Oracle Thorpe Bay October 2016

October 2016

Your all-seeing local

Thorpe Bay, Southchurch, the Garrison & Shoeburyness

WIN! Colchester Zoo family ticket – £76!

Council news – adult social care at risk?

The Cherry Tree Pub – back for another bite

Cover photo courtesy of Cal Finnegan (calfinnegan1997.wixsite.com/cfphotography)

2

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

ORACLE

WELCOME

This special Halloween edition comes with a warning, so watch out for some spooky surprises!

I feel that the photograph of Hadleigh Castle on the front cover, taken by local photographer Cal Finnegan, really adds to the Halloween mood.

The Cherry Tree was always one of those favourite destination pubs when I was younger, so I was pleased when the new owner, Charlie Ball invited us along for this month’s restaurant review. Read on and I am sure you will decide to add it to your list of places to eat out at in the town.

Staying with the Halloween theme, Colchester Zoo has kindly offered the opportunity for a family (2 adults and 2 children) to WIN a ticket worth £76 to visit Colchester Zoo during their event-filled Shriek Week (22nd–31st October 2016) and enjoy spooktacular events suitable for all ages! Listen to ‘Tales from the Crypt’, take a tour of the ‘Panic Rooms’, visit ‘The Woods’ and check out the Halloween Festival at All Saints Church! PLUS little ones will also be able to enjoy the spooky fun with daily magic shows and the chance to mix up their own potions and spells with the good witches in the ice cream parlour! This is a week not to be missed! For more event details please visit www.colchesterzoo.org To enter, please send your contact details to: Oracle Colchester Zoo Competition, 11 Clarence Road, Southend-on-Sea, Essex SS1 1AN or email: info@oraclepublications.co.uk by 17/10/16.

Happy Halloween!

Emma Wynne-Morgan Publisher

01702 393838

Oracle House, 11 Clarence Road, Southend-on-Sea, Essex SS1 1AN www.oraclepublications.co.uk info@oraclepublications.co.uk oracleessex oracle_essex

Printed by Printwize Ltd, Witham, Essex CM8 3BN

01376 500900

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

3

CONTENTS A woman’s place

9/10

Local Issues by HARP – Southend’s Homeless Charity

Autumn? Don’t use that tone with me! 16 Salon advice by Craig Smith

To care or not to care?

22

Council news by Cllr Ron Woodley

The Cherry Tree 32/33 Wine & Dine with Oracle's restaurant review

Caramelised Shallot & Thyme Frittata 36 Judy's Recipe Page

Local property market flying high

42

Property by Michael Naumann

Local Letters

46

Residents have their say

Brainbox 50 What's On

54

Useful Numbers

60

Advertiser Directory

62

Advertorials Councillor Ron Woodley

7

Structural Works

15

Essex Equity Release Advice Centre

26

Shoeburyness High School

48/49

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.

4

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

5

6

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

Advertorial

On-Sea change As I write, most readers will know I am no longer the council leader. My joint administration was overturned by the formation of a new political coalition of the Conservatives and UKIP. It was positive to note that, although we lost control of the council, the Independent Group received 14% more votes than the Conservatives in wards we challenged.

As a local resident who put his head above the parapet, I am proud of what I achieved and looking back, I believe we had two very successful years, delivering services and driving change, with the projects achieved and those planned, such as the regeneration and delivering of new housing, the Pier, the new museum, highway improvements and economic stability. There was a positive feeling around the town, despite the economic uncertainty of the financial cutbacks from central government.

Short change The council has responsibility for local government functions such as waste, recycling, street scene, leisure, parks, recreation, environmental health, children and adult services, roads and street lighting. By 2020 local government will be fundamentally different from what it was before 2010. A form of localism has been introduced into councils over the last 6 years by central government, with cuts to funding being the most obvious sign, but at the same time central government has transferred risk to local government, risk to children’s services and risk to health and adult social care.

Ring the changes We need to make the most of opportunities to generate income, through the establishment of trading companies, through fees and charges and sensible investments. It is important that there is a dialogue with residents and businesses about what is needed and what is fair.

Although I am no longer involved in the day to day running of the council, I am, however, still involved in local politics, as a local councillor, spokesman for the Independent Group, a member of the Essex Fire Authority and vice chair of two Local Government Association Committees. I am also still in touch with central government regarding Southend-on-Sea on the subjects of housing and adult social care.

by Cllr Ron Woodley

O

Independent Councillor for Thorpe

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

7

25 Years’ Experience

5 Great Offers for just £55 Get your ‘Business’ out there, with these 5 great offers...

1: 500 Luxury Matt Laminated Business Cards 2: 1x 850mm x 2000mm Roller Banner 3: Five x A2 5mm Foamex Board Signs 4: 500 x A5 Full Colour Leaflets 5: 3x1 metre Outdoor PVC Banner

Call today 01268 573486

Search online for i-print-4u.com of Wickford 8

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

HARP Trustees Mac Felton (L) and Alex Kay (R) and Chief Executive, Gill Garwood, break ground for a new hostel.

LOCAL ISSUES

A woman’s place HARP, Southend’s homeless charity, is looking to the future with the brand new development of a 19-bedroom allfemale hostel.

Making use of previously derelict ground to the rear of their existing Bradbury Day Centre facility, the charity is excitedly looking ahead to completion of White Heather House in spring next year.

Nicky Houston, HARP’s Property Development Manager explains: “Almost a quarter of our service users last year were women – female homelessness is a hidden issue rarely explored in the mainstream media, so it’s important to us that people are aware how badly this new facility is needed.”

“The development of White Heather House has been driven by in-depth research showing that people – most notably women – are returned more effectively to independent living if they’re housed in a single sex environment.”

“As you can imagine for homeless women, issues of safety and privacy are huge concerns, and although fewer women resort to sleeping on the streets than men, this too is changing as more and more women find themselves homeless.”

Lady luck The name chosen for the new hostel reflects the associations of the white heather plant with good luck, new beginnings and nurture. Gill Garwood, HARP’s Chief Executive says: “Our aims for White Heather House are to create an environment of safety and protection for the women who will live here as they get back on their feet and move away from a life of homelessness.”

“The arrangement of the buildings on the site has been designed to promote a feeling of protection, with the three accommodation blocks placed around a quiet central courtyard, where women will be able to sit and read, or simply have the space to think.”

Ladies first “It’s vital that we treat everyone who comes to us for help as a human being firstly,” states Gill, “and as an individual. We need to offer them space and time to make their own choices. For the women who’ll stay at White Heather House, the ability for us to provide them with a calm, safe place really will offer the

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

9

Artist’s impression of the new 19-bedroom hostel. very best chance of getting back on their feet, whilst addressing the issues which lead to them becoming homeless in the first place in a manageable, structured way.”

staffing and other associated costs must still be paid for by our fundraising activities.”

As Julie, a HARP service user about to move on to the next stage of her journey away from homelessness says: “I honestly don’t know what would have become of me without HARP’s help. The staff are wonderful and care so much about helping people. I was headed in a bad direction, and had put my young daughter into care because I knew I wasn’t helping her. Now, I’m looking forward to the future, back with my daughter and living in our own home again.”

This is where YOU can help! HARP has a range of events throughout the year to enable local people to support their work. The next event is “The Really Big South Essex Sleep Out” which will see children and their families, as well as schools and other community groups across the South Essex area organise their own one-night sleep out under the stars – getting sponsored in order to raise money for HARP.

Home grown The project has been enabled thanks to capital funding for the building of the hostel by a grant from the Government’s Homes & Communities Agency. However, as Gill explains, this is only part of the story: “We’re enormously lucky to benefit from the continued generosity of the people of Southend, who have always supported our work right from day one. It’s only thanks to local people, businesses, community groups and schools, as well as all the agencies we work in partnership with, that we’re able to provide our services to vulnerable homeless people in the town.”

“Although building White Heather House has been enabled by a grant, the running, maintenance,

Girls’ (and boys’) night out

Taking place on or around the weekend of Saturday, 8th October, you can get find out more and get involved by visiting: www.essexsleepout.org

Building on success HARP began life over a decade ago, as a range of connected services spread throughout Southend.

Gradual amalgamation of these services has strengthened the charity’s ability to provide a comprehensive and far-reaching service, enabling homeless people to access training and work opportunities, as well as rehabilitation pathways and life-skills workshops. To find out more about HARP’s work, visit: www.harpsouthend.org.uk

by Kirstie McHattie Communications Officer, HARP

www.harpsouthend.org.uk Reg Charity No: 1098126

O

Advice about homelessness: 01702 430696 General enquiries/fundraising: 01702 615000 Furniture donations/collections: 01702 337843

Head Office: 4th Floor, Dencora Court, Tylers Avenue, Southend SS1 2BB

10

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

11

12

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

BE FLEXIBLE WITH YOUR C 2C SMARTCARD Save time and money with 10 flexible day tickets to use when you need them.

5%* cheaper than an Anytime Day Return and a further 10% saving when you travel in the off-peak. It’s perfect for part time commuters.

Only available at c2c-online.co.uk/flexi

Surname 00 Mr Name0162 0000 01 123456

*Terms apply. Excludes journeys from Fenchurch Street travelling to stations outside of the Travelcard area where a 2% discount on Anytime Day Returns will apply. Visit c2c-online.co.uk/flexi for more details.

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

13

10% OF F Fo

r OAP’s on Wednesday m ornings

RDM Electrical Contractors Ltd has the experience to get it right!

Electrical Installation Domestic, Industrial and Commercial Heating Storage and Quartz Fire Alarms, CCTV Access Control Installation of L.E.D Lighting

Computer Network Ventilation Air Conditioning Test and report Rewires

9 Huntingdon Road, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS1 2XU

01702 464829 / 07885 737575 www.rdmelectrical.co.uk 14

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

Advertorial

Structural Works – the shape of things to come Set up in Southchurch, Southend-on-Sea a little over three years ago, Structural Works brings together nearly twenty years of engineering, architectural and construction experience. The company is directed by Glasgow-born Rehan Wazir.

The dynamic company undertakes a wide variety of work and scale. The residential work includes but is not limited to lintels, beams, structural openings, loft conversions, roofs, extensions, basements, underpinning and foundations of all types. Within the last three years we have successfully carried out over 20 extensions, conversions, many with new basements under existing houses which have involved the use of underpinning to release valuable space with the vast majority of these containing light wells.

Drawing on experience Structural Works are regularly asked to provide architectural planning drawings for planning applications as well as Building Control applications, as part of a full design service.

Approved planning drawings also require a structural engineer to calculate and draw structural plans that competent builders can follow. We undertake both architectural plans and structural work: thus providing a complete solution to your building needs from concept to completion.

Most projects begin with a call, to discuss the project, task or concern, location: leading to a

visit on site. Following this site visit a formal fee proposal/letter is sent to you for your consideration.

This will outline in detail the stages of design, the timescales for design, calculations and applications.

Your project may require more than an initial meeting on site, the frequency of which will depend on the type and scale of work that we may be asked to undertake.

With many homeowners/developers and landlords opting to refurbish and re-develop existing properties, many of which are of historic importance or are of a traditional build; Structural Works also has considerable experience in providing expert guidance and advice on the repair of existing buildings. Such as dampness, subsidence or cracks in walls.

Building confidence When the architectural part of our service ends and the structural design comes to a satisfactory conclusion, we can provide a Client-side Resident Engineer role; to oversee and check your preferred builder’s workmanship and compliance, giving peace of mind.

by Rehan Wazir Company Director

07977 510378 42 Castleton Road, Southend SS2 4UD e: hello@structuralworks.co.uk www.structuralworks.co.uk

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

15

SALON

Autumn? Don’t use that tone with me!

Autumn – season of mists and mellow fruitfulness. As the leaves turn from green to a riot of browns, reds and yellows, the season is inspiring warmer, richer tones for your hair.

If your hair is already a dark, earthy brown, it is already rich in colour, but adding some red and gold accents will lift it and bring added shine and warmth to your look.

For platinum blondes, why not try transitioning the cool tones of your hair into a warmer, lighter shade by asking your stylist to put in a flesh-toned, lighter colour into it? Alternatively, blondes can have more fun by running a dusty, rose tint through their tresses to create a gorgeous new look, without veering too far from their usual look.

The name is bronde Over in the United States, many female celebs are adopting what has been dubbed as “bronde” – think HiddleSwift before the split. As the name suggests, this shade is a sexy blend of blonde and brunette.

Essentially, the base is a darker, brown base with caramel highlights. This combination will warm up your skin tone and will maintain that summery

glow as the days get shorter and memories of your holiday fade. If you’re already a brunette, use a rich caramel gloss to really bring out those honey tones in your hair.

Out on the tiles If you’ve been to the Med this summer, you’ve no doubt seen terracotta, either on roofs, patios or plant pots. That lovely, reddish-orange with a hint of burnt brown and pink also looks amazing as a hair colour. As ever, I’d recommend that you have your stylist take you lighter – if your hair is already darker – and then add the colour. The idea is to have you looking as stylish and classy as Jessica Chastain, rather than the roof of a Spanish villa.

Mid-brown hair has suffered a bad press for many years. Often referred to as “mousey”, this shade has had very few champions. Well, I’m not one of the naysayers. If you call it “milk chocolate brown”, it sounds so much more appealing and is the perfect base colour for highlights. Honey and caramel tones can look like spun gold in this colour, while auburn and cinnamon tints also work beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, uber-light blonde highlights can make medium-brown hair look really dramatic.

O

by Craig Smith Director of Grateful Heads Hair Salon, Southend Providing expert hair care to Essex for 30 years.

Isn’t it time you made your head grateful?

01702 340965 32 Alexandra Street, Southend SS1 1BU 16

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

Reveal

BEAUTIFUL Results Introducing

A range of modular facial programmes combining treatments to provide amazing skincare results CACI ULTRA SKIN PEELS

firms + smoothes

resurfaces + brightens

MICRO NEEDLING

for fine lines + scars

IMAGE SKIN CARE

hydrates + protects

HARLEY STREET Skin Clinic, Leigh on Sea Call Sally for more information on 01702 710 470 or 07740 088 191 www.harleystreetskinclinic.co.uk

AS FEATURED IN

Reiki Master ď ł Crystal Healing

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

17

18

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

19

Kitchens Transformations & Replacement Doors

Made in

100’s of Door Style and Colour Options Full Installation Service Project Managed Free Survey & Design Fully Appointed Showrooms Major Appliances Supplied & Fitted All Worktop types Supplied 1600 Sq ft Essex Showroom

WE ALSO SUPPLY NEW KITCHENS FROM OUR EXTENSIVE RANGE

PROFESSIONALLY FITTED QUARTZ OVERLAY WORKTOP

CALL NOW FOR A FREE PROFESSIONAL DESIGN & WRITTEN QUOTATION

KitchenBASE

Showroom: Company House, Stock Road, Southend on Sea, Essex, SS2 5QF 20

Ask in Store for details and T&C’s Minimum spend, applies

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

21

To care or not to care?

COUNCIL

As our population grows older, adult social care becomes an ever-increasing problem, which was why my planned, independently verified as financially sound, business model for an adult social care campus and care in the community model was so important.

Despite the best efforts from dedicated public care workers and a well-meaning decent care service, it is still often a nightmare for family members looking for somewhere for their elderly relative to live. Many adult care systems have a warped view of their purpose in response to funding pressures, and this is clearly the case of Southend’s adult social care service, which could lose sight of what happens to the elderly person on the receiving end. We must provide services that are truly people-centred rather than how the funding framework has developed.

Keep in mind It is well known that there will be a continuing increase in our elderly population suffering from dementia, and a corresponding increase in demand for the number of residential care places. We need to be able to look after our elderly and we can’t just sit by and watch as services suffer, or stick our heads in the sand and ignore what will be required in the future.

Despite huge cuts to local government funding, I made sure that investment in our adult social services continued. Being passionate about caring for our elderly, I decided to invest in their future, with a properly funded plan, rather than spending money closing down much needed care homes. Adult social care should not only be about money – it needs to be about dignity and kindness.

We need care homes of excellence, with properly trained staff, run by the council’s own trading company. We should not be solely reliant on the private sector.

Devil-may-care I am extremely concerned that the latest cabinet papers from the new administration now indicate a change to the adult care proposals that, under my administration, went through full council unopposed. Previously the Conservatives wanted to close council run care homes and privatise all adult social care. Is history about to repeat itself?

by Cllr Ron Woodley

O

Independent Councillor for Thorpe

22

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

Experienced, professional, patient tutor

IPad, Tablet PC, Laptop Smartphone

1-1 Lessons in your own home

Fun, social, relaxed group classes

All ages welcome - Individual & Group lessons Tablet & IPad courses Learn how to use Skype, Twitter, Facebook Refresher general laptop/pc courses Download photos, iTunes, Internet, Email Spaces are limited to a MAX of 4 per course FREE refreshments provided for all courses!

Autumn offer – Book 4 lessons get 5th FREE : Claire on 01702 584144 or 07734347073 : www.learncomputersathome.co.uk : claire@learncomputersathome.co.uk Don’t delay, call LearnComputers@Home today

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

23

24

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

CARPET &

For more informatio n or a

FREE No Obligat ion please contQuotation,

act us

UPHOLSTERY CLEANING OVEN CLEANING

UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

l Guaranteed not to soak, stretch or shrink your carpet or furnishings l Domestic and Commercial work undertaken l Ovens and Hobs Sparkle and shine like new l Remove all traces of Burnt-on Fat, Grease & Carbon

Gates Cleaning Services

125 HIGH STREET

l

GREAT WAKERING

01702 216377

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

25

Advertorial

When I was 17, it was a very good year …

It was a very good year – riding a Vespa scooter, dressing from Carnaby Street, listening to pirate radio, going up west, meeting new girls – yes, it was a very good year.

When I was 35, it was a very good year

How is it for you now, at 65+ with your best days behind you? Is life still wine and roses – good pension, house paid for, good health, time to relax and enjoy life?

Or, more vinegar and nettles – small pension, perhaps still obliged to go to work, unpaid mortgage, unpaid loans and credit cards, poor health? Or somewhere in the middle, like most of us?

We’d ride in limousines

It was a very good year – happily married, bringing up the kids, buying a house, a new car, foreign holidays, good job, good future – yes, it was a very good year.

When I was 53, it was a very good year It was a very good year – kids off hand, time for ourselves, money for luxuries, grandchildren to indulge – yes, it was a very good year.

When I was 65 …

But now the days are short, I’m in the autumn of my years and I think of my life as vintage wine from fine old kegs, from the brim to the dregs, it poured sweet and clear, it was a very good year.

Whatever your situation, it will be improved by access to more money – money provides security, and lightens the load. If you’re a home owner, you could unlock the cash tied up in your property, by looking at an equity release scheme. These schemes don’t suit everybody, so you need impartial independent advice to ensure that it is right for you – and you owe it to yourself to find out.

To find out if it might suit you, and you would prefer to deal with a local, family-run, specialist adviser for the concerns of those in later life, then call now for a brief chat, or to arrange a meeting.

by Ron Radway, Financial Consultant

Essex Equity Release Advice Centre 01268 799211

O

Essex Equity Release Advice Centre For a free consultation and friendly, professional advice, call 01268 799211

www.essexequityrelease.co.uk 26

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

FSA No. 313397

October 2016

Call Brights Locksmiths Ltd & find out why we’re considered ESSEX’S MOST TRUSTED Locksmiths & Security company by far.

Tel. 01702-346-274 Email: info@brightsgroup.com October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

27

10% DISCOUNT ON ALL FLOO

RING

SHOWROOMS DISPLAYING A WIDE RANGE OF FLOORING

SPECIALISTS IN KARNDEAN AND CARPETS VINYLS • WOOD & LAMINATE • AMTICO

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK OPEN TO THE PUBLIC & TRADE

Daniel James Flooring 17 Purdeys Way, Purdeys Industrial Estate, Rochford, Essex, SS4 1ND

01702 547774

www.danieljamesflooring.co.uk

28

info@danieljamesflooring.co.uk

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

29

30

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

Want high-quality craftsmanship?

C Specialists in Young Bros. and Coopers C 3-Piece Suites made to your specifications C Extensive library of fabrics including:Voyage,Villa Nova, Ross, Linwood etc.

C Very competitive rates

PETER J. WEDDELL Upholstery . New cushion interiors . Re-upholstery

FREE Estimates

Middle Barn, New House Farm, Poynters Lane SS3 9TS

01702 216638 . 07787 133359

SONRAY

EST 1986

HEATING n

n

n

BATHROOMS

PLUMBING

Leaks, Ball Valves, Outside Taps Radiators Boilers Full Heating Systems Bathrooms designed, supplied and installed n

n

including: Electrics, Tiling, Plastering and Carpentry Call Stephen Mash on:07778 007535 or 01702 547824 sonrayheating-bathrooms.co.uk stevemashsonray@gmail.com 3 Dalys Road, Rochford, SS4 1RA

A LOCAL PLUMBER FOR LOCAL PEOPLE

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

31

WINE & DINE

The Cherry Tree – back for another bite

There can’t be many of us that haven’t, at one time or another, stopped at The Cherry Tree pub for a drink with friends or a memorable family celebration.

You may even have shared a pint with Rochford-born, Charlie Ball, who – seeing The Tree being shaken – recently stepped in to keep our memories alive.

“This is not a gastro –” says Charlie, passionately, in reference to the previous owners’ choices, “it’s a traditional, country, family pub. It always has been.”

In 2015, with the help of his own family – wife, Jo, and two daughters – Charlie grabbed his chance and set about reviving the withering Tree. With a lifetime’s experience building successful restaurants and managing pubs, Charlie knew just what to do with his local, but the investment did not come problem-free. ‘Repairs’ to the conservatory leaks were unfortunately counter-productive and the roof has had to remain covered for many months while he waits for the work to be rectified.

Fortunately, the issue is barely apparent from the inside and work will finally be completed within the next couple of months, Charlie assures us.

32

Set in stone With its low ceilings, rustic timber beams and parts dating as far back as 1790, The Cherry Tree was originally built as a tap room for Winters Manor House, Stambridge Road, Rochford. Although much has changed internally since then – it now offers bed and breakfast (with a disabled wet room facility), a modern, air-conditioned restaurant and a private events room – little can have changed outside, as it remains idyllically nestled amongst peaceful country lanes, picturesque fields and the estimable Rankin’s Cricket Club (which was founded in 1881 following a meeting at The Cherry Tree).

Cherry picking Keen to extol the virtues of his locally-sourced, quality ingredients – including sausages from John Lothian’s in Westcliff – Charlie describes his food as: “traditional, homemade, wholesome pub food”, then adds, “with a bit of twist.” With his history of running Chinese restaurants and assisted by Chef Craig Blandford – classically trained in French cuisine – perhaps we should expect the unexpected, but we will get to that shortly.

We start with the Flat Mushroom with Melted Blue Cheese and Whitebait with Tartar Sauce. £5 each, they come very generously sized and garnished with a pleasantly dressed lamb’s lettuce side salad. The tangy, meaty

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

mushroom is a great opener for any cheese lover and the whitebait, with its particularly crispy batter, is devilishly moreish and filling. We’d better wash them down to clear some room for mains.

With Guinness on draft, a selection of local real ales and seasonal guest ales, the bar is well stocked – we go for a pint of Crouch Vale Brewery’s award-winning Brewers Gold (£3.50) – but Charlie is also proud of his hand-picked selection of house wines: “You can always judge a pub by its house wines. Are they selling cheap wine to make a quick profit, or offering good value to make customers come back?” From the six on offer, we try a woody Sauvignon Blanc (unusual in that it is Spanish) and a silky-smooth Shiraz (both from £3.50 per glass) and it is immediately obvious that Charlie has gone for the latter option.

For mains, we order the traditional Steak & Ale Pie with New Potatoes and Garden Vegetables (£9).

Under the homemade, rough puff pastry, the beef is deliciously soft, slow-cooked in its rich gravy containing no less than three real ales – luxurious whilst remaining traditionally honest. It is our second choice, however, that reveals the “twist”.

Morrocan Spiced Lamb Wrap (£10) seems an unusual addition to a traditional English pub menu but on arrival – perhaps because of the accompanying salad and chips – it looks and feels remarkably at home. Ominously labelled as “Hot”, the harissa paste offers an exuberant kick without overpowering the flavoursome lamb, cooling cucumber, tomato and garlic mayo-loaded flatbread. The superchunky chips are wonderfully crispy on the outside, perfectly soft in the middle and not in the least bit powdery or oily. It is an exciting and very hearty meal. We are certainly getting our money’s worth.

Cheesecake with Berry Compote & Chantilly Cream (both £5) on the table. It is clear that Charlie is deriving some pleasure from challenging our bulging waistlines to resist the temptation of his beautifully but unpretentiously presented sweets. Well, maybe just one bite …

As we scrape the dishes clean, Charlie brings out one last twist to really finish us off – a freshly cooked taste of his signature Chilli Con Carne with Dark Belgian Chocolate. This mellow, unique indulgence has to be tasted to be believed but is definitely worth coming back for. Return we shall, but first we must attempt to roll out of the door.

Fruits of their labour Clearly, Charlie and Co. are doing an amazing job of rebuilding The Cherry Tree’s reputation as the place is buzzing with satisfied locals, they report a daily increase in customer numbers, and our sources confirm that it is, indeed, the talk of the town. And it’s hardly surprising when this old favourite pub is offering such generous, quality, no-nonsense (yet interesting), home-cooked, value-for-money fare. It’s the good old days but better, and it’s lovely to see The Cherry Tree in full bloom once again.

O

• Cater for private family events.

• Live music last Saturday of month.

• Lunchtime Special (Mon–Fri) 2 courses only £10.

• Sunday lunch 2 courses – £12, 3 courses – £14.

• Beer Festival in October.

01702 543173 Stambridge Road, Rochford, Essex SS4 2AF e: info@thecherrytreestambridge.co.uk www.thecherrytreestambridge.co.uk

XMAS PARTY MENU! (From 1st Dec) 3 COURSES for Only £20!

The cherry on top Satiated, we accept Charlie’s confident recommen­ da­tion for dessert and notice the cheeky glint in his eye as he places his Eton Mess and New York

XMAS DAY MENU! 4 COURSES – Adults: £75,

Children (age 5–15): £35, Under 5s: FREE! Early booking essential!

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

33

Traditional Butchery with Local Specialties 4Salt

Marsh New Seasons Lamb

OPEN

Thurs-S 8am to 2pat m (Display da ys Fri Sat)

Minted & boneless/butterflied legs to order 4Prime

Scotch Beef Breed Pork 4Natural Chickens Prime Rib 4Superb Low Fat Sausages auties!

4Winter Warmers including Oxtail, Barling Be best Braising Steak and necks of Lamb 4Roasting Joints available including Turkey and Veal 4Burgers including Turkey, Steak and Lamb 4Hog and Lamb Roast specialists 4Dry Cured Bacon made and smoked on-site 4Snowdonia range of Cheeses stocked www.philipsplett.com and award-winning Pies 4Rare

01702 216062

We are at Burtons Farm on Barling Road, SS3 0LZ with ample parking available.

34

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

www.climatec-hi.co.uk

CLIMATEC Home Improvements

WE MAKE THEM

WE FIT THEM

WE GUARANTEE THEM

...why would you go anywhere else?

Tailor Made For Your Home

In all Colours

Keep Intruders Out High Security Doors h Reduce Heating Bills wit Energy Rated Windows

PVCu and Aluminium

Police Preferred Products

Call us today about our WINTER WARMER OFFER

£3750.00

Full house of new windows, including fitting and VAT*

*Certain exclusions apply. Bay and other non casement windows excluded.

Price may vary depending on property type and size.

: Manufacturers of aluminium & PVCu windows, doors & conservatories

: Composite doors

: Thermally efficient frames : High security locking

: Secured By Design, police preferred products

: Rehau approved partner

: Insurance backed guarantee

: Wide range of colours/ finishes

: French, patio & bi-fold doors

““Excellent work, very clean no damage unable to fault anything always on time, will recommend.”

Customer, Southend -

Checkatrade Find usReview on

TELEPHONE: 01702 447600 CHI Ltd are part of the Climatec Windows group.

11-14 Fletchers Square, Temple Farm Industrial Estate, Southend-on-Sea, Essex SS2 5RN

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

35

FOOD

Caramelised Shallot and Thyme Frittata

A frittata is bit like an omelette that gets baked in the oven or put under the grill and puffs up. This is a really delicious tasty lunch or supper dish, suitable for everyone and gluten-free. The slow cooked sweet shallots are then topped with mozzarella and eggs and baked.

It is best hot but also nice cold. I like it with a lovely salad on the side. Enjoy!

Method:

Ingredients (serves 4 as a main meal, 6 as a starter):

4. Transfer the onions to a pie or flan dish which has a capacity of about 750ml, and spread evenly.

Pour over the beaten eggs, then roughly tear the mozzarella and scatter it over with the remaining sprigs of thyme.

• 50g butter plus a splash of olive oil • 20 round shallots or 10 banana shallots, peeled and sliced

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme leaves, plus sprigs for the top

• 3 tbsp clear honey or maple syrup • 8 free range eggs, lightly beaten • 250–300g buffalo mozzarella

3. Turn the heat to low, add the honey or maple syrup to the shallots, and carry on cooking for another 10 minutes, stirring until the mixture is caramelised. If it starts sticking to the bottom of the pan just add a little water and stir.

5. Bake for 15–20 mins until puffed-up, golden and cooked through.

6. Serve hot with some dressed salad and crusty bread.

O

Next month: Hot and Sour Pork and Pepper Stir-Fry

In association with Countrywide SE LLP 36

2. Heat the oven to 200°C/fan 180°C/Gas Mark 5.

by Judy Barden

ORACLE estate planning

1. Heat the butter and oil in a large frying pan and cook the shallots and thyme with a good pinch of sea salt and black pepper. Cook for 15 minutes, stirring now and then until the shallots are soft and golden.

Will Writing • Power of Attorney • Trusts • Funeral Plans Will Updating & Storage Facilities • Probate Administration t: 01702 393838 head office: 01277 202233 e: crowe@countrywide-se.com w: www.countrywide-se.co.uk Oracle House, 11 Clarence Road, Southend SS1 1AN

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

37

EXPERT CAR REPAIRERS AND SPRAYERS Your Local Garage - Trading over 15 Years aFriendly Reliable & Competitive aFast Turnaround aFree Loan Car Available aInsurance Work Approved aAccident Repairs aScratch & Dent Repairs aRe-Sprays/Spraybooth Refinishing aLifetime Guarantee aFree Estimates

BRIDGE PAINTWORK Bridge Garage, Ness Road

38

£20 OFF AT TIME O QUOTATIO F N

Our Highly trained staff can match any car colour to ensure a perfect end result!

Tel: 01702 291 300 WWW.BRIDGEPAINTWORK.CO.UK

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

39

We are now seeking a

FREELANCE, BACK END

WEB DEVELOPER Must be fluent in PHP, MySQL, Javascript, Ajax, HTML5 and CSS3 for integration of elements developed by a front end developer.

Please send your CV/portfolio and rates to:

hr@oraclecreativemedia.com

www.OracleCreativeMedia.com Oracle House, 11 Clarence Rd, Southend SS1 1AN

40

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

41

Local property market flying high

PROPERTY

Summer may be waving goodbye for another year, but morale levels are still high for those involved in the property market. Following the initial shock of the Brexit vote, it appears the worst of the predictions have been avoided and confidence is returning across both residential and commercial.

According to the latest report from the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), for the first time since April, surveyors are expecting house prices to increase over the next three months.

Members are forecasting a 3.3% increase on average, per year, over the next five years – the most optimistic prediction since the EU vote.

The RICS’ figures, which are seen as a key indicator of market activity, showed prices rising rather than falling. The strongest being felt in East Anglia and the West Midlands.

Setting the house in order In a recent announcement, RICS Chief Economist, stated, “There are clear signs that the housing

market is settling down after the initial surprise of the outcome of the EU referendum. Sales expectations are beginning to edge upwards once again, with the swift response from the Bank of England with the cut in interest rates playing a huge role in helping support confidence”.

Looking at the stats from the Prime Central London Index, there has been a 22% rise in the number of new prospective buyers since the vote, compared to the same period in 2015. With the number of properties under offer in the last 8 weeks rising by 19%, web activity up by 20% and actual viewings up by 49% over last year.

Home run Looking closer to home, Stirling Ackroyd Essex reported a rise as high as 62% in residential viewing activity in September compared to the same period in August, for properties from Thorpe Bay through to Leigh-on-Sea, with the commercial market not far behind.

For further information or advice on property matters, feel free to contact your local premier residential and commercial estate agent.

by Michael Naumann

O

Commercial Manager, Stirling Ackroyd

STIRLING ACKROYD Residential & Commercial Estate Agents Unit 6, 3 Church Road, Southend SS1 2AL t: 01702 669166 www.stirlingackroyd.com e: essex@stirlingackroyd.com 42

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

Services: • Accountancy • Audit & assurance • Corporate and personal tax • Corporate finance • Payroll services • Wealth management

Helping you avoid the rough!

To see how we can help, please contact our Southend office on T: 01702 348646 E: southend@wilkinskennedy.com

www.wilkinskennedy.com 43365 Southend Office Advert Resized A5 portrait Golf.indd 1 October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

03/02/2015 16:52 43

IO

COLE & SON

CASAMANCE

DE SI

GN

CO

NS UL TA T

FR EE

N

JANE CHURCHILL

DESIGN, STYLE & CRAFTSMANSHIP Visit our extensive showroom and workshop in Thorpe Bay. We offer a complete interior design service.

A fantastic choice of styles, finishes, fabrics, leathers, accessories, BESPOKE UPHOLSTERY, CURTAINS, BLINDS AND SHUTTERS – a talented and dedicated team of interior designers, furniture craftsmen and curtain makers to create your specific requirements – let us transform your home.

We also provide a full RE-UPHOLSTERY and RE-MODELLING service and have a huge selection of FABRICS, WALLPAPERS and CARPETS. Interior design by MICHELLE ELLIOTT-BRITTO. MORRIS

INTERIORS

C2C RAIL

STATION ROAD

THORPE HALL

THE BROADWAY

ACACIA DRIVE

MAPLIN WAY

AVENUE

THORPE BAY STATION

SOUTHEND-ON-SEA

SEA

THORPE ESPLANADE SEA

SANDERSON 44

SHOEBURYNESS

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

ROMO

ZINC

COLEFAX AND FOWLER

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

45

Just the Ticket I recently visited Adventure Island and I was am azed to see how positive and en thusiastic the young people wo rking on the rides were. I can honestly say it made our da y much more enjoyable. I hope th at the management appre ciate their energy as much as we did.

ing on your mind?

Someth

Consult the Oracle by to: sending your letters

s.co.uk

ion info@oraclepublicat

LOCAL LETTERS

Adam P. PANIC STATIONS --------------

Dear Oracle

I am writing as my Great Aunt - at the age of 91 - travelled from her home in Axminster, Devon, by train, all the way to London for a special family occasion. She was then met by her grandson who helped her to travel across London to then board a train at Fenchurch Street. Before boarding the train at Fenchurch Street, they arranged for her to have assisted help at Thorpe Bay station and the station were told which train she would be on. As you can imagine, at her age a journey like this is extremely worrying and to my Great Aunt’s horror, when she arrived at Thorpe Bay Station there was nobody to help her off the train! Luckily, there was a young lady on the train who noticed her distress, came to her aid and helped her onto the station’s platform.

I do feel that there should be more staff manning stations during the day so that the elderly can travel with confidence knowing that help will be at hand if needed. If this were the case more elderly people would possibly use our trains. Sadly, I doubt if my elderly Aunt will want to make that journey again!

Mrs Bromley

Tracking Trains Many moons ago I used to enjoy seeing a particular

float in the carnival procession – a train engine

called, “The Kursaal Flyer”. I wonder if anybody knows what happened to it? I’d love to see it again.

David

46

- Catch the Bouquet How exquisite Prittlewell Square has looked this summer. The gardeners have done an amazing job. I even saw a young couple taking their wedding photos there – I expect their pictures looked as good as they would have in the gardens of any stately home. Indeed, the flowers all along the cliffs have been beautifully laid and it has been an absolute pleasure walking along and enjoying the best that Southend has got to offer.

Well done and thank you to all involved.

E. Jones

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

47

Advertorial

First past the post at Shoeburyness High Shoeburyness High School continues to be the provider of choice for so many of our local young people who wish to continue their schooling in full-time, post-16 education. This year, once again, we have exceeded 300 students in our sixth form, many of whom are joining us from other schools and areas. So, why is Shoeburyness so popular?

We have excellent results As our numbers have been rising, our results have been improving too. We now have an impressive 98% pass rate at A-level and a 100% pass rate in vocational qualifications. This has been achieved in a year which saw the number of qualification

entries rise by a third! Our value added score is in line with national statistics too, showing that all of our students make good progress. In fact, the students who have continued with their education at Shoeburyness High School in post-16 this year have also achieved something rather spectacular – against a national downward trend, these students smashed previous GCSE records in the school and national statistics too! In English, our year 11 students achieved 76% A*–C grades; in Maths they achieved 70% and in Science they achieved 75%! All of which promises further A-level records in the future.

We ensure university success Against the national trend, at Shoeburyness we are sending more and more successful applicants to university every year. This year, half of our previous Year 13 students will be starting degrees in universities across the country and over 100 of our present Year 13 students have started the application process for next year too. We give carefully focussed advice and coaching to students, guiding them through the UCAS application process, providing workshops in CV and reference writing and even funding their applications too.

Come and see for yourself Don’t just take our word for it; come and see for yourself at our Post-16 Information Evening at 7pm, Thursday 10 November. Join us in the school hall for an explanation of the application process and the various pathways we offer and then talk to our staff and students about the wide range of courses on offer. We know you’ll be impressed!

48

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

We have great facilities Shoeburyness High School Year 12 and 13 students enjoy the best study facilities and largest exclusive areas in the school in which to work. Computer suites dedicated to post-16 students are available throughout the day, as are our excellent canteen facilities and fitness suite in our local leisure centre.

qualifications, we also offer Revision Academy groups, supporting students with their courses by offering practical advice and techniques to enhance their learning and promote their independence. We also forge links with the workplace and universities in order to provide students with clear steps to take towards their futures, whether in higher education or employment.

O

We offer a wide choice

by Bill Peel

We have over 40 different courses to choose from in our post-16 programmes of study at Shoeburyness High School, ranging from traditional A-level subjects to more creative and vocational courses in BTEC. We also lead the way in sports academies in both basketball and football, with professional coaching and national competitions. There really is something for everyone and, if you haven’t quite managed to achieve that C grade in English or Maths GCSE, we also offer the opportunity to study for these, alongside your other choices. As well as formal

Assistant Headteacher, Shoeburyness High School

SOUTHEND EAST COMMUNITY ACADEMY TRUST

Shoeburyness High School 01702 292286 schooloffice@shoeburyness.southend.sch.uk www.shoeburynesshigh.co.uk

STOP PRESS! Parents interested in applying for one of our selective places in Year 7 for their child should come along to one of our Selective Open Mornings on: Monday 17th or Tuesday 18th October for a personal tour of the school, where you can find out what we offer our academically more able students.

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

49

BRAINBOX 5

1

HOT SPOT – Where am I?

6

8

8 4

7

3

5

2

5

9

6

7

4

6

3

6

4

4

5

5

8

7

1

COMMERCIAL & DOMESTIC

2

5

3

Interior & Exterior

SUDOKU – Fill in the grid so

MOON

that every row, column and 3x3 box contains the numbers 1–9.

Over 30 years experience

WORD LADDER – Climb

Established connections to local building trades

the ladder, changing one letter each rung to make a new word.

HOWL

CONUNDRUM – Unscramble to solve the clue.

U

N

S

O

L

D

C

A

R

Last month’s solutions: HOT SPOT – Old Leigh Buoy WORD LADDER –

TERMTEEMTEESWEESWOES

CONUNDRUM – EDUCATION

2 7 5 6 9 1 4 3 8

Local, Reliable and Trustworthy High Quality service guaranteed References available upon request Fully Insured Experience of hanging all wallcoverings No job too small!

Clue: They help you cook, for a spell!

50

PAINTING & DECORATING

9 4 8 7 5 3 2 1 6

1 6 3 4 2 8 5 7 9

5 8 1 9 3 2 7 6 4

7 2 4 5 8 6 1 9 3

6 3 9 1 4 7 8 5 2

8 5 6 3 1 4 9 2 7

4 9 7 2 6 5 3 8 1

3 1 2 8 7 9 6 4 5

GMH Renovations tel:

01702 219 870

mob: 07775 500 420 email: goldhen@aol.com 63 Goldsworthy Drive, Great Wakering, Essex, SS3 0AU

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

advertorial

Cloudy2Clear Announce Trusted Trader Partnership Consumer champions Which? have now joined the thousands of customers who recognise that Cloudy2Clear Windows really are a business that you can TRUST. The company which specialises in repairing windows which are steamed up, broken or damaged by replacing the panes – not the frames has received the coveted ‘Which Trusted Trader’ status after going through a rigorous accreditation process entirely focussed on customer service.

Group Managing Director Marcus McGee believes that Which? have endorsed Cloudy2Clear’s long standing company

policy of delivering the highest standards possible at all times. ‘Our service is simple. If your double glazing has misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 25 year guarantee.

But it’s not just about saving people money, although that obviously helps. Whilst a number of tradespeople perhaps don’t focus on customer care as much as they should do, we make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle.

Locally Cloudy2Clear service the Thorpe Bay & Southend area and

manager Chris Miller agrees that this approach is a major factor in his success. ‘The truth is that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I get from doing a good job but also it makes good business sense. I get a huge amount of business from friends and family of people I’ve done work for, which just goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated as both my customers and, obviously a body as nationally important as Which? now recognise.’

So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Chris a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!

Cloudy2Clear GUARANTEE All Customers That An Average Quote Will Take No Longer Than 20 MINS!!!

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

51

52

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

Established 1975

Flat Roofing Problems?

Specialise in Felt and Asphalt Roofs Approved contractors to most major Felt Manufacturers For your FREE quote Phone

ESTUARY ROOFING LTD.

01702 295314 Mob: 07970 746712 estuaryroofing@blueyonder.co.uk October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

53

Broomfield Construction & property maintenance

WHAT’S ON Snip & Chip 4th & 11th Oct, 1–3pm. Vets4Pets, 1603–1609 London Rd, Leigh SS9 2SQ. Bring yourself and receive a £10 voucher for neutering/microchipping. Call: 01702 710630.

Purple Festival 2016 FREE Sat 8th Oct, 3–9pm. Pier Hill/City Beach, Southend SS1 1EE. Live music and fireworks display.

The Really Big South Essex Sleep Out Sat 8th Oct. Sleep out in support of homeless people! www.essexsleepout.org Seafront Fireworks FREE 8th Oct–19th Nov, every Sat at 7.30pm. City Beach, Marine Parade, Southend SS1 1EE. 11th Annual Centenarians Tea Party FREE Sun 9th Oct, 2pm. Nazareth House, 111 London Rd, Southend SS1 1PP. Sir David Amess MP invites local people over 100 years old.

Call: 0207 2193452 e: josephine.jackson@parliament.uk.

WI Southchurch Village Friends Meeting Every 2nd Mon, 7.30pm. The Hamstel Children & Families Centre, Hamstel Rd SS2 4PQ. 10th Oct – Judy Barden cookery demonstration.

Saturday Cinema: Zootropolis FREE Sat 15th Oct, 10am–12pm. TAP, The Old Waterworks, North Rd, Southend SS0 7AB. Film shows for children with disabilities.

Charlie Bear Halloween Picnic FREE Sun 16th Oct, 12–4pm.

Victoria Shopping Centre, Southend SS2 5SP. Best dressed bear prize, free trick or treat raffle, drinks and 10% off instore. To book, visit: www.teddystation.co.uk.

Charity Casino Night Thurs 20th Oct, 7–10.30pm. Arlington Ballroom, 905 London Rd, Leigh SS9 3LL. £20 (inc. £5 game chips, buffet). Info/tickets call Jo or Pam: 01702 466886 or email: joanne@npaccounts.com. themusicmanproject.com 4th Annual Rossi Ice Cream Southend Comedy Festival Sun 23rd Oct, 7.30pm, The Clifftown Theatre, Nelson Street, Southend SS1 1EF. Hottest up-and-coming acts battle in competition. £15. To book tickets: southendtheatres.org.uk Children’s Book Festival 2016 20–29th Oct, The Forum, Elmer Square, Southend SS1 1NE. Fantastic author events. £3 per child. Book at: www.southendlam.eventbrite.com Hide and Shriek: Scream Park 28th–29th Oct. Victoria Plaza Shopping Centre, 362 Chartwell Square, Southend SS2 5SP. £20 + booking fee. 3 Scare Mazes, live entertainment and more. To book: www.hideandshriek.co.uk.

Southend Hospital Breast Unit Charity Quiz Fri 28 Oct, 7.45pm, Freight House, Rochford SS4 1BU. £6/p, teams of 8.

To book: 01702 385337 or e: fundraising@southend.nhs.uk The Jurassic Day FREE Sat 29th Oct, 11am–4pm, Royals Shopping Centre, Southend SS1 1DG. Arts, crafts, games, singing, free face painting and giant dinosaur with 3 babies!

The Invasion! FREE Sun 30th Oct, 11am–5pm, Royals Shopping Centre, Southend SS1 1DG. Arts, crafts, competition and free face painting. The Doctor and his evil enemies will be available for photos.

54

Extensions • Loft Conversions Alterations • Kitchen & Bathroom refurbs Wet Rooms • Brickwork & Plastering All aspects of building work undertaken

Call Matthew

tel: 07966510457 or 01702 535669 broomfieldmatthew@gmail.com

114 High Street, Great Wakering, Southend On Sea, Essex, SS3 0EJ

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

Keep me, you never know when you might need me?

CLEANING & SEALING OF DOMESTIC DRIVEWAYS & PATIOS

Matt Finish

After

Before

“Avoid Cowboy Trades & Services”

Always

Simply Business Public Liability: £1,000,000 View our policy details

Before you use them

WWW.SEALINGTECHNIQUE.COM for only £9 per sq metre Call Lionel or Luke

01268 449771 / 07834 897654 / 07817 726966 19 St. Davids Way, Wickford, Essex SS11 8EX 10% OFF with this leaflet/advert

79359 doc.indd 1

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

21/01/2015 14:54

55

Air&Back

Q 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.

Q Q Q Q

Q

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, 22 Coronation Close, Great Wakering, SS3 0JG

Tel/Fax: 01702 435722 Mobile 07903 301086 airandback@yahoo.co.uk

CITY H STANSTED H GATWICK H LUTON H HEATHROW ity l i iabance L l r l Fu nsu I

MIKE’s Tree Services Est. 1982

Felling Pollarding Shaping Pruning Shrub/Hedge Trimming Friendly & Reliable Service

For a FREE Quotation call Mike

01702 305217 07505 794203

56

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

57

58

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016

SW PHYSIOTHERAPY LTD

Emergency Electrician Established locally over 25 years Faults our speciality No Job too small Special rates for OAP’s No call out charge

Tel: Tel:

SUSAN WHITE

CHARTERED PHYSIOTHERAPIST HPC REGISTERED

TEL : 01702 322606 14 BUCKLAND, SHOEBURYNESS

GENERAL PHYSIOTHERAPY SPORTS INJURIES NECK AND BACK PROBLEMS SPRAINS AND STRAINS WHIPLASH INJURY ARTHRITIS

07778 653339 01702 588892 FULL ASSESSMENT UNDERTAKEN REGISTERED WITH ALL MAJOR INSURANCE COMPANIES

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

59

Thorpe Bay Art Group St Augustine's Church Stone Masons & Dry Stone Wallers Southend Chess Club Steve Wedlock (Club Secretary) Southend-on-Sea Lions Club Southend & District Pensioners Campaign Thames Estuary Lacemakers

Sponsored by:

01702 780066 www.brymanrecruitment.co.uk

AR Adams Funeral Directors Child Protection Citizens Advice Crimestoppers Cruse Bereavement Care Pier & Foreshore Inspectors Drugs, Alcohol & Substance Misuse HARP – Southend's Homeless Charity National Drugs Freephone Samaritans Freephone Southend Carers Southend Talking Newspaper Victim Support Group Southend Council Civic Centre Jobcentre Southend Cllr Ron Woodley

Clubs & Associations

586383 534495 0844 4770 808 0800 555 111 213843 215620 440400 615000 0800 776900 116123 393933 554536 0845 4565995 215000 575700 588662

Belfairs Mixed Bowling 475766 Burges Estate Residents Association (BERA) 588662 Charles Dicken’s Fellowship 588069 Cockleshell Clog Morris 218081 Essex Handicrafts Association 479622 Essex Society for Family History 522992 Lower Thames Rowing Club 482205 Prittlewell Bowls Club 612476 Southchurch Park Bowling Club 07434 190067 Southchurch Park Croquet Club 303957 Southend Blind Welfare Association 342131 Southend Cardiac Support Group 309042/293469 Southend Photographic Society 332491 Southend Rugby Club 546682 Southend Golf Club 473206 South Essex Natural History Society 588115 The English Speaking Union 588069 Thorpe Bay Bowling Club 582074 Thorpe Bay Bridge Club 616145 Thorpe Bay Floral Arrangement Group 585350 Thorpe Bay Ladies Thursday Club 296975 Thorpe Bay Lawn Tennis Club 585245 Thorpe Bay Men’s Forum 588297 Thorpe Bay Yacht Club 587563 Thorpe Hall Golf Club 582205 Scouts: Southend, Thorpe Bay & Shoeburyness 584026 Actorcrats (Amateur Dramatics) 306506

60

345902 582828 341047 476034 224600 435555

Primary Care Trust Southend General Hospital

Pharmacies

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

USEFUL NUMBERS Advice & Helplines

Hospitals & Health

585531 587597 292867

Local MP

616135

James Duddridge (Conservative)

Animal Welfare

Downes & Prtnrs, Veterinary Surgeon RSPCA Rochford

Police Services

Police emergency Police non-emergency Marine Police HM Coastguard

584511 548261 999 101 01268 775533 01702 294998

Public Services

Southend Forum 215011 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, Airmens Families Assoc.) 463113 24 hour Emergency Homeless Shelter 430696

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

Jonnie Peacock (b. 1993)

“I lost my leg aged five … Now I’m 1.9 seconds behind Usain Bolt.”

October 2016

STARRING

An Original Theatre Company and Salisbury Playhouse Production in association with Eastbourne Theatres

GWEN TAYLOR

DARAGH O’MALLEY

MON 31 OCT – SAT 5 NOV Mon – Sat 8pm, Matinees Thu and Sat 2.30pm

www.palacetheatresouthend.co.uk Box Office 01702 351135

NIAMH MCGRADY AND WILL FEATHERSTONE

October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

61

Advertise with

ORACLE Your all-seeing local www.oraclepublications.co.uk oracleessex

oracle_essex

DIRECTORY ACCOUNTANTS Wilkins Kennedy 43 AIRPORT TRANSFER Air & Back 56 ARCHITECTURE Structural Works 15 BATHROOMS Better Life Bathing 37 BLINDS Worth & Co 41 BLOCK PAVING Brooks Paving 58 BUILDERS Broomfield Construction 54 BUTCHERS Philip Splett 34 CAR DEALERSHIP Fairfield Mini 2 CARPENTRY John Sorrell 53 CARPETS Abbey Carpets 12 Gainsborough Carpets 21 Trade Carpets 5 CARPET/OVEN CLEANING Gates Services 25 CLEANING Maid in Essex 18 COMMERCIAL/DOMESTIC PLUMBING & HEATING Essex Maintenance 29 COMPUTER SERVICES Computopia 57 COMPUTER TUITION Learn Computers at Home 23 COSMETIC CLINIC JR Medical 23 DECORATIONS GMH Renovations 50 DOORS Studio 3000 57 DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIR Cloudy 2 Clear 51 DRIVEWAYS Sealing Technique 55 ELECTRICAL DMB Electric 8 Emergency Electric 59 RDM Electrical 14 ENTERTAINMENT Southend Theatres 61

62

Reach over 30,000 readers in Leigh, Chalkwell, Westcliff, Southend Conservation Area, Thorpe Bay, Southchurch, the Garrison and West Shoebury hungry for your business.

Call 01702 393838 for a Media Pack or visit www.oraclepublications.co.uk ADVERT DESIGN SERVICE AVAILABLE HIGH-QUALITY, GLOSSY PUBLICATION SELECT DISTRIBUTION AREAS

EQUITY RELEASE ADVICE Essex Equity Release Advice Centre 26 ESTATE AGENTS Home Estate Agents 64 Stirling Ackroyd 42 FASHION BOUTIQUE Cameo 61 FUNERAL SERVICES AR Adams Funeral Services 53 FURNITURE RESTORER TS Baskett 57 FLOORING Daniel James Flooring 28 FOOT HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL JSP Foot Healthcare 18 GARAGES Bellevue Motors 23 Bridge Garage 38 RS Automotives 30 Service Garage 24 GARDEN CENTRE Morley’s Garden Centre 52 GARDEN LANDSCAPES Amax Landscapes 45 GARDEN SERVICES Paul’s Gardening 40 GRANITE WORKTOPS Granite Transformations 19 HAIR & BEAUTY Grateful Heads 16 HANDYMAN Piper Construction 50 HEALTH Therapy Life Centre 59 HEALTH & SAFETY ADVICE AND RISK MANAGEMENT ASR Management 3 HOME IMPROVEMENT Climatec Home Improvement 35 HOME OPTICIAN VISITING East England Eye Care 1 INSURANCE Swinton Insurance 14 INTERIOR DESIGNERS Janet Williamson 25 Morris Interiors 44 JAZZ CLUB Annie’s Jazz 19 JEWELLERY AV & BV Andrews 40 Lyons Jewellery 11 KITCHENS Apollo Kitchens 39

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

Kitchen Base Roman Kitchens LOCKSMITHS/SECURITY Bright’s Locksmiths MARBLE WORKTOP Abbey Marble MEN’S FORUM Thorpe Bay & Shoebury Men’s Forum OPTICAL CC Optical PEST CONTROL Pestcleare PHYSIOTHERAPY Susan White PLUMBING & HEATING Brian Lacey Sonray Heating PRINTERS DXP Print PUBLIC HOUSE The Angel Inn RESTAURANTS The Cherry Tree Il Palazzo Polash Restaurant ROOFING CSJ Roofing Specialists Estuary Roofing Services Jenner Roofing SCHOOLS Shoebury High School SEWING & ALTERATIONS Sew in Love SKIN CLINIC Harley Street Skin Clinic TEACHER TRAINING SCITT TRAIN TRAVEL c2c TREE SERVICES Mike’s Tree Services Tree-King TUITION Athena Tuition Kumon UPHOLSTERY Peter Weddell WEBSITES Oracle Creative Media WINDOW CLEANING BC Windows YOGA Harmonie

20 11 27 55 54 58 12 59 37 31 8 4 32/33 34 8 12 53 14 48/49 17 17 37 13 56 19 38 6 31 40, 63 55 17

October 2016

Offering London skills at local prices …

Website Design

Standard Websites • E-commerce Websites Database Websites

n g i s e D & t n i r P Business Cards • Flyers/Brochures Brand Management

s Email Service

Responsive Email Design • Analytical Reporting Targeted Email Campaigns

Call us on 01702 393838 www.OracleCreativeMedia.com

Oracle House, 11 Clarence Road, Southend-on-Sea, Essex SS1 1AN October 2016 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

63

The Estate Agent of Thorpe Bay

Bespoke Marketing Stunning Photography First Class Service Make sure you obtain the very best price for your home Call us today for a free valuation

01702 588 885 127 The Broadway Thorpe Bay SS1 3EX Email: info@homeinthorpebay.com Web: homeinthorpebay.com

64

www.oraclepublications.co.uk

October 2016