North Weald Village Life August 2021 issue

North Weald Village Life Strengthening the Community

This Issue Celebrates

FREE North Weald Bassett Community Magazine Issue: 180 AUGUST 2021 Page

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Hot House So guess who decided to declutter and do some improvements during the hottest weather in July? You guessed it – me. The first room was the conservatory too. Then the bathroom, and the hall, the lounge needed rearranging, the kitchen a declutter and the front of the house needs doing, two weeks will be long enough won’t it? Well guess what that’s all I have allowed and I am writing as we are in the second week. Two skips later, achy backs and bruises everywhere and utter exhaustion we are still going.

How much rubbish do we collect over the years? Is it just me that seems to be a hoarder. To begin with it was quite difficult to start to throw away things but once you start and as you get tired it seemed to get easier. Neighbours and nursery schools benefitted from some of the craft items I didn’t need any more. It will be great once it is all done.

The High Road is also undergoing a transformation, well at least it is planned too. The A414 between North Weald and the Junction to Hastingwood desperately needs some resurfacing, every time the pot holes get me.

I can’t believe August is here, this month I always think of holidays, cocktails, sea and beaches, sunbathing but I don’t think there is much chance of any of this.

I know masks are not compulsory but I find it strange now not to wear one when I go in a shop although I do feel relieved when it is hot and I can it off. It is a difficult decision and everybody will have their own opinion but with cases still very high sometimes I believe it is better to be safe.

It was great to see the magazine in Tescos, Epping store, last month and it will be available this month too. It was placed just under the community sign board (opposite the self serve tills and on the way out).

I can’t believe this is my 180th issue, celebrating 15 years since I launched. THANK YOU everybody for supporting, reading, contributing and advertising.

Please enjoy this month, I hope the weather is good and everybody can enjoy some fresh air.

Contents June Issue Page No.

4. Brain Teaser 5. Temporary Housing 7. Events 8. Planning applications 12. Patients to continue wearing face covering 13. Chairman’s report—Village Hall 15. Advice for parents of children starting reception 20. Gangs during summer 22. Congratulations North Weald Village Life 24. Thornwood Open Day 25. EOR Update 28 & 29 Photos of the month 33. The Tip we live in 35. Continue testing over summer holidays 36. Bobbin with the Robin 37. Citizen Advice

Editor June Peachey june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk 07814 863955 Write to: 49 York Road, North Weald, Epping, Essex CM16 6HU www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk Subscription: If you would like to guarantee your personal copy or perhaps you have relatives or friends who would like to receive their own copy, you can subscribe for £25.00 for 12 issues.

Contributions & Editorial: If you would like to contribute editorial, poems, recipes, letters or anything else, we would be delighted to receive these. Please send them to us via letter or email.

Advertisers: Please email or telephone us for full advertising rates and sizes. Booking

Disclaimer: Whilst every care has been taken to ensure any data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor it’s editorial contributors can accept and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party, or loss or damage caused by errors or resulting from negligence, accident or any other concerns. North Weald Village Life does not officially endorse any advertisement material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reported, stored in retrieval systems or transmitted in any form electronically. Mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the permission of the publisher.

JUNE Editor

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Cover photo: Chosen as I would love to celebrate my 15th anniversary with one of these.

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AUGUST BRAIN TEASER —Win a bottle of wine • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Community Village Friends Local Chat Meeting Walk Time Neighbours Laugh Event Picnic Help Support Shops Pets Families

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Thank you to J. Smith who won last month’s brain teaser.

Just search and find the words, ring them and then send your completed wordsearch to me by 20th August. Please send it to:August Brain Teaser, NWVL, 49 York Road, North Weald, CM16 6HU. This month’s prize is a bottle of wine.

Don’t forget to include your name, telephone no and address.

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Temporary housing for homeless people The provision of temporary housing for homeless people is reported to be one of the most important services provided by Epping Forest District Council.

There are many reasons why someone may become homeless and the deficiencies of temporary Bed and Breakfast accommodation are well-known.

For this reason, Epping Forest District Council have provided dedicated hostel accommodation with on-site support staff and communal facilities to help people back on to their feet and into permanent housing and they currently have no one in B&B. Everyone is provided for within dedicated schemes.

Around 80% of their dedicated temporary accommodation is currently based on one site. While it provides a very good service, the locations are relatively remote. Access to good local services such as schools, healthcare, public transport and employment often play key roles in helping people back into permanent housing. Easy access to the support of close family and friends can also play a vital role.

They want to make improvements and are therefore starting a new process of considering how to best meet the housing needs of residents who find themselves homeless in the future.

Parish council complains about state of grass cutting around the parish The "atrocious" state of grass cutting on public areas in and around North Weald Parish is to be taken up by the parish council.

North Weald Bassett Parish Council is to raise the issue with Epping Forest District Council cabinet members councillors Nigel Avey and Sam Kane after councillors highlighted the standard of grass cutting in the area.

Parish council chairman councillor Alan Buckley, speaking at Monday's environmental committee, described the quality of grass cutting as "atrocious" adding: "It's appalling."

Numerous locations were identified with councillor Baden Clegg highlighting the junction of Upland Road with the B1393 where he said drivers' views were restricted by the overgrown verges.

Councillor Shirley Hawkins said: "They don't pick any grass up. It's just left laying there."

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You can also support this event by advertising in the match day programme to email nightingaletransport@outlook.com for details Page 6

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If you run a community event or charity event, don’t forget to let me know so I can share the details with readers—just email me June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

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Planning Applications Application No: EPF/1782/21 Officer: Brendan Meade Applicant Name: Mr Lee Cresswell Planning File No: 031250 Location: 15 Woodfield Terrace, High Road, Thornwood, Epping CM16 6LL Proposal: Proposed single storey rear extension.

Application No: EPF/1805/21 Officer: Muhammad Rahman Applicant Name: Mr Paolo Bolognini Planning File No: 016553 / 002014 Location: Chase Farm, Vicarage Lane, North Weald Bassett Epping CM16 6AL Proposal: Change of use for a temporary time period of 1 year for the storage of taxis.

Any representations on the above applications should be made in writing, by Monday, 16 August, 2021 Application No: EPF/1732/21 Officer: Caroline Brown Applicant Name: Mr & Mrs Chris & Kay Smith Planning File No: 015909 Location: 9 Bluemans End. North Weald Bassett, Epping CM16 6HD Proposal: Demolition of existing outbuilding, single storey rear infill extension to either side of double storey rear extension.

Application No: EPF/1743/21 Officer: Zara Seelig Applicant Name: Mrs Stacey Flegg Planning File No: 024560 Location: 41 Tempest Mead. North Weald Bassett, Epping CM16 6DY Proposal: Proposed loft extension.

Application No: EPF/1751/21 Officer: Alastair Prince Applicant Name: Mr Roy Rodrigues Planning File No: 004456 Location: 55 Weald Hall Lane, North Weald Bassett, Epping, CM16 6NB Proposal: New garage/gym/office.

Any representations on the above applications should be made in writing, by Monday, 9 August, 2021

Epping Forest District Council www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk Comment online at www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/iPlan or by post to: The Director of Planning and Economic Development, Epping Forest District Council, Civic Offices, 323 High Street, Epping, Essex CM16 4BZ Any enquiries should be made to the Application Processing Team

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Parish council's face-to-face administrative centre resumes Following the announcement by the Prime Minister on 12th July, North Weald Bassett Parish Council is pleased to welcome residents once again at its face-to-face administrative centre at Thornwood Common Parish Hall, Weald Hall Lane, Thornwood.

Parish council services are now offered on a Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 9,30am and 12.30pm from tomorrow.

Any change to these times will be advertised as the council will be operating according to Government guidance.

The council is offering a ‘drop-in service’ for residents who can make appointments during these opening times if they prefer.

Anyone with any queries or anyone who needs to enquire about any council cervices can ring the clerk on 07572 507591.

All parish council staff continue to work from home when not in the office.

The parish council hopes to be offering district council recycling bags, photocopying and cemetery services amongst others.

Parking is available.

Social distancing will be in place.

Reducing the Carbon Footprint EFDC is a signatory to the Emergency Climate Change Declaration. They support the drive to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution and our impact on the local environment.

So, reducing our emissions is one reason why they are taking our staff off the roads. Nearly all our office-based staff are now able to use other ways of working. They don’t need large office space anymore. Homeworking means less of them are driving our cars, congesting our roads and polluting the environment. The need for fewer parking spaces, and the smaller offices require less lighting, heating and water. The refurbishment also means more low energy LED lighting, and better insulation. The computers and screens are more energy efficient, drawing less electricity. They have started to replace old petrol and diesel vehicles with low emission electric vehicles.

These new ways of working will reduce your carbon footprint too. Their digital and remote working also means you can take fewer car journeys to see them, saving you the time and expense of driving to Epping.

Their aim is to become Carbon Neutral by 2030.

New ways of working, renting out spare space and reducing our impact on the environment produces real cost savings.

Epping Forest District Council has only increased its share of the Council Tax once in the last 10 years, and we continue to invest in frontline services.

As they emerge from the Coronavirus Pandemic, the efficiencies and savings we have achieved can be pushed into the recovery of our community and our local economy.

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Please don’t forget to tell Mention to advertisers that you saw their advert in North Weald Village Life

Free school meals and support for families to continue over summer This summer Essex County Council is continuing the holiday free school meal vouchers scheme it has run successfully since Christmas 2020.

A final £3.6m Covid Local Support Grant from central government is being used to provide free school meals over the summer holidays and extra support for families hit by the pandemic.

Essex County Council (ECC) has allocated £2.6m to continue the holiday free school meal vouchers scheme it has run successfully since Christmas 2020. Vouchers will be sent direct to parents of eligible children and young people by their school, college or early years setting before the holidays start. They are worth £15 a week per child for four weeks and can be used to buy food in most supermarkets.

The rest of the grant will continue support for families who need extra help until the end of September as follows: • £200,000 to the Essential Living Fund, which provides emergency grants for food, heating, energy and water bills and essential household goods. £300,000 for targeted family support and childcare delivered through locally trusted organisations • £160,283 to expand Essex ActivAte, the successful holiday food and activities programme run by Active Essex in partnership with ECC. This offers free face-to-face clubs for children and young people who are eligible for benefits-based free school meals. The clubs give children and young people the chance to socialise, join in fun and creative activities and enjoy nutritious food.

• £185,000 to support homeless people and rough sleepers who need help to get food and essential items such as toiletries.

• £150,000 for grants to local initiatives nominated by Essex County Councillors that provide food or help with household essentials to vulnerable people in the councillor’s division (2).

Cllr Louise McKinlay, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Community, Equality, Partnerships and Performance, said: “The future is looking brighter but the pandemic isn’t over, so we are grateful to the government for this Covid support grant and to the many local groups who are helping us use it to continue to provide vital support to those who need it most.

“Through holiday free school meals, the children’s food and activity clubs, help for homeless people, emergency grants and targeted support, we want to ensure children and young people can enjoy nutritious food and fun activities, alongside helping families feeling the financial strain to pay their bills and look forward with hope.”

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Patients still required to wear face coverings in GP practices & other healthcare settings Patients in Hertfordshire and west Essex will still be required to wear face coverings in GP practices and other healthcare settings when COVID-19 restrictions ease on Monday.

The guidance from the NHS for healthcare settings has not changed, and patients who are not exempt from wearing a face covering should continue to wear one, follow social distancing and hand hygiene guidance. If patients are exempt from wearing a mask, a face shield may be offered as an alternative.

COVID-19 infection rates are rising in all areas of the country which means its vitally important we continue to do all we can against the virus. Wearing a face covering is an effective way of reducing transmission. It’s also really important that anyone who is eligible for a vaccine and hasn’t yet come forward does so without delay, it’s the best defence we have against COVID-19.

Dr Jane Halpin, Joint Chief Executive Officer, Hertfordshire and West Essex Integrated Care System and Clinical Commissioning Groups said: “We need to continue to do what we can to keep people safe from catching Covid-19 in healthcare settings. One way we can all help with this is by continuing to wear a face-covering and we are asking all patients to do that, as well as staff. Keeping staff safe is essential to keep operating efficiently.

“We are also continuing to make sure we don’t have large numbers of patients in waiting areas– again this is about reducing the chance of infection when there are rising rates in the community.

“The various measures we have taken, including increased use of personal protective equipment, patients wearing face masks, holding more virtual consultations, social distancing and extra premises cleans have helped protect staff, patients and visitors over the past year. Taking these steps has also enabled us to continue providing many of the non-urgent services that would otherwise have been postponed.

“We want to make sure you can all be confident about accessing or visiting local healthcare services safely.

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Next step towards skate park refurbishment A tender document for the refurbishment of the skate park at the Stonards Hill recreation ground in Epping has been approved by town councillors.

The council is looking to work with a partner to obtain grant funding to refurbish the skate park in a project costing between £120,000 and £140,000 (excluding VAT).

Chairman’s report As with most Charities/Community Halls, it has been a difficult time since our last A G M. Our accounts show a loss of nearly £6000.00 during this period and include a substantial grant from the Government to help us through. Income suffers but many bills remain the same with only some showing a decrease.

During this time we managed to have the last stage of our electrics finally upgraded and overhauled, all our lighting is now LED. We have a subsidence problem at the rear of the hall which made the need to have 6 trees removed, cost £1500.00. The repair costs are below the excess required on our insurance policy, so another hefty bill awaits.

We were lucky that most of our regular hirers were able to restart the classes early due to the fact that children/teanagers were involved, and at the moment!! Most of our hirers are starting again. During the last 18 months you will have seen many comments made about the miss- use of our car park it is full from dawn to dusk by people who park, in many cases, all day. This is leading to us losing bookings (twice so far). The pre school have an area coned off daily to enable staff to park and for parents to drop off and collect their children safely, sady this is often ignored and the Principal of the school has, on more than one occasion, been verbally abused by ignorant parkers. Sadly we are having to look at giving authority to a parking enforcement company to control this, meaning that many people will now have to pay, or be fined, if they park illegally.

George Mulliner (Chairman), North Weald Village Hall

Service to mark 100th anniversary of war memorial A 100 Years rededication service for Epping's war memorial will be held on Saturday, August 21 at 11am.

The service, to be taken by Rev'd Lee Batson, will include the reading of the names of the fallen with wreaths laid by Deputy Lieutenant of Essex councillor Hugh Pegrum, a Freeman of Epping, the town's two Young Townspersons of the Year and Town Mayor councillor Michael Wright.

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Essex Highways surfaces 110 miles of road in 2021

EVENTS

Essex Highways’ crews have surfaced over 110 miles of road, the equivalent of a journey across Essex from border to coast and back, in the seven months of 2021 so far.

Essex Highways’ crews have surfaced over 110 miles of road, the length of a return journey from West Mersea to Harlow, in the seven months of 2021 so far.

Crews used a variety of different surfacing techniques appropriate to each road section.

Various processes were used, including:

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Fast Coverage Surface Dressing, where machines quickly cover the road with sticky “binder” tar layer and then spread stones on top

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Intensive micro-surfacing which is finished by hand

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Full resurfacing where heavy machines grind off the existing road surface and the crew then lay new asphalt.

Councillor Lee Scott, Cabinet Member for Highways Maintenance and Sustainable Transport, said: “This is good news for drivers and cyclists in Essex that despite COVID-19 restrictions and tighter budgets, we’ve still managed to keep to so much of our road surfacing programme, with positive effects for years to come.

“Our engineers carefully inspect and record the condition of all our roads, and plan surfacing with the right technique according to how worn, how busy and how fast the road is.

“For example, if we do Surface Dressing at the right time we can efficiently future-proof long stretches of rural roads for years, preventing potholes forming. If we just stuck to fixing potholes, we would have thousands more and the costs would be prohibitive.”

“In order to complete full resurfacing, we often work at night.

We understand that night works can cause delays and possible disturbance to sleeping residents.

“However, they are completely necessary to allow longer working sessions avoiding peak traffic, thereby enabling the work to be completed more quickly with minimal delays for drivers.”

For more information about the Road Surfacing programme and to view upcoming works, please visit: https:// www.essexhighways.org/roads-and-pavements/renewingsurfaces

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Advice for children starting on Reception at their local primary school Parents and carers of children due to start Reception in September are being encouraged to follow Essex County Council' s Talk, Listen, Cuddle campaign to find out how they can help their child prepare to make the transition.

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Essex County Council (ECC) are now sharing information and tips with parents and carers of children starting primary school this September, so that they can help prepare their child to make the exciting move to their new Reception class.

Activity delivered through ECC’s Talk, Listen, Cuddle (TLC) campaign will include advice and video messages shared over the coming weeks, aimed at helping young children and their families feel ready and confident as they start primary school.

Information and guidance will address the common concerns parents and carers might have about whether their child is ‘ready’ to start school and the action they can take to overcome these over the summer holidays.

TLC was originally launched to support parents and carers to give their child the best start in life. The campaign is focused on promoting early language and communication through games, play and interaction.

Throughout the school holidays, Early Years and Primary School professionals will be sharing inclusive guidance on how parents and carers can support their child’s transition to school. Top tips will explain how to create good bedtime routines and how to take advantage of everyday experiences to support their child’s learning.

Advice will also include how to play and interact with their child to help to build independence, confidence and resilience ahead of their first term at Primary School.

Cllr Beverley Egan, ECC’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Services and Early Years, said: “Starting primary school is such an exciting milestone for young children and their families. However, we also know that it can be daunting for some parents and carers who may worry about what to expect and if their child is ready for school.

“The tips and advice we will be sharing over the coming weeks will help to remind parents and carers that every child is different and will learn and progress in their own way. There is no pressure on children to be able to do certain things, like write perfectly or read in order to be ready to start school in September.

“I know that primary school colleagues will be eagerly waiting to welcome their new Reception classes and encourage anyone with a child starting school to follow the Talk, Listen, Cuddle Facebook page for lots of fun ideas and suggestions to help their child feel happy, reassured and confident come September.”

The campaign will run throughout July, August and into September.

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Police air base: "Madness" it is not at Lippitts Hill Epping Town Council is to express its disappointment to Epping Forest District Council that it was not consulted before the district council objected to the planned return of police helicopters to the Met base at High Beach.

While the district council wants to see the air service remain at North Weald Airfield, Tuesday's town council meeting heard support for the return of the air service to Lippitts Hill.

Town councillor Hugh Pegrum (and Deputy Lieutenant of Essex) said a base at Lippitts Hill would mean that helicopters flying into London would fly over less of Epping Forest than currently is the case with the NPAS aircraft based at North Weald Airfield.

Councillor Pegrum told the meeting the police helicopter regularly flies over the Lindsey Street area of Epping, despite the council having originally been told the flightpath would follow the M11.

He said the helicopter "has to go over far more of the forest" when flying into London from North Weald than it would if it was based at High Beach.

He added it is seven miles from North Weald to Lippitts Hill, and a further 11 miles to Westminster.

"Every time that helicopter goes into London (from North Weald) it is flying an additional seven miles.

Road traffic collision: car on its roof

"Lippitts Hill is quite to one side of the forest, on the Avey Lane / Sewardstone side."

Firefighters were called by police in the early hours on 10th July to assist at the scene of a road traffic collision on the M11 between Harlow and Stansted today at 2.48am.

He said: "It's madness it's not at Lippitts Hill in the first place. I can't see any good reason why it should be at North Weald.

Crews from Harlow, Loughton, Old Harlow and Stansted attended found a man trapped in a car which was on its roof. The car had left the northbound carriageway and was the other side of temporary concrete barriers.

They used specialist equipment to lift the car and release the man by 3.18am. He was left in the care of the Ambulance Service.

"There are very few houses around the base at Lippitts Hill - far fewer than in Epping and North Weald."

District and town councillor Nigel Avey said: "It's a done deal that they (the Metropolitan Police Service) are moving back to Lippitts Hill."

Councillor Barbara Scruton said: "I do think we're sitting here as town councillors. There are issues (in the district council's letter) that we should raise."

Source: Essex County Fire and Rescue Service

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Muddy Mayhem is back this August!

This messy, mud-mad event includes a 5km mud run at the well -known Nuclear Races venue in Brentwood. Many of the Nuclear Races renowned obstacles will be included in the 5K route, such as the Zip Wire and Deathslide! There are 40 obstacles in total to challenge your inner mud-lover – are you ready to take on the challenge?!

Join St Clare Hospice on the day from 10.15am, with the race setting off at 11am. Before you get set and go, there will also be a fun warm-up to get you ready for the muddy mayhem ahead!

Wearing comfortable trainers and old clothes or gym clothes that you don’t mind getting muddy and wet is recommended – along with bringing a fresh change of clothes and shoes! Fortunately, there are toilets, showers and changing rooms on site so you don’t have to cake the car in mud on your way home!

Love mud but not sure about the

Register now, via St Clare Hospice’s website: https://stclarehospice.org.uk/event/ muddy-mayhem/ Registration is £50 per adult and £40 per child (13-17) Participants must be 13+ years to take part.

Registration includes a St Clare t-shirt and Nuclear Races medal.

Once each participant has registered, they will be sent a link for the Nuclear Races Disclaimer which they must complete before the event.

Epping Town Show returns The first Epping Town Show for two years was held by Epping Town Council at Stonards Hill recreation ground on Sunday 4th July.

A variety of stalls and sideshows manned by local organisations and businesses featured along with arena entertainment ranging from singing to Morris dancing, and performances from the Epping Forest Band and the Epping Forest Pipe Band.

Epping Town Mayor councillor Michael Wright said: "It was absolutely amazing that the people of Epping came out and supported Epping Town Council’s event despite the appalling weather.

"Thank you to everyone who was involved in the show this year - the first since 2019 because of the COVID-19 situation.

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Remembering NHS staff who have died due to COVID-19

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Ongar & Rural county councillor and North Weald district councillor Jaymey McIvor marked the 73rd anniversary of the NHS to remember NHS staff who have died due to Covid-19.

Councillor Jaymey McIvor laid flowers at the Debt of Honour in North Weald and at the war memorial wall at Ongar and District War Memorial Medical Centre in Fyfield Road today (Monday) in memory of those who have died of Covid-19 whilst serving on the NHS frontline.

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He said: "Whilst many key frontline workers have passed away from Covid-19, today’s 73rd year anniversary of the National Health Service seemed the appropriate time to take a moment to remember those who have died on the frontline during this pandemic.

“We owe a huge debt to the men and women of our NHS who fight for us daily, both during and long before the pandemic."

He laid pink roses, which are symbolic of thankfulness, and white roses, which are a symbol of eternity.

Councillor McIvor said: "The combination of white and pink roses was a way to show eternal gratitude to our NHS."

Epping Community Hub – working with our partners The new Civic Offices will be much more than just a place for your district council services. Epping Forest Citizens Advice Bureau, Epping Forest Foodbank, Changing Pathways, and Voluntary Action Epping Forest are just a handful of partners that will be joining the Epping Community Hub.

Don’t forget to visit the website Www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

The Epping Community Hub opened on 19th July.

Qualis – the council-owned private companies will be taking up residence in the new offices.

The new meeting and conference facilities will be available for hire, accommodating meetings ranging from just a few people up to 200 seated theatre-style.

Specialising in plastering, external rendering and K rend

The top floor of the offices, is being marketed as office accommodation for private businesses, paying rental income they can reinvest in public services.

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Gang activity doesn’t stop over summer School’s out for summer and as restrictions relax and children have more free time, it it is important for parents to remain interested and aware of where their children are and who they are hanging out with.

For County Lines gangs the summer holidays give the opportunity to recruit new children into their drug dealing network; children who can move about easily and freely in their community and who have the free time to do so.

This summer, the Essex Violence and Vulnerability Unit, along with partners, are asking parents to ensure they know how to recognise the signs that their child might be involved in County Lines – the new, unexplained possessions, not just things like jewellery, trainers, and phones, but online commodities such as game currency or in game gifts which can suggest online exploitation; new ‘friends’ mentioned, children going out all day but being vague about their whereabouts, a change in behaviour – more secretive and distant.

Recent research by the Essex VVU shows that for 88% of young people across Essex someone always knows their whereabouts; 92% say being happy at home is important to them and 68% say their parents have the greatest influence on them. A generation of young Essex children who’s top four aspirations are to have good friends, be happy at home, do well at school and be happy at school.

This research suggests young people across the county want to do well and please those they care about. Parents should be encouraged that they can have conversations with their children about subjects like County Lines as they do play an influential role in their child’s life.

Around 80% of young people surveyed weren’t aware of County Lines taking place in their area which again opens up the space for conversations to ensure they, as well as their parents, know how to spot the signs and keep themselves and their friends safe.

Across Essex, Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner and Essex Police are working hard this summer to clamp down on drug gangs and antisocial behaviour associated with drugs and violence.

Using intelligence led policing Essex Police are carrying out proactive patrols, using stop and search powers to catch offenders, and to gather evidence to identify and arrest suspects. They are also targeting solo drug dealers, county lines gangs and organised crime groups, whose illegal businesses are closely associated with violence and weapon -carrying.

Detective Chief Inspector Lewis Basford, of the Essex Police Serious Violence Unit said: “There’s a strong link between drugs and weapon carrying, and people involved in this lifestyle put themselves at greater risk of being involved in violence,” “But we can’t do that alone. “It’s important that we all talk to our children about these issues and can spot the signs that they may need help to avoid being led down the wrong road.”

Parents can help play their part in ensuring a fun summer for all by understanding County Lines and supporting their children to stay safe over the holidays. Visit www.essexcountylines.co.ukfor more information.

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IMPORTANT Defibrillators Recently I understand defibrillators from both Thornwood and North Weald have been needed to help people who have become unwell whilst awaiting emergency services.

So to ensure all residents are aware of the location of our defibrillators, here are the details. Once you ring emergency services to inform them of someone needing emergency assistance, they will give you the code required to access the defibrillator looked in coded cabinets.

North Weald:- Outside the Methodist Church Hall.

Thornwood—Outside the Parish Hall.

Buskers' idea for High Street A suggestion to provide a space for buskers in Epping High Street has been supported by town councillors.

The idea was put forward by town councillor Mari-Louise Whitbread who suggested a gazebo or tent for performers after being approached by a resident.

She said it would be a "very nonexpensive way of enhancing the town and the new space we have".

She added: "People love music and it would enhance the High Street and add character in a Covid-safe way.”

Councillor Nigel Avey told Tuesday's town council meeting: "It will add to the street scene."

Town clerk Beverley Rumsey said councillor Whitbread had indicated that she was confident of being able to find the performers however she added the council had to consider issues such as who would put up and take down the gazebo and who would schedule the musicians.

Councillor Barbara Scruton suggested inviting performers, but waiting to see how successful the venture was before committing to purchasing a gazebo.

The town council will now liaise with Epping Forest District Council on the way forward.

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North Weald Village Life celebrates 15 years

From that moment on I knew I had made a good decision.

And now having written, edited, produced and published 180 issues of the magazine, I really can’t think of live without North When I decided to launch a local magazine I took a big leap as I Weald Village Life. had never edited or published my own magazine before. I had been involved in working with journalists, printers and charities I am so glad I have never missed producing an issue, even dein conjunction with their own magazines but never produced one spite the pandemic, personal difficulties and ill health. There on my own. may have been a few days delays over the yearsdur to printimg and technical issues but e dry month ther has been an issue I remember visiting my very first potential local companies with produced for the last 15 years. a few printed A4 sheets showing the layout. I have never been good in sales and can be shy, but I visited Art Nursery and met I say it every year but I do mean it, without, readers, advertisers Nigel who had just taken it over and he said straight away great and contributors I would not have been able to continue. idea and has advertised every month since then. He gave me the confidence to then visit a few more.

I am delighted that we are now spreading into Epping and increasing circulation and sharing local events, news and of So with a handful of advertisers I wrote and printed my first iscourse providing further reach for advertisers. sue on my laser printer at home, I always envisioned it to be an A4 size and never wanted to go for a smaller size, I posted a Thank you evefew copies through doors of homes in North Weald, with the ryone, please help of my family and awaited the response. continue to advertise, read and I couldn’t have hoped for such a wonderful response. Local resi- send in photos, dents were so pleased that here was a magazine for them with news, articles many comments saying that they felt that the local press at that and of course time didn’t include them and how they felt that the magazine feedback. would provide the communication they wanted in the community.

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Local hospice in the running for two national charity awards

mission (CQC) – rated ‘Good’ Hospice to becoming an ‘Outstanding’ Hospice. This has been achieved through bold leadership – implementing new systems to ensure patient safety and allow responsiveness to individual patient and community need.

West Essex and East Herts charity, St Clare Hospice, has been shortlisted for two prestigious Charity Times awards, recognising the Hospice’s strength in leadership and the responsiveness Since Carolanne began in the role, around three years ago, she of its Bereavement Support Services in adapting during the pan- has taken bold steps to overhaul systems, people and practices, ensuring the right people are in the right roles, with a particular demic to carry on supporting local people. focus on transforming patient care at the Hospice.

St Clare Hospice has been shortlisted for the following Charity Times awards: Supporting Leader – Carolanne Brannan and Change Project of the Year – Bereavement Support Services.

The awards, which recognise, celebrate and promote best practice within the charity sector, will be announcing their winners on Thursday 9th September 2021 at an event at the London Marriot Hotel in Grosvenor Square, London, organised by the Charity Times magazine.

One of the areas which falls within Carolanne’s leadership is the Hospice’s Bereavement Support Services, which have also been recognised by being shortlisted for the Change Project of the Year award.

St Clare Hospice rapidly changed its approach to delivering bereavement support to local people in response to the lockdown restrictions in March 2020, to ensure that those facing Carolanne Brannan, Director of Patient Care at St Clare Hosloss during the pandemic were not socially isolated during their pice, said: “Being shortlisted for the Charity Times award is a grief. The Hospice adapted its Bereavement Café model from a great privilege, and is testament to the hard work of everyone in face-to-face support service, to a social media and video confermy teams who deliver the Hospice’s outstanding patient serencing based service, within a matter of weeks – establishing vices. The last 18 months have been a challenging time, but six Facebook-based support groups with approximately 200 throughout I’ve witnessed first-hand the tenacity and responbereaved adults and young people, now members. siveness that is being recognised with this award and I am honThe Hospice also launched a Bereavement Support Helpline in oured to be representing my teams’ success with this national June 2020 to provide emotional support, a listening ear, practirecognition of all our efforts.” cal support, and sign-posting to other services, for local people.

A visible mark of Carolanne’s success as a supporting leader has been taking the Hospice from being a Care Quality ComSushma Dhami, Patient and Family Support Service Manager, said: “As the local hospice for West Essex and East Herts, our duty is always to respond to local need as quickly and effectively as we can. During the pandemic, bereavement support took a ‘front seat’ in the development of our support services.

Being nominated for this award is a fantastic recognition of how well we have responded to the changing needs of people in our local community.

“We are now providing immediate bereavement support to people who have lost loved ones, both during the pandemic and before that, meaning that just by picking up the phone or by joining a social media network people are getting the support they need. We believe that no one should have to face their grief alone.”

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Thornwood opened their gardens to raise funds On Sunday 11th July, the 3rd year of Thornwood Village Open Gardens took place.

Great atmosphere and good weather made the day a very enjoyable occasion. Over 250 visitors came to support this event and helped raise £4709 for our local charity - St Clare Hospice. Teas, cakes and lunches were for sale, along with bric-abrac, pottery, tombola and raffle.

The local Gardening club had many plants and gardening related goods. North Weald Parish Council supported this event by having their Thornwood Allotment Open Day so visitors were able to enjoy the allotments along with the 9 Open Gardens.

Thank you to everyone who generously supported this event.

The next Thornwood Village Open Gardens is planned for 2023. If you would like to Open Your Garden or help in any way, please contact the Open Garden's Team thornwoodcommon@gmail.com

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AUGUST EVENTS AT THE EPPING ONGAR RAILWAY AND THE STORY OF DIESEL LOCOMOTIVE No. 45132 Since the Covid-19 restrictions have been eased, we are pleased to say our services are gradually returning to normal.

This month I would like to tell you something about one of our resident diesel locomotives, a ‘Peak’ No. 45132, (original No. D22), which is privately owned by Roger Bray, one of our volunteers.

No. 45132 in the yard at Ropley in 1994 Photo: David Franklin https://www.nightrail.photography

Roger’s loco No. 45132 started its service with British Railways (BR) on 1 April 1961 and worked from various depots over time and that included some 20 years hauling top link Midland Expresses to and from London St. Pancras. Inevitably, along with many of its classmates, the loco was eventually relegated to secondary services and on 8 May 1987, she was allocated 1P13, the 1735 hours service from St. Pancras to Derby. No. 45132 failed at Kettering with a defective triple pump. This turned out to be her last BR working and shortly after she was hauled to March in Cambridgeshire and placed in open storage.

By the early 1990s, No. 45132 had been sold to Booth Roe scrapyard in Rotherham but had yet to be collected from storage at March. Roger managed to purchase the loco from Booth Roe and on 5 March 1992 it was hauled to the Watercress Line in Hampshire by locomotive No. 47214. Work soon commenced by Roger and his small team on the fault finding and restoration processes. Another triple pump was fitted, not easy as the old and the new one had to be man-handled through the cab door and into the engine room.

Exactly 2 years to the day after arrival on the Watercress Line (5 March 1994), No. 45132 entered revenue earning preservation service at the diesel gala. The loco was intensively used and ran in regular service until disaster struck on the 3 March 2000, when the main generator banding partially burst whilst getting ready for another diesel gala weekend. It soon became apparent that the damage was severe and would be expensive to repair. Whilst out of service and fundraising for the generator was ongoing, restoration work continued, including re-building of the No.1 nose end and reinstatement of the split headcode boxes at that end. The generator was lifted out and sent to Bowers Electricals for repair.

The loco departed the Watercress Line for a new home at the Epping Ongar Railway on 15 September 2014. When the generator returned from Bowers it was reinstalled and all the hard work reassembling the loco was finally completed. To the delight of the owner and volunteers the loco was started up for the first time, since the year 2000, by long standing volunteer Michael Petherbridge, on 29 March 2019. She moved under her own power the following month. A series of commissioning runs were undertaken during the summer of 2019 including running during the EOR diesel gala and then a loaded test and gauging run.

Unfortunately, during the return leg back from Ongar on this run a defect on the generator again became apparent and the loco was stood down. The only thing for it was for the generator to go back to Bowers for investigation and so it was lifted out again on 22 November 2019. Hopefully it will not be too long before the generator is fully repaired and we can enjoy No. 45132 hauling trains again.

As restoration work continues Roger would like to invite new members to join his team, if you have engineering skills or are a competent DIY person, please email him at 45132.d22@gmail.com All members of Roger’s team are members of the Epping Ongar Railway Volunteer Society, adult membership costs just £20 per year and is available from membership@eorailway.co.uk Roger would also be pleased to hear from you should you have photos or details of No. 45132’s BR workings.

There are, of course, many other opportunities to volunteer on the Railway and if you have time to spare our Membership Secretary would be pleased to hear from you on the above address. If you would like to learn more about us, and receive a complimentary copy of our quarterly in-house magazine Mixed Traffic, please send an email with your postal address to mixedtraffic@eorailway.co.uk .

Robert Good Epping Ongar Railway Volunteer Society Page 25

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Lorry fire on M25 Crews were called to a lorry fire on the M25 between Junction 27 - 26 just before 4amon 30th June.

On arrival firefighters reported that the lorry was 100% alight.

Crews worked hard to bring the fire under control and completely extinguished it by 6.40am. Crews expect to remain on scene for some time to continue dampening down the area.

The cause has been recorded as accidental.

Source: Essex County Fire and Rescue Service

Charity leaders ‘step up’ to the challenge The Senior Leadership team at St Clare Hospice have joined local charity supporters in ‘Stepping up for St Clare’ in June, walking 10,000 steps every day for the entire month. During the month, the West Essex and East Hertfordshire charity’s six directors have smashed their target of 1.8m steps for the month, clocking up more than two million steps (2,117, 834) by the time the challenge finished - the equivalent of walking from the UK to Assasi in Italy (the home of St Clare herself). They also rasied more than £2,500 for the Hospice’s Nurses are Needed campaign.

The challenge was inspired by the number of steps a St Clare Hospice nurse walks in an average shift. Challengers were asked to raise sponsorship for their 300,000 step challenge (10,000 steps for each day in June) to fund the expansion of the Hospice’s nursing teams.

The campaign is part of a vital long-term plan by the Hastingwood-based charity to fund new roles in their Inpatient Unit, Hospice at Home and Community Palliative Care teams to meet the increased need in their local area for specialist nursing care for people with complex life-limiting illnesses.

The Step Up challenge was also supported by local people, pledging to walk to raise funds for St Clare. All together more than 4.5million steps were taken for St Clare Hospice in June, raising more than £5,000 in total to help put more nurses in people’s homes and the Hospice.

The six Hospice directors – Sarah, Rosie, Riyad, Carolanne, Qamar and Helen – are delighted with the generosity of their friends, colleagues, Hospice supporters in helping them complete their step-endous challenge.

If the Hospice’s senior leaders have inspired you to pit your wits against adversity, visit the St Clare Hospice’s website for ideas and challenges to complete: stclarehospice.org.uk/ challenges/

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ing to help protect residents and staff.

In line with new guidance, they ask customers to be careful and cautious. They also ask that you respect the wishes of other building users by observing social distancing, if they request it.

There will be hand sanitiser stations across the building for your convenience. While masks are not essential after 19 July, they ask you to consider the needs of others when making your choice of whether to wear one. Finally, if you suspect you may be infected then they ask that you stay away from the offices and follow current guidance.

Council Civic Offices are reopening The Civic Offices are now open with different ways to access our services.

There will be new and reported better ways of accessing services in the refurbished Civic Offices when they reopen to the public this month, following the shutdown of more than a year in-line with Government guidelines on Covid-19 restrictions.

They have been making as many of services as possible available for you to self-serve from the comfort of your own home, but we appreciate you may prefer to call our Customer Contact Centre where their team will be pleased to help you.

Call 01992 564000 You can make payments, report an issue, apply for a service and book events online from www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk.

Sometimes you need to see someone in person. The Welcome Area at the Civic Offices is the place to see them. If you make Even before the pandemic forced many organisations to rethink an appointment with an officer, you can book in via their new service delivery, Epping Forest District Council (EFDC) was touch screen kiosks when you arrive. There are comfortable developing online and digital access to services in response to new seating areas including private rooms for confidential disresident demand, meaning most customers can get what they cussions, informal sofas and chairs for less formal meetings. need without ever having to leave their own home.

Although they try to make electronic payments as easy as possible, they know some people still rely on cash. Their Broadway Because of these new ways of working, during lockdown in cash office is open Monday and Tuesday 10am to 2pm and our 2020 they were able to deliver all their key services with little payment kiosks are available at Waltham Abbey Library and disruption. Regular webinars have been set up to keep resithe Civic Offices in Epping. dents updated with latest information about our housing services; the Community, Culture and Wellbeing team moved their Clear recycling sacks will no longer be available to pick up from exercise and craft classes online; council meetings were all reception at the new Civic Offices. But sacks can continue to conducted via Zoom and webcast live online and the school be collected from 80 different sites across the district that are holidays programme included fun activity packs for families to more convenient for you.. do at home.

They have planned to keep some of these digital ways of working as residents have told them they prefer them

Opening times and contact information

Following the Government’s announcement on Monday 12 July, they will still have some Covid19 precautions in the build-

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Monday: 9 am to 5.15 pm

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Tuesday: 9 am to 5.15 pm

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Wednesday: 9 am to 5.15 pm

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Thursday: 9 am to 5.15 pm

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Friday: 9 am to 5 pm

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Saturday: closed

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Sunday: closed

Customer Contact Centre: 01992 564000 Website: www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk

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PHOTO GALLERY

I am often told how much people like seeing the photos sent in by readers. Please send in your photos to me at June@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Photo: This photo was sent in by Terry Taylor who takes some wonderful photos of birds.

Photo: This photo taken and shared with us by Debbie Bryan

Photo: This photo taken

by Kevin Champion.

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Photo: Ellie Coldwell was encouraged by her family to send this photo and I am so grateful she did. What a beautiful picture.

Photo: Remember when England made it to the Football Euro 2020 Final? This local family, the Ashwell family, celebrated and had a wonderful time. Thank you for sharing your pho-

Deadline for submitting news, features, letters, photos etc is 15th August

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CHURCH CHAT

Jars of Clay “We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves." - 1 Corinthians 4:7.

Some of you will have heard Leonard Cohen’s beautiful and haunting song, “Anthem”. There’s a line in it that has followed me around for years, now. It goes; “There is a crack in everything. That’s how the light gets in”.

(Cohen may also be familiar as the writer of “Hallelujah”). This particular quotation is a re-wording of something the ancient Muslim poet, Rumi wrote; “the wound is the place where the light enters you”.

There’s beauty in broken things. There’s magic in imperfection.

There’s light that streams in through the cracks.

What ways are you broken? Where are the ‘cracks’ in your life?

And how might goodness, love, kindness and beauty, be flowing in through them, even now?

The Bible describes us as being like fragile clay jars, which hold an amazing treasure inside.

We have been lovingly hand-made by God, like the potter at the wheel. Each of us is completely different and beautifully, heart-breakingly broken.

The God of beautiful, broken things invites you further in.

With love & blessings, Jaimee You are welcome; Sundays 10 am - informal worship service in St Andrew’s Church Hall.

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Kitchens and bedrooms supplied and fitted to your specification

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A complete service from design to finish

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Competitive prices guaranteed

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High levels of expertise by a locally recommended craftsmen For a free estimate contact:Roger Linsdall Telephone: 01992 523277 Or mobile: 07980 555147

Sundays 3pm - traditional Eucharistic service. St Andrew’s Church.

Wednesdays at 2: “Held” - a space for those who are grieving or feel isolated or disconnected. Short prayers followed by a time to be in nature with God. St Andrew’s Church.

Wednesday 21 July & thereafter every 1st Wednesday of the month @12: Praying with beads. 30 minutes of meditative prayer space for experts and beginners alike.

Saturdays, monthly @ 7 (August 14, September 18th): Big Questions: Philosophy & Theology in the pub - The King’s Head, North Weald. August’s topic is “Does God exist?”

COMING SOON: Church Mice - parent & toddler group. Messy Church primary children’s activity morning. Home groups: small group Bible study on Wednesday evenings, starting again in September. Christians against Poverty Life Skills Course: starting September 6th.

Email summersaimee@gmail.com if you want to get in touch.

Follow us on facebook (North Weald Sunday Morning Church) or check here next month for more information.

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Gardening Hints for August What a growing season we have had. Very difficult conditions from March onwards, unseasonably hard frosts early followed by continuous rain then very hot temperatures with unusually high winds for this time of year.

The extremely heavy rain causing floods arriving late July, its been tough keeping the garden and vegetable plot in good condition but what you find is that nature generally finds a way to come through.

August is always a month you can start to reap the rewards of the previous months hard work, by starting to harvest your fruit and vegetables. Home grown vegetables such as runner beans, carrots, potatoes, tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce etc have much more flavour than shop bought. Cover any ripe soft fruits about to ripen to stop the birds beating you to the harvest.

Watering is very important at all times, but more critical in the hot months of July/August.

Hanging baskets and pot displays will watering daily, best times morning or evening to avoid scorching the leaves.

Feed at least once a week using tomato food for flowers and fruit, or alternately there are many similar feeds we stock, if in doubt I will endeavour I will point you in the right direction of the correct feed for your specific needs.

Keep all baskets and containers dead headed to encourage further flowering, it is important to deadhead roses so they produce another flush of flowers later. Cut back lavender after it has flowered, this will prevent the plant from becoming woody.

Cut back hard perennial plants that have finished flowering, this will allow air and light to the plant creating atmosphere that will enable the plant to grow strong and will result in a healthy plant next year.

Keep side shoots pinched out onto tomato plants, keeping them regularly watered, if you let them dry out this will result in cracked skin on fruit, also blossom and rot which turns the base of the tomato black.

Now strawberries have finished, you can propagate new stock by pressing the runners into a pot, these will soon root and you can cut the runner and you have a new strawberry plant. Easy.

Keep on top of the weeding to prevent them turning to seed and wreaking more havoc. Spray weeds in lawns with specific weedkiller to prevent them getting big and causing problems in the lawn.

Finally I would like to thank all customers, old and new to the garden centre, for your support. It has been a challenging 18 months for many reasons running a business but we now have managed to pay the bills. Customers frequently ask me how are we doing, my reply is always ‘we are very grateful for everybody’s moral support for our local business which has enabled us to keep going’. Thank you all once again as always, take time out, to sit back, relax and take in the sights, sounds and smells of your garden with a tipple of your choice, mine always at this time of year is a cold beer.

Cheers

Source: Nigel, Art Garden Centre

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Fire Service gives advice to stay safe while barbequing With the weather brightening up this summer,, barbeques will be sizzling across Essex and Essex County Fire and Rescue Service is giving its advice to barbeque safely.

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service is asking everyone cooking up an al fresco feast to follow its advice to enjoy summer safely and prevent fires across the county.

Will Newman, Head of Prevention at Essex County Fire and Rescue Service said: “One of the best parts of summer is getting outdoors to enjoy the warmer weather with family and friends - many of us can’t wait to get the barbeque lit.

“But behind the bangers and burgers, barbeques can be dangerous if not handled responsibly. Our biggest advice is to set them up well away from houses, sheds, fences, trees and plants so a fire cannot spread.

“Once the barbeque is set up, never leave your cooking unattended and be sure to drink responsibly if you’re in charge of the cooking.

“If you’re planning to use a disposable barbeque while out and about, read the safety instructions provided and make sure to place it on a flat surface like paving slabs or bricks and well away from dry grass, sheds, fences etc. Make sure it’s completely cooled before you put it in the bin. Use water to cool the embers if you need to.

“If you plan a barbeque and the weather lets you down, don’t take the barbeque indoors or into a tent. In recent years, some people have sadly succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning as a result, so we are urging everyone to stay safe this summer.”

Follow the Fire Service’s barbeque advice to make sure your summer barbeques are safe: Disposable Barbeques: • Always place them on an even surface on either bricks or paving slabs and well away from the house, shed or fences • Follow the safety instructions provided with disposable barbeques Ensure the barbeque has cooled before handling it and before putting it in the bin. To avoid starting a fire you should allow it to cool for several hours and then consider pouring water over it to make sure it's out Charcoal Barbeques • Use only enough charcoal to cover the base of the barbeque • Only use recognised fire lighters or starter fuel and only on cold coals - use the minimum necessary and never use petrol • Never put hot ashes straight into a dustbin or wheelie bin - they could melt the plastic and cause a fire Gas Barbeques • Make sure the tap is turned off before changing the gas cylinder • Change cylinders outdoors if possible or in a well ventilated area • If you suspect a leak to the cylinder or pipe work, brush soapy water around the joints and watch for bubbles - tighten to fix but do not overtighten • After cooking, turn the gas supply off first and then the barbecue control. This will stop any gas from leaking • Store gas cylinders outside, away from direct sunlight and frost For more advice, visit: essex-fire.gov.uk/bbq •

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Continue Covid-19 testing over the summer holidays The Director for Public Health in Essex is calling on secondary pupils and their families to continue Covid-19 testing over the summer holidays to help Keep Covid in Check.

As schools break up across Essex, the county’s Director for Public Health – Dr Mike Gogarty - is asking all secondary school pupils, their families and staff to continue doing regular rapid Lateral Flow Tests throughout the summer holidays to help Keep Covid in Check.

School communities have made a fantastic effort this past year to keep any infections under control by testing themselves twice a week.

Continued testing over the summer holidays will help to manage and monitor any potential outbreaks and ensure there is a smooth transition into the new school year from September.

Essex County Council is also encouraging those students who are starting Secondary School in September to test themselves regularly during the school holidays so that they get used to regular testing.

Families of primary school age children are also encouraged to continue testing over the holidays, as well as bringing the second dose of the Covid-19 vaccine forward to eight weeks.

Dr Mike Gogarty said: “Now restrictions have been lifted, we’ll undoubtedly continue to see a rise in Covid-19 cases. That’s why it’s essential that everyone continues to be cautious and take sensible steps, such as regularly testing and bringing forward their second Covid-19 vaccine.

“It’s really important for young people to relax and have fun this summer because pupils have been through a lot this past year. However we need to remain sensible so that they can have a positive start to the new school year.

“We’re asking everyone, not just school communities, to carry on testing so we can Keep Covid in Check.”

Testing is a key line of defence against the spread of Covid-19. With other protective measures such as face coverings and social distancing no longer legally required, testing regularly is even more important.

It’s the only way to know if you have Covid19 and make sure you don’t spread it to friends and family. As many as 1 in 3 people do not show any symptoms so self-testing can detect these hidden cases and keep everyone safe.

Rapid tests are free and can be collected from libraries and pharmacies across Essex.

Alternatively, residents can order self-tests online. Everyone should record their result online, regardless of what it is, by following the instructions in the test kit.

If someone develops symptoms, they should order a different type of test (a PCR test) or call 111, and self-isolate immediately Residents can read more about how to stay safe now restrictions have eased, as well as the Government’s Covid-19 response this summer and what it means for them.

More information about the support available to Essex residents and businesses during the Covid-19 pandemic can be found on ECC’s Coronavirus Hub. Page 35

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Citizens Advice says: Beware of these scams In my December article I offered some general guidance on dealing with scams – attempts to defraud you. Fraudsters are endlessly ingenious in thinking up new ways to con people and we’ve recently been warned about a couple of them.

Have you ever heard of a ‘ghost broker’? These are fraudsters who sell fake or invalid car insurance policies.

How do they operate? They lure victims in with the offer of cheaper insurance premiums, usually via social media or by word-ofmouth. These individuals or groups pose as middlemen for well-known insurance companies, claiming they can offer you legitimate car insurance at a significantly cheaper price.

This type of fraud is typically carried out either by forging insurance documents, falsifying your details to bring the price down, or by taking out a genuine policy for you but cancelling it soon after.

Often, the victim is not aware that they have been scammed until they are involved in an accident and try to claim on the policy.

‘Ghost brokers’ tend to target young people looking for cheaper insurance, as car insurance for young people is generally very expensive. They also go for vulnerable people who do not really understand car insurance and the law behind it.

What could happen if I drive without valid insurance? As policies sold by ‘ghost brokers’ are either invalid, non-existent or fraudulent, this means that the driver is uninsured. This means you could face a £300 fixed penalty notice, six points on your driving licence, and even your vehicle being seized and crushed. It’s not a defence to show you were scammed (though it may reduce the penalty).

How can I protect myself from ‘ghost brokers’? They often advertise and communicate via social media, online forums and messaging apps, or through printed adverts in pubs, clubs, bars and newsagents. If a broker is only using a mobile phone or email as a way of contact, this can be a sign of this type of crime. If you are not sure about the broker, check on the Financial Conduct Authority or the British Insurance Brokers’ Association website for a list of all authorised insurance brokers. You can also contact the insurance company directly to verify the broker’s details. You can also check to see if a car appears to be insured on the Motor Insurance Database website.

Another new scam is calls which appear to be from local number – 019925***** for our area. The calls impersonate well-known government organisations, or law enforcement agencies, and will ask the recipient of the call to “press 1” in order to speak with an advisor, or police officer, about unpaid fines or police warrants. Government and law enforcement agencies will not notify you about unpaid fines or outstanding police warrants by calling or texting you. Do not respond to any calls or texts you receive about these.

If you receive a suspicious text message, you can report it by forwarding it to 7726. It’s free of charge. If you think that you have been a victim of a ghost broker or any type of fraud, you can report your concerns to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk or on 0300 123 2040.

Contacting Epping Forest Citizens Advice Call us for free on 0808 278 7855. The service is available from 9.30 to 2.30, Tuesday to Thursday. `If all our advisers are busy when you call you will be connected to an adviser elsewhere in the country, and if they can’t deal with the matter they will arrange for one of our staff or volunteers to phone you back.

Source: Paul Stockton

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Advertiser Directory

Funeral Services

New directory of advertisers with page numbers so you can find their details easily.

Stuart Poulton Ltd

Aerials & Satellites T J Aerials & Satellites

5

CJA Upholstery

18

21

Art Nursery Garden Centre

31

GTF Tree Care

14

GMS Gardening Services

12

Glazing

Car MOT & Servicing Kings Head Garage

34

Home Glazing Repair

Vehicles Wanted

19

Kennels & Catteries

Matts Motorz

16

London & Essex Kents Farm

Carpets & Flooring Little Carpet Co

9

Garden Centre/Gardening

Business The Epping Connection

Furniture RSL Interiors—Kitchens & bedrooms 30

Beauty Nail Couture

22

12

5

Online Shopping 2

Cleaning

Local Bodyshop consultant—Sparkle 37 & Shine

Champion Car Wash & Valet

17

Painting & Decorating

Steve’s Window Cleaning

26

Jim’ll Paint It

9

S I Painters & Decorators

11

Computer Services Andrews Computers

26

Council North Weald Bassett Parish Council

29

Day Nurseries & Pre Schools 10

North Weald Village Pre School

20

Electrical Services 32

Estate & Letting Agents Montagues

40

Events Mini Shooters

18

Fitness J D Fitness

4

G J B Pest Control

23

Plastering 19

Plumbing & Heating N Monk

15

Pikes Plumbing & Heating

27

Robert Rayment

34

Property Services Tony Carter

13

KLF Property Services

35

Handy Andy

30

Bassett Building

13

Abbeyfield Cunningham House

32

Roofing 26

Funeral Services Stuart Poulton Ltd Page 38 Tel: 07814 863955

15

Residential Home

Flowers House of Flowers

Abaddon Pest Control

G F Plastering

Ashbourne Day Nursery

A&P Electrical Services

Pest Control

R J S Roofing

16

Safecracker 22

Safe-cracker Locksmith 17 Email: june@northwealdvillagelife.co.uk www.northwealdvillagelife.co.uk

Essential Local Numbers The Alzheimer Society

01992 717676

North Weald Chemist

01992 523887

Cats Protection

0333 200 1484

North Weald Methodist Hall

01992 522143

Citizens Advice Bureau

0808 278 7855

North Weald Library

033301 32683

Crimestoppers

0800 555111

North Weald Village Hall Bookings

01992 523731 www.northwealdvillagehall.org/

Doctors High Street, Epping

01992 579270

North Weald Parish Council

01992 523825

Doctors The Limes, Epping

01992 566500

Queens Community Hall Book-

07522 473024

Doctors The Limes, Epping (appointments)

01992 573838

NHS Urgent help & advice

111

Doctors The Limes, North Weald 01992 524383

Essex Police

0300 333 4444

Epping Forest District Council

01992 564000

Police, Neighbourhood/local

101

Epping Town Council

01992 579444

Police, Emergency

999

EFDC & ECC Cllr Chris Whitebread

01992 573557

Police Online reporting

www.essex.police.uk/doitonline

MP Alex Burghart

0207 2191613

RSPCA

01279 306058

(MP for North Weald)

alex.burghart.mp@ parliament.uk

MP Mrs Eleanor Laing MP

020 8508 8608

Samaritans 24 Hours a day

116 123

MP For Thornwood

Eleanor.Laing.mp@parliament.uk

Hospital, St Margarets, Epping

01992 561666

Stuart Poulton

01992 522607

24 Hour

01992 572607

Hospital, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Harlow

01279 444455

St Andrews Church

01992 577168

London & Essex Boarding Kennels & Cattery (Kents Farm)

01992 522183

St Andrews Primary School

01992 522283

North Weald Airfield

01992 564200

Traveline

0870 6082608

LOCAL CLUB DIRECTORY 3rd North Weald Beavers

North Weald Preservation Society

Queens Hall Charity

Tel: 01992 524672

Tel: read 01992 522618/522630

Tel: 522910

British Legion, North Weald Branch

North Weald Cricket Club

Rapier Cycling Club

Tel: 01992 614415

Northweald.play-cricket.com

Tel: 524631

Epping Ongar Railway Volunteer

North Weald Scouts Group

Taoist Tai Chi Society

Tel: 01277 365200

01992 524672

Tel: 01992 523854/07803243625

Harlow Badger Group

Theydon Jazz Club

Tel: 07941 185171

North Weald Seniors Society for over 70’s

Friends Force Hertfordshire/Essex

Tel: 522196

Thornwood Seniors

Tel: 522464

Tel: 577872

Epping Forest Rotary Club

North Weald Wireless Station Bowls Club

Tel: 07855 911323

Tel: 522803

Forest Highlanders Pipes & Drum

North Weald Women’s Institute (Afternoon)

Tel: 01279 415563 www.3valleymvc.org.uk

Tel: 01708 250820

Tel: 522700

West Essex Flower Club

North Weald Angling Club

Queens Hall Bowls Club

Tel: 524631

Tel: 01992 522303

Tel: 523375 or 522052

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01945 588325/davedyer24@gmail.com

Three Valleys Male Voice Choir

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