August Thorpe Bay Oracle 2012

Thorpe Bay

August 2012

ORACLE Thorpe Bay at a glance Est. Sept 2005. Circulation 5,100

Oracle Competition WIN! Pair of tickets for Cliffs Pavilion ‘Thank you for the music’ ABBA and BeeGees tribute

Local Issues

Settling into School

Oracle Travel Consider Kalkan

Under the Hammer Bag a Bargain

Health & Beauty The Benefits of Massage

Cover photography by 'Niki Cornish Photography' on facebook

We cater for

Private Fun ctions

Please contac t the Angel In n for further de tails

A little corner of an English Heaven

Savour a drink and good company at the award-winning, traditional, Angel Inn, Free House. at North Shoebury

Enjoy the west-facing, beer-garden and extensive views across ripening cornfields. Thatched roof, flagstone floor, exposed timbers, wide range of Real Ales, good wines and excellent food.

No gaming machines. No loud music. No TV screens. Heaven!

The Angel Inn OPEN 11am - 11pm (Closed 3-5:30) Mon-Sat. 12pm - 11pm Sun

01702 589600

Parsons Corner, North Shoebury SS3 8UD

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Thorpe Bay

OR ACLE

publisher’s letter

O

racle's front cover beautifully captures Countdown's co-host, Rachel Riley.

Local photographer, Niki Cornish has worked closely with Rachel over the last two years and Rachel was delighted to pose for the last time as Miss Riley. Congratulations to Rachel on her wedding, planned for later on this month.

For all those Abba and Bee Gees fans out there the Cliffs Pavilion are showing ‘Thank you for the Music’ on Saturday 6 October 2012 at 8pm.

A show full of all the bands' famous hits. A night that is bound to have the Cliffs rocking!

Oracle’s competition this month has been kindly donated by Entertainers. One lucky winner can win a pair of tickets to see this ever popular show.

To enter, simply send your contact details to, Oracle/Thank you for the Music Competition, 39 Alexandra Street, Southend-on-Sea, Essex SS1 1BW or email to info@oraclepublications.co.uk closing date 28 August.

Emma Wynne-Morgan Publisher

01702 393838

39 Alexandra Street, Southend, Essex SS1 1BW

www.oraclepublications.co.uk info@oraclepublications.co.uk

www.twitter.com/oracle_essex www.facebook.com/oraclepublications Printed by EVONPRINT, Small Dole, Sussex 01273 494631 AUGUST 2012

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ORACLE EXCITING NEW RESTAURANT IN SOUTHEND ESSEX’S ONLY ROOFTOP RESTAURANT

contents Local Issues Settling into School

By Susan O'Riordan

9/10

Calling all WW2 Veterans

By Charles Wynne-Morgan

14

It's Raining Hair & Beauty by Craig Smith

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Consider Kalkan

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OPENING SOON OPENING OFFER - 25% OFF FOOD!* www.hisouthend.com T: 01702 543 001 77 EASTWOODBURY CRESCENT, SOUTHEND ON SEA, ESSEX, SS2 6XG *Available for a limited time only.

Travel Expert by Karen Goldman

Gender pricing Money Matters by Jacqui Moyies

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An interview with Benjamin

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Chargrilled Asparagus, Courgettes and Halloumi Judy's Recipe Page

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Bag a Bargain 38 Under the Hammer by Trevor Cornforth The Benefits of Massage Health & Beauty by Cris Ramis

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Diary Dates

48 52 56 58

Sudoku Useful Numbers Advertiser Index

Advertorials Thorpe Hall School Holiday Inn Shoebury High School 4 T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E

6/7 30/31 50/51

Interior and exterior decorating, painting and wallpapering

Professional, friendly and reliable Local Thorpe Bay Decorator Top quality workmanship Guaranteed City and Guild qualified Competitive prices Fully Insured

M K Decorating Services For a free no obligation quotation, Please call Michael

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AUGUST 2012

ED H IS BL TA ES

Carpets, Vinyls, Rugs

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RS A YE

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Trade Carpets Open Daily: 9.00am - 5.30pm

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Advertorial

Send the kids PAK’ing this summer!

T he summer holidays can be a difficult time for parents. Keeping children amused can be challenging as well as expensive and the options are limited. The PAK (Proactive Kids) Holiday Club is the ideal solution for parents with children aged between 8 and 14. It runs from Monday to Friday at Thorpe Hall School from July 30th to August 24th in daily 8.30am to 4pm sessions and with an extended drive-time option also available until 5pm.

The PAK Holiday Club is open to everyone in the area. It is staffed by experienced professionals and has the full use of Thorpe Hall School’s extensive grounds and excellent facilities including ICT suites, 250-seat theatre and 5-acre recreation field with all-weather cricket strip, tennis courts and indoor sports hall. There is a wide range of different activities available to keep children active and entertained from team sports to animation and even big screen gaming. Unlike some holiday clubs, PAK offers flexibility with children able to pick how they want to spend part of their time in ‘free choice’ sessions. PAK Team Leaders try to ensure there is a healthy balance of indoor and outdoor time for everyone, to encourage children to try new activities and blow off steam.

Sessions can be booked on a daily or weekly basis from just £18 a day when pre-booked and

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discounted rates are available when booking 10 days or more across the 4 activity weeks available. There is no minimum number of days required and places can often be booked on the day to give parents as much flexibility as possible.

There is also an academic side to the PAK Holiday Club this year for those that want it, with a new 11+ Club offering extra tuition and guidance to pupils over the summer holidays in preparation for the 11+ exam. This is exclusive to PAK and will take place during morning sessions from 8.30am to 10am each day. Plus for just £10 extra, children can stay all day, have some fun and enjoy all the PAK Holiday Club has to offer.

To find out more or book online visit www.thorpehallschool.co.uk/pak or call 07795 577553

07795 577553 Wakering Road, Southend-on-Sea Essex, SS1 3RD

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AUGUST 2012

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AUGUST 2012

Local Issues

Help your child settle into their new school quickly and easily.

W

hatever your child’s age, whether they are starting nursery for the first time, moving to senior school, or sixth form, or even just moving to a new school, those first few days are important and can be nerve wracking for both your child and you. n

Will they be looked after?

n

Will they make friends?

n

Will they get lost in such a big place?

you know something they don’t?). Rest assured that you have done your best and are confident that you have chosen the best school for your child; the chances of it going wrong are minimal as you know your child better than anyone, so trust your decision.

What do I know? I’ve been involved in education throughout most of my adult life. During that time I have seen first hand the kind of concerns that parents and children, and experienced them myself as a mother of four children.

For children starting senior school I always think the most useful thing you can do, once you have bought the correct uniform and stationery, is to make sure that they know how to get to the school. For many 11 year olds this is the first time that they will be walking to school or taking public transport on their own.This can be a very frightening idea for them and they may have very real fears about their own safety, getting lost, catching the wrong bus, or even being bullied. If you have ever travelled on the bus in the morning, you will know that they are usually packed during term time with thousands of children, and there is always safety in numbers.

Perhaps the most important piece of advice I can give is DON’T PANIC! All children of every age pick up on their parent’s anxieties. If they can see that you are concerned and anxious about this step then this will only add to their own worries (do

It helps hugely if you can do the journey with your child several times over the holiday before they start school. This way they will know the route before they start school and this should reduce any worries they may have.

In order to make this time as stress free as possible here are a few tips to smooth this transition over.

AUGUST 2012

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For very young children starting in nursery or their school’s reception class, this may be the first time that they have left home and Mum or Dad regularly, and this is a big step for you all to make.

I hope that you have already been invited to visit the nursery or school with your child so that you can both see where they will be going. The best nursery schools will also arrange to come and visit you at home so that you can tell them about your child, discuss any concerns you have, and introduce you to your child’s key worker. In this way when you take them to nursery on their first day, they already know their teacher. It is not unusual for children to pick up on their parents’ fears and not want to leave them – BE STRONG – they will be perfectly happy and settled once you have left while you may well be an emotional wreck!

Talk to your child and listen to, and take seriously, any worries they have. Getting lost in their new school and looking stupid in front of other pupils is a common worry that really only time will resolve. You can talk through with them what they think they could do if this happens. Making new friends is also a common worry, especially if they are going to their new school without knowing anyone there. Again, this is something that time will resolve. Hopefully they will already have been to the school and met their Form Tutor and new class mates and have been encouraged to exchange contact details. If they have, use these over the holidays so that they can meet up before school starts in September and begin to make new friends before they start.

Finally, if you have any concerns that are greater than just settling-in nerves, speak to the school as soon as possible in September. No teacher wants children to be scared and unhappy and schools will do all that they can to ensure that the pupils in their care feel secure and happy.

Susan O'Riordan Head Mistress St Hilda’s School 10

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AUGUST 2012

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Oracle Appeal

Calling all WW2 Veterans

By Charles Wynne-Morgan

I

n two years it will be the 70th anniversary of the biggest sea borne invasion and maritime operation that has ever occurred.

On the morning of the 6th June 1944 Allied soldiers waded ashore in Northern France under the crackle of machine guns and rifle fire with the thud of shells punching the sand and water around them. Something most of us will not be able to imagine and hopefully never experience.

75 Million dead For the past five years the world had been in turmoil and around 75 million of the earths population would have died by the end of WW2 on September 2nd 1945.

Call to Action This is a ‘call to action’ to all WW2 veterans who served in this war to give an account of their experience/experiences no matter how small a part they played. I would really appreciate hearing about your stories from the Arctic convoys that supplied Russia in their moment of need, to the jungles of Indonesia in the far East, to guarding the waters of the River Thames. The plan for 2014 is to gather a collection of accounts from Veterans so that future generations can learn and never forget what our forefathers experienced and sacrificed.

Please call Oracle Publications on 01702 393838 or email charleswynnemorgan@hotmail.com if you are interested in having an interview and feel happy talking about your past regarding this historical event to ensure that your story is recorded for future generations.

Hopefully this will never happen again, as no man or woman should ever have their courage tested to this extent. This period in history is unique and I feel it is incredibly important to record the stories of any surviving men or woman who served in WW2 (D Day which was the turning point within the Allied war efforts).

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AUGUST 2012

St. Augustines Church Hall, Johnstone Road, Thorpe Bay

Join us 29th July 26th Aug

30th Sept 21st Oct 25th Nov

Come look at: FRUIT & VEG BREAD LOCAL MEAT FISH LOCAL EGGS LOCAL HONEY CAKES PICKLES AND JAMS CRAFTS PLANTS and a whole lot more!!

For further details contact 07976560683 HOME & PET-SITTING SERVICE

Home-sitting and Pet-sitting to suit your needs Reliable and cost-efficient CRB Checked Own transport Non Smoker Please call Victoria Burton for more info

Tel: 01702 580 234 Mob: 07915 397395 Email: homeandpetsitting@ymail.com

AUGUST 2012

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Oracle Hair & Beauty

It’s raining, it’s pouring but your fashion sense is soaring!

M

ove over Glamping, this summer is all about Wamping! That’s right, wet camping. Of course, just because it is raining there is absolutely no excuse for looking like a damp spaniel after a dip in a muddy pond – whether you’re at Glastonbury or the local garden centre.

Here are some bright ideas to help you look good when the heavens open.

cover you adequately without making you look like you're wearing a shapeless bag.Choose one in a shade that complements your skin tone. If you don't have a coat and are planning on getting wet, avoid clothing that's white or too sheer - these items will end up being seethrough when they get wet, and it doesn't make for a classy or mature look!

Avoid frizzy or straggly hair

Give it some welly with a fun and funky pair of Hunters.The choice of royalty and rock stars can brighten any rainy-day outfit whilst retaining a classic British look. Don’t forget to have a pair of sunglasses handy. You never know, it might be really bright outside when the rain stops and you might also want to cover up runny eye makeup.

If it's raining before you go out, put an anti-frizz cream or anti-humidity styling product in your hair. Set your style with hairspray and try to pull your hair out of your face if you can.When it's wet, hair will look limp and stringy, so if it is long then pop it up in a bun to keep it out of trouble.

Wear the right makeup If you think you might get your face wet, wear waterproof mascara to avoid dripping raccoon eyes. Use a lip stain to keep color on your lips, even if they get wet. Don't put a lot of color on your eyelids - it could look weird if your face gets wet and the makeup runs off.You can skip the blush if you want to - being out in the weather will probably make your cheeks flush anyway.

Keep a sunny attitude No matter what you're wearing, you'll stand out in the rain if you can manage to smile and be happy in your dismal surroundings. Embrace the day, and don't worry too much about getting wet - your smile will make up for any shortcomings in your outfit.

O

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Dress appropriately for the weather As the saying goes,‘there is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing’. Wearing a good quality trench coat in a classic colour will

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Travel Expert

Consider Kalkan

By Karen Goldman

I

want to tell you this month of a little gem in Turkey. Kalkan; once a small fishing village known as Kalamaki, is now one of the most sophisticated and picturesque seaside resorts in Turkey. It offers a wide variety of cosmopolitan restaurants, shops and bars dotted along the pretty harbour-front and up along the steep cobbled back streets of this beautiful old town; it is no surprise Kalkan has become so popular for both holidaymakers and British investors over the years, yet despite this, it has managed to retain its unique character and charm.

sun but also the stunning coastline set out before you and combined with the sumptuous meals served at the restaurant and relaxed atmosphere, you will almost certainly be back for more. My favourite is right at the water’s edge on the harbour – Aubergine … and there are numerous other eateries in town.

Despite being the up-market resort that Kalkan has become, you can still wander up into the mountains for no more than 15 minutes (by car or bus) and be transported back in time to a way of life that hasn’t changed for hundreds of years.The villages of Islamlar and Bezirgan are both within easy distance. Islamlar The properties in Kalkan, be it a hotel or villa, are all has a rambling collection of wonderful old houses and second to none in their standard, service and facilities is renowned for its trout farms whilst Bezirgan, nestled offered. If you can tear yourself away from the on an ancient lake bed, has a lifestyle that is property’s pool then the beach clubs are a perfect concentrated on yielding their crops and tending to choice. Made up of platforms cut from the rock at the their livestock. Wherever you choose to explore waters’ edge, they not only allow you to soak up the though you can be sure that Turkish hospitality will be in abundance.

With all this on your doorstep it is easy to see why guests return year after year.Kalkan has an enchanting ambience that will slowly but surely seduce you into the Turkish way of life where times is of no consequence but peace and contentment is everything.

O

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Money Matters

Gender pricing: all’s fair in love, war and insurance premiums

H

ave you ever wondered why women tend to pay less for car insurance than men, or why men get more bang for their buck when they convert their pension into an annuity?

It is all to do with the practice of gender-based pricing used by insurers to calculate the premiums we pay. But it is a practice that is about to be outlawed thanks to a landmark ruling – a ruling that will soon affect how much you pay for insurance or get from your pension fund.

The European Court of Justice in Luxembourg has ruled that using differences between men and women as a risk factor in setting premiums for car and medical insurance and pension schemes breaches EU rules on equality.

How it will affect you will depend on your age, medical condition and gender, although it is anticipated that more men than women will be better off as a result.

If you have a teenage son you will be all too aware of the sky-high cost of insurance. If you have a daughter of a similar age, you’ll be relieved to learn that although it is still expensive, premiums are lower for young female drivers.

With life insurance and pension annuities, the difference in premiums or benefits can be explained by differences in the life expectancy of men and women.

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The deadline may be around six months away, but people need to reassess their situation as soon as possible.

The savings could be considerable, particularly once you factor in the length of the policy.

Experts suggest that the cost of life cover and critical illness rates for both men and women could rise by around 25 per cent (ABI News Release, 1 March 2011). If this is the case, you could save yourself £6,000 by paying £200 a month on a 10-year policy rather than paying £250 a month.

There is another reason for not resting on your laurels.

Insurers may start to change their pricing ahead of the deadline The inability for insurers to use gender will not necessarily make pricing fairer, but it will make insurance more expensive for many and reduce pension income for many too.

It’s why you should act sooner rather than later

by Jacqui Moyies To receive a complimentary guide covering Wealth Management Retirement Planning or Inheritance Tax Planning, contact Jacqui on :

01702 589553 Jacqui.moyies@sjpp.co.uk or visit www.sjpp.co.uk/jacquimoyies

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AUGUST 2012

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AUGUST 2012

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An interview with Benjamin B

enjamin Grosvenor, aged 20, from Westcliff on Sea is now fully established as an international concert pianist in constant demand worldwide. We caught up with him just before he set off for a tour taking him to the USA and Australia, at the beginning of a busy summer that will include a return to the Proms and the release of his second CD for Decca Classics.

Promenaders. Sometimes smaller audiences can be more intimidating.

Do you enjoy all of the travelling that comes with the job?

I like seeing all of the different places, though getting there isn't often much fun! Generally there isn’t much time for sightseeing, but I usually manage to find a few hours for the purpose. I’m looking forward to When did you first perform performing in Australia at the Sydney Opera House for an audience? and at least seeing a bit of the city, although it’s rather My first public performances were at the Southend frustrating that I have to rush back to the UK for the and Leigh Music Festivals. I entered classes each year Proms. Would have been a great place for a little from about the age of six. But the occasion that I really holiday! remember was when I played at the Cliffs Pavilion to I understand that you have recently raise money for Little Havens. It was the first time I recorded a new CD. How did it go? experienced the atmosphere of the concert hall from the perspective of the performer - the piano on a I was recording with an orchestra (the Royal Liverpool stage, a darkened room. I would also play in more Philharmonic) so it was very different to my previous informal settings, for example collecting money for LH CD which was solo piano. As I was working with other by playing on my electric piano outside Waitrose. musicians, it was a less lonely experience - I could talk over ideas with the conductor - and was a lot more fun.

How did all of this compare to the opening night of the proms?

The Proms was certainly a big event, and very exciting, but all performances are as important as each other whether to 10 people or to 10 thousand. I do think that all the local performance experience that I had at a young age helped me to learn how to control my nerves.

How do you relax?

I read a lot and enjoy watching television - comedy in particular, which is great for unwinding after a hard day's practice (or a concert). Playing the piano is very physical, so I try to swim regularly to keep in shape. I don't play any sports myself (in case I injure my hands) but am very keen on watching tennis.Wimbledon this year was very distracting!

I did think that I would be terrified walking on the stage at the Albert Hall, but strangely I wasn’t; it’s Benjamin will perform at the Cliffs Pavilion actually a very friendly atmosphere because of the Sunday 7th October 4pm

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Entertain-Inn T

he brand new 4-star hotel Holiday Inn has five gold medals and five silver medals which he located at London Southend Airport will be has won over the years at the culinary Olympics. opening its doors for the first time this summer.

The 49-year old father of three from Benfleet started The £10 million development is sited on land adjacent his career at the legendary Eccentric Club (established to the Harp House Roundabout and as well as 1890 in St James’, London) as a teenager. From there providing high quality and convenient facilities for he worked at The Savoy for five years, before airport passengers and staff; it will be a fantastic new completing his training under Marco Pierre White at local venue for special events, weddings and the Michelin-starred Harvey’s for a further two years. conferences, with its restaurant sure to become a Leaving his Essex roots, Kieran cooked all over the favourite destination for diners. world including the USA, Australia, Middle East , Asia and a key member of the team opening all seven 1935 Rooftop Restaurant & Bar restaurants at Disneyland Paris. Returning to the UK, The stunning rooftop restaurant and bar will be called Kieran worked at the Merchant Tailor’s Hall in London the 1935 Rooftop Restaurant & Bar; a reference to the and Lords Cricket Ground. He has also been in year that airport opened as a municipal airport for the partnership with the world-renowned Raymond Blanc and established the Diamond Club at Arsenals’ public.

Emirates Stadium - despite being a West Ham fan!

The striking, fully sound-proofed venue atop the five-storey hotel is a first for Holiday Inn in the UK. Kieran says:“I am absolutely delighted to be Head Chef Guests will be able to enjoy breath-taking views of the at the new London Southend Airport Holiday Inn – it’s airport and surrounding countryside whilst enjoying really exciting to bring all the experience I gained from drinks and dinner. The 1935 Rooftop Restaurant & Bar my travels around the globe back home to Essex.” seats seventy and also boasts a private dining room for ten. It will be open for breakfast, dinner and Sunday He describes the 1935 Rooftop Restaurant & Bar menu as Classic British with a contemporary twist – highlunch. lights will include Homemade Potted Shrimps and 12Its Head Chef will be Kieran Moore, whom brings both hour Slow Braised Lamb Shoulder. Kieran adds:“I am Michelin and international experience to Southend. As really looking forward to creating a creative and the UK celebrates the 2012 Olympics, Kieran himself exciting menu, using as many local, seasonal

30

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ingredients from suppliers here in Essex as possible. I am passionate about showcasing what fantastic things the county has to offer in order to create a memorable dining experience full of new textures and flavours. My aim is that the 1935 Rooftop Restaurant & Bar will become a well renowned restaurant, for airport visitors and people across the county.”

Staying, Working and Celebrating at Holiday Inn The striking 129-bedroom Holiday Inn Southend is the latest addition to the world-famous hotel chain’s portfolio. In order to accommodate all types of guests, it will include a variety of spacious twin, double, family, interconnecting and specifically adapted rooms for wheelchair users. All the bedrooms will be furnished to a high standard featuring LCD HD Ready TVs, high speed Wi-Fi, trademark Holidreamer beds, pillow menu, spacious bathrooms and ample space to both work and relax. The hotel will also have twenty eight Executive rooms and four luxurious King Superior rooms.

Holiday Inn Southend will offer a state-of-the-art conference and banqueting facility in the Laker Suite for up to 150 guests, or a choice of smaller meeting rooms entitled Ambassador, Britannia and Carvair (in homage to planes that feature prominently in London Southend Airport’s history).

And for dog owners who are frustrated at the lack of local places where they can stay overnight or enjoy drinks and lunch with their four legged friends, the Holiday Inn Southend is dog friendly.

Christmas and New Year at Holiday Inn The Laker Suite will be transformed into a glittering Winter Wonderland for the 2012 festive season.

Groups of friends, colleagues or relatives can enjoy a delicious 3-course meal before dancing the night away with the resident DJ. Each December weekend it will be hosting the Santa Sunday Lunch – with a delicious festive roast and very special guest flying in with surprise gifts for good boys and girls.

There will also be lunch in the restaurant on Christmas Day and a glamorous Black and White Ball in Laker Suite for New Years Eve.

O

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recipe of the month

Method 1. Preheat the oven to 160c/fan 140/gas 3. Lay the tomatoes cut side up on a baking sheet lined with baking paper and drizzle with 3 tablespoons of the olive oil. Season with salt, pepper and a sprinkle of sugar. Roast for 50 minutes until semi-dried, remove from the oven and leave to cool.

In the Kitchen with Judy Barden

2. Blanch the asparagus in a pan of boiling water for 2-3 minutes, drain and put into ice cold water until cold then drain again. Put in a bowl and toss with 2 tablespoons of the olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Slice the courgettes thinly lengthways with a peeler and again put them in a bowl with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt and pepper.

3. Put a frying pan or griddle pan over a high heat for a few minutes until it is very hot. Cook the asparagus and courgettes in batches turning after about 1 minute until slightly browned or charred lines. Put to one side.

4. Make the basil oil, blitz all the ingredients with a pinch of salt in a small processor or use a hand held blender until smooth.

Chargrilled Asparagus, Courgettes and Halloumi

5. When ready to assemble, brush the slices of

T

his is a very versatile summer dish as it can be served as a starter or a main course or even on a big platter as part of a barbecue or buffet. Halloumi is a Cypriot cheese that needs to be warm when it is served. It holds its shape well and can be easily cooked in a griddle pan or frying pan.

halloumi with the remaining olive oil and over a medium heat fry them for 3 minutes each side or until golden brown. Place on kitchen paper to soak up any excess oil.

6. Arrange the rocket, tomatoes, vegetables and hot cheese on a serving plate and drizzle with the basil oil. Nice crusty warm bread would be perfect to mop up any juices.

O

Enjoy!

Chargrilled Asparagus, Courgettes and Halloumi Serves 4-6 Ingredients 350g cherry tomatoes, halved 140ml olive oil 24 asparagus spears, trimmed 2 courgettes 200g/250g pack halloumi cheese, cut into 2cm slices 25g rocket For the basil oil 75ml/ 5tbsp olive oil 1 garlic clove, chopped 25g fresh basil leaves Âź tsp black pepper

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Under The Hammer

Bag a bargain at an auction

By Trevor Cornforth

I

An auction sits very comfortably between the seller or deceased estate and the buyers who are competing to own the goods either as dealers or end users. The competitive element is the vital ingredient because it ensures the seller gets maximum price and not just the first offer from a gold buyer in the High Street or a dealer down the road. Auctions which include live internet bidding, such as ours, maximise the exposure offering all of the items on sale to a Worldwide The sad thing about these shows is that there is no audience and enabling customers to buy in the comsuggestion of an end user or collector just a desire to fort of their own homes.They do, however, miss out on make a profit the wrong way around! Most shows have the atmosphere! the contestants buying retail, in centres, shops or fairs and then trying to sell “wholesale” in an auction. It is If you fancy getting caught up in the action and bagging a bargain then pop along to our next sale, possible to make a profit that way but less likely. take a look and then think about whether you would What these shows do demonstrate is that there are lots like to bid and how much. We don’t bite, so maybe of bargains to be had but many people don’t realise have a chat with us about how it all works and whether that they can attend and buy at an auction or are afraid your idea of price is realistic.Then just stay and have a to do so.This is such a pity as they can be great fun and go!!! It’s much more fun than the telly and twice as a very good source whether you are into antiques, addictive!!! vintage or fine jewellery. n the last few issues we have concentrated very much on the selling aspect of auctions and the types of goods which are popular. There is, of course, another and vital side to the coin, buying! The current crop of TV programmes about antiques tend to treat the whole subject as a game show whereas there are vast numbers of people around the world who take dealing and collecting very seriously.

O

01702 613260 Items ready to sell at Chalkwell Auctions

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Health & Beauty

The benefits of Massage A

n ever increasing number of people are adding massage therapy into their lifestyles, using it to help relieve stress and pain, lower blood pressure, increase circulation and flexibility and even boost the immune system.

Many ancient cultures embraced massage as a form of medical care. Egyptian tomb paintings depict people enjoying a good rub down and traditional Indian medicine has long promoted the benefits of massage in conjunction with aromatic oils and spices. It is also believed that Julius Caesar received a daily massage to ease his neuralgia. Today, the mainstream medical establishment also advocates it as a legitimate and beneficial form of treatment - one survey found 54% of GPs would encourage their patients to pursue massage therapy as a treatment.

There are over two hundred techniques practised in Britain and these are some of the most common.

Swedish Massage This is the most common type of massage, developed by a Swedish doctor in the 1820â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.

Techniques include long, gliding strokes, kneading and friction to affect the nerves, muscles and glands. It's ideal for relaxation increasing circulation and energizing you.

from an injury such as whiplash or back strain. It also helps release toxins and break patterns of tension.

Sports Massage This massage is meant to help prevent athletic injury, relieve swelling, fatigue and muscle tension, increase flexibility and help enhance athletic performance.

Reflexology This is an acupressure-like technique that's based on the ancient Oriental belief that meridian lines carry energy throughout your body. Each zone has a corresponding reflex point on the feet that can stimulate a certain organ. It became popular in the 1930s. When a certain reflex point is stimulated, congestion of the related organ is said to be cleared out. It's used to help restore health.

Hot Stone Therapy Typically used in health spas, this massage uses heated stones that are positioned on the body and moved around with light pressure.

Just make sure you speak to a fully-qualified therapist or your GP beforehand, for advice on the right type of massage for you.

Deep Tissue Massage Reaching deep into your muscles and "unsticking" the fibres they contain. This is done by deep muscle compression and putting friction along and across the grain of the muscle.

It is especially good for helping repair damage

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ORACLE Organic Products Available for Delivery or Collection

Diary Dates DIARY DATES AUGUST 2012 Summer Recital St Augustine’s Church Thorpe Bay Sat 18th 7pm Simon Dyer, Bass Baritone – An evening of Opera scenes with Trinity Laban singers Sun 26th 7pm Phantasy Clarinet Trio NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY Magnolia Road Nature Reserve Hawkwell Sun 12th 10:30am Walk around reserve meet in Car Park FOULNESS ISLAND BIKE RIDE – 9TH SEPTEMBER 2012 The secret island is usually closed to the public but the MOD give permission for the Island to be open to cyclists for this day only, start at Great Wakering Primary School, track covers 23 miles.

Register to ride and get sponsored. Register at www.thorpebayrotaryevents.co.uk We need up to 100 volunteers to ensure the ride takes place safely, if you would like to be a Marshall please contact David Ince: dm.ince@virgin.net SUMMER FUNDRAISING FETE The Thorpe Bay Surgery 99 Tyrone Road Sat 1st September (11am - 2pm) Bouncy castle, face-painting, a book, CD and DVD stall, bric a brac, plants, barbecue, cake stall, a raffle, tombola, music and more.... We would be grateful for donations of any items to sell, especially cakes as Peaceful Place is manning the cake stall - and they did sell exceedingly well last year!

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Advertorial

Open Evening at Shoeburyness High School

I

f you have children going into Year 6 you will be faced with making some big decisions about their future during the autumn term ahead. The secondary education system in Southend-on-Sea is unique and there is a very broad choice of school available. You may have already visited our school at our selective open evening in June 2012.

My advice? Keep an open mind and have a really good look at all the options. Open evenings and open days will be taking place throughout the autumn term.

Our Open Evening at Shoeburyness High School is on Monday 24th September at 7pm. This is followed by two organised open mornings on 2nd and 3rd October at 9am.

You also have the opportunity to call us to arrange a private tour at any other time.

Why consider Shoeburyness High School for your son or daughter? n

n

n

n

n

n

We are a thriving Community Academy. Our continued success enabled us to become a ‘converter’ Academy, giving us freedom to create an engaging and inspirational curriculum It is judged as “A good school with outstanding features” by OfSTED It is one of the most improved schools in the country, recognised as going from strength to strength, year on year It is a school at which pupils make significant progress, which is more than the national average.

It has fast track groups in the core subjects, resulting in early high academic success and Academy groups across all subjects resulting in national excellence.

It is a school in which students can gain a selective place through sitting the 11+.

We value the opportunities learning an additional language brings so all new entrants will study Spanish and French from September 2012.

Additionally our recent OfSTED inspection found that, “Students are exceptionally well cared for as a result of the outstanding level of care, guidance and support they receive.”

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Please read our full OfSTED report which can be found online at www.ofsted.gov.uk

Our unique features include: n

Rapidly improving results and a school which, in the words of a Local Authority Advisor, “is going from strength to strength”: 2011 84% 5 A*- Cs.

n

We run a successful ‘High 5’ programme providing opportunities in the local community for high achieving Year 5 students. This has led to the introduction of ‘Super 6’ in September 2012

n

Our Gradu8 programme in Year 8 which raises expectations and leads to high achievement

n

A very popular and successful Year 12 and 13 which is expanding to 300 students, offering courses at levels two and three. Many of our Post-16 students’ progress into University education, including the Russell Group Universities.

n

A broad curriculum offer, with our nationally recognised pathways personalised to meet the needs of the individual child.

n

A wide range of physical education facilities. We offer vast numbers of different sports and sports leadership opportunities

n

Experienced specialist staff teaching in all curriculum areas – we are fully staffed from September 2012

n

A purpose-built Learning Resource Base which supports the needs of children with physical, sensory and learning difficulties. Our wide-ranging Special Needs support was judged “outstanding”

by Ofsted

n

A popular and successful Creative and Expressive Arts department – all students study music,art,and performing arts. We offer a wide range of peripatetic music lessons and there are many opportunities for musicians to play in ensembles and for budding thespians to take to the stage, including in the West End

n

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n

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We lead a Basketball Academy attracting high achieving students from across Essex.

Our students achieved national recognition at the finals of a Mock Trial Public Speaking Competition, beating many schools from across the country.

Our outstanding SSCO and Extended Schools continue to offer exciting and interesting learning opportunities for the Shoeburyness community.

Academy Groups and Higher Learning Groups are established across the school to support and challenge our highest achievers to reach their full potential.

Outstanding pastoral care and support

And Finally…

You will find that, at Shoeburyness High School, we genuinely value and take an interest in each of our students as an individual.“Students are known as individuals”, Ofsted 2010. All of our students achieve success at our school and we focus on this as a foundation for them to grow in confidence.

Students at Shoeburyness really enjoy school and are always pleased to tell you about their experiences.

I could go on, but better still – come and see for yourself on September 24th at 7pm.

I look forward to meeting you then.

Proud of our Students, Proud of our School.

Mark Schofield Headteacher

100% of our classrooms use interactive learning facilities We are a specialist technology school and the full range of technology subjects are studied. Our Technology resources are unrivalled across the town.

AUGUST 2012

Shoeburyness High School

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Fill in the grid above so that each 3 x 3 box, every row and every column contain the Nos 1 - 9.

The answer to last month’s puzzle is at bottom.

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Computer Co mputer Services Fast - Friendly - Fixed!

Full Full Health

Health Check Broadband Broadband S Set

et Up

Support Remote Remote Support

Data Data Backup & Recov ery Recovery

3

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Custom Custom Bu Builds

ilds Branded Branded Syste Systems

ms

Water Water Cooling Expe rts Experts

Parts Parts to Order

WORD LADDER Start at the top and change one letter each rung making a new word to arrive at the final word.

GLIDE

Computer Bespoke Comput er Systems

CRAWL

TRAIL

TRAWL

GRAIL

BRAIN

GRAIN

BRAID

BRAND

A Reputation Built On Recommendation

Computopia

LAST MONTH’S SOLUTIONS

52

supply We now sup ply broadband & web hosting packages

T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E

01702 219143 www.computopiasystems.com w ww.computopiasystems.com Iain & Terry Terry Iain www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2012

& DRIVEWAY CARPET UPHOLSTERY CLEANING & PATIO CLEANING

For more informatio n or a

FREE No Obligati on Quota tion, please co nt

act us

OVEN CLEANING

UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

Fast drying times for carpet & upholstery Guaranteed not to soak, stretch or shrink your carpet or furnishings Ovens and Hobs Sparkle and shine like new Domestic and Commercial work undertaken

AUGUST 2012

Gates Cleaning Services

125 HIGH STREET

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

GREAT WAKERING

01702 216377

T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E

53

Furniture restoration Services available:-

French Polishing All Structural Repairs Hand Veneering Cane Seating Leather Desk-Lining Clock-Case Restoration Antique Specialist

&

Fully-qualified craftsman in an established, local business offering high-quality service.

For a free verbal estimate please call:-

T.S.Baskett Established 1992

6 Durham Rd. Southend

 

Painting Wallpapering

RSC

Decorating Services Over 20 Years Experience

Contact:

01702 308978 Mob. 07932 709291

www.rscdecorating.co.uk 54

T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E

Experienced Local Electrician Domestic & Commercial

Free Quotes and Advice City & Guilds Qualified 25 yrs experience Clean, Friendly Part P Reg. Fully Insured

DanWaller Electrical Services 104 High Street ,Shoeburyness

01702 303867 Mob: 07733 262027

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2012

Air&Back

Airport Transfer Specialists

Air & Back, the airport-transfer specialists, provide an efficient and friendly door-to-door transfer to and from your airport. seaport or ferry terminal, at a reasonable cost.

Get your holiday or business trip off to a comfortable start with an effortless transfer from Air & Back.

Polite, experienced and wellpresented drivers Full comprehensive insurance including Hire and Reward Drivers and vehicles licensed by the local authority.

Detailed confirmation to you the day before departure

Call today for a competitive quote Air & Back, 75 Mayfield Avenue, Southend-on-Sea Essex SS2 6NR

Tel/Fax: 01702 435722 Mobile 07903 301086

CITY # STANSTED # GATWICK # LUTON # HEATHROW ww Ne w.p w W md eco ebsit rati e ng. co. uk

Need a

Decorator ?

Fully Qualified with 25 years experience All aspects of Painting & decorating Interior/Exterior Private or Commercial Full public liability Insurance References available on request Free Quotations Call Paul for more info

Tel: 01702 304541

Mob: 07931045448 Email: pppdec@hotmail.com AUGUST 2012

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E

55

useful numbers ADVICE & HELPLINES Child Protection Citizens Advice Crime Prevention Crimestoppers Cruse Bereavement Care Pier & Foreshore Inspectors Drugs, Alcohol & Substance Misuse HARP National Drugs Freephone Samaritans Southend Talking Newspaper Victim Support Group Southend Council Civic Centre Jobcentre Southend

ANIMAL WELFARE 534495 0844 4770 808 464199 0800 555 111 213843 215620 440400 615000 0800 776900 611911 554536 0845 4565995 215000 575700

CLUBS & ASSOCIATIONS Belfairs Mixed Bowling 475766 Burges Estate Residents Association (BERA) 588662 Carers Forum 393933 Charles Dickenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fellowship 588069 Cockleshell Clog Morris 479622 Essex Handicrafts Association 479622 Essex Society for Family History 522992 Lower Thames Rowing Club 482205 Prittlewell Bowls Club 612476 Southchurch Park Croquet Club 303957 Southend Blind Welfare Association 342131 Southend Cardiac Support Group 309042 / 293469 Southend Photographic Society 332491 Southend Rugby Club 546682 The English Speaking Union 588069 Thorpe Bay Bowling Club 582074 Thorpe Bay Bridge Club 616145 Thorpe Bay Floral Arrangement Group 585350 Thorpe Bay Lawn Tennis Club 585245 Thorpe Bay Yacht Club 587563 Thorpe Hall Golf Club 582205 Scout Groups Southend, Thorpe Bay & Shoeburyness 587647 Actorcrats (Amateur Dramatics) 306506 Thorpe Bay Art Group 294321 St Augustine's Church 587597 Southend Chess Club Steve Wedlock (Club Secretary) 345902 HOSPITALS & HEALTH BMI Southend Private Hospital Primary Care Trust Southend General Hospital Spire Wellesley Hospital

608908 224600 435555 462944

Downes & Prtnrs, Veterinary Surgeon RSPCA Rochford

POLICE SERVICES 24 hour Emergency Number 01702 430696 Southend Police Station (24 hours a day) 0300 3334444 Thorpe Ward Neighbourhood Specialist Officer Warren Lamb 07976 325346 Marine Police 01268 775533 Thames Coastguard 01255 675518

PUBLIC SERVICES Central Library 215011 Southend High Street Post office 391063 Bournes Green Post Office 582241 Traveline 0871 200 2233 Arriva Southend 08701 201088 First 01268 525251 National Express 08705 80 80 80 Odeon Cinema 0871 2244007 SSAFA (Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen Families Association) 463113

BMS DECORATING SERVICES Interior/Exterior painting Wallpaper Hanging Varnishing Masonry and Woodwork damage Water Damage Outside Furniture Refurbishing Cleaning & Staining of Decking Professional, Reliable, Clean and Tidy.

Call Brett for free Estimates and Advice

LOCAL MP James Duddridge (Con)

01702 616135

PHARMACIES Bansal Pharmacy 587500 178 The Broadway Mon-Fri 9-6.30 pm / Sat 9-1pm Howells & Brooks 582658 The Broadway Mon-Fri 9-6.30 pm / Sat 9-5.30 pm Closed 1-2 pm Wed+Sat.

56

T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E

584511 548261

BMS DECORATING SERVICES

07411 754342

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

info@bmsdecs.com

AUGUST 2012

S O FA S

CHAIRS

C U R TA I N S

BL I N D S

DESIGN, STYLE & CRAFTSMANSHIP Visit our extensive, newly refurbished showroom and workshop in Thorpe Bay. We offer a complete interior design service. A fantastic choice of styles, finishes, fabrics, leathers and bespoke upholstery – a talented and dedicated team of interior designers, furniture craftsmen and curtain makers to create your specific requirements – let us transform your home. Interior design by Michelle Elliott-Britto. We also provide a full re-upholstery and re-modelling service.

MORRIS

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INTERIORS :;(;065 96(+

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KITCHENS

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23-25 Station Road, Thorpe Bay, Essex SS1 3JY Tel. 01702 586800 Fax. 01702 586054 www.morrisinteriors.ltd.uk Opening hours: 9am–5pm Monday–Friday 9am–4pm Saturday

F U L L R E - U PH O L S T ERY

C A R PE T S

Thorpe Bay

01702 277684

ORACLE Index to advertisers ACCOMODATION Holiday Inn ACCOUNTANTS

Beelams

Marketing Solutions for the BEST local businesses

ESTATE AGENTS

30/31

Anderson Financial

55

AR Adams Funeral Services

ANTIQUE CLOCKS

It's About Time

Chalkwell Auctions

54

Murray Garage Doors

38

BI FOLING DOORS

Essex Bi Folding Doors BLINDS Worth & Co BUILDERS Cortes DJ Contractors CAFÈ CafÈ Ciao CAR DEALERSHIP VW Vans Centre CAR WINDSCREEN REPAIR Chips Away CARPENTRY & JOINERY Home Restoration Co CARPETS Trade Carpets CARPET CLEANING Gates Services CATERING Westley Catering CLEANING Maid In Essex COMMERCIAL & DOMESTIC PLUMBING & HEATING Essex Maintenance COMPUTER SERVICES Computopia Tech for Seniors CONSERVATORIES BJ Davis CONSERVATORY CLEANING ECCC DECORATOR

BMS Decoarating MK Decorating Paul Mearis RSC Decor

45 26

Ken Sendall

49

All Heart Fitness WDC Physiotherapy Ramis Health & Fitness

5 53 49 19

Victoria Burton

16 20

Janet Williamson Morris Interiors

Kitchen Base

Chargrilled Asparagus,Courgettes and Halloumi

Local Issues

Settling into School

Oracle Travel Consider Kalkan

Under the Hammer Bag a Bargain

Health & Beauty The Benefits of Massage

Cover photography by 'Niki Cornish Photography' on facebook

To advertise in ORACLE call

01702 393838

15

The Colour Barn

35 57 8 18

LANDSCAPES

56 4 55 54

Ovenclean

3/28 23

Recipe

PLUMBING

AV & BV Andrews

CC Optical

54

Bag a Bargain

25 13 44

JEWELLERY

27

48

Consider Kalkan

WIN! Pair of tickets for Cliffs Pavilion ‘Thank you for the music’ ABBA and BeeGees tribute

47

INTERIOR DESIGNER

32

50/51 21 6/7

Settling into School

Travel Expert Under the Hammer

Thorpe Bay at a glance Est. Sept 2005. Circulation 5,100

Oracle Competition

Cover photography by 'Niki Cornish Photography' on facebook

HOUSE & PET SITTING

Abbey Marble

ENTERTAINMENT

Benjamin Grosvenor Cirque Du Ciel

Local Issues

42

August 2012

HEALTH & FITNESS

Amax Landscapes J & B Landscapes

37

Oracle Competition WIN! Pair of tickets for Cliffs Pavilion ‘Thank you for the music’ ABBA and BeeGees tribute

53 41 36 12

HANDYMAN

52 17

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

Dan Waller

Leigh at a glance

Est. Oct 2006. Circulation 5,500

KITCHENS

35

Thorpe Bay

ORACLE ORACLE

33

HAIR & BEAUTY

59

EDUCATION

Shoebury High School St. Michael's School Thorpe Hall School

Colin's Glass

THORPE BAY - Aug 2012_Layout 1 30/07/2012 11:27 Page 1

August 2012

GARAGES

Bridge Garage RS Automotives Service Garage Vanguard Autos

Grateful Heads Headhunters

DRIVING SCHOOL

1st Advantage

54

GARAGE DOORS

60

47

LEIGH ORACLE - Aug 2012_Layout 1 30/07/2012 11:28 Page 1

Leigh-on-Sea

GLASS MERCHANT

25 15

DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIR

Cloudy 2 Clear

20

FURNITURE RESTORERS

TS Baskett

AUCTIONEERS

ONLINE

24

FUNERAL SERVICES

40

AERIALS

1st South East Aerials

11

FINANCIAL SERVICES

AIRPORT TRANSFER

Air & Back

Dedman Gray

39

ORACLE View the latest issues

25 33

MARBLE WORKTOP 27

OPTICAL

42

OVEN CLEANING 55

PAINTING & DECORATING

Rainbow

1

PATIOS & DRIVEWAYS

Amax Landscapes

17 47 42

2

RECRUITMENT

Chef/Waiting staff

37

RESTAURANT

1935 The Lemon Tree

4 39

ROOFING SERVICES

Estuary Roofing

19

SHUTTERS & BLINDS

Creative Shutters & Blinds

40

SKIP HIRE

Leigh Skip Hire

49

THERAPY

Bowen Therapy

52

TILING

G Perks Tiling

37

TRAVEL COUNSELLOR 22

TREE SERVICES

46 48

VENUE

Freight House

19

WEBSITE DESIGN

Oracle Website Solutions

34

WEIGHT LOSS

17

Lighter Life

47

BC Windows

PLASTERING

L & A Plastering

15

PUBLIC HOUSE

Angel Inn

Mike's Tree Services Treefella

PILATES

WDC Physiotherapy

Farmer's Market

46

PHYSIOTHERAPY

Susan White WDC Physiotherapy

12

PRODUCE

Karen Goldman

PET SITTING

Precious Pets

20 33

PRINTING

40

PAVING

Brooks Paving

Brian Lacey Hammond & Son

29

WINDOW CLEANING 35

ORACLE - the smart, little glossy mags for Southend

Reach over 20,000 readership in Leigh & Thorpe Bay hungry for your business Call for a Media Pack or visit www.oraclepublications.co.uk To advertise in ORACLE call 01702 393838 All rights reserved. No part of Oracle Publications UK Ltd. may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means either wholly or in part without prior permission of the publisher. Oracle Publications UK Ltd. is editorially autonomous and the opinions expressed are not those of the publisher unless expressly stated.

58

T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

AUGUST 2012

H

aving been open now for getting on three years Volkswagen Van Centre Chelmsford are delighted to announce that Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles have awarded Chelmsford Van Centre Tour Dealer status from January 2012.

opening. We are really excited to now be able to offer this fantastic vehicle to Essex and the surrounding area".

For further information with regard the Volkswagen California or any other exciting Commercial vehicle products please call.

This is a tremendous achievement for such a young Van Centre and has really now given the Van Centre the ability to offer the full range of vehicles imported by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles UK. Chris Bunce, Head of Business at Chelmsford says: "Having the ability to now sell this prestigious product is a great credit to the way the van centre has grown and developed in its short time since AUGUST 2012

01245 216456 Westway Chelmsford Essex CM1 3BH www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/chelmsford Paul.higham@ir.inchcape.co.uk

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E

59

Café | Lounge Bar | Dining Announcing Café Ciao is now under new ownership Café Ciao is a friendly place to relax and catch up with friends and family which offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere in Thorpe Bay Broadway.

Grab a FREE Coffee!

The new owners wish to welcome new and existing customers with a free cup of regular coffee or tea* from 6th August to 20th August 2012 on production of this months Oracle. *(this offer is only subject to one customer per issue).

INITIAL HERE WHEN CLAIMED

Open for business as usual.

Enjoy delicious coffees, home made cakes, speciality teas, Paninis, Bagels, Toasties etc. Open Monday – Saturday 9am – 5pm.

Newly refurbished wine bar opening soon and lots more, so watch this space!

Function room available for private hire.

132 The Broadway, Thorpe Bay, SS1 3ES cafeciao@hotmail.co.uk

01702 588042