Moulsham Times - July 2024

MoulshamTimes Delivered to 9000 homes and businesses monthly in Old Moulsham, Tile Kiln & Moulsham Lodge - Issue 139 - July 2024

SCULPT YOUR SUMMER SUMMER CONFIDENCE STARTS HERE Visit: chelmsford.gov.uk/ sculpt-your-summer

BOOK YOUR FREE TRIAL TODAY* *T&Cs apply.

2

www.moulshamtimes.com

MT Welcome Hi readers,

Welcome to the July edition of Moulsham Times.

Due to the imminent general election there are no articles from the local councillors or our MP in this edition, the articles will return next month!.

We have had a couple of photographs sent of Moulsham Times on people’s holidays - have a look at page 29.

Can you take yours further from Chelmsford than the two readers who are featured?

If you would like to advertise in this magazine, 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.

www.moulshamtimes.com

3

Education at the Beach!

Family Beach Explorers is for parents and children under 5 years, but we also include Home Education children.

Outdoor learning can create a rich, engaging educational experience.

Here are some activities we have been experiencing over the last 8 weeks: Nature Beachcombing Walks and Science Exploration • Marine Biology: Collect seashells, observe tide pools and wildlife and learn about marine life and plants.

We have found crabs, shrimp, a goby, a baby sole and sea gooseberries all along the beach.

• Environmental Science: Discuss the importance of oceans, conservation, and the impact of pollution including filtering algae from the sea water.

Maths and Physics Lessons • Sandcastle Building: Explore concepts like geometry (shapes and structures) and physics (stability, balance).

• Tides: Measure the tides with stick flags and learning to wait for the tide to come in. Patience and understanding!

Literacy and Writing • Storytelling: Listening to stories inspired by the beach environment and learning to write our names in the sand.

•

Reading: Scavenger hunts for alphabet rocks and learning to spell words using natural materials.

Art and Creativity • Beach Art: Create art using natural materials like sand, shells, and driftwood.

• Mud: creating, exploring and using mud to create art.

Physical Education • Beach Games: Engage in sports like running, jumping and walking like a crab.

• Learning: Learning about how to stay safe at the beach, the RNLI and water safety.

This approach combines learning with the natural coastal environment, making education fun, enjoyable and memorable for the whole family. It takes place every Wednesday 10.30-12 noon at Mill Beach Seaside Resort in Heybridge (free parking and discounted food and drink in the beach café).

We’d love to see you, please get in touch if you would like to pop along.

Lisa@beachschoolexplorers.co.uk 07841 371 391 Instagram: @beachschoolexplorers www.beachschoolexplorers.co.uk

Kindness and Volunteers Shine Bright at VolFest Cool to be Kind (C2BK) proudly took part in VolFest 2024, an event organised by Chelmsford CVS to celebrate National Volunteers Week.

Held on 6th June along Chelmsford High Street, VolFest brought together more than 50 local charities, showcasing their efforts and promoting volunteerism within the community.

•

•

The Rucksack Project: Each autumn, C2BK urge the community to fill rucksacks with winter essentials for those experiencing homelessness. This project is vital for providing warmth and comfort during the colder months.

Wednesday Evenings at the Lay-By: Every Wednesday evening, C2BK volunteers, alongside Warm Hearts for Cold Hands, distribute clothing and food at the lay-by outside Chelmsford Library. This initiative offers immediate support among those we serve.

C2BK is looking to recruit more volunteers to help further the work they do, including: • • •

C2BK engaged with more than 100 attendees, including Chelmsford’s Mayor Councillor Janette Potter, Deputy Lord Lieutenant Susie Cornell MBE DL, Marie Goldman - Lib Dem Parliamentary Candidate, Vicky Ford - Conservative Parliamentary Candidate, Councillor Rose Moore and Councillor Stephen Robinson.

During the event, C2BK highlighted key initiatives, including: •

Street Support: The online directory, Street Support Chelmsford, connects individuals experiencing homelessness with local support organisations. This platform is a crucial resource, offering information on shelters, food banks, and other essential services.

Street support assistant volunteer.

Volunteer fundraiser.

Volunteer administrator.

Volunteering with Cool to be Kind is a rewarding experience that directly impacts the lives of those in need. Whether you have a day, a month, or more to spare, your contribution can make a significant difference, so please do get in touch.

Co-founder of Cool to be Kind, Dan Skeates, said: “VolFest 2024 was a fantastic opportunity to connect with our community and showcase the vital work we do. The event highlighted the ongoing need for dedicated volunteers. We are eager to welcome individuals who want to make a positive impact, so please get in touch.”

Thank you to Chelmsford CVS for organising such a fantastic event and to everyone who stopped by to learn more about our work.

For more information or to get involved, visit the C2BK website: www. c2bk.co.uk.

4 www.moulshamtimes.com

01245 698 045 07939 609 732 07548 944 727 Specialists in new boilers and heating systems.

We can also supply and install new bathrooms We offer boiler servicing from just £50.

New heating systems (cat not included)

New kitchens and bathrooms

• New Boiler installations • Kitchens & bathrooms • Landlord certificates • Plumbing Emergencies • Boiler Servicing • Blocked drains All work comes with a 12 month warranty from the date of installation We are Gas Safe Registered Reg no. 545555

info@pthplumbingandgas.co.uk www.pthplumbingandgas.co.uk www.moulshamtimes.com

5

Regal Kitchens: Where Client Is King

Before Mr and Mrs S felt that their current kitchen space wasn’t large enough to house a full family kitchen with seating. They had seen other local companies who only designed the room as it was and were disheartened by the whole process, as they didn’t feel anyone was listening to their ideas. They had seen a few Regal Kitchens case studies on the website and read online reviews left by previous customers and decided to approach them to see if they could come up with any other ideas that might help them.

The designer visited the client and discussed how a few structural changes could breathe new life into their downstairs space. He recommended that they knock down a structural wall to open up the area and go from having a glorified galley kitchen to a magnificent space, fit for entertaining as well as normal family life. The designer suggested they use painted timber doors in Grey Mist for the majority of the kitchen, but change this to a darker charcoal colour for the island to make it a focal point.

The designer suggested installing a large induction hob in the island with a bank of ovens directly behind, so that cooking whilst entertaining would be a joy instead of a chore. The island is also large enough for all 4 children to get busy with their homework as parents watch on while preparing daily meals.

As Mr S is a catering chef, the appliance choices were important to them, they had seen the NEFF slide and hide ovens on the Great British Bake Off and liked the idea of being able to get close to the oven without having to navigate around a drop down door. Regal provided 2 pyrolytic single ovens with a combi in the middle and warming drawer underneath to help their clients keep food warm if one is late home or on mum/dad taxi duties for their children. They

love the speed and efficiency of the combi - very helpful when hungry children get home from school.

Regal also provided a separate refrigeration area which includes 2 full-height fridge freezers and a large wine cabinet near to their sink so when they have guests in the house, all drinks can be concocted with everything required nearby. Regal also installed a tea and coffee making area so they could house their coffee machine close to their new Quooker kettle tap to make work tea breaks quick and efficient on busy working from home days.

There is also a handy pull out bin near to the sink and island to help keep any mess to a minimum.

Regal Kitchens beautiful showroom in Beehive Lane is open 7 days per week between 10am and 4pm.

www.regalkitchens.co.uk | 279a Beehive Lane, Chelmsford, CM2 8LU | Where Client Is King 6 www.moulshamtimes.com

www.moulshamtimes.com

7

This place (the town) is one of the furthest north in England. It’s not the end of the world, but at the end of a wall. The cathedral has a splendid east window!

We have just got back from a rather chilly holiday in the motorhome, so I thought I would ask you readers to guess the places from the photographs and clues...

Two famous places in a national park that you need to take a quick look at (above and below).

You need to dress very well here. For your information it is famous for decorating the natural spring water wells every year.

And finally, a couple of one liners for you...

I told a chemistry joke once. It didn’t get much of a reaction...

I hit my head with a can of lemonade. Luckily it was a soft drink...

Answers: Photographs 1 and 2 - Ashbourne Church and Carsington Water are in the Peak District (Ashbourne is on the Tissington Trail which is thirteen miles long and is an old railway line). Photograph 3 - The Cathedral is in Carlisle and photograph 4 is Buxton.

8

www.moulshamtimes.com

Discover the Ultimate Tennis Experience at Chelmsford Tennis Academy This Summer!

Experience Tennis at Its Best with Chelmsford Tennis Academy at Oaklands Park Tennis enthusiasts and newcomers alike will find a haven at the Chelmsford Tennis Academy located in the picturesque Oaklands Park. With summer in full swing, the academy offers an array of opportunities to enjoy this exhilarating sport on newly refurbished courts.

The Chelmsford Tennis Academy stands out not just for its top notch facilities, but also for its exceptional coaching. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the basics or an experienced player aiming to refine your skills, the academy provides tailored coaching sessions to meet your needs. The experienced coaches at Chelmsford are dedicated to helping players of all levels improve their game, offering personalised instruction and valuable feedback.

But it’s not all about the technicalities. At Chelmsford Tennis Academy, fun and enjoyment are at the heart of every session. The academy promotes a lively and engaging environment where learning becomes a pleasure. Players can look forward to making new friends and becoming part of a vibrant tennis community. This social aspect of the academy is one of its greatest strengths, as it brings together individuals who share a passion for tennis and fosters lasting friendships.

The newly refurbished courts at Oaklands Park provide the perfect setting for both casual matches and competitive play. The upgraded facilities ensure a high-quality playing experience, making every game enjoyable and memorable.

In addition to regular coaching sessions, the academy hosts various events and tournaments throughout the summer, offering players numerous opportunities to showcase their skills and enjoy the thrill of

competition. These events are designed to cater to all age groups and skill levels, ensuring that everyone can participate and have fun.

Excitingly, in the next few weeks, Chelmsford Tennis Academy will launch free tennis sessions. These sessions will allow people to come along, use the equipment, and play on the courts at no cost. Coaches will set up some courts and organise games, providing a fantastic opportunity for everyone to experience the sport, regardless of their experience level. It’s a perfect chance for newcomers to try tennis for the first time and for regular players to enjoy extra court time.

Beyond the fun and social aspects, tennis offers numerous health benefits. Playing tennis regularly can improve cardiovascular health, increase endurance and enhance flexibility and coordination. The sport provides a full-body workout, engaging various muscle groups and promoting overall physical fitness. Additionally, the mental challenges of tennis help improve cognitive function, strategic thinking and stress management.

By joining the Chelmsford Tennis Academy at Oaklands Park, you are not just signing up for tennis lessons, you are becoming part of a dynamic and supportive community. It’s a place where you can develop your tennis skills, build new friendships and enjoy the social and physical benefits of this fantastic sport.

Whether you’re looking to learn, improve, or simply enjoy a game in a friendly environment, Chelmsford Tennis Academy is the perfect destination this summer. Come and experience the joy of tennis at Oaklands Park and be a part of a growing tennis community that thrives on passion, camaraderie, and excellence. info@chelmsfordtennisacademy.co.uk www.chelmsfordtennisacademy.co.uk

Remember to tell our advertisers you saw their advert in the MT

www.issuu.com/itsyourmedia

9

MT Gardening

What a mixed bag it’s been with our weather later! Glorious sunshine followed by cloud and plenty of rain. It’s all proving a challenge for us gardeners. With rain and warm temperatures, this provides for the perfect growth surge enabling our plants to burgeon. In my own garden I’m feeling like my borders are taller and making me feel slightly claustrophobic! What’s to do? This was a key topic of discussion when I joined Sadie Nine on her Sunday mid-morning show recently for the first hour on BBC Essex. The full programme came be accessed here on BBC Essex: www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/ p0hzt822.

In our radio discussions, we also covered listeners’ questions and queries on such topics as how to prune shrubs and tree fruit, splitting and dividing agapanthus and dealing with Viburnum scale.

Here are a few other tasks to keep you on your toes as we move closer to July: Continue to keep borders free of weeds. With all the water we’ve had, there’s been a surge in this type of growth which will compete with your choice ornamentals. Continuous hoeing, digging out deeper rooted plants such as dock and creeping thistle, even the use of a flame gun on paths and gravel drives will help. I then tend to follow with weed barriers such as a mulch to suppress further regrowth on beds and borders. Using an organic mulch such as bark or wood chip to a depth of 10-15cm will help enormously.

As the weather moves towards more uniform sunnier days, consider adding shading to your greenhouse. This will help to cool the inside, reduce water loss from plants and protect all from possible sun scorch. Use various shading material such as fine grade green netting which can be suspended from the greenhouse roof, or you could use shading paints applied to the exterior. Check out this RHS link for further information: www.rhs.org.uk/garden-features/ ventilation-and-shading-greenhouses.

10

Remember to tell our advertisers you saw their advert in the MT

www.moulshamtimes.com

For those of you growing edibles, continue to harvest lettuce, radish, spring onion, other salads and early potatoes. Little Gem lettuce only take around 6-8 weeks from seed to plate, however, why not consider sowing these alternative salad leaves - Mizuna, pak choi, sorrel and mustard? For those with limited space, check out this RHS link to growing in containers where space is limited: www.rhs.org.uk/advice/growyour-own/containers/march-ediblecontainer-idea.

Now that we are into the throws of really starting to enjoy our seasonal displays in containers such as hanging baskets, it is time to top up with the addition of liquid feeds. Use tomato-based foods for all your floriferous displays. In addition, continue to deadhead to maximise flowering.

Don’t be so keen to remove all your wall flowers this year. I’ve left mine in as they are really short lived perennials and will bloom again for another year. To get the most of them now and prepare them for the next season, cut down by half and feed - again with a liquid feed for the quickest impact. Use anything with potassium as this will encourage flowers and also help to strengthen the plant.

Happy gardening For any gardening tips please contact Tom Cole, Freelance Horticulturist and online tutor for #learningwithexperts by email at tomcole8@hotmail.com.

Remember to tell our advertisers you saw their advert in the MT

11

Nick Garner’s Music & Ramblings I hope you are ready to vote! It’s important that you do - no matter who you vote for, your vote could be the one that makes the difference.

I know that I always mention the weather, but really what is going on?

One minute it is hot, then it rains then there is wind and it is freezing again! This is bonkers l think.

I have recently been to Maldon twice. Once for the Maldon Mud Race which was great fun, where I saw lots of people I know and who know me - and they did not avoid me either! The weather was fantastic and I am sure they will have raised lots for charity. Then I was back to Promenade Park for Soultasia. Yes, a soul festival with Lisa Stansfield headlining and my friend Mim was playing percussion and singing backing vocals with The Brand New Heavies who I did enjoy.

12th July - but we are working together on a new date; it just may not be this year. Next we have sadly had to cancel The SharpeeZ at the Hot Box on Friday July 5th but have no fear, as we now have the amazing Joe Anderton debuting his new band Greene in Essex for us at Hot Box on that date Friday 5th July - and it is only £8 to see this great band. I have seen them in London and they blew me away.

Otherwise I think all else is fine, except to say that the Robbie McIntosh and Hamish Stuart acoustic show on Saturday 9th November at Hot Box is now sold out, so I think that’s a good reason not to hang about when you are thinking of going to a show.

With us, you can prebook our Chelmsford Social Club or Hot Box shows via phone or text to 07508 496 411 and then pay at the door, so no laying out in advance or paying any commission, then you get you place for that show.

I also went to the Church on the Hill in Laindon near Basildon. This was for a charity night with live music, which was bluegrass and folk and beautiful it all was. The night raised £1,000, so well done to Joe Hymashy for organising and doing so well.

The other Thursday called at Volfest in Chelmsford High Street. It is sad to hear how desperate the charities are for volunteers at present.

We do support where we can with the magazines and always give space to charities in our publications. Do you have any spare time you could give to a worthy cause? Contact the Chelmsford CVS in Coval Lane or call them on 01245 351 888 and they could help advise and direct you.

Have you noticed in Hall Street that the Methodist Church is up for sale? I also noticed the former Methodist Church in Hatfield Peverel is up for sale as well. After doing a bit of a search, I have found quite a few churches and church halls being sold. I may not be religious myself, but I still find this sad to see. Let’s hope that they sell for good uses and that they can help benefit their local communities.

Now Midsummer’s Day has passed, that means the nights start to draw in, but here is hoping that does not mean an early autumn or winter for us! The whole planet is going crazy at present, and the human race does not help.

I find it scary that my son-in-law is now fifty and my grandchildren are in their mid and late teens. Dare l say my son is now over fifty and my daughter is not that far off either! I am lucky that I was young when they were born though Music First off, Hamish Stuart has had to sadly postpone his show on Friday

The Trembling Wilburys We have added Jeff Chapman’s Roosters to open for the Dirt Road band on Friday 6th December. We both think they are the perfect pairing, as both Steve Waylan and Jeff Chapman go way back and are good mates. Those who saw the Roosters play at Hot Box the other week will know they are a band not to be missed if you are a fan of Wilko Johnson, The Pirates or Dr Feelgood.

We are now nearing the end of this part of the year at both the Chelmsford Social Club and Hot Box where we take a short break during the holiday and festival season. I will be off to three festivals with my caravan.

Soultasia was not really my kind of thing, but it was run very well with around 12,000 people having a great time. I did not stay for the whole event, but quite enjoyed what I saw and heard. I have not seen so many people dancing! It was not that warm while queuing to get in, which maybe helped to get people moving to the music.

I also had Malcolm Bruce (son of Jack Bruce of Cream) play Hot Box with his band - they were great and everyone loved them, as did those who came to see Ronnie Golden and The Trembling Wilbuys the following Friday at the Social Club. Ronnie, with his mix of great comedy and music, and The Trembling Wilburys were great.

I am now starting to book for 2025 now - seems early, but I need to book early to get you the good bands! There is so much going on all over now and Hot Box have announced a festival in early September.

Mentioned in this article is just a fraction of what is going on all over the place - in pubs, club, halls, theatres, shops etc - and now with better weather there is also the outside. We do list a good amount in our City Times magazine on the What’s On pages.

Jeff Chapman’s Roosters 12

If you have anything you think that could be of interest to our readers for either publication, then please let us know by emailing editorial@itsyourmedia.co.uk - it may be an event or a topic of interest. Or have you done anything unusual or are you planning

www.moulshamtimes.com

Slambovian Circus of Dreams something? If so, we want to know about it! And if know of someone who may wish to advertise with us, then please ask them to contact ads@itsyourmedia.co.uk and we can send over full details.

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

It would be fantastic if you could also share our magazines The City Times and Moulsham Times for us - just go to our websites for the online versions.

GC-LIFT 31531 - 0723

You can get tickets for all our shows in Chelmsford at the Chelmsford Social Club at our shows or from Intense Records, Hopsters and Chelmsford 4 Good - please pay cash when you buy. Tickets are also available online from www.wegottickets.com/BlackFrogPresents, or via our ticket hotline for both the Chelmsford Social Club and Hot Box

at no extra charge - call or text 07508 496 411 and you can then pay the advance price on entry to the show rather than the walk-up price.

Serving Chelmsford and the surrounding area for over 360 years Private Chapel of Rest Horse Drawn Funerals 24 Hour Care, 365 Days a Year Pre-paid Funeral Plans from Golden Charter Monumental Masonry

At M. Lucking & Sons, we’re proud to have been serving communities of Chelmsford and the surrounding areas for over 360 years. As an independent, family-owned business we have all the regional knowledge and years of experience to make sure everything runs smoothly. We also work in partnership with Golden Charter so you have a simple way to plan ahead with a pre-paid funeral plan.

Contact us today for more information and our friendly staff will be happy to help.

195 New London Road, Chelmsford, CM2 0AE. Call: 01245 353733

M. Lucking & Sons is an introducer appointed representative of Golden Charter Limited trading as Golden Charter Funeral Plans which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN:965279).

www.mluckingandsons.co.uk

enquiries@mluckingandsons.co.uk

www.moulshamtimes.com

13

Non-Spoiler Film Reviews - By Henry Godfrey-Evans

Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga Many films that try to draw a picture of an apocalyptic wasteland struggle immensely. The modern Mad Max films do not. It’s so detailed and bizarre that it’s almost surreal.

This film focused on a character a little bit more, turning it into a little bit more of an action film. It lost something there.

However you’ll be a satisfied customer if you drop in to give this a chance.

Sting Sold itself as a arachnophobic horror film and showed us the most cringeworthy spider visuals in the trailers to find its audience.

I don’t think this is as gleeful and simplistic as you’d think. It’s not very scary. It’s a bit graphic, but all of its merits go to the fact that it was very subversive and unpredictable.

This is a quality that people like myself appreciate a lot due to the volume of films I watch, but maybe a bit less for most.

A horror film that isn’t scary will disappoint most.

Bad Boys: Ride or Die Belongs in the category of cheesy action that you thought had gone extinct.

The tide has changed for action films, gritty and realistic is what people want. Although there’s definitely a devoted group for the likes of this.

How it stays accessible with the task they had was astounding.

I’d definitely recommend it.

My only small gripe was that it was a bit tougher to find the thread with the plot later on - after so much of the middle was made up of metaphors and visuals.

I’m still getting my head round that part though.

henrygodfreyevans@gmail.com

Deadlines for August Edition Articles: 23rd July Artwork: 27th July

It really wasn’t bad. It was so fast-paced you didn’t even get the chance to think about whether it was bad or good. Sounds like a great recipe for distraction which is often what film is about.

The Watchers A bit like A Quiet Place. They just plunge us into the woods with a wildly odd concept.

It’s intriguing, it really is. Like Bad Boys, you’re distracted by the breadcrumbs. Even if, in hindsight, it wasn’t that crazy or clever, when you’re in the theatre you’ll be fixated.

Hit Man (Netflix) This is fun. It’s a proper cheesy concept, but you’re swept along with it.

It takes a sharp turn with an unlikely romance which is very addicting to watch. Glenn Powell is very talented as we all know, but Adria Arjona played the seductive role terrifically well.

Considering the slightly gimmicky premise, the film has stamina and it keeps being interesting with new problems all the way through the final act.

Inside Out 2 Pixar films are renowned for breaking down complex ideas into kids films. This is another one.

14 www.moulshamtimes.com

Remember to tell our advertisers you saw their advert in the MT

15

Failing to Plan is Planning to Fail - By Ola Adamolekun Those people that follow me on social media know that I’ve been championing strength/muscle training for the past few weeks. I did a post last week on one of the biggest barriers there is to strength training (or anything else): ‘I don’t have the time’. This is one of the biggest barriers you could have for any goal.

So, how do we get round it? Failing to plan is planning to fail. In my humble opinion, the answer is to plan it into your schedule. We all have 24 hours and how we prioritise what we do during those hours is down to each of us as individuals.

That said, I know it can be difficult. In my experience, if something (or someone) is important to us, we always find the time for it. We always find time for the things that we enjoy (I’m fortunate that strength training is something that I enjoy ). What’s the solution to this problem/barrier? Both the NHS and the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommend at least 2 days a week which should cover all muscle groups. That’s setting the bar quite low so it should be achievable.

I recommend two things to make this achievable as follows: 1. Find something you enjoy doing. When people hear the words ‘strength training’ they automatically think of people lifting heavy weights in the gym or posers in string vests posing in front of mirrors in the gym.

You don’t have to go to a gym to do strength training. There are various lifestyle activities that involve muscle strengthening like gardening, carry heavy shopping or lifting your kids/grand kids.

2. Schedule it - put it in your diary. If you haven’t got a diary, then

this may be the time to get one or to start using the one on your phone. Modern life is very busy and it’s important to make sure your workouts are part of your daily routine. If you’ve got an alarm to get you up in the morning, then what’s so strange about having an alarm to remind you when to go for your workout?

I would recommend that beginners avoid working out 2 days in a row - you need some time for your body to rest and for your muscle to break down and rebuild. Now, back to point about finding something you like, there are so many ways to do resistance training without going to the gym. Find a strength training class like Body Pump, get some resistance bands or use your own body weight.

You don’t have to do it all in one go, so you could schedule 2 or 3 15-minute sessions throughout the day. Break into small chunks and plan it round your current lifestyle.

There’s always time to fit in the things that are important to us - all you have to do is understand why it’s important, find something you like doing and stick it in your diary.

If all else fails, I run a fitness class on Mondays and Wednesdays at Tile Kiln Church in Chelmsford at 6.30pm. The first class is free so pop in and give it a try, you’ve got nothing to lose! www.beencouragedwellness.co.uk www.facebook.com/BeEncouragedBeStrong

Mens Health and Well-Being - By Eleanor Searle Technically Not That Difficult I was sat in a café wondering what to write, when a mother briefly looked up from her iPhone and told her son that he was spending too long in front of a screen, before immediately returning to her phone and scrolling for the next 20 minutes.

Many of us try to encourage our kids away from the beloved screens that we bought them, while being almost permanently glued to our own. Don’t get me wrong, a little one on an aeroplane is far easier with a tablet than almost anything else. My youngest would need 5 trunkies full of books to get through a modest flight, whereas I hope this summer, his tablet will be sufficient to get him and everyone around us through the flight with minimal upset.

Tech certainly can improve our lives and make travelling among other things easier to manage, but it comes with a number of downsides.

We all know that excessive screentime can contribute to health problems: obesity, sleep problems, eye strain, depression, anxiety and as I am all too aware as a physio, neck, back and upper limb pain. Most of us try and manage our kids’ screentime, often resulting in an incredible sulk or argument. My own breakthrough came when I asked Alexa how much screentime was appropriate for a 6-year-old, she replied an hour! My son was horrified, but subsequently more accepting of a limit.

However, it isn’t the kids who really need limiting, as if encouraged with more exciting outdoor things to do or opportunities to play, they will happily head off - a bigger problem is us. Myself included, when tired it is all too easy to scroll or watch something on a screen.

Thus, my health recommendation this week is to choose your own screentime wisely and if you are feeling pain in your neck, back or arm, think about how much time you have spent on your phone, tablet or laptop.

Smartphones and the equivalent are great at busting our delusions, as they will tell you how much screentime you have indulged in and once you’ve got over the shock, think about swapping some out for some exercise and reap the health and well-being benefits.

For those of you who have scrolled through and watched someone else exercise, now is the time to do some yourself, whether you use the social media star that you scrolled past for inspiration or whether you join us at Hummingbird Pilates & Yoga for a class using this free class code: HYPFREECLASS. You can book in online www.hummingbirdpilates.co.uk or via the HummingbirdPY app on your phone. We look forward to seeing you for a tech-free hour soon!

16 www.moulshamtimes.com

Smart-Motoring is a motoring news blog bringing you the latest features, stories and information from the motoring world. smart-motoring.com

Will the Exquisite BMW Skytop Grand Tourer Concept Head to Production?

The lovely looking (and rather excellently named) BMW Skytop is a concept derived by the company as a relaxed, long-distance driver.

It’s a vehicle built for luxurious travel. BMW has created an elegant 2-seater for Italy’s Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este on the shores of Lake Como, which is surely the perfect setting for such a refined looking car.

lines, as the silhouette is quite striking leaving no need for anything other than basic smooth lines - anything more might be deemed fussy. Indeed, those headlamps and rear lights are very understated, emphasising the overall look and feel of the BMW Skytop. Even the doors forsake regular handles and use winglets which discreetly sit at the top rear of the doors - it may confuse some trying to get in at first.

The good news regarding this concept vehicle is that BMW has already suggested that the car might well head for production in limited numbers fairly soon. It seems that people are liking this slightly recently-retro concept, which is based loosely on the striking long-bonnet Z8 roadster which ceased production in 2003.

The sweep of the roadster-style long bonnet tapers downwards and hints at a grand tourer car that simply won’t need to be fussed about manoeuvring into tight parking spaces; it’s built for freedom on the open road at a steady relaxed pace.

While the Z8 made an early mark by being showcased in 1999 for the James Bond movie, The World Is Not Enough, we now have the Skytop, sounding very much like a Bond movie car too and a change from the letter/numerical predictive nature of BMW’s particularly precise nomenclature.

The Skytop will receive a V8 twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre M8 engine offering 626bhp, although no further technical specs are readily available. Adrian van Hooydonk, BMW’s Design Director, has said that the company was careful to make sure that various design features of the Skytop were able to be successfully homologated, such as the new sleek headlights and intregrated rear lights, allowing a swifter move to production. He also suggests that the BMW Skytop would be very limited in number, more towards the 50-unit mark.

It’s clear that the showing of the BMW Skytop will decide if there is a demand for the car to go into production. I can’t see it not happening, as the Skytop ticks a lot of boxes that many other BMW models simply don’t - it has a more romantic feel to it, rather than just being an extremely well built car - even the change in the style of moniker suggests BMW sees the Skytop as something a bit left-of-centre for the company.

The Skytop 2-seater grand tourer is a sports car with a removable ‘Targa’ roof. It gives more in the overall outline than it does in refined

We will have to await BMW press for further news, but if the manufacturer is waiting on the response from the public and media before heading to the factory, let’s start here by saying we love it.

By Sean Neylon Courtesy of Smart Motoring magazine smart-motoring.com Images: press.bmwgroup.com

Remember to tell our advertisers you saw their advert in the MT

17

St John’s Moulsham - By Benson Hello my pawsome chums.

A lot has happened in my little life since my last musings. I have turned one year old, and I had a lovely birthday party with all my doggie friends and my all-time favourite treat - a puppuccino.

But I very nearly did not make it to my birthday.

My humans took me on a walk along the Chelmsford to Black Water Navigation - I love running along the canal, in and out of the long grass and popping my head through the gaps to look at the water and spot wildlife.

This day we set off in blue sky, but the weather turned - it started raining heavily and then thundering. I was a little worried, but I trust my humans, so I just carried on as normal.

Then it happened; I ran through a gap of long grass to look at the water, but the grass was wet, I could not stop and I slipped into the canal and out of reach of the bank. Splash! That was the first my humans knew that I had fallen in! Much to their astonishment and apparently (slight) frustration, if I am in trouble I don’t bark, whine, or cry to let them know. I trust that they will always come and get me, so I just tread water till they arrive. But that led to the second problem - I had slipped into the canal at such speed I was out of reach and my human could not reach me and then there was another splash! My human was also in the canal (I should note they could stand up in the water and knew that they could before they entered). This was great fun for me - but alas apparently not for them! I was unceremoniously grabbed by my harness handle and hauled up onto the bank, where I had a shake while my human was helped out of the canal and we all squelched home.

I know I am a very lucky puppy to have humans who will always be there for me. Knowing they’ll even enter a canal for me helps me trust my humans even more. I know they will always be there for me no matter what.

Us doggies have to trust you humans in a lot of situations, like when we’re on a lead. But I have noticed you humans also trust - like sat navs. Even it seems, when they send you up a cul-du-sac and you know it’s wrong, you still seem to follow it. Perhaps that’s just my humans...

You also seem to trust these disembodied voices called Alexa, Google and Siri for help like turning your lights on and off, even though it seems to only work 50% of the time. But you also trust each other, to help you, support you and often with your thoughts and feelings. Like my humans trust each other to do their chores each week. They also trust me not to destroy the house when they need to leave me for a couple of hours.

Finally, I trust God, that he is always with me, even when I can’t see him or sometimes understand why something has happened. But I know that I can ask God and he only wants what’s best for me. As it is says in the bible in Proverbs 3:5-6: ‘Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.’

Paws for now

Grove Road Evangelical Church Vote for change! That’s one of the slogans we have heard lately, and one way or another this election is bound to lead to some sort of change in the UK. Whether that change is what we need is another matter of course! But what is the sort of change that we really need?

In 1860 a son named Charles was born into the rich English Studd family. Known all his life as CT, he went to Cambridge University, where he became a sporting celebrity playing for the English cricket team in the infamous match against the Australians that introduced us to The Ashes. CT’s life had been transformed when someone told him about the saving grace and changing power of Jesus and as the implications of that gradually sank in, he gave his life - and every last penny - to telling others that what Jesus had done for him, he could also do for them.

CT first went to China, India and East Africa. Then in 1913 he went to the heart of Africa to a country known as Belgian Congo. There he spent the last 18 years of his life telling others about Jesus. When he arrived, people seemed often to be given over to things such as murder, cannibalism and drug addiction. But as they listened to what CT had to say about Jesus and saw how CT lived his life, large numbers became followers of Jesus. Whether they had been murderers, cannibals or drug addicts or not, they discovered the transformation that only Jesus can bring to a person, to a family, to a locality, to a culture, to a nation.

We meet on Sundays at 11am. There is a warm welcome for anyone who wants to come and learn more about the transformation that Jesus can make in a life and in the society in which we live.

Philip Loose, Senior Pastor Grove Road Evangelical Church (Behind Tesco Express, Moulsham Street) www.grecuk.co.uk pastor@grecuk.co.uk

t o p s s i th n i e s i t Adver ulsham Times in Mo £120 + VAT for Benson

Promote your business to thousands of local people every month!

MoulshamTimes Reach 9000 readers in Old Moulsham, Moulsham Lodge and Tile Kiln Discounts or free editorial for advertising in more than 3 issues!

We also publish

The City Times

For more information please call us on 01245 262082 or email ads@itsyourmedia.co.uk

18 www.moulshamtimes.com

Advertise your event or business with us!

We have space for advertisers who are builders, cafés and sandwich shops, decorators, dentists, drainage companies, roofers, hotels, retailers, recruitment companies, restaurants, and many more!

• 10,000 copies of the City Times • 9000 copies of the Moulsham Times • Discounts available for longer runs or when advertising in both our magazines • Editorial/business interview for regular advertisers Email paul@moulshamtimes.com for more information or call me on 01245 262082 www.moulshamtimes.com

19

Getting Ready to Start School…

As we approach the end of this academic year we are already thinking ahead to September when we will welcome our next cohort of young learners and their families into the Oaklands community.

Starting school is a big milestone and here are some ways you can make sure your children are fully prepared for this exciting step.

• •

Encouraging your children to get dressed by themselves and take responsibility for their belongings. This always helps if items are labeled and your child can recognise their name.

Practicing getting changed for PE - make a game of it, can they beat their last time?

Conversations play a vital role in a child’s development. Take the time to chat about your child’s day, about their friends and any worries they might have about starting school. It’s a great way to build their communication skills and strengthen your bond.

Share books with your child, talk about the story and the characters,

make reading a fun and enjoyable time.

Don’t forget about mealtime manners! Practice using cutlery together to ensure they’re confident and comfortable when eating at school.

It’s all part of helping them to feel prepared.

More information about preparing your child for the start of school can be found here: home.oxfordowl.co.uk/at-school/reception-atprimary-school/getting-ready-to-start-school.

As the new term approaches, let’s embrace the excitement and support all our young learners in this next chapter of their educational journey!

At Oaklands there are still a few places for our new intake starting in September 2024. If you would like to find out more information about the high quality, enriching provision we have at Oaklands infant School, please contact the school office on 01245 352 166 or admin@oaklands-inf.essex.sch.uk, or visit our website: www. oaklands-inf.essex.sch.uk.

CCR Latest News We wanted to highlight some of the guests that have featured on our shows recently and remind readers that if they would like to be included, then we are only an email away.

Mike ‘Bucks Fizz’ Nolan and Actor John Pritchard were welcomed onto City Talk with Nita to chat about their appearance in a pantomime happening at the Braintree Institute this Christmas. Drive at 5 presenter Richard Taylor was delighted to interview Tink and Joziah from the Slambovian Circus of Dreams, who were going to be playing at the Chelmsford Social Club a few days later. Student Alex who has been helping out at Chelmsford Community Radio for his summer break, was delighted to speak to Ruth Gravelle from Right Mind Life about her work supporting people with Dyslexia. And Rich Lyman explored the world of gong baths with his guest Sam Newman on Feel Good Friday.

Shakey too has been joined in the studio by a number of local musicians and bands including MetroGlow and The Viral Breakdowns. If you are a local musician wishing to be featured, then contact shakey@ chelmsfordcommunityradio.com.

Local fundraisers, community groups and event organisers wishing to get on air, then please get in touch via admin@chelmsfordcommunityradio.com.

www.chelmsfordcommunityradio.com 20

www.moulshamtimes.com

www.moulshamtimes.com

21

Ignite Member of the Month

Each month, Nikki Wilson interviews an Ignite Member, asking five simple questions to find out what creativity means to them and how they see culture and creativity, and its potential, in Chelmsford.

This month Nikki talks to Chris Rickett .

How would you describe what you do?

I’m a principal programmer at Dlala Studios, a video game studio based in Essex. We primarily make games with visual styles inspired by cartoons and we make use of hand-drawn frame animation, so that’s like the old flipbook style that you would have seen from classic Disney Animation Studios’ films.

I’ve been working at Dlala Studios for over 10 years, I stopped counting at 10 years - I actually think it’s coming up to 12 years in a few months. I’ve been a part of Dlala since the very early days of the company and I think I’ve worked on everything that Dlala Studios has released. I’m proud of that, that I’ve had a hand in everything that they’ve made.

My role normally involves designing, architecting and then implementing and programming various features across the entire product. Another aspect of what I do as a principal programmer is that I’m responsible for maintaining a high quality codebase. This involves collaborating with the team to devise patterns and coding standards that aim to make the code easier to understand and contribute to. When the codebase becomes messy or convoluted, or simply cannot support the adding of new features cleanly, I will facilitate the refactoring required to resolve those issues. When it comes to individual features, or day to day tasks, they could cover anything from gameplay, rendering, animation, audio, AI, physics, optimisation, tool programming, or platform integration. I’m really lucky that my role is so varied and no two days feel the same. It’s incredible that I get to have a hand in everything, to be able to expand my knowledge. I never get bored.

On a given day, I could receive a design concept from the design team that I’ve never implemented before and requires a lot of research to determine how we’re going to tackle it. Or it could be something interesting that I’ve read on a blog post one morning that I want to try to adapt and leverage for our current project. Or discovering something new within the proprietary engine that we use, there might be an edge-case or a bug somewhere in there that requires tracing and debugging.

I guess that it basically boils down to creative problem solving. You get presented with a problem, whether it’s technical constraints, design requests, or otherwise and it’s coming up with a creative solution that we can then implement.

Something that I find really, I guess, humbling is the fact that so many people choose to do what I do for work in their spare time, as a hobby. It’s insane when you finish your day and you go off and do some other hobby, go and play some sport or you go and do some art or something, and there are people doing the opposite. I’m really lucky to be in that position.

Who or what gives you creative inspiration?

The team at the Dlala are incredible and they are very, very good at what they do. It’s a really fun creative space; we’re all friends, there’s no one at the studio that I wouldn’t choose to spend time with outside of work. It’s a great catalyst for creativity and we constantly inspire one-another.

Every team member from every discipline, animation, design, art, IT, I’m not gonna say them all, because I’ll definitely forget one, but they all have input, and they all have creative ideas that get heard. It’s really nice, just organically bouncing ideas off one another. You’d be surprised how many of our best ideas come from those conversations across disciplines. It’s not always just design, going into a room and

coming up with an idea. They’ll come up with an idea, but then they’ll listen to everyone’s feedback and the concept gets fleshed out and stronger because of it.

I also take a lot of inspiration from indie developers and smaller studios that do the really brave thing of taking a small concept or single mechanic, and polish it up to a really focused idea. I’ve got a lot of respect for the teams that are often developing it in their spare time, maybe even without funding. They take a small idea all the way through the creative process to create an experience that’s unique.

It’s scary and risky doing something new and unproven but it’s these projects that are so well received by the gaming community for being so fresh and exciting.

Other than that, I would say, ultimately, watching someone play something you’ve made is an incredible experience and I think that it’s addictive. When we manned booths at games expos in the early days, when we were smaller, we would go out and be hands-on with the consumers. It was so fulfilling, seeing a family come and play your game and be laughing and enjoying themselves, and then you’d notice the same family come back again later that day, and maybe just before closing just to play something that we made. It’s so rewarding. That definitely spurs you on for the next project, especially at the end of a project where you might be really tired, you’ve had all these deadlines and then to see the reviews come in the players enjoying it, that gives you a lot of enthusiasm moving into the next project each time.

I also have a bit of a guilty pleasure for reading bad reviews. I’ll often use the filter to sort reviews worst-to-best. The creative way people structure their criticisms and insults gives me satisfaction that they took time out of their day to critique our work. I even enjoy the brutal ones that are unembellished and blunt.

I think the worst thing to happen is to release something and it goes under the radar with no one talking about it. I’d prefer that the discourse is divisive, including players talking about how much they hated it, than people not discussing it. So when people say things like, oh, I don’t like the art style, it’s like, well, that’s personal to you.

It’s not the art style is bad, you just didn’t like it. I’ve got no problems with that, and I do enjoy seeing how people react very differently to something you’ve created.

A huge inspiration for me is the charity Special Effect. I’m generally not very emotional, but their stories always get to me. They work on making games accessible for everyone and every time I watch one of their videos, I’m moved by the fact that games can provide a sense of control and escapism for people who may have life-limiting conditions. Seeing the huge impact and value that video games can have on someone I find incredible. For something initially created to entertain, it’s such a joy seeing what a positive impact the medium can have.

We always joke, my partner and I, because she works in education teaching children, and I’m making games to distract them from their homework. Games are often seen as this bad thing so seeing the good that games can bring is a moral boost for those working in the industry. I urge everyone to take a look at the great work that Special Effect does.

If you could try any new creative or cultural experience or practice, what would it be?

This is an incredibly difficult thing to answer. I could probably talk about this for days and it would probably change everyday you asked me if I’m completely honest. It wasn’t too long ago I was talking to my partner about how I have this picture in my head that we all start off with like a wooden cube, and every time we learn a new skill, or we have a new profound experience, one of those edges is sanded a bit to make another another facet and obviously, the more facets you get, you end up being more rounded. You sand one edge too much and you become less balanced. Maybe that’s just justification for being a bit of a jack of all trades. For the most part, I pick things up

22 www.moulshamtimes.com

just because I want to have a go and then tend to, not discard it, but it just goes on the shelf. So as a result, I don’t know how I would pick just one or two things, but I’ll give it a go.

If I had to pick something professionally that we haven’t had a go at yet but that I’d love to try, two genres come to mind. One of them would be an old-school first person shooter, I think they’ve recently become known as ‘boomer shooters. I grew up playing Doom, one

There’s something very different about visiting a country for two weeks and touring it, compared to living in a small town or something and fully embracing the area. I’d really like to experience that. I’m not sure how likely that is, but it’s definitely on my bucket list.

What excites you about creativity and culture in Chelmsford?

I really enjoy the theatre and I’ve been to Chelmsford Theatre a number of times. Growing up, Chelmsford was a great place to go to experience live music. It was nice seeing and supporting those up-and-coming bands, that during their performance would give it everything and leave everything on the stage.

What would you like to see in Chelmsford that isn’t here yet?

Early on at the studio, when we were incubated within a London studio, there were a few video game bars that we used to visit over lunch. They’re essentially a bar or café, but they have consoles, board games and arcade cabinets set up. You could go in and you could sit down with your lunch, order a milkshake or a snack, and all just play video games together.

of the early first-person shooters, and it played such a pivotal role in my development and relationship with games. The games that I had played previously were puzzle games, platformers, turn-based games, and they didn’t invoke any new emotions compared to something like a board game, they weren’t very immersive. I was young when Doom was released, so it scared the hell out of me, but I was like, oh, wow, this is like playing what I would have thought a horror film would be like. The fast-paced action was incredible for the time and I’ve always wanted to create a game like that. We haven’t done that yet, so that’s definitely something I’d like to explore.

Another genre of game that I mention tongue-in-cheek every time the design team is trying to come to a decision, no matter what genre of game we’re working on, I’ll say something like, oh, what if instead of fighting the boss, they all jump in karts and race?, which at this point rarely gets a laugh but I’d love to work on a kart racer akin to Mario Kart or Crash Team Racing. It’s something I’ve thought about in my own time, but I’d love to explore that professionally and get to implement some features in a karting game.

In my private life and hobbies, I dabble. Earlier this year I visited a Picasso Museum and seeing his artistic journey was really inspiring.

I’ve always wanted to paint and I now have some unused watercolour

I’m from that generation where you’d go over to someone’s house, and they’d have a console and you’d either take your controller or you’d plug two of their controllers in, sit next to each other and you’d play a game. It’s awesome that there are places to do that at our age in bars and things.

As we’ve grown up, that culture has grown up with us. I would love to see more of those kinds of video game bars and cafés, in town centres so that people can go, meet up and have fun playing games together. It’s wonderful that people can connect online, but there’s something about sitting next to the person you’re playing with that I think we’re losing a bit. So I would love to see some video game venues opening up.

To find our more about Ignite scan the QR code.

ot p s s i h nt i e s i t r Adve ulsham Times in Mo £120 + VAT for Promote your business to thousands of local people every month!

MoulshamTimes

supplies that I’m itching to get stuck in to. I’m colourblind, and I’m hoping that the various watercolour layering techniques will improve my understanding of colour.

Music is a big outlet for me, I play the drums and I try to play every day. During covid, I learnt to play a few songs on the acoustic guitar but I’d really like to learn to play the piano, even if it’s just enough for a sing-song at Christmas.

I’ve already given you too many answers, but if I could squeeze one more in; I love travelling and I’d like to see as much of the world as possible and I’ve always wanted to live abroad and never got around to it. It’s never been the right time but I think it would be awesome. www.moulshamtimes.com

Reach 9000 readers in Old Moulsham, Moulsham Lodge and Tile Kiln Discounts or free editorial for advertising in more than 3 issues!

We also publish

The City Times

For more information please call us on 01245 262082 or email ads@itsyourmedia.co.uk 23

n i e s i s t r e e m v i d T A m a h s l u o M e h t n i T t A o V p s + s i 5 1 th 2 £ r o f

Discounts available for long term commitments

Promote your business to nine thousand local people every month!

MoulshamTimes

lso

a We

Reach 9,000 readers in Chelmsford in Old Moulsham, Moulsham Lodge and Tile Kiln .Discounts for advertising in more than 3 issues! ish l b pu

The City Times

For more information please call us on 01245 262082 or email paul@moulshamtimes.com Summer Vintage Days-out with Helen Rollason Cancer Charity Get Ready for Two Wonderful Days Out in Essex, Enjoying Everything Vintage Helen Rollason Cancer Charity’s Vintage Day Out is returning to Cressing Temple Barns near Braintree on Sunday 14th July. Then on Sunday 25th August, Marvellous Vintage will be taking place at Layer Marney Towers.

Head of fundraising, Zoe Jay, said: “Our vintage day at Cressing Temple Barns has always been a great success and this year we are excited to be organising a second vintage event at the wonderful Layer Marney Towers.”

At both events there will be something for all the family. There will be music, singing, dancing and plenty of shopping opportunities with independent traders selling vintage clothing, crafts, jewellery, collectables, accessories and antiques. You can also admire the classic vehicle show, and children can have fun with vintage games.

A wide range of caterers will provide a selection of food, drinks, ice creams and afternoon teas.

Come along with your family or friends and bring your picnic blankets and chairs to enjoy the entertainment. Entrance is £8 for adults, £7 concessions and £2 for children, but you can save £2 per ticket by booking in advance.

Details and ticket information can be found on the Helen Rollason website: www.helenrollason.org.uk/events.

24 www.moulshamtimes.com

The Singing Chef Wow, what a month! Lets first start with a big shout-out to all the kids, teachers, school workers and especially school cooks (Sasha Collins) for absolutly smashin’ the last school year. But i really want to tell my little Oli how extreamly proud we all are of him having compleated his GCSE exams out of school and against all odds. So my even biggest shout-out goes to Oliver’s 3 private tutors who have been amazing and will be sorely missed.

Right Lets get to the food! As some of you may know i am now a chef at Queenies in Chelmsford and also in Billericay. In Billericay I have had the immense pleasure of working with Sicilian chef Antonio, who has taken my understanding of the world of pizza and blown it way up into the sky...

There are soooooo maney types of pizza. I’m learning how to make New York-style thin and crisy pizzas, absolutely delicious and suprisingly light.

Method (In This Order) To 175 ml of warm milk add: 7g yeast.

1 tablespoon sugar.

Add 300g strong bread flour.

1 tablespoon oil.

1 tablespoon salt.

Put in mixer for 6-8 minutes, or knead by hand for 10-15 minutes.

Leave covered in a warm place to rise for 2-3 hours/ Separate and fill and twist and close.

Bake for 10-12 minutes at 180/200 degrees.

When we’re not working, chef and I speak (as well as we can with a little help from Google translate) about Italian food and it all sounds delectable, and I’ve made a few of the recipes.

This recipe for dough balls is adapted by me and created with this super soft, pizza dough recipe made with milk.

Put whatever you want inside and dip in hot honey and or garlic butter. If you have an addictive personality, it’s probably best that you stay away from this!

Reach 9,000 potential new customers by advertising in the Moulsham Times - email paul@moulshamtimes.com for a price list www.moulshamtimes.com

25

In 2010 Moulsham Lodge Community Trust was formed and in 2015 we became a charity. August 2024 marks 10 years in the old police station, now The Community Station. Those ten years have seen tremendous change to both the building and to the activities that happen there. Walls have come down and rooms have been relocated to make it even more user friendly, with 2 meeting rooms, 2 unisex toilets and a kitchen which is now home to The Copper Pot Café. By investing time in the building, we now have a very active community hub.

Every weekday there is an activity for the residents and visitors.

You can participate in a seated exercise class, join a walking group, community bingo, receive help with IT or join the Men’s Shed.

Monthly craft Saturdays and bi-weekly Sunday Yarn knitting group.

While you join any of these activities, you can enjoy some lovely homecooked food in The Copper Pot Café which is open 8am-4pm Monday to Friday, and 9am-3pm on a Saturday.

Once you find the centre, for many it becomes a second home for people, of all ages. It’s dog friendly, which many people appreciate and many of the dogs enjoy being made a fuss of.

To celebrate the 10-year birthday there was a silent disco (and it wasn’t silent!). Children enjoyed 2 sessions during the afternoon and the adults only evening included a BBQ and a licensed bar. It was great fun.

On Monday 10th June we had a 10-hour knitathon - cast on was 10am and cast off was 8pm. Chat, laughter and food kept everyone knitting and purling. All the squares that were produced will be used in either a Christmas tree, blankets for the homeless, foodbank users and baby basics.

What can we look forward to in the next 10 years? Well, that will depend on the residents and the users of the centre. If you have any suggestions of things you would like to see, then please get in touch.

More importantly, if you could volunteer any free time that you have that would be even more help as the Community Station only runs because of people who are prepared to give up some time to help out.

The vison for MLCT was to provide a social space for everyone and hopefully we think we’ve achieved that, with lots of hard work and very little funding.

Take 5 minutes to visit us, say hello and enjoy all the goodies The Copper Pot has to offer.

We now have a very user-friendly centre, and residents can also hire the facilities for celebrations, meetings - catering can be provided.

There is a small car park with disabled parking, access and toilet facilities. A number of private groups already hire the space in the evenings during the week.

As the building has grown over the last 10 years, so have many of the friendships. Out of those friendships has come help, support, solutions and advice for a variety of different problems. There have been many successful outcomes too.

The pictures you can see here are from the Silent Disco, in an area that can be hired out for parties.

Copper Pot Café is open Monday - Friday 8am till 4pm, and Saturday from 9am to 3pm. www.mlct.org.uk enquiries@mlct.org.uk 07434 678 999

To advertise in our classifed section please email paul@moulshamtimes.com. It is £28 plus VAT for each issue

26 www.moulshamtimes.com

Welcome – and Harvest Date for your Diary!

Did you know that St Luke’s is open every day for you to pop in?

It can be a haven of peace and quiet from the hustle and bustle outside, where you can sit, think, and pray - our benches outside are also great places to sit and watch the world go by! Inside, we have a prayer noticeboard where you can add a situation or person that you would like us to pray about.

Fundraising Over recent months it has been great that so many in Moulsham Lodge and Tile Kiln have been joining in our fundraising events, as we raise funds to permanently repair our large hall roof that has been affected by RAAC (reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete).

Everyone is welcome to our Sunday services at 10am each week as well as to our time of prayer on Tuesdays at 2pm when we pray through all the requests that have been added to our noticeboard during the week.

The next event is a tabletop sale on August Bank Holiday Monday, 26th August 2024 from 11am - 2pm. We’ve got some super stalls lined up already and there’s room for more so if you have got things to sell - either things you no longer want that could become someone else’s treasure, or things that you’ve crafted. Please get in contact for further details by emailing moulshamchurches@gmail.com, or message us via Facebook.

As we look forward towards the autumn, we will be holding our Harvest Festival service. Christian scripture is full of references to the creative power and wisdom of God, and the arrival of the harvest has long been marked in Jewish and Christian worship. Did you know that the origins of the Harvest Festival in the Church of England can be traced to the work of the Revd RS Hawker, a parish priest in Cornwall?

In the mid 19th century he chose the first Sunday in October to mark the arrival of the harvest, although there is evidence to suggest that thanksgiving services of this kind were already widespread. From this point, an annual church celebration of the harvest established itself rapidly with great popularity and was first recognised officially in the Church of England in 1862.

Everyone is welcome to come along to our Harvest Festival service on 22nd September, which will coincide with the end of Fairtrade Fortnight. Did you know that the Fairtrade movement is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year? We are lucky that Bishop Guli, the Bishop of Chelmsford will be joining us too; there will be more information available nearer the time.

Our large hall is home to many local groups, including Little Acorns Pre-School, 1st and 2nd Moulsham Brownies and Trudi Osborne School of Dancing, as well as a fantastic resource for those wanting to hold children’s parties and other events. Perhaps you came to our successful Afternoon Cream Tea event on May Bank Holiday? We have more events coming up so keep an eye out.

Lucy Bubb, Churchwarden St Luke’s Church, Gloucester Avenue, Moulsham Lodge, CM2 9DT www.stlukemoulshamlodge.co.uk Facebook: @stlukesmoulshamlodge

To enquire about advertsising please call 01245 262 082 or email paul@moulshamtimes.com

Longing for a Leader

With the election under a week away now, I wonder how you’re feeling about it? Fed up with the campaigning and promises that you know will be broken? Enlivened by the national debate and on the edge of your seat? Engulfed by an air of general disappointment all round?

With elections here in the UK, in France, in the US and in India in the last month or so, there’s a lot of focus on leadership. What makes the best leaders? I’m sure we all have our own ideas but there are probably a few that stand out. I recently asked some of the residents at Manor Lodge Care Home what they thought (we and Grove Road Evangelical Church run services there every two weeks). Some things they said included ‘strong’, ‘honest’, and ‘fair’.

Asked whether they think that we’ll get these characteristics whoever the prime minister is following the election and I was met with a chorus of ‘no’! We’re utterly unconvinced that our leaders will meet our expectations.

But there is one leader who more than meets our expectations - in fact, he exceeds them. Jesus the King. In a discussion with his closest friends, Jesus told them what leadership should look like - and it was based on his own leadership. He came to serve and not to be served.

He wasn’t about his own fame or status or legacy, he came to serve and to give his own life for others. For you, too.

Jesus constantly told the truth. He was honest. That wasn’t pleasant to hear and that still isn’t always pleasant to hear. We can so easily prefer the comfortable lie than the uncomfortable truth. But Jesus www.moulshamtimes.com

desire to serve out of love is so strong, that he will not lie to us about ourselves or the world. We all know this is a million miles away from some politicians who will plaster anything on a bus if it might just get our vote.

Jesus is strong. Through his death and resurrection he defeated evil, Satan, and death. If you are struggling with evil now, in whatever way, then call out to King Jesus for help. Seriously - cry out to King Jesus.

He is strong enough to defeat whatever evil you are facing.

He also offers hope. The promise of King Jesus is that by being loyal to Him, you will be raised to new life again after you die. No one wants to die, and yet we all will. But because of the great power of King Jesus, you have the offer of new, bodily, resurrected life - a life that will be free from pain, sorrow, guilt, tears, evil. Who wouldn’t want that!?

Our leaders who have been campaigning can’t get anywhere close to King Jesus. He’s the only one truly worth of allegiance. So, where will you put your allegiance this election season?

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 Phone: 07821 866 301 YouTube: tinyurl.com/y24qlkvx www.facebook.com/tilekilnchurch www.tilekilnchurch.org.uk 27

Quiz Time - By John Theedom What is agaric?

What is Devil’s Gold?

Which singer ‘Drove All Night’?

What is the acronym DEFRA for?

What name is given to an excess of sugar in the blood?

6. What is a bouzouki?

7. What is a fortified medieval building called?

8. If a drink is frappé - what is it?

9. What is the real name of the singer better known as H from Steps?

10. Where would find a latigo?

11. What is the origin of the name AMSTRAD? 12. Genu is the technical term for which part of your body?

13. Roughly how fast is a cheetah from 0 to 45mph?

14. Which group recorded Making Your Mind Up? 15. Whiich lead singer had a band name the same colour as her hair?

16. In music, what does the term ‘tutti’ mean?

17. Which group had a hit with Pump Up The Volume?

18. What is another word for defuse?

19. What is the name for a domed roof?

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Wordseach by thewordsearch.com

20.

21.

22.

23.

24.

25.

26.

27.

28.

29.

30.

31.

32.

33.

34.

35.

36.

37.

38.

39.

40.

What is meant by ‘lickety split’?

Reeve is the word for what?

In which part of your body is the tibia?

What is invigorating medicine called?

Apart from ‘to cut’, lance is another name for what?

An atelier is usually known as what?

What is a tun?

Which group created the hit Enola Gay? What is ‘red eye’ regarding flight?

A Rose chafer is what type of creature?

Visceral means what?

What is a game similar to bowls?

Hosta is another name for what type of plant?

What is a 13-letter word for lazy?

What is a toccata?

To renege is to do what?

What are pasta pockets called?

What word describes a racehorse that has yet to win a race?

Cereleum is a shade of which colour?

Sherry comes from which country?

What is a koruna?

(Answers on page 30 & 31)

28 www.moulshamtimes.com

service I mot

I builds I tyres I bike gear I apparel I meets 10% online shopping

discount with code moul10

www.ArmadilloCustoms ArmadilloCustoms.co.uk

Blake house craft centre Blake end Essex cm776ra Workshop 01371 879 699 07985661361 Retail 01371 879 696

Give Your Moulsham Times A Holiday!

How far away from Chelmsford can you take your Moulsham Times? Send us a photo of your copy in another place and we will publish the best and the furthest away from Chelmsford, simply email paul@moulshamtimes.com. No prizes, just the satisfaction that you get your photo published in the magazine.

Julie sent in her photograph taken in Devon. Chelmsford is 258 iles from the cliff railway at Lynton and Lynmouth.

The Nelson family took their copy to Polperro in in Cornwall - that’s nearly 309 miles from Chelmsford.

Can you increase the distance with your own photo? Let us know!

www.moulshamtimes.com

29

Trustees/secretary for Chelmsford youth centre - North Avenue Youth Centre This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a passionate team striving to make a difference to young people within the local community. We are seeking two new trustees to join the Management Committee for our youth centre in Chelmsford. One role is for the position of secretary.

Music and movement baby group assistant - Ace Music Therapy CIC We are looking for someone who can spare a couple of hours maximum on the next 5 Wednesdays, to help our music therapist set up and tidy up at our pre-crawlers baby music and movement group.

Volunteer as a patient partner at ARU University Are you able to help future medical students by being a ‘volunteer patient’?

Trustee/treasurer at Citizens Advice Bureau - Chelmsford Chelmsford Citizens Advice Bureau are seeking a new trustee with treasurer responsibilities to join our board.

This is an opportunity to make a positive impact for people in your local area by ensuring the local Citizens Advice is sustainable and meeting the needs of the community.

We need volunteers to pretend to be patients so students can develop their communication skills and diagnostic abilities in simulated real life situations. No acting skills required, we provide training.

Chelmsford4Good charity shop assistant Come and help out in our busy little charity shop in central Chelmsford!

We can promise you a welcoming, cheerful environment with friendly volunteers and regular customers. We are nextdoor-but-one to Chelmsford Library and a very easy walk from bus stops and the town centre.

Office volunteer - Blesma, The Limbless Veterans We are looking for a Volunteer to help the fundraising team with office tasks. You will be providing practical, administrative and research support across the team. We’re a small and friendly team operating at a national level. Your work will help provide excellent donor care to our supporters, as well as assisting with the smooth running of our office and fundraising activities.

Chelmsford Men’s Shed Lead Volunteers Can you spare 3 hours a week? We are seeking a kind, encouraging male volunteer with woodworking/carpentry knowledge to support our Men’s Shed.

30 www.moulshamtimes.com

Answers

Large poisonous mushroom, usually red with white spots 2. Nickname for sulphur 3. Celine Dion/Roy Orbison/Cyndi Lauper 4. Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs 5. Hyperglycemia 6. Musical instrument 7. Castle 8. Chilled or iced 9. Ian Watkins 10. On a horse - part of saddle strap 11. Alan Michael Sugar TRADing 12. Knee 13. 2.5 seconds 1.

14. Bucks Fizz 15. Blondie 16. Musicians/singers all playing together 17. MARRS (stylised as M|A|R|R|S) 18. Deactivate 19 Cupola 20. As quickly as possible 21. Passing a rope through 22. Leg 23. Tonic 24. Spear 25. Artist’s workplace (studio) 26. Large beer keg (252 wine gallons Imperial = 8 barrels) 27. OMD

28. An overnight flight 29. Beetle 30. Relating to deep feelings 31. Bocce 32. Plantain lily 33. Lackadaisical 34. Musical composition 35. Go back on your word 36. Ravioli 37. Maiden 38. Blue 39. Spain 40. Czech coin

www.moulshamtimes.com

31