MoulshamTimes
Delivered to 9000 homes and businesses monthly in Old Moulsham, Tile Kiln & Moulsham Lodge - Issue 164 -September 2026
WE DESIGN, WE INSTALL, YOU L VE!
Another dream transformation by Regal Kitchens. You too can experience our expert guidance, renowned design flair and multi-award-winning customer service, contact us today!
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www.regalkitchens.co.uk 01245 351 151 - 24/7 Visit our showroom at Apiary Yard, 279a Beehive Lane, Chelmsford, CM2 8LU
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Hi readers, Welcome to the September edition of Moulsham Times. Heritage Open Days is back this month - see page 5 for this great event that spans over the whole 10 days of the festival. Limited places are available on the bookable events - please visit www.chelmsfordhod.co.uk for more details. And well done to Georgina and Marina who won tickets for the Summer Series; we hope you had fun! 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.
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Honouring the Past, Designed for Today - A Kitchen Transformation in Thaxted
Designing a kitchen for a period property is about far more than choosing cabinets and worktops. It’s about understanding the history of a home and creating a space that complements its character while meeting the demands of modern living. At Regal Kitchens, one of our most rewarding projects this year involved transforming the kitchen of a beautiful pre-1900 home in the historic market town of Thaxted. The existing kitchen had served the family faithfully for many years. Traditional oak cabinetry, tiled worktops and decorative shelving reflected the design trends of decades past, but the room no longer made the most of the available space or the home’s remarkable architectural features. The challenge was to modernise the kitchen while respecting the property’s heritage. One of the home’s defining characteristics is its original exposed oak beams, which have stood for well over a century. Rather than competing with these period features, our design sought to celebrate them, creating a calm and elegant backdrop that allows the craftsmanship of the building to shine. The chosen design was a bespoke Slim Shaker kitchen in a rich Indigo finish. The slim shaker profile offers a contemporary interpretation of a classic style, making it an ideal choice for period homes where traditional detailing and modern simplicity work in harmony. The deep blue cabinetry introduces warmth and sophistication, creating a striking contrast against the crisp walls while complementing the natural tones of the original timber. To further brighten the room, the existing tiled worktops were replaced with Bianco Shimmer quartz. The seamless surface reflects natural light from the windows, creating a fresh, spacious feel while
providing the durability and low maintenance that busy households appreciate. The clean lines of the quartz allow the kitchen’s materials and architectural features to take centre stage. At the heart of the room, a new island creates valuable preparation space and a natural gathering point for family and friends. A ceramic Belfast sink and Quooker gunmetal tap complement the timeless design, while Regal Kitchens’ status as NEFF MasterPartners enabled the specification of a suite of integrated NEFF appliances, delivering exceptional performance without compromising the clean, elegant aesthetic. The completed transformation demonstrates how thoughtful design can breathe new life into a historic property. What was once a dated kitchen has become a sophisticated, light-filled space that feels entirely at home within its pre-1900 surroundings. The exposed beams remain the stars of the room, framed by elegant Indigo cabinetry, bright quartz worktops and carefully selected contemporary finishes. For Regal Kitchens, projects like this are a reminder that great kitchen design is about more than aesthetics. It is about understanding a property’s history, listening to the people who live there and creating spaces that will continue to serve families for generations to come. This Thaxted kitchen perfectly illustrates how heritage and innovation can sit comfortably side by side, resulting in a space that honours the past while embracing the future.
01245 351151 | www.regalkitchens.co.uk 4 www.moulshamtimes.com
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Chelmsford - By Marie Goldman MP
doesn’t get sidelined.
Intensive Recovery Support Programme Earlier this year, the NHS Trust that runs Broomfield Hospital was placed into an Intensive Recovery Support Programme and with three Health Secretaries in just five months, it’s more important than ever that this programme
I’ve written to the new Health Secretary to ask for a meeting so we can discuss this properly and get some real assurances that the programme will actually deliver meaningful improvements for people here in Chelmsford. I also used the opportunity to push the case for a Neighbourhood Health Centre in Chelmsford, and to reiterate my support for the Integrated Care Board’s proposal for a Health Hub in the area. Chelmsford residents deserve better healthcare, and I’ll keep pushing for the answers and investment our community needs. SEND Fest at Marsh Farm I had a brilliant time at SEND Fest at Marsh Farm! It’s a family festival exclusively for children, young people and adults with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disability) - a place where everyone can properly relax and enjoy themselves in a comfortable, accepting environment. There was a great range of activities on offer, with loads of organisations coming along to entertain and share useful resources and support. A big thank you and well done to everyone involved in putting the event together, including the Independence Project and SAA Clothing.
• • • •
Dispose of cigarettes safely. Take your litter home, particularly glass bottles, which can increase the risk of fire. Stay safe in and around water, and remember ‘Float to Live’ if you or someone else is struggling. Report any information about deliberate fires anonymously to FireStoppers (0800 169 5558, or online via forms.theiline. co.uk).
Need my help? You can contact me by email at marie.goldman.mp@ parliament.uk. Please make sure you include your full name and address when contacting me, as this will help my team respond more quickly and effectively. To keep up to date with what’s happening, follow me on social media where I regularly post updates for constituents. You can find me here: Facebook: Marie Goldman MP - Chelmsford (www.facebook.com/ MarieGoldmanLD) Instagram: mariecgoldman (www.instagram.com/mariecgoldman) Thanks for reading. Marie
Deadlines for the October edition:
Articles: 22nd September Artwork: 24th September
Essex County Fire and Rescue Service And finally, a huge thank you to everyone at Essex County Fire and Rescue Service. I want to express my sincerest gratitude for everything you do and your incredible bravery - we’re all so grateful. In a direct appeal to Essex communities, Chief Fire Officer Rick Hylton said crews really need the public’s help to minimise fire and water risks across the county and give firefighters some respite from the relentless incidents of recent months. Here’s how you can help: • Avoid using fireworks, lighting bonfires or having barbecues on dry grass or in the countryside. 6 www.moulshamtimes.com
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Get Back Into a Routine This September With Dovedale As the holidays are winding down, routines are returning, and there’s a natural opportunity to refocus on you. Whether you’re looking to build strength, improve your fitness, boost your confidence or simply create healthier habits, now is the perfect time to begin and Dovedale is here to support you. September is often a time when daily routines begin to settle again. Whether you’ve taken a break from exercise over the summer, are looking to try something new or simply want to make more time for your well-being, starting with small manageable steps can make a real difference. Whatever your goal, we’re here to help you find an activity that works for you. At Dovedale, we know fitness isn’t about being perfect. It’s about taking small, positive steps that can help you feel stronger every day in the gym, in your mindset and in your everyday life. We have everything you need to get started and stay motivated no matter your experience level. If you are looking to take your strength to the next level or build confidence using weights for the first time, our 6-week Small Group Training programmes offer expert coaching, structured progression and the support you need to succeed. Our Strength 6-week programme is designed for slightly more experienced gym users who need some guidance of how to progress their workouts, become stronger or just aren’t sure of the correct techniques for different lifts. Our personal trainer Mitchell will guide you through progressive strength sessions using compound lifts, accessory exercises and proven training methods to help you increase your full-body strength, build more confidence and break through training plateaus. Our strength sessions take place every Monday from 21st of September.
We also run well-being focused sessions, including sound bath meditation, helping our members relax, unwind and support their mental well-being alongside their physical fitness. Exercise classes are a fantastic way to stay motivated, try something new and enjoy the support of experienced instructors and likeminded participants to keep you on track for your goals. They can also be an excellent introduction to exercise for those who may feel less confident using gym equipment, while offering more experienced attendees a structured and challenging workout. All classes and activities are included as part of your membership, with members able to book up to 10 days in advance. This gives you the flexibility to plan ahead and secure your place on some of our most popular sessions. With classes running 7 days a week, from as early as 6.40am to as late as 7pm, it’s easy to find a session that fits around work, family life and other commitments. Whether you’re looking to build strength, improve flexibility, boost your fitness or simply enjoy being more active, you will find a class to suit your needs at Dovedale Leisure Centre. Beyond the gym and exercise classes, Dovedale is home to dedicated squash courts and a multi-functional sports hall, providing even more ways for people to stay active. The sports hall hosts a range of activities including badminton, pickleball, table tennis and football, giving visitors the flexibility to choose the type of exercise they enjoy most. Whether you’re a regular player, looking to learn a new sport or simply wanting an active way to spend time with friends and family, these facilities offer something for everyone. Sport can be a great way to improve fitness without it feeling like exercise, while also helping build confidence, develop new skills and stay connected with others. For many, it’s the social side as much as the physical that keeps them coming back. Whatever your fitness level, age or experience, the most important step is simply getting started. At Dovedale, we’re proud to offer a welcoming environment where people can improve their health, try something new and find an activity they genuinely enjoy. Whether that’s lifting weights, attending a fitness class, playing sport or simply becoming more active, there’s a place for you here.
In addition to our Strength programme, we also have our Women and Weights sessions. If you feel that the weights area is too intimidating, or you’re unsure where to start, you are not alone! Our programme is designed to create a welcoming, women-only environment where you can learn the fundamentals of strength training with our expert personal trainer Tomo. During the programme we will explain how to use key equipment across our gym confidently, the correct technique to use and how to get more from your gym workouts. If either of these seem like they would be a good match for you, then call our centre on 01245 605 685. If the gym isn’t for you, you can still get the most from our memberships through our programme of exercise classes. With more than 35 instructor-led sessions taking place every week, there’s something to suit every age, ability and fitness goal. Whether you enjoy the high-energy atmosphere of Les Mills classes, such as Body Pump and Body Combat, want to improve your strength and endurance with a full-body circuits session, or prefer a slower pace with yoga or pilates, our timetable offers plenty of choice.
If you’re thinking about making a positive change this autumn, why not experience everything Dovedale has to offer with our 7-day VIP trial? It’s the perfect opportunity to explore our gym, classes and facilities, meet our friendly team and discover what works for you. To find out more or sign up for your free trial, visit our website at www. chelmsford.gov.uk/DovedaleVIP or call our centre on 01245 605 685.
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MT Gardening Late August - Extend the Summer and Look Towards Autumn By the second half of August, the garden begins a subtle transition. Summer colour remains abundant, but mornings can feel cooler, daylight is noticeably shortening and many plants are beginning to set seed. This is an important period for maintaining displays while preparing for autumn. A few well-chosen jobs now can prolong flowering, improve next year’s plants and ensure productive areas continue cropping for weeks to come. Task 1 - Take Pelargonium Cuttings Mid to late August is an excellent time to propagate favourite pelargonium cultivars. Select healthy, non-flowering shoots approximately 8-10cm long and make a clean cut immediately below a leaf node. Remove the lower leaves and any flower buds before inserting the cuttings into small pots of free-draining peat-free propagation compost. Keep them somewhere warm and bright but away from intense direct sunlight. Water sparingly, as excessive moisture encourages rotting. Once rooted, these young plants can be overwintered somewhere frost-free, providing inexpensive plants for next year’s containers. Use the same technique for heliotrope (6-10cm cutting length), fuchsia cultivars (4-6cm cutting length) and perennial salvia (8-10cm cutting length). Task 2 - Summer Prune Blackcurrants Once harvesting has finished, established Ribes nigrum (blackcurrant) bushes can be pruned. Blackcurrants produce their best crops on relatively young wood, so remove approximately onequarter of the oldest, darkest stems at ground level. This encourages vigorous replacement shoots from the base and prevents bushes becoming congested. Remove weak, damaged or crossing stems at the same time. Unlike redcurrants and gooseberries, avoid shortening all the young shoots, as these will carry much of next
year’s crop. Task 3 - Divide Established Peonies Late August provides an opportunity to divide overcrowded Paeonia lactiflora (Chinese peony). Carefully lift the entire plant and divide the crown into substantial sections, ensuring each has several healthy buds and good roots. But only if ground allows you… which may be the case at the mo! If so, delay until late September. Replant immediately into fertile, well-drained soil. The developing buds should sit no more than approximately 2.5-5cm below soil level - planting too deeply is a common reason for peonies failing to flower. Water thoroughly after planting and allow several seasons for divided plants to reach their full potential. Task 4 - Ripen Pumpkins and Squashes Fruits of Cucurbita maxima (winter squash) and Cucurbita pepo (pumpkin and squash) should now be encouraged to ripen fully. Remove leaves that heavily shade developing fruits, but retain sufficient foliage to continue photosynthesis. Place a tile, piece of slate or wooden board beneath each fruit to lift it away from damp soil and reduce the risk of rotting. As fruits mature, their skins become harder and colours intensify. Leave them on the plant until properly ripe whenever weather conditions allow. Task 5 - Prepare Areas for Autumn Bulb Planting Before spring-flowering bulbs arrive, identify and prepare planting areas. Fork compacted soil to around 20-25cm deep and incorporate well-rotted organic matter where appropriate. On heavy soils, adding horticultural grit beneath bulbs can improve local drainage. Consider planting bulbs through existing perennial schemes rather than creating isolated blocks. Narcissus cultivars (daffodils), Crocus tommasinianus (early crocus) and Allium cristophii (star of Persia) can emerge through dormant herbaceous planting, extending the season without requiring additional border space. Plant of the Month Hylotelephium (Herbstfreude group) ‘Herbstfreude’ (ice plant) Formerly widely known as Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’, this exceptionally useful perennial begins its main performance as many earlier plants decline. Succulent foliage supports broad heads of tiny flowers that gradually change from pink to rich copper-red. Growing approximately 50-60cm tall, it prefers full sun and welldrained soil. Bees, hoverflies and butterflies relish its nectar, while dried flower heads provide excellent winter structure. Combine it with Echinacea purpurea (purple coneflower) and Molinia caerulea (purple moor-grass) for an effective late-season display. Kitchen Garden Focus Continue harvesting Phaseolus coccineus (runner bean) and Solanum lycopersicum (tomato) frequently. Sow Brassica rapa subsp. rapa (turnip) and Spinacia oleracea (spinach) for autumn crops. Remove diseased vegetable foliage promptly rather than adding badly infected material to a domestic compost heap.
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Wildlife Watch Late-summer flowers are vital for insects building energy reserves. Hylotelephium species, Origanum vulgare (wild marjoram) and Echinops ritro (globe thistle) are particularly valuable. Leave some hollow stems and seed heads standing as summer ends; they provide both food and future overwintering habitat. Professional Gardener’s Tip Use August photographs to identify gaps in late-season colour. Photograph borders from the same viewpoints used earlier in summer. Comparing the images reveals precisely where additional Augustflowering perennials or grasses would strengthen the planting scheme. Five Quick Jobs • Pot up rooted runners of Fragaria × ananassa (garden strawberry) for replacement plants. • Remove and dispose of leaves affected badly by rose black spot. • Raise developing marrows from damp soil to prevent rotting. • Collect ripe seed from Calendula officinalis (pot marigold) for next year. • Check greenhouse shading and begin reducing it as light levels decline. 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.
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Nick Garner’s Music & Ramblings At long last we have had some rain thankfully. The heat has been ok but we all need more rain in this country. I think we will still suffer food-wise as the farmers have had it very hard and the crops have not been so good for them this year with low yields for most of them. The kids have all had their results now for A-levels, GCSEs and other exams - as well as for universities and colleges too. Now its time to make your mind up on the next step forward for you. I have been pretty busy since the last edition, having written off my van in an accident (that was my fault). I was on my way back from a festival in Hampshire towing my caravan - I was nearly back to where I keep my caravan when I left the road and struck a telegraph pole and wrote off the van. Hopefully the caravan is ok though and so am I. I was left in the van in very hot weather for nine hours; I was angry about that as I am 72 and diabetic and having asthma. They did not think I was a priority - and yes, I have complained about it. As I am writing this I am still waiting to be paid after three weeks, even though we have agreed the settlement. Still, at least I am ok and I suppose that is what matters the most. I must thank my friend for lending me a car to use during this turbulent time. This month sees some family birthdays: my granddaughter was 19 and my elder brother and his wife of 56 years have just had their birthdays. My daughter is now 50 which I find quite incredible as my ex-wife (still my good friend) and I do not feel old enough to have children their ages! I remember Amber being born very clearly as it was the very hot summer of 1976 and I had been out at a gig to see Comus play, no surprise there me being at a gig. I told the story of Amber’s birth in the current edition of City Times if you are interested in reading it - you can see it online or pick up a copy at one of the many outlets. She is a wonderful daughter, woman, and the most wonderful mother and most caring person who we love so much. Music I have not put any gigs on this past month, but I have been to a few shows and a festival - though it should have been two festivals, but one I had to miss because of my accident and lacking transport. I start up again in a few days on 4th September with Focus at the Chelmsford Social Club which is almost sold out. The show for the 11th at the same venue with The Jeff Beck Experience is now cancelled, but we are back the following Friday with Totally Blondie who we and many of you love. We have also just heard that Guitar Heads on 11th December have postponed until 2027. We are also back at Hot Box on Sunday 6th September in the afternoon with Leavin Trunk (Tim Aves’ band). We have had to postpone Debbie Bond on 21st September until spring 2027 and will announce the new date very soon.
As mentioned, I have been to one festival in Wickham near Fareham in Hampshire and I saw many great acts such as Tim Edey, The Proclaimers, The Saw Doctors, Tommy Emmanuel, Curtis Stigers and many others. There also an ‘Audience With’ section (as in conversations with) Mike Read, Spike Edney and Russell Hastings. There was one each day, which I found to be very interesting to see. I did also find some new acts who I want to put on in Chelmsford, if possible for next year. Sadly though I have missed this year’s A New Day Festival.
I have been to Barry Hopwood’s Blues Barn twice recently to see two great acts. First was Trevor ‘Babajack’ Steger who as ever was amazing - and it was good to see his wife Emma as well. I also met up with some old friends that evening as well. Six days later it was Australian Ray Beadle, though sadly the weather had changed as that evening got quite cold and breezy. Even though he was still great to see. The gig actually got saved by Richard Townend who provided some equipment for Ray to use as he only had his guitar with him. You still have a chance to see Ray as he is playing at Ronnie Scott’s on 6th September. I did call in to Hot Box on Saturday 22nd in the afternoon to see some of The Dan Murphy Trio, which I did enjoy. There will be a change to my show with Pete Bruntnell that’s coming up - he is now playing solo, as one of the band has a broken wrist. All other shows for the rest of the year look to be okay so far, all we ask is please book in advance if you are interested in one or more of the acts we have playing. We have been busy booking next year’s shows and so far we have 26 shows confirmed for The Social Club and Hot Box. We kick off 2027 with Mike Happnin Boy and his Los Amigos at Hot Box on Sunday 3rd January in the afternoon. Then on Friday 29th January at the Social Club we have Don’t Stop Queen Now, featuring Micky Callisto as Freddie (Adam Lambert says he sounds just like Freddie). Many loved Micky when he appeared on Britain’s Got Talent last year - check him out his audition on his YouTube channel: youtu.be/9nJHNdo8Me8. He has had 6.5 million views - you can be amazed at how like Freddie he is. We have plenty more great acts coming which we can announce soon - you can view the list on our Black Frog Presents website and see who we have coming so far in 2027. If you have anything you think that could be of interest to our readers for either publication whether it’s an article or an event, then please let us know by emailing editorial@itsyourmedia.co.uk. Or have you done anything unusual or are you doing or planning? If so, we and our readers want to know about it. And 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 in 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.
Tommy Emanuel at Wickham Fest 12
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New Care Home in Chelsmford Just Three Months From Completion Work is progressing well on a new care home in Chelmsford, which is now three months away from completion and set to deliver a new standard of later living for elders in the city. The purpose-built care home, located on Galleywood Road, from leading operator Lovett Care is fast taking shape with practical completion on track for early October. Designed to deliver more in every way for local elders and their families, Lovett’s new home will combine expert care with beautifully designed surroundings, creating a place where older people can feel safe, supported and truly at home. Construction is advancing at pace, with the external brickwork and roof tiling complete and the expert team of contractors and tradespeople working hard on the interior to ensure the development remains on schedule as it edges closer to completion.
genuine commitment to delivering more for our elders.” Committed to challenging outdated perceptions of ageing by creating care homes that deliver more, Lovett’s Chelmsford Manor care home will offer thoughtfully designed spaces filled with warmth, comfort and light including private en suite bedrooms, a choice of communal lounges and dining rooms, spa assisted bathrooms, a hair salon and nail bar plus beautifully landscaped gardens and outside spaces. The impressive facility will also provide high end hotel-style services including fine dining, concierge and a busy and varied programme of wellness activities and events to ensure residents remain healthy, fulfilled and active. The right combination of people on the permanent care team is central to the Lovett Care approach and the company has already started to recruit locally for the 100-strong team.
Once complete, Chelmsford Manor will offer a warm and welcoming environment, catering for the needs of the elderly community in Chelmsford and surrounding areas. It will provide high-quality residential, nursing, dementia and respite care in a safe, comfortable and home-from-home setting with the ability to provide expert continuity of care, as needs change over time.
“We believe older people deserve to live in places where they feel valued, heard and truly at home,” continues Dawn, “And Chelmsford Manor has been designed with exactly that in mind. Filled with joy, togetherness and compassion, we are looking forward to opening, welcoming our first residents and their families and becoming a firm part of the community in Chelmsford.”
Deputy managing director at Lovett Care, Dawn Collett, commented: “With around three months to go, we are delighted with how work is progressing at Chelmsford Manor and looking forward to opening in the autumn.
With a vision to create caring communities in which our elders thrive, Lovett is one of the UK’s leading care home groups with 28 homes across the UK including Greater Manchester, Staffordshire, Nottinghamshire, Yorkshire, Cheshire, Merseyside and the South East. Filled with joy, togetherness and love, Lovett Care homes are places where life is truly lived.
“We have incorporated many years of knowledge and expertise into the development of this new home and it will represent everything that Lovett Care stands for - exceptional care, beautiful surroundings and a
For more information, visit lovettcare.co.uk.
Ancient Woodland Gets £176K Boost to Protect Wildlife and Reconnect Communities With Nature The Wilderness Foundation UK has been awarded a grant by The National Lottery Heritage Fund to protect and restore woodland and reconnect people with nature through education and therapy. Today, the Wilderness Foundation UK is announcing a £176,328 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to revitalise our vulnerable 92-acre ancient woodland at Mann Wood by restoring traditional habitats, historic features and reconnecting people with nature. This will improve the site for both the rare and threatened wildlife it supports and transform people’s access to the outdoors. Mann Wood is the one of the last remaining ancient woodlands in the area, operating as an ecological island supporting over 500 species surrounded by intensively farmed land that limits species movement and genetic diversity, alongside increasing housing development in the area - and without this funding it risks being further fragmented. Invasive species, including grey squirrels and deer and additional threats by damaging flora such as bramble, are inhibiting natural regeneration of the woodland. Without the work that this funding enables the charity to do, species such as violet helleborine orchids and nightingales could be irreplaceably lost.
A low impact learning-centre and associated infrastructure that this grant enables the Wilderness Foundation UK to implement, will support tailored activities for schools and SEND groups through Learning Outside The Classroom-accredited outdoor education and provide a safe space for some of the charities nature-based therapy programmes for vulnerable adults and children. By fostering stewardship among local people, the project will ensure long-term sustainability and resilience for this precious site. The Wilderness Foundation UK are currently accepting referrals to many of their free nature-based therapy programmes, have places on their weekly Forest Home School, and run regular events at the woodland. For more information, please visit their website at www. wildernessfoundation.org.uk. Wilderness Foundation UK CEO, James Davey, said: “We are thrilled to have received this support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, we can restore and maintain Mann Wood’s natural habitat supporting biodiversity, while opening this precious woodland up as a place of healing and connection for the vulnerable people we work with. “Protecting nature and supporting people have always gone hand-inhand for us, and this funding lets us do both, laying the foundations for a woodland that will serve this community for generations to come.” For more information on Wilderness Foundation UK work, visit the website here: wildernessfoundation.org.uk.
Murder Mystery Dinner with Moonstone Murders in Aid of Sanctus Can You Solve the Death at the Dinner Club Murder!? Taking place in the characterful Doug Insole Pavilion at Essex Cricket Ground, guests can enjoy an evening of fun, laughter - and murder! There will be a 3-course dinner, with Moonstone Murders providing their unique style of interactivity, giving guests the chance to meet suspects and use their powers of deduction to guess the murderer... Individual tickets are £78 per person - whole table options are also available for groups of 8 or 10. Advance bookings only - please book by Thursday 17th September. Money raised from this event will support the work that Sanctus does in helping homeless and vulnerable people in the Chelmsford area. You can book tickets from Sanctus at sanctushomelesscharity.
beaconforms.com/form/22dd11fc.
To view the menu options for this event and for further information, please visit the ‘Event’ page at Sanctus (sanctus-home.com) and view the ‘Murder Mystery Dinner at Essex Cricket Ground’. Moonstone Murders have over a decade of experience with clients including the BBC, Hedingham Castle and Penguin Books, and have worked with Magic Radio and Heart Radio (where they did a mini mystery for Richard Osman). Details Date: Saturday 3rd October at 7pm Location: The Doug Insole Pavilion, Essex Cricket Ground Cost: Tickets £78 per person
The September Reset: Helping Your Child Start the School Year Well September can feel like a fresh beginning for the whole family. New teachers, different classrooms and unfamiliar routines can bring excitement, but they may also create uncertainty. Even confident children sometimes need a little time to settle. Parents naturally want the new school year to begin successfully, but success does not depend upon creating a perfect routine overnight. Children usually respond better when changes are introduced calmly and gradually. Listen Before Offering Solutions During the first few weeks, try to make space for relaxed conversation. Rather than immediately asking, ‘What homework have you got?’, you might begin with, ‘What was the best part of your day?’ or, ‘Was anything difficult today?’ Some children talk readily when they arrive home, while others need food, rest or quiet time first. Listening without rushing to solve every problem helps children feel understood and makes it more likely that they will speak openly when something genuinely concerns them. Rebuild Routines Gradually After the freedom of the holidays, returning to early mornings and structured school days can be tiring. A regular bedtime, an organised school bag and clothes prepared the previous evening can make mornings considerably calmer. It is helpful to establish a broad pattern for homework, meals, relaxation and sleep, but avoid making the timetable too rigid. Children also need time to unwind, play, exercise and enjoy family life. A routine should support a child, not make home feel like a second school. Expect Tiredness Children often appear enthusiastic during the first few days and then become unusually tired or irritable. This does not necessarily mean that anything is wrong. They are adjusting to new expectations, concentrating for longer periods and managing many social situations throughout the day. A nutritious snack, some fresh air and a short period without questions or instructions can help them make the transition from school to home. Keep Homework in Perspective Homework can quickly become a source of family tension. If a child is struggling, begin by helping them understand the task rather than completing it for them. Encourage them to divide the work into small, manageable steps and praise their effort, concentration and perseverance. If homework is regularly taking far longer than expected or causing considerable distress, speak to the teacher. This is not a complaint; it is useful information that can help the school understand what the
child is experiencing at home. Avoid Comparisons Children develop at different rates. Comparing a child with classmates, siblings or friends can quietly damage confidence, even when the intention is to motivate them. A better comparison is with their own previous effort. Are they becoming more organised? Are they willing to attempt something difficult? Are they asking for help appropriately? These are meaningful signs of progress. Watch for Changes Most settling-in difficulties resolve naturally, but parents should notice persistent changes in sleep, appetite, behaviour or enthusiasm for school. Frequent stomach aches, repeated tears, withdrawal or an unusual fear of making mistakes may indicate that a child needs additional support. Begin with a calm conversation and, if concerns continue, contact the class teacher or pastoral team. Home and school working together can often resolve a difficulty before it becomes established. Aim for Progress, Not Perfection A positive school year is not built in one week. There will be forgotten books, difficult mornings and disappointing results alongside achievements and happy experiences. What children need most is the reassurance that they are valued for who they are - not simply for their marks. When parents combine sensible routines with patience, encouragement and realistic expectations, children are far more likely to develop confidence, independence and a healthy attitude towards learning. Dennis J Smith, M.Ed., is a former Housemaster and Head of Pastoral Care. Dennis’s free quarterly Family Success Journal is available at: heyzine.com/flip-book/373e695247.html. His new parent guide, Before You Decide on a Private Tutor: A Parent’s Guide to Making the Right Choice, is available through www. sportstudysuccess.co.uk.
Deadlines for the October edition: Articles: 22nd September Artwork: 24th September View the Moulsham Times and The City Times online at www.issuu.com/itsyourmedia
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Lemon & Pistachio Polenta Cake - By Biv Pirathapan The Lockdown Discovery That Became My Birthday Cake There are some recipes you make once and forget. There are others that quietly become part of the family. This is very firmly in the second category. My relationship with this cake began during lockdown, when the world had seemingly run out of two things: toilet roll and flour. While everyone else was frantically trying to get their hands on a bag of plain flour, my wife found herself staring into the cupboard wondering what on earth she could bake. And then came polenta. What started as a desperate attempt to make something sweet without the ingredients she normally relied upon, turned into one of the biggest baking discoveries in our house. A beautiful golden cake, packed with fresh lemon, a delicate nuttiness and that wonderfully distinctive texture that polenta brings. It wasn’t trying to be a traditional sponge - and that was exactly why I loved it. Fast forward several years and it has become something of a tradition. My birthday happens to fall this month, and every year Emily makes this cake for me. So, while we may have discovered it during a time when the world was in complete chaos, it has somehow emerged as one of my favourite birthday treats. And frankly, I’ll take that as a pretty good lockdown legacy. Why This Cake Works There is something wonderfully different about a polenta cake. Instead of the soft, uniform crumb you get from a traditional flourbased sponge, polenta gives this cake a gentle texture and a little bit of bite. Combined with ground almonds and pistachios, it becomes beautifully moist, nutty and almost slightly grainy in the best possible way. Then comes the lemon. And lots of it. The citrus cuts through the richness of the nuts and butter, bringing a bright, almost zingy freshness to every mouthful. It’s sweet, but not cloying; rich, but not heavy. And just when you think you’ve got it figured out, the pistachios arrive on top with their gorgeous colour and delicate crunch. It’s a cake that looks elegant but doesn’t take itself too seriously. Which, much like me, is exactly how I like my birthday celebrations. Ingredients For the cake: • 200g unsalted butter, softened. • 200g golden caster sugar. • 3 large eggs. • 150g ground almonds. • 100g fine polenta. • 50g shelled pistachios, finely ground. • 1 tsp baking powder. • Pinch of salt. • Zest of 2 lemons. • Juice of 1 lemon. • 1 tsp vanilla extract. For the lemon drizzle: • Juice of 2 lemons. • 75g caster sugar. For the topping: • 50g pistachios, roughly chopped. • Extra lemon zest. • Optional: a light dusting of icing sugar. Method 1. Get yourself ready Preheat the oven to 180°C, or 160°C fan.
Grease and line a 22cm round cake tin with baking parchment. This is not the moment to discover you’ve forgotten to line the bottom of the tin. Trust me. 2. Build the cake In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until pale and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well between each addition. Now add the ground almonds, polenta, ground pistachios, baking powder and salt. Fold everything together gently before adding the lemon zest, lemon juice and vanilla. The mixture will be thicker and more substantial than a traditional sponge batter. That’s exactly what we’re looking for. 3. Into the oven Spoon the mixture into your prepared cake tin and smooth the surface. Bake for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until golden on top and a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. If the top is becoming too dark towards the end of cooking, loosely cover it with foil. 4. The lemon hit While the cake is baking, make your drizzle. Add the lemon juice and sugar to a small saucepan and gently heat until the sugar has dissolved. When the cake comes out of the oven, leave it in the tin and prick the surface all over with a skewer. Now pour that glorious lemon syrup over the top. Don’t be shy. Let it soak down into the cake, carrying all that sharp, fresh lemon flavour with it. 5. The grand finale Allow the cake to cool before removing it from the tin. Finish with a generous scattering of roughly chopped pistachios and a little extra lemon zest. The contrast of the golden cake, vibrant green pistachios and bright yellow lemon zest makes this every bit as good-looking as it is delicious. The Birthday Test There are plenty of cakes I enjoy. Chocolate cakes, cheesecakes, sticky puddings... anything involving custard is usually going to get my attention. But there is something particularly special about having a cake that has become your cake. Emily has now made this for my birthday year after year and somewhere along the way it stopped being simply a recipe we discovered during lockdown. It became a tradition. And that’s what I love about food. Recipes don’t just feed us, they collect memories. One day it’s a desperate lockdown bake because there’s no flour. A few years later, it’s sitting in front of you with candles on top while your family sings Happy Birthday. Same recipe. Completely different memory. Top Tips Don’t rush the drizzle: The cake should still be warm when you add the lemon syrup. That’s when it really soaks into the crumb. Don’t overmix: Once the dry ingredients go in, bring everything together gently. Go big on the pistachios: The colour and crunch are fantastic against the soft cake. Make it ahead: Like many polenta cakes, this is a brilliant makeahead dessert. The flavours have time to develop and the texture becomes beautifully moist. Want even more lemon? Add another layer of lemon drizzle or finish with a sharp lemon icing.
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How I’d Serve It For an afternoon slice, I’d happily take this with a cup of tea and nothing else. But if you’re turning it into a proper dessert, things get much more interesting. A spoonful of crème fraîche or Greek yoghurt cuts beautifully through the
sweetness. Whipped cream works too, while vanilla ice cream gives you that wonderful contrast between cold, creamy richness and the sharp lemon cake. And for maximum birthday indulgence? A warm slice, vanilla ice cream, extra pistachios and another little drizzle of lemon syrup. Because calories don’t count on birthdays. That’s definitely a rule. Final Thoughts What started as a lockdown solution has somehow become one of the most anticipated cakes of my year. No flour panic required. No complicated techniques. No fancy equipment. Just butter, almonds, polenta, pistachios and enough lemon to make your tastebuds sit up and pay attention. It’s moist, nutty, zingy, slightly textured and completely delicious. Most importantly, it has become a little piece of our family history. And this month, as another birthday rolls around, I know exactly what Emily will be making. Some traditions are worth holding on to.
In the book of Deuteronomy, in the Bible, chapter 24 verse 19 it says: ‘When you are harvesting in your field and you overlook a sheaf, do not go back for it. Leave it for the foreigner, the fatherless and the widow, so that the Lord may bless you in all the works of your hands.’ What a lovely verse for us to remember at this season of Harvest. The principle is simple: if you grow some vegetables, then use what you need and then give some away to people who do not have them. If you buy some new clothes, maybe a coat or a jumper, then perhaps you can pass on your old coat to a charity shop so that someone else can enjoy the life that is left in it. In Chelmsford we have a Food bank. Last year 8,769 emergency food supplies were given to people in crisis in our city. It is easy to donate. As you do your shopping perhaps you could add a tin of food or a bag of rice or pasta, then as you leave the store you will find a donation box which gathers up items for the Foodbank. What an amazing way to support people in this city who need our help at this time. This year St Lukes has decided to focus some of our support on a charity called TearFund. The aim of the charity is to release people from poverty, building partnerships with churches and community organisations so that real needs can be met. Working in Uganda, Esther, the oldest of six children could not find enough food to feed her siblings. She was welcomed onto an agricultural training programme and she has learnt how to grow vegetables all the year round. ‘The family have gone from hungry to hopeful.’ In Pakistan, drought is making farming very difficult. Women traditionally collect water using clay pots, but as they get older it is very hard to take this journey to collect water four or five times a day. Tearfund have provided Leila with a large, lightweight water container. She can now carry much more water and so does not need to make so many trips, and her husband helps too. They are also part of a goat sharing scheme. Goats are really useful animals, but they are susceptible to a seasonal disease. TearFund has organised veterinary camps which will then examine the livestock and offer them a vaccination.
By sharing the care of the goats with neighbours, they hope that soon there will be many more shared goats, bringing in an income and useful produce. This season we reflect on the wonder of God’s creation, his handiwork and provision. We held an outdoor ‘green’ service to celebrate how simple lifestyle changes can impact our environment, positively. We are here to care for our neighbours next door and around the world. Come and join us for our Harvest Service on Sunday 27th September at 10am. We have some evening and daytime availability in our halls. Are you interested in regularly hiring one of them? From a poll on Facebook, we know that the community of Moulsham Lodge and Tile Kiln would like some classes for pilates, Zumba and line dancing, so please get in touch with us by email at stlukesmoulshamhallhire@gmail.com. Take care and God bless, Reverend Canon Stephanie Gillingham St Luke’s Church, Gloucester Avenue, Moulsham Lodge, CM2 8DT www.stlukemoulsham.co.uk Facebook: @Stlukesmoulshamlodge
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MT Finance: How Regular Gifts Could Be Free From Inheritance Tax You may have spent a lifetime building wealth for the people you love, only to find that passing it on comes with worries about inheritance tax. But if certain conditions are met, there may be a solution.
Life has a habit of giving you the most financial freedom when you probably need it the least. In later life, you may not travel as much, start new projects or shop for luxuries. But pensions, investments and other assets have had the benefit of decades of growth. At this stage, helping the people you love may matter more. This is a gift in itself because it means you may be able to take advantage of the ‘normal expenditure out of income’ exemption. Where it applies, it can allow you to make unlimited gifts that fall outside your estate immediately, rather than relying on the seven-year gifting rule. The amount is unlimited and tax-free on the following basis: That when HMRC assesses your claim on its individual facts, three strict conditions are met and evidenced. • • •
The gifts must form part of your normal expenditure, with evidence of a settled pattern or intention to make them regularly. They must be made from regular income rather than capital. They must leave you with enough income to maintain your usual standard of living.
That’s why record keeping is critical. How Regular Gifts Could Save a Couple £160,000 in Inheritance Tax Richard and Jane are in their 70s now. They met at university and have two children together and one grandchild. Leaving a lasting legacy is their number one concern. But when they meet their financial adviser, what jumps off the pages in front of them is a larger than expected inheritance tax bill. Richard and Jane would start making outright gifts to their family now, but for the seven-year rule. This is a rule that most gifts only fall outside the inheritance tax calculation in full, if the person making them survives seven years. Richard and Jane are quite firm that having financial stress tied to their health is not the way they want to live. And the adviser understands that. The adviser hears that Richard and Jane are very happy with a slower pace of life and already have savings ringfenced for future care costs (a key consideration when assessing gifting sums). They receive £70,000 a year from private and state pensions, rental income and dividends, while their mortgage-free lifestyle costs around £30,000. That leaves a potential annual surplus of £40,000. That opens the door to making gifts out of excess income, which may be a prudent way to prevent their estate size (and subsequent inheritance tax bill) from getting ever larger. Their executors of the will (potentially their children) would need to apply to HMRC and show strong evidence of the gifts. HMRC makes decisions on a case-bycase basis, so keeping detailed records of their income, expenditure, intentions and gifts is therefore critical. If Richard and Jane gifted £40,000 each year for ten years, £400,000 of surplus income would therefore not accumulate in their estate. If HMRC accepts that every gift meets the exemption’s conditions, their estate remains taxable at the standard 40% rate, and the rules do not change; this could reduce their eventual inheritance tax bill by up to £160,000, based on the figures above (for indicative purposes only). Their adviser can support record keeping to show HMRC evidence of 20
affordability and also do cashflow modelling to help Richard and Jane understand what they can comfortably afford to give, including the effect of future care costs or changes in income. How Could This Work for You? If your situation sounds anything like Richard and Jane’s, a financial adviser can help clarify your options for gifting out of excess income, help you to understand the key considerations and decide on your next steps. 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 to trade. 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.
Moulsham High School Celebrates Exam Results Moulsham High School are today celebrating another strong set of exam results. A-level and BTEC results that have become the trademark of our Sixth Form. Over the last two years, a cohort of 162 students have enjoyed a broad curriculum consisting of eighteen A-levels, two Level 3 BTEC and the Extended Project Qualification. Outcomes in Maths, Further Maths, Chemistry, Computer Science, Film Studies, Geography, Photography, Media, Level 3 BTEC Business and the Extended Project Qualification are particularly impressive. Many of our students will now be continuing their education at university, and destinations include Durham, The Royal Veterinary College, UCL, Loughborough, UEA and Bristol. Others have secured high profile degree level apprenticeships with, for example, the police, Mercedes, BP and EYUK (Ernst & Young). Two members of our football academy with Chelmsford City Football Club are already in the USA starting Soccer Scholarships at prestigious American universities. Headteacher Julia Mead said: “Our students, their teachers and the Sixth Form team have worked exceptionally hard to secure this success. We wish every student well, knowing they have a very bright future ahead of them.” GCSE, Cambridge National and BTEC results, are once again well above national averages. This is the ninth consecutive year that the school has achieved this high level of performance. We are particularly proud that all 270 Year 11 students sat at least 8 qualifications and, while we are delighted with their performance across the curriculum, exceptional results were gained in: Computer Science, Economics, Geography, Food Technology and Spanish. We are also overjoyed with the number of students who gained either a grade 4, 5 or higher in both English and Maths. Headteacher, Julia Mead, said: “We are thrilled for all of our students. They, and their teachers, have worked incredibly hard to achieve today’s success. We look forward to many of them joining our exceptional Sixth Form in September and wish everyone, regardless of their onward destination, every further success in the future.”
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Back to Class - By Eleanor Searle As the holidays end, many people are beginning to prepare for the return to school. For others it might be about time to start thinking about improving their health and well-being on a regular basis or getting back to an exercise class.
At Hummingbird, many clients have continued participating in pilates and yoga classes throughout the holidays, with some even joining sessions remotely from their holiday destinations. Many clients join our real-time online classes while abroad to keep up their good habits. Why do people find exercise classes so appealing that they bring them along, even when they’re on holiday? Exercise classes offer numerous advantages, enhancing both physical health and mental well-being. Classes provide structure, expert guidance and supervision - benefits you miss when exercising alone. Taking part in classes turns exercise from a solitary task into an enjoyable, organised routine that steadily and safely increases your activity level.
Last month I lamented the impact of three heatwaves in May, June and July with the UK experiencing temperatures above 30oC on 28 days. However, late July and August have seen a fourth and fifth heatwave, with the number of days the UK has experienced temperatures above 30oC rising to 39 days. Essex has been officially in drought since 29th July with very little rain in July and August. Rivers and reservoirs are running very low, and more shallow-rooted trees are starting to shed their leaves to reduce their water loss, trying to survive until more rain arrives. And with the countryside tinder dry, wildfires are an ever-present risk. The heat has had a human impact with an estimated nearly 3,000 heatassociated deaths in the UK in May and June alone. The impact of prolonged heat and lack of rain has also led to a very poor harvest, with UK crop yields the smallest on record - wheat yields being 15% and spring barley 30% below the 10-year average. Vegetable crops have been hit even harder, with significantly reduced yields and smaller often sun-bronzed vegetables. And with brown pastures, farmers have already started to use their stores of hay and animal feed intended for the winter. However, compared to some other parts of the world, where crop harvests have been all but wiped out by heat and drought, and animals have simply died, we are more fortunate. Therefore, it feels very appropriate that during September we will be particularly reflecting on our relationship with the natural world during the season of Creationtide. During Creationtide, which is an ecumenical season and runs from 1st September to 4th October, we give thanks for God’s gift of creation, we reflect on the relationship between God, humanity, and the created order, and we renew our commitment to care for the world in which we live. Given our www.moulshamtimes.com
We keep our pilates and yoga classes small, allowing us to closely monitor your form, focus on particular muscle groups, and work towards group goals. Each session is carefully planned, with exercises that can be adapted for various fitness levels or injuries. Scheduling a class helps you stay accountable and ensures you don’t skip your workout. We use an online booking system so that you can independently book and manage your classes online or via our app. Social momentum, or the collective energy present in the room, serves to motivate participants to increase their effort. If this energy becomes overwhelming, the instructor will guide the class by encouraging individuals to concentrate on their own practice and remain attentive to their personal abilities and limits. There’s no need to organise your own session - simply arrive and let an expert lead you through it. Group exercise also offers mental and social benefits, often boosting mood more effectively than solo routines. Attending class regularly allows you to meet and interact with people who share your interests. Offering diverse class formats and instructors helps prevent boredom and makes regular exercise more cost-effective. Go to www.hummingbirdpilates.co.uk to check out our schedule: we promise that you’ll feel all the above benefits and have a great time!
experience of drought, it is particularly appropriate that the theme for Creationtide in 2026 is ‘Living Water’. This calls us to greater human responsibility: recognising ecological damage, embracing interconnectedness, we are called to actively safeguard and work for the renewal of creation so that environmental healing and human well-being may flourish together. At St John’s our celebration of the season will start on Sunday 6th September, with the new Church of England festival of ‘Creation in Christ’, when we celebrate God as Creator, and will end on Sunday 5th October with our Harvest Festival family service. During Creationtide we are also fortunate to be hosting a priest who is visiting from our partner diocese in Kenya. She lives in the north of Kenya where climate change and drought have caused complete crop failures leading to widespread hunger and malnutrition, with 33% of the Kenyan population considered undernourished, compared to 5% here in the UK. It will be interesting to share our different experiences of climate change. If you would like to hear some thoughtful reflections on the climate crisis and our response to it, you may also like to attend one or more of the Keene Lectures at Chelmsford Cathedral which begins in September. I am giving the first one on Tuesday 15th September at 7pm which is entitled Creation in Relationship: Science, Theology, and Our Place in the Living World. The lectures are free to attend but you need to book a ticket online in advance at www. chelmsfordcathedral.org.uk/events/event/the-keene-series-creationin-relationship-science-theology-and-our-place-in-the-living-world. On Saturday 12th September St John’s will be holding our annual Heritage Open Day from 10am to 3pm, which is an opportunity for us to come together as a community. Please come along for teas, coffees and cakes, or lunchtime snack, and follow one of our heritage trails in our now fully opened Green Space in the churchyard - there is an adult trail and a family trail. We hope to see you at St John’s during Creationtide - whether at a service, at our community café, JubiLatte (on Mondays and Thursdays), or at the Heritage Open Day. You will always be assured a warm welcome. Blessings Fr John Bloomer frjohnbloomer@gmail.com www.stjohnsmoulsham.org.uk
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Have No Fear - Part 2
In part one of this article, I spoke about starting my Parkinson’s Boxercise course. As I write part two, we’re in full flight and hurtling towards the end, so I thought I’d let you know how it’s been going.
As a fitness professional, I come across all sorts of different people - it is one of the things I love about this industry. You never know who is going to come along to your session.
Parkinson’s fitness. There - I’ve said it! 7. I Made My First Follow-Along YouTube Video! One week I couldn’t make the session, so I recorded a workout for the group to follow instead. The feedback was positive, and I’m now thinking about making more. It is something I’ve wanted to do for a while, so I’m glad I finally did it. 8. And Finally - I’m Having Fun Doing This! So, the big question is: will we keep going after the 10 funded sessions run out? I really hope we do. I’ve sent out a questionnaire to gauge interest and, so far, the response has been positive. I now need to work out the best way forward once the funding ends. I have a lot more to give, and I’d love to continue building the little community that has started to develop. When I started this project, the title of my first article was Have No Fear. Now, I think I’d add something else: Have no fear - give it a go. You never quite know where it might lead. Ola Adamolekun Health and Nutrition Coach/Personal Trainer
Anyway, here are my observations so far.
www.beencouragedwellness.co.uk Instagram: www.instagram.com/olaadamolekun Facebook: www.facebook.com/ BeEncouragedBeStrong
1. Parkinson’s Is Cruel and Unpredictable Sometimes people have off days and can’t attend even though they want to. I’ve had people turn up and ask to do the class seated because they are having an off day. On one occasion, someone came even though they couldn’t participate - they just wanted to be there. I was really touched. It reminded me that sometimes being part of the group is just as important as the exercise itself. 2. Parkinson’s Affects Everyone Differently We learnt about the different stages of Parkinson’s on my instructor course, but it has been interesting to experience this in a real class. Everyone has different capabilities, so I’ve had to adapt sessions to make sure everyone can take part at their own level. 3. I Love the Carers! They play such an important role in the sessions and in the lives of their loved ones. I also love the fact that there are rarely odd numbers - one of the banes of my life as a Boxercise instructor because a carer is always ready to jump in! Sometimes participants prefer to work with their carer, which is fine. Some carers get stuck in themselves and get a good workout too! 4. Parkinson’s Is Not Always the Only Condition Someone Is Living With One gentleman in the group also has dementia. His carer told me that he had never been to a class specifically for him until now. That really stayed with me. 5. I’ve Found Myself Becoming Part of a New Community Since starting the class, I’ve been invited to lead the warm-up at the Parkinson’s Walk at Hylands Park and to take part in a Parkinson’s Open Day. It is my ambition to become the go-to person in Chelmsford for 22 www.moulshamtimes.com
Wharam’s Wine Words
Hello everyone and welcome to the September edition of Wharam’s Wine Words. It’s very much off with the old and on with the new as the harvests have been underway since the end of July and the unprecedented heatwaves which have ravaged our continent have already had a huge effect on production and expected quality. I have talked of wine lakes and panic selling during some of my tastings and it would appear that my research this month supports a shifting mindset.
sun, and water-efficient irrigation where permitted, are finding that the grapes they did harvest are of high, and in some cases, excellent quality. This year effectively separates the ‘passive’ producers from the ‘active’ ones. Those who treated the vineyard as a precise engine of biology rather than a simple agricultural plot have largely succeeded in coaxing high-quality wines from what was undoubtedly a difficult growing season. The question remains: can we expect a turnaround in the prospects for European wine? After all, those beautiful vineyards we have all driven past during European holidays and that deliciously enticing wine we couldn’t get enough of during barmy evenings and leisurely lunches aren’t going to be around forever if the books don’t balance. The answer depends on how one defines the term. If ‘turnaround’ implies a return to the high-volume, predictable harvests of the late 20th century, the answer is a definitive no. The climate reality of 2026 suggests that the volatility we have seen over the past decade is not an anomaly, but the new operating baseline.
As August 2026 wound towards September, the European wine industry finds itself at a defining crossroads. For observers hoping for a bumper crop to alleviate the economic pressures of recent years, the 2026 harvest offers a sobering reality: this is not a year of abundance. However, to view the 2026 vintage purely through the lens of volume is to miss the more nuanced, and perhaps more important, story of the European wine sector. This is a year defined by extreme climate adaptation, where the industry’s ‘turnaround’ is being measured not in hectolitres, but in structural resilience and qualitative precision. The defining characteristic of the 2026 harvest across the continent is a marked reduction in yield. From the sun-drenched slopes of Spain to the typically temperate vineyards of Bordeaux, the refrain is consistent: the vines are tired and the weather has been relentless. Current reports indicate that yields in major producing nations, including France, are tracking significantly lower than the five-year average, with some estimates citing a 10% or greater decrease in output compared to the previous year. The primary driver is, unsurprisingly, climate stress. Intense heat waves during critical growth phases, combined with localised droughts that have persisted since the spring, have left clusters sparse and uneven in many appellations. For producers, this means the financial margin is tightening. The fixed costs of labour, vineyard management, and energy do not decrease simply because the tonnage is lower. Consequently, the industry is entering the final quarter of 2026 with an expectation of supply-side constraints that will likely keep prices stable to elevated in the premium and mid-market segments. If the quantity is disappointing, the quality narrative is markedly different. In viticulture, there is often an inverse relationship between volume and concentration; 2026 is proving to be a textbook example of this principle. The early start to the harvest, with some regions in France having reported their earliest picking dates in recorded history has been a strategic necessity to preserve acidity and prevent over-ripening in the face of record-breaking temperatures. Initial reports from major estates, including those in Bordeaux, describe the fruit as having exceptional skin-to-juice ratios. The drought, while detrimental to yield, has served to concentrate the compounds responsible for flavour, structure, and tannin development. Growers who invested in sophisticated vineyard management such as leaf canopy control to protect fruit from direct www.moulshamtimes.com
However, if ‘turnaround’ means an evolution of the business model, 2026 represents a critical acceleration of that process. The European wine sector is undergoing a necessary, if painful, transformation. We are seeing a shift away from the pursuit of massmarket volume toward a high-value, quality-driven identity. Wineries are increasingly diversifying their grape varieties, adopting heat-resistant rootstocks and focusing on micro-terroir management to hedge against climate risk. For sure we will be seeing a reduction in vineyards and the availability of cheaper wines. No more £3.99£5.99 specials in Aldi etc? We shall see. There is still the problem of that wine lake… France grubbed up thousands of hectares of low-quality vineyards back in the 1960s and early 1970s, yet the gap was filled by production from elsewhere. The 2026 vintage will likely be remembered as a year where the industry moved past the initial shock of climate change and into a phase of active, technical management. It is a year of fewer bottles, but likely better-balanced ones. For the consumer, this means the wines appearing on shelves in the coming years will be testament to a new era of European winemaking - one that is leaner, more innovative and intensely focused on the resilience of the vine. The turnaround, therefore, is not a recovery to the past, but a maturation toward a more sustainable and qualityobsessed future. So what does all this mean for the wine lovers and consumers in Chelmsford? How often do we look beyond the increasingly attractive wine labels at our barbecues, lunches and Sunday roasts? If there is a vacuum created as a result of the above, will it be filled with New World Wines? For wine consumption across the world is in decline and Generation Z drinking is down 40%. Are we looking at a great reset? Roll on March when the first of the 2026 wines will begin to hit the shelves and we will find out just what to expect in the coming months. In the meantime, look out for offerings from the Southern Hemisphere, from where we can already expect this year’s vintage! Enjoy September, everyone - and our hope for an Indian Summer. My wine events will be resuming this month with information to follow. Follow me on Instagram by searching ‘@philipwharam’ for information on tastings in Chelmsford. Happy drinking everyone. Cheers! Phil 23
Latest News
We’re Looking for Chelmsford’s Feel-Good Stories There’s something rather lovely about heading into the weekend with a good story, a great song, and a reminder that there are plenty of positive things happening all around us. That’s exactly what we’re hoping to bring to Chelmsford with Feel Good Friday which is having a bit of a relaunch with the very lovely Ruth Cooper-Dickson. The one-hour show will be all about wellbeing, positivity and, most importantly, the people of Chelmsford. We’re looking for local guests who have a story to share, whether that’s through their work, their own experiences or simply something they’ve discovered along the way that has helped them feel happier, healthier or more positive. We’d love to hear from wellness professionals, local businesses and charities doing wonderful things in our community - but you certainly don’t need to have a fancy job title or run an organisation to take part. Perhaps you’ve overcome something difficult, taken on a personal challenge, changed direction in life or found a new way of looking after your own well-being? Sometimes the most inspiring stories come from ordinary people who have simply been through something and come out the other side. At the heart of the show is the Feel Good Friday Five, with Ruth asking each guest five questions, each accompanied by a song choice - there’s a little bit of the spirit of Desert Island Discs about it, but with a relaxed, local and very personal feel. And don’t worry if you’ve never been on the radio before. The questions can be sent to you in advance, giving you plenty of time to think about your answers and choose your music. The songs can come from absolutely any era, so there’s no need to spend hours agonising over your playlist!
Durant. “Everyone has a story and sometimes a simple conversation can be incredibly encouraging to someone listening at home.” So, if you have a feel-good story to tell, we’d love to hear from you. You might be well-being professional, a business owner or charity representative, or you might simply be someone who has a story that could brighten somebody else’s Friday evening. Feel Good Friday relaunches on Friday 4th September from 7pm until 8pm. If you’d like to be considered as a guest, drop Ruth a line using info@ruthcooperdickson.com with a short introduction and a little about your story. Every message will be read personally. Who knows, your story might be exactly the one somebody in Chelmsford needs to hear. www.chelmsfordcommunityradio.com
We’re hoping that, whether the programme is live or recorded, it will feel like sitting down with a friend for a chat at the end of a busy week, hearing a few good stories and discovering something that might make you smile.
View the Moulsham Times and the City Times online at www.issuu.com/itsyourmedia
“We wanted to create something that feels warm and positive, while giving people in our community the opportunity to share the things that have helped them,” says CCR Inclusion Manager Michelle 24 www.moulshamtimes.com
The Cry of the Fox - By Holly Lucking
When the world has gone strange, silent and still, I find my courage in the spaces left to fill. A tumbledown street, a stoic streetlamp, A crumpled crisp packet doing cartwheels in the rain.
This is no place to be lonely when the stars are twinkling bright, And there is the possibility that you might be out there. So I call in the hopes that you’ll call me back, Or I’ll stay up that night fretting that you’re not really into me like that. Daisy picking does he love me or not, over and over again, Dizzy like the horses on the carousel that chased my ancestors down.
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For the quiet is my enemy, and so is the chaos of life, We must choose one or other and put up with the strife. Do you know what it is like to be alone, Completely, utterly, Where there is no heating or blankets or home? Could I be happy and loved with all those things, Those bits and bobs tied up with so many complicated strings. There is a price to pay, And with honesty I can say That the money I never had Has walked away.
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We have now completed our project to improve the front aspect of the building. To celebrate the achievement, and as a thank you to all the volunteers and supporters who donated their time, skills and money, we held a special Garden Party BBQ. To officially mark the completion of the project, the Mayor of Chelmsford kindly joined us and cut the ribbon to open the newly improved area.
We are also very careful when appointing new trustees. While people occasionally walk through our doors expressing an interest in becoming a trustee, we believe it is important that potential trustees first demonstrate a genuine commitment to the charity and its work. Maggie has certainly demonstrated that commitment, and we were therefore delighted to offer her a position on the Board of Trustees, which she has accepted. We are thrilled to welcome Maggie to the Board and look forward to continuing to benefit from her enthusiasm, experience and commitment to MLCT.
The idea for the regeneration project came from two of our dedicated volunteers, Bill and Maggie, who are husband and wife. They put their idea to the trustees, who were delighted to support it. Bill and Maggie then went on to plan and manage the project, with Bill also putting in a tremendous amount of hard work himself, including preparing the ground and installing the fence posts. The second photo shows the thank-you card we presented to Bill and Maggie in recognition of everything they have done.
A huge thank you to Bill, Maggie and all of our wonderful volunteers for everything they do.
Here at Moulsham Lodge Community Trust, we really value and appreciate our volunteers, particularly those who go above and beyond to help make the charity what it is today. Their commitment, enthusiasm and hard work make a huge difference to our community.
www.mlct.org.uk enquiries@mlct.org.uk 07434 678 999
The Community Station and Copper Pot Café are open Monday to Friday from 8am till 4pm and on Saturday from 9am to 3pm.
An Update From Moulsham Lodge Ward - By Ashley Thompson & Simon Goldman Ashley Thompson and Simon Goldman, as your two Lib Dem Chelmsford City Council Ward Councillors for Moulsham Lodge, are fortunate in that we receive relatively few reports of crime and antisocial behaviour in comparison to other areas of our city. However, sadly there was recent vandalism of the play area at John Shennan Field. But we are pleased to report that this was very scheduled for repair by the council, and we hope that your children will enjoy playing on the repaired equipment for many years to come! On Saturday 15th August Ashley was delighted to join Mayor Lynne Foster, her consort, CEO Mark Springett and many trustees and volunteers, to celebrate the work of Moulsham Lodge Community Trust at their Summer Garden Party. It was heartening to hear of the progress this organisation has made and of the huge range of activities they are currently facilitating. However, the need for volunteers remains. Could you possibly give your time to become the MLCT Volunteers Co-Ordinator? There is also a vacancy for an Events Co-Ordinator at this time. Contact enquiries@
mlct.org.uk for further information. Finally, it is great to learn that the 360 Community Transport, in an initiative which has City Council support, has been running a shoppers minibus for elderly residents in Moulsham Lodge every Tuesday. For more details, please email 360 via ct@community360. org.uk or phone 01206 216 600. 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
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Tile Kiln Corner - By Cllr Linda Mascot
I hope you’ve enjoyed the summer and managed to have some rest and relaxation either at home or away on holiday. I enjoyed looking after my grandchildren, and for part of the summer holidays they attended Essex Dance Theatre Summer School for one week where they were learning songs, dances and made scenery for a production of The Greatest Showman proudly performed to family members at the end of the week.
for adults (school leavers 16+) with SEN needs at Chelmer Park on Saturday mornings at 9.45am. All are welcome to come and build confidence and make friends while learning great skills from brilliant coaches. For more information, email channing1southgate@gmail. com, or ring 07917 891 383. If you know of any local community groups which would appreciate some support, please email me on mascotlinda@gmail.com.
They had a brilliant time, and the older members of EDT volunteered their time to help mentor and support the young people which was great to see and much appreciated as they were great role models, particularly to my two 7 year old granddaughters. I was surprised and delighted when I attended the Friday performance to see how polished and confident the performance was, the children learn so many social skills as well as having specialist performing arts tuition and will definitely be back next year for more creativity, making new friends and having fun. EDT places a large emphasis on dance being for anyone who wants to try it, and a free class is offered for boys aged 8 years and above to encourage them to get involved. No experience is necessary - just come along and have a go. These are on Friday evenings, 5-6pm. They offer dance classes year round for all, including movement classes for students with special needs. These inclusive sessions are run by a qualified dance tutor with a team of trained EDT students working alongside. The classes are held on a Friday between 6 and 7pm and parents are welcome to stay. Where possible, and if appropriate, students with special needs will be encouraged to join in with the main timetable of classes along with their student teacher helper. The studio has sprung floors, mirrored walls, fixed bars and is wheelchair accessible. Classes are held at the Essex Dance Theatre Centre in Dorset Avenue, Great Baddow. For more information email pauline.sorrell@essex.gov.uk or ring 0333 013 3249. Galleywood Youth Football Club are starting Soccability Adult Sessions
The Calendar Cycles Around Once Again Here we are in September once again! Uniforms to buy, new school shoes, shirts to iron, packed lunches… We’ve gone full cycle, and we’re back at another start to an academic year.
It comes quickly, doesn’t it? And it can feel like we’re just running around the hamster wheel, back in another September, looking ahead to another year done. Round and round we go. Does the world just repeat itself, going around and around and around again? Sometimes it feels like that. History doesn’t repeat but it rhymes, someone witty once said. But really, where’s it all going? What’s the end point? What is the purpose, the goal, of it all? Is there even a goal? Or are we just all going around the sun repeatedly until something stops us and then… nothing? Well, I guess that none of us live like this, not in reality. We have our goals, even if we call them something different. We’re living for the next holiday, or celebration, or weekend. And more, of course - for our family, the charity close to our heart, a football club. But, sadly in some instances, these things come and then go. If we’re not careful, they can become part of the cycle. What’s the ultimate goal, the ultimate purpose? I wonder what you’re answer would be? You’ll be unsurprised to hear that mine is Jesus Christ. Sometimes we joke in church that the answer to every question is Jesus! But there is truth here - Christians believe that life centres on Jesus. And because life centres on Jesus www.moulshamtimes.com
the goal of life is also Jesus. It’s not pie-in-the-sky-when-you-die. The very purpose of all humans is to know and enjoy a real relationship with Jesus Christ. And when you know Jesus, the whole of life is illuminated by Jesus. In a sense, Jesus is like the sun. You can look at the sun (if you’re careful!) but you can also look at everything else in light of the sun. Jesus is described as the true light by his close friend, John (have a look at the Gospel according to John, chapter 1, verses 4-5 and 9), and Jesus described himself as the ‘Light of the World’ in the same gospel, chapter 8, verse 12.
Jesus is the goal. He’s the reason, the purpose, the aim. Life isn’t cyclical - it’s heading somewhere. That somewhere has Jesus right at the centre. At the start of another September, why not find out more? You’re welcome to get in touch. Or you can scan the QR code - it’ll take you to the free 321 course which explores who Jesus is and what that means for you. If you want to know more, or have any questions, please 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 27
Quiz Time
This Month the Theme for William’s Quiz Is - Food for Thought 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20 21. 22. 23.
What fruit is dried to make a raisin? Which spirit is used in a mojito? What type of food is halloumi? Which fast-food chain is famous for the Big Mac? Which vitamin is particularly associated with citrus fruits such as oranges and lemons? Which country is widely credited as the birthplace of modern pizza? What type of pastry is commonly used to make sausage rolls? Which sparkling wine is used in a bellini? Which fruit is the main ingredient in guacamole? Which British chef became famous through the television series The Naked Chef? Which cheese is most commonly associated with a Greek salad? Which fortified wine is commonly added to a classic British trifle? Which mineral, found abundantly in dairy products, is particularly important for healthy bones and teeth? Which country is the home of paella? Which nut is used to make marzipan? Which small fish is commonly used to give Caesar dressing its salty, savoury flavour? What Italian dessert combines coffee-soaked biscuits with mascarpone? Which spirit forms the alcoholic base of an espresso martini? What natural sugar is found predominantly in fruit and honey? Which cut of beef is used to make beef Wellington? What ingredient gives hummus its distinctive nutty flavour alongside chickpeas, lemon and garlic? What British pudding consists of suet pastry spread with jam, rolled up and cooked? What Japanese dish consists of seafood or vegetables
Wordseach by thewordsearch.com
coated in a light batter and deep-fried? 24. What variety of rice takes its name from a region near the Himalayas and is commonly used in Indian cuisine? 25. Which protein found in wheat, barley and rye must be avoided by people with coeliac disease? 26. The croissant was inspired by the kipferl, a pastry originating in which country? 27. What substance found in chilli peppers creates their sensation of heat? 28. Which British sauce is made using ingredients including vinegar, molasses, anchovies and tamarind? 29. Which drink is made by fermenting sweetened tea using a culture known as a SCOBY? 30. What Italian term describes pasta cooked so that it remains firm when bitten? 31. Which spice, harvested from the stigmas of a crocus flower, is among the world’s most expensive by weight? 32. Which part of the coffee plant is roasted to produce what we commonly call coffee ‘beans’? 33. Which South American country is most closely associated with the origins of ceviche? 34. Which British spread is made from yeast extract - a byproduct of brewing beer? 35. What is the name of the Japanese paste made mainly from fermented soybeans and commonly used to flavour soups? 36. What French culinary phrase refers to preparing and organising your ingredients before you begin cooking? 37. What is the name of the sauce made from milk thickened with butter and flour, considered one of the French ‘mother sauces’? 38. What cooking technique involves sealing food in a bag and cooking it slowly in precisely controlled water? 39. What is the name of the chemical reaction responsible for much of the browning and flavour that develops when foods such as meat and bread are cooked? 40. What is the name of the Japanese beef renowned for its exceptionally high level of marbling?
(Answers on page 31)
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MT History: Feist Essex Ladies Recently, whilst going over my family history (again), I recalled an ancestor who was one of the pivotal figures in the Match Girl Strikes which took place in the East End of London. Someone that joined with likeminded ladies to stand up against the dangers and unfair working conditions. Whilst it is well documented about the suffragettes and the vote for women, there were many women in history who haven’t necessarily been highlighted in this way and who went about their business quietly but who undoubtedly still had the tenacity of those who made the news. It made me think that during the time when women were expected to be housewives, mothers and generally keep quiet, there were some women who had that bubbling eagerness to take part and do their bit. Many of these instances became apparent during WW2 when women were drafted into roles that would have otherwise been assigned to men. However, they realised that many females would make excellent spies whose skills included organisation, multi-tasking and communication (when necessary - not the ‘careless talk costs lives’). Women in any of these roles were incredibly brave and it is only now that information as to the intensity and diversity of the types of jobs they were required to do, are coming to light.
One of their first tasks was to deliver a sealed letter under the cover of darkness, their faces blackened as camouflage, place it in a tree stump with a rotating top and return to their starting point unnoticed. The letter would have been placed there by the ‘invisible villager’, then picked up and moved on by the runner and the last runner would deliver said message to a civilian wireless operator who would then send it through. Many of these wireless operators would not have been suspected, carrying on their normal jobs as if nothing was out of the ordinary. As we know, many of these amazing people died without breathing a word of their secret work to anyone. Joyce passed away in 2023 aged 105, only having told her family of her secret life a few years before. So when we think about those who served during the wars, we need to include all of those who contributed. They may not have been obvious by wearing a military uniform, but what they did undercover and keeping secrets behind the scenes, undoubtedly should be remembered alongside all those that fought in plain sight.
Little did we know of the SDB (Special Duties Branch). This branch was set up during WW2 and ordinary, but specific types of people were recruited in their town or village. They were to be ‘local’ spies if the German army invaded. As we know now, the invasion didn’t happen, but at the time nothing was impossible so they had to be trained to be prepared for any eventuality. These people would not have been obvious to any German troops; who would suspect a young mother visiting the shops, the grandmother cleaning her step or the vicar’s wife? They would notice things such as troop vehicles, recall numbers and conversations, then pass the information on in basic code having left them in ‘letter drops’ which could range from inside a biscuit tin to behind a false brick The runners would then pass these coded messages to the next drop point. One of those recruited in Essex was Joyce Harrison. She lived and worked in Chelmsford as a telephonist/typist at County Hall and married RAF pilot Edward Jay in 1940. Joyce was keen to ‘do her bit’ but Edward was against her joining the WAAF. However, her life was to take a different path when she was approached by someone from SDB. Joyce was given details to meet at an underground shelter near Hockley and it was there that she met another new recruit, Majorie Drinkwater who would be her partner. Having signed the Official Secrets Act, they had their role as a ‘runner’ explained to them. 30 www.moulshamtimes.com
Wordsearch Answers
Answers 1. Grape 2. White rum 3. Cheese 4. McDonald’s 5. Vitamin C 6. Italy 7. Puff pastry 8. Prosecco 9. Avocado 10. Jamie Oliver 11. Feta 12. Sherry 13. Calcium 14. Spain
15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28.
Almond Anchovy Tiramisu Vodka Fructose Fillet/beef tenderloin Tahini Jam roly-poly Tempura Basmati Gluten Austria Capsaicin Worcestershire sauce
29. Kombucha 30. Al dente 31. Saffron 32. Seeds 33. Peru 34. Marmite 35. Miso 36. Mise en place 37. Béchamel 38. Sous vide 39. Maillard reaction 40. Wagyu
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