The City Times - Dec/Jan 2023/4

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Issue Number 120 - December 14th 2023 - January 17th 2024

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City Times Intro Hello readers, Welcome to The City Times December/January edition.

If you have picked this magazine up before the festivities begin, then do have fun. If you pick this up afterwards - then we hope you had fun!

We must say a big thank you to all of our advertisers and writers and of course our readers - for the last year!

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Nick’s Music and Ramblings Here we are then - the end of yet another year. I just hope that 2024 is a better year, in many ways, for us all.

I must once again mention the weather as it has gone from extreme rain to winds and now bitter cold. I wonder what kind of winter we are in for..?

This past month I have done some things that are not related with music. I know; it’s hard to believe!

I went to the New Forest with a friend and we stayed in her caravan. It was great to get away, and the next day we went to Lymington before coming home. We just wandered around the town and harbour and had some lunch.

The next two things I did were by invitation and I am glad that I accepted them both. The first was Enlightened, the light-trail in Hylands Park. I have been going to this for a few years now and each year it really does get better. It was fun to have a little one with us and she loved it - and the pancakes at the end!

Next, I went to the pantomime at the Civic - Jack and the Beanstalk.

No big names performing, but that did not matter in the slightest as the cast were just great! They had us all laughing and doing the usual ‘He is behind you!’ and all the boos and other stuff. We came away with big smiles on our faces having had lots of fun and got to meet up with some great people while there.

Music This year has been great. We’ve had some amazing shows that I have been lucky to attend and put on. I cannot name just one as there are just too many. Since the last edition of this magazine, besides those I have put on, I have also been to see The Hollies, Jools Holland, and Papa George. All of whom were great. At Hot Box we had The Jackson Line who are always fantastic.

As this edition goes out, my year is finished and it is time to rest.

Just before that, I am helping with the jazz event at the Social Club on Friday 22nd and Saturday 23rd December providing the PA and the lighting for them. There are still some tickets available I believe.

It’s a great line-up too with some musicians at the top of their game like Larry Berkovitz and Zak Barrett. There will be three shows in all on the Friday from 8pm. On the Saturday, the shows are 3pm and 8pm. Doors open 30 minutes before showtime. Tickets are just £20 inclusive of booking fees and available from www.wegottickets.com/ xmasjazz.

As for 2024, please see the poster for who Black Frog Presents have confirmed so far for next year. All tickets are available online or you can reserve yours with a text or call to 07508 496 411.

A couple of events worth pointing out: The Trembling Wilburys are playing on Friday 14th June and I have just added Transmission, who play the music of Joy Division, on Friday 1st March. also and ZZ TOPPD have now moved to Friday 1st November 2024.

I have also just rebooked Take It Easy, who play classic American rock. They have now also added a female to the band, so they now include songs from the likes of Tina Turner, Joan Jett, Patti Smith and more. Jah Wobble tickets are now also on sale.

We also have Jim Cregan & Co playing, and anyone who has a ticket from the postponed show, that is also valid for this new show. So if you like Rod Stewart, Cockney Rebel, Family and more, do come and see the man who played all those fantastic guitars along with his starstudded band.

We are just waiting on a few more confirmations, but we think that is it - all booked up for the Social Club. Currently at Hot Box, we have three shows booked with more to come. Again, see the advert. We kick off 2024 with Malcolm Bruce on Saturday 20th January - he is the son of Jack Bruce of Cream. Malcolm is a great a musician and songwriter, just like his father. Joining Malcolm will be his daughter Maya Sage, who is also a great artist carrying on the family tradition and their legacy in music.

Now we are heading into the festive season. The music is playing on the radio - you know the songs that get played at this time of year; old ones and a few new ones - some are good some not so good, but that is just my opinion of course!

It all begins to go manic when the shops are closed for just one day - people go crazy, but why? For me, it’s very quiet and can get a bit lonely at times, although the day itself is good as l get to see my family; my children, their mother and our grandkids which is just fab.

For the rest of it though, I am on my own as are many others. If you know of someone who will be alone, maybe go and give them a knock or call them and maybe even invite them round yours for a while.

Some people do not even have the money to heat their home or to feed themselves properly. It is a time of celebration for many, but I think for others and those who are on our streets, it is a lonely and sad time for many.

Let’s hope it is dry - the cold days are not so much of a problem, it is the wet that is an issue I think. When it’s bright and dry, going for a walk can be good. Stay well, and as I said at the beginning, let’s hope for a better year in 2024.

So that is me done, but there is lots more going on all over Essex not just now, but all year, so do check out our What’s On guide or go online. It’s not just music around out there, there’s the theatres and village halls and the pubs and other venues.

If you have anything you think that could be of interest to our readers for either publication, then please let us know by emailing editorial@itsyourmedia.co.uk - it may be an event or a topic of interest. Or have you done anything unusual or are you planning something? If so, we want to know about it. If know of someone who may wish to advertise with us, then please ask them to contact ads@ itsyourmedia.co.uk and we can send over full details.

You can get tickets for all our shows at The Social Club in Chelmsford from Intense Records, Hopsters and Chelmsford 4Good - please pay cash in person when you buy. Tickets for all shows are also available online from www.wegottickets.com/BlackFrogPresents, or via our ticket hotline at no extra charge - call or text 07508 496 411 and you can then pay the advance price on entry to the show rather than the walk-up price.

For all Black Frog Presents gig updates and information go www. linktr.ee/BlackFrogPresents, or scan the QR code in the poster in this magazine.

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City Times Food!

Happy Christmas and a Happy New Year - By Lauren Capp I hope this year you have enjoyed my seasonal recipes. I’ve tried to incorporate my knowledge of being a chef and being a working mum to bring you nice food and tips.

into the oven at 180oC with a bit of olive oil for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, remove and cover them in honey and blast back through the oven for 5 minutes. These can even sit in the bottom of the oven to keep warm whilst cooking your other elements.

So of course, this month I wanted to touch on Christmas dinner. I’m going to share a few of my tips that help me and my family to create a lovely meal and still have time to spend as a family - and not be cooking all day!

If you can, buy your Brussels’ prepared. Boil these up for 5 minutes then run under cold water. Cut up your bacon and fry this off, add your chestnuts with a bit of olive oil, add back in your Brussels with a knob of butter and heat through and serve.

My first tip would be to prepare your potatoes and vegetables the day before - get all these chopped and cut ready to go. I like to shop local, especially at Christmas. I use Meat Line for our meat and Jamie Oliver’s fruit and veg for everything else.

Let’s talk roasties! I tend to always use Maris Pipers just because I find they always make the best crispy outside and fluffy inside.

I peel and chop these and put them water the day before. When ready to cook, set your oven to 180oC and part-boil them in salty water for 10 minutes. Whilst they are boiling, put your goose fat into the oven in a roasting dish, drain them after 10 minutes and cover them with flour. Carefully get the roasting dish out off the oven with the goose fat in and place each potato in the dish turning them to cover them in the fat. Cook for 50 minutes. These come out perfect every time.

Spiced Red Cabbage To me, this is a must with my Christmas dinner. Chop up your cabbage and heat some butter in a large saucepan, then tip in the onions and gently fry until softened for about 5 minutes. Add some orange zest to the pan along with a cinnamon stick, then cook for 1 minute more. Add the shredded cabbage, then pour over the port, red wine vinegar, orange juice and 150ml water. Bring up to the boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pan and cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour until the cabbage is softened.

Turkey!

It’s always best to follow instructions on cooking times from the butcher, or on the label if you’re buying from a supermarket. I’m not going to tell you how to cook your turkey as everyone has their own ways, but here are a few tips that I follow:

Vegetables For Christmas Day I like to have honey-roasted carrots, and Brussels with bacon and chestnuts and spiced red cabbage.

• • • • •

Choose the right size turkey.

Adjust the cooking time based on the size of your turkey.

Bring the turkey to room temperature before cooking.

Use a roasting rack so the juices drip down.

Start with a super hot oven, then reduce the temperature.

Peel and chop your carrots the day before. When ready to serve, part-boil them in salted water for 15 minutes, then put them straight

I hope you all have the most fantastic Christmas and a happy New Year!

Eat Better to Feel Better - By Demelza Rayner Unless you’re jetting off somewhere sunny during the winter months, chances are you’re already deficient in one particular vitamin that plays a key role in our overall health and wellbeing - vitamin D. In fact, according to research around 42% of the adult population has a vitamin D deficiency, which is a pretty shocking statistic.

sun exposure. It’s also incredibly difficult to get sufficient vitamin D from the foods we eat. Good sources of which are oily fish such as salmon, mackerel and sardines, or egg yolks and red meat. While I’m not a fan of stocking up the store cupboards with all manner of supplements, vitamin D is certainly one I would recommend over the winter months for three key reasons: 1.

2.

3.

It may surprise you to learn that vitamin D isn’t actually a vitamin in the technical sense of the term (a micronutrient that is not produced in our bodies and must be derived from the food we eat); it’s actually a hormone. This is because when ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun strike the skin, this triggers the manufacture of vitamin D in the body.

Between the months of October and March in the UK, it’s virtually impossible to get the amount of vitamin D that we need from safe Page 6

It’s great for your bones - you need it for bone growth and to prevent bones from becoming brittle. It also helps to prevent osteoporosis. In brief, the calcium that benefits your bones wouldn’t be able to do its job without vitamin D. It helps to support the immune system by fighting off harmful bacteria and viruses. While it might not necessarily stop you catching the coughs and colds that are doing the rounds at the moment, it should help to reduce the severity of the infection and the duration.

It lifts your mood. While there’s still more research to be done, it’s been shown that there is a significant relationship between depression and vitamin D deficiency.

This really is just the tip of the iceberg and vitamin D has been shown to have a positive effect on every aspect of physical and mental health, with suggestions that it may help to prevent diabetes, support oral health, promote weight loss and fight inflammation. So really, there’s never been a better excuse to book yourself a holiday in search of some winter sun - your health and happiness depends on it!

If you’d like to make a positive change to any aspect of your physical or mental health in 2024 through food and lifestyle medicine, send an email to hello@demelzaraynernutrition.co.uk, or visit my website at www.demelzaraynernutrition.co.uk.

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City Times Gardening As December sets in across the UK, the garden takes on a unique and tranquil beauty. The landscape undergoes a graceful transition, with trees adorned in their bare but captivating silhouettes and frost delicately glistening on dormant foliage.

This month offers a peaceful interlude for gardeners; a time to reflect on the year’s accomplishments while planning for the seasons ahead. It’s an ideal opportunity to focus on structural elements, ensuring the garden’s framework remains strong and resilient amidst winter’s chill. While the earth may rest, there’s plenty to be done in the garden this December, from pruning deciduous trees to tidying borders and nurturing winter-flowering plants that add subtle but precious splashes of colour. Embracing the quieter moments in the garden during this festive season can bring immense joy and a deeper connection to the natural world.

By tidying the garden in December, you’re not only maintaining its appearance but also setting the stage for a healthier, more productive garden when spring arrives. Additionally, this proactive approach can help prevent pest and disease issues, ensuring a fresh start for your garden in the coming seasons.

Another task to consider is winter pruning your apple and pear trees to maintain their health, shape, and productivity. Here’s a step-bystep guide on how to properly prune these fruit trees during the dormant season, which typically occurs between late autumn and early spring: 1.

Winter tidying in the garden during December in the UK involves several essential tasks to keep the outdoor space neat and prepare it for the colder months ahead. Here’s a guide on how to effectively tidy your garden: 2.

3.

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2.

3.

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Clear fallen leaves: Regularly remove fallen leaves from lawns, pathways and borders. Leaves left on the ground can smother the grass, harbour pests, and encourage diseases. Use a rake or leaf blower to gather them and either compost them or add them to leaf mould piles for nutrient-rich mulch in the future.

Cut back perennials: Trim back herbaceous perennials that have died back or become dormant. Cut them close to the ground, removing old and decaying foliage. This tidying helps prevent disease and prepares the plants for fresh growth in the spring.

Remove annuals: Clear out any spent annual flowers or vegetables from beds and borders. Pull them up, compost the debris, and prepare the soil for the next planting season.

Tidy borders and beds: Remove weeds and any remaining debris from borders and flower beds. Clearing out dead plant material helps prevent pests and diseases from overwintering and keeps the garden looking tidy.

Clean and store garden tools: Take the time to clean and oil your gardening tools before storing them for the winter. Remove any dirt or debris, sharpen blades and apply a light coat of oil to prevent rusting. Properly maintained tools will be ready for use when the gardening season resumes.

Protect garden furniture and structures: Clean and store or cover garden furniture to protect it from winter weather. Check and repair any damaged or unstable structures like trellises, fences, or pergolas before harsher weather arrives.

Mulch and protect beds: Consider adding a layer of mulch to protect plant roots from freezing temperatures. Mulching also helps retain moisture and suppresses weed growth. Use organic materials like compost, straw, or bark chips.

6.

7.

Gather the right tools: Before starting, ensure you have sharp, clean pruning tools like bypass secateurs for smaller branches and a pruning saw or loppers for larger ones.

Disinfect your tools to prevent the spread of diseases between cuts.

Identify dead or diseased wood: Begin by inspecting the tree for dead, damaged, or diseased wood. Dead branches should be completely removed to prevent the spread of disease and to encourage healthy growth.

Remove crossed or rubbing branches: Next, identify any branches that cross or rub against each other. These can create wounds that make the tree susceptible to infections. Remove one of the crossing branches, choosing the healthier and betterplaced one to keep.

Prune to open the centre: Aim to create an open-centred structure for the tree. Remove branches that grow towards the centre of the tree, as this inhibits airflow and sunlight penetration, which can lead to disease and poor fruit production.

Shorten long shoots: Trim back long, overly vigorous shoots (known as water shoots) to encourage more fruit-bearing spurs and maintain a balanced tree shape. Cut these shoots back to a bud or lateral branch.

Prune to shape: Maintain the desired shape of the tree while pruning. Keep in mind the tree’s overall health, ensuring it has a balanced shape and that light can penetrate through the canopy.

Step back and review: Periodically step back and review your pruning work to ensure the tree’s structure looks balanced and open. Aim for an evenly spaced, well-structured canopy that allows sunlight to reach all parts of the tree.

Remember, the goal of pruning apple and pear trees is to encourage healthy growth, improve fruit production and maintain the tree’s structural integrity.

For other tasks to keep you active for December, check out this RHS link: www.rhs.org.uk/advice/in-month/december.

Happy festive moments.

Regards Tom Cole

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Regal Kitchens: Where Client Is King

Food Fit for Royalty at Regal Kitchens’ Brand-New Showroom!

After 15 years trading in the heart of the Chelmsford community, we have recently opened our brand-new showroom in Beehive Lane, Great Baddow.

On Saturday 25th November, we held a very special cookery demonstration open day and invited customers, both existing and new as well as local residents, to join us for culinary delights prepared by not one but two MasterChef UK contestants.

Anurag Aggarwal, who was a finalist in this year’s competition, wowed the MasterChef judges with his culinary creativity and authentic flavours, whilst still staying true to his Indian roots. He was joined by Yui Miles, who has worked with Regal on several events in the past. Yui was a quarter finalist on MasterChef in 2019 and her first cookbook Thai Made Easy was released in September this year. The chefs both prepared fusion dishes together during the event for all attendees to sample whilst they met the Regal staff and enjoyed complimentary drinks.

The event was officially opened by Chelmsford Mayor, Cllr Linda Mascot, who stayed to enjoy the food and drinks on offer with her Consort, happily meeting members of the public and hearing how Regal live up to their company motto: ‘Where Client is King’.

www.regalkitchens.co.uk | 279a Beehive Lane, Chelmsford, CM2 8LU | Where Client Is King Page 10

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Christmas in Backnang - By Sabrina Moser Backnang also draws on an array of local performers for entertainment. Brass bands, accordions and choirs fill the cold continental air with nostalgic melodies while puppeteers enchant audiences and artisans sell tightly wound wreaths to eager shoppers.

The mayor also settles down comfortably among small children to read a Christmas story, angels float by on shimmering wings, and with any luck, St Nicholas himself will appear...

But of all these magical delights, the most gladdening is surely the sight of friends, neighbours and colleagues, bundled up against the cold and gathered together in celebration of Christmas and community, in famous German fashion. backnangforyou@gmail.com

Doubtless you have already heard a thing or two about Christmas time in Germany. Famous the world over, where Christmas markets, such as those in Nuremberg or Stuttgart, attract millions of visitors yearly.

But did you know that during one magical weekend in December your twin city of Backnang hosts its own Christmas market? For forty years, Backnang has taken part in a tradition that originated in the 14th century. Like summer produce markets, Christmas markets evolved as a means for town dwellers to access food stuffs which were not readily produced within city walls. At the end of the advent fast, butchers and bakers sold wares in the market square in preparation for the feast days to come. Through the centuries, the markets expanded to become the rhapsodic array of lights, music, decorations and scents that they are today.

To view both the City Times and Moulsham Times magazines online, visit www.thecitytimes.co.uk and www.moulshamtimes.com

The Backnang Christmas Market represents a vital source of revenue for scores of volunteer-based clubs who set up shop downtown in festive wooden booths. The Chelmsford Twinning Society proffers wares from the UK while other organisations offer quintessential German delicacies such as gingerbread, anis-spiced cookies, sizzling sausages and steaming mugs of mulled wine.

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Does Fertility Feature in Your Hopes for 2024?

When the last bauble is back in the box and the crumbs from the mince pies swept away, who can’t help following the annual trend for a new year, new you? Whether you choose to set resolutions in the style of tradition or whether you choose a more relaxed approach for your intentions, a focus on improving your health and well-being is going to be beneficial. And, if your plans for 2024 include trying for a baby, your own health has never been more important.

While the best support for health and well-being is that which occurs all year, the sense of a new beginning might be the prompt for some beneficial changes. What better beginning is there to planning a pregnancy journey than setting up some lifestyle changes to improve your well-being?

Every positive change you introduce makes a difference to your health and well-being. Changes do not have to be radical - small changes count. Your lifestyle choices give you the chance to be proactive in supporting your health, well-being and fertility.

Why not start with a simple checklist of your habits and routines to identify changes you can easily make to improve your well-being?

Food and lifestyle choices help you to optimise your health and increase your chances of a healthy conception and pregnancy.

Sleep is essential for good health. The most supportive sleep routine is about 8-hours of uninterrupted sleep every night. How does your sleep measure up? Exercise is known to support good health. Exercise choices are highly individual, including brisk walking, gardening, swimming, yoga, running, gym and team sports.

Does exercise feature a few times in your weekly routine? Food provides the essential nutrients for health (and in particular nutrients for pregnancy, including antioxidants, folate and Omega-3). A beneficial routine is three meals a day without any snacks. Include your 5 a day (vegetables and fruit) and avoid too many processed foods or foods high in sugar and fat.

Are your food routines helping or harming your health? By identifying some simple changes you can make improvements to support your health and your fertility.

If you want to take your understanding of your health and well-being to another level, investigating your genes gives you an insight into your unique body, created by your DNA. You cannot change your DNA, but you can make the choices that are helpful for your specific genes to influence the activity of your genes and to optimise your health.

A DNALife Growbaby profile includes relevant gene variants associated with pregnancy, reporting on eleven key biological processes. The sample from a simple blood test is analysed in a laboratory to provide an insight into genes which are known to be associated with pregnancy risks for mother and baby and which are known to respond to specific diet and lifestyle choices. The DNA test results inform personalised food and lifestyle recommendations to support pregnancy outcomes for mother and baby delivered in a programme created by a therapist.

Interventions are recommended to reduce the risk for the mother of conditions such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, pregnancy-induced hypertension or miscarriage. Interventions are recommended to support the baby with a healthy size at birth and to reduce the risk of birth conditions such as spina bifida.

If a pregnancy is on your plan for 2024, what better start than supporting your own health, well-being and fertility? Both men and women can improve their fertility health through their food and lifestyle choices and even simple changes are helpful.

If you would like to find out more about enhanced support with a programme created for you with the insight of DNA testing, highly personalised recommendations and ongoing support for your plan, do get in touch with Jane or Regan to book a fertility review. See the advert on the opposite page for details.

Chelmsford Library As we head into winter and towards Christmas and New Year, come and see us in the library! Alongside all our services, the library is a warm, welcoming space which is free for all to use.

Winter Reading Challenge Calling all 0-11 year olds: Essex Libraries are running their Winter Reading Challenge again this year! A free, exciting activity for children.

Pop in to the library to sign up and pick up your challenge folder.

Then complete 6 out of the 12 challenges to earn stickers.

Completers will receive a certificate and, while stocks last, a book and a packet of seeds. It runs until 3rd February 2024 - we’re looking forward to seeing you!

Community Tea Time As well as the library being a warm and safe space to spend time, if you enjoy a cuppa and a friendly chat, then come along to our free Community Tea Time.

These are held every Wednesday from 10.30am - 11.30am.

Everyone is encouraged to just drop in to receive a warm welcome and a hot drink and biscuits.

For more information and details of all our events and services, including dates and times and how to book your place, just visit our website at, libraries.essex.gov.uk. You can also follow us on Facebook or Twitter or by subscribing to our newsletter - all details on our website.

Children’s Activities We hold many regular children’s activities including Rhymetimes, Blockbuilders and Storytimes. Check on our website or in the library for details of times and booking requirements.

Work Club This takes place every Thursday morning by appointment. Just give us a call or email chelmsford.library@essex.gov.uk to book your slot if you need any help or advice with job searching, job applications, CV writing, etc.

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Chelmsford Museum Exhibition to Explore Legacy of Legendary Local Nature Writer An exhibition on the life and works of celebrated local nature author and conservationist, JA Baker, will open at Chelmsford Museum in spring 2024.

Co-curated by Chelmsford Museum and the University of Essex, Restless Brilliance: The Story of JA Baker and The Peregrine, will be the first exhibition to explore the life and works of the influential yet relatively unknown nature writer. It will share his story through more than 60 objects, mostly loaned from the university’s extensive JA Baker archive. Held in the Special Collections section of the Albert Sloman Library, the archive includes Baker’s letters, early manuscripts, unpublished works, ornithological diaries, photographs and binoculars, among other items. Baker’s brother-in-law Bernard Coe and conservationist John Fanshawe donated the collection to the University of Essex in 2013.

Museum and the University of Essex hope to provide a deeper insight into the life and legacy of an important artist in Chelmsford’s history.

Sarah Demelo, Curator (ESCALA, Art & Special Collections), University of Essex says: “JA Baker is a critically important figure in twentieth-century nature writing and conservation, but for so long very little has been known about the man himself - and there’s so much more to the writer than just The Peregrine. He was indeed wholly consumed by his obsessions with the bird, but he was also deeply passionate about the Essex countryside in general and an angry advocate for the protection of all nature. At the same time, he was a reclusive and shy man who sought escape in the natural world from his debilitating physical and mental illness. Thanks to this collaboration with the University of Essex, we can finally share Baker’s story with the people of Chelmsford in a creative and meaningful way, in this first exhibition exploring his life. I hope it will give visitors a deeper understanding of this long mysterious figure, as well as a greater appreciation of Essex’s natural landscapes.”

Sarah Harvey, Curatorial and Learning Officer at Chelmsford Museum said: “JA Baker’s extensive archive reveals so much about the fascinating author and we’ve been honoured to provide a home for it at the University of Essex, where we preserve his legacy and invaluable contributions to nature writing.

The critically acclaimed author’s passion for Essex countryside, Restless Brilliance, will highlight Baker’s prominence in Chelmsford’s history. Born in Chelmsford in 1926, John Alec Baker lived in the district for most of his life. He was an enthusiastic bird watcher and environmental campaigner. The author is best known for his first and most successful work, The Peregrine, widely considered to be a literary masterpiece. Baker was passionate about the Essex countryside and over many years he recorded his observations of the landscape during frequent walks and cycles around the Blackwater Estuary, Danbury Hill and Chelmsford.

“Our MA Wild Writing students already gain so much from being able to access the archive, so I’m absolutely delighted that this collaboration with Chelmsford Museum will see it displayed outside of the university for the first time next year. This will open Baker up to an even wider audience. Almost all of Baker’s birdwatching and peregrine observations are focused on an area within walking and cycling distance from his home in Chelmsford. I think it is therefore fitting that the collection will be returning to the district, where the author lived and devoted much of his life to protecting its biodiversity.”

Published in 1967 The Peregrine summarises ten years of his obsessive observations of the bird, especially around Chelmer Valley and the Essex coast. The uniquely poetic book won the prestigious Duff Cooper Memorial Prize for the ‘evocative power and sheer beauty’ of Baker’s writing. The Peregrine quickly became a cult classic in British nature writing and over the years it has attracted a remarkable list of famous advocates and admirers. Nature writer Robert MacFarlane described it as, ‘a masterpiece of twentiethcentury non-fiction’, while filmmaker Werner Herzog includes it as one of three texts that his film students must read. Broadcaster and national treasure David Attenborough is also a fan, having narrated the audiobook in 2019.

The exhibition also aims to inspire a new generation of nature creatives and agents of change for Essex. Through highlighting Baker’s passion for nature and his poetic and impactful writing, Restless Brilliance hopes to inspire audiences to take a fresh look at Chelmsford’s unique wildlife, habitats and fragile ecosystems that, though immensely changed since Baker’s time, remain a key part of the district’s identity. It also hopes to spark a renewed interest in the connections between local nature and personal well-being, reflecting the escapism that Baker clearly found in Essex’s landscapes.

Restless Brilliance aims to increase awareness and understanding of an extraordinary but relatively unknown figure in Chelmsford’s history. While Baker’s works have been highly influential for generations of nature writers and conservationists, he remains relatively unknown among the wider public. Until recently, very little was known about the reclusive author’s personal life, as he sought to maintain a mysterious air to his identity.

Restless Brilliance will chart Baker’s life from his childhood through to his later years. It will look at his lifelong interest in the Essex countryside and his passionate campaigns against the destruction of wildlife. It will also assess his legacy today in the context of the challenges we continue to face in protecting our natural environment.

The reclusive man behind The Peregrine will also be explored, looking at Baker’s personal relationships, his behaviours and his battles with mental and physical illness. By exploring both Baker’s uniquely poetic writing and his personal life, curators at Chelmsford

Chelmsford City Council’s Deputy Leader, Councillor Marie Goldman, said: “The exhibition aims to inspire a new generation to protect Chelmsford’s biodiversity as part of the city’s shared heritage. In 2019 we declared a climate and ecological emergency and pledged to make changes for the protection of Chelmsford’s biodiversity. It is crucial that we continue to talk about and explore the pressures facing the places, habitats and species we love, and Restless Brilliance at Chelmsford Museum aims to do exactly that.

“I want this exhibition to inspire our audiences to embrace the same love that Baker had for Chelmsford’s natural landscapes and wildlife.

Ultimately, I hope that it will inspire a new generation of writers, poets and lyricists, who are committed to protecting our district’s wildlife and green spaces as part of our shared heritage.”

The exhibition, Restless Brilliance: The Story of JA Baker and The Peregrine, opens in March 2024.

Chelmsford Museum is open 10am - 4pm daily from November to March, and 10am - 5pm from April to October.

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What’s On All events are correct at time of going to press. Please check with the venue for updates

December

Friday 15th Chelmsford Theatres - Jack and the Beanstalk Chelmsford Theatres - The Night Before Christmas F Cooke (Moulsham Street) - Cooke’s Comedy Christmas Special Golden Fleece - Old Street Rockers Hot Box - Eddie Piller + David Arscott + Ian Wright Saturday 16th Chelmsford Theatres - Jack and the Beanstalk Chelmsford Theatres - The Night Before Christmas Hot Box - Chiddy Bang Golden Fleece - High Frequency RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Coffee morning (10am to 1pm) St Michael’s Church (Galleywood) - Chelmsford Singers’ Christmas concert (chelmsfordsingers.co.uk) Trinity Methodist Church (Chelmsford CM1 2XB) - Christmas Concert Chelmsford Male Voice Choir and Trinity Music and Drama (email: cmvchoir.co.uk for tickets at £10 or CMVC members and door) The UB - Paul & Piper’s Christmas Cracker Wickham Bishops Village Hall (CM8 3JZ) - Wickham Bishops Jazz Club (6.30 for 7.30pm) - Allen Beechey WB New Orleans Allstars (email: wickhambishopsjazzclub@gmail.com, 07548 775 777) Sunday 17th Chelmsford Cathedral - Carols by Candlelight Hylands House - Open Day Hot Box - Rockaoke Night Market Hill (Maldon) - Christmas Carols and Cheers O’Connors - Karaoke Villlage Hall (Burnham-on-Crouch) - Alternative Market Monday 20th Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Serenity of the Sea Paint Party Chelmer Village pilates classes - carolinesdanceandpilates.co.uk) Golden Fleece - Head Rush Hot Box - Chelmsford Chess Club night Sandon School (Sports Hall 2) - Scottish Country Dancing (7.30 9.30pm - all abilities welcome - www.sandonscotdance.org.uk) Tuesday 19th Hot Box - Open Mic Night Old Park Meadow - Yoga (book by texting 07711 947 199 or visit bookwhen.com/beckysallows) Widford Village Hall (turn left at Chandlers) - country dancing (barn dance - 7.50pm - £2 - 01245 475 660) Woolpack - Quiz Wednesday 20th Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Karaoke Hot Box - Independance Golden Fleece - Santa’s Karaoke O’Connors - Open Mic Old Park Meadow - Gardening Club and coffee morning Thursday 21st The Ale House - Christmas Beer Fesitval Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Quiz night Hot Box - Corpsing + Past the Fall + Tigguo Cobauc Ginny’s (Maldon) - Festive Supper Club with Sophie Godwin Golden Fleece - Dead Man’s Hand Old Park Meadow - Yoga (to book, text 07711 947 199 or visit bookwhen.com/beckysallows) The Rising Sun - Quiz Night Friday 22nd The Ale House - Christmas Beer Fesitval Chelmsford Social Club - Xmas Jazz (8pm) Golden Fleece - The Nook RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Chair yoga Saturday 23rd The Ale House - Christmas Beer Fesitval Chelmsford Social Club - Xmas Jazz (3pm & 8pm) Hot Box - Com-unity Roots Double Six Dominos (2pm) Hot Box - Gateway Golden Fleece - Ultimate 80s O’Connors - Karaoke The Woolpack - Oink!

Sunday 24th The Ale House - Christmas Beer Fesitval Chelmsford Social Club - Xmas Jazz O’Connors - Karaoke Golden Fleece - Kopy Katz Christmas Monday 25th Happy Christmas!

Tuesday 26th Happy Boxing Day! Wednesday 27th Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Karaoke The Fleece - Wonky Wednesday Karaoke O’Connors - Open Mic Old Park Meadow - Gardening Club and coffee morning Old Park Meadow - Meditation (to book call 07906 653 666) Thursday 28th Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Quiz Night Golden Fleece - Quiz Night Hot Box - Uber Jam Golden Fleece - Poor Tom’s Poor Quiz Old Court Theatre - The Vicar of Dibley Old Park Meadow - Yoga (to book text 07711 947199 or visit bookwhen.com/beckysallows) The Rising Sun - Quiz night Friday 29th Chelmsford Theatres - Jack and the Beanstalk Hot Box - Crafted Golden Fleece - Barney and the Rubbles RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Chair yoga Saturday 30th Chelmsford Theatres - Jack and the Beanstalk Golden Fleece - Hit list Hot Box - Com-unity Roots Double Six Dominos (2pm) Radio City Social - All Tribes 4 RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Coffee morning (10am to 1pm) Sunday 31st Acanteen - NYE ABBA Party Chelmsford Theatres - Jack and the Beanstalk Chelmsford Theatres - T Rextasy Golden Fleece - Navarro O’Connors - Karaoke

January Monday 1st Acanteen - NYD Crazy P Soundsystem Chelmer Village pilates classes - carolinesdanceandpilates.co.uk) Chelmsford Theatres - Jack and the Beanstalk Tuesday 2nd Chelmsford Theatres - Jack and the Beanstalk Old Park Meadow - Yoga (to book text 07711 947 199 or visit bookwhen.com/beckysallows) Woolpack - Quiz Wednesday 3rd Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Karaoke Chelmsford Theatres - Jack and the Beanstalk Friends Meeting House (Rainsford Road) - CRAG Retirement Group monthly meeting (9.30am for 10am. First visit free) Hot Box - General Knowledge Quiz O’Connors - Open mic Old Park Meadow - Gardening Club and coffee morning Thursday 4th Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Quiz Night Chelmsford Theatres - Jack and the Beanstalk Golden Fleece - Quiz Night Old Park Meadow - Yoga (to book text 07711 947 199 or visit bookwhen.com/beckysallows) The Rising Sun - Quiz night Friday 5th Chelmsford Theatres - Jack and the Beanstalk RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Chair yoga

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Saturday 6th Chelmsford Theatres - Jack and the Beanstalk Hot Box - Com-unity Roots Double Six Dominos (2pm) Hoit Box - Boogie in the Box RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Coffee morning (10am to 1pm) Sunday 7th Chelmsford Theatres - Jack and the Beanstalk Chelmsford Theatre - The Nutcracker Hot Box - Bashment Party O’Connors - Karaoke Monday 8th Chelmer Village - pilates classes (carolinesdanceandpilates.co.uk) Chelmsford Theatres - Jack and the Beanstalk Hot Box - Chelmsford Chess Club Sandon School (Sports Hall 2) - Scottish Country Dancing (7.30 9.30pm - all abilities welcome - www.sandonscotdance.org.uk) Tuesday 9th Hot Box - The Electric Strawberry Comedy Club Old Park Meadow - Yoga (to book text 07711 947 199 or visit bookwhen.com/beckysallows) Widford Village Hall (turn left at Chandlers) - country dancing (barn dance, £2 - 7.50pm - 01245 475 660) Woolpack - Quiz Wednesday 10th Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Karaoke Hot Box - Big Music Quiz O’Connors - Open Mic Old Park Meadow - Gardening Club and coffee morning Old Park Meadow - Meditation (to book call 07906 653 666) Thursday 11th Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Quiz night Golden Fleece - Quiz Night Old Park Meadow - Yoga (to book text 07711 947 199 or visit bookwhen.com/beckysallows) The Rising Sun - Quiz night Trinity Methodist Church - NT Group meeting, The First 150 Years of the Industrial Revolution (talk by Paul Chaplin) Friday 12th Chelmsford Cathedral - Andrew Garrido Saturday 13th Chelmsford Cathedral - Dvi Doli (ukrainianconvert2024@outlook. com) (see advert to the right) Chelmsford Theatres - Hip Hop Panto Hot Box - Com-unity Roots Double Six Dominos (2pm) Hot Box - High Fade The Lion Inn - The Lion House Wedding Show RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Coffee morning (10am to 1pm) Sunday 14th Hylands House - Open Day Hot Box - Jazz Sundays with Zak Barrett & Friends O’Connors - Karaoke Monday 15th Chelmer Village - pilates classes (carolinesdanceandpilates.co.uk) Chelmsford Theatres - Jack and the Beanstalk Hot Box - Chelmsford Chess Club Sandon School (Sports Hall 2) - Scottish Country Dancing (7.30 9.30pm - all abilities welcome - www.sandonscotdance.org.uk) Tuesday 16th Hot Box - Open Mic Old Park Meadow - Yoga (to book text 07711 947 199 or visit bookwhen.com/beckysallows) Widford Village Hall (turn left at Chandlers) - country dancing (barn dance, £2 - 7.50pm - 01245 475 660) Woolpack - Quiz Wednesday 17th Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Karaoke Chelmsford Theatres - Jason Fox Hot Box - Control Voltage: Electronic Music Open Mic O’Connors - Open Mic Old Park Meadow - Gardening Club and coffee morning Old Park Meadow - Meditation (to book call 07906 653 666)

Thursday 18th Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Quiz night Golden Fleece - Quiz Night Old Park Meadow - Yoga (to book text 07711 947 199 or visit bookwhen.com/beckysallows) The Rising Sun - Quiz night Friday 19th Chelmsford Theatres - The Greatest Magician Chelmsford Theatres - The Illegal Eagles Saturday 20th Hot Box - Com-unity Roots Double Six Dominos (2pm) Hot Box - Malcolm Bruce (son of Jack Bruce) + Maya Sage The Norton - D’Ukes RAFA Club (Hall Street) - Coffee morning (10am to 1pm) Wickham Bishops Village Hall (CM8 3JZ) - Wickham Bishops Jazz Club (6.30 for 7.30pm) - Pete Rudeforth Jazz Band (email: wickhambishopsjazzclub@gmail.com, 07548 775 777) Sunday 21st Chelmsford Theatres - Barry Steele Presents: The Roy Orbison Story Hylands House - Open Day Hot Box - Rockaoke Night O’Connors - Karaoke

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A Year in the Life of the Mayor The Mayor was pleased to join Herr Maximilian Friedrich, Lord Mayor of Chelmsford’s Twin Town in Germany, Stadt Backnang, at the Annual Goosefair (Gänsemarkt).

She traditionally walked some young children dressed as geese down into the town of Backnang before handing out goose biscuits and watching the children perform a dance on stage.

Whilst in Germany, the Mayor and Deputy Mayor visited The Schillerschule - SV which is twinned with Baddow Hall Junior School as well as two secondary schools to discuss future cultural and artistic exchanges with pupils - Gymnasium in der Taus and Max-Born-Gymnasium Backnang.

The Mayor and Deputy Mayor enjoyed an alternative Halloween evening at Baycroft Care Home in Great Baddow with residents listening to some well known classical songs played by Kay on the flute and Gill on the piano. Families joined residents and staff for cheese and wine with plenty of conversation amid the themed autumnal Halloween decorations.

CYGAMS (Young Gen) put on a dazzling performance of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat which the Mayor and Consort had the pleasure of watching on Thursday evening at Chelmsford Theatre.

The talented local young people wowed the audience with this popular show which included well known and amazingly sung classic songs Any Dream Will Do and Close Every Door to Me. The production was stunning with fabulous costumes and superb choreography.

Well done to all involved in this brilliant show which received a well deserved standing ovation!

Boreham Primary School invited the Mayor to open their brand new library on Friday. Headteacher Ian Bowyer thanked all those involved from funding to design and decorating this welcoming space for children to foster their love of reading. The Mayor was delighted to chat to the pupil librarians about the importance of books and the authors that were on display.

The Mayor was very happy to start her Christmas shopping with a dress and some mugs at the Farleigh Shopping event in their Gloucester Avenue shop on Saturday. There was already a queue for all the bargains, as the Mayor officially cut the ribbon at 9am. She enjoyed chatting to all the elf volunteer helpers who do a great job throughout the year supporting Farleigh Hospice.

The Mayor was pleased to cut the ribbon to open the Moulsham Lodge Community Centre’s Christmas Fayre. There were so many stalls filled with lovely Christmas items.

Springers & Offspringers’ production of Urinetown at Chelmsford Theatre Studio is very funny with catchy songs and great choreography. The Mayor and her Consort really enjoyed their visit on Tuesday evening, they laughed their way through the production and congratulated the cast, crew and musicians on a triumph of a production. Don’t let the title put you off, this musical will have you Page 18

laughing, tapping your feet and loving the larger-than-life characters!

The Mayor, as patron, was pleased to attend the AGM of the Chelmsford French Circle at Sandon Village Hall. She was encouraged to hear that their membership was increasing - particularly with some students from a local secondary school. Many social events and talks have been held during the past year with plans to continue this going forward. The evening continued with conversation over cheese and wine tasting which the Mayor and her Consort really enjoyed.

The Mayor was joined by city council staff and veterans of the armed forces for the Armistices Day two minutes silence at the war memorial.

The Mayor was delighted to be invited to St Mary’s Church, Broomfield to unveil a Blue Plaque to celebrate and commemorate the artist Rosemary Rutherford who was the daughter of the wartime Vicar of Broomfield Church, Revd John Findlay Rutherford. She studied art in Chelmsford and London and painted the fresco in the church tower as well as stained glass windows in the church. Chelmsford City Council run the blue plaque scheme to recognise important local people who have made a significant contribution to their field and to society. It enables the city to honour these people and with the guidance of Dr James Bettley of the Essex Women’s Commemoration Project and other dedicated people, this has culminated in the Rutherford Project.

Chelmsford City Racecourse held a special Remembrance Raceday event which the Mayor and her consort were pleased to attend.

Armistice Day was marked with a wreath-laying ceremony, oneminute silence and a traditional bugle fanfare of The Last Post. The Mayor was honoured to read the Exhortation before the bugle and the Kohima Epitaph after. The racecourse partnered with The British Legion and donated all profits from general admission tickets to the charity. Armed forces personnel were given complimentary access with entertainment provided by the Military Wives Choir.

Chelmsford’s Remembrance Sunday Service and Parade 2023 took place on 12th November outside the Chelmsford War Memorial on Duke Street. Residents and members of the Royal British Legion joined the Mayor of Chelmsford, Councillor Linda Mascot, for the event, which paid tribute to Armed Forces of past and present. The mayor was also joined by Chelmsford Air Cadet, Sgt Walledge, who was recently appointed as the first City of Chelmsford Mayor’s Cadet.

The service was Sgt Walledge’s first Civic engagement since her appointment as the mayor’s cadet for 2023.

The annual Pride of Essex awards were started by Susie Cornell MBE DL in 1994 to recognise and reward exceptional achievement over adversity. This year’s awards showcased inspirational people of all ages. The Mayor was pleased to attend and meet the winners and highly commended in all categories. Congratulations to all winners.

The Deputy Mayor had the pleasure of officially unveiling the new Broomfield Village Sign. The winning design for the sign was by Alexandra Bennion, a pupil at Chelmer Valley High School. Alex, her family, headteacher, art teacher and representatives from the parish council all attended the ceremony.

Friends of Chelmsford Museum’s Biennial Open Art Exhibition had a large selection of different artwork displayed from local artists. World renowned award-winning sculptor Billie Bond, who lives in Great Waltham, had selected the artwork and highly commended a selection of her favourites. The exhibition is on until February 2024 with many pictures being for sale - the Mayor has already purchased one and would recommend visiting to view the work of these talented artists.

St Andrew’s Church in Boreham invited the Mayor to open their Frost Fair Christmas Market which brought the community together to raise money for essential repairs to the Church. Margaret Holden, Social Club Lead and Revd Emma Wylie spoke to the Mayor about the importance of community events in the village and how they support local residents.

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The Mayor was delighted to join Sadiq Ahmed MD of Kaani Kaana in Duke Street Chelmsford to celebrate being voted Best Takeaway Food In the UK. Sadiq told the Mayor how they now employed 30 local people after a year’s trading and were about to take on 2 more workers. Their success has been due to their delicious and unique Bangladeshi and Indian dishes coupled with exceptional customer service. The Mayor congratulated them and agreed with their customers - the food was delicious!

What a brilliant day in Chelmsford for the Christmas Light Switch On - non-stop entertainment across 2 stages packed with talented local choirs, dancers and singers.

Roaming mariachi Santa’s, Chelmsford Theatre Panto characters, Chelmsford Lions Club UK with Santa’s sleigh, a very grumpy Grinch and 2 familiar elves were just a few things going on before the big switch on and firework finale.

The Mayor was honoured to open the main stage at 2pm with Sara Tupper and Will Richards before chatting with very happy visitors.

Thanks to Chelmsford For You for bringing the joy and Christmas spirit to this great city.

Essex Hindu Samajam held their Diwali celebrations on Sunday which the Mayor and her Consort were pleased to attend. The Mayor presented awards to talented young people who had excelled in their education and they joined the Hindu community in watching traditional Indian dancers in vibrant costumes, sparkling jewels and bright make-up as well as talented singers. Diwali is the celebration of light over darkness and good over evil, the Mayor participated in Lakshmi Puja (the act of worship), which is performed to the Goddess Lakshmi to bless all with prosperity.

Ashram Patel MBE, internationally renowned breast cancer surgeon, received the award of Honorary Doctor of Health Sciences at a graduation ceremony alongside other Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) students graduating from a variety of healthcare courses. The Mayor and her Consort joined Chancellor of ARU Lord Bernard Ribeiro CBE FRCS, and Vice Chancellor Professor Roderick Watkins DL, for the ceremony.

Chelmsford Sports and Athletics Centre (CSAC) invited the Mayor to officially open their newly refurbished gym. She was pleased to hear from Centre Manager Justin Hubbard about how inclusive the facilities are with equipment for all abilities from beginner to elite athletes. The Mayor met council officers and contractors involved to thank them for their efforts and looks forward to using the equipment in the future.

The Mayor and her Consort, son Joe Mascot, really enjoyed the opening of the Enlightened light trail in Hylands Park. As well as the new mesmerising lights and the illuminated fountains and animations, the catering village in and around the stables was also a big hit with a great variety of food on offer as well a chance to shop.

Don’t forget to leave room for the delicious Dutch pancakes at the end of the trail! www.thecitytimes.co.uk

Regal Kitchens has been trading in Chelmsford for 15 years and the Mayor was pleased to officially open their new showroom in Beehive Lane. MasterChef finalists Anurag Aggarwal and Yui Miles cooked up a storm in the demonstration kitchen along with Emma, Regal’s Business Development Manager. Regal are a family run, award winning local business who make customer service a priority for all new customers, this extends to team member Emma going the extra mile by spending a day cooking in all new customers’ kitchens to demonstrate how to use their new oven and hob. Their website is www.regalkitchens.co.uk.

Talented Students from The Boswells School Performing & Creative Arts Faculty put on a dazzling performance of Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5 the Musical, which the Mayor and her Consort really enjoyed. The Mayor thanked all the students involved in the show - performers, back stage crew, front of house and musicians, along with the teachers and parents who have supported them.

Sikhs of Chelmsford invited the Mayor and her Consort to Gurpurab Festival at Essex Cricket Club. This festival marks the anniversary of the Sikh faith’s first Guru - Guru Nanak Dev Ji. They were very pleased to join the Chelmsford Sikh community to learn more about their religion, celebrate with them and join them for a delicious lunch.

The Mayor joined volunteers, stall holders and lots of visitors at Galleywood Heritage Centre for their Christmas market. Happy children met Santa, whilst the Mayor found out she needed to make more of an effort to be good if she wanted to be on his nice list!

The Mayor was invited to Barrow Farm, Riding for the Disabled, to officially open a wonderful new Sensory Garden which has been created in memory of Charlotte Jessop, a young rider who sadly passed away a few years ago. It has been funded by her grandparents and Chelmsford Lions, who have created the garden with help from other volunteers, including GoodGym, Men’s Sheds and Barrow Farm’s own volunteers.

Martin Wood, Lead Trustee for Barrow Farm RDA (also a Lion) spoke about the work of Barrow Farm, and Lion President Jim Thomas thanked all who have joined Chelmsford Lions in this collaboration, particularly their past President Andrea Cooper, who has designed the garden and worked tirelessly to create such a tranquil and beautiful outdoor space.

The Mayor of Chelmsford was honoured to unveil the bleed kit which was presented to Chelmsford City Racecourse by Julie in memory of her grandson Liam Taylor. It’s a very moving evening.

Life Mid-Essex Schools (Ford End, Margaretting and Roxwell Primary Schools) invited the Mayor to their Christmas carol service at Chelmsford Cathedral, where the pupils and staff sang Christmas songs, played the piano, played brass instruments and ukulele. It was a lovely evening - all children and staff performed brilliantly.

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A History of Leisure and Entertainment Part 5 - By Stephen Norris This article deals with the early history of cinema in the town and also its carnival before the Second World War. During the interwar period, the main entertainment for working people was the cinema. By the time of the Second War the town boasted five cinemas. The first of these was the Chelmsford Picture House, later the Select Cinema, which opened in 1910. Initially it was owned by ARP Hickley, a councillor, communist and poet. 600 people could be seated on one floor. Early animated pictures were shown with the help of one of the most foremost film pioneers, Sir William Jury. The cinema had a number of different owners during the interwar period, firstly S Singer, then RH Etchells and, finally Sidney Harris.

The Empire Cinema on the Springfield Road was opened in 1912, mixing cinema with live entertainment. During 1913 for example, Miss Diana Hope, who had recently sung in front of the King and Queen, performed there. In 1921 the cinema was owned by the Chelmsford Empire and Hippodrome Company Limited, but by 1928 the Eastern Counties Cinema Group controlled it. The Empire was badly gutted by fire in 1940 and never reopened as a cinema. It was however used during the Second War as a repertory theatre.

The Regent was opened in 1913 initially as a theatre. Its site was on that of the old Cross Keys public house in Moulsham Street. It was designed by Francis Burdett Ward. It had steel-based foundations and was a large building with 1,126 seats, with 712 on the ground floor and 354 in the balcony. There were four boxes, each seating 15 people.

Carpets and draperies cost £1,500 and the theatre had decent offstage facilities with four dressing rooms, and there was also a large foyer and an anteroom. The scenery was treated with non-flammable materials and the safety curtain came down before a film started. After the war, cinema was very much mixed with variety, but by 1925 the Regent was showing only films. The owners were still however allowing the Chelmsford Amateur and Operatic Society to perform there. By 1928 it had also become part of the Eastern Counties Cinema Limited circuit and was regularly showing talking films. In 1930 there was a serious fire at the Regent, despite the safety precautions, whilst 1,100 people were present.

Another cinema was the Pavilion on Rainsford Road which opened in 1920 and seated 500. Like the Select, there were several different owners before the Second War when Mr CA James owned the cinema.

In 1933, plans were announced for a new super-cinema at Chelmsford

by Ritz (Chelmsford) Limited. The site was originally to be on the corner of Moulsham Street and Baddow Road, but it was actually built on the site of the old tannery in Baddow Road and was opened in 1935

by Mayor Taylor. The cinema was the 49th to be opened in the chain of County Cinemas. With a capacity of 1,748 people, it was easily the largest cinema in Chelmsford. ‘The architect Mr Robert Crowle is recognised as the greatest authority on acoustics in the world and the very wide range Western Electric projection and sound apparatus has been installed. A feature of the cinema is the concealed lighting which with green, red, gold and silver speckled effects on the ceiling and walls looks most attractive. Special ventilating apparatus has been installed to ensure the air is changed every fifteen minutes’. 45 people were employed at the cinema, and the first film shown was The 39 Steps.

Balcony seats were two shillings and one shilling and sixpence, and prices in the stalls were one shilling and sixpence, nine pence and sixpence. The carpark had 200 places and the restaurant was designed to hold dinner dances. County Cinemas was taken over by the Odeon chain in 1939.

The first Chelmsford Carnival was held in 1923. It was designed to raise funds for the Chelmsford and Essex Hospital which was increasingly short of finance. Fred Spalding was in charge of the carnival committee.

The Mayor and the members of the corporation took part in the procession through the principal streets of the town. There was an evening fête at the Hoffmann Athletic ground at Rainsford End. All the big firms decorated lorries, including the Marconi entry, the Bolshevic Beaver Bandski - a gas lorry was fitted up as a kitchen. The

Essex Industrial School Band, the Boy Scouts and the Boy’s Brigade all took part. Fred Munnion gave a concert in the evening, and music for dancing was provided by Crompton’s band. Net receipts were £350 but the following year twice that amount was raised.

In 1924, carnival events lasted all week with the procession on the Friday. ‘Many thousands enjoy revelry on the longest day. There was also a procession of illuminated and decorated boats on the river.’

In 1925 the procession started at the market and took two hours to return. 11,400 people paid for admission to the Recreation Ground in the evening.

By 1927 the carnival was raising £1,500 and in 1933, the year of the first carnival queen, there were over 17,000 at the carnival fête.

The following year the fête was held at the Chelmsford City football ground and featured the Dagenham Girl Pipers, a cabaret, boxing and a wrestling tournament. There was a grand cabaret show at the Regent.

The procession started at 3pm and finished with a fête with 11 bands, a fayre and sideshows. Although crowds continued to increase in the 1930s, the money raised was nowhere near the level the hospital increasingly needed, but the carnival had become a major event in the life of the town.

The Second War of course, made the following of leisure pursuits more difficult, but by no means prevented all of them. War also saw the removal of the archives of the recently formed Essex Record Office to Wales for safety reasons. The documents had been classified at County Hall by the archivist FG Emmison. Before the war, 400 people a year were visiting the ERO.

Youngest Grumpy Old Man Hello everyone who reads this publication. I am now the current resident moaner - the other one has retired. My first column will not contain much moaning as it’s getting close to Christmas. I actually like Christmas Day more than New Year’s Day. A Christmas Eve tradition of mine and my wife has been going out for something to eat. Usually it’s Chinese, and we’ve had a few over time, but this year it will be Indian. Covid stopped it one year but this year we will also be celebrating mum and dad’s golden wedding anniversary.

Most Christmas holidays I have time off work. It’s mostly due to the sector I work in. On Christmas morning we like to have Buck’s fizz and bagels for breakfast. In mine, I usually have smoked salmon - the wife has jam.

I usually do the Christmas dinner on Christmas Day. A particularly good one was a turkey wellington we got from Iceland - it was sublime. We only had it the one year; Iceland didn’t do it anymore after that. My wife absolutely loves Christmas puddings and could eat them all year round!

Me, I can take them or leave them...

Last Christmas, we all tried a Secret Santa, and our mother tried to find out who had who’s present! I do most of the Christmas present wrapping for both me and my wife. I like to put something good on the box and wrap to my heart’s content. It takes longer, but it’s much more fun.

Christmas parties are funny old things - the can be good or bad. I have done a few over the years, but as I get older I get more cynical.

Socialising with people who you don’t know well - and then still don’t.

I’m not keen on the ‘disco birthday’ of a Christmas party. I have never been much of a dancer so I hate it.

So, merry Christmas and happy New Year till next time!

Thomas Indergard

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Chelmsford Street Pastors

Street Pastors was pioneered in the UK in 2003 by Les Isaac, with the first patrol taking to the streets of Brixton. Since then, this initiative has grown to encompass a network of volunteers, all with a Christian faith, who patrol the streets of their local town or city - usually from 10pm until 4am engaging with people on the streets to help, care for and listen to them.

Chelmsford Street Pastors were established in 2008 and were a familiar sight on the Chelmsford weekend nightlife scene. We were acknowledged as a force for good, not only by pubbers and clubbers, but also by the police, CCTV authorities, and pub/club owners. Local authorities have commented that since the scheme started there has been a significant drop in the level of anti-social behaviour on Friday and Saturday evenings in Chelmsford. This is borne out by the awards and accolades the city has received over the years.

Now 15 years on, the needs of those out at night are being addressed in different ways. Individual volunteers have got older and the decision has been made to close Chelmsford Street Pastors.

Chelmsford Street Pastors thank all involved for the support they have received, whether encouragements whilst out, whether financial, whether in training, whether in going out, in prayer or in other ways.

Thank you. God bless. www.thecitytimes.co.uk

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Sukhasana Pose - By Steve Johansen, Hummingbird Pilates & Yoga Dristi, an unfocused gaze, on a point at eye height and introduce a long slow steady breath.

Despite its name, it isn’t universally easy, especially if you have tight hips and hamstrings, often your knees will be quite high, and your hips roll backwards, causing you to arch your spine backwards and your shoulders protract forwards to compensate. However, there are a number of props you can use to raise your hips higher up and ensure that you can sit more comfortably; such as, sitting on a yoga block, a bolster, folded blanket, or even a cushion off the sofa.

Once you are sitting comfortably, on each inhalation sit a little taller and find a little ease on each exhalation. You can hold the pose for a minute or two finding a soft breath, or you can focus on beginning to establish a basic Pranayama or 3-part breath - a long even steady breath. Breathing in and out through the nose, filling the belly, the ribs to the very top of the lungs, then breathing out in the reverse order, making the inhalation and exhalation the same length of time, then adding a little pause at the top and the bottom of your breath.

This will help you to introduce mindfulness into your practice through mind, body and breath. Repeat the process on the other side by recrossing the legs in the opposite position.

Sukhasana is a great pose, especially if you’re new to yoga. That will help you to introduce a little mindfulness into your day by sitting quietly and focusing on ourselves for a few minutes - mind, body, and spirit.

Sanskrit words often have several meanings and the meaning is derived from the context, and Sukhasana (sook-HAHS-ah-nah) is no different. Sukha translates as ease, bliss or happiness, and the word Asana is often associated with the word pose, but it can also mean seat or seated. Therefore it’s easy to see why Sukhasana is called Easy Pose in English. It is a comfortable cross-legged seated position, where you can find bliss or happiness - especially beneficial as we ease into meditation.

For those of you who would benefit from seeing Easy Pose taught in action, you can find a video on our at Hummingbird Pilates & Yoga Facebook page, both pinned to the top and as one of our reels.

Alternatively, book now and join me at the studio using this free pass code ‘HPYFREECLASS’. My gift to you.

Although, Sukhasana sounds like it should be an ‘easy pose’ to achieve, often in reality, it’s not always so - especially if we spend a lot of time sitting at a desk. For this reason, I find myself in Easy Pose almost every time I settle on my mat. I sometimes use it at the beginning of a practice, to help to quieten my mind and prepare myself for my physical practice. Other times I use it at the end, having found focus in my mindful practice. Often I use it in my opening and closing ‘chapters’ of my daily practice.

Where to Start Start by sitting on your mat in Dandasana (dun-DAHS-anna) or staff pose, with your arms by your sides and your legs extended out in front of you. On your next inhalation, draw one leg in and cross the other leg in front, with the shins one in front of the other, the knees wide, drawing each foot beneath the opposite knee into a cross-legged position.

Tip: Often, when you sit cross-legged, we tend to lean forward slightly - instead, lean back a little straightening your back, sitting taller. This will help you to find your weight evenly distributed on your sit bones.

Lift the shoulders up and roll them back down your spine drawing the shoulder blades towards each other, helping you to open up through the chest, allowing you to deepen your breathe. Relax your arms and place your hands on your knees with palms can face down or up, with the pad of your thumb and index finger gently touching.

Soften the neck, tucking your chin backwards slightly to stack the weight of your head over your shoulders and sit bones. Find your www.issuu.com/itsyourmedia

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Can You Make a Difference in Your Community? our aims, objectives, and goals in compliance with guidelines and regulations. This is a challenging role, but incredible rewarding and impactful.

Overnight volunteer - Chess Homeless Night Shelter The Sleepover Volunteer role is to interact with residents and be a listening ear for them. They also support the staff member in the operational running of the night shelter and in the event of any difficulties such as illness of a resident. The volunteer arrives at 8.45pm and leaves at 9am the following morning. Whilst covering a sleeping shift, overnight volunteers have the use of a designated and secure room.

Hearing aid support service We are looking for volunteers to join our small, very friendly team to help those with hearing loss.

NHS hearing aids need to be cleaned and re-tubed every 4 - 6 months; if this doesn’t happen or if the aid is not working then this leaves a person feeling very isolated, lonely and vulnerable. Our brilliant volunteers are trained to do this, free of charge. Full training is given, and plenty of support and encouragement.

Trustee at Cool to Be Kind Ltd As a trustee, your role will involve overseeing Cool to Be Kind’s affairs to ensure its sustainability and alignment with its objectives.

You will help with our strategic directions, and the development of

Foster carer and trainer for veterans’ service dogs We train up rescue dogs so that they can make a profound difference to veterans who are suffering from PTSD. We need safe, loving foster homes where our rescue dogs can settle into life and begin their training, before being matched to the right veterans.

Macmillan volunteer Buddy Our Macmillan Buddy service provides a lifeline for people with cancer, offering them weekly support from someone who understands what they’re going through. We need Buddies to support people by phone and in person. Some experience of having lived with cancer would be beneficial.

Support young adults with disabilities The Independence Project needs volunteers to help young adults with additional needs to enjoy gardening, dancing, and socialising!

Van driver - Chess Homeless Night Shelter We are looking for a person with a suitable vehicle to collect items of furniture from in and around the Chelmsford area. You will need to be physically capable and able to lift items (with assistance for larger, heavier items). This would be on an ad hoc basis as the need arises.

01245 25 0731

Gene Radio Show Chelmsford Community Radio Meet the GENE Radio Show team on Chelmsford Community Radio The show has been giving girls a voice for 14 years, 8 of those years have been at CCR in Chelmsford.

The GENE Radio Show (pronounced ‘genie’) is broadcast on the first Sunday of each month from 10pm - midnight in the Community Matters slot. It’s produced and presented by young members of Girlguiding Essex North East with support from Ranger Leader, Maxine Jones.

Being part of the GENE team opens lots of opportunities for the girls aged 14 -18, not only do they learn valuable media skills, but they also get backstage passes for large scale guiding events where they have interviewed big names like Ed Sheeran, Olly Murs and Pixie Lott.

lobbied MPs and were part of the End Period Poverty Campaign.

Ranger Leader Maxine says, “I’m so proud of the girls, they work hard on the show, and many go on to study media at university and now have careers in the industry.”

Theia, 15 and the most recent GENE member, says, “I’ve been on the team for about 18 months and I’ve already had backstage passes to Girlguiding’s festival, Wellies and Wristbands, to interview the acts and attended the opening of Ninja Warriors UK. It’s fun to be able to tell people I’m on the radio each month.”

Whilst the show is a mix of all the latest guiding events and news across the county, Anglia region and further, the team also chat about topics that are important to them, plus fun stuff - and they always include great music!

The GENE team welcome more volunteers to help with the show and join Girlguiding - contact: pr@girlguidingessexne.org.uk. www.chelmsfordcommuntiyradio.com

They were also invited to Parliament where they Page 24

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Essex Businessman Steps into Key Role for National Trade Body A Chelmsford-based businessman has been appointed to the role of Chair for the Anglia Region of national trade body, Builders Merchants Federation (BMF).

Ben Chandler, Finance Director at Chandler Material Supplies, will represent a significant part of the regional economy, acting as a voice for builders’ merchants and suppliers across Eastern England.

The key role was previously held by Hugh Guntrip of Huws Gray, who handed over to Ben after his five-year term came to an end.

Ben said: “I have always valued the meetings and forums that bring BMF members together and I’m looking forward to working with the BMF team and building on Hugh’s excellent example as Chair in supporting members in the Anglia Region.” merchant Chandler Material Supplies 10 years ago.

A CIMA qualified management accountant, Ben joined family-run independent builders’

BMF CEO, John Newcomb said: “The position of Regional Chair is an integral part of BMF’s membership structure, providing a conduit for information exchange and engagement between the Federation and its members.

“I’d like to thank Hugh Guntrip for his excellent work over the last five years and I’m delighted to welcome Ben to the role.”

(Photograph L-R) BMF CEO John Newcomb, outgoing BMF Anglia Region Chair Hugh Guntrip, BMF Regional Manager Neil Osborne and incoming BMF Anglia Region Chair, Ben Chandler

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Crafts - By Magali Ellis and Scrap-Circle Have you got an Advent calendar? What sort is it: chocolate, perfume, or alcohol? Advent calendars come in all sorts of shapes and forms nowadays. Did you know that you can get a craft Advent calendar?

I must admit to having two advent calendars - none of them chocolate!

I find it difficult to explain what the Scrap-Circle craft Advent calendars are like when people ask me what’s in them. You see, they are bespoke and personalised because all items are carefully chosen for that person in mind. For example, a scrapbooker will have very different items compared to a person who journals. Their needs are different and one will use more papers and cardstock than the other. With your journal on the other hand, you need more inks and colours, stamps and washi tapes.

know that if I am scrapbooking photos of my grandsons, I don’t tend to choose flowers! I go more for geometric shapes. So having that conversation is essential to help me make a special advent calendar with items they will love and use in their craft time and time again.

Alternatively, some of you might welcome to be challenged into a craft that is new to them!

Whether it is a treat from you to you, or from you to someone else, our Advent calendars are that something special that brings joy to every day in December.

Check out our website at www.scrap-circle.co.uk for more information on what we offer: craft items in the shop or craft experiences, such as our monthly craft days, or our craft weekends and even our craft cruise to Alaska in July 2024!

In the meantime, I wish you and your family a merry Christmas and all my very best wishes for 2024!

That is why I get in contact with anyone who purchases one of our Advent calendars and ask them what they use or don’t use. It is silly and useless to include dies if people haven’t got the die cut machine.

Online versions of The City Times magazine are now at www.thecitytimes.co.uk

Similarly, some of you may find it challenging to use floral papers. I

Work Experience Live!

The first thing I noticed walking into The Art Place is the warm atmosphere. A plethora of locally produced art greets you when you enter through the doors, and there was currently a folk band at the back of the shop performing amongst the paintings on the walls.

Browsing through the market-like space there is an array of different handmade items for you to purchase. When you go to the back of the shop, a vast display of paintings are hung on the walls, where visitors can admire or purchase them. The Art Place is, without a doubt, the ideal space to immerse yourself in creativity.

Initially, I visited The Art Place to write an article for my coursework.

I am a second-year journalism student at the University of East London, and when I looked online for a place to write about, The Art Place stood out for me. I first spoke to the CEO of Ideas Hub Chelmsford, Edith Miller, who took me behind the shop into the classroom-like workshop. Here, people were sitting at a table playing board games, and volunteers were rushing around and keeping busy. Edith sat down and spoke to me all about The Art Place and its history, with the odd pause to stop and help the other volunteers.

Whilst speaking to her, the folk band began to perform and created a buzz in the shop. It was certainly a busy day for The Art Place.

Edith was kind enough to direct me to two artists, Marsha and Peter, that have their paintings displayed in the gallery. Retired art teacher Marsha paints landscapes and flowers. She has been displaying her artwork at The Art Place for a few years. Peter is a late bloomer when it comes to painting as he took it up as a hobby when he retired. He paints Essex-based scenery and maritime art. The artists were happy enough to show me their paintings on the walls and tell me about them whilst I stood and admired their art.

Two volunteers, Lea and Pyra, took time to stop and talk to me about volunteering here. Lea explained how volunteering is good for her to gain experience and responsibilities. Pyra spoke to me about how she liked the environment and planned to continue volunteering.

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Whilst speaking to them, it was clear from their big smiles that they genuinely enjoy spending time there.

When leaving The Art Place, it became apparent to me how important a place like this is in a city.

People can come in to be a part of the hard-working team, to take part in workshops, to express themselves through art, and even sell their own handmade items in the shop. The Art Place is certainly a lively hubbub of Chelmsford that is the heart of the community.

The Art Place: more than a shop: a community, an experience, and hope!

Do follow them on social media and make the most of their exhibitions, and please pop in to see artists and crafters working live and bring the children over the Christmas holidays for sticking and gluing and who knows, you might bump into Mr Christmas Bear...

The Art Place is an Ideas Hub Chelmsford (the umbrella charity) project. www.ideashubchelmsford.org

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Interior Design Tips for Your Home - By Tania Dadd Deck The Halls & The Table!

Time to think about your Christmas table and the last-minute preparations for the festive season.

Most people are finding the budget this year has been stretched to the limit, with not much left over for any extras.

With that in mind I have a few tips that are inexpensive and will look fantastic!

Nearly everyone will have access to a garden or green area nearby; have a look, as you will find holly, ivy, mistletoe, teasels, pinecones and red berries growing. Ttake some scissors and cut a few pieces to take home. These can be used in a variety of ways for simple yet stunning decorations.

Here are some ideas for your table: • Dig out an old box of scrabble from the loft, use the tiles and holders to spell out each persons. name for place settings.

• Alternatively, you could use pinecones for the name or places just make a small card with each person’s name on it, fix with ribbon or thin wire.

• Wrap napkins and cutlery with ribbon or twine, tuck in a piece of rosemary or a piece of the greenery you have found nearby, Holly, berries, etc.

• Candles or tealights can be found in any of the supermarkets, they will look great, lit, and decorated with any berries or greenery.

• If you want to add a touch of sparkle, you can buy gold or silver spray, or glitter to decorate.

• Indoor table sparklers or a cake fountain for the pudding will add a wow factor. Try Amazon or any party shops.

• Use some of the foliage and red berries and line your shelves and the tops of cupboards for an extra Christmassy feel.

• If you want to push the boat out, add a red table runner and green glasses add a jolly festive touch.

Dried orange slices are the perfect simple decorations to add a citrus & spicy touch to your Christmas décor. You can also string them

together to make a garland.

Here’s what you will need:• Oranges.

• Sharp knife.

• Cutting board.

• Parchment paper.

• Whole cloves (optional).

Cutting the Orange Slices • Slice through the middle of the orange so that you have a section of all the orange segments in a beautiful even pattern.

• Thinner slices also help with the drying time, as less time is required. Thicker slices are more attractive when dried. Dab both sides of each slice with a piece of paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Drying the Orange Slices in the Oven • Preheat the oven temperature to 215oF or 100oC. • Place the cut orange slices in a single layer on a baking sheet that is covered with either a sheet of parchment paper, or alternatively an oven proof bakers rack.

• I like to use the wire rack, as it allows the air to circulate around both sides of the slices as they are drying, however parchment paper also does a great job.

• Place the cookie sheet on the oven rack. Cooking time will vary on the thickness, but approximately 2 hours.

• Once cool, stud the oranges with cloves. Thread some ribbon, twine, or string through the centres of the orange slices, then tie a knot to secure.

• Have a fantastic Christmas and New Year!

Pop into my new design office in Maldon (17 Kings Head Centre) if you need some advice on how to elevate your home.

Our services include interior design, colour consultation, decluttering, and styling.

Book your free consultation: 07979 66 3339. info@saltmarshinteriors.co.uk www.saltmarshinteriors.co.uk

Tales From the Circle - By Sylvia Kent

It’s pretty obvious now that the Christmas spirit is with us and has been for some months now, with colourful displays in shops, markets and homes.

An early Christmas gathering was celebrated at Brentwood Writers’ Circle last Saturday and it was with huge pleasure we welcomed members and guests, some of whom have joined us, courtesy of The City Times.

Our Circle, created during World War ll, is now regarded as one of the oldest continuous writing groups in the UK and we are proud of the success that earlier members and those who have joined us in later years, have enjoyed in their writing careers. Even if people write purely for their own pleasure, or indeed, putting their past on paper, the whole business of thinking and creating words, is satisfying and often leads to publication.

At Saturday’s early Christmas party, it was lovely to hear of the success of some relatively new BWC members and fascinating to learn of different times from the past, particularly during wartime.

We have a member mix of ages and backgrounds. Our Circle was, of course, born in May 1941!

Saturday’s Showcase brought some interesting competition entries which were read to those present. It was a good audience and it was a surprise and huge joy for a relatively new member, Derek Davis, to hear that he had won our coveted Christmas Story Nancy Meggs’

Competition. He was presented with a silver cup and a cheque.

We hope everyone who reads our column and who joins us monthly at our venue Bardswell Social Club in Weald Road, Brentwood, enjoys the festive season.

Do pay us a visit (free the first time) on Saturday 6th January at 2.30pm - 4.30pm when we sail forth into the new year listening to Tales of the Unexpected (scary stories) written by members and read by candlelight. Happy Christmas!

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Quiz Time - By John Theedom

Which is the only continent that doesn’t have a desert?

2. Mary Anderson invented which car component?

3. Which novelist wrote Chitty Chitty Bang Bang?

4. In which year did the first Eurovision Song Contest take place?

5. What is a ramekin?

6. Triskaidekaphobia is the fear of what?

7. Kiev is the capital of which country?

8. Where was the Titanic heading for?

9. How long is the M25 motorway?

10. What was the name of the flowergirl in the play Pygmalion?

11. Louis Armstrong sang the theme tune to which Bond film?

12. Why do icebergs float?

13. Is human blood slightly acid or slightly alkaline?

14. How much is the most expensive square on a Monopoly board?

15. The Kuna was the currency of which European country?

16. Which paper size is 297 x 420mm?

17. According to the nursery rhyme, which child ‘has far to go’?

18. Which African country has the largest population?

19. What salad takes its name from a New York hotel?

20. What is the closest Commenwealth country to the UK? 21. Which is the oldest university in Britain?

1.

22. Which Eastender won Strictly in 2010?

23. Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps is set in which town?

24. In the fashion shop H&M, what do the initials stand for?

25. In which year was King Charles born?

26. What is the smallest prize that can be won on Deal or No Deal?

27. Olfactory means relating to which human sense?

28. Which Beatles song ends with a note sustained for 40 seconds?

29. Jarlsberg cheese comes from which country?

30. Strictly judge Bruno Tonioli appeared in the video to which Elton John hit?

31. What flat currant biscuit is named after an Italian soldier and statesman?

32. What is the light-sensitive part of the eyeball called?

33. What is the most expensive spice in the world?

34. Potophobia is the fear of what?

35. Footballer Cristiano Ronaldo was born on which island?

36. Which snooker player is known as the Wizard of Wishaw?

37. Who is the Spice Girl never to have had a solo number 1 hit?

38. Who were Scooby Doo’s two male companions?

39 What are the Northen Lights also known as?

40. Which night is celebrated in Scotland on 25th January?

Wordseach by thewordsearch.com

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(Answers on pages 30 & 31)

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Stargazing With Mark Willis 22 December: Winter Solstice. The day after this is where you start dancing, as the days begin to get longer and the nights grow shorter.

The Christmas Star of Bethlehem. There are five likely explanations regarding the Star that guided the Magi on their journey. This year, I’ve decided to refer you to the Royal Museums Greenwich excellent website, which explains all five ideas, extremely well. https://www.rmg.co.uk/stories/topics/what-was-christmas-star The Royal Museums Greenwich website also contain some very good astronomy courses. Great news for schools as astronomy is a great gateway science for other branches of science.

22 December: Ursids meteor shower peaks tonight, although you can watch these celestial fireworks several night astride the peak date.

23 December – 21:00: Looking south, you’ll see the beautiful constellation of Pleiades at a position of ‘ten o’clock’ to the Moon and the planet Jupiter at ‘4 O’clock’.

21 January: The waxing gibbous Moon is north of the bright star, Aldebaran. Orange in colour, visible to the naked eye and quite close, in astronomical terms, just 66 light years away.

In 1972, Pioneer 10 probe was launched to study the outer planets, Jupiter and Saturn. It is heading to a position quite close to Aldebaran. But it won’t get there for another 2 million years!

New Moon: On 11 January and 9 February, there will be a new Moon.

This means the skies will be extra dark which is a great opportunity to see planets, galaxies and deep space objects.

As usual, e-mail me with any questions…

Mark Willis presents The Retro Chart Show on Chelmsford Community Radio at 10am on Monday mornings on 104.4 FM. Also online: www.chelmsfordcommunityradio.com. On TuneIn, Smartspeaker and also on apps.

Web: e-mail:

www.chelmsfordcommunityradio.com mark.willis@chelmsfordcommunityradio.com

3 January: Quantrantids meteor shower at maximum.

Wildlife by Nick Green

The (Bohemian) waxwing breeds in the boreal forests of Eurasia and has a Holarctic distribution. It is generally a scarce winter visitor but is subject to influxes should there be an imbalance between the population and berry crop levels in Fennoscandinavia in perhaps a ten-year cycle. The favoured food is the rowan berry but the species also feeds on cotoneaster and pyrocanthus berries plus crab apples.

The waxwing is readily identifiable being starling-sized with a large crest, narrow black eye mask and bib plus a broad yellow, terminal band on the tail. There are long red, waxy appendages on the flight feathers from which the species derives its name. The call is a distinctive, high pitched ringing “sirrrr” This winter 2023/24 is seeing an irruption with records from Shetland to Cornwall and with Essex records already from Walton-on-the-Naze, Takeley and Leigh-on-Sea. Selected October/November avian highlights With American birds migrating across the Caribbean Sea, a strong West-East Jetstream and a procession of strong weather systems this autumn, there was an exceptionally large fall of American warblers and waders on our west coast. Further highlights included a first for Britain with an American Cape May Warbler on the Isles of Scilly – a long distance migrant breeding in mainly eastern North America and normally wintering in the Caribbean region.

Essex can boast an American canvasback duck at Abberton Reservoir from 11th November, but was it one of the 6 released birds from Flixton Gravel Pits, Suffolk April-June 2020 ??

Many twitchers would disagree!

Waxwing: a male feeding on crab apples copyright Jeff Delve

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Quiz & Wordsearch Answers 1. Europe 2. Windscreen wipers 3. Ian Fleming 4. 1956 5. A small dish 6. The number 13 7. Ukraine 8. New York City 9. 117 miles 10. Eliza Doolittle 11. On Her Majesty’s Secret Service

12. They are made from fresh water which is less dense than sea water 13. Alkaline 14. £400 15. Croatia 16. A3 17. Thursday’s 18. Nigeria 19. Waldorf 20. Malta

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26.

27.

28.

29.

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Oxford Kara Tointon Runcorn Hennes & Mauritz 1948 1p Smell A Day in The Life Norway I’m Still Standing Garibaldi

32.

33.

34.

35.

36.

37.

38.

39.

40.

Retina Saffron Alcohol Madeira John Higgins Victoria Beckham Fred & Shaggy Aurora Borealis Burns Night

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