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Pick Up Points
A note from the Editor…
Welcome to this June issue of South Woodham Ferrers Focus, where summer energy is in full swing.
We’re delighted to shine a spotlight on the Let’s Get Green event happening at Champions Manor Hall on 14th June a celebration of sustainability and a chance for us all to come together and make a positive impact on our environment.
There’s also exciting news in education: Woodville Primary School and the wider Essex Multi-Academy Trust have reached an incredible milestone after welcoming a new school into the fold. It’s wonderful to see the dedication to learning and growth continuing in our town.
As well as being delivered door to door we also have prominent pick up points around the town. We would love to take the opportunity to thank
SWF Leisure Centre | SWF Eatery SWF Library | Club Woodham Town Council | Rose & Bumble Laundomat | Ahead 4 | BHN Clairemont Garden Centre Meadow Croft Garden Centre Bicknacre PO | Sainsbury’s
A heartfelt congratulations goes out to our amazing local volunteers, recognised and congratulated by none other than the Chief Scout, a proud moment for Woodham Ferrers and a well-deserved honour for those who give so much.
Looking to the water, South Woodham Ferrers Yacht Club is turning 50 on 6th June, and they’re inviting everyone to join in the celebrations both on land and at sea. It promises to be a fantastic day of fun.
And the excitement doesn’t stop there. The Woodham Fest line-up has been revealed, and it’s shaping up to be a highlight of the summer. There’s something for everyone.
Finally, history buffs will be delighted by a fascinating exhibition on the South Woodham Ferrers New Town, hosted by the South Woodham Ferrers Local History Society. Running from Saturday 21st June to Saturday 5th July, this is a must-see journey through time right in the heart of our town.
As always, thank you for reading and supporting your local magazine. We’re proud to celebrate what makes South Woodham Ferrers such a special place to live.
Artwork Deadline for the July Issue is 23rd June. Please ensure any artwork or editorial pieces are with me by that date if possible to daniel@pointgraphics.co.uk
The views and opinions expressed in contributed articles are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or editorial team. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions in submitted content. Submission of content does not guarantee publication. Unpaid contributions are considered on a discretionary basis and may be edited for clarity, length, or style.
Laura Basham Laura is an integral part of the team dealing with editorial content and fronting our accounts dept.
Nicky Arnold Sales Manager who plays an important role maintaining the success of the Focus.
Lynda Basham Director and Sales Executive with over 25 year experience in sales and customer care.
Stuart Basham Managing Director with over 35 years in advertising, design, print and marketing offering his extensive knowledge.
South Woodham Ferrers
£525,000
• Situated within a quiet mews, and conveniently located for Collingwood Primary School, this stunning four bedroom detached family home. The property has undergone a complete renovation by the current vendors.
• Comprising of living room, fitted kitchen/diner with integrated Bosch appliances and granite work surfaces, ground floor cloakroom and dining room. The first floor houses a master bedroom with en suite, and the remaining three bedrooms share
• South-Easterly facing maintenance free garden, a shingle driveway providing off street parking for up to two vehicles and leading to an attached garage.
• Council Tax Band: E
South Woodham Ferrers
OIRO £525,000
• This beautifully presented four/five bedroom link detached family home is situated is a highly favoured road within close proximity to lovely walks and amenities.
• Benefitting enormously from a rear extension providing a flexible layout with a modern integrated kitchen/diner, two further receptions, separate utility and re-fitted cloakroom to the ground floor.
• Well-proportioned accommodation sharing two modern refitted bathrooms to configure in whichever way suits you best.
• Low maintenance rear garden with pedestrian access to garage and off street parking for several vehicles.
• Council Tax Band: E
• Can be considered with a committed transaction agreement
Basildon
t: 01268 271 110
e: sales@balgoresbasildon.com
Hornchurch
t: 01708 470 756
e: sales@balgoresproperty.com
South Woodham Ferrers
t: 01245 323 729
e: sales@balgoresswf.com
South Woodham Ferrers
£270,000
Offered for sale is this lovely one bed semi-detached house. The accommodation comprises of a lounge, fitted kitchen, conservatory, and a modern fitted bathroom suite.
• The property further benefits from a South-Eastly facing landscaped rear garden.
• Conveniently located for river walks and the popular Collingwood Primary School.
• Council Tax Band: B
South Woodham Ferrers
GUIDE PRICE
£550,000 -£575,000
• This stunning four bedroom detached family home is located in a popular cul-de-sac and convenient for scenic walks and Marsh Farm Country Park.
• The property has been refurbished to a very high standard by the current owners and replacement of all windows, facias, soffits, guttering and partial cladding to front aspect was completed in 2024. The ground floor accommodation comprises: living room, dining room, fitted kitchen, utility room, office, conservatory and a cloakroom. The first floor houses a large master bedroom with en suite, three further bedrooms and a family bathroom.
• Externally benefitting from a landscaped garden and a driveway providing off street parking and access to an EV charger.
• The property is well-positioned for Collingwood Primary School, William de Ferrers Secondary School, Twizzle Tops Day Nursery, the town centre and local amenities.
• Set within this mews position, this beautiful four-bedroom detached house is within close proximity to the town centre and amenities. Having been maintained to a high standard by the current vendors the property comprises of a lounge, separate dining room, study, cloakroom, orangery and fitted kitchen on the ground-floor.
• To the first floor, there is a master bedroom with an en-suite plus three further bedrooms sharing a modern family bathroom.
• Whilst externally offering a stunning South-facing rear garden, off-street parking to the front for two - three cars along and a detached garage.
•Council Tax Band: E
Battlesbridge £925,000
• This one of a pair of Brand new, Executive, Four Double Bedroom Detached family homes just over three miles from Wickford Mainline Railway Station which enjoys a direct service to London Liverpool Street in little over 35 minutes.
• Boasting a 65ft front garden, this exceptional property is well set back from the road and benefits from a large plot providing a 125ft South Easterly facing rear Garden and an extra-large Detached Garage.
• This property boasts a Stunning Kitchen Diner/Family Room featuring Massive Wall-to-Wall sliding double glazed Patio doors, high end Integrated Appliances and Quartz Work surfaces.
• With two further receptions, a utility and Cloakroom to the ground floor and the aforementioned four Double Bedrooms with two en-suites and a Stylish family Bathroom upstairs.
• You won't fail to be impressed with either of these two magnificent properties which will surely make you the envy of family and friends.
It is with profound sadness that Tony passed peacefully whilst sleeping at home, surrounded by his family after a long illness on the 23rd April 2025 aged 84 years
Dearly loved Husband, Dad, Grandad, and Big Grandad
OPEN GARDENS
South Woodham Ferrers
Sunday 6 July 2025 11am-4pm
£5 per person (under 16s free).
Sunday 12th June 2022
10.30am-5pm
Tickets are available to purchase through Balgores Estate & Lettings Agents, 5-7 Baron Road, South Woodham Ferrers, CM3 5XQ and the Farleigh Hospice Store, 18 Market Square, South Woodham Ferrers, CM3 5XA.
For more information visit: farleighhospice.org/gardens
He was a loving and devoted family man who will be greatly missed by us all.
The funeral service took place at Maldon Fields Crematorium on Wednesday 21st May 2025
Thank you for all your kind wishes
Donations, if desired, to Farleigh Hospice via anthonylingham.muchloved.com
Gwenda Broyd 1936 – 2025
Cherished Mum to Jo and Nicky.
Devoted Nana to Meg, Tom, and Zoe, and loving Nana G to Joseph and Eddie.
Deeply missed by all her family, friends, and neighbours.
Now reunited with Pete, her beloved husband of 63 years. Forever in our hearts.
It is because you care that we can www.farleighhospice.org
EXCITING SUMMER AHEAD AT STOW MARIES GREAT WAR AERODROME
STOW Maries Great War Aerodrome, the largest surviving World War One aerodrome in the world, is gearing up for a summer of exciting events, as well as launching a brand-new exhibition.
The Arts Council England accredited Museum, set in the Essex countryside between Chelmsford and Maldon, features awardwinning exhibitions in original WW1 buildings and modern hangars, period aircraft and The Airmen's Mess café with a superb menu including breakfasts, hot meals, light lunches, cakes and drinks. Normally open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, there will be additional excitement throughout the summer season with a packed programme of special events, including:
Royal Flying Corps Living History, Sunday 15 June –after a highly successful event in May, the living historians return to recreate the aerodrome as it was during World War One.
Back to the WW2 Farm, Saturday and Sunday 21/22 June – linked to the new exhibition, living historians will be recreating life in the Women's Land Army and the Women's Volunteer Service, while the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will fly over on both days (weather permitting).
Funeral service Basildon Cemetery 11.30 Tuesday 17th June.
The Sports Car Show, Sunday 6 July – a new event in partnership with FD Racing, featuring the very best in mods, conversions and fast movers.
Living History Weekend, Saturday and Sunday 19/20 July – living historians throughout the ages, from 11th century to World War Two, on site.
Stow Maries Air Show, Saturday 23 August – one of our most exciting dates, when, weather permitting, a host of aircraft will take to the skies, along with aviation themed ground activities. In addition, our latest exhibition will be opening on Saturday 24 May. Feeding the Nation: Fighting Without Flying will focus on the location’s vital role as a working farm during World War Two, including historical objects and documents from Flambirds farm during the WW2 period.
Admission charges for special events vary, and early booking is recommended, visit https://www.stowmaries.org.uk/events for more information.
Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome, Hackman’s Lane, Purleigh CM3 6RN is open from 10am until 4pm, on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. www.stowmaries.org.uk
Summer Solstice Sounds, North FambridgeArtistes Announced
The Outcasts ukulele band have announced the artistes who have kindly agreed to appear at the Summer Solstice Sounds “ Fête de la Musique”. This celebration of popular music is happening at the River Breeze Café Bar, North Fambridge on the afternoon of the 21st June and is in aid of Farleigh Hospice.
Alan Rozee kicks off the proceedings at 1.00pm followed by the Outcasts themselves, Reckless, Ian Wiltshire`s Elvis, Café Blue and George and Lol. The early evening performers are Raffles, Cogger and Never Grew Up.
“We are very grateful to the artistes who are giving up their time to appear” say Pete Taylor from the Outcasts “and to the River Breeze for permitting the event to be staged. We can promise those who come along an enjoyable time”.
Drop by, there is no entrance charge but it is hoped everybody will support the Grand Raffle, all monies from which will go to the Hospice. For more information re timings please ring Pete on 07899 085 066.
“I pray ye gentle mortal, sing again” Titania – Mid Summer Nights Dream
50 Years Celebration of South Woodham Ferrers Yacht Club
In 1975 the South Woodham Ferrers Yacht Club was founded as a self help club to keep membership costs low. Since then the aims have still carried through with club members volunteering to help build up the considerable facilities to what they are today. The club membership has grown to include a variety of boats, sailing, both dinghy and cruising, kayaking, gig rowing and motor boating.
On Sunday 8th of June from 10am - 3pm we are celebrating our 50th anniversary, kindly supported by our Town Council and the CVS. There will be a mixture of taster sessions on land and water combined with a number of stalls, such as the RNLI and Coastguard.
Come along and join us in the fun
Saturday 14th June
Saturday 14th June
Champions Manor Hall, Hullbridge Road
Champions Manor Hall, Hullbridge Road , SWF
13.00-16.00
Do you care about climate change? Do you want to make a difference?
13.00-16.00
PracJcal talks, displays and other acJviJes. Come and visit our event and talk to us.
Do you care about climate change? Do you want to make a difference? , displays and other acJviJes. Come and visit our event and talk to us.
Refreshments available. u3a SWF Eco Group
ann.woolley.u3a@gmail.com
Refreshments available. u3a SWF Eco Group
ann.woolley.u3a@gmail.com
Holy Trinity Anglican Church are holding their monthly Coffee Morning on Saturday 14th June at 10,15 - 12.30pm in the Church Meeting Room in Holy Trinity Church, Trinity Square, SWF Delicious homemade cakes and Tea/coffee and a friendly warm welcome will be served to you! Come along and support your local Church.
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Essex multi academy trust reaches milestone after welcoming new school
On 1 May, Woodville Primary School became the 10th school to join the Chelmsford Learning Partnership (CLP), a multi-academy trust based in Essex. The primary school, located in South Woodham Ferrers, is the sixth primary school in the trust and serves more than 40On 1 May, Woodville Primary School became the 10th school to join the Chelmsford Learning Partnership (CLP), a multi-academy trust based in Essex. The primary school, located in South Woodham Ferrers, is the sixth primary school in the trust and serves more than 400 pupils in the local area.
Following a successful bid to the Department for Education, the trust now manages six primary schools, three secondary schools and one allthrough school, serving more than 8,000 students in Essex. Its current schools include Barnes Farm Primary School, Lakelands Primary School, Perryfields Infant School, Roding Valley High School, Runwell Community Primary School, The Beaulieu Park School, The Boswells School, The Tyrrells Primary School and William de Ferrers School.
Paul Banks, Chief Executive Officer at the Chelmsford Learning Partnership, said: “Our vision at Chelmsford Learning Partnership is to offer
a world-class education for every child, which is why we are delighted to welcome Woodville Primary School to join our trust. Its dedication to helping every child achieve their aspirations is clearly evidenced in its pupils’ outcomes and, importantly, their enjoyment in being at the school. Welcoming the school into our trust is particularly special for us as it marks our 10th school and is a testament to the positive contribution that we aim to make to the communities in Essex that we serve.”
As part of the trust, Woodville Primary School will benefit from the trust’s extensive and experienced school leadership, which includes a dedicated Director of Education – Primary. Centralised support services, shared resources and additional staff training and development will also be made available to the school.
The Phoenix Explorer Scout Unit (teenagers aged 14-17) has opened in Woodham Ferrers. Explorer Scouts is the place to have fun, make new friends, have amazing adventures and learn new skills. In a recent poll 94% of Scouts said they had developed useful skills. 88% said they’ve tried activities they haven’t tried before. Scouts offers over two hundred activities from abseiling and coding to drama and water-zorbing.
Dwayne Fields, Chief Scout said ‘’I’m incredibly pleased that the Phoenix Explorer Scouts have opened in Woodham Ferrers. This means we will have more young people in the local community making friends, building their confidence, and gaining skills that will prepare them for life and work.
When I was young, as quite a shy kid, I remember walking into my local Scout meeting place and getting such a warm welcome. I found people who believed in me, and that helped me believe in myself. This set me a path to adventure – taking me to Antarctica, the Galapagos Islands and even the North Pole.
What made the difference were inspirational volunteers who became role models for me. I’ll also never forget the kindness and friendship of the other Scouts.
Jacqui Phillips, Headteacher at Woodville Primary School, said: “At Woodville, we are proud to be helping children to become confident, independent and successful learners. Our most recent Ofsted visit recognised our dedication and commitment to improving teaching and learning at the school and I am confident that the support from the trust will help us continue to build on the work we have done to nurture children who have a passion and enthusiasm for learning”.
To find out more about Chelmsford Learning Partnership, visit: https:// www.clptrust.com0 pupils in the local area.
Now I’m so pleased that young people in Woodham Ferrers will get the same chance I did – to discover their talents and find their place in the world.’’
The unit meets on Thursday evenings from 8.15pm at the Scout Hut, Creekview Road. Whether you’re a teenager wanting to go on an adventure, or you’re an adult wanting to help create these adventures – contact Steve at 1stwf. explorers@gmail.com to find out more.
Residents are encouraged to register on the Chelmsford City Council website to receive notifications and updates of applications in their area: https://www.chelmsford.gov.uk/planning-and-buildingcontrol Planning Authority – Chelmsford City Council (01245 606 826)
Tuesday 27th May 2025
Planning & Environment Committee Meeting
Tuesday 3rd June 2025
Finance & Projects Committee Meeting
Sunday 8th June 2025
50 Year Anniversary of SWF Yacht Club - 10am - 3pm
Wednesday 11th June 2025
Senior’s Film Club - Doors midday, film at 12 30pm Bridget Jones Mad About The Boy
Monday 16th June 2025
Police - Let’s Talk Bandstand, Queen Elizabeth Sq 2pm till 3pm
Tuesday 17th June 2025 Council Meeting
Tuesday 24th June 2025
Planning & Environment Committee Meeting
If you intend on attending the meetings, please contact the Town Clerk (01245 429446 or
FOCUS
23 May 2025
The report of our independent academic survey about accessibility to healthcare services in the SWF, Dengie & Maldon Integrated Neighbourhood Team area will be published by early June. Only a monopoly can get away with it being so difficult for its users to access its services.
Working Group Recommendations for Community Health Services include investing to keep St Peter’s Hospital, Maldon operational for five years while funding is assembled for a purpose-built new facility, ideally on the current site. Continuity of services exactly is as we recommended. NHS business plan to be developed for July.
Norovirus activity remains high even though it has stabilised in the recent weeks. There are still many new local cases each week. You can catch Norovirus twice. If you have Norovirus
• Stay home; don’t return to work or school until two days after the vomiting and diarrhoea have stopped
• Drink plenty
• Wash hands regularly with soap and water; disinfectants and alcohol hand-gels don’t work against the virus
• If you’re concerned - eg if a child can’t keep fluids down or the illness doesn’t stop after a few days - seek medical advice.
In March performance for Broomfield, Basildon and Southend Hospitals was:
• 66.8% patients were seen within four hours in the emergency departments
• 33 minutes was the average time for ambulances to hand over patients, compared to 33 minutes in the East of England and 40 minutes nationally
• 68.1% patients received cancer diagnosis results within 28 days (up from 60.1 in January)
TEACHER'S QUESTION: "What does the word 'Gonorrhoea' mean to you?"
Answer: "Wasn't she King Lear's eldest daughter?"
Teacher: "No that was Goneril! Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) passed on through unprotected sex (sex without a condom) ... but it is similarly cruel in that it can cause serious health problems. So you get one mark for trying."
The problem is that cases are rising in England and Wales. In England, a record number of people were diagnosed with gonorrhoea in 2023 ... and the trend is continuing. Another concern is that the organism causing the disease (the bacterium 'Neisseria gonorrhoeae') is becoming increasingly resistant to antibiotics.
Last week it was announced that England will be the first country in the world to start vaccinating people against the infection. The vaccine is 30-40% effective - which doesn't sound great - but it's better than a slap on the belly with a wet fish (as my dear old granddad used to say). One reason for it being slightly underwhelming is that it didn't start out as a gonorrhoea vaccine ... it's a repurposed meningococcal B vaccine (called 4CMenB) which, as the name implies, also protects against meningococcal B disease ... so you get 'two for the price of one.'
How come this vaccine works at all if we are talking about two different bugs? Well ... the bacteria that cause meningococcal disease and those that cause gonorrhoea arevery closely related ... so the antibodies produced by the 4CMenB vaccine also target the bacteria that cause gonorrhoea.
The expectation is that the vaccine will turn the upward trend into a downward trend. Analysis led by Imperial College London has found that the 4CMenB vaccine could avert up to 100,000 cases of gonorrhoea and save the NHS over £7.9 million over the next decade.
Is it worth having the jab? Google 'gonorrhoea serious complications' and then, if you are in an 'at risk group', make your own decision. For comprehensive advice about the disease see: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ gonorrhoea/
WORRYING TREND: The British Heart Foundation (BHF) reports that the UK’s heart health has declined more quickly at the start of the 2020s than in any other decade for over 50 years. This follows decades of progress to nearly halve annual deaths from conditions like heart attack and stroke since the 1960s.
Areport from the Health and Social Care Select Committee says: Failing to fix England's social care system is costing the country in financial and human terms. Reform of social care for older and disabled adults is essential.
AUK Research & Innovation study “Multiple chronic illnesses linked to higher risk of depression” shows people with multiple long-term physical health conditions are at a significantly greater risk of developing depression. Multiple chronic illnesses linked to higher risk of depression – UKRI
Family doctors are divided on the issue of assisted dying.
GPs split over assisted dying plans, BBC research suggests - BBC News The Parliamentary debate about this continues with many differing views being held and expressed.
Mid & South Essex Integrated Care Board (MSE ICB)answered our questions on 15 May saying:
“We’ll ensure the findings of [our] research are shared with appropriate stakeholders in the hope it can positively influence the experience of people travelling to health appointments.”
“MSE ICB has taken the approach to retain investment in those areas [maternity, prevention, mental health and children’s services] where existing commitments have been made and, as such, continues to invest in the priority areas raised in your question. The ICB has not decommissioned any services as a result of new flexibilities introduced.”
“The five-year time horizon proposed by the community consultation working group for a new facility in Maldon was intended to be a realistic estimate. Ideally we would like this to be faster than the 5-year time horizon.”
Lots more has happened/is happening we can’t fit in. More Public Health news is on our website and in weekly e-newsletters. SWF Library provides online services and help with internet access. For health & welfare information and subscription to our newsletter, email swfhealthsocial@outlook.com , or leave voicemails on 01245 322079.
https://swfhealthsocial.co.uk/
There is a lot of misinformation online about the Covid vaccines being linked to this trend. A BHF spokesperson rejected the claim that mRNA vaccines, which were rolled out in England in December 2020 had caused the excess number of deaths" ... adding "The benefits of vaccination “far outweigh the very small risk of rare side effects like myocarditis or pericarditis for the vast majority of people, especially as people get older”.
Professor Peter Openshaw, a respiratory physician, said that a combination of influenza, COVID infection, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and rhinovirus, along with secondary increases in strokes and heart disease” were contributory factors ... adding: "I do not believe there is any reliable evidence that mRNA vaccines are causing heart attacks, whereas there is evidence that COVID-19 does lead to an increase in several different cardiac events.”
The BHF emphasises that the well known risk factors are also on the rise:
- A 12 per cent rise in the number of adults diagnosed with diabetes, a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, up to a record high of 4.6 million from 4.1 million;
- Rising rates of obesity. An estimated 29 per cent of the adult population – 16 million adults – now have a weight defined as obese, up from 27 per cent
The Lancet recently reported that the health of adolescents worldwide has reached a ‘tipping point’. Almost half a billion adolescents worldwide will be living with obesity or overweight with 1 billion at risk of preventable ill health by 2030.
The BHF's Professor Bryan Williams said: “Research-driven innovation in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases has been one of the great success stories of modern medicine" ... so the BHF is focussing on this approach - which undoubtedly has a major role to play. The bottom line for the majority, here and now, though is the boring old advice that prevention is better than cure. The fact that you've heard it all before doesn't diminish its validity by one jot or tittle. So, to remind yourself of the significant points (which can add years to your 'healthspan' as well as your 'lifespan'), Google 'NHS Prevention - Coronary heart disease' ... or look at the BHF's '5 risk factors for heart disease and how you can control them' which can be found at: https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/ medical/risk-factors
Oh ... and, by the way, a paper in the BMJ tells us that; "programmes promoting the Mediterranean and low fat diets" ... "reduce all cause mortality and non-fatal myocardial infarction in patients with increased cardiovascular risk. Mediterranean programmes are also likely to reduce stroke risk."
Dr John Cormack
Birthdays
Happy 9th Birthday Frankie
Lots of sparkles Xxxxx
Happy 4th birthday to our beautiful and smart Eleanor-rose, lots of love Mummy, Oliver and Alfie
FRANCIS, THE POPE OF THE POOR
In Buenos Aires, three massive murals stand side by side, portraying Diego Maradona, Che Guevara, and Pope Francis. At first glance, it’s an odd trio - a soccer legend, a revolutionary, and a spiritual leader. Yet, all three resonate deeply with the Argentine people, symbolising the struggles and hopes of the poor in their own ways.
In the wake of Pope Francis’s passing, people from all backgrounds, religious or not mourned a man who transcended labels. While many rushed to clarify that he wasn’t a communist, this distinction often aimed to paint him as a “moderate.” That would be a misreading. Rooted in the Gospel, Francis was radical in his defence of the marginalised and critical of unregulated capitalism. For this, he was both celebrated and condemned.
To many progressives, Francis offered moral clarity amid the confusion of a postideological world. His fierce criticism of neoliberalism struck a chord far beyond Catholic circles. At the same time, his stance earned him fierce opposition - from conservative Catholics who saw him as a threat to tradition, and from secular critics who bristled at his radical social message.
Despite these divisions, he was widely recognised as the Pope of the poor. His encyclicals, Laudato Si’ and Fratelli Tutti, highlighted humanity’s twin crises: environmental destruction and social injustice. He condemned economic systems that exploit and exclude, declaring bluntly, “This economy kills.”
Pope Francis also stood firm against war and the global arms race. For him, conflict represented not just political failure but moral collapse. “Every war is a defeat,” he insisted, and without disarmament, true peace is impossible.
Above all, Francis warned of the growing numbness to human suffering. He called this “the globalisation of indifference,” lamenting that it has robbed us of our ability to cry. Through his life and message, Francis challenged the world not to look away but to care, to act, and to embrace the dignity of every person.
Holy Trinity, South Woodham Ferrers
To mark the anniversary of this the society is mounting an exhibition ‘South Woodham Ferrers new town – the promised land?’ from Saturday 21 June to Saturday 5 July during normal library opening hours (i.e. not on Mondays nor Wednesday afternoons) that looks back over those 50 years to see what has been achieved here. The exhibition will include a large scale model of the town used for Essex CC publicity purposes and will display images of what South Woodham Ferrers was like 50 years ago before new town building work began. There may be some who might think they’d like go back to the 70s...
This year’s WoodhamFest has adopted a ‘70s theme to tie in with this anniversary and is being held on the weekend closest to 1st July, on 27th – 29th June. This will include an illustrated talk by the Local History Society’s chairman John Frankland at 2 pm in the library on Saturday 28th June. It is also hoped that the afternoon can also include a showing of the 1983 Open University film about South Woodham Ferrers - ‘Community by Design’ – but this proposal has not yet received OU’s blessing despite weeks of trying..! There is no charge for admission to this 2.00 pm – 4.00 pm event.
If further information is required please contact the society’s secretary Roy Bradnam on
or its chairman John Frankland on 01245 321518.
Along with planting and weeding, feeding plants in June is a high priority job in the garden.
Selecting the right plant food for the right plant can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t need to be.
There are 3 main nutrients (macronutrients), that plants need more of than any other. They are Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K). Plant food packets will always display the rates of NPK within the product, so keep an eye out for that as it will help determine what to use it on.
Nitrogen gives plants lush, green leaves and helps promote growth.
Phosphorus amongst other things, helps root growth.
Potassium helps maintain flowers and fruits.
Miracle-Gro All-Purpose Food has a NPK balance of 24-8-16, so it’s high in nitrogen to help encourage growth, has a bit of phosphorus to get roots established and a good dose of potassium to help flowers and fruits along the way. The best all-rounder.
Doff Tomato Food has a 4-5-8 mix, so is high in potassium, therefore helping flowers and fruits to be as good as they can be. It also has some magnesium which helps keep tomato and potato leaves green. If the leaves start to go yellow in the bits between the veins, it’s usually a sign that they need more magnesium. Use to get the best yield of flavourful toms!
There are a few other nutrients that are important to specific types of plants. Iron is one of them and it occurs naturally in our garden soil. The higher the ph of the soil, the more difficult it is for plants to extract. Rhododendrons and Camelias need to have a lower ph than other plants to enable them to get the iron they need. Miracle- Gro Azalea, Camelia and Rhododendron Plant Food has enough NPK, but also has a healthy addition of sequestered iron which is easy to take up and helps keep plants leaves deep green in colour. Great for keeping iron-hungry plants looking their very best!
The plant foods mentioned above are all designed to be mixed with water and applied to plants. They are also fast-acting, but relatively short-lived. For a slower-acting plant food that stays available to plants for longer, you may want to consider some of the following that are applied to the soil above the root area of established plants or mixed in with backfill soil when planting.
During the spring and summer, I apply Westland Fish, Blood and Bone every 7 to 8 weeks to give my plants a well balanced NPK feed. It’s an easy operation that gives good, long-lasting results. It’s basically a matter of applying the required amount over the soil, lightly raking in if the soil allows and then gently watering in if rain isn’t forecast for more than a couple of days.
I mix in Westland Super Phosphate to the soil when planting trees and shrubs as it’s high in phosphorus to get the roots of the trees off to a good start.
Westland Sulphate of Ammonia, scattered around established Pieris, is high in nitrogen and the sulphur lowers the ph to a more beneficial level.
To help you successfully produce a bumper crop in the Autumn, apply Westland Sulphate of Potash around the base of apple trees now, ensuring the fruits swell in time for harvest.
Finally - all this talk of feeding has made me a tad peckish, so I’m going to pop over to the Meadow Croft Kitchen now for a slice of home-made cake, washed down with the best cappuccino around!!
June Simon says
• Pinch out side-shoots on tomato plants
• Water and feed Tomatoes regularly
• Pinch out Cucumber side-shoots, 2 leaf joints beyond the flowers.
• Harvest early potatoes when they flower
• Keep sowing and harvesting salad leaf crops
• Hoe, or use weedkiller to kill weeds before they flower.
• Apply Evergreen Complete to lawns to keep them looking good.
• Keep an eye out for infestations of bugs and spray if required.
• Prune spring flowering shrubs that have finished flowering.
• Dead-head Roses regularly to encourage new growth and more flowers
• Shade greenhouses to help reduce high temperatures and ventilate.
• Lift and store Tulip bulbs when the green has gone from the leaves
• Prune Wisteria side-shoots back to approximately 20cm of the main stems.
• Plant out tender plants, like Impatiens, Hibiscus and Coleus
• Feed planted hanging baskets and tubs. Peat-free composts require more feed than peat-based, so regular feeding is encouraged
• Apply Hydrangea colourant to blue Hydrangeas, to help keep them blue
• Keep beans watered to help them mature to harvesting time.
• If you’ve not already done so, paint or stain garden fences.
• Continue to feed the birds as the young will need supporting.
Welcome to June!!
With Centre Manager at Meadowcroft
Over to you
Mums have a right to be proud of their son/sons if the sons earn it, but when they are True Heroes, when those mums don’t see all that their little or big Darlings get up to. The mother of a young man who is just 17yrs of age, not yet quite a man in years, I hope she knows just what a Hero and true gentleman her son is.
Not well enough to drive now, I decided to use my mobility scooter for a trip to the GP surgery for my Covid jab.
On not good advice I tackled the trip via the Ferrers Road. Doing well until I came to the Shaw Farm entrance. From then on both sides of the dual carriage way you run out of Pathway. Half way into my trip I decided I should give up and return home, unfortunately that’s when although full battery charged my scooter decides it’s had enough too, just wouldn’t move. With heavy traffic whizzing past I felt very vulnerable indeed. Too far to walk, my untrusted steed too heavy to carry and just leaving the scooter on the grass verge was not on
Appearing from nowhere came a young lad, that’s what he looked like. No pants outside his trousers or flashy cape just a handsome young lad who took control. He had a vehicle and had parked in a side turning off the very busy Road “My Hero” Not pushy, each suggestion he made he waited for my approval.
In no time at all he had my scooter in the back of his small van and me buckled safely in the seat next to him. When I gave my address he being a local lad didn’t need directions. We chatted away as if we had known each other forever. So very adamant he didn’t want anything for his troubles. Although I pushed him he was just as insistent as I was.
I have a daughter also a son who are wonderful, Grandchildren the same but I would gladly say this young chap was one of mine, but there is a reason this young hero is the way he is, no doubt it stems from “Home” so well done to his parents.
Oh I should mention my hero’s name, “AILBHE SHEARING.” Well done and thank you Ailbhe.
Kind of Blue's" summer programme
On Sunday afternoon (2-4,30) June 8th, "Kind of Blue" (a local modern jazz quintet) will be performing in the Bell, Woodham Ferrers. Band members will entertain you with modern jazz "classics" played in their own inimitable style. The group's repertoire will consist of various American songs of the immediate post war era, emulating artistes such as Dave Brubeck and Ella Fitzgerald. Entry is free and there is no charge for the delicious food provided. There will be a raffle.
Please note, we usually perform on the first Sunday of the month, but due to holidays this will be the second Sunday. Make sure you enter this in your diary!!
Jazz on a summer's day
Sunday afternoon, July 6th (2-4.30) is a special day for "Kind of Blue" in the Bell, Woodham Ferrers. Paying homage to a film of the '60s, we are performing another concert, entitled "Jazz on a summer's day". This will be a charity fund raising event in aid of Cancer Research. There will be a raffle with exciting prizes. The price of entry will be £15, and to secure a place in the audience, phone Sue at 01245 320 443. This will be the only way to gain entry. All proceeds will go to the named charity. Make sure you get in early, as they go like hot cakes.
Incidentally, on the subject of hot cakes, Sue really goes to town with a delicious buffet to accompany the music. All in all it will be a fabulous afternoon (entertaining whilst contributing to a worthy cause). We have collected over £1000 before now, let's see if we can beat that. (I advise you to apply for a place asap to avoid disappointment. Thank you)
Hi everyone ☺
Thank you all so much for your ongoing support, Georgie is doing very well indeed and now has been discharged from his spinal surgeon !
He is about to finish his first year at college studying business & has passed with flying colours. Next year he's changed his tact and is studying graphic design media production.
George is still very much supporting the younger DMD boys and advocating on so many platforms.
Lj is working hard at college and loving every minute of her placement.
Nanny's dementia sadly is declining but is being well supported by an amazing team ( if you wish to join her team please contact me)
We are continually supporting many charities along George's journey so please keep us in your minds when having a sort out.
Clothes Shoes Handbags
Teddies Jewellery (gold/ silver/fashion) new items
Unwanted gifts • NO bedding curtains pillows
If you have anything to donate not on our list please ask.
Tj 07933 233012
Your love & support is second to none, we thank you all so much.
Much love Tj & Georgie xx
The Wild Thyme held a Charity Quiz night in aid of 2 Charities that Ollie Cullum and Max Reardon were running the London Marathon for. Dementia Uk and Bassics Essex. Both guys raised just under £6000 for their Charities.
I had such a fun evening at the charity event tonight!
Most importantly, I want to extend a massive thank you to everyone who donated and for your kind support of the two boys running the London Marathon for their chosen charity. !
#Charity #LondonMarathon #GoodLuckOllieAndMax
Regards
The Wild Thyme
May has seen a great start to our bowls club season in many ways. We have new members that have joined us so, welcome aboard. We will do our best to ensure you get the best out of your bowls sessions and the enjoyment that socialising brings.
Of course, along with other organisations in South Woodham Ferrers, the bowls club remembered VE Day. We paid our respects and gratitude to all those folk, at home and overseas, who gave their all to make sure we had the freedom we enjoy today. A short game followed by the 2 minute silence then a slice of Union Flag cake and a glass of fizz to toast, on a lovely sunny day.
All our teams have got off to a flying start at the beginning of the season within the CMBL and C&D leagues. Our team A are top of division 3, B team are top of division 6 and C team are 4th in division 6. We also have representation in Essex County competitions. All players are doing remarkably well. Individual names and scores are available and will be included on our website at a future date.
Our Open Day which took place on Sunday May 25th, was another success. We saw quite a number of new faces who dropped by to take a look and have a go. Hopefully they will join our merry throng. Our Mayor, Alan Shearing, also came by for a chat and agreed to reveal then present a lovely cake made by Kate Clarke,
to Jim Jarvis who successfully guessed the weight of the cake. Other members and guests had benefited from a generous tombola stall. All in all it was a good morning and afternoon. A big thank you to all those who helped to make the day a success. Here's to next year.
South Woodham Ferrers Bowls Club
swfbowlsclub@gmail.com
South Woodham Ferrers Bowling Club
swfbowlsclub.@gmail.com
Trinity
& Crafts
Important TelephoneNumbers
Police Station non emergencies 101 or 0300 333 4444
Fire Station
Neighbourhood Watch
(contact via the Police Stn above)
0300 303 0088
Town Council ChampionsManor Hall CommunityCentre 321817
Leisure Centre (SWF Swimming Pool) 605600
Village Hall 325568
Library 0345 603 7628
Volunteer Centre Chelmsford 250731
Community Transport 477750
‘Dial A Ride’ 9.30am-4.45pm
SWF Community Care 321180
Post Office 324066
HEALTHCARE
Health Clinic
South Woodham Councillors
Chetwood Ward
Bob Massey
Ashley John
Alan Shearring (Mayor)
Russ Crosbie
Annie Humphrey
Collingwood Ward
Peter Ferry
Malcolm Sismey
Scott Wilson
Darren Thompson
Mia Barnett
0300 3032619
NHS Direct 111 Greenwood 426898 Kingsway 01245 321391 kingsway.receptionist@nhs.net https://www.kingswaysurgery.net
SENIOR MEALS ON WHEELS
Senior Meals on Wheels Service The Eatery 322263
SCHOOLS
Collingwood Primary 322258
Elmwood Primary 321301
St Joseph’s Catholic Primary 321828
St Mary’s Primary (Aided) Woodham Ferrers Village 320505
Trinity St Mary’s (Aided) 321711
Woodville Primary 321755
William de Ferrers 326326
CHURCHES
Evangelical Church
07375936840
Church of England 01245 691979
Christ the King Church, RCCG. 07538097421
Methodist Church 01621 853423
New Life Church 01245 321188
Roman Catholic Church 01245 324138
Salvation Army 01268 768803
Woodham Ferrers Congregational Church 01702 551950
St Mary’s Church Woodham Ferrers. 01245 961979
RELIGIOUS CENTRES
Mid Essex Buddhist Centre
07936 534546
To report streetlamps not working, overgrown vegetation, potholes etc. please contact Essex County Council www.essexhighways.org/tell-us/report-all-issues.aspx
To report a missed waste/recycling collection please contact Chelmsford City Council www.chelmsford.gov.uk/bins-and-recycling/
For bus timetables, please contact First Bus at www.firstbus.co.uk/essex
Community Care Community Care Co-Ordinator: Sandra 01245 321180
Food Bank - Located at New Life Church, Clements Green Lane, every Wednesday 10am to 12pm
POLICE CONTACT NUMBERS
Non-emergency: 101
Emergency: 999
Police Air Service: 01924 292 252
Crime Stoppers: 0800 555 111
Transport Police: 0800 40 50 40
Action Fraud: 0300 123 2040
Elmwood Ward
Murrough O’Brien
Jackie Birch
Lisa Kelly
Terry Sherlock
Glenn Piesse
Woodville Ward
Keith Bentley
Donna Eley
Ian Roberts
Pauline Price
Toni Perham-Lake (Deputy Town Mayor)
South Woodham Ferrers City Councillors
Elmwood & Woodville Ward
Terry Sherlock
Murrough O Brien
Donna Eley
Chetwood & Collingwood Ward
Ashley John, Bob Massey , Malcolm Sismey
For all enquiries
Email: katkins@southwoodhamferrerstc.gov.uk
If you would like to contact John Whittingdale, to ask for help, to set out your views, or to suggest something that he may like to do or
Website: www.johnwhittingdale.org.uk
Mark Piesse 07973 522412 • 01245 321514 mpiesse.cs@gmail.com
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