May Thorpe Bay Oracle 2012

Thorpe Bay

May 2012

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

WIN! Oracle Competition A pair of tickets to ‘An Evening of Burlesque’ at the Cliff’s Pavilion

Oracle Travel

Honeymoons and Weddings Abroad

Recipe Quick Maple-Glazed Roast Chicken

Under the Hammer Hidden Treasures

Health & Beauty Stretch yourself young

Cover photography by Peter Bolton www.peterboltonphotoart.com

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caron b designer artist

Thorpe Bay

contemporary, original artworks

OR ACLE

publisher’s letter

J

ust to remind you that the local elections will be held on the 3 May. Whilst I am on the subject of the local elections I would like to make it very clear that any space within the Oracle is always paid for by any Political Party or Group except for Local Issues pages which are always free to any individual or organisation.

Oracle’s competition this month has been kindly donated by Entertainers. One lucky winner can win a pair of tickets to see ‘An Evening of Burlesque’ at the Cliff’s Pavilion on Friday 29th June 2012 ~ 8pm. Please send your entries in by 31 May. To enter, simply send your name and contact details to Oracle/Evening of Burlesque 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.

Watch out for more unique Oracle offers inside!

Good Luck!

www.caronbrandajs.com undertakes personal and new business commissions for interior design

Emma Wynne-Morgan Publisher

01702 393838

prices from £150

39 Alexandra Street, Southend, Essex SS1 1BW

07771 534 144

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www.twitter.com/oracle_essex www.facebook.com/oraclepublications

caron3@mac.com

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ORACLE contents Local Issues Annual Budget Concerns

By Cllr Tony Cox

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Beyond the Pale Hair & Beauty by Craig Smith

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Maximising Income Opportunities From Your Investments

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Money Matters by Jacqui Moyies

Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Street Party

by Peaceful Place

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Quick Maple-Glazed Roast Chicken Judy's Recipe Page

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Honeymoons and Weddings Abroad Travel Expert by Karen Goldman

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Hidden Treasures 46 Under the Hammer by Trevor Cornforth Stretch Yourself Young Health & Beauty by Cris Ramis

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Diary Dates

54 58 64 66

Sudoku Useful Numbers Advertiser Index

Advertorials Jerry Bell Hairdressing Neom Luxury Organics Pace Letting and Estate Agents CHC Property Thorpe Hall School Shoebury High School 4 T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E

6/7 10

23 24/25 34/35 60/61 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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ED H IS BL TA ES

Carpets, Vinyls, Rugs

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RS A YE

Laminate Flooring & Remnants

640 Sutton Road Southend-On-Sea Essex, SS2 5PX

Trade Carpets Open Daily: 9.00am - 5.30pm

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Jerry Bell About our salon...

HAIRDRESSING

Multi-award winning Jerry Bell hairdressing has been established for over three decades. We pride ourselves on our ability to provide our clients with a complete luxury experience, from the first step into the salon to the highly trained team giving professional advice, tailoring to each clients individual needs.

We believe that a great hair style begin with the client and with this in mind every haircut begins with a full consultation to establish the look you are trying to achieve and how we can make it work for you.

A continual training programme ensures that our stylists are up to date with all th latest cutting edge technology and up-to-the-minute trends.

Our reputation has not only been earned on the salon floor but extends through our huge success in professional hairdressing and high profile photographic work.

Our successes include regional winners of the L’Oreal Colour Trophy three times; London: Hammersmith Palais, Eastern: Corn Exchange Cambridge and most recent Eastern: Grosvenor House London also runner up in the Grand Final at The Royal Albert Hall; British Hairdressing Awards: Finalist and nominated for Eastern Hairdresser of the Year on three occasions plus winners of various other nationwide events Our Photographic work has been published in many trade and consumer magazines including Hairdresser Journal, Marie Claire, New Woman, Estetica Italy, Passion, Hair Flair plus many more

WANTED...TRAINEES! We currently have exciting opportunities for apprentices to join our team.

If you've got drive,creativity and passion,and are looking to take your first steps into the hairdressing industry, please email your CV to jerrybell@btconnect.com or call the salon on 01702 588404.

01702 588404 191 The Broadway, Thorpe Bay

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AMAX LANDSCAPES Marshalls Register Contractors - the professionals to trust

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Local Issues

Annual budget concerns D

uring austere times, never has so much scrutiny been on the finances of local authorities. Whilst the last Government maxed the nations credit card on a spending binge, their solution to debt was debt, debt and more debt.

levels of borrowing are comparable with other local authorities.

Like all borrowing there are repayment costs but these only represent 2% of the 2012/2013 budget. I believe this is a small price for the future of the town Locally, the finances of Southend Council have also that residents can enjoy for years to come. come under scrutiny but sadly, there have been misleading figures brandished around like confetti by The most important obligation that every councillor some councillors to try and grab cheap and easy has, whatever their political persuasion, is to agree a balanced budget. It is at this time that if members headlines. have concerns regarding council borrowing and Whilst the subject of local government funding and borrowing repayments to step up to the plate and budgets isn’t as sexy as some political issues, it is propose alternatives. important to understand that council tax receipts only make up one of the three elements of any Whilst some complained about borrowing during their speeches, not one member identified any councils annual budget. capital schemes which they would not pursue and Here in Southend, the 2012/2013 budget in excess of all 51 councillors subsequently agreed the budget on £430 Million, is made up of Central Government their own free will without even asking the Mayor for Grant(the largest element), council tax receipts and a vote! fees and charges. Yes, the council has borrowed money to help finance major schemes to improve the The question that really needs to be asked is, are town but unlike some would have you believe, the some members misquoting the figures deliberately to mislead or do they simply not understand the information available to them?

Cllr Tony Cox 10 West Road, Shoeburyness, Essex, SS3 9DP

01702 297 039 cllrcox@southend.gov.uk M AY 2 0 1 2

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Advertorial

Organic Treats from Gardners of Thorpe Bay

G

ardners of Thorpe Bay is the luxury interiors store and the go-to place for design-forward interior decorating, exquisite home-ware and accents hand-picked especially for you. This May this beautiful store has teamed up with one of its favourite brands NEOM Luxury Organics to exclusively offer Oracle readers a fabulous special offer.

NEOM Luxury Organics is the organic home-scenting & lifestyle brand famed for making organics modern and luxurious as well as offering highly effective products in the most innovative way possible.

Launched in 2005 by Nicola Elliott (a former editor of high profile magazines such as In Style and Glamour), NEOM’s products are made with 70% (or above) organic ingredients and a high amount of pure essential oils, making each-and-every product not only

have a gorgeous scent but it also means they act as aroma-therapeutic treatments to make you feel how you want to: happier, more relaxed, energised, inspired or simply just pampered.

Tempted? Head down to Gardners of Thorpe Bay, 170 The Broadway, Thorpe Bay, Southendon-sea, Essex, SS1 3ES and see the expert staff.

Receive a FREE NEOM Pillow Mist (50ml) when you purchase any two NEOM products from Gardners of Thorpe Bay. PLEASE NOTE: This offer is only valid from May 1st until May 30th 2012 or until stocks last. It cannot be used on discounted items.

www.neomorganics.com 10

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Carpenter & Joiner JOHN SORRELL - your local carpenter and joiner for over 25 years All aspects of woodwork and property maintenance undertaken, including:

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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 14

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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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Advertorial

We do all the work ourselves, the writing, design, printing and delivery and it is all paid for by the individual who stands for election, including any advertising .Independent candidates therefore have a strong vision for our town and hope that their fellow residents will elect them as an Independent to represent their ward in the council chamber Because Independents are ordinary residents who have decided to put themselves forward to promote local democracy and improve the way the council is run, it is disappointing to read nothing but untruths and personal slurs in some party candidates literature presumably in the hope that this will get them elected.

I question the validity of personal attacks on people who have given an enormous amount of their time trying to make a difference for the lives of residents.

by Ron Woodley What’s the point? Personally, I believe it shows a lack of respect for fellow candidates, which if transferred to the council chamber would make a mockery of local here are a lot of issues to consider when it democracy and make life unpleasant for all in the is time to cast your vote at the ballot box, council chamber as well as the council officers. especially for young people voting for the first time.

In the spirit on unity I have offered personal letters of Prior to polling day mounds of paper will come support to individuals who I believed to be good pouring through our letter boxes. The Independent councillors or candidates of all political groups. Two group are probably as guilty as anyone for this, but we Independents and two Lib/Dems took up this offer. I do need to get our message across to the electorate. wonder what capital will the other political groups try and make of that!

An Independent’s view

T

Vote Mike Stafford Thorpe Ward

Vote Independent

Vote Claire Bibby Southchurch Ward

Independent Councillors Local Council Elections

MAY 2012

Turning the Tide of Local Politics.

For more information, contact: Mike Stafford 01702 587448 or Claire Bibby 07532299840 Promoted by MJ Taylor, 105 St Augustines Avenue , Southend-on-Sea, SS1 3JG. On behalf of Mike Stafford,124 Parkanaur Avenue, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 3JD. And Promoted by Tony Delaney, 76 Burlescoombe Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 3QB. On behalf of Claire Bibby, 6 Southchurch Avenue, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS3 9BA Printed by Evonprint, Small Dole, Sussex BN5 9XR.

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Oracle Hair & Beauty

Beyond the Pale T

he increasingly bright, sunny days have started to lure lily-white legs out from under jeans, marking that particular time of the year when the distinctive smell of Fake Bake and St Tropez is in the air.

Trying to look beautifully bronzed can be fraught with fiascos - raccoon eyes, orange streaks and white neck syndrome. However, slapping on tan from a bottle is much better than the beach or a sunbed which leads to premature ageing and skin cancer.

So here are my tan-tastic top tips for turning yourself into a honey-coloured honey‌

Choose the right tan Unfortunately, this is about trial and error. Go for a gradual tan product to start with and build up a natural-looking glow over several days.

Exfoliate This gets rid of the dead skin cells and provides an even canvas for a tan to be applied to.Pick your spot - A bright room with a full-length mirror is ideal.

Take it slowly The key to perfect coverage is to give yourself enough time for the entire process - allow at least an hour.

of moisturiser all over to make sure your tan is as even as possible.

Be prepared Always wear latex or vinyl gloves to protect your hands. There is nothing worse than having orange palms!

Work upwards To avoid smudging, work from your feet upwards and do your arms last of all. Make sure you get between your toes and round the back of the ankles, across the ears and under the armpits, as that's where it really shows up as fake. Always make sure the tan goes into the hairline too, as that can be a real giveaway.

Let it dry Try not to get wet and try not to sweat for at least six hours and avoid any tight-fitting clothing.

As you soak up the compliments about your new, healthy glow, allow your wicked streak to enjoy a cheeky giggle at those who got it so catastrophically wrong – visit www.paleisthenewtan.com

O

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All aspects of Interior Design from design only to full-project management Imaginative solutions, traditional or contemporary based on your wishes, lifestyle and budget Bespoke curtains, blinds and upholstery chosen from an extensive range of fabrics and accessories

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PRECIOUS PETS All small breeds welcome

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Just a loving home for your dog Home visits available for cats and dogs

Call Jane on:

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For over 25 years we have been giving a complete personal and professional glass & glazing service DESIGN - QUALITY - RELIABILITY

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Money Matters

Maximising income opportunities from your investments

by Jacqui Moyies

I

ncome is important. It’s an obvious statement. The difficulty is that, in an uncertain world, investment income is hard to find right now.

the demand for overseas equity income funds – although as recently as five or six years ago, an investment manager may have struggled to build a credible global income portfolio.

Investors looking for income have faced an increasing challenge ever since the financial crisis broke in 2008. Prudence and vigilance became the order of the day as financial institutions across the globe took extreme measures to protect themselves from global meltdown. Dividends came under pressure, Bond markets were unnerved and commercial property fell from grace. In short, there were – and have been since - few places for income-seekers to turn.

Corporate bond funds, income producers by nature, remain popular, particularly with cautious investors.

Three years on and interest rates in the UK remain almost non-existent. Consequently, investors wanting to secure an income stream have realised that they must accept some risk by looking beyond traditional cash deposits.

History shows that investing in equities, or shares, has provided investors with a better chance of outpacing inflation over the long term versus other asset classes, particularly if the companies are able to increase the dividend payments year after year.

With dividend payouts on the turn, the outlook for equity income funds could also be on the up.

It is not just UK equity funds that might tempt income seekers. There has been an increase in

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Another income producing asset, commercial property is also beginning to attract attention again.

Commercial property felt the full effects of the credit crunch and the fall in property values left many investors nursing significant losses. Its long-term track record is strong and it offers important diversification from shares.

Those investing for income need to remember that no one asset class is the panacea. With interest rates likely to remain low for some time to come, a well diversified, well-managed portfolio which blends different forms of investment remains the most suitable strategy for investors taking a longer-term view of their income needs.

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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residents “We are passionate about offering our ing and their families a warm homely car care centre” atmosphere in a modern purpose built Cedars Care Centre is a modern and purpose built residential care centre situated in a pleasant area of Southend very close to the town centre and is easily accessed by road and public transport.

We provide care for older people who may be physically frail or have dementia. Additionally, we can offer respite care packages. ng For more information or to arrange a viewi

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9 Freshly prepared nutritious meals 9 Dedicated full-time Activity Coordinators 9 Dignified person centred approach to care 9 Bright and airy en suite bedrooms 9 Interactive safe and secure gardens 9 Sensory/therapy room to meet meettoday’s today’scare careneeds needs 9 Designed to care packages packagesavailable available 9 Respite/Day care

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Advertorial

Pace celebrates start of awards season S

outhend based Lettings and Estate Agent, Also a runner-up in the category of ‘Best Portfolio PACE Plc, has every reason to celebrate as Landlord with 20 plus properties’ at the UKLAP awards, PACE was congratulated for its exemplary the awards season enters into full swing. management of its company-owned property portBeating off stiff competition to emerge as ‘Best folio. In particular, judges were impressed with how Letting Agent of the Year’ at this year’s UK Landlord voids against its own properties have been reduced Accreditation Partnership (UKLAP) Awards, it is also by 52% from 2008 to 2011. the first year the agency has been shortlisted for its customer service at the Essex Countywide Business Crystal Horwood, Managing Director of PACE, Awards. comments: Since PACE was chosen for its high level of customer service and honest advice, the UKLAP award takes pride of place in its reception area, which will hopefully be joined by an ‘Excellent Customer Service’ award following Newsquest Essex Countywide Business Awards night on 18th May.

“The UKLAP awards are run by the London Landlord Accreditation Scheme (LLAS) – a pan London initiative. Winning is a real achievement considering we were up against heavy competition from London.

“We like to think we are playing an important role in placing Southend-On-Sea on the ‘map’in terms of its At the UKLAP awards the judges were impressed by residential lettings offering.”

PACE’s ethical approach to all property matters which saw it surpass 14 other shortlisted agents, including Oakland Estates Ltd, Cromwood Ltd and Upad, to name a few.

In fact, both the award win and shortlisting recognise PACE’s commitment to truly understanding the needs of its landlords and its tenants.This is demonstrated by the fact that 35% of PACE’s managed tenants have remained in their tenancies for over 3 years.

Focusing heavily on capturing customer feedback to review its service offering, both sets of judges were impressed by the testimonials from satisfied clients of PACE. M AY 2 0 1 2

01702 445600 www.paceplc.co.uk

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Advertorial

Grey-t Expectations Silver Maintenance helps Southend Pensioners Stay Safe o one likes to feel that they have wasted n ALWAYS check the trader’s identity! Were you or, even worse, been conned out of their expecting them? If not, but you are interested in money. their product or service, ask them to come back However, despite the best efforts of Police and later. This will give you a chance to check them Trading Standards, there are still hundreds of out, either online or with family and friends. rogue traders doing exactly that every day to vulnerable people. It is reason enough for the n Take control – you ask the questions.

BBC to commission an 8th series of Rogue n NEVER commit to, or sign anything on the Traders. spot. A common feature of scams is pressure to Unfortunately, older people do present an commit quickly. You may be told that an offer is attractive target to rogue traders, not least only available for a limited period, or that by because they are more likely to have easily signing now you will get a discount. A genuine accessible savings than younger people and may no longer have as many close family and friends offer is unlikely to require you to make an instant or other trusted individuals to go to for advice. decision so don’t let yourself be rushed Not only that, they are less likely to have access to the internet as a resource for information n If in doubt ask the person to leave. about which firms are reputable or not – albeit that the number of so-called ‘silver surfers’ is n Take as much detail about the person and their vehicle as possible and if you feel in any way increasing. unsure, report them to your local police – simply However with the right information and support dial the non-emergency number 101 – and give the elderly can protect themselves from scams. as much detail as possible, this will help officers Here are some simple and effective suggestions catch the individual responsible. that can make all the difference.

24 M AY 2 0 1 2 T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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One solution that pensioners throughout the county can adopt for guaranteed security and peace of mind is CHC Construction’s Silver Maintenance scheme.

It is the brainchild of CHC’s Managing Director Trevor Williams, who as a board member of Age Concern Southend and is uniquely placed to know exactly what older members of society need and therefore designed his new service to meet their requirements head on.

Registering for the scheme is easy and completely free. Silver Maintenance members also have the option to nominate a ‘buddy.’ This can be a family member, friend or carer and is someone whom will always be co-advised of any works agreed prior to commencement or indeed, money changes hands.This creates an additional layer of financial security and peace of mind.

Whenever the customer has a building or maintenance requirement, Silver Maintenance’s friendly team are never more than a phone-call away. A Criminal Records Bureau (CRB)-checked expert will then visit their home, discuss the work that needs doing and follow this up with a detailed and clearly written quote, with

everything – from materials to labour charges itemised. Once the Silver Maintenance customer is satisfied, then the highly qualified and experienced CHC team will swiftly come and do the work.

Trevor, who himself has more than 25 years of experience in the construction and maintenance industry and whose firm is behind several landmark buildings in Southend, says: “I know from my experience with Age Concern that there are still far too many members of society becoming victims of rogue traders, so I have listened and designed a safe, secure service for older and more vulnerable people.“ He adds: “Pensioners need things to be safe, transparent, reliable and quick whenever and wherever possible. Our reliable, trustworthy and affordable Silver Maintenance service covers everything from installing a single grab rail to more involved internal modifications, such as bathroom and kitchen remodelling or complete construction of purpose built extensions. And most importantly, in a way that gives peace of mind and keeps them completely safe.”

To find out more about Silver Maintenance call CHC on 01702 512226 or visit : www.chcproperty.co.uk

O

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Ferrets’ – Oscar, Marshall, Fidget, Gypsy & furry friends / a children’s fancy dress competition on an Olympic theme / traditional adult funfair games / craft & side stalls / celebration cake testing / food & drink / flag waving & bunting / meet the Queen & Philip / tombolas & raffle & more!!

Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Street Party

A

ll loyal subjects of the Queen are hereby invited to help celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Come & celebrate with your neighbours & enjoy:Live music provided by The Grandees, The Southend Ukulele Orchestra, singers Indie Linzey, Heidi Dine, Arianna Morgan, Dan Hunt & George Redwood / Children’s rides / a circus skills school / majorettes / Marko Sparko’s magic & balloon modelling / children’s face-painting / ‘Meet the

As well as being a community event, this is a charity event on behalf of Peaceful Place – a charity which helps improve the lives of people under the age of 65 with young onset dementia.

The event is free but you may well find a book of raffle tickets posted through your door to help raise funds for the charity. First prize in the raffle is £200, second & third prizes are Kenneth Cole watches & fourth prize is a guide book & ticket for a family tour of Buckingham Palace.

The street party is kindly being sponsored by The Co-operative Membership Community Fund, VW Van Centre Chelmsford & Hatton Jewellery of Leigh.

Further details of the event will be posted in local shops nearer the time.

Any offers of help, raffle or tombola prizes, or enquiries should be directed to Celia Riley at Peaceful Place.

QUEEN’S DIAMOND JUBILEE STREET PARTY THORPE BAY BROADWAY SUNDAY, 3RD JUNE 2012 5.00 PM – 9.00 PM

01702 546476 www.peacefulplace.co.uk fundraising@peacefulplace.co.uk

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S O FA S

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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.

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Advertorial

Drama is in the spotlight at Thorpe Hall O

ne of the highlights of the calendar at Thorpe Hall School is the annual drama production. Preparations start months in advance and the whole school gets behind the search for the perfect cast and crew.

This year’s performance was a captivating staging of Annie, the latest in a long line of successful Thorpe Hall musicals. Headteacher, Mr. Andrew Hampton explains why drama has such an important role to play.

“Drama develops many important skills and qualities such as teamwork, creativity, leadership, communication and self-awareness which are valuable assets in all areas of life. It stimulates the imagination and encourages students to step out of their individual comfort zones and take risks in a supportive environment. Those who prefer to be behind the scenes can learn the ropes of lighting, sound, wardrobe, make-up and scenery.

having plenty of fun along the way”.

Children are introduced to performing arts at Thorpe Hall School from a very early age.

Music and drama are taught in the nursery with an emphasis on participation and expression through play. The school has strong links with local theatres and regularly takes part in events as well as bringing workshops and performances into school from groups such as the Young Shakespeare Company.

With highly experienced staff, dedicated teaching facilities and a state-of-the-art 250seat theatre, Thorpe Hall is extremely well equipped to nurture the budding actor in every child and stage sophisticated and professional productions for all to enjoy.

01702 582340

One of the most important benefits is that drama promotes self-esteem. We see very real evidence of this with students gaining a Wakering Road, Southend-on-Sea great sense of achievement as well as Essex, SS1 3RD 34 M AY T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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

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recipe of the month

Quick Maple-Glazed Roast Chicken

In the Kitchen with Judy Barden

Ingredients 1.5kg whole free-range chicken 5 tbsp red wine vinegar 4 tbsp maple syrup 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1 tbsp sesame seeds Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 200°C/ fan180°C /gas 6. Season the chicken and pour 2 tablespoons vinegar into the body cavity.

Put in a roasting tin and roast for 1 hour 10 minutes.

Quick Maple-Glazed Roast Chicken

R

oast Chicken always goes down well with the whole family and this is a very quick way to make it a little more special. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if your chicken is smaller or larger and serve with lots of roast potatoes.

2. Meanwhile, mix together the remaining vinegar with the syrup, cinnamon and sesame seeds. Brush half the mixture over the chicken and roast for a further 10 minutes. Brush with the remaining glaze and return to the oven for a final 10 minutes, until the chicken is deeply golden and shiny. Rest for 5 minutes before carving. Serve with roasted carrots and leeks.

O

Judy Next month’s recipe:

‘Chargrilled Red Mullet with Mango Prawn and Chilli Salsa’ Sponsored by

Enjoy!

BOOK NOW FOR JUNE DEMONSTRATION CLASSES! VARIOUS DATES AVAILABLE For more info email me at judy.barden@btinternet.com

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Chiffons, nudes, colour block/boho maxis; bold prints all feature.

Jewellery: Big and bold in attitude, to eccentric, whimsical fun pieces. Vintage and retro accessories add that extra va va voom to your outfits!

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We cater for

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Travel Expert

Honeymoons and Weddings Abroad

By Karen Goldman

W

ith Valentine’s Day, a Leap Year and Spring in the Air, there will be lots of couples in love and planning to get married this year. Most will get married in this country and honeymoon overseas, and some will prefer to take the whole thing abroad.

This is your special time – it has to be perfect, but also, be practical. It should not be about cramming in as many places in a fortnight as possible. You will be living out of a suitcase and spending much of your time at airports, in cars and on trains. A two or three centre is fine if you are not people to sit on a beach all So it’s good to have a few pointers when planning day, and want to experience some culture or your trip, as it is probably the most important holiday adventure as well. of your lives and you want to get it right.

It is important to establish your budget and be Location, location, location ! realistic about what you can get for your money.

The most important thing to get right is matching Many agents offer a honeymoon account where the time of year you are travelling to the best destina- guests can contribute and this may help you to tions for that season. No point in sitting in your increase the spend a little. dream villa on stilts over the sea, with monsoon rains Do write a ‘wish list’ of things that you both want and lashing down for a fortnight. Not much fun in the 7 let your agent know this. They will also be able to star hotel you always dreamed of in the Middle East, source all the honeymoon ‘specials’ that the hotels when it is 110 degrees in the shade and too hot to offer. step outside. Or that romantic trip to Venice, in peak season when you have to fight through the crowds I have found that the top places for honeymoons this and wait your turn for the gondola. year are The Caribbean, South Africa twinned with Mauritius, and Cyprus.

Having a brilliant honeymoon is a great start to married life.

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Under The Hammer

Hidden Treasures?

Trevor Cornforth

I

tems languishing in lofts are quite often the subjects of customers enquiries. Although these lost items have been unloved for years they suddenly become interesting again when something similar has appeared on the television or the space they occupy becomes more important than the contents.

Such a situation arose recently with a long established customer clearing a garage which had become a dumping ground for things he could no longer accommodate but couldn’t bear to part with. After establishing that nobody in the family wanted them his instruction was just to clear the garage and sell things if we could.Everything turned out to be saleable but imagine his surprise when a well worn rug, long rolled up in the corner, sold for £200! I think he is now doing some more rummaging.

Suprise Sale : A Worn rug, sold for £200!

which are live on line around the world, these treasured family objects often find a new home on the opposite side of the globe. Of recent concern for a family was a large hand-made tin model boat with steam powered motor.The hammer finally went down We also regularly deal with deceased estates. This is a difficult time for families and needs careful handling on it at £360 and the new owner plans to lovingly and sound advice. In many cases it isn’t just the restore it to its former glory. monetary value of a person’s effects but the fact that A happy ending for both parties. someone has spent hours or even years of their life making something.

O

Auctions are by far the best way of finding a new and appreciative owner for many such items as well as realising their true value. With auctions such as ours, Hand made Tin model boat: Sold for £360!

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Health & Beauty

Stretch yourself young

by Cris Ramis

F

orget Botox and all the other lotions, potions, jabs and fillers that claim to help you in the fight against time – simply stretching more provides powerful anti-ageing properties!

Everyone can improve their flexibility and mobility, regardless of their age or ability and what’s more it’s simple, easy and free.

If you can manage to stretch daily, that’s ideal but if you can’t do that go for three times a week as a minimum.

Here’s how. Hold a position of mild discomfort for 5-10 seconds (when warming up) and then 30-60 seconds the rest of the time. Perform each stretch 3-5 times (before exercise) and 1-3 times after a workout or at other times.

As you age, your muscles tighten and range of motion in joints can be lost. This can hinder or even halt active lifestyles and some day-to-day activities. Regular stretching will lengthen and maintain flexibility in your muscles and restore youthful activity, promoting circulation and blood flow. It’s also a great form of relaxation.

Always stretch slowly and smoothly; never bounce.

When should you stretch? As often as you can!

Stretch as you get up in the morning or after sitting / standing for long periods, any time you feel tense or stiff, before, during and after exercise or physical activity. Sports people call this a ‘warm down’. Just before bedtime is also a superb time as stretching will relax you and aid good sleep. Also, by going to bed right after stretching you won’t tighten up your muscles again by moving around.

If you really go for it, then why not try a yoga class? Make sure the class is right for you as you don’t necessarily want to be trying a Crane or a Peacock the first time you go! Just make sure your instructor is a member of the British Wheel of Yoga.

Maintain normal breathing during each movement, and exhale into the stretch. Stay as relaxed as possible during the stretch, and limit tension in other body parts.

Stretch whilst you’re watching TV, reading or chatting to a friend – it’s the perfect exercise for those people who like to multi-task or claim they ‘have no spare time’ to get in shape.

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ORACLE Diary Dates DIAMOND JUBILEE PARTY FREE Mon 4 June 2-4pm Shoeburyness & Thorpe Bay Baptist Church. Indoor “Street Party” for all ages, come dressed in red, white and blue! Prizes for best Jubilee outfit & best crown. Bouncy Castle, biscuit decorating, arts & crafts, crown decorating and refreshments. Bring press cuttings of the Coronation and share memories.

LODS PRESENT ELTON JOHN & TIM RICE’S AIDA 9th - 12th May Palace Theatre A pop-rock score that features stirring ballads and rousing choral numbers, AIDA is a contemporary musical take on a grand classic tale of the timeless bond between an enslaved Nubian princess and an Egyptian soldier. Weds to Sat 19:30, Thurs and Sat Matinees 14:30 £11 - £15 SOUTHEND AIR FESTIVAL FREE 26th - 27th May. Southend Seafront 10am - 6pm 27th Southend-on-Sea Airshow, almost 2 miles of seafront, aircraft displays will be featured from across the ages.

RAF, Army, Navy and Royal Marine Town Shows, trade stands, rides, simulators, giant inflatables and a packed arena programme of entertainment.

BBC Essex will again be bringing you Radio Airshow, as well as providing live commentary along the seafront and Southend Radio will provide live entertainment both days with music Roadshows. &

SOUTHEND CRICKET FESTIVAL 3rd & 5th June at Garons Park. Join us for a spectacular weekend of cricket. Tickets now available.

2nd June – Trevor Bailey Memorial Dinner 4th June – Joker Comedy Club The Lord’s Taverners are the Charity Partner For more details on these events please visit the website www.southendcricket.org.uk

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Advertorial

Science and Design & Technology at Shoeburyness High School

I

n the winter of 2008, I wrote an article for the Thorpe Bay Oracle which celebrated a major success for Shoeburyness High School.

In October of that year, we were selected to become a founder member of the Leading Space Education Project (LSEP), one of only thirty schools nationally to take part. Since that bid, LSEP has had a huge positive impact on the work of the Science Department and we have achieved great successes which I want to share.

Year 8 Space Academy course: In 2009, we developed a brand new Year 8 course using space as a context for teaching all aspects of Science. During the ‘Space Academy’ course, topics are taught using ideas and research which are at the forefront of modern scientific research – examples include: Astrobiology: students learn about biological concepts by considering ‘extremophiles’ – life forms which thrive in the Earth’s most extreme habitats – and then considering how life on other planets would need to be adapted.

Planetary Chemistry: a tour of the Solar System allows students to engage with chemistry by considering how the geology and atmospheric conditions of the planets are unique.

Primary School Outreach Days: Since the project began, we have had 15 primary

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school ‘Space Days’ in our Science Department, working with children from Bournes Green Infant School and Thorpe Greenways Infant School amongst others.

The children have built and launched rockets, programmed robotic explorers and designed and tested Mars landers.

Stargazing Live In January this year, we organised an evening of astronomy to coincide with the broadcast of BBC’s Stargazing Live. 25 children from local primary schools attended accompanied by parents, grandparents and siblings.

We were lucky to have a mostly clear sky, so our resident astronomer, Phil Benson, was able to showcase our amazing school telescopes and give a tutorial on mapping the constellations.

We are aiming to develop further the work which we do as a Leading Space School, particularly working to increase the range of outreach work which we do with other schools.

For more information, please visit our website at: tinyurl.com/ShoeburynessScience Mark Smith Head of Science & Space School Coordinator

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Year 9 Jewellery Project: acrylic rings designed on the computer and cut using the laser.

Year 7 textiles, students are using electronic components and conductive thread to design and make a textiles product that will light up when simply doing up a zip!

In Year 9, students bring their skills in creativity, ICT and technology together in the jewellery project where they bring their designs to life using CAD CAM and the laser cutter.

At Key Stage 4 we have a fully inclusive D&T curriculum that offers something for everyone from GCSEs in textiles, graphic products, resistant materials, engineering and catering to BTEC engineering and a Young Apprenticeship in hospitality. Students have made skateboard ramps and cabinets, designed perfume bottles and whole rooms! They have designed and made high quality garments such as waistcoats and have had the opportunity to cook for and serve the public in our very own professional kitchen and restaurant.

D

esign and Technology is changing.We all have fond memories and tokens of our time making products in D&T lessons and this enjoyment is still at the heart of our subject.

At Shoeburyness High School D& T has been at the forefront of the curriculum. With all the pressures that are being placed on school curricula, it would have been all too easy to have moved away from this commitment to technology but in fact since becoming an Academy in December last year we have actually reaffirmed our commitment to the subject with our focus as a STEM Academy.

We are always looking for opportunities to bring technological advances into the classroom. In

In Years 12 and 13 we offer ‘A’ level textiles and product design and will also be introducing a level 3 professional cookery qualification.

We recognise that we are fortunate at Shoeburyness High School in that we do have specialist facilities and staff. The school’s innovative High 5 outreach programme has engineering as its context and relies heavily on D&T, science and maths. As these students move into Year 6 we will continue to work with them on extended curriculum provision with our ‘Super Six’ program.

For more information contact the Head of Faculty, Miss Cook or visit our pages on the school’s website.

http://shoeburynesshigh.co.uk/index.ph p?cat=1&page=22&sub=37 Marie Cook Head of Faculty – Design and Technology

Shoeburyness High School M AY 2 0 1 2

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PAUL NEWMAN

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