Wickford Town News - Issue 19 May 2024

ISSUE 19

The Wickford Driveway Bootsale

Find out more on page 4

Jazz in the Park

Find out more on page 8

Calm Harm app

Find out more on page 24

Fired-Up Flavours for June

Find out more on page 42

Wickford Town Council Contacts

Find out more on page 46

OPEN MORNING

Thursday 13th June 2024, tours at 9.30am. Call today to book your place.

Wickford Town News

Igniting the Spirit of Summer with Wickford Town News

Our June issue is ablaze with exciting content to inspire and inform.

We’ve got some lovely recipes celebrating the season of barbecues with Fired-Up Flavours for June and check out our usual expert gardening tips in What to do in the garden in June.

Join the community in embracing sustainability with insights on home composting in Essex and find some tranquillity with Quiet Days at St Mary’s in Runwell.

Stay connected with regular updates from Wickford Town Council, Wickford Rotary Club, and community initiatives like Wickford in Bloom and the Friends of the Wickford Memorial Park.

Explore opportunities for volunteerism and community engagement with calls for volunteers from Wickford Town Council and updates on local events like Jazz in the Park.

From cultural gatherings to mental health support and environmental initiatives, Wickford Town News is your guide to embracing the vibrant spirit of summer in our community!

Editor of Wickford Town News enquiries@community-publishing.org

This month’s front cover was taken by Fatih - Unsplash

KAS Community Publishing hold no affiliations with the advertisers presented within this magazine and do not endorse any of the products and services advertised. 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.

The Wickford Driveway Bootsale

Join the Buzz at Wickford’s Third Annual Driveway Bootsale Bonanza!

The Wickford Driveway Bootsale is now in its third year and we’re hoping this year will be the biggest and best one yet.

Like last year, this year’s event will be split across two weekends due to its growing popularity. The first being in The Wick and Nevendon/Castleton areas on Sunday 23rd June from 12pm-4pm with Runwell and Shotgate areas holding theirs on Sunday 30th June from 12pm-4pm.

Using this format helps shoppers to visit more sellers and pick up more bargains and also gives sellers of one weekend the opportunity to shop on the alternative weekend.

To find out more information on how to find out where to shop, how to sell and to sign up as a seller please join the Facebook group (Wickford Driveway Bootsale). There are two pinned posts with all the info you will need.

This event is run by a small team of volunteers who each oversee sign up for an area. Sign up commenced at 9am on Monday 6th May and closes 48 hours before the event. A map of participating addresses

will be published 48 hours prior to each event and names will not be included in the address list.

All sellers are required to display a poster in their front window to help promote event. Alternatively you can email gemscountrylife@hotmail.com to sign up or enquire about more information.

Updates will be shared on the Facebook group, including a sneak peek in the days leading up to the event of what people will be selling, so we recommend you joining the group if you’re able to. Unfortunately, no sales can be made before the event itself.

In the current cost of living crisis it is the perfect way for people to have a clear out and make some extra cash from items that they no longer want or need anymore without having to pay for a pitch at a bootsale and get up at the crack of dawn to drive out of town. It’s also a great way for others to bag themselves a bargain and help to keep things out of landfill. In a time where preloved items have never been so popular, now is as good a time as any to join us for this year’s event. But more than anything, it is a great way for the community to come together and an opportunity to meet and speak with our neighbours all across Wickford, we otherwise may never have had the chance to speak to.

W i c k f o r d

In The Wick and Castledon/Nevendon

On Sunday 23rd June 12.00-4.00pm and In Shotgate and Runwell on Sunday 30th June 12.00-4.00pm

An address list will be posted on the FB group in the weeks before the event. A final map and list will be posted 48 hours before the events.

Driveway B o o t s a l e

Sell your new and good quality second hand goods from the comfort of your own driveway! For more info and updates join the Wickford Driveway Bootsale Facebook page

Sellers must display a poster at home and can only sell their goods on their own driveways and gardens. No goods can be displayed on the pavement or road Shoppers should pay in cash and bring their own bags. Please bring small change and be considerate with where you park if you are driving around to shop

We have over 50 years’ experience in the industry and have seen most types of windows and doors over the years and rarely find a problem we can’t solve.

From blown/misted units, draughty windows and broken locks, to a complete & full replacement of your windows or conservatory - reach out to us and it would be our privilege to pop round and see how we could help.

We have no overdraft to feed, run no accounts and pay up front for all our materials.

We have been proudly servicing the local community for over 30 years!

Quiet Days in 2024 at St Mary’s Runwell

Reflect in the magnificent mediaeval building that is St Mary’s Runwell, and relax in its beautiful churchyard.

St. Mary’s is often described by visitors and by regular worshippers as a powerful sacred space to which they have been drawn. Experience this yourself, while also exploring its art and heritage.

Themes for 2024 include: Psalms, Women in the Bible, Nazareth Community’s Rule of Life, Faith Pictures, and Jesus Music.

All are 10:30am - 3:30pm. Runwell Rd SS11 7HS.

Saturday 15th June - Faith Pictures

Helps us see where God has been present in our lives, how we can talk about that confidently, and how God is active in the world around us and wants us to join in with Him. The focus will be on Traveller’s Tales and Talking Pictures. Led by Gail and Stephen.

Wednesday 10th July – Psalms

Time to immerse yourself in the prayerfulness, rich imagery and poetry of the psalms. Led by Revd Sue Wise.

Saturday 14th September - The 7 S’s of the Nazareth Community Silence, Sacrament, Scriptures, Service, Sharing, Sabbath, Staying as a personal Rule of Life. Led by Revd Jonathan Evens.

Cost: £8.00 per person, including sandwich lunch (pay on the day)

To book contact: jonathan.evens@btinternet.com 07803 562329 (15th June, 14th September) or sue.wise@sky.com 07941 506156 (10th July)

Parking available at the Church Hall - Church End Lane, Runwell SS11 7JQ.

Nearest station: Wickford (1.3 miles). Buses: 8, 10, 94, 94A, 94B, X10.

www.wickfordandrunwellparish.org.uk

A day in the life of our residents is provided by the fantastic team of sta who provide so many di erent elements of love and care of our residents

Caring for the elderly & those living with Dementia since 1991

Shirley C. Resident of Dudbr k House

Respite Day Centre Services

Short or long term care needs

Come join our family run new care home in Brentwood, Essex.

How To Safely and Effectively Manage Back Pain Without Medication.

As a chiropractor, I understand the debilitating effects that back pain can have on people’s daily life. Whether you’re experiencing acute discomfort or

In this article, we’ll explore some practical strategies and advice to help you alleviate pain, improve mobility, and regain control over your back health. From gentle exercises to ergonomic adjustments, I’ll empower you with the knowledge and tools to help navigate your journey towards a pain-free back.

Active Breaks: Combat back pain with movement. It’s believed that when experiencing pain, we should rest. The opposite is often true. Short, frequent breaks from sitting can prevent stiffness and improve spinal health.

Smart Footwear: Elevate your comfort by ditching high heels, narrow shoes or any footwear that feels uncomfortable. Opt for shoes that offer support and a cushioned sole to diminish back stress and enhance posture.

Ergonomic Sitting: Protect your spine with proper sitting habits. Avoid crossing legs and ensure your workspace supports your back health. Have your chair set at a height that allows your hips to be at 90 degrees. The same goes for your desk and elbows respectively.

Sleeping Posture Perfection: Help your lower back when you sleep with a simple pillow hack. Place a small pillow/cushion between your knees for spinal alignment, pelvic stress relief and pain reduction.

Ice vs. Heat: Navigate pain with ice for immediate relief and heat to ease morning stiffness. Understanding when to use each can accelerate your recovery process.

Avoid Stomach Sleeping: Preserve your spine’s natural curve by choosing side or back sleeping positions over stomach

avoid sleeping on their stomach improve quicker and get less frequent back pain.

Professional Back Care: If you’re someone who’s had back problems for to do the day-to-day tasks without discomfort, then maybe we can offer help and advice.

In our clinic, we offer safe and effective personalised treatments ranging from: Chiropractic care, Sports Massage, Physiotherapy, Shockwave Therapy, Acupuncture plus many more. your problem, so the pain doesn’t come back. See our offer opposite, we can help you live a life free from back pain.

News from Wickford Town Council

News Around

Essex businesses win King’s Awards for Enterprise

11 Essex businesses have won the prestigious King’s Awards for Enterprise. 2024 is an outstanding year for Greater Essex businesses. It shows determination amid rising costs and economic uncertainty. The winners can now use the King’s Awards emblem to enhance their prestige and commercial value. The winners are:

• Innovation: Dura Composites Ltd, Clacton-on-Sea

• International trade: Select Tech Limited, Billericay

• International trade: RSS International Ltd, Stanford-le-Hope

• International trade: Skysmart MRO Ltd, Great Dunmow

• International trade: Atlantic Pacific Global Logistics Ltd, Basildon

• International trade: Airline Component Services Ltd, Braintree

• International trade: Kestrel Liner Agencies Ltd, Stansted

• International trade: Direct Meats (Knights Farm) Ltd, Colchester

• International trade: Titan Airways Ltd, Stansted

• Promoting opportunity through social mobility: Ipeco Holdings Ltd, Southend-on-Sea

• Sustainable development: Climbing Trees Online Marketing Limited, Colchester Apply for King’s Awards for Enterprise 2025 Applications for this year’s awards are now open. Essex County Council encourage all local businesses to apply. You can see if you’re eligible out and start your application via www.gov.uk

ECL partnership with fire service ensures safety of the sensory impaired

ECL, an Essex-based sensory support service has developed a formidable partnership with

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service to ensure its services are accessible to everyone with sight and/or hearing loss.

ECL’s Sensory Service, which supports people with sensory impairments to live independently, leads the Sensory Action Alliance, a network of organisations across Essex that work together to improve the lives of people with sensory loss.

A key member of the Sensory Action Alliance since 2020, Essex County Fire and Rescue Service is sharing how its partnership with ECL has benefitted the organisation and the community it serves with the release of a film to encourage others to join – this can be viewed via www.youtube.com/ watch?v=adVIFpIKHiI

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service plays a key role in helping to ensure that individuals supported by ECL’s Sensory service are safe in their homes by providing safety checks and specialist alert equipment.

For more information about the Sensory Action Alliance and how to join, visit www.ecl.org

For more information about Essex County Fire and Rescue Service visit www.essex-fire.gov.uk

Class of 2024: Congratulations to our new police dogs

Essex Police welcomed three newly qualified police dogs into the Essex Police family at the start of May after PD Cooper, PD Quando and PD Obi became our Dog Unit’s newest licensed dogs.

Family and friends joined the German Shepherd trio and their handlers at a special

PC Ben Norfolk with PD Cooper, PC Nick Hayter with PD Quando and PC Liss Johnston with PD Obi

Wickford Town

ceremony on Wednesday 1st May, where the dogs took part in a passing out parade and treated everyone to a display of their new policing skills.

For more on the story and to see the dogs’ special ceremony head to www.youtube. com/watch?v=-xmDsO2AsMg

Empowering Parents and Carers: New Resources for Navigating Conversations on Sexual Health

Essex Sexual Health Service, delivered by Provide Community and commissioned by Essex County Council, proudly announces a new, dedicated section on its website for parents and carers, designed to empower them with the resources and knowledge necessary to engage in meaningful and supportive conversations about sexual health with young people. The “Parents and Carers” section offers a comprehensive guide to understanding and discussing various aspects of sexual health, relationships, inclusivity and well-being. It provides vital information and practical tips on how to approach sensitive subjects, including gender identity, sexuality, and sexual health education (RSHE), ensuring that conversations are respectful, informed, and age-appropriate.

items such as a toothbrush, deodorant or shaving foam. This has come from Mid and South Essex Hospitals Charity.

Kelly Moore, Deputy Director of Nursing, said: “The toiletry cabinet is a simple concept but one which is very much needed by many patients daily. Having these essential items such as shaving foam, sanitary items and washing items available allows our patients to feel clean, dignified and helps with their overall health and wellbeing.” The scheme is already having a hugely positive impact on patients and is hoped that it will soon be expanded to Basildon and Broomfield hospital sites.

Essex welcomes new High Sheriff

Taking on a role that is steeped in history and making it relevant and a force for good in modern times is a challenge being met with enthusiasm and determination by David Hurst.

He is joining the ranks of men and a few women who, over the past 982 years, have been appointed as High Sheriff of Essex. Armed with an impressive amount of experience in the business and voluntary sectors, David is aiming to make the most of his year of office and will travel the county, helping to highlight its attributes and its needs.

For further information and to access the resources, visit www.essexsexualhealthservice.org.uk/ parents-and-carers

Toiletry shelf pilot scheme to help patients

A new initiative to help improve the lives of patients who have unplanned stays in hospital is being piloted at Southend Hospital.

Unexpected stays can leave patients without access to essential toiletry items and often have a negative impact on how they feel. Helping change that, a large lockable cupboard has been funded, filled with essentials for any patient in need of toiletry

David has been involved in his own community as a volunteer for decades and has been chairman and trustee with several charities. He is currently president of Southend Round Table 106 and his charitable fundraising efforts over the years led to him becoming chairman of the Southend Community Fund, which is managed by the independent charitable trust, Essex Community Foundation (ECF).

As High Sheriff of Essex, David, who was born and bred in the county, will be raising money for the High Sheriffs’ Fund, also run by ECF, with the aim of promoting crime prevention and community safety in Essex.

Get started with home composting in Essex

Composting is a natural process that turns your food and garden waste into soil improver for your garden.

By composting at home, you can reduce the amount of waste needed to be processed elsewhere. In Essex, food and garden waste makes up 25% of the general waste we throw away.

To help Essex residents get started with home composting, you can purchase a subsidised compost bin for your garden. You can also try the Love Essex free online course – find out all about the benefits of composting at home and how to get started.

Great reasons to compost at home

After purchasing a compost bin, there is no other expense. In fact, over time, composting will save you money. Compost your food waste such as fruit and vegetable peelings, with your garden waste. You will create a free soil improver that you can use on your garden. This will also reduce your carbon emissions, as there is no need to transport and process this waste.

It doesn’t even take long to see the results. Your soil improver should be ready in just 9 to 12 months.

By composting at home, you will be creating a great environment for insects such as worms and beetles. They will work hard digesting your food and garden waste into valuable soil improver. By encouraging insects, you may also encourage other wildlife such as garden birds, hedgehogs and maybe even slow-worms.

Not only is home composting a great activity for your garden, but a great excuse to spend more time outside. It’s fun for the whole family and the perfect introduction for children to learn about nature and wildlife.

Try composting at home

To help Essex residents get started with home composting, Love Essex offer subsidised compost bins.

o purchase a subsidised compost bin:

• You must live in statutory Essex (which doesn’t include Southend and Thurrock)

• Have the compost bin delivered to your Essex address

• Choose between either a 220l or 330l sized compost bin

• You can purchase two of the same size compost bins and get a further 50% off the price of the second bin

The compost bins are made from recycled plastic and require no set-up. All you need to do is head to www.getcomposting.com, enter your Essex postcode and your discount will be automatically applied.

However, if a compost bin is not for you, you can always build your own compost heap from materials that you have lying around.

Free online composting training

If you’re new to composting, or want to discover more successful techniques, you might like the free online course. Provided by Garden Organic via gardenorganic.mylearningapp.com/enrol/ index.php?id=39

(Please use the Guest Access with the password: LoveEssexCompost) you can find out all about the benefits of composting at home and how to get started.

The course has five modules that you can select, from basics to in depth knowledge, including videos and quizzes. Each section lasts 10 to 20 minutes. You can just stick with the basics or go through everything if you wish - all at your own pace. You can come back to the course at any time, so it doesn’t have to be completed at once.

Calm Harm

Helping you break the cycle of self-harm behaviour.

Calm Harm is an award-winning free app funded by teenage mental health charity stem4 that helps you manage or resist the urge to self-harm.

The app helps you learn to ride the wave by choosing from the following activities; Comfort, Distract, Express Yourself, Release and Random.

Helping you stay in the moment and be mindful, there is also a breathing exercise on the app to help regulate different emotions and reduce tension.

Zoe Peters is the Senior Communications Coordinator for stem4 and we spoke to Zoe to find out more about this amazing app…

For readers who may not know, can you explain what the Calm Harm app is?

Calm Harm is an award-winning app developed for teenage mental health charity stem4 by Clinical Psychologist Dr. Nihara Krause, in collaboration with young people, to help manage the urge to self-harm. It uses principles from an evidence-based psychological treatment called Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT).

Where did the idea come from to create this app?

A combination of clinical need and young people the charity worked with requests.

How does your app help people and what has the feedback been like from those who have benefitted from using it?

The Calm Harm app provides some immediate activities and techniques to help break the cycle of self-harm behaviour and explore underlying trigger factors; the app supports in building a ‘safety net’ of helpful thoughts, behaviours, and access to supportive people, as well as providing the opportunity to journal and self-reflect. The Calm Harm app also signposts to help.

Feedback:

“This app helps me so much. I can’t thank you enough for improving my life.”

“Honestly I would rate this 5 stars. This app really calmed me down when I want to do self-harm. Whenever I’m feeling down or want to do self-harm, I use this app to comfort me. This app has comforted me for a very long time & I love it. I’m grateful I have found this app.”

“I wanna hug the creator of this app this app makes me really, really comfortable and it helped me very much i wanted thank the creator very much”

The app is private, anonymous, and safe.

You recently just hit 4 million downloads, how rewarding a feeling is it knowing you are helping so many people through your app?

As a small charity with a mission to support the mental health of young people so they can lead healthy and happy lives, we are honoured to be contributing to supporting people across the world in such a positive way. It has also supported us to develop four other apps that support young people’s mental health, once again, using safe, evidence-based psychological treatment models for a variety of other commonly occurring conditions such as anxiety, low mood, body image and eating related difficulties and for those supporting young people.

Do you have any future visions of further plans you would like to do with the app? Continue to listen to the feedback from our many users and adapt accordingly. We would like to extend use of the app to many NHS and educational settings.

www.calmharm.co.uk

Wickford in Bloom

There is lots going on at Wickford in Bloom HQ (for those that don’t know that is a space near the water tap, beside the toilet block, in Market Lane in the High Street!).

Last month we mentioned we would be planting 4 new trees in April. We had a very good turnout of volunteers to help with this on the day and the planters, trees and compost were moved to the High Street ready for planting. We had already obtained permission from Essex County Council to put planters at the top of London Road and in Runwell Road by the parade of shops and the trees were soon in their new home with stakes to keep them secure and cages to protect from and damage to the trunks.

Everything was looking good until the next day when very high winds struck, blowing on and off all day. We soon received reports of our poor trees being blown over so as soon as the wind dropped a little a rescue mission was launched to stand them up and secure them. Fortunately, the trees don’t seem to have suffered any harm and are looking good with weekly watering.

One of the trees is outside Cowling & Payne and the staff have kindly offered to water this tree regularly. Cowling & Payne have also very generously given us £50 to pay for the summer plants that will go in their planter. We have donated a Wickford in Bloom watering can to them and we are sure with regular water and TLC the flowers will thrive and bring a splash of colour to that little bit of Wickford.

The committee held the AGM at the beginning of May and were very pleased to welcomed two new members to our very small committee making 6 altogether. One of our committee is a member of The Wickford Railway Club and we are most grateful to them for allowing us in as guests to have a drink and discuss our plans and activities each month.

We are pleased to say that we have received the grant of £2000 from Wickford Town Council but not, at the time of writing, the Basildon Council money.

Unfortunately this has delayed some of our plans for buying new planters and extra

baskets but so far 36 sponsored hanging baskets are on order with Window Flowers and they should go up at the end of May.

Two barrier planters have been moved to the railings near Aldi ready to be filled with compost and plants. We have learnt from experience that not all railings will hold barrier planters as some of the railings in Wickford are distinctly wobbly and last year at least 2 tipped all the flowers and plants into the road.

Sadly not everyone seems to appreciate all the hard work as we have noticed some petty vandalism with plants being pulled up, broken and left to die mainly around the centre of town. The community police are aware of this.

For any further information please email Wickfordinbloom@virginmedia.com find us on Facebook at @WickfordinBloom or if you see us out and about in our green hi-vis jackets come and talk to us.

Donations are always welcome and can be made at www.paypal.me/WickfordinBloom or www.gofundme.com

One of our poor trees falling victim to the wind

Join us at Rotary Live!

Wickford Rotary are collaborating with RHS in presenting Hyde Hall Live, a three night extravaganza of live music of live music in the fantastic gardens of RHS Hyde Hall. Hyde Hall Live is back at RHS Garden Hyde Hall for another spectacular programme of summer evening performances. Bring your own seating and enjoy an evening full of spectacular live music set against the beautiful backdrop of the Winter Garden.

Thursday 20th will see you stuck on the dance floor as the Juke Box Jets bop, rock and twist the night away. Hear the sounds of iconic rock and roll artists such as Chuck Berry, Eddie Cochran, Elvis, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Johnny Cash, with a vintage twist on many modern classic songs.

Saturday 22nd join us for an evening of 90’s to present day anthems with Exposé. Generally regarded as the Number One covers band in Essex, Exposé have been entertaining sell-out crowds for over forty years with their versions of 90s classics right up to present-day anthems. A superb night of singing and dancing is guaranteed.

Friday 21st will see Wild Boys, the Ultimate Live 80’s Tribute Band, covering all the great artists from the best decade in music! From the humble roots of Norfolk, the boys have performed all over the world alongside iconic acts from the 1980’s including Michael Bolton, The Jackson’s, Human League, OMD, Marc Almond, ABC and many more.

Go to bit.ly/hydehalllive for tickets and more information!

In other news, Wickford was pleased to welcome the fundraising team from the Spotlight Radiotherapy appeal at Southend Hospital recently, who came and talked about the work that is planned for the introduction of ultra-precise, state-of-the art radiotherapy positioning devices which provide set-up and motion management during radiotherapy. It is hoped that by 2025, all patients receiving radiotherapy across mid and south Essex will have access to safer, less invasive, and more precise treatment.

The Spotlight Radiotherapy Appeal aims to raise £600,000 to fund this equipment for the benefit of people undergoing treatment in Mid and South Essex, and Wickford Rotary’s aim was to try to raise 1% of the total needed to provide this life changing therapy from the proceeds of our Sleigh runs at Christmas. So we were extremely please to be able to exceed our expectations and donate £7070 towards this venture.

Last month we were also able to visit the new park bench which the Club sponsored and which has just been installed in the new Beauchamps Meadow in Wickford’s Memorial Park. Working in conjunction with the Friends of Wickford Memorial Park this was the first bench to be installed in the Meadow, and as a result of Facebook publicity the Friends have received a number of requests from members of the public and other agencies to sponsor the installation of more benches in this haven of peace. Kim Oakes from the Friends took us to see the various projects which are ongoing at the moment, including the orchard of classic species of fruit trees, the reflection garden being planted up at the moment, and many more.

Friends of the Wickford Memorial Park Volunteer Group -

Our Achievements

Continuing articles on the Wickford Memorial Park - this month we are highlighting our achievements over the last year from 1st April 2023 – 31st March 2024. These will be in our AGM Report for 2024.

We held our 1st Quiz Night - July 2023 and raised over £1200.

The Friends volunteers held a Grand Opening of the Reflection Garden in October 2023, after four years of planning (bonus of the hundreds of poppies)

We organised Two Walking Tours which were well attended, and very successful. Bat Walk - Evening Event which 52 people

attended. Extremely popular - another one planned for June 2024

The team participated in the Community Showcase Day in August 2023 - community stall with Tombola. Organised by the Wickford Town Council.

Volunteers from the Friends Group helped with the Summer Events in the Park- working with Wickford Town Council

Four of the volunteers gave three presentations: St Andrews Unveiled Event, The Rotary Club and Wickford Fellowship group at Christchurch. The theme was ‘A Walk in the Park’ visual tour of the Memorial Park, and these were very well received. A new information leaflet on the Park was produced and had a new Noticeboard installed alongside Huttons café.

Remembrance Poppies Display - knitted and plastic poppies produced for a fantastic display in November 2023.

Removal of the tree guards on Beauchamps Meadow - a mammoth task removing 3500 guards from previously planted whip trees. These were all recycled, and the tree stakes were given a good home with local allotments.

The volunteers maintained: The Wildflower Area, Beauchamps Meadow, Reflection Garden, Home Front Garden, Mount Road Entrance and the War Memorial - which was completely replanted.

We joined the RHS Affiliated Membership scheme and visited RHS Hyde Hall - July 2023.

All the committee attended a Celebration Event for all local Friends Groups in September 2023 - organised by Basildon Council.

We took part in First Aid Training for volunteers, with the Defibrillator and CPR.

Painting the Crazy Golf with Turck Banner Ltd providing help as part of their Community Day

Entered the Christmas Tree Festival at Christchurch, Wickford.

New Park signage - although this was Basildon Council’s project, the Friends were involved with input on the new signs.

Thousands of Bulbs were planted around the park: Crocus, Snowdrops, Daffodils, Tulips.

A Christmas Thank You Event for the Volunteers was held in Huttons Café. The volunteer hours April 2023 – March 2024 were 1694 hours.

Please look out for future events on Facebook using the Events Tab

We run our gardening groups every Wednesday and Saturday mornings, if you’d like to come along, no gardening experience necessary and there are tasks for all abilities. We have over a thousand members on our Facebook page - please pop down for a chat or help you would be most welcome

Please visit our website: www.friendsofwickfordmemorialpark.co.uk

Or Facebook: Friends of the Wickford Memorial Park

What’s On

80th D-Day Anniversary Cinema

Saturday 8th June, 11:30am at South Hanningfield Village Hall

The Hall, CM3 8HL will be hosting a film morning where they will be showing The Great Escaper which is based on a true story about a war veteran who escaped from his care home to attend the 70th anniversary of the D-Day landings at Normandy starring Michael Caine and Glenda Jackson. Suggested donations of £3 per person are welcome. Event contact is Clive who can be contacted on 07891 653238 or vallisc@aol.com

Infant and Toddler First Aid Workshop

Tuesday 11th June, 7pm-9:30pm at St Catherine’s Hall, Southend Road, Wickford, SS11 8DZ

This course focuses on expectant parents, and parents of young babies up to pre-school age. The intention is not to provide attendees with a certificate, but to prepare you for real life scenarios which could occur at any time. The course will be delivered by fully qualified trainers and costs £20 per person.

To book your ticket, please visit essex.parents1st.org.uk

A King’s Birthday Afternoon Tea Party

Saturday 15th June, 2pm at South Hanningfield Village Hall

A birthday party will be held at the Hall on Saturday, 15th June from 2pm. Tickets are £20 per person and a donation will be made to a local cancer charity. There will be a variety of sandwiches, cakes, scones and tea with wonderful company for a great cause. Dietary requirements catered for. To book, call Emma on 07961 963914

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.

Just £5 for four sessions.

To book, head to essex.parents1st.org.uk

Wickford Town

Upcoming

Events With Unveiled

A regular Friday night arts and performance event, 7:00pm – 9:00pm at St Andrew’s Church, 11 London Road, Wickford, Essex SS12 0AN

Unveiled Poetry Evening

Friday 31st May, 7pm

Poets including Jonathan Evens and Tim Harrold will share a selection of poetry and prose from their own collections and those of their favourite poets. Tim Harrold is a poet who creates images of profound challenge and change, of pause and process, of chrysalis and catalyst. His most recent publication is ‘Verses versus Viruses’. Jonathan Evens is a creative writer whose poems and stories have been published by Amethyst Review, International Times and Stride Magazine.

being a founder of Plankton Records and becoming an Anglican Vicar.

Infusion Physical Theatre with Dance 21 perform Soothe

Friday 28th June

Infusion Physical Theatre with Dance 21 perform a curtain raiser to ‘Soothe’, a thoughtful and rambunctious exploration of the three modes of emotional regulation: threat, drive, soothe. This is off-balance, emotive dance theatre embodying the hormones that push, pull and drag us through life.

Depeche Mode: Songs of Faith & Devotion

Friday 12th July, 7:00pm

Jonathan Evens talks about Christian influences in the music of Basildon band, Depeche Mode.

Brand New Day: Runwell Art Club exhibition

Running till Friday 26th July

‘Brand New Day’ is an exhibition by members of Runwell Art Club.

Simon Law in concert

Friday 14th June, 7pm

Simon has fronted the rock bands Fresh Claim, Sea Stone and Intransit, as well as

These events do not require tickets (just turn up on the night). There will be a retiring collection to cover artist and church costs.

Our churches are places to enjoy

cultural programmes including concerts and exhibitions as well as being places to see art and architecture.

St Andrew’s is usually open: Sat 9am12:30pm; Sun 9:30am-12 noon; Mon 2pm3:45pm; Tue 1pm-4:30pm; Wed 10am-12 noon; Fri 10am-1pm.

For more information see www.wickfordandrunwellparish.org.uk/ whats-on.html

News from Wickford Town Council

What to do in the garden in June

The longest day of the year falls on June 20th, bringing warmer temperatures and extra sunlight.

Flowers are blossoming, there’s lots to harvest in the vegetable garden, and keeping on top of bolting plants is a priority — particularly weeds!

H ere’s just some of the jobs to take care of in your garden this June:

Timely Tips

• Check plants daily and water them if the soil is dry — especially newly planted fruit trees and shrubs that are still getting established. To help you save money, time & water, it’s well worth setting up an automated drip irrigation system.

• Harden off any remaining half-hardy bedding plants ready for planting out.

• Use blinds or apply shade paint to prevent your greenhouse from overheating. Remember to open vents and doors on warm days.

• Keep on top of weeding. Your plants shouldn’t have to compete for precious water, light, and nutrients.

In the flower garden

• Harden off and move hanging baskets and containers growing on in the greenhouse into their final position. If your hanging basket plants become leggy, trim off the excess to encourage bushy new growth.

• Lift and divide clumps of snowdrops and bluebells once the leaves start to yellow.

• Lift and divide overcrowded clumps of flower bulbs and tubers.

• Wait for bulb foliage to die down naturally before cutting back.

• Pinch out the tips of fuchsias to encourage a bushy habit and more flowers.

• Start to pick sweet peas as soon as they flower to encourage more blooms.

• Dead-head your roses if they’re repeatflowering types. Otherwise, leave the seed heads on for decoration.

• Dead-head and cut back oriental poppies after flowering. Cutting them close to ground level will stimulate new foliage.

• Stake tall perennial plants to prevent wind damage.

• As new shoots grow, use soft ties to train climbing plants such as honeysuckle and clematis to their supports.

• Prune out overcrowded or dead stems of evergreen clematis once they have finished flowering, to maintain a good shape.

• Towards the end of June, if your hardy geraniums have finished flowering, cut them back to encourage new foliage and flowers. For more information and guidance about growing geraniums on our hub page.

• Harvest flower heads from your lavender plants to use in baking, crafting, or as a garnish to your meals.

In the vegetable garden

• Continue to earth up potato plants as they grow.

• Keep the compost of newly planted container potatoes moist, but take care not to overwater, as this compacts the soil, squeezing out the oxygen, and prevents the developing tubers from swelling.

• Pinch out any side shoots from your tomato plants. You can pot these up to create new tomato plants. Start to feed once the first truss is setting fruit.

• Keep an eye on your onion and garlic. When the leaves start to yellow and die back, they’re ready to harvest.

• If you haven’t already, harden off and plant tender vegetables such as courgettes, squash, tomatoes and sweet corn.

• Protect crops from carrot fly by covering with horticultural fleece.

In the fruit garden

• Start to prune your plum or cherry trees now.

• Although fruit trees will naturally shed some fruit (called the ‘June drop’), aim to thin out congested branches further for bigger and better fruits.

• Protect any developing fruits from birds and squirrels by placing netting around your plants.

• If you have plants fruiting in containers, remember to give them a high potash liquid feed to keep them healthy and productive.

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

• Peg down runners on your strawberry plants to create more plants for next year. If you don’t need more plants simply remove the strawberry runners completely.

• Always water potted blueberry plants with rainwater, as the lime contained in tap water reduces the acidity of the soil over time.

• Harvest salad crops, and resow every 2 weeks for a constant supply of tasty leaves.

• When planting out cabbages, use brassica collars to prevent cabbage root fly attack.

• Harvest first early potatoes — these are normally ready about 10 weeks after planting.

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

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Fired-Up Flavours for June

With summer beckoning, it’s time to fire up the barbecue and indulge in the smoky, succulent delights of outdoor cooking.

In this edition of Wickford Town News, we bring you four fired-up recipes perfect for your June barbecue gatherings. From juicy meats to vibrant tacos, these recipes are sure to make your summer celebrations sizzle. Let’s get grilling!

BBQ Marinated Chicken Skewers

Ingredients

500g chicken breast, cubed

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon honey

1 tablespoon tomato ketchup

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon dried mixed herbs

Salt and pepper, to taste

Wooden skewers, soaked in water

Method

1. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, soy sauce, honey, tomato ketchup, smoked paprika, dried mixed herbs, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.

2. Add the cubed chicken breast to the marinade, ensuring it is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

3. Preheat the barbecue grill to medium-high heat.

4. Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked wooden skewers.

5. Grill the chicken skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and charred on the edges.

6. Serve the BBQ marinated chicken skewers hot, accompanied by your favourite barbecue sauces and dips.

Grilled Halloumi and Vegetable Salad

Ingredients

200g halloumi cheese, sliced

1 red pepper, sliced

1 yellow pepper, sliced

1 courgette, sliced

1 red onion, sliced

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Salt and pepper, to taste

Mixed salad leaves

Cherry tomatoes, halved

Fresh basil leaves, torn

Method

1. Preheat the barbecue grill to medium heat.

2. In a bowl, toss sliced peppers, courgette, and red onion with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.

3. Grill the marinated vegetables on the barbecue for 8-10 minutes, or until tender and slightly charred.

4. Grill the halloumi slices for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown grill marks appear.

5. Arrange mixed salad leaves, cherry tomatoes, grilled vegetables, and halloumi on a serving platter.

6. Drizzle with any remaining marinade from the vegetables.

7. Garnish the grilled halloumi and vegetable salad with torn fresh basil leaves.

8. Serve the salad warm or at room temperature as a delicious barbecue accompaniment.

Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Tacos

Ingredients

2 cans young green jackfruit in water or brine

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon ground coriander

½ teaspoon chili powder

400g tin chopped tomatoes

2 tablespoons tomato puree

2 tablespoons maple syrup

Salt and pepper, to taste

Taco shells or tortillas

Guacamole, salsa, and vegan sour cream, to serve

Method

1. Drain and rinse the canned jackfruit. Use your hands to shred the jackfruit into small pieces.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until softened.

3. Stir in shredded jackfruit, smoked paprika, ground cumin, ground coriander, and chili powder. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Add chopped tomatoes, tomato puree, and maple syrup to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Simmer the jackfruit mixture for 15-20 minutes, until the sauce thickens and the jackfruit is tender.

6. Warm taco shells or tortillas according to package instructions.

7. Spoon the BBQ jackfruit mixture into taco shells or tortillas.

8. Serve the vegan BBQ jackfruit tacos hot, topped with guacamole, salsa, and vegan sour cream.

Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar

Ingredients

1 pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced into rings

2 tablespoons brown sugar

Method

1. Preheat the barbecue grill to mediumhigh heat.

2. n a bowl, mix together brown sugar and ground cinnamon.

3. Sprinkle both sides of the pineapple rings with the cinnamon sugar mixture.

4. Grill the pineapple rings on the barbecue for 2-3 minutes on each side, until caramelized grill marks appear.

5. Serve the grilled pineapple hot, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or coconut yogurt for a sweet and refreshing barbecue dessert.

Lipley Builders specialize in all types of domestic building works to create the home you desire such as extensions, bathrooms, kitchens, loft conversions, roofing, new builds and plastering as well as covering the smaller jobs that some do not enjoy doing themselves, such as painting and decorating.

Please do not hesitate to contact us here at Lipley Builders should you require some advice, a quote or further information on works we undertake.

Jeorgie: 07939639161 or Paul: 07768052029 www.lipleybuilders.co.uk

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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 contact via Town Council

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

Mark Francois 01268 742044