Wickford Town News - Issue 17 March 2024

Wickford Town News ISSUE 17

Friends of Wick Country Park Find out more on page 4

More PHAB small grants awarded Find out more on page 16

New SEND school for Rayleigh Find out more on page 24

Fresh and Flavourful Recipes Find out more on page 32

What to do in the garden Find out more on page 36

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A Blossoming Edition of your Wickford Town News As the world awakens to the promise of spring, this issue of Wickford Town News bursts with fresh content to inspire and inform.

Explore the culinary delights of the season with Four Fresh and Flavourful April Recipes and discover tips for nurturing your garden in What to do in the garden in April.

Join the community in celebrating the beauty of Wickford with updates from Wickford in Bloom and the impactful work of organisations like Friends of Wick Country Park and Friends of Wickford Memorial Park.

Stay informed about town council activities, events, and initiatives shaping the future of our community, including updates on WTC Events 2024, WTC Meetings, and the WTC Precept.

From local partnerships with the Royal Navy to initiatives supporting mental health services and community voices, this issue is a testament to the vibrancy and resilience of Wickford. Dive in and be inspired by the spirit of our town!

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Please direct all enquiries regarding the publication of Wickford Town News and its editorial to: enquiries@community-publishing.org Our thanks go out to all of the fantastic local businesses for supporting Wickford Town News by advertising.

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Friends of Wick Country Park The Wick Country Park is Wickford’s hidden treasure. Owned and managed by Basildon Borough Council, it is located just off Tresco Way, Wickford.

The 50 acre Park has 2km of trails that lead past old hedgerows, through wide open meadows, past the five acre lake, ponds, WW2 pillboxes and woodlands.

Why not show support for the Wick Country Park by becoming a Friend? At the moment, we are not charging for membership, and all you need to do is register for our contacts list by sending us an email to the address given below, you will then be among the first to hear about our up-and-coming events. Most of the events we organise are FREE to participants, and any profits we make are used to enhance the Park. Every month Wildlife Walks take place, a leisurely stroll to watch and listen to the varied wildlife in the park. The Wick Country Park Gardening Group, the Wick-ed Gardeners, also meet regularly and always welcome new volunteers.

The Friends of the Wick Country Park are a group who encourage visitors to the park to enjoy the benefits of a countryside open space in Wickford.

The Park is managed as a nature reserve and attracts a wide variety of insect and bird life. It is a great area for outdoor pursuits such as walking, jogging, responsible dog walking, kite flying, picnicking, and just enjoying the fresh air. Fishing by permit (the lake management company S&A Watercraft Ltd will collect the fee from the lakeside) is allowed in the five acre lake, but the close season from March through to mid-June is strictly observed. Picnic tables and benches are provided for those that like to eat ‘al fresco’.

Please visit our website www.friendsofthewickcountrypark.co.uk and Facebook page.

To contact us: email contact_us@friendsofthewickcountrypark. co.uk

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Wickford in Bloom Lots of thought and discussions for the coming summer going on in Wickford in Bloom at the moment.

We are pleased to say we have been awarded £2,000 by Wickford Town Council, £3,000 by Essex County Council to spend on more trees and nearly £5,000 from Basildon Council, arranged for us by Councillor Alex Myers, to be spent on extending the 2023 display of flowers and planters. It is very important to us that the money is wisely spent so there are lots of issues to consider.

The summer plants have been ordered from A.E.Harnett and Son and we are very grateful to Yvonne Harnett for her assistance with this. These will be planted in mid May when they have grown to a decent size and once the danger of frost has passed. As in other years we will be asking for volunteers to come along and help out with this and with watering in the following weeks At the time of writing only 3 of the 36 planned baskets remain unsponsored. It really has been amazing the way the local community has stepped up to sponsor and help to create what will be a lovely display in our High Street.

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We would like to take this opportunity to thank our business and group sponsors who are: Chandlers Florests, Downham Hall, Eve Bell – Senior Living, Halcyon Honey, HEARTS Acadamy Trust, Keylock Games, MD Care, Second Steps Day Nursery, Smiths Glass, Temme English Estate Agents, Journeys by Westway Travel, Wickford Taxis, Quirks Estate Agents and Wickford Gardening Club.

Two of our committee members recently attended the Basildon Council Volunteer Awards 2024 ceremony at the Towngate Theatre to represent Wickford in Bloom as our group was nominated for an award. We didn’t win on this occasion but so far as the committee is concerned every volunteer who comes along to help out is a hero.

For any further information please email Wickfordinbloom@virginmedia.com or find us on Facebook @WickfordinBloom Donations can be made at www.paypal.me/WickfordinBloom or www.gofundme.com

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HEADER SUBHEADER CONTENT “QUOTE” LINKS What is the Mid Essex Recovery College?

• BULLET The Mid Essex Recovery College is a new service run by PROVIDE CIC that runs free courses and workshops aimed to support mental health recovery in the Mid Essex area.

Who can use the College?

College courses are open to anyone who lives or works within the Mid Essex area and aged over 18. We currently adver�se our courses on Eventbrite and send out �metables at the beginning of each term. All we ask from you is that you register with the College by comple�ng our registra�on form once you enrol on our courses.

Where does it run?

Courses and workshops are delivered in a variety of community based venues across Mid Essex as well as online via Microso� Teams

What type of topics do courses cover?

We aim to deliver a wide breadth of courses in a variety of topics that support mental health recovery, this can be prac�cal areas such as finding and retaining employment, naviga�ng services, or suppor�ng others mental health. Other areas include self care, building resilience, how accessing the natural world supports recovery and looking at how crea�vity such as photography, film-making and wri�ng can support mental health recovery.

We welcome sugges�ons on course topics that people who live in Mid Essex would like to see delivered as part of the College programme

Who delivers courses?

Co-produc�on is a fundamental principle of the Recovery College. This means all courses are co-designed and co-delivered between at least two people where there is a combina�on of a person with “learned” knowledge and skills and a person with “lived experience” of mental health recovery.

We are always interested in hearing from people who would like to co-produce or co-deliver courses with us.

Finding out more …..

If you interested in finding out more about the Recovery College, please contact us on the email address below and a member of the team will be in touch with you. provide.midessexrc@nhs.net

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Wickford Town Council Events

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News from Wickford Town Council

April 2024 Planning and Infrastructure Committee 8 April Finance and Resources Committee 29 April Meetings are held at The Wick Community Centre Silva Island Way Start time 7pm Current Agendas and Past Minutes can be viewed on the Town Council’s website www.wickfordtowncouncil.gov.uk

Get in Touch If you would like to speak to us about an issue in or around Wickford, then please get in touch Town Clerk Tory Melhuish 01268 858979 E: clerk@wickfordtowncouncil.gov.uk www.wickfordtowncouncil.gov.uk www.facebook.com/WickfordTownCouncil

News from Wickford Town Council flow from the exercise of their discretionary powers and subsequent legal obligations.

Wickford Town Council Precept What is the Precept?

The precept is a component of the council tax levied on the local government electors in the area of a local council.

Wickford Town Council has a statutory power to precept (tax) the local government electors in their area to finance the activities that

The Precept for 2024-25 set by Wickford Town Council is £229,284 and this equates to a 3.16% increase on last year (81p for a Band D property).

Members of the Town Council have put together the budget and forecast for 2024-25 and the full information can be found our website: www.wickfordtowncouncil.gov.uk

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Beyond Pain Relief: 6 Surprising Health Benefits From Deep Tissue & Sports Massage.

Deep tissue and Sports massage is not just a remedy for pain; it’s also a gateway to feeling younger, healthier, and less uncomfortable.

In this article we discuss how it can transform your health: Alleviates Chronic Pain: Deep tissue massage targets deep layers of muscles to reduce chronic pain, especially in the back, neck, and shoulders.

Enhanced Mobility: ˊ˘ Ѓˡ˗ ˧˛˔˧ ˢ˨˥ ˣ˔˧˜˘ˡ˧˦ who have Massage Therapy see improvement ˜ˡ ˥˔ˡ˚˘ ˢ˙ ˠˢ˧˜ˢˡ ˔ˡ˗ Є˘˫˜˕˜˟˜˧ˬʡ ˇ˛˜˦ ˜˦ achieved because massage can break down adhesions that restrict movement.

Promotes Recovery: Deep tissue massage is shown to accelerate the healing process of ˜ˡ˝˨˥˜˘˦ ˕ˬ ˜ˡ˖˥˘˔˦˜ˡ˚ ˕˟ˢˢ˗ Єˢ˪ ˔ˡ˗ ˥˘˗˨˖˜ˡ˚ ˜ˡЄ˔ˠˠ˔˧˜ˢˡʡ ʹˢ˥ ˬˢ˨ʟ ˧˛˜˦ ˠ˘˔ˡ˦ ˟˘˦˦ ˔˖˛˘˦ and pains and quicker recovery.

Eases Stress and Anxiety: Massage can also ˢ˙˙˘˥ ˣ˥ˢ˙ˢ˨ˡ˗ ˥˘˟˔˫˔˧˜ˢˡ ˕˘ˡ˘Ѓ˧˦ʟ ˥˘˗˨˖˜ˡ˚ stress and promoting emotional well-being.

Relieves Headaches: Having regular massage can reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines and tension headaches. Day to day stress contributes to these factors, and therefore, reducing the stress on your body and how your body copes with it, can greatly improve your headaches.

Improves Sleep Quality: Deep tissue massage ˘ˡ˖ˢ˨˥˔˚˘˦ ˥˘˟˔˫˔˧˜ˢˡ ˔ˡ˗ ˥˘˗˨˖˘˦ ˦˧˥˘˦˦ʟ leading to a deeper, more restorative sleep.

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More PHAB small grants awarded Essex County Council have announced the 11 latest projects to benefit from the Public Health Accelerator Bids (PHAB) programme.

PHAB was set up to reduce health inequalities, and support the aims of the Essex Wellbeing, Public Health and Communities Business Plan.

In the latest round, 11 organisations will receive a total of £120,521. This will support projects designed to improve the mental and physical health of residents in Essex.

The 11 successful organisations are: • CVS Tendring: to launch Beat the Street, a mass participation behaviour change programme, in Harwich and Dovercourt • Wickford PCN: to engage young children with mindfulness techniques taught as “superpowers” • The Batic Partnership Trust, Castle Point: to expand its existing counselling sessions across a consortium of schools • Integration Support Services, Harlow:

to set up a women’s health club in Harlow, supporting female refugees, asylum seekers and migrants

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W i c k f o r d Town News

• Places Leisure, Maldon: to run a six-week aqua exercise programme • Basildon Mind: to host weekly exercise and talk sessions • Essential SEND Consultancy CIC, Essex-wide: to support children with Special Educational Needs • Hatzola Canvey Ltd, Castle Point: to run a programme addressing critical health issues in the Orthodox Jewish Community • The Deanes, Castle Point: to run activity club for local over 60s in the area • Trinity Methodist Church, Tendring: to support those at risk of homelessness with their mental health and wellbeing • Tendring Specialist Stroke Services, Colchester and Tendring: to provide those who have had a stroke with specialised support to improve their confidence, health and mental wellbeing PHAB offers organisations the opportunity to bid for funding across two grant funding streams. These are small grants up to £7,500 and major grants over £15,000.

Small grants have now supported more than 30 projects since PHAB launched in September 2023.

Find out more and apply for a PHAB grant via www.essex.gov.uk/phab

2023 update for Tools with a Mission Welcome to the 2023 update for my charity Tools with a Mission (TWAM).

Earlier in the year I told you how TWAM empowers poor people in Africa by refurbishing donated tools and sending them out in kits to allow trainees to start a career in a trade. This empowers people for life and is so much more effective than just donating money!

In particular, sewing machines are still in great demand, and this year we sent out over 3300, along with materials and haberdashery kits.

Mid-way through this year, output was boosted by the opening of a new centre in Rugby to cover the Midlands. So in total, we sent the equivalent of 20 standard 20-foot containers, each the size of a removal van, of which 6 were from Rugby.

We still need a good flow of all kinds of tools. Not only from the typical tool shed, but including manual & electric sewing machines, knitting machines, materials and haberdashery. Not forgetting computers and laptops running at least Windows 7.

Thank you to all of you who donated in 2023.

If you want to donate this year, please contact Richard in Wickford on 07951 702293

A total of 15,158 kits were sent out to 541 groups in Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

This by a charity with only 8 paid employees, but over 800 volunteers in UK and Africa! Last year the total was 12,700, so we have grown by about 25%.

Essex establishes strong link with Royal Navy ship Essex has a close relationship with the Royal Navy thanks to the rich maritime history.

It’s more important than ever that ECC show its support for its brave service men and women around the world. That’s why residents now have a Royal Navy ship they can call their own.

ECC have agreed to affiliate the county of Essex with HMS Venturer - a Type 31 frigate being built in Scotland.

The next generation ship will represent the more than 1.8 million residents living in Essex. From Chigwell to Colchester and Braintree to Basildon.

It is the first Royal Navy ship to be associated with the county in 30 years.

HMS Ashanti was affiliated with Southend until she ended active duties in the 1980s.

The minesweeper HMS Orwell also enjoyed ties with Harwich - a key naval base through both world wars.

HMS Venturer is named after a World War II submarine. This made history as the first sub to sink another while both were submerged.

Her modern-day successor will perform duties around the globe for at least a quarter of a century.

She will be crewed by 115 sailors, with capacity for another 70, when she enters service later this decade.

Along with four other frigates, HMS Venturer is designed for wide-ranging operations.

This includes escorting aircraft carrier strike groups and operating independently on security patrols.

HMS Venturer establishes deep ties with our county. Its name represents technology and innovation, inspired by the feats of its predecessor and the county of Essex.

ECC are proud to be affiliated with HMS Venturer and look forward to its maiden voyage.

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News Around Positive response to the draft Waste Strategy for Essex

The Essex Waste Partnership has been working together to create a new Waste Strategy for Essex. The partnership includes the County Council and the 12 District, City and Borough councils in Essex.

The draft Waste Strategy for Essex sets out a plan for how we will manage recycling and waste in Essex for the next 30 years.

The partnership want people to rethink waste, by focusing on reducing, reusing and recycling more to protect the environment.

In September 2023 we launched a 10week public consultation on behalf of the partnership. This gave people the chance to have their say on the draft Waste Strategy.

Over 4,500 people completed the survey and the responses were independently analysed.

Results show there is a good level of agreement from across the county on the key proposals. The findings will inform the final Waste Strategy for Essex.

The adoption of the Waste Strategy for Essex will be subject to a separate decision.

Read the findings of the consultation at consultations.essex.gov.uk/rci/wastestrategy-for-essex-consultation

Essex rated a global leader in climate action

Essex is one of a select number of areas to be recognised for its leadership on climate action.

CDP helps organisations across the globe 18

understand their own environmental impacts.

It has named the county as one of 120 areas to receive an A rating for climate work.

This is the second year in a row CDP has given ECC the rating.

To score an A, ECC had to have area-wide emissions data available and have published a climate action plan.

Out of the places assessed, only 13% were awarded an A rating. Areas that are awarded an A rating feature on CDP’s global A list at www.cdp.net/en/cities/cities-scores Find out more about the ECC £250 million Essex Climate Action Plan via www.essex.gov.uk/running-council/plansand-strategies/climate-action and check the progress in the Essex Climate Action Annual Reports via www.essexclimate.org.uk/ climate-action-annual-report

Recycled food powers thousands of UK homes

We are encouraging Essex households to recycle their uneaten food. Recycling food waste can be used to generate green energy to power homes and schools. It can also be used by farmers as fertiliser or compost.

Last year we provided more than 37,000 tonnes of food waste, helping to power 6,310 homes across the UK for a year. That equates to CO2 savings of 32,776 tonnes – which works out the same as taking 16,189 cars off the road for a year.

To help residents, we have delivered stickers, food caddy liners and leaflets to over 350,000 homes in participating areas in Essex.

Wickford Town These materials will help people understand what food they can recycle.

We aim to reuse, recycle or compost at least 70% of waste generated by residents by 2030. Recycling food can play a major role in achieving this target.

Councillor Peter Schwier, Essex County Council’s Climate Czar and Cabinet member for Environment, Waste, Reduction and Recycling, said: “Great work is already being done by thousands of Essex residents, but we can still do more.

By putting food out in their designated recycling bins, households are helping to generate green energy and reducing the damage to our environment.

Small actions can make a big difference and together we can tackle climate change to benefit generations to come.”

Response to Spring Budget 2024

The Government announced its tax and spending plans in its latest Budget. The plans aim to increase economic growth and reduce financial pressure on households.

Among the measures announced, was a further reduction in National Insurance contributions.

In addition, the Government confirmed extra funding for Levelling Up. This includes £20 million for regeneration in Harlow.

Councillor Chris Whitbread, Chancellor of Essex, said: “A further cut to National Insurance contributions and the promise of more help for parents receiving child benefit, will hopefully go some way in easing the

financial pressures many households are currently facing.

However, the announcements made today, while positive, will do little to mitigate the current financial pressures faced by local authorities. We need a serious commitment from central government to long-term, sustainable investment instead of oneoff financial settlements. This will allow authorities to plan with certainty for the future and continue to deliver high-quality, essential services.

While I am proud that we have again been able to balance the books in Essex in our own budget, the fact remains that, like other public sector organisations, we are faced with more and more difficult financial decisions. Without further support from central government, this won’t change.”

The Government also announced the Household Support Fund would continue. It was due to end in March.

Councillor Louise McKinlay, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Levelling Up, Communities and Business Engagement, said: “Having personally raised the matter of the Household Support Fund with a number of senior MPs, today’s announcement of a six-month extension is welcome news. It will avoid the sudden cliff edge end of key support and resources, brought in during COVID, to help the most vulnerable groups.

We will work with partners, charities and organisations to help prepare for the transition beyond the six months.”

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W i c k f o r d Town News

Friends of the Wickford Memorial Park Volunteer Group - Home Front Garden Continuing articles on the Wickford Memorial Park - this month one of our gardening members - Margaret Clarke is writing about the Home Front Garden which was our first project and really started the Friends of Wickford Memorial Park.

Of all the projects we have undertaken in the glorious Memorial Park since 2020, I have to admit the Home Front Garden is my favourite.

I have many reasons why I like this garden, but the main reason is the stunning results which we achieved over the last four years

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W i c k f o r d Town News

Straight out of COVID, the lockdowns, the uncertainty of that time, we got ‘stuck into’ our planning.

We researched plants and their growing habits, visited Hyde Hall and conferred with a RHS specialist, who visited our site on a number of occasions.

We finally sat with huge sheets of paper plus tea and cake, to plan making sure we had grouped the plants to gain full impact.

During the warmer months, the intensity of colour, height, movement and structure, will certainly bring a smile to a garden lover’s face!

The four surrounding benches are very welcome for a rest and a great viewing gallery at eye level. So, with the sights and the sounds of insects and bird life, of which

there are plenty, it is a wonderful place to rest awhile and feel calm creep over you.

For the cooler months, we leave the garden resting until March time. This ensures insects and birds are still looked after. Seed heads are left in place providing food and shelter for our tiny friends when their food is scarce.

Hopefully, seeds will fall and germinate.

Leaving the plants intact also helps with protecting their bases from frost and rain and adds structure to the garden.

Lastly, it is most helpful for identifying plants when we divide and replant.

Please look out for future events on Facebook using the Events Tab; we have over a thousand members on our page.

We run our gardening groups every Wednesday and Saturday mornings (Saturdays will be resumed in the Spring) if you’d like to come along, no gardening experience necessary and there are tasks for all abilities. Please pop down for a chat or help, you would be most welcome.

There are three car parks: Runwell Road (main entrance); Rettendon View and Highcliffe Road.

Please visit our website: www.friendsofwickfordmemorialpark.co.uk Or Facebook: Friends of the Wickford Memorial Park.

We hope you can find time this year, during the four seasons, to visit and appreciate our gem of a garden. Thank you.

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W i c k f o r d Town News

23

New SEND school for Rayleigh

“This includes providing access to excellent education in mainstream or special schools.

Essex County Council have launched a consultation on plans to create a new Special Educational Needs (SEND) school in Rayleigh.

“We know demand for special needs places in South Essex currently outstrips supply, so this exciting new school is specifically designed to help meet this pressing need.

This will increase the number of SEND places available to young people in south Essex.

The Council have been working with Mark Francois, MP for Rayleigh and Wickford, to identify a suitable site and funding to create the new school.

Positive progress has been made and a site has now been identified off Rawreth Lane at the Wolsey Park development.

Subject to the outcome of the consultation, the school would cater for pupils from the ages of three to 18.

Construction could start in spring 2025. The new school could open to its first pupils in the 2025/26 academic year.

ECC will fund the new school alongside contributions from major housing developments in the local area.

Councillor Tony Ball, Cabinet Member for Education Excellence, Lifelong Learning and Employability, said: “We are committed to helping all children in Essex get the best possible start in life.

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“We now want to hear from the local community about the proposals and I would urge residents to have their say during the consultation.”

Mark Francois, MP for Rayleigh and Wickford, said: “We do not currently have a special needs school anywhere in the Rochford District, so creating this new school in Rayleigh, should help to meet that vital, local need.

“I launched this campaign after meeting many frustrated parents at my constituency surgeries, who were desperate for a special needs place for their child but could not obtain one.

“I would like to commend Essex County Council for all their proactive endeavours on this project and I hope we will now receive a very positive response to the consultation, over the next few weeks, so the school can then open next academic year.”

Take part in the consultation before Friday 5th April via consultations.essex.gov.uk/ school-organisation/wolseypark

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News from Wickford Town Council Wickford Town Council Contacts

www.wickfordtowncouncil.gov.uk www.facebook.com/WickfordTownCouncil Town Clerk Tory Melhuish 01268 858979 clerk@wickfordtowncouncil.gov.uk

Wickford Town Councillors Chairman Councillor Derek Harrison contact via Town Council Vice Chairman Councillor Graham Bradley contact via Town Council Councillors Councillor Alan Ball 01268 526851 Councillor Simon Blake 07748 776655 Councillor Eunice Brockman 07594 216528 Councillor Nigel Dermott contact via Town Council Councillor Lee Dodds contact via Town Council Councillor Gerald Douse contact via Town Council Councillor Graeme Ellis 07814 814844 Councillor Louise Gann contact via Town Council Councillor Clare Gregory contact via Town Council Councillor David Harrison 07305 614967 Councillor Nicola Hoad contact via Town Council Councillor Stewart Mott 07964 077058 Councillor Andrew Neil contact via Town Council Councillor Kim Oakes 01268 761899 Councillor Stephen Oakes contact via Town Council Councillor Geoff Randall contact via Town Council Councillor Andrew Stead 07769 833586 Councillor Geoff Whiter contact via Town Council

Basildon Borough Councillors Wickford North Councillor Carole Morris 01268 457488 Councillor Peter Holliman 07956 395818 Councillor Eunice Brockman 07954 216528 Wickford Castledon Councillor Don Morris 01268 457488 Councillor Alex Myers 07857 865598 Wickford Park Councillor Yvonne Child 07754 647216 Councillor George Jeffrey 07570 282997

Essex County Councillors Wickford Crouch Councillor Tony Ball 07867 676469 cllr.tony.ball@essex.gov.uk Councillor Malcolm Buckley 01268 472586 cllr.malcolm.buckley@essex.gov.uk

Member of Parliament

Mark Francois 01268 742044 Mark.francois.mp@parliament.uk

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New pledge for Everyone’s Essex Essex County Council has updated their annual delivery plan, Everyone’s Essex.

Proud of Essex

ECC will work closely with local communities to celebrate the rich cultural and artistic heritage.

Trust

This sets out the services and initiatives that the council will spend the more than £2 billion budget on over the next year.

Whether it’s roads, country parks, libraries or schools, ECC will manage them well today and leave them in a better place tomorrow.

The aim is to protect essential services. They will also continue to invest in key areas, such as the county’s infrastructure.

ECC have delivered a lot since they developed the original Everyone’s Essex three years ago. They plan to do even more in the coming year.

Everyone’s Essex is the ECC commitment to you, residents and businesses, through five key priorities. These are:

Financial competence

Saving £800 million since 2012 has helped protect frontline services and invest in roads and infrastructure. ECC promise to continue making savings for the future.

Caring

ECC have some of the best social care services in the country. They will continue investing in people and technology to help the most vulnerable live as independently as possible.

On your side

Many residents are struggling with high inflation and rising interest rates. ECC created a £50 million cost-of-living programme and will continue providing support.

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W i c k f o r d Town News

Councillor Kevin Bentley, Leader of the Council, said: “We will never stop doing our best for the people of Essex, it’s what they deserve. We have shown this as an administration time and again by protecting essential services and through continued investment in areas such as our outstanding children’s services and our work to Level Up opportunities and reduce inequalities.

“I am immensely proud of the work the council has done over the last three years to make good on the promises we set out.

I am hugely optimistic about what we can achieve over the next twelve months to go even further in the pursuit of these ambitions.”

Read more about plans for the coming year at www.essex.gov.uk/running-council/ plans-and-strategies/everyones-essex

Health Transformation Lead, Mid and South

Mental Health Services in Essex Integrated Care Board Basildon and Brentwood mental “Previously, people struggling with their health could wait up to 28 days Shortlisted Award before they could speak to a mental health Mid and South Essex Integrated Care Board (MSE ICB), Essex Partnership University Trust (EPUT) and Vita Health Group have been jointly shortlisted for a prestigious Health Service Journal (HSJ) Partnership Award, based on their joint work to better support the mental health needs of people living in Basildon and Brentwood.

This includes the new Basildon and Brentwood Integrated Primary Community Care (IPCC) Mental Health Team, which provides mental health support within GP surgeries for people struggling with issues such as depression and anxiety.

Winners were announced at an official awards ceremony held on 21st March 2024 in London.

“Our mental health services are focused on improving patient experience and reducing health inequalities by providing consistently high-quality, personalised care, close to home.

professional. In Basildon and Brentwood, latest data shows that, on average, a person’s waiting time from booking an appointment via their GP to speaking to a Mental Health Practitioner is now less than 24 hours.” - Cathy Bunch, Service Manager for Adult and Older Adult Community Mental Health in Basildon and Brentwood, EPUT

“It is only by listening to and working with our service users and other organisations, that we can develop mental health services and pathways that really meet the needs of our local communities. We will continue to work together to improve the experience for people who require help with mental health problems.” - Dr Paul O’Sullivan, Counselling Psychologist and Integrated Primary Community Care Service Manager, Vita Health Group.

“Being shortlisted for an HSJ Partnership Award is testament to the determination of Commissioners, EPUT and Vita Health Group to work in close partnership with service users and other colleagues to help people get the support they need, preventing them from reaching crisis point, whenever possible.” - Anna Harley, Mental

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What’s On Wickford Wildlife Society – Indoor Meeting

Wednesday 17th April, 8:00pm at St Andrews Church Hall, 11 London Road, Wickford, Essex, SS12 0AN

The speaker for our April meeting of the Wickford Wildlife Society will be Jo Loman, Buglife Canvey Wick Community Warden, who will present a talk on Canvey Wick. Jo is an enthusiastic educator who is passionate about all wildlife and nature and has worked with several wildlife and conservation organisations.

Canvey Wick is a 93-hectare Site of Special Scientific Interest on Canvey Island in Essex.

Rich in plants, insects and animals, there are more species per square metre here than any other site in the UK. It has even been referred to as ‘England’s Rainforest’. Canvey Wick nature reserve is managed by RSPB and Bug life and is a haven for invertebrates with over 1,500 species having been recorded so far and is one of the most important British sites for endangered invertebrates.

There is adequate parking in front and behind the Church and tea and coffee are available during the interval. Doors open at 7:45pm for an 8pm start. A small admission fee will apply, Members £2.00 and Non-Members £3.00.”

Charity Boot Sale

Sunday 21st April, 9am, at The Nevendon Centre, SS12 0QG Come and join us at this charity boot sale in aid of the Wickford Community Association. £1 admission, tea and coffee available for 50p.

If you would like to sell at this event please pre-book by contacting 07792 350024 or 07928 992160. Tables are £10 for a 4ft table or £12 for a 6ft table.

Charity Boot Sale

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South Hanningfield Village Hall Management Committee

St George’s Day on Tuesday 23rd April from 7.30pm South Hanningfield Village Hall CM3 8HL The wonderful “Cockeny Pride” are returning for an evening of sing along and flag waving with the Pearly King and Queen. Tickets cost £15 each. Bring your own drinks and party food. For tickets, please call Emma on 07961 963914.

Wickford Community Archive Open Day

Saturday 4th May, 10am – 3pm at Christ Church Hall Wickford Community Archive will be holding its annual Open Day, at Christ Church Hall, near the town centre. (Christ Church is just outside the big car park, near St Luke’s shop).

There will be photographic displays of old Wickford scenes, residents and organisations, and collections of newspapers of earlier decades. Entry is free, but any small donations towards the costs of running our digital archive will be gratefully received. You will be able to buy refreshments provided by supporters of the Brain Tumour Charity, then sit down and talk with friends.

The Archive was launched in February 2011, and there have been Open Days run on most years since then. People attending seem to enjoy the relaxed comfortable atmosphere, while thinking about and discussing our community’s history. Why don’t you call in and see us on Saturday May 4th?

Colours Fashion Show & Pop-Up Shop in aid of Remus Horse Sanctuary

Saturday 11th May, doors open 1:00pm for a 1:30pm Show at Stock Village Hall, Common Road, Stock, Essex CM4 9NF Enjoy an afternoon Fashion Show featuring clothes from leading high street fashion brands. You’ll then get the chance to buy these items at heavily discounted prices (approx. 50% or more) in the Pop-Up Shop.

There will be refreshments available including tea, coffee, soft drinks, cake & crisps.

This event is in aid of Remus Memorial Horse

Wickford Town Sanctuary (based near Ingatestone). Remus provides lifetime care and rehabilitation for animals that have been abused and neglected.

Shotgate Wives Social Group

Every second Wednesday of the month, 7:30pm at Shotgate Community Hall, Bruce Grove Shotgate Wives Social Group is over 60 years old and we currently have a membership of approximately 30 ladies. We are welcoming all ladies - we have plenty of places. We have speakers, games evenings, parties etc.

Membership is £20 a year. If you wish to try us out and come as a guest just £3 for the evening. Just turn up and introduce yourself or you can contact: Carole: 01702 230813, Email: cal.dav@tiscali.co.uk Sally: 01702 230885, Email: s.kain111@btinternet.com

Tickets: £6 per person or 3 tickets for £15 Available to buy from Remus on 01277 356191 or online at www.remussanctuary.org/events/coloursfashion-show-and-pop-up-shop If you have any questions about the event, email Dee at funding@remussanctuary.org Show ends approx 3:15pm (with chance to shop after). www.remussanctuary.org

Pre and Postnatal Fitness Class Every Tuesday, 10:30am-12:30pm at St Catherine’s Hall, Southend Road, Wickford, SS11 8DZ.

These group exercise classes are designed for both mums-to-be and new mums – come along and meet other local parents, feel fitter, have a drink and a chat. Classes are adapted to suit all fitness levels.

Classes are just £5 for four sessions.

To book, head to www.parents1st.org.uk/ parents-1st-essex 31

Four Fresh and Flavourful Recipes for April As April blooms and fresh produce fills our local markets, it’s the perfect time to embrace the vibrant flavours of the season.

In this edition of Wickford Town News, we’re bringing you four delightful recipes that celebrate the best of April’s bounty. From succulent meats to hearty vegetarian and vegan options, there’s something here to tantalise every taste bud. So, roll up your sleeves, head to your local market, and let’s get cooking!

Spring Lamb Tagine Ingredients 600g lamb shoulder, diced 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground coriander ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon 400g tin chopped tomatoes 400ml vegetable stock 100g dried apricots, chopped 1 courgette, sliced Fresh coriander, to garnish Cooked couscous, to serve

Method 1. Heat olive oil in a large casserole dish over medium heat. Add the diced lamb and brown on all sides.

Remove from the dish and set aside.

2. In the same dish, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until softened.

3. Return the lamb to the dish. Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, coating the lamb evenly.

4. Add the chopped tomatoes, vegetable stock, and dried apricots. Bring to a simmer and cover. Cook for 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.

5. Add the sliced courgette and cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until the lamb is tender.

6. Serve the lamb tagine hot, garnished with fresh coriander, alongside fluffy couscous.

Roasted Vegetable and Halloumi Salad Ingredients 1 red pepper, sliced 1 yellow pepper, sliced 1 courgette, sliced 1 red onion, sliced 200g cherry tomatoes 200g halloumi cheese, sliced 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar Salt and pepper, to taste Fresh basil leaves, to garnish

Method 1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan).

2. Place the sliced peppers, courgette, red onion, and cherry tomatoes on a baking tray. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelised.

4. Meanwhile, heat a nonstick frying pan over medium heat. Fry the halloumi slices until golden brown on both sides.

5. Arrange the roasted vegetables and halloumi on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

6. Serve the roasted vegetable and halloumi salad warm or at room temperature.

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Vegan Chickpea and Spinach Curry Ingredients 2 tablespoons coconut oil 1 onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tablespoon ginger, grated 1 tablespoon curry powder 1 teaspoon ground turmeric 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground coriander 400g tin chickpeas, drained and rinsed 200g spinach leaves 400ml coconut milk Salt and pepper, to taste Fresh coriander, to garnish Cooked rice, to serve Method 1. Heat coconut oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté until fragrant and softened.

2. Stir in the curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and coriander, coating the onions evenly.

3. Add the drained chickpeas and spinach leaves to the pan. Cook until the spinach wilts.

4. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld.

5. Season the curry with salt and pepper, to taste.

6. Serve the vegan chickpea and spinach curry hot, garnished with fresh coriander, alongside fluffy rice.

Classic Lemon Drizzle Cake Ingredients 200g unsalted butter, softened 200g caster sugar 4 eggs Zest of 2 lemons 200g self-raising flour 100g ground almonds Juice of 2 lemons 100g granulated sugar Method 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan).

Grease and line a loaf tin with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest.

4. Gently fold in the self-raising flour and ground almonds until just combined.

5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin and smooth the top with a spatula.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.

7. While the cake is baking, prepare the lemon drizzle. In a small bowl, mix together the lemon juice and granulated sugar until dissolved.

8. Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and prick the surface all over with a skewer. Pour the lemon drizzle over the hot cake.

9. Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Slice the lemon drizzle cake and serve with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.

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Latest impacts of £22 million Levelling Up investment revealed A new report is sharing how ambitious plans to level up Essex are improving and enhancing life opportunities for Essex residents.

Published on Wednesday 6th March, the Levelling Up year two impact report highlights some of the latest projects in Essex. These are helping residents and communities have an equal chance to improve their lives and reach new heights.

Councillor Louise McKinlay, Deputy Leader of Essex County Council and Cabinet Member for Levelling Up, Communities and Business Engagement, said: “Over the last year we have continued to follow the energy found at the heart of our local communities, build trust with our local partners and organisations and work hard to create even more community champions and business mentors, to the direct benefit of thousands of our residents.

Over the last two years, dozens of new projects are underway throughout Essex, with almost 68,000 people affected by levelling up funding so far. The programme is on target to reach as many as 140,000 residents by 2025.

Work so far has seen: • increased literacy levels – with our Everyone’s Literacy Area stock seeing over 50,000 borrows since 2022 • increase in free childcare – more than 172,000 spaces available to children through the Essex ActiVate holiday activity and food programme • more support for businesses - free workplace health and wellbeing support for over 580 organisations and training of 1,000 plus mental health first aiders • launch of new community supermarkets – seven operational and a commitment to bring one to every district in Essex by summer 2024 • new support for skills - provision of free training through Adult Community Learning centres, such as the Nightingale care bursary and mobile interactive ‘hands on’ science kits • investment in mental wellbeing £180,000 invested in the Harlow Futures programme, supporting children and young people in the town • distributing digital devices – around 6,000 devices given to residents, schools, refugees and community groups, along with digital inclusion support

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W i c k f o r d Town News

“I, and all my fellow Cabinet Members, are passionate about driving forward levelling up across each of our areas of responsibility, as set out in our Everyone’s Essex plan, to ensure we make it work for every resident who lives and works here.

“Two years ago, we launched our Levelling Up programme and this year I am delighted to see us ‘reaching new heights’.

“I am incredibly proud of all that we have achieved but we know that there is still much more to do. I look forward to continuing this work, with the introduction of many more new initiatives targeted at key places and people still to come.”

Find out more about Levelling Up in Essex via www.essex.gov.uk/levelling-up-essex

Does your charity need funding? Apply to the Essex Fund Essex based charities are encouraged to apply now for financial support from the ‘Essex Fund’ to keep their services and projects running.

The Fund was set up by Essex County Council in 2000 to provide annual support to the voluntary and community sector in Essex and since then, has given out over £1.5 million in grants.

Organisations and projects that help unpaid carers, improve the environment or engage people in environmental projects, provide a community resource or activities that help young people, including arts, culture and heritage projects, are all eligible for consideration.

Groups can apply for up to £5,000 towards their core and operating expenditure, project costs or capital items.

Cllr Jill Reeves, Chair of Essex County Council, said: “The rising cost-of-living is continuing to be a challenge for local charities as they struggle to pay their bills and running costs, alongside many of them experiencing an increase in demand for their services.

“These groups provide vital services for people who need support. We encourage them to contact ECF to talk about

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their funding needs to continue their valuable work helping people in our local communities.”

Charitable activities that have received funding in previous years include interactive musical performances in care homes, mental health support for young people, and woodland well-being sessions for children with Down syndrome.

Andy Payne Worpole, Director of Policy and Programmes at ECF, said: “We are pleased to manage the Essex Fund and work with the decision-making panel at the council to get funding to where it is needed most.

“The panel are particularly interested in supporting smaller voluntary organisations and projects that are working in areas of deprivation where there is a lack of facilities.

“There is a short application form on our website and our friendly grants team are on hand to help on 01245 355947 or grants@essexcf.org.uk if you have any questions or want to discuss an idea. You can also contact us through our website or via social media.”

How to apply:

The deadline to apply to the Essex Fund is 5pm on Monday 15th April. Please apply via www.essexcommunityfoundation.org.uk/ applying-for-support If you would like to talk to us before submitting an application, please get in touch by calling us on 01245 355947, or email grants@essexcf.org.uk

Fire Service urge homeowners: Replace smoke alarms every 10 years Essex County Fire and Rescue Service has issued a crucial reminder to homeowners to replace their smoke alarms every 10 years, regardless of their power source.

to check their smoke alarms, as all newly built houses from 1992 legally had to have mains-wired smoke alarms installed. Coupled with the misconception that you don’t have to change mains-wired smoke alarms, there could be thousands of people living in Essex without effective smoke alarms. Claire explained: “Over time, smoke alarms accumulate contaminants and may develop faults, compromising their reliability. Regular testing may not suffice for older alarms, necessitating professional intervention to ensure optimal functionality.”

To guarantee the effectiveness of smoke alarms older than 10 years, the fire service recommend replacing their detector heads, a task best entrusted to qualified electricians.

The investment in maintenance and replacement is minimal compared to the invaluable protection it offers to families in the event of a fire.

It is a common misconception that mains-wired smoke alarms don’t need to be replaced every 10 years. However, the fire service emphasises that all smoke alarms, whether mains-wired or battery operated, must be replaced every 10 years.

To make sure your home is as safe as possible from fire, you can book a free home safety visit online here: www.essex-fire.gov.uk/book

Claire Monk, Live Safe Manager said: “Smoke alarms are the best protection you can have in your home to keep you safe from fire, but it’s important to understand that they have a finite lifespan.”

All smoke alarms, no matter how they are powered, have sensors that deteriorate over time, rendering them less effective in detecting fires. Essex residents are urged to proactively check the expiration date of their smoke alarms to mitigate potential risks.

Claire added: “A smoke alarm provides vital early warning of a fire giving you time to get yourself and your family out safely. But only if they are working correctly. All smoke alarms should be regularly tested and replaced when reached their expiry date.”

Home owners of properties built between 1992 and 2014 are particularly being urged Please mention Wickford Town News when responding to advertisements

W i c k f o r d Town News

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What to do in the garden in April

In the vegetable garden

• Start to sow tomato seeds indoors, ready to plant out after all risk of frost has passed.

• Harvest asparagus spears when they’re no more than 18 cm tall.

April’s here and spring has sprung at last!

• Support pea and bean plants now. For As the weather warms up and early flowers start to bloom, all of a sudden there’s a load quick and easy pea supports, push some twiggy sticks around your plants. of jobs to do outside.

• Thin carrot seedlings to achieve This month, there’s plenty to sow and grow in good-sized carrots; do this in the your garden and greenhouse. But there’s lots evening when fewer carrot flies are more to do besides sowing and planting out. around.

Here are your main garden jobs this April:

Timely Tips

1. Order annual plants like geraniums, begonias and petunias online now for summer bedding and hanging basket displays - it’s your last chance!

2. Give your greenhouse a thorough scrub (if you haven’t already) with hot soapy water. This will get rid of pests and diseases and let in more light.

3. Prepare beds for the growing season. Dig in a 5cm (or more) layer of compost or well-rotted manure. You can also work in a general-purpose fertiliser, such as pelleted chicken manure, or fish, blood and bone.

4. Check your patio plants aren’t drying out. The warmer weather will quickly affect soil moisture levels - try mixing water storing granules with compost to improve water retention in containers.

In the flower garden

• Pinch out the tips of fuchsia plants and sweet pea plant shoots, to encourage bushy growth this summer.

• Finish cutting back any dead foliage on perennials and ornamental grass plants (if you haven’t done so already), to make way for new growth.

• Tie in new honeysuckle and clematis stems. These plants will be putting on growth now, and you’ll need to train them along their supports.

• Deadhead daffodils and tulips as the flowers finish, but leave foliage intact

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In the fruit garden

• Try hand pollinating peaches and nectarines with a soft-bristled paint brush for better crops this year.

• Mulch fruit trees with well-rotted manure or garden compost. Take care not to mound mulch up around tree trunks.

• Top-dress patio fruit-trees with fresh compost and a slow-release fertiliser.

Other jobs about the garden

• Sow sunflowers in pots indoors or direct sow into garden borders.

• Check compost bins to see if you have any compost that’s ready to use.

• Keep on top of weeding now that the weather is warming up.

• Look out for signs of pests and diseases, early prevention is easier than curing an infestation.

• Top up bird baths and bird feeding stations to encourage birds into your garden.

Gardening tips supplied by Thompson & Morgan. For a full list of what to do in the garden in April and beyond please visit their website: www.thompson-morgan.com/inthe-garden-this-month

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