Moulsham Times - June 2026

MoulshamTimes

Hi readers,

Welcome to the June edition of Moulsham Times

Already we find ourselves in June - the year seems to be moving along so quickly. So let’s make the most of the summer, and if you have a summer event you wish to advertise, please get in touch via the contact details below.

Please do remember to let our advertisers know that you saw their advert in the Moulsham Times, as it really helps them and us to know that their adverts are working.

If you would like to advertise in the next edition, please contact us for prices, and also for distribution details. We can then send over all the information you will need.

Regards

Paul

Advertising & Editorial

Paul Mclean

01245 262082 / 07595 949701

paul@moulshamtimes.com

Disclaimer: It’s Your Magazines Ltd publish the Moulsham Times. The opinion expressed in each article is the opinion of its author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of It’s Your Magazines Ltd. No part may be reproduced without the prior written permission of It’s Your Magazines Ltd. Reg Co No. 12080535. Printed by Warners (Midlands) PLC.

One of the most common requests we get for a kitchen design is ‘maximise storage!’ Whilst storage is undoubtedly important, most people equate this to having as many cupboards as possible - and that is not necessarily the best way to approach it.

‘As many drawers as possible’, ‘everything must be a pull out’ and ‘cupboards up to the ceiling please’ are all equally common requests and, somewhere between all of these ideas is the best way to think about storage in a kitchen.

Keep It Simple...

Putting it simply, stuff should ‘come out’ to you if it is below your chest height. Above your chest height, you are better served by shelves or just keeping it clear…

When designing a space, I am first thinking about how we can minimise the upper storage and maximise the functionality, accessibility and ergonomics of the lower storage.

Deep, wide drawers (as wide as can fit in the space appropriately) are fantastic for pots, pans and crockery.

For pantry cabinet storage, pull out shelves that operate individually (not one big pull-out: That means you’re pulling EVERYTHING out of the cupboard just to get a tin of beans…) are ideal and especially so if you get them fitted with spacing that works specifically for your storage needs. Having a shelf for tins, dry goods, spices etc is great, but particularly good if the gaps between don’t waste valuable space.

Internal pull outs are great for base units too but do consider having them attached to the front to minimise the steps needed for access. It can make a significant difference to the usual ability, as can making sure access is from both sides!

Shelves, at the right height, are fantastic storage - so long as they are not too deep! A base unit shelf is only really going to see the front third used regularly as getting to the back of those shelves needs you to get low and dig for what you need.

Wall cupboards can be important visually and practical for some products in the right place (glassware, mugs, everyday items like tea and coffee etc), but the higher they are, the less useful they become and the more likely they are to be used as a dumping ground. In

my view, unless needed for the visual impact of the design, wall cupboards are best seen as a back-up to better storage elsewhere.

If you use the right storage options in the right places, you may need less cupboards then you think to gain far more effective storage.

But….

Far more important than the storage built into your kitchen is the stuff you put in the kitchen in the first place!

No amount of fancy storage options can compensate for an over abundance of unused stuff.

My golden rules for the things you own, borrowed liberally from smarter people than I, are:

• If you have not thought about it, used it or seen it for 12 months, it has no place in your home.

• If it is part of a set and the set is not functionally complete, lose it.

• At least once a year, go through your long-term food storage and dispose of anything that is out of date, looks like it might be out of date or is remarkably close to being out of date.

• It may be a gift but if you never use it and don’t like it, get rid of it.

Remember that sentimental value is a scale, not a definite value - If its got some nice memories but takes up too much space/is never used/looks awful, bin it.

Look at all the items in the kitchen with the basic judgement: Is it useful, valuable, beautiful, meaningful, or essential. If it fails on all fronts - bin it.

If you manage the things you store, you’ll waste less space and money on unnecessary storage, you’ll find your kitchen less stressful and you’ll be happier for it too.

Chelmsford - By Marie Goldman MP

This month, I’ve been out and about across Chelmsford meeting residents, businesses, schools and community organisations to discuss the issues that matter most locally - from supporting young people into skilled careers to tackling anti-social behaviour and celebrating the achievements of students across our city.

I recently hosted a roundtable discussion with local employers, educators and industry representatives to talk about the challenges currently facing the construction sector and how we can encourage more young people into the industry.

A major concern raised was the significant decline in young people entering construction, alongside the very low number of women pursuing careers in the sector. Many attendees felt construction is still unfairly viewed as a career for those who did not succeed academically, despite the highly skilled and rewarding opportunities available.

Another issue raised was transport, with many young people struggling to travel to construction sites, particularly for early starts or locations poorly served by public transport.

It was a productive conversation, and I will continue working with local businesses, colleges and government to help ensure young people are properly supported into skilled careers.

Every month, I meet with the District Commander for Chelmsford and Maldon to raise concerns brought to me directly by constituents. At our latest meeting, I highlighted residents’ frustrations around dangerous cycling and the use of illegal e-scooters in Chelmsford High Street. Many constituents have contacted me about safety concerns, particularly for elderly residents and families using the city centre, and I look forward to seeing further action taken on this issue.

As part of National Response Policing Week, I was also fortunate enough to take part in a ride-along with Essex Police response

officers as they carried out their work across Chelmsford. It was a real privilege to see first-hand the professionalism and dedication of officers responding to incidents and supporting residents across our community. I would like to thank all the officers and staff at Essex Police for the important work they do every day to keep our communities safe.

Dragons’ Den-Inspired School Event

I also had the pleasure of attending a Dragons’ Den-inspired event hosted by the Social Enterprise Academy, where students from Barnes Farm Primary School presented their business ideas and social enterprise projects.

It was fantastic to hear so many creative and thoughtful ideas delivered with real confidence and enthusiasm. The students demonstrated impressive teamwork, communication skills and ambition throughout the event.

Everyone who took part should be incredibly proud of themselves, and I look forward to following the winning project closely in the months ahead.

As always, if there is an issue you would like to raise, please do get in touch. My team and I work hard to respond to all correspondence as quickly as possible, and I am grateful for your patience if there is ever a delay.

Facebook: Marie Goldman MP - Chelmsford (www.facebook.com/ MarieGoldmanLD)

Instagram: mariecgoldman (www.instagram.com/mariecgoldman) Bluesky: Marie Goldman MP (bsky.app/profile/mariecgoldman.bsky. social)

Thanks for reading.

Marie

Construction Roundtable

Supporting Essex Police

Kes Gray: Chelmsfor Born and Read

his own children’s childhoods. Items on display include the classic Mouse Trap board game, ‘must have’ 1960s dinky car toys, Ladybird books, and 1990s cartoon action figures, including Batman and Inspector Gadget.

The museum is open from 10am every day until 5pm (last entry). For more information and to plan your visit, head to museumofchelmsford.co.uk.

As we approach summer, many people want to get leaner, fitter and stronger - or just want to get into last year’s swimsuit!

An upcoming holiday may also urge you to look at what you can be doing for your health and fitness.

Whether you’re a complete beginner who has never stepped into a gym, or someone who feels like life has got in the way of your routine, our team at Dovedale Leisure Centre believe in giving you the best opportunity to achieve your goals.

With facilities allowing you to focus on cardio, weight training or strength and performance, alongside classes ranging from Zumba to yoga and pilates to body combat, you’ve got everything you need for a great workout. Whatever your goal, our expert instructors will help you achieve it.

With that in mind, we’d love to share some tips to help you get off to the best start possible.

1. Ask for Help

It can feel overwhelming joining a new gym or taking part in a new class, as everyone around you seems to know what they should be doing, has their schedule set in stone, or simply the Zumba routine seems to come naturally to them. The most important thing is feeling comfortable and asking a member of staff for guidance and support.

We are all on a journey; some of us just started earlier!

2. Start Slowly

When starting out with a new exercise routine, you may think, ‘this is easy, I could be doing double this weight’ and find yourself ramping to a more intense workout quickly - but then wake up the next day unable to extend your arms, or with legs that feel a bit stiff.

There is no need to feel embarrassed, we’ve all done it. We’ve pushed a bit too hard and felt the consequences after. When you’re starting out, it’s always best to start light and build up gradually. If anything, finishing a session knowing you could do a bit more gives you a great starting point for next time.

3. Think Big, Start Small

A common misconception is that you need to spend hours in the gym, several times a week to see results - but that’s not always the case. The time you spend really depends on your overall goals and current fitness level.

If you are looking to improve your general health, visiting twice a week is a great place to start, and even 30 minutes of simple cardio can make a difference.

If you’re unsure what’s right for you, come and chat to one of our friendly team and we can arrange a programme review to help you achieve your goals.

4. Do It Your Way

Call the centre on 01245 605 685 and ask for a 7 day free trial, Or visit our website at www. chelmsford.gov.uk/leisure-centres/ dovedale-membership-enquiry. Beginning Your Fitness Journey This Summer?

You may imagine fitness as intense gym workouts, structured to target specific muscles. But this doesn’t have to be the case. What fitness looks like is entirely up to you.

Some of our members have no interest in the gym and instead take part in classes as their way of staying active. You might discover something new, like pilates and body combat, or even a sound bath and build your well-being routine around that instead.

5. Make It Social

Fitness can feel complicated when you’re starting out, and it’s completely normal to feel a bit unsure or even self-conscious at first which can make it feel quite isolating.

While some people prefer to put their music on and get straight into their workout, others enjoy something a bit more social for support or motivation.

Why not invite a friend to try a workout with you? Just ask our friendly reception team for a voucher to bring your buddies along!

6. Support Yourself

To put it simply: life happens. It is not always possible to stick to a routine. You might need a break for your health, a holiday, a new job, or simply because you are just not feeling up to it.

You don’t need to justify a break, to anyone, including yourself. What matters is doing what feels right for yourself both mentally and physically.

Whether that’s one class a week or asking for a pause on your membership while you recover, you are still on track!

With summer on the horizon, it can sometimes feel a bit intimidating, but making a start doesn’t have to mean making big changes. Set your own goals, adjust them as you go, and don’t be afraid to try something new.

If you are interested in starting your fitness journey this summer, we would love to help you in our Dovedale Leisure Centre right here in Moulsham!

MT Gardening

Early June is one of the most rewarding periods in the gardening calendar. Borders begin to swell with fresh foliage, roses burst into flower and longer daylight hours encourage rapid growth throughout the garden.

While the pace of work increases, this is also the moment when careful attention can shape the appearance and health of the garden for the rest of the summer. Warm soil temperatures and reliable moisture create ideal growing conditions, but they also encourage weeds, pests and diseases. A balanced approach of maintenance, support and gentle intervention will keep the garden looking vibrant and resilient.

One of the most valuable tasks in early June is the ‘Chelsea Chop’ - a pruning technique carried out in the final week of May or first week of June. This involves cutting back approximately one-third to one-half of the stems of late-summer flowering perennials by around 15-30cm. Plants such as Hylotelephium spectabile (ice plant - formerly known as Sedum spectabile), Symphyotrichum novi-belgii (Michaelmas daisy), and Phlox paniculata (garden phlox) respond particularly well. The process delays flowering slightly but encourages bushier growth, stronger stems and a longer flowering period later in the season. In smaller gardens, selectively chopping only some stems can extend seasonal interest without reducing overall impact.

Another important early June task is thinning overcrowded fruit on trained fruit trees. Apples such as Malus domestica and pears such as Pyrus communis naturally produce more fruitlets than the tree can mature successfully. After the natural ‘June drop’ remove smaller or damaged fruits so that individual fruits are spaced approximately 10-15cm apart. This improves airflow, reduces the risk of fungal disease and encourages the remaining fruits to develop better size and flavour. Trained espaliers and cordons particularly benefit from careful thinning, as restricted forms can become congested very quickly.

Early June is also the ideal time to lift and divide overcrowded spring bulbs that have finished flowering but still retain green foliage. Clumps of Narcissus pseudonarcissus (wild daffodil) and cultivated daffodils often become congested after several years, reducing flowering performance. Once the foliage begins to yellow naturally, bulbs can be lifted carefully with a fork, divided by hand and replanted immediately at a depth roughly three times the bulb height. Replanting into soil improved with organic matter helps bulbs establish strongly for the following spring.

A less commonly discussed but highly useful task is checking and adjusting ties on climbing plants and trained shrubs. Rapid early summer growth means plants such as Clematis montana (mountain clematis), Lonicera periclymenum (honeysuckle), and climbing roses can quickly become vulnerable to wind damage. Soft ties should be loosened or repositioned to avoid stems becoming constricted. New shoots should be fan-trained horizontally where possible, encouraging more flowering shoots and better wall or fence coverage. Regular attention now prevents damage later in the season when stems become woody and harder to manage.

Garden ponds also deserve attention in early June. As temperatures rise, blanket weed can increase rapidly, especially in sunny water features. Removing excess weed manually with a cane or rake helps maintain oxygen levels and improves conditions for wildlife. Marginal aquatic plants such as Caltha palustris (marsh marigold) and Iris pseudacorus (yellow flag iris) may need thinning if they are spreading aggressively. Avoid removing too much vegetation at once, as ponds are important habitats for amphibians and aquatic insects during summer breeding periods.

June is often associated with ornamental abundance, and many plants now begin their main display. Rosa ‘Gertrude Jekyll’ (English shrub rose) produces richly scented blooms, while Digitalis purpurea (common foxglove) provides height and valuable nectar for pollinators. In sunny borders, Salvia nemorosa (woodland sage) and Nepeta × faassenii (catmint) combine well with ornamental grasses to create a relaxed, informal appearance. Regular deadheading of repeat-flowering roses and hardy geraniums such as Geranium Rozanne (‘Gerwat’PBR) (cranesbill geranium) encourages continuous flowering throughout summer.

Vegetable gardens become increasingly productive in early June. Successive sowings of Lactuca sativa (lettuce), Raphanus sativus (radish) and Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris (beetroot) help maintain continuity of harvests.

Outdoor tomatoes, Solanum lycopersicum, should be supported securely and side shoots removed from cordon varieties to focus energy into fruit production. Applying a mulch layer of well-rotted compost around crops helps conserve moisture during warmer weather and suppresses weed growth naturally.

Wildlife activity is especially noticeable now. Allowing small areas of longer grass to develop seed heads and flowers benefits pollinators and other insects. Even a narrow strip left unmown can support bees, hoverflies and butterflies throughout the summer months. Avoid using pesticides wherever possible, as many beneficial insects are actively breeding during this period.

Additional Early June Tasks

Sow biennials such as Digitalis purpurea (common foxglove) and Myosotis sylvatica (wood forget-me-not) for next year’s displays. Net soft fruit bushes to protect ripening crops from birds. Trim evergreen hedges such as Taxus baccata (yew) and Ligustrum ovalifolium (privet) after spring growth.

Check container plants daily for watering needs during warm spells. Harvest herbs such as Mentha spicata (spearmint) and Thymus vulgaris (common thyme) before flowering for best flavour.

Happy gardening!

For personalised gardening advice, feel free to contact Tom Cole, Freelance Horticulturist and online tutor, at tomcole8@hotmail.com or visit www.learningwithexperts.com for online RHS courses.

Nick Garner’s Music & Ramblings

This weather has been barmy. One minute its cold and wet or windy and (as I write this) it’s now very hot. Let’s just hope it settles down.

I went to to a trade show recently - all to do with filming and lighting - at Olympia with a couple of friends, which was good. We have been going for a few years now and find it beneficial for us.

The elections have come and gone and we have had some changes with Reform now running the county council, lets just wait and see how they get on with it. Now that Labour have had a hiding right across the UK let’s see what happens with them in the future.

We have now had the van repaired after someone ran into it a while ago. As they just disappeared we had to claim on our insurance, which left us very annoyed and out of pocket - and now having to get new brakes fitted as well.

I plan to go away for a few days, as the festival I was going to got cancelled, so I want to do something as the weather is so nice. Seeing as it is likely to be not as hot as the bank holiday weekend, I have decided I am going to north Norfolk, as I really do need a few days away.

With all the hot and dry weather I know the farmers are worrying, as they need rain now to grow their crops. And for us, do remember to keep hydrated and take care of your pets, in particular your dogs, during this hot spell.

I know that concrete canvas has now finished in Chelmsford and we currently have over one hundred painted walls, bollards and phone cabinets all around the city which I think is great. Hopefully it gives people another reason to want to come and visit us. If you type ‘Concrete Canvas Chelmsford’ into your search engine map you can find out where the art is.

There’s lots coming up in and around Chelmsford this summer. On Saturday June 20th it’s Essex Pride in Central Park. We also have State Fayre Music & Barbecue festival coming up and there’s also Foodies Fest and the Chelmsford Festival. We also have VolFest for volunteers and a jazz festival at The Woolpack. Let’s just hope the weather stays reasonable for these events and the many more that are going on in and around the area. I suggest going online or looking

in our City Times for more information.

Music

I have been quite busy with the shows I have been putting on. Early in May though I also went to Hot Box for the Radio City Sessions hosted by the Jackson Line. It was a great night and I got to catch up with some pals too. It was good to see Jack Browning playing. I also went to have a quick look at the Drag Show which was funny but not really my thing - it was busy, mainly with females.

I have written about the John Otway and Wild Willy Barrett show in The City Times already - the show was great and very funny and they are back next year for their 50th anniversary in July. After our trip to London, I was back at Hot Box for the first of my sell-outs there. Firstly, we had John B Sparkes who is better known as Sparko, a founder of Dr Feelgood. This is his new band, Going Back Home, and they were fabulous. They featured John Simpson on guitar and vocal duties who did a fine job, plus John Roberts of the Blockheads on drums.

It was then back to the Social Club with a guitar wizard called Paul Rose - as ever he blew us all away. I can’t wait to see him back with Guitar Heads in December. Back at Hot Box for two sell-out shows we had Will Wilde. Will and his band were great and if you missed it you can see him opening for Eric Clapton in Sandringham in August. We also welcomed back to Hot Box Geraint Watkins and his Mosquitoes. This is one of two shows he’s playing with them this year.

Oliver Darling, the band’s guitarist, is also guitarist for Imelda May and he came straight from the airport having been in Portugal with Imelda. We also had Little George on harmonicas, guitar and vocals as a special guest - he was great. There was also Paul Riley on bass and Malcolm Mills on drums. Geraint was on keys, accordion and vocals. Geraint has played with so many others, as he is the keyboard player of choice for many and rightfully so we think.

I have a good few acts listed in the adverts for the coming month and we have a great line-up for this part and of the year and from September to December.

The sad thing is that so many shows all over the UK are suffering at present. It can be caused by the weather, the cost of fuel or to do with uncertainties in world, I don’t know. If you are planning on going to an event then please do try to book it in advance - for my events, the details are below.

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 and our readers want to know about it.

If you 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 the full details to them.

You can get tickets for all our shows at The Chelmsford Social Club in Chelmsford from the Meadows shopping centre at Intense Records, or in Moulsham Street at The Hop Beer Shop, and next to County Hall and the Library at Chelmsford 4Good. Please pay cash when you buy from them.

Tickets for all shows, including ours at Hot Box, are available also online from www.wegottickets.com/BlackFrogPresents, or book via our ticket hotline with no extra commission charge - call or text 07508 496 411 and you can then pay the advance price at the door by card or cash.

To find out more about Black Frog Presents and our shows go to www.linktr.ee/BlackFrogPresets or scan the QR code in our adverts in this publication.

Do you love sheep? I love sheep - their funny ways; they follow the leader, they trust everyone, they have special eyes that seem to see everywhere, they know their leader and recognise the other sheep around them, and they are happiest when they live in a flock.

Did you know there are over 1,200 breeds of sheep, and that ewes know their lambs and lambs know their mum, and did you know they are emotionally complex? Maybe this is why there are so many Bible stories about sheep. I had this idea that God loves a shepherd, but maybe it is the combination that is genuinely fascinating. A good shepherd needs to be brave, courageous, caring, patient, able to live rough and live on very little.

This month, our Edward Bear Baby and Toddler Group is focussing on Jesus as the Good Shepherd. Specifically, we are encouraged to remember that the Good Shepherd works and cares for us out of love. A Good Shepherd will, quite literally, lay down his life for the sheep, wrestling, in those days, with lions and bears, terrifyingly. And so, through all these stories we are reminded about the life of Jesus, caring for each of us (the sheep), but more than that, he loves us,

and

giving up his earthly life for us.

However, the plot thickens and we are reminded that there will always be false leaders, people who want to lure us away from the good things in life and who do not really care. As a church, we really care, we are a loving, faithful community and welcome all. We support several charities, and host Little Acorns Pre-School, Trudi Osborne’s School of Dance and 1st and 2nd Moulsham Lodge Brownies.

During the national month of prayer for toddler groups we will pray for toddler groups across the country, pray for parents and carers and pray for the toddlers themselves.

We pray for the shepherds and the sheep. Come and join us, Baa!

Go well.

Reverend Canon Stephanie Gillingham

St Luke’s Church, Gloucester Avenue, Moulsham Lodge, CM2 8DT www.stlukemoulsham.co.uk Facebook @Stlukesmoulshamlodge

Spirit Shine at Oaklands Infant School This Half Term

It has been a vibrant and memorable half term at Oaklands Infant School, filled with exciting opportunities for learning, teamwork and community spirit. Pupils across all year groups have been busy exploring new topics, developing skills and enjoying a wide range of enriching experiences both in and out of the classroom.

A highlight for the entire school was a series of visits to Dovedale Sports Centre, where every class took part in fun and active sessions led by young trainee sports coaches. The children embraced the chance to try new activities, build confidence and develop teamwork skills in a supportive and energetic environment.

Year 1 pupils have been fully immersed in their fascinating history topic, Toys in the Past. Their enthusiasm has truly brought the subject to life. The children have explored how toys have changed over time, comparing modern favourites with those enjoyed by previous generations. A particularly special part of this topic has been welcoming visitors into school to share stories and memories from their own childhoods. These sessions gave pupils a real insight into the past and sparked lively discussions and curiosity.

To further enrich their learning, Year 1 also enjoyed a visit to Oaklands Museum, where they were able to see historical toys and artefacts up close. The trip provided a memorable, hands-on experience that helped deepen their understanding of how children’s lives have evolved over time.

Meanwhile, Year 2 pupils have been showcasing their sporting talents beyond the school grounds. Two teams proudly represented Oaklands Infant School in the Chelmsford Schools Sports Partnership 3Tees cricket competition. Both teams demonstrated fantastic determination, teamwork and sportsmanship throughout the event. A special congratulations goes to Team B, who performed exceptionally well and secured a place in the final - a fantastic achievement that the whole school is proud of.

Back in school, Year 1 pupils also delighted families with their class assemblies. These performances were a wonderful opportunity for children to share their learning from the term with parents and carers. With confidence and enthusiasm, they showcased their knowledge, creativity and growing self-assurance. More assemblies are still to come and we look forward to sharing even more special moments with our school community.

As the term continues, there is still plenty to look forward to at Oaklands Infant School. One date for the diary is the muchanticipated Summer Fête on 4th July. This promises to be a fantastic community event full of fun activities, stalls, and opportunities to come together and celebrate. Everyone is warmly invited to attendplease do come along and see us!

www.oaklands-inf.essex.sch.uk

Laughter

Team

Slow Cooked Chinese Beef & Broccoli with Egg Fried Rice - By Biv Pirathapan

The Fakeaway That Absolutely Delivers! There are some nights when only a Chinese takeaway will do. The craving creeps in early - glossy sauces, steaming rice, that unmistakable aroma of soy, garlic and savoury richness drifting out of little foil containers...

This month, we’re taking all those comforting takeaway flavours and giving them the Rose and Lily treatment: bigger flavour, less effort, and a meal that leaves you feeling satisfied rather than needing a nap afterwards.

Enter our slow cooker Chinese beef and broccoli with fluffy egg fried rice and peas - a dish that tastes like it’s come from your favourite local takeaway, yet quietly bubbles away all day while you get on with life. This is slow cooking at its finest: deep flavour, meltingly tender beef, glossy sauce clinging to every strand of broccoli and almost embarrassingly little effort involved.

This is proper fakeaway food. Comforting, rich and packed with flavour… but without the mystery oil slick at the bottom of the bag.

Why This Dish Works

The magic of this dish is all about time. The slow cooker gently transforms humble ingredients into something deeply savoury and luxurious. Garlic softens and sweetens, soy becomes richer and more rounded and the beef turns beautifully tender as it slowly absorbs all that flavour.

And then comes the broccoli -

vibrant, fresh and slightly crisp against the richness of the sauce. We love using tenderstem broccoli here because it feels just a little more elegant and gives a lovely bite, but standard broccoli works beautifully too.

The egg fried rice keeps things classic. Soft rice, pops of sweetness from the peas, ribbons of egg running throughout - simple, nostalgic and the perfect partner for that glossy beef.

The Nutritional Win

Now let’s address the elephant in the takeaway menu. One of the biggest advantages of making this at home is control. You’re using quality beef, fresh vegetables and far less oil, salt and sugar than many takeaway versions. The slow cooking process also means you can use leaner cuts of beef while still getting incredible tenderness.

Broccoli brings fibre, iron and vitamins, peas add sweetness and protein, and the egg fried rice gives you slow-release energy without feeling overly heavy.

In short? You still get the comfort. You still get the flavour - but you walk away feeling fuelled rather than floored.

Ingredients

For the slow cooker beef and broccoli:

• 800g beef, sliced (shin, braising steak, skirt, chuck or even brisket all work brilliantly).

• 1 onion, sliced.

• 4 garlic cloves, crushed.

• 1 thumb-sized piece ginger, grated.

• 120ml soy sauce.

• 2 tbsp oyster sauce.

• 2 tbsp dark brown sugar or honey.

• 500ml beef stock.

• 1 tsp Chinese Five Spice.

• 1 tbsp cornflour.

• 2 heads broccoli or 2 packs tenderstem broccoli.

For the egg fried rice:

• 300g cooked and cooled rice.

• 2 eggs.

• Frozen peas.

• Soy sauce.

• Sesame oil or neutral oil.

Method

1. Into the Slow Cooker

Add the beef, onion, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, stock and five spice directly into the slow cooker. Give everything a good mix, pop the lid on, and cook on low for 7-8 hours. That’s it. Seriously.

2. Add the Broccoli

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in your broccoli or tenderstem broccoli. This keeps it vibrant, green and full of life rather than overcooked and sad.

Mix the cornflour with a splash of cold water and stir through at the same time to thicken the sauce into that glorious glossy finish.

3. Make the Egg Fried Rice

Heat a splash of oil in a frying pan. Add the rice and peas, frying for 2-3 minutes before pushing everything to one side. Crack in the eggs and scramble gently before mixing through the rice. Finish with a splash of soy sauce. Simple. Classic. Perfect.

Top Tips to Wow

• Use cooled rice for the best fried rice texture.

• Tenderstem broccoli gives a more delicate bite and feels restaurant-worthy.

• Want extra richness? Add a drizzle of chilli oil before serving.

• Slice beef thinly for maximum tenderness.

Serving Suggestions

Pile the glossy beef over the egg fried rice and finish with spring onions, sesame seeds, crispy onions - and extra chilli oil if you like a kick. Serve in bowls big enough to encourage greed...

Final Thought

This is exactly the kind of recipe we love most - minimal effort, maximum payoff and packed with the sort of bold flavour that makes everyone suspicious that you secretly ordered it in.

The slow cooker does all the hard work while you get all the credit. Rich beef. Silky sauce. Fresh broccoli. Fluffy rice.

Comfort food without compromise - and proof that fakeaway nights can absolutely become the best nights of the week.

Tucked away in the quiet countryside of Little Waltham, Chelmsford, The Windmill Chatham Green delivers an intimate and refined dining experience nestled within its rural pub setting.

The place is run by a husbandand-wife team, an excellent front-ofhouse Nancy and incredibly talented chef Tom Clarke. Congratulations for being listed in the Michelin guide for a third year running in 2026.

Their 8-course tasting menu is a journey through modern British cuisine, showcasing seasonal ingredients.

From the outset, the experience was second to none. We were celebrating our third wedding anniversary, and after being greeted by Nancy at the door, we took a seat at the bar and ordered a Guinness and a glass of champagne to set the tone.

The opening canapé was set down in front of us, under a glass dome, out swirled a beautiful smoke plume and revealed the wild mushroom arancini on a bed of wild rice - a modest mouthful, delicate and packed with flavour.

Shortly after, we were sat at our table in the dining area under the beautiful oak beams ready for the signature bread course… oh yes, it’s that rosemary and sea salt focaccia with Marmite butter, herb oil and crispy chicken skin that EVERYBODY talks about after they’ve been. It truly is a standout introduction to the rest of the menu.

The menu continues with a velouté of wild garlic and asparagus, offering a fresh, earthy note that reflects their focus on seasonal produce. It was so silky smooth…

This is followed by a chicken liver parfait disguised as shiny apple, with clementine, where richness is expertly offset by citrus. The torched salmon, paired with fennel and grapefruit gave a contrast of textures along with acidity transitioning into the meat course with roast aged duck breast served with beetroot and black garlic.

I am still trying to decide which course was my favourite, but the salmon really stood out for me as a fish lover.

A mango inspired pre-dessert acts as a refreshing palate cleanser before the final sweet course. The smoothest dark chocolate crémeux with rhubarb and rose is

a sophisticated finish - decadent yet balanced, however at this point I do think I was fit to burst!

We had won the 5 course dining experience via The Barefoot Blonde Instagram giveaway and kindly asked The Windmill if we could upgrade to the 8 course and we are so glad we were able to so that we could get the full experience.

Beyond the food, the service plays a crucial role in elevating the experience, we opted for wine pairing with each course and Nancy talked us through grape and region with ease and without being strictly just factual. We talked about things between us and she told stories. Overall, it was probably the most relaxed and delicious dining experience I think I have ever had and we will certainly be coming back for more!

The Windmill, Chatham Green, Little Waltham, Chelmsford, CM3 3LE - open Thursday - Sunday

www.thewindmillchathamgreen.co.uk

In this article, we take a close look at Warren Buffett’s legacy, as one of the most prominent investors. We touch upon his timeless investing rules that can help you compound wealth by investing in the stock market.

With the recent retirement of Warren Buffett, investors are revisiting his famous philosophy. He is the Chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, and for decades was its chief executive. He is arguably the most recognisable figure in investing with his net worth currently estimated to be around $150bn. That wealth has come from applying a relatively consistent investment strategy over a long period of time.

Since taking control of Berkshire in 1965, the company’s share price has compounded at roughly 20% per year, far ahead of the US market which is closer to 10% per year. In the 1950s-1960s, returns were extraordinarily high (40-50% per year). Moreover, the consistent rules that Buffett champions make investing sound surprisingly easy if you have the right mindset, time horizon and temperament.

The Buffett way is as follows:

1. Buy businesses you understand...

2. With favourable long-term economics and trustworthy management...

3. At a price that gives you a margin of safety...

4. Let compound interest do the heavy lifting...

5. Try not to sell, unless something fundamental changes.

Buffett Rule 1: Stay Inside Your Circle of Competence Berkshire has long said it looks for businesses it can understand before anything else. If Warren Buffett looks at something new and after 20 minutes his head is spinning, he puts it in the ‘too hard’ pile and moves on.

This is an overlooked piece of Warren Buffett investment advice because investors often feel they must have a view on everythinglike they can’t say ‘I don’t know’. To use a baseball analogy, you don’t have to swing at every pitch. No-one is forcing you to invest in AI, biotech, crypto, luxury goods or anything else you don’t understand. If the balls are not at the right height to swing at, just wait for something better.

The late Charlie Munger, Warren Buffett’s right-hand man and coleader of Berkshire Hathaway, once joked to shareholders that they’d ‘lost hundreds of billions of dollars’ by missing opportunities. ‘If you counted the amount of money we could have made in investments we chose not to make, you’d chase me and Warren out of town’.

What he was saying was that if they’d just lowered their bar slightly, they’d have been swinging their bat far more and surely caught more winners. But obviously, he and everyone else in that room knew that by lowering the bar, they’d also have let in some ruinous mistakes.

An example of this is the Dot Com Boom of the late 1990s and early 2000s. There were all kinds of alluring claims about internet stocks. And investors were desperate to load up on them. Buffett stayed out of it because as a 70-year-old, he just didn’t understand what many of these companies did. When the bubble burst, Buffett avoided the fallout.

Choice is great, but so is education. For readers still building their knowledge, resources like Charles Stanley’s guide to investing basics can help you expand your circle of competence and feel more confident.

Buffett Rule 2: Always Invest With a Margin of Safety

This is one of the core ideas Buffett took from his mentor and the father of value investing, Benjamin Graham. Warren Buffett was a classic value investor in his earlier years, meaning his approach is centred around finding opportunities to buy businesses for less than

their true worth, rather than chasing trends. The idea of a margin of safety is intrinsic to this.

‘Price is what you pay, and value is what you get’. So, a margin of safety is about making sure that before you buy a share, your estimate of value is comfortably above the price. That way, if there are bumps in the road or your assumptions were wrong, you have a buffer.

Imagine you think a business is worth £10 a share. If you pay £9.80, you need to be almost exactly right. If earnings disappoint or the company comes up against unexpected headwinds, you’re underwater on that investment pretty fast. But if you pay £6.50 for something you reasonably believe is worth £10, you have more room for error (and by virtue of this, higher upside to the company’s intrinsic value).

Another way of getting a margin of safety is to focus on buying very good quality companies and to hold them for a long time. That’s the style Buffett migrated to over the years. In the fullness of time, shortterm volatility smooths out and becomes a distant memory. Good quality companies invariably march higher as the market begins to assimilate and appreciate its growth path.

Of course, Buffett has lost money on investments. But he avoids the worst losses by sticking to this rule. This is important because a 25% fall needs a 33% gain just to recover. A 50% fall needs to then grow by 100% to return to its starting price. Avoiding serious damage may not feel as fun as looking for opportunities, but it’s one of the great engines of long-term compounding.

Buffett Rule 3: Think Like an Owner Buffett has always encouraged investors to think about shares as pieces of real businesses.

This sounds obvious, but it’s easy to forget when trading shares on an app is so easy, with flashing lights on the screen potentially making it feel like a game.

You can check your stocks 24/7, but if you think about it you wouldn’t check the value of your home every single day, glued to the upticks and downticks. And if you owned a business outright, you wouldn’t call in investment bankers weekly to put a price tag on it. So, as a business owner through the stock market, it’s not logical in theory for you to check the market value of your holdings every five minutes. That’s Buffett’s view.

He believes the owner mindset focuses the mind on more important fundamentals like revenue, margins, profit, customers, competitors, and whether the business itself is becoming stronger or weaker, regardless of the share price.

Buffett

Rule 4: Competitive Advantages Are Essential

So, what companies should you be looking for, according to Buffett? Berkshire has repeatedly said it wants businesses with excellent economics, able and honest management and enough durability to keep generating strong returns well into the future. These are the companies that can compound wealth for years and years and years.

He loves competitive advantages, which he refers to as ‘moats’ around a business. A moat can come from a brand, a distribution network, a cost advantage, customer habits, patents, government protection, scale, or network effects.

Buffett wants these to translate into something called ‘pricing power,’ which is the ability for companies to pass on costs to the customer without losing much in the way of sales. Ideally, companies don’t even lose sales during recessions because their competitive advantages are so strong. That’s a way of keeping the compounding machine consistent in tough times, which is where most people come undone in wealth building. He calls these businesses ‘franchises’ and this is, if anything, the secret to his amazing success.

Franchise examples in the Berkshire portfolio include Coca-Cola with their worldwide brand, Apple with their product ecosystem, and Visa and Mastercard for their network effects.

Buffett Rule 5: Once You’ve Got Them, Let Them Run You may be thinking, ‘okay, and when do I sell them?’ Warren Buffett believes that your wealth comes from - and is - your investments growing over time. If you think of yourself as a business owner, then you trust the value in the companies you own and don’t feel the need to crystalise paper gains into cash.

In practice, Buffett would say that within his portfolio, different investments jockey and compete for the incremental dollar he has to invest. If nothing supplants his franchise picks, he’ll actually top up his shareholdings whenever he gets the chance. He believes that unless you’re selling to free up funds to meet an important expense in your life, selling only gives you the job of having to find somewhere better to put the money. If there’s no better fundamental business, don’t move. And if he can’t or doesn’t want to top even more, Buffett has shown he’s happy to run up cash until the right opportunity comes along.

What Buffett Will Do With His Wealth When He Dies Warren Buffett has pledged to give away more than 99% of his wealth. And he’ll follow the same principles to do this as he has for his whole

The world around us continues to feel chaotic and unpredictable, with conflict continuing in Ukraine and the Middle East, and our national politics entering a period of turmoil. Even our weather feels equally chaotic and unpredictable, with temperatures in Chelmsford in May lurching from 20 degree days down to zero degree nights, and from mild mid-teens to a roasting 30 degrees in a matter of days. We seemed to go from spring back to winter and then fast forward to high summer!

So, what do we make of all this? Global conflicts, national political divisions and climate instability are all the results of the choices we and others make. Whether it is not opposing wayward leaders who amass too much power, voting for those we think will govern our country better, or treating the natural world as an endless resource that we can take from without restraint.

We should all be concerned about this, but we should not throw up our arms and give up hope. Last month I said that ‘Easter people’ are hopeful people, and this hope is not naive. Easter people recognise that humans are free to make choices and decisions, and when these are bad decisions, they can lead to suffering and chaos for themselves, those around them and the wider world.

But our decisions can also lead to good things. I see people selflessly deciding to give their time and talents as volunteers at St John’s to help run our community café, JubiLatte, on Monday and Thursday mornings. I see people deciding to give money to Christian Aid to help those who are less fortunate than themselves. I see people making choices in how they live their lives - what they buy, what they eat, how they travel - to have less impact on the environment.

And I see people deciding to join our church community at St John’s: a diverse community that warmly welcomes people no matter who they are, a community of people who are all on a journey of discovery, searching for something beyond the chaos and unpredictability of the world around us, looking for an eternal spiritual truth, and a peace that passes all understanding.

Having celebrated Pentecost, Eastertide may now be behind us, but we continue to live hopefully as Easter people: people who believe

career as an investor. He’ll look at where he can allocate money in the charitable space for the most productive and positive return. For investors, there is another lesson in this. There is most often a higher purpose than building wealth for its own sake. For some investors, the end goal is a comfortable retirement. For others, it’s family security, a legacy, or helping the younger generation. This is where investing connects with financial planning.

Graham Austin, Chartered FCSI Investment Director

Graham.Austin@charles-stanley.co.uk 0207 149 6696

The value of investments can fall as well as rise. Investors may get back less than invested. Past performance is not a reliable guide to future returns.

The information in this article is for general information purposes and is not a trading recommendation. Nothing in this article should be construed as personal or specific advice. Charles Stanley is not a tax adviser.

Charles Stanley & Co. Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered office: Ropemaker Place, 25 Ropemaker Street, London EC2Y 9LY.

that good will eventually triumph over evil, light will eventually triumph over darkness, and love will eventually triumph over hatred.

Easter people believe that these current times will change, and that we can do something to make the world around us better: through our decisions, through how we are, through small acts of kindness and compassion to those we meet each day, through a simple smile.

The diversity of the congregation at St John’s is something we cherish. As an expression of this diversity and our inclusive values, St John’s has now adopted what are called Prayers of Love and Faith. These are prayers offered with and for same-sex couples who love one another and who wish to give thanks for and mark that love in faith before God. And as a gold ‘eco-church’, living in harmony with nature and the environment is also something that we cherish.

Having been connected to the mains drains, our landscapers are now working to complete the ‘green space’ in our churchyard that will enable people to enjoy spending some time in God’s creation. And having installed our swift nesting boxes in the church tower, on the evening of Tuesday 16th June we will be leading a swift mapping walk around Old Moulsham, to spot where swifts are currently nestingmeet at the church at 8pm.

Finally, we will be hosting a confirmation service on Sunday 21st June at 3pm, where older children and adults will be confirming their decision to be Easter people. If being an Easter person is something that you would like to explore, come and meet us at St John’s!

Blessings,

Fr John Bloomer

email: frjohnbloomer@gmail.com website: www.stjohnsmoulsham.org.uk

Deadlines for the July edition:

Articles: 22nd June Artwork: 24th June

It is getting to that time of year where we venture out and about; aiming on hot days to visit the seaside, and if not taking our own picnic, purchasing an ice cream (or two!) and the traditional fish and chips. Some prefer sauce: tomato, brown or even curry, or the obligatory salt and vinegar. Others may opt for a sedate afternoon tea, with cute cut sandwiches, an array of sweet treats or scones, jam and cream - no arguments here in Essex for jam or cream going on first!

Essex has an array of local producers who make their own products, but the two most well known are products that come from the east side of the county, in Tiptree and Maldon.

Tiptree Jam

It isn’t just in Essex that we see those dinky little pots with a saying printed inside the lid. Whether it is a tartar sauce, mustard, honey, marmalade or strawberry jam, Tiptree has found its way into numerous places and is the go-to jar jam that is commonly part of a cream tea.

As you approach the shop and museum in Tiptree, there is a distinct aroma of sweetness and once entering the shop or tea room, it tantalises the nostrils encouraging you to enjoy the culinary delights.

In 1865 the Wilkin family had moved from arable farming to producing fruit, the majority of which would have been harvested and sent to London to be sold at the markets.

Prime Minister Gladstone then announced his support for fruit preservation, so in 1885 Arthur Charles Wilkin decided that it would be a good business move for the farm to take this on board and he formed The Britannia Fruit Preserving Company and Tiptree’s first preserves were produced. Through a merchant, they were shipped to Australia. The popularity of this enabled the workforce to expand,

Do Try This at Home

If you’ve been reading my articles over the last couple of months, you’ll know I’ve been talking about warm-ups and cool-downs. In this article, I’ll give you the ‘filling’ of the workout sandwich - with the warm-up and cool-down acting as the two slices of bread.

If you’re new to exercise and don’t know where to start, the best place is your own body, aka bodyweight training. If you have no equipment at all, bodyweight exercises are brilliant. They can be quite challenging, so they’re not just for beginners. In this article, I’m assuming you’re new to exercise and want something simple you can do at home.

There are six main movement patterns in everyday life: squat, hinge, lunge, push, pull, and twist. These are the foundation of human movement, so this is where we’ll begin.

Here are some examples:

1. Push: Push-ups (the clue is in the name), pushing a door open, 2. Squat: Also known as ‘sit to stand’ - like getting up from a chair or the toilet.

from pickers to factory workers. Despite the ups and downs of the business, much of which was due to the wars, Wilkin & Sons Ltd has continued, putting Essex preserves on the worldwide map as well as having a Royal Warrant. So next time you are near one of their teashops (treating yourself to a cream tea) or shopping where they stock the produce, pop a jar of their amazing jam into your basket, cook up some scones and with or without cream, you can enjoy your own special cream tea all year round.

Maldon Sea Salt

Since Roman times, the Blackwater Estuary has been associated with salt. However, Maldon is resolutely the go-to place if you want to purchase the well-known large crunchy flakes with a fresh flavour, whether for medicinal purposes or to flavour your favourite foods.

The Domesday Book mentions salt making in Maldon. Romans identified salt making in the area due to the shallow waters and tidal estuaries. However, it wasn’t until 1882 that James Osborne and son Cyril started Maldon Salt, the family business which continues today, also boasting a Royal Warrant.

Where the salty sea meets the Blackwater, salt production has been passed down the centuries, producing uniquely flavoured salt sold worldwide. The salty water is harvested in the spring when the water is at its saltiest, transferred to salt pans, raked to remove any debris and to ensure the best quality tasting salt and left to evaporate - salt crystals are left in the pan. The process continues to ensure clean salt flakes with an unmistakable flavour; a process that has been passed down the generations for its amazing quality and flavoursome product.

Scones with jam and fish and chips are not just for the summer months, they are delicious all year round. Both products can be used in a variety of dishes, so don’t delay, support your local producers and keep these traditional and long-lived crafts going for many years into the future.

3. Hinge: Bending from the hips without rounding your back, such as picking something up off the floor.

4. Twist: Rotating your body from side to side.

5. Lunge: Taking a step forward or backwards.

6. Pull: Pulling open a heavy door or starting a manual lawn mower.

Now let’s put some of these into a simple home workout. We’re going to use a method called interval training. You perform an exercise for a set amount of time, then you rest before moving on to the next one.

In this example, you’ll perform four exercises (see the above image). Work for 30 seconds, then rest for 30 seconds. Once you’ve completed all four exercises, rest for one minute and repeat the circuit another two times for a total of three rounds.

Ola Adamolekun Health and Nutrition Coach/Personal Trainer

www.beencouragedwellness.co.uk

Instagram: www.instagram.com/olaadamolekun

Facebook: www.facebook.com/BeEncouragedBeStrong

Wharam’s Wine Words

Hello everyone and welcome to June’s edition of Wharam’s Wine Words. What lovely weather we’ve been having over the past few weeks, positively tropical - and with that in mind, not only has it been wonderful to spend time in the garden during the day, it has also extended the time we get to spend evenings outside without freezing.

Judging by the adverts on social media etc, we are all being encouraged towards alfresco dining and that of course, drives us Brits towards the inevitable aroma of the barbecues. But what, you ask, should we be drinking during our outdoor events? As we become ever more adept at this style of cooking, following exotic recipes and TV chef recommendations, our expectations grow with every year. Moving on from the traditional lagers, ciders and ales, better accompaniments appear ever more enticing - and where else to turn but towards the happy direction of wine?

Choosing the right wine can turn your party from pleasant to memorable. For alfresco meals - with smoky meats, charred veg and zesty salads - look for wines that are refreshing, food-friendly and versatile. I have selected some of the best wine styles and specific recommendations to suit typical Chelmsford summer menus, budgets and serving conditions.

Sparkling wines are crowd-pleasers for any summer party and sparkling wine is the ultimate party starter. Its acidity and bubbles cut through rich, fatty barbecue flavours and it works with everything from grilled prawns to halloumi.

For local summer events, try English sparkling. Proudly local, many English sparkling wines (traditional method) offer crisp apple, citrus and brioche notes which are excellent with smoked salmon or fried chicken. Producers such as Nyetimber, Ridgeview and Chapel Down cover a range of prices, but much closer to home, take a trip down the Crouch Valley and you won’t be disappointed.

For the slightly keener budget, try Prosecco or Cava. They represent great value and are light and fruity. Prosecco is slightly sweeter and aromatic, while Cava tends to be drier with brioche notes. Both are perfect as aperitifs or with lighter grill starters.

I really enjoy Rosé sparkling, whether pink fizz (Provence-style or Cava rosado) or a pink champagne. They all add a festive look and pair brilliantly with charred salads, grilled salmon and spicy wings.

As with last month’s Wine Words, rosé, in my view, is the summer’s most versatile bottle - it has become essential for garden dining. Choose dry, pale rosés for versatility and to keep things refreshing. Provence-style rosé is pale, dry, and elegant with strawberry, citrus and herb notes. It pairs well with grilled vegetables, chicken skewers, and seafood and is widely available in the supermarkets and wine shops around our city. Grenache/GSM rosés are slightly fullerbodied, with red-fruit intensity and very good if you’re serving tomatobased sides or spiced meats. My tip is to serve rosé well-chilled (8-10°C) in clear glasses to highlight its inviting colour.

Light, chilled whites offer freshness and food affinity and white wines’ acidity and citrus/stone-fruit characters are ideal to balance charcoal flavours and smokiness. Try Sauvignon Blanc with its zesty,

herbaceous and zippy tones, working well with herb-marinated chicken, green salads and goat cheese. Popular options include Loire Sancerre, New Zealand Marlborough styles (fruitier) or lighter UK imports.

Moving beyond the entry-level but still affordable, there is Albariño, a Galician Spanish coastal white with saline, peach and grapefruit notes. It’s fantastic with shellfish, prawns and grilled fish and is widely available these days. Verdejo and Txakolina are Spanish whites that are fresh and slightly textured, pairing well with grilled vegetables, tapas-style BBQ sides and fish. Chenin Blanc (Vouvray or good prices from South Africa) offers crisp acidity and richer fruit, so go for dry versions for food pairing with pork and glazed chicken.

I really like chilled light reds and on this basis - don’t be afraid to go red and many guests still expect red wine at barbecues. Opt for lighter, low-tannin reds that can be lightly chilled. I love unoaked Rioja well chilled with lamb chops. Beaujolais (Gamay) works admirably with its bright cranberry and cherry notes and low tannin. Serve lightly chilled (12°C) with charred sausages, burgers and BBQ chicken. Pinot Noir is an elegant, savoury red that pairs with grilled salmon, duck or herb-forward dishes. Look for examples from Burgundy, Oregon or cooler-climate New World producers and don’t ignore Romania where techniques have improved enormously of late.

If you like your fuller-bodied whites and rosés, pair them with richer, saucier dishes and if your barbecue leans toward BBQ sauce, sticky ribs or spiced meats, pick wines with more body and fruit such as oaked or richer Chardonnay. Choose unoaked or lightly oaked versions to avoid overpowering oak while still offering body and stone-fruit flavours. Richer rosés or Grenache-led wines with their fruit-forward styles can stand up to sweet-and-spicy sauces.

If you love a traditional Essex beano, try pairing by common BBQ dishes in this way:

• Burgers (beef): Gamay, Pinot Noir, or a medium-bodied Shiraz; for sauced burgers, try fuller rosé or a chilled Zinfandel.

• Chicken (herb or lemon): Sauvignon Blanc, dry rosé or Pinot Noir.

• Ribs (BBQ sauce): Grenache, Shiraz, or a robust rosé; English sparkling works for contrast.

• Salmon and oily fish: Albariño, unoaked Chardonnay, or light Pinot Noir.

• Veggie skewers/grilled halloumi: Rosé, Verdejo, sparkling rosé.

Think refreshment and balance: acidity, moderate alcohol and bright fruit will keep wines palatable in warm weather and with smoky, sweet barbecue flavours. Mix local Essex sparkle with accessible Mediterranean whites and a couple of easy-drinking light reds or rosés, and your summer events will have something for everyone.

My tastings are back on with the next one taking place at Voodoo Keller Bar on June 11th at 7pm with a summer barbecue theme. Lots of lovely food pairings to enjoy. Spaces are limited. Please contact me on office@vineuse.co.uk for more info or check out my Instagram: @philipwharam.

Enjoy the sunshine - and drink responsibly.

Cheers - Phil

Latest News

A huge thank you to everyone who braved the chilly weather and attend Ride for Helen this year. Over 600 riders took part raising much needed funds for the Helen Rollason Charity. Our very own George, Amy and Ruth helped gee up the riders with some great music and motivational words. Can’t wait for next time!

The 1st Ingatestone Guides visited our studio in May and took part in an audio production workshop which would help them gain their Media Badge. The Guides learned all about the history of broadcasting in Chelmsford and our ties to our patron; Princess Elettra Marconi, daughter of Guglielmo Marconi known to many as ‘The Father of Wireless’, before taking part in an activity using recording equipment.

In June, we are looking forward to helping with the Chelmsford City Council Skills Festival. Hundreds of school children, descending on the Anglia Ruskin University Writtle Campus to meet representatives from a wide range of trades and careers - some getting hands-on experience with activities from brick-laying to virtual reality. Our careers team will be there to support young people with an interest in media and journalism. If your loved one is going, do tell them to come and say hi.

We are very excited to be launching our new Essex Book Worm Podcast project, in partnership with the lovely Essex Book Festival team, supported by Ignite and funded by the Essex County Council Arts and Culture Fund.

If your teenager is interested in books and would like to take part in the project launch then save the following dates, Tuesday 4th and

Participants will be able to gain valuable skills, meet authors and like-minded individuals to discuss all kinds of literature in the safe setting of the Anglia Ruskin University Chelmsford Campus.

We are open to more visits and partnership working with schools, youth and other community groups. For enquiries please email admin@chelmsfordcommunityradio.com.

Van Dyke - By Eleanor Searle

I write this article having almost missed my deadline, as there has been even more than normal going on in my extraordinarily packed life.

I was delighted to present at the North East London Spinal Network - a conference for neurosurgeons, pain consultants, physiotherapists and nurses - on modern physiotherapy approaches, namely Cognitive Functional Therapy.

It had been a long time, 10 years, since I had done any public speaking other than teaching, and although last time Jimmy Nail told me that I’d nailed it, it took a lot of work to create an engaging presentation, which was evidence-based, insightful and inspiring.

I also needed a lot of practice to make it look effortless. However, I did nail it.

I thought that I’d share some key points:

The importance of promoting what is possible: A can-do attitude can be the difference between escaping pain and living with it.

The need to promote a strong self-efficacy: The confidence that you’ve got this will be ok and can do it!

The importance of keeping moving: Dick Van Dyke of Mary Poppins fame is a marvellous example of both positivity and the power of being mobile in older age. His legendary quote is something that I will share with you:

“In my 30s I exercised to look good. In my 50s to stay fit. In my 70s to stay ambulatory. In my 80s to avoid assisted living. Now in my 90s I am just doing it out pure defiance.”

He is now 100!

At Hummingbird Pilates & Yoga, we always promote what is possible, the strength of a positive attitude and the power of moving. We’d love you to come and join us!

www.hummingbirdpilates.co.uk

Wednesday 5th August, then keep an eye on our social media feed for the booking link.

CCR Presenter Ruth CooperDickson feeling on top of the world at the Ride for Helen event

The Disappearance of Mr Felton - Part 2

This is a continuation of last month’s story but can be read on its own.

Iowa, 1903

No matter how tightly the blanket was wrapped around her, Louisa Bennett could not get warm. It was not the type of weather to be out and about in, the light sleet turning to clumps of thick snow.

Her mind went to Zachary, wondering if something terrible had happened and he was out in this weather all alone. However cold she was, Louisa knew that it would be worse for him if he were injured and unable to move.

“What do you think has happened to Mr Felton?” She called to her husband over the howl of the wind.

Sheriff Bennett turned to her with squinted eyes, trying to shield them from the harsh elements. “I honestly don’t know, my love. There were no signs of a struggle, so I doubt anything untoward has happened. Do not worry your pretty head about it. I will find him.”

She didn’t doubt his capability, but she did doubt her own ability to put the matter from her mind. It was awful to admit it, but she loved Zachary Felton. Not more than her husband, for there was no better man, but he understood her in a way that no one else could. They had met quite by chance when Louisa’s trap had got caught in the mud not far from the Felton farm, and as if he had sensed her distress, he’d appeared over the hill with the strength of an ox and pulled the cart free with his bare hands. Sheriff Bennett would not have had the strength to do it if he were with her, so she was grateful that Mr Felton had been on hand to assist. She had looked a mess with mud covering the front of her dress, so its original colour was absent, but Zachary had hardly noticed. He hadn’t been able to tear his gaze from her face, and Louisa had felt strange when her stomach felt hollow with just a look.

“Do you think…” Louisa stopped, unsure if she should voice her opinions aloud. The cart went over a rut, and Mr and Mrs Bennett were shaken about.

“What is it, my dear?” Sheriff Bennett asked his wife, always so patient with her.

“Do you think that Mrs Felton is capable of hurting her husband?” Louisa expected him to laugh at her suggestion, but instead, he simply looked surprised. “Angela Felton capable of murder? No, she is not the sort. And she is nearly ready to give birth. A woman does not have the strength for these things.”

Louisa did not contradict her husband by reminding him that if a woman was capable of bringing a life into this world, then she was capable of anything.

The sheriff dropped his wife off at their house and informed her that he needed to round up the local men for a search. He told her to lock the door after him and not to let anyone in unless she heard his voice. He would be back before dark, he informed her, and then, with a scarf he’d retrieved from their bedroom, went back out to brace the weather.

Louisa did not want to sit still, so she discarded the idea of reading, got out a cloth and began to clean the kitchen despite it being spotless. She then swept every floor in the house while trying to avoid the windows. If she saw movement outside, she would be sure to press her face to the window and wonder if there was any news of Zachary’s whereabouts.

wanted to do was hurt him. He did not deserve that.

Sick with worry, she let herself cry for a few minutes, then vowed she would not do so again. If her husband returned and saw her tears, he would suspect there was something amiss, and the last thing she

Louisa had felt faint and needed to sit down, so she had taken a seat in the back bedroom that looked out over the church, and she must have closed her eyes, for she was awoken with the sound of scratching. Mice were an option, but she was not as afraid of them as other women seemed to be, who would leap on chairs and start screaming. No, she had never minded the things, but there was nothing on the ground. She followed the sound of the scratching down the stairs, rubbing the sleep from her eyes as it had been a sudden awakening.

At first, she thought it was her husband back as the sound was from the direction of the front door, but as she raced forward and threw it open, she saw that nobody was outside. The horse and trap were still gone, though the sun was setting, and she hoped Alan would be back soon. It was very cold and lonesome in this town, though it had never seemed so bad when Zachary had come to visit her. Her husband worked long hours and was required to travel all across the county when a case arose, so he was away frequently and for many nights at a time.

Her shoes scuffed against something that wasn’t the usual footboard, and looking down, Louisa saw a slip of paper that had been pushed under the door.

‘Meet me at our usual spot. I need to see you. Zachary.’

Louisa gasped, first with surprise and then with relief as she realised this meant that he was alright. He would always pass her notes despite his poor handwriting, and she had kept each one in a trinket box in her room, locked with a key. It would have been safer to burn them, but she did not have the heart.

Wrapping her shawl around her face and neck, she left through the back door and raced across the wet, muddy fields that were drowning in sleet. It took her only a few minutes to get there, an abandoned barn whose roof was starting to rot with age, though its outer structure held strong.

“Zachary!” she cried, rushing into the barn. She looked in every corner and found nobody there. Perhaps he was on his way… “Hello, my dear.”

Louisa paid no attention to the voice as she whirled around with a relieved smile, only for it to fall the second she saw her husband standing at the entrance.

“I really hoped you wouldn’t come,” he said sadly, taking a step forward so that sleet no longer fell on his brown coat. “But I knew you would. How could you not when you receive a letter from the man you love?”

Although rarely lost for words, Louisa was lost for them then. She tried to go forward and take her husband’s hand, but he simply shook his head at her.

“I love you too,” she offered weakly, starting to cry. “I never wanted to hurt you.”

She saw anger flash in his eyes before he blinked, and the hatred was gone. “It’s a little late for that.”

Sheriff Bennett turned on his heel and walked with his head down out of the barn.

“Wait,” Louisa called after him, rushing forward. “If the letter was from you, then Zachary is still missing. Do you know where he is?” Her husband stopped walking as Louisa spoke, but didn’t turn around. He listened and then, without a word, walked away from his wife.

Our regeneration project at the front of the community centre is nearing completion, we have just got to build the trellis for the planters and then actually put some plants in them.

Thanks to Bill and Maggie who came up with the idea in the first place and also managed the project.

Our Spring Fayre was well attended and helped us raise valuable funds for MLCT. Thank you to all those people who donated towards the project, I think the total was standing at something around £1,000 which was roughly split between public donations

Residents Raise Concerns Over Voi: Scooter Clustering at the Lodge Residents across Moulsham have recently voiced concerns regarding the growing number of Voi e-scooters gathering around The Lodge, with some reporting that the clustering is causing inconvenience and obstructing access in the surrounding area.

Local feedback has highlighted that, at times, the volume of scooters left in this location can make pavements difficult to navigate, particularly for those with mobility needs, parents with pushchairs, and other pedestrians.

We have been actively raising these concerns with Voi, sharing residents’ reports and urging improvements to how scooters are managed and distributed locally. Encouragingly, Voi has responded and has begun introducing further restrictions and adjustments aimed at reducing overcrowding in known hotspots such as The Lodge. These measures include refining parking zones and improving monitoring to ensure scooters are returned to more appropriate locations.

However, ongoing community feedback remains essential in helping to address this issue effectively. Residents who encounter problems, whether that be poorly parked scooters, obstructions, or excessive clustering, are strongly encouraged to report them directly to Voi. This enables the operator to respond quickly and take corrective action where needed. Reports can be submitted easily online via the following link: report.voi.com.

and donations from a commercial company.

We have told you before about our allotment project at Princes Road and have asked for volunteers. Well, if you would like to have an allotment of your own, please get in touch with Princes Road Allotment Association on 07798 883 418. We now have a the equivalent of a whole plot, so even more room to grow a complete range of fruit and veg.

The Community Station and Copper Pot Café are open Monday - Friday from 8pm - 4pm, and Saturday from 9am - 3pm.

www.mlct.org.uk enquiries@mlct.org.uk 07434 678 999

By working collaboratively with both residents and Voi, we hope to strike a better balance between the benefits that e-scooters can bring, such as reducing car journeys and supporting greener transport, and the need to maintain safe, accessible public spaces for everyone.

On a more positive note, we would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to David Loxton on his outstanding result in the recent elections. His achievement reflects a strong connection with the community and a clear endorsement from residents. We look forward to continuing to work together to represent and support the needs of our area.

We would also like to thank all residents who have once again put their trust in the Liberal Democrats. Your continued support is greatly appreciated, and we remain committed to working hard on your behalf. Whether it is addressing local concerns like the Voi scooter situation or advocating for improvements across Moulsham, we will always do our utmost to support the community and deliver positive outcomes wherever we can.

Finally, we offer our commiserations to our colleague in Great Baddow, who narrowly missed out in the election by just 34 votes.

While the result was understandably disappointing, the close margin reflects the strength of local campaigning efforts and the dedication shown throughout. We thank them for their hard work and continued commitment to serving their community.

As always, we encourage residents to stay engaged, share their concerns and continue helping us improve our neighbourhood for everyone.

For any local issues, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

simon.goldman@chelmsfordlibdems.org.uk ashley.thompson@chelmsfordlibdems.org.uk

Or follow us on the following platforms: Chelmsford Liberal Democrats Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChelmsLibDems @chelmsfordlibdems.bsky.social Facebook: Simon Goldman - Moulsham Lodge Councillor YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ChelmsfordLibDems

Tile Kiln Corner - By Cllr Linda Mascot

Essex County Council is responsible for roads and highways, transport, social care for adults and children, education and schools, libraries and waste disposal.

In the recent Essex County Council elections my Goat Hall Chelmsford City Councillor colleague, Hazel Clark, was elected as the new representative for Chelmsford West. Hazel is a very hardworking, community-minded and tenacious councillor who will continue to be an excellent ambassador for our community and speak up for residents, now in a wider area.

Hazel said: “I’d like to thank all the residents who voted for me and my Lib Dem colleagues in the recent ECC elections. My first two weeks have involved numerous briefings from officers on the many procedures and steps required to improve the services in this area.

“We will be holding Reform to account on their promises to residents while I will continue to work hard for you to get things done.

“High on my list of priorities are a number of safety related issues, eg, safe crossing areas for school children, reducing the speed limit

in residential roads to a safer level and fighting for pavement and footpath improvements where pedestrians and mobility device users are unable to use them safely and are being forced onto roads.”

Congratulations to Hazel, who will do an excellent job.

As Chelmsford city councillors, we will both continue to help with any concerns you have with local services such as waste collection and recycling, planning issues, council tax billing, housing support, licensing (alcohol and taxis), environmental health, culture and leisure (sports centres, museums, theatres, Hylands House, parks, playgrounds and allotments in unparished areas) and community safety which includes CCTV.

For local issues contact us on: hazel.clark@chelmsford.gov.uk linda.mascot@chelmsford.gov.uk

Let the National Over Excitment Commence!

It’s the World Cup. It’s only been 60 years of hurt! Can it really have been a full 30 years since Three Lions on the shirt?!

Before I go any further, let me apologise to the many, many of you who have absolutely no interest in football. I know you’re there, and I wish you every success in trying to avoid the sport over the next six weeks!

But it is that time again, when every part of our culture gets giddy and over-excited about the prospect of a Harry Kane penalty, a Pickford save, or a dodgy VAR decision.

Watch out for Uri Geller being rolled out and for the obsession with another minor foot bone that no-one has ever heard of, but is suddenly crucial for the success of England’s World Cup hopes.

Why is it we go in for all this? When, realistically, we’re not going to win. We might get to the quarter-finals. Maybe.

Well, we go in for this because all humans need hope. And hope for something good. The world we live in is increasingly hopeless. When we look to the future, it looks increasingly bleak. The implications of this are everywhere to be seen: increase in addictive behaviour, decrease in birth-rate, frustration at the politics of our day, outrage on social media. Now, of course, lack of hope is not the sole reason for all these things, but it plays a more significant role than we often acknowledge.

For Christians, hope has a distinctive feature: it is set in a person, not a set of circumstances. The hope that Christians have for the future is in Jesus Christ. Hope in Jesus is not about this life getting better (though that is always welcome), but in an expanded view of life that spans death itself. It is founded upon the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Christianity rises or falls on this one thing: Jesus’ resurrection. Scan the QR code to read about the historical reliability of Jesus’ resurrection. It really is that important!

If Jesus rose from the dead, everything has changed. Hope suddenly becomes a reality because death is no longer the last word. Hope is not dependant on elections or who the prime minister is or my bank balance or the Middle East or England winning (or not) the World Cup. Death is not the end. Jesus Christ is alive.

Want to find out more? Scan the QR code. Get in touch.

Tim Goodall, Pastor, Tile Kiln Church.

tim.goodall@tilekilnchurch.org.uk 07821 866 301

YouTube: @tilekilnchurch5108 Facebook: www.facebook.com/tilekilnchurch www.tilekilnchurch.org.uk

Quiz Time

Mount Etna is located on which Mediterranean island?

What song is used as the jingle for Jet2holidays?

What is the most widely spoken language in China?

In what year did the storming of the Bastille take place?

Who was the lead singer of Joy Division?

In Star Wars: Empire Strikes Back, what creature does Luke Skywalker cut open to shelter inside?

Where was the first Disneyland built?

What video game series includes Frank Woods and Soap MacTavish?

In the stock market, what does FTSE stand for?

The Large Hadron Collider is located at which scientific organisation?

Who wrote Brave New World?

La Paz is the administrative capital of which country?

Norma Jeane Mortensen is better known by what name?

Kelvin is a unit used to measure what?

Which football team became the first to reach 100 points in a Premier League season?

The River Vistula is located on which continent?

Which company owns ChatGPT?

What type of tree grows from an acorn?

Which planet in our Solar System currently has the most confirmed moons?

Which London Underground line serves Neasden, Swiss Cottage and Bermondsey?

Which cocktail contains vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice and lime juice?

Someone who is polydactyly has what?

What is the name of the process by which bees help plants reproduce?

In blackjack, what value does a king card have?

In what year did David Bowie die?

Which company used the slogan ‘make.believe’?

Who wrote Room on the Broom?

What is a group of flamingos called?

What is the only mammal capable of true flight?

Name the original five members of the Jackson 5.

Which city is known as ‘The Eternal City’?

Which metal has the chemical symbol Ag?

What is the fear of spiders called?

What is the name of the main artery that carries blood away from the heart?

Which country gifted the Statue of Liberty to the United States?

Which scientist developed the theory of relativity?

Which Shakespeare play contains the line, ‘To be or not to be’?

What is the hardest natural substance on Earth?

What is the tallest mountain in Africa?

Which animal has three hearts?

Wordsearch Answers