April Leigh Oracle 2012

Leigh-on-Sea

April 2012

ORACLE

Leigh at a glance

Est. Oct 2006. Circulation 5,500

WIN! Competition A pair of tickets for Buddy Holly - A Legend Reborn At the Cliffs Pavilion

NEW!Travel Expert Why You Need a Travel Agent

Under the hammer What is it worth?

Recipe Deep-filled Egg and Bacon Pie

Fully Licenced Waste Carriers

Tel: 01702 430570 Mobile: 07955 274663 www.leighskiphire.co.uk

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Homeware: We stock an eclectic mix of contemporary/vintage pieces to enhance your living space. New ranges coming soon. stationary: Greetings cards, Gift wrap, Journals...

Monday : Closed Tuesday : 10 - 5:30 Wednesday : 10 - 5:30 Thursday : 10 - 5:30 Friday : 10 - 5:30 Saturday : 10 - 5:30 Sunday : 11 - 4

CALLIE & FINN 35 Alexandra street southend-on-sea ss1 1bw

01702 344767

Leigh

OR ACLE

publisher’s letter

W

ith this edition Oracle has another new feature from a local, well travelled lady called Karen Goldman. Each month she will be taking us to all sorts of wonderful destinations around the world. This month she has initially given an overview of the pitfalls of not using a travel agent. Over the next few months watch out for the Travel Expert page and allow your mind to be transported to some great destinations in the world covering a vast range of budgets.

Oracle’s competition this month has been kindly donated by Entertainers. One lucky winner can win a pair of tickets to see the ever popular Buddy Holly at the Cliff’sPavilion on May 17th, in A Legend Reborn. Please send your entries in by April 27th.

Please check out their website on www.thecliffspavilion.co.uk for further details on this show.

Have you got draughty windows?

Are they working correctly?

To enter, simply send your name and contact details to Oracle/Buddy Holly Competition , 39 Alexandra Street., Southend, Essex SS1 1BW. Or by email to info@oraclepublications.co.uk stating the competition in the subject box and giving your contact details.

Good Luck!

Why not have them completely overhauled and fitted with draught proof beading?

Overhauling, draught proofing and all aspects of carpentry.

Full public liability insurance

Emma Wynne-Morgan Publisher

01702 393838

39 Alexandra Street, Southend, Essex SS1 1BW

T.C. Sash Windows

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 APRIL 2012

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Call Tom Clark:

07557 410994 01702 292188

CARPENTRY

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ORACLE contents Local Issues Local Nature

By Pat Wortley

9/10

Beard & Wonderful Hair & Beauty by Craig Smith

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Why You Need a Travel Agent Travel Expert by Karen Goldman

16

Sovereign Debt Crisis Money Matters by Jacqui Moyies

20

Deep-filled Egg and Bacon Pie Judy's Recipe Page

26

Detailed Design Planning by Tim Knight

30

What is it worth?

32 Under The Hammer by Trevor Cornforth

Diary Dates

36

Useful Numbers Advertiser Index

40 42

Advertorials Absolutely Fabulous iFit Studio 4

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6/7 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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2012

Advertorial

Shake that body!

S

ummer is around the corner and I am sure like me, some of you would like to lose a little bit of weight, gained during those winter months. Or perhaps you would like to just tone up ready for that first beach moment of the year! Whatever your reason the i.fit Studio in Southchurch is offering its clients a very new and innovative way of losing weight which can fit in with anyones busy schedule.

Amongst many of its advantages it also increases stamina and improves fitness and well-being.

Get fit without a gym

All i.fit machines have two motors, one that powers the oscillation motion and one for the vibrating motion. Oscillation, the up and down motion, will give the body a resistance work out.The body will try to correct itself, fighting against the motion, so as one limb moves up, the other limb moves down allowing the bodies natural shock absorbing system to operate.

This new exercise studio is unique locally, offering its clients the chance to exercise without actually working out! Intrigued? Then please read on‌.

The i.fit Studio holds eight i.fit machines that help its clients maintain a regular exercise routine for short intervals with amazing results.If you are looking for a well toned body, better flexibility, improved circulation plus the reduction of the appearance of cellulite then these machines will be a great find.

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Combined with a healthy diet and if used regularly, the vibrating and oscillating plates can reduce your dress size up to two sizes. Celebs such as Madonna, Sadie Frost, and Donatella Versace are all frequent users of i.fit machines.

How do the i.fit machines work?

The benefits of oscillation training are: Reduction in visceral and subcutaneous fat – Particularly around the abdomen Improvement in muscle tone Reducing cholesterol Improvement in the function of the nervous system Improvement in bone density, making the bones become stronger Improvement in intestinal movement Increases the metabolic rate – the best way to lose weight

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APRIL

2012

These vibrations cause the muscles to contract and relax anything between 3 and 50 times per second.Which means just 10 minutes of vibration training is the equivalent of 60 minutes resistance training.

The wonderful thing about this machine is that it is versatile and by using different positions on the machine you are able to tone and exercise different parts of the body.

The i.fit machines have three different speeds to cater for people’s different abilities. Therefore, people as young as 16 and up to the age of 80 are able to use the machines once they have been given advice from i.fit Studio’s staff and answered a few health questions.

Knowledgeable staff on hand There are eight i.fit machines in the women only studio and another two i.fit machines in a men only area. If you have young children there is a secure play area at the back of the studio. Tea and coffee facilities are also available.

The friendly and knowledgeable members of staff are always available to help show you how to use the i.fit machines, give guidance and expert advice.

Appointments are not necessary just drop by with your friends and have a work out whilst you catch up and share a giggle, as the i.fit machines are great fun to use. Or just come alone on your own as you will be made to feel very welcome.

Open 7 days a week The i.fit Studio’s opening hours are Monday to Friday 9am – 10 pm, Saturday 9am – 9pm and Sunday 10am – 9pm.The i.fit Studio is open 7 days

a week and clients are able to drop in at any time.

Next door to the studio, is a state-of-the-art tanning salon, so why not take advantage of this facility and enhance your overall healthy image ready for the summer.

FREE OFFER: i.fit Studio is offering all new clients a 6 minute free trial session.To qualify for this offer please take a copy of this month’s Oracle along to the i.fit Studio, offer ends 30 April 2012. (Terms & Conditions apply)

Read below are a few testimonials from the many happy and fit clients of i.fit Studio.

Lorraine 23.11.2011 I started using the ifit machine 2 months ago. I was a size 14 and very “wobbly”. I use the machine 4 times a week for 10 or 20 minute sessions. I am now size 10 and feel great. I cannot believe how great the machines are.

Joanne Appleton 25.11.2011 I have just finished a 12 session course and have alreadyhad comments about weight loss. Excellent.

Invested in another course.

Jean 3.3.2012 With the help of the girls that work in the ifit studio I completely got rid of my cellulite. I cant thank them enough.

01702 612580 http://www.abfabtanning.co.uk

202 Woodgrange Drive, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 2SD APRIL 2012

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Painted Lady butterfly

Local Issues

Local nature

By Pat Wortley

O

ne Spring day in 2009, I looked out of an upstairs window and saw a stream of Painted Ladies, newly arrived from the Continent, flying past. A sight like that is one aspect of the enjoyment of natural historians in our local wildlife.

There are many surprises. A kingfisher may be seen flying along beside the stream in Willingale Way if you are lucky and up early.

Among our parks Priory Park has been specially enhanced by a little stream leading into the Prittle Brook. Brent Geese from Siberia on the shore in the autumn, a stunning array of rose hip berries on the sea wall in winter.The list goes on.

Our Society was founded in 1934. Local naturalists were anxious to protect the ancient woodland in Belfairs. The battle took several years, and included An animal was seen there recently that might have a petition of 20,000 signatures before Southend been a mink, but are the water voles still there? Borough Council purchased the land.Together they Maybe you will hear a cuckoo on Two Tree Island secured it for the enjoyment of generations to soon or a nightingale if you go further afield. come.

The changing seasons bring a succession of The richness of the wildlife in the NatureReserve led different interesting things. Beautiful Pyramidal to its classification later as a Site of Special Scientific Orchids may be seen on the golf course in summer, Interest (SSSI). Part of what our members do is to record the flora, fauna and fungi they find.

Spotted Orchids

APRIL 2012

Details of our activities can be found by phoning Pat Wortley on 01702 588115, as well as in our publication, Hadleigh Great Wood:The Wildlife and History of Belfairs Nature Reserve, which records 2,295 species of plants, fungi and animals found in it up to 1988. In 2002, Betty Matson rediscovered the Dormouse there, which led to Paul Terry, then the Borough’s Environmental Officer, initiating a survey. Now they are monitored by the local Dormouse Group set up in 2004. www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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New local records are found all the time, some during our field meetings. Some occur, as is to be expected these days, as a result of climate change, e.g.Wasp Spiders extending their range up from the Continent for example.

We engage in conservation work, some in Belfairs.

There, in Dodds Grove, an area is managed to help the Heath Fritillary butterfly by encouraging the growth of the Yellow Cow-wheat the food plant for its larvae, which otherwise can get smothered by other plants.This butterfly became extinct but was reintroduced. A rich reward is to see numbers of this dainty, pretty creature flying freely in the sunshine.

Another project is to encourage the presence of the Deptford Pink around Hadleigh Castle and on the Belton Hills, by monitoring and creating small patches suitable for seeds and Plants. It is an exquisite small type of Pink. It is rare and we have deposited seeds in Kew’s Millenium Seed Bank at Wakehurst Place.

Our President, Don Down, discovered a wonderful place for wildlife and for visitors at Canvey Wick.

Originally a grazing marsh, but subsequently part was developed as an oil refinery. He found an astonishing carpet of the Southern Marsh Orchid and also the rare Shrill Carder Bee. Since it supports “one of the most rich and rarity-dominated populations of insects” in this country, the site was declared a SSSI by English Nature.This part of South Heath Fritillary butterfly in Dodds Grove

Irises in brook in Priory Park

Essex is fortunate in having the Belton Hills and the Southend-on-Sea Foreshore, both of which have been designated as Local Nature Reserves. The former was largely as a result of work by Joyce MacConnell, the later by other members. Our Borough has some smaller Local Wildlife Sites e.g.

Thorpe Hall Golf Course. The Borough Council has a Biodiversity and Environmental Awareness Working Party to which our Society contributes We hold meetings in the Southend Central Museum, some addressed by experts in natural history, including our Recorders. We have themed members’ evenings where we research and present material ourselves. These all provide the opportunity to learn more. Who would have thought, for example, that the life history of the huge Swan Mussel includes parasitizing a fish called the bitterling, as we were told the other day!

We invite visitors and new members. Details of our activities can be found in our Newsletter, in our journal The South Essex Naturalist and on the website which we are developing senhs.org.uk.

SOUTH ESSEX NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY

01702 588115 www.senhsorg.uk v.tring@virgin.net Registered Charity No. 231981

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APRIL

2012

A GREAT BIG THANK YOU FROM ! ! !

THE NEW JJs IN LONDON ROAD

We know that many of our parents read the Oracle, so what better place to say a big thank you for helping to make the move to our new centre in Leigh such an amazing success!!

At JJs we offer outstanding professional tuition for ages 5-16.

We rebuild confidence and help our students to be the very best they can be. Our brand new centre in Leigh is fully equipped with great technology, superb resources and excellent teachers. It"s a winning combination! !

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Our students work on an individually planned programme of work, based on their own needs and aspirations. Our tutors ! fully qualified and experienced teachers ! all live locally and understand the local educational environment. !

Ours is an attractive, well-equipped learning environment and we use a mix of online, computer and paper-based resources. Our students enjoy the confidence that comes from individual attention in a sociable, yet focused, environment.

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We help our students catch up, keep up and forge ahead. To discuss any concerns you might have and book a free educational assessment, give Jacky a call at the centre, on 01702 553353 You can also email her at jacky@jjstuition.co.uk or use the enquiry form on our website, www.jjstuition.co.uk !

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APRIL

2012

Specialist dementia care home opening soon.

Show suites now open and reservations being taken.

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Oracle Hair & Beauty

Beard and Wonderful D

oes a beard give you an un-hair advantage over other men when it comes to work and relationships?

What’s not to love and admire about a proper, manly, distinguished-looking beard? I ask as a chap - beardwearers can only be described as ‘chaps’ - who possesses fantastic facial fuzz himself.

Sadly however, a new piece of scientific research has revealed that many more women are suffering from pogonophobia.

Thankfully, that doesn’t mean that they themselves look like Kind Edward VII but have a fear of beards.

Shocking, I know.

This is all dashed inconvenient – I always talk like Terry Thomas when discussing beards – when heartthrobs like George Clooney, Keanu Reeves, Brad Pitt and David Beckham have all sprouted impressive whiskers.

Growing a beard makes the wearer more masculine. It also carries a certain air of gravitas and intellect.

Stroking your hirsute chin while you think, make you look like a deep thinker. Of course, a certain length of growth can make you look like you just don’t care about primping and preening yourself in front of the mirror. For some, stubble projects a sort of laissez-faire outlook on life. Not shaving means you save time for more important things, like writing that Pulitzer-prize winning article or, more realistically, making a cheeky bacon sarnie. Another reason is simply that beards make chaps hot and attractive. Or do they?

decided to check whether women were drawn to strong and healthy, bushy, macho men.

They picked 19 men with full beards (that’s weeks of growth, with no trimming) and photographed them.They then asked their volunteers to shave off their beards, and photographed them again.

The pictures were then shown to over 200 women, who were asked to rate the gents on their attractiveness. Overwhelmingly the clean-shaven images were regarded as significantly more attractive.

Interestingly, when other men were asked what they thought of the subjects in the photos, they said that the bearded blokes looked older and more aggressive but curiously, both sexes stated that facial hair added gravitas and that the bearded men appeared to have a higher social status, commanding more respect from their peers.

In short, beards send a signal of alpha masculinity to other men but do little to attract women.

Of course, if growing a beard tickles your fancy I’d say go for it but if the other half doesn’t approve, be prepared to take it on the chin!

Psychologists Paul Vasey and Barnaby Dixson

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O

Sponsored by

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Travel Expert

Why you need a Travel Agent

By Karen Goldman

J

ust a couple of years ago, headlines were about the demise of the travel agent, about to go the way of the Dodo and the dinosaur. Guess what? Travel agents are not only still here, they are experiencing a rebound – despite (or because of?) the myriad travel tools available online.

Among the many major advantages high-powered agents bring to the table is personal connections and clout. “Connections” means knowing GMs and executives at top hotels personally. Who do you think will get you that special room and VIP service ? You calling an 0800 reservation centre, or your travel agent calling the GM whom he or she has known for 20 years – and sends a lot of business to? All these extras come from the travel agents calling on your behalf – at no extra cost to you. The clout part comes from volume.

When your travel agent books hundreds of room nights with a high profile luxury hotel each year, the hotel will move heaven and earth to look after their clients.

To be clear, I am talking about true experts, the really good travel agents who add value, not the ones running full page ads of deals in the Sunday papers.

The best travel agents are essentially consultants, because it is their advice, expertise, and connections that are of great value, not the ability to print airline tickets for you. Find an excellent travel advisor and stick with them, because a big part of the equation is that they get to know you and your wants, likes and People think they can just book flights, hotels, or car rentals themselves, and sometimes they can, especially dislikes, and make suggestions accordingly. if nothing goes wrong. But when your flight is cancelled and you are standing in line waiting to be rebooked, believe me, you’ll wish you had a travel agent.

I have been in the travel industry for 25 years and many clients are now old friends as I have looked after their honeymoons, family trips, and special celebrations. It’s not quite the same relationship with your laptop !

Sponsored by:

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karen.goldman@travelcounsellors.co.uk

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APRIL

2012

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APRIL

2012

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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 20

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

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APRIL

2012

Money Matters

Sovereign debt crisis – A good time to invest?

by Jacqui Moyies

F

inancial issues have hardly been out of the headlines in the last five years, ever since the credit crunch first came into the national consciousness, and the European sovereign debt crisis of the last two years has merely served to intensify the media coverage.

Since the autumn of 2009, the European Union has been struggling with the mounting debts of some of its weakest economies, notably Greece and Portugal.

The crisis has even raised questions about whether the Euro can survive as a currency, placed strains and risks on banks across the continent and forced cuts in government spending, putting several countries back into recession.

So what are the opportunities for investors in what remains a tough and uncertain economic environment? Equity markets so far in 2012 have started on a much more positive note.

There are exciting and attractive investment opportunities out there. Take, for example, large blue-chip companies with a strong and healthy market position and a continuous record of generating profits and earnings during all phases of the economic cycle. Some of the best opportunities today can be found in the telecom and pharmaceutical sectors.

And one of the safest places to invest in equity markets in times of economic turmoil are in defensive sectors such as consumer staples – industries that manufacture and sell food and

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beverages, tobacco and household products.

These are typically the last products to be removed from the household budget at times when disposable incomes are being squeezed.

In addition, many analysts see corporate bonds as a promising asset class. Exaggerated fears of mass defaults are, in the eyes of many, presenting investors with unprecedented value in high quality corporate bonds.

Commercial property, too, continues to represent a high-yielding and relatively stable asset class, presenting a further valuable opportunity for investors to diversify their assets and ultimately be rewarded over the longer term.

After the events of the past few years, investors need no reminding that equity investing can be volatile. But history is clear - stock markets tend to rise over the longer term, despite short-term fluctuations. Good investment opportunities still exist for the prudent investor, across a diversified portfolio. However, to find those opportunities requires the expertise of a skilled and experienced wealth management specialist in order to satisfy properly medium to long-term investment objectives.

O

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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APRIL

2012

Organic Products Available for Delivery or Collection

FREE DELIVERY WITHIN 8 MILES

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APRIL 2012

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2012

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recipe of the month

processor. Add the butter and lard, then whizz briefly until the mixture looks like fine breadcrumbs. Tip into a bowl and stir in just enough cold water to bring the mixture together into a ball.

In the Kitchen with Judy Barden BOOK NOW FOR MA Y DEMONSTRATION CLA VARIOUS DATES AVAILASSES! BLE For more info email judy.barden@btinternme at et.com

Deep-filled Egg and Bacon Pie

I

f you have guests to feed over the Easter weekend this is always very satisfying and can be served warm or cold. If you are worried about making the pastry, ready-made shortcrust will be fine, you will probably need 2 packets. Enjoy!

Ingredients 300g (about 10) rindless smoked back bacon rashers 25g butter, plus extra for greasing 2 bunches of spring onions, trimmed and thinly sliced 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives 10 medium free-range eggs 100ml double cream ¼ tsp freshly grated nutmeg For the pastry 350g plain flour, plus extra for dusting ¾ tsp salt 90g chilled butter, cut into pieces 90g chilled lard, cut into pieces Method 1. Put a heavy-gauge baking sheet on the middle shelf of the oven. Preheat the oven to 190°C/fan170°C/gas 5. Stack up the bacon rashers and cut lengthways in half, then across into short strips. Heat a large frying pan over a high heat, add half the bacon, then fry briskly for 3-4 minutes until crisp and lightly golden.

Set aside with a slotted spoon, then repeat with the remaining bacon. Clean the pan.

2. Lower the heat and add the butter to the pan. When it has melted, add the spring onions and cook gently for 1 minute. Remove the pan from the heat, leave to cool slightly, then stir in the cooked bacon and herbs.

3. For the pastry, put the flour and salt in a food

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4. Knead briefly on a lightly floured surface, then cut off a 200g piece and set aside. Roll out the remaining pastry and use to line the base and sides of a lightly buttered 5.5cm deep, 20cm loose-bottomed round tin, leaving the edges overhanging.

5. Separate one of the eggs and set the yolk aside in a cup. Lightly beat the egg white and another egg with the cream, nutmeg, a little salt and some pepper in a small jug. Scatter two-thirds of the bacon mixture over the base of the tin and drizzle over half the cream mixture.

6. Carefully break the remaining eggs one at a time into a cup and slide them side-by-side onto the top of the bacon mixture, taking care not to break the yolks.

Season them lightly, scatter over the remaining bacon mixture, then drizzle over the remaining egg and cream mixture.

7. Brush the overhanging pastry with a little water.

Roll out the remaining pastry into a round, carefully lay it over the top of the pie and press the pastry edges together. Neatly trim ›back the overhanging pastry to 2cm, brush with a little more water, then roll it over on itself to form the edge of the pie. Crimp it well between your fingers, lightly score the top in a criss-cross pattern and cut a small slit in the centre of the lid.

8. Beat the reserved egg yolk with 1 tsp water and brush generously over the top of the pie. Re-knead and roll out the pastry trimmings, cut into leaves and use to decorate the top of the pie. Brush them with a little more glaze, slide the pie onto the baking sheet and bake for 1 hour or until the pastry is golden.

Remove from the oven and set aside for 30 minutes.

Carefully remove from the tin and serve warm, cut into wedges.

Next month’s recipe:

‘Maple Glazed Roast Chicken’ Sponsored by

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Advertorial

Small classes make a big difference

W

ith the number of open day visitors to Thorpe Hall School reaching an all time high in March, Headteacher Mr Andrew Hampton gives the Oracle his thoughts on what makes the forward thinking independent school so successful.

“I have no doubt that small class sizes makes a significant difference to education.

heavily in our teachers, our staff:pupil ratio is excellent allowing us to create even smaller classes for pupils who need more support. It is not uncommon for these pupils to be taught in a class as small as 5 or 6 – and the benefit is enormous, with pupils outperforming their benchmarked predictions by many grades at GCSE.

We are particularly proud of the fact that we have broken our best ever record for GCSE results twice in the last three years and are now the leading non-selective independent school in the whole of Essex. I think we have achieved this academic excellence by making It further shows that the positive effects of this every school day interesting and fun, by close attention in the first four years of supporting learning at home through our schooling can last right up until the end of virtual learning environment and by giving sixth form. We firmly believe in the benefits of each child the care, love and individual small teaching groups here at Thorpe Hall attention they need to thrive and succeed”.

School with classes limited to 20 in the Junior School and 16 in the Senior School.

In fact, a US study has recently provided some of the most compelling evidence yet that children taught in small classes in infant schools are likely to do significantly better at secondary level.

From early years, children are taught in small classes within stimulating and productive environments; including state-of-the-art ICT suites, dedicated science, food, textiles and art studios and exceptional sports and recreational facilities.Because we invest Wakering Road, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS1 3RD

01702 582340

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LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

APRIL

2012

Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.

John Dewey

forward thinking Here at Thorpe Hall, we hold traditional values dear but we keep a clear and consistent focus on a brighter future. This is a progressive and forward thinking school for a modern world; a place where new ideas and initiatives are always explored and embraced.

Our teaching style is founded on support, guidance and a love of learning and our pupils are actively encouraged to become strong, independent thinkers.

Our aim is to bring life to education as well as bringing education to life.

Thorpe Hall - for girls and boys from nursery to GCSE

t 01702 582340 www.thorpehallschool.co.uk Wakering Road | Southend-on-Sea | Essex | SS1 3RD

Oracle Planning

Detailed Design S

o now we have a design, considered aesthetics and presented a comprehensive application to the local authority for approval. Of course approval is not guaranteed and refusals are unfortunately issued, but should that occur you still have the option to amend and re-submit or appeal the decision. In this event specialist Architectural services may be required together with involving a planning consultant who would advise on the appropriate method of appeal.

For our purposes we will assume approval has been granted and you are ready to get into the ‘nuts and bolts’ of the development.This is the detailed design stage when you and your architect fully plan the structure and detail every operation your chosen builder will perform. As a famous architect said “God is in the detail” and this phase shouldn’t be avoided or under-estimated….spend enough time at this stage and you have a far better chance of avoiding unnecessary over-run and extra expense during the works.

You may need to employ Structural, Mechanical and Services Engineers or other design consultant to help design the project.The team works closely, interpreting your requirements, to produce the construction information and tender package. Traditionally the Architect leads the team and should advise on all elements of the construction. Decisions should be made at this time that include construction techniques and contract details, materials, finishes,

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LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

fittings,programme and budget to ensure the level of detail is commensurate with your dreams and budget..

In order to deliver your ideal design within budget your team must ensure all details are included in the tender package to allow the Contractors to analyse and accurately price. Your architect should assist producing a tender list which usually consists of 3 or 4 builders. Builders unfortunately do get a bad press but the reality is the majority are honest and reliable and want to deliver a product you will be proud of.

However the choice of builder is critical, as well as delivering the project he must be able to work with you and understand your needs, there is nothing more destructive to a project than the breakdown in communication or relations between client and builder.

Once tenders are issued there is always an anxious wait for the prices to return. We will deal with the priced returns and the commencement of the work on site next but in the meantime I am happy to deal with any specific questions about any part of the programme at info@oraclepublications.co.uk

By Tim Knight Sponsored by:

01702 715517 www.knightgratrix.com

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

APRIL

2012

FEBRUARY

2011

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

31

Under The Hammer

What is it worth?

Trevor Cornforth

A

fter the last issue Michael sent me an email about a Chinese ceramic panel he owns but knows nothing about. Photos can often be deceptive so I asked him to let me take a look and neither of us was disappointed.

It is quite clear to see that it is a Cantonese enamelled porcelain tile but the subject is a lovely Imperial Court scene with the typical cut-away allowing a view of the interior of the building where the Emperor is receiving petitions. Once I was able to see it first-hand it became apparent that it is a mid 19th C piece of very fine quality which has been set later into a lacquered frame, probably in Shanghai in the 1920’s ready for export.

Such panels were usually set as table screens rather than wall decoration and this one will definitely attract the Chinese buyers who are clawing back their own heritage.Value wise I would expect it to run into several thousand pounds.

A very fine famille rose panel with lacquered frame.

have been used for cutting silk or paper. Similar examples can be seen in important museum collections so it is quite a surprise to see them popping up in Leigh on sea.

The market for such things is small but keen so again a sale price in the mid hundreds of pounds can be expected. Despite the Court origins the achieved prices in recent years for similar pieces have not been as high as one might expect. However this was still I also had an enquiry about this unusual pair of quite a surprise for our lady owner who had taken scissors which have languished for a long time in an them for granted. elderly lady’s china cabinet.

If you have something you would like to know about Once again handling them tells the full story.They are then email a picture to me at info@chalkwellaucTurkish in origin and although they are steel they are tions.co.uk and I will try to help or give me a call inlaid with gold making them quite important items from the Ottoman Court in the 18th C. They would

The scissors which subsequently sold just below £1,000!

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LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

01702 613260 chalkwellauctions.co.uk

2 Baron Court, Chandlers Way, Southend on Sea, Essex, SS2 5SE www.oraclepublications.co.uk

APRIL

2012

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34

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

APRIL

2012

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All your fencing needs in Thorpe Bay Professional, efficient and competitive

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APRIL 2012

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35

ORACLE

ts star son April a e s 8th 2

Prittlewell Bowls club Priory Park, Victoria ave

Diary Dates SOCIAL EVENING 11TH APRIL FREE Essex Handicraft Association South East Essex Branch.

Hadleigh 01702 479 862 EASTER EVENT FREE 7th April, Leigh Library Gardens 13:00 - 16:00 Join in the fun of an Easter Egg Hunt with a prize for all who complete the hunt.

Activities include Leigh Lions BBQ, a Bounc Castle, Punch & Judy, face painting, ice cream, children's entertainment and a variety of stalls.

01702 716288.

EASTER ON THE ESTUARY FREE 8th - 9th April, Southend Pier Meet the Easter Bunny who will be handing out cream eggs to the children. Activities will include a lucky dip, raffle & children's colouring competition.

01702 618747 vic@southend.gov.uk.

ACE CAFÉ SOUTHEND SHAKEDOWN FREE 9th April, Southend Seafront Annual charity motorcycle ride from Ace Cafe, London to Southend Seafront.

Enjoy the spectacle of several thousand motorbikes of every type imaginable on display.

01702 618747 vic@southend.co.uk.

BIG ROCK WEEKEND FREE 14th - 15th April, Central Museum and Planetarium, Victoria Avenue 10:00 - 16:00 Weekend of activities, demonstrations and talks.

Use crazy silica (sand) to create a beautiful souvenir to take away and try your hand at panning for fool's gold!

A wide range of unusual fossils and rocks to purchase in the museum shop and a great chance to have those prized fossils and minerals identified. Entry is free but donations always www.oraclepublications.co.uk www.twitter.com/oracle_essex

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LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

a friendly mixed Bowls club catering for all ages

Competitive & Social bowls & events throughout the year. l Season starts 28th April 2012 l Free Coaching by Qualified National Coaches. l Free Car Park! l Friday Evening is Bowls Fish & Chip night. l Indoor Winter Season “Short Mat Bowls” l Dinners, Dances, & numerous Social Events

01702 612476

www.prittlewellbowlsclub.co.uk Visit our club days on Monday or Thursday afternoons from 2pm to 5pm.

Matt Rowley energy-efficient, plumbing & heating

kitchen & bathroom specialist Gas Safe Registered (No. 228479) Boiler Installations Boiler Upgrades Power-flushing Service Clean, Reliable & Fully Insured All aspects of Heating & Plumbing FREE Estimate & Advice Over 20 Years Experience

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APRIL

2012

caron b designer artist

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Clock Repairs, Sales & Restorations It's About Time

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Gainsborough G ainsborough

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39

useful numbers DIRECTORY ENQUIRIES BT (15p pm from landline, 40p connection) ORACLE PUBLICATIONS UK LTD www.oraclepublications.co.uk ORACLE WEBSITE SOLUTIONS www.oraclewebsitesolutions.co.uk

PHARMACIES 118 500 393838 393838

ADVICE & HELPLINES

Alliance Pharmacy

475722

89 Broadway Mon-Fri 9-7 pm / Sat 9-5.30 pm

Cheems Pharmacy

473087

87 Leigh Rd Mon-Fri 9-6.30 / Sat 9-5.30 Closed 1-2 Wed+Sat.

ANIMAL WELFARE

Child Protection 534495 Citizens Advice 0844 4770 808 Crime Prevention 464199 Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 Cruse Bereavement Care 213843 Pier & Foreshore Inspectors 215620 Drugs, Alcohol & Substance Misuse 440400 HARP 615000 National Drugs Freephone 0800 776900 Samaritans 611911 Trading Standards 08454 040506 Victim Support Group 0845 4565995 CLUBS & ASSOCIATIONS Belfairs Golf Club 526911 Belfairs Mixed Bowling 475766 Charles Dicken’s Fellowship 588069 Cockleshell Clog Morris 479622 Essex Yacht Club 478404 Essex Handicrafts Association 479622 Essex Society for Family History 522992 Estuary Social Club 477022 Highlands Badminton Club 476009 Hoy & Anchor Folk Club 715111 Leigh Afternoon Women’s Institute 710232 Leigh-on-Sea Cricket Club 712105 Leigh-on-Sea Lions Club 715111 Leigh Camera Club 478717 Leigh Film Society 07957 129309 Leigh Motor Boat Club 714858 Leigh Sailing Club 713030 Lower Thames Rowing Club 482205 Marine Estate Residents’ Association 710232 Prittlewell Bowls Club 612476 Southend Athletics Club 472195 Southend Photographic Society 332491 Southend Rugby Club 546682 Southend West District Scouts (19 groups) 587647 The English Speaking Union 588069 Westcliff Rugby Club 541499 Woodside Bowling Club 525648

Cushing Vadden & Partners

476404

RSPCA Rochford LOCAL MP David Amess (Con)

0207 219 3452

POLICE SERVICES 24 hour Emergency Number Leigh Police Station (Mon-Fri 9-7pm) Southend Police Station (24 hours) Marine Police 01268 Thames Coastguard

01702 430696 431212 0300 3334444 775533 01255 675518

PUBLIC SERVICES Central Library Southend High Street Post office Belfairs Post Office Traveline Arriva Southend First National Express Odeon Cinema Leigh Heritage Centre

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COUNCIL & SERVICES Leigh-on-Sea Town Council Southend Council Civic Centre Council Tax & Benefits Environment and domestic Council Waste Department Jobcentre Southend

716288 215000 215001 215005 215006 575700

‘The less secure a man is, the more

HOSPITALS & HEALTH BMI Southend Private Hospital Primary Care Trust Southend General Hospital Spire Wellesley Hospital NHS Direct

40

LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

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likely he is to have extreme prejudice. ‘

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

APRIL

2012

APRIL 2012

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LEIGH-ON-SEA ORACLE

41

Leigh-on-Sea

ORACLE

01702 277684 Marketing Solutions for the BEST local businesses

ORACLE View the latest issues

Index to advertisers

ONLINE ACCOUTANTS Wilkins Kennedy AERIALS 1st South East Aerials AIRPORT TRANSFER Air & Back ARCHITECTS Knight Gratrix AUCTIONEERS Chalkwell Auctions BI-FOLDING DOORS Essex Bi-fold Door Co BLINDS & SHUTTERS Lifestyle Shutters Worth & Co Blinds BOWLS Prittlewell Bowls BUILDERS Allied Construction DJ Contractors Tabor Jones CAR DEALERSHIP VW Vans Centre CAR WINDSCREEN REPAIR Chips Away CARE CENTRE Cedar Care Centre Hallmark Care Homes CARPENTRY & JOINERY C Bradford Carpentry John Sorrell CARPETS Gainsborough Carpets Paul Newman CHARTERED SURVEYORS East of England Surveys CLEANING Maid In Essex We Clean Any Home

43 34 34 30 32 21 33 12 36 25 19 31 20 23 17 13 35 19 38 44 37 27 15

COMPUTER SERVICES Custom IT Solutions 35 CONSERVATORY CLEANING ECCC 19 CYCLES Bikebase 39 DESIGNER Caron B Design 37 EDUCATION The Educators 27 JJ Tuition 11 Kip Mcgrath 26 St. Hilda's School 24 St. Michael's School 41 Thorpe Hall School 28/29 FASHION, GIFTS & ACCESSORIES Callie & Finn 2 FENCING BVS Fencing 35 FINANCIAL SERVICES Anderson Financial 22 GARDEN SERVICES Greenfingers 4 Root2Shoot 33 HAIR & BEAUTY Grateful Heads 14 Images 15 Mobile Beauty & Makeup Essex 4 HEALTH & FITNESS Absolutely Fabulous iFit Studio 6/7 HOME IMPROVEMENT SUPPLIES PHI Ltd 18 INTERIOR DESIGNERS Morris Interiors 5 JEWELLERS AV & BV Andrews 37

Thorpe Bay

April 2012

ORACLE

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Leigh at a glance

Est. Oct 2006. Circulation 5,500

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Under the hammer

Deep-filled Egg and Bacon Pie

What is it worth?

Under the Hammer

Recipe

What is it worth?

April 2012

ORACLE

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

Deep-filled Egg and Bacon Pie

Fully Licenced Waste Carriers

Tel: 01702 430570 Mobile: 07955 274663 www.leighskiphire.co.uk

To advertise in ORACLE call

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OVEN CLEANING Ovenclean 34 PAINTING & DECORATING AJ Lench 23 PAINTING & DECORATING Rainbow Property Services 1 PLUMBING Hammond & Sons 3 Matt Rowley 36 PR Tracy Jones 24 SASH WINDOWS TC Carpentry 3 SKIP HIRE Leigh Skip Hire 1 STAIRLIFTS Stay Home Stairlifts 27 TRAVEL COUNSELLORS Karen Goldman 16/17 TREE SERVICES Treefella 23 WEB DESIGN Oracle Website Solutions 33

ORACLE - the smart, little glossy mags for Southend

Reach a 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. are editorially autonomous and the opinions expressed are not those of the publisher unless expressly stated.

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2012

Understanding your past partnering your future

T: 01702 348 646 E: southend@wilkinskennedy.com

www.wilkinskennedy.com w ww.wilkinskennedy.com

PAUL NEWMAN

25TH ANNIVERSARY 1984 - 2009

25

www.paulnewmaninteriorsltd.co.uk

Paul Newman Interiors have an exciting and extensive portfolio of styles for kitchens from leading manufacturers and stunning locally built handcrafted designs. Attention to detail sets us apart and our team of employed, expert fitters will ensure you are delighted with your new room.

You can be confident that our prices will always be competitive but quality will never be compromised.

Visit our new showrooms and be inspired!

136 High Street, Hadleigh, Essex, SS7 2PB Tel: 01702 552868 Fax: 01702 555518 Email: info@paulnewmaninteriors.co.uk