City Times Intro
Hello readers,
Welcome to The City Times July/August edition.
Look out for our new advertiser, Smart’s Tuition on page 5 - and as always, please check out all the other advertisers throughout the mag.
Please do let us know if you wish to advertise; front pages are limited for the rest of the year with only one now remaining available, but we can always fit you in elsewhere in the publication!
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Paul & Nick
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Disclaimer: It’s Your Media Ltd publish The City Times. The opinion expressed in each article is the opinion of its author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of It’s Your Media Ltd. No part may be reproduced without the prior written permission of It’s Your Media Ltd. Registered offices: 15 Hayes Close, Chelmsford. Reg No 9154871. Printed by Warners (Midlands) PLC. It’s Your Media Ltd
It is currently hot; in fact it’s very hot - almost too much for me! I have been drinking gallons, yes gallons, of water to keep hydrated. I do hope you and yours and your pets are managing to cope with it all. As I continue writing this article it is starting to rain which is good as it cooled things down a little to the mid-20s. Hopefully the nights will also cool down before it gets really hot again.
I I have recently been to Burnham-on-Crouch, and the other weekend I went to Leigh-on-Sea twice. Firsty to take a piece of equipment to my soundman to repair - he also gave me a little tour of his place and I saw the models he builds. Wow, he is talented; not only does he build model aeroplanes, but he is also building a scale model of a narrow boat. I take my hat off to you and your great talent. My next visit was to the second day of the world famous Leigh-on-Sea Folk Festival being held in the Library Gardens. It was hot, but thanks to the trees we did get some shade and shelter. The entertainment was great and I saw many friends, and there was plenty of good music along with stalls for food, drink, crafts and other things for sale. I saw some great acts play, one being The Long Run who drew a big crowd and really got everyone going, joining in singing and dancing. I have never been to this part of Leigh before and I think it is somewhere I need to return to and explore at some point.
If you have been into Chelmsford, have you seen any of the swarm of 30 bees around the city that are part of the City’s Art Trail? They will stay here until September in aid of Farleigh Hospice. At the end, the bees will be auctioned off for Farleigh. See the article for Farleigh in this mag for more details.
I went off to photograph Chic and Duran Duran on Saturday, and also Fake Fest took place in Chelmsford, plus I had an event at Hot Box on Sunday - so it was a busy weekend. Elsewhere, Oasis have played their first gig in 16 years and Black Sabbath are doing their last ever show with all the original members. I am very lucky, as I worked with them in 1978 on the Never Say Die Tour (it was Ozzy’s last with Sabbath at the time). Van Halen opened for them and were playing their first tour and I was looking after them. They were all great people and I did enjoy it.
Also near to us is the Maverick Festival for country and Americana music lovers. Meanwhile, in Surrey there is the Rock and Blues Fest at Alfold. Besides all the music, there has been lots more going on; for example, in sport we have the cricket, Wimbledon and womens’ Euros. There will be lots more going on too of course, so please do check our What’s On guide to find out what is on, where and when.
Music
Firstly, I must mention a couple of changes for later in the year. I have booked The Ugly Guys to play on Saturday 11th October in the afternoon and Wreckless Eric on the Sunday afternoon on the 19th October - both are playing at Hot Box.
There are two changes at the Chelmsford Social Club; firstly, we do not have Saints and Sinners playing on Friday 24th October sadly. But we are now excited that we have Kossoff the Band Plays On, who are the band Paul Kossoff put together after Free. They still have original vocalist Terry Slesser (who also sings in Geordie Brian Johnson’s old band before he joined AC/DC). On guitar is John Buckton who Simon Kirke (Free’s drummer) says that if they were to ever reform Free, John would be his guitarist of choice. On drums, from UFO
and Lionheart, is Clive Edwards and on bass, from Status Quo, is John Rhino Edwards - he is Clive’s cousin, so this is a really top supergroup.
Also sadly, John Coghlan has had to pull out of his show on Friday 24th October, but we now have Hells Bells playing instead - probably the best tribute to AC/DC around. This will be their first time playing in Essex as well. Tickets are available for all the shows right now.
We have had some great gigs going on recently, including our first Friday show at Hot Box with What A Waste who we all really enjoyed. On Sunday 6th July at Hot Box I also had Andy Twyman playing. Everyone loved him - in fact, one couple now want him to play at their wedding!
I went to Chelmsford City Live for the Duran Duran event (even after the awful get-out-of-the-event issues the night before). I was one of the official photographers. We were allowed to photograph the first three songs of each act and that was it. JC Stewart was first on and he was good. Then it was Nile Rogers and Chic, although not my sort of music they were great - what a fabulous band.
Then we had the headliners Duran Duran; wow, they were fantasticbut I did leave after the three songs I was allowed to photograph after what happened the night before. Thankfully my trip home was fine without any problems.
Do please check out all we have coming up. We now have just two shows left with Held By Trees, and also Geraint Watkins and the Mosquitoes before our summer break. Then we return with a bang in September with Led Into Zeppelin.
Please do remember to support all live events whatever it is. Especially those in your local area which help keep the events and the acts, as well as the venues, going. If you can, please do book in advance as it really does make a difference to the organisers, venues and the acts.
If you have anything you think that could be of interest to our readers for either publication, then please let us know by emailing to editorial@itsyourmedia.co.uk - it may be an event or a topic of interest. Or have you done anything unusual or are you planning something? If so, we want to know about it.
If 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 for this and the Moulsham Times
You can get tickets for all our Black Frog Presents shows at The Social Club in Chelmsford from Intense Records, The Hop Beer Shop and Chelmsford 4Good - please pay cash in person when you buy from them as well.
Tickets for all shows, including Hot Box, are also available online from www.wegottickets.com/BlackFrogPresents, or via our ticket hotline at no extra charge - call or text us at 07508 496 411 and you can then pay the advance price on entry and without paying any commission as well for the show rather than the walk-up price. 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.
City Times Food!
Well what a change in the weather we have seen this month! Today, I’d like to talk about meals that we can cook in one pot or pan which is inspired by a recent trip of mine.
I want to mention a restaurant that me and my husband tried this month. My husband had been working in Enfield and had driven past a restaurant called The Family Crab. Both being seafood lovers, it caught our eye. Now the restaurant from the outside doesn’t look fancy, but my god it’s worth the drive.
We found ourselves with a free Sunday so we travelled the hour and 15 minutes to get there. I can honestly say it was one of the best restaurants I’ve been too regarding food and service.
The restaurant serves seafood boil bags. We ordered the large boil bag with snow crab, prawns, lobster, red potatoes and corn. They then give you gloves, aprons and a crab bin. I’ve never experienced a dining experience like this, but I urge you to make the trip to try ityou will not be disappointed!
So this got me thinking; I for one do not want to be standing at the stove for hours in this heat. I do love these kinds of dishes as they lock in all the flavours in the same pan and of course it saves on washing up! There are many meals we can cook in one pan, such as spaghetti bolognaise, curries, risotto, chilli and many more. I am going to do my own research on boil bags and try out my own recipe soon!
My recipe this month is cooked in one pot and uses chicken thighs. I find chicken thighs are very underrated. It’s very easy to over-cook chicken breast, as I’ve found that sometimes people are scared of undercooking it which then makes the result dry and tough, where as the thighs stay moist and are so tasty! The cost of a pack of chicken thighs is also a fraction of what a pack of chicken breasts cost.
I find that this is case with a lot of cuts of meat that maybe people are scared to try as they do not know how to cook them. Take lamb for instance. Lamb cutlets are very lean but the cost is very high, whereas lamb shoulder and neck needs slow cooking for a few hours
Essex Food - By Krista
Hello everyone! I hope you’re making the most of this warm weathereven if it has been a little too hot lately! These long summer evenings are ideal for firing up the barbecue or unwinding with a cold drink in one of our lovely local pubs.
If you’re a regular reader of The City Times, you might remember my article last year on the brilliant Hub Farm Shop in Chelmsford and their mouthwatering roast dinners. Well, exciting news! They’ve just opened a second, larger restaurant in Felsted, just a ten-minute drive from the original spot.
The Hub started back in 2019 as a tiny farm shop with just two tables, where owner Ruth served coffee, homemade cakes and light bites. Fast forward to 2025 and The Hub has become so popular that they have expanded and now have two locations here in Essex. Lewis joined in 2023 as head chef and is now co-owner, bringing years of kitchen experience to The Hub.
Set on Sparlings Farm, the new restaurant is a beautifully converted barn, with high ceilings, huge windows that flood the space with natural light, and plenty of seating spread across two floors, plus an outdoor area. As you arrive at The Hub, the first thing you’ll notice is the lovely farmyard setting. Expect to be greeted by lots of free-range chickens and some friendly goats!
I was lucky enough to be invited to their open evening where I met the team, had a drink and sampled some of the delicious canapés prepared by the chefs. It was a sneak peek of the fantastic dishes
and a bit more prep, but is very tasty - and once again is a fraction of the cost. It’s worth talking to your butcher about these cuts and as I’ve said before, if you ask them they usually are more then happy to prepare and guide you.
Chicken and Apricot Tagine
My recipe this month is a chicken and apricot tagine. This dish is fruity with a hint of heat and the rosemary, apricots and ginger complement it so beautifully. It can be made with other meat such as duck or pheasant.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
• 1 onion, finely chopped.
• 3 sprigs rosemary.
• 2cm ginger, grated.
• 2 red chillis, shopped.
• 1 cinnamon stick.
• 8 chicken thighs.
• 175g apricots.
• 2 tbsp honey.
• Tin of plum tomatoes.
• Basil to serve.
• Olive oil.
Method
• Heat the oil in a casserole dish or big pan, add the onion, rosemary, ginger, chillis and cook until soft for about 5-6 minutes on a medium heat.
• Add the cinnamon stick and chicken thighs and brown off on each side.
• Add the apricots and honey and coat the thighs.
• Stir in the plum tomatoes and add 200ml of water.
• Bring to the boil and reduce the heat.
• Cook for 35-40 minutes.
• Garnish with the basil.
This dish is perfect on its own, but I like to serve it with couscous and a slice of lemon. I hope everyone has a lovely month.
Lauren xx
the restaurant has in store. I also returned on the Sunday and had a beautiful roast with all the trimmings, including my favourite side, cauliflower cheese.
Ruth and Lewis have created more than just a restaurant; they’ve built a space where you instantly feel part of something. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, there’s a real sense of community, where everyone is treated like a friend rather than just a customer.
Over the next few months, they plan to continue developing the menu with a few hidden treats on the way. Watch this space!
Booking is recommended. Give them a call on 01371 829 012 to reserve a table.
For those who live local to the Felstead/Dunow area you can book the DigiGo bus to drop you off and pick you up. Visit www.travelessex. co.uk for more information. The Hub is located at Sparling’s Farm, CM6 3LB.
Follow me on Instagram for more local foodie finds by searching ‘thehungrykp’.
Mud Tribe 5k Is Coming to Essex
Over 5,000 people are expected to attend a new muddy obstacle course event, coming to Essex this September. The event, called Mud Tribe, is being launched by family-run Essex-based company, Nuclear Races, on Saturday 6th September. It promises to deliver ‘mud, foam, fun and laughs’ to those participating, as well as plenty of fun activities, food and drink for spectators.
Mud Tribe is the latest event from the multi-award-winning outdoor obstacle race organisers, Nuclear Races. The company run several events and adventure experiences including Nuclear Races, Nuclear Fit, and Nuclear High Ropes, as well as the popular local attraction, the Secret Nuclear Bunker, at Kelvedon Hatch near Brentwood.
The new Mud Tribe event is all about fun. The event is not timed or competitive, and has been designed to suit all fitness levels and abilities. The 5km course features 17 achievable obstacles, including cargo nets, slip ’n’ slides, foam pits and space hoppers!
There are different ‘waves’ to choose from throughout the event: Mud
Misters is the all-male wave; Mud Sisters is just for women - both waves are for ages 7+.
There’s also a mixed wave, Mud Blast, open to ages 13+, which features an optional, free 1k course upgrade for those who want to try some more challenging obstacles.
Finally, the Mud Family wave is the top choice for families who want to run the course together. There’s even a mini-course open to children as young as 4 and covering 1.5k, meaning little ones can get involved too.
All tickets include free souvenir photos, a finisher medal, and a hot wash down at the end of the course. Spectators can attend for free, and everyone can enjoy the festival atmosphere in the Mud Tribe village open all day long.
More information can be found at www.nuclear-races.co.uk/mudtribe.
July is when the garden really hits its stride - full of colour, life, and that unmistakable feeling of summer in the air. Flowers are in full bloom, bees and butterflies are busy among the borders, and there’s often something to pick and enjoy, whether it’s sweet peas or early tomatoes. It’s a lovely time to sit back and enjoy all that the season brings, while keeping on top of a few gentle jobs to keep things looking their best through the long, warm days ahead.
Here are five key jobs to keep on top of this month - all easy to fit in, whether you’ve got five minutes with a cup of tea in hand, or an hour to potter in the evening sun.
1. Deadhead for more flowers
One of the simplest ways to keep your garden looking fresh is to regularly deadhead - that is, snip off flowers as they fade. Many plants, from roses to cosmos to dahlias, will produce more blooms if you remove the old ones promptly. It also stops plants from putting energy into making seeds and keeps things tidy. You don’t have to be precise - a quick pinch or snip below the flowerhead is often enough. If you’ve got a border full of flowering plants, aim to do a little each time you’re outside and it’ll never become a big job.
2. Water where it matters
With sunshine comes the need for watering, but the trick is to water smart. Focus your efforts on anything that’s newly planted, as young roots dry out quickly. Containers and hanging baskets also need regular attention - often daily in hot weather. Water early in the morning or later in the evening to reduce evaporation and aim to soak the soil deeply rather than little and often, so roots grow down and stay resilient. Established plants in borders generally cope well, but even they can benefit from a good drink during prolonged dry spells.
3. Feed for flowers and fruit
By July, many plants are working hard - flowering, fruiting, or bothand they’ll benefit from an extra boost. A liquid feed every two weeks will keep hanging baskets, tomatoes, courgettes and bedding plants performing well. Use a high-potash fertiliser (like tomato feed) for flowering and fruiting plants, and follow the instructions on the bottle. Feeding helps sustain blooms and boost your harvests through the summer - especially in containers, where nutrients get used up quickly.
4. Harvest little and often
If you grow your own, July is when the picking starts to ramp up. Courgettes, beans, soft fruit, salad leaves - many crops are at their best when picked young and regularly. Harvesting often also encourages more to come. For example, the more runner beans you pick, the more flowers the plant will produce. Keep an eye out for ripe berries and veg each time you’re in the garden, and don’t be afraid to pick generously - it’s what you’ve been waiting for!
5. Stay one step ahead of pests
July’s warmth brings a flush of growth, but also an increase in garden pests. Regular checking is the best way to stay in control. Look out for aphids on new shoots, caterpillars on brassicas and lily beetles on lilies. Removing pests by hand or using organic sprays early on can prevent more serious problems later.
Also, encourage natural predators - ladybirds, hoverflies and birds - by planting pollinator-friendly flowers and avoiding harsh chemicals.
By keeping up with these five simple jobs, your garden will continue to reward you through the rest of summer with colour, scent and plenty to pick. July is a time for enjoying what you’ve created - whether that’s a tidy pot on a windowsill or a border brimming with bees. So take a moment to breathe it all in, listen to the rustle of leaves and let the garden do what it does best.
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.
Regal Kitchens is delighted to announce its place as a finalist in two prestigious categories at the 2025 NEFF MasterPartner Awards: Best Showroom and Best Showroom Display
Using the NEFF Collection. As an award-winning kitchen specialist and long-standing NEFF MasterPartner, this recognition is a powerful testament to the dedication, creativity, and excellence that Regal delivers in every project.
What makes this year particularly special is the incredible praise Regal received from one of the UK’s most recognisable TV personalities. During the recent NEFF Soul Festival, hosted exclusively for NEFF MasterPartners, Alex Jones, best known as the presenter of BBC’s The One Show, toured Regal’s showroom and described it as, “Simply stunning.”
Those two words - ‘simply stunning’ - delivered by such a respected public figure and television host, echoed throughout the event. For a brand built on attention to detail and client-focused design, it was a moment of immense pride. Alex’s remark captured what customers and peers have long felt: Regal’s showroom is not just a place to
browse kitchens - it’s an inspiring design destination.
As a NEFF MasterPartner, Regal Kitchens has exclusive access to the NEFF Collection - a premium, limited range of appliances that is only available through a handpicked group of elite kitchen retailers. From the revolutionary Slide&Hide® ovens to intuitive hobs and integrated smart technology, the NEFF Collection represents the very best in German engineering and modern kitchen innovation. Regal’s display of this collection has been carefully curated to reflect real homes, blending elegance with liveable, functional beauty.
Being shortlisted for Best Showroom and Best Showroom Display
Using the NEFF Collection is not just an honour - it reinforces Regal’s commitment to staying at the forefront of the industry. Their showroom, based in Chelmsford, Essex, is a true reflection of their brand ethos: ‘Where Client is King’.
With over 20 years of experience, countless five-star reviews and now glowing national recognition, Regal Kitchens continues to set the standard for excellence in kitchen design. Whether you’re looking for a showstopping contemporary space or a warm, inviting family hub, Regal combines vision, expertise, and world-class appliances to bring your dream kitchen to life.
Apiary Yard
279a Beehive Lane
Chelmsford Essex CM2 8LU
This month we are introducing presenter, Finley Hall.
Finley has been a part of the Chelmsford Community Radio team since October 2024, being the presenter of Thursday Drive Time
Finley loves to play tunes that will make your journey home from work be that much more enjoyable. From current chart hits to throwbacks from the '80s and '90s, Finley will play an eclectic array of songs during his shows.
As a self proclaimed music lover, he will often be singing along to the songs off-mic in the studio - and sometimes bust out a little dance move every now and then too.
Finley likes to chat with his listeners, asking how their days are going
We’ve recently been talking to many local charities, voluntary and community groups, courtesy of Chelmsford CVS, with a view to giving them a chance to make a show with us, outlining what they do, and discussing topics that they cover day-today on air, for broadcast on City Sound to our 4,500 (and rising) regular monthly listeners.
From August, we will be presenting a regular weekly show, hosted by a different group each week and produced by the City Sound team.
If you represent an organisation that falls into the above categories, we’d love to feature you in future shows. Just get in contact at studio@ citysound.radio, and we’ll be contacting you to discuss making a show with you.
In other news, City Sound are currently improving its catch-up facility using the Mixcloud platform, where you will soon be able to listen to any of the hosted shows on the station almost immediately after they have been broadcast live. Go to www.mixcloud. com/CitySoundChelmsford to start listening.
If you would like any topic raised on air, or use our facilities to make a point, or perform to our growing audience, or a feature on you or your business, or advertise regularly for a small fee, let us know at studio@ citysound.radio.
Catch us live 24/7 on citysound.radio, on our website, on our app downloadable from your app store, on your smart speaker (‘play City Sound Radio’), or on numerous radio apps.
City Sound - The Voice of Chelmsford
and what they thought of a song, whilst sharing his own thoughts and stories. Whether it’s a little anecdote about his day or how certain songs bring back memories of his childhood, he will be sure to let you know.
www.chelmsfordcommunityradio.com
Poem - The Single Candle Burns
A single candle burns, but wax remains
Solid as the granite rocks, untouched
By the rolling swelling salty sea,
A thousand-million swells of time; The headland home of gulls and light
Of gannet cries and swooping gulls.
Bladderwracked, kelped, the boldered shore
Cries its sweet sea shantied songs
Passed down to waves that only The ebbing wave would whisper
As the lighted-house turns its restless face
Silently to a fathomless, shipless sea.
A single candle burns
In headlands lamp-ed light
Turning, turning in crow black, coal black
Over the now oily moonless-motioned sea;
All is quiet,
As gagged gannet cries now silent sleep;
All that remains, the waxy oil of tears
Unmelted by the sea shantied sea.
By Richard Simmonds
www.thecitytimes.co.uk
Don’t miss an exciting new family-friendly outdoor event that’s making Chelmsford buzz this summer!
If you take a walk through the city, you can’t miss the swarms of colourful bee sculptures that have recently appeared in the streets and parks. These unique works of art are part of Buzz in the City, Chelmsford’s first sculpture art trail, which is organised by Farleigh Hospice.
The charity is working with Chelmsford For You - the city’s business improvement district - to organise this event with the support of Chelmsford City Council. The trail’s headline sponsors are Teledyne e2v and Fisher Jones Greenwood Solicitors.
This family-friendly, outdoor walking trail is a great way to discover exciting art in parts of the city you may not have visited before, while supporting your local hospice charity. To find out more, visit www. buzzinthecity.co.uk.
Brilliant Bees
The bee sculptures have been created for Farleigh by Making Trails, a company that designs, manufactures and installs bespoke art trails across the UK.
There are 30 giant bees designed by talented artists, plus 25 smaller mini bees that have been decorated by local schools, care homes and community groups.
Community artist, Jennifer Flint, from Artists at the Meadows has designed two giant bees, called Busy Bee and I Love Bees. She has also run workshops to help local school children and care home residents to design and decorate their mini bees.
She is very excited about the art trail and said, “It is fantastic to have something like this in Chelmsford. Buzz in the City is a lovely thing for families to do in the summer holidays and it encourages people to make more art. I am very happy to support Farleigh Hospice. My mum used to work there so I know about the excellent care that this charity provides.”
Join the Swarm
There is plenty of time to find all of the bees before the trail closes on Tuesday 9th September. You can use the Buzz in the City mobile app which is available from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. There is also a printed trail map that you can buy from any Farleigh Hospice store.
With every bee you find, there is a chance to claim rewards including exclusive discounts, competitions and downloads!
The Buzz in the City pop-up shop is at Farleigh’s Full Circle store in Chelmsford High Street, next to the entrance to the Meadows Shopping Centre. It’s the place to go for beeautiful, bee-themed gifts and souvenirs!
After the trail closes, the bees will be together in the gardens of Farleigh Hospice for a final farewell on 13th and 14th September, before the giant bees are sold at auction to raise money for the charity on 17th September.
Supporting Farleigh Hospice Buzz in the City is raising much-needed funds for Farleigh Hospice. The charity provides compassionate hospice care and support in Chelmsford and across mid-Essex for adults living with life-limiting illnesses and their families. Farleigh also offers bereavement information and support for adults and children.
It makes no charge for any of these services and relies on the kind support of the local community, through donations, gifts in wills and fundraising events, like Buzz in the City. For more information, visit www.farleighhospice.org.
Bev Ellis was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) in March. She was referred to Farleigh and the hospice is supporting her in many ways. Its MND coordinator is liaising with her GP, coordinating the help she needs and assisting with her application for a parking blue badge. Bev is also seeing Farleigh’s physiotherapist.
Bev is the Leader of 1st Writtle Brownies who helped to decorate a mini bee. She said, “I’m very excited that Girlguiding is taking part in Farleigh’s Buzz in the City art trail. It is particularly special to me now that I am under the care of the wonderful Farleigh team. We had a great day decorating the mini bee and doing lots of bee-related activities - all of the little bees on our sculpture are the children’s thumb prints!“
Community Event
Farleigh Hospice is grateful to all of the organisations and individuals who have supported Buzz in the City.
Pauline Harvey-Jones, Commercial Director at Farleigh Hospice, said, ”Buzz in the City is a free, family-friendly trail that everyone can enjoy.
A big thank you to all of the artists, sponsors, partners and supporters for helping Farleigh Hospice to organise this exciting summer community event.
“All of the money raised will help Farleigh to continue providing muchneeded hospice care for the local people and their families who rely on our support.”
Buzz Dates for Your Diary
Farewell Weekend - 13th and 14th September: See all of the bee sculptures buzzing together for the final time in the gardens of Farleigh Hospice, CM1 7FH (www.buzzinthecity.co.uk/farewell). Buzz in the City Auction - 17th September: Bid for a giant bee sculpture at this live auction at the Channels Estate, CM3 3PR. It is hosted by popular auctioneer and television antiques expert, James Lewis of Bamfords Auctioneers. All of the money raised will go to Farleigh Hospice (www.buzzinthecity.co.uk/auction).
Smart-Motoring is a motoring news blog bringing you the latest features, stories and information from the motoring world. smart-motoring.com
Bespoke Rolls Royce Pink Spectre Celebrates Floral Art with Chelsea Flower Show
The recent RHS Chelsea Flower Show is a timeless springtime tradition, that (hopefully) arrives coinciding with warm weather and an ever-increasing enthusiasm for making our gardens look nice for the summer - which we still, perhaps naively, expect will be as reliably sunny as 1976. The show is also a popular annual TV staple hosted by the likes of Monty Don from Gardeners’ World and is also a British tradition along the lines of tea in the afternoon and Antiques Roadshow on a Sunday. What I wasn’t expecting was Rolls Royce to produce a stunning Spectre in metallic pink to mark the occasion.
The Rolls Royce Spectre is painted in a florally exotic sounding Velvet Orchid, as the equally very British company joins the celebrations of ‘floral art’ in the spring of 2025. The car also features a hand-painted Peony Pink Coachline, as Rolls introduces another subtly floralthemed bespoke edition. As Rolls Royce eloquently puts it, ‘reflecting the quiet confidence and refined beauty that resonates with our clients and defines our marque’.
For the week of this year’s Royal Horticultural Society Flower Show in Chelsea, visitors might no doubt be surprised and delighted to see the pink Rolls Royce Spectre in Kensington, Chelsea resting in flowered-adorned doorways and driveways.
Rolls Royce has previously given us bespoke and unique luxury car editions such as the recently revealed Phantom Cherry Blossom
and the Cullinan Daisy, with each being a work of art offsetting the mechanics of an automobile. The former revealing some tasteful artwork on the inside, especially prominent on the beautifully designed roof. The latter with some subtle pin striping that ends in simple daisy artwork.
The pink floral Spectre is from the first range of electric cars that Rolls Royce has produced, with 577bhp and a 0-62mph of just 4.5 seconds for such a heavy car based on a 400-volt electric architecture. While we might not get the chance to own a pink Spectre, the timing certainly does gently remind us that Rolls Royce too has gone green.
Lovely as it looks, a pink Rolls Royce does tend to remind me of Lady Penelope’s Rolls Royce FAB 1 from Thunderbirds (a show I grew up with); perhaps this is why the designers at Rolls chose to use a metallic pink on this occasion, but nevertheless, the colour is indeed fittingly classy and a pleasure to look at.
Sean Neylon
Courtesy of Smart Motoring magazine smart-motoring.com
Images: roycemotorcars.com
July
Wednesday 16th
Admirals Park - Chelmsford Summer Beer and Cider Festival
Hot Box - Control Voltage: Electronic Music Open Mic
Thursday 17th
Admirals Park - Chelmsford Summer Beer and Cider Festival
Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Quiz night Hot Box - Independance
Madison Heights (Maldon) - Open Mic
Old Park Meadow - Gardening Club and coffee morning
Old Park Meadow - Meditation (to book call 07906 653 666)
Rettendon Lodge (Battlesbridge) - Belvedere Jazz & Music Supper Club: ‘Peggy’s Got The Blues’ - Catherine Lima Quintet (7.45pm - to book phone Phil on 07850 607 075)
The Wheatsheaf - Music, Movie & TV Quiz
Friday 18th
Admirals Park - Chelmsford Summer Beer and Cider Festival
Chelmsford Social Club - Black Frog Presents: Held By Trees (Talk Talk) + Calum Ingram
Chelmsford Theatre - Weston: Adventures in Neverland
Hot Box - Flint Fire
O’Connors - Sarah Beth
St Mary’s Church Flower Festival (Maldon, CM9 5HN) - Theme:
Children’s Books (free entry)
Saturday 19th
Admirals Park - Chelmsford Summer Beer and Cider Festival
Chelmsford Theatre - Weston: Adventures in Neverland Hot Box - Com-unity Roots Double Six Dominos (2pm) Hot Box - Lemoncurd Kids
Life Church - Raising Voices, Raising Hope The Station Arms (Southminster) - Soft Energy
The Wheatsheaf - Karoke
St Mary’s Church Flower Festival (Maldon, CM9 5HN) - Theme: Children’s Books (free entry)
Sunday 20th
The Ale House - Quiz
Chelmsford Theatre - Essex Dance Theatre Showcase Hot Box - Hot Fun in the Summertime
O’Connors - Tradition Session + Karaoke
St Mary’s Church Flower Festival (Maldon, CM9 5HN) - Theme:
Children’s Books (free entry)
Monday 21st
The Ale House - Beery Bingo Hot Box - Chelmsford Chess Club
Sandon School (Sports Hall 2) - Scottish Country Dancing (7.309.30pm - all abilities welcome - www.sandonscotdance.org.uk)
The Wheatsheaf - Club
Tuesday 22nd
Bootmaker - Quiz Night
Chelmsford Theatre - Complete Dance: Star Struck Hot Box - Chelmsford Creative Collective Meet Up
Old Park Meadow - Yoga (to book text 07711 947 199 or visit bookwhen.com/beckysallows)
Widford Village Hall (turn left at Chandlers) - country dancing (barn dance, £2 - 7.50pm - 01245 475 660)
Tuesday 22nd (continued...)
Woolpack - Quiz
Wednesday 23rd
Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Karaoke
Chelmsford Theatre - Complete Dance: Supremacy
The Golden Fleece - Karaoke
Thursday 24th
Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Quiz night
Chelmsford Social Club - Social Ballroom Dancing Evening Courtyard
Karaoke
Golden Fleece - Quiz Night
Hot Box - Blues Box at Hot Box: Geraint Watkins and the Mosquitoes
Old Park Meadow - Yoga (to book text 07711 947 199 or visit bookwhen.com/beckysallows)
The Rising Sun - Quiz night
Voodoo Keller Bar - Charity Pub Quiz
Friday 25th
Chelmsford Theatre - Flowes and Friendship Bracelets
Hot Box - Snow Boy + David Arscott + Ian Wright
O’Connors - DJ Pete
Saturday 26th
Bootmaker - Silent Disco
Chelmsford Theatre - Dance Projection: Time of Our Lives
Hot Box - Com-unity Roots Double Six Dominos (2pm)
Hot Box - Tommy Scott + Satin Beige
O’Connors - Karaoke
The Wheatsheaf - Karaoke
Sunday 27th
Chelmsford Theatre - Dance Projection: Time of Our Lives
Hot Box - Ragga Food and Vybz
O’Connors - Karaoke
Monday 28th
The Ale House - Beery Bingo
Chelmer Village - Pilates classes (carolinesdanceandpilates.co.uk)
Chelmsford Theatre - The Koala Who Could
Hot Box - Chelmsford Chess Club
The Wheatsheaf - Club
Tuesday 29th
Chelmsford Theatre - The Koala Who Could
Chelmsford Theatre - EOS: Dawn of Impressionism: Paris 1974
Hot Box - Heathen Apostles (featuring Chopper from The Cramps)
Old Park Meadow - Yoga (to book text 07711 947 199 or visit bookwhen.com/beckysallows)
Wednesday 30th
Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Karaoke
Chelmsford Theatre - The Koala Who Could
The Golden Fleece - Karaoke
Hot Box - Alison + The Trial
Old Park Meadow - Gardening Club and coffee morning
United Brethran - Chelmsford Creative Collective Meet-Up
Thursday 31st
Hot Box - Andy Riley & Firends - Spoken Word
August
Friday 1st
Chelmsford Theatre - An Evening of Burlesque Caberet
Hot Box - Dis-Niche: A Night of Every Disney Anthem
Whitehouse Farm Essex Farm Fest
Saturday 2nd
Chelmsford Theatre - Some Guys have All the Luck
Chelmsford Theatre - Ellla Al-Shamahi (Work in Progress)
Hot Box - Com-unity Roots Double Six Dominos (2pm)
Hot Box - Rogue Frame
The Wheatsheaf - Karaoke
Whitehouse Farm Essex Farm Fest
Sunday 3rd
The Ale House - Quiz
Chelmsford Theatre - Milkshake Live on Holiday
Roxwell Church Lawn - Cream Teas
Monday 4th
Ale House - Beery Bingo
Chelmer Village - Pilates classes (carolinesdanceandpilates.co.uk)
Hot Box - Chelmsford Chess Club
Sandon School (Sports Hall 2) - Scottish Country Dancing (7.309.30pm - all abilities welcome - www.sandonscotdance.org.uk)
The Wheastsheaf - Club
Tuesday 5th
Hot Box - The Only Way is Melee
Old Park Meadow - Yoga (to book text 07711 947 199 or visit bookwhen.com/beckysallows)
Widford Village Hall (turn left at Chandlers) - country dancing (barn dance, £2 - 7.50pm - 01245 475 660)
Woolpack - Quiz
Wednesday 6th
Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Karaoke
Friends Meeting House (Rainsford Road) - CRAG Retirement Group (monthly meeting - 9.30am for 10am - first visit free)
The Golden Fleece - Karaoke
Hot Box - Kavus Torabi + Zement
Madison Heights (Maldon) - Open Mic
Old Park Meadow - Gardening Club and coffee morning
Old Park Meadow - Meditation (to book call 07906 653 666)
Rettendon Lodge (Battlesbridge) - Belvedere Jazz & Music Supper Club: ‘Simply Frank’ - Stephen Triffitt Quintet (7.45pm - to book phone Phil on 07850 607 075)
The Wheatsheaf - Music, Movie & TV Quiz
Thursday 7th
Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Quiz night
Chelmsford Social Club - Social Ballroom Dancing Evening Courtyard - Karaoke
Golden Fleece - Quiz Night
Hot Box - Highest Primzahl on Mars + Busmut
Old Park Meadow - Yoga (to book text 07711 947 199 or visit bookwhen.com/beckysallows)
The Rising Sun - Quiz night
Friday 8th
Hot Box - Palmist + Oli Harris + Josie Beth (BBC Introducing)
O’Connors - Charity Pub Quiz for Farleigh Hospice
Saturday 9th
Hot Box - Com-unity Roots Double Six Dominos (2pm)
Hot Box - GT William (2pm)
Hot Box - Groove Junction (7pm)
Station Arms (Southminster) - Charity weekend (7 live acts, 2pm onwards)
Whitehosue Farm (Rettendon) - Echoes of History
Thirsty Syndicate - Dope a Night of Hip Hop with Danny Bounce
The Wheatsheaf - Karaoke
Sunday 10th
The Ale House - Quiz
Station Arms (Southminster) - Charity weekend (7 live acts, 2pm onwards)
Whitehouse Farm (Rettendon) - Echoes of Hsitory
Monday 11th
Hot Box - Chelmsford Chess Club
Sandon School (Sports Hall 2) - Scottish Country Dancing (7.309.30pm - all abilities welcome - www.sandonscotdance.org.uk)
The Wheatsheaf - Club
Tuesday 12th
Hot Box - Glass Eye Comedy Club
Old Park Meadow - Yoga (to book text 07711 947 199 or visit bookwhen.com/beckysallows)
Widford Village Hall (turn left at Chandlers) - country dancing (barn dance, £2 - 7.50pm - 01245 475 660)
Woolpack - Quiz
Wednesday 13th
Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Karaoke
The Golden Fleece - Karaoke
Hot Box - Big Music Quiz
Madison Heights (Maldon) - Open Mic
Wednesday 13th (continued...)
Old Park Meadow - Gardening Club and coffee morning
Old Park Meadow - Meditation (to book call 07906 653 666)
The Wheatsheaf - Music, Movie & TV Quiz
Thursday 14th
ACanteen - Country Roads
Black Rabbit (Maldon) - Quiz night
Courtyard - Karaoke
Golden Fleece - Quiz Night
Hot Box - The Gardeners
The Oddfellows Arms - Quiz
Old Park Meadow - Yoga (to book text 07711 947 199 or visit bookwhen.com/beckysallows)
The Rising Sun - Quiz night
Friday 15th
Hot Box - The High Points + Molly Gone Mad
Saturday 16th
The Compasses - Karaoke
Essex County Ground - An Evening of ABBA
Galleywood Heritage Centre - Fun Family History Day
Hot Box - Com-unity Roots Double Six Dominos (2pm)
Hot Box - Withered Hand (Dan Wilson - 12.30pm)
Hot Box - Soul, Northern Soul, Disco & Motown Night
Hylands Estate - Country Calling Festival
The Wheatsheaf - Karaoke
Sunday 17th
The Ale House - Quiz
Hot Box - Guitar Club
Hylands Estate - Country Calling Festival
Venues are in Chelmsford, unless mentioned in the listings as being elsewhere.
Photo credits: Nile Rogers and Duran Duran - Nick Garner | All others, Cuffe & Taylor
Transitions -
By Steve Johansen, Hummingbird Pilates & Yoga
When I first started doing yoga, my focus was on the poses (asanas). I remember my teachers trying to instil the importance of the transitions - the movement from one pose to the next - but it took me a while to appreciate the importance for myself. It wasn’t until I started learning about the different aspects of yoga, particularly Svadhayaya (which means self-study or self-reflection) that I began to appreciate importance of the transitions themselves and the effect on my practice was transformative.
Transitions are more than just movement between the poses, they are the connection and awareness of the moment, helping us to slow down and draw our attention to the space between the poses, aligning the body ready for the next pose, enabling us to focus on a different aspect of our practice such as breathing. Imagine walking through the park to get to work - instead of just mindlessly walking, consider slowing down to enjoy the sun on your face, the birds singing in the trees, the beautiful flowers, or the laughter of children in the
Chelmsford
Library
Buzz in the City Art Trail!
Chelmsford Library is proud to ‘bee’ a part of Buzz in the City, Chelmsford’s very first art sculpture trail, this summer! We look forward to being part of the buzz and welcoming visitors from Saturday 5th July to Tuesday 9th September. This free event is raising money for Farleigh Hospice, the charity that provides specialist care and support, free of charge, to people affected by life-limiting illnesses and bereavement across Essex. Chelmsford Library will be hosting one of the mini bee swarms of the trail. We are proud to be supporting this fun, free art event, that is raising much needed funds for Farleigh Hospice.
playground. When we slow down, we get to appreciate everything, and the initial action becomes more mindful and affords far greater benefits than the action of simply putting one foot in front of the other.
Whilst sometimes transitions are obvious, like the sweeping motion of the arms from beside the body in Mountain Pose, upwards to meet in prayer above the head into Upward Saulat, some can be almost unnoticeable, like a flex of a foot or a twist of a hand. Downward Facing Dog is a pose as well as a transition. So, this week, I challenge you to enhance your own practice by focusing not just on the poses, but on how you transition between them. I hope that you’ll find your practice becomes increasingly mindful and powerful. I’d love you to join me in class so that I can guide you through your practice and help you to get the most out of your transitions. Book online at www. hummingbirdpilates.co.uk using code HPYFREECLASS and see how much you can improve.
time, treasure trail, colouring and crafts. These are free events - no booking is required.
Big School Meetups!
Get ready for big school! Come along to our Big School Meetup, a fun relaxing session with a story time, activities and a chance to meet other families with children who are starting school in September.
Join us on Thursday 17th July at 10.45am and Saturday 19th July at 10.30am. Activities will include a story
Over 50s Black Men Forum: Oral History Project Exhibition Chelmsford Library is proud to be hosting a poignant exhibition by The Over 50s Black Men Forum (O5BM).
O5BM was established in 2018 as a non-profit community and multi-themed organisation dedicated to supporting Black Men aged 50 and over.
Experience this powerful exhibition that brings history to life through first-hand accounts, preserving cultural memory, fostering education and empathy and strengthening intergenerational connections.
This exhibition will be running until Friday 25th July available during library opening times.
Local day services for older people and people with learning disabilities and autism are taking part in Chelmsford’s first ever art trail which takes place this summer.
Chelmsford-based care company, ECL is participating in Buzz in the City - an art trail, organised by Farleigh Hospice, Chelmsford For You (the city’s Business Improvement District) and Chelmsford City Council.
The trail will feature a swarm of colourful bee sculptures sponsored by local organisations to raise vital funds for Farleigh Hospice.
The swarm consists of 30 large, six-foot-high bee sculptures and 25 smaller mini-bees located in places of interest throughout the centre of Chelmsford from 5th July to 9th September.
The large bees have been decorated with a unique design by local artists and the mini-bees have been decorated by local schools and community groups.
ECL has sponsored a large bee sculpture and three mini-beesits mini-bees have been decorated by individuals that attend its Highfields and Charles Dickens day centres for older people and people with learning disabilities and autism.
Over the last six weeks, both day centres have been a hive of activity as customers designed and painted their bees with the creative support of local artist Jennifer Flint.
Affectionately named Betty, Bubbles and BB by the centres, the minibees will be located in Chelmsford Library, The Meadows and High Chelmer shopping centres from 5th July, for 10 weeks.
ECL Managing Director Peter Fairley said: “We are thrilled to be a part of such a wonderful community project, and we hope that it is something those we support, their families and our employees, can enjoy. Everyone at our Chelmsford day centres had a great time decorating their bees and we can’t wait to see them in situ.
“Community engagement is at the heart of what we do, the people we support in our services get so much fulfilment and enjoyment from both creative and community-based activities, so this is the ideal project for us to be involved with.”
A sentiment shared by Buzz in the City Art Trail Lead, Caroline Smith who knew this project was perfect for ECL to be involved with from her own experience of its Highfields Day Centre.
Caroline’s late father Victor (Vic) Baker enjoyed attending the centre in his latter years. Vic, who had advanced Parkinson’s disease, attended Highfields twice a week and enjoyed the independence and social interaction it gave him.
A former Saville Row tailor, Vic was able to get back in touch with his creative flair through participating in the arts and crafts on offer.
Caroline said: “Going to Highfields was brilliant for dad because it gave him a different group of people to talk to and different activities to get involved in, which he fully embraced.
“He liked having something for himself and liked the independence going to the day centre gave him. He enjoyed all the activities but particularly the arts and crafts - he would never have done crafts like that at home, but at the centre he loved doing it. It was good for him both physically and mentally.
“When I began working on Buzz in the City, I knew that it would be the perfect activity for Highfields to get involved with because it would be an ongoing project for everyone that attends the centre to enjoy. From the arrival of the blank white bee sculptures, brainstorming their design ideas, planning out the final concepts, painting them and then seeing their finished bees star in the art trail. I know it’s something my dad would have loved to be a part of if he was still with us and attending the centre.”
All money raised from Buzz in the City will help Farleigh Hospice to continue to provide specialist hospice care, free of charge, to people affected by life-limiting illnesses and bereavement in Chelmsford and across mid-Essex.
To find out more about ECL’s Day Service visit, ecl.org/older-people.
Facebook:@ECLCareCompany
Instagram: @eclcarecompany
LinkedIn: ECL Person-centred Care
Poem - Home
Home is where the heart is It certainly is today The sun is shining brightly Good times are coming our way
It’s the simple things that please us
That make our hearts content Some things are overwhelming Some things are heaven sent
Whatever you do be thankful Your reward is coming soon Blink and you’ll miss it And you’ll be over the moon
martin.kilbey@gmail.com
Multiple roles at Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome Accredited museum and award winning visitor attraction, Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome is a charity and the largest surviving Great War aerodrome in Europe.
They are seeking volunteers for lots of different roles, including Gallery Stewards and Tour Guides, Research and Collections volunteers, and gardeners and maintenance crew.
Help teach adults to read
Could you volunteer a couple of hours of your time each week to make a real difference to someone’s life? Do you think that being able to read is a precious gift that every adult should have? If so, why not become a Read Easy Volunteer Reading Coach?
Read Easy UK is a national charity whose aim is to help adults learn to read through free, friendly, 1:1 reading coaching, delivered by trained volunteers.
Minibus river at city of Chelmsford Mencap
We need experienced and confident minibus drivers to enable our students to access activities, events and projects.
You will also support students and staff at their destination, whether it’s enjoying a day trip to the seaside, tending a community garden or developing independent living skills.
We need drivers on most weekdays, but occasionally have evening and weekend opportunities. You can volunteer on a regular or ad-hoc basis.
Ward support volunteerBroomfield Hospital
Volunteers are needed to assist and compliment the work of ward staff at Broomfield hospital in ensuring that patients that being discharged home can go home swiftly and without unnecessary delays that also free up hospital facilities.
No personal or medical care required.
Sighted guide volunteer for sporting events
This role is intended for a keen sports fan! The role of the volunteer is to assist a blind or visually impaired person to get to the sporting event, provide support where needed at the event and get back to their home address safely.
All costs will be covered and/or reimbursed by the charity.
Hosting volunteer - Chelmsford FoodCycle
FoodCycle combines surplus food, volunteers and free kitchen space to create nutritious, three-course meals, FREE for the community.
As a hosting volunteer, you’ll support the team in creating a warm, welcoming environment for our guests.
You’ll serve food, share a meal with our guest, encourage conversation and clean up after the meal.
Crafts - By Magali Ellis and Scrap-Circle
The Power of Crafting: Creating, Remembering and Healing
Crafting is more than a relaxing hobby - it’s a powerful tool for improving well-being, preserving memories and connecting with loved ones. Whether you’re knitting, scrapbooking, crocheting, or making personalised keepsakes, crafting offers a wide range of emotional and cognitive benefits that go far beyond the finished product.
One of the most significant benefits of crafting is its positive impact on mental health. Engaging in creative activities helps reduce stress, anxiety and even symptoms of depression. The focus required during crafting provides a calming effect, similar to mindfulness or meditation. It brings us into the present moment, encouraging us to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasure of making something with our hands. This can be especially beneficial during or after holidays, which can sometimes feel overwhelming or emotionally charged.
Crafting is also a beautiful way to preserve holiday memories. Handmade photo albums, personalised decorations, or even handstitched ornaments can serve as tangible reminders of special moments shared with family and friends. These crafted items tell stories - of laughter, togetherness, traditions and change - and can be passed down from generation to generation. In this way, crafting helps keep those joyful memories alive long after the holiday lights have dimmed.
Keepsakes made through crafting carry a special emotional weight.
The Art Place @Meadows Shopping Centre: More Than a Shop - Community, Caring, Learning, Hope and Love
Now on at The Art Place, Chelmsford: How We Live in Essex Through The Seasons. An exhibition exploring the people of Essex and their connection to home.
Curated by Essex community poet and PhD researcher Lelia Ferro, this exhibition is the result of six years of interviews with residents about life and work in Essex. Lelia’s poems, shaped by these conversations, are accompanied by visual responses from Essexbased photographer Dan Sceats and illustrator Louisa Charrington, bringing local stories to life through words and imagery.
Unlike store-bought items, handmade gifts and mementos are infused with time, thought and love. They often become cherished treasures that reflect the care and attention of the maker. Whether it’s a crocheted toy, a memory box, or a custom name card, each piece holds meaning and can trigger memories for years to come.
Crafting also plays a deeply important role in supporting loved ones facing memory loss. For my mum, who is living with Alzheimer’s, crafting has become a gentle, yet powerful way to help her stay connected to her world. Creating name tags, labelled photo books, or memory quilts featuring images of family members and important events helps reinforce recognition and recall. The process of making these items together also sparks conversation and emotional connection, which is just as vital as cognitive support.
The beauty of crafting lies in its versatility. It can be adapted to suit any age, ability, or occasion, making it an inclusive and meaningful activity for everyone. Whether you’re creating to heal, to remember, or simply to enjoy the moment, crafting opens the door to personal expression and shared experience.
In a world that moves quickly, crafting reminds us to pause, to reflect, and to create lasting bonds - both through the things we make and the memories we keep.
Why don’t you join us to craft together on our monthly days at Highwood Village Hall? Dates are as follows: Saturday 30th August, Saturday 27th September, Saturday 25th October, Saturday 29th November, Saturday 13th December. You can also check the website at www.scrap-circle.co.uk for more details and booking link.
community members in response to Lelia’s work. Printed on organic canvas, these pieces explore personal ideas of home and domestic life in many voices.
Designed to be inclusive, all artworks use large, dyslexia-friendly fonts and offer visual alternatives to text. This is a space for everyone - free to enter, open to all and made to be experienced in multiple ways.
Artist of the Month: Sean Casey Chelmsford-born artist Sean takes centre stage this month at The Art Place with a deeply personal solo exhibition that explores emotion, healing, and connection through art.
Sean began his artistic journey after a personal loss, using creativity as a powerful tool to process grief and support his mental health. His work often explores complex feelings, inviting viewers to reflect on their own emotional landscapes.
The exhibition reflects how deeply nature, the sea and the local landscape are woven into Essex identity, shaping everyday life, family histories and regional heritage. It also highlights the unique character of Essex people: humorous, resilient, and deeply rooted in place.
A key feature is the collection of ‘washing’ poems written by
Known for his use of texture - whether through layered paint or mixed media - Sean’s art is tactile, expressive and open-hearted. Each piece offers a glimpse into his inner world, while allowing space for others to find their meaning.
“Art is subjective,” Sean says, “But I hope my work speaks to you or connects in some way.” Don’t miss this moving and honest exhibition by a truly local talent.
This article was written by Elena from EKM Gallery.
For more information about our work, projects, workshops and support offered, please visit: www.ideashubchelmsford.org and follow us on Facebook by searching ‘The Art Place Chelmsford’ (for The Art Place) and ‘Ideas Hub Chelmsford’ for the charity in general, and on Instagram by searching, ‘Art Place Chelmsford’.
Interior Design Tips for Your Home - By Tania Dadd
Creating a Family-Friendly Open Plan Lounge, Dining, and Kitchen Area
An open plan living space that combines the lounge, dining area and kitchen is perfect for modern family life. It brings everyone together into one shared space - whether you’re cooking dinner, helping with homework, or relaxing after a long day.
But making the most of an open plan layout takes a bit of planning to ensure the space is functional, cozy and family-friendly.
Here are my tips for making the most out your open-plan area:
1. Create clear zones for everyday life
Even though the space is open, it’s helpful to define different areas for specific activities. You can do this with rugs, furniture placement, or even different lighting styles. For example, a large rug under the sofa makes the lounge feel cosy, while a dining table with a pendant light above helps mark the eating area. This way, everyone knows where things happen - play, eat, relax - without needing walls.
2. Keep the look cohesive (but not too perfect)
Family homes are meant to feel lived-in, not like showrooms. Still, using a similar colour scheme and style across the open space helps everything feel connected. Choose colours that are practical and calming - neutrals, soft greens, or warm wood tones work well. You can still let kids’ toys, books and artwork shine, but having a consistent base helps the space feel tidy and welcoming.
3. Plan for easy movement
With kids running around or family members moving from kitchen to couch, easy flow is essential. Try to keep pathways open - avoid
placing chairs or tables in the middle of walking routes. Make sure the kitchen connects easily to the dining table (great for family meals) and position the lounge so it’s close enough to feel part of the action but still comfy for winding down.
4. Use lighting to set the mood
Good lighting makes a huge difference in a busy family space. Use bright task lighting for cooking and homework, and softer lights for meals and movie nights. Dimmer switches or layered lighting (like lamps and overhead lights) let you change the mood depending on the time of day or activity.
5. Keep it tidy with smart storage
Let’s be honest - family life gets messy! That’s why smart storage is a must. Think built-in shelves, toy baskets, or storage benches that tuck things away in seconds. An island with drawers or a dining bench that lifts up can hide everything from crayons to chargers. Keeping clutter under control helps everyone feel more relaxed.
6. Make it flexible and fun
One of the best things about open-plan living is that it can grow with your family. Use modular furniture that can be rearranged for playdates or parties, or a fold-out table for crafts and homework. Create a cosy reading corner or a quiet spot with floor cushions and a bookshelf. It’s your family space - make it work for how you live.
If you would like any advice on interiors we offer a consultation free of charge.
Our services include interior design. colour consultation and styling. 07979 66 3339 info@saltmarshinteriors.co.uk www.saltmarshinteriors.co.uk
Tales From the Circle - By Sylvia Kent
Our Brentwood Writers’ Circle membership is growing. Prior to 2020 our membership was reaching sixty individuals, attracting both established and new writers, many of whom had always wanted to see their work published. Then the covid pandemic put paid to this dream for many and numbers dropped. Nowadays, we increasingly enjoy meeting new writerly folk from all over Essex. Their genres are as different as their personalities.
Recently, our committee organised a showcase gathering - no, there was no singing or dancing involved fortunately, but the afternoon was certainly entertaining. Listening to writers’ competition-winning entries and showcase contributions, plus some journalistic offerings from those present, certainly resulted in some great ideas during a hot Saturday afternoon in June. A mix of fun, nostalgia and moving stories.
Peter Gurton read an extract from his dystopian novel about teenagers leading a revolution against a tyrannical leader, Keiko Okara’s piece about her CV and her ability translating from English into Japanese. There followed a bevy of other entertaining storytellers reading from their latest projects and even a poem or two. All present agreed that reading to an audience was a rare chance of performing aloud and this enhanced their own enjoyment of creating words. Carley-Ann Osborn outlined her plan to create a competition for schoolchildren, resulting in a book of winners’ work, all to be found on Amazon.
So far this year, we have been lucky in welcoming some talented guest speakers and, although we are half-way through the year, there are more planned for our 2025 programme. Brentwood Writers’ Circle delivers a mix of members’ readings showcasing their work, workshops and talks from professional authors, experienced publishers and marketers. Experienced members help others with
their writing journeys. Subjects include historical fiction, journalism, poetry, and how to promote yourself via radio, social media and internet websites. BWC holds two member writing competitions a year, and will introduce a third later this year, dedicated to former president and long-standing member, Frances Clamp.
On June 28th (pictured) some of our regular members enjoyed running a stand in the Baytree Shopping Centre, an event held to mark the beginning of the fabulous Brentwood Festival. Books were signed by our published authors and sold to interested readers. It was great to be invited to join so many other creative people and a happy day was spent meeting many individuals who may possibly pay us a visit at Bardswell Social Club, Weald Road, Brentwood in the future. First visit free! Come join us and see what we have to offer on www.brentwoodwriterscircle.com.
Which European football club has a fox in its crest?
Of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, which is both the oldest and the only one to still exist?
Which snooker player is nicknamed ‘the Whirlwind’?
Which three colours make up the German flag?
Which episodes of which TV programme ended with Zebedee announcing that it was ‘time for bed’?
Australia went to ‘war’ with which bird in 1932? Which three-leafed member of the clover family is a national emblem of Ireland?
Which British boy band made a 21st century come-back with album Beautiful World?
In bingo calls, what is ‘Danny La Rue’?
Neighbours is set in which fictional cul-de-sac?
What is the world’s longest-running theatre prodution? Mozzarella cheese is made from the milk of which animal?
What was the Beatles first number 1 single in the UK?
In business terminology, what does PLC stand for?
An ECG measures the activity of which organ of the body?
The idiom ‘treading the boards’ means to do what?
Which US singer was known as ‘The Big O’?
In anatomy, to what does the adjective otic refer?
What word can mean joke or choke?
What is a Gila monster?
In the US, what does the slogan MAGA stand for?
In a 1989 single, Aerosmith find love where?
Dippy, the 26 metre long diplodocus skeleton, used to stand in the entrance to which London museum?
What insect sculptures have been place all over Chelmsford for charity?
What is a baby hedgehog called?
The Chinese gooseberry is also known as which fruit? In 1999 which actor won the Worst Actor of the Century Award at the Razzies?
Flip, flow, bar and pie are types of what?
Natural gas, coal and oil are all examples of what type of fuel?
Near which pole do polar bears live?
Pam Dawber and Robin Williams starred as which hugely popular TV duo?
Olympic weightlifter Toskiyuki ’Harold’ Sakata played which henchman in the James Bond movie franchise?
What is the largest land animal on earth?
Edina Monsoon and Patsy Stone were the principal characters in which sitcom?
The E Street Band are the backing group to which singersongwriter?
In which 1997 comedy film do six unemployed men from Sheffield decide to form a male striptease act?
Cast, pig and wrought are all types of which metal?
On a ship, which side is sheltered from the wind?
In the James Bond stories, by which name is Sir Miles Messervy better known?
The FTSE is the stock market index of which country?
(Answers on pages 30 & 31)
Gig Review - By Ian Francis
Diva Purple are, as far as I’m aware, the only all-female tribute to Deep Purple in the country! Last time I went to see them (at Chinnery’s last year) I got held up and only caught their last few songs. So, tonight I made an extra-special effort to get to the venue by 8.45pm, well in time for a 9pm start... Except that they were just finishing their first set! They started at 8pm, very early for a rock gig in my day. Ouch, not a very good way to start a review then...
Anyway, at least I got there in time to see the last couple of numbers of that first set (being Mistreated and Space Truckin’) and of course for the whole of the second set. And that started with one of my favourite DP album tracks, the superb Blackmore song Lazy, so straight in at the deep-end for guitarist Maisie Lazell-Glessing!
So what else did they play this night? Well, luckily singer Susie Brown gave me a set-list after the show (which I forgot to get signed and can’t now sell on eBay for loadsamoney...) so that I could see what I missed in the first set.
Unfortunately, I’d just missed the fabulous Stormbringer, one of my favourite tracks, which was annoying as I would have been very interested to see how they handled the highly-produced intro to that song.
The rest of the first set was a nicely-balanced range of songs starting with the early hits such as Black Night and Hush, through to their comeback hit, Perfect Strangers, from the mid ’80s. Understandably of course there was quite a heavy emphasis on their biggest album Machine Head, so all the big anthems from that album were there, like Highway Star, Smoke on The Water, Lazy and Space Truckin’ Looking at their setlist though, I noticed they left out Demon’s Eye from the album Fireball which was a shame - a great song...
I always think that if you have a good drummer, then you’re at least halfway to having a good band, and these girls have a great drummer in Laura Allison. But then again, they also have a great bass player and a great guitarist, plus a great keyboard player and great singer. So all in all you have a really great band.
Being female of course, singer Susie has one huge advantage over most of the tribute ‘Ian Gillan’ impersonators out there - she can actually reach all those screamy high notes with ease, which most tribute singers can’t get anywhere near! And all without even detuning the instruments a step or two just to help out the vocals. No, these girls can do it properly...
The other thing that really impresses you throughout the show is how keyboard player Cara Bruns and guitarist Maisie TOTALLY replicate that iconic Blackmore/Lord sound. So the opening riffs of Smoke on the Water actually sound like Smoke on the Water for a change - not the usual pale ‘guitar-shop’ imitation you normally get from cover bands.
And they were professional too. When bassist Pera Frank suddenly had some technical problems with her guitar, drummer Laura had the presence of mind to start jamming, which the other girls soon joined in with. All very slick!
Mention in dispatches here should also go to Steve and Jackie Shepherd who worked their usual magic on the sound, and not forgetting promoter Nick Garner, without whom the gig (and about 70 others this year) would not have happened in the first place.
In conclusion, if you’ve never seen Diva Purple, or one of Nick’s excellent gigs at the Chelmsford Social Club, you must find time to check them out. Highly recommended!
28th, 29th July: Delta Aquarids Meteor Shower. The Delta Aquarids is an average shower that can produce up to 20 meteors per hour at its peak. It is produced by debris left behind by comets Marsden and Kracht. The shower runs annually from July 12th to August 23rd. It peaks this year on the night of July 28th and morning of July 29th
The crescent moon will set early in the evening, leaving dark skies for what should be an excellent show. Best viewing will be from a dark location after midnight. Meteors will radiate from the constellation Aquarius, but can appear anywhere in the sky.
12th, 13th August: Perseids Meteor Shower. The Perseids is one of the best meteor showers to observe, producing up to 60 meteors per hour at its peak. It is produced by comet Swift-Tuttle, which was discovered in 1862.
The Perseids are famous for producing a large number of bright
meteors. The shower runs annually from 17th July to 24th August. It peaks this year on the night of 12th August and the morning of 13th August. The waning gibbous moon will block out all but the brightest meteors this year. But if you are patient, you may still be able to catch quite a few good ones. Best viewing will be from a dark location after midnight. Meteors will radiate from the constellation Perseus, but can appear anywhere in the sky.
Good tip: There are only five northern constellations visible north of the equator throughout the year. They are Cassiopeia, Cepheus, Draco, Ursa Major, and Ursa Minor. Learn about these constellations first. One at a time.
New Moon: On these dates - July 25th, August 24th and September 23rd - there will be a new Moon. This means the skies will be extra dark which is a great opportunity to see planets, galaxies and deep space objects.
As usual, email me with any questions.
The Retro Chart Show with Mark Willis every Monday morning at 10am on Chelmsford Community Radio at 104.4 FM and online at www.chelmsfordcommunityradio.com
mark.willis@chelmsfordcommunityradio.com
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