Your Local SS17 Magazine's January 2020 Edition

December 2019 Edition • 5,000 Homes Monthly • 01268 330 271

YOUR LOCAL FOBBING • STANFORD LE HOPE • HORNDON • CORRINGHAM

MAGAZINE Christmas Charisma

See page 6 for this month’s fashion article.

Star Wars Episode IX See page 24 for the movie preview.

Word Search

Festive Film Word Search on page 28.

TAILOR MADE COMPLETE WILL WRITING FREE HOME CONSULTATION A FAMILY BUSINESS THAT CARES OT H E R S E R V I C E S AVA I L A B L E

Probate, Property Trust, Lasting Power of Attorney, Heirloom Protection Trust, Severance of Joint Tenancy, Disabled Person Trust, Lifetime Protection Trust, Home and Inheritance Protection, Lifetime Document Storage

0800 1123417 • 01268 551122 www.willandtrustcompany.com

Members of the society of Will Writers and the Institute of Professional Will Writers and comply with their respective Code of Practice.

PRE PLANNED FUNERAL PLANS AVAILABLE

Windows, Doors & Conservatories in Essex

Homefront Windows offer many home improvement services, which include:

Windows – Casement, Sash Porches & Conservatories Doors – Composite, French, Bi-Fold, Patios Glass Veranda • Fascia’s & Soffits Roof Lanterns, Skylights & Velux Windows Carports • Canopies Flash Glazed Roof Lights Reliable Local Business • Fully Insured All Works Guaranteed • 20 Years Experience See our latest projects on our Facebook Page For a Free Quote or More Information Contact us on 01375 410359 / 07595 929475 Email: info@homefront-windows.co.uk Website: www.homefront-windows.co.uk

Hi there, Welcome to our December edition In the words of Noddy Holder, It’s Chriiiiiiiistmassss and whilst we’re quoting Christmas songs it really is the most wonderful time of the year.

From all of us here at Essex Business and Leisure we hope you all have a great Christmas and a great start to the new year, as always though I want to remind you to think of the older generation that may not have as much company or support as they need this time of the year and especially if bad weather hits make sure they have everything they need.

Fitting with this time of year we have many events advertised this month as well as everything in our monthly local events article we also have Stay & Plays amazing magical Children’s Christmas events. Hurry though from what I hear they are selling very quickly!

On the subject of events and stepping away from Christmas for a moment the final Chapter of Star Wars is in Cinemas on the 20th and we have a preview so you can all get just a little bit more excited!

Last months quiz winner was Mrs C Wilson from Regan Close, Stanford le hope who won a Horrible Histories DVD. Congratulations and please remember to send all your details!

In the kids quiz this month your child has the chance to win a copy a Dora the Explorer DVD. Don’t forget you have to be in it to win it!

If you would like to advertise with us, the last day to get your advert in is 10th December. We can design your ad for Free and a Month’s Advertising to 5,000 homes costs from as little as £25.

You can contact us on 01268 330271 or email at sales@ eblmagazines.co.uk We do not vet our advertisers and take no responsibility for anyone who advertises with us.

Please stop by and like our Facebook page (Essex Business & Leisure)

Keeping it local

Sarah

Sudoku page 4 Christmas Charisma page 6 Mini Panettone Recipe page 8 Win Party for 10 Kids The a Gift of Experience page 17 10 Holly and Ivy page 16 Win a Dora the Explorer DVD page 20 Local Events in Essex page 22 Star Wars IX Preview page 24 Wine Wisdom page 26 Festive Film Word Search page 28

01375 673 295 37 St. John’s Way Corringham SS17 7NA

HAMPERS

�

ALL OTHER MEATS & WHOLE TURKEYS ALSO AVAILABLE

Christmas Hamper

5lb Boneless Turkey Crown 3lb Matured Beef Joint 3lb Gammon Joint 1lb of Sausage Meat 1lb Back Bacon

only £60

Larger Christmas Hamper 10lb 6lb 6lb 2lb 2lb 1 1

only £120

Boneless Turkey Crown Matured Beef Joint Gammon Joint of Sausage Meat Back Bacon Jar Goose Fat Bag Sage and Onion Stuffing

Christmas Orders being taken NOW

All weights are approximate.

YOU CAN NOW ORDER ONLINE at www.reedsbutchers.co.uk 2 -----------------------------------------------TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL 01268 330271 FOR MORE DETAILS --------------------------------------------------

---------------------------------------------- PLEASE QUOTE THIS MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS -------------------------------------------- 3

SUDOKU PAGE E A S Y

H A R D

9 4

5 7

2

3 7

2 8 2 3 5 7 1 5 9 1 2 6 4 3 9 3 4 6 7 5 1

6 7 3 2 5 9 1 4 2 3 8 6

3

5

9

1

8

4

7 3

FREEPHONE: 0800 193 0017

or call us on 01375 460964

9.96/10 BOOK ONLINE: AERIALBASE.COM

2 9 5 7 9 4

5 5 4 9 3 2 1 6 4 L A S T M O N T H S S O L U T I O N S

Puzzles Sponsored by

2 1 3

Carpets Direct Guaranteed Lowest Prices

3 4 7 5 1 2 6 8 9

2 6 8 3 9 4 7 1 5

5 1 9 6 8 7 2 4 3

9 8 3 7 4 5 1 2 6

4 2 1 8 6 9 5 3 7

7 5 6 1 2 3 4 9 8

1 7 4 9 3 6 8 5 2

6 9 2 4 5 8 3 7 1

8 3 5 2 7 1 9 6 4

4 9 3 1 7 6 5 8 2

7 5 1 4 2 8 3 9 6

8 6 2 3 9 5 1 7 4

1 8 4 6 3 7 2 5 9

2 7 5 9 1 4 6 3 8

9 3 6 8 5 2 4 1 7

3 1 8 2 6 9 7 4 5

5 2 9 7 4 3 8 6 1

6 4 7 5 8 1 9 2 3

Free Fitting Free Home Visits 80% wool twist pile specialists

E A S Y

Established 23 Years

WHY PAY MORE?

Carpets • Vinyls • Laminates • Wood Flooring We come to you in the comfort of your own home

WE WILL MOVE YOUR FURNITURE & FREE UPLIFT AND REMOVAL OF YOUR OLD CARPETS

H A R D

Call your local independant specialist Corringham • Stanford Le Hope • Fobbing Basildon • Benfleet • Canvey Island

0800 389 0792 Mobile: 07885 256186

www.carpets-direct.co.uk

SID’S LANDSCAPING GARDEN LANDSCAPING BLOCK PAVING • DRIVEWAYS PATHS • INDIAN STONE PATIOS TURFING & ARTIFICIAL LAWNS PLUS MUCH MUCH MORE

CHIROPODIST & PODIATRIST Lampits

Hill Clinic

HCPC REGISTERED

All Routine Foot Care (Corns/Hard Skin Removal) Nail Cutting Service

FREE ESTIMATES 20% DISCOUNT FOR

Fungal Nail Treatment Heel Pain/Foot Pain Diabetic Feet

ALL EMERGENCY WORKERS

Sports Injuries

Children's Walking Assessments

07782 550 684 | 0800 959 6792

Ingrowing Toenails (Local Anaesthetic Available)

e sidlandscaper@icloud.com w sidslandscaping.co.uk

01375 640900

Advanced Verruca Treatments inc Swift Microwave Therapy and Freezing Treatment Cosmetic Nail Reconstruction

www.essexpodiatry.com

Foundations

Delivering that personal touch

Garage Conversion Specialists

P.W.

Painter & Decorator • Interior & Exterior Work Undertaken • All Essex Areas Covered • Commercial & Domestic • No Job too Small

Complete Building and Property Maintenance Loft & Garage conversions • Storm damage repairs Cladding services • House extensions Home improvements (both interior and exterior) Damp proofing • Dry lining • Wall rendering Plastering • Re-pointing • Guttering services Porch installations • Conservatory repairs & much more

07950 739 360 • 01268 426 568

www.foundations-bapm.co.uk foundations.bapm@gmail.com

FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTATION 5 Star Facebook Rating

01268 491 478 07796 958 326

QUALIFIED

www.pwpainter.com

---------------------------------------------- PLEASE QUOTE THIS MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS -------------------------------------------- 5

FIND YOUR CHARISMA THIS CHRISTMAS

Ralph Lauren A/W 2019

Christmas is synonymous with socialising with colleagues, friends and family and is the ideal time to show off a new outfit that makes you look and feel your very best. I adore this time of year, as it’s the perfect opportunity to turn it up a notch in the style stakes. You can be that bit more colourful, add the sparkle or choose to be avant-garde all in the name of St Nic. Here are my tips to be the best dressed during the festive season:

Say it With Sequins

Sequined dresses in navy blue or rich wine hues are a look that never gets old during this time of year. Christmas is all about shining bright and sparkly numbers encapsulate perfectly the spirit of the season. Choose a style that suits your body shape and mood – figure hugging dresses with long sleeves are a flattering choice or alternatively go for coordinating separates that make a bold statement.

It is all in the Fabric

Luxury is the buzz word when it comes to selecting your party frock this year and velvet will never disappoint. It is soft to the touch and lifts an outfit instantly to add something a little different. Wrap dresses are universally flattering as are A-line skirts that flair out at the waist. Experiment with butter soft leather, shiny satins or even heritage checks to keep up with the fashion crowd.

Article sponsored by this local business

Skylight Services 20 Years Experience

2 YEARS GUARANTEE ON ALL WORK

Alternatively…

If you really wish to break the mould and try something different I would wholly recommend the two piece suit. I am not talking corporate pin stripe here, but rather coordinating culottes with a double breasted slim line jacket in jewel tones. Think made for you tailoring and sharp elegance that shouts sophistication. Or if all else falls grab a jumpsuit with deep pockets - perfect for stashing the odd sneaky mince pie…

THIS ARTICLE HAS BEEN WRITTEN BY

Stephanie Helen Witt, Dress Doctor Please book in your Autumn-Winter wardrobe overhaul and personal shopping with Dress Doctor today. www.dressdoctor.org or email stephanie@dressdoctor.org

TV Aerials • Freeview • FreeSat Satellite Installs • Internet Access TV Mounting & Set Up • CCTV Extra TV & Telephone Points Call John on 07713 532 091 for more information or email your enquiry to satjohn@icloud.com

BATHROOMS | KITCHENS WASHROOMS

Established 1987

INSTALLATION SERVICE For over 30 years, Ultimate Choice Bathrooms have been installing the highest quality bathrooms, en-suites and shower-rooms and in Essex.

Quality Bathrooms & Kitchens to suit all budgets

To book your Free design appointment call us on

01375 361 666

www.ultimatechoicebathrooms.co.uk COME ALONG AND VISIT OUR SHOWROOM

3/4 Kings Parade, King Street Stanford Le Hope SS17 0HR ---------------------------------------------- PLEASE QUOTE THIS MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS -------------------------------------------- 7

THE GIFT OF EXPERIENCE When I was younger it used to drive me mad when my dad said ‘I don’t want anything for Christmas...’ How could he say that? Then a couple of years ago I realised I’d become him. I don’t want or even need more of anything. Many of my friends feel the same way. We don’t want to add to plastic or clothes waste. We don’t want clutter. Yet the pleasure of giving and receiving at Christmas is something most of us enjoy, so why not give a gift experience instead.

Tickets to see a favourite band or artist perform - Or perhaps a local artist they’ve never seen, or music event they’ve never attended. Live music is a great night out, and even better if you gift two tickets so they can take a friend.

An up-close and personal experience with their favourite animal or insect - My friend loves hedgehogs so I paid for her to spend a day at the local hedgehog hospital. She learned all about hedgehogs and helped to feed and weigh them. She still talks about it today. You can buy ‘meet the animal’ experiences for every beastie from spiders to lemurs. There’s bound to be something for the animal-lover in your life. .

than material goods. We are the sum total of our experiences and they stay with us for longer because of the way they are encoded in the brain. Each time we think about the experience we feel that same sense of happiness we felt initially. They are truly the gift that keeps on giving.

Article sponsored by this local business

Wine, whiskey or gin tasting session - What could be nicer than sharing an evening touring a winery or distillery learning about the flavours and techniques involved in producing their favourite tipple.

Cooking class - Classes can be for a particular type of cuisine, like Chinese or Thai, or for a particular technique like bread-making. There are generally other like-minded souls there so your recipient will make new friends.

Spa treatment day – Life is stressful so very few people would turn their nose up at being pampered for a few hours.

An escape room experience - If your intended recipient is into puzzles try tickets to an escape room. It’s a fun experience for everyone and a great gift for a family.

A masterclass in something they love - photography, juggling, golf, painting, writing...there are classes online and in the real world for any subject or skill you can think of.

The happiness we experience from acquiring things fades very quickly.

Experiences are a bigger part of ourselves

9

CALL NIAMH TODAY FOR A FREE CONSULTATION

01375 800 684

brightandbeautifulhome.com/grays

---------------------------------------------- PLEASE QUOTE THIS MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS -------------------------------------------- 9

The Christmas Cracker Conundrum The environment is a hot topic right now and let's face it Christmas crackers have never been ecofriendly. Refuse increases by 30% over the festive season. Can you even remember the plastic tat that fell out of last year's crackers? Thought not.

But if you feel like your Christmas table is not

complete without a cracker and a snap there are alternatives to the supermarket classic,

filled with a gift of choice. Some have refillable ’snaps’ which mean they can be used again and again.

pretty fabric or brown paper or newspaper. Fill them with a handwritten joke and gift and tie with string at each end. These look festive but are untied – rather than pulled apart. You can always shout BANG as you pass them out!

You can also make DIY Christmas crackers by saving cardboard toilet roll and rolling them in a

Try '12 days of Christmas crackers’ which include an eco-friendlier wooden toy.Recyclable Christmas crackers come with a snap, hat, a joke - but no gift.

Re-usable crackers are also available and can be

R.G. SPARKES PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

PLASTERING & COLOURED RENDER SPECIALISTS

DOMESTIC AND COMMERCIAL

ELECTRICAL SERVICES AND INSTALLATIONS CSB Electrical is a NAPIT registered company who offer a trusted and reliable service.

CHARLY 07786 620 759 BRADLEY 07894 737 870

info@csbelectricalcontractors.co.uk NO FUSS • NO DUST • THAT’S US

Is your house looking tired & outdated and in need of modernisation?

Then we have the product for you

Weber approved Coloured Rendering Sand & Cement Pebble Dash Also: Plastering, Artex, Coving, Painting & Decorating

For a Free No Obligation Quote Call

07721 522766 or 01268 755763

10 ---------------------------------------------- TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL 01268 330271 FOR MORE DETAILS --------------------------------------------------

Ki dz Quiz!

WIN A HORRIBLE HISTORIES DVD What is the name Dora the Explorer‛s monkey friend?

A) Shoes

B) Heels

C) Boots

For your chance to win this fantastic prize, email your answers to eblquiz@hotmail.co.uk with your address or send by post to: Unit 7 Durham Road, Basildon, SS15 6PH. All answers must be submitted by the 28th December 2019

Mart’s Blinds Blind Specialists

Large Choice Of: Rollers

Vertical Metal/Ali Venetian Wood Venetian Roman Blinds Patio Awnings Plantation Shutters Conservatory Blinds

Special Offers On Verticals Child Safety Fitted as Standard on all Blinds

2 For

£99 Terms and Conditions Apply

Call Now For A free Quotation in the Luxury of your Own Home

(Office)

01268 512731

email - info@martsblinds.com

www.MartsBlinds.co.uk --------------------------------------------- PLEASE QUOTE THIS MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS -------------------------------------------- 11

Nokes & Co.

CERTIFIED CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS & REGISTER AUDITORS

Complete Accounting Service • Audits • Accounts • Tax • Preparation of Self Employed Accounts • Partnerships • Limited Company • Tax Returns • Tax Planning • Personal & Company Tax • Business Start Ups • VAT • Payroll

FREE

INITIAL CONSULTATION

Nokes & Co, Squire House, 81-87 High Street, Billericay, Essex CM12 9AS 01277 633971 07949 266321 mark@nokesandco.co.uk

01277 729201 • 01268 421101

12 ---------------------------------------------- TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL 01268 330271 FOR MORE DETAILS ---------------------------------------------------

advertorial

Has Your Double Glazing Steamed Up? Established for over a decade Cloudy2Clear windows have become a leading company for glass replacement.

Issues with double glazing can often be gradual and may only be noticed during a clear sunny day or during the winter. A failed glass unit may no longer provide you with the protection you need or be energy efficient. Why not spend a few minutes checking your home to see if you have any failed double glazing?

If you act now you can avoid these problems.

Now, you may think you need to replace

the whole window including the frames and all the hardware, however Cloudy2Clear have come up with a simple and cost saving solution‌ Just replace the glass!!

If you see condensation in your windows just visit our website or give us a call on 0800 61 21 118. We will send out our highly experienced engineers for a free no obligation quote. A Cloudy2Clear quote takes on average no longer than 20 minutes. Once the quote is completed, we will sit down with you and explain the problem and tell you

how we can fix it. With years of experience Cloudy2Clear have a wealth of knowledge and are recognised as a Which Trusted Trader, plus our work is backed by an industry leading 25 year guarantee.

Cloudy2Clear also replace faulty locks handles and hinges on all windows and doors.

Your friendly local Cloudy2Clear specialist is Chris Miller and he services Corringham & Stanford le Hope.

So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Chris a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118.

Cloudy2Clear GUARANTEE All Customers That An Average Quote Will Take No Longer Than 20 MINS!!!

Cloudy2Clear Windows...

Service With A Smile!

--------------------------------------------- PLEASE QUOTE THIS MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS -------------------------------------------- 13

ALL WORK GUARANTEED FOR 6 YEARS

• DRIVEWAYS • PATIOS

• GARDEN DESIGNS

• • • • •

FENCING BLOCK PAVING BRICKWORK JET CLEANING RESIN BOUND

() Marshalls

REGISTER

.,,.,_u,...,.,c,,.,ai..

HIIIM011lntallon

0800 695 0080 01277 656 311 07400 566 633 01268 546 011 07788 244 751

10 Coopers Drive, Billericay, Essex CM11 2TN 14 ---------------------------------------------TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL 01268 330271 FOR MORE DETAILS -----------------------------------------------www.welldefinedpaving.com • welldefined@hotmail.co.uk ---

Che<rrcatrade.com Where reputation matters .

Average Customer Rating: 10/10

"Reliable, on time, tidy, courteous, fantastic job. _ Very pleased, looks great and finished to a very high standard, many thanks."

- Customer in Billericay, 17 December 2014

Find out all about us and more reviews at www.checkatrade.com --------------------------------------------- PLEASE QUOTE THIS MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS -------------------------------------------- 15

HOLLY AND THE IVY There’s no doubt that holly and ivy are synonymous with Christmas. This dates back to pre-Christian era when pagans used evergreen decorations in their mid-winter celebrations. It’s not hard to see why they were attracted to these beautiful plants which offer a promise of better times to come during the most barren time of the year.

Early Christians adopted them too and imbued holly particularly with Christian symbolism. In the carol, ivy isn’t actually mentioned again until the last verse which is a repeat of the first. It has a cameo role because of earlier songs, such as ‘The Contest of The Ivy and The Holly,’ in which the attributes of holly (male) and ivy (female) are compared. Our ancestors lived close to the earth and the seasons and were open to symbolism.

As modern gardeners we might be sceptical of the symbolism, but we can embrace the glory of these seasonal plants.

Ivy (Hedera) comes in many sizes, from the tinyleaved ‘Spetchley’ to the hand-sized leaves of ‘Maple Leaf’. It also comes in a beautiful variety of colours from the rich green, crimped leaves of ‘Parsley crested’ which makes great ground cover, to the gorgeous red-stemmed yellow leaves of the climber ‘Sunrise’.

Article sponsored by this local business

For winter baskets I’d recommend the lime-green ‘Ursula’ and her grey-leaved friend ‘Frederick’.Ivy is a doddle to grow. There are only a few things to remember. Cut it back in spring to encourage new growth and take cuttings between October and March when the growth is woody. Yellow varieties need sunshine and don’t let any of it grow into your eaves. Other than that, it is your undemanding gardening friend.

Holly (Ilex) is pretty easy-going too. It will grow almost anywhere except really water-logged soil.

It’s tolerant of pollution, salt and wind and grows really slowly, so it’s great for small gardens in the city and by the sea.

Protect it from rabbits if they frequent your garden as they love to eat the bark. Trim it in August if you have to and remove plain green shoots on variegated varieties. Take cuttings in the late summer or autumn. It does resent root disturbance once it’s established so make sure you plant it in the right place first time.

Hollies are male or female but not necessarily named to help you distinguish. ‘Silver Queen’ is actually male and ‘Martin’ is female! You’ll need both for berries so talk to an expert at the nursery or garden centre to be sure…or google the answer on your phone! If you only have room for one holly bush, grow a self-fertile variety such as ‘J C Van Tol’.

Merry Christmas and Happy Gardening!

.uk

www.welldefinedpaving.com

DAD’S Fencing & Gardens Free Quotes Call 07757 866 840 dadsfencing@outlook.com

All Aspects of Fencing, Supply & Fitting Quality & Affordable, Fully Insured Gates Made to Measure, No Job too Small, Repair Patio’s & Paving, Garden Clearance, Grass Cutting & Hedge Trimming Pressure Washing Paths & Driveways, Pond Cleaning

Search ‘DADs Fencing’

--------------------------------------------- PLEASE QUOTE THIS MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS ------------------------------------------ 17

18 ---------------------------------------------- TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL 01268 330271 FOR MORE DETAILS -------------------------------------------------

Experience Christmas at

Stay & Play Durham Road, Basildon SS15 6PH - www.stayandplay.rocks

CALL 01268 491511 TO BOOK YOUR PLACE NOW.

Breakfast with Santa & Characters

9.00 9.00 -- 11.00am 11.00am -- £25 £25 -- 11 Adult Adult 11 Child Child -- Breakfast Breakfast and and aa Present Present

nd Saturday Saturday 14 14thth & & 21 21stst Sunday Sunday 15 15thth & & 22 22nd Monday Monday 23 23rdrd & & Christmas Christmas Eve Eve 24 24thth December December

Toddler Disco

9.15 9.15 -- 11.45am 11.45am -- £15 £15 -- 11 Adult Adult 11 Child Child -- Party Party Food Food and and aa Present Present

Tuesday Tuesday 17 17thth December December

Christmas Disco

4.00 4.00 -- 6.30pm 6.30pm -- £17 £17 -- 11 Adult Adult 11 Child Child -- Party Party Food Food and and aa Present Present nd December Friday Friday 20 20thth & & Sunday Sunday 22 22nd December

SEN Disco

4.00 4.00 -- 6.30pm 6.30pm -- £17 £17 -- 11 Adult Adult 11 Child Child -- Party Party Food Food and and aa Present Present

(For SEN SEN Children Children & &Their Their Siblings) Siblings) Monday Monday 16 16thth December December (For

--------------------------------------------- PLEASE QUOTE THIS MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS ------------------------------------------ 19

Stay & Play Rhythm & Rhyme

Sensory Groups Space Now Available

Chance to meet new friends.

Pre-Bookable in person or

by Phone 01268 491511.

Only 8 to a group. £5 per session

Baby Twinkles 0-8 Months Mon 12.30-1.15 | Wed 10-10.45 | Fri 11.15-12.00 A sensory experience for baby in our very own specially equipped sensory room.

Baby Jiggles 9-14 Months Mon 10-10.45 | Wed 11.15-12 | Fri 12.30-1.15 35 minutes of guided play for your exploring baby, including fine and growth motor skills activities with a wide range of fun and colourful props to inspire your baby’s enquiring mind.

Baby Giggles 15-24 Months Wednesday 12.30-1.30 Mother & toddler meet up within the sensory room

Bookings now being taken, please book early to avoid disappointment.

Stay & Play, Durham Road,PLEASE Basildon SS15 6PH 20 --------------------------------------------TO ADVERTISE CALL 01268 330271 FOR MORE DETAILS -----------------------------------------------

ESCAPE ROOMS IN BASILDON LOCKED IN A MYSTERIOUS ROOM WITH

60 MINUTES TO ESCAPE

DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO ESCAPE?

MAGIC & MEDIEVAL THEMED ROOMS WITH FANTASY & OTHER THEMES COMING SOON

NEW ROOMS COMING SOON FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK VISIT

www.escape-basildon.com or call us on 07449 332 291 1 MARKET PAVEMENT, BASILDON TOWN CENTRE ESSEX, SS14 1DD --------------------------------------------- PLEASE QUOTE THIS MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS ------------------------------------------ 21

LOCAL EVENTS Robin's Bird-Feeder Making

20th December, Thameside Nature Park, 2pm Come along and learn how to make feeders from pine cones. Take your feeder home so you can watch birds from it! Fun for little and big nature Suggested donation £3

bird bird feed fans!

Mucking Wharf Road, Stanford le Hope, SS17 0RN

German Christmas Market

Till 23rd December, Meadow Croft Garden Join us this year for a German beer, Gluhwein and to soak up the festive atmosphere & enjoy the traditional German market stalls, manned by our team in traditional German costumes.

Garden Centre, Woodham Road, Wickford SS11 7QU

NYE Superhero Party

31st December, 8pm, Half Crown, Benfleet Celebrate NYE in style with us! Our supehero themed event to party in style all the way through into 2020!

This Article is Sponsored by

Half Crown, 25-27 High Street, Benfleet SS7 1NA

Park Run New Years Day

1st January, 8.45am Lake Meadows We're running an extra parkrun on New Year's Day to get 2020 off to the best possible start. Please note that we'll be starting Billericay parkrun promptly at 9am Lake Meadows, Billericay, Essex CM12 0

Your local stairlift specialist

• • • •

Curved Stairlifts Rental Stairlifts New & Used Servicing & Repairs

Essex Wedding Exhibition 5th January, Unit 7, Basildon

The largest FREE ENTRY Wedding Exhibition in Essex, Sunday 5th January 2020. Everyone welcome, no tickets or pre registration needed, just turn up on the day. Free entry.

Free parking Festival Leisure Park, Basildon, Essex, SS14 3WB

Fostering Information Event

For friendly, personal service telephone:

01268 550173 01708 369062

Email: sales@essexstairlifts.co.uk

11th January - 11am, Holiday Inn, Basildon Meet the team to find out more about fostering. You will be able to meet and speak with experienced foster carers and find out about the children that need fostering.

Holiday Inn Basildon, Festival Leisure Park, Basildon

www.essexstairlifts.co.uk

Ovens Grills

Filters BBQ’s

Hobs Ranges

Extractors Microwaves

AGA’s

Friendly,professional and reliable Completely safe,eco-friendly cleaning system No fumes, no mess, no bother Removes grease,fat and burnt on carbon deposits from: Ovenclean will transform your oven and put the sparkle back into your kitchen!

Call Keith today to book your oven clean

01375 800606

Mart’s Blinds Blind Specialists

Large Choice Of: Rollers

Wood Venetian Roman Blinds

07970 031 095 01245 632 874

Patio Awnings Plantation Shutters Conservatory Blinds

Special Offers On Verticals Child Safety Fitted as Standard on all Blinds

£99 Terms and Conditions Apply

Call Now For A free Quotation in the Luxury of your Own Home

(Office)

NEED AN ACCOUNTANT? Phone Martin Green Tax Return & Accountancy Services

Vertical Metal/Ali Venetian

2 For

Visit our website www.ovenclean.com

01268 512731

email - info@martsblinds.com

www.MartsBlinds.co.uk

Self employed, Limited Companies All Accounts, All Taxes.

Tax Returns from £95 Email martingreen@taxracs.com For more info visit www.taxracs.co.uk

40% Fee Reduction Now

--------------------------------------------- PLEASE QUOTE THIS MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS ------------------------------------------ 23

STAR WARS: THE RISE OF SKYWALKER Release Date: 20/12/2019

No one's ever really gone... Rey's journey continues. A year after the events of The Last Jedi,the remnants of the Resistance face the First Order once again—while reckoning with the past and their own inner turmoil. Meanwhile, the ancient conflict between the Jedi and the Sith reaches its climax, bringing the Skywalker saga to a definitive end.

Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (also known as Star Wars: Episode IX) is an upcoming epic space opera film produced, co-written, and directed by J. J. Abrams.

It will be the third installment of the Star Wars sequel trilogy, following The Force Awakens (2015) and The Last Jedi (2017), and the final episode of the nine-part "Skywalker saga". It is being produced

by Lucasfilm and Abrams's production company Bad Robot Productions, and will be distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures. The film's ensemble cast includes Carrie Fisher, Mark Hamill, Adam Driver, Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Oscar Isaac, Anthony Daniels, Naomi Ackie, Domhnall Gleeson, Richard E. Grant, Lupita Nyong'o, Keri Russell, Joonas Suotamo, Kelly Marie Tran, Ian McDiarmid, and Billy Dee Williams.

This Article is Sponsored by

PAYLESS BLINDS

£59

Verticals Rollers Wooden Venetians Roman Blinds

PATIO DOOR BLINDS FROM £95 For a free quote call

01268 691733 Mobile: 07803 048819

2 , 4 , 6 , 8 , 10, 12 yards 6 yard Drop door skip 40 yard bins available We can provide a wait and load service.

Vehicle Dismantlers

Scrapping Cars

Car Spares

part of B&P scrap Co Ltd. With over 56 years experience telephone 01708 865377 email: info@bandpscrapco.co.uk web: www.bandpscrapco.co.uk New Road, Rainham, Essex, RM13 9EB

--------------------------------------------- PLEASE QUOTE THIS MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS ------------------------------------------ 25

WINE WISDOM Which wine should you choose?

I was always a bit hazy about which wine to serve with which food. They didn’t teach that sort of thing at our local comprehensive.

Then one day a chef friend explained that far from being an elitist concept it was simply about marrying flavours that blend well or each other, much like cooking. I URNcomplement UP managed to get her to distil her wisdom into T CHARGE this handy guide.

Fish – A delicate fish dish calls for a delicate

such as Pinot Grigio. If the fish is more HOBwine, INSTALLATION robust and served with a rich sauce, it will EATING SYSTEMS require a more full-bodied flavoursome white like Chardonnay. Salty seafood marries surprisingly well with champagne.

S Chicken or Turkey - Choose a full-flavoured LACEMENT white, like a white Côtes du Rhône, or a delicate red, such as a Frappato. & THERMOSTATS Juicy red meat – For beef or steak a rich red, CERTIFICATION such as a Bordeaux or Cabernet Sauvignon will work well or even a Rioja.

Spicy dishes – These require a spicy wine.2LG e, Osborne Road, Bowers Gifford.

SS13

70 74

Look for a Malbec, Syrah or Shiraz will all hold their own. If the spicy food is vegetarian, then a dry Riesling will pair well.

Vegetarian food - There is a misconception that vegetarian food should only be served with white wine. But medium reds, like Merlot work well with lots of vegetarian dishes, particularly tomato-based recipes.

Cheese board - Some cheeses go better with red, some with white. Sauternes and Stilton are a perfect match, while Chardonnay works well with brie. A dry Rosé is a good all-rounder.

Remember, the main rule is to pair the characteristics of the dish with the characteristics of the wine. So, a buttery sauce will work well with white a wine also described as ‘buttery’. Experiment and enjoy!

This Article is Sponsored by

B.R HODGKINS GAS SAFE 21151

THE BOILER S PECIA LISTS Try us, we turn up with no call out charge

• COOKER & HOB INSTALLATION • CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEMS • SERVICING • GAS REPAIRS • BOILER REPLACEMENT • RADIATORS & THERMOSTATS • LANDLORD CERTIFICATION

Tel. 07770 850 670 Mob. 01268 726 474 Perceverance, Osborne Road, Bowers Gifford. SS13 2LG

FAST KEY SERVICES LTD REPLACING YOUR KEYS AND LOCKS SAFES

CAR KEYS REPLACEMENTS - SPARES - REPAIRS

DOMESTIC LOCKSMITHS

• Remote Not Working?

• New Keys Supplied, Cut & Programmed • Replacement Buttons • Transponders • Batteries • New Cases Inc. Blades • Circuit Boards

• Locked Out? • Lost Your Keys?

• Locks Repaired And Replaced • Keys Cut • Locks Opened • Padlocks • Domestic Security Specialists • Euro Cylinders • Security Anchors • Window Restrictors • Chains • Free Impartial Security Advice

• Floor Safes • Fire Safes • Deposit Safes • Wall Safes • Home And Office Safes • Insurance Approved Safes • Key Operated Safes • Electronic Locking Safes

Unit 3 & 4, Pilot Close, Fulmar Way, Wickford, Essex SS11 8YW

Your perfect bespoke door, designed, supplied and fitted for only £840 Choose Styles & Patterns

Glass Design

Choose Colour

Metallic Finish Chrome

Gold

A huge range of Styles, Colours and Designs to make your perfect door All types of Windows/Doors/Bi-Folds/Garage Doors.

To find out more call 01268 962527 / 07708940527 or visit www.dmdhomeimprovements.com --------------------------------------------- PLEASE QUOTE THIS MAGAZINE WHEN RESPONDING TO ADVERTS ------------------------------------------ 27

FESTIVE FILMS WORD SEARCH Can you find all your favourite festive films words hidden in the grid?

Can you find...

Arthur Christmas Babes in Toyland Bad Santa Deck the Halls Die Hard Elf

Love Actually Meet Me in St Louis Mixed Nuts Nativity Rudolph Scrooged The Bishop’s Wife

Four The Family Christmases Stone Gremlins The Holiday Holiday Affair

Holiday Inn

The Polar Express

The Santa Home Alone Clause It’s a Wonderful Life Jingle All the Way

The Snowman Trading Places

White Joyeux Noel Christmas

LOCAL USEFUL NUMBERS COASTGUARD (MRCC).

OUT-OF-HOURS DOCTORS. GAS EMERGENCY ENVIRONMENTAL EMERGENCY. ANIMAL EMERGENCY (RSPCA).

CASTLE POINT COUNCIL.

Printed

and

Designed

by

The

01255 675518 0845 8503194 0800 111 999 0800 807060 0870 5555999 01268 882200

Essex

Printer

01268

24 HOUR LOCKSMITH

BASILDON HOSPITAL LOCAL MP OFFICE NSPCC CHILD PROTECTION ESSEX POLICE (NON EMERGENCY) CITIZEN’S ADVICE BUREAU

330274

|

Distributed

by

Basildon

01268 840032 01268 524900 0207 219 7206 0808 8005000 101 01268 759107

Leaflets

01268

330273

Family Run Business Since 1961

Scrapping your vehicles Look no further. Phone us for a quote, book in for a collection and get paid the same day Scrapping Cars

Car Spares

Scrap Metal

SCRAP WITH CONFIDENCE

Receive an official DVLA certificate of destruction with peace of mind your vehicle has been disposed of correctly

Vehicle dismantlers Over 150 vehicles in stock for breaking, most makes and models available The best buyers of ferrous and non ferrous metals around Fast friendly Same day No hidden service payment charges 8-40 yard skips available for metal recycling

Skips

With over 56 years experience telephone 01708 865377 emai: info@bandpscrapco.co.uk web: www.bandpscrapco.co.uk New Road, Rainham, Essex, RM13 9EB

WHARF TIMBER LTD FENCING, TIMBER & PLYWOOD SUPPLIERS

THURROCK’S LARGEST TIMBER & FENCING SUPPLIER WISHING ALL OUR CUSTOMERS A MERRY CHRISTMAS DECKING 32mm x 140mm x 4.8m £10.00 per length 32mm x 140mm x 4.2m £9.00 per length 32mm x 140mm x 3.6m £8.00 per length TREATED ESSEX BOARD BROWN OR GREEN 175mm x 16mm x 4.8m £6.00 per length GREEN TREATED TIMBER C16 100mm x 50mm x 4.8m £8.32 per length 150mm x 50mm x 4.8m £12.96 per length NEW SLEEPERS BROWN OR GREEN 240mm x 120mm x 2.4m £23.00 200mm x 100mm x 2.4m £20.00 FENCING IRONMONGERY FROM STOCK Nails & Screws Joist & Jiffy Hangers

*All prices are subject to VAT

CLOSE BOARD FENCE PANELS 6 x 6 £20 6 x 5 £19 6 x 4 £18 6 x 3 £17 FEATHER EDGE GATES 6 x 3 £35

SQUARE TRELLIS 6 x 6 £18 6 x 3 £10 6 x 2 £9 6 x 1 £6 BOW TOP FENCE PANELS From £19

OPENING HOURS

MON – FRI 7.30AM  4.50PM SATURDAY 7.00AM  1.00PM SUNDAY 8.30AM  MIDDAY

SPECIALISTS IN FENCING, TRELLIS, POSTS & DECKING GRADED TIMBER AND PLYWOOD CHEAPEST SUPPLIER AROUND! PLEASE PHONE FOR A QUOTE

AND FRIENDLY ADVICE ON 01375 641 624 OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE ON www.wharfgroup.co.uk

Visit The Timber Yard, Wharf Road, Stanford le Hope SS17 0EQ. You won’t be disappointed.