Essex Central issue 12 October 2014

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46,000 COPIES TO THE ESSEX TOWNS OF THE CENTRAL LINE AND BEYOND

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THE LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR LOCAL PEOPLE - ISSUE 12 OCTOBER 2014

TRICK OR TREAT

WINTER SUN

MEET THE LOCALS

COSY COATS

Halloween Halloween Fun Fun For For Little Little Monsters Monsters

Showcasing Showcasing Independent Independent Local Local Businesses Businesses

WIN!

...an Overnight Stay at

Escape Escape With With A A Trip Trip To To Sunny Sunny Cyprus Cyprus

Keep Keep Warm Warm With With Our Our Winter Winter Fashion Fashion Guide Guide

Looks Like Wood, Feels Like Wood... ...and Outperforms Wood The new window system designed to replicate the 19th Century English Flush Sash Timber window.

It can be considered for use in Conservation Areas due to its authentic appearance and is also appealing to any homeowner who wants a top end luxury window. It can accommodate 28mm double or 44mm triple glazing with market leading thermal and acoustic performance.

It is hand finished and made by craftsmen.

Residence 9 is manufactured from a modern composite material to give a virtually maintenance free finish.

Only available in heritage colours, the ‘easy clean rebates’ are also foiled in the same finish, which means that the high, maintenance free appearance is maintained when the window is open. Residence 9 is truly a luxury, top end window system.

Enhancing your home with style and grace

info@ewgraceglass.co.uk www.ewgraceglass.co.uk

Tel 0208 505 5656 28 High Road, Buckhurst Hill Essex IG9 5HP

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ON THE COVER 14 Meet the Locals 18 Halloween Feature 25 Women’s Fashion Winter coats 40 Cyprus Travel 55 Competition Win an overnight stay at Down Hall Country House Hotel

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Th e De HEALTH & FITNESS Bo ydon bd 23eAre n You ToughisEnough?

FASHION & BEAUTY 27 Men’s Winter Coats 29 New Season Hair Trends HOME Lo & GARDEN ug Hot to Handle 32 Too ht on Gardening Guide 37 October

Bu

ck h Hi urt h ll

FOOD & DRINK 44 Recipe & Wine Pairing

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COMMUNITY 6 Your Comments 10 Local W News So o 49 ELHAP od uth Charity featureford 51 What’s On

Wo o

Editor: Darren Perry Email: Darren@essexcentralmagazine.co.uk Tel: 01279 319 318 Advertising: advertising@essexcentral magazine.co.uk Features Editor: Victoria Grace Journalist: Devon-Elizabeth Tabersham Design: Sharon Butler-Felby @SketchDesign, Lauren Brown, Matt Brace.

Sales Manager: Dennis Hutton Contributors: Amanda Anastasiou, Victoria Robertson, Toby Webster, Josie Stevens, Sarah Mackie.

Publishers: 3 Blue Worldwide Ltd Facebook: EssexCentralMag Twitter: @EssexCentralMag 46,000 copies distributed to homes, businesses and station locations, along the Essex section of the Central Line and surrounding areas: South Woodford, Woodford, Buckhurst Hill, Chigwell, Loughton, Debden, Abridge, Theydon Bois, Epping, North Weald, Ongar, Wanstead, Redbridge, Ilford, Gants Hill, Newbury Park, Barkingside, Fairlop, Hainault, Grange Hill.

Although every care has been taken to ensure accuracy, 3 Blue Worldwide Ltd take no responsibility for any errors, or the advertisements within this magazine.

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FUN & GAMES 54 Puzzle Corner 62 Entering Fatherhood Without a Map

rd PARENTING 58 Mum’s Corner SPORT 66 Club Focus

H

ello and welcome to the October issue of Essex Central. It’s been a busy month trying to get the magazine together whilst dodging spider webs and sheltering from the storms, but here it is!

In this issue we look at Halloween and how to create some fun filled activities for the kids. Plus we take a trip to Cyprus and sample the seafood under the Mediterranean sun. This month we catch up with ELHAP, our featured charity partner, and also show you a delicious scallop recipe from the Dove & Olive Branch in South Woodford. I had the pleasure of tasting this dish and let me tell you it was wonderful! Not to mention our regular features Meet the Locals and Mum’s Corner are back, along with Dad’s Diary, Fashion, What’s On and much more… enjoy!

Darren Perry Editor/Owner

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ESSEX CENTRAL

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COMMUNITY

E

YOUR COMMENTS We love hearing from you!

ach month we trawl through our mailbox and social media sites to see what you are thinking. Here are a few of our favourite messages that we have received recently. Keep your comments coming in for a chance to win £20 if we pick you as our ‘Star Comment’ and £10 for the ‘Reader’s Photo’.

STAR Dear Darren, ongratulations for this magazine.

I would like to inform you about two special places where I go with my family.

C

READER’S PHOTO

eb’ l ding w il u nge Hil b a r r G e , id r p e ‘S n Bak Darre

Hello mate, just picked up a copy of your magazine - first time I’ve managed to have a proper look-very impressed!! Lady at Woodford giving out copies is very friendly and made sure I got one! Well done mate keep up the good work!! Tom Clifton

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Congratulations to Nazia Rashad from Ilford (right) who was the winner of our Makeover Competition.

t

Thank you very much for your kind words. Much appreciated.

Trying our best! Next time you are passing please call in! royaloakIG89LN

Loving the ad in Essex Central lads @gymskitchen EdaBBLoughton It’s a great magazine, as soon as it comes through the door I take it upstairs to read. Fiona Watts

One is an Italian restaurant located in Buckhurst Hill and Theydon Bois, where you can meet friendly staff, good food and relaxing place, the name of this restaurant is Il Bacio.

The second place is Rabbit and Stars a place loved by parents and children. It is located in Queens Road Buckhurst Hill.

Super.

Regards, Marcela

CONTACT US Address: Essex Central Magazine, Brickfield Business Centre, High Road, Thornwood, Epping, Essex CM16 6TH @EssexCentralMag EssexCentralMag editor@essexcentral magazine.co.uk

YOUR ADVERT HERE to advertise in Essex Central please call

01279 319 318 or email

advertising@essexcentralmagazine.co.uk

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Plumb-go is a well-established plumbing shop at 532 Chigwell Rd, Woodford Green, Essex IG8 8PA

Trade Counter

Retail Counter

Over 5000 products in stock

WE SUPPLY 100S OF LOCAL PLUMBERS ON A DAY TO DAY BASIS WE ALSO SUPPLY:

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Air lock • Ball valves • Bathroom refurbishment • Blocked toilets/sinks/pipes and drains • Burst pipes Hot water cylinder installs • Hot water problems • Immersion heater • Leaks • Overflows Pipe work replacement • New pipe works • Water tank installs • Waste disposals Unvented water cylinders • Toilet repairs and install • Stopcocks • Tap repair and installation Thermostat problem • Shower & pressure adjustments • Shower boards • Radiator installation Radiator valve change • Power flushing

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M: 07501 464 694

532 Chigwell Rd, Woodford Green, Essex IG8.8PA

ESSEX CENTRAL

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NEW GRILL RESTAURANT FOR EPPING

After months of speculation, we can confirm that Eydee’s Bar & Restaurant will open in Epping this month.

The redeveloped site will comprise a bar area where patrons can relax. They will be serving a charcoal grill based menu for casual lunch and evening meals, and guests will be able to order dishes separately À la carte style and smaller snacks or tapas from the bar or rear terrace.

Eydee’s will be introducing Sonny Batch who has created an exciting menu and will oversee the running of the kitchen as Head Chef.

Sonny’s menu will be made up of classic and contemporary dishes, using locally sourced and seasonal ingredients, tapas, artisan burgers, steaks plus many more.

In the state of the art kitchen they have installed a Kopa charcoal grill fired oven that will cook meat, fish and vegetables in a different way, adding new tastes and flavours.

“After waiting so long we could not be more excited about opening this restaurant. It is a fantastic space, with floor to ceiling windows, lots of natural light and a social feel,” said Owner, Leslie Nicholls.

Lorraine Nicholls and sister Jo Armstrong (front of house) added, “Epping is a great location, it’s becoming more vibrant being so close to London, yet still manages to maintain a little rural charm.”

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LOCAL NEWS

A short roundup of what’s been going on

Family and friends of Mandy Padda with the bench

WEST HATCH HIGH SCHOOL REMEMBERS FORMER STUDENT

A cherry tree has been planted at West Hatch High School in memory of a former student who died in a road collision earlier this year.

The parents of Mandeep Padda who was known as Mandy - have also donated a memorial bench which has been placed near the school’s Sixth Form block and a special trophy to be presented each year for creativity in upper school studies.

Mandy, 20, was involved in a collision on Epping New Road last February.

Mandy, a former A-level student at the High Road school, attended the school from 2005 until 2011.

Headteacher Frances Howarth said: “Mandy was a very gifted and talented art student. She was a pleasure to teach. She had very creative ideas and the technical ability to produce outstanding work.

“Mandy was a kind, thoughtful

and considerate student who had a great sense of humour. She was popular and, as a school prefect, contributed much to the life at West Hatch.”

Her family said: “Mandy was a very precious person - loving and caring at all times - thinking of others before herself.”

They said the bench, tree and trophy would ensure that Mandy would always be remembered at West Hatch.

A short outdoor memorial service which reflected Mandy’s love of colour and travel was held at the school on Wednesday, September 17 and was led

by Rev Ian Monks, curate at St Paul’s Church, Woodford Bridge.

The service was followed by a reception in the school library where cakes and pastries were served, reflecting Mandy’s sweet tooth and love of desserts.

Several pieces of her art work were also on display.

COMMUNITY

SCHOOL ANNOUNCES “EXCEPTIONAL” SATS RESULTS Chigwell School’s Year 6 students from last year have achieved an “exceptional” set of SATs results.

In Maths, 77 percent of pupils achieved level

5 with 21 percent achieving level 6 - the nationally expected level for a 14 year-old.

In English Reading, 91 percent of students scored a level 5 - the

Chigwell School students who achieved except ional SATs resu lts

school’s best ever results while in English Writing 74 percent achieved level 5 and 21 percent level 6 - again the school’s best ever achievement.

LIVEWIRE ROCK ACADEMY NEEDS YOU! Livewire Rock Academy are looking for young musicians to work as tutors in their rock schools.

The academy has schools in Saffron Walden, Dunmow, Bishop’s Stortford and Epping and teaches children and adults guitar, bass, drums and keyboards.

Applicants need to be at

least 17 years old and grade 7 or above on their chosen instrument.

They are looking for guitarists, drummers and keyboard players.

Full training will be given.

For more information and to apply for a position, visit the website: www.livewirerockacademy.com or call manager Dean Austin on 07941 670575.

NEW KARATE CLUB COMES TO LOUGHTON AND A DAN GRADING SUCCESS FOR ITS INSTRUCTOR A brand new karate club is opening in Loughton, Essex in October.

Jason Walton, (the instructor) is opening the new Wado-Kai Karate Club at Roding Valley High School, Loughton on Wednesday 8th October. The club is affiliated to England Wado-Kai Karate-Do Renmei Association which is the main representative for the WadoKai Karate style in England.

Jason has had recent success when he graded and was awarded his 2nd Dan after a full weekend of training at the associations annual Summer Course which took place in Aldershot, Hampshire. He endured an intense grading examination in front of a 3 man grading panel and he also had to take a written examination.

Jason has further exciting news because he has also just been selected for the England Wado-Kai

Karate Team and will be competing at the 42nd European Wado-Kai Karate Championships which take place in Varese, Italy in November, representing England in the Men’s Senior Individual Kata category. He also competed earlier this year in two other national competitions in which he also won 2 silver medals also in Kata categories.

The new Loughton Wado-Kai Karate club welcomes new members and beginners and is open to all ages from 6 upwards.

Classes will take place on Wednesdays from 7pm8pm at Roding Valley High School, Loughton in the Drama Hut. For further details please call Jason on 07971 672 542 or visit www. loughtonwadokai.co.uk.

Jason Walto n receives certificate

ESSEX CENTRAL

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The local dental practice of choice !

I'm so glad to be a patient of the Woodford House Dental Practice.

I was one of those people going from one dentist to another, never entirely satisfied with the quality of care. Now in Dr Malik and his team I finally have a dentist I completely trust.’

WELCOME to the local practice of choice for excellent dentistry. The quote above is typical of the feedback we regularly receive from our patients. As you walk into Woodford House, you will notice the difference – not only do we have the experience and range of services to ensure all your dental needs are met. Our friendly team will see that all your questions are answered and you can be confident in the knowledge you will have the very best dental care.

Our philosophy is not only to treat dental problems if they arise, but to prevent them in the first place. We work with each patient to help keep their mouth healthy – and their smile attractive. Woodford House is a long established practice that prides itself on quality of care, always listening to our patients and doing the right thing for them. In our caring hands you will enjoy these benefits and much more: l State-of-the-art equipment, and an expert multidisciplinary team dedicated to your dental health l Convenient, flexible appointments to suit your busy schedule l Comprehensive dentistry with a team approach, all under one roof.

The first step is a comprehensive examination. We guarantee you have never had a dental check up like this before! We look at your gums, teeth, any decayed and defective restorations, jaw joint and bite problems and give you a full oral cancer screening. Using radiographs and intra-oral cameras we can show you and discuss with you what is happening in your mouth. We can then begin to plan with you any steps necessary to restore you to full dental health.

WOODFORD HOUSE DENTAL PRACTICE

With us you can expect… l Quality affordable dentistry from someone you know l The confidence your needs are in the hands of a highly qualified professional l Someone who listens to what YOU want l Experience you can TRUST Find Woodford House Dental Practice on Facebook and on Twitter

Jodie Butterworth, dental patient : ‘I’d recommend anyone to see what Woodford House can do for them.’

Experience the best dental check up ever and enjoy 15% off the fee for a new patient appointment – just for readers of Essex Central. Please quote EC1 when you call to book.

Welcome to a different kind of dentistry… WELCOME TO WOODFORD HOUSE !

Woodford House Dental Practice 162 High Road Woodford Green IG8 9EF

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020 8504 2704

www.improveyoursmile.co.uk

Art Class Starts Soon

ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS TO IMPROVERS WILL LOVE THIS COURSE! GREAT NEW CO

UR

SE! We are now ta king enquiries for ou course. This re r Autumn al fun course an ly is a d a great way to meet new friends and develop new skills.

Please call no w for a chat.

Best wishes, Jacqui GREAT NEWS for all our readers looking for something fun to do over the next few months!

There is a 14 week parttime Art Class (3 hours a week, mornings or afternoons) starting soon.

different media; pencil drawing & sketching, Oil pastel painting and techniques, painting and blending with water colours and acrylics. Step by step tuition in the basic techniques and secrets needed to create beautiful pieces of art.

SEASIDE VISTAS

The course is designed to be fun for Absolute Beginners who have never picked up a brush before through to Improvers.

By the end of the course, students have created a minimum of 8 pieces of their very own original art they can enjoy forever, from Beautiful Countryside Landscape Scenes to Incredible Seaside Vistas

STEP-BY-STEP GUIDANCE

YOUNG AT HEART

ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS TO IMPROVERS - JUST LIKE YOU!

We adapt to each student’s needs and give them all the guidance and help they need to develop their artistic skills. The curriculum is fun, comprehensive and interesting.

Over 14 weeks we will explore 4

This course is a brilliant way to learn new skills you will be able to enjoy forever. It is also a great way of meeting new friends and to have a fun experience you will always remember and cherish! It is open to adults of all ages.

MEET NEW FRIENDS, LEARN NEW SKILLS

This part time course is over 3 months, so will give you plenty of time to master your new hobby.

FUN EXHIBITION

The final day of the art class will be the preparation for an exhibition later that day, featuring the work created on the course.

LIMITED PLACES

To maintain a high standard to our classes and the tuition you will receive, classes are kept to small numbers – so places available are limited! We recommend that if you are interested, you call now for a chat.

For information on dates, course fees and bookings, call now on

02089 355 962

Bring out your inner artist • Beginners to Intermediates

ARTCLASS

NEWCLASS ART

Part-time 14 Week Course, 3Hr Classes Once a week

LOUGHTON HIGH STREET CHURCH

LIMITED SPACES - CALL NOW FOR DETAILS

SA0092_14

02089 355 962 13 ESSEX CENTRAL

PLUMB GO

P

lumb Go, founded in 2008 is a family business and one stop shop for all of your plumbing supplies, I spoke to Dan about Plumb Go and how they stop at no end to please their customers. When Peacock and Huddlestone shut down in 2008, Dan’s father Eddie, who has been in the building and plumbing trade for 35 years, decided to open up his own business and within a year, Plumb Go opened their doors.

Plumb Go is a supply shop which stocks everything from tools, pipes, toilets and baths and everything in between and also offer a fitting service if required. Any whitewear (special bathroom fittings) is available within three days and this business will go the extra mile to ensure customer satisfaction.

Plumb Go supply a plethora of bathroom and boiler brands.

Francis came to Plumb Go with ten years experience in the bathroom trade and his expertise along with the rest of Plumb Go will ensure that you leave with all needed equipment and advice at the best price possible, they supply hundreds of local plumbers with equipment and parts on a regular basis.

532 Chigwell Road, Woodford Green, IG8 8PA Tel. 020 8504 5363, plumb-go@hotmail.com

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MEET

THE LOCALS Devon-Elizabeth Tabersham meets four local independent businesses.

NAILS BY SHONA @ SIZORSISTA

W

hile being relatively new to Epping High Street, SizorSista are proving to be a great addition to the community as a professional and reasonable salon.

I spoke to Shona who runs Nails By Shona through Keeley’s salon, SizorSista about her new enterprise.

Shona has a wealth of training and knowledge in the beauty industry, studying at Brentwood Academy and then being headhunted for Cranwell House Skin and Beauty Clinic in Ingatestone. She recently decided to go solo seeing it as the next step in her career.

Shona offers eyelash tints, brow tinting and waxing however nails are her specialty, on Epping High Street she is the only technician with Shellac technology, a long lasting, hardwearing nail wear which has a natural look, will last from 2 to 3 weeks and is available in every colour. Since moving to Sizorsista, Shona has been fully booked throughout weekends, she has brought some customers from Ingatestone as well as being recommended through happy clients, a lot of her custom is through repeat customers. The popular style for the season is a short, clean square nail in block colours for a wow factor and Shona has this nailed to perfection. Shellac will take around 45 minutes and costs £25 and if you have them once, you are hooked due to its low maintenance approach to beauty. She also offers an array of manicure treatments at great prices.

146 Epping High Road, CM16 4AJ Tel. 01992 577 114, 07800 856 289 www.sizorsista.com

ient

ESSEX CENTRAL

Shona with cl

E W GRACE GLASS

I

n 1975, E W Grace opened the doors to a glass company putting his name across the door, 39 years later, the company is still thriving in the hands of son Martin and his wife Nicola. I spoke to Nicola Grace about the company and everything that they can provide for their clients.

E W Grace deals with everything to do with glass, be it mirrors, windows, decorative furniture or bespoke products. They are traditional glaziers and a one stop shop for stocking and then fitting glass fixtures.

E W Grace is a small firm with strong family values, Nicola attains the success of the business is due to being able to keep control of the quality, a good job is paramount for the Grace’s. Through their long standing history in the field of glass E W Grace has built up a strong reputation in the local area and great relationships with their customers through using top quality products and a professional team of fitters. A significant 85% of their business comes through word of mouth and they are used regularly by local businesses.

Their products are safe and warm and guaranteed burglar proof as reassurance for customers. E W Grace promises to enhance your home with style and grace.

28 High Road, Buckhurst Hill, IG9 5HP Tel. 020 8505 5656, www.ewgraceglass.co.uk

Nicola Grace

ALAN PATIENT & CO

Alan Patient

A

fter finding success at large accountancy firms and a shared practice in Old Bond Street, Alan Patient made the move to South Woodford in 1993.

Alan Patient & Co is a chartered accountants and registered auditors and a lot of their business comes from doctors and dentists amongst a plethora of other trades.

Alan Patient himself is a good natured, ready to

help accountant who, from years of experience has gained a great reputation and a wealth of knowledge, he stands as a first point of call if one decides to become selfemployed as he has this experience.

Alan Patient knows the importance of running a professional, personal and accommodating service and this is embodied in his South Woodford offices, with a staff of ten, it is very much like a family and they work to no end to ensure the best results for every client.

I spoke to employee Karen Flashman, who said she enjoys the work and surrounding environment.

Alan maintains that while accountancy can be interpreted as an impersonal business, it is in fact a people business as they correspond with clients on a regular basis and are always available to offer advice and counsel.

Alan Patient has built great relationships with his clients, who have become like friends and some date back to its 1993 opening. It speaks volumes that Alan’s first client in 1989 still uses his accountancy service to this day.

9 The Shrubberies, George Lane, South Woodford, E18 1BD Tel. 020 8532 9843, www.alanpatient.com

ESSEX CENTRAL

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SIZORSISTA

COLOUR, CUT & BLOW DRY

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ALL BUILDING WORK UNDERTAKEN

NEW BUILDS, LOFTS AND EXTENSIONS EXPERIENCED, RELIABLE, LOCAL BUILDERS JUST CALL TO ARRANGE A QUOTE

07980 559 438

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ESSEX CENTRAL

manleywjm@aol.com

The Curtain Store

25% DISCOUNT on selected ranges un�l the end of October

FREE Home Measuring and Estimate Service 7 days a week evening and weekends

Thousands of fabrics to choose from in the comfort of your home

Large range of diferent fabrics including damask, silks, velvet, chenille and prints Phone now to book an appointment with one of our advisers All areas covered

Contract work undertaken for:

Hotels, schools, Nursing Homes, Restaurants, and more!

Call us today on 0208 4191138

www.thecurtainstore.co.uk ESSEX CENTRAL  17

TRICK TREAT OR

Halloween fun for your little monsters with Blossoms Nursery.

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in b b o eB

Appl

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ESSEX CENTRAL

Bobbing for apples is a traditional Halloween game that is easy to setup and fun for children of all ages. Just fill a tub with water and a few apples. The aim of the game is to pick up the apples using only your mouth! Alternatively you could also hang apples (or even donuts) on strings for a drier version on the game.

If you are planning to take the kids trick or treating then they will need a bag to put all their goodies in! Incorporate some messy play and let them decorate their own bags with handprint or footprint ghosts. Get a black bag, some white and black paint and make the prints upside down and paint on the eyes and mouth. Personalise with each child’s name.

s

ag B at

Tre

These creepy creations are tasty and fun to make. You can use shop bought cakes or make you own.

Ice the cakes with chocolate butter icing and use red or black liquorice laces cut into 7cm lengths for the legs, four on each side. Sprinkle on chocolate hundreds and thousands and use sweets such as Smarties for the eyes.

RIP For a toddler friendly Halloween activity try no-carve pumpkin decoration. Set up a table with a range of different craft materials including scrap paper for cutting and sticking, glitter, paint and even fallen leaves and get creative with your jack-o-lantern designs!

Apples and pears are also perfect for this activity as they are easy for little hands to work with.

s

der [cake i p S Cup Nocarv Pum e pkin Blossoms Nursery, Horse Shoe Farm West, London Rd, Thornwood Common, CM17 9LH. Forest Gate branch opening soon.

Tel: 01279 429 937 www.blossomsnurseryltd.co.uk

ESSEX CENTRAL 

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Transform your body & your life with therapy

Rowena Paul lost 2st 8lbs lost 4st 3lbs with 10 weeks of treatment with 16 weeks of treatment Paul before treatment

Rowena before treatment

Weight Reduction & Contour Shaping WITHOUT SURGERY

Alizonne -WINNERS 2012-2013 Best Weight Loss Programme/product

www.alizonne.co.uk tel: 01277 698917 Clinics Nationwide. New Rd, Brentwood, Essex CM14 4GF

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ESSEX CENTRAL

25% OFF throughout October

Order your new Plantation Shutters this month, to guarantee delivery before Christmas!

ESSEX CENTRAL 

21

We are a fun, friendly kickboxing club & all levels of fitness welcome, star�ng from the age or 4 years old and upwards.

Classes are as follows:

Kids ­ Tuesdays 7.30­8.15pm Adults ­ Tuesdays 8.15­9.15pm Adults beginners ­ Wednesdays 7.45­8.45pm Adults Advanced ­ Wednesdays 8.45­9.45pm

2 weeks FREE trial

Some Saturdays as and when the hall becomes available.

2 weeks free trial, then if you wish to con�nue to train its £40 one off Membership fee.

This covers you on the insurance and allows students to grade if they wish too.

Once joined it is £5 per lesson or £8 if students do a double lesson on a Wednesday.

Once you have joined you receive a Free T­Shirt and Hand Wraps.

North Weald village hall, High Road, North Weald, Epping , Essex, CM16 6BU

Tel: 07432 843128

www.energize­kickboxing.co.uk energizekickboxing@hotmail.com Twi�er: @EKickboxing and Find us on Facebook as Energize Kickboxing We Are The Friendliest Place To Train In North Weald

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ESSEX CENTRAL

H E A LT H FITNESS

&

ARE YOU

TOUGH ENOUGH? Overcome any obstacle with Pegasus Military Fitness.

W

ith the rise in both popularity and people signing up for “extreme” muddy obstacle course races (OCRs) such as Tough Mudder and Nuclear Rush we decided to get some expert advice from those in the know.

Pegasus Military Fitness has a wealth of experience amongst their ranks and we have compiled a list of their top tips to help you prepare for an OCR event whether it’s your first or twenty first! Here’s what they had to say:

BREATHING... Yes we all do it, we wouldn’t last long if we didn’t, but correct breathing can make such a difference to your performance.

Deep breaths before tackling an obstacle or hill can help your muscle endurance and stamina.

Barry Watkins, kickboxing instructor and black belt has two top tips he utilises before any event.

Someone who has never been described as average is athlete Lizzie Neave, London 2012 Olympian and British #1 K1 slalom canoeist.

NUTRITION... Make sure you’re fuelling right, a large bowl of porridge with honey and berries will start your day right whatever your training or event has in store.

PREPARATION... Make sure you’re training in the kit and trainers you’ll be competing in, don’t be tempted to change your reliable and comfortable gear on a whim as rubbing, chaffing and blisters are not good companions over any distance.

VISUALISATION... Try and think in advance about what you’ll encounter on the day. Be it the weather conditions, terrain or obstacles; take some time to think how you will tackle each element so nothing is a surprise on the day.

Jay Martin, a serving soldier in the Royal Artillery has some insightful information too.

GO BEYOND… Go beyond your comfort zone, Jay says pushing yourself beyond the limits of what your brain and other people say you can do is the best motivator ever...

Don’t be average...ever!

RECOVERY... Make sure you’re getting quality sleep and consuming enough proteins to aid muscle recovery and growth. You want to improve not plateau don’t you?

going to hurt, come back down, do it again...and again. Hills are your friend, it won’t feel like it at the time but the improvements to your performance come race time will be very apparent.

REPETITION… See above, the more you do in training the better your experience on the day.

Remember… enjoy, not endure!

Simon Tuley, ex Pathfinder and PTI always stresses two points.

CONSISTENCY...

You need to be training regularly and at a level that’s challenging. Three to four times a week is a good start and will give you a solid fitness base.

TEAMWORK... If you’re entering an event get yourself some like-minded individuals and go around together. Obstacles are negotiated easier, morale is kept higher and you can laugh at your friends muddy misfortune!

Dave Shuttler, ex Royal Marine Commando has two simple steps to improving your fitness.

HILLS... Go out and find a nice steep incline and run up it, it’s

www.pegasusmilitaryfitness.com

ESSEX CENTRAL

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Circuit, the new go-to venue in Essex, is set to open its doors for the first time, and this is your opportunity to hear about what it is and why you should definitely take a look. Its location, soon to be announced, has an entertainment history of sorts… but that is the past…

Ci Circuit is now.

With international DJs confirmed as residents plus guests periodically added to the line ups, which will include some of Defected’s finest and Ibiza’s most wanted.

Visit circuitessex.com to secure your opening night invitation.

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ESSEXcircuitessex CENTRAL

e.info@circuitessex.com w.circuitessex.com t.01708 733823

&

FASHION

tNothing says winter better than a bit of military. This incredible khaki coat is an absolute steal at £74. Team with leather gloves and black over-the-knee leather boots - ATTTENTION!

BEAUTY

Parka Co £85 M&

Belted C £95 Ne oat xt t

t y Coa Militar tlewoods it £74 L

Every wardrobe should have a parka.

This versatile coat is perfect whether you’re walking the kids to school or on a night out with the girls, not to mention how grateful you’ll be for the warmth when you’re in the taxi queue!

a Tabath Coat h c n e Tr hase £120 P Eight

re Cashme t a o C &S £120 M

COATS

t

TO COVER UP IN THIS WINTER Check B la £89 Ver nket Coat y Gucci

Burberry

Pastels have been a huge summer trend and are thankfully hanging around as the sun starts to fade. Make a statement in this luxurious cashmere blend coat in lilac from M&S.

Window p Check C ane £40 Tu oat @ Sainsb urys

By Josie Stevens

www.notjustadress.co.uk The humble coat, probably one of most important winter wardrobe purchases, and with so many different styles available this season it’s hard to know where to splash your cash. Before you hit the shops have a good think about what your coat is mostly worn for, whether that’s work, play or walking the dogs you need to get the most out of your new purchase, so here’s my top picks for the season ahead.

There is only one way to wear your fur and that’s faux. Luckily the catwalks, and now the high street, are full of faux fur coats and jackets. I love this collarless coat from New Look which is also channelling that slight 60s vibe.

t

t Thanks to Burberry the coat of the season is actually a blanket, and I can’t think of a more cosy yet stylish way to keep warm. This check one has the added warmth and luxury of a faux fur collar.

oat Midi C talan a M £40

Borg B £65 N iker Jac ket ext

s Faux Collarles Fur Coat w Look e £64.99 N

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Green Check and Navy £95 B Mac urton

is ph Harr Autogra oat C d Twee arks & £199 M r e c n e Sp

&

FASHION BEAUTY

ve ur Ste Barbo en Olive e McQu Jacket Waxed ouse £299 H er s of Fra

t

t This beautiful tweed coat is perfect to layer over a suit, and the fact that it’s single breasted means it will suit all body types.

Parka £144.99 ry Superd

Checks are everywhere this season and this Burton mac offers a subtle nod to this bold trend, in navy and green.

Smart enough for work but fashionable enough for play check mate!

Came l £90 T Coat opma n

MEN’S AUTUMN

OUTERWEAR J by Ja sp Conran er P Jacket added £60 De benham s

t Padded jackets have been given a slightly slimmer silhouette this season. This one is a great injection of colour and perfect for off duty style.

Con v Bas erse Pu e £120 ball Jac ffa of F House ket rase r Hackett

By Josie Stevens

www.notjustadress.co.uk Looking for that finishing touch to your autumn wardrobe? The right coat can make or break an outfit, so when the weather turns cold a good coat is definitely a sound investment.

Whether you’re looking for outerwear that gives a nod to the season’s key trends; Miltary, Monochrome and Checks, or that casual jacket that’s sure to become a trusty faithful for years to come, there are some great buys out there right now.

t

rg ed Bo ket Check d Wool Jac e r a ll o C k rimar £30 P Every man needs a leather biker in their life.

Ok, I know it won’t exactly keep the cold at bay, but you’ll definitely look cool.

uble d Do Twee ted Coat ok s Brea 9 New Lo £54.9

Leath Jack er Biker e £150 t Burt on

ESSEX CENTRAL

27

LOUGHTON & EPPING’S

A ring with the

'WOW' Factor...

Thinking of popping the Big Question?

Look no further for a ring that shouts 'I LOVE YOU' The safe, fun way for your kids to celebrate Halloween.

Primarily for 4-11 year olds * Younger children may attend, but stll need a ticket*

Children £6.00 Adults £4.00 ALL children or group of children MUST be accompanied by an adult

Loughton, @ Roding Vally High School Alderton Hill, Loughton, Essex IG10 3JA (Some parking on site) Saturday 1st November 2014 3.00pm - 6.00pm

Epping, @ St John’s School Bury Lane, Epping CM16 5JB (Car park on site) Sunday 2nd November 2014 4.00pm - 7.00pm For more info, to buy tickets, book stalls etc. Contact

Irene Bull: 020 8559 4500 irenebull@hotmail.co.uk www.chingfordevents.com

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ESSEX CENTRAL

Up there with some of the biggest purchases you will ever make, you want to ensure that you get the very best your money can buy.

Sparkle offer 1-2-1 consultations to help educate and assist you in making a confident purchase.

Whether you know exactly what you are looking for or you would like some inspiration, we are here every step of the way to help create your perfect ring.

Diamonds are our passion, customer satisfaction is our priority!

For more information please visit www.sparklediamonds.co.uk or give us a call on 01279 425067

HAIR TRENDS FOR THE NEW SEASON

&

FASHION BEAUTY

By Amanda Anastasiou

W

what this year’s top designers and style gurus are telling us. It seems as though the overall look on the catwalk is low level styling – like a backlash on over styled hair, a more youthful look. I’m happy with that! I’ve put together some of my favourite looks fresh off the catwalk.

tCASUAL COLOUR - ‘SOMBRE’

Introducing this autumn/winter’s newest trend, the Sombre. The colours are more blended less extremes between the roots and the ends than an ombre look– think Alexa Chung and Jessica Alba’s super-subtle highlights. If you’re lucky enough, this is a look you could get naturally after your holiday. For us that aren’t so lucky, you can go for a salon treatment to create a sun-kissed tone using freehand, or balayage application. We offer this at Finesse!

tOFF TONE PASTELS

The idea behind this unusual but striking look is off tone, diffused muted pastels with surprising effects.

Whatever colour your natural hair, think leftfield a little, add a hint of pink, blue or violet, not in an aggressive way, more of a subtle way.

If you want a more sophisticated way to wear the trend, try creating a hidden panel of a pastel shade on a section of hair such as the underneath which is only noticeable when you put your hair up.

t

www.finesse.co.uk ith…dare I say it, winter just around the OFF-DUTY corner, it’s time to start thinking about BALLERINA

The inspiration for this hairstyle is an off duty dancer, a not so neat show performance ballerina. With hair worn in buns and faces illuminated with shades of nude and lilac you too can achieve this look. Whether high or low, buns were all the rage on the autumn/winter runways. The idea is it doesn’t have to be so neat.

Use your fingers to pull hair back into a low bun for a slightly un-done effect.

t SWEEPING FRINGE

If you aren’t that brave to chop in a full-on fringe then this season’s sweeping side-fringe is perfect for trying out the look. Team a sweeping fringe with an off tone pastel to be bang on trend as seen on Chloe Norgaard.

Get even more adventurous by clipping a sweeping twist of hair behind the ear.

WET LOOK

t

Amanda Anastasiou

This year’s strongest look is the wet look.

Whether you opt for an out of the shower look or a slicked back style - wet-look is a great way to make a statement with your hair. If you are looking for a dressier look, it’s all about wet-look hair with volume, worn super-sleek over the crown and loose and glossy at the back. Wear your wet-look locks with barely-there makeup for a fresh, youthful vibe.

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29

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31

TOO HOT TO HANDLE

With the colder months approaching now is a good time to assess the heating in your home.

“Ensure you have an efficient system to see you through the winter months�

M

ost of us will start turning on our heating systems in the next few weeks. It is vital to do a few checks to ensure you have an efficient system to see you through the winter months. One of the key factors is to have a boiler service and a balancing of the system to ensure that all your water and heating is not costing you more than necessary. Another check that can be done by a householder is to ensure the radiators are warming up evenly all over, if not, then they need bleeding with a radiator key as air is causing cold spots where the water is not flowing correctly.

Q

What are the easiest steps to take as a home owner to ensure I have sufficient heating around the home?

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A

The most common problem is the positioning of the room thermostat. The most common place for a room thermostat is in the hallway. It is always recommended that the radiator nearest the thermostat is controlled by a manual and not a thermostatic valve, otherwise the thermostatic valve conflicts with the boiler making the heating come on erratically and this is not cost effective. A valve can be changed quite easily and save you money on your heating bill.

Q A

My radiator is old and needs replacing, what can I do if I cannot move the pipes in my flooring?

Any existing radiator that is old, discoloured or showing rust marks has probably had its day. The issue is not having to pull up the floor just to replace a radiator. This radiator can easily be replaced with

HOME GARDEN

more money this way and is easily fixed by adjusting the thermostatic valves individually to suit each room on each radiator. It also is not good for the environment.

&

New fixtures an d can improve effi fittings ciency

Q A

Have you ever walked into a room in your home when the heating is on and the room is never quite the right temperature?

The reason is probably that the thermostatic valve on the radiator is set at the wrong temperature. Adjust up or down slightly and live with the room at this temperature for a few days then adjust if needed.

Do this in each room to ensure cost effective heating.

At The Radiator & Bathroom Gallery they have a full range of types of manual and thermostatic valves with a range of colours to choose from on display. Also matching accessories such as pipe sleeves to cover the unsightly copper pipes coming up from the floor to give a neat look to the new valves.

something that will fit onto existing pipework. All you need to do is measure the distance between the two pipes coming up from the floor or out of the wall and The Radiator & Bathroom Gallery have a range of radiators to suit all budgets that will be able to fit to the existing pipework.

Q A

What temperature should the room thermostat be set to & how can I make sure my heating is cost effective in my home?

This is generally set at 20 degrees. The most inefficient way to control your heating is when you adjust the room thermostat up and down constantly depending on how you feel when you enter the property and feel too hot or cold. All this does is make the boiler work harder to turn the heating up or down in an instant. It costs you

Q A

I am concerned that my children will scald themselves on the standard radiators, is there a safer option for their bedrooms?

There are a few radiators that are called LST (low surface temperature) radiators that are specifically designed for this purpose and can be used throughout the home. They are cost effective, run on a normal system and come in a range of colours and styles. Pictured are a couple of designs on display that are available from The Radiator & Bathroom Gallery.

The Radiator & Bathroom Gallery, 140 Hermon Hill, South Woodford, London, E18 1QH. Low Surface www.theradiatorgallery.

Temperature Ra diator com, Tel: 0208 530 7555

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33

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Chloe

Denise

Crystal

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During Oct & Nov 2014 with one of the following stylists at Tikadi Theydon Bois:

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Chloe, Denise or Crystal

Chloe, Denise or Crystal

T & Cs Cannot be used with any other offer or discounts and is valid until 30/11/2014 Present voucher to validate the offer.

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We have 2 fantastic offers from Tikadi Ongar when you book in with our stylists Nikki, Michaela or Lana up until the end of November

£30 

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Cut & blow dry

£70 SPECIAL OFFER

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During Oct & Nov 2014 with one of the following stylists at Tikadi Ongar:

During Oct & Nov 2014 with one of the following stylists at Tikadi Ongar:

Nikki, Michaela or Lana

Nikki, Michaela or Lana

T & Cs Cannot be used with any other offer or discounts and is valid until 30/11/2014 Present voucher to validate the offer.

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T & Cs Cannot be used with any other offer or discounts and is valid until 30/11/2014 * Vario Blond highlights. Present voucher to validate the offer.

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ESSEX CENTRAL

“Plant your crocus, daffodil and tulip bulbs out now ”

HOME GARDEN

&

WILDLIFE WATCH

on Victoria Roberts

GARDENING WITH VICTORIA ROBERTSON

Look out for the harvestman in your garden this autumn, it is very distinctive with a round, compact body and extremely long legs. Although very close relatives, harvestmen are not actually true spiders as unlike spiders, which have two body parts, harvestmen have only one. They catch their prey by using hooks on the ends of their legs and feed on small insects, slugs, snails and worms.

A seasonal guide to help you get the most out of your garden.

W

elcome to my gardening guide for October. The darker shorter days are now drawing near and there is a distinct chill in the air.

Preparations in the garden for the coming winter months should now begin. _ The mowing season is now drawing to a close, and the height of cut should now be raised by up to an inch to allow the grass to build up strength for the winter.

Scarify your lawn using a rake to get rid of any old dead grass, moss and rubbish that has collected during the summer. Then spike the lawn with a garden fork in rows with holes 4 inches apart and 4 inches deep. Once spiked the compacted areas will benefit from a top-dressing of sifted soil

or soil mixed with fine sand. Brush it in well into the holes and then apply a low nitrogen fertiliser dressing which will help strengthen the grass for the winter. _ Geraniums, begonias, fuchsias, and other tender plants should be brought indoors or moved into a cold frame before the first frost arrives. _ Lift and divide clumps of perennials and mark out where they all are with permanent tags so you’ll know where and what they are when they die back. Divide up any large clumps of crocosmia and replant into freshly prepared soil. _ Thoroughly clean your garden tools ready to be put away for winter storage. Once clean apply a light coat of oil to prevent rusting.

_ Plant your crocus, daffodil and tulip bulbs out now to prepare for a delightful spring display.

Step by step guide to planting spring bulbs: 1. Find a location where the soil drains well. Bulbs can be planted in pots too.

2. Choose an area in your garden where it gets sun for all or most of the day.

3. Dig holes and plant the bulbs with their pointed tops 4-7” below the soil surface with smaller bulbs placed more shallowly than larger ones.

4. After planting, water well to settle the soil around the bulbs.

Written by Amenity Horticulturalist & gardening committee member of Copped Hall and Epping Horticultural Society Victoria Robertson.

Black Spot Disease

PESTS AND DISEASE

Black spot is a common problem on roses but can be found on other plants too. The spots can be of various colours - grey, brown or black. Pick up and destroy any fallen foliage. This will help reduce the chances of reinfection for the following season. Prune shrubs back hard.

ESSEX CENTRAL

37

BATHROOM SALE starts 27th September

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Our wall prints are a great low cost way to bring rooms to life quickly and easily Walls, Glass, Tiles, Furniture etc.

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Hotel Anassa

A WELCOME WARM

T

In sunny Cyprus

ry talking of Cyprus without lapsing into rhapsody.

We’ve already lost, but the winners would be anyone who visits this incredible island.

Legend cites it as birthplace of Aphrodite, goddess of love. Its location in the Eastern Mediterranean gives Cyprus a wonderful year-round climate, cool in the mountains and balmy by the sea.

It is a great place to visit, combining beautiful beaches, pine-forested mountains, timeless villages, ten thousand years of history and a great choice of activities for special interests.

Let’s not forget the cosmopolitan resorts with lively nightlife and great shopping opportunities.

Take some time and hire a car to explore. The roads are very good and, like us, Cypriots drive on the left! We would recommend a trip to the Troodos Mountains or visiting any of the 10 Byzantine churches on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

Enjoy a walk along one of the many hiking trails, ending the day with an al fresco meal in one of the traditional tavernas in any of the rural villages, where Cypriot hospitality is at its best. For the more active, there are a number of cycling routes to suit all abilities - a new trail of 69km runs from Limassol, through the picturesque countryside of the mountains to a height of 1200m.

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Interested in wine? The island boasts over 40 boutique wineries that can be visited as part of seven designated wine routes. Many produce award-winning bottles comprising indigenous grapes combined with imported varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon.

Interested in golf? There are four good courses at Tsada, Secret Valley, Aphrodite Hills and the new Elea Golf Club, designed by Nick Faldo.

Handicap Certificates are required.

Interested in food? Cypriot cuisine is based on fresh seasonal produce, ripened in the Mediterranean sun.

There is a choice of traditional or modern fusion cuisine, based on age-old recipes, with a modern twist. Seafood and fish dishes abound including squid, octopus, red mullet and sea bass, but meat lovers are also well catered for with wonderful grilled lamb, pork and chicken dishes. Cyprus is also noted for desserts including the Cypriot version of Turkish Delight.

For those that want a relaxing holiday, the island’s upmarket hotels offer the opportunity for chilling out in opulent surroundings and the enjoyment of being pampered in first class spas. Sun worshippers can enjoy swimming in the cleanest waters in the EU and have a choice of 57 Blue Flag beaches.

Abbotts Travel, in partnership with Prestige Holidays, offer a

“Sun worshippers can enjoy swimming in the cleanest waters in the EU” Aphrodite’s Rock varied choice of accommodation in the western half of the island from Limassol in the east to Coral Bay in the west including the quieter resort of Pissouri and the popular and more lively resort of Paphos.

For those seeking quiet relaxation we recommend the unspoilt area of north western Cyprus near the picturesque fishing village of Latchi.

TRY A CONTEMPORARY DESIGN HOTEL IN PAPHOS

Paphos has in recent years grown into a popular resort and the range of shops and restaurants is very good, but what makes Paphos different is the remarkable amount of history it has, great for exploring when you feel like a rest from chilling out! If you like a contemporary design hotel we love the five-star Almyra Hotel in Paphos. Almyra means ‘taste of the sea’ and the hotel is situated in an ideal location on the seafront with uninterrupted views across the bay to Paphos Harbour with shops and antiquities nearby.

Hotel Almyra, from £569pp Price is based on 2 adults staying in a twin bedded room on 2 December 2014 for 7 nights including

TRAVEL CYPRUS

Hotel Annabelle pool

Hotel Annabelle view return flights with Ryanair (including 2x checked bags) from London Stansted to Paphos and private transfers.

Includes Complimentary Half Board for minimum stays of 5 nights saving at least £179 per person per week and an early booking discount of at least £30 per person per week for bookings made by 31 October 2014 for stays between 1 November 2014 - 22 March 2015.

RELAX IN A TRADITIONAL ATMOSPHERE

Adjacent to the Almyra you will find its more traditional sister hotel, the five-star Annabelle with excellent standards of service and a relaxing atmosphere.

Hotel Annabelle, from £579pp Price is based on 2 adults staying in a twin bedded room on 20 February 2015 for 7 nights including return flights with Ryanair (incl 2x checked bags) from London Stansted to Paphos and private transfers.

Includes complimentary Half Board for minimum stays of 5 nights saving at least £57 per person per week and an early booking discount of at least £30 per person per

Hotel Almyra pool

week for bookings made by 31 October 2014 for stays between 1 November 2014 - 22 March 2015.

LUXURY BREAK IN THE QUIET, UNSPOILT AREA OF NORTH WESTERN CYPRUS

The small fishing village of Latchi is situated on the edge of the Akamas Peninsula, a superb nature reserve.

Close by you will find the Baths of Aphrodite, a beauty spot where, as its name suggests, the goddess of love used to bathe and where she met her lover, Adonis. The moment he drank the water, Adonis fell in love.

Situated in a quiet unspoilt area just 21/2 kms from Latchi, the five-star Hotel Anassa, sister hotel to both the Annabelle and Almyra hotels, looks across a beautiful beach. The location is perfect, in a sloping garden setting, a wonderful place to relax and retreat from the rest of the world.

Hotel Anassa, from £1479pp Price is based on 2 adults staying in a Garden View room on 20 March 2015 for 7 nights including return flights with Ryanair (incl 2x checked bags) from London Stansted to Paphos and private transfers. (The hotel closes between 10 November 14 - 16 March 2015)

Anassa Beach

Hotel Almyra view Abbotts Travel, 134 George Lane, South Woodford, E18 1BA Tel: 0208 989 9445 www.abbottstravel.com Twitter: @abbottstravel

ESSEX CENTRAL

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FOOD & DRINK DOVE & OLIVE BRANCH

SEARED

SCALLOPS with shallot puree and tomato and chive salad

O

n the site of the former Meghna Grill on Woodford High Road now stands the newly opened Dove and Olive Branch restaurant, serving Mediterranean cuisine.

The restaurant has been beautifully refurbished, with a fresh contemporary interior. The atmosphere

of this family run establishment is relaxed and friendly and the food is delicious. Head Chef and owner Boris Halpin shows us how to make this simple scallop dish.

Method 1. Clean the scallops removing the muscle.

2. Peel and slice the shallots.

BEST SERVED WITH...

Dishes based on fresh seafood and incorporating butter provide us with the opportunity to look afresh at their perfect foil, white Burgundy and its alter-ego, the Chardonnay grape. I am drawn for this month’s dish to the region’s two extremes, the chalk slopes of Chablis in the north, and the limestone crags which make up the various incarnations of Pouilly-Fuissé in the far south.

For it is geology which is the key to great Chardonnay, a variety which grows happily on rich soils, but only gives its complex, poised and thrilling best when raised on the harsher canvas of infertile limestone or chalk marls.

Chablis, an outpost of Burgundy, is justly famous for the crisp, delicate yet assertively mineral Chardonnays grown on its slopes of the famous chalk-clay marl.

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3. Sweat the shallots in oil, season with salt and butter and then cover.

4. Cook very slowly on a low heat and don’t let them get any colour.

5. Take off the heat and puree until smooth, season and allow to cool.

6. Chop the chives finely.

7. Put the tomatoes in a pan of boiling water for 30

seconds and then transfer to iced water.

8. Remove the skins and cut into quarters, remove the seeds and then cut into dice.

9. Put a heavy bottomed frying pan on the stove to get hot and add a splash of oil.

10. Season the scallops and add to the pan, when

Fabien Moreau is the sixth generation of his family to exploit these hallowed slopes, with a substantial holding in the famous ‘Grands Crus’, those vineyards which make the most ageworthy and complex wines. Under the stewardship of Fabien and his father Christian this domaine has become increasingly recognised as the source of some of the very finest Chablis.

250 km to the south, in the hills west of the town of Macon, one reaches the southern limit of Burgundy.

Here, Burgundy’s ancient limestone strata rises to two dramatic outcrops, before giving way to the volcanic

INGREDIENT

Serves 4

S

12 scallops 4-5 shallots

Butter 3-4 sprigs of parsley Chives 1 lemon Mixed salad le aves Tomatoes

12 the side of the scallops turns a little brown flip them over.

11. When the second side starts to colour add a knob of butter to the pan, it will melt and start to bubble.

12. When the bubbles start to die add lemon juice and chopped parsley and then take off the heat.

13. Place the scallops on top of the warm shallot puree and dress the salad with olive oil, salt and lemon juice and finally add the tomatoes and chives.

Dove & Olive Branch, 219 High Road, South Woodford, E18 2PB Tel: 020 8506 2327 www.doveandolive branch.co.uk

granite of Beaujolais beyond. It is upon the flanks of these peaks, and upon the rolling hills around them, that the Chardonnay variety gives us the great wines of the Pouillys, -Fuissé, -Vinzelles and - Loché, as well as the marginally lesser but often good-value St.Veran. Eric Forest tends to a mere 5 hectares here, incorporating organic and biodynamic techniques to produce a handful of wines, all of which would sing in perfect harmony with our October dish.

Chablis of Christian Moreau, from £15.90 to £47.50, Eric Forest’s range from £17.80 for his Macon-Vergisson, to £25.80 for Poully Fuissé ‘Les Crays’. Discounts available for 6 or more bottles.

The Black Dog Wine Company, Ashlyns Farm Shop, North Weald. www.blackdogwines.co.uk Tel: 01992 525009.

NEW MENU launching in October

Mention ‘Essex Central’ to get your

FREE GLASS OF SPARKLING PINK, OR SPARKLING ELDERFLOWER with any starter or main throughout October

Now taking bookings for

Christmas Tel 02085062327

219 High Road, Southwoodford, London E18 2PB facebook/Doveandolivebranch Opening hours

Tues-Sun 12:30pm-4:30pm & 6pm-11pm

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The Bluebell restaurant is located in the heart of Chigwell, Essex and represents the finest in modern British and European cuisine. We pride ourselves on The Bluebell’s elegantly relaxed atmosphere, beautifully and simply presented food and first class service.

Christmas Day Lunch 2014

£90 per person £40 Children (12.5% discretionary gratuity)

Canapès ~~~ Lobster Cappuccino ~~~ Celeriac and Apple Soup

with Chestnuts and Toasted Brioche

Pressed Terrine of Game

with Wild Mushrooms, Pistachio’s, Toasted Brioche & Piccalilli

Pan Fried Scallops

with Honey Roast Pork Belly & Granny Smith Apple

Cheese Trio

Roquefort Terrine, Grilled Aubergine Rarebit & Goatd Cheese Arancini

Mojito Sorbet

Roast Free Range Norfolk Turkey with Chestnut Stuffing and Traditional Accompianments

Roast Rump of Devon Lamb

~~~ Traditional Christmas Pudding with Rum Anglaise and Vanilla Ice Cream

with Traditional Accompianments

Roast Sirloin of Aberdeen Angus Beef

Glazed Citrus Tart

with Traditional Accompianments

with Winter Fruits & Rasberry Mini Sorbet

Pan Fried wild Sea Bass

Dark Chocolate Orange Fondant

with Crushed Potato, Red Wine Fume & Baby Leeks

Filo Baked Crottin Chavignol Cheese

with Mini Red Pepper & Feta Moussake, Sundried Tomato Arancini & Aubergine Caviar with Toasted Pine Nuts

with Rum Crème Anglaise & Marmalade Ice Cream

Selection of English & Continental Cheeses from our Trolley ~~~ Coffee & Mince Pies

SPECIAL OFFER!

20% OFF 3 course Lunch Tuesday to Saturday or,

3 course Dinner Tuesday to Friday when quoting ‘Essex Central’

117 High Rd Chigwell, Essex, IG7 6QQ TEL: 020 8500 6282 www.thebluebellrestaurant.co.uk

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Elachi 01992 57 88 33 01992 56 16 10 Here at Elachi we pride ourselves on producing a 200 year old style of cooking called ‘Dum Pukt Indian Cusine’ and until now only a few places in the world were able to serve it. Created by the Moghuls and dubbed the mythical ‘Fit for Kings’ style food.

We are also a previous runner up for the ‘National Curry Chef’ award!

20% OFF

on orders over £10 within 6 miles Buckhurst Hill, Loughton, North Weald, Epping, Chigwell, Theydon Bois, Harlow and more!

COLLECTION throughout October, by quoting “Essex central” when ordering!

319 Epping High Street CM16 4DA ESSEX CENTRAL

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THE GARNON BUSHES

Free

13 Coopersale Common, Coopersale, Epping, Essex CM16 7QS

Tel: 01992 560211

E-mail: info@garnonbushes.co.uk

Halloween Disco!

Christmas Bookings

PERFORMING LIVE

Friday 31st October 8pm onwards

now being taken

10th October!

All food served is home cooked and available 7 days a week We look forward to seeing you soon.

Roding Valley Pentecostal Church Roding Valley Hall Station Way Buckhurst Hill Chigwell IG9 6LN Every Sunday Morning At 10.30

Our experienced staff will be pleased to advise you on all aspects of Letting your property

This is a new pioneer church.

Call us today for a free lettings valuation of your property

Warm welcome to all.

More information on website.

www.rodingvalleychurch.org

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666 Green Lane, Goodmayes, Illford, Essex IG3 9RX

*Terms and conditions apply

COMMUNITY

ELHAP A SPECIAL NEEDS ADVENTURE PLAYGROUND IN WOODFORD

By Devon-Elizabeth Tabersham

ELHAP

first opened its doors in 1977 and is one of seven adventure playgrounds for disabled children in South East England. In 1975, Diana Cresswell and her husband Reverend Cresswell recognised the positive effect that these playgrounds could have on disabled children and so became ELHAP. Drummond Abernethy, a local gentleman who supported the charity in its early days, became chairman of ELHAP in 1978 and remained on the board until his passing, he described ELHAP as, “The very best adventure playground for children with special needs.”

Adventure playgrounds are a revolutionary approach to children’s recreation as they encourage creativity as well as building, making and breaking. What makes ELHAP such a special organisation is that they provide the opportunity for disabled children to experience these activities, safely, which they may never have been able to

do before. ELHAP’s site used to belong to Barnardos and came with an extremely generous portion of land which has been put to good use in building the adventure playground.

ELHAP is completely for the children, they can suggest things that they would like built in their playground, including a round the world swing, sand pit, water play and a pirate ship. A couple of their newest features include a tree house, an underground tunnel and even a TARDIS. ELHAP receive around 8,000 visits a year from day to day visitors as well as school groups who come on a weekly basis to partake in outdoor play. The main structure of the playground was built in 1990 and is completely wheelchair and bike accessible which allows physically disabled children to experience being in a place of elevated height.

There are also swings and a see saw for physically disabled children as well as the apparatus for a zip line.

Inside the main building there are

sections for arts and crafts, dressing up, painting and there is a jukebox which can often be heard playing One Direction and other pop songs. There is a fully operational kitchen in which children can learn how to cook, as well as foraging outdoors; the grounds used to be an orchard and so there are many fruit trees.

ELHAP is also home to a soft room, a room for soft play with padded walls which was funded by ‘Help a London Child’ as well as a cinema and a therapeutic sensory room.

There are up to 80 volunteers at ELHAP along with a small staff which is led by manager, Robert Dighton. They run during term time as well as holidays and there are Saturday clubs, parents are welcomed at all times. Donations are always welcome and could come in the form of finance, dressing up clothes, or even old tyres and wood for the playground.

For more information please visit: www.elhap.org.uk

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WHAT’S O N

ESSEX GET OUT AND ABOUT IN

WHEN: First Tuesday of the month.

From 7.30pm WHAT: The Vojan Business Networking Group - No membership fee, just £10, includes dinner and social media support.

Contact: Sharon Butler-Felby 07850 864 799 WHERE: The Vojan, Ongar WHEN: Saturday 4th October, 11.30am-3pm WHAT: Harvest Activity Day - Farming during the First World War. Traditional crafts (including corn dolly making) and activities for children, £1 each. Buffet meal. For more details ring Rev’d Gill Hopkins on 01992 760492.

WHERE: Church of the Holy Innocents, High Beach WHEN: Sunday 5th October, 10.30am-4pm WHAT: Indoor Art and Craft Fair - An opportunity to buy good quality work from local artists and crafters. Seated area with light refreshments.

Free entry and parking. For more details, ring 020 8500 6051 or visit www.chigride.org.uk WHERE: Chigwell Riding Trust for Special Needs, Grange Farm, High Road, Chigwell WHEN: Sunday 12th October, 11am-4pm WHAT: Apple Day at Copped Hall - Access to both gardens and mansion (room stewards) as for open days. Apple Day is a national

annual celebration of our apple orchards and local distinctiveness, initiated by Common Ground in 1990. Join in the fun, play some traditional games, help with the juicing and have your own apples identified by an expert.

There will be a display and apples for sale.

Entry £7 per person.

WHERE: Copped Hall, Epping

WHEN: Sunday 12th October, 11am-1pm WHAT: Official opening of new Play Park, and Teddy Bears Picnic.

WHERE: North Weald Common (behind North Weald Village Hall), High Road, North Weald

WHEN: Thursday 23rd - Saturday 25th October, Performances start at 8pm WHAT: Dick Barton - The Tango of Terror - Musical Comedy by Phil Willmott based on the BBC’s 1940s radio serial. A mysterious Johnny Foreigner known only as the “Latin Love Lothario” has struck London, wooing women with his dance moves before stealing their jewels.

Fortunately Dick Barton, everyone’s favourite special agent, is on hand to save the day with his faithful sidekicks, Snowy and Jock. Tickets £8 from Mr and Mrs James - 01992 812250. Visit www.theydondrama.org WHERE: Theydon Bois Village Hall, Coppice Row, Theydon Bois, Essex WHEN: Thursday 23th October, 7-9pm

WHAT: Sanuk Cooking Club - A cooking club with a difference.

Get behind the scenes and go into a professional Thai restaurant kitchen and cook a pre-designed menu with the chefs. Contact Karen Bush on Karen@ cookinconfidence.com 01992 611373 or 07528 075320 to book and for more details.

WHERE: The Sanuk, 38 The Street, High Ongar, CM5 9ND WHEN: Wednesday 29th October, 10am-noon WHAT: Hedgehog Day - Explore the life of a hedgehog. Enjoy some hedgehog inspired games, learn how to make your garden more hedgehog friendly and what sort of food will encourage them to visit. Aimed at five to 11-year-olds. Cost £3 per child, parents must accompany their children. Booking essential on 01992 788203. For more information email contactcountrycare@ eppingforestdc.gov.uk WHERE: Roughtalleys Wood, North Weald WHEN: Friday 31st October WHAT: Halloween Haunted Mills Visit the scary haunted Mills at night and learn about the gory past of the Gunpowder Mills. There are sure to be ghouls and ghosts about. You will be guided through one of the ancient buildings and hear the chilling tales of explosions and those munitions workers who came to a sticky end.

This event is suitable for families and designed to be entertaining as well as scary. Spaces are limited, pre-booking is essential. www.royalgunpowder mills.com.

WHERE: Royal Gunpowder Mills, Waltham Abbey, EN9 1JY

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PROUD MEMB E OF TW R ETA

(Truste d Essex T West r Associa ading tion)

Friendly and reliable service, using our own fitters with over 40 years of experience. We aim to fully satisfy the customer’s needs, helping with furniture removals, uplift of old materials and the supplying and installation of all new flooring materials. As well as all this, we offer free estimates to all customers.

NO obligation.

FREE DELIVERY WITHIN 10 MILES. OVER 60% OF OUR TRADE IS THROUGH RECOMMENDATION

124/126 High Street, Ongar CM5 9JH 01277 366 966

213 Manford Way, Chigwell IG7 4DJ 0208 500 7789

www.jtfloorings.com

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Opening hours:

Ample free parking Stock to go

Mon- Fri 9am-4pm Sat- 9am-5pm Sun- 10am-4pm

RETIREMENT SALE ALL STOCK MUST GO! NO REASONABLE OFFER REFUSED..

Go to our website and check out our

Virtual Tour

Nestled between Epping and Harlow this 8000sq ft showroom has a massive selection of furniture, mirrors, pictures, lighting and accessories to choose from.

We also make and finish bespoke furniture to your requirements.

Esgors Farm, High Road, Thornwood Common, near Epping, Essex, CM16 6LY

info@somethingfurniture.co.uk

l

01992 573111

l

www.somethingfurniture.co.uk ESSEX CENTRAL 

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?

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CORNER ?

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PUZZLE ?

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SPOT THE DIFFERENCE

Can you spot 6 differences between these two pictures?

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CRISS-CROSS

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Fit these spooky words into the grid.

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6 LETTERS Fright Sweets Zombie 7 LETTERS Pumpkin Vampire October

8 LETTERS Werewolf 9 LETTERS Halloween Nightmare H

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5 LETTERS Witch Scary Trick Treat Mummy

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WORD SEARCH

Find these autumnal words:

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Fireworks Bonfire Wellingtons Autumn Dew

Cobweb Orange

For puzzle solutions please visit www.essexcentralmagazine.co.uk

?

?

Changing Chilly Leaves

PUZZLES COMPETITION

&

WIN! Win an overnight stay at Down Hall Country House Hotel!

D

Saturday). *The prize includes an overnight stay in an Executive Room (subject to availability) with full English breakfast. Stay to be booked and taken by 31st January 2015. This prize is non-transferable and no cash alternative will be offered. *By entering this competition you agree to provide a picture for publication if you are picked as a winner.

Website: www.downhall.co.uk

DOWN HALL COMPETITION

NAME:

ADDRESS:

!

own Hall is one of England’s most established country house hotels located on the Hertfordshire and Essex borders. To celebrate the completion of its new luxury treatment rooms, Down Hall is offering Essex Central readers the chance to win an overnight stay for two with a classic English breakfast. On top of this the winner and guest will be pampered with a treatment of their choice from relaxing massages to fabulous manicures and pedicures*. The prize is worth over £350! A complimentary access code will be given to the winner for use of the gym and sauna and steam room facilities.

The brand new treatment rooms are made up of three single rooms and one double room for couples. Brands ESPA, Jessica and Mii cosmetics are used for treatments. Further planned development of the leisure facilities at Down Hall includes the installation of a water feature, tanning facilities and indoor and outdoor relaxation areas to open in 2015.

To enter simply fill in the entry form and send to: Essex Central Magazine, Brickfield Business Centre, High Road, Thornwood, Epping, Essex CM16 6TH or email your details to: competitions@essexcentral magazine.co.uk.

Closing date: One winner will be drawn at random on Monday 20th October 2014.

Terms and Conditions: *Treatment option up to £50 per person (subject to availability, excluding

TEL: EMAIL: ESSEX CENTRAL

55

Call us on local charge 0845 270 1855 • Simply email us at enquiries@mapfinances.co.uk Visit us at www.mapfinances.co.uk Money Advice & Planning Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

Head Office: 385 Hillington Road, Glasgow, G52 4BL

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millbrook may advert 2014 half pages.indd 2

13/05/2014 01:43

A CHANGE OF ACCOUNTANT CAN BE MORE BENEFICIAL THAN YOU CAN POSSIBLY IMAGINE It’s vital to have an accountant on your team, but better to have the right accountant At Alan Patient & Co, we pride ourselves on being friendly and helpful, but also extremely professional. Our first consultation is free, giving us an opportunity to explain exactly what we can do for you.

We offer a full range of services, but you can in effect “pick and mix” the services which suit you best.

Whether you find accounting daunting, expensive in terms of your time, or just plain boring, we can find a solution tailored to your business needs.

Our clients vary from: artists to antique dealers, bookmakers to builders, hypnotherapists to haulage contractors, plumbers to publishers and trainers to types of dancers. They all have their own unique requirements and we aim to make their lives a little easier.

As well as business clients, we do, of course, look after a number of individuals, with services ranging from completing tax returns to more complex matters such as Capitals Gains Tax and Inheritance Tax Planning.

Tax tips on the go: Download our tax app FREE FROM THE APP STORE AND GOOGLE PLAY As a firm we are well established and have been based in George Lane for the last 21 years.

We are directly opposite M&S with parking at the rear always an advantage in busy George Lane.

CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS & REGISTERED AUDITORS 9 The Shrubberies, George Lane, South Woodford, London, E18 1BD Tel: 020 8532 9843 www.alanpatient.com Follow us on Twitter: @alanpatientco

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f

PARENTING

MUM’ S CORNER V

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i

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e i Sometimes, we just have to

By Sarah Mackie

LET IT GO!

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hat do those 3 little words f mean to you? i If you have a child, most i likely a daughter, most likely between the T ages of 2 and 7, those 3 little words could be the bain of your life. They are mine. Yes, I am talking about our favourite musical, the Oscar-winning Frozen that has been acclaimed the best Disney movie since the renaissance era, and my 3 year old daughter gives her full support to the critics. But even if you’re one of the lucky ones and have escaped the craze, as a parent, I am learning over and over again, that sometimes, in the words of Queen Elsa, we really do just have to LET IT GO. The parental surrendering de jour in my house is, ironically, the whole ‘Disney Princess thing.’ My pre-parent (and really, pre-Frozen) mildly feministic self, believed that unless you encouraged gowns and wands and tiaras, they simply wouldn’t get into ‘the princess thing’ and I believed I’d do what I could to avoid it. Why? Well to dear old Walt, beauty means thin and fair, and ‘happily ever after’ means finding Disney images C Disney

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your prince, often being rescued by him, and living out your days swanning around in your castle. I’m sure, smart and wise readers, you agree that this is NOT what we want our daughters aspiring to or believing in. I certainly don’t. But would you believe me if I told you my daughter has not worn actual clothes for about 3 months? She has lived, daily, in her Elsa dress, Elsa shoes and straggly old homemade hair plait, occasionally swapped over with her Cinderella or Tinkerbell outfit, if I can peel it off of her. Well, it’s true and she loves it. She knows all the

Anna gives Hans a right hook!

THINGS TO DO

DANCE CLASSES:

Activities and events in the local area to keep little ones entertained. of all ages. Active Antz SPORTING and Mini FUNdamentals ACTIVITIES: Epping Sports Centre have a wide variety of activities for children

sessions are popular for under 5’s, whilst Sporting FUNdamentals, Gymnastics and Football can be enjoyed by children 3-11 years. www.everyoneactive.com, Tel: 01992 564564

AQUAKIDDIES & BABIES ESSEX:

Original specialist baby and toddler swimming

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company who have been successfully teaching young children and babies to swim for over 20 years.

Classes are available in Waltham Abbey, Loughton and Upminster and are friendly and lots of fun!

Contact: 07970 043195 or email info@aquababies essex.co.uk for further information.

Children’s Ballet, Modern, Tap, Baby Bear Parent & Toddler classes held every Thursday.

Contact 07976 298437 for times and availability.

Wanstead House, 21 The Green, Wanstead, E11 2NT

CERAMIC MAGIC:

Go along to a painting session and you can paint your choice of pottery and take it home with you the

d

Z

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i

Eppnet Business Networking Group Elsa from Frozen

eppnet eppnet

words verbatim, complete with a perfected American accent and is wholly transported into a world of balls, castles, sorcery and singing snowmen the second she pulls the blasted thing over her head. How has business this happened? I often stare at her in amazement! networking It’s certainly not learned behaviour, she hasn’t seen it! I do not swan around in ball gowns waiting to be is a local group of like-minded people who meet on a weekly basis rescued by my Prince! Na-uh, mummy is the captain of this ship. So, how then? Well, it’s everywhere.

It’s in the supermarket, the classroom, wrapped up in Auntie Doris’ Christmas present, it’s pretty unavoidable. So, when it came to Frozen, I decided to throw in the towel. And as it goes, it’s relatively womanist compared to some of the classics.

Despite Elsa’s ample cleavage and undeniably sexy Eppnet ad 74x110mm.indd 1 icy-get-up, the girls come good in the end. The ‘act of true love’ comes from the sisters, and the scene is finished off nicely when Anna gives Hans a commendable right hook and boofs him overboard.

So, I guess we just have to hope that, despite the power of Disney’s marketing, it’s the power of our love, encouragement and esteem building at home that will preside, and the rest of it? You got it - just let it go.

same day.

There is also a small children’s indoor play area and outside it’s in the beautiful setting of Hainault Forest Country Park, where visitors can enjoy the park, zoo, boating lake and other attractions.

Tel: 07852 152300 Hainault Room at Hainault Forest Country Park, Romford Road, Chigwell IG7 4QN

02/04/2014 15:06:20

STORIES, RHYMES & SONGS Enjoy stories and songs together and meet other parents and children.

Free event suitable from newborn to 5 years old.

Wednesdays, 10.30am-11am Gants Hill Library

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DAD’S DIARY

In Partnership with

ENTERING FATHERHOOD

WITHOUT A MAP T

his month we have introduced the little man to spiders, danced under lasers at a disco, ridden some kittens, eaten paint and found a Gruffalo! But firstly, I must report that he is becoming firmer in his own mind and not as easily swayed as before (unless coaxed with food).

This was never more evident than when we recently took him for a walk near the River Roding, he wanted to explore areas that were not best explored, so we pretended to wave goodbye and walk on, in the expectation he would follow us.

Instead, he gave a cheery smile, casually waved back, and then ran in the opposite direction, at which point I had to give chase! This also happened when we went on the Gruffalo Trail at a nearby country park, the lady and I eagerly got our map and set foot into the forest, looking for the big wooden Gruffalo statue, whilst the little fella found stones… hundreds of different stones, each one given to me with a face of joy. After 20 minutes my pockets were dragging beside my ankles. In the forest we also encountered a few spiders, but it’s nothing to the amount we have encountered at our home, as I’m sure most people have found out themselves over the last few weeks, I’ve actually lost count of the times I’ve had to fling my arms across my face as I walk, doing mid-air karate chops in the hope of not face planting into another web. Spiders don’t bother me though, and I’d like to pass that onto our son, so I made sure to show him the spider up close and calmly tell him how nice they were. I didn’t expect him to then try and kiss one! Half way through my little monologue he lurched forward with lips puckered

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and the spider ran like a gazelle across the web and under a leaf, no doubt explaining to any friends of his “Don’t go out there lads, some crazy kid is trying to kiss spiders!”.

Indeed, “kissing” is another new skill that he has picked up, but he’s not very picky, no sooner has he kissed his mother, that both his shoes and the bath plug receive a smooch, which can be a little crushing for his mum to see him handing the kisses out so freely.

Its often a mixture of a kiss and a head-butt as well, as he launches forward with great gusto, only to look surprised when he pulls away and sees the blood slowly trickling from the nose of the lucky recipient.

“Once he had the food he was ready to boogie.”

To calm down all the kissing we decided to distract him with some paints and felt a few hand prints would be superb. He, on the other hand, felt that the paints would taste superb and promptly licked his fingers, smothering his face in blue paint. The kittens took one look at him and ran, I think they are still upset from when he tried to ride them recently. He had been at his grandparents and ridden their dog around the front room, so after coming back to ours he felt the back bone of the kittens would easily be as strong as the mature dog, and tried to leap on board. A screeching “Meee-ooow!!” quickly informed him that the kittens didn’t appreciate his John Wayne impression and they would not be playing the ‘saddle up & ride’ game.

The month ended with a surprise birthday party for his Nan, we got to the venue early and the little lad was already a bit tired and hungry.

We sat near the buffet but it was all covered in cling film waiting for the Nan to arrive and the big surprise, but we couldn’t explain that to our boy, all he saw was tables full of food, which remained out of bounds to him. As the minutes ticked by we could hear his stomach rumbling over the music and suddenly the doors burst open to reveal the birthday girl, everyone did the big “Surprise!” but the little lads eyes remained fixed on the prize, the time had come to unleash the food and you could see the saliva cascading from his hungry chops as the cling film began to be pulled back. His cries of joy filled the air as he ran like a cheetah across the dance floor and up to the buffet, pointing at the food, grabbing it with both hands and flinging it into his face.

He was like a human hoover. I felt we could start to use him around the house, holding him by the legs and running him across the carpet.

So, once he had the food, he was ready to boogie, and strutted out to the centre of the dance floor.

The lasers lit the space around him and he began shape shifting under the lights as though he was doing robotics, it was incredible.

After that he did another run, and skidded on his knees to land at my feet with another huge smile, the boy was clearly enjoying himself.

Another trip to the buffet bar and he was fuelled again, more dancing and skidding ensued and I think it’s only a matter of time before he’ll be doing the caterpillar. ...TO BE CONTINUED

Epping

Enrolling children now!

3 months to 5 years old

10% OFF THE FIRST MONTH OF SEPTEMBER if you book 2 or more full days. Closing date end of August!

Ofsted registered • Open 7am - 7pm • Mini Bus • Holidays Club 5-11 years Before and After School Clubs • Flexible Hours • EYFS Curriculum “Our son loves being with the Blossoms team, it’s such a friendly environment and he’s learning new things every dayâ€?

Blossoms Nursery, Horseshoe Farm West, London Road, Thornwood Common, Harlow, Essex, CM17 9LH

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ESSEX CENTRAL  Follow us on Facebook and Twitter - www.facebook.com/blossoms.nursery @BlossomsNurser2

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Hiring New Distributors

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Kapello Pre-taped hair extensions in your lunch break!

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Tikadi’s luxury salons have an inspired and dedicated team of hair designers and hair extension technicians, brought to you in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

www.tikadi.co.uk ESSEX CENTRAL

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ENERGIZE

CLUB FOCUS

KICKBOXING

By Devon-Elizabeth Tabersham

T

wo years ago, sisters Kerry and Zoe Hughes branched out after years of training and founded their own venture, Energize Kickboxing. With over twenty years of training between them under the keen eye of Matthew Chapman at the Masters Academy, the Hughes sisters decided that it was time to forge their own paths in the world of kickboxing and hold training and gradings in North Weald Village Hall.

Classes start from four years old and adults of forty plus take the time to train with Kerry and Zoe. Children’s classes take place separately from adults, on Wednesday evenings there are classes for beginners as well as advanced training. Energize Kickboxing follows a grading syllabus, and then gradings take place every three to four months, which brings structure and variety to the club.

A typical Energize Class would include a warm up, fitness, training, grading techniques and pointers in order to make sure that each student shines at their grading, if there is not an impending grading then lessons will involve different types of martial arts which can be incorporated.

Classes run all year round while taking a break around Christmas.

Kerry and Zoe both love teaching kickboxing and the rewards that come with it, people are able to get fit, lose weight and find a new confidence

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ESSEX CENTRAL

in themselves through training and it is moving to see such drastic changes within these people. While a fantastic form of self defence, kickboxing also teaches discipline and respect.

In the past two years, steady growth has occurred at Energize, children’s classes are very busy and average classes for children and adults consist of 18-30 students. While it becomes a routine for children to attend weekly classes, adults find it harder to attend consistently due to work and family commitments however the motivated attitude of Kerry and Zoe has certainly rubbed off on a lot of adult students and they can arrange one on one training sessions and different times in order to maintain their training. There is a high percentage of female students which Kerry and Zoe believe that as two females lead the sessions, it has a more approachable aspect for ladies.

Energize Kickboxing offers two weeks free training sessions to serve as taster sessions, if people like it then there is a one off joining fee of £40 which includes a t-shirt and handgrip and it also covers insurance for kickboxing students. From then on it is a pay as you go £5 per lesson and block sessions of five classes can be bought with the sixth lesson free.

For more information regarding Energize Kickboxing visit www.energize-kickboxing.co.uk, or Kerry can be reached at 07713 481 923 and Zoe at 07415 352 055.

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