Thorpe Bay
January 2014
ORACLE Thorpe Bay at a glance Est. Sept 2005. Circulation 5,100
Oracle Competition WIN! Two pairs of tickets to see ‘Ultimate tribute to ABBA’
Local Issues
Is this called Democracy?
Hair & Beauty
New Year, new you, new do!
Recipe Page
Smoked salmon fishcakes and fennel salad
Oracle Exclusive Vouchers See page 11
STUNNING BATHROOMS
Bathroom suites Showers Wet Rooms Toilets Shower Doors Towel Rails
Taps Radiators Accessories
BATHROOMS & SHOWERS
PLUMBING & HEATING
HED ESTABLIS ARS OVER 30 YE
Thorpe Bay
ESSEX CLADDING The PREMIER installers of UPVC roofline products
OR ACLE
publisher’s letter
H
appy New Year! Christmas and the New Year celebrations are great whilst they last but by now I am ready to get back to the routine of everyday life again, looking to the year ahead and making plans. If any of you are still undecided about your New Year Resolutions or just fancy doing something different, there may well be something that grabs you inside. Judy has given us another mouth watering dish and Ray Snow guides us through defragging our computers, something I definitely wasn’t doing often enough. Oracle’s competition kicks off this New Year with a pair of tickets to see the UK’s number 1 live concert tribute show to ABBA and the Bee Gees which will be featured at the Cliffs Pavilion on Saturday 8 February at 8 pm. For further information please visit the website www.thecliffspavilion.co.uk To enter please send your contact details to: Oracle/ABBA Competition, 39 Alexandra Street, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS1 1BW or email info@oraclepublications.co.uk closing date Friday 24th January. Good Luck!
Call our specialist team for advice or for a free no obligation quote
T:01702 584058 M:07771 553003 www.essexcladding.com essexcladding@btinternet.com
19 Withypool, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS3 8BH
SPECIALIST IN
GOLDSWORTHY BUILDS
F INSULLY UR ED
Extensions Alterations Bathrooms Driveways Kitchens Plastering
We have a long established small trusted workforce to carry out all large & small building jobs. Please call for a free estimate.
Emma Wynne-Morgan Publisher
Bargeboards • Cladding • Fascias • Soffits Installation • Guttering - All Sizes & Colours
01702 393838
39 Alexandra Street, Southend, Essex SS1 1BW
www.oraclepublications.co.uk info@oraclepublications.co.uk
www.twitter.com/oracle_essex www.facebook.com/oraclepublications
Fairfield Building
27 Fairfield Gardens Leigh-on-Sea Essex SS9 5SD Tel: 01702 521780 Mobile: 07710106913
Printed by EVONPRINT, Small Dole, Sussex 01273 494631 JANUARY 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
3
ORACLE PLUMBING & HEATING
contents Local Issues Is this called Democracy? by Peter Lovett
9/10
Oracle Exclusive Vouchers Great offers
11
New Year, new you, new do! Hair & Beauty by Craig Smith
16
Speed up your PC by defrag Oracle IT by Ray Snow
22
Top tips for driving this Winter Oracle Motoring by Danielle Wheeler
28
Smoked salmon fishcakes and fennel salad Judy's Recipe Page
36
Buy to let opportunity Oracle Money by Paul Flavin
43
Sudoku Useful Numbers Advertisers Index
50 60 62
BOILER SERVICING & BREAKDOWN REPAIR OR REPLACE ALL ASPECTS OF PLUMBING & HEATING INCL. FULL BATHROOM INSTALLATIONS
20 YEARS EXPERIENCE
4
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
NO CALL OUT CHARGE NO JOB TOO SMALL! DRIPPING TAPS - FULL HEATING SYSTEM FRIENDLY & RELIABLE SERVICE
CALL MARTIN TODAY!
Advertorials i.Fit Shoebury High School
BEAT ANY REASONABLE QUOTES
M. WALKER Plumbing & Heating Services
01702 218 246 6/7 32/33
07881785405
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
JANUARY 2014
Trade Carpets
640 SUTTON ROAD, SOUTHEND-ON-SEA, ESSEX, SS2 5PX
t. 01702 612424 / 01702 612425
D HE LIS B TA ES
27
S AR YE
OPEN DAILY: 9.00am - 5.30pm
COME & VISIT OUR SHOWROOM
JANUARY
CARPETS
REMNANTS RUGS
SALE NOW ON
VINYLS
LAMINATES
MODULEO KARNDEAN ENGINEERED WOOD
1000’S OF CARPETS IN STOCK QUALITY FITTING SERVICE FREE DELIVERY JANUARY 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
5
Advertorial
Drop a dress size
in only four weeks!
Need a post-party recovery plan?
Y
ou'd have to be super-human to resist the odd mince pie or turkey stuffing over Christmas. Feeling the January bulge a little? I.Fit in to nothing sound familiar? If any of these problems strike a chord then the innovative I.Fit Studio,Woodgrange Drive is there to help with its new state of the art machines which achieve great results, fast!
They also increase stamina and improve fitness and well-being. If used regularly and combined with a healthy diet, the vibrating and oscillating plates can reduce your dress size by two sizes. Celebrities such as Madonna, Sadie Frost, and Donatella Versace are all frequent users of I.Fit machines. The appeal of I.Fit Studio’s opening hours mean that you are able to fit your session around your busy schedule, so no excuses ladies! I.Fit a 10 Get fit without the Gym! minute session in my day that’s how I.Fit into my This exercise studio offers its clients the chance to new dress!!! exercise without actually working out! Intrigued? How do the I.Fit machines work? Then please read on…. All I.Fit machines have two motors, one that powers The I.Fit Studio holds eight, recently purchased I.Fit the oscillation motion and one for the vibrating machines that help its clients maintain a regular motion. Oscillation, the up and down motion, will exercise routine for short intervals with amazing give the body a resistance work out. The body will results. If you are looking for a well toned body, try to correct itself, fighting against the motion, so better flexibility, improved circulation plus the as one limb moves up, the other limb moves down reduction of the appearance of cellulite, then these allowing the body’s natural shock absorbing machines are a great find. (Amongst many of their system to operate. advantages).
Banish Bingo Wings Reduction in visceral and subcutaneous fat – particularly around the abdomen. Improvement in muscle tone reducing cholesterol. Improvement in the function of the nervous system. Improvement in bone density, making the bones become stronger. Improvement in intestinal movement. Increases the metabolic rate – the best way to lose weight.
6
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
JANUARY 2014
The wonderful thing about the machine is its versatility. It allows you to get to tone and exercise different parts of the body by just changing your body’s position. The I.Fit machines have three different speeds to cater for people’s different abilities. Therefore, people as young as 16 and up to the age of 80 are able to use the machines once they have been given instruction from I.Fit Studio’s staff and answered a few health questions.
Knowledgeable staff on hand There are eight Ifit machines in the women’s only studio and another two I.Fit machines in the men only area.Tea and coffee facilities are also available. The friendly and knowledgeable members of staff are always very happy to show you how to use the I.Fit machines, give guidance and offer expert advice. Appointments are not necessary so just drop by with your friends and have a work out whilst you catch up and share a giggle, as the I.Fit machines are great fun to use, or just come along on your own and you will be made to feel very welcome.
Open 7 days a week The I.Fit Studio’s are open 7 days a week and their opening hours are Monday to Friday 9am – 10 pm, Saturday 9am – 9pm and Sunday 10am – 9pm. In addition next door to the studio, is a state-of-theart tanning salon, so why not take advantage of this facility and enhance your overall healthy image ready for the New Year and winter holidays?
ORACLE OFFER: Buy a weekly course, 3 sessions for £10 and get 3 extra sessions free. Buy a 4 weekly course of 12 sessions for £30 and get 12 extra sessions free Offer ends 31st Jan 2014 (Terms & Conditions apply)
Below are just a few comments from the many happy and fit clients at I.Fit Studio:-
Sarah from Shoebury:
When I heard from a friend of mine that the IFit had really worked at getting rid of her cellulite I knew I had to try it! I started using the I.Fit studio for 10 minutes three times a week, the lady there showed me the position that helps with cellulite and it really works! It took me 7 weeks and I now feel confident enough to wear a bikini.
Cerrone from Leigh:
After having my last baby I couldn’t shift the spare tyre around my middle. I use the I.Fit machine for twenty minutes, 3 times a week and I’ve gone from a size 14 to a 12 in 3 weeks. I followed the I.Fit girls advice to alter my eating habits slightly and its worked wonders! I’m going to continue using the I.Fit till I get to my goal of size 10. I can’t thank the I.Fit girls enough! Also I can take the baby with me.
Rachel:
After finding out from my doctor that all these horrible symptoms I have including putting on weight and feeling bloated were all due to the menopause I knew that even though I didn’t feel like it (tired and grumpy all the time) I had to do some sort of exercise.I’ve never really exercised in my life and didn’t really want to start now but after hearing about the I.Fit thought I’d give it a try,what could I lose? Well believe me not only have I lost some weight, the bloated feeling has gone and I just feel so much better in myself.
CLASSES NOW AVAILABLE: Monday to Sunday 10am or 7pm for a 20 minute workout with instructor
01702 612580 http://www.abfabtanning.co.uk 202 Woodgrange Drive, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 2SD JANUARY 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
7
8
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
JANUARY 2014
Local Issues
Is this called Democracy? I
suppose everyone has been aware of different disputes with Southend Council recently, with the care homes, libraries, shared spaces, Museum, Café, schools and our beloved Pier, to name but a few. When I joined Friends of Shoebury Common, I had no idea it would involve a 12-hour day commitment and turn into a full time job! I really thought that if I filled in the missing jigsaw pieces, we would convince the Councillors to listen to their electorate and really think what a 5 metre wide heavy and ugly floodgate would look like in front of Uncle Toms, Shoebury Common. However, every time I asked a simple question, the answer received, created 10 more questions and so the jigsaw and the lack of transparency grew in size.
JANUARY 2014
With 93 similar flood projects being considered this year, only 15 involved coastal defences and it was lovely to hear that towns like Felixstowe had received green flag awards for public partnership, before any design even started. Even the Council accepted that the consultation meetings were “poor at best” and despite sensible questions being asked, answers given were misleading and in some cases even ignored.
Preferred option was £2m, now estimated £15m! A detailed breakdown of our raised promenade was given back in April 2013, after they decided to add over £3m for items such as lighting, drain repairs, disabled access, soil, new beach huts just so the “preferred option” took centre stage. Despite requesting a similar breakdown of costs for the councils “preferred option” in April 2013, we have never received this important information, just a lump sum, so we have nothing to compare or check against. Remember we were told the preferred option was £2m in 2012 and now total costs are being estimated in excess of £15m!
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
9
83% against preferred option We thought the Council meetings would be democratic, with any public questions being submitted 5 days in advance, but the agenda / reports were not posted until 2 days before, so we were refused. The committee were told Agency funding would be lost if not approved that day, when the Agency had not yet even approved funding, so how could it be lost? One conservative councillor said he would not sleep at night if they did not give urgent approval, despite all five options offering the same protection. With 83% against the preferred option, he also said “he would only support a scheme which had the least impact on this fantastic asset”, comparing a 22” raised promenade having a negative affect & looking into Lodwick’s gardens against a viewing gallery on top of their 7 foot high wall. This unique Common and the 166 beach huts have been here for over 100 years, so it should not be destroyed just to dump 55,000 tons of soil or obtain £1m in exchange for planning permission to build yet more houses on a level 3 flood plain.
High tide at 2am Friday 6th Dec at Thorpe Bay Yacht Club slipway. Beach and many huts completely flooded.
All the Southend and Essex Coastal Defence plans suggest and history confirms,“holding the existing line”, which would mean increasing the existing sea wall by 28”. No other UK seaside town can be found which has used a 2 metre high sea wall as a sensible design? After the 1953 floods, most of the existing sea walls were raised by 2 feet, from Shoebury Common to East of the Pier, so why are the crest levels all different now and they know we are not the lowest? Why is Shoebury Common a 1 in 200 year protection with a new 5.80 AOD crest wall and yet Southchurch is 1 in 500 year protection with a lower crest sea wall. With all Conservative Councillors so in favour of this poor design and with such a huge list of inconsistencies, it is no surprise residents are unhappy with the situation and the way they have been treated.
Non-attendance We thought we would get the answers at our debate meeting organised and paid for by FoSC on December 16th 2013 as they agreed to attend. However, when they received some of the questions we wanted on the agenda, they suddenly withdrew from attending! By the time you all read this article, democracy, transparency and fair play may prevail or on the other hand all our hard and passionate work may be buried in the Shoebury Common under 55,000 tons of Southend's London Clay Soil. All I can ask is WHY? by Peter Lovett Friends of Shoebury Common (Figures and information given at time of print and maybe subject to change.)
10
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
O
JANUARY 2014
# INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR DECORATING Painting & Wallpapering
Professional, friendly and reliable Local Thorpe Bay Decorator Top quality workmanship Guaranteed City and Guild qualified Competitive prices Fully Insured
M K Decorating Services For a free no obligation quotation, Please call Michael
SiLVER’S 01702 589 482
40 Barnstaple Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 3PA
Lemon Tree
01702 467793
(OFFER ENDS 31st JANUARY 2014 ) T&C APPLY
60% off!
anti-ageing facial, now only £20 www.essexlaserlipo.com By appointment only
Celco Lighting
10% OFF One voucher per customer (OFFER ENDS 31st January 2014 ) T&C APPLY
144 - 146 London Road, Southend-on-Sea
Hello Gorgeous!
£10 off
Unisex Beauty Salon
any single treatment over the value of £30.
01702 584737
offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer
hellogorgeousbeautysalon.com 158 The Broadway SS1 3ES
JANUARY 2014
One voucher per customer (OFFER ENDS 31st JANUARY 2014 ) T&C APPLY
01702 348234
Lessons are available for non-members as well as members. Contact our support team on 0844 736 9047 or book@communityswimming.co.uk
www.silvershair.co.uk
(OFFER ENDS 31st JANUARY 2014 ) T&C APPLY
www.lemontreesouthend.co.uk
513 Southchurch Road SS1-2PH
01702 431970
Book your swimming lessons at LA Fitness Thorpe Bay with Suzanne Hoff and her team.
New Clients only
Mon-Friday lunch and dinner
mk.decorating@hotmail.co.uk
Learn to swim with Community Swimming
WITH ANY COLOUR PAID FOR.
Free bottle Of HouseWine!
01702 312964 07973 796270
Book today
Free!
CUT AND BLOW DRY
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
One voucher per customer (OFFER ENDS 31st JANUARY 2014 ) T&C APPLY
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
11
A
FRE EE STI MA TES
ALL GENERAL BUILDING WORK ✔ Interior And Exterior ✔ Plastering ✔ Extensions ✔ Groundwork ✔ Renovations ✔ Patios, Paving ✔ Bricklaying & Driveways
ALL WORK GUARANTEED!
A.J Property Services 4 Towerfield Close, Shoeburyness, Essex, SS3 9QP
07912 945 288 01702 296 011 www.ajpsuk.co.uk
12
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
JANUARY 2014
k keep eep m me, e, y you ou ne never ver kn know ow w when hen y you ou might need me !
NO MORE WEEDS WORK GUARANTEED
Matt finish
Before
After
1st Visit
2nd Visit
www.sealingtechnique.com
01268 449771
07834 897654
10% OFF wit with h this Advert
FILL YOUR HOME WITH MUSIC NOW A SPEAKER TO FIT ANY ROOM AND AN OFFER TO GET YOU STARTED
FREE BRIDGE FOR EASY WIRELESS SETUP WITH PURCHASE OF PLAY:1, PLAY:3 OR PLAY:5 Promo ends Dec 31, 2013. While stocks last.
01702 475518 15 Elm Road, Leigh on Sea, Essex, SS9 1SW
www.hbelectrical.co.uk
Carpenter & Joiner
! " !
TRADITIONAL VICTORIAN TILED FLOORS DESIGNED & INSTALLED BY EXPERTS RESTORATION & REPAIR ALL ASPECTS OF WALL & FLOOR TILING PLEASE CALL FOR A FREE QUOTE TODAY T: 07900 258359 / 01702 541489
!
!
For advice and free, no-obligation quotations please telephone :
01702 582489 or 07984 924916
E: INFO@MCGTILING.CO.UK
JANUARY 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
15
Oracle Hair & Beauty
New Year, New You, New Do! T
he Quality Street tin is empty, the Bailey’s has been drunk and if anyone offers you another turkey-based snack, you’ll sock them!
But relax and breathe…2014 is here and I’m sure, if you’re anything like me, you are looking a little worse for wear! January is the perfect time to give yourself makeover – think New Year, New You! Well, hair-lo! Drink as much water as you can, this will ensure that your skin is hydrated and plumped up from the inside out, and that dehydrated hair loses its dull and lifeless sheen. As well as water, your hair’s rehydration process needs a concentrated conditioning treatment once a week. This will put high moisture levels back into dry, partiedout locks, re-build structure and leave your tresses looking and feeling shiny and healthy. Make a resolution to book regular hair cuts – and no excuses, even if you have long hair, it still needs regular trims to get rid of split ends and maintain tip-top condition. Make sure you book appointments every six weeks for short hair, and three months for long hair. You might not have a million bucks, but you’ll look it!
your own natural oils. As the condition of your skin improves, you can reduce the frequency of your exfoliations to twice a week. Tone your skin daily with soothing products containing rosewater, which is great for conditioning and priming the skin.
People keep products for far too long, so give your make-up bag a makeover in the New Year. Pinks, peaches and soft red lipsticks are all coming back for spring/summer and they're an easy way to update your beauty look. Wearing colour on your lips also helps brighten up your complexion during the ‘pale months’ – and you’ll have a more youthful glow. Get some therapy! To complete your New Year, New You makeover, open your wardrobe and get ready to be brutal. If you haven’t worn it for a year, put it in a bag and give it to charity! The sales are on and you’ll find some great bargains that’ll soon put Spring in your step. Sponsored by
Love the skin you’re in Embark on a good skincare regime. Use a gentle exfoliator daily, but nothing too heavyduty as you don't want to remove too many of 16 T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E www.oraclepublications.co.uk
O 32 Alexandra St., Southend SS1 1BU
01702 340965 JANUARY 2014
JANUARY 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
17
Colins Glass & Glazing Ltd Bespoke Glass Specialists since 1988
BESPOKE GLASS SPECIALISTS
GLASS SPLASHBACKS IN: FARROW AND BALL, DULUX, PANTONE AND RAL COLOURS ALSO 70 METALLIC COLOURS. SUPPLIED AND FITTED GLASS DESIGNS FOR FEATURE WALLS FRAMELESS SHOWER SCREENS AND DOORS: CLEAR, TINTED AND SAND BLASTED FINISHES. MADE TO ANY SIZE OR ANGLE.
BALCONIES AND BALUSTRADING: GLASS & METAL OR GLASS & TIMBER
MIRROR SPECIALISTS: PLAIN, DECORATIVE & FRAMED. EXPERTS IN OVER SIZED MIRRORS
18
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
Brand new website: www.colinsglassandglazing.co.uk
122 East St. Prittlewell, Southend-on-Sea SS2 5EE
01702 617321 sales@colinsglassandglazing.co.uk
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
JANUARY 2014
Specialists in Marble and Granite Kitchen & Bathroom Worktops Tailor made Fireplaces to suit your home
#! '& '$ "
$ $
%' $# % # $(' # $#
&'
&& )
NEED A CLEANER? ÂŁ8.50 pe r hour
Established 1975
Flat Roofing Problems? Specialise in Felt and Asphalt Roofs
l
Tired of Cleaning? Fed up with Ironing? Friendly & Hardworking Local Lady covering Southend area l
Approved contractors to most major Felt Manufacturers
l
l
SLJ DOMESTIC CLEANING & IRONING Call today!
JANUARY 2014
01702 567073 07557 331064
For your FREE quote Phone
ESTUARY ROOFING LTD.
01702 295314 Mob: 07970 746712 estuaryroofing@blueyonder.co.uk
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
19
20
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
JANUARY 2014
Clock Repairs, Sales & Restorations It's About Time est. 30yrs
01702 472574 863 London Road, Chalkwell SS0 9SZ (opposite Chalkwell Park) JANUARY 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
21
Oracle IT Support
Speed up your PC by defrag Tip 3
Y
22
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
JANUARY 2014
EXPERT CAR REPAIRERS AND SPRAYERS
£20 OFF AT TIME O QUOTATIO F N
Your Local Garage - Trading over 15 Years Friendly Reliable & Competitive Fast Turnaround Free Loan Car Available Insurance Work Approved Accident Repairs Scratch & Dent Repairs Re‐Sprays/Spraybooth Refinishing Lifetime Guarantee Free Estimates
Our Highly trained staff can match any car colour to ensure a perfect end result!
Tel: 01702 291 300
BRIDGE PAINTWORK Bridge Garage, Ness Road
Fully Insured
Driveways Patio
Block Paving
Local
Decking
WWW.BRIDGEPAINTWORK.CO.UK
Reliable
Fencing
Extension Work
Turfing
Footings
Brickwork
Garden Walls
Drainage
BKB
Landscaping
Trusted Contractors
'()'* *()+,) - '))..*+/*)* 0"
BRICKWORK SPECIALISTS & QUALIFIED CARPENTER
91 North Street, Great Wakering, SS3 0HT Mobile: 07921 263366 / 07527 779905 Office: 01702 568762 Email: bkbgandc@hotmail.co.uk
www.bkbgandc.com
JANUARY 2014
& "&
0
0!1
2
&
"
3" !
0
0!1
! !
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
!"
"
#
!
$ %$
"
$
"
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
23
We drive Vera around the bendâ&#x20AC;Ś *"%&& $5>4(4+&& 3(+&& #?$+&& >%&& (&& @%A&& "B?<4%<&& +(4<C&& @4#3&& "%4&& "#BC%D&& >BE&& F%4(GC&& $%)C&& (4%?GE&& (C&& CE4#?)&& (C&& E"%+&& BC%<&E#&>%8&H#&#?I%&(&A%%JD&A%&)5K%&"%4&(&$5@E&E#&"%4& & & & & & & & & & & & & & ,#%E4+&)4#B,8& & & & LE&& M#45C&& N#?%CD&& A%&& >%$5%K%&& (& OB($5E+&& "#3%&& I(4%&& C%4K5I%&C"#B$<&I#?C5<%4&%K%?&E"%&C3($$%CE&#@&<%E(5$C8& & & & & & & & & *#&& @5?<&& #BE&& 3#4%D&& ,$%(C%&& I($$&& ()*(+'' ,*+-.,D& %3(5$&& &/012"&345"2675/&68$5819&#4&K5C5E&45"2675/&68$5819! & & & ! !
TV AERIALS FROM £99.00
New TV? New Satellite Dish? Need help installing it? 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4
NEW AERIALS NEW SKY DISHES EXTENSION POINTS SKY LINKS FLAT SCREEN TV FITTING TELEPHONE EXTENSIONS FREE ESTIMATES
e Rain er Th bo v w O
Maths Tutor Jo
Enrolling now To improve students success in maths *DBS Checked*
Telephone:
07816 884160
Office:
01702 808717
RELIABLE FAMILY RUN BUSINESS
41
YEARS JANUARY 2014
07990990787
overtherainbowmaths@hotmail.co.uk
on Thorpe Bay Broadway www.oraclepublications.co.uk
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
25
26
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
JANUARY 2014
JANUARY 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
27
Oracle Motoring
Top tips for driving this winter. A
s the months of freezing temperatures and overnight frost loom, British motorists are reminded to drive with caution to avoid any accidents. Adverse weather and longer periods of darkness in winter makes driving more hazardous than at other times of the year.We need to be prepared and adapt the way we drive to the ever changing weather conditions: • Prepare yourself - Make sure you have de-icing equipment, correct PPE (personal protective equipment), warm clothes, food and hot drinks for your journeys. • Prepare your vehicle - Ensure it's in good working order with sufficient tread on the tyres. Fluids need to be kept topped up and lights, windows and number plates need to be clean.
Avoid High Revs • Driving in snow or ice - Reduce your speed; avoid harsh braking, acceleration or sharp, steering movements. Make sure that your speed is correct. Drive too fast and you will lose control, but drive too slow and you will lose momentum. Avoid high revs and start gently from stationary. For better control you should stay in a higher gear and if slippery, in a manual car, move off in a higher gear. In the event of a skid, take your feet off all pedals and steer. Try and plan your route to stay on main roads, as these will be gritted. • Aquaplaning - Is caused by driving too fast into surface water causing the vehicle to float in a
28
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
wedge of water. If this happens, ease off the accelerator and brakes until your speed drops sufficiently for the tyres to make contact with the road again. • Fog - Is one of the most dangerous weather conditions. Keep a good distance from the vehicle in front of you and reduce your speed. • Floods - Avoid deep water, which is normally near the kerb. Do not attempt to cross if the water is too deep. • Rain - Reduces visibility and increases your braking distance, slow down. • Low Sunshine - In winter the sun will often be low, so your visor may not help you, if blinded by the glare reduce your speed. The AA is advising drivers to put their car through a ‘pre-winter check’ to flag up any potential problems. If you have to drive in adverse weather conditions, just remember to stay safe and drive carefully.
O
Danielle Wheeler Marketing Assistant danielle@planet-leasing.com
959 London Road, Leigh-On-Sea, Essex, SS9 3LB
01702 01702582555 410 470
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
JANUARY 2014
Drysdales SOLICITORS LLP
Established in Southend Since 1887
Thinking of divorce or separation? What about the children? What about the house and money? We provide advice in other areas of family law including cohabitation disputes, separation agreements, prenuptial agreements and domestic abuse Cumberland House, 24-28 Baxter Avenue Southend on Sea, Essex SS2 6HZ www.drysdales-solicitors.co.uk
Tel: 01702 423400 JANUARY 2014
U email: c.bannister@drysdales.net
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
29
01702 297360 MECHANICAL AND ACCIDENT REPAIR CENTRE
30
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
JANUARY 2014
JANUARY 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
31
Advertorial
School library
Supporting Outstanding Learning E
ach month we studiously focus on our students and their achievements or inform you about the different departments we have in the school and the subjects they teach.
However, in this article we would like to inform you about the extensive network that supports your child in achieving such high standards. Were you aware that Shoeburyness High School opens at 5.45am weekdays and does not close until 10.00pm most nights. Our site staff team embarks on various tasks throughout the day culminating in building projects being completed which have not only enhanced the environment butheightened the quality of teaching and learning. n n n n
Examples include: Total refurbishment of the Science department New dining hall area The creation of link corridors A new suite of Performing Arts studios
In order to look after our students we have a dedicated team of Year Managers who 32
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
actively support the children with various issues and have regular contact with parents and outside agencies. This group of people are further supported by our School Counsellors, a team of School Chaplins from Shoeburyness and Thorpe Bay Baptist Church and a dedicated Attendance Team who ensure students attend school. We must also praise the work of our housekeepers who maintain our facilities to a high standard.
Once the students have completed their studies it is the job of the Examination Team to make sure that all the entries are correctly enrolled with the external examination boards (not an easy task!) and to ensure that the examinations run smoothly and with as little stress as possible, from the studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; point of view. Our curriculum is extensive, but this is only possible because of the incredibly efficient Curriculum Administration Team which produces the array of paperwork that goes home to parents on a regular basis. (Additionally, resources for use in lessons are typed up with speed and efficiency by this
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
JANUARY 2014
team of people). They also have a role in supporting our academic mentoring and making sure parents have the relevant details for events such as parents’ evenings and open days. The reprographics facility at the school is “state of the art”,producing quality resources for the students and the parents.
IT support team
If your child feels poorly at school the main office staff will attend to their needs until contact can be made with parents or guardians. This support is greatly appreciated by the students at Shoeburyness High School. Our reception is extremely busy throughout the day, handling numerous phone calls and “value for money” is sought in all aspects of welcoming our visitors. school life. A number of departments are fortunate to have technicians who not only help the At Shoeburyness High School we pride teaching staff by providing the necessary ourselves in the support we give to resources, but also give up their time to assist colleagues from other schools and this type the students with their experiments and of work is the responsibility of our training school staff. Various courses and training practical tasks. programmes are run throughout the year The school has in excess of 800 computers and cover many educational initiatives. and to make sure these are working our IT Support Team are hands on throughout the Shoeburyness High School is supported by a week maintaining and updating the software. number of external contractors who have Students are also fortunate to have a responsibility for the catering (Cucina), well-stocked library and are encouraged to cleaning (Facilicom) and Southend Borough take part in reading challenges and special Council who look after our grounds. These three contractors play an important role in promotional weeks. making sure the school is a centre for Our financial spending is overseen by a highly effective learning. efficient finance team who make sure the As you can see Shoeburyness High School relies on the dedication and commitment of New seating area being built the support staff who work extremely hard in by site staff making sure we maintain our reputation as an excellent school. Huw Williams Deputy Headteacher
O
Shoeburyness High School 01702 292286 Ext. 181 karenstock@shoeburyness.southend.sch.uk extendedschools@shoeburyness.southend.sch.uk www.shoeburynesshigh.co.uk/community/extendedschools JANUARY 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
33
34
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
JANUARY 2014
www.gatfireservices.org.uk
NEWARK MULTIFUEL STOVE
CARRON ENAMEL MULTIFUEL Range of colours
7.3kw Output (Group 7) Defra approve
ÂŁ1599.00
OPEN: MONDAY - SATURDAY 9.15AM - 5PM SUNDAYS 10AM - 3PM We have lots more to choose from all offering the same great value for money
Visit our website www.gatfireservices.org.uk or visit our showroom at
1717 London Road, Leigh on Sea, Essex, SS9 2SW
JANUARY 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
35
recipe of the month Method:
In the Kitchen with Judy Barden
1. Place the salmon in a food processor and pulse to
finely chop. Add the chopped egg and pulse briefly to combine. Transfer to a bowl and mix with the mayonnaise, horseradish if using, mashed potato, chopped fennel fronds and half the lemon zest. Season with salt and black pepper and then form into 12 evenly sized fish cakes.
2. Take 3 bowls and put the flour in one, beaten eggs in another and the breadcrumbs in the last. Firstly coat the fishcakes in the flour then the egg and finally the breadcrumbs. Try and remember to keep one hand for the egg and a dry hand for the breadcrumbs or you can get very messy ! Place on a tray lined with baking parchment and chill for at least 30 minutes. 3. To prepare the salad, thinly slice the fennel and
Smoked salmon fishcakes & fennel salad Makes about 12 fishcakes
W
hen the festivities are all over and you look in the fridge there are usually a few leftovers that need using up. These smoked salmon fishcakes are easy to make and you can turn them into a lovely light supper teamed with the fennel salad especially after the over-indulgence of Christmas. Try and but Panko Japanese breadcrumbs as they give a very good crisp crumb and you can buy them in most supermarkets. Enjoy!
toss in a bowl with the watercress and the r emaining lemon zest. Add the olive oil, lemon juice and then season with a little sugar, salt and pepper, tossing well to combine.
4. Heat about 1 cm/ ½ inch sunflower oil in a frying
pan over a medium heat. Test if your oil is at the right temperature by frying a cube of bread. It should be crisp and golden in 30 seconds. Fry the fishcakes in batches for about 4 minutes each side or until crisp and golden. Drain on kitchen paper and serve with the salad and a dollop of extra mayonnaise.
O
Next monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recipe: Creamy Chicken Bake
Ingredients: 250g smoked salmon 2 large hard-boiled eggs peeled and chopped 2 tbsp good quality mayonnaise 1 tbsp horseradish, optional 500g cold mashed potato 1 small bulb of fennel, fronds reserved, finely chopped Zest of 1 lemon plus 1tbsp lemon juice 150g plain flour 2 large eggs, beaten 150g dried Panko breadcrumbs 50g watercress 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil Sunflower or vegetable oil for shallow frying
36
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
Mobile Website Solutions
01702 393838 www.oraclepublications.co.uk
JANUARY 2014
GREAT SKIN IS ONLY GREAT ONLY A TREATMENT TREA TMENT AW A AWAY WAY Rever se the signs of ageing Create a younger smoother tighter rejuvenated complexion or year s Clinically proven results that last ffor
2 Laser cellulite removal 2 Laser hair removal 2 Laser face renewal and rejuvenation 2 Laser sun damage repair 2 Laser hair removal 2 Laser red vein removal 2 Laser brown mar k removal (hyper pigmentation) 2 Laser acne treatment 2 Laser lipo guaranteed fat loss & inch loss 2 Laser wrinkle removal 2 Laser skin tightening for for face and body 2 Semi permanent make up 2 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Slim and Trim Weight Lossâ&#x20AC;? clinic, (a personalised weight loss programme combined with Laser lipo: clinically proven results!)
NEW YEAR PROMOTIONS! PROMOTIONS! Buy a course course of any any skin rejuvenation rejuvenation treatments and receive receive another treatment completely completely fr free ee of cha charge! rge!
01702 431970 www.essexlaserlipo.com www.essexlaser lipo.com
QR code HURRY ALL promotions end 31st January JANUARY 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
37
JANUARY 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
39
Same dedicated maid each week only ÂŁ11.55 per hour Then call us on:
40
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
JANUARY 2014
FAMILY BUSINESS ESTABLISHED OVER 60 YEARS
We offer a fast and efficient service. All work is undertaken by experienced craftsmen at realistic prices. Items can be remodelled and stones reset. Estimates free of charge. All aspects of repair undertaken; chain repairs, re-sizing, claws re-tipping, and stones re-set. The majority of our work is carried out in-house.
Over 1,000 wedding ring styles available Certificated diamonds supplied. We are happy to set customer’s stones
All items are fully insured whilst within our care and Insurance work is undertaken.
We purchase unwanted or broken gold
Fair prices paid A.V. & B.V. Andrews Ltd., 89 West Road, Shoeburyness, Essex SS3 9DT
Tel - 01702 292472 Fax – 01702 299392 enquiries@andrewsltd.co.uk www.andrewsltd.co.uk
WE HAVE NO CONNECTION WITH ANY OTHER LOCAL BUSINESS WITH A SIMILAR TRADING NAME
Oracle Finance
Buy to Let opportunity D
ue to the massive influx of work into the Thames corridor I thought it would be a good idea to inform those of you interested in the “Buy to Let” market of the increased earning potential this is and will have on the area.
10% over this period, your total pre-tax gross profit would be £27000 from the rental income & £15000 from the increase in your equity. Although this is a massively simplified view and doesn’t take into account management fees, repair costs, legal fees etc it does show the The hub of the expansion is based around DP mechanics of the operation. World in Stanford-Le-Hope. The massive influx of predicted jobs this and the logistics centre But where does the deposit money feeding off the back of the port, has seen come from if you haven’t got demand for housing rocket. sufficient savings?
So how do you make the most of this opportunity?
With mortgage rates at an all time low and house prices now starting to increase there is Speaking with Wayne Mearns of Belvoir, he has now real opportunity to release the money from stated that, although Stanford-Le-Hope is still the equity in your own home. seeing a massive interest in rental demand, many of the potential workers looking to rent This simplified model works. I am not saying that are now considering Basildon & Chafford it doesn’t take more insight than this brief Hundred due to the facilities offered by both article has afforded but it really isn’t rocket places. Housing in Basildon still seems to be science. We are living in an area going through unaffected by surrounding developments so, a a massive expansion in jobs, with a commercial tidy three bed property can still be had for international airport, potentially the biggest £150000. This property would then rent for freight terminal and logistics park in Europe, expansion to retail parks and excellent links to about £850 per month. London. Demand is outstripping supply in both Taking this as an example you would require a sales and rental of property. 25% deposit (£37500) to allow you to purchase by Paul Flavin the property, the remaining 75% (£112500) would be raised via an interest only “buy to let” mortgage, costing circa £400 per month. This would give you a pre-tax gross profit of £5400 per annum. Looking at this over the next five years and given a modest property increase of 01702 423901
O
42
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
JANUARY 2014
pastures new deserve a fresh look at mortgages
Any mortgage adviser fielding an Ad like this is bound to be different. Spot on! Zing guarantees just two things: one is to lead you to all the deals, options, services and offers that you would expect from a completely independent mortgage adviser. The other is to show you plenty you don’t expect - such as total support at every step between your application and completion. We’ll offer you beefy advice and we’ll help you watch where you tread!
There’s no need to follow the herd when you can get a pedigree view of the best deals on the market. Call 01702 423 901 and find out why the grass is greener.
www.zing-money.com MORTGAGE • LIFE INSURANCE • BUILDINGS & CONTENTS INSURANCE. Zing Money is a trading style of Portfolio Financial Management Ltd who are appointed representatives of Intrinsic Financial Services Limited, a holding company, subsidiaries of which are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
JANUARY 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
43
Your Stove is waiting for you! Photo for illustration purposes only
44
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
JANUARY 2014
FR EE
FF O 0y MOT ing .0 0 1 e £ Ev r entione’
Ve hic le Co lle cti on /D eli ve ry Se rvi ce
m racl en wh ‘The O
Over 65 Years of Great Service. " "
!
"
!
SERVICE GARAGE MOT & VEHICLE REPAIR CENTRE
Let Service Garage give you and your vehicle the service you deserve with professional expertise honed over half a century. Service Garage offers a professional, fast & friendly service to all vehicle owners at very competitive rates. Four fulltime, qualified mechanics ensure that your vehicle is given all the attention it needs - quickly!
01702 297003
4 Towerfield Close, Shoeburyness, Essex SS3 9QP www.servicegarage.co.uk
servicegarage@hotmail.com Open 8-5:30 mon-fri. sat. by app.
ADVERTISEMENT
Cloudy2Clear Windows – Service With A Smile! It’s been a crazy few months for Cloudy2Clear Windows. The company which specialises in repairing windows which are steamed up, broken or damaged by replacing the panes – not the frames has grown rapidly as homeowners take advantage of their services. Managing Director Chris Miller feels that it’s all about service. ‘Our product is simple. If your double glazing is 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 5 year guarantee. But it’s not just about saving people money, although
that obviously helps. Many tradespeople have struggled since last year and I honestly feel that during the good times a minority perhaps didn’t focus on customer care as much as they should have done. 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. I often get comments back from customers on how they really didn’t expect that sort of service which, in a way, is very sad for the service industry as a whole.’ Cloudy2Clear service the Southend, Leigh on Sea and Thorpe Bay areas DQG &KULV LV ÀQGLQJ WKDW his 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.’ 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!
78)%1)( 94 (39&0) +0%>-2+# (SR´X VITPEGI XLI *VEQIW NYWX XLI 4ERIW
&VSOIR SV (EQEKIH ;MRHS[W# *EYPX] ,MRKIW ,ERHPIW SV 0SGOW# ;ERX 8LI 0EXIWX )RIVK] 7EZMRK +PEWW# %PP +PE^MRK &EGOIH &] 3YV =IEV 1ERYJEGXYVIVW +YEVERXII 4VMSVMX] *VIITLSRI
[[[ GPSYH] GPIEV GSQ [I QEOI WEZMRK QSRI] TIVJIGXP] GPIEV 46
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
JANUARY 2014
Be Healthy & have Fun with...
Physical Activity Project of the Year
2013 WINNERS Active Essex Sports Awards 2013 sponsored by Fusion Lifestyle
Active 50+
Women omen Active W
Active Bodycare Bodycare
Active Teens Teens
Active zumba
Healthy For Life
OK To To Be Me
Buggy Active
Active Mums
Run , Run, Run
Time For Life Exercise & Life skills Exercise
www.activelife.uk.com .activelife.uk.com JANUARY 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
47
We cater for
Private Fun ctions
Please contac t the Angel In n for further de tails
A little corner of an English Heaven
Savour a drink and good company at the award-winning, traditional, Angel Inn, Free House. at North Shoebury
Enjoy the west-facing, beer-garden and extensive views across ripening cornfields. Thatched roof, flagstone floor, exposed timbers, wide range of Real Ales, good wines and excellent food. No gaming machines. No loud music. No TV screens. Heaven!
The Angel Inn OPEN 11am - 11pm (Closed 3-5:30) Mon-Sat. 12pm - 11pm Sun
01702 589600
Parsons Corner, North Shoebury SS3 8UD
48
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
JANUARY 2014
WE PAY YOUR VAT *
Showroom: Company House, Stock Road, Southend on Sea, SS2 5QF www.kitchen-base.co.uk
JANUARY 2014
* Ask in Store for details and T&Câ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Offer ends on 15/03/2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
01702 461228
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
49
ORACLE Enigmas No humdrum conundrum s
3 5 8 2
1 7 9 8 5 3 1 4 5 8 3 6 9 5 4 3 6 2 5 2 1 8 5
7 5
9
5SUDOKU
MUNCH
Fill in the grid above so that each 3 x 3 box, every row and every column contain the Nos 1 - 9. The answer to last month’s puzzle is at bottom.
3 WORD LADDER Start at the top and change one letter each rung making a new word to arrive at the final word.
PLANE
50
GOOFED
HOOTED
HOOFED
BOOTED
BOOTIE
BOOTEE
BOOKIE
ROOKIE
LAST MONTH’S SOLUTIONS
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
JANUARY 2014
TRANSFORM YOUR DRIVEWAY IN JUST 1 DAY!
Resin BESPOKE
SURFACES Low Maintenance Multiple Colour Choices Before
Puddle Free & Weed Resistant Ultimate Strength & Durability Quick Installation
After
No need for costly & disruptive excavation of your existing driveway
BEAUTIFUL BESPOKE RESIN BOUND/BOND DRIVEWAY, PATIO OR GARDEN PATH
SNOW CLEARANCE
20% OFF
All orders in January & February 2014
Same day driveway & path snow removal! Average drive approximately ÂŁ40.00 Making your drive safe this winter
Call today for a free no obligation consultation and quote:
01702 541514 / 07850 410041 email: info@bespokeresinsurfaces.co.uk www.bespokeresinsurfaces.co.uk
JANUARY 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
51
This Winter Keep Warm with our LOGS Free Delivery within 8 Miles
Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Service First Class Service for Carpets, rugs, Upholstery & Leather Cleaning Oven Cleaning Service Oven Hobs Microwave, Extractor Hoods, BBQâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fully Insured Call us for FREE Quotation
52
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
JANUARY 2014
SONRAY
EST 1986
HEATING
BATHROOMS
PLUMBING
Leaks, Ball Valves, Outside Taps Radiators Boilers Full Heating Systems Bathrooms designed, supplied and installed including: Electrics, Tiling, Plastering and Carpentry Call Stephen Mash on:07778 007535 or 01702 547824 sonrayheating-bathrooms.co.uk
A LOCAL PLUMBER FOR LOCAL PEOPLE
stephenmash@sonrayheating-bathrooms.co.uk 3 Dalys Road, Rochford, SS4 1RA
%
++ !
$
Italian CafĂŠ Bar Restaurant
01702 589768
% %, -
./0 JANUARY 2014
$
Open 12pm 12pm--10.30pm Daily Take Away and Delivery Service Available
Station Road, Thorpe Bay Essex. SS1 3LU Next To Thorpe Bay Station
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
! ! "
#$
&'()* T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
53
Air&Back
Airport Transfer Specialists
Air & Back, the airport-transfer specialists, provide an efficient and friendly door-to-door transfer to and from your airport. seaport or ferry terminal, at a reasonable cost. Get your holiday or business trip off to a comfortable start with an effortless transfer from Air & Back.
Polite, experienced and wellpresented drivers Full comprehensive insurance including Hire and Reward Drivers and vehicles licensed by the local authority. Detailed confirmation to you the day before departure
Call today for a competitive quote Air & Back, 75 Mayfield Avenue, Southend-on-Sea Essex SS2 6NR
Tel/Fax: 01702 435722 Mobile 07903 301086
CITY # STANSTED # GATWICK # LUTON # HEATHROW 54
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
JANUARY 2014
For more informatio n or a
CARPET &
FREE No Obligat ion please contQuotation,
act us
UPHOLSTERY CLEANING OVEN CLEANING
UPHOLSTERY CLEANING
Guaranteed not to soak, stretch or shrink your carpet or furnishings Domestic and Commercial work undertaken Ovens and Hobs Sparkle and shine like new Remove all traces of Burnt-on Fat, Grease & Carbon
PAINTING & DECORATING COMMERCIAL & DOMESTIC Interior & Exterior
Gates Cleaning Services
125 HIGH STREET
GREAT WAKERING
01702 216377
Got a Pest?
10%
Discou n
t
on me nti the Oraon of cle
Wasps, Rats, Mice, Fleas, Bed Bugs, Mites, Cockroaches, Bird Work, Ants, Flies And Many More!
Over 30 years experience Local, Reliable and Trustworthy
RSPH Level 2 qualified Fully Insured 3rd Party liability Insured Professional Indemnity Domestic and Commercial PAY NO VAT! (save 20%)
Established connections to local building trades High Quality service guaranteed References available upon request Fully Insured Experience of hanging all wallcoverings No job too small!
For FREE survey or information, please call Steve Cleare
GMH Renovations tel:
01702 219 870
mob: 07775 500 420 email: goldhen@aol.com 63 Goldsworthy Drive, Great Wakering, Essex, SS3 0AU
www.gmhrenovations.co.uk Website coming soon!
JANUARY 2014
Tel: 01702 540229
Mob: 07970 977792
www.pestcleare.co.uk steve@pestcleare.co.uk twitter: @pestcleare
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
55
y ilit b a Li ance l l Fu sur In
MIKE’s Tree Services p p p p p p
Est. 1982
Felling Pollarding Shaping Pruning Shrub/Hedge Trimming Friendly & Reliable Service Additional Work:
Have your Driveway/Patio powerwashed Professionally Results like new. Reasonable rates.
For a FREE Quotation call Mike
01702 305217 07505 794203
www.mini-webs.com/Treeservices 56
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
JANUARY 2014
Experienced Local Electrician Domestic & Commercial
Free Quotes and Advice City & Guilds Qualified 25 yrs experience Clean, Friendly Part P Reg. Fully Insured
DanWaller
!"#!$ %&'(&"
!##$$!"("'(
Electrical Services 104 High Street ,Shoeburyness
01702 303867 Mob: 07733 262027
Furniture restoration restoration Services available:-
French Polishing All Structural Repairs Hand Veneering Cane Seating Leather Desk-Lining Clock-Case Restoration Antique Specialist
Fully-qualified craftsman in an established, local business offering high-quality service. For a free verbal estimate please call:-
T.S. Baskett T.S.Baskett Est. 1992 Established 1992
www.tsbaskett.co.uk
6 Durham Rd. Southend
01702 603766 6 Durham Rd. Southend
JANUARY 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
57
BrooksPaving
BLOCK PAVING 5 O %
whe n yo u ORA mentio CLE n th e
Established 1993
FF
Over 100 driveways completed in the Thorpe Bay and North Shoebury areas
HIGHER TEC IN BUILDING : VAT REGISTERED COMPANY
For a
FREE ESTIMATE
please call:
01702 535335 Mob: 07976 204016 SUSAN WHITE SW PHYSIOTHERAPY LTD
CHARTERED PHYSIOTHERAPIST HPC REGISTERED
TEL : 01702 322606 14 BUCKLAND, SHOEBURYNESS
GENERAL PHYSIOTHERAPY SPORTS INJURIES NECK AND BACK PROBLEMS SPRAINS AND STRAINS WHIPLASH INJURY ARTHRITIS
FREEFONE 0800 587 4208 58
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
F U LL A SSE S SM E N T U N DE R T AK E N R E G IST E R E D W IT H A LL M AJ O R IN S U R AN C E C O MP AN IE S
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
JANUARY 2014
MAINTENANCE MAN
Computer Services Fast - Friendly - Fixed! Full
Health Check Broadband SetUp Data Backup & Recovery
Custom
All Garden Work Shed Roofs Renewed Fencing & Repairs Guttering & Cleaning Carpentry Work Painting Etc Crazy Paving Re-pointing & Power Cleaning ANY OTHER WORK CONSIDERED!
Builds
Branded
Systems Parts to Order Remote Support
We now supply web hosting packages
For Laptop Repairs
For Support
A Reputation Built On Recommendation
Computopia Bespoke Computer Systems
PHONE KEN:
01702 219143
01702 781140
www.computopiasystems.com
$
! ! & '
%
" (
! # ! (
$
!
) !*+,* )
-* .
! !"# $#% &!
JANUARY 2014
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
59
useful numbers ADVICE & HELPLINES Child Protection Citizens Advice Crime Prevention Crimestoppers Cruse Bereavement Care Pier & Foreshore Inspectors Drugs, Alcohol & Substance Misuse HARP National Drugs Freephone Samaritans Southend Talking Newspaper Victim Support Group Southend Council Civic Centre Jobcentre Southend
ANIMAL WELFARE 534495 0844 4770 808 464199 0800 555 111 213843 215620 440400 615000 0800 776900 611911 554536 0845 4565995 215000 575700
Downes & Prtnrs, Veterinary Surgeon RSPCA Rochford
584511 548261
POLICE SERVICES 24 hour Emergency Number 01702 430696 Southend Police Station (24 hours a day) 0300 3334444 Thorpe Ward Neighbourhood Specialist Officer Warren Lamb 07976 325346 Marine Police 01268 775533 Thames Coastguard 01255 675518
PUBLIC SERVICES
CLUBS & ASSOCIATIONS Belfairs Mixed Bowling 475766 Burges Estate Residents Association (BERA) 588662 Carers Forum 393933 Charles Dickenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fellowship 588069 Cockleshell Clog Morris 479622 Essex Handicrafts Association 479622 Essex Society for Family History 522992 Lower Thames Rowing Club 482205 Prittlewell Bowls Club 612476 Southchurch Park Croquet Club 303957 Southend Blind Welfare Association 342131 Southend Cardiac Support Group 309042 / 293469 Southend Photographic Society 332491 Southend Rugby Club 546682 Southend Golf Club 473206 The English Speaking Union 588069 Thorpe Bay Bowling Club 582074 Thorpe Bay Bridge Club 616145 Thorpe Bay Floral Arrangement Group 585350 Thorpe Bay Lawn Tennis Club 585245 Thorpe Bay Yacht Club 587563 Thorpe Hall Golf Club 582205 Scout Groups Southend, Thorpe Bay & Shoeburyness 587647 Actorcrats (Amateur Dramatics) 306506 Thorpe Bay Art Group 294321 St Augustine's Church 587597 Stone Masons & Dry Stone Wallers 292867 Southend Chess Club Steve Wedlock (Club Secretary) 345902 Southend-on-Sea Lions Club 582828
Central Library 215011 Southend High Street Post office 391063 Bournes Green Post Office 582241 Traveline 0871 200 2233 Arriva Southend 08701 201088 First 01268 525251 National Express 08705 80 80 80 Odeon Cinema 0871 2244007 SSAFA (Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen Families Association) 463113
WINDOW CLEANING
HOSPITALS & HEALTH BMI Southend Private Hospital Primary Care Trust Southend General Hospital Spire Wellesley Hospital
608908 224600 435555 462944
Ability to reach windows that traditional window cleaning methods cannot
LOCAL MP James Duddridge (Con)
01702 616135
PHARMACIES Bansal Pharmacy 587500 178 The Broadway Mon-Fri 9-6.30 pm / Sat 9-1pm Howells & Brooks 582658 The Broadway Mon-Fri 9-6.30 pm / Sat 9-5.30 pm Closed 1-2 pm Wed+Sat.
60
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
Pure water fed pole system & de-ionised water Detergent free & environmentally friendly
Certified to British Window Cleaning Academy (BWCA) standards
ANDY THOMAS MOBILE: 07748 426198 Email: ALTwindowcleaning@hotmail.co.uk
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
JANUARY 2014
O
JIM DICKENS
HARLEQUIN
D
ES
IG
N
CO
N
SU
LT AT I
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 AND CURTAINS – 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
* * 9(03
INTERIORS :;(;065 96(+
;/697, /(33
;/, )96(+>(@
(*(*0( +90=,
4(7305 >(@
(=,5<,
;/697, )(@ :;(;065
:6<;/,5+ 65 :,(
:,(
;/697, ,:73(5(+,
:/6,)<9@5,::
:,(
SANDERSON
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
COLEFA X AND FOWLER
Thorpe Bay
ORACLE
Index to advertisers AERIALS & SATELLITES 1st South East Aerials Essex Digital Services AIRPORT TRANSFER Air & Back ANTIQUE CLOCKS It's About Time BATHROOMS Better Life Bathrooms BATHROOMS & PLUMBING JCA Merchants BLOCK PAVING Brooks Paving BUILDERS AJ Properties BKB Groundswork Fairfield Builders GMH Renovations CAR LEASING Planet Leasing CARPENTRY John Sorrell CARPETS Trade Carpets CARPET & OVEN CLEANING Chiropodist Arthur Partington Clemclean Gates CAT BOARDING The Cat Hotel CLADDING Essex Cladding CLEANING Maid in Essex SLJ Domestic Cleaning COMPUTERS Computopia Res Info-Tech CONSERVATORY BJ Davis DECORATORS Keith Gibson MK Decorating DENTAL Parmar Dental DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIR Cloudy 2 Clear DRIVEWAYS Ryan Homes LTD EDUCATION Shoebury High School ELECTRICIAN Dan Waller FIREPLACES Fireplace & Design GAT Fireplaces
58 25 54 21 8 2 58 12 23 3 55 28 15 5 59 52 55 27 3 40 19 59 22 38 57 11 39 46 51 32/33 57 44 35
FLOORING Daniel James Flooring FUNERAL SERVICES AR Adams Funeral Services FURNITURE RESTORERS TS Baskett GARAGE Bridge Garage RS Automotives Service Garage GARAGE DOORS Murray Garage Doors GLASS MERCHANT Colin's Glass GOLF CLUB Thorpe Hall Golf GUTTERS & FASCIAS AC Solutions HAIR & BEAUTY Grateful Heads Headhunters The Salon Cliff House Clinic HANDYMAN Piper Construction HEALTH & FITNESS Active Life iFit Studio Spinal Care Clinic Therapy Life Centre HEATING & PLUMBING Sonray Heating HOMECARE Caremark Doris Jone INTERIOR DESIGN Morris Interiors JEWELLERY AV & BV Andrews KITCHENS Kitchen Base KITCHEN INTERIORS Prittlewell Interiors LOGISTICS MPG Logistics MAINTENANCE MAN Ken Sendall MARBLE WORKTOP Abbey Marble MORTGAGE BROKER Zing Money OPTICAL CC Optical OVEN CLEANING Ovenclean
20
ORACLE View the latest issues
26
ONLINE
57 23 30 45 40
Thorpe Bay
January 2014
January 2014
Oracle-on-Sea
ORACLE ORACLE Thorpe Bay at a glance Est. Sept 2005. Circulation 5,100
Oracle Competition WIN! Two pairs of tickets to see ‘Ultimate tribute to ABBA’
Leigh, Chalkwell & Southend Conservation Area Est. Oct 2006. Circulation 6,700
Oracle Competition WIN!Two pairs of tickets to see ‘Ultimate tribute to ABBA’
Local Issues
Local Issues
Is this called Democracy?
Is this called Democracy?
Hair & Beauty
Oracle IT
New Year, new you, new do!
Speed up your PC by defrag
Recipe Page
Hair & Beauty
Smoked salmon fishcakes and fennel salad
Oracle Exclusive Vouchers See page 11
New Year, new you, new do!
Recipe Page Smoked salmon fishcakes and fennel salad New Lunch Menu £9.50
Part of the Lemon Tree Restaurant family
Special two course set Menu £12.95 Exclude Friday and Saturday evenings.
18 15 34 16 25 31 37 52 47 6/7 1 17 53 21 24 61 41 49 18 29 59 19 43 54 57
Now taking Valentines Day bookings £ 29.95pp
Free Bottle Of House Wine!
With a table of 4 or more OR 1/2 bottle with table of two when ordering from main a la carte menu
80 Leigh Road, Leigh-on-Sea, SS9 1BZ
www.thepalmrestaurant.co.uk
To advertise in ORACLE call
01702 393838
PEST CONTROL PestCleare PHYSIOTHERAPY Susan White PLUMBING & HEATING Essex Maintenance Hammond & Sons M Walker PUBLIC HOUSE The Angel Inn RESTAURANTS Trattoria Verdi ROOFING Estuary Roofing SEALING Sealing Technique SKIP HIRE Leigh Skip Hire SOLICITORS Drysdales Solicitors Vincent McCarthy Solicitors SPANISH RESORT RENTALS Spanish Resort Rentals SWIMMING ASA for Life TILING Battlesbridge Tiling G Perks Tiling MCG Tiling TREE SERVICES Mike's Tree Services Treefella TUITION Over the Rainbow Maths TV & VIDEO SERVICES HB Electrical WINDOW CLEANING BC Windows
55 58 26 21 4 48 53 19 13 50 29 63 64 11 56 50 15 56 52 25 14 23
ORACLE - the smart little glossy mags for Southend
Reach over 29,000 readership in Leigh, Chalkwell, Southend Conservation Area & Thorpe Bay hungry for your business Call for a Media Pack or visit www.oraclepublications.co.uk To advertise in ORACLE call 01702 393838
62
All rights reserved. reproduced or used in any form or by any means either wholly or in part without prior permisT HNoOpart R PofEOracle B A Publications Y O R A CUKL Ltd. E may bewww.oraclepublications.co.uk sion of the publisher. Oracle Publications UK Ltd. is editorially autonomous and the opinions expressed are not those of the publisher unless expressly stated.
62 62
T H O R P E B AY O R A C L E
www.oraclepublications.co.uk
JANUARY 2014
Applying common sense to complex matters
DIVORCE AND FAMILY LAW | POWER OF ATTORNEY PROBATE | WILLS | CIVIL LITIGATION
We know your problems don’t work 9-5, so we have out of hours appointments to suit you – contact us today for your FREE Initial Consultation Call: 01702 804 106 Mobile: 07967 991 472 Email: vincent@vmsolicitors.co.uk Visit: www.vincentmccarthysolicitors.co.uk The Gateway Building, 10 Elmer Approach, Southend-on-Sea, Essex SS1 1LW
Vincent McCarthy Solicitors
Looking for an escape from Southend this year? Fly to Alicante and take an easy ride to the fantastic Mazarron Area. Fabulous climate, gorgeous beaches, amazing restaurants, we have it all!
This really is unspoilt Spain We have stunning sea view apartments, or if you need more space, top of the range home from home villa's with private pools
(0034) 675 88 98 07 07813 956 418 (UK Mobile)
info@spanishresortrentals.com www.spanishresortrentals.com