Ingatestone, Fryerning & Mountnessing Parish News Magazine Issue 06 August 2023

Ingatestone, Fryerning & Mountnessing Parish News Magazine

Enjoy the thriving community with Ingatestone, Fryerning & Mountnessing Parish News

From the reopening of the Church Community Garden by St Mary’s and St Edmunds church, to the Treasures of Essex with Arts Society Brentwood District, the community of Ingatestone, Fryerning & Mountnessing is well and truly thriving! We’ve rounded up the best bits of news and events for the month and it’s all available in this issue for you to enjoy.

If you’re a local charity, group or club and you’ve got something you want to share with your community then do get in touch because we always endeavour to support the local organisations that work tirelessly to benefit the greater community.

Don’t forget, your Ingatestone, Fryerning & Mountnessing Parish News magazine is always available to read online on top of the 3,500 copies which are printed and delivered through the doors of homes throughout the area.

As you read this, we are preparing the September-October edition of our magazine, for any article submissions, and reader comments please make sure you get this across to us before 10th August! Enjoy the sunshine and don’t forget your SPF!

Editor of Ingatestone, Fryerning & Mountnessing Parish News

enquiries@community-publishing.org Our thanks go out to all of the fantastic local businesses for supporting the magazine by advertising.

MILL GREEN GOSPEL HALL

Church Community Garden officially open!

The grand opening of the community garden to the side of St Mary’s and St Edmunds church lifted all our spirits and our sense of community.

This was the brainchild of the Community, Environment and Gardening CAS groups who conducted an air pollution study in Ingatestone, a loneliness study of the impact of COVID post pandemic and who discovered that key issues for Ingatestone were safe open places for teenagers to meet and chat and accessible spaces for coffee and conversation for both young Mums and the disabled. Phase 1 of the project met its completion goals this week. The space has been cleared and raised beds, built by the Youth Offending team have been created and flowers planted by our Gardening Club.

The centre piece – a hexagonal seating space has been commissioned and installed and the planting design, which our Gardening Club planned, was funded by the RHS and implemented. Bird boxes were designed as a result of an enrichment project run by our Technology Department for our local feeder primaries and our Year 10 Technology students then built them to the primary students’ winning prototypes. It was the result of over a year of research, fund-raising, landscaping and planting and a wonderful joint community project where our students were highly commended for their citizenship and enthusiasm.

Anglo European School

The Arts Society Brentwood

District

50 Treasures Of Essex.

The Arts Society Brentwood District is delighted to announce that copies of 50 Treasures of Essex are available for only £5 at all meetings of the group. The Arts Society has produced this invaluable guide to places of interest and to some of the lesser-known objects in our lovely county. As well as being a useful gift item for friends and family as they explore our region, the guide will introduce you to such delights as the Dutch Cottage on Canvey Island, the Roman Circus in Colchester, Queen Elizabeth’s Hunting Lodge in Epping Forest, Ols St Mary’s Church in Frinton and the Plume Library in Maldon, to name a few.

Visitors to the Arts Society Brentwood District are guaranteed a warm welcome, a plentiful supply of tea/coffee, biscuits and attractive raffles together with stimulating and entertaining illustrated talks all cater to our growing membership. Forthcoming sessions for 2023/24 include ‘The Savoy Operas of Gilbert and Sullivan’

(20th September) ‘The Painter’s Craft –from painting on caves to the modern day’ (18th October), ‘Frost Fairs on the Frozen Thames’ (15th November) and ‘Turner versus Constable: the great British paint-off’ (17th January). In addition, the Society arranges day trips to locations such as the Rossetti exhibition at the Tate Gallery (September).

Society meetings are usually held at Ingatestone Community Hall, 7 High Street, Ingatestone CM4 9ED on the third Wednesday of the month, apart from August and December. Free parking is plentiful. Coffee/tea are served from 7:30pm and lectures start at 8pm ending about 9:15pm. A visitor’s fee of £8 per meeting is redeemable against annual subscriptions which include three copies of the Arts Society’s richly informative national magazine. More information is available on 01277 356634, online at www.tasbd.org.uk, or just by turning up on the night. Visitors and new members are always welcome.

Ingatestone & Fryerning Parish Council Pylons Scheme Update

Please find below the update from The Planning Policy Team of Brentwood Borough Council:

National Grid have launched a second non-statutory consultation on their proposals for a new high voltage electricity powerline, running from Norwich to Tilbury. The consultation will run for eight weeks until Monday 21st August 2023.

The project is classed as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project. This means the Secretary of State needs to approve it, through a Development Consent Order. We are a consultee in this process and as such we will be making a representation to this consultation.

To view the proposals within Brentwood Borough, please see National Grid’s dedicated webpage, www.nationalgrid.com (search ‘Ingatestone’ under the Electricity Transmission section).

In addition to the above, please check out the links to main documentation and consultation resources, which are all hosted on National Grid’s project webpage via the Ingatestone & Fryerning Parish Council update available at www.ingatestone-fryerningpc.gov.uk/ pylons-scheme-update

Public Information Events:

As part of the consultation National Grid held a public information event at The Brentwood Centre on Thursday 6th July. This is one of a number of information events taking place across the proposed route and aimed to give members of the public the opportunity to find out more about their proposals, view and take away printed materials and speak to experts within their team.

Webinars:

National Grid are holding webinar sessions, where they will present their proposals followed by an open question and answer session.

Saturday 12th August 10-11am

Thursday 17th August 10-11am

You can register for webinars on the National Grid project webpage at www.nationalgrid.com/electricitytransmission/network-andinfrastructure/infrastructure-projects/ norwich-to-tilbury/public-consultation Information Points: Paper copies of the Consultation Feedback Form and Project Background Document 2023, are available to collect from one of the following local information points.

• Brentwood Borough Council Town Hall

• Ingatestone Library

Should you have any queries, or wish to talk to someone about the consultation, you can contact the National Grid consultation team.

As a leading domestic glass replacement company for more than 16 years, Cloudy2Clear windows are the leading name in the industry. There is no need for you to risk your windows by using the dreaded double glazing cowboy down the street. You can join over 336,000 happy customers and replace your glass ethically and affordably. If you have a failed glass unit, it may not provide you with the protection you need or be as energy-efficient as it once was. Take a minute to check your home to see if any double glazing has failed? Taking action now can prevent future financial problems.

When talking to the Manager of Cloudy2Clear windows Chris Miller it became clear that these

values have been held dear for a number of years. Since starting the business some years ago Cloudy2Clear have remained true to their core values of supporting the local community by providing a service that saves the public money.

The Cloudy2Clear service only requires the glass to be replaced and not the whole window once the unit has failed. Chris commented “Cloudy2Clear were able to assist our community through the last savings that can be made in using our service. Unfortunately we might be going through something similar again soon and the public can rest assured that we will be there to help once again”.

For a free quotation please call 0800 61 21 118 or visit www. cloudy2clear.co.uk.

Gone Too Soon

‘Gone Too Soon’ is an Essex based bereavement support group for Parents who have lost a Son or Daughter of any age, in whatever circumstances and if recent or a while ago.

The group was launched in July 2017 by Lyn Wilson as she wanted to make contact and talk to other parents who were in a similar situation and had also lost children. She had lost her Son, Tony in April 2015. He was 35 years old and died as a result of a brain tumour.

Monthly meetings take place in The Chantry Centre, Chantry Way, Billericay from 7:00pm – 9:00pm. Prior to new parents coming to the meeting, Lyn encourages them to give her a call and she is happy to meet up on a one-to-one basis to introduce herself as she knows how daunting it can be to walk into a room full of strangers and share something so personal.

There is a bond between parents who have lost a child and talking to someone who can relate and understand the feelings helps you to realise you are not alone as it can be a very isolating place to be. The death of a child is probably the most devastating experience any parent will go through and it is not something you get over – but in time you can come to manage it.

Parents are given a warm and friendly welcome in a safe environment. Refreshments are provided and the environment is made to feel very informal with the option to ‘drop in’ to meetings as and when it’s needed.

For more information and a chat, give Lyn a call on 07387 805406 or email lyn-currie@hotmail.co.uk. Or visit www.gone-too-soon.online

Disbelief, fear, numbness, guilt, anxiety are just some of the emotions a parent can experience after losing a child.

The latest with St Johns Hall

St Johns Hall in Church Road, Mountnessing is available for private hire.

It is ideal for family gatherings and school class birthday parties, to a maximum of 60 people. Please contact Dawn Parker 07984 791941 for bookings.

The hall also has a variety of regular activities such as:

Shenfield U3A

Have a history group who meet on the first Wednesday afternoon of the month and a Canasta group who meet on the first Friday afternoon of the month. Please contact Jean Williams on 01277 228653 or email Shenfieldu3amembership@outlook.com

Mountnessing Gardening Club

The garden club meet either at the hall or for garden visits on the first Thursday afternoon each month. The next hall meeting is on 7th September at 2pm. Just come along or contact Pam on 07761 256718

Dance classes

Saturday mornings for ages 4-18 in Tap, Ballet, Contemporary, Lyrical Jazz and Modern at St John’s Hall.

Primary Class (4-7yrs) 9:15am - 10:15am

Junior Class (8-12yrs) 10:15am - 11:15am

Senior Class (13-18yrs) 11:15am - 12:55pm

An informal and friendly dance school catering to all levels of experience and abilities, with the opportunity to participate in our annual shows! Our classes are small and fun, supportive and respectful, and we pride ourselves in our ability to teach strong technique from a young age, and help develop those who are late starters.

Find out more at www.thedance-co.co.uk

Contact Lydia – info@thedance-co.co.uk

Forget me not Day care

Lots of fun activities, and soft sports giving, and are designed to promote health and wellbeing to members whilst providing respite to family carers. From 10am to 3pm on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Please contact Tracy or Leah on 07940 231 609 or email thefmnclub@gmail.com

Hutton Flower Club

Looking for new members for our friendly flower group. 10:30am to midday on Thursday mornings.

No experience necessary just a love of flowers, coffee and a chat. Please contact Val on 07986 797287 or email valgib@tiscali.co.uk

Ingatestone Choral Society

Calling all singers

Love to sing & want to meet new people?

We meet every Wednesday 8pm-10pm

New term: Wednesday 2023

13th September

7.30 pm welcome for 8 pm start.

Ingatestone United Reformed Church, High Street, Ingatestone. CM4 9EY

ingchoralsoc@gmail.com 07767 380874

www.ingatestonechoral.org

are a friendly amateur choir celebrating our 75th year of singing in 2023

We

Dome Dining

Come dine in style in our garden Domes whilst enjoying Full Afternoon Tea at Ivy Hill.

The latest with Mountnessing Village Hall

Situated by the Mountnessing Windmill, the Mountnessing Village Hall is a lovely, busy, community hall which is also available to hire for private events.

Please see our website www.mountnessingvillagehall.com or email Dawn Parker on booking@mountnessingvillagehall.com for booking information.

Some of the regular activities are as follows: -

Sewing Made Easy

Come along on a Monday morning or afternoon and learn the skills and techniques used in dressmaking and other sewing related areas e.g., patchwork and quilting and soft furnishing. This course is suitable for everyone from absolute beginners to those with experience who would like to develop their techniques. For course details and further information please email Pauline Nash on pm.nash@sky.com or phone/text to 07989 460071

Mountnessing Senior Citizens Club

This group meets twice a month on the 2nd and fourth Thursday of the month at 2pm in the Village Hall.

It’s an extremely casual friendly meeting where you can get to chat to friends old and new over a cup of tea. We have bingo and a raffle and an easy quiz to kick things off. New members made very welcome.

For more details contact Sue 07974 174713

Brentwood Organ & Keyboard Club

Join us at our monthly concerts on Tuesday afternoons (usually the 4th Tuesday) at Mountnessing Village Hall. Concerts are performed by a different professional every month using their own keyboard system which gives them a whole orchestra at their fingertips. Many styles and genres are played at each concert -

jazz, easy listening, classical, pop, big band, swing, film themes, songs from musicals etc. Something for everyone to enjoy. Concerts start at 2:15pm (doors 1:45pm). Entry at the door is £5 for members, £7 for guests (cash please) including interval refreshments.

See www.organfax.co.uk/clubs/ brentwood or Jean on 01277 824380

Upcoming Concert: Tuesday 22nd August – Chris Powell

Billericay Mayflower Bridge Club

Meet Tuesday evenings, 7:15pm. Mountnessing Bridge club

Meet on Thursday evenings, 7:30pm. Please contact David 07973 552135

The Shaftesbury cycling club

Meet every Wednesday evening. Please contact Laurence Bellamy on 07825 686998

Shenfield U3A Singing Group

Every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month, 9:30am – 12:00pm. Contact Nigel Bennett for more on 01277 216752

Shenfield U3A Multi Media Art

1st and 3rd Thursday each month. 10:00am to 12:30pm. Contact Ms S Conley for more on 01277 224950

Shenfield U3A (University of Third Age)

Monthly meetings, 3rd Wednesday of the month. 9:00am – 12:00pm. Please contact Gill Bitschine by email on gillbits@btinternet.com

Effortless Evening Eats

We all know the feeling, it’s summer, we don’t feel like eating too much, but we know we need something!

Here are three enticing recipes (serves 4) perfect for summer – whether it’s firing up the grill or celebrating the season, these recipes cover it all. Feel free to adjust the recipes as needed, adding your own touch or incorporating local ingredients. These recipes are designed to be simple, flavourful, and suitable for the eco-conscious reader who values both taste and sustainability. Enjoy the summer vibes with these delicious creations!

Grilled Lime And Herb Chicken Skewers

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 limes (juice and zest)

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

1 tablespoon fresh coriander, chopped

1 tablespoon honey

Salt and pepper to taste

1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks

1 red onion, cut into chunks

Skewers (pre-soaked if using wooden skewers)

Method

1. In a bowl, combine lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, coriander, honey, salt, and pepper.

2. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and place them in the marinade. Stir to coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

4. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, alternating with the bell pepper and onion chunks.

5. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has grill marks.

6. Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.

7. Serve the grilled chicken skewers with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and garnish with additional chopped herbs, if desired. Enjoy!

Caprese Stuffed Portobello

Mushrooms

Ingredients

4 large portobello mushrooms

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 large tomatoes, sliced

4 slices mozzarella cheese

Fresh basil leaves

Balsamic glaze

Salt and pepper to taste

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 280°C (180°C fan).

2. Clean the portobello mushrooms and remove the stems.

3. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, salt and pepper.

4. Brush the mushroom caps with the olive oil mixture and place them on a baking sheet.

5. Bake the mushrooms for 10 minutes.

6. Remove the mushrooms from the oven and top each cap with a slice of mozzarella cheese, a tomato slice, and fresh basil leaves.

7. Return the mushrooms to the oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Drizzle the stuffed mushrooms with balsamic glaze before serving. Enjoy! Serve the caprese stuffed portobello mushrooms as an appetizer or a main course. Enjoy the delightful flavours!

£2 Single Fare Cap Scheme Extended

Ingatestone, Fryerning

The funding is managed by Active Essex and has already supported more than 15,000 residents to take part in funded activities since May 2022. Essex will remain one of the London Marathon Foundation’s core funding areas for the next three years.

The Ford RideLondon Classique brings world-class sport to the county while the Ford RideLondon-Essex mass participation rides raise millions of pounds for good causes each year.

Hosting Ford RideLondon is part of Essex County Council’s organisation strategy Everyone’s Essex: a plan for levelling up the county which aims to help people keep healthy and active and promotes active travel as part of the move towards net zero.

£2 bus fare extended until 31st October to help passengers with cost of living and then £2.50 until November 2024. New £300 million government investment will protect bus services into 2025 and keep travel affordable. Funding boost will support the bus sector’s long-term recovery, taking total investment for buses to more than £3.5 billion since March 2020.

For more info and bus routes that are included in the £2 fare cpo, please visit www.gov.uk/guidance/2-bus-fare-cap

RideLondon to return to Essex for the next three years

Essex County Council has reached a three-year agreement to host Ford RideLondon for the next three years (2024 to 2026). The agreement includes the Ford RideLondon-Essex mass participation events and two stages of the Ford RideLondon Classique.

Ford RideLondon is organised by London Marathon Events. To date, the London Marathon Foundation has awarded Essex £1.75 million in funding, to inspire physical activity and promote cycling and walking in the county.

Funding applications for Find Your Active small grants has reopened. Organisations, groups and instructors can apply for funds of up to £3,000. More details are on the Active Essex website at www.activeessex. org/find-your-active/fund

New summer of volunteering campaign launches across Essex

Essex County Council is launching a new campaign encouraging residents to volunteer this summer.

On Monday 3rd July the summer of volunteering campaign was launched, inviting more residents to get involved and support their community by volunteering. Ahead of the campaign launch, Councillor Louise McKinlay, Deputy Leader of Essex County Council and Cabinet Member for Levelling Up and the Economy, joined volunteers cutting back undergrowth in Hutton on Friday 30th June.

Councillor McKinlay said:

“My recent visit to Hutton I joined volunteers to cut back bushes to ensure it is easier for people to walk down the pathway. It’s a great example of how people can get involved this summer in

volunteering. Spending a small amount of time can really help to improve local areas.”

Volunteering for even a few hours can make a huge difference to communities across Essex.

The benefits of volunteering include a sense of pride, an opportunity to make new friends and the chance to learn new skills. Read more about the benefits of volunteering and opportunities available in Essex at www.essex.gov.uk/jobs-andapprenticeships/volunteering

Opportunity to apply for funding for a 2024 Jack Petchey Intern!

The Jack Petchey Foundation is delighted to announce that they will be part-funding year-long internships for up to 30 young people at 30 different youth organisations across London and Essex in 2024, and that their Internship Programme is now open for applications!

Youth organisations (charities or CIOs) working with young people in London and/or Essex, with an income between £150,000 and £5,000,000 are eligible to apply for a grant to help fund a twelve-month paid intern, starting in March 2024.

Applications will close on Friday 8th September at 5pm.

For more head to www.jackpetcheyfoundation.org.uk/ opportunities/internships

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service goes live with new Control system

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service launched a brand new and modern Control system on 27th June.

The new system, known as Guardian Command, will be used in the Control Room to manage response to incidents even faster and more effectively than ever

before.

One of the benefits to the new system is that it will bring a more robust, all in one place for radio communications, mobilising and management system for audio recording.

The change to the new system comes with specialist new equipment and a video wall in the Control Room, which will assist with effective mobilisation and incident monitoring.

Provided by Airwave and Motorola, the system is already being used successfully by other UK Fire and Rescue Services, including Bedfordshire.

The team are looking forward to using a system which provides a foundation for improved resilience and ways of working.

Care sector recruitment campaign ongoing as free training offer announced

Fully-funded healthcare training is now available to anyone in Essex looking to enter or upskill in the care sector. It will help those already working in care or new to the sector reach their career goals without the added pressure of training costs.

The training is funded by the council’s Nightingale Care Bursary and run by the council’s adult education service, ACL Essex.

This new training offer is complimented by a wider council campaign, Your Career Matters. It aims to promote the range of opportunities on offer and showcase the benefits of working in care. There are plenty of courses available and include:

• apprenticeships

• short courses for specialist skills

• diplomas and certificates in health and care

• fast track management courses

Discover more about the Nightingale Care Bursary at www.aclessex.com/nightingale Find out more about the Your Career Matters campaign via www.workingforessex.com/blog/careersin-care-your-career-matters

Healthwatch Essex Trauma Cards Empower Trauma Survivors

An initiative to support trauma survivors in healthcare settings has been launched across Essex.

Healthwatch Essex Trauma Ambassador Group created ‘Trauma Cards’ to empower individuals who have experienced trauma to communicate more effectively with healthcare professionals. The cards are designed to be handed to a healthcare professional when a cardholder finds themselves in a triggering situation, to enable them to get the support they need.

The card has a QR code which, when scanned, provides more information to the healthcare professional about what the individual is experiencing and how best to help them. The cards were rolled out on 1st November 2022 and are expected to be seen in use in GPs surgeries, hospitals, dentists and a wide variety of environments where people access health or care support.

The Trauma Ambassador Group exists to help improve health and care environments for people who are living with the effects of trauma. The group’s members have all experienced trauma, with a wide variety of different causes – ranging from domestic abuse, sexual abuse, exposure to crime and bereavement. Trauma is considered very much an individual reaction and there is no exhaustive list of causes.

The initial idea for the card was sparked by group member, 57-year-old John Wills from Brightlingsea, who is a survivor of child sexual abuse. John also brought knowledge from his later work as a therapist and discussion with other group members revealed that it was common to experience trauma being triggered in unexpected situations, such as at a dentist or during a health check.

John felt that services had not improved much since he first reached out for support, so he wanted to create the cards to make things better for others.

He said: “I carry the trauma card because I really need health professionals to understand that some of these situations are

really quite difficult for me and make me very anxious. Sometimes there isn’t the opportunity to open the conversation up about this subject, so simply by handing over the card it starts the dialogue. I hope it will allow health professionals feel able to ask me what I need as a survivor of trauma. They forget just how traumatic and triggering some of these procedures can be for someone who has suffered trauma.”

53-year-old Denise Hills, from Tilbury, was also involved in the project. Due to her experiences of domestic abuse, she experiences anxiety in medical and social care situations. “I find it very helpfulbecause of the anxiety I just shut down and can’t talk. Knowing I’ve got the card means I’m less likely to be triggered. It’s like that comfort blanket. It takes that stress off you.”

To show the card in action, John and Denise helped create a short film with Michelle Wilkinson, an Advanced Nurse Practitioner at Beacon House, Colchester. Michelle says she is really excited about the ways the card could improve services if professionals engage with the cards: “I know these cards will be very helpful to many of the people I see day to day. Often because of their backgrounddomestic violence, abuse, war or veteran’s services - there may be sounds or noises that affect them in a way that we wouldn’t appreciate. The card just gives us a heads up - an introduction that this patient might shut down within a certain situation. We can then use this to look at the website to give us tips and clues as to how to make the journey better for the patient. Things like offering a quiet area, double appointments, reducing distractions and sounds, may make this a more positive experience for our patients.”

Sharon Westfield-Cortez, Information and Guidance Manager at Healthwatch Essex, founded the Trauma Ambassador Group to encourage people with lived experience of trauma to come together and shape health and care services in Essex. She said, “It has been a privilege to work closely with the

Healthwatch Essex Trauma Ambassadors to produce the trauma card, which is a resource that I hope will help the people of Essex who are living with the effects of trauma get better outcomes from their interactions with health, care and wellbeing services.”

“When trauma survivors have a bad experience in a health care setting, it can result in them withdrawing and disengaging from health and care services completely, which means they don’t have access to the health and care that they may need and are entitled to. The card can help to facilitate conversations and enable a level of understanding which otherwise may well not happen. It is a positive step towards creating equity for those of us living with trauma.”

To get a Trauma Card for yourself or to find out more about Healthwatch Essex and the Trauma Ambassador Group, visit www.healthwatchessex.org.uk/trauma or call 0300 500 1895

If you are living with trauma and would like to contribute to improving health, care and

(Solar panels convert sunlight into electrical energy)

Solar & Battery Package

E v e r w o n d e r e d w h a t i t ' s l i k e t o b e a n e n e r g y s u p e r h e r o ?

O u r s t a t e - o f - t h e - a r t p a n e l s s o a k u p s u n l i g h t , t u r n i n g i t i n t o c l e a n , e f f i c i e n t e n e r g y f o r y o u r h o m e . I t ' s l i k e o w n i n g y o u r v e r y o w n p o w e r s t a t i o n

(Solar batteries help you store excess electricity!)

1 0 x 4 2 0 W T r i n a S o l a r P a n e l s

5 . 2 k W G i v E n e r g y B a t t e r y

2 5 Y e a r P a n e l P e r f o r m a n c e W a r r a n t y

Unleashing the Power of Savings with Solar Panels

Solar panels are more than just an eco-friendly trend—they’re a wise financial investment that can yield substantial long-term benefits.

As renewable energy continues to gain momentum, homeowners and businesses are increasingly recognising the significant financial advantages of going solar.

Why should you get solar panels installed?

Reduced Energy Bills

By generating your own clean and renewable energy, you can significantly decrease your reliance on the grid. This results in lower energy bills, especially when combined with The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG). According to the Energy Saving Trust solar power can reduce your energy bills by £610 (Based on 3.5kWp system / 10 panels) a year! Alongside this, your energy costs become more predictable and less susceptible to market fluctuations. This stability offers financial security, allowing you to allocate your resources more effectively.

Return on Investment (ROI)

Installing solar panels is an investment that offers attractive returns. While the upfront costs may seem significant, solar panels pay for themselves through energy savings over their lifespan. In many cases, homeowners can recoup their initial investment within 5 to 10 years and enjoy decades of free or significantly reduced energy costs.

Government Incentives and Tax Benefits

The Government recognises the importance of promoting renewable energy adoption and provide incentives to offset the cost of installing solar panels. These incentives include grants and zero rate VAT.

Increased Property Value

Studies have shown that homes equipped with solar energy systems sell at higher prices. Buyers are increasingly attracted to energy-efficient homes with reduced operating costs - they demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility, making your property more appealing in the real estate market.

Long Lifespan and Low Maintenance

Solar panels are designed to be durable and require minimal maintenance – they are built to withstand the elements and typically come with warranties ranging 20 – 25 years. Routine inspections and occasional cleaning are usually sufficient to keep them operating at peak performance, translating to long-term financial savings.

Additional Revenue Streams

Depending on your location, you may have opportunities to generate additional revenue through solar panel installations. The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) enables you to sell excess electricity back to the grid, earning income for the energy you produce. Furthermore, in some regions, renewable energy credits or certificates can be sold, allowing you to monetize the environmental benefits of your solar energy production.

Ingatestone, Fryerning

Walk With Us – Self Defence Class

Thursday 3rd August, 8:30pm – 9:30pm at Saint Martin’s School, Hanging Hill Lane, Brentwood, CM13 2HG

in Kind, CVS (Voluntary Services), Mind, Fire Service, Community agents and many more.

Ingatestone Pedallers Social Cycling Group Upcoming Rides, Walks & Events

IP8 SUNDAY 13th AUGUST 2023/LONG RIDE/LOG CHURCH & PHILOSOPHER

Brentwood Community Safety Partnership and Essex Police are offering free SelfDefence classes to combat violence against women or girls. These sessions are not only aimed at prevention, but also are suitable for anyone who has been affected by an attack as a tool to regain confidence. These sessions will be 60 mins long, and can cover lots of different aspects, from situational awareness, escapes, de-escalation, pre-emptive & defensive strikes, defence against knives or improvised weapons as well as the law and use of reasonable force. These sessions can also be tailored to individual scenarios which any attendees would like specific advice and coaching on. Any level of fitness or self-defence

experience are welcome! Sessions are free to attend and will be held fortnightly from 8:30pm - 9:30pm at St Martin’s Secondary School, Hanging Hill Lane, Brentwood, CM13 2HG.

Please bring a bottle of water with you, and wear comfortable clothing.

Community Connect Trailer - Family fun day

Every Friday in August, 10:00am – 1:30pm, locations

listed below

4th August – Warley Playing Fields

11th August – Kelvedon Hatch Village Hall

18th August – The Brentwood Centre

25th August – Hutton Recreational Gound

If you want some information about what’s going on in your community, or some advice from our community support teams, pop along to have a chat at one of our events and meet some of the partners: Neighbourhood Watch, VitaMinds, United

All Sunday rides start at Market Place, Ingatestone, 10:00am. Walks also start at Market Place, Ingatestone. the Longest Day evening walk coming back in the dark, returning at approx. 11:30pm. Distances vary up to the 30-mile ride. Cycling UK affiliated Group Rides and should normally be for not more than 15 participants. No limit on walk numbers

Contact: Robert Fletcher/OrganiserIngatestone Pedallers Social Cycling Group 10 Cherry Trees, The Meads, Ingatestone, Essex, CM4 0AP

Tel/Fax: 01277 354431

Mobile: 07910 679379

Email: rfletcher189@gmail.com

Upcoming Show With Ingatestone Community Cinema

La Strada – 17th August

1954 Italian drama film directed by Federico Fellini and co-written by Fellini, Tullio Pinelli and Ennio Flaiano. The film tells the story of Gelsomina, a simpleminded young woman bought from her mother by Zampanò, a brutish strongman who takes her with him on the road. The doors open at 2pm with the film starting at 2:30pm.

Tickets are £4.00 for IFCA members and £6.00 for non-members and can be purchased from the IFCA office or call 01277 352064. Office opening hours are 10am to 1pm, Monday to Thursday.

Curry Lunch with Remus Horse Sanctuary

Sunday 20th August, 12:00 – 2:00pm at Nirvana Restaurant, 72 High Street, Ingatestone

Come and join a curry lunch raising money for Remus Memorial Horse Sanctuary. Bring your family and friends along!

£20.00 per person, non-refundable. 2:00pm for a 2:15 pm start.

Booking is essential. Please contact the Sanctuary 01277 356191 for more details.

Summer of Culture launches

in Essex

Essex County Council have launched a summer programme of free and low-cost events, exhibitions and festivals. The events are made possible by our Arts and Cultural Fund. The fund supports the county’s cultural and creative sector. Events available this summer include:

• community activities

• music festivals

• food festivals

• gallery exhibitions

• digital workshops

Take a look at the full list of events in the Essex Summer of Culture Guide 2023 at www.explore-essex.com/culture/socguide.

Best of Bavarian – BMW Classic & Modern meet

Sunday 3rd September, 8:30am at The White Hart Inn

The White Hart Inn are pleased to announce their End of Season

Cars & Coffee will be held at The White Hart Inn, Margaretting, Tye.

Located on St Peters way in the heart of the beautiful Essex countryside, this pub with large green spaces is warm and has welcoming surroundings.

Due to large attendance a Breakfast Baps and Rolls menu along with Tea & Coffee can be purchased ensuring great service and reduced waiting times for all members.

All BMW welcome in grounds, car and grass overspill if needed.

Be sure to join us for this chilled Classic & Modern BMW owners meet.

Celebrating the end of the 22/23 Football Season

Saturday 8th July was the Stones Athletic Youth Football Club Awards held on Ingatestone’s Seymour Field.

The club has a total of 210 players registered, with an age range of U4’s up to U18’s. These players are split across 18 squads, which includes: a Saturday club (4–6-year-olds), 3 girls’ teams and then teams ranging from U6’s through to U18’s. It looked as if all the players were there on Saturday, sitting patiently through the rain as Nick Holmes and his fellow managers handed out the awards.

There was also food, drinks, ice creams, sweets, hot dogs, bouncy castles, football, (for the parents a bar) and it looked as if everyone had a great time!

If you are interested in joining or maybe your child is, contact Stones via their website

www.stonesathleticyfc.com

Craig Shipman interview

Craig Shipman joined Brentwood Town as manager in February and he guided the Blues to an eighth-placed finish in the Isthmian North Division.

He replaced Rob Stringer at The Brentwood Centre Arena and there were lofty expectations after they reached the play-off final in the previous campaign.

Prior to joining Brentwood, Shipman was first-team coach at Vanarama National League South side Concord Rangers. He was part of the squad that reached the FA Trophy final, held at Wembley Stadium, but were eventually defeated by Harrogate Town.

I spoke to the Brentwood manager about his thoughts on last season, his experience at Wembley and more.

Brentwood Town finished in 8th place in the Isthmian North Division. How would you assess the 2022/23 campaign?

“After the play-off final defeat on penalties to Canvey Island last season, anything other than playoffs or automatic promotion would be seen to be a failure. So when I was appointed at the club, when we were sitting in 12th place, we had very little chance of making the playoffs at all, which is such a shame after last season’s success.”

You arrived at the Brentwood Centre Arena in February. How much have you enjoyed your time with the Blues so far?

“I have absolutely loved it! Everyone involved at the club from top to bottom have been so welcoming and the players have been top drawer as well. I have never taken over as a manager mid-season before – inheriting another manager’s squad so it was quite daunting but they’ve all bought into the project that we have set for them. Hopefully we can push in the right direction next season.”

You have already been in the dugout at Brentwood before, after a spell with the Blues a couple of years ago. What made you want to return to the club where you spent three years in charge?

“For me and I think for the club too, we’ve got unfinished business together. I never really wanted to leave four years ago but I felt the club was sadly going around in circles and with a change of Chairman and a completely new infrastructure within the club. Now, it’s a completely new place to be, this club is home to me, the supporters, the committee they are all like friends to me and people I’ve always kept in contact with, even though I’ve been away for four years.”

Before your reign as manager of Brentwood, you spent 18 months at Vanarama National League South side Concord Rangers. How would you summarise your time with the Beach Boys?

“Concord was amazing, I loved every minute of my time there, the management, the players, the club itself – it is a top club. I never knew before I went there how much of an achievement it was to just be in the National League South, and just the quality of opposition and management you come up against. I felt I had to really enhance my game to make sure we competed at the level.”

In 2021, you were a part of the Concord Rangers squad that made it to the FA Trophy Final. Despite the defeat to Harrogate Town, what was the experience like at Wembley Stadium?

“Going to Wembley with Concord will be a day that lives with me forever. Just to be there and experience it all was unreal and what an achievement for a club like Concord to make it to Wembley.”

You also have had roles at fellow Essex non-league outfits Hullbridge Sports and Great Wakering Rovers. What was your time like at those two clubs?

“Hullbridge was short and sweet after coming away from Brentwood. I helped them throughout pre-season and hope that my coaching set-up helped them throughout the season. Then, I went onto Great Wakering before the season started and they had a top group there at the time, and a group I felt could really implement a good and effective way of playing for us to compete in the division. However, the COVID-19 pandemic unfortunately ruined the season with us sitting in 7th – two points outside of the playoffs which hand on my heart, I felt we had the momentum and the belief to actually make the playoffs that season. How sweet that would have been for a little club like Wakering to achieve that, they are another club that I’m very close too.”

What are your ambitions for next season with Brentwood?

“For us next season, it’s to build on what we’ve already started at the end of this season. We’ve had 13 games to implement our style and environment, next season is all about keeping those standards we’ve set and giving Brentwood Town hopefully a season to remember. As a group, we will go all in to achieve this.”

Written by Jack Patmore

Remus Horse Sanctuary 40th Anniversary Challenge

2023 sees Remus Horse Sanctuary in Essex celebrate its 40th anniversary and launch our #BornToDie campaign.

For the past 40 years, Remus has helped hundreds of animals - horses, ponies, donkeys, cats, goats, sheep and morerescuing them from cruel and sometimes dangerous situations; rehabilitating them with the help of specialist medical attention from vets, farriers and complementary therapists; and allowing them to develop into old age, living a life free of harm. Each and every one receives the love, care and attention that Sue and her team provide.

However, over 7,000 horses in this country are at risk. Every year, horses are being #BornToDie. Will you help us to help them?

In this, our 40th year we are asking our staff and volunteers, trustees and patrons, members, sponsors and supporters to come together to help achieve our 40th Anniversary Challenge -to help stop any animal being #BornToDie.

All we ask is that each and every one of you raise £40 for us before year end. But don’t just stop there, perhaps you could raise more!

Here’s how your fundraising helps:

• £4 buys bandages for one of our laminitic ponies

• £40 would pay for a special set of shoes for one of our laminitic ponies

• £400 would provide straw bedding for 30 animals for 1 month

• £4,000 would provide the routine medications needed by the older animals for 2 months

• £44,000 would feed all of our horses, goats and sheep for 6 months

• £440,000 would enable the charity to run for a whole year!

So are you up for the challenge? Perhaps you could bake and sell 40 cakes; make and sell 40 cards or crafts; cycle 40 miles; swim 40 lengths; get together friends for a 40-minute Zumba class! Put on your creative hats and we’re sure you’ll come up with some crazy fun ideas!

Thank you for supporting Remus. Together we can make a difference.