Parliament are a must for anyone, interesting and a great audio guide’.

Mrs Brett, Colchester

Just 00 £25. p p

Another chance to see this traditional Dickensian Festival with live music and much more!

Sunday 1st December

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Office 4, Little Green Storage, Colchester Rd, Elmstead Market, Colchester, CO7 7EE Info@visiongetaways.co.uk | www.visiongetaways.co.uk

To Book Call 01206 580505 Guest Testimonial

Brick Lane Christmas Spectacular

‘We had a wonderful day on the Aldeburgh trip, the weather was great and the Fish and Chips were the best I we have ever tasted, thank you Vision Getaways for a lovely day out’.

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Laugh your way to Christmas with this Show and a 3 course Christmas Lunch Included.

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Thursday 5th December

Lakeside or Bluewater Christmas Shopping

Wisley Gardens Festival of Lights

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Take your pick the choice is yours, where would you like to do your Christmas Shopping?

‘Glow’ this will be a feast for the eyes, a magical light display around Wisley Gardens.

Wednesday 11th Dec

Friday 13th December

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Mulled Wine & Mistletoe staying at the 3* Queens Hotel in Bournemouth Just 0 .0 2 £ 79 pp

Get that festive feeling as we check you in for an early Christmas with this wonderful, fun packed ‘Mistletoe and Mulled Wine’ short break in Bournemouth. With so much to enjoy, you’ll have a chance to wind down and be pampered as well and get yourself ready for an unforgettable Christmas. With excursions, both daytime and evening entertainment, great food, comfortable rooms and luxury travel to and from Bournemouth this really is a great value festive break!

Whats Included: Luxury Coach from your local pick up points (NO FEEDER COACHES) + Four Nights Dinner, Bed and Breakfast at the 3* Queens Hotel and Spa, Bournemouth + Half Day Trip to Christchurch + Half Day trip to Winchester + Nightly Entertainment provided by the Hotel + Visit from Santa and a gift for everyone + New Year’s Eve Party + Mulled Wine Welcome Reception + 3 Free Afternoon Teas + Services of a Vision Getaways Tour Manager throughout the break. Limited number of Single rooms are available with NO supplement!

Monday 11th - Friday 15th November Potters and a Christmas Celebration staying at Potters 5* Resort Hopton on Sea Enjoy a five course dinner with selected wines included, before heading through to the Atlas Theatre where you will relax and be entertained by Potters Theatre Company as they perform their 2019 Christmas Spectacular. Get your family and friends together for this fabulous one night break. Prepare to be taken on a sleigh ride through all of your favourite Christmas songs. Afterwards enjoy late night music in the Terrace Bar and a disco to celebrate this wonderful time of the year. So that you can enjoy the night you have included comfy bungalow accommodation and a hearty breakfast before you leave in the morning Whats Included: Rtn Coach Travel from your local pick up points (NO FEEDER COACHES) + One Nights Bungalow Accommodation + 5 Course Dinner with selected wines included + Late Night Snacks + Live Entertainment including Live Music and Disco + Christmas Spectacular with the Potters Theatre Company in the Atlas Theatre + Hearty Breakfast on Departure Morning + Limited number of Single rooms are available.

Sunday 15th - Monday 16th December Buxton & a Blissful Christmas staying at the 3*plus Old Hall Hotel Buxton Derbyshire from 0 .0 £599 p p

Join us for a traditional Christmas in this wonderful location, with all the festive trimmings this promises to be a Christmas that will be remembered for years to come. With local pick ups and no feeder coaches the journey will be as much a part of the holiday as the stay itself. Food will be lavished upon you and with entertainment and great company this is the only way to celebrate the festive period. Go on take the plunge and let us do all the hard work.

Whats Included: * Rtn Travel by coach (no feeders) * Accommodation with food as follows, *2 Course Dinner on Arrival Night * Full English Breakfast + 3 Course Dinner on Christmas Eve * Continental Breakfast + Full Christmas Lunch with a Glass of Bubbly + Evening Buffet on Christmas Day * Full English Breakfast + Sandwich Buffet Lunch + 3 Course Dinner on Boxing Day * Full English Breakfast on Day of Departure * Carols from a local Brass Band on Christmas Eve * Optional Tickets to a Carol Concert and to a Pantomime (£40.00pp) * 2 Excursions to the local area including the town of Bakewell.

Monday 23rd - Friday 27th December elite magazine 192

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The Teams 1st Place Boydens 2nd Place Horizon Construction 3rd Place Elite Magazine 4th Place Creative Fabrik 5th Place Whitehall Resources 6th Place T/Clarke 7th Place Simon Fisher

Medal Winners Longest Drive Rik James Creative Fabrik Nearest the pin Lee Baker Whitehall Resources

2019 CHARITY GOLF D

The Players David Boyden Philip Boyden Robert Ashworth Tom Everett Stuart Pearce Steve Hewett Lee Baker Damian Fox-Murray Rik James Gary Cattermole Dave Cole Martin Cole Simon Fisher Wesley Plumb Luke Percival Neil Mansfield Adam Edgell Oliver Backhouse Mitchell Fletcher Frazer Maleary Richard Bates Ian Goldsworthy John Fisher Alex Cooper Chris Locket Darren Cock

DAY FOR ST HELENA HOSPICE

NEWS

Air Ambulance celebrates six months of carrying blood Essex & Herts Air Ambulance (EHAAT) has celebrated six months of carrying blood supplies on board its helicopters and Rapid Response Vehicles (RRVs) with a ‘blood drive’ at Colchester United Football Club.

O

n Sunday 20th October staff, volunteers and supporters from the Charity donated blood at a speciallyarranged donation session to acknowledge everyone who has made it possible for its critical care teams to be able to provide this potentially life-saving intervention.

In total we had 55 donors over the four hours and 20 brand new blood donors.

The partners who have worked with EHAAT on this development include NHS Blood and Transplant, The Princess Alexandra Hospital in Harlow and the Essex Voluntary Blood Service (‘Essex Blood Bikers’), each of whom was represented at the event.

Over the last six months 22 patients have received potentially life-saving transfusions from EHAAT’s critical care teams, and the volunteers from Essex Blood Bikers have covered over 24,000 miles delivering blood from Harlow to EHAAT’s bases at Earls Colne and North Weald.

The blood is replaced daily and replenished as required.

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Key statistics (up to October 11th):

• 22 patients have received a blood transfusion

• These have included 16 men and 6 women

• 28 units of blood have

been used • 24 volunteers from Essex Blood Bikers have delivered blood, covering over 24,000 miles • Each volunteer has covered an average of 154 miles per night • Mission types: 17 helicopter, 5 RRV • 12 road traffic collisions, 4 falls, 6 other

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COLCHESTER RECALLED

Colchester Recalled’s excellent evening with Steve Mannix T

hose members and friends of Colchester Recalled attending the ‘Evening With Steve Mannix’, the inspirational Executive Director of the Mercury Theatre, could not have been anything but impressed by his presentation at the Roman Circus Centre on Thursday 10th October.

From a very brief resumé of the history of theatre in Colchester, right up to the present day re-development of the Mercury site and the production of ‘Oliver’ by the Colchester Operatic Society which is about to take place in ‘the big top’ on Abbey Field.

The audience was treated to an impressive display of illustrations and comprehensive reports of the actions that have already taken place and those that will occur before the theatre reopens.

It is now 5 years since Steve was originally appointed to a

requirements like sufficient toilet facilities, limited rehearsal space.

Steve Mannix, Executive Director of the Mercury Theatre. position that he accepted for a period of 3 months, but he has stayed on and has lifted the theatre to a position of strength. Last year alone, 130,000 people attended the various events organised by the theatre - a slight fall from the previous year due to the start of the re-building.

This represented 78% capacity, compared with the national average of 56%, which speaks volumes for the theatre’s mantra as being a vitally important feature of the town, ‘by the people, for the people’.

The theatre, which opened in 1972, after 47 years of continuous production, had failed to keep up with modern

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No dedicated education space for children, insufficient space for wardrobe requirements, with limited dressing room space and constant struggles with modern technical equipment and limited workshop facilities, meant that re-development was the only answer.

Hence the temporary closure of the theatre, with the re-opening scheduled to take place in late Summer/early Autumn 2020 when all the new facilities should be available, promising theatre-goers a truly up-to-date experience following a thorough £9 million refurbishment thanks to the National Lottery Fund and other grants etc from the Arts Council etc.

The next meeting of Colchester Recalled is on Thursday November 14th at the Roman Circus Centre at 7pm, when Alan Skinner presents ‘On the Buses - how local bus services came to North Essex 100 years ago.’

All are welcome.

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NEWS

Colchester Zoo’s Critically Endangered Leopard Cubs begin to explore outside!

Colchester Zoo’s critically endangered, twin Amur leopard cubs, born on the 9th September, are now exploring their outside enclosure and visitors may be lucky to catch a glimpse of them.

A

t 9 days old the Amur leopard cubs opened their eyes and since that time they have been exploring their private cubbing den and off show area as their strength, coordination and confidence grew.

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At just a little shy of 6 weeks of age they took the next step and emerged into the outside enclosure; they have been exploring all the areas they can although mum Esra is still a little unsure about giving them free rein

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and is returning them back to their private cubbing den when she feels the time is right therefore viewing of these delightful cubs is not guaranteed.

Colchester Zoo are politely

asking that visitors remain as quiet as possible whilst viewing the leopards and not to use any flash photography.

The cub’s genders will not be known until their vaccinations are given at 12 weeks of age.

Colchester Zoo will be sharing regular updates on the cub’s progress in the meantime.

To read more about the birth of these critically endangered leopards please visit Colchester Zoo’s website. elite magazine 192

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NEWS

St Mary’s Lower School pupils donate Harvest goods to St Helena Hospice Harvest goods donated by St Mary’s Lower School families were handed over to St Helena Hospice during a special Harvest Festival service at St Albright’s Church, Stanway.

E

very pupil – from boys and girls in the Kindergarten to Year 6 girls – took part in the service, which gave thanks for the natural world and all it provides.

Year 6 pupils led the service and spoke about sowing seeds to reap the benefits.

They talked about crops, as well as sowing the seeds to ensure we look after

ourselves mentally.

Guest of honour was Jo Clarke from St Helena Hospice, to which St Mary’s pupils donate their Harvest collection of tinned and dried goods every year.

‘It was so lovely to have joined St Mary’s children for their Harvest Festival’ said Jo Clarke. ‘The items that the children and their families

have donated will go a long way to helping the Hospice provide delicious home cooked meals for our patients.’

Pupils at St Mary’s are keen to be involved in their communities and to give their support to charities, and several thousand pounds in donations are raised every year by St Mary’s families.

St Mary’s Lower School girls with Jo Clarke from St Helena Hospice and the Reverend Tony Bushell during their Harvest Festival service 42

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NEWS

Helen Rollason Cancer Charity host Open Days at their new Mid Essex Support Centre Trustees, Volunteers, Therapists and Staff at Helen Rollason Cancer Charity welcomed guests to their newly opened Mid Essex Support Centre in Hatfield Peverel, near Chelmsford.

T

he centre was open from Wednesday 2nd October to Saturday 5th October and the charity was inundated with the local community coming to see the services offered to those living with cancer.

Dignitaries attending included Bob Massey, Mayor of Chelmsford and Deputy Mayor Janette Potter, Clare Lager, Mayor of Witham, Flo Shaughnessy, Mayor of Maldon and Cllr Angela Kilmartin, Chairman of Braintree District Council.

Representatives from Helen Rollason Cancer Charity were on hand to answer questions, taster reflexology sessions were available and refreshments were provided including cakes made by volunteers.

(l to r) Therapist Sue Cronly-Dillon, Mayor of Chelmsford Bob Massey, HRCC CEO Kate Alden, Deputy Mayor of Chelmsford Janette Potter and Centre Coordinator Lorrainne Rayner.

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Volunteer Barbara Walker, Cllr Angela Kilmartin, Chairman of Braintree District Council, Therapist Fiona Farrell, HRCC Chair of Trustees Graham Hart.

Other organisations in attendance included Colchester Hospital, Mind West Essex, Carers First, Essex Cancer Alliance, Mildmay Rotary Club, Hatfield Peverel WI, Paul J Kings Funeral Services, QBE, The Essex Shed Network, Rivermead Rotary Club, Broomfield Hospital, Tees Law and Hatfield Peverel Parish Council.

Work commenced on the Support Centre in January 2019 with the ground floor being converted into a purpose-built Cancer Support Centre. The first floor will continue to accommodate the Finance, Fundraising and Administrative teams. To save on charity costs, staff and volunteers have remained on site putting up with the noise, dust and disruption of a building site.

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Kate Alden, CEO of Helen Rollason Cancer Charity said “What a fantastic week we have had welcoming clients, local residents and the community to our Open Days. The amount of support we have received has been overwhelming and I’d like to personally thank every single person who came to see our new Mid Essex Support Centre.

We provide complementary therapies including reflexology and aromatherapy, as well as counselling and support groups to those affected by cancer. Even though our Open Days have now finished, anyone is still welcome to come and see our new Cancer Centre – we are open from 9am – 5pm weekdays. We look forward to seeing you!”

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NEWS

West Bergholt Concert Band – Searching for Apprentices One of Colchester’s longest running musical groups have started the search for their next set of musical apprentices by inviting brass & woodwind musicians to a special Band Play Day at St Botolph’s Church on Saturday November 23rd (2pm-5pm).

A

s well as being renowned for their “music for fun” ethos, the band are renowned for encouraging young musicians, with recent activities including musical workshops with primary schools, concert tours of primary schools, and these ever popular play days for young musicians.

With the play day music ranging from classical to pop, and experienced players on hand to help, these play days are always highly popular and enjoyed by all, and are a great way for musicians of all ages to experience playing in a fun Training or Concert Band… so please email Conductor@

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wbcb.org to reserve a space.

The play day culminates in an evening (7:30pm) concert at St Botolph’s in aid of Children In Need, with an programme of wonderful music from “The Great Composers” – ranging from Beethoven to The Beatles, Sousa to Sondheim, Copland to Cohen, and more.

Tickets for the concert will available on the door - £7 adults, £6 concessions, under 18s free.

Once the excitement of the play day has died down, the band will be performing their Christmas Concert at St Peter ad Vincula in Coggeshall on Saturday 14th December

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at 730pm. The band’s love of Christmas music always shines through in their Christmas concerts, and this year’s sees a diverse programme featuring classic Christmas favourites (White Christmas, Rudolph, Sleigh Ride), modern Christmas classics (Merry Christmas Darling, Do They Know It’s Christmas, All I Want For Christmas Is You), as well as Carols to both listen to and sing along with. As always it’ll be a cracker of a concert… so please do come along – you’ll also be helping us raise money for the Church’s chosen charity.

Full details of the band and its events are available on the band website www.wbcb.org or you can contact our conductor on Conductor@wbcb.org or 07941 947541. Otherwise, please do join us at a Friday night rehearsal at Heathlands Primary School, West Bergholt - Training Band for Grade 1+ is 6pm-7pm, Concert Band for Grade 4+ is 7:15-9pm. Hopefully we’ll see you at St Botolph’s in November or Coggeshall at Christmas.

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WHATS ON COLCHESTER ARTS CENTRE Church Street, Colchester, CO1 1NF www.colchesterartscentre.com DEC 1

COLCHESTER HERITAGE TOUR WITH HIGH STEWARD SIR BOB RUSSELL - TOUR B * WALKING TOUR

DEC 1

LOZ SPEYER’S TIME ZONE + SPECIAL GUEST OMAR PUENTE

JAZZ

DEC 2

A CAUSLEY CHRISTMAS *

FOLK

DEC 4

MILK PRESENTS MOTHERLAND

DEC 6

FARMERS MARKET *

MARKET

DEC 6

THE LAUGHTER ZONE COMEDY CLUB *

COMEDY

DEC 7

THE PAUL FRANCIS BAND *

DEC 8

TURIN BRAKES ACOUSTIC * SOLD OUT

DEC 9

THE WARM & TOASTY CLUB PRESENTS MEMORY AFTERNOONS *

DEC 9

ALDEN, PATTERSON & DASHWOOD *

DEC 10

NATALIE SONGER: SATELLITES

DEC 10

STEPHEN K AMOS *

DEC 11

THIRD ANGEL: 600 PEOPLE

DEC 12

CLASSIC HORROR NIGHTS: THE BLOOD ON SATAN’S CLAW (1970)

DEC 13

NINE BELOW ZERO *

DEC 14

A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS: THE MUSIC OF VINCE GUARALDI

JAZZ

DEC 15

MEDIAEVAL BAEBES *

GIGS

DEC 16

THE CHURCHFITTERS *

DEC 17

I HEAR VOICES THEATRE COMPANY: THE KREMLIN CANDIDATE

PERFORMANCE

DEC 18

CLOUT THEATRE: FEAST

PERFORMANCE

DEC 19

STEVE HARRIS BRITISH LION + VOODOO SIX + NINE MILES DOWN *

DEC 20

THE LIPSINKERS CHRISTMAS SPECIAL!

DEC 22

THEATRE OF WIDDERSHINS: RUMPELSTILTSKIN & THE SNAIL OF DESTINY 1.30PM

DEC 22

THE BLOCKHEADS *

DEC 23

THEATRE OF WIDDERSHINS: RUMPELSTILTSKIN & THE SNAIL OF DESTINY 10.30AM

DEC 23

THEATREOFWIDDERSHINS:RUMPELSTILTSKIN&THESNAILOFDESTINY1.30PM-RELAXEDPERFORMANCE KIDS XMAS

DEC 23

A CHRISTMAS CAROL BY CANDLELIGHT

DEC 24

THEATRE OF WIDDERSHINS: RUMPELSTILTSKIN & THE SNAIL OF DESTINY 10.30AM

KIDS XMAS

DEC 24

THEATRE OF WIDDERSHINS: RUMPELSTILTSKIN & THE SNAIL OF DESTINY 1.30PM

KIDS XMAS

DEC 24

A CHRISTMAS CAROL BY CANDLELIGHT

DEC 27

THEATRE OF WIDDERSHINS: RUMPELSTILTSKIN & THE SNAIL OF DESTINY 1.30PM

PERFORMANCE

GIGS GIGS PERFORMANCE FOLK PERFORMANCE COMEDY PERFORMANCE HORROR GIGS

FOLK

GIGS CABARET KIDS XMAS GIGS KIDS XMAS XMAS STORY

XMAS STORY KIDS XMAS

DEC 27

THE LATIN RHYTHM PRESENTS SON YAMBU

DEC 28

THEATREOFWIDDERSHINS:RUMPELSTILTSKIN&THESNAILOFDESTINY10.30AM-RELAXEDPERFORMANCE KIDS XMAS

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SALSA

DEC 28

THEATRE OF WIDDERSHINS: RUMPELSTILTSKIN & THE SNAIL OF DESTINY 1.30PM

DEC 28

THE DOORS: 1971

KIDS XMAS

DEC 29

THEATRE OF WIDDERSHINS: RUMPELSTILTSKIN & THE SNAIL OF DESTINY 10.30AM - BSL INTERPRETED KIDS XMAS

DEC 29

THEATRE OF WIDDERSHINS: TOUCH TOUR PRIOR TO AUDIO DESCRIBED SHOW

DEC 29

THEATRE OF WIDDERSHINS: RUMPELSTILTSKIN & THE SNAIL OF DESTINY 1.30PM - AUDIO DESCRIBED KIDS XMAS

DEC 29

THE TOTAL STONE ROSES + THE SMITHS PRESUMABLY + OAYSIS * 91 tickets left

DEC 30

THEATRE OF WIDDERSHINS: RUMPELSTILTSKIN & THE SNAIL OF DESTINY 10.30AM

KIDS XMAS

DEC 30

THEATRE OF WIDDERSHINS: RUMPELSTILTSKIN & THE SNAIL OF DESTINY 1.30PM

KIDS XMAS

DEC 31

THEATRE OF WIDDERSHINS: RUMPELSTILTSKIN & THE SNAIL OF DESTINY 10.30AM

KIDS XMAS

DEC 31

THEATRE OF WIDDERSHINS: RUMPELSTILTSKIN & THE SNAIL OF DESTINY 1.30PM

KIDS XMAS

DEC 31

NYE PARTY WITH NEW TOWN KINGS + PET NEEDS *

GIGS

Cudmore Grove

KIDS XMAS GIGS

GIGS

Sunday 22nd December: Carol Service at the United Reformed Church, High St, Kelvedon from 6.30pm. All welcome.

Bromans Lane, East Mersea, CO5 8UE. Mersea Island FREE parkrun?

Farmers Market

It is a 5km run - it’s you against the clock.

Every Saturday at 9:00am. email merseaislandhelpers@parkrun.com www.parkrun.org.uk/merseaisland

The Arts Centre - 09:30 to 12:30 Fri 6 Dec 2019

Castle Park

Sunday Stroll - High Woods

A walk lasting up to 1 1/2 hours, covering more of the park’s area, on surfaced and un-surfaced paths, with some steeper inclines in places Sun 17 Nov 2019 11:00 to 12:30 Sun 1 Dec 2019 11:00 to 12:30

Kelvedon United Reformed Church 89 High Street, Kelvedon, CO5 9AE www.kelvedonurc.org.uk

Every Saturday morning Colchester’s parkrun takes place in the town’s iconic Castle Park.

Join this popular run every Saturday morning as the route takes you through award-winning Victorian parkland, around the historic Castle and through the town’s Roman walls.

Mercury Theatre

Sat 23rd November 7.30pm at the United Reformed Church, Kelvedon : “Salty Tales” - Life in the Merchant Navy during the 70’s & 80’s. All welcome.

Friday 13th December : Carols at The Tavern, High St, Kelvedon - join members & friends of Kelvedon United Reformed Church from 8.30pm for carol singing. All welcome.

Thursday 19th December: Carols at The Angel, High St, Kelvedon - join members & friends of Kelvedon United Reformed Church from 9pm for carol singing.

All welcome.

Mercury at Abbey Field, Colchester 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk Roman River presents Classical Favourites Friday 15 November, 7.30pm Performing alongside this world-class orchestra will be award winning New Zealand born Somoan soprano Marlena Devoe. This fantastic, one-night-only concert takes place in the Mercury Theatre’s exciting new state-of-the-art, pop-up theatre on Abbey Field in Colchester. romanrivermusic.org.uk A Roman River Music @ the Mercury series concert Tickets £27

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WHATS ON 14 Chapel Street North, Colchester, Essex CO2 7AT Telephone: 01206 366000 tickets@headgatetheatre.co.uk

Wednesday 4th - Saturday 7th December at 7pm, Matinées Sat 7th 3pm & Sun 8th 2pm Treasure Island by Ben Crocker “Shiver yer timbers, rattle yer bones and don yer pirate hat, me hearties!” this is a panto not to be missed!

Tickets: £12, £10 (under 16 only) Every attender must have a seat.

Monday 9th December at 7.30pm A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Storyteller Robert MacCall conjures up the spirits of Christmas past, present, and future, in his one-man version of the Dickens classic.

Tickets: £14, £12 (65 & over, FTS), £7 (16 and under)

Wednesday 11th - Friday 13th December at 7.45pm Tunswick! by Wade Ablitt Tunswick Women’s Amateur Theatre Society enter a TV talent show to raise funds for their local village hall in this original comedy musical.

Tickets: £12, £10 (65 & over, FTS, under 16)

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Saturday 14th December at 8pm, Matinee 3pm A Jolly Holly Christmas at the Headgate!

Enjoy seasonal songs and sparkle at the Headgate Theatre. This event is dedicated to the memory of Ken Smith, in whose name a donation will be made to charity.

Tickets: £12.50

Sunday 15th December at 7.05pm Eclipse at Five Past Seven A relaxing evening of winter-warming music. A mix of seasonal favourites blended together in the unique style of Eclipse.

Tickets: £12

December Monday 16th at 7.30pm An Evening of Clairvoyance with Ronnie Buckingham If you’re not already convinced about an afterlife, why not come along, listen to Ronnie and let him help you decide?

Tickets: £15

TO BOOK TICKETS PLEASE CONTACT THE HEADGATE THEATRE Headgate Theatre, 14 Chapel St North, Colchester, Essex CO2 7AT Telephone: 01206 366000 tickets@headgatetheatre.co.uk elite magazine 192

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